OUTthere Airnorth October

Issue 124 • October 2014

+ insidemining

DREAM TEAM

A design company and Indigenous artists weave their magic

TROPICAL WANDERS

Daytripping from Cairns

Gorgeous

Gear up and get active in Karijini National Park

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TERMS & CONDITIONS - Valid for March & April only. *Beverages included in price excludes reserve wine list Photos by Tony Hewitt

welcome to Manila

McArthur River

Cairns

Tennant Creek The Granites Christmas Creek

Welcome aboard It’s hard to imagine that Christmas is already

just around the corner. As the weather turns warmer, our thoughts turn to summer holidays, and Airnorth are happy to announce that travel this Christmas will be better than ever.

We’ve added a new route to our flight map, taking passengers from Darwin to Cairns via Gove, just in time for that tropical Queensland holiday, or a trip to the Top End. As well as that, families wanting to reunite for Christmas in Townsville or Darwin will be happy to know we’ve added extra flights to our regular schedule between these two ports in the busy week leading up to Christmas Day. We also take a close look at Nhulunbuy in East Arnhem Land, which is serviced by flights from both Darwin and Cairns to Gove airport.

Airnorth are very proud of their ongoing community support, and in this issue we highlight our much-needed sponsorship of The Nangala Project, which runs three different initiatives to aid and enrich Indigenous communities across the Northern Territory: The Indi Kindi, targeting literacy and numeracy in the under 5s; John Moriarty Football, who took a group of very excited and lucky kids all the way to Brazil for the recent FIFA World Cup; and Bunji Travel, a corporate volunteer workforce.

Now sit back, enjoy our inflight service and we hope you enjoy this issue of OUTthere.

Michael Bridge Chief Executive Officer

Favourite destination

Four Mile Beach. Nearest Airnorth port: Cairns.

AIRNORTH RESERVATIONS: 1800 627 474 or AIRNORTH.COM.AU 1

safetyinfo

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

2

safetyinfo

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

SAFETY BRIEFING 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 our website for more details. airnorth.com.au

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

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.

SEATBELTS 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.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES Portable electronic devices can cause electromagnetic interference to the aircraft systems. The interference can cause aircraft systems to malfunction.

To provide adequate protection for the aircraft, please note that mobile phones must not be used at any time on board the aircraft. Other devices, such as MP3 players, iPods, CD players, portable palmtop and laptop computers, cassette players, personal electronic organisers and personal DVD and video games may be used during cruise only, NOT when the aircraft is taking off or landing.

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

DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT) 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.

SMOKING 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.

3

F I R S T

C L A S S

discover dili

L U X U R Y

beautifully appointed rooms

I N

T H E

C E N T R E

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O F

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Happy Hour at the Deck

5-7pm daily.

Free drinks, gourmet canapĂŠs and wifi for both in-house and walk-in guests.

Conditions apply.

D I L I

centrally located in Dili

To celebrate the receiving of Trip Advisor Certificates of Excellence in both 2013 and 2014, receive a complimentary glass of quality Italian wine when dining at Diya. Conditions apply. Limited time only.

DISCOVERY INN

Where attention to detail matters Diya Fine Dining Restaurant

Tel: +670 33 11 11 1 Fax: +670 33 21 04 5 www.discoveryinntimorleste.com email: reservation@discoveryinntimorleste.com, info@discoveryinntimorleste.com

contents food&wine 08 airnorthnews Airnorth announces new daily flights between Darwin and Cairns, via Gove; extra flights will take travellers from Darwin to Townsville for the Christmas break.

10 airnorthcommunity The Nangala Project is enriching and improving the lives of young indigenous Australians.

12 destination Discover the beauty and tranquility of the Gove Peninsula.

15 don’tmiss A calendar of cool events.

16 drivetime Three very different daytrips from Cairns feature glorious scenery, top swimming spots and a food trail.

destination

21 artspace

Issue 124 • October

Issue 125 • November

A Sydney design duo weave magic with Indigenous artists.

closeup

closeup

Four years on, Faye James catches up with Masterchef Australia winner Adam Liaw and chats about his two great loves: cooking and family.

After a lifetime of performing, country songbird Kasey Chambers still relishes the challenge of making a new album.

alltorque

Ute Junker heads to Kangaroo Island and discovers exceptional produce and an abundance of wildlife.

16

Ben Smithurst falls for the new BMW.

outtahere 21

Brian Johnston reveals the best spots around Australia to pitch a tent.

food&wine A short drive south from Perth brings you to Margaret River, home to some of Australia’s best vignerons and producers.

destination Michelle Hespe eats and drinks her way through Victoria’s Yarra Valley, stopping for friendly chats along the way.

destination

food&wine Carla Grossetti heads to the pretty town of Orange to hunt down some of the top drops to appear at this year’s wine show.

outtahere Michelle Hespe visits Mount Baw Baw, Melbourne’s closest alpine resort, and discovers fun for families on any budget.

profile We meet OzHarvest founder Ronni Kahn.

insidemining • news and views • the state of mining • resource sector issues • finance and technology 5

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GROUP EDITOR Faye James faye.james@edgecustom.com.au DEPUTY EDITOR Danielle Chenery ASSISTANT EDITORS Riley Palmer, Simone Henderson-Smart INTERN Toby Little SUB-EDITORS Liani Solari, Merran White PRINTER SOS Print & Media SENIOR DESIGNER Guy Pendlebury PRODUCTION MANAGER Brian Ventour CONTRIBUTORS Sue Wallace, Ben Smithurst, Brian Johnston, Jock Serong, Michelle Hespe, Baldeep S. Gill, Darrell Croker, Christine Retschlag, Kris Madden, Darren Baguley, Kevin Lee, Andrew Crossley, Josh Masters ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Jason Popkowski jason.popkowski@edgecustom.com.au NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Chris Wykes chris.wykes@edgecustom.com.au SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS Robert Desgouttes robert.desgouttes@edgecustom.com.au Peter Anderson peter.anderson@edgecustom.com.au WA, SA AND NT SALES REP Helen Glasson, Hogan Media Phone: 08 9381 3991 helen@hoganmedia.com.au PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Geoff Campbell MANAGING PARTNERS Fergus Stoddart, Richard Parker CEO Eddie Thomas

ON THE COVER:

October: Hancock Gorge in the Karijini National Park, Western Australia.

November: Cairns Lagoon, Cairns, Queensland.

OUTthere is published by Edge 51 Whistler Street, Manly NSW 2095 Phone: 02 8962 2600, www.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.

From the editor...

One thing that struck a chord with me this month was culinary discovery. Whether it was chatting to super-chef and this month’s close up Adam Liaw or catching up with a couple of friends who happen to work in hospitality, they all seemed to have something in common: a genuine passion for Australian produce and the people behind it.

“There is so much we have yet to discover,” enthused my friend, who’d been foraging around regional New South Wales in search of unique produce from which to concoct his latest menu. “Did you know some of the best calamari comes from the Hawkesbury region and some of our best pork belly from the Northern Rivers?” he said when I mentioned that I was planning a road trip to Yamba this Christmas.

Nope, can’t say I did – but I sure am going to check out Hawkesbury calamari when I travel yonder, past Bulahdelah and onwards to Mooney Mooney. But that’s another yarn to be saved for the next long car journey. Back to produce.

My friend’s passion for produce was echoed when I found myself chatting to the well-travelled Adam Liaw about his new SBS TV series Destination Flavour Down Under. During the series, Adam found himself journeying all over the nation, from the glorious Western Australian coastline to the baking heat of the Red Centre and the tree-changers’ paradise that is northern New South Wales.

Along his merry travels, Adam met many zealous gatherers and growers who he describes as ‘real people with real stories’.

“It’s their passion – innovative behaviour and dedication is what makes them heroes,” he told me. “When I mentioned I was doing a food show in Australia everyone thought it would be boring – but when the show went on air, my twitter was flooded with tweets saying how much they had no idea Australia was like that.”

In fact, TV sojourns based on ‘culinary Australia’ seem to be unearthing a widespread trend. Last month, Matt Moran’s Paddock to Plate launched its

second season. This season sees Matt clock up more than 20,000 kilometres travelling through the awe-inspiring landscapes of South Australia and Western Australia, from the blustering coastline of the Eyre Peninsula to the red dirt and big skies of the Kimberley.

“There are so many incredible farmers and growers out there – this beautiful country of ours is just bursting with amazing produce. The changing seasons and climates of the lesser-known regions of South and Western Australia offer up some really fantastic and unique produce,” Matt said.

As a foodie and a lover of all things delicious, what excites me about taking on this newly appointed role – apart from the travel stories – is the culinary adventures that await, and the inspiring true stories from real people I’m yet to encounter.

I’ll certainly relish taking you along with me on this journey – I hope you enjoy the ride.

Faye James and the OUTthere team

7

airnorthnews

Daily flights to Cairns from the Top End AIRNORTH is now operating daily return services in its state-of-the-art 76-seat Embraer E170 jet fleet from Darwin to Gove and on to Cairns.

“Airnorth has a continued commitment, as we have done so for many years, to providing quality scheduled air services to the communities of the Darwin and the Gulf region,” says Michael Bridge, Airnorth’s chief executive officer.

“We have now expanded our services for residents of Cairns and Far North Queensland while continuing to provide sustainable air services to Nhulunbuy for the long term,” says Mr Bridge.

As one of Australia’s most sought-after holiday destinations, Far North Queensland has plenty to offer. Whether it’s an indulgent break, a thrilling adventure or your next family holiday, this beautiful region has plenty to offer everyone.

It’sa glorious stretch of coastal land where ancient rainforest meets ocean and the Great Barrier Reef is your playground. Indeed, you’d be

hard-pressed to find a better getaway destination.

Choose among the luxury beachfront accommodations, boutiques, bars and eateries of Palm Cove and Port Douglas; visit serene waterfalls and towering trees around the crater lakes of the Atherton Tablelands and browse Kuranda’s wildlife parks, cafés and markets.

Journey through wilderness to Australia’s northern tip and explore Cooktown and Cape York; or follow in the footsteps of early explorers across the Gulf Savannah, a vast, rugged landscape where spectacular gorges, ancient lava tubes and pioneering history await exploration.

One-way internet airfares from Darwin to Cairns start at just $215 per person. Book online at airnorth. com.au, with Airnorth Reservations on 1800 627 474 or through your local travel agent.

For a full schedule of available flights, turn to page 13.

Have a Merry Queensland Christmas THINKING of taking the family on a beach holiday this Christmas? To help you get to the tropical sunshine of North Queensland, Airnorth has added extra flights to its Queensland schedule.

Airnorth can have you in Townsville in plenty of time to unwrap your presents on Christmas Day, with extra services on both Saturday December 20 and Tuesday December 23.

Combined with its current regular scheduled flights, you now have even more options in the lead-up to Christmas and that well-earned break.

Seats on these flights are on sale now and will sell quickly, so book now and grab a great internet airfare at airnorth.com.au, call Airnorth Reservations on 1800 627 474 or contact your local travel agent.

Airnorth’s Darwin/Townsville flight schedule – note that all flights are listed in local times.

8

Flight nzo.

Origin

Destination

Depart

Arrive

Fri 19/12

Sat 20/12

Sun 21/12

Mon 22/12

Tue 23/12

Wed 24/12

Xmas Day

TL182

Darwin

Townsville

0700

1005

–

TL183

Townsville

Darwin

1105

1320

–

HARLEY-DAVIDSON PACKAGE DEALS At Hidden Valley Harley-Davidson we strive to make owning your Harley-Davidson as easy as possible. Until December 31 we are offering Flight and Accommodation packages to customers from remote regions such as Broome, Kununurra and Gove. Fly in and ride out or use the value of the package to start the customisation of your new Harley-Davidson. This amazing offer combined with our easy in-store finance solutions means owning a new Harley-Davidson has never been easier.

HIDDEN VALLEY HARLEY-DAVIDSON

637 Stuart Highway, Darwin (08) 8939 0390 www.ntmotorcyclecentre.com.au

airnorthcommunity

Nangala Project reaches out

THE NANGALA Project is a non-profit initiative to relieve poverty and disadvantage among Australian Indigenous children and their families through creating locally engaged, sustainable opportunity.

The project runs three community programs in remote communities across the Northern Territory. Indi Kindi prepares kids under five years old for basic numeracy and literacy; John Moriarty Football uses soccer to improve school attendance and health outcomes for families and communities; and Bunji Travel is a corporate volunteer workforce that delivers projects while building bridges of cultural and social understanding.

Indi Kindi Over the past two years, Indi Kindi has established itself as a small but powerful force, helping to equip remotely located Aboriginal people to improve learning opportunities for very young Indigenous children, including their own, by reaching kids who are not in preschool or crèche.

The picture books and early-literacy activities program is working to meet the needs of very young children – in particular, those in the critical phases of neurological (brain) development that occur in the first three years of life – who most need support, 10

along with their families and local teachers.

Indi Kindi engages with the local community, seeking feedback and advice as well as providing formal expertise to support and mentor three Indigenous staff in Borroloola and two in Robinson River.

The project runs three community programs in remote communities across the Territory.

John Moriarty Football Eight Indigenous girls and boys from Borroloola, Northern Territory have returned to their community after a whirlwind tour of Brazil where they experienced all the joys of this vibrant nation during the world’s biggest sporting event: FIFA’s 2014 World Cup. During the tour there were a lot of exciting experiences, including watching the Socceroos train in Vitoria with 3000 local schoolchildren; meeting Socceroos legend Tim Cahill and coach Ange Postecoglou

(who put on a training session for the impressionable young players); and watching the Socceroos play their opening World Cup game against Chile in Cuiaba.

Other highlights included being invited to play against locals on the beach and futsal courts, where many legendary Brazilian players, current and past, learned their craft.

All this and visits to local Indigenous communities proved to the kids that football is not only a world game but a game for all people, from all walks of life, who come together to enjoy joga bonito – ‘the beautiful game’.

Airnorth is a proud sponsor of The Nangala Project. For more information, visit nangalaproject.org.au or airnorth.com.au

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destination

Discover East Arnhem Land

NHULUNBUY

Stretching along the Gove Peninsula on the edge of the Arafura Sea, this region – an explorer’s paradise – boasts striking coastlines, clear blue waters, glistening white beaches, secluded bays and abundant offshore islands and reefs.

AIRNORTH now operates daily flights from both Darwin and Cairns to Gove Airport that service the town of Nhulunbuy and surrounding regions.

Things to do…

You’ll find some of the best fishing in Australia in the waters off Nhulunbuy.

There are no crowds to compete for the big one (or two!), and you’ll find plenty of locals on hand to show you the best spots.

You can also hire your own boat or take an organised charter trip out to island groups and coves – Wessel Islands, Bromby Islets, English Company Islands and Elizabeth Bay – for a great day of reef or bluewater fishing, or outstanding snorkelling or scuba diving in crystal-clear waters.

Visit Baringura – otherwise known as Little Bondi – with its stretches of unspoilt white beaches, perfect for picnics, snorkelling and daytrips. Or

12

take a drive and camp at Cape Arnhem, backed by amazing sand dunes as far as the eye can see.

More active visitors might wish to go hiking in Gayngaru, a seven-kilometre expanse of wetlands that’s home to around 200 bird species. If a relaxed pace is more your style, sit and take in the panoramic views from the Rotary Marika Lookout over the township, coastline, harbour and wetlands.

East Arnhem Land’s connection to Indigenous culture is strong, and is woven seamlessly into the experiences available.

Eco/cultural tours are available and are an interesting way to learn about this unique region and its traditional landowners, the Yolngu people.

You can’t help but walk away from your holiday here with a deeper appreciation for the history of this land and a stronger connection to its people.

destination

You can’t help but walk away from your holiday here with a deeper appreciation for the history of this land.

Places to stay…

Walkabout Lodge, the premier resort hotel in Nhulunbuy, is located in the centre of town with beach frontage.

Every room is air-conditioned with ensuite facilities and a patio or balcony.

There’s also a fully licensed on-site restaurant, lounge bar and shaded resort pool with barbeque facilities, and the friendly Walkabout team can help guests with transport and tour requests.

Gove Peninsula Motel, less than a kilometre from the town centre, offers self-contained and air-conditioned rooms nestled in lush landscaped gardens with a saltwater swimming pool. Dining options are available from a café nearby that delivers to your room.

Banubanu Wilderness Lodge is an eco-friendly island retreat located on Bremer Island, 13 kilometres north of Nhulunbuy. The accommodations here are simple but comfortable, in keeping with the retreat’s focus of leaving a minimal ecological footprint on one of Australia’s most pristine areas. Guests have a choice between fan-cooled cabins with ensuites and tented accommodation.

