29 minute read
Editor’s Get It list
Editor’s list
This Mother’s Day, why not gift her with something that’s not only good for her, but also make a positive impact. Get it editor, Nicole Madigan rounds up the best products that ‘do good’.
PEOPLE HAIRCARE VOLUME SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER: Packed with Papaya and Ginseng, People Volume Shampoo and Conditioner gives fine hair that oomph it’s looking for, adding volume, bounce, and shine back to limp locks. RRP: $16 each peoplehaircare.co VEGGIE SAVER: An intelligent, award-winning, patented, food storage and produce bag that is reusable, machine-washable, compostable, non-toxic and is scientifically proven to keep fruit and vegetables fresh for two weeks or more in the crisper of the fridge. RRP: $24.95 veggiesaver.com
LA CASA DEL DISARONNO: The makers of the famous Italian liqueur, Disaronno have launched their world-first Disaronno themed boutique accommodation at Tuscan and Bellagio inspired Bed and Breakfast, Guestlands Italia B&B. Just a short 45-minute drive from Sydney for the ultimate weekend away. RRP: $690 a night guestlands.com.au OOKKIE: The kids’ skateboard brand has announced the expansion of their world first learner skateboard range with handles, with brand new mint and purple boards being added to their popular range, following the launch of their latest lightweight design that is now even easier to set up and pack down than ever before. RRP: $179.95 ookkie.com
EDIBLE BEAUTY’S NATURAL ZERO WASTE DEODORANT is your new sweat saver. A gentle mix of organic coconut oil and cacao butter, these nourishing bars are combined with zinc, magnesium and bamboo to provide a long lasting freshness no matter your daily routine. RRP: $16 ediblebeautyaustralia.com
GOOD CITIZENS GLASSES FRAMES: The design is modular so each part is repairable and the hinge clip colour can be changed to match your mood, your nail varnish or the swoosh on your sneakers. The glasses are carbon negative and for every sale, we fund the removal of plastic trash from the ocean as a gift to the planet. RRP: from $99 goodcitizens.com.au
Motherly Love
The special lady in your life deserves more than just a day! Whether it’s your Mum, Step mum, Grandmother, friend, or even yourself, make it a month to remember with our May Mother’s Month gift guide.
K-FEE WAVE MACHINE + 120 Mr & Mrs Mill Pod Bundle. This all-rounder coffee machine will make you the perfect brew from the comfort of your own kitchen. With 120 pods, you won’t be without your caffeine fix. SALE PRICE $169 (RRP $220) k-fee.com.au
PRENE BAGS / THE MILA BAG Boasting a compact yet functional design, this must have mini is finished with a zip close design, subtle perforated detailing and a removable vegan leather strap offering the ability to style your own way. RRP $99.95 prenebags.com DIAMANTE WATER BOTTLES Give Mum some bling. Diamante encrusted, double wall insulated 600ml water bottles. A range of colours. RRP $89.95 Available from Diamond in the Roughies, Hope Island Central. diamondintheroughies.com
FIG AND CASSIS DIFFUSER A new Limited Edition – ‘Fig & Cassis’ with linen-look packaging, cream colour vessels and gold accents. Top notes are lemon peel and crushed fir needle; heart notes are ripe fig and cassis; base notes are rosewood and cedarwood. RRP$39.95 mossfragrances.com
POP YOUR CORK PACK Perfect for the champagne lover in your life. Featuring a champagne popper, a bottle cooler to and a glass cooler. RRP $59 sparkleandluxe.com.au
PFAFF PASSPORT 3.0 SEWING MACHINE Design perfect pieces with perfect machinery, thanks to PFAFF. The only machine you need when designing unique and capsulating pieces. RRP $1290 pfaff-australia.com.au LUSCIOUS LYCHEE & PEONY SOY CANDLE A rich blend of sweet peach nectar, ripe raspberries and luscious lychees layered with delicately sweet peony petals. The perfect combination of fruity and floral. RRP $44.95 peppermintgroveaustralia.com LULA EYE MASK This self-warming eye mask soothes dry and tired eyes, while releasing a subtle Jasmine, Rose or Lavender scent. A beautiful gift of self-care to help Mum destress. RRP $29.99 for 1 box of 5 eye masks lulaeyemask.com.au
