Hello Sunshine | Summer 2021/22 | HS05

THE TEAM Editor’s Note

Hip Hop Hooray Sunshine Coast

– there are so many reasons to celebrate this summer. It’s that special time of the year that brings family and friends together for all the festivities, most of us take a wellearned break from work and not only are we celebrating a win at the Sunshine Coast Business Awards where IN Publishing took out its second win in the Creative Industries category but we are celebrating our first birthday!

It’s been such a great twelve months for Hello Sunshine Magazine. We have brought the Savvy businesses, Spirited locals and Surprising stories to you in our beautiful magazine plus through our fun events, online platforms and popular podcast Everyone Has a Story – Conversations from The Sunshine Coast and Noosa (which has reached over 25,000 downloads and shared over 100 fascinating stories!).

We couldn’t bring you these stories if it wasn’t for the ongoing support from the businesses that have become our family and YOU. As you read our fifth issue, we hope you feel the love we give back to our community –without you my dear reader, we wouldn’t be able to provide much needed community connection through storytelling.

I am excited to bring you stories of local success, innovation, creation and dedication in this magazine. Our summer issue is one of celebration – we all deserve it!

So, buckle up and enjoy some summer love!

DEB CARUSO PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Deb has almost 30 years’ experience providing strategic communications and brand reputation advice to clients in the government, business and not-for-profit sectors. She started IN Publishing to connect the community through storytelling and is passionate about working with small businesses in the region. She loves hanging out with her boys John and Maximus.

PAUL BIRD PUBLISHER

Paul is the Publisher and co-Director of IN Publishing. He has enjoyed a successful career spanning almost 40 years working in media and corporate communications industries and more recently in the profit-forpurpose charity and business sector as an Independent Director and Corporate Advisor

CARLIE WACKER EDITOR

Carlie Wacker is a presenter, MC, freelance fashion writer and stylist. She is also the Editor and Fashion Editor for Hello Sunshine Magazine and keeps busy managing our social media pages, not to mention churning out stories regularly. She has also created World of Wacker handmade polymer clay earrings.

ALI SMITH

DESIGN & OPERATIONS MANAGER

Ali is our go-to girl when it comes to design, deadlines and digital. An experienced graphic designer with nearly 20 years’ experience in advertising, magazines and publishing, she brings creativity and efficiency to the team. When she’s not at her computer, you can find her on the water with her husband and three kids.

SHONA SMITH

CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER

From her early days working in the art room of major publications back in the 1980s, Shona has enjoyed a long career in media. When she’s not creating the stunning pages and supporting clients of IN Noosa Magazine and Hello Sunshine Magazine, you’ll find Shona relaxing with her family at the beach.

JOHN CARUSO WRITER/PODCASTER/MC

After 30 years in radio, John now runs the Everyone Has a Story: Conversations from the Sunshine Coast and Noosa podcast and in between being our writer, sanity checker, accounts manager and event MC; he spends time with his first love, recording a daily Drive program for regional radio and raising his son Maximus.

CARLY WADE

CLIENT SERVICES + HOMEWARES

A highly-experienced events management specialist and wedding planner, Carly owns CL Weddings and Events and was the acting General Manager of Makepeace Island. Carly loves getting things done and when she isn’t keeping things running smoothly, delivering events and supporting clients, she’ll be sourcing the latest homewares.

ELLIE CAPURSO DESIGN

Ellie is passionate about visual design and creating a career that is both dynamic and fun. After completing an Advanced Diploma of Graphic Design in 2020, she is thrilled to join the creative and clever crew at IN Noosa Magazine and Hello Sunshine Magazine and work locally in the place where she was born.

Carlie Wacker Editor

Keep in touch with our e-newsletter: www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

AUTUMN 2022 DEADLINES

Bookings close: 24 February 2022

Art Deadline: 4 March 2022

hello@inpublishing.com.au

www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

GEORGIA BEARD

WRITER + CONTENT CREATOR

Georgia is a feature writer and storyteller exploring the triumphs and concerns of everyday people. With a Bachelor of Creative Writing and Publishing and a Minor in Journalism under her belt, she’s passionate about giving a voice to local communities. When she’s not out in the real world, she’s lost in a novel or writing one of her own.

PROUD WINNERS OF THE 2021 SUNSHINE COAST BUSINESS AWARDS CREATIVE INDUSTRIES - LARGE BUSINESS

2019 SUNSHINE COAST BUSINESS AWARDS CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

CONTRIBUTORS

MATT GOLINSKI FOOD

Matt Golinski is a highly regarded chef with a passion for simple, produce-driven cuisine based on seasonal, fresh local ingredients. He is an active member of the Slow Food movement, a champion of artisan producers and a generous mentor to keen young chefs. When he’s not cooking up stories for IN Publishing you’ll find him at View by Matt Golinski at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas.

TONY COX DRINKS

After 25 years of sniffing, swirling, spitting and slurping various vinous temptations our drinks writer has decided that his future lies firmly planted on the consumption and storytelling side. Tony not only still enjoys consulting about wine and other beverages but is now part of the successful Kate Cox Real Estate Team at Reed & Co. Estate Agents.

JENNIFER SWAINE WRITER

A born storyteller and connector of people, Jennifer works with a number of SMEs looking after their branding, marketing strategy, communications, PR and events. As Chair of the Sunshine Coast Business Awards, Vice President of the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance and a Non-Executive Director of Visit Sunshine Coast, Jennifer proactively engages with local businesses.

BEC MARSHALL WRITER

Bec was a television and newspaper journalist for 18 years before she swapped newsrooms for boardrooms handling media relations, communications and marketing, brand and reputation, event management, content strategy and community engagement, with the odd emergency incident thrown in. Give Bec a laptop, a (strong black) coffee and someone to talk to and a great story will be unearthed.

PETE

GOODLET GARDENING/ART

Artist, landscape designer and man about town, Pete brings his love of gardens, design and all things green to IN Noosa. Having worked with design greats Rick Eckersley and Jamie Durie and having been featured in all the top mags, Pete finally realised his lifelong dream of moving to Noosa with Dave and Oscar Wilde (man’s best friend).

ERIN YARWOOD FITNESS

Erin has been working in the fitness industry for over 15 years now, and still absolutely loves her job to bits! She runs her unique fitness studio E Fitness in the beautiful hinterland township of Pomona, with stunning views of Mt Cooroora out the back doors and trains her clients under the strict supervision of her toddler and bestie, Aluna.

JACKIE HILLEGERS MINDFULNESS

Jackie holds Mindfulness Workshops, teaches Mindful Photography and is a Holistic Integrated Creative Arts Therapist & Holistic Counsellor. Her passion is working with children and teens to help them reduce stress and anxiety and increase self-love. She loves to create art and learn about the mind and brain from her Tewantin studio. For workshops visit www.pheatherine.com

GEOFF WARD DISTRIBUTION

Geoff has spent his working life as a pharmacist and these days calls Noosa home. He played tennis competitively for 40 years and while his wife Rachel runs Lovely Things Gift Shop, Geoff has opted to be our ‘man on the streets’ taking over delivery and distribution of the magazines. He’s keen to meet you and to get to know you if you’re a business owner or operator who has one of our magazine stands.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

KATJA ANTON www.katjaanton.com

MEGAN GILL www.megangillportrait.com

20SPIRITED

Discover the inspirational story behind an award-winning solution to help children in need.

ON THE COVER

“4 Goldfish Lane” by Dale Bradshaw Botha @marymodale @dalebradshawbotha

Read her story on page 8.

We would like to acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional owners, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara people, whose country we create on and we would like to extend our respect to their elders, both past, present and emerging.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER: Deb Caruso, 0428 853 224 deb@inpublishing.com.au

PUBLISHER: Paul Bird

ADVERTISING: advertising@inpublishing.com.au

SUBSCRIPTIONS, EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS & DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES: hello@inpublishing.com.au Suite 1b/36 Sunshine Beach Road PO Box 542, Noosa Heads Q 4567 www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

DISTRIBUTION: 20,000 printed copies available throughout the Sunshine Coast: Peregian to Caloundra and the hinterland, in locally-designed and handcrafted magazine stands. Hello Sunshine Magazine is also supplied to local businesses and visitors through its tailored distribution process, including placement in key resorts.

Hello Sunshine is printed on 100% recyclable paper. Made with love. Please enjoy!

LAUREN BIGGS @laurenbiggslbph

IAN WALDIE www.ianwaldie.com

Hello Sunshine Magazine is a free publication (subscriptions available) published four times per year by IN Publishing, a business of IN Noosa Magazine Pty Ltd (The Publisher). All rights are reserved and the contents are copyright and may not be reprinted without the express permission of The Publisher. IN Noosa Magazine Pty Ltd ATF Hello Sunshine Magazine, their related companies and officers hereby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with copy information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of The Publisher, or any persons actions in reliance thereon. Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication. Inclusion of any copy must not be taken as any endorsement by The Publisher. Views expressed by contributions are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

FINALIST FEVER

Event: Sunshine Coast Business Awards Media Masterclass and Finalist Cocktail Party

Venue: Noosa Springs Resort

Nervous and elated Sunshine Coast Businesses celebrated being announced as Finalists for the Sunshine Coast Business Awards 2021 and enjoyed an inspiring media masterclass and drinks with sponsors.

sunshinecoastbusinessawards.com.au

PS - we won!! See page 14 for all the winners!

BEST WISHES

Event: Wishlist Spring Carnival

Venue: Sunshine Coast Convention Centre, Twin Waters

The Sunshine Coast came together to raise $287,186 in just five hours, including a donation of $50,000 from Exemplar Health Care and Aware Super who will now become Foundation Donors of Wishlist Centre. Scheduled to open in 2022. The Centre will offer patient accommodation, primary healthcare and complementary therapies under one roof for patients and families. www.wishlist.org.au

OPEN HOUSE

Event: Open House Sunshine Coast launch

Venue: Caloundra Regional Gallery

The 4th annual Open House Sunshine Coast to unlock the region’s most historic and architecturally significant buildings was launched by the Governor of Queensland, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC CVO. More than 25 of the region’s most intriguing buildings opened their doors for guided and self-guided tours including lighthouses, award-winning architecturally-designed homes, theatres and even old railway stations! www.sunshinecoastopenhouse.com.au

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

PHOTOS: BARRY ALSOP, EYES WIDE OPEN

PHOTOS: DEB CARUSO & BARRY ALSOP, EYES WIDE OPEN IMAGES

Jess Christie & Jess Beveridge, The Milk Pantry

Carolyn Bullen, Noosa Council; Kathy McKenzie & Craig Levitt, FIREUP Coaching

Kristine Young, Bella Venezia & Deb Caruso

Brigid Woolnough, Kokopod; Jennifer Swaine & Kathy Terrill, SCBA

Damien Glanville, LPE; SCBA President Jennifer Swaine; & Justin Pettett, LPE

Nikki Farrel & Lindsay Bowles, Wildlings Forest School

Sunshine Coast Open House Committee Chair and Australian Institute of Architects Qld Chapter Councillor Lindy Atkin; Sunshine Coast Open House Ambassador and Architect Malcolm Middleton OAM; His Excellency Paul de Jersey AC CVO; Dr Hope O’Chin, Mayor Mark Jamieson; Caloundra Regional Gallery Director Jo Duke.