Dining Sample the freshest seafood – caught and cooked yourself or by a restaurant

back on shore. The Nhulunbuy/Gove area has great-quality pub restaurant food, bars, seaside boat clubs and in-hotel dining. Unique culinary experiences also form part of exclusive access tours to Aboriginal Home Lands, where you can eat traditional bush tucker.

Gove Boat Club on the shore of Melville Bay is one of the best spots to enjoy a relaxing drink and a meal. Boasting views of Gove Harbour, it’s a perfect place to relax, meet some friendly locals and

brag about the big fish that got away!

Gove Country Golf Club is a picturesque nine-hole, all-grass course with a driving range overlooking the coast.

It offers air-conditioned, licensed club rooms for members and guests as well as a gaming room and kids’ lounge with books, TV and DVDs. The club’s à-la-carte Waterfront Kitchen Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday and is a great place to refuel after a fun day on the green.

Airnorth’s Gove flight schedule – note that all flights are listed in local times.

Flight number

Departure time

Arrival time

0745

0900

1520

1630

1330

1450

0945

1200

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Darwin to Gove TL160 Gove to Darwin TL161 Cairns to Gove TL161 Gove to Cairns TL160

13

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don’tmiss

Compiled by Hannah Luxford

these events in October & November if you’re in the right place at the right time.

OCTOBER 4–13

OCTOBER 24–25

NOVEMBER 15

Awesome International Arts Festival, Perth

Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic, Mount Isa

Beaufort Street Festival, Perth

The festival showcases contemporary arts by “bright young things” from around the world through free and ticketed events.

Enjoy a variety of animation, theatre, film, dance and music productions in the heart of Perth. awesomearts.com/festival

Fifteen kilometres north of Mount Isa, picturesque Lake Moondarra hosts this annual outback fishing classic that includes fireworks, beach volleyball, yabby races, live music, trade exhibitions, camping and a dragon-boat regatta. lakemoondarrafishingclassic.com.au

Local music, art, fashion and cuisine are on show at Perth’s biggest street party.

Immerse yourself in the festivities and experience Beaufort Street’s strong connection to local business and culture. beaufortstreet.com.au

NOVEMBER 21

Sherwood Community Festival, Brisbane

At the Sherwood community’s 19th annual festival there are plenty of goodies to buy, from the assortment of jewellery, clothing, crafts and homewares, to food and drink and handmade goods. The festival raffle’s main prize is a weekend for two in Port Douglas. www.sherwoodfestival.com

OCTOBER 8

Morning Melodies: A Celebration of Music Theatre, Perth

The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts has received critical acclaim for its ability to product talented graduates, so don’t miss its third-year students singing a selection of show tunes in a fun, energetic performance. hismajestystheatre.com.au

NOVEMBER 10

Relativity, Australian String Quartet, Perth

Enjoy 19th-century works by Fanny and Felix Mendelssohn, along with two compositions from our own time created for string quartet and soprano by Brett Dean and Peter Sculthorpe. asq.com.au

NOVEMBER 30

Carols by Candlelight, Mount Isa

Get an early start on the festive season with local performances of carols by candlelight beginning at 6pm, along with food, drinks and fireworks. Entry is via gold-coin donation. tnqcalendar.com.au

OCTOBER 18

Townsville Artist Market

Promoting arts and crafts from the Townsville region, stallholders, entertainers and musicians offer market-goers a laidback afternoon from noon to 3pm. townsville.qld.gov.au

Image: Jacqui Way

NOVEMBER 14–15

Fist Full of Films Festival, Darwin

Short films by local talent are showcased in this celebration of Northern Territory filmmakers who have braved the sun and red desert dust to tell their stories. travelnt.com

15

drivetime

HIGHWAYS TO HEAVEN Sue Wallace hits the road and discovers three very different experiences, all within easy reach of Cairns.

FOLLOW ANY LONG and winding road out of Cairns and chances are you will end up close to some spectacular white-sand beach, on which you may well leave the day’s first footprints. Alternatively, you could find yourself up close and personal with a tumbling waterfall in a pristine rainforest.

But if you don’t want to leave things to chance, there are three great drives – all within 90 minutes of Cairns – that showcase what makes this area such a drawcard for holiday-makers from all over the world.

All these drives feature stunning scenery, great lookouts and places to take a dip, as well as some of the gourmet produce for which the region is known.

Drive One: ‘The Great Barrier Reef Drive’ from Cairns to Cape Tribulation 140 kilometres

This stretch of road, it is claimed, is one of the most scenic drives in Australia: it follows the spectacular coastline that hugs two adjoining UNESCO World Heritage areas – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest.

From Cairns, drive north across the Barron River towards Cairns’ northern beaches. If you’re looking for adventure, stop off at AJ Hackett Cairns, a franchise of the famed bungy outfit located in the Smithfield rainforest about 25 minutes from Cairns’ centre, before heading on to beautiful Palm Cove.

This one-time fishing village, now known for its laid-back style, smart resorts and upmarket restaurants, was named after its beachside palm trees.

Feast on the eclectic cuisine of the tropics at Lime & Pepper at Peppers Beach Club & Spa, where the food has been hailed as innovative, tasty and visually impressive. Further on, at Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, prepare for a feast of oysters with luscious toppings, priced at just $1 each on Sundays.

The drive then winds along the edge of the Coral Sea and through pristine rainforest until you reach glamorous yet laid-back Port Douglas, known as ‘the gateway to the Daintree’, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.

16

Thala Beach Lodge, nestled on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas, offers excellent eco-friendly luxury accommodation.

Wander down Port Douglas’ main street for boutique shopping with a tropical twist; stop off at Four Mile Beach; and visit Mossman Gorge, a spectacular freshwater swimming hole.

Further on, after the village of Daintree, you must cross Daintree River on the vehicular ferry before heading north to Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Along the way, try your hand at ‘jungle surfing’ on a zipline that skims the rainforest canopy.

explore

5

1

4

2

3

1: Captain Cook Highway between Cairns and Port Douglas. 2: Cape Tribulation. 3, 4, 5: Palm Cove.

17

drivetime

Drive Two: Cairns to Mission Beach 140 kilometres

This is another spectacular drive that takes you past quaint towns and villages, outstanding coastal scenery, tropical rainforest and white-sand beaches.

Head south from Cairns towards Mission Beach, stopping in at Babinda Boulders for a dip at the popular swimming hole in the shadow of Mount Bartle Frere Queensland’s tallest mountain.

Babinda Creek is also a great place to kayak and the waters here teem with fish, the odd turtle and even the occasional platypus.

Josephine Falls, a scenic waterfall fed by rainwater run-off from Mount Bartle Frere, also has some great swimming spots and walking tracks.

Further on, at Mena Creek, you’ll find Paronella Park, a heritage-listed attraction built by Spanish-born José Paronella in the 1930s – another excellent tourist attraction, with beautiful gardens.

There is plenty of action at Mission Beach, including skydiving, sea kayaking, jetskiing, snorkelling, fishing, hiking and croc spotting. The local markets are another great drawcard. And for action-packed adventure, you can’t go past whitewater rafting on the mighty Tully River with local outfit Raging Thunder.

From Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park, you might see manta rays swimming in the shallows and turtles coming in to nest. The small town is home to a winery, a beachfront pub, a café and an old-fashioned fish-andchip shop as well as a post office, a petrol station and a general store.

One thing is for sure – no matter what road you take, there’s a host of great experiences waiting in Tropical North Queensland and a surprise around every corner.

FAST FACT Tropical North Queensland is the only place on earth where two World Heritage sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest – sit side by side.

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1: Millaa Falls. 2: Mission Beach. 3: An Atherton Tablelands green tree frog.

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drivetime

Drive Three: Atherton Tablelands Food Trail 90 kilometres

From Cairns, head inland to the Atherton Tablelands, following the Kennedy Highway to Kuranda. Stop off at the pretty rainforest village - home to lots of restaurants and shops. A nature-lover’s haven, you can see koalas, butterflies, native and exotic birds, kangaroos and reptiles, including some of the world’s most venomous snakes. Kids will be thrilled by the life-sized replica of an Allosaurus dinosaur.

If you have a sweet tooth, try the delectable Dutch licorice and rock candy at Kuranda Candy Kitchen or the handmade fudge at Kuranda Fudge Bar & Tea Room; coffee-lovers can stop in for an espresso and tour the Skybury coffee plantation just outside Mareeba.

Or drop in to the Golden Drop Winery, where you can taste mango wine and port.

Stock up on supplies en route– around here there are plenty of roadside stalls at which local growers sell fresh produce. And if you’re a strawberry-lover, you’ll be in seventh heaven at Shaylee Strawberries, which you can find on the Gillies Highway between Atherton and the historic town of Yungaburra.

Other stand-outs on the food and wine produce trail include the Nerada Tea Plantation near Malanda, where you can tour the factory and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in the restaurant.

You can also sample smoked freshwater crayfish at the Smokehouse Café, part of Tarzali Lakes Aqua Centre, and local yoghurt and seasonal cheeses at Mungalli Creek Dairy in Millaa Millaa.

Mt Quincan Crater Retreat offers luxurious accommodation in striking pole cabins, nestled among some of Tropical North Queensland’s most breathtaking scenery.

For more information, visit: cairnsgreatbarrierreef.org.au drivenorthqueensland.com.au 19

artspace Russel, Sasha and their boys Anders and Mika, with Mavis Ganambarr and acclaimed Yolngu musician Gurrumul Yunupingu, at Galiwinku, Elcho Island.

Perfect Partners The owners of Koskela have always understood the relationship between art and design. But when they introduced an Indigenous element things really started to blossom, as Simone Henderson-Smart discovers.

IN A WORLD populated by cheap, mass-produced, flat-packed, disposable products, a furniture company such as Koskela really stands out. Shunning the idea of imports and mourning the

decline of Australian manufacturing, husband-and-wife team Sasha and Russel Koskela sought to establish a business based firmly on the ethos of ‘designs with conscience’.

Their mantra is simple, as Sasha explains: “I remember listening to an interview on ABC radio. It was a really inspiring story and I remember the person talking about how he’d overcome all

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artspace

sorts of adversity in his life and that his motto was ‘follow your heart, trust your judgement, do it with joy’. It just struck a chord with me as we’d both left our corporate careers to do exactly that.”

With a mantra in place, the next job was to find some local manufacturers.

Sasha and Russel had very firm ideas about the artisans they wanted to collaborate with to turn their designs into products, citing three crucial qualities: a genuine commitment to quality (“We want our products to be able to stand on a global stage,” says Sasha); a willingness to try new things (“We will all fail unless we continue to innovate and try new materials, designs and processes”); and great systems and processes, which the couple saw as key indicators of consistency and quality.

By far the most rewarding collaboration came via a love of both social enterprise and Indigenous art. “I have always had a slow-burning passion for Australia’s Indigenous culture and really became interested in about 2004 when I started exploring the woven craft and art form,” says Sasha. “I think you can appreciate our Indigenous art on many levels: the artworks are beautiful pieces in their own right; the skill of the artists; and then at a whole other level, when the story behind the pieces is revealed and the connection to country is explained. I think this is when the pieces really come alive.”

This smouldering passion spawned the idea of working with Indigenous artists to create something not only functional but uniquely beautiful. “It took about four years from when I first thought it would

Mavis Ganambarr stripping the pandanus.

be great to try to combine our design skills with the Yolngu weaving to when I felt confident enough to approach Elcho Island Arts,” says Sasha. “It took a while to get off the ground, more because it took Koskela a long time to readjust our ideas. In our world, you invest in a prototype and then try to make as many units of the same piece [as you can] to amortise that initial investment. It became pretty obvious to me that the women wouldn’t be interested in this sort of duplication and also that we wouldn’t get the best outcome if we were really prescriptive. This is why we ended up deciding on standardising the form and then giving the women complete freedom to weave whatever they liked onto it. We never know what will arrive back from Elcho – it’s like Christmas every time we get a delivery. I am always blown away by their creativity!”

The ‘form’ Sasha refers to is a basic wire lampshade, which the weavers embellish as they please. “Each lampshade is unique,” enthuses Sasha, “and what is woven onto the frame is

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entirely determined by the weaver. Some of the lampshades feature handmade beads, shells, native grasses and raffia.”

Artist Mavis Warrngilna Ganambarr, from Elcho Island, fondly remembers meeting Sasha for the first time. “I was at the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair. I saw this lady, watching me weaving for a long time. She seemed very curious standing there and she walked past two, maybe three times. She looked shy, like she wanted to ask me something. She was holding something behind her back but I didn’t know what it was. I waved to her to say come over and she introduced herself and showed me the lampshade frames.

“First I was thinking, ‘how can I do that weaving on that wire?’ and I asked Sasha how they put the light inside.

She explained this to me and how when the light is on inside, it shines through, making shapes and shadows on the wall.

Then I understood and was excited to make one.”

When Sasha, Russel and their children visited Elcho Island soon after this first meeting, Mavis and her friends 24

took them out collecting pandanus plants, the fibre of which is used for their weaving. “We showed them bush materials and all of the natural dyes,” recalls Mavis. “It was special for her to see and know this; to know how special it is for us Yolngu people.

“We showed her our country, all the flowers which show you which colour dyes you can find. We have been teaching Sasha a lot. She showed great respect for Yolngu culture, and the lampshades help to support the ladies in the community without jobs. I felt that she helped me inspire the young ladies to weave. I was very thankful to her for this as my yapa [sister]. We understood each other, and she helped us to keep our traditions going.”

The social enterprise aspect ensures that Koskela keeps its profit from these pieces to a minimum, so that the enterprise is self-sustaining and benefits both the artists and their communities. Sasha was acutely aware of the importance of this sustainability, saying, “It was really important to me that if we started this, we would have a

This image: Dyed black pandanus. Above: A selection of lampshades from the Yuta Badayala and Tili Wiru collections.

artspace

“She explained this to me and how when the light is on inside, it shines through, making shapes and shadows on the wall. Then I understood and was excited to make one.” long-term commitment to the artists. It needed to be sustainable, as I’d seen too many instances of people coming into communities full of hope and promises and not really delivering. Maybe that’s why it took us so long before we felt confident enough to approach Elcho with our idea.”

Koskela has since expanded the concept and now has similar arrangements with the Tjanpi Desert Weavers as well as with much-loved Indigenous artist Regina Wilson, who has exhibited at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, Musée du Montparnasse in Paris and the British Museum. Regina created three unique designs – wargardi (dilly bag), syaw (fish net) and ngan’gi (message sticks) – which were then printed onto linen and silk and used to produce two beautiful collections of textiles. The collections include cushions, scarves and throws that, like the lampshades, are available exclusively through Koskela.

If Sasha has her way, it’s just the beginning of a long and lovely story.

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Hancock Gorge in the Karijini National Park, Western Australia

explore

Rock Stars

Rope up, strip down and plunge in. Get active in remote Karijini National Park and you’ll discover one of Australia’s best landscapes. Brian Johnston explores.

here’s something a little undignified about hanging on a rope over a rock ledge, feet scrabbling for a toehold beneath. My safety helmet has been knocked sideways over one eye. Below me – way below me – is a foaming pool of frigid water pockmarked with red boulders. To my left, a waterfall shudders, stinging my eyes with spray.

“Watch out! Those rocks are slippery!” shouts my guide, Alan, while I dangle and curse. My knees are grazed and my muscles are aching. We’ve walked into Hancock Gorge down rough-hewn steps and a metal ladder bolted to the cliff face. We’ve picked our way along the bottom of the gorge, scrambling over tumbled rocks and ankle-threatening pebbles and, at one point, wading through a pool with waters chilly enough to induce a heart attack. At Spider Walk, I had to squeeze my gut through a cleft in the ravine less than a metre wide. At some point, I reckon, what has come down must go up again – we face a slog back out of the bowels of the earth.

Somehow, my facial muscles are still working. I have a grin on my face as wide as the bruises on my shins.

Hancock Gorge is hard work, but it’s a magnificent challenge, too. I feel like pummelling my chest and

yelling like Tarzan. And there’s a reward for all this effort. The rocks are splintered, battered orange and dramatic. The yawning canyon is a huge crack in a vast plain, its walls set on fire by the afternoon sun, grand and improbable as a landscape from a sci-fi flick. If I were 100 kilometres out of Sydney or Melbourne, this would be one of Australia’s most fabled landscapes.