EVERAU MUFFIN SLIDES Spoil mum with a pair of ultrafluffy slippers in Australian Premium sheepskin to lounge around in at home, available in a range of gorgeous colours. RRP $155, uggexpress.com.au
BETTER TOGETHER BUNDLE Australia’s favourite reusable camera - The Reloader®. The perfect memory making trio to capture every moment. Load, shoot, repeat with our musthave reusable cam. RRP $127.94 35mmco.com TOSHIBA CANVIO BY DYNABOOK - 4TB Canvio Advance External Hard Drive USB 3.0 in Red The perfect accessory for the woman on the go. The red 4TB Toshiba Canvio Advance Hard Drive is compact and portable, so you can access and share your precious family photos, videos and files securely on the go. RRP $149 Available from Officeworks
LAVENDER CALMING BATH BOMBS 4PK Made with Lavender essential oil, Young Living’s essential oil bath bombs are a fun, fizzy way to unwind. RRP $57.55 youngliving.com.au
STRESS AWAY RELAXING BATH BOMBS A special treat thanks to the inviting, vanilla-lime scent of Stress Away essential oil. RRP $57.55 youngliving.com.au JURA Z10 COFFEE MACHINE The world’s first hot & cold fully automatic coffee machine & 32 different beverage options and touch of a button cleaning. RRP $4,490 au.jura.com
WOMEN’S QUICK DRY CHANGE ROBE The ultimate changing robe. A robe that is quick drying, lightweight and easy to store. A brilliant solution for those wanting outdoor changing convenience with the family. Available in Grey & Navy. RRP $75.00 red-equipment.com.au DIAMANTÉ MAKEUP BRUSH SET Sparkle with our new diamanté handle 12 piece make up brush set made with quality soft fibre bristles. Mother’s Day Special $49.95 for the set. sparkleandluxe.com.au DIAMOND ICE TRAYS Add a little sparkle to your drink. Set of 4 $17.95 Available from Diamond in the Roughies, Hope Island Central. diamondintheroughies.com
ULTRADERM EYE DEAL KIT A collection of high performance targeted treatments to care for the delicate eye area and help turn back time. RRP $224 (Valued at $306) Available for a limited time and while stocks last at selected beauty salons, clinics and spas Australia wide ultraderm.com.au
RUMBIE & CO Curls, Simplified. Curl Starter Kit MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL 1ST – 8TH MAY $199.70 RUMBIE.CO
Delivering Furry Friends & Awareness Around Australia
Friends with Dignity has collaborated with the Gold Coast’s Bocchetta Plush Toys for a new campaign to provide a lifelong cuddly friend to domestic violence child survivors, and Get It Magazine sat down with charity founder Manuela Whitford to learn more.
1. What is the mission statement of
Friends with Dignity, and how did it get started?
We’re a collaborative not-for-profit focused on improving the quality of life of any adult and child impacted by Domestic Violence, through the provision of financial and tangible resources, programs and scholarships and enhancing the personal safety of individuals. I recognise that Domestic Violence does not discriminate and men and the LGBTQI community too need to be recognised and assisted - everyone has the right to safety.
2. Can you share with us how your current collaboration and campaign with Bocchetta Plush Toys came about?
The owner Lee-Ann Nordin and I met a couple of years ago and she has been an avid supporter of Friends with Dignity and what we do. A few months ago we met and came up with this campaign to provide all children in refuge a lifelong friend that can be with them at all times, support them and perhaps ease the trauma. We both believe that a plush toy is not just a toy, it can be a friend and confidant and a resource to the child to find comfort and some joy. 3. Can you share with us the importance of plush animals for children who have survived domestic violence?