HELLO SUNSHINE

Event: Hello Sunshine Magazine

Spring Launch

Venue: Venu, Coolum

The Ohana Group’s uber-cool Venu creative space hosted Hello Sunshine clients and VIPs to launch the Spring Edition. Sunshine & Son’s Pineapple Parfait gin was shaken and stirred by The Bartenders along with superb canapés showcasing the creative culinary cred of chef Ryan Fitzpatrick. www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

SPRING SESSION

Event: IN Noosa Magazine

Spring Launch

Venue: Hop & Vine, Hastings Street

It was a stunning evening in the fairylit trees above Hastings Street to launch the spring edition of IN Noosa Magazine

Guests enjoyed Sunshine & Sons gin cocktails, Heads of Noosa beer and wines from Nelson Wine Co as they celebrated the latest edition, learnt about the Noosa Country Polo Cup and the campaign for locals to Rediscover Hastings Street. www.innoosamagazine.com.au

PHOTOS: FLORENCE LEMYRE

PHOTOS: KATJA ANTON

ARTBrave

Pablo Picasso said that the chief enemy of creativity is good sense and that’s why the absurdity and phantasmagoria of the work by Sunshine Coast artist Dale Bradshaw Botha really speaks to that quote. Carlie Wacker steps inside the creative world of our amazing cover artist.

There is a bravery that lives within every artist that allows them the freedom to share their creations. The greatest gift that we can offer in return is our own explanation of what we see and with Dale Bradshaw Botha this is the humbling part of her job.

“The intention in my work is to evoke emotion and tell a story – not one only told by me, but one in which I invite the viewer to create their own,” she says.

“I am always amazed at interpretations of my art by other people who appear to see so much more in it than I ever intended! It’s very heart-warming.”

Dale is a digital and mixed media artists who was born in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. It was later in life that she ignited her lifelong love of art to explore the mobile art form.

She says her work is best described as figurative - a mishmash of reality and imagined.

“Much of my work, especially in the last 3 years, starts with an image taken on my iPhone and then becomes part of a composited piece of art on my iPad Pro or in Photoshop,” she says.

“I also take photographs or scans of my own paintings or drawings and work further on them on my iPad Pro and/or in Photoshop using brushes, textures, typography and overlays to enhance the image and create an entirely new piece. “I call this ‘Dancing Between Devices’.”

And the finalé in this dance performance has resulted in her art being featured exhibitions around the world including London, USA, Italy, Turkey and Australia. She was one of ten finalists in the international Anthology Magazine Cover Art Award 2021 and received two Honourable Mentions in the inaugural

Mobiography Awards 2021

Dale is always curious to find new ways of enhancing a photograph or using a photograph in composite work.

She finds inspiration in nature, music, books, friends, travel and childhood memories.

Her art tells a story, evokes emotion and invites the viewer to create their own narrative. Typography, texture and patterns are featured extensively.

“The colours of the world in which we

This artist dares to bring the quirkiest of our imagination to life in her mobile, mixed media art.

Strelitzia

4 Goldfish Lane

Kindness is Everything

live, play a big part too, however I tend to work in more muted tones which fits in with my desire to live a quiet and unassuming life,” she says.

“Every now and then I burst into bright colours which is a refreshing change.”

Her bursts of bold colour can be seen in works such as Bird Brain

“For a long time having a ‘bird brain’ was considered to be a bad thing: Now it turns out that it should be a compliment as a study found that bird brains have

significantly more neurons than mammals, even primate brains of the same mass,” she explains.

Now that’s a jolly good reason to burst out the brights!

Love Life shows her use of typography in her art and our cover art 4 Goldfish Lane is a moment of pure fantasy and fun.

“

4 Goldfish Lane is created entirely from my imagination using parts of Royalty-Free Vintage pieces of Ephemera,

and my own mark making,” she said.

“The absurd idea of being able to walk down a lane and have goldfish swimming alongside me made me laugh – so I am hoping it will at least bring a smile to all who happen to view it,” Dale says.

Well, I’m smiling because this artist dares to bring the quirkiest of our imagination to life in her mobile, mixed media art – it is indeed brave art!

Find Dale on Instagram @marymodale or on Facebook @dale.b.botha

Dale Bradshaw Botha in her studio

Love Life

Into the Sun

Bird Brain

MOJOMaker

Strap in for a ride that will change the way you adult! Carlie Wacker jumps in the drivers’ seat of life thanks to leading high performance expert and personal coach to some of the world’s best CEO’s – Nikki Fogden Moore aka The Mojo Maker.

There is good reason that Nikki Fogden Moore carries the title of The Mojo Maker – her energy is contagious. Being in her presence fills you with confidence yet opens a door to explore and connect with yourself on a deeper level. It’s almost like she can read your mind or has some secret power that can unlock the barriers that you don’t even know you have in your way.

It is her latest book that really highlights the ways in which we can improve our lives in every area and it honestly has changed the way I adult! Radical Self Belief – Adulting the Rally Of Life is a workbook for a better life to help you break up with overwhelm for good and truly achieve your own version of sustainable success.

It guides you through the maze of modern-day overwhelm and offers a simple and easy way to live your fullest and most successful life. The book doesn’t brag but allows the reader to be the star of the story with breakout sections to write your own story.

Radical Self Belief delivers what it promises: an essential step-by-step roadmap for leaders to reignite confidence, connection and contribution and overcome overwhelm – to get back in the driver’s seat.

So with pedal to the metal, I made my way through the 7 checkpoints in the book which conclude with a worksheet to dig deeper into our individual rally and pit stops. Real life stories and experiences from corporate leaders

to athletes from around the world help to get your engine started.

You don’t read the book – you DO the book! The framework of Radical Self Belief is what will help you to navigate everyday situations in business and personal life.

Nikki has been working on this book for the past decade taking her extensive learnings from her 25-year career coaching high level leaders, entrepreneurs and elite athletes.

Moving through the epidemic of overwhelm is made easier with the knowledge and practices you will take from this book.

“Overwhelm affects us in different ways personally and professionally, so being able to recognise it is vital,” Nikki says. “Then we can seek out and invest in the tools to ensure we can remain on

track and in the ‘driver’s seat’ of our own lives.

“Radical Self Belief is not just some gimmicky book title, it’s literally what we need to achieve sustainable success moving forward and build a strong foundation for connection, happiness and collaboration in today’s modern landscape.”

The foreword in the book is written by KPMG National Managing Partner James Hunter who says “Making your valuesbased decisions takes courage, selfconfidence and a moral compass you need to possess and need to leverage.

“Nikki’s book will help you understand the path from chaos to calm and regain your confidence to truly achieve your full potential,” he said.

I concur Mr Hunter, Nikki’s book made

me reassess my vital ingredients and prioritise my days. It has given me the courage and confidence to recognise overwhelm and kick it to the curb.

The result is a more balanced version of me and one that has replaced the need to overachieve and strive with enjoying my journey and thriving!

One of my favourite moments in the book was reading one simple sentence: “to look at the options, always know there is a solution and replace fear with curiosity.”

I don’t feel scared of future challenges now as I’ll be viewing them as curious situations that require a change in my perspective from passengers’ seat to driver’s seat.

Radical Self Belief IS the vital ingredient to a successful 2022. To coincide with the launch of of her book Nikki has also released a fresh new-look series of her chart topping Radical Self Belief – The Mojo Maker Podcast, known as the go-to for providing tips and tools in truly creating the life you want.

There is also a 12-week online coaching program for both individuals and corporate teams.

BREAK UP WITH OVERWHELM FOR GOOD

IT’S TIME TO GET IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT OF YOUR LIFE, FROM CHAOS TO CALM FOR SUSTAINABLE SUCCESS

Nikki said she was proud to release a body of work which she knows is going to have a positive impact for those that read and listen to it.

“Never has there been a more important time to take such positive steps forward as the leaders of our own lives, empowering people to ‘put on their own oxygen masks first’ so that they can continue to serve themselves, and the people around them in the way they deserve,” she said.

“I firmly believe that no (entrepreneurial) life or any kind of life should be filled with anxiety, overwhelm

Radical Self Belief – Adulting The Rally Of Life is the third title by Nikki following the wildly successful releases of Fitpreneur and Vitality

It is available from Booktopia, Amazon, Barnes and Noble or grab a copy signed by Nikki from her website: www.nikkifogdenmoore.com

THE 7 CHECKPOINTS

1. Survival Mode

2. Awareness

3. Accountability

4. Action

5. Review and Refine

6. Celebrate and Reward

7. Sustainable Success

RADICAL SELF BELIEF—Adulting The Rally Of Life

This book will change the way you live your life. Raw, rugged and full of worksheets; it is a ‘doing’ book to understand we are all leaders in life. Reignite your confidence, get clear on what you truly want with a set of tools to help you break up with overwhelm for good and embrace all areas of your life with ease, focus and conviction. Suit up, step up and harness your very best self for 2022 and beyond. This is THE essential road map for today’s modern world.

...always know there is a solution and replace fear with curiosity.

Since 2019, Noosa Chances has been quietly improving educational outcomes for some of our brightest young talent. Now, as Bec Marshall writes, they’re set to change lives across Australia through a new national expansion.

MAKING THE MOST OF Chances

Life-changing. That overused phrase is thrown around so loosely these days that it can feel like its lustre has been lost. But every now and then, the tarnish of cynicism and cliché fades and the beautiful shine in the term “lifechanging” is restored.

Especially when it’s used to describe the work of Noosa Chances, a local not-for-profit that offers educational scholarships to students who show talent and effort in their studies but may need extra financial support to really shine.

Students are nominated by their school and have their applications assessed by the Noosa Chances Board, made up of experienced and well-connected professionals who also happen to be Noosa locals and willing volunteers.

The annual scholarships of $1500 are funded by donations from the public, local businesses and corporate companies and can be used to pay for anything from a laptop and a calculator to a school uniform or a musical instrument.