Instead, I have it to myself, apart from my guide, a few goannas and some dazed birds.

Hancock Gorge is one of a tangle of gorges in Karijini National Park – about as ‘middle of nowhere’ as you can get, even for Western Australia. I drive 250 kilometres east from Nanutarra on the highway before the flat, spinifex-spotted plains crumple and suddenly produce Mount Bruce, the state’s second-highest peak at 1165 metres. The start of my adventure – just limbering up, you might say – is a hot five-hour hike to its summit and back. The track mostly follows the mountain ridge, rewarding me with views to eternity.

In the distance I can see the scar of the Marandoo iron-ore mine.

Shortly after Tom Price (one-dog town, convenient petrol pump) I’m in Karijini, one of Western Australia’s largest national parks, where the Pilbara’s ‘plenty

Hancock Gorge is a magnificent challenge. I feel like pummelling my chest and yelling like Tarzan.

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explore

Fortescue Falls’ pools are fringed by ferns and gum trees ... great red slabs of rock lie tilted where they fell a million years ago. of nothing’ is offset by multicoloured gorges rich in marble, silica and iron. I set up camp at shady Dales Gorge, where there’s little more than a few gas barbecues and bush toilets. Next day it’s an easy three-hour walk to Fortescue Falls, the only permanent waterfall in Karijini, where dozens of other falls roar during the wet season. Like a slice of tropical Queensland misplaced in the barrenness of the Hamersley Ranges, Fortescue Falls’ pools are fringed by ferns and gum trees – it’s just the spot for a refreshing skinny-dip. All around, rocks are stacked like sculptures, and great red slabs lie tilted where they fell a million years ago.

Next day, I up the ante at Weano Gorge. It’s actually the most accessible of the national park’s gorges, and the occasional English backpacker and Perth retiree walks along the bottom between stands of eucalyptus trees to Handrail Pool, where fern-lined waterfalls slide over ink-black and rust-red rock. This is where sensible folk cool down and turn back, but I’ve booked Alan again for the onward adventure. Hooked to safety lines, we traverse the canyon along narrow ledges to Weano Falls, where we abseil 40 metres to the very bottom of the gorge. It’s bowel-clenching and finger-aching, but

the surroundings are slashed like a modern painting with bold colour.

The Weano Falls ‘walk’ is classified as Class 6, the greatest degree of difficulty. Classes 1 to 3 can be conquered by anyone and shouldn’t be missed; the twokilometre meander along the cliff edge at Dales Gorge is a ripper at sunset. Anything more and you should be a serious hiker, or even have some rock-climbing experience. Class 5 walks feature indistinct trails and rough terrain and require advanced outback knowledge; Class 6 trails need special permits. Don’t go without guides, and do prepare for pain.

At Knox Gorge, I have to crawl through tunnels and occasionally swim with flotation devices. At one point

Above: Weano Gorge is the most accessible of the national park’s gorges. Below: Roped in with West Oz Active.

ADVENTURE TOURS

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Joffre Gorge Lookout is exhilaratingly grand, with a cliff face carved like an amphitheatre and gushing waterfalls after rain.

I paddle through a twisting, turning chasm and I’m suddenly catapulted off a five-metre drop into a pool below. Then we abseil down another waterfall before reaching Red Gorge – shadowy and a bit eerie – from which we float on inner tubes to Junction Pool. In the afternoon we have to clamber up a sometimes ropeassisted path and back to base. But Knox is one of the most splendid gorges in Karijini National Park, banded with red and purple rock.

At the end of the week I relocate to Karijini’s only other camp site, at Joffre Gorge. It has a camp kitchen and showers, so it’s more popular than Dales Gorge but it lacks some of that getaway feel. It’s a good base from which to explore the surroundings, though. Joffre Gorge Lookout (pictured left) is exhilaratingly grand, with a cliff face carved like an amphitheatre and gushing waterfalls after rain. Getting down into the gorge itself provides you with dizzying looks upwards at the falling water. Awesome!

Round-up STAY

Karijini Eco Retreat karijiniecoretreat.com.au Tom Price Tourist Park tompricetouristpark.com.au

DO

Lestok Tours lestoktours.com.au West Oz Active Adventure Tours westozactive.com.au

MORE INFO

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checkin

Five

minutes with …

Nick Duigan and Andrew Hart

The hosts of Aussie fishing show Hook, Line and Sinker talk to Simone Henderson-Smart about having the world’s best job.

In your new series you go in search of fish in Mount Isa. Where on earth do you find fish in the Outback?

How did you guys go from being fishing enthusiasts to TV show hosts? Sounds like you’re living the dream!

We were both news journalists who worked many, many weekend shifts at a local TV station in Tassie, but instead of reporting the news we spent most of the time talking fishing. Then we hatched a plan to make a show, so we took holidays with a cameraman (who’s still our cameraman to this day) and ‘borrowed’ all the camera gear without telling any of the bosses. When we returned we’d shot enough for a couple of episodes; instead of getting fired, the station was good enough to edit them and play them. That was in 2001. Since then we’ve made more than 200 programs.

What’s your favourite fishing destination in Australia?

It’s hard to pick one favourite – Australia is lucky to have so many great fishing spots – but we love heading anywhere hot, probably because we come from Tassie. The Top End is always a great trip; it’s so wild. There’s speccy scenery and lots of wildlife, like crocs, and all the fish are hard-fighting – and that’s just in Darwin Harbour!

When we visited Isa, the local lake was low and the fishing was hard. Really hard. We flogged it for three days without catching a barra but we still managed to get a bit of program with some bycatch. At times, Lake Moondarra produces barra well over one metre long, and the locals are super-keen on their fishing.

What’s the secret to keeping things light and fun when you’ve been travelling, filming and fishing together for more than a decade?

We spend a lot of time in planes and cars together and have probably had the same conversations over and over and over again. But it’s the fishing that keeps it fun, and the fact that we get to travel to all these great locations around Australia to go fishing for our work means it never gets too serious!

One of you must have an annoying habit, surely?

Nick always books the flights and the hotels … and always seems to sit in the best seat and stay in the best room!

What can people learn from your show, apart from fishing tips?

What do your partners think about what you do?

They think we go on holidays for eight months of the year. They don’t seem to understand it’s work.

Once the filming’s done, do you still bait the occasional hook?

Yep, lots. Living in Tassie means there are so many great fishing opportunities.

Any time there’s nice weather, one or the other [of us] will be wetting a line or diving for tasty crayfish.

What can we expect from you guys in the future?

More of the same. But we’re also starting to travel a little more overseas. This season features fishing in the UK, New Zealand and the Solomon Islands.

“The fact that we get to travel to all these great locations around Australia to go fishing for our work means it never gets too serious.”

They can learn a fair bit about doing up old boats as we’ve restored a ‘project boat’ every year for the past five years. And they can learn that fishing is meant to be fun!

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2014

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citybites night

out

GOLDEN AGE CINEMA & BAR

Sydney

This month, head to Surry Hills and the Golden Age Cinema & Bar for a retro night to remember. The heritagelisted cinema and watering hole recently launched its latest program with an array of awesome film-inspired cocktails and a bar menu to match. Tuck into finger-licking hot toasties such as ‘The Spielberger’ (pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and mustard) or ‘The Fellini’ (salami, provolone and pickle) along with moreish cocktails: try ‘The Big Lebowski’ (‘The Dude’s’ White Russian – Ketel One vodka, Kahlua and milk) or ‘The Godfather’ (Campari, grapefruit soda and house-made lemon syrup). There are also cheese and meat cuts, ice-cream sundaes and four varieties of popcorn.

The space itself is magnificent: the restored Art Deco-era Paramount Pictures Building still has the original 35-millimetre film projectors in its projection room and the old screening room has been transformed into a beautiful, intimate bar-boutique cinema.

Cuddle up to your loved ones and watch classics such as Rebel Without a Cause or The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

It’s date night reborn. ourgoldenage.com.au

sleep

over

THE LARWILL STUDIO

Melbourne

Part of the Art Series Hotel Group, and inspired by one of Australia’s most distinctive and philanthropic artists, the late David Larwill, The Larwill Studio overlooks magnificent Royal Park, between the CBD and the cultural hubs of Melbourne’s inner north.

With an uplifting Larwill theme throughout, rooms and public areas have an open, playful ambience – an enormous Larwill original, aptly titled ‘Remember Me’, greets guests entering the grand, multifunctional lobby. Larwill’s love of bold, bright hues is reflected in an intense colour palate of burnt oranges, reds, blues, pinks and teal, used in furnishings and finishing touches such as drip hooks and door hangers.

‘Workspaces’ are offered in King and Twin room sizes, the latter having two double beds. Every room showcases two large Larwill giclée (ink-jet) prints and a private collection of art books, and in each, you’ll find Art Series Hotel Group’s signature comforts along with the latest technology and free wi-fi.

There’s a gymnasium with 30-minute workouts for time-poor guests keen to maintain their health regimes, morning jogging groups and a dedicated yoga channel available in-room, with yoga-mat hire free of charge. Nourishing and healthy food options are available in the licenced 250-seat house café/restaurant/bar. And if you’re feeling creative, there are art tours, classes, and materials on site.

The Larvill’s opening rate starts at $155; standard room rates are from $185 per night, with further discounts for Art Series Hotels members. thelarwillstudio.com.au

“With an uplifting Larwill theme throughout, rooms and public areas have an open, playful ambience.”

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entertainment

Compiled by Toby Little

listen

read COOK BOOK

Matt Preston, Pan Macmillan, $39.99

STUCK ON SUCCESS Beloved festival crowd-pleasers, Aussie band Sticky Fingers has returned from treating audiences overseas to their unique brand of eclectic, electro, reggae rock and knuckled down to produce a second album, Land of Pleasure, that debuted at number three on the ARIA charts.

The album features 13 new tracks from the boys, including the first single, the intoxicating ‘Gold Snafu’, followed swiftly by ‘Just For You’, which is a colossal ’90s-esque track, both with appropriately playful videos.

“When we got back from Europe, we just wrote an album in a month. It was a really fun process writing the album. We were just tucked away in the studio. In a little garage studio,” says lead guitarist Seamus (‘Hollywood’).

“We worked obsessively in that studio day and night,” chimes in bass player Paddy Cornwall, “you couldn’t have pulled us out of there if you tried.”

Taking inspiration from bands such as Nirvana and Pink Floyd, Sticky Fingers’ style is rock-inspired but eclectic. “I don’t think we ever really set out to write a song or write [in] a genre,” says Seamus, “We just always kind of write music and whatever comes out, comes out. We sing about the usual s**t; heartbreak, drugs, good times, bad times. It’s the soundtrack to life.”

Sticky Fingers’ sell-out Land of Pleasure tour is currently criss-crossing the nation.

For tour dates and more information on the band, visit stickyfingerstheband.com

watch staff pick

RISING FROM ASHES This full-length documentary, funded by two not-for-profit organisations and filmed over three continents and a period of nearly seven years, follows cycling legend Jock Boyer as he helps a group of survivors of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda achieve their dream of creating a national cycling team. Executive-produced and narrated by Hollywood actor and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Forrest Whitaker, this is a story of hope, teamwork and, ultimately, triumph against the odds. Rising from Ashes will inspire and enlighten everyone who watches it. Available from the App Store ($24.99HD, $19.99SD); risingfromashesthemovie.com

download BILLGUARD App store, free; Google Play, free Whether you’re a thrifty saver or an overzealous spender, this app is for you. Track your spending, monitor suspicious charges and view your accounts in one place.

It makes budget-watching easy.

POCKET YOGA App Store, $3.79; Google Play, $2.81 For the yogi who doesn’t have the time to make it to a class.

For less than the price of a shot of wheatgrass you can do 27 different yoga sessions in the comfort of your home.

WHOLE PANTRY App Store, $3.79; Google Play, $2.99 This wholefood app is perfect for the food-lover planning a health kick. Packed with wellness and lifestyle advice and peppered with 52 premium recipes, it’s updated regularly.

Pull on your comfiest pants because Matt Preston from TV’s MasterChef Australia is back with 187 of his favourite recipes. From coma-worthy cakes to fresh and healthy kale dishes, Preston takes years of epicurian expertise and recipe-writing skills and puts them at your disposal. This is a cookbook for both the novice and the wellseasoned professional.

staff pick

MOUNTAIN TO MOUNTAIN

Shannon Galpin, St Martin’s Press (Macmillan), $32.99 This inspiring and elegant memoir charts the selfless journey of a woman who leaves her comfortable westernised life behind to start a non-profit organisation, Mountain2Mountain, in war-torn Afghanistan, helping women and girls fight for their basic rights and freedoms.

Heartbreaking, and at times humorous, this is a compelling collage of stories from a true activist.

THE ALEXANDRIA CONNECTION

Adrian d’Hagé, Penguin Books (Australia), $29.99 Adrian d’Hagé immerses his readers in a shadowy world of espionage and secret societies. The story follows CIA agent Curtis O’Connor as he seeks to uncover a secret involving a new energy source that could be contained within the Pyramids of Giza. Combining politics, history and science, The Alexandria Connection is a roller-coaster ride that’s worth the whiplash.

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closeup

LIAW UNTO HIMSELF Faye James speaks to all-round chef extraordinaire Adam Liaw about balancing his hectic career with home life.

NO-ONE CAN accuse Adam Liaw of letting life pass him by. He completed year 11 at the tender age of 14, enrolled at university at age 16 and graduated with a double degree at age 21. MasterChef Australia winner, TV presenter, writer and UNICEF Australia ambassador, Adam Liaw is unstoppable. His energy for living life to the fullest packs a mighty punch, and his ear-to-ear smile is as infectious as his enthusiasm. Adam is going places like a steam train on auto-speed.

Currently hosting the prime-time food and travel programs Destination Flavour and Destination Flavour Down Under on the SBS network, Adam – author of a brace of cookbooks: Asian After Work and Two Asian Kitchens – has just released a third, Adam’s Big Pot. “I absolutely love writing cookbooks.

That feeling of getting my first book in my hands was awe-inspiring. You sit it on the shelf and know it will be there after you’re gone. It’s like creating a legacy,” Adam enthuses.

“But what I love most is messages from people saying they cooked something from my book and loved it so much that it’s become a regular part of their cooking routine. I love that I’m creating recipes people will make as a family.”

Adam’s latest cookbook promises a practical and creative approach to family cooking, with recipes inspired by his travels around the world: from fresh Vietnamese salads and simple South African curries to mouth-watering grilled Korean pork belly as well as his favourite one-pot Japanese classics.

Once again, Adam’s inspiration was his readers: “A cookbook is not about me; I write them so people can actually use them. I used to be a lawyer so I know what it’s like to get home from a day’s work and think, ‘What can I cook quickly?’.”

Adam is so passionate about his craft you might assume he always wanted to be a chef. Not so.

“I don’t know what compelled me to [compete in MasterChef Australia]; I’m still surprised. I had to leave a good job that I was enjoying. Being a lawyer was actually a dream job – I’d been working for decades to get to that point – and [MasterChef] was so far out of my experience and character,” Adam confides.

“I guess it was a desire to try something new. People just sit at their desks and know what their future holds – and as a lawyer, I had that feeling. MasterChef started off as a holiday but then it became my career.”

And since winning MasterChef Australia in 2010, Adam hasn’t looked back. The Malaysian-born chef hit the screen again with Destination Flavour, which took him back to his Asian roots, and now hosts Destination Flavour Down Under, which has taken him to far-flung places around the country, meeting gatherers and growers and showcasing the very best of culinary Australia.

“Showing people something new from places around the word is easy; doing it from their backyard is harder. When I told people Destination [Flavour] Down Under was a food and travel show around Australia, everyone said, ‘That’s a bit boring’. But I’ve really enjoyed proving them wrong,” Adam says with a wry smile.

“People think they’ve been all around Australia, but they haven’t been to places like Humpty Doo and Port Lincoln. After the shows, my twitter feed would be crammed with tweets from viewers saying they had no idea Australia had so much to offer. ” As a fairly new father, balancing work commitments with family life is a constant challenge. Adam’s admittedly exhausted with the juggling act. “But Christopher [Adam’s son] is a very good traveller!” he says. “He’s now been overseas five times.

When I’m filming, he can’t travel with

“People just sit at their desks and know what their future holds – and as a lawyer, I had that feeling. MasterChef started off as a holiday but then it became my career.”

6

Image courtesy of SBS.

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closeup

me – it’s 14-hour days and we cover a lot of distance. But he comes along for research trips; he’s better on the road than at home!”

