Get it Magazine June 2018

June 2018

take me

M A G A Z I N E

The power

women

of

MOVE OVER SOCIAL MEDIA “INFLUENCERS” — HERE ARE THE LOCAL WOMEN WITH

REAL POWER

Op shop like a

stylist

INSIDE the CASE FILES REAL-LIFE CASES FROM A LOCAL PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR CHEATING, CHILD CUSTODY AND A GAMBLING ADDICTION!

+ MEET SOME FABULOUS LOCAL VOLUNTEERS

WINTER HUES We heat things up as it gets cold outside!

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$17,999 $18,500 SUGGeSted retaIl $29,000

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Contents

Because…these winter styles are cool!

12

16

18

32

40

46

FEATURES 12 16 18 32 36

Op shop like a stylist The real influencers “Bullies made me who I am today” Case closed: Stories from a GC private investigator A widow’s love letter

REGULARS 8 Get out and about 9 Get to the point 10 Gold Coast pets 11 Giveaways 14 Work life profile 20 We love

22 Beauty 31 Man speak 40 Recipes 46 Get scene 49 Stars 50 Last word

June 2018

take me

M A G A Z I N E

P 5561 1038

The power

women

of

MOVE OVER SOCIAL MEDIA “INFLUENCERS” — HERE ARE THE LOCAL WOMEN WITH

REAL POWER

Cnr Young & Scarborough Streets, Southport

Op shop like a

Open Monday to Saturday. Easy parking in Australia Fair

Shoetique Southport

stylist

INSIDE the CASE FILES REAL-LIFE CASES FROM A LOCAL PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR CHEATING, CHILD CUSTODY AND A GAMBLING ADDICTION!

+ MEET SOME FABULOUS LOCAL VOLUNTEERS

shoetique.com.au

WINTER HUES We heat things up as it gets cold outside!

June 2018

4

COVER: Amanda Blanks wears Black n Bling by Leesa Gill Entertain Dress, $385 56 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island P 0498 110 110 See more on page 24

From the publisher he cooler months are good for a number of things such as sipping a nice glass of red in front of an open fire, watching your favourite movie under the doona or snuggling close to your significant other. The last one, of course, translates into totally hogging the covers and most of the bed. The most common complaint that I usually receive is,“It is NOT possible for you to sleep underneath me.”

How selfish can one human being be? Although in saying that, while the symptoms of menopause are currently in full swing, it must be difficult to share a bed with someone that suffers flu-like symptoms on an hourly basis. Hot, cold, too hot, waaaay to cold… come here, get away, are you getting the drift?

I was recently informed of the term ‘cuffing season’. Although, as strange as it sounds, apparently, it’s a term used to describe the period during winter months that singles seek out relationships to stay warm — weird right?

Speaking of significant others, how useful are they really?

I currently reside in a lovely golf course property that boasts gorgeous tree-lined views over the range, but OMG, talk about high maintenance. On any given day, the entire leaf population of the golf course ends up in my pool. Get a cover you might say, but, have you ever tried to get those things off without emptying its entire contents into the pool? I don’t believe it’s possible.

So, here in lies my problem. Why do we always have to do everything ourselves? Isn’t the male gender supposed to be the maintenance man that can MacGyver any problematic appliance, door handle or gadget that needs to be fixed? Not on my watch. I have in my possession a rolodex (only baby boomers will know what that is) of go to tradies. You name it, I can either fix it myself or hire someone who can, without them giving me the,“I’ll get to it after the footy finishes” kind of look. Or worse — just leave it on until it blows up and then go and buy a new one.

How can that make sense to any normal human?

As I will soon be celebrating yet another fine year on the planet, if you want to know what to give me — a Bunnings voucher will do just fine. Always be yourself and stay warm girls.

Leanne Hart Publishers Indemnity: Those who make advertising placements and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Get it Magazine, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes. Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements. In this magazine we have listed a range of products, prices and stores in across Australia and online. Although prices are correct at the time of printing, they are indicative only as prices and stock may vary from store to store. All prices were provided to Get it Magazine by relevant retailers and suppliers. We advise you to contact the relevant retailers for further information about price and availability. Get it Magazine does not accept any responsibility for price variations, availability or quality of products.

5

White Night

WInTER BaLL

Date: Saturday, 23rd June 2018 Time: 7pm arrival for a 7:30pm start

Escape to a wintery wonderland......dress to impress in ball gowns and tuxedos to celebrate an elegant evening at Links. Feature entertainment provided by the Les Wilson Swing Force Big Band will have revellers dancing long into the night.

Inclusions: 3 course menu Attire: Black Tie Formal Price: $89 per person

RSVP: 19th June 2018 Phone 07 5530 9000 or email coordinator @linkshopeisland.com.au Pre payment is required at time of booking.

100% Cancellation fee after 19th June.

Bring your credit card and participate in our live auction and our last opportunity to raise funds for our Orange Sky Laundry project, assisting local homeless.

Springfield Drive, Hope Island, QLD 4212 www.linkshopeisland.com.au

June 2018

The Get it girls

Gold Coast Winter Golf Pass

< PUBLISHER Leanne Hart leanne@getit-magazine.com.au

EDITOR > Kirstin Cuthbert editor@getit-magazine.com.au

< ART DIRECTOR Aimi Hart

Warm your golfing heart this winter with the ultimate golf deal. For one great price, you will play the pick of the Gold Coastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf courses.

aimi@getit-magazine.com.au

DIGITAL > MARKETING MANAGER Hayley Bogaard

Book and play Links Hope Island, RACV Royal Pines Resort and Sanctuary Cove The Palms before 31st August 2018 and pay only

$

admin@getit-magazine.com.au

255pp

< FASHION + STYLING Susie McWatt Forbes

(inclusive of shared electric cart)

susiethestylist@gmail.com

To Make Your Bookings: Direct: call any participating Golf Shop, make your payment and select your tee time. You will be issued a voucher to present on check in at each course. pre pay for your voucher online and then call each course to select your tee time.

CONTRIBUTORS Alison Hill | Anna Davies | Ash Palmero | Cassandra Tyndall | Ed Halmagyi |Hayley Bogaard | Jasmine Stead | Karen Gately | Sarah Blinco

Terms and Conditions: Valid for new bookings only. Subject to availability. Some block out dates apply.

PARTNERS Renee Bisley Photography

The Parkway, Hope Island, QLD www.sanctuarycovegolf.com.au

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES info@getit-magazine.com.au

Ph: 07 5699 9000

SALES ENQUIRIES sales@getit-magazine.com.au 0414 946 361

Springfield Drive, Hope Island, QLD www.linkshopeisland.com.au

PRINTING

Ph: 07 5530 9033

Fast Proof Press, Nerang, Queensland

Ross Street, Benowa, QLD www.racv.com.au/royalpines

GET IT MAGAZINE PO Box 7602, GCMC QLD 9726 P: 1300 858 932 E: info@getit-magazine.com.au W: getitmagazine.com.au

Ph: 07 5597 8733

June 2018

6

FOLLOW US ON: Instagram: getitmag Facebook: get.it.mag

Black logo

White logo

S T Y L E

G U I D E

|

B L A C K

N

B L I N G

|

P A G E

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Grand Opening on Chevron Island on Friday 15th June THE STORY OF BLACK N BLING

There reaches a point in everyone’s lives when they must throw caution to the wind and follow their dreams.

That is exactly how Black n Bling came to be when owner and designer Leesa Gill created her own fashion label. A proudly Australian owned company, Black n Bling is a designer collection for the modern woman.

Leesa’s heart is firmly entrenched in designing collections that are innovative, inspiring and, most importantly, complement women of all shapes. Her collections are fresh and unique with an eclectic mix of fabrics, elegantly layered with basic black then teamed up with the perfect bling.

The exciting new label offers fresh and exclusive designs and a unique range of jewellery and accessories — and women can’t get enough of it! Black n Bling Jewellery is the only exclusive agent in Australia stocking Jimmy Crystal New York Swarovski Crystal Designs.

A true reflection of the Australian lifestyle, the Black n Bling collection delivers effortless luxury with comfortable, trans-seasonal and timeless styles. Each piece is designed to enhance the individuality of any woman and complement her shape — allowing her to feel confident and fabulous!

B L A C K N B L I N G | 0498 110 110 | w w w . b l a c k n b l i n g . c o m . a u 56 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island 7

Leesa Gill, Designer

June 2018

GET OUTAND ABOUT in June LITTLE SOULS TAKING BIG STEPS CHARITY RACE DAY JUNE 2 Enjoy a day of food, fun, fashion and entertainment as you raise funds for Little Souls Taking Big Steps — a not-for-profit organisation that helps children who have been diagnosed with autism. Ticket prices include a $25 track admission, a scrumptious three-course meal and generous drink package. $150 per person or $1600 for table of 12. Book now at trybooking.com/364174 COOLY ROCKS ON JUNE 6-10 JUNE Lovers of cars and culture from the 50s, 60s and now the 70s, get ready to experience serious nostalgia because Cooly Rocks On is back and bigger and better than ever. The free festival includes cars, period specific race cars, live music, dance displays, parades and markets, all set on stages, streets, parks and venues within the iconic Coolangatta and Tweed. coolyrockson.com VINNIES CEO SLEEPOUT JUNE 21 During one of the longest and coldest nights of the year, hundreds of CEOs, business owners and community and government leaders will sleep outdoors to support the many Australians who are experiencing homelessness. Participants raise much needed funds for Vinnies to provide essential services. Sign up or donate at ceosleepout.org.au/event/ gold-coast

June 2018

8

Send your event to editor@getit-magazine.com.au

CONCERT FOR DOGS JUNE 24 Specifically designed for man’s (and woman’s) best friend, come along at 9-9:45am to the Home of the Arts Outdoor Stage for a free concert all two-legged and four-legged friends will enjoy. Playing with melodies, frequencies and riffs she has composed for dogs, Laurie Anderson presents the latest in her series of Concerts for Dogs. All breeds are welcome, but dogs must be on leashes and play well with others. hota.com.au WIT BREAKFAST 6 JULY The mornings are chilly but, as always, Women in Tourism breakfasts are worth braving the cold for!

Arrive 6.30am for a 7am start at HOTA (previously known as The Arts Centre).

The keynote speaker is Meaghan, who currently serves as Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development. She's talking growing up on the Gold Coast, empowering women in the industry and why women need to be supported in positions of influence in the 21st century. It's not one to miss!

GET TO THE POINT

Ladies Fashion FACTORY OUTLET

GC winter battlers with Anna Davies

s to ices . ion tic pr ll love h s fa as wi ies ant ou Lad ges. F bels y la la t al ue sui outiq hb wit

or those of you that haven’t cottoned-on yet, I moved to Melbourne last year. Here’s my oneword review of the city: cold. With the winter months rolling in quicker than a rain cloud on my walk home from work, I’ve conveniently found myself visiting my family and friends on the Gold Coast on a more regular basis. Because let’s be honest, the Gold Coast just doesn’t know how to winter.

I mean that in more ways than one. Firstly, the temperature just kind of forgets to fall below 15 degrees. Secondly, if (God forbid) the temperature does drop, the locals go into complete melt-down. In this melt-down mode, you tend to find three distinct types of Gold Coast winter battlers.

1) The sweet summer child Everyone on the Gold Coast has at least one mate who refuses to admit that summer has ended. This is the person who wears board shorts and thongs all year round, as if they are constantly anticipating a pool party. Despite their overly optimistic clothing choices, these humans do nothing but complain about how cold it is. It’s as if wearing enclosed shoes, or a long-sleeved top, has never entered their mind.

Open: Mon – Sat 9am -5pm, Sun 10am – 4pm Ashmore Factory Outlets, 12 Central Park Avenue, Ashmore P 5597 7799

2) The winter fashionista On the complete opposite end of the spectrum, we have the winter fashion addict. This person has been online shopping for faux-fur coats, scarves, beanies and berets since January. They have a collection of on-trend winter staples in their wardrobe that have been lying dormant for too damn long. And as soon as June hits, they are ready to dazzle the masses.

The only problem is that for 362 days of the year, it’s not actually cold enough to wear a faux fur coat on the Gold Coast. So instead, the winter-fashionista patiently lies in wait — waiting for the sun to set, waiting for the temperature to dip, waiting for iceskating birthday parties to make a come-back. As soon as these stars align they are ready to pounce and, to be honest, they do look fabulous — albeit a little over-heated.