The scholarships are often ongoing, covering a student for the remainder of their high school years, subject to an annual review and sign off from the school principal.

Since its launch in 2019, Noosa Chances has supported a total of 39 young people showing promise across the arts or academically.

That’s 39 lives changed. Really changed.

That number is tipped to soar with the announcement at the Noosa Cup Race Day fundraiser in October that Noosa Chances is expanding nationally.

“It’s very exciting,” Founder and CEO Tara Bell said of the newly-formed entity.

“The whole team is thrilled to be able to expand, we didn’t expect to do this at such an early stage,” she said. “We wanted to get the blueprint for Noosa right and then expand into the Sunshine

Coast - and even further from there.

“Based on feedback from people who wanted to support a student, we are trialling the concept of a scholarship in an area the sponsor had an interest in; tailored to their business interests. For example, a female finance student in Sydney; an engineering student in Melbourne; or an indigenous artist in the Northern Territory.

“People seem taken by the thought of supporting someone that means something to them.

“We trialled the concept with Qube and Travis Schultz & Partners and mentioned it to a few supporters who have now offered to take a scholarship on. That includes the Epic Good Foundation and the Bennelong Foundation, who want to support five students in the most impoverished areas in Australia.

“A lot of local businesses want to be involved. I think they see that $1500 –which is tax deductible, is a relatively small amount for a significant impact.

“Plus, we have Andrew Pierpoint who is connected to 5,000 principals across Australia as the head of the Association of Secondary School Principals, and he has agreed to be our Board Advisor.

“So now we have this incredible reach. If you want to support a child in Weipa, Tasmania, or a student in Sydney, we can

source them using our criteria and Andrew’s contacts.

“That’s the way we will expand initially, and we hope to replicate the success of Noosa Chances around Australia. It’s very exciting.”

Noosa Chances will continue as a chapter of a national entity, with the national expansion enabled by the support of companies such as Travis Schultz & Partners, Qube Holdings, Firetrail Investments, Altum, Medimobile and the Lamming family.

IN Publishing, publishers of this magazine, have also come on board to sponsor two local students in 2022.

Travis Schultz, Managing Partner of Travis Schultz & Partners, said educating kids could be both challenging and expensive; especially for those with large families or at social disadvantage.

“The work of Noosa Chances in this space is invaluable in trying to create opportunities for kids that their parents simply don’t have the capacity to

Noosa Chances CEO Tara Bell, Glennis Muir, Claire McPherson, Board Advisor Dr Kirsten Baulch, Melbourne Cup-winning trainer, Sheila Laxon

That’s 39 lives changed. Really changed.

Billy James with mum Bernadette. provide,” he said. “If a social conscience is important to you, then this is a great cause to get behind.”

Tara Bell teamed up with Georgie Cousens to create Noosa Chances a few years ago, inspired by the successful Western Chances in Melbourne.

“When I was living in Melbourne, I went to a fundraiser for Western Chances and the guest speaker was one of the recipients of a scholarship,” Tara said.

“She described a pretty dreadful background, and she is now a lawyer at one of the top law firms. Her story moved me, so I became a volunteer.

“Then I moved to Noosa, and I thought I’d like to replicate Western Chances in our own way. Everyone has a social conscience, but not a lot of people know what to do with it.”

MUMS KNOW BEST

This year Noosa Chances awarded 18 merit-based scholarships at their award ceremony. Among them was Billy James, a 13-year-old from Tewantin currently in the Music Excellence program at Sunshine Beach State High.

“We were so fortunate to receive this support,” mum Bernadette said. “Billy used some of the money to upgrade his guitar because the one he had I purchased from the op shop. He also bought a new laptop to replace the old $300 one he had.

“The money has given him the platform to be his best, musically and academically. He’s got the tools to be the best he can in life. And he is so proud – so am I. I just pump him up all the time, he’s awesome.”

Bernadette said Billy was coming along in leaps and bounds in his first year of high school and he had earned a gold award for academic excellence this year, achieving four As in core subjects.

“People are blown away when I tell them about how Noosa Chances has changed our lives as far as worrying about financials,” Bernadette said. “But it’s more than the money, it’s the networking and the fact that Tara is always in touch. She wants to know about his achievements and it’s really lovely because (as a single mum) I don’t have anyone to share it with.”

EVERY LITTLE BIT HELPS

Noosa Chances welcomes donations of all sizes.

“Even $5 can make a difference,” CEO Tara Bell said. “It all helps go towards any type of educational equipment that a student might need.”

Follow Noosa Chances on Facebook for more inspiration.

Donate and find out more at www.noosachances.org.au

Sunshine Coast Luxury Transfers

Fixed-price airport transfers

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Private airport transfers, conferences, special events or just dinner out with friends – ExecLane has a vehicle in their fleet to suit. execlane.com.au

On Saturday 13 November, we saw the winners of this year’s SCBA named at a sold-out event held at the Sunshine Coast Convention Centre.

More than 850 representatives of local businesses came together to celebrate not only our finalists and winners, but the fact that these outstanding businesses have demonstrated extraordinary resilience over what has been a very challenging few years.

This year, we again attracted a large number of applicants, with 131 incredible businesses being chosen as finalists. The calibre of the finalists was outstanding, and the feedback from the judges has left me in no doubt that we are doing great things across every industry on the Sunshine Coast and in Noosa.

There were 29 category winners including large and small businesses announced across 16 categories, two Hall of Fame inductees as well as the overall Business of the Year

This year’s Sunshine Coast Business of the Year – Advanced Aquarium Technologies (AAT) is a world leader in the design, construction, and operation of landmark public aquariums.

Led from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, AAT has delivered aquariums in more than 25 countries including the national aquarium of Denmark, Den Blå Planet;

A WINNING formula

the Oman Aquarium; the Cube Oceanarium in Chengdu, China; and the Ocean Park Grand Aquarium in Hong Kong; as well as special aquariums inside the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, and the Heart of the Reef aquarium at the Whitsunday Airport.

Hall of Fame inductee COYO creates delicious food for healthy folk and a happy planet. All of COYO’s certified organic, dairy-free coconut products are made with 100% natural ingredients and

are plant-based, gluten-free, preservative-free, kosher-certified and teeming with a unique blend of plantpowered probiotics, clinically proven to contribute to a healthier, happier world!

Fellow Hall of Fame inductee Kangaroo Bus Lines is a family-owned and operated organisation that provides an integral contribution to the Passenger Transport Industry in Queensland. The company’s expertise is in moving people and connecting communities through complete, personalised transport solutions tailored to specific needs.

Our future is bright.

The Sunshine Coast is a region where small business is the foundation on which we have built a thriving economy. In fact, of the 40,000 businesses we have across our region, 25,000 of those are sole operators, with a further 14,000 businesses employing between 1 and 19 people.

Around 800 businesses employ between 20 and 199 people and there are only 16 business in our region that employ greater than 200 people. And while in time that may change, for the moment small businesses remains the beating heart of this region.

This is why the SCBA is so important to the business community to provide a platform that recognises the work they

The Sunshine Coast Business Awards (SCBA) are an important reminder of just how special the people and businesses who make up this region are. SCBA President Jennifer Swaine reflects on the achievements throughout the region.

The strength of our regional economy, which is currently estimated at $17.9 billion, is based in its diversity and strength across several key sectors including healthcare, education, finance and professional business services and is expected to reach $33 billion by 2033.

Tim Eldridge, Advanced Aquarium Technologies, Winner Building & Construction Large Business, Winner Export, and Sunshine Coast Business of the Year

are doing and create awareness and recognition that they may not have otherwise received.

The Awards also provide a proven path to business collaborations that work, creating more success for the businesses involved, along with the region.

In fact, entrants tell us that even without winning an award, the applications process offers them the opportunity to dissect and re-evaluate their business, allowing them to discover new opportunities and reminding them why they started the business in the first place.

Over the coming years, we are going to see continued migration to the Sunshine Coast and with that will come an increase in knowledge-based jobs, professional business services, innovative manufacturing and high-tech start-ups and we will see an increase in exports and household income.

The depth and breadth of the business acumen our region has is as diverse as the industries all these businesses work in. The strength of our regional economy, which is currently estimated at $17.9 billion, is based in its diversity and strength across several key sectors including healthcare, education, finance and professional business services and is expected to reach $33 billion by 2033. By that time, it is also anticipated that 20% of good and services produced here will be for export. These are significant results for a region that is experiencing incredible growth and attracting serious investment from both the private and public sector.

Congratulations to this year’s finalists and winners. We are proud you have chosen to call the Sunshine Coast and Noosa home and thank you for all that you do for our region.

2021 WINNERS

Accommodation

Large: RACV Noosa Resort

Small: Narrows Escape Rainforest Estate

Building & construction

Large: Advanced Aquarium Technologies

Small: Becker Constructions

Clean Technology

Large: Aussie Tiny Houses

Small: Waste Free Systems

Creative Industries

Large: IN Publishing

(IN Noosa + Hello Sunshine Magazines)

Small: 4 Ingredients

Education & Training

Large: Wildlings Forest School

Small: The Eighth Mile Consulting

Experiences

Large: The Ginger Factory

Small: Red Lock Escape Rooms

Festivals & Events

Sunshine Coast Lightning

Food & Agribusiness

Large: Good Harvest Organic Farm

Small: Global Boss International

Health & Wellness

Large: Sunny Street

Small: Stymie

Hospitality

Large: Bella Venezia Group

Small: Kaali Gourmet Indian Restaurant

Manufacturing

Helitak Fire Fighting Equipment

Professional Services

Large: Travis Schultz & Partners

Small: HRM Contracting & Consulting

Retail

Large: White’s IGA

Small: Pleasant State

Social Impact

Large: Coast2Bay Housing Group

Small: Food and Agribusiness Network

Trades & Services

Large: Office HQ

Small: Ms Monaco Hair Society

Export

Advanced Aquarium Technologies

Business of the Year

Advanced Aquarium Technologies

Hall of Fame

Kangaroo Bus Lines

COYO

Travis Schultz & Partners, Winner Professional Services Large Business

IN Publishing’s Deb Caruso, Winner Creative Industries, Large Business, Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart and 4 Ingredients’s Kim McCosker, Winner Creative Industries, Small Business

Michael and Roz White, White’s IGA, Winner Retail Large Business

PHOTOS:

THE BEST Reward

No-one starts a business to win awards, however just going through the process can be a reward in itself. Founder Deb Caruso shares the passion that drives the IN Publishing team.