For Adam, working on new creations is a round-the-clock job, although when it

– ‘the dishes we eat as children are what we crave as adults’. For me, it’s my mum’s lamb chops and my grandma’s Hainanese chicken rice. Nothing will replace these, and it’s where the soul of food comes from.

“I love kids, and I think it’s quite tragic when, because of adult conflicts and disputes, it’s the kids that get left further behind.” comes to enjoying the perfect meal with friends and family, he’s after something a little more tried and tested. “I don’t want people to impress me with how clever they are; I just want good company,” he says.

“I actually included a quote in my book

When people are on their deathbeds or thinking of their last meals, they think of foods their mums or grandmas made.”

Soulful is indeed another word to describe Adam Liaw. As a UNICEF Australia Ambassador, his work with

children in need is paramount.

“I love kids, and I think it’s quite tragic when, because of adult conflicts and disputes, it’s the kids that get left further behind,” he says. “The impending famine in South Sudan is one example.”

“Good nutrition is one of the most difficult things for children in these situations. People can’t grow crops to feed kids while war is being waged. The kids are not just in danger because of the conflict but also because of the food problems that arise. I can’t do enough to help anyone who is in these situations through no fault of their own.”

Adam’s Big Pot, published by Hachette Australia, is on sale 23 September 2014.

Paperback $39.99, e-book $19.99.

WIN AN ADAM LIAW DVD PRIZE PACK! Simply tell us in 25 words or less your favourite food destination for a chance to win 1 of 5 Destination Flavour DVD prize packs including: Destination Flavour, Destination Flavour Japan and Destination Flavour Down Under. Each prize pack is valued at $89.85.

Entries close November 1, 2014. Enter at inflight@edgecustom.com.au.

9

alltorque

BRUTES

Ben Smithurst goes to New Zealand to test drive BMW’s answer to the muscle car, the very manly M3 and M4.

MOST MARQUES have a racing or motorsports division that tweaks their road cars. They’re usually the best thing about the brand because they embody all of the best bits, mashed into a tin and injected with dangerous animal steroids.

Holden has HSV, which is so deeply Australian that it’s decided a ‘family sedan’ must be capable of towing Uluru to Perth. Volvo has Polestar, where they like to do 150 kilometres per hour Scando flicks and then drive home safely at 49 kilometres per hour. Nissan’s Nismo is like a Harajuku-girl: equal parts scene-y and crazy. Great Wall doesn’t have one, because if you take a corner quickly in a Great Wall, your car will

10

disassemble. And BMW has M, which is simply brilliant.

Since 1985, M’s finest achievement has been the M3, a vehicle that has represented everything great, but slightly unhinged, about being German: It is brilliantly engineered, extremely earnest and utterly crammed with wieners. The M3 is a man’s car, an induction-grunting sausage fest on 19-inch alloys. It is the manliest beast in BMW’s catalogue and the pride of the brand.

Which is why it was so perplexing when, this time around, BMW did something decidedly un-German.

First, BMW changed the car’s name. It was very confusing. Then they

messed with a winning formula. The old M3 was the last of the naturally aspirated V8s, and was also blessed with steadfast hydraulic – as opposed to false-feeling electromechanical – steering. Pure, if you will.

And where an M3 used to be an M3, whether it was a two-door coupé (which it generally was) or a four-door sedan (which you had to ask for), from now on BMW is assigning all its car designation according to the doors: Two-door cars get even-numbered suffixes; four-door models get odd ones. Which means we get an M3 (four doors) and an M4 (two-door coupé) at once. Even though they have exactly the same engine, drivetrain, chassis – basically, the lot.

Plus, the high-revving engine has been cut by two cylinders to be an inline six and the steering is electric. On paper, and in M-car fan forums, everybody hated this, stamping up and down in their lederhosen and comically hurling their Tyrolean hats.

They needn’t have been.

Once again, M knew exactly what it was doing. Trust the Germans.

alltorque

OUTthere went to the local M3/M4 launch in New Zealand, a varied affair involving a 400-kilometre road drive preceded by rainy laps of the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, North Waikato.

It’s a short but lovely track, up-and-down in a fashion that references bits of the Nürburgring. It’s also a bit short, at just 3.8 kilometres a lap, but it takes only 15 minutes on the circuit to realise that, instead of disgracing the M3’s legacy, BMW has actually created the best M car(s) ever. Even if they don’t sound quite as belligerent as before and there’s some intrusive cabin noise.

Each car has a 50:50 weight balance and does 0–100 kilometres per hour in 4.1 seconds, while the introduction of those twin-turbos approximates the sort of linear acceleration the old naturally aspirated V8 was known for. This is because, in Sport or Sport+ mode, those turbos are constantly spinning quickly, ready to go, which scuppers turbo lag.

Only 25 per cent of the engine is shared with the engine on which it’s based – the 3.0L 435i – and it shows. This straightsix has 40 per cent more torque than the old V8 – and nine more kilowatts.

A six-speed manual is a no-cost

Everybody hated this, stamping up and down in their lederhosen and comically hurling their Tyrolean hats.

SPECIFICATIONS

Its numbers are tremendous – 317kW and 550Nm – the latter figure providing a clue on how to lap speedily in the drizzle, the diesel-ish torque surging through bends with delicate acceleration and braking. Plant your foot, though, and it’s more than happy to hoon; the arse will step out happily, especially with the traction and stability off, while it sits flat as a tack through bends.

option for both the M3 and M4, shaving 12 kilos and adding 0.2 seconds to the 0–100 kilometres per hour time, but in terms of shifting speed, power application and even the fingertip comfort of the paddles, the seven-cog M Double-Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic is flawless.

Which only leaves the choice. The coupé is cooler, naturally – cleaner

without the rear doors, with a shapelier bottom, for $166,900. The M3 retains the legendary name and has the extra practicality of back-row entry, which adds a bit of weight at 23 kilograms.

Although there’s insufficient leg room in the back to make it a proper family sedan, it’s a bargain at just $156,900.

That $10k is telling in a car that’s identical in terms of performance but significantly more utilitarian. For all intents and purposes, BMW pays you 10 grand to have rear doors.

Everything else about the M’s nonidentical siblings makes sense. Perhaps, like other Teutonic jokes – sliced meat for breakfast, Rammstein, oompah bands – the pricing is a gag we just haven’t gotten yet. But if you can afford either car, you’re laughing.

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11

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outtahere

Camping around the country Going camping? We bring you six of the most scenic and adventurous spots in Australia to chill out under canvas, writes Brian Johnston.

WHEN IT COMES to getting away from work and seeing the best of Australia, there are fewer better ways to do it than by camping. You could head to a resort, but there you’re never far from fellow holidaymakers, buffet-bloated kids and beige walls. A camp site is different: Your ceiling is a star-studded sky; you wake to the sound of waves and cockatoos; family or friends can get active in the great outdoors; and, as the sun sets, sausages sizzle and a cold beer awaits.

Arkaroola, South Australia This 610-square-kilometre private wilderness sanctuary, once a sheep station, sits among red granite peaks and golden spinifex in the northern Flinders Ranges

and is pockmarked with fossil-imprinted gorges. Just about any drive takes you on a 60-million-year journey through spectacular bands of geology. Bushwalkers and 4WD enthusiasts can explore by themselves; bring a couple of spare tyres for the rocky conditions. Arkaroola also operates scenic flights and tours. Its twice-daily Ridgetop Tour in a specially designed open-top 4WD vehicle is hair-raisingly panoramic, with Sillers Lookout at the trail’s teetering end testing your head for heights.

Arkaroola has 50 powered and plenty of unpowered sites for caravans as well as numerous spaces for tents.

The communal campfire is the place to swap tall tales of your day in the Flinders, and magical sunsets and stars make it a bit like tripping in the sixties.

© Maxime Coquard / Tourism SA

You wake to the sounds of waves and cockatoos ... and as the sun sets, sausages sizzle and beer awaits.

13

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outtahere

Fraser Island, Queensland Who wouldn’t want to camp out on a warm Queensland island? Only two hours’ drive from the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island is a heap of white, brown and golden sands, stands of scribbly gums and towering kauri pines, and little freshwater lakes in emerald and turquoise that provide dozens of choice places to set up camp. You can choose among several national parks’ camp sites or more formal campgrounds with amenities blocks and BBQs, such as Dundubara and Central Station. Stay at dingo-fenced Waddy Point, though, and you’ll find a beaut spot within a walk of the beach, and with top fishing nearby. When you’re done doing plenty of nothing, rent a 4WD and take a spin along the island’s east coast: 120-odd kilometres of sandy adventure highway with the Pacific pounding to one side. Awesome.

Fraser Island is a heap of white, brown and golden sands, stands of scribbly gums and towering kauri pines, and freshwater lakes.

South West Rocks, New South Wales

FAST FACT Around 10 per cent of all visitor nights in Australia are spent in more than 1600 caravan parks that offer nearly a quarter of a million sites.

That’s a lot of visitors enjoying our great outdoors.

© Jeffrey Drewitz / Destination NSW

Maybe because it lies 15 kilometres off the Pacific Highway, South West Rocks has always been a little quiet and old-fashioned – good news if you’re looking for somewhere just to snooze, booze and bask on the sand.

You can also hit several good surfing beaches or dive among parrot fish and wobbegong sharks. Need your creature comforts while camping? Try the BIG4 Sunshine South West Rocks Holiday Park. However, the more basic NSW National Parks campsite on the foreshore beneath historic Trial Bay Gaol is hard to beat. You can see the ocean – and, in winter, whales wallowing past – from just about every site. Hike up the headland above into Arakoon National Park and on to wind-battered Smoky Cape Lighthouse, where you can clamber up to the balcony – though you might get blown off into the spectacularly blue ocean.

Top right: Fraser Island is a slice of heaven just two hours’ drive from the Sunshine Coast. Above: If you head to South West Rocks, don’t miss visiting Trial Bay Gaol.

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© Tourism Western Australia

outtahere

Pitch your tent with a view of the purple-red Cockburn Ranges, ridiculous sunsets and a billion stars ... explore locations used in the movie Australia.

Home Valley, Western Australia To get to Home Valley from Kununurra, you have to cross the Pentecost River, where water spills over your hub caps and crocodiles lurk. The ultimate bush retreat sits in the middle of more than 1.2 million hectares of Kimberley wilderness; pitch your tent with a view of the purple-red Cockburn Ranges, ridiculous sunsets and a billion stars. The station’s Dusty Bar & Grill provides enormous steaks and conversation with adventurous fellow travellers about breakdowns, musters and gorge country. Home Valley is a working Indigenous-owned cattle station and you can ride out with the workers, hike walking trails, or croc-spot and fish for Barramundi on the Pentecost River. Head up to red-rock Bindoola Falls for a dip to make body parts shrivel. Film buffs can also explore some of the wild and remote locations used in Baz Luhrmann’s movie Australia.

Litchfield, Northern Territory The Top End is magnificent camping country and Litchfield National Park is one of its highlights. It’s under two hours’ drive from Darwin, making it accessible even for a day or a weekend – and before your beer ice has melted away. Landscapes range from monsoon rainforest to sandstone escarpments, but Litchfield’s best-known features are its termite mounds and waterfalls; the latter are great during the Wet (October to May) but provide better swimming the rest of the year. You could check in to caravan parks at Batchelor, the national park’s gateway town, but you’re better off staking a claim at one of the more rugged bush camp sites at Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Bluey Rockhole, where you can enjoy early-morning plunges into the waterholes. If you have a 4WD, there are several more dry-season camp sites, such as at Tjaynera Falls and Surprise Creek Falls, where you can really go bush.

Above: Home Valley Station. This image: Tjaynera (Sandy Creek) Falls in Litchfield National Park.

17

outtahere

Round-up

Leeuwin-Naturaliste, Western Australia Cape Leeuwin is as far south-west as you can go without falling off Australia. Puff up the stairs of Australia’s third-tallest and the state’s tallest lighthouse for views that show you why this is a great camping destination: rugged coastline, sweeping beaches and turquoise waters meet.

The nearest town is Augusta, where you can fish, kayak or hit the golf course. But stay to the north in LeeuwinNaturaliste National Park, where Hamelin Bay Holiday Park sits beachside under the peppermint trees. Go bush with unpowered camping, or choose between cabins and cottages. Snorkel among stingrays, dive wrecks, surf the waves or head inland to explore the Margaret River wine region. If you’re up for the challenge, the 135-kilometre Cape to Cape Track linking Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin lighthouses is great – even just on a day walk along the section from Hamelin Bay to Cosy Corner.

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STAY

Below: Sugarloaf Rock rises dramatically from the ocean along the WA coast between Yallingup and Cape Naturaliste.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary arkaroola.com.au Big4 Sunshine South West Rocks Holiday Park big4-south-west-rocks.nsw.big4.com.au Florence Falls parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au Hamelin Bay Holiday Park hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au Trial Bay Gaol campground nationalparks.nsw.gov.au Waddy Point beachfront campground nprsr.qld.gov.au

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food&wine

ESCAPES

BETWEEN THE CAPES There’s an amazing array of culinary experiences hidden among the forests of the South West region, writes Jock Serong.

he south-western corner of Western Australia is the green edge of a vast, arid hinterland.

It’s where cold fronts from the Southern Ocean clip the corner of the Australian landmass before continuing eastwards across the Bight.

The oceanic influence means the region has higher rainfall and less variation in temperature than the rest of the west as well as abundant life: giant forests of jarrah and karri, burgeoning river systems, and flora and fauna of every imaginable kind – enclosed to the north and east by desert, and to the south and west by ocean.

In the midst of this geography, the township of Margaret River sits halfway between Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste, about three hours’ drive from Perth. It’s still a country town, but a worldclass act in winemaking and produce, and the gateway to adventure tourism

including big-wave surfing, caving, fishing and kayaking. From here the entire region is within an hour’s drive north or south.

It doesn’t get much better than the Margaret River Gourmet Escape in November. This year there’s an amazing line-up of talent, some (Heston Blumenthal and Rick Stein) returning from last year and others (Massimo Bottura and Frank Camorra) making their debut. As Blumenthal said of last year’s event, “Honestly, I don’t think there’s any other food event on the planet like this!”

But first, a little wander. During the warmer months don’t miss breakfast at White Elephant Beach Café in Gnarabup.

Here you can sit with the sand under your feet near the thundering surf of Main Break. As you sip your coffee, locals launch their boats nearby and stand-up paddleboarders cross the turquoise lagoon to surf the outer reefs.

It’s still a country town, but a world-class act in winemaking and produce, and the gateway to adventure tourism.

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food&wine

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food&wine

TOP 5 MARGARET RIVER GOURMET ESCAPE MUST-DOS NOVEMBER 21–23, 2014 1. Feast in the Forest 2. Food for Thought presented by Breville 3. Siemens Collaboration Dinner series 4. Gourmet beach BBQs 5. Gourmet Village (Featuring Heston Blumenthal, Massimo Bottura, Rick Stein, Peter Gilmore, George Calombaris and Matt Stone)

At Eagle Bay Brewing Co, nestled in the hills just behind Geographe Bay to the north, brothers Adrian and Nick d’Espeissis have created a full-scale commercial brewery on the family farm.

Their on-site restaurant is built from rammed earth and fronted by sloping lawns with a view across the paddocks to Cape Naturaliste lighthouse. Nearby is the township of Yallingup, home to some of the nation’s best surfers, including 2014 world title hope Taj Burrow.

Just a little to the east, Julian Scott plies his trade as a winemaker for Flametree Wines, near Dunsborough.

Julian also makes his own label there, called Attollo. Thrash metal booms through the huge winemaking shed but Julian is a purist, using a traditional basket press to make exotic and technically difficult Portuguese varieties.

Also on the northern half of this fabled stretch of coast is Leith and Michael Kerrigan’s Hay Shed Hill Wines. The winery was transformed by Michael from an old, rustic operation into one of the region’s busiest cellar door caférestaurants, frequented by well-heeled Perth holiday-makers with beach pads around Eagle Bay. The styles here are traditional Bordeaux: Cabernets with the addition of the ‘spice rack’ varieties Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

At the beautifully landscaped Aravina Estate there’s the chance to dine with a genuine celebrity chef. Tony Howell is a green-eyed larrikin, surfer and free diver – and, for the past 15 years, the head chef at

nearby Cape Lodge. He came to Aravina to ease back on his lifestyle and spend more time with his kids. Conversation with Tony is fast-paced and funny.

His dining room flows from indoors to outdoors, thanks to the climate.