Children can form a bond and connection with a plush toy as there is reduced fear of loss and attachment as there would be with another human. Sharing feelings or emotion with another person can be both confronting and intimidating for a child but can be easier with a plush toy limiting the risk of shame or judgment. Animal assisted therapy has been around for a long time now and is being recognised as a viable and effective approach in clinical settings.
4. What are some common traits for children who have survived or are currently enduring domestic violence that we can keep an eye out for?
Monitoring a child that is at risk of Domestic Violence is crucial however sadly most of these children do not get seen as the parent/s or guardians often avoid going to places that may assess and possibly report them for abuse. These children often struggle and have difficulty in identifying and expressing their emotions, have poor social skills, mental health disorders, poor academic performance and behavioural issues.
5. What’s on the horizon for Friends with
Dignity? We aim to be in every state, region, suburb and town so that we can assist anyone affected and continue to engage the community in making Australia a better and safer place for everyone. Together we need to accept and understand that Domestic Violence is a problem and we all have a social responsibility to make a difference and change lives, one friend at a time.
The Sanctuary - My Life’s Work
Having been awarded with the OAM this year, founder and CEO of The Sanctuary Refuge, Simone Patterson sits down with Get It Magazine’s Holly Bartter to share her story of compassion, bravery and change.
Never shying away from challenging environments, Simone Patterson started her career path working in NSW prisons at just 20 years old. The experience galvanized Simone to seek out a way to support victims of domestic violence, as she recalls, “I watched reoffending prisoners hurt women, kill their wives, lie about it, get bail for their crimes and find another partner…when nothing changes, nothing changes.” With a vision to carve her career path in this area, Simone completed several years of study, and work extensively in charities and refuges, soon realising there was a gap in support that clearly needed to be filled. “There were so many intakes where women were sobbing at giving their animals up knowing they were possibly euthanised,” Simone shares, “They viewed them as family members, and reasons to keep living. It didn’t make sense to me, and I went to bed in the staff section that night so sad, and thinking that refuges needed to change this silly rule.” For Simone, it was clear that if she wanted something done, she needed to do it herself, launching The Sanctuary Women, Children & Pets Refuge in 2016 after taking out a 1.2 million dollar loan that she has self-funded.
“The Sanctuary is on 2.5 acres filled with beautiful animals amongst the trees,” Simone details, “The leap of faith was a must - when you just know no one else will help and it’s the craziest most unrealistic idea you convince yourself and then others it can work, even when really doubting yourself.” Today, The Sanctuary provides shelter, education and support for women, children and their animals escaping domestic violence, and relies on the donations and support from the community at large. With a holistic view of counseling, health and personal development, Simone’s work has not gone unnoticed, and she was named as a Gold Coast OAM (Order of Australia Medal) recipient for 2022. Considering this high level of recognition, Simone tells me “To be honest, I feel so many more people deserve an OAM. On my team, I’m surrounded by Dr Marian Evans and strong men like Mick Robinson from Betterman, accountants with amazing skills and a team that all support me in my weak moments. I have an army of strength behind me and they all deserve it so much more than I do.”
For Simone, inspiration comes daily from the individuals she works with. “Women turn up so broken emotionally and physically, but they leave stronger and better people,” Simone explains, “I’m inspired by great people who get laws changed, I’m inspired by people who stand up and say enough is enough.” For those of us looking to support a loved one who we believe is experiencing domestic violence, Simone advises to trust your gut, and look for places to stay where they can be truly safe. “Family is the most dangerous place for any victim of violence to go to. We recently had a police officer turn up, crying, with her daughter because she knew she couldn’t protect her - a refuge was a safer option. If you suspect a friend or family member is going through DV don’t ask, ring around, get options and tell them options. If you feel they are unsafe, they often are.”
Having achieved so much already, Simone is looking to expand her support reach even further. “On my horizon is to start a men’s refuge and help men escaping domestic violence with their children and pets - men’s lives matter too. I also want my refuge duplicated both across Australia and worldwide.”