SUBSCRIBE EE FR

M a g a z i n e M AGAZINE

May 2015 May 2018

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It’s a different story for little soul Max

Sweet dreams

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This is the person who rugs up like they are going on an excursion to the North Pole every time they step out to walk the dog. They shop exclusively at Kathmandu, and see no reason why wearing a snow and wind-proof jacket on a sunny, 24-degree day, could be overkill. To be fair, these people do seem to genuinely feel the cold. You can spot them constantly blowing hot air onto their hands, stroking a hot chocolate, or asking everyone around them, “How are you not freezing?!” while doing a little shiveryjiggly-dance-thing. In fact, this person is so convinced everyone around them is going to catch frost-bite that they make it their personal mission to dress the masses in their extensive winter clothing collection.

Does, “Here, take my scarf!” sound familiar to you?

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9

June 2018

GET IT I PETS

#GCpets

Furry members of the Gold Coast doing what they love the most

Share your pet with us for the chance to be featured here by hashtagging #getitmaggc

Duke

Hanolkly& M

@hankandmoo

Kingsley

@dukethejackshund

@kingkingsley__

Evie & Enzo

@evie_and_enzo

@judeandmissy

@tokithejapanesespitz

@jsp_animals

@zeustherotti_

@mr.mosley.the.kel

Putting Your Pet First At Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic, we treat your pets like the valued family members they are.

Puppy School Consultations Preventive Care Microchipping Vaccinations Dentistry Routine & Elective Surgery and more Coombabah Plaza, 21 Hansford Road, Coombabah | P: (07) 5577 5084 happypawsvet.com.au

June 2018

10

@winslowthefrenchie_adventure

Eddie

Mosley

Zeus

Toki

@zaza_the_adventure_dog

Winslow

Penny

Missy

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FOLLO W INSTA US ON GRAM @get itmag

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GET IT I GIVEAWAYS

giveaways For your chance to WIN Head to CTJ's Facebook page: facebook.com/CTJDiamondandJewellery

• fashion • accessories Providing a premium shopping experience!

PEARLS OF THE SEA From CTJ, ctj.com.au

Adorne Banana Blue Chocolat Lula Soul

Matisse Monari N.Y.D.J. Obi

Olsen Ruby YaYa HSL Travellers Zaket & Plover

earls are seriously on trend right now and are much more modern than the simple pearl necklaces your grandma wore — though we still love those timeless pieces! They are also the birthstone of June babies so, this month, CTJ is giving away a stunning $1200 Tahitian natural pearl with diamond setting and 18 carat gold.

Pearls have been known for their healing properties for centuries, particularly in traditional Asian medical systems. Wearing pearls can give you a sense of calmness and centeredness, and they have been said to promote faith, loyalty, truth and purity. The sacred gemstone has also been used to help women connect with their inner goddesses and harness their feminine energy.

That’s something we can all use more of, right? Enter today for your chance to win this stunning necklace!

To enter, visit CTJ's Facebook page: facebook.com/ CTJDiamondandJewellery, find the pinned post and comment to let us know what the perfect date night to show off this stunning piece would be!

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am to 3.00pm Sundays and public holidays closed.

13 Grice Avenue, Paradise Point mirraboutique.com.au Phone 5564 2676 11

June 2018

GET IT I FEATURE OP SHOP LOOK 1: MY FAIR LADY

Op shop With the help of some fabulous local stylists and passionate volunteers from Lifeline Shop Burleigh Heads, Get it showcases the great looks you can pull together with preloved items straight off the op shop racks — plus we share tips for op shopping and how to get involved with Lifeline

Meet Jan

Jan Naday has volunteered at Lifeline for seven years. She was a merchandising rep for a gourmet food company before that, working alongside her husband for 30 years. Since retiring she jokes she needed some time away from him so that’s why she began volunteering. She does two days a week and enjoys the company and support of all the women. Jan enjoys finding items she can take home and sew and remake, revamping it and giving it a new look or purpose. Like a silk dress that doesn’t fit, she’ll make into a skirt. Or, a leather coat that has a little thing wrong, she’ll make into a bag. Jan wants to encourage people to donate and to realise that something you don’t like any more could be a treasure to someone else. And if any other women are sick of spending time with their husbands, she says to come and volunteer – it’s a great way to get away from them for the day!

OP SHOP LOOK 2: DINNER AND A SHOW

lists

ty The sensational s

Style Pow is three everyday women – Trudie, Caroline and Leigh – taking the elite stigma away from fashion. Their passion is to empower and inspire people to find their unique personal style and embrace themselves for the fabulous human being they already are. As mentors, they encourage their clients to find their individual style rather than follow trends. With three very different personal styles themselves, they love to have fun and are keen to shake up the fashion world making it more accessible for all. Connect with them on Instagram @ style.pow or stylepow.com

lothing

d the c The charity behin

UnitingCare Queensland operates the Lifeline stores across Queensland and all proceeds keep the critical crisis line going. When you buy clothing from these op shops, you are helping support important services such as the 24/7 Lifeline Counselling service. With more than 158,000 calls made by Queenslanders to the 13 11 14 crisis line every year, it is crucial that Lifeline continues to deliver support to those experiencing personal crises. Research has found approximately 5% of Australians have called Lifeline at some point in their lives: that is more than one million people. It costs $26 to fund one call with one of the Crisis Supporters. That $26 goes towards costs like recruitment, training, equipment and supervision and can make a profound difference. It can save friends, families and whole communities the heartache of losing someone to suicide. If you are in crisis, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

June 2018

12

like a stylist OP SHOP LOOK 3: AN ARTSY AFFAIR

for Style Pow’s tips

ro

shopping like a p

l Deterred by the funky op shop smell? Try deep washing your bargain finds with a few drops of your favourite essential oil, and a good ol’ airing. l Don’t forget to look through the accessories section. You can pick up leather belts, bags, shoes and some exceptional jewellery pieces too. l Browse the men's section. You can find some great button up shirts and graphic t-shirts. l Jackets are a great addition to any wardrobe. Op shops have everything from genuine leather pieces to denim. All of which can be customised giving it your unique flare. Too afraid to use scissors?

Try adding patches, appliques and brooches instead. l Op shops can have an array of colour. Don’t be afraid to mix colours together or to add a statement piece to your wardrobe. l Use popular events as inspiration to create modern looks. l Layering, layering, layering. Give it a go. You can easily do this with t-shirts and oversized men’s shirts.

Meet Deb

BEFORE

Deb Lance has volunteered at Lifeline for five months.

She previously worked in a café for 10 years. When she finished work she thought she would do some volunteer work as she wanted to be around people and help others. She came into the Burleigh Lifeline store and soon found the people were lovely and she’s been doing two days a week there ever since. She enjoys seeing all the clothes that come in and likes the different pieces, as well as the colourful, retro section.

AFTER

ter wa Refresh your win

rdrobe

Lifeline Gold Coast $2 Clothing Sale Date: Saturday 23 to Sunday 24 June Location: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (Hall 3) Time: 8am-5pm Saturday; 8am-4pm Sunday Visitors can rummage through tonnes of pre-loved quality items including men’s, women’s and kids’ clothes – plus ties, belts, travel bags and leather goods. All proceeds raised on the day will be raising vital funds for Lifeline.

to get Would you like

OP SHOP LOOK 4: ROCK N ROLLA

involved?

UnitingCare Queensland engages more than 9,000 volunteers across its services in Queensland and Northern Territory. Lifeline is always seeking volunteers to help in You can see shops and warehouses, as well as people who would be the styling in ac able to commit to the intensive training of the Lifeline tion and Crisis Line. To find out more information about applying watch the v ideo on to volunteer, you can visit a local Lifeline shop and chat our Facebo ok page: with the supervisor, fill out an online expression of facebook.co m/get. interest form or contact the Volunteer Management team it.mag directly to discuss possible vacancies on (07) 3253 4000.

13

June 2018

GET IT I WORK LIFE PROFILE

WORK LIFE

Being goal driven really helps to put focus around life’s journey, and having goals, whether it is sport or work related, helps to get those frequent highs and feelings of achievement.

A look into the life of Michelle Cook, Project Manager and Environmental Scientist

MY ALARM GOES OFF AT… Anywhere from 3:45am to 4am most days to fit in training before heading to the office. My husband runs a cycle coaching and tours business, Bubba’s Bikelab, and we lead local group rides a few days a week or head out for a ride and coffee ourselves or with friends. We take in the best of the Gold Coast on our bikes before most people are out of bed!

HOW MY DAY GOES… My work schedule depends on the project I am working on. Whilst recently working on the Gold Coast Light Rail project, I worked in multidisciplinary teams with the client and contractor and was often attending various meetings about environmental management and doing site inspections during construction.

Currently my role is more office-based and I do a lot of research and report writing, correspond with clients and stakeholders, and review project schedules, budgets and reporting. I recently travelled to the Queensland outback to deliver presentations and workshops with the client, as well as to conduct a site visit to a National Park where we are assessing potential ecotourism options.

HOW I GOT THE GIG… I worked on the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 2 project in an environmental project management role for almost three years. When the project was completed at the end of 2017, I took a few weeks off to spend with family before starting the job search. I got a call for an interview in January from BDR Projects after working alongside their managing director a few years ago during procurement on the light rail project. The timing was right, and the job sounded like the kind of variety and challenge I was looking for.

THE BEST PART… When I get to go on field visits to the project site. This was easy when I worked on the light rail as I only had 20 minutes to travel, but sometimes we literally take planes, trains and automobiles to get to regional towns in Northern Australia.

SOMETHING SURPRISING… I am a vegetarian so finding myself working on an agribusiness project has been surprising! One of the first things I did when I started at BDR was to prepare a beef marketing plan as part of a feasibility study. Considering I haven’t eaten meat for over 20 years, it really was a good example of being a professional!

THE WORST PART… As an active person, it would be not getting outside enough because of my office-based job.

OUTSIDE OF WORK… I am studying a Diploma of Marketing and Communications (Digital Marketing) part-time and my sidegig is helping with the social media for my husband’s business. I help to run the group rides and take 5 or 6 weeks leave throughout the year to lead cycling tours. We go to Adelaide for the Tour Down Under each January and to Italy and France in July.

AFTER WORK… During the week, I go home for a healthy meal and relaxation before sitting down for some study and next-day organisation. I do enjoy going out for dinner occasionally too, but, often, I am at home with a glass of wine, unwinding from the day.

HOW I FIND BALANCE… I think having ‘balance’ means different things at various times in your life. I find the best way I cope is to exercise most days and eat a healthy, balanced, plant-based diet. Having these two things in place is a cornerstone. As cycling is quite time consuming, combined with a full-time job and part-time study, there isn’t much time left for anything else.

I love things like girl’s weekends away where we get to suspend life for two days and have quality time and lots of laughs which helps to put things into perspective again. Being goal driven really helps to put focus around life’s journey, and having goals, whether it is sport or work related, helps to get those frequent highs and feelings of achievement.

Plan B: Put my project management skills to use spend six months of the year in the French Alps and Italian Dolomites organising and leading bike tours and travelling, and then 6 months in Bright (Victoria) working with the Department of Environment in land and water management.

June 2018

14

GET IT I MONEY

End of financial year tax hacks you mightn’t have thought of

With Melissa Browne, CEO of accounting firm A&TA and financial planning firm The Money Barre — her latest book, Unf*ck your Finances, is instore now he EOFY is just around the corner which means, for a few short weeks, accountants are the cool kids as our brains are picked for tax deductions.

If you wish you had an accountant as your BFF (which surely is most of you) or a cheat sheet of simple ways you can save tax this year, then wish no more. Following are a stack of tax hacks to help you get a few more bucks back at tax time.

• Lost receipts: If you’ve thrown out your receipts in a mad cleaning frenzy, you forgot to ask for one or your dog ate them — all is not lost. If you paid for the deduction on your debit or credit card, highlighting the expense on your bank statement may be proof of your claim.

• Look through your calendar: Too many people forget by the time they complete their tax return what happened the year before. Spend some time looking through your diary (or phone) to jog your memory around work-related claims. This might include days working from home, trips made in your car or perhaps a work conference.

• Working from home: Let’s face it, not many of us clock off when we leave work anymore. That means if you’re working from home, you may be able to claim for light, heat and internet.

Light and heat is a cents-per-hour claim while internet is a percentage of your bill. You’ll simply need a log kept for a month to prove usage.

• SPF and makeup: Whether you’re driving, sitting under fluorescent lights or working outside, chances are you’re affected by UV which means you may be able to claim sun protection. This includes sunglasses, sunscreen and any moisturiser or foundation that has an SPF factor.