Tony’s ocean obsession is reflected on the menu: Rottnest Island tuna and deep-ebony-brown Margaret River marron.

Think strictly local wine lists and pride in local ingredients. On the menu there’s duck with Vermentino and varieties such as Tempranillo and Nebbiolo, alongside truffles and caviar.

At the beautifully landscaped Aravina Estate there’s a chance to dine with a genuine celebrity chef, Tony Howell.

Wines aren’t the only gourmet treasures hidden in the tall forests here. Josh Bahen runs Bahen & Co Chocolate Maker with his wife, Jacqui, creating handmade, single-origin, stone-ground chocolate. He’s quick to point out he’s a chocolate maker, not a chocolatier (chocolatiers melt down pre-made chocolate). Josh pursues lost Central American cacao genetics, which long ago were dispersed in the Pacific Islands and Papua New Guinea. The

Top, above and above right: Dine on local marron at Aravina; making chocolate the traditional way at Bahen & Co; the Flying Fish Cove Winery.

22

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food&wine

It’s a stylish operation – the wrapping, the machinery, the signage, even the sacks of beans. exact localities of the farms and blends he uses (and one or two of his machines) remain a closely guarded secret.

The factory at Bahen & Co is flooded with a beautiful chocolate aroma. Here, Josh and Jacqui de-husk the beans in an antique machine from El Salvador, roast them, then grind them in a 105-year-old, five-tonne Spanish machine, gradually turning them into liquid through friction and pressure.

The final production stages and the wrapping are all done individually, by hand. Jacqui clearly has an eye for design and chooses the exquisite paper wrapping.

It’s a stylish operation – the wrapping, the machinery, the signage and even the hessian sacks of beans and the machetes and scythes. There are sacks piled into the back of a vintage Land Rover ute. It doesn’t run any more – but damn, it looks good.

Damon Eastaugh, winemaker at Flying Fish Cove Winery, is well known to surfers

for his bone-breaking big-wave heroics, but there’s much more to this bloke. He studied law and even practised for a year before getting into winemaking through his family’s nearby Wildwood Winery. His two smallest kids are learning to surf at Yallingup, but it’s vintage that takes up all his time. As well as the Flying Fish Cove label, his massive stainless-steel winery makes wine on contract for others. In conversation, Damon uses a lot of French terms and scientific jargon, but he’s keen on demystifying wine culture – he loves drinking wine and thinks it should be accessible to everybody.

In 2013 the Margaret River Gourmet Escape garnered rave reviews from visitors, sponsors and talent. This year the region might eclipse even that, with exciting new events featuring beer, wine and local produce including Feast in the Forest, A Cabernet Celebration at Cape Mentelle, and Eagle Bay Brewing Co and el Público Long Table Fiesta. It seems there’s nothing this extraordinary region can’t produce.

As attending celebrity chef George Calombaris puts it, “Margaret River Gourmet Escape is the real foodie’s dream … one of the most beautiful locations in the world, with some of the best produce in the world, and some of the best chefs in the world.”

Round-up GET THERE

There are flights from major cities to Perth daily. From Perth, it’s a two- to three-hour drive south.

STAY

Margarets Beach Resort, right by the surf at Prevelly. margaretsbeachresort.com.au Yallingup Forest Resort, to experience the forests of the South West up close. yallingupforestresort.com.au

EAT & DRINK

Morries Anytime, for affordable, inventive dining and an excellent wine list.

149 Bussell Highway, Margaret River facebook.com/MorriesAnytime Margaret River Hotel, for an authentic local pub vibe.

125 Bussell Highway, Margaret River margaretriverhotel.com.au

EXPLORE

Greek Chapel at Prevelly, where the views are stunning.

MORE INFO

margaretriver.com

© Margaret River Gourmet Escape

Above and above right: Some of the fabulous fresh fare from last year’s Beach BBQ event; Heston Blumenthal is a huge fan of both the Gourmet Escape and the entire region.

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Jack Estate is located amongst the finest vineyards in Coonawarra, South Australia.

The secret to our award winning wines is the harmony of rich red terra rossa soil, limestone, pure underground water and a long cool fruit ripening season. Combine this with the exceptional skills of our winemakers who use traditional winemaking techniques and Jack Estate is crafting world class wines of distinction.

www.jackestate.com

destination

Michelle Hespe visits the Yarra Valley, a region bursting at the seams with fresh produce, fine wine and every reason to indulge. f someone mentions indulgence, food and wine are often the first things that come to people’s minds. And if the Yarra Valley is mentioned in the same sentence, it’s a sure bet that images of fine and sparkling wine, fresh produce and chocolate will also fill their heads.

If you’re out to indulge in these and other culinary offerings from the famously fertile Yarra Valley, there’s no finer time to hit the road than in spring.

It’s not only a road trip that will gloriously assault your sense of smell but one that will be a riot of colour, with flowers in full bloom, fresh food bursting from the earth, and vines becoming heavy with the promise of award-winning wine.

It’s been more than 170 years since the first vines were planted for wine in the Yarra Valley, making it the first winegrowing region in Victoria. However, increased demand for fortified wine in Australia and beyond meant the valley’s wine production ceased in 1921 and then didn’t kick off again until the late 1960s. Over the past 50 to 60 years, a solid industry has been built around the production of some of Australia’s best cool-climate wines – Rosé, Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs thrive here. And the offshoot of the wonderful wines that come from this region has been the development of many charming communities of people who are as passionate about produce as they are about wine.

Wherever you are in the world, hopping aboard a tour with a knowledgeable guide is the best way to get the most from a wine region. When you’re on your

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destination

Š Tourism Australia

A journey through the Yarra Valley is not only a road trip that will gloriously assault your sense of smell but one that will be a riot of colour.

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destination

Above right and below: Father-and-son team, Dominique and Ben Portet; the rustic, vineclad Dominique Portet cellar door.

own driving around wine country, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on some of the less obvious boutique gems – and that’s really the whole point of visiting a wine region: to discover food and wine that can’t be purchased online or over the counter in your home town.

One tour company that has been going strong in the Yarra Valley for more than a decade is Grape Escape Tours. Specialising in the smaller wineries of the Yarra Valley, the company picks up guests in their choice of a luxury car, people mover (for larger groups) or chopper (the pimped-up option). Owner Bill Hughes and his right-hand man Graham Smith know their stuff; they also know how to entertain their guests while surprising and educating them.

Here are some of the places to which a typical Grape Escape Tour will lead you…

Springing into Seville Built upon rich, red volcanic soil and set wisely upon a hilltop overlooking the Yarra Valley, Seville Hill estate is a breathtaking property with a sister winery in Seville, Spain. Towering elms more than 100 years old catch the sunshine in their branches and the lawns merge into row upon row of vines – a shimmering carpet of budding greens.

Owners John and Josie D’A loisio are wonderful hosts, taking their guests through intimate tastings of their wines, including specialties such as

Above venisi

© John Laurie

Try the cherry liqueur that has a chili-like peppery finish and is made from cherries grown on the farm.

a beautifully light and crisp Rosé with hints of cherry and strawberries, and a cherry liqueur that has a chili-like, peppery finish and is made from cherries grown on the farm.

Sipping on their Reserve Chardonnay while admiring the vines, it’s not difficult to see why the picturesque view across the Yarra Valley is often a backdrop for concerts and weddings.

French leaning You don’t meet many winemaking families in Australia that can lay claim to 10 generations of winemaking, but that’s exactly what father-and-son team Dominique and Ben Portet have to offer their loyal customers and cellar-door visitors. And it’s no ordinary lineage: the Portets’ French heritage goes back to 18th century Bordeaux – one of the most prestigious winemaking regions in the world.

The Dominique Portet cellar door has a tasting bench that runs the length of the open-plan warehouse-style room that doubles as a gift store. It means guests are not just limited to buying some of the superb wines on offer – the Rosé, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc being popular drawcards – but can also peruse the selection of stylish homewares, jewellery and assorted gifts.

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destination

them. And why wouldn’t they get excited, when local business Alloway Gourmet Buffalo produces gourmet sausages and tender, fine cuts, Gateway Hydroponics puts the taste and juice back into real fruit and vegetables, and Little Creek Cattle Company provides locals and restaurateurs with grass-fed beef that’s free of hormones and organophosphates?

The mouth-watering list of producers goes on: it includes Yarra Glen Quality Meats and Smokehouse, which is doing a great trade, and Yarra Valley Caviar, which obtains its delicate fish eggs from naturally farmed Atlantic salmon.

Every day, there’s a plethora of produce from local companies being carted straight to Yarra Valley restaurant doors, so winery-hopping visitors should always leave a little room for more.

At Tokar Estate’s restaurant, fine dining in an elegant setting is a magical yet relaxing experience.

Arched fairytale-like windows frame a surreal setting with gently undulating layers: a gravel path through rose gardens complete with a Europeanstyle fountain, then an orderly mass of vineyards followed by valleys, hilltops and a mountain range, all cascading smoothly into the distance. An everchanging à la carte menu that changes with the

No matter what time of year it is, every wine tour should be broken up by relaxing in a restaurant or café with sprawling views of vines.

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The Portets are renowned for their Brut Rosé NV, which is a soft, pale-pink colour. The family says with pride that it’s famous in Europe during summer and has even earned itself the nickname ‘Summer In A Bottle’.

To call the Dominique Portet estate and cellar door charming is an understatement. From the stone building with wide barn-like doors opening onto the vines, to the endearing nature of the Portets, it’s a delight – and is one winery you won’t want to miss on your Yarra Valley travels.

Produce pairing No matter what time of the year it is, every wine tour should be broken up by relaxing in a restaurant or café with sprawling views of vines and valley, where a glass of wine or two can be savoured and matched with the finest of local produce.

The Yarra Valley, famed for its paddock-toplate approach to dining, is not short of impressive offerings dished up by chefs who really know what they’re doing and are excited by the ingredients they have sprawling in every direction around

Above left: The breathtaking view at Tokar Estate. This image: Dominique Portet’s ‘Summer in a Bottle’.

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they should build one. The locals thought they were mad when they saw the gigantic parking lot that they built to accommodate the thousands of people they imagined turning up.

But head to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery today and you won’t believe the crowd, inside and outside the building. Inside it’s like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, with every imaginable type of chocolate and sweet thing known to humankind piled high in enticing towers of lip-smacking, sugary sweetness.

Needless to say, the car park is usually full these days and is possibly in need of expansion.

Like most places in the Yarra Valley, there’s always another group of people turning up with eyes wide open and mouths salivating, ready to step into the warm embrace of indulgence.

seasons is available, or guests can choose a special of two courses with a glass of Tokar wine.

The estate is no stranger to awards for its wines and is well known for its 2012 Le’ori Unwooded Chardonnay, which has a lemony melon zest and is as crisp as an autumn day in the Yarra Valley. For something with more of an earthy punch, Tokar also does a fine Tempranillo characterised by malt, tobacco-leaf and forest-floor flavours.

Rustic charm Maddens Rise is one of those off-the-beatentrack small wineries that make you grateful for the many winemakers out there trying to do something different.

Set in a small but very funky shed made from slatted wooden, steel and glass, the Maddens Rise cellar door is a fun and entertaining experience, largely due to the lovely, bubbly personality of Emma, who runs the tastings. A lover of wine and watering-cans (her collection is scattered throughout the airy open-plan room, where light pours in through the many windows), Emma makes her guests feel as welcome as best friends that she hasn’t seen for years.

Before you know it, you’ll be giggling over some of the Pink Fizz or sparkling wine, and by the time you hit the Reserve Pinot Noir, you’ll be making plans to order a case and pay another visit.

Chocolate hit Ian and Leanne Neeland made a very good decision over a bottle of wine when they were living in Margaret River. They noted that the Yarra Valley didn’t have a chocolaterie and they decided 32

Tokar also does a fine Tempranillo, characterised by malt, tobacco-leaf and forest-floor flavours.

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Luxuriate aboard Cruiseco Adventurer as you explore the wonders of the Mekong.

prouting out of the foothills of Cambodia’s former capital city, Oudong, is a mountain flecked with the ornate spires of stupas. From a distance, Khmers say, this mountain is the shape of a Naga – Nagas being the magical multi-headed serpents that guard the Buddha.

Embarking up a set of stairs that commence at the base of this Naga-shaped mountain, you come across a series of large, barely discernable structures rising out of the earth. Bullet-strafed pillars barely harbour the remnants of what was once a statue of the Buddha – and is now a reminder of the bombings that devastated Oudong in the 1970s. These are the relics of the famous Arthross Temple. Beautiful in their own right,

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the remnants are reminders of Cambodia’s rich, deep and tumultuous history.

This onshore excursion to the sacred city of Oudong is but one of many expeditions offered on Cruiseco Adventurer’s journeys along South-East Asia’s mighty Mekong River.

Sailing between Saigon in Vietnam and Siem Reap in Cambodia, Cruiseco Adventurer has been traversing exotic villages, towns and historic landmarks along the Mekong for the past two years.

With Cruiseco’s focus on sustainability and community development, you can almost convince yourself that your trip along the Mekong is about giving back to society.

“We only employ local staff which means that our guests can learn more about the

local region while we can give back to the community,” says Amber Wilson, Cruiseco’s national marketing manager. “It enables us to support the local areas, source our produce along the Mekong River and discover wonderful hidden gems.”

These gems are tucked away in the nooks and crannies of the smaller ports Cruiseco Adventurer visits – away from the more typical tourist destinations. “As a result, our guests discover something that is off the beaten track and truly special,” says Wilson.

The voyage also involves venturing to some of the region’s globally renowned landmarks.

An excursion to the Gothic house of The Lover provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of classic literature. Located in

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From Vietnam to Cambodia, you’ll visit iconic sites such as the Royal Palace, which was constructed in Phnom Penh after Cambodia’s royal capital had been relocated from Oudong; Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world; and the Khmer ruins at Ta Prohm, a glorious location made famous by the film Tomb Raider.

A trip down the Mekong would be incomplete without the opportunity to visit some of Cambodia’s more harrowing historical sites: the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Fields.

But for those better suited to luxuriating, there’s no need to leave the comfort of the ship – after all, this is a holiday! Cruiseco Adventurer boasts beautiful décor and luxurious accommodation. Each of its restful cabins has polished timber floors, ensuite facilities, floor-to-ceiling French windows, a private balcony and a private seating area with outdoor furniture, where you can sit and watch the activity along the colourful shores of the Mekong. Not to mention the ship’s bar, restaurant, lounge,

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sundeck, library, boutique and plunge pool.

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So if you hadn’t already convincedyourself that this holiday is a way of giving back to the region and its environment, knowing that the heat generated by the ship’s engines is re-used to heat water on board (for long hot showers, in particular) is sure to do the trick. cruising.com.au, (02) 9492 8520

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agribusiness

AGRICULTURE PRODUCTIVITY

IS LINKED TO EDUCATION Future farmers will need a diverse skill set to survive in a new environment, writes Baldeep S. Gill. n Australia, a commercially viable farming operation requires an annual turnover approaching $500,000 to generate $70,000 in household disposable income (in line with the median income for an Australian family in 2010) and invest in business improvements so as to create a sustainable operation for the next generation.

Running a half-million-dollar business with climate, product, input and currency risk requires experience, but also a level of expertise that benefits from formal education. And for farmers today there’s a range of options.

By 2020, more than 5000 Australian farms will have annual turnovers of more than $1 million. Successfully leading these businesses will require skills that can be acquired only through education, on-the-job training and ongoing professional development.

(ABARES) identified that between 1981 and 2011, the proportion of farmers with university degrees had increased sixfold and that of those with certificate-level qualifications had doubled.

According to ABARES, “With the operation of farm businesses becoming increasingly complex, many farmers are coming to see themselves less as traditional farmers and more as managers with the same skills and responsibilities as any business manager.

This approach has seen growing numbers of farmers pursuing formal educational qualifications.”

Although the proportional increase in educational attainment among farmers has outstripped that of people in other occupations, farmers are still only half as likely as those in other occupations to hold non-school qualifications.

Current education levels

Education options

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences

Agricultural education starts early: getting a strong grounding in numeracy, literacy,

science and information technology at secondary school level is critical. While some regional high schools have the required curriculum, years of government funding cuts have left many of these institutions struggling to provide globally competitive education programs.

Despite the cost (which can reach $40,000 per annum, including boarding), a number of farming families consider private-school education for their kids to be a key investment in the future.