Determined, dedicated and striving for more, Simone is truly a force of good, having impacted so many lives positively. For those still finding their way, she tells me, “In year 9, my maths teacher told my mother that I’d never be smart enough to do anything but be a cleaner, and I did work as a cleaner - but I was studying at the same time! My message to both kids and adults is “Don’t ever accept criticism - rise above and prove that person wrong”. So what? Academics was never going to be my strength, but being kind was - and now I always have a calculator on my phone!”
Take Mum to lunch at Q SUPER CENTRE
month at Mother’s
GLAMACO - True.me Styling Iron. Original and wide styling. $179 each. CHEMPRO - In Essence. Allure diffuser & pure essential oil blend gift set. $89.95
CITY CAVE - Nothing says ‘I care’ more than the gift of wellness and relaxation.
SIERRA FITNESS - Gift vouchers available. More than just a gym. No contracts. Open 24/7. CHOICE THE DISCOUNT STORE - Satin Eye Mask & Pillowcase sleep set. Choice of colours. $9.99
NEV-A-DIE GREENERY Table centre pieces – custom designed. From $35 As shown. Teak timber centre piece. $275
CHEMPRO - Designer Brands. ‘Fierce’ Train case $22.99 Beauty Case $16.99 Pencil case $11.99
SOIE NAILS - Spoil Mum with the perfect gift voucher.
CHOICE THE DISCOUNT STORE - Picnic basket for 2 with insulated liner. 38cm. $99
BELLE COLLECTION - Peppermint Grove. Morning Mist hand & body wash. 500ml. $22.99 Bramble Bay Co. Luxury candles $34.95
BELLE COLLECTION - Ashdene. Gemstone mug & coaster. Choice of colours. $29.99
GEM EMPORIUM - Handcrafted timber candle holders with candle. Re-usable. S $25 M $35 L$45 To celebrate
MOTHER’S DAY
We are giving away a
Wine tumbler.
Spend $35 in any specialty store and receive an Insulated wine tumbler.
Promotion running Tues to Saturday 3rd to 7th May 10am to 2pm T&C’S apply (while stocks last)
Perimenopause? Menopause?
Get the facts behind the hot flushes.
We’ve all heard the terms, but what does it really mean to experience perimenopause and menopause? Journalist, self-proclaimed ‘Peri Warrior’ and host of the new Be MPowered course, Shelly Horton gives us the lowdown on these two important transitional periods.
Tell us about Be Mpowered - how did it come to be?
When I first started getting perimenopausal symptoms I was sideswiped as I had never even heard the word perimenopause. I made it my passion and purpose to spread the word so other women didn’t get shocked. When the opportunity to work with Benefit Pocket and create the Be Mpowered course came about I was thrilled - to work with a group of other intelligent women and get the science and facts out there is a dream come true.
Can you share with us a bit about what perimenopause is vs menopause? Most people know menopause is when your period stops for a full 12 months, but in fact, peri is the kicker. It can last five to seven years before menopause. Perimenopause is when your hormones are fluctuating, and your oestrogen levels and progesterone levels are up and down. That’s when you’re getting a lot of the symptoms like irregular periods, brain fog, some anxiety and depression, night sweats, hot flushes, and insomnia. There’s a lot going on and it’s different for every woman. How does the Be Mpowered course work? Be Mpowered is an online course led by a whole stack of women’s health experts - you can take it at your own pace, so you can go through the videos slowly and absorb them, or if you want to get all the information at once, you can. We’re looking at the physical changes, how your mental health is impacted, and how to navigate that in the workplace with simple tactics.