• Handbags: The commissioner delighted women a couple of years ago when he suggested handbags might be claimable as a tax deduction. It’s important to understand the conditions including whether you’re using your bag exclusively for carrying laptops and work paraphernalia or if it’s a percentage of the cost.

• Mobile phones and other devices: Phones are no longer phones — instead, we’re checking emails, downloading from Dropbox, using Calendars and other productivity apps. That’s why you may not be making phone calls but you may be able to claim a percentage of your data and phone purchase costs.

• Understanding good, bad and OK debt: It can be tempting to want to pay off all your debt but if you have an investment loan that you can claim interest on at tax time, consider switching it to interest only (instead of principal and interest) to maximise your tax deductions.

15

The commissioner delighted women a couple of years ago when he suggested handbags might be claimable as a tax deduction.

• Meals and accommodation: If you travel overnight for work whether it’s seeing a client, studying or a conference, you may be able to claim costs of travel which means your food and accommodation while you’re away.

• Motor vehicle: If you use your car for work but haven’t kept a logbook you may still be able to use the cents-per-kilometre method.

You simply need to justify how you arrived at the kilometres travelled. And don’t forget the extras such as parking and tolls.

• Look into your crystal ball: If you know that next year you’re going to drop income because you’re taking gardening leave, maternity leave or are quitting your job to start a business, you might want to look at your tax-deductible expenses.

That’s because it may be worthwhile pre-30 June to prepay expenses while your income is higher. This may include prepaying interest or insurance for up to 12 months in advance.

June 2018

GET IT I FEATURE

The

real

influencers In the era of every second millennial with over 5,000 followers on Instagram calling themselves an ‘influencer’ we look at the real female influencers of Gold Coast

Sue Feenstra, 49 AUTHOR OF PONGO - HANDS THROUGH THE FOREST AND FORMER FITNESS INSTRUCTOR AND XENA STUNT EXTRA As a fitness instructor and former stunt extra, suddenly having a debilitating back injury was a huge curve ball for Sue. Determined to find purpose and gratitude, she turned to writing, creating Pongo (facebook.com/ helppongo), a fictional story of an orangutan which delivers a real-world message. Months of being bedridden could have been a traumatic experience but, she chose for them to be therapeutic through writing.

Now, rather than making people healthier, her goal is to make the world healthier.

What do you influence women to do?

To be the best version of themselves. We are all unique. Try not to follow the crowd, instead be true to who you are. nfluencer, termed loosely, is a person or thing that has the power to influence. In recent years, thanks to people like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner, the term has come to represent an individual whose effect on a purchase decision is in some way significant or authoritative. While millions will buy products that Kim or Kylie endorse, they are not so much influenced

by Sophie down the road who has 7,000 Instagram followers and tries to plug some product placements for a bit of cash.

These types of influencers aside, there still exist real women right here on the Gold Coast who actually influence. They influence beliefs, actions, movements and people. The women listed here are by no means an exhaustive list of influential women of the Gold Coast — we know there are thousands — if not more! But here are four we chose to highlight for their individual influential power and the effect they have on women.

June 2018

Asha Peck, 27 FOUNDER OF THE GIRLS IN BUSINESS MOVEMENT / GOLD COAST GIRLS IN BUSINESS Wife, mother of two young boys, worker and small business owner Asha founded and grew the Gold Coast Girls in Business Facebook group and movement (facebook.com/thegibmovement) to 9,000 members in the first five months of opening. She strives to create a strong a powerful force of female leaders who want to connect, support and empower one another!

What do you influence women to do?

Connect with local and likeminded

16

How do you do it?

When I was a fitness instructor I used to target the shy person in the class, the person that looked like they were uncomfortable in the situation. I would make a point of getting to know them and help them achieve their goals and bring back their confidence.

What influential qualities do you possess?

The ability to always look for the positive and challenge the way a person thinks.

What is one key message you preach?

Never give up! There is always something you can offer. Setbacks are just lessons on what didn’t work, learn from them and move forward.

What’s your advice for other women who would like to influence?

Don’t be afraid of reaching out. Remember, ‘no’ is just a word if someone knocks you back. Ego and pride can stop you reaching your goals. Back yourself!

women and encourage them to believe in themselves as females.

How do you do it?

I post positive affirmations and quotes to uplift them while online and plan and host a wide range of events from small, child-friendly meet ups to huge networking events with fun twists. It’s about connecting face to face, getting them out of their comfort zones, enjoying one another’s company and giving back to the community wherever possible.

What influential qualities do you possess?

Passion, integrity, honesty and realness (with my members/following) and

What influential qualities do you possess?

Moyra Major, 39 JOURNALIST & RADIO ANNOUNCER WITH HOT TOMATO + RUNS HER COMPANY MAJOR CONFIDENT

I learnt very young that listening is one of the greatest skills to have. I love talking to people, but I also love hearing them talk about their lives, their loves, their families and their passion.

Moyra is a familiar voice to many on the Gold Coast airways. She loves working her busy crazy life, juggling motherhood, family, radio, teaching and her business. Through her business, Major Confident (facebook.com/ majorconfident), she helps people overcome and ace one of the most common fears — public speaking.

What’s your advice for other women who would like to influence?

I love the advice I was given recently, “Be interested, not interesting”. Make sure people leave you wanting more and come back to connect again.

What do you influence women to do?

With my business, I help as many people as I can find their voice.

Women can lack or lose confidence so quickly, and I think it’s such an important thing to have. Public speaking is a vital tool, not just from a business sense, but also from a personal level as well. I love nothing more than to see someone go from hiding in the shadows to standing in the spotlight.

How do you do it?

Laughter is always the best answer. People are relaxed when they are laughing, and it’s one of the greatest sounds in life.

What is one key message you preach?

I believe in being good to yourself. There are so many people who are willing to knock you down, heckle or judge you. I think, especially with speaking in public, you need to be kind to yourself and take things slowly. I also well and truly love the message, “Every moment is a fresh beginning”. It’s really helped me to stop beating myself up and learn that you can reset your day and your thoughts as many times as you like.

Connect with local and likeminded women and encourage them to believe in themselves as females. staying true to myself. I make them feel safe, supported and able to trust me!

What is one key message you teach?

Dr Sonia Sonia, 35 DENTIST / OWNER OF KALLANGUR DENTAL SURGERY, WELLINGTON POINT DENTAL AND BUDERIM PARK DENTAL A personal survivor of family violence herself, Dr Sonia is a dentist and reigning beauty queen who is using her past experiences as inspiration to start her own charity, ReStored (facebook.com/ restored019). She will be offering free dental treatments to those who have endured abuse, such as repairing broken teeth and jaws.

What do you influence women to do?

To speak up and stand up for themselves or anyone in need.

How do you do it?

I educate them, give them resources and coach them if needed. Not everyone knows where to start or how to start so I lead the way for them if I can.

What influential qualities do you possess?

Resilience — I learn from situations if there is a lesson to learn and then get over it emotionally and move on. Risk taking — I take risks. Self-belief — if I don’t believe in myself, no one else would. Confidence — I am not afraid, I have confidence to take the first step, to speak out and speak up. Charisma — to be influential, people need to like you.

I’m authentic and genuine — in this new high-tech world where you can buy anything and everything, genuineness is not for sale. And if you are authentic, you will shine through.

What’s your advice for other women who would like to influence?

Be yourself and be genuine.

Be present and be interested in people and their concerns.

It’s about them, not about you. You do not have to be a star, make them stars of their stories.

What is one key message you teach?

Collaborate instead of compete!

Be clear, be confident, be yourself. Do not let anyone decide what you can do or what you cannot. I see a lot of women apologise for being too ambitious, too outspoken or too bold. We need to be unapologetic and do what our hearts and souls say. You do not know what you can be or what you can achieve until you try it.

What’s your advice for other women who would like to influence?

Stay true to yourself no matter what! Not everyone is going to like you or what you’re doing but don’t let that change who you are or what your dreams are! And be kind — always!

17

June 2018

GET IT I SUCCESS

“Bullies made me who I am today”

o you know people that fill a room with their presence? That light up lives, provide endless laughs and bounce with energy? Amanda Williams is one of these people. Though, life could have gone very differently for her if she let her childhood adversity define her.

You see, Amanda was bullied as a teenager, so severely that she started to self-harm and contemplated ending her life.

“I ran away from my parents at 16 years old,” she says.“I felt unwanted and unappreciated and was bullied by my peers and parents alike.”

“People who’ve grown up in my kind of environment tend to go one way or another. They either check out of society all together or they work even harder to prove to the world they are worthy of love.”

Amanda chose the work hard option. She pursued a career in politics for six years, working between the Nation's Capital and Queensland Parliament in federal and local politics. She ran many successful campaigns but faced a lot of judgement based on her looks.

“At one stage in my career, I was told I had to choose whether I wanted to be known for my looks or brain,” she admits.“I was made to feel like I had to play small, dim my light, keep out of the spotlight and dress down.”

As successful as she was in politics, she says, “Politics is not a job, it’s a lifestyle and I was never really that into it.”

“I had put my heart and soul into being the

Photo: Pancake Digital

Ringleader at Yellowpanda and Founder of Bavewear, Amanda Williams, 33, speaks with Get it’s Kirstin Cuthbert on battling bullies, her career in politics and pursuing her own passions best staffer I could be, and I lost myself in the process. I started to believe I would spend my whole like making other people look good and giving them all the credit for it. My soul was slowly dying, and I knew if I didn't get out, I would lose my spark,” she says.

Although she was anxious about leaving, letting her boss down and being financially secure, in 2017 Amanda stepped out and became as a public relations freelancer.

Once Amanda started working for six brands, she could no longer handle the workload on her own and engaged the services of two consultants. From there, she rebranded to Yellowpanda — combining her favourite colour and nick name, Panda — and became a Public Relations Agency specialising in PR for established start-ups, serving technology and lifestyle brands nationwide.

Though she has faced some negatives along the way, she’s also had a huge number of positives.

“There is no better feeling in PR than when you get your clients in the media. I've had clients featured on programs like Sunrise, 7 News, the Today Show and the number one online news site news.com.au,” she says.

“I've also helped dozens of small business women with pro-bono PR support. I always make time to offer free advice to people starting out because I can relate to where they are at in their entrepreneurial journey.”

Because she’s never one to do things by

halves, while establishing her PR business she also began creating a swimwear company called Bavewear.

“I am in a position where I can use my skills to my advantage and I have spent the past 16 months working behind the scenes to bring the first collection to life! I have always loved swimsuits and finding unique and quirky things to wear to showcase my personality — I felt the world could do with some extra fun swimsuits on show!” she says.

While Amanda still has moments of doubt, she is living life and doing business according to her own values.

“Some days I feel like nothing can stop me and the sky’s the limit and then other days I wonder if it’s all going to fall apart!

But I know the outcome lives in the space between my ears. I need to keep positive and manifest my ideal future,” she says.

“Ideally, I want to have a permanent team, provide meaningful employment and support causes like Youngcare and organisations that help young people who are experiencing bullying.”

While Amanda was a victim of bullying herself, she doesn’t see it that way, in fact, she is thankful for her experiences.

“The people who bullied me made me the strong and resilient person I am today.

They’ve encouraged me to build and insane work ethic and to strive for excellence in all that I do,” she says.

GET IT I BUSINESS

How to build a successful business

Together we created this mantra that ‘love is the bottom line’

and still stay married Psychologist and Co-Founder/CEO of Pragmatic Thinking Alison Hill shares her marriage-saving tips

uilding a fast-growth business is hard. Really hard. Staying married, despite what it’s like in the lovedup haze around the wedding day, requires effort. A. Lot. Of. Effort. So, combining the two, well that’s either a recipe for lunacy or the greatest self-development course you can ever undertake.

When I started my career as a psychologist I didn’t picture myself being a business owner, let alone being the CEO of a fast-growth business with up to 15 staff and signs of big growth ahead of us. It wasn’t part of a ‘life-plan’ — the best I had was a hope that one day I wouldn’t have to fill out time-sheets (yep, the big stuff right).

So, when my husband and I started our business over 10 years ago, it was a complete leap of faith. In so many ways we were not only figuring out how to build a business, we were also figuring out how we worked together. It’s been the commitment to ‘let’s figure it out’ along the way that’s been a big part of our ability to build a fastgrowth business and still stay married (and keep two kids alive along the way).

Through this figuring out (which is a lifetime pursuit) there are five key lessons that have served us well as we build a successful business and still stay married.

Lesson #1: Be each other’s biggest fans Amongst the busyness of business, we often take the people we love the most for granted.

We give our energy to our clients, to our team, and come home cranky and snappy. Well at least I can. It’s been a conscious decision for both of us to be public in how much we are fans of each other. The way we talk about each other, how we celebrate each other on social media, to how we focus on what’s great about the other person (even if they’ve annoyed the crap out of us that day). Our friends are sick of seeing it on social media, but our marriage (and to be honest our business) has reaped the benefits of this lesson.

Lesson #2: Invest in personal growth Business will challenge you personally every day. As a business owner, if you’re not growing personally, then the business quickly becomes stagnant. But the personal growth may not happen at the same time, or at the same pace, for you and your spouse. You don’t always have to do this together. The lesson we’ve learnt is how important it is for both of us to make the time to invest in our own personal growth, and to know that the other person is growing at a pace that is useful for them and that’s okay.

Lesson #3: Prioritise your own health This lesson sounds counter-intuitive to a conversation about how to grow a successful 19

business and commit to an amazing marriage.

When the business is all-consuming and the travel is crazy, health not only takes a back-seat, it’s completely left behind. Bottom line is you’re a better partner after a good night’s sleep and a healthy dose of probiotics.

Lesson #4: Learn to say no When success feels like it’s relying on you, it’s natural to put your hand up for everything.

Because, really, no-one does it as well as what you could do anyway. It does mean that you never ‘turn off’ from the business world. It’s the ability to be protective of our time, to say ‘no’, and to outsource as much as we can that has made all the difference to both our business and our marriage.

Lesson #5: Love is the bottom line Really early on in our business growth we talked about our fears of the business coming between our relationship. Together we created this mantra that ‘love is the bottom line’. For us, this means that if there’s ever a time that the business pressures impact significantly on our relationship, we would shut the business down.

It’s not to say there aren’t moments of strain, but, if a seismic crack appeared, our marriage takes priority. This has been such a powerful mantra for us that it’s now become one of our company values. For our entire team, love really is the bottom line.

June 2018

GET IT I SHOPPING

HEAT ME UP SCION Spike Hot Water Bottle, $39, keep warm with this unique kissing hedgehogs design, au.amara.com

OILS OF GOODNESS YOUNG LIVING Grapefruit Essential Oil, $37.50, encourages feelings of joy, satisfaction and playfulness or use in a body scrub for a smooth-looking glow, youngliving.com

SPOONFUL OF HAPPINESS COOKIE DOH CO. Raspberry & White Chocolate, $8.99 (250g), edible cookie dough — eat it straight out of the tub! Available at selected Coles stores or at cookiedoh.co

Winter warmers...ward off the chilly weather with these fun, quirky and winter-themed products!

INSIDE GAMES ZANUI Play Teepee, Orange, $105.95, for an exciting feature in your child's bedroom or play space, zanui.com.au

LAY BACK AND RELAX KOGAN Ovela Luxe Bean Bag Lounger (Orange), $35.00, stylish and comfortable water-resistant lounger, kogan.com

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June 2018

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THINGS ARE GETTING HEATED YELLOW OCTOPUS Husband & Wife Game, Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups, $23.99, a hilariously cheeky card game where you answer predetermined questions about your partner, yellowoctopus.com.au

POUR ME A CUPPA YARRA VALLEYTEA CO. Relax Tea Box, $11.50 (30g), certified organic herbal tea, yarravalleytea.com.au

TEA TO GO S'WELL Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle 500ml Satin Birds Of Paradise 6, $44.99, keep cold drinks cold for 24 hours and hot ones hot for 12 hours, yellowoctopus.com.au

TAKE OFF YOUR COAT SCHOTS HOME EMPORIUM Iron Elephant Coat Hook, Yellow Gloss, $14.95, quirky coat hook perfect for home or office, schots.com.au

SIP THE DAYS AWAY Maxwell & Williams Cafe Culture Jug 90Ml Arancione, $5.74, perfect for long breakfasts or a colourful coffee break, creative-tops.com

REST AND REJUVENATE BUCKLEY & PHILLIPS AROMATICS Spirit of the Orient - SALA Large Pillar Candle, $17.95, fragrance of fresh lemongrass with Thai basil and mint, sweet lotus blossoms and a base of patchouli and ceda buckleyandphillips.com SNUGGLE UP EAGLE PRODUCTS Textil GmbH Lugano orange, $524.43, keep warm in style, eagle-products.de

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Email Hayley today! admin@getit-magazine.com.au or leanne@getit-magazine.com.au

21

June 2018

GET IT I BEAUTY

The secret to pulling off a

smoky eye

rd aa

B it’s

ty Boss Hayley eau B

og

Fake Faux Pas e’re all guilty of a little fake tan faux pas.You didn’t have time to exfoliate properly, you forgot to moisturise, you were perhaps a little heavy handed on the bronzer (Selena Gomez from the 2018 Met Gala, I’m talking to you girlfriend).

It happens.

We know the rules. Always prep your skin, wear loose clothing and whatever you do, avoid the tan coming into contact with any form of liquid until it’s set. But some of us – cough, me, cough – may have overlooked that last rule on occasion. And so in the interest of helping you not to make the same mistakes, I give you the top three fake tan faux pas that I learned the hard way: Avoid sad movies.

It’s an unremarkable Thursday night.Tan night for women all around the country. I’ve carefully exfoliated and prepped, meticulously applied my tan and completed the ritual of awkwardly standing around while it dries (side note: it’s like waiting for nail polish to dry. But you’re naked. And cold.)It’s a task of athletic aptitude and honestly, I’ve earned my recuperation.

So I grab the half eaten tub of Ben and Jerry’s from the freezer, pop on Netflix and settle on The Fault in Our Stars.

And that right there, was where it all went wrong.

Fast-forward two hours, I’m clutching my Ben and Jerry’s and bawling like a baby. I’m talking a real Kim Kardashian ugly cry.Yep, not pretty. And you know what else isn’t pretty? The river of fake tan streaks that are now running down my face. Crap! My advice? Try a comedy.

Don’t get mad at your boyfriend.

Let me be clear, tears are not your tan’s friend. Avoid them at all costs. So let’s just say – hypothetically, of course – your boyfriend decides that tan night is the perfect occasion to reveal that he has cheated on you by watching four episodes ahead in Game of Thrones, do not react. Not so much as a filthy glare. Let it sit. Stew on it over night.That way, your tan stays intact and you wake up looking sun-kissed and radiant. And you’re internal rage is so strong that you’re plotting his gruesome end, Cersei Lannister-style (note: no boyfriends were harmed in the making of this column).

Keep it in your pants.

This one needs little explanation but I will give you a simple equation to remember. A fresh fake tan plus sweat and bodily fluids do not mix. Just don’t, trust me. It’s not worth the uncomfortable explanation to your friends of why your tan looks so strange and “Umm I spilled my, umm, moisturiser…” won’t fool anyone.

And there you have it. I have made the mistakes so you can learn the lessons. Now, take my advice and go forth and glow my beautiful, bronzed goddesses!

Ge t

Hayley x

Award-winning makeup artist Jasmine Stead of Jasmine Lei Creations shares her beginner tips to achieve this bold look be any colour you like, from purple to black, or, my favourite, a gorgeous bronze brown. I love to apply a shimmery highlight in the inner corner and under the arch of the brow to make the eye pop.

What other makeup can you apply with a smoky eye? Don’t be afraid to team a bold lip with a bold eye! Team a bronzed smoky eye with a hot red lipstick for the ultimate statement or play it safe with a nude lip and black smoky eye. Remember to own it, smile and you will glow.

What about hair? Keep it natural.

A slicked back pony or soft, loose waves keep your smoky eye the focus.

Or, you could also go with some 80s curls, a black smoky eye and bold lip for some fun!

any women confuse a smoky eye with just ‘black shadow’, however, the term smoky refers to a technique, not a colour. It applies when one shade of eyeshadow is applied right across the mobile lid of the eye and blended out effortlessly with no harsh lines through the socket.

How can you perfect the look?

The biggest tip I can give is to make sure you own at least two eye brushes. A flat shader brush to apply the base shadow on the lid and a fluffy blending brush to blend and fuse the shadow into the socket. Start by grabbing a medium tone colour such as your face bronzer or a soft brown and blend through the socket using ‘wind screen wiper’ motions with your wrist. Then use the flat brush to pack your smoky colour on the lid using dabbing motions, not wiping, as wiping will give you fall out on your cheek.

Remember, it can

Jasmine is an award-winning professional makeup artist for over seven years, specialising in bridal, special occasion and editorial makeup.

W: jasmineleicreations.com Facebook: jasmineleicreations Instagram: jasmine_lei_creations

Get it girl’s go-to products this month

K irsti n DOVE SUMMER GLOW Body Lotion Normal to Darker Skin, $7.99, woolworths.com.au

June 2018

Ha yley HUGO BOSS The Scent for Her EDP, $99.00, myer.com.au

Lea n n e GROWN ALCHEMIST HydraRepair Eye Balm, $90.00, grownalchemist.com

22

Ai mi MATRIX BIOLAGE Keratin Dose Shampoo, $32.99, salonstyle.com.au

Sheree OLAY Total Effects Moisturiser, $32.99, priceline.com.au

GET IT I BEAUTY ROAD TEST

Pearly whites

Get it’s Hayley and Kirstin whiten up s Gold Coasters like our skin tanned and teeth white! We’re all for trying the newest teeth whitening tooth paste or mouthwash, but usually they don’t give us the super-white gleam we’re striving for. For those of us that don’t have the money for a full mouth of veneers (like the celebrities do) in chair teeth whitening is the next best thing.

Not only is it available in dental studios, but many beauty salons have dentist grade teeth whitening services in their salons. This month, we headed off to Nkd Bty (Naked Beauty) for an LED laser teeth whitening session.

Firstly, we were asked if we were

pregnant or breastfeeding. No and no! So, we were safe to proceed with the treatment.

Next, we looked at where our teeth were on the scale of whiteness. Once we picked out teeth the same colour as ours, we sat in a comfy reclining chair.

We put plastic in our mouths to hold them open (no photo evidence of this was getting printed!) and applied a gel as instructed to our teeth, careful not to get any on our gums. The LED light was positioned over our mouths, turned on and away it worked. We each had 3x 15-minute sessions in the chair.

The best part? The light was dimmed and laying there for 15 minutes was very

relaxing — hello nap time! The worst part, by far, was the drool. You may have thought that working at a magazine was glamorous but we’re admitting it’s far from that! When you remove the plastic mouth opener, the drool your mouth has been holding for the last 15 minutes runs out. Thankfully, you are given a bib to wear (we didn’t realise the importance of this at the start!). Between each time you have a rinse too.

Afterwards our teeth felt clean, gleaming and definitely a few shades whiter. We chose a tooth at the end that reflected our new colour — you can see our results in the photos.

The only aftercare required is to not have any coloured foods, coffee or wine for 48 hours as your teeth are quite porous. We take back what we said about drool being the worst part, 48 hours without coffee or wine is much, much worse!

A huge thank you to Nkd Bty for having us! You can connect with her on Instagram @nakedbeauty_official to book in your own teeth whitening session, call 0419709350 or visit nakedbeauty.net.au

Visit our Facebook p age to watch the girls whiten up!

Facebook.c om/ get.it.mag

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June 2018

GET IT I FASHION

Setting mood the FASHION RETAILER: Black n Bling by Leesa Gill 56 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island P 0498 110 110 STYLIST: Susie McWatt Forbes FASHION COORDINATOR: Hayley Bogaard PHOTOGRAPHER: Renee Bisley HAIR STYLIST: Natasha Dawson MAKEUP ARTIST: Jasmine Lei Creations MODEL: Amanda Blanks LOCATION: Gotham Grill and Rooftop Bar Runaway Bay P 5537 7777

June 2018

24

CALL ME CRAZY Front Leather Strip Pant, $226 // Suzie Fur Top, $395 // Jimmy Crystal New York Limited Edition ‘Super Star Earrings’, $325 // Bling Telephone, $385 // Shoes and gloves stylist’s own 25

June 2018

NO TIME FOR YOU Night Out Dress, $345 // Jimmy Crystal New York ‘Bling Crystal Hoops’, $225

“

She LOVED MYSTERIES so much that she became one.

June 2018

26

”

BEGGING AT MY FEET Entertain Dress, $385 // Necklace stylist’s own // Shoes model’s own

DANCE THE DAYS AWAY Turquoise crystal embossed kaftan, $298

27

June 2018

“

KILL them with confidence. It's the DEADLIEST weapon.