At a tertiary level, Australia has at least 13 internationally recognised institutions that offer degrees in agriculture-related disciplines, including: • Charles Sturt University • Curtin University • James Cook University • La Trobe University • Marcus Oldham College • Australian National University • The University of Queensland • The University of Melbourne • University of New England • The University of Sydney

37

agribusiness

• University of Tasmania • The University of Western Australia • University of Western Sydney.

Agriculture, business and science degrees from these institutions are now considered a prerequisite for ‘base level competency’ among future farmers.

Principal of Marcus Oldham College in Geelong, Dr Simon Livingstone, says, “Farming is and will continue to be complex business and the leading producers of the future will be those who are at the forefront of technologies and who can analyse, adopt and implement the latest scientific practices into their food production systems. Productivity growth is central to the performance and international competitiveness of Australia’s rural sector.

“High-performing agricultural managers need to make complex decisions and be able to profit during challenging times. Many skills can be learnt on the job, but the development of the high-level cognitive thinking needed for sophisticated management decision-making is best learnt off-farm in a tertiary setting.”

If we widen the ‘agribusiness’ discipline to include veterinary science, general science, biology, agronomy, environmental science and business, there are many more institutions offering opportunities for future farming leaders to build up skill sets that will enable them to better unlock the available value in Australia’s agriculture sector.

Australia face. Business leaders should be encouraged to attend, participate and learn rather than shying away for fear of giving away ‘trade secrets’.

While Australia is considered a market leader in agricultural productivity, there is always more to learn, particularly from overseas. International study tours that are organised by corporates, special-interest groups and governments should not be dismissed automatically as ‘junkets’ and ignored. A good test is to invest 30 minutes of online research to see if these tours will give you access to people, innovations or contacts that you can’t establish yourself.

Industry goals The goal of Australia’s agriculture industry should be to become the

dominant provider of produce to the emerging middle classes of Asia and the Middle East. To achieve this, we require a cohort of professional farmers who can strategically position their businesses to thrive, rather than just survive, regardless of the often tough conditions they face. Achieving this will require a solid foundation in formal, particularly tertiary education, followed by ongoing learning and professional development.

Baldeep S. Gill is an independent strategic business consultant with more than 23 years of experience across a wide range of industries throughout Australia and the AsiaPacific region.

Email baldeep.gill@theapcg.com

Professional development As in other industry sectors, ongoing professional development is becoming an accepted part of staying at the forefront of knowledge and skills in farming.

At tertiary institutions, residential programs in business, marketing, finance, farm management and exporting all offer excellent opportunities for farming leaders to ensure their businesses remain at the forefront of the industry.

Outside of tertiary institutions, there are various industry or geographic business groups that offer practical solutions to challenges and opportunities that farmers across 39

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WESTERN

DREAMS The state of mining in Western Australia

SAFER WORKPLACES Making the mining industry safer for workers

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REAL WORKERS Automation is great but engineers are better

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URANIUM BAN LIFTED Resources sector gets a boost thanks to uranium

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windowseat

Š BHP Billiton

2

windowseat

Newman, WA THERE are four privately-owned railway lines in the Pilbara region of north-western WA. Two are owned by BHP Billiton, one

by Rio Tinto and one by Fortescue Metals Group, and all are there for one reason alone: iron ore.

BHP’s Mount Newman railway opened back in 1969, and runs from Newman to Port Hedland. The railway is the hardest working on the planet, with by far the longest and heaviest trains in operation.

In June 2001, the Mount Newman railway set a new world record when a 7.3 kilometrelong train weighing in at a massive 99,734 tonnes made the 275-kilometre journey between Yandi and Port Hedland.

Rio Tinto’s Hammersley and Robe River railway is the region’s largest network.

Indeed, with a total length of 1,300 kilometres, the network is in fact the largest privately-owned heavy freight rail network operating in Australia.

In June 2001, the Mount Newman railway set a new world record.

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RIGHT THIS WAY, MR PRESIDENT Mining equipment company Vermeer Corporation has announced that Jason Andringa will become president and CEO of the company in November next year, succeeding the current CEO

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The Goondicum mineral sands mine located in Monto, Queensland will be reopening in March next year, Melior Resources announced recently.

After the mine closed down in June last year as a result of declining ilmenite prices and issues with care and maintenance, 35 jobs were lost. With the reopening of the mine next year, 50 jobs will be created, bringing the number of onsite jobs to a total of 80 personnel and helping to reverse the downtrend experienced by the town of Monto following to the closure.

With regard to the re-opening, Melior CEO Mark McCauley was positive. “We are excited to commence the restart of the Goondicum mine; it is a substantial milestone for Melior and will position the company as a significant low-cost producer of ilmenite,” he said.

Melior Resources bought out previous owner of the Goondicum mine, Belridge Enterprises, under the condition that Melior invested around $15 million to restart the stunted operation.

Upgrade works implemented at the defunct site include the instillation of additional equipment to boost recovery, improvements to increase throughput at the processing plant by 50 per cent to around 2.8 million tonnes per annum, and the construction of a new access road to the mine that will drastically reduce the haulage distance from the mine to port by around 35 per cent, or the equivalent of 100 kilometres.

Compiled by Toby Little

and Jason’s mother Mary Andringa.

As Jason Andringa moves into the role of CEO, Mary Andringa will take over the role of chair of the board. “I am honoured to have the opportunity to lead Vermeer, as a family-owned and -operated global company,” said Jason. Company founder Gary Vermeer is the father of current CEO Mary Andringa, making Jason Andringa the third generation of the

Vermeer family to run the company.

“I look forward to working closely with Jason [Andringa] this coming year to prepare him for the transition to CEO in November 2015,” said Mary Andringa.

Current chairman of the board Bob Vermeer will assume the role of chair emeritus from November 1 this year.

Vermeer provides the mining industry with construction equipment for projects 5

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such as energy pipelines, utilities, sewers, geothermal power and high-speed communications lines.

COAL SHOULDER A paper released recently by Ross Garnaut, a professorial research fellow in economics at The University of Melbourne, suggests that over the next decade, China will utilise alternative sources of thermal power, such as gas and biomass.

Garnaut forecasts that the energy produced by biomass in China will increase by around 80 per cent, and energy from gas will almost quadruple in the 10-year period. At the same time, he predicts China’s consumption of

coal-powered energy to decline to 1808 megatonnes in 2020, down from a 2013 figure of 1826 megatonnes.

“China’s leaders are aware that China shares with Australia and all the other countries in the Asia-Pacific region an interest in avoiding the international political instability that would emerge from the impact of unmitigated climate change,” Garnaut says.

Chief executive of the Queensland Resource Council (QRC) Michael Roche disagrees with Garnaut and believes China’s global climate awareness is detrimental for coal producers. “Professor Garnaut is correct in observing renewable energy is on the rise,” Roche says, “but the

Advertorial

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT At the University of Queensland’s Gatton campus, drones are being used in teaching, research and local farming projects. Fitted with visual, multispectral and thermal imaging cameras, the drones are used for work on rabbit control, beneficial insect drops to reduce pesticide use, crop quality analysis, and weed detection.

Increasingly, drones are also being used in the mining sector for mapping and surveying in remote regions around Australia.

For more information about uses and training in drone technology, visit uq.edu.au/agriculture

6

undisputed fact is coal produces more than 40 per cent of the world’s electricity and is forecast to overtake oil as the globe’s largest source of primary energy.”

Garnaut begs to differ, citing China’s stated commitment to put greenhouse gas emissions into its future economic equation. “The damaging effects of carbon pollution on health and longevity became more important in public discussion,” he says.

“China … made strong commitments to change the relationship between economic growth and greenhouse gas emissions.”

This, says Garnaut, is the driving force for the decline in coal demand that he’s predicting will occur over the next six years.

KEEP ON TRUCKING Komatsu Australia has announced the release of a new AC -drive version of its 181-tonne, 730E-8 mine truck, with the company claiming that the new vehicle provides exponential haul speeds and is easier to maintain.

The 730E-8 is powered by a Tier 4 compliant 1492-kilowatt engine and has an estimated payload of 181 metric tons. The top speed of the 730E-8 is 64 kilometres an hour, 15 per cent higher than that of its predecessor, and it can handle effective gradients of up to 12 per cent, enabling higher productivity.

According to Komatsu Australia’s national product manager Michael Hall, “Our 730E DC truck has delivered 90 to 94 per cent availability to mines around the world, over hundreds of thousands of operating hours.

“In comparison, the industry average for this class of truck is well down in the 80 per cent range.”

The basic, ultra-tough design of the 730E means maintenance and upkeep of the truck is more efficient and costeffective. “The simplicity of its design makes it easier to train service technicians and complete regular maintenance tasks, with fewer hoses, bearings, pumps and wear components than most other mining trucks,” says Hall.

Advanced monitoring equipment is incorporated and has even made its way into the truck’s cab.

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LEARNING FROM THE PAST WHILE THE MINING INDUSTRY IS REELING FROM WORKERS’ DEATHS AND SAFETY INCIDENTS THIS YEAR, INSIDE MINING LOOKS AT HOW WE CAN ENSURE THAT WORKERS ARE SAFE. WORDS: KRIS MADDEN

I

n the first seven months of this year, 11 Australian mining workers died while on the job. That’s more than double the fatalities than for the same period last year.

Australia is an international leader in safety research and technologies, leading the way in virtual reality training facilities, mining software and innovation.

So why have the figures increased so dramatically? What precautions are being taken at personal and management levels to ensure a safe working environment for miners?

Mark Parcell, a spokesperson for the Mine Safety Institute of Australia (MSIA), said that MSIA believes every accident and incident is preventable but the industry is failing to learn from past experience.

“We share the vision of an industry free from injury and illness, and are part of the road to Zero Harm. But it’s a tragedy that history is often repeated and the lessons from previous accidents and

8

disasters seem to be forgotten or ignored,” Parcell told Inside Mining.

“The problem is essentially one of inadequate communication of information about past accidents. Those involved on the first occasion move on or forget, and the organisation itself has no corporate memory. Ways to improve the corporate memory involve the systematic reanalysis of old accidents and communication of the lessons to all concerned,” he said.

“We believe the industry should support, and be supported by, a well-established and developing body of technical literature and technology transfer capability. The Mine Accidents and Disasters website [mineaccidents.com.au] aims to perpetuate this philosophy to make past lessons more readily available to the mine workers and managers of today and tomorrow.”

The Royal Commission report on the Pike River Coal Mine Tragedy dedicated a whole chapter to

forefront

Fast facts: • Over the five years from 2007–08 to 2011–12, 36 mining workers died from work-related injuries.

That’s 3.84 fatalities per 100,000 workers, which is almost 70% higher than the national rate of 2.29.

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forefront

Fast facts: • As at July 14, 2014, 11 mining workers have died at work this year, compared with a total of 10 workers’ deaths in the mining industry in 2013.

“The past few months have been extremely challenging for the Australian mining industry, with a spike in incidents and fatalities.”

11

the concept of failure to learn. The report noted the extent to which the themes identified by inquiries into previous tragedies were repeated at Pike River.

“History demonstrates that lessons learnt from past tragedies do not automatically translate into better health and safety practice for the future. Institutional memory dims over time. We need not experience another mine accident or disaster to remind us that we must observe the lessons of the past,” Parcell said.

“As much as we have improved mine safety, we have not achieved our goal. An industry free of injury and illness is still a vision and not a reality. The lessons of the past will assist us to achieve that vision.”

Speaking at the NSW Minerals Council’s Health & Safety Conference in May this year, NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said the need to focus on safety in the New South Wales mining industry has been tragically driven home in recent months. The conference theme was ‘Learning from the past for a safer future’.

“The past few months have been extremely challenging for the Australian mining industry, with

a spike in incidents and fatalities.

While the New South Wales mining industry is known for its strong safety record, the reality is our miners face hazards every day while they do their important work. Recent incidents are a tragic reminder of why safety is, and must always be, our number-one priority,” he said.

“Our number-one goal is to achieve Zero Harm at every New South Wales mine site, through continuous improvement and innovation, high-level training and advanced work practices and technology. The theme of the conference was all about learning from the past for a safer future so we can help to ensure those events are never repeated.”

Unfortunately, the coalmining industry was rocked by yet another on-site fatality just as the Health & Safety Conference concluded.

Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) general secretary Andrew Vickers said the recent coalmining accidents in New South Wales and Queensland highlight the dangers of working in the mining industry and the need to maintain vigilance regarding safety.

11

forefront

“Improving the safety and health performance of the New South Wales mining industry is a priority for the state government,” he said.

Training now starts before most new workers even set foot on a mine site.

“The role of the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ Mine Safety program is to provide the framework and direction to industry to promote best practice in the area of mine safety. Mine

Safety has a strategic approach to achieve the government’s aim of zero fatalities and serious injuries in the mining industry.”

Equally important is the preventative role of preparing and training workers to operate safely.

Training now starts before most new workers even set foot on a mine site and continues throughout their mining careers.

But according to Coal Services managing director Lucy Flemming, it’s not just about safety. The health of miners is just as important, which means addressing issues such as fatigue and mental health positively.

“Health and safety are interrelated and both require effective management to ensure the wellbeing of people in the industry.

Through the Mine Safety Advisory Council, we’ve helped to create and implement practical resources for miners in New South Wales, including a campaign to encourage a culture of ‘looking out for one another’ at work,” says Flemming.

“Everyone has a personal responsibility for the safety and health of themselves and others. The focus on getting our workers home safe to their families every day is everyone’s responsibility – one that we should all take very seriously.”

BIG ISSUE ON THE SMALL SCREEN Ally Aitken knows the importance of safety training in the mining industry. Having worked at an open-cut mine in Clermont, the Rockhampton woman has been through countless safety inductions. When asked to be part of a series of new induction and safety videos for Indigenous audiences in Queensland, she didn’t have to think twice.

Jeff McIlroy, a director at Back on Track, which produced the videos, said he believed the initiative was the first of its kind in Australia. He said it was hard for Indigenous work crews to relate to current induction videos, but with a dash of humour and young Indigenous characters, the films could give young Indigenous people a taste of real workplace situations.

“Humour is a great vehicle for getting a message across,” he said, “and the overall message is workplace health and safety means everyone goes home happy.”

12

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THERE IS A LOT OF TALK IN THE MINING INDUSTRY ABOUT AUTOMATION. INSIDE MINING LOOKS AT THE IMPORTANCE OF PEOPLE OVER AUTOMATION – ESPECIALLY IN RELATION TO ENGINEERING. WORDS: KRIS MADDEN

Engineers

are involved in all phases of mining operations – from exploration and discovery to feasibility studies, mine design, planning and production, scheduling, financial management and even marketing. With the focus on greater automation in the mining industry, what does the future role of the mining engineer look like?

Douglas Abreu, technical services manager Asia Pacific at Devex Mining, developers of the SmartMine automation technology, says automation and technology alone mean nothing.

“It’s a combination of people plus process plus technology,” he says. “The hardest job today is to keep this balance. Automation may cut some jobs on the field but those people and their knowledge and experience are needed in other roles.”

Abreu adds that miners must also develop their people if they need them operating and supervising machines remotely and maintaining the whole process. “The problem is that it takes decades to prepare people,” he explains. “So the mines

concerned about the future should be thinking about a program for people in 10 or 20 years’ time.

While there is a large-scale and rapid uptake of automation, the human factors and skilling of staff to support this automation hasn’t progressed at the same pace.”

New skills are required to support these technologies. An automation skills shortage, in which there are insufficient workers with the required technical knowledge and abilities to support current and future workforce requirements, is foreseen as a significant obstacle to the uptake of automation technologies.

Brad Thorp, manager of recruitment operations at Mining People International, says that currently, the main areas of skill shortage in the mining industry are in the mine-planning disciplines and geotechnical areas.

“We have not seen a significant change in hiring trends due to the increasing use of autonomous technology,” he says. “It is still

15

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only a relatively small part of the Australian mining industry, so the impact has not yet been felt; however, we do expect to see changes coming, with the demand shifting to fewer but more highly skilled individuals.

“From an Australian perspective, we feel the skills shortage for high-quality, technically trained people is still a very real issue for companies to deal with.”

The organisational aspects of mining, such as structure, leadership, policy, culture, careers and workers, are critical to achieving a smarter mining enterprise in the future. Mining companies today find themselves with an ageing workforce and issues in attracting and retaining new, top-quality workers and leaders.

According to IBM’s Envisioning the Future of Mining report, the number of upcoming retirees in the mining industry makes the situation more difficult still. The report states that newer employees, mainly from Gen X, Gen Y and the ‘Millennial’ generation, have different attitudes and expectations regarding work. Even when the next generation comes on board, transferring the knowledge locked in the minds of the incumbent workforce will be challenging.