When we first started IN Noosa Magazine almost eight years ago and Hello Sunshine Magazine 12 months ago, I didn’t imagine that we would win back-to-back accolades in the Sunshine Coast Business Awards for Creative Industries (Large business). Yet here we are. And we are very grateful and excited to be here.

For us, the awards are recognition of all the hard work, the sleepless nights, the extra mile that we go to in order to INform, INdulge and INspire and shine a light on the Savvy, Surprising and Spirited people of this region. It is also a great way to reach more readers and businesses to create meaningful connections.

What makes the 2021 Award win sweeter is that it was on the back of what was a shocking two years for business, particularly the media. Mid-2020 saw a lot of local media, particularly print, reduce distribution or frequency, move their publications to a digital-only format or shut down altogether.

Going through the process of submitting our award entry made us take the time to revisit our core vision and reason for being; review how far we have come and all the challenges we faced.

Our vision is to connect the community through storytelling and shine a light on

the amazing people, business and organisations that make this area special.

We exist to INform, INdulge and INspire our readers to be a positive and active contributor to their community; and to celebrate the Savvy, Surprising and Spirited people and businesses.

We engage our readers to connect with local businesses, organisations and individuals.

We have no shortage of great stories and we showcase the unique qualities and character of our region from the pages of our magazines to our digital channels and interviews on our podcast, Everyone Has a Story: Conversations from the Sunshine Coast & Noosa

Every edition features inspiring people from our front cover artist to chef profiles; human interest stories, fashion shoots and interviews with the people behind the brands and boutiques –creators, survivors, enablers and doers!

We are most proud of how we continued to support local businesses and readers through the 2020 COVID lockdown with social media and e-newsletters. For local businesses, we collated support information and connected them with each other. For our readers, the regular updates minimised feelings of isolation and also helped them find ways to support local businesses.

Coming out of COVID, we recognised the need to connect community was stronger than ever and managed to produce a whopping 180-page magazine, The Guide: Special Edition, in less than three weeks! The overwhelming feedback from readers and grateful business owners made it worthwhile.

This time last year, we not only launched Hello Sunshine – a Savvy, Surprising and Spirited Magazine for the Sunshine Coast but we helped local chef Nilla Tomkins realise her dream to produce a vegetarian cookbook sharing the recipes from her popular cafes. VanillaFood: The Cookbook is a 260+page celebration of her passion for wholesome and real food.

We are driven to help others to succeed – to shine a light on the unsung local heroes or talented artist or humble business. When we won the Sunshine Coast Business Award for Creative Industries in 2019, we were so proud because we saw that as a win for all the creatives in the region – from the artists we profile from our front covers to inside the magazine; the chefs and producers we celebrate; the local photographers we use and the writers who help share the stories of those in our community.

It is a win for our extremely passionate team, our readers and our savvy clients who understand and believe in a better way to build their business.

We are more than a magazine and will continue to evolve, innovate and create products and channels that help connect our community and offer businesses a smarter way to promote their services.

Thank you for reading, it means a lot!

PHOTO: EYES WIDE OPEN IMAGES

IN Publishing team Georgia Beard, Carlie Wacker, John Caruso, Deb Caruso, Ali Smith, Carly Wade, Paul Bird, and Shona Smith (missing).

Including: Mark Webber • Katie Noonan • Matt Golinski • Tony Kelly

Wes Carr • Dimi Limnatitis • Ryhia Dank • DJ Niki DéSaint

Phil Jarratt • Mayor Clare Stewart and more...

ALL THE Elements!

Every business needs to take time to take stock so we thought it timely to check in with our readers to see how we’re doing - and what we could be doing better.

We have worked hard to deliver our vision of being more than a magazine and to connect the community through storytelling.

This edition marks twelve months since we launched Hello Sunshine Magazine - a Savvy, Surprising & Spirited read for the Sunshine Coast.

In addition to its bigger sister publication, IN Noosa Magazine which is part of the IN Publishing group we also delivered VanillaFood: The Cookbook, a stunning 260+ page plant-based cookbook for local chef Nilla Tomkins.

Our podcast Everyone Has a Story: Conversations from the Sunshine Coast & Noosa recorded more than 100 interviews and reached 25,000+ downloads and our social media engagement and e-newsletter subscribers keeps growing.

We have successfully delivered key events including VIP nights, wine lunches and the unforgettable Sunset Sip N’ Paint on Noosa Main Beach as part of Noosa Alive!

And we’re still celebrating being announced as the winner of the Sunshine Coast Business Award for Creative Industries for the second time in a row - this time in the Large Business category!

Phew! No wonder we’re looking forward to a summer break!

We want to thank you for being part of our journey and want to know what elements you love about the magazine, our events and more!

COOLShot

What’s more, we’ll reward you for giving us a piece of your mind.

Simply complete the survey and go in the draw to WIN one of five 700ml limited edition Hello Sunshine Original Dry Gin bottled by our good friends at Sunshine & Sons PLUS a grand prize of five nights for four people at our favourite place outside of Noosa, Elements of Byron!

Scan the QR code or visit www.hellosunshinemag.com.au to enter and for full terms and conditions.

BE IN IT TO WIN IT!

Take 5 minutes to complete the reader survey and go in the draw to WIN 5 nights at Elements of Byron or one of 5 bottles of limited edition Hello Sunshine Original Dry Gin from Sunshine & Sons!

Tell us what you think and be in your element with a chance to win five nights for four people at Elements of Byron!

THE STYMIE Spirit

Bullies, trolls, reality TV, the Australian outback and years of hard slog to get an innovation in child protection off the ground: Rachel Downie is a capital ‘S’ Survivor. Bec Marshall shares her mission to empower people to leave a mark, not a scar.

Stymie. It’s a strange word. You don’t hear it much. And when you do, there’s an urge to search the thesaurus for a reminder, or a discovery, of what it means.

Clues come in nouns and verbs: stalemate, standoff, deadlock, bewilder, confuse, hinder, block, thwart, frustrate, stupefy, bamboozle and stop.

If you’ve ever had, or known of, a child who has died by suicide or been bullied, abused, self-harmed or discriminated against, suddenly that word ‘stymie’ – and every single one of its meanings; is not strange at all. It’s the only right word to use.

The trick is the timing. When to use those words to fuel an action that has the fate-changing power to cancel a tragedy and stop all its awful consequences from rippling across lives.

Can you stymie harm before it goes too far? Can you say something before it’s too late? Can you stop kids from getting hurt?

Rachel Downie, the creator and CEO of Stymie, with a capital S, knows without a doubt that with her online harm reporting platform for young people –you can.

“I received an email from a student last week that said ‘thank you for saving

my life’,” Rachel said from her Buderim home. “It was anonymous and that was all that was said.

“Parents ring me or find me on social media, and they tell me they had no idea their son or daughter was engaging in these behaviours, but they know now because of the Stymie notification, and now they can help them,” she said.

“With Stymie, we haven’t just built a piece of technology, we’ve built a community. We put a human face on it and we build relationships with schools and young people. What we’re trying to do is to get kids to say something.

“In a funny way, I actually don’t want them to use Stymie. I would prefer they had the courage to find a responsible grown up who will listen and help them access the services they need; or to say ‘I need some help’ or ‘this person needs some help’ – but unfortunately that’s not the land we live in.”

Hundreds of schools across Australia, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates are subscribed to use the Stymie notification system. Rachel, a teacher for 30 years, is particularly proud of the 100% subscription renewal rate.

To introduce the platform into a new school, Stymie presenters visit in person on launch day and speak to each year

level about empathy, kindness and how to use the platform “respectfully and honourably”.

Students log in and fill out a short online form to make a notification about themselves or someone else. They can be anonymous and once submitted, notifications are encrypted and sent to the school to investigate and follow-up.

“Last year we delivered 66,000 notifications,” Rachel said. “About 25,000 were about bullying, the rest of them were about family violence, sexual harassment and assault; cyber bullying, self-harm, suicide ideation and discrimination.

“That’s 66,000 times over the last 12

With Stymie, we haven’t just built a piece of technology, we’ve built a community.

months a young person reached out for help for themselves or somebody else.

“This year, it is almost double that. That’s not because we have double the amount of schools, COVID has spurred this silent pandemic with mental health. I don’t think we have experienced the fullness of that in our youth here in Australia yet.

“This year I have seen some of the worst cases I have seen in my 30-year career of peer-to-peer harm in schools. At the centre of it has been the sharing of it on social media, so that shame is exacerbated and almost infinitely repeated, which makes it horrific.

“A lot of kids are finding it hard to feel hopeful. And that’s deeply concerning because hope pulls us out of places that we sometimes find ourselves in.”

Rachel’s advice to parents or carers worried about their kids?

“All we can do is talk to them and know that we are always available for them to speak with us,” she said.

“Speaking up is important but we don’t model this for kids very well. We need to get to a place where we can say to our mate ‘look, I love you, we’ve been friends forever but your racist joke or

harassment and one woman every nine days is killed by a current or former partner.

“We are asking kids to do big things, but we seem to lack the courage to model that for them. It’s great to have a conversation, but is that translating into supportive action?”

Rachel’s advice to kids to create a kinder world?

“If they see something, they need to say something,” she said.

“Listen to your gut. Those butterflies in your tummy? That’s your body telling you that you need to do something or that something is not right. Even if you are afraid, do it anyway.

“Also, ‘stop’ and ‘no’ are complete sentences, they don’t need explanations.”

In 2022, Rachel plans to grow Stymie to have presenters in every state, develop an online launch module that retains that personal touch and to add an after-hours helpline to Stymie to enable kids to speak to someone whenever they need to.

THE STYMIE STORY

A handmade ceramic bird with a broken wing sits in Rachel Downie’s office. It’s a colourful, tangible motivator that encourages her to keep going with her work. But it has a story that breaks just as many hearts as it inspires.

The hands that made that bird belonged to a Year Nine boy Rachel taught in art. He died by suicide, permanently ending the bullying at school and the hard times at home.

Amidst grief, shock and anger over the missed ‘if onlys’, Rachel came up with the idea for Stymie.

“He was such a gentle, kind and loving young man,” Rachel said.

“I guess that’s why he got targeted, he didn’t know how to stick up for himself and he didn’t have peers who were prepared to do that for him.

“Looking at that bird every day, knowing that if we had that information about that young boy ahead of time, my gut, my heart and my brain still tells me every day that he’d still be here – that’s what kept me going.

your homophobic joke? I’m not putting up with them anymore’.

“We have to model that courage and resilience to let them know to say it is ok to say something, and there is a way to say things that is kind and assertive.

“I started a hashtag called #nohateheremate. It lets that person know they’re out of line.

“Australians suck at that, we enable poor behaviour every day. That’s why one in five women experience sexual

Stymie won the Sunshine Coast Business Award Health and Wellness (small) in November. In the same month Rachel received the University of Southern Queensland Alumnus of the Year and Outstanding Alumnus in Education awards. Rachel, who was the Queensland Australian of the Year in 2020, was also a contestant in the most recent season of reality TV show Survivor. She finished 10th, was the oldest person in the group, confirmed George was as annoying in person as he appeared on screen and said the experience was “heaps of fun”.

“I would do it again in a blink. I learned a lot about myself and my life.”

“I didn’t want this to happen to another community.

“I think he would be just happy that there was an opportunity for others to get some help –even though he couldn’t get it himself.”

WATCH THE VIDEO ANIMATION On a Thursday in May to hear Rachel talk more about the boy who inspired Stymie.

Undone, the name of a ceramic sculpture by a Year Nine boy who died by suicide. Photo George Serras, National Museum of Australia

SIPS BITES AND

What’s brewing, cooking and happening...

PIGGYBACK!

Piggyback in Palmwoods is a hit with those keen to get a taste of the Asian street food that is literally ‘piggybacking’ off the popularity of the Tony Kelly Restaurant Group’s Riceboi in Mooloolaba & Giddy Geisha in the Maroochydore CBD. Yum!

HELLO EUDLO!

Tony Kelly’s next venture, is to bring the Eudlo General Store into a new era with the BEST pies on the Coast with a cosy café that will also feature an outdoor dining area, large rotisserie and woodfired pizza oven. You’ll still be able to grab essentials such as ice, gas, firewood and hay - yes hay! Read more, page 40.

TOAST OF THE TOWN

Fresh from winning the 2021 Restaurant and Catering Award for Excellence for its Burger Bar Rick’s Garage has opened Rick’s Bakehouse next door to the diner! Grab sourdough loaves, sweet treats and a Rick’s Bakehouse pie.

VEGETARIAN DELIGHTS

Christmas gift, anyone? Create and taste the fresh and easy flavour sensations from the VanillaFood Cookbook with more than 260 pages of beautiful vegetarian recipes. Buy online during summer for 20% off! Head to vanillafood.com. au and use the code SALE20.

FALL IN LOVE

If you’ve wanted to experience the magnificence of Tiffany’s Maleny without getting hitched, the Month of Love transforms the stunning venue into an a la carte fine dining restaurant for the month of February. This sells out quick so book now! The divine Tiffany’s High Tea will still be available so head to the hills! Meet Executive Chef Lee Montague on page 30.

WHARF WONDERS

The Wharf Mooloolaba! is growing in flavours with Kenilworth Country Bakery bringing their iconic artisan donuts and more to Mooloolaba. Plus, a restored fishing trawler will moor in the marina to serve fresh local seafood right off its deck – get ready for Prawn Star Sunshine Coast!

See page 34.

A NEW DAWN

Welcome to ALBA by Kuruvita - a café, providore, cooking school, pizzeria, bar, restaurant and creative space!

Peter Kuruvita’s signature style of global flavours will imbue every dish. Read more, page 38.

HELLO 2022!

Celebrate the Bella Venezia Group winning the Sunshine Coast Business Awards, Hospitality (Large Business) and ring in the new year with a first seating, threecourse feast for $95 or a fourcourse dining experience for $140. Both include a glass of French Champagne and live Jazz. Or head to Tony Kelly’s Market Bistro in the Maroochydore CBD where Head Chef Harry Lilai has prepared a $99 package including three courses and a glass of Mumm Book now!

SIP BACK AND RELAX

Cool off this summer with a Diablo Co cocktail! We’re loving the Black Cockatoo Coconut Flavoured Rum. Best enjoyed at Diablo Oasis Bar behind the Big Pineapple, where family-friendly and pet-friendly weekend sessions

include food trucks and live music. Read more on page 48 and download the FREE Diablo Co Cocktail Book.

UNDER THE SUN

Next door to Diablo Co, Sunshine & Sons shone at the Australian Gin Awards for 2021, winning Best in Class for Matured Gin for their Small Batch Barrel Aged Gin; Gold for their Original Dry Gin and Gold at the Australian Tasting Awards for its Original Vodka

The Woombye distillery opens from 10am daily with Secret Menu Cocktails on weekends. See page 46 for info on the upcoming Nil Desperandum Rum release.

FRESH SPIRITS

Beachtree

Distilling Co in Caloundra has launched pure artisanal organic gin and vodka using ethically and sustainablysourced native botanicals - from

bush to beach! Meanwhile, Kawana’s Paradise Rum has launched with aged rum, spiced rum, classic vodka, coconut vodka and classic that promises to be ‘bursting with flavours that will transport you to the crystalline seas, salty breezes and sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean’. We’ll drink to that!

LONG LUNCH

Settle in for long lazy lunches at Bask Eumundi with Long Lunches from 12pm -4pm every Friday and Saturday; or pop in for Wine & Bites from 5pm every Friday and Saturday. Plus, a Seafood Night from 4pm every Thursday!

DON’T MISS!

Bask Eumundi Wine Lunch with Gilbert Family Wines on Friday 21 January.

BOOK NOW!

Piggyback

Tiffany’s Maleny

Diablo Co

Sunshine & Sons

Kenilworth Country Bakery

NOSY Nostalgia

Matt Golinski shares his favourite food memories that are really on the nose and embedded in his heart.

Sometimes we don’t give our noses the credit they deserve.

We love to look at pretty things with our eyes and listen to nice music with our ears, but it’s our nostrils that are responsible for capturing and storing all the scents and the happy memories throughout our lives that go with them.

The chlorine vapour that transports us back to the summers when we spent 12 hours a day in the pool practicing our handstands and somersaults, only getting out to devour big chunks of sweet, icy watermelon and juicy mangoes.

The ‘freshly mowed lawn with a hint of mower fumes’, just before the ‘minerally afternoon thunderstorm’ wafted in, sends us straight back to all those carefree Christmas holidays when our main priorities in life were riding bikes and eating ice blocks.

Whether you live or holiday in Noosa, it will have no doubt provided you with an arsenal of olfactory triggers that will evoke an emotional response.

The familiar perfume of a favourite sunscreen mixed with salty sea air, the peaty earthiness of a rainforest, brewed tea and warm scones on a balcony framed by jasmine, even the diesel smell of a four-wheel drive that meant you were going on a beach adventure.

But the aromas that really send us spinning back in time are the food ones.

As a kid I was bought a hamburger from a little take away shop on the Maroochy River, and now when I get a whiff of that combination of toasty bun, grilled beef, charry onions, beetroot,

As a kid I was bought a hamburger from a little take away shop on the Maroochy River, and now when I get a whiff of that combination of toasty bun, grilled beef, charry onions, beetroot, tomato, lettuce and barbeque sauce, I almost become that 8-year-old boy dangling his legs over the edge of the Chambers Island bridge again.

A parcel of fish and chips might bring back that perfect family moment in time watching the sun set over the mountains with the river lapping at your feet.

Prawns grilling in their shells and garlic sizzling in olive oil could be that first date at a fancy restaurant with the person who you now share children and grandchildren with.

We’re so lucky to live in a paradise where building those beautiful fragrant flashbacks is easy.

We have some of the best quality and most diverse produce that’s easily accessible through weekly farmers markets, our switched-on fruit shops, fishmongers, butchers, brewers, distillers and providores - and hundreds of cafes and restaurants from Maleny to Kandanga, Caloundra to Noosa, all desperate to lodge their little piece of heaven deep into our hippocampus.

And if forward bookings for restaurants and accommodation on the coast over the next few months is anything to go by, there’s going to be a whole lot of schnozes at work inhaling everlasting memories and planting them forever into the subconscious of locals and visitors alike.

Happy sniffing!

Matt Golinski fires up the BBQ for a long hot summer with these dishes with a difference. Get grillin’! Wines matched by Tony Cox

Ingredients:

• 1 red onion, peeled and cut into 1cm rounds

• 1 fennel bulb, cut into wedges

• 1 red capsicum, quartered, pith and seeds removed

• 6 zucchini flowers, halved lengthwise

• 1 bunch broccolini

• 1 small eggplant, cut into 1cm rounds

• 2 tbs vegetable oil

• 2 tbs olive oil

• 2 tbs lemon juice

• ¾ cup natural Greek yoghurt

• ¼ cup tahini

SERVES

PRETENDER

SERVE WITH

PERFECT

PRETENTIOUS

• ¼ cup macadamias, roasted and roughly chopped

• 1 tbs sesame seeds, roasted

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp ground coriander

• ½ tsp paprika

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt flakes

Method:

• Lightly brush or spray the vegetables with vegetable oil, season well and grill on a hot BBQ until charred and slightly softened. Transfer to a tray and drizzle over the olive oil and lemon juice.

• Whisk together the yoghurt and tahini and season with salt and pepper.

• Mix the macadamias, sesame seeds, spices and salt together.

• Spread the yoghurt and tahini sauce onto a serving platter and arrange the vegetables on top.

• Sprinkle with the dukkah and serve warm.

PINEAPPLE, COCONUT SORBET

Ingredients:

Sorbet:

• 400 ml coconut cream

• 100gm castor sugar

Pancakes:

• 150gm plain flour

• 50 gm rice flour

• 2 tbs castor sugar

• 1 tsp dried yeast

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 egg

• 250 ml coconut milk

• ½ tsp pandan extract

• 50 ml water

• ½ tsp white wine vinegar

• 1 small pineapple, peeled and cut into 1cm slabs

• 100 gm light palm sugar, grated

• 50 ml lime juice

2015 Tyrrell’s Vat 1 Semillon, Hunter Valley, NSW $95-$100

2021 Jim Barry Assyrtiko, Clare Valley, SA $38-$42

2021 Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Semillon, Hunter Valley, NSW $22-$27

GRILLED VEGETABLES WITH TAHINI AND YOGHURT SAUCE AND MACADAMIA DUKKAH

BRAZILIAN STYLE ‘PICANHA’ STEAKS, BLACK EYED PEA, KIPFLER POTATO AND WATERCRESS SALAD, ROASTED GREEN PEPPERS AND CHIMMICHURRI

SERVE WITH PERFECT PRETENTIOUS

PRETENDER

Method:

• In a small saucepan, simmer the sugar, water and vinegar until it reaches 112°C. (soft ball stage)

• Carefully pour in the coconut cream (it will bubble and spit as it’s very hot) and bring back to the boil. Refrigerate until cold, then churn in an ice cream machine, or freeze in ice cube trays until set then blend until smooth in a food processor and refreeze.

• Mix together the dry ingredients for the pancakes and whisk in the egg, coconut milk and pandan extract until smooth. Cover and leave to prove at room temperature for 1 -2 hours.

• Lightly oil the pineapple and char grill until well coloured. Cut into triangles and refrigerate.

• Put the palm sugar and lime juice in a small saucepan and simmer until the sugar has dissolved. Transfer to a serving jug.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg rump cap or sirloin, cut into 1.5cm steaks

• 1 x 400gm tin black eyed peas or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 300gm kipfler potatoes

• 2 cups picked watercress

• 2 egg yolks

• 1 tbs Dijon mustard

• 2 tbs lemon juice

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• ¼ cup chives

• 2 green capsicums

• 1 small red onion

• 2 tbs sherry vinegar

• 2 tbs olive oil

Chimichurri:

• 1 cup flat parsley leaves

• 1 clove garlic

• 1 small red chilli

• 2 tbs lemon juice

• 4 tbs olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Lightly oil a BBQ plate or a heavybased pan and spoon large tablespoons of the pancake mix using a medium heat. The plate should be just hot enough that the pancakes cook through without turning them, a lot like a traditional crumpet.

• Serve the pancakes and pineapple on a platter with the palm sugar syrup and coconut sorbet on the side.

• Garnish with the lemon balm or mint.

SERVE WITH

PRETENDER

Method:

• Thread the steaks onto metal skewers in a semicircular shape. Cover and refrigerate until needed.

• Put the kipfler potatoes in a small saucepan with water and bring to boil.

• Simmer until tender when pricked with a knife, drain and cool. Slice into thin rounds and refrigerate.

• Whisk together the egg yolks, mustard and lemon juice then slowly whisk in the vegetable oil to make the dressing.

• Whisk in the chopped chives and season with salt and pepper.

• Grill the capsicums and red onion in its skin on the char grill of a BBQ until both are completely black all over. Allow to cool, then peel and slice both into strips. Dress with the olive oil and sherry vinegar and season with salt and pepper.

• Place all of the chimichurri ingredients into a small blender (like a nutribullet) and blend to a paste.

• Lightly oil and season the beef skewers and char grill quickly on a hot BBQ. Set aside to rest for a few minutes.

• Mix the beans, potatoes and watercress and dress with chive dressing.

• Spread a generous spoonful of chimichurri onto each of four plates and place the picanha steaks on top.

• Scatter the peppers and red onions over the steaks and serve the bean and potato salad on the side.

PERFECT PRETENTIOUS

2014 Bodega Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard ‘River Stones’ Malbec, Mendoza, ARG $190-$195

2018 Bodega Catena Zapata High Mountain Vines Malbec, Mendoza, ARG $35-$40

2020 Alamos Malbec, Mendoza, ARG $20-$25

NV Pitchfork Moscato, Margaret River, WA $19-$24

2019 Yalumba Botrytis Viognier, Wrattonbully, SA $28-$32

2019 Ata Rangi ‘Kahu’ Botrytis Riesling, Martinborough, NZ $40-$45

PERFECTPairing

With winemaking experience going back six generations

Gilbert Family Wines, based near Mudgee in New South Wales, draws fruit from three distinct regions, all

When you add family roots dating back to 1839 in South Australia’s Eden Valley there is so much collective history and knowledge to draw from.

Now Will, the sixth generation and recently crowned Young Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller Wine, is working his magic alongside father Simon crafting wines from Orange, Mudgee as well as Eden Valley.

Best of all on Friday 21 January 2022, local wine guy and distributor of Gilbert Family Wines, Travis Watson, will be

At the heart of any great gathering is connection and this will be on show at the Gilbert Family Wine Lunch at Bask Eumundi for a lovingly-curated long lunch that will showcase the family businesses behind great wines and the freshest, seasonal food. Tony Cox previews what will be a perfect food and wine pairing.

hosting a lunch at Bask Eumundi with wines from Mudgee and Orange.

Bask Eumundi is dedicated to the long lunch so the chance to pair with Gilbert Family Wines is a match made in heaven. The newest dining location in the region is dedicated to La Dolce Vita – meaning you go to enjoy the good life – fine food, wine and time spent conversing.

Like the Gilbert generations, Bask Eumundi owners Jess and Jack want nothing more than the restaurant to feel like home. Drawing from the Interior design skills of Jess and the extensive

food knowledge and talent of Jack, Bask Eumundi is both stylish and a food journey to behold.

The four-course menu on the day will take you on an adventure that will be beautifully matched with Gilbert Family wines.

They include the 2021 Petillant-Naturel Rosé, 2021 Blanc and 2019 Rouge – pretty simple names that communicate effectively what is in the bottle.

Let’s dig a little deeper.

The 2021 Petillant-Naturel (Pet-Nat for those under 30) Rosé is 100% sangiovese grown in Mudgee at 520m altitude. Just to explain Pet-Nat starts life with the same process as Methode Traditionelle the only difference being there is no disgorgement, therefore no cleaning up of the wine after the second fermentation and hence it is usually cloudy.

Usually a little funkier too, so put yourself in hipster heaven for this effervescent number that has watermelon nuances, a textured mid-palate and delicate bead.

The 2021 Blanc is an homage to all things Alsace being a blend of Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. Grown

in the Central Ranges and Orange each varietal undergoes different treatment in the winery to produce a wine where the primary fruit characters of each are discernible with the respective flavours of citrus, nashi pear and rose water identifying Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer.

The use of neutral French oak, warm skin fermentation and amphora for certain parcels adds texture with cool ferments for other parcels maintaining freshness and fruit purity.

The 2019 Rouge consist of fruit from

both Orange and Mudgee with shiraz (84%) being the dominant grape with 15% pinot noir and 1% Riesling.

Designed to emphasise fruit flavours stalks were removed and a cold soaking of the must utilised with fermentation occurring in neutral vessels, namely old oak and stainless steel. Similar neutral vessels were used for maturation prior to bottling to create the resultant textural wine with berry, chocolate and plum flavours.

Gilbert Family Wines have the benefit of six generations of knowledge and experience with the added dynamism of youth and connection to current trends – in other words the best of both worlds.

Looking forward to this memorable long lunch at Bask Eumundi to kick the new year off in the best possible way.

Usually a little funkier too, so put yourself in hipster heaven for this effervescent number that has watermelon nuances

Winemaker Will Gilbert

PERFECT Match

Tiffany’s Maleny is more than a view. Deb Caruso meets the chef dishing up food that is as breathtaking as the award-winning venue.

Why did you become a chef?

I always knew I wanted to be a chef. I grew up in England and at 17, I left school to be a chef in the British Navy and travelled the world. I was in the right place at the right time and progressed to being the Captain’s chef.

The Navy taught me the importance of standards, structure and teamwork. Everyone has to be well-dressed; clean and tidy. That has to be first and foremost. It’s the little details, like a freshly-ironed shirt; that’s also particularly relevant in a place like Tiffany’s where there are high standards.

What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far?

This job. I’ve been here for almost a decade and I love it. There is so much trust and support from the owners, Kelly and Dave. Kelly literally found me on Gumtree when I advertised myself as a chef!

What do you love about being a chef?

The comraderie. You spend a lot of time with your team and you bounce off each other. I also love the creative side of it and keeping it exciting by trying new things and sampling new ingredients. There are four chefs in the kitchen here and we are very fortunate to have time to create and experiment with new dishes.

What do you love about local produce?

We have so many local producers to draw from. I love the eggs from Walker Farm; Ashbern Strawberries from Glass House Mountains; we utilise products from Kenilworth Dairies and Suncoast Fresh provides foraged sea herbs and edible flowers. We have found that our Month of Love restaurant in February (when we open as an a la carte

restaurant), is a great opportunity to tap into locally-grown and seasonal food. This year we will use the Hinterland Feijoas Jam as a glaze for our duck breast, it is very unique and delicious. There’s always different ways to support local.

What is your approach to food?

Anyone can read a recipe but I like to think of a way to elevate the process so the customer has a memorable experience. I always ask our waitstaff for feedback, as the proof is in the pudding - pun intended!

Growing up in Northern England I was brought up on comfort food such as homemade pies. I love the challenge of taking something so humble and developing it further to create a dining experience rather than something you reheat and eat while sitting in front of the TV. It took me a while to understand this and the importance of having the

freedom to design and create. There is always trial and error, and this is part of creating something special, before presenting it to our guests.

Do you cook at home?

Yeah I have two hungry boys who need to be fed. The kids love making pizza and they get involved in making spaghetti bolognaise or curries.

What are some of your favourite dishes?

There’s a few and we’ll be featuring some of them again for the Month of Love

We do an amazing Fraser Isle Spanner Crab ravioli with prawn served with a crab bisque and saffron butter on wilted spinach with bisque foam on top; there’s also the Pork Belly braised in Tilse’s Apple Cider with a celeriac puree and the braising liquid is reduced to a syrup with poached pear. It’s clean yet hearty and earthy. What’s nice is that Tilse’s Apple Cider actually comes from the Director’s

family and their 100-year-old apple orchard.

I also love the Confit Salmon that is gently cooked in oil flavoured with peppercorns, bay leaves, coriander seeds and the zest of a lemon, lime and orange and served with a saffron potato puree, simple lemon beurre blanc and a mix of pickled beetroots, roasted baby beets, sometimes pickled Dutch carrots, turnips or seasonal baby vegetables.

My favourite is the crème brulee which is made by steeping the Limonada Rosa Tielka Tea leaves in Maleny cream and then we serve it over dry ice and pour a pot of tea into the bowl to produce an aromatic smoke. It’s such a sensory experience with lots of theatre, the smell of the tea, the taste of the tea and the stunning visual of the smoke wafting over the table!

What do you love about Tiffany’s?

It’s the whole package – the view, the stunning chapel and venue and the trust from the owners that allow us to make sure the food is as impeccable as the service and the facilities. We have the freedom and flexibility to develop each dish to be its best. That’s exciting for the team, it’s motivating for them to constantly be creating and it means we can take it up a notch every single day.

We love creating dishes for our couples that will not only complement their event but be as memorable as their wedding day itself.

Any advice for young chefs?

Get as much experience as early as possible, learn as much as you can and then settle down and find your place. Everything is a learning experience. Have pride in yourself and your work.

What is your favourite ingredient?

Moreton Bay Bugs. They’re amazing. It’s an incredible product that should be a global sensation and they’re just from around the corner.

We have two dishes that feature them. One is an entrée – Moreton Bay Bug with lime nut butter and a light salad of tomato, fennel, burnt lime, preserved lemon. It’s pretty simple and fresh to allow the flavour to shine.

For mains, we do a Moreton Bay Bug with a lime nut butter on a vodka risotto with a watercress and white wine reduction. It’s superb.

DON’T MISS

Every February Tiffany’s opens as an a la carte restaurant to celebrate the Month of Love. Book now!

www.tiffanysmaleny.com.au

MORETON BAY BUGS - LIME NUT BUTTER

- FENNEL AND PRESERVED LEMON SALAD

Ingredients:

• Moreton Bay Bugs - lime nut butter - fennel and preserved lemon salad

Fennel & preserved lemon salad:

• 1/2 x fennel, thinly sliced

• 1/2 x fennel, thinly sliced then pickled

• 1/2 preserved lemon, defleshed and thinly sliced

• 1 x tomato, deseeded and thinly sliced

• 1 bunch baby watercress

• Drizzle of olive oil

Lime nut butter:

• 275g unsalted butter

• 50g roasted macadamia nuts (crushed)

• 1 x garlic clove crushed

• Juice and zest of 2 limes

• Chopped chives

• Chopped parsley

Pickling solution (if needed):

• 1 cup white wine vinegar

• 1/3 cup water

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp all spice

• Small cinnamon stick

• 1/2 tsp celery seeds

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds

• 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns

Method:

To make the lime nut butter

• Soften the butter slightly and add the juice and zest of 2 limes, the crushed garlic and roasted macadamia nuts then fold into the butter, season with salt and pepper. This is plenty for this recipe and will keep well in your fridge for you to use elsewhere, on things like prawns or even tossed through some steamed greens

To make the salad

• Combine ingredients minus the olive oil and set aside

• Take the Moreton Bay Bugs and in a medium to hot pan with a drizzle of oil cook for about 2 minutes before turning the Bugs over, cook for a further 2 minutes before adding a good tablespoon of the lime nut butter, once the butter starts to froth baste the Bugs by spooning over for a few seconds and removing from the heat. At this point when the pan of Bugs is off the heat add your chopped chives and parsley. Re-baste the Bugs before placing them in the middle of your plate.

• Dress the salad with a drizzle of olive oil oil before placing a generous helping on top of the Bugs, served with burnt limes

Method for pickling solution (if needed)

• Combine all ingredients in a non-reactive saucepan and bring to the boil, once boiling reduce heat and simmer for 30 mins, strain and chill.

ITALIAN Fairytale

Like the Italian folktale this award-winning restaurant dishes up a fairytale experience. Carlie Wacker enters the world of Bella Venezia.

Stepping into Bella Venezia makes me feel like Sofia Loren – it’s old school Hollywood meets the romance of Italy. Rich gemstone-coloured velvet seating creates intimacy and luxury but the décor is just one part that makes this award winning restaurant and bar an absolute standout.

The experience of dining out is always special but made even more memorable when it provides a true sense of escapism. One simply forgets they are only metres from the sand of Mooloolaba Beach - a hop, skip and a jump away from wet feet as you immerse yourself in a Bella Venezia affair. This is precisely why it’s a sought-after venue for special events, romantic dates and proposals.

So, with the visual senses delighted as one gets lost in the luxury of the surrounds it is important to note that food and wine is the next sensory adventure you will be taken on. The menu offers a first-class taste of Italy using both locally sourced products and premium quality imported Italian ingredients.

It is clear the chefs are passionate about producing traditional and cleverly curated dishes that carry us through our journey to Italy here on the Sunshine Coast. Signature dishes are coveted by the regulars like Linguine ai Gamberoni with Mooloolaba King Prawns; Tortellini Di Zucca which is a pumpkin, ricotta and macadamia nut-filled, handcrafted tortellini with noisette butter, fried sage and ricotta salata; and the world-famous Tiramisu using Seppeltsfield Grand Tokay.

They offer an a la carte menu; fourcourse tasting menu, vegan and children’s menus plus an extensive and very exciting wine menu that boasts over 400 wines, 60 of which are available by the glass.

This part of the experience is taken very seriously with all wines are stored in temperature-controlled environments and new wines sourced regularly, including purchases from private auctions.

It’s no wonder the wine list has won them a 3 Glass rating at the 2021 and 2020 Australian Wine List of the Year Awards and the 2020 Wine Spectators ‘Award of Excellence’

Bella Venezia Wine Director Todd Young said they were the only Sunshine Coast restaurant to receive such an award from the New York based Wine Spectator Magazine this year.

“The award acknowledges the dedication and investment we have placed into our extensive wine program,” he said. “This recognition is great for both Mooloolaba and the

PHOTO: BARRY ALSOP, EYES WIDE OPEN IMAGES

Todd and Kristine Young

Tortellini Di Zucca

...old school Hollywood meets the romance of Italy.

Sunshine Coast.

The awards are coming in locally as well having just won the Sunshine Coast Business Of The Year Award – Hospitality (large) and owner Kristine Young could not be any prouder.

“We consistently deliver delicious modern Italian cuisine and outstanding service to over 60,000 customers a year,” she said. “Bella Venezia has won many awards over the past five years; however, this is the award we are most proud of, due to the support from our local Sunshine Coast community.” .

Against all odds, with the Covid 19 Pandemic and challenges faced by the hospitality industry, Bella Venezia is proud to have not only survived, but grown and expanded over the past few years and is open seven days and nights a week with 38 staff, including eight full time employees.

Chef’s hats off to the powerhouse behind this long lasting, iconic and

fairytale restaurant, Kristine Young.

“Leadership, professionalism, and resilience drives success in our business,” she said. “We have a highly experienced team who are motivated to

Award Winning

achieve success, and this is a result of our constant planning, reviewing and focus on constant improvement.”

It’s hard to improve perfection! Bravo Bella Venezia!

Modern Italian Restaurant

For over 38 years Bella Venezia has been a dining institution and is loved by locals and visitors.

Kristine Young Director Bella Venezia

FOOD PHOTOS: FOOD ON THE COAST

Beef Cheek

Capesante

Linguine ai Gamberoni

SATISFYING Summer

The Sunshine Coast loves spending summer making happy memories with family and friends. Carlie Wacker discovers the perfect destination to satisfy.

The cafes, bars and restaurants offer a world of wonderful flavours and dining experiences at The Wharf Mooloolaba. A typical weekend sees the early risers grab a coffee and breakfast, followed by the long lunch set tucking into plates and laughter; the cocktail crew and brew hounds sip cold beverages at sunset; and dinner dates and parties carry through into the night.

It’s worth adding every food offering at to your list of must-trys this summer.

To take the guess work out of making a decision I have the curated a list of the fabulous flavours on offer at this Wharf wonderland.

Rice Boi – This joint has a cult following and is arguably one of the most popular places to eat on the Sunny Coast. The cuisine is modern-Asian with ramen, bao, dumplings and the most outrageously good Katsu curry fries. Think Japanese Izakaya dive bar with spectacular water views.

SPERO - Think Greek goodies like spanakopita, calamari, saganaki grilled cheese with a family-friendly home style vibe.

Il Vento – Think woodfire pizza with fresh homemade pasta, this authentic Italian restaurant offers wholesome Italian cooking and dining. Owner and executive Chef Ibrahim (Bob) is hands on in the business - it is his passion and traditional cooking skills that makes Il Vento the success that it is.

The Dock Mooloolaba – A dynamic restaurant and bar that specialises in smoked meats, charcoal grill with quality beers and an extensive wine menu, The Dock has a very cool and welcoming vibe.

Ninth St – Bigger is better at this American-style restaurant with hotdogs, burgers, sundaes and loaded cocktails all on the menu. If you’re feeling particularly hungry, tackle The 3kg Hotdog challenge to win $50 plus a free tee (and bragging rights of course!).

El Bigoton – The owners Ana and Alex arrived on the Sunshine Coast from Brazil in 2016. They make their food from scratch using authentic flavours and ingredients, offering dynamic and mouth-watering Latin food. El Bigoton screams family fun and sharing.

Fudgee’s Lolly Shop – This lolly store is The Wharf’s sweet heart with delicious fresh fudge made on site and a mouthwatering range of ice-cream.

SEE Restaurant – The only restaurant in Mooloolaba that offers over-water dining. From trawler to table you will love the modern Australian cuisine using the freshest local seafood (the seafood platters are amazing) and views that will make for a memorable get together for lunch or dinner or a special event like a wedding. Most dishes are gluten-free (including fish & chips and soft shell crab!) so coeliacs love it!

Boston Shaker Bar – An uber-cool Prohibition-style cocktail bar with art deco décor and a smashing cocktail offering. Owner and local Sunny Coaster Olivia had a vision to create something that was not available on the coast so she made it happen and we love her for that.

Savvy Squire - Epic views, beer garden, keg wall, bistro, this place is pumping. The menu offers great quality steaks, fish and chips, craft beers and so much more. Bookings are required for the dining hall but there are plenty of places within the walls of the Savvy Squire to walk in from 10am-10pm daily.

Fior Di latte Gelateria – Behind the pink Willy Wonka chocolate bar door is Fior Di Latte Gelateria. The smell of freshly-baked cookies, bowls of ripe lemons on display and row after row of creamy, frosty, intensely flavoured gelato, just waiting to be tasted.

Imagine fairy bread soaking in Eumundi Milk; rhubarb poaching for strawberry and rhubarb gelato; and coco pops at the ready to be sprinkled over the

..specialises in smoked meats, charcoal grill with quality beers and an extensive wine menu

The Dock

best chocolate milkshake you’ll ever taste, the in-house creations are divine! Grownups must try the Campari and orange gelato.

Kick back on the custom-made melting gelato bench seat as your tastebuds live it up!

Lafinca – For a simple and honest breakfast, lunch, tapas and everything in between. The best part about La Finca’s all day breakfast, brunch and lunch menu is that it varies to accommodate seasonal changes and local produce, so you can expect new and exciting dishes with every visit. It’s a really cool, relaxed vibe.

The Booking Box - This locally-owned family business is not only the Number One booking agent on the coast – but the perfect place to grab a coffee, muffin, croissant or wrap and chill out on the waterfront deck, as you contemplate your next adventure.

The flavours are everchanging as The Wharf continues to attract the best in the business and is super excited to announce the news that one of the most ICONIC bakeries on the Sunshine Coast renowned for its 1kg donut challenge and Australia’s first coffee in a donut, the world famous Kenilworth Country Bakery is coming to The Wharf!

This brilliant bakery will bring an incredible range of donuts, pies and they even have a 1kg sausage roll as well as

amazing coffee from Solid Ground.

Plus Prawn Star Sunshine Coast is opening soon with an array of fresh local seafood served right off the back of a restored fishing trawler. This floating restaurant moored to the marina is an experience that reflects the Sunny Coast laidback lifestyle and will knock your socks off.

So buckle up for the foodie ride of your life at The Wharf Mooloolaba – where satisfying Summer memories are made.

With the picturesque Mooloolah River and Marina as its backdrop and a variety of dining experiences available, you can embrace a slower pace and take a seat at one of our local eateries at The Wharf Mooloolaba. There’s something for the whole family with delicious options including café’s, bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect setting for you to connect, create and celebrate life’s simple pleasures.

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

Ilvento

Rice Boi

El Bigoton Spero

COMMUNITY Spirit

It was a night of commemorations and celebrations of community spirit as the village of Peregian gathered together under the stars for a good cause.

More than 160 people gathered for the sold-out Spirit of Peregian Under the Stars annual charity gala to reflect on the second anniversary of the Peregian Fires, commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy and celebrate community and raise money for Peregian Surf Club.

Master-of-Ceremonies and internationally-regarded poet Rupert McCall shared his rousing poem, A Firefighters Dream, and guest speaker Rob Frey, the Noosa Fire Station Officer who led the Peregian firefighting defence against the 2019 fires, shared his thoughts and experience from that time.

High profile local chefs Peter Kuruvita, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Adriano Zumbo provided canapes and three-courses with sensational gelato by Peregian Pantry and local drinks from Diablo Co, Heads of Noosa and Boiling Pot.

Event organiser Leigh McCready said more than $55,000 was raised for the re-building of the Peregian Surf Club.

A coffee shop with a European influence. Delicious food made fresh daily.

ANEW

Deb Caruso discovers what awaits when an award-winning chef creates a multi-faceted foodie destination.

Celebrity chef Peter Kuruvita planned to never work in a restaurant kitchen again, let alone own the actual restaurant. Yet the potential offered by the site of his newest venture, Alba by Kuruvita, was too good to pass up.

Since first coming to Noosa to open Noosa Beach House by Peter Kuruvita at Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort (thenSheraton Noosa) he hasn’t looked back, settling into the seaside village with wife Karen and three sons.

During his eight years at the helm of Noosa Beach House, the restaurant received many accolades including Business of the Year at the 2019 Sunshine Coast Business Awards.

Peter’s time at Noosa Beach House came to an end a few months ago with him saying at the time that it was a truly memorable era with an incredible and hard-working team and strong community support.

“I thought I was done with restaurants,” Peter laughs. “But the

opportunity to do a restaurant and so much more really excited me.”

Situated on Alba Close at Parkridge and tucked behind Noosa Springs; the venue sits on the site of the original Noosa White sand quarry and ALBA is the Latin word for ‘white’ and Spanish for ‘dawn’.

The project will certainly herald a new dawn in one-stop food experiences as a hub of food and beverage offerings.

“We’ll start in the morning as a café with fresh juice or First Batch Coffee for takeaway or sit-down breakfast; the bar menu and pizzeria will fire up and run all day; and at midday our lunch menu will start in the dining room,” Peter said.

“Happy Hour kicks off from 4pm to 5pm, and the restaurant evolves into a more formal dining experience in the evening with table service and a different menu of signature dishes.

“Breakfast on the weekend will offer a few Sri Lankan specials like Egg Hoppers, String Hoppers,” he said. “We’ll close at 5pm on Sunday but locals can pre-order a takeaway Sunday roast.”

I thought I was done with restaurants

Expect the Peter Kuruvita favourites including his famous Sri Lankan Snapper Curry; Black Pepper & Curry Leaf Prawns; and Ginger Chilli Mud Crab

“The bar will have Boiling Pot on tap and we’re working with them to create our own beer; Noosa’s newest distillery, Seabourne Distillery, will also feature.

The self-serve Providore will offer convenience with a strong focus on local produce and ready-made meals including George’s Soul Kitchen, from the founder of Voodoo Bacon as well as Peter’s own ready-made Kuruvita Curries and a collaboration with Olssons Salt.

But it is the ‘Chef’s Kitchen’ that really excites Peter with a purpose-built creative space that has been custom-designed to host not only a Cooking School but Chef’s Kitchen and creative Studio Space.

ALBA by KURUVITA team: Executive Chef Brendan Dedini, Chef’s Kitchen Manager Bree-anna Brunjes, Owner Peter Kuruvita and Reservations Manager Jessica Iapella

“I can’t wait to start on a cooking school and chef’s table programme,” he said. “We’ll even be able to hire the space out as a fully-wired studio kitchen with audio visual technology and cameras already in place.

“It’s a chef’s dream!”

The décor incorporates natural elements and coastal hues with sound-proofing and being a good neighbour to the Parkridge residents considered a top priority.

Peter has substantial support behind him including the likes of the Stoddart Australia, who will deck out the Chef’s Kitchen space with Giorik and Smeg appliances.

Then there’s the stars of the foodie world including the likes of Ora King Salmon, Fino Food, Olsson Salt and Chef’s Works.

With the launch of Kuruvita Curries, a restaurant, bar, café, providore, cooking school and creative studio, it doesn’t look like Peter will be hanging up the apron anytime soon – and for that we are very grateful.

Alba Noosa opens December 2021!

LET’S GO Eudlo

Tony Kelly’s quest to create amazing dining experiences continues with the opening of his tenth venue, Eudlo General Store. Deb Caruso uncovers their secret ingredient.

Fresh off the back of opening Piggyback in Palmwoods, leading Sunshine Coast restaurateur and chef Tony Kelly is on a mission to create the Sunshine Coast’s best pies and to breathe new life into a much-loved Eudlo icon.

The Tony Kelly Restaurant Group have redefined Asian street food with the phenomenal Riceboi in Mooloolaba; Giddy Geisha in the Maroochydore CBD and now Piggyback in Palmwoods.

But it’s the humble Australian meat pie that Tony has set his attention to as the next big attraction in the region. He believes they have refined the recipe for the perfect pie which will be available exclusively at his latest venture, the refurbished Eudlo General Store.

Mr Kelly along with hospitality industry stalwart Luke Stringer are the team behind the recently redeveloped Eudlo General Store which has serviced the local community since 1925.

“What I work on with my hospitality ventures is to ensure they are all famous for at least one thing, for example at Rice Boi it’s curry and beer, Market Bistro is famous for its wine as well as service and bistro style food and after discovering the recipe for the ‘Holy Grail’ of pies, I am sure the Eudlo General Store will be famous for great coffee and mastering the simplicity of beautiful house made pies,” say Tony.

The perfect pie is big business – many Australians have spent quality time researching the topic in all its forms from pie floaters to shepherd’s pie, but the Kelly gang have put in the hard yards too and come up trumps.

“We have been working on perfecting

the pastry for the pies for quite a while and I really believe it’s the best pie I have ever tasted. The base has a nice texture and crunch and the top is flaky like a croissant while the inside will be filled with delicious sticky beef cheeks slow cooked in red wine,” he boasts. “We’ll

also have other amazing pies including chicken, leek and baby peas as well as lamb and rosemary which all be available in traditional as well as family size to take away.”

Sold Tony, you had me at sticky beef cheeks.

Artist impression

There are big plans for this Eudlo icon - the next stage of redevelopment will include a curated outdoor dining area featuring a large rotisserie and woodfired pizza oven.

“Over the years, the Eudlo General Store has been an essential meeting place for people to catch up, buy some essentials, enjoy a bite to eat or even get married out the back,” Tony said.

“We really feel we’ve done the building and its heritage justice and we can’t wait for the local community to enjoy what

we have to offer.”

Let’s go Eudlo! We can’t wait to step into the ever changing and always exciting world of breakfast, lunch, pies and parties at the Eudlo General Store.

WANT MORE? Download the interview with Tony Kelly from our podcast.

Eudlo General Store will be famous for great coffee and mastering the simplicity of beautiful house made pies

JOIN THEClub

Whether you are a wine aficionado or amateur, if you’re looking for a no-wank wine club, Market Wine Store is here to satisfy your needs with specially-tailored experiences designed to heighten your understanding and enjoyment of viticulture.

In addition to weekly in-store tastings, the Wine clubs are personally hosted by one of the team and paired with exquisite food from Market Bistro with generally 6-8 wines featured at each event.

Start with My First Wine Club which offers the perfect introduction to the world of wine in a fun, relaxed environment over a series of dinners designed to demystify the wine world

They say there is a club for everyone. Deb Caruso raises a glass to what’s on offer at Market Wine Store.

and let members discover wine while they dine.

“We want to encourage people to explore the world of wine in a fun and relaxed environment,” Market Wine Store owner Tony Kelly said.

“My First Wine Club has no pressure or expectations of pre-existing knowledge. We’re about great food and discovering great wine in a relaxed environment.”

Perfect for vino virgins, the events look at wine production, styles, regions and so much more.

“Understanding more about the wine and how to taste it as you consume it deepens the appreciation of what goes into delivering cracking wines,” Tony said. “What we don’t do is tell you what

to like or how it should taste, that’s your job.”

From Shiraz 101 to Chardonnay 101, these events explore the wine type with eight different wines matched with a three-course meal prepared by Market Bistro Head Chef Harry Lilai.

With a baseline wine knowledge established and your thirst whetted for more adventures of the wine kind, step up your journey into wine wonderland with the Single Bottle Club

I suspect the challenge to find one bottle of each fine, rare, hard-to-find and expensive bottles readily accepted by

CONTEMPORARY EUROPEAN BISTRO

A place to meet, and enjoy simply delicious food

Market Wine Store Manager Peter Marchant whose diverse career includes being the state chairman and member of the national executive for Sommeliers Australia for five years.

He has consulted to many of Queensland’s leading restaurants, judged in multiple wine shows and in 2014 was

selected as a scholar for the Len Evans Tutorial, billed as the world’s more exclusive wine school.

Tony said it was great to have someone who is so respected and connected to the industry.

“Through his extensive contacts, Pete loves to source special bottles for customers, curate special events and share stories about the people and places that he has hand-picked to grace the shelves at Market Wine Store,” he said.

“Not only is he committed to featuring the best products at the best price, but also to ensure that there is a focus on mostly Australian and New Zealand wines plus a significant presence of Champagne; craft beers and spirits.

“For the Single Bottle Club, Peter finds older and rarer ‘unicorn’ wines and fun verticals and horizontals and paired with four courses and special guests,” