Home and living

Lock in the heat this winterWith the cooler weather settling in, simply turning up the heater for a few months might seem like an easy fix. But this can lead to energy bills soaring, and many families don’t realise there is another, more economical way to help control the home’s temperature, right at the window. Research has shown that a single pane of glass can lose almost ten times as much heat as the same area of an insulated wall. To help reduce energy bills and heat loss through windows, the innovative use of window furnishing, blinds and curtains can enhance the performance of windows and provide a sustainable solution. Luxaflex Silhouette Shadings are another great option, blending on-trend design aesthetics and practicality. A great choice for those who want more flexibility when it comes to controlling the flow of light.

winter

“It’s easy to create the illusion of warmth through textiles, accessories and lighting, but it’s important to find cost-effective and sustainable ways of heating our homes,” says Neale Whitaker, Interior Design Expert and Luxaflex Window Fashions Brand Ambassador. To prevent valuable warm air from escaping, insulating window coverings can help retain the warmer temperatures of the day.

“During the day, your windows let in more radiant energy than gets out; sunlight can enter through the glass, but the window is opaque to the infrared radiation trying to escape,” says Neale.

“As home automation is fast becoming a widely adopted technology in homes across Australia, managing our homes’ energy, privacy and ‘scenes’, or ambience, is more efficient than ever.

“Insulation is key to maintaining room temperatures, and a few small changes can help make your home energy efficient and keep the bills down.” Recognising which types of window shades are insulating, sustainable, and beneficial for long term use will assist when making window covering decisions.

Honeycomb blinds are one of the best choices in window treatments for retaining heat inside the home. The shades are specifically engineered with honeycomb-shaped air pockets that trap air inside these distinct pockets, helping moderate temperature and reduce heat loss in winter when they are closed. These distinct air pockets have the ability to reduce the heat transfer through a window, reducing the average home’s heating costs by up to 43 percent in the winter months.

“The award winning Luxaflex PowerView Motorisation uses clever technology so Australians can now schedule their blinds to lower immediately after dusk – the optimum time to close them to help prevent heat loss,” he says.

Each individual window covering can be powered at the touch of a button with a selection of stylish remotes, smartphone apps, and integration with third-party systems such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa, according to preference. Pre-program blinds to operate on their own throughout the day to create scenes in line with the sun’s movements, such as raising to let the light in at dawn, or close whilst you’re at work to keep the heat locked in during winter. Customise your scenes to suit your lifestyle and daily schedule, and enjoy seamless, whole-home integration including voice control and smart phone control.

Looking for our next top dog!

Q Super Centre is searching for the next top dog, the winning dog will represent the centre in future advertising including its website, Facebook & Instagram pages. The dog that wins first prize receives a $500 Vetcall & $500 Petbarn voucher, plus a pet photo shoot with Sandy Noses Pet Photography, gift from Petbarn & a designer winning dog tag. There will also be 11 runners up and each of them will receive a $100 Petbarn voucher, Pet photo shoot with Sandy Nose Photography & a gift from Petbarn. A photo from each dog will be selected to be featured in the Doggie Face of Q Calendar 2022 which is distributed in October.

A bonus this year will be that Vetcall are gifting to the first 120 entries a single 1-month Nexgard Spectra tick, flea & heartworm protection. Q Super Centre will donate $1 for every entry received to Story Dogs. Story Dogs helps children become better readers by encouraging them to read to the dogs that visit local schools with their owners. Helping 2620 children each week with 523 volunteer dog teams, their mission is to make reading fun of children, so they become confident lifelong readers. So, if you think your Doggie has what it takes to be Q’s next top dog then enter via facebook.com/ QSuperCentre or qsupercentre.com.au

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Giving Back

Staying True

Entrepreneur and soon-to-be charity founder Shannen Simmons sits down with Get It Magazine’s Holly Bartter to talk about the causes close to her heart and coming together to support those in need.

A dedicated mum, university student and business owner, you wouldn’t think Shannen Simmons would have any spare hours left in the day, but you’d be surprised. Giving back has been a focal point of Shannen’s life, starting with her first interactions with The Sanctuary, a women, children & pet refuge. Shannen shares, “I decided to donate to The Sanctuary by giving the women facials with our skin clinic, Aesthetically You Rejuvenation Clinic. Many other refuges don’t allow boys over the age of 12 to come with mum, or the family pets. The Sanctuary is our local refuge on the Gold Coast, and provides a “safe haven” for those escaping domestic violence.”