Fast fact The occupational profile of the mining industry shows that, in terms of highly skilled occupations, the sector requires relatively large numbers of engineers, mining

“We feel the skills shortage for high-quality, technically trained people is still a very real issue for companies to deal with.”

professionals and engineering trades workers.

Shortages have been widespread and persistent in a number of these occupations over the past few years.

The management and transfer of knowledge gain even more importance as operations become more about information and insight, and less about the intuition and ‘gut feelings’ of seasoned experts.

Zimi Meka, chief executive and managing director of Ausenco, and recently named one of Australia’s top 100 most influential engineers, says clarity on goals, expectations and accountabilities are essential if managers are to get good performances from people and organisations.

17

industryfocus

Fast fact The mining industry employs a significantly higher proportion of workers aged between 25 and 44 years than the all industries average, with more than half the workers in mining (56.7 per cent) falling into this age group.

“For the mining industry to fully adopt automation, human factor challenges must be explored and understood,” he says. “Strategies that include a change management framework also need to be put in place to address the impact automation will have on improved safety, working conditions and upskilling opportunities of the workforce.”

New areas of specialisation Today, the challenges of mining are greater than ever before. New high-tech methods are being designed to make tomorrow’s mines more productive, safer and more economically successful. Mining engineers are seeking ways to extract essential raw materials while causing as little disturbance to the environment as possible, and zero or minimal pollution, as well as ways to reclaim land that’s been mined in the past.

Because engineers cross all areas of the mining operation, upcoming mining engineers are required to have a broad education that incorporates many disciplines, including geology, civil and mechanical

engineering, metallurgy, commerce, economics, management, law and information technology.

Mining engineering university undergraduate courses now include modules in mine production and management; corporate management, financial analysis and merchant banking; computer software development and automation; mine design; geotechnics; environment; and government policy formulation, legislation and administration.

Technology, smarter operations and increased regulation are stoking the fires of these changes, fuelled by the pursuit of cost savings and enhanced productivity and safety. In such a dynamic industry, the challenge is to keep up.

Smartphones, tablet computers, real-time monitoring and GPS and satellite technology have advanced a long way, even in the past year, in terms of their applicability and reliability in a mining environment.

One thing is certain: flexibility and constant change will be the mantra of the mining engineers of the future.

Technology, smarter operations and increased regulation are stoking the fires of these changes, fuelled by the pursuit of cost savings and enhanced productivity and safety.

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HOW THE WEST IS WINNING Minerals boss is encouraged by incentives for exploration and calls for regulatory burdens to be eased.

WORDS: DARRELL CROKER

I

n July this year, Prime Minister Tony Abbott and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe visited a shrine of sorts.

With formalities finished in Canberra, the pair headed to Western Australia’s Pilbara region – more specifically, to the West Angelas iron-ore mine halfway between Newman and Tom Price. West Angelas is part of a joint venture between Rio Tinto (53 per cent), Mitsui (33 per cent) and the Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation (14 per cent).

Roy Tommy, a respected elder from the local Indigenous Yinhawangka people and a Rio Tinto employee, led a ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony for the delegation.

Currently, the mine is being expanded, at a cost of $640 million, from its present capacity of 29 million to 35 million tonnes of iron ore per year.

Japan is Western Australia’s secondlargest export market. Iron ore aside,

three-quarters of the state’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) finds its way there.

But admiration for Western Australian mining is not confined to the Land of the Rising Sun. The world at large looks to the state as a leader in many aspects of the industry.

The supply chain developed throughout the Pilbara is the world’s best in terms of scale, efficiency and sophistication.

Western Australia was also the first to adopt automation and other technologies on a large scale.

Mr Abbott and Mr Abe saw this firsthand when they inspected Rio Tinto’s next-generation technology mining equipment, including an autonomous haul truck and drill that form part of the company’s Mine of the Future program.

The know-how and intellectual property in Western Australia’s mining industry is second to none and the state’s companies and staff take it around the globe. Engineers, geologists and others

who have honed their skills in Western Australia can be found in far-flung locales from Mongolia to Bolivia.

Activity in the Pilbara is instructive.

Rio Tinto operates 15 mines in the region, a 1600-kilometre rail network, four port terminals and two power stations. Its operations have reached a run rate of 290 million tonnes a year, with a low-cost expansion pathway in place to move to 360 million tonnes a year.

Iron ore production is surging in the Pilbara. The prime ministerial delegation took place on Wednesday, July 9. One month before, a new tonnage record for the largest departure of iron ore on a single tide had been set when one million tonnes left Port Hedland. The new benchmark of 1,270,721 tonnes was achieved with seven capesize vessels departing on Saturday, June 7.

The port, Australia’s biggest for iron ore, increased exports by 3.55 per cent between April and May, setting a

21

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monthly record of 36 million tonnes. The nation’s three largest iron-ore miners, Rio Tinto, Fortescue Metals Group and BHP Billiton, have all added extra tonnage to their businesses.

In mid-July, Fortescue published aggressive production guidance for the 2015 financial year, saying it could produce as much as 160 million tonnes.

The guidance was backed up by a strong June quarter during which Fortescue mined a massive 43.8 million tonnes.

In 2015, Fortescue will spend $1.39 billion on capital projects, including a wharf at Port Hedland. The company announced in June that it would buy four new, extra-large ore-carrying vessels.

Chief financial officer Stephen Pearce said the ships would create efficiencies while loading iron ore at Port Hedland.

In the year to date, BHP Billiton has smashed iron-ore production expectations, reporting record output from its mines in the Pilbara region. Its share of Western Australian iron ore production rose 19 per cent from the first quarter of 2014 to 56.64 million tonnes in the three months to June 30.

Increases have resulted from an efficiency campaign at Port Hedland, and the company’s iron-ore president Jimmy Wilson says, “We haven’t finished squeezing the lemon on the inner harbour.’’ BHP says it plans to produce 245 million tonnes this financial year.

The surge in ore exports is not expected to end any time soon. Exporters are ‘seeing red’ in a good way – but it’s not just ore that colours Western Australia’s world: yellowcake and gold have seemingly bright futures, too. And nickel aspirant Sirius Resources has made another promising discovery near the Fraser Range, between the famous goldfields of Kalgoorlie and the Southern Ocean at Esperance.

All sectors aligned with mining Mining has underpinned the Western Australian economy for well over 100 years. When mining falters, the state shudders. Recessions occur in the west that are unknown ‘over east’ and Western Australia does not always react to the economic fluctuations afflicting the rest of the country.

A coffee-shop owner on St George’s Terrace, Perth, says his business fortunes are closely aligned with those of the miners and mining service providers. It’s the same for restaurants, hotels, travel agents, car yards, retailers and, of course, boat dealers.

Significant port, rail, airport, road, water, power and gas infrastructure has been constructed to support the mining industry. As a result, many towns and some small cities owe their existence – or at least their major development – to mining.

Reg Howard-Smith, chief executive of The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME), says the benefits of having a strong and prosperous resources sector are clear.

“The vital contribution of the resources sector was highlighted in this year’s state budget, with royalty income forecast to account for more than 25 per cent of the government’s revenue

Mining has underpinned the Western Australian economy for well over 100 years. When mining falters, the state shudders.

Above: Iron ore, Port Hedland.

23

miningreview

Above: A nickel mine in the Fraser Range.

in 2017–18, up from five per cent in 2003–04,” he says.

“With the state government’s mineral royalties rates analysis under way, CME is working on behalf of the industry to ensure the government fully appreciates the challenges and issues facing the sector. Any attempt to impose additional costs and charges or royalty increases onto the resources sector will jeopardise future investment, employment and growth in Western Australia.

“As we have witnessed firsthand, increases imposed on marginal operations can lead to job losses, bring forward mine closures, stifle regional communities that are reliant on mining and significantly weaken the state economy. There is no case for any increase in royalties.”

Mr Howard-Smith says that notwithstanding the transition underway in many major projects from construction to operational phase, the future pipeline of projects relies upon increasing the current level of exploration activity.

Programs such as the Western Australian Government’s Exploration Incentive Scheme and the federal government’s proposed Exploration Development Incentive are welcomed by the resources sector and have the potential to deliver a significant return to boost the exploration sector.

“It is pleasing that both state and federal governments recognise the

24

importance of the exploration sector and the challenging environment faced by many companies,” says Mr Howard-Smith.

“CME continues to encourage both the state and federal governments to focus on improving economic growth through policies to address the cost of doing business, reduce the regulatory burden and improve productivity. The recent abolition of the carbon tax was a step in the right direction.”

Still, there are other challenges.

In Australia, wages are among the highest anywhere, which is a barrier to

international mining operations keen to use Western Australian expertise. This is exacerbated by the high Australian dollar.

And the cost of fly-in fly-out workers, including their accommodation, catering and the additional staff required to cover the full roster, makes the state one of the world’s highest-cost mining regions.

But given Western Australia’s position as, arguably, the pre-eminent mining province on the planet, it is incumbent upon all Australians to recognise its standing, celebrate its success and nurture its future.

“Increases imposed on marginal operations can lead to job losses and bring forward mine closures.”

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A NEW BOOM LOOMS JUST WHEN SOME PUNDITS THOUGHT THE MINING BOOM WAS ALL BUT OVER, ALONG COMES URANIUM AND THE REVELATION THAT AUSTRALIA BOASTS THE WORLD’S LARGEST REASONABLY ASSURED RESOURCES OF THE ELEMENT. WORDS: CHRISTINE RETSCHLAG

PUNS ASIDE, Australia’s resources sector could be forgiven for glowing again, following the Queensland Government’s recent lift on banning uranium mining.

Australia holds almost one-third of the global total of uranium resources and is the world’s third-largest producer of uranium after Kazakhstan and Canada, but this could change following Queensland’s regulatory lift on mining the silvery metal.

The Northern Territory and South Australia are the only other states or territories with

active uranium mines. Western Australia lifted its ban in 2008 but projects are believed to be on hold until global prices for the resource improve.

So what does the future of Australia’s mining industry look like with Queensland back on the market?

The history books will show that in Queensland, uranium mining ended in 1982 and has been prohibited since 1989 – which some commentators view as a great shame, given that Queensland has a resource potential of 165.95

million tonnes, according to state government statistics. But do all these facts and figures mean that another mining boom is just around the corner?

Mount Isa Mayor Tony McGrady, a former Queensland Minister for Mines and Energy, believes the state could be on the brink of something big. And he should know – the far north-western Queensland area is one of the prime sites for known uranium deposits, as is the neighbouring Gulf of Carpentaria.

McGrady told Inside Mining that each uranium mine will attract

27

specialreport

Fast facts • Australian uranium is exported for peaceful purposes only, not military applications.

• Exports are currently permitted only to countries that comply with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and allow full inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

about 300 new construction jobs and another 300 in operation.

“You have a commodity and resource in the ground which, in normal times – and it has not been normal times with the ban – the rest of the world wants. Here in Queensland we had it almost in abundance and the other states were laughing all the way to the bank,” he says.

“In places like this, where job opportunities are few and far between, no government should be allowed to impose a ban [on anything] that will provide employment, training and education opportunities, particularly in regions with high Indigenous populations.

“When I was in Brisbane the other week, I expected there would be a lot of opposition and I was taken aback by the amount of support the concept had. There was an understanding for the need to mine uranium and the benefits it would bring to the state’s economy.”

Even McGrady concedes that the issue is not without its controversies, but says that if people want base power, it has to come from gas, coal or nuclear sources.

28

“There are many countries around the world that rely on nuclear energy and we should sell it. You can’t have a monopoly on coal. This doesn’t mean coal power stations are going to be shut down because uranium is on the market,” he says.

Given that there has been a ban on exploring the resource, McGrady believes there are undiscovered deposits around the state, including near Townsville and in south-east Queensland, which could lead to other mineral finds. “This could be the start of the second mining bonanza in Queensland,” he says.

“For many years Queensland rode on [the sheep’s back] and [it] is now riding on the back of coal trucks.

If we can find something else that the world wants, my view is that we sell it.”

Reg Howard-Smith, chief executive of the Chamber of

Minerals and Energy of Western Australia, told Inside Mining that Western Australia has the opportunity to benefit from strong long-term international demand for uranium for power generation from China, India and several European countries.

“Western Australia is very well positioned to become a significant player in the global uranium industry. According to the Department of Mines and Petroleum, Western Australia has known resources in excess of 201,000 tonnes of uranium oxide across many potential projects,” Howard-Smith says.

“Like the mining of other energy and mineral commodities in Western Australia, the mining of uranium will be subject to strict safety, environmental and security regulations.

“WA is well positioned to become a significant player in the global uranium industry.”

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Fast fact • Uranium is a high-density, weakly radioactive metal used as fuel in nuclear reactors for electricity generation. It is also used to make radioisotopes for medical applications; in nuclear science research; and in the munitions industry as armour-piercing shells.

“The Western Australian resources sector is in transition from a construction phase to a production phase, particularly for our bulk commodities such as iron ore and liquefied natural gas [LNG]. The production phase is when we see royalties delivered to governments and returns to shareholders.”

Deputy chief executive of the Queensland Resources Council Greg Lane told Inside Mining that it was not in the state’s interests to maintain a “1970s-style ban on uranium mining”. It would now resume mining, with the

“considerable advantage” that the work undertaken will be delivering a world-leading framework for sustainable development that can be adopted by other states and territories.

“Regardless of commodity, mining is a high-cost proposition in Australia, and across the board global energy demand is subdued. Queensland’s global competitiveness is the dealmaker or breaker,” Lane says.

“In the longer term, the International Energy Agency expects global demand for electricity to grow more than 70 per cent by 2035, with more than half of this growth from China and India.

“Uranium exports from Australia are supported historically by longterm contracts from nuclear power generators, so the evolution of the energy mix (that is, coal, gas, nuclear and renewables) will play a key role in determining the future for a Queensland uranium industry.”

And the future of Australia’s mining industry doesn’t rest solely on uranium. Lane says there’s “mounting excitement” about the first exports of LNG from Gladstone,

Queensland, now just months away.

“There is subdued demand for many Queensland minerals and energy resources at present, but this is hardly new territory for our members,” he says. “Naturally, they are placing strong emphasis on emerging from the other side of this downturn as globally competitive.

“Asia wants what we produce.

Demand has moderated, not evaporated. We have high expectations for the suite of Queensland minerals and energy exports to keep meeting global demand, with appropriate attention to the fundamentals.”

In south-west Queensland, Maranoa Mayor Robert Loughnan told Inside Mining that while things have slowed in the Surat Basin’s accommodation sector, Roma Airport statistics tell a different story, with a record 307,000 passengers for the 2013–14 financial year.

“The outlook for Maranoa remains very strong, with much of the CSG [coal seam gas] drilling and associated work increasingly focusing on this area,” he says.

31

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profile

FIFO MAN

WHEN LUKE BAKER PUT UP A FACEBOOK PAGE TO HELP FELLOW MINERS DEAL WITH ISSUES AFFECTING FLY-IN FLY-OUT WORKERS, HE DIDN’T ANTICIPATE THE IMPACT IT WOULD HAVE.

WORDS: CHRISTINE RETSCHLAG

THE STORY READS like a superhero cartoon. On the clock he’s a mild-mannered miner; off it, he’s a Facebook phenomenon. Meet Luke Baker, or ‘FIFO man’, as he’s also known to fellow fly-in fly-out workers around the world.

Even Luke, 31, a communications technician who does 3:1 swings on sites in Roma and Moranbah, hasn’t quite got his head around the Clark Kent response he’s received since he stepped into the proverbial phone booth known as social media several months ago.

“I’d done FIFO in the past, but I took a break and moved to Moranbah for a few years. Six months ago I got back on the FIFO bus; my life changed and I needed to be closer to my new

partner in Bundaberg,” Luke says.

“You have a lot of time sitting around airports and thinking. I was on the way to Roma one day, looking out at the clouds, and I wondered if anyone was interested in hearing my thoughts. I had no idea what would happen; I just thought I’d put my thoughts into words. At the time I didn’t think much more about it, and then it all took off,” he recalls.

Luke says his Facebook site, ‘FIFO man’, initially attracted 200 visitors. This increased to 300 before he went to sleep that night and was up to 500 followers by next morning. At the time of going to print, ‘FIFO man’ had more than 12,000 followers. In terms of mining explosions, this was a real beauty.