Do you feel there is still a lot of stigma and mystery around these hormonal changes for women? My own mother is the perfect example - she had terrible perimenopause and menopause symptoms, but her GP was scared off about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) because of misinformation. Now she’s post-menopausal at 73 and still getting hot flushes - her life would have been easier and happier if she’d received the correct treatment. No more secret women’s business! We all need to speak up. I think some women feel a little bit of shame around perimenopause and menopause as a sign of ageing. I want to flip the way we look at it and say, you know what, this is just like your computer getting an upgrade - everything needs to reboot so that you can be a better version of yourself. For a reader who may feel they are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, what should be their first step? Definitely see your GP, but, not all GPs specialise in this area. A great thing to do is jump on https://www.menopause.org.au where you can put in your postcode and find the nearest doctor who has a passion for perimenopause and menopause. If you want to then choose HRT or natural therapies, that’s up to you, but it is from an informed place. Special offer for Get It Mag readers! Sign up for Be Mpowered using the code GETIT30 and you’ll receive 30 per cent off! You can also use this code for any of the other Benefit Pocket courses that you’re interested in. There are a total of seven to choose from, covering topics such as skincare, rest, breathwork, sustainability, crystal healing and essential oils.
Iron deficiency – know the signs.
One in three women put up with exhaustion and fatigue for more than six months before seeking help to treat low iron, new research shows.
A national survey of 400 women aged 25-54 who had experienced low iron also found two in three women had experienced the effects of low iron for more than a year, with 27 per cent classified as long-term sufferers (5-10 years). According to the World Health Organisation, iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutrient deficiency in the world, affecting about one third of the world’s population, with premenopausal and pregnant women at greatest risk. It is thought that up to five per cent of the Australian population has iron deficiency anaemia, caused by low iron stores.
Common symptoms of low iron include tiredness, fatigue, dizziness, breathlessness and poor concentration and cognition. The survey, for Vifor Pharma, also found almost 40 per cent of respondents only discovered they were iron deficient incidentally through other procedures such as routine blood tests and pregnancy. Jean Hailes gynaecologist Dr Elizabeth Farrell said it was common for women to ignore symptoms or attribute them to other lifestyle factors. “They will typically say their tiredness is due to being busy and doing a lot of running around. The problem is tiredness is such a diffuse subject and can mean so many different things that people don’t consider it a reason to investigate a potentially bigger problem. There is not enough awareness about just how important iron is and how central it is to wellbeing,” Dr Farrell said. Iron is an essential mineral required to produce red blood cells, which are necessary for a healthy immune system, mental function, muscle strength and energy. The body can’t manufacture iron, so needs to be absorbed from food. Vegetarians and vegans require almost twice the daily amount, given iron in plant-based foods is less bioavailable and therefore more difficult for the body to absorb. Failing to consume as much iron as you use each day leads to iron deficiency. Other key survey findings include: • 75% of respondents describe iron deficiency as having a moderate to major impact on their daily lives, with 13% unable to live their life as fully as
they want to; • the continued adverse impact of low iron peaks at between 1 to 3 years of suffering; • tiredness, fatigue, shortness of breath and malaise were the biggest trigger to seek information or advice (43%); • 81% of women saw a GP when they suspected they had low iron; • of the 95% who had a blood test, 88% were diagnosed with iron deficiency; • 68% were recommended an oral iron supplement, with 19% electing to have an iron infusion; and • 28% suffered from heavy periods. Check for iron deficiency warning signs by taking the symptom checker test at takeironseriously.com
Doing it for the kids!
Getting healthy and fit can be difficult for parents, but it’s important for both them and you. Here are six top tips for getting the family involved in healthy activities.
1. Put a limit on screen time. Let’s face it, these days everyone is on their device playing, watching, researching, having fun but we know this time-consuming leisure activity is highly addictive and encourages a sedentary lifestyle. Set some standards in your house around screen time that everyone adheres to - the WHOLE family including YOU! Stick to your own rules and be a great role model for those around you. 2. Have a range of outdoor activities the family can play from old school hopscotch, totem tennis and handball through to kite flying, riding bikes and scooters and going for walks. Make these activities accessible, fun and even competitive for those who love a challenge. If you make the activities desirable and important your kids will appreciate the time, they spend with you. 3. Find something your family like doing together and do more of it. It may be heading to the beach, playing at the park or kicking the ball around. This can also lead to organised sport - team sports, Sunday nippers, dancing, gymnastics or scouts. 4. You may also have to help your child find their “thing”. Not everyone is competitive or sporty but there is an active leisure activity for everyone. Give your child a chance to research what they may enjoy and often they can participate in a two-week trial to see if it’s for them. Keep doing trials until you find what works. 5. Once the family are involved in sport make the most of the time, watching, coaching, and participating in the organisation of the club. Your kids will love seeing you be supportive of them, and it shows the importance you place on an active healthy lifestyle. 6. If your kids have swim squad - go for a swim at the same time, if they have AFL training do laps of the oval whilst you’re waiting. This makes it easy to diarise and time is there to be used instead of standing around chatting with the other parents - walk and talk! Encouraging your family to have a healthy active lifestyle will have so many positive benefits for all of you. Your family will appreciate it and everyone will have great memories of feeling fit and healthy and spending quality time together.
Bundall Studio ph: 5538 4788 Southport Studio ph: 5679 2235 visionpersonaltraining.com
winter Your escape
Keep warm as you take a much-deserved holiday to Noosa
It’s just up the road and an easy weekend trip away, so, rather than sitting around complaining how chilly it is on the Gold Coast, head up to where it’s warmer. Noosa has so many activities to keep you warm, and we have picked out our favourites for you here.
1. Noosa National Park walk
Winter is a time where our motivation to exercise is at an all-time low, so, find your fitness again as you walk through the stunning Noosa National Park. There are five different tracks — so you could cover one each day. Take a picnic lunch and blanket and spend a few hours soaking up the coastal views and wildlife.
2. Hastings Street shopping It wouldn’t be a Get it favourites list without some shopping! Hastings Street is full of gorgeous boutiques and stores where you can find unique treasures. A holiday and a wardrobe update? Now that’s worth the drive!
3. Wine and dine
Noosa has some exciting restaurants to indulge your fantasies. Relax inside a cosy bar with a glass of red in hand or treat yourself to a decadent meal. We all love comfort food and drinks in winter, and Noosa’s array of dining locations are sure to have you wanting to come back for more.
4. Adventure sports Get your heart racing and take a walk on the wild side with an activity outside of your comfort zone. While there is great surfing, stand up paddle boarding and water sport activities why not try 4WD and ATV tours, kayaking adventures, speed boat tours or, for the truly brave, canyoning!
5. Explore the local markets Noosa has a great variety of markets offering everything from local produce to chic, boho items for a home décor update. Find truly unique gems and enjoy the local atmosphere at the Noosa Farmer’s Market, Noosa Marina Markets, Eumundi Markets and more.
6. Romantic beach walks
We’re lucky in Australia that we can still enjoy the beaches in winter time. Even if you choose not to take a dip, you can still soak up the sun or take a walk along the beach boardwalk.
PAMPER SESSION
In need of a massage, facial, mani/pedi or other beauty treatment? Aren’t we all! Relax and unwind as you get pampered at one of Noosa’s excellent day spas. You’ll feel so relaxed when you head back to the Gold Coast that people will be asking for your secret. As we all know, sharing is caring, so let them know your secret — an escape to Noosa.
When planning your winter escape to Noosa, there’s only one place you need to contact: Accom Noosa. Making people’s holiday desires come true for 25 years, the holiday specialists love assisting visitors to Noosa with a myriad of accommodation options including beachfront apartments, stylish boutique hotel suites and stunning homes in picturesque locations on the river, beachfront and secluded areas from Hastings Street to Sunshine Beach.
Fairshore Apartments Noosa - luxury beachfront accomodation. Book your next winter escape 1800 072 078 accomnoosa.com.au
RACV Royal Pines One Spa
Secure your place as your mum’s favourite child by treating her to a day at one of these glorious day spas. Why not buy yourself a voucher too for some motherdaughter bonding? RACV Royal Pines The soaring, church-like vaulted ceilings at the One Spa, RACV are the perfect dreamscape for your day of pampering, far away from the hustle and bustle of Broadbeach. Recently refurbished, the wellness area at the RACV Royal Pines is the ideal setting if you want to get away from it all, or for groups of two or more visiting for some pampering in groups of two or more. Start at private hammam-tiled steam room – it’s the ideal place to practise your deep breathing and meditation and can fit up to four people. A quick blast of cold water, then it’s onto your treatment of choice. The treatment rooms are spacious, each with a private deck overlooking the river where you can take your time after your treatment before moving onto your next indulgence. It makes sense then to opt for an aqua-based therapy, the 60 minute Hydration Therapy followed by the Vicky Shower. These are pure bliss and restore much-needed plumpness and smoothness to summertired skin. Or if you prefer, choose from the anti-ageing facials, massages, mud therapy or hot stone treatments. Before you retire to the luxurious relaxation room, to read, sip herbal teas and postpone the return to real life, take the time to
Escape for the day soothe away any lingering worries in the private jacuzzi. The RACV Royal Pines are currently offering a pamper and high tea package. Perfect for Mother’s Day, enjoy a massage and facial followed by high tea. $170 (non-members). RACV Royal Pines One Spa, RACV Royal Pines Resort Ross Street, Benowa 07 5597 8446 Soak Bathhouse Tucked into the side of the Gold Coast Highway at Broadbeach, Soak Bathhouse is perfect for those who want to find some nirvana in between work and the demands of every day life. Each session lasts for 90 minutes as you slowly move between the magnesium
Azure Spa, The Star Gold Coast
pool, outdoor jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and Hoff Wim-inspired cold plunge pool. Decorated in calming forest green hues, the effect is immediate from the moment you arrive. If you want to extend your visit, book in for a massage (their deep tissue treatments are one of the best on the coast), infrared private sauna or 20-minute LED facial (great for boosting collagen levels).
Soak is best experienced with a friend as you’re encouraged to relax and chat outdoors (although noise should be kept to a minimum inside). Book for a soak and sip session (two alcoholic drinks) and feel your stress levels dissolve.
Too busy to relax? Soak also offers workspaces, so why not reward yourself for finishing that deadline by booking an office area followed by an hour and half of rejuvenation. Gift vouchers are available through Soak or online (www.soakbathhouse.com.au). Soak Bathhouse, Shop 20, Pacific Square, 2532-2540 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach | 1800420850
Azure at The Star
Finding nirvana in a casino isn’t what you’d typically think of when booking yourself a day at a spa, but Azure at The Star offers world-class treatments in five-star surroundings. Hidden beneath the entryway, the spa conveniently leads onto the Star’s pool area where you can sunbathe and sip cocktails celebrity-style in your own cabana after your treatment.
The six treatment rooms offer everything you want when it comes to pampering and restoring glow to partied-out faces and bodies. Using Doctor Barbor products, the facials really do turn back the hands of time, soothing tired, dehydrated skin. Plus, your therapist will offer a back, hand or foot massage while your face mask does its work. Be prepared to fall asleep! If you choose to treat your mum or a loved one, opt for the Luxury Escape package. You’ll be greeted with champagne and strawberries on arrival before succumbing to a side-by-side body massage, followed by a nutrient-rich, anti-ageing facial and scalp massage. When you’re ready to face the world, take your time and head to the pool area. You’ll feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. Azure, Pool Level, The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach | 07 5592 8501 | thestar.com.au
Must mentions for Mum
The Bathhouse at Ground, Currumbin Valley is the perfect oasis to restore mind, body and soul. Splash, soak and soothe tired muscles (on-site treatments are available) and complete your visit with a delicious meal at Pasture & Co next door.
2 Village Way Currumbin Valley groundcurrumbin.com.au
Greenhouse the Bathhouse
Tucked behind the shops on Tallebudgera Drive, lies a small, but perfectly formed day spa, complete with outdoor plunge pool and relaxation deck. Order a platter from vegan restaurant The Greenhouse or book in for treatment as part of your visit. 7/37 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads | greenhousebathhouse.com Soak Bathhouse
Soak Bathhouse