”

POUR ME SOME MORE Black Bloom Dress, $355 // Jimmy Crystal New York Limited Edition ‘Super Star Earrings’, $325 // Headwear, Dressed for Style Belt with Jimmy Crystal New York Limited Edition ‘Super Star Ring’ inserted, $295

THE FLOOR IS MINE Jaggered Edge Top, $210 // Jaggered Edge Pant, $185 // Earrings stylist’s own 28

INDULDGE ME Classy Set Top and Skirt, $345 // Jimmy Crystal New York ‘Bling Flower’ Earrings, $325 // ‘Super Star Ring’, $295 // Shoes model’s own

DON’T WASTE MY TIME Bling It On Dress, $259 // Organza On Shawl Coat, $466 // Jimmy Crystal New York ‘Bling Crystal Hoops’, $225

ALL EYES ON ME Black Bloom Dress, $355 // Jimmy Crystal New York Limited Edition ‘Super Star Earrings’, $325 // Headwear, Dressed for Style Belt with Jimmy Crystal New York Limited Edition ‘Super Star Ring’ inserted, $295

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June 2018

GET IT I FASHION

Look 1

Rella Skater Dress, $33, au.boohoo.com

Look 3

Look 2

Gia Dress, $275, troisthelabel.com

Black is back!

Sheer Elegance Maxi Dress, $120, blackmilkclothing.com

LAYER IT WITH…

On top J BRAND denim jacket, $571, farfetch.com/au

On top GUCCI Leather belt, $535, farfetch.com/au

Accessorise with Symphony Circle Earring, $99, najo.com.au

Underneath Frida ruffled blouse, $417.96, net-a-porter.com.au

On top The Ascendants Handbag, $219.95, bennysboardroom.com.au

Accessorise with Meadow Black Sunglasses, $27, au.eyebuydirect.com

LAYER IT WITH…

Underneath Long Sleeve Shirt, $49.95, witchery.com.au

On top Embroidered Corset Belt, $35.06, dresslily.com

Accessorise with Raoul Britt Clutch, $69, ozsale.com.au

Hello fashionistas!

Let's talk about black! I don't know about you, but I have a lot of black in my wardrobe! It's always on trend, sliming, and looks good with absolutely everything.

If you have an issue wearing it close to your face, just put it on the bottom half!

Who has an LBD (little black dress) in their wardrobe? Maybe you take it for a night out a couple of times a year. Make this LBD work for you. Here are my tips for this: 1. Keep it simple: Add embellishments to take this from day to night.

2. Keep it sleeveless: You can layer items underneath for a winter look or add a wrap or jacket for less bulk.

3. If it is a straight shift line dress: Pop an over-the-top skirt on and utilise the top.

4. If you wish to go strapless: (Great for ladies who don't love their arms) pop a fresh white shirt underneath or a fitted t-shirt.

I have three rules when shopping for an LBD. Neckline: Make sure it suits your body shape.

Not too high if you are top heavy; extended shoulders if you are bottom heavy; waist definition for ladies with dangerous curves; and draping or detail if you are straight up and down or have a tummy.

Waistline: Make sure you create a waistline or give the illusion of a waist. If you put a boxy shape on, you will look like box.

Hemline: Length — very important! The perfect length is on the knee, or slightly above, this creates a pretty picture from the waist up. If you are shorter, this keeps the body in proportion.

Change your summer look into the new, cooler season, add colour, scarves, boots, jackets, wraps, vests and denim jackets.

Mix it up, save money and create your own style.

Black is back! Black is easy! Everything black!

Susie

Style advice...

Face + Fashion

Join me at Edgewater Dining & Lounge on June 8 for a charity lunch featuring the latest fashion trends and tips for younger-looking skin + $5,000 in raffles to be won.

Tickets at Eventbrite.com.au search "Face + Fashion".

SHOPPING SERVICE IMAGE CONSULTANT SHOPPING AND RETAIL

P: 0414 904 364

Susie The Stylist

susiethestylist@gmail.com June 2018

30

@susiethestylist

MAN SPEAK

GET IT I CAREER

First

impressions

with Ash Palmero from Rebel FM 99.4

count

Karen Gately, Founder of HR Consultancy Ryan Gately, shares her tips on how to make a great first impression in your new job •

Be reliable: Turning up on time and being relied upon to do what you say you will are essential to your professional brand and reputation.

•

Be positive: Bringing an optimistic ‘can do’ attitude to your new role is critical to earning the confidence of your new boss and colleagues.

•

Look the part: Understand the culture of the organisation you are joining, and the expectations they hold about what is an appropriate way to dress. Be yourself, but recognise that the people you work with, including customers, are likely to form views of your professionalism through the choices you make about your appearance.

•

Listen and learn: Reflect for a moment on how frustrating you find people who assume they already know everything and won’t listen to advice or take direction. No matter how experienced you may be in your role, be open to the possibility that things are done differently at your new workplace — for good reason.

•

Build relationships: Take the time to get to know people and build rapport with those you work most closely with.

It may not be in your nature to have friends at work, but it’s necessary that you demonstrate willingness to engage and collaborate with your colleagues.

•

Be humble: Being a ‘know it all’ isn’t the way to earn trust and respect. Share what you know but be careful not to come across as if you see yourself as superior to the team you have joined.

•

Be a team player: Demonstrate early your willingness and ability to work effectively with other people. While you may find some new colleagues challenging, be careful not to simply avoid them.

•

Stay out of gossip and dramas: No matter how intriguing the topic may be, keep out of gossip and drama filled conversations. Be careful to form your own views about people and to invest your time and energy into your work.

Ladies, exercise is for fitness not to make a fashion Father, husband and all round top bloke statement… Ash Palmero shares his two cents here is a big difference between men and woman, and it is so apparent when you look at fitness.

At the gym, it seems that guys just focus on getting big… with some fellas forgetting they even have necks! They chase the dream to look like a cloud, but it’s not easy, it takes dedication and supplements to help achieve that end goal.

Ladies, well, it’s a little of the same but also about making a fashion statement. Seriously, the amount of money that is spent on active wear is crazy. And, some ladies wear it just to be seen at the gym in it, without even breaking a sweat.

Then there are other ladies who may never have been in a gym… they’re the ‘walk around the lake ladies’, the girls who get together and put on their active wear to take a light stroll and chat about life.

They try and make it look fitness is the reason for this walk when it’s glaringly obvious fashion is the reason. I believe the mindset behind it is,“If I wear this gear, it will make it look like I’m trying to be fit and healthy.”

Perhaps I’m completely wrong, but I do doubt that.

Now there are several other fitness… let’s call them ‘modalities’… that I question, like Pilates (the art of paying far too much for fitness) or yoga (be at peace, breath in and breath out and let’s say stupid things like namaste).

Now more than ever, so many people are signing up to these fitness models, a little like the active wear craze. A lot of the time it is so they can talk about what they are trying to do to stay fit, to be seen as if they are doing the right thing.

I think if you truly want to go down a fitness path, do it for you, not for the clothes you wear to do it in, and not for being able to tell people how cool you are because you’ve joined this or that class.

We all need to get up off the couch or chair and talk a brisk walk, a bike ride, or do some stuff in the gym, but, let’s all do it for the right reasons… and being part of the fashion club is not a right reason.

31

June 2018 May 2018

GET IT I FEATURE

e were approached by a Scott with the possibility that his new wife, Emilia, had been having extra martial affairs with someone she worked with.

Scott had accidently stumbled across his wife’s vehicle parked near a hotel on the Gold Coast while he was making a delivery to a nearby cafe. He texted his wife and, after an hour or so, she replied saying she was at the cafe with a girlfriend — the same cafe he had just made a delivery to.

The following week Scott found his wife’s vehicle again parked near the same location, he texted his wife again and got the same explanation after an hour or so. Our instructions were to find out who Scott’s wife was meeting and where she was going when she was meant to be at work.

THE INVESTIGATION Surveillance started from their house, we followed the target (Emilia) from home to work where she remained for an hour or so before getting out on the road and starting to do some work-related appointments nearby.

usan had two young children to a man she had been separated from for about a year.

He had the children every second weekend and when the children came back to her house, they often had bruises and injuries they couldn’t explain.The children would say to Susan that they didn’t see their dad all weekend and someone else was caring for them while he was “away”.Susan also had questions as to the kind of people that were visiting the house and what they might be up to while the children were there.

THE INVESTIGATION The investigations were to be surrounding the two and a half days the children were in their father’s custody. We conducted surveillance on the residence and found out June 2018

and Husb new cts suspe having s wife i ffair an a

Eventually, she drove to the location Scott had found her vehicle parked at previously.

Emilia then met with a male that had been seen at her work office at the start of the morning. They grabbed a coffee together and we obtained some evidence of her being very affectionate with the male, who turned out to be her boss. They then walked a short distance holding hands to a nearby hotel. We were able to get video evidence of Emilia with her boss entering a hotel room. We then got further video evidence of Emilia departing the hotel and kissing her boss before heading back to her vehicle and returning to work.

how long the children’s father was present at the house, who visited during that time and what activities were going on at the house that we could see.

During the first weekend’s surveillance, we found the children’s father was only present for the first three hours the children were in his care. He departed, leaving the children in the care of a teenage girl who appeared to be the father’s new girlfriend’s daughter.The children’s father left with his new girlfriend at around 3pm in the afternoon and didn’t return home until 8pm in a taxi with several other people. We continued surveillance that evening until 11:30pm, during that time loud music was played and 32

THE OUTCOME It is always a difficult task to present the evidence to a client.

Most have their suspicions about what is going on, but, you have the feeling that deep down they are hoping there’s a completely innocent explanation or they’re just paranoid. In this case, Scott had suspected this for some time and just needed confirmation and evidence to confront her with — especially as something similar had happened a couple of years prior. Scott was happy with the quick outcome and how much evidence we were able to gather. He eventually broke up with his wife after presenting her with the video evidence which she couldn’t argue with or wriggle out of.

ts pec s u r rs the r of he ot o M the is n fa ren m the ld chi ng for while i car uately tody q s ade his cu in

te: Please no e hav s e m a n ll A re ged and a been chan for story d only use ewise, all effect. Lik only re a s ge a im ory used for st effect.

es of Guy Streeter from fil se ca e th de si in ek Take a sneak pe in the Gold Coast’s most of e on , ns io at ig st ve In Timberline igators demand private invest

atie approached us with a hunch that her partner, Ben, had been spending a significant amount of money at the casino and at the local pub putting money through the pokies.

This money was part of an inheritance and it was in a bank account that wasn’t looked at very often. Suddenly, the bank statements were not showing up for this account. Ben was starting to spend more and more time at the clubs or “out with friends” but Katie suspected they were using money from the inheritance to fund their gambling habit. Katie wanted us to try and work out how much money he was taking out at the ATM and how much was spent on gambling vs drinking with mates.

THE INVESTIGATION Our client had a fair idea of where the target would start his evening, which was at the local pub. We started surveillance at the local pub and found the target met up with a couple of mates and had a few drinks. He then separated from them after a few hours and started playing the pokies. We were able find out Ben took out about $500 initially from the ATM and proceeded to play to machines next to each other simultaneously

until that money ran out. Ben then departed from the pub and travelled by Uber to the casino and removed another $500 or more and began playing the pokies again.

Ben was fairly lucky on this occasion and had a win of over $2,000. He took that money and put it in one pocket but went and withdrew more money and began playing black jack. At the end of the night, Ben had taken out about $1,500 and had told our client he was with friends at a mate’s house after being at the pub. We had evidence that suggested otherwise.

The investigation continued for several evenings and afternoons over the next two weeks. We accumulated a lot of evidence of

neighbours came and joined in the party.

The following day the children were observed walking to the local shops in the care of the teenage daughter and returned shortly after.The children’s father was picked up by a friend in a van, they returned four hours later

in the van with a motorcycle in the back of it.

They unloaded the motorcycle and put it in the garage.The children’s father then left again in the van and didn’t return until late in the afternoon with his vehicle. Later in the evening, the children’s father departed again with his girlfriend, leaving his children in the care of the teenage daughter.

The investigation continued three weekends over the next eight weeks with similar outcomes during the surveillance.The surveillance concluded that the children’s father was spending very little time with his children.

When they were in his custody he was not looking after them and the activities going on at the house were not what the children’s mother found acceptable.The bruises and injuries the children were coming home to the mother with didn’t appear to be from abuse but rather unsafe activities they were getting

ts uspec s d n ie Girlfr partner new bling of gam n and tio addic e money siv exces nding spe

33

Ben taking significant amounts of money out of the ATM that couldn’t be accounted for on Katie and his personal accounts. So, Ben was taking money out from an unknown account (most likely the account which the inheritance was in, and Katie was unable to see the monthly account statements as they were going missing).