33

profile

“I’d never done social media in any capacity in the past. I’m pretty sure [the response] is extraordinary,” he says. “It just echoes the weight of the message and has struck a chord with a lot of people.

“It’s funny talking about issues such as isolation and loneliness when people see you’re in camps with 1000 others. It’s hard for them to understand, but it can be quite lonely when you close your donga door and the kids are playing up at home or your partner’s sick and you can’t do anything about it.”

Luke says ‘FIFO man’ has opened up a new dialogue and he’s heard some horrific stories about suicide and depression within the industry. Some critics even view his site as kryptonite to the mining sector.

“There’s a stigma for men about speaking up and reaching out for help. Particularly in this industry, there’s a view that you should just harden up and get on with it,” Luke says.

“I’ve copped a fair bit of criticism. There was a post from a guy who worked in the Defence Force who said they work six months away so three weeks is a breeze. I pointed out to the guy that I’m not trying to say I’m doing it tougher than anyone else.

“I put up a post from a young woman who said her partner was going to start doing FIFO and was asking for people’s opinions. Some absolute idiots got on there and said some derogatory comments that I took down.”

However, Luke says it’s the overwhelming support and positive comments that inspire him to keep his Facebook page going.

34

Did you know?

• A construction worker is six times more likely to commit suicide than to die in a workplace accident, yet few mine sites address mental health issues when doing daily safety briefings.

• FIFO workers can experience loneliness while away from home, and stress from the long hours and shiftwork. On a positive note, some say they have more ‘quality time’ with their families when they are home.

“Some of the stories that people have told me are amazing. A number of [FIFO workers’] wives have sent me messages telling me they’ve never really understood, before now, how their partner feels,” Luke explains. “There are a lot of blokes out there who should buy me a beer for saving their marriages!”

Despite the site’s name, ‘FIFO man’ is not just for male miners and their families, but for female FIFO workers, who face a number of gender-related issues, such as sexism and intimidation, on the predominantly male sites, Luke says.

Luke himself is engaged to be married to Melissa Endres, who has three children, in May next year. “It’s fantastic and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been in my life,” he says.

“The main message on ‘FIFO man’ is you’re not alone. There are a lot of other people out there who have the same feelings as you – the man or woman in the next donga, at the next camp or on the other side of the world.

“There are a lot of people who have come out on the other side, myself included. All you need to do is ask for help – and maybe ask someone else if they need help.”

“It’s funny talking about issues such as isolation and loneliness when people see you’re in camps with 1000 others. It’s hard for them to understand.”

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Au

Name: Gold Element category: Transition metal Melting point: 1064.18°C Electron configuration: [Xe] 4f145d106s1 Atomic number; mass: 79; 196.967 Discovered: circa 3000 BC Etymology: The symbol Au derives from the Latin aurum, which appropriately translates as ‘glowing dawn’

Gold facts • Gold, the only yellow metal, is mainly used in jewellery, dentistry and artistic applications.

• Today in Australia, a tonne of rock mined for gold yields less than five grams, so gold is not visible in the rock.

• Most of Australia’s gold production comes from open-cut mining whereby large earth-moving equipment removes waste rock from above the ore body and mines the ore.

• Australia is the world’s third-largest producer of gold, after South Africa and the United States, and accounts for about 11 per cent of world output.

• The famous death mask of Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, who died in 1323 BC, contains 100 kilograms of gold.

• Australia’s largest open-cut goldmine, the ‘Super Pit’, near Kalgoorlie, was originally known as the ‘Golden Mile’ and was a series of smaller goldmines run by different companies.

• The term ‘carat’ refers to the proportion of gold in an alloy, with pure gold being 24 carats. Nine- and 18-carat gold is more commonly used to make jewellery.

• In nature, gold is found uncombined in veins and alluvial deposits.

• Gold is used to produce coins that are highly collectable and are traditionally a safe bet as an investment.

• Three gold-refining processes are used in Australia: chlorination, electrolytic and aqua regia.

• White gold is an alloy of gold and silver, palladium, nickel or copper.

39

Darwin City

AUSTRALIA’S GATEWAY TO GROWTH....... DARWIN NT Looking for a high cash flow investment normally only found in mining hubs but want the stability of a capital city?

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ith the current under-supply in housing effecting Darwin and with a significantly growing population over the next 10 years and beyond, it is no wonder Darwin is considered by most independent property researchers as Australia’s undisputed long term investment hotspot.

1. Number one in capital city yields.

2. Number one for total investment.

3. Greater Darwin is forecast to increase by nearly 36,000 new residents between now and 2026.

4. Existing housing shortfalls. The Housing Industry Association (HIA) estimates that the NT will have a housing shortage of 11,500 dwellings by 2020. NT regional director of the Housing Industry Association, Robert Harding, said 1,900 new homes needed to be built each year to

meet demand.

5. Over 50 Billion dollars in investment across 11 current projects in mining, defence, government, infrastructure and agricultural.

6. Up to another 28 potential projects in mining, oil and gas projects set to kick off over the coming decade. Some of the most significant mining, oil and gas projects the country has ever seen are being and will be serviced and supplied through Darwin.

7. Strategic location within close proximity to Asia.

8. Depreciation components typically double other capital city locations due to high

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construction standards, building materials and cyclone ratings.

9. ‘Multi-tiered Economy’, with Mining, Defence, Government, Agriculture and Tourism all providing economic benefits.

10. Limited space to grow within the CBD area with Darwin situated on a Peninsula surrounded by water on 3 sides putting residential property in the CBD at a premium for property investment.

Real Estate Central Projects have the broadest range of Darwin real estate investment opportunities available. These can be tailored to individual requirements.

National

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We bring you the latest in property and investment analysis, penned by the professionals

41

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SHARES VS PROPERTY JOSH MASTERS Expert buyer’s agent and author of Why Property Why Now

With more than 15 years’ experience in the industry and hundreds of property purchases under his belt, Josh Masters is one of Australia’s most respected buyer’s agents. Learn more at joshmasters.com.au

WHILE THERE are hundreds of ways to make a dollar, if you’re looking at investing, by far the most popular option for Australians is shares or property. While both can offer great returns when managed properly, each has characteristics that make it better suited to one person than another. Here are a few things to consider.

Volatility Defined as the percentage of movement in prices, property has always been a favourite for investors due to the low price fluctuations the market generally experiences. Niche markets do have large swings up and down but it’s rare and is certainly

nothing like the swings you’ll get in the share market.

In contrast, it’s not uncommon to see shares increase by 20 or 30 per cent in a few hours, bringing riches to many. But values can fall just as quickly, so be aware of the risks and realise the level of volatility to which you may be exposed by investing in shares.

Leverage The returns of shares versus property often track quite similarly over the long term, but there’s no doubting the amount of leverage property can achieve compared with shares.

It is this leverage that allows the investor to control large amounts of funds with relatively few dollars, equating to large gains (or losses) when the market makes its move.

Commonly, investors leverage at five or 10 times their principal amount when buying property.

This is considered reasonable and even conservative to some, as property’s relatively low levels of volatility mean there is far less associated risk.

Shares, on the other hand, fluctuate wildly, so the thought of borrowing five, 10 or even 20 times the amount invested would make most investors’ heads spin – and would open them up to massive losses should the market move against them.

Margin calls A margin call is when you borrow to invest and then the price falls so low that it threatens the amount the lender has put into the deal. At this point the lender forces the sale of the investment to recoup their money. This often spells the end for the investor, who has to sell at a price that not only wipes out their original investment but leaves them owing massive amounts to their lender, with no asset to fall back on. Property investors may not be familiar with the term because, typically, margin calls don’t happen in property – a comforting fact to remember.

Liquidity Property investment has many pluses but being able to buy and sell quickly is not one of them.

Shares can literally be traded in a nanosecond; property transactions take weeks, months or sometimes years to execute, making ready access to funds difficult.

Shares, however, can be traded often and at any dollar value, making them supremely convenient: you can invest for

a desired period and convert them easily back into cash when needed.

Entry and exit costs The entry and exit costs of property transactions can make the idea of quick turnover even less attractive. Stamp duty, legal fees, agents’ fees and government charges can add up, typically putting the investor behind even before they own the property.

While shares do attract small fees – for the execution of a trade or to engage the services of a stockbroker – these costs are minimal in comparison to the amount invested, and work favourably for the investor who’s looking to invest or access funds without penalty.

While some investors may opt for shares over property or vice versa, each carries its own pros and cons. It’s important to understand which will suit you.

Understanding how each asset will perform is important – but life is full of changes, so make allowances within your portfolio that allow it to evolve in line with your situation.

Property investment has many pluses but being able to buy and sell quickly is not one of them.

43

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TIPS TO GET FINANCE

What you must know when arranging finance for your investment property.

ANDREW

CROSSLEY

From Australian Property Advisory Group

Andrew Crossley is a property investment adviser and property advocate and the founder of Australian Property Advisory Group, which specialises in representing the buyer, not the seller.

INVESTING IN property requires planning and involves having several strategies. Success in growing your property portfolio is not only about property values increasing, it’s about balancing your accessible equity/cash with your ability to service debt. Here’s the essential compact guide to preparing for securing your next loan.

Have clarity about your approach to your next property. Can you avoid loan mortgage insurance or not? Don’t shop around for the best rate, as you could inadvertently end up with several credit enquiries on your credit report; use a broker. Every time you apply for a credit card, personal loan, interest-free finance

for furniture at a retail store and so on, a credit hit occurs. The more credit hits you have, the more of a risk you become to a lender. This means you could end up with a higher rate, sometimes upwards of two per cent.

Reducing your credit card limit will increase your borrowing capacity.

Declare all your liabilities and assets.

Avoid taking a loan or guaranteeing a loan with someone else other than your spouse (most lenders will attribute 100 per cent of the debt to you and only 50 per cent of rental income, if any). If you’re over 55, lenders normally require an exit strategy, which often excludes downsizing or selling a business.

Apply when you have two incomes.

If you apply after just changing jobs, it can prove difficult; if you apply after just becoming self-employed, it could prove impossible.

Obtain a copy of your credit file to ensure you’re aware of what’s on it.

I’ve seen so many instances in which someone has a default listed of which they were not aware. This will affect

servicing and the interest rate you get.

Have your paperwork ready: two forms of ID, two forms of income verification, savings statements, contract (if a purchase), six-month repayment history (if a refinance) or three-month repayment history (for credit cards/ personal loans, if consolidating debt). Fill in all sections on the application. Many lenders credit score, and they could decline you for suspected non-disclosure.

Consider having interest-only loans for investment debt (reduce your non-taxdeductable debt, your home mortgage).

With the new legislation on positive credit reporting, you could be quite exposed; even late payments may be visible to other lenders, affecting your chances of getting a loan. I’d be interested in your opinion about whether or not you think it’s fair that lenders become privy to your personal information.

Email me your thoughts at andrew@ australianpropertyadvisorygroup.com.au For more information, visit australianpropertyadvisorygroup.com.au

Don’t shop around for the best rate, as you could inadvertently end up with several credit enquiries on your credit report.

45

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SEVEN SMART TIPS FOR HIGH-INCOME EARNERS Having a high income isn’t a free pass to spend carelessly, advises Kevin Lee.

KEVIN LEE

Founder and director of Smart Property Adviser

Kevin Lee is a property investment adviser in Australia.

To attend one of his free ‘no secrets’ seminars, visit smartpropertyadviser.com.au

IN MANY ways, the financial characteristics of mining personnel are very similar to those of the rest of the population. Like everyone else, you like to spend, to enjoy the fruits of your labour and lifestyle.

However high-income earners also face their own unique challenges. If your combined household income is greater than $200,000, there are seven tips you should consider.

1

Reduce your credit-card limits and cancel any unused credit cards

In a previous article for this magazine, I emphasised some common mistakes people make with their credit cards. Highincome earners are guilty of the same mistakes. Many people have more than one credit card.

That’s OK if you manage the debt. But most people don’t – their cards control their lives.

Remember, if you don’t pay the balance of your credit card/s in full every month, the bank’s servicing calculators will multiply your total limits by four and deduct that figure from your borrowing capacity when you apply for a loan.

Tip: Once you’ve paid off a significant amount of debt, reduce your credit card limit before you apply for a property loan. This will make a huge difference to your borrowing capacity.

2

Consolidate your personal debt

A prospective lender prefers to see consolidated debt than

multiple debts. Always look for opportunities to consolidate any personal loans and cards with high interest rates. It’s not rocket science: one interest rate on one loan always looks better than multiple loans.

Multiple loans not only cost you more in interest, they have a negative impact on your borrowing capacity.

Consolidating existing debts often reveals extra cashflow you can use to fast-track the elimination of all credit cards and consolidated debt.

Tip: It’s smart to pay off the smallest debt first, working your way up to the largest debt. Watch the ‘Debt Snowball’ Strategy video by David Deegan at smartfinancialadvice.com.au to help you get out of the debt trap.

3

Avoid unnecessary consumer debt

Many high-income earners don’t consider themselves wealthy or well-off. A recent finance article revealed that people on higher incomes spend a higher percentage of their cash than

those on lower incomes. The article also interviewed a highincome householder who claimed the income the household earned (more than $200,000) made them feel just ‘comfortable’.

What makes you feel ‘rich’ is a matter of perception.

Think about it: what do we really need in this life? Answer: food, water, shelter and clothing.

What, however, do we really want in this life? Answer: status symbols relevant to food, water, shelter and clothing!

You may be earning $200,000 a year but after income tax, mortgage repayments, credit card repayments, car and personal loan repayments, a plethora of indirect taxes and levies and the cost of living, you’d be lucky to save $1000 a month if you’re like most families.

Many high-income earners buy items they believe will boost their status among their friends and family – items that provide the lifestyle they believe they deserve. However, this lifestyle causes unnecessary consumer debt and severe financial 47

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pain. Expensive lifestyle items depreciate in value as soon as you sign the paperwork.

Tip: Instead of wasting your money on consumer debt, consider buying assets that have the potential to increase in value over the longer term; for example, investment property.

4

Have the right insurance in place

Your financial planner can help to ensure you always have the right insurance in place. If you don’t have the right insurance protection, here’s what would happen if you lost your job or became seriously ill or injured and couldn’t work: (1) You’d lose your high income; and (2) you’d lose your home and other assets.

Tip: Having seen what life can unexpectedly deliver, I strongly advise people to take out adequate life insurance, trauma insurance and income protection insurance.

5

Look for ways to make your money work for you

As we touched on earlier, start to think of consumer debt as unnecessary. Look for ways to make your money work harder 48

You need to have written goals in place. It’s a sad fact that only three per cent of people have written goals.

than you do. If you have cash sitting in a general savings account – or, worse, a number of small savings accounts – your money isn’t working for you.

You’re pretty much giving the banks a free pass.

Tip: Consolidate all those extra funds into one term deposit or your offset account. Better still, invest them in shares or property. And do your research before you decide what is the best strategy to help you to achieve your financial goals.

6

Have the right loan structure

Your variable rate home loan might benefit from having an offset account attached, so speak with your financial adviser or mortgage broker to assess if it will work for you. Also, structuring investment loans as ‘interest only’ has been popular for about 30 years now but it’s not always the smart thing to do.

Tip: Debt reduction might just be the new black. Make sure your

loan portfolio is well structured, organised and regularly reviewed.

A poorly structured loan portfolio reduces your flexibility, increases your risk profile and can create reporting and tax nightmares.

And diversify your loan portfolio across different lenders; that way, you have leverage when you apply for finance; it diversifies your risk of overexposure to any one lender; and it gives you the upper hand when negotiating.

7

Have a long-term wealth plan

Speak with your financial planner and accountant about your longterm wealth plan. You need to have written goals in place. It’s a sad fact that only three per cent of people have written goals, and that their income and wealth are greater than those of the other 97 per cent of people combined.

The primary excuses for not having written goals are laziness, apathy and not enough time. But they’re just that: excuses.

Tip: This flight could be a blessing in disguise. Take some time – right now – to think about your financial future and start writing down your goals. Dream big and plan for the next five years. Work backwards: What do you want to have achieved in five years, three years and one year from now?

What do you need to do – what are your action steps – over the next 12 months, three months and next week, if you’re to start achieving your goals?

Ask yourself the following pertinent questions: (a) When do you want to retire? (b) What income do you want in retirement so as to be able to live the retirement lifestyle you desire? (c) What’s your plan for achieving (a) and (b)?

Remember, no-one plans to fail; they fail to plan! If you don’t have a realistic plan or aren’t confident about how to achieve your goals, you need to invest in your financial education.

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