The experience made a lasting impression on Shannen, and her connection with this organisation runs deep, she reflects, “I’m part of the 1 in 6 women who have experienced domestic violence, and The Sanctuary was my plan B when I was leaving a DV relationship.” Without government funding, The Sanctuary relies heavily on the community to keep the doors open, and Shannen knew she needed to take action: “I spoke with Simone Patterson, the founder, and I went home and thought, ‘I would love to help them’, but had no idea how to make a difference.”

A few months later, inspiration arrived, with Shannen being introduced to the world of pageantry. “A client of mine was entering a pageant, and we presented a prize from our business and went along to her charity event. I met the directors and I knew at that moment that this could be my way to help The Sanctuary.” Shannen’s instinct was correct, and she won the event but took out a whole host of special prizes, including Miss Charity Queen. “As a part of the pageant, we raise money for a charity of our choice, and I knew I would be raising money for The Sanctuary. I joined forces with Gold Coast Future Females, and we held an event together which raised over $12,000.”

Fast forward to today, and Shannen’s charity work has gone from strength to strength, and she and her husband are in the process of launching their own charity, she explains: “We are extremely proud to create this, we still have much work to complete, but it’s happening. Behind the Smile Foundation will provide awareness and education on domestic violence & provide financial assistance to other organisations such as The Sanctuary.” As a Gold Coast local, Shannen knows the importance of coming together as a community to support one another: “Tragedy makes us pull together and to pick up the pieces. Through our upcoming Behind the Smile Foundation, we endeavour to educate people on those domestic violence red flags - as a community, there is always something we can do and more to be done.”

With a life that won’t be slowing down any time soon, Shannen reminds herself that even in the more overwhelming moments, she’s prepared to take on every challenge. “I always say ‘life doesn’t throw anything at you that you can’t handle’” - so watch this space, as this charity leader is just getting started.

Connect your mind, body and soul through surfing

Women hear a lot about the importance of fitness and movement, but with so much contradicting information out there it can be confusing. Surfing can help to cut through all this by connecting your mind, body and soul. Surfing is a physical activity that demands a lot from the body. It not only connects you to the outside elements, it also provides you with a feeling that is so personal, only you know exactly how it makes you feel. Riding a wave makes you connect with your body and start to give it credit for the way it moves instead of being overly focused on how it looks.

“Movement is a way to show respect and a loving connection to our physical bodies. Surfing helps my mental state and brings me a sense of gratitude. It also keeps me mindful of how I talk to myself and most importantly an overwhelming amount of joy.” Surf Getaways Senior Surf Coach, Sarah Pawley Because we live in a world where we are always thinking about the next thing, we never truly allow ourselves to live in the present. With surfing you have to leave everything behind and just be in the moment. If you start thinking about any stress or issues in your personal or work life, the ocean will immediately put you back in your place. This is the joy of surfing, you can jump into the water and drop all your frustrations and anxieties into the ocean.

If you would like to start a journey to greater movement, overall health and joy make sure you join Surf Getaways on one of their local Surf Clinics or our luxury Surf Experiences.

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How to holiday at home How to holiday at home There’s never been a better time to explore your own backyard. We’ve rounded up the best the Gold Coast has to offer to keep everyone entertained, during these school holidays and beyond.

With the school holidays already on us and overseas and interstate travel curtailed, why not take the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful and varied sights of the Gold Coast.

WHERE TO STAY

If your idea of bliss is a roaring fire, good food and a glass of wine, then look no further than the newly renovated Cedar Creek Lodges at Thunderbird Park. Nestled into the side of Mt Tamborine and just 30 minutes from the Gold Coast, the twobedroom cabins overlook the creek and rainforest and are the perfect base for a family or romantic weekend away. Enjoy a takeaway from the on-site restaurant on your own balcony, or dine in the Rainforest Restaurant, just 100 metres from your front door. The menu is extensive, a blend of Australian and Asian food, and sure to please the entire family. Cabin styles range from studios to campsites to glamping (including the new, beautifully-constructed yurts), so there’s something to suit everyone. It’s the perfect place to base yourself as you discover the breathtaking views and numerous activities at Cedar Creek and Mt Tamborine.

If you’re staying for a few nights, you can bring your own ingredients to make meals, as the fully-equipped kitchen has all you need to rustle up dinner for the family. Bookings: www.cedarcreeklodges.com.au (and yes, you can bring your dog!). WHAT TO DO

There’s so much to do at Mt Tamborine it’s lucky that the rainforest’s whipbirds rouse you sweetly, and early, in the morning. First up is an exploration of the activities at Thunderbird Park, including the high ropes courses for young and old. The TreeTop Challenge – Juniors is ideal for children aged three – seven years, with just enough thrills to keep them entertained. For the older daredevils, the TreeTop Challenge provides the perfect adrenalin-pumping adventure, with more than 100 challenges, including 10 flying foxes and even a Tarzan swing. Don’t forget to visit the Thunderegg Fossicking –budding palaeontologists will love digging for dinosaur eggs, which can then be polished and purchased at the crystal mine hut. There’s also pony rides, 4WD tours and pedalo bikes on the lake to enjoy (and wear your kids out). Bookings: www.thunderbirdpark.com WHERE TO EAT

Food really does taste better outdoors. And even better when you pair your dish with a breathtaking view. Head to the Polish Place on Mt Tamborine for a hearty lunch of potato pancakes and pierogi (traditional Polish dumplings) after your morning’s activities, it’ll perfectly hit the spot. The restaurant’s outdoor decking area overlooks the Great Dividing Range. Sit back and watch the paragliders float serenely through the skies. Bookings: www.polishplace.com.au HEAD TO THE HILLS

If you love bushwalking, discovering new waterfalls and wildlife, then look no further than the tracks leading from Binna Burra, Lamington National Park. Start from the

car park and follow any of the circuit walks – we chose the Tullawallal circuit, an easy five kilometre walk which took us to the Tullawallal Lookout for sunset – a sight not to be missed.

Head back to Binna Burra and settle into your accommodation – there’s the luxurious Sky Lodges or the new glamping tents, recently built after last year’s devastating bushfires. Enjoy a two- or three-course dinner at the Teahouse (don’t miss the sensational chocolate brownie – you’ve earned it!) followed by marshmallows and family time around your campfire. Then it’s off to bed in your cosy cabins – just don’t forget to pack something warm to wear. The next morning, rise with the sun and watch the rays of light wake up the Gold Coast, 800 metres below you. Bookings: www.binnaburralodge.com.au After all that greenery, you may be longing for some of the Gold Coast’s big blue. Stay at Gemini Apartments on Burleigh Hill, the perfect location for an uninterrupted view of the coastline and ocean, all the way up to Stradbroke Island. Many of the apartments have recently been given facelifts and are tastefully adorned with calming beachy themes throughout. It’s the ideal location to explore the bustling Burleigh area – James Street and its many restaurant offerings are just a short walk down the hill. In the morning, run to Tarte for some freshlybaked croissants and coffee and enjoy them while watching the sun rise over the ocean. Pack your binoculars and see who’s first to spot a dolphin or whale! In the evening, book yourself a table at Harry’s Steakhouse. They cater for children (don’t forget to order the fries – they’re out of this world) and adults alike. As the name suggests, they specialise in steak and are extremely helpful when it comes to choosing which cut of meat best suits you. Bookings: https://www.geminicourt.com. au/; https://www.harryssteakbistro.com. au/ https://www.tarte.com.au/ OTHER ACTIVITIES

If the thrill seekers of the family are still looking for another adventure, head to iFly, in Surfers Paradise. Each participant will be giving a training and orientation session before getting into their flight gear. The helpful instructors guide everyone with patience and humour, demonstrating all the skills and tricks you’ll need. Then it’s time to soar through the (virtual) skies! Bookings: www.iflyworld.com.au Nearby is your next stop – the JW Marriot Hotel and Spa. Alongside the newly furbished rooms, restaurants (book a table at Citrique for their seafood buffet, or Misono for a sumptuous sushi supper) and café, there’s now an extensive amount of activities to entertain the kids at their Resorts family program, ‘Family by JW’. Choose from pizza making (the kids then get to enjoy the fruits of their labour), scavenger hunts, sea scooters and snorkel hire to explore the hotel’s resident fish who swim amongst the tropical saltwater lagoons and artificial reefs. Bookings: www.marriott.com.au Wherever you go, and whatever you do, you’re sure to find something that suits each and every member of the family – that’s the beauty of the Gold Coast.

Keeping well this Winter

Even on the sunny Gold Coast, the cooler months are well and truly here - and keeping healthy when the temperature drops is about more than just layering up. Bree Pagonis and Alicia Holmquest, dieticians and founders of Wellness in Real Life, take us through their top five tips for holistic winter wellness.

1. MIX IT UP

To ensure you stay fighting fit throughout the colder months, increase the diversity of foods in your diet to meet your nutrient, vitamin and mineral requirements. Try these suggestions for mealtimes: • Breakfast: Top whole grain cereal with fruit, nuts and seeds, and use plantbased milks containing added calcium. • Lunch: Spice basic dishes up by adding roasted chickpeas, a tin of lentils, wholegrains like quinoa, fruit, nuts. • Dinner: Soups, curries and pastas are the perfect warming dishes. 2. STAY HYDRATED

We may not feel thirsty during the winter months, but being indoors with heating can mean we become dehydrated quickly. Up your fluid intake with these hints: • Add fruit or herbs to your water bottle for that extra zing! • Fruit juice can be a refreshing addition to sparkling water instead of a caffeinated soft drink.

• If coffee is on the menu, swap your usual latte for a dairy-free cold brew.

3. MAKE GUT HEALTH A PRIORITY

Around 70 per cent of our immune system stems from the gut, so keep it happy and healthy by including high fibre and prebiotic rich foods in your diet. Gut-friendly foods include: • Dried dates and figs. • Garlic and onion to season main meals.

• Red kidney beans and chickpeas for added protein in winter soups. • Start your day with a warming bowl of oatmeal (and add toppings galore!). 4. TOP UP YOUR VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is a key nutrient in supporting a healthy immune system, acting as an antioxidant fighting free radical damage in our bodies caused from invading bugs. Vitamin C is found in high levels in: • Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits • Veggies like capsicum, cabbage, spinach and broccoli

5. THINK ZINC

Zinc is an important mineral for the healthy development of immune cells in our body. For those following a plant-based diet, you can enhance absorption through soaking, heating and fermenting your plant-based sources of zinc, such as:

• Nuts: cashews and almonds

• Seeds: pumpkin seeds • Legumes: chickpeas and baked beans. • Whole grains: wheat germ and oats. So when you bring out your winter woolies, don’t forget to revamp your pantry with ingredients to nourish your immune system and help you beat the sniffle season from the inside out.

Coffee

Yay or nay when it comes to fitness?

You’re a Caffeinista! You can talk about the way a coffee should taste, you know what you like through experience, and you know exactly the type of establishment that you would find your right choice of coffee.

Having a coffee helps you start your day feeling loved and wanted, and you can more than likely tell when your normal barista is away sick, as your coffee wasn’t made with the same love that day! In health and fitness, coffee is often a hot topic of discussion. Are coffee drinkers at a disadvantage? Can we still achieve our health and fitness desires, with our golden cup of goodness a few times a day? But never fear, while there are some definite negatives relating to certain types of coffee, there are some positives as well. With regards to shape change and fitness goals, there are some coffee types that flirt well with our taste-buds, however will have an adverse effect on our goal. Reasons being that the caffeine ingredient is partnered by other things such as sugar, milk, chocolate, biscuits, and the occasional marshmallow.

When trying to lose weight, the types of café coffees you should keep to a minimum are: Cappuccino, Mocha, Café latte, Coffee with added syrups and Affogato. These coffee’s generally have a high sugar content as well as fat content if ordered on full cream milk. Black, Short Black, Piccolo, Latte, Espresso, and Turkish Coffee. These coffees are mainly water and are a better and lower calorie choice.

Caffeine is a stimulant. It can have a positive effect on your body’s ability to burn energy. By having your daily caffeine fix, your body can burn more calories as long as it’s partnered with a balanced diet and exercise. Enjoy!

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