THE OUTCOME With the evidence that we had gathered, Katie was able to confront her partner and show that he had a problem with gambling and possible drug use. They were able to seek help for his gambling addiction. It was astounding how much money Ben had spent in a short period of time. The next month, the account statements started turning up again.

up to when not in the care of their father.

Several climbing accidents were observed in the front yard, as well as falling from bicycles and scooters without helmets.

THE OUTCOME The outcome was favourable to Susan.The evidence was presented to court and, on the facts that the children’s father was frequently not present during his “custody” of the children, along with several other reasons, our client was awarded full custody of the children. Susan was over the moon with the outcome and that led to a more stable future for the children to grow up in.

THE MOST POPULAR INVESTIGATIONS GUY DOES By day, insurance fraud. By night, cheating spouses or checking up on wayward teenagers. Gambling and other addictions are becoming more and more popular as its often just as damaging as a cheating partner.

June 2018

GET IT I HEALTH

The other side of the fertility equation:

Men

Following on from our May issue where discussed all things female fertility, we hear about the other very important of a role when trying for a baby — male fertility —with Dr Gary Swift, Senior Fertility Specialist and Obstetrician/Gynaecologist with Queensland Fertility Group Gold Coast

MALE FERTILITY ne of the biggest questions when it comes to male fertility is: how do we know when men are fertile? The easy answer is if they have fathered children (and there are no paternity doubts) then that is a pretty good start! Unfortunately, you can’t just look in the mirror and say, “Everything looks alright” and that’s that. The cornerstone of a male fertility assessment is a semen analysis. There are some other aspects of a male’s history that come into it too — such as undescended testes, mumps after puberty or scrotal surgery — these do raise concerns, but nothing replaces formal testing.

For men, formal testing involves collecting an ejaculated specimen, usually at home and after three days abstinence and delivering it to an embryology laboratory at a pre-booked time (requested by a GP or specialist).

June 2018

As per World Health Organisation guidelines (5th centile of fertile men based on studies of several thousand), the parameters we look for are: VOLUME

1.5mls

CONCENTRATION

15 Million/ml

PROGRESSIVE MOTILITY 32% NORMAL MORPHOLOGY 4% ANTIBODY BINDING

10%

It’s important to note these parameters don’t guarantee fertility is normal. Instead, a compromise in any one or more of these parameters can guide counselling for the likelihood of unassisted conception and the role of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (Intrauterine Insemination, IVF +/-ICSI).

A normal result can be interpreted by GPs and specialists alike, however, an abnormal 34

result will require specific interpretation and management by a specialty unit such as Queensland Fertility Group.

LIFESTYLE FACTORS THAT COME INTO PLAY There are many lifestyle factors that can affect male fertility. The testes are like little factories and, to work normally, they need the right environment and building blocks.

Sperm production in the testes takes 72 days and is most efficient at 35 degrees, which is why the testes are outside the body. They need the freedom to autoregulate this temperature, so tell boxers are a better choice than tight briefs. Certain occupations and recreational pursuits may affect this process.

A good balanced diet and an appropriate multi-vitamin with zinc, selenium and anti-oxidants is important for fertility.

Cigarette smoke contains an incredibly high number of poisons and should be

avoided. Many other recreational drugs, especially marijuana, adversely affect sperm production and motility and should be avoided for many health reasons. Excessive alcohol intake can have both a toxic effect on sperm and alter testosterone and estrogen ratios in the body with adverse effect on sperm production. Two standard drinks a day with two alcohol free days a week, as a minimum, is a good target for heavy drinkers.

PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES Can they have a negative effect on fertility? Most don’t but some can.

Some medications for elevated blood pressure can affect erectile function. Some medications to treat inflammatory bowel disease can affect sperm parameters.

Chemotherapy agents to treat cancer can have various effects on testicular function so sperm collection and cryopreservation should always be considered before such treatments.

With up to 10% of the population afflicted by depression and mood disorders, it has become increasingly common to experience reduced libido and erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction on certain medications. Some non-prescribed medications such as anabolic steroids for body-building also suppress sperm production. This is usually reversible but, occasionally, after long-term use, may not be. There are some medications which can help to re-stimulate sperm production.

There is always the possibility that an

underlying medical condition may have secondary effects on reproductive function, but, it is also worth discussing with your GP and/or specialist about alternative medications if fertility is important.

REVERSING VASECTOMIES Unfortunately, in the modern era, as many as 50% of marriages fail. Many men and women find themselves re-partnering and wanting more children. With a vasectomy a common, safe and intended “permanent” solution, it is not surprising that an increasing number of couples are seeking advice and

FAMILY HISTORY OF MALE FERTILITY ISSUES Family history issues can be a factor where subfertility or genetic problems are passed from father to son via the Y chromosome or from either parent in other chromosomal rearrangements. DAZ gene deletions (missing parts of the Y chromosome) adversely affect sperm production and have implications to the male offspring of carriers. They are only diagnosed by genetic analysis which requires a simple blood test. They may be amenable to IVF (with or without sex selection PGS) and advanced

... as many as 50% of marriages fail. Many men and women find themselves re-partnering and ... seeking advice and management to reproduce after this [a vasectomy] has been performed.

management to reproduce after this has been performed.

Most men who have had vasectomies have done so after fathering healthy children, so, the basic apparatus is functional. Dividing the Vas Deferens (the tubes that carry the sperm from the testes to the ejaculate) doesn’t stop sperm production, it just blocks sperm from entering the ejaculate.

Men basically have two options: either to reverse the vasectomy surgically under the microscope or to retrieve sperm directly from the testes by needle aspiration or open extraction and fertilise oocytes (eggs) retrieved by IVF techniques. The longer the interval after vasectomy, the poorer the chance of success with surgical reversal.

sperm extraction techniques (Micro TESE) to allow reproduction.

Other genetic abnormalities with chromosomal inversions and translocations can manifest as recurrent miscarriages or infertility with poor semen parameters. IVF techniques with preimplantation genetic diagnosis and screening (PGD/PGS) can determine which embryos are normal and have a chance of successful implantation and pregnancy.

These diagnostic and therapeutic techniques are at the cutting edge of Assisted Reproductive Technologies and require expertise to manage, guide and interpret, but, when successful, are a true tribute to the scientific achievement of mankind.

Male infertility...

... your questions answered!

If you’re thinking about starting a family or have experienced difficulties falling pregnant and would like to learn more about your fertility and discuss the options available, make an appointment to see Dr Gary Swift.

Dr Gary Swift

MBBS (QLD) FRANZCOG, MReproduMed (UNSW)

Leading Specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery

P 5664 6017

Suite 4, Pindara Place 13 Carrara Street Benowa QLD 4218 www.drgaryswift.com.au like us on

Dr Gary Swift

35

June 2018

A widow's love letter

Last Christmas, Amanda Howard told Get it of her heartache following the suicide of her husband in June — now, she shares a letter to her husband about how hard the past year has been without him My love, I sit and write this as we come to the first anniversary since you took your life and left us. A year, 12 months, 52 weeks, 365 days, 8760 hours, 525,600 minutes, 31,536,000 seconds. Painful moments that we have had to endure without you.

Every day feels like a year, yet it feels like you left us only yesterday.

The children and I have had to navigate this new life, in a haze of pain and tears. Trying to work out how we now do it all without you here. Our close family of four feels so broken without you. Our children do the best they can and have achieved so much over the past year, but it has been bittersweet not being able to share their successes with you.

You were always so proud of them. The smile that came across your face when they did so well; your pride and love for your children was second to none, it is what makes your suicide all the more confusing.

Experts tell us that there are five stages of grief, but I choose to remain in denial. It is only my heart’s hope that this is all a nightmare that I will wake up and you will walk through the door that allows me to get through most days.

My nights of broken sleep are peppered with dreams of our family, my subconscious is still unaware that you have left us and it recalls our good times together which is then destroyed on waking, as I realise that those days are no longer.

Dinner time most nights is so hard, I ask the children to set the table, and so many nights four plates, four forks and four knives are set. We will look at each other, knowing that that automatic gesture shows the pain and loss we all still endure.

Before you died I always assumed that grief ended with the funeral, saying goodbye and eulogising a loved one was a send-off that allowed those left behind to have closure. I could not have been more wrong. Not a day goes by that I don’t break down and cry, sometimes it is a flood of tears, sometimes it is sitting in my car and screaming hysterically, other times it is my head buried in my pillow, hoping to give our children a reprieve from the broken shell that is left of our family.

I am writing this, blinking away tears, composing this love letter to you, it is incomprehensible that it has been 12 months. I do not know how we have survived. You left us without warning, without clues, without any history, and I am still trying to understand why.

The hardest part is that I don’t know how to help our children through this, I worry constantly about the repercussions this will have on their own lives, on their relationships, on their future. They are trying to be strong, but, as their mother I know they are broken. This is not something people recover from.

We were an incredible couple, high school sweethearts, we were the odd couple that no-one ever understood, but we did and that was all that matters. We were soulmates, passionate and tumultuous, and deeply in love, and like you would say,“Baby doll, you drive me crazy, but I wouldn’t want to spend my life with anyone else,” and I would always respond with “Backatcha,” then we would laugh at ourselves. Friends called us a superstar couple giving us our own nickname,“Stemanda”. Even now that brings a smile. Everyone who met you loved you, you were a great guy who was always happy, or so we all thought.

Now I am left to wonder what I missed, what was hurting you so much that death was a welcomed relief? I do hope that you are at rest now my gorgeous man, I hope you find the peace that you felt alluded you in this world. The children and I love you with all our hearts, we talk about you every single day, especially as the children realise how much of you is a part them, and how funny little quirks and jokes you had are now coming through in them. I see you in their eyes. It makes my heart sing and break at the same time.

We miss you every day and I will continue to hope that this has all been a horrifying dream. Baby, please wake me up from this nightmare.

I love you and miss you,

June 2018

36

Turn back the clock with vaginal rejuvenation With Dr Andrew Cary, a highly respected and loved women’s health consultant, specialising in gynaecology, obstetrics and IVF for more than 24 years

ore than 400,000 Australian women are living with the uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal atrophy.

Most commonly associated with the hormonal changes of menopause, vaginal atrophy can also affect women of any age whose oestrogen levels have decreased after treatment for cancer or surgical removal of their ovaries.

Many women ‘put up’ with the symptoms not realising effective treatment is available. In the past, treatment options were limited to hormone therapy (oral or topical), which can be effective in the short term for some women. But, innovations in laser treatment have transformed treatment for vaginal atrophy.

‘Juliet – the feminine laser’ is a new and painless laser treatment that is changing the lives of women experiencing the symptoms of vaginal atrophy.

Juliet is a gentle laser therapy that rejuvenates the tissue in the vagina (birth canal) by stimulating a process to restore and improve collagen growth.

Symptoms generally include vaginal dryness, itching, painful intercourse, poor lubrication, decreased libido and decreased sexual satisfaction (lost sensitivity during intercourse). Stress urinary incontinence or light bladder leakage is also a common symptom.

Juliet is a gentle laser therapy that

rejuvenates the tissue in the vagina (birth canal) by stimulating a process to restore and improve collagen growth.

The Juliet laser (a YAG laser) emits infrared light pulses that do not hurt or damage the skin allowing for a precise and effective treatment reaching the deeper layers of the mucosa.

The treatment takes around 20 minutes and because no anaesthetic is required, it is performed in my clinic. Generally, only one treatment is required to achieve results and there is no recovery time needed apart from avoiding sexual activity for 72 hours.

Juliet laser therapy is safe and effective for all women, including women with a history of breast cancer who are unable to use hormone treatments. Juliet is also effective for younger women with light bladder leakage from natural childbirth or high-impact sport.

Women are experiencing immediate relief from symptoms and long-lasting improvements. Eight months after her procedure, one of my patients said, “I have received great outcomes. My light bladder leakage (after 3 vaginal deliveries) has been corrected.”

“My poor vaginal lubrication, muscular elasticity and tone have dramatically improved. I am pleased that the symptom relief has continued for eight months now and apparently this is likely to continue for some time, but I would not hesitate to have a repeat treatment if or when there was a need.”

Dr Andrew Cary Obstetrician, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist P: 07 5597 3770 | W: drcary.com.au E: reception@drcary.com.au

With you all the way Dr Andrew Cary is a highly respected and loved women’s health consultant, specialising in gynaecology, obstetrics and IVF for more than 24 years. l l l l l l

Contraception Infertility Menopause Painful and heavy periods Pregnancy care Vaginal rejuvenation

P: 07 5597 3770 W: drcary.com.au E: reception@drcary.com.au Suite 10, Pindara Place 13 Carrara Street Benowa

37

June 2018

GET IT I HEALTH

Your vein questions answered Learn about varicose veins with Dr Paul Davis who has been running The Varicose Vein Clinic on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane for more than 10 years and is the expert in non-surgical vein treatment WHAT CAUSES VARICOSE VEINS? The veins in your legs have one purpose — to carry blood back to the heart. Blood is meant to travel in one direction only, up! There are little one-way valves in the vein that make sure the blood can’t flow back down. If these little valves fail then blood flows the wrong way down the vein and the increased pressure eventually leads to bulging and varicose veins.Being female, overweight, having multiple pregnancies and having a family history of vein problems can all contribute to developing varicose veins. The cause is mostly genetic, it’s got nothing to do with crossing your legs!

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TREAT VARICOSE VEINS? Most varicose veins are best treated with Endovenous Laser Ablation (ELA). All varicose veins have and underlying vein which is not working and leads to the varicose vein on the surface. During an ELA procedure, a very slim laser fibre is inserted in to this underlying vein and then the heat and light energy of the laser is used to weld the vein shut. This relieves

the pressure on the varicose veins which can then be treated with Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) injection directly into the veins to close them.

HOW WELL DOES IT WORK? It works extremely well. Less than one per cent of people who have ELA have recurrent varicose veins when checked at five years.

DOES IT HURT?!

Not really. We use local anaesthetic during the procedure so there is minimal discomfort. One of the major advantages of this procedure is that you don’t need sedation or general anaesthetic. We can get you out for a walk directly after the treatment and this makes the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) extremely low. Under the old method of varicose vein treatment (vein stripping), the long recovery from the anaesthetic and the traumatic nature of the surgery lead to a higher risk of DVT. HOW QUICKLY CAN I RESUME NORMAL ACTIVITIES? Pretty much straight away! We get you to walk for 30 minutes straight after the procedure and then for 30 minutes a day whilst you are wearing your compression stockings.

Stockings need to be worn for two weeks after the procedure (which is why people often

Decide today is the Day!

Don’t put up with the pain and aching of unsightly varicose veins any longer!

The centre of excellence for the non-surgical treatment of varicose and spider veins BEFORE

Here at The Varicose Vein Clinic we pride ourselves on achieving excellent clinical results in a relaxed and friendly environment.

June 2018

prefer winter treatment). You need to avoid jumping, running and lifting heavy weights for the two weeks after the procedure but you can return to work and normal activities the next day.

HOW LONG UNTIL MY VEINS ARE GONE? If you are getting aching from your veins, this will resolve quickly because we have relieved the pressure that is causing the pain. Your veins will look much better by the time you have to take your stockings off but it may take a couple of months for the veins to be completely gone.

MY VARICOSE VEINS ARE GONE — WHAT ABOUT MY SPIDER VEINS? Here at The Varicose Vein Clinic we also treat spider veins. This is best done using injection therapy with teeny tiny needles. Varicose veins need to be treated first to relieve the pressure on your bigger veins and then we can give you lovely vein-free legs by getting rid of your spider veins.

NOW — THE BIG ONE — WHAT DOES IT COST? We start with an initial consultation at which point you will have an ultrasound of your legs and be given a personalised treatment plan.

This consultation has a fee of $205 and you should get a Medicare rebate of around $120.

Endovenous Laser Ablation has a fee of $2,850 per leg and you will get around $533 back from Medicare.

The cost of spider vein treatment varies, and we can give you an exact quote when we see you for your initial consultation.

MY FRIEND HAD HER VEINS DONE AND IT WAS MUCH CHEAPER?!

With vein treatment (as with most things) you get what you pay for. To get a successful result you must have an ultrasound scan, and, for most people, you must treat the underlying vein with Endovenous Laser Ablation.

Without these things you will get a shortterm, unsatisfactory result. At The Varicose Vein Clinic we treat one thing — veins. We know what we are doing and can give you an excellent clinical result in a relaxed and friendly environment.

AFTER

PH 1300 LEG VEINS (1300 534 834) www.legveins.com.au

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The best part about winter is the cold has a positive impact on your metabolism.

About 15% of your metabolism is fuel being burnt to maintain your body temperature. is, you could grow some more fat cells! The down side to that is once you create new fat cells, you cannot get rid of them! They are with you for good, just waiting to be filled back up like an empty balloon.

The best part about winter is the cold has a positive impact on your metabolism. About 15% of your metabolism is fuel being burnt to maintain your body temperature. That means the cold weather helps you burn more fat. Use it! Get up and do some exercise in the mornings and burn more fat.

Give up on your fitness this winter

What are the west winter exercises?

Now is a great time to work on your lean muscle mass. The more active muscle tissue you have, the more energy you burn! So, while it is cold, get in the gym and spend a bit more time strength training!

Jeff Osborne from Vision Personal Training Bundall is here to tell you news you don’t want to hear… ow! Didn’t it get chilly quick this year? The sun is coming up later, it’s cold in the mornings, gets darker earlier. What a great time of the year to stop exercising, put on weight and spend more valuable time in your warm and comfortable bed!

Sounds nice right? Just stopping exercising and eating healthy.

Problem is, doing that is going to make things tougher for you in the long run and, come summer, you are going to be kicking yourself that you didn’t start earlier! Here’s why.

In the middle of May you have roughly 28 weeks until summer, however, on the Gold Coast, it will start getting warmer in about 18 weeks. That is two 9-week blocks to get things ready for a summer body! Not long.

If you spend the next five or more weeks exercising less and eating poorly you are likely to put on weight. And, the worst part

If you are a female, you are not likely to build much muscle. What you will do is make the muscle you have more active and better at burning energy. Keep up your cardio, even though it is cold, the days are sunny and beautiful.

Now is a great time to work on your lean muscle mass. The more active muscle tissue you have, the more energy you burn! So, while it is cold, get in the gym and spend a bit more time strength training!

If you want to know how you are going with your muscle and fat numbers, don’t rely on the scales to tell you, come in to Vision Bundall and book yourself a BioScan. You can see exactly what those numbers are and watch them improve this winter! Mention this article and we will give you 50% your first scan with us.

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June 2018

GET IT I RECIPES

LIGHTLY-CHARRED KINGFISH WITH PONZU DRESSING AND PUMPKIN IN SESAME PREP: 15 MIN | COOKING: 1 HR | SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS • ½ butternut pumpkin • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 1 tsp ground Indonesian long pepper* • Sea salt flakes and freshly-milled white pepper • 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds • 2 tbsp light soy sauce • Juice of 1 lemon • 1 tbsp mirin • 2 eschalots, very finely diced • 1 clove garlic, minced • 4 x 120g boneless kingfish fillets • Watercress sprigs, crisp shallots, daikon and diced lime, to serve DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 150°C. Slice the pumpkin into 2cm thick pieces then cut into small discs with a 2cm ring cutter. Toss with half the sesame oil and the long pepper then season with salt and white pepper. Arrange in a lined oven tray and bake for 1 hour, until softened and lightly-browned. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

Mix the soy sauce, lemon juice, mirin, eschalots, garlic and remaining oil in a bowl. Score the kingfish fillets in fine parallel lines, then scorch with a kitchen blowtorch. Slice finely.

Arrange the pumpkin, fish, watercress, shallots, daikon and lime on plates, then sprinkle with the ponzu sauce. *Indonesian long pepper is a delicious spice available from specialist spice merchants. If unavailable, use ground allspice instead.

For those who love

entertaining

Recipes by Ed Halmagyi, Chef and Brand Ambassador for Mitsubishi Electric Australia re you a stickler for entertaining? But usually stick to the dishes you feel are within your comfort zone? Take a step on the wild side and venture outside of your comfort zone! These dishes are fairly simple to make but give off that Masterchef look when plated up carefully.

June 2018

They are all great recipes to enjoy in the cooler weather so invite some friends around for a night of good food and plenty of wine, and watch how impressed they are with your dishes!

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BORDEAUX-STYLE LAMB STEW WITH MUSHROOMS, ALMONDS AND PRUNES PREP: 30 MIN | COOKING: 3½ HRS | SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS • 1kg diced lamb shoulder

• ½ bunch thyme leaves

• 1½ tbsp plain flour

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• Sea salt flakes and freshly-milled black pepper

• 1 cup beef stock

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 cup pitted prunes, halved

• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced

• ½ cup blanched almonds, toasted and chopped

• 1 leek, finely diced • 2 sticks celery, chopped

• 2 cups red wine

• 8 cloves garlic, chopped

• ½ bunch parsley, finely chopped

• 2 tsp minced ginger

• Boiled potatoes, to serve

DIRECTIONS Toss the lamb in flour then season generously with salt and pepper. Fry in batches in a heavy-based large saucepan over a moderate heat using 1 tablespoon oil, until well browned, then set aside. Fry the mushrooms in another tablespoon of oil and set aside with the lamb.

Sauté the leek, celery, garlic, ginger, thyme and cinnamon sticks in the remaining olive oil over a moderate heat, until softened.

Pour in the wine and simmer for 10 minutes, then return the meat, mushrooms and add the stock and prunes. Fit the lid, turn the heat to low, then cook gently for 3 hours, until the meat is tender. Mix in the almonds and parsley, then serve with potatoes.

Ed Halmagyi

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June 2018 March 2018

CHICKEN AND GARDEN VEGETABLE TRAY-BAKE PREP: 20 MIN | COOKING: 45 MIN SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS • 8 skinless chicken thigh fillets • 2 tbsp black olive tapenade • 8 slices Serrano ham • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 2 red onions, cut into wedges • 1 red capsicum, diced • 1 yellow capsicum, diced • 6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped • 4 sprigs rosemary • 1 punnet mixed baby tomatoes, halved • ½ tsp chilli flakes • juice of 1 lemon • Sea salt flakes and freshly-milled black pepper • 1½ cup green beans, trimmed • Baby leaves, to serve DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 190°C. Spread the tapenade over the inside of the chicken thigh fillets then roll up. Wrap each in a slice of Serrano ham, then rub with half the olive oil. Arrange in a large roasting pan. Toss the onions, capsicums, garlic and rosemary in the remaining oil then add to the roasting pan. Bake for 30 minutes.

Add the tomatoes, chilli flakes and lemon juice then season with salt and pepper. Bake for a further 15 minutes.

Add the beans then bake for 5 more minutes. Serve with baby leaves.

June 2018

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APPLE ROSETTE TART PREP: 40 MIN | COOKING: 35 MIN | SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS • 200g sweet flaky pastry* • 150g unsalted butter • 100g caster sugar • Seeds of 1 vanilla bean • 2 eggs • 125g almond meal • 50g brown sugar • Juice of 2 lemons • 6 crisp apples* • ½ cup pure icing sugar, sifted • Ice cream and berries, to serve

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 180°C and place a pizza stone or heavy tile on the centre shelf. Roll out the pastry to a 32cm disc then line into a 26cm tart tin. Trim the edges, then chill until firm.

Meanwhile, combine 100g butter with the sugar and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer and beat with the paddle attachment on medium speed for 5 minutes, until light.

Add the eggs, beat well, then fold in the almond meal. Spread into the bottom of the tart shell, then chill again.

Melt the remaining butter with the brown sugar and lemon juice. Halve and core the apples, then slice very finely on a 43

mandoline and toss thoroughly in the lemon mixture. Set aside for 20 minutes to soften. Arrange 12 apple slice in an overlapping row, then roll up tightly and arrange upright on the almond mixture.

Repeat with the remaining apples, until the tart is covered.

Place the tart on the pre-heated pizza stone and bake for 30 minutes, until the pastry is well-browned. Dust thoroughly with icing sugar, then bake again for 5 minutes until the peaks are beginning to darken. Serve with ice cream and berries. *Homemade or store bought

June 2018

June 2018

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May 2018

GET IT I SOCIALS

GETSCENE

MAY WOMEN IN TOURISM BREAKFAST Yet another fabulous breakfast! Tamara Morris shared snippets of her GOLDOC journey in front of 130 guests at this month’s breakfast. The force was definitely strong within the room which tied in nicely for the day it was on, May the 4th! The networking breakfast raffle raised $785.00 which will be provided to not-for-profits at the annual Christmas breakfast. Great work ladies and gents!

Photos: Captivating Visuals

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June 2018

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GET IT I SOCIALS

GETSCENE

Isabel Wetten, Liz Golding, Priscilla Skippington, Kacie Brignell, Channing Courtney-Eman

Charisse Hurst in Maiocchi with Flora Fascinata Millinery

Benni Tognini and Amanda Ramsay

SISTERS STEPPING UP Sisters Stepping Up held their third major event, the Mad Hatter’s Evening Soirée. The founder, Priscilla Ann Skippington, partnered with a number of local and national fashion designers, digital media gurus, social media influencers, beauty professionals and fashion stylists to create the group’s grandest event yet. The event consisted of a personal branding panel discussion, fashion show, nail bar, skincare space, hair station and makeup corner. Sisters Stepping Up brings high achieving, driven women together in one space to grow their networks, build their businesses and design their lives.

Words: Brianna Perry - Illuminate Us Photos: Leoni Bolt

Kathleen Wicham wearing Pia Du Pradal and Johanna Guerin Millinery

Karen Uhlmann and Sonia Anderson

Sherstin Luppi and Jess

Ndenda

Starr Ladell, Margaret Campbell-Ryder, Mel Wallace and Sarah Hickey

Veronica Jackson

Winter warmers

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June 2018

Self-love:the key to empowering yourself and others

With Jenny Willis, Founder of Female Finesse

True empowerment comes through taking responsibility for your wellbeing, happiness, and your own choices regardless of the outcome.

taying in tune with ourselves while we are in service to others is so important so that we don’t deplete our inner resources and become burnt out.

As they say, put your own oxygen mask on first!

As Women, WE are Creators of Life, Family, Communities… WE are Influencers, Mothers, Daughters, Nurturers, Partners, Colleagues, Leaders, Inspirers, along with being the Family Rock. So, it's important WE stay in good shape because our energy, mindset and behaviour affect the people around us.

In a world where we try to be everything to everyone, we can wake up one day and realise we are drained, sapped, depleted and that somewhere along the way, we have lost ourselves.

How can you help others when you have no oxygen mask on yourself?

To help others, YOU must first look after yourself…And to help yourself, you must first know and understand who YOU are, what you want, what you need and take care of

this. Only then are you in a healthy position to empower others — for it is fruitless trying to lift someone when you yourself are depleted.

True empowerment comes through taking responsibility for your wellbeing, happiness, and your own choices regardless of the outcome. Helping others feel empowered comes when you see them in their strength and full-light and allow them to step into their own responsibilities. Whether you are a therapist, a friend or anything in between, it is not empowering for another person if they constantly need you.

Taking care of my needs enables me to be balanced emotionally, physically and spiritually so, when I’m working with clients, I can truly empower them. Using the right tools and resources to be empowered and stay that way is essential and that’s exactly what I do with my clients. As much as I love them, I See them, Free them and then I love to see them go and Live an Empowered Life.

For when we are empowered ourselves, it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

For more information on becoming empowered yourself visit: femalefinesse.com.au

swim

The importance of continuing through the cooler months

lessons

With Superfish Swim Schools id you know that your ‘Under 5’ still has a developing muscle memory? That’s why repetition and consistency, of any activities you do with this age group, is so important for them to achieve activities, including walking, running, riding a bike, and YES — swimming — without consciously thinking about what they are doing!

Repetition strengthens the under 5’s muscle memory, allowing it to become an automatic skill. The more they practice, the stronger their muscle memory will become in remembering those skills. When you cease those skills, especially in the developmental stage of their swimming progression, under 5’s will ‘forget’ or ‘regress’ with their skill level.

Parents often remark,“They’ve gone backwards after our break,”“They can’t remember everything now,” or “I feel like I wasted my money in lessons.”This is due to your under 5’s undeveloped muscle memory!

With continued swimming practice, these vital learned skills become automatic. Under 5’s CAN perform varied Drowning Prevention June 2018

Skills without conscious effort.

It takes repetition, consistency and regular exposure with swimming lessons throughout the year. A developed muscle memory with swimming skills could potentially save their life!

Repetition strengthens the under 5’s muscle memory, allowing it to become an automatic skill.

Don’t waste the money spent on swimming lessons through summer by stopping lessons in winter! Drownings happen ALL year round, not just in summer months.

Summer swimmers are developed in winter!

Here are some things to help with swimming lessons in cooler months: 48

l Rug up! Coming to and from lessons, have your little one wear a robe, dressing gown or tracksuit. l Don’t forget shoes & a beanie! Cover feet and head always after lessons. l Make sure your swim school is warm and comfortable for lessons. This goes for the water AND air temperature. l Have you thought about wetsuits and swim caps for lessons? These can help if you feel like their head is getting cold or if they feed a chill. l Have hot chocolate or hot soup after lessons as a reward.

Visit superfish.com.au

GET IT I STARS

Get your horoscope About Cassandra Tyndall Cassandra is an avid professional astrologer, writer and teacher, based in Brisbane, Australia. Her interest in Astrology started when she was a child reading horoscopes in her mother's magazines. Known for her honesty, passion and insight, Cassandra offers consultations to people all over the globe. cassandratyndall.com

H GEMINI May 21 – June 21 A lucky link from Mars on the 1st can get June off to a confident start. A bold move or brave choice may have a global impact or set the tone for travel, adventure and discovery. Finances are highlighted on the 16th and provide an ideal opportunity to balance the books or formulate a longerterm investment or savings plan.

H CANCER June 21 – July 22 Retail therapy may be required as Venus tours your sign until the 14th. This annual visit can inspire a style overhaul or indulging in a few little luxuries. Finances are also on the cosmic menu this month as action planet Mars takes a rare go-slow through your debt sector. The energy you spend in balancing the books will repay you threefold later in the year.

H LEO July 22 – August 23 Tension between yours and somebody else’s wants come under focus this month. As Venus and Mars face off, peaking on the 22nd, a tricky choice may be necessary. Putting your own needs first may upset the apple cart, but, you’ll ultimately discover who is truly in your corner and who is not. Mercury’s support at the end of the month will help you get your point across.

H VIRGO August 23 - September 22 Much of June’s focus lies behind the scenes.

Your most productive efforts may seemingly go unnoticed as Mars sets a punishing pace.

Time management will be one key area to focus on so you don’t burn the candle at both ends. Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries may be the most helpful service you have to offer now.

H LIBRA September 22 – October 23 From the 14th, your patron planet will tour the luckiest sector of your solar horoscope. The 19th is a particularly auspicious time where your connections, both online and in real life, can be a source of support and progress.

Being in the right place at the right time or rubbing shoulders with industry insiders can really pay off this month.

H SCORPIO October 23 – November 22 With lucky charm Venus in your career sector from the 14th, you can make a great impression professionally. The 19th sees a grand opportunity or a change in fortune as a long-held career dream may materialise. On the home front, frustration is possible as your ruler Mars makes an exceptionally rare retrograde through your 4th house from the 27th.

H SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 22 You’ve got some pretty big dreams, even more so with the current planetary weather. Learning, teaching, travel and adventure are all possible, but, this month does highlight some possible financial limitations. The 6th, 16th and 28th are key dates to balance the spreadsheet while remaining open to the endless possibilities available to you.

H CAPRICORN December 22 – January 20 Income and cash flow are firmly on the cosmic agenda and will be for some time as Mars begins a rare retrograde from the 27th.

Setbacks, delays and frustrations are likely, but, from it will emerge a new-found confidence and a bold attitude in dealing with your worth

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— both financially and emotionally. Important choices can be made on the 29th.

H AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19 The 14th sees Venus enter your 7th sector, heralding a period of relationship sweetness.

Whether single or partnered, this phase, lasting until mid-July, highlights that a little effort can go along way in your dealings with others — personally or professionally. Lending a hand or showing some support will be mutually beneficial, especially on the 22nd.

H PISCES February 19 – March 20 The key to achieving your goals this month lies within what you do behind the scenes.

With some key planetary action in your most private sectors, formulating a strategy or executing a plan that may not get recognised or pay dividends until later in the year is likely.

The 14th and 29th are key days to have some fun and enjoy some of the rewards of your hard work.

H ARIES March 20 – April 19 June 27 sees the beginning of an exceptionally rare retrograde that may prompt you to reevaluate your social circles. It’s possible you’ll become increasingly aware of how you’ve outgrown certain people in your life and recognise the need to make the appropriate adjustments. You’ll be extra sensitive to other people’s drama this month, so, avoid taking it on if you can.

H TAURUS April 20 – May 21 The 19th heralds a day where you can really push forward on an important dream as your ruler Venus joins with the karmic North Node.

A personal pursuit or a domestic desire may materialise, especially if you’re willing to embrace confidence and leadership in a certain situation.

A lucky link from Jupiter on the 26th can bring support and progress with minimal effort.

June 2018

GET IT I LAST WORD

Cold nights, happy days Sarah Blinco on how to win at winter

y first real dose of winter came when I moved In fact, what if we deemed June to be the month of respite? Take from Cairns to Toowoomba to attend high school. a nice deep breath right now, and give yourself a break: a peaceful Toowoomba, perched atop a mountain range on the five minutes on breethe.com (or app), and choose to start again, Darling Downs, with a foggy, almost English-at-times wrapped in a warm, mindful state. atmosphere enveloping the city, wow, it was COLD. I hated getting Hygge also encourages [responsible] indulgence as the up in the mornings, the nights were uncomfortable; and you temperature drops. You want that chocolate? Go for it! Feel like a certainly never want to get caught on the corner of Margaret and calming chamomile tea? Pop the kettle on now. A Saturday night in Ruthven streets when the region’s ferocious wind howls through a warm bath with a good book? Binge-watching Netflix romcoms town! Sometimes I just couldn’t get warm, and for ages even the tucked under the blankets? Totally on board! Hygge is about prospect of a mild winter as we generally experience on the GC, keeping it simple and doing what makes you feel calm, content and sent chills down my spine. connected (offline, that is).

When the temperature drops, the night falls just that little bit sooner Bring hygge into your home, and surrender it all. Sound nice? and even the dog hesitates to shift from bed in the morning — we Although traditionally hygge is a wintertime way of life, it’s an know winter’s hit, and it can require a bit of an important reminder to make space for YOU. Sure, adjustment. In recent years, however, I have it’s colder outside and we’re more inclined to discovered some seasonal benefits. tuck ourselves away anyway, when time permits.

Coats, hats, scarves and boots, anyone?

But being mindful of self-care is always a good Change the way There’s something else I’ve seriously idea. Hygge is the ideal antidote to our go-go-go you look at the embraced too, that’s utterly delightful, thrives lifestyles, and warms up the colder months in in wintertime, and indeed hails from a region of ways we might otherwise miss. world, and the world the world that intimately understands the cold.

Winning at winter is no longer about adding around you will I’m talking about the Scandinavian way of life — more coffee to the pot and hoping that it’s over or state of mind — called hygge (pronounced very, very quickly (why wish our time away?). change. ‘hoo-gah’).

‘Change the way you look at the world, and Hygge is a word that describes a mood of the world around you will change’. Mine looks like contentment and enjoying the simple pleasures a comfortable pile of cushions and blankets, fluffy in life, especially when it’s cold. Essentially, it’s about allowing socks, a selection of sweet scented candles, and a hot chocolate sat yourself to keep cosy. by copies of my favourite magazines (Get it included, of course).

This can mean luxurious fabrics, candles and pretty, warm While researching this topic I read a couple of news articles lighting, snug rugs — you get the picture. Although, it’s not only claiming the idea of hygge is over-hyped and has no place about generating an atmosphere of external warmth. Hygge infiltrating popular culture. Yet, here I am drawing it into one of the promotes time spent on yourself as well as chilled (pardon the warmest climates on earth and sharing with you. That’s because I pun) nights in with friends, a little wine maybe, a board game and believe the principle behind it is special and important; that right nice music. now, this very second, we have an opportunity to appreciate the There’s an argument to say this Euro concept doesn’t apply pleasure that simplicity presents, and approach our 2018 half-way in Queensland, but, I wholeheartedly disagree. In this age of mark in a very cool (or warm!), calm and collected manner. perpetual busyness and constant connection to work, opinions, Get it girl Sarah Blinco is a business communications moods, politics, negative press and personal pressure points professional. You’ll find her online at travellivelearn.com and pulsing at every turn, I’m declaring hygge to be alive and well in Instagram @sarahblinco. our Sunshine State.

June 2018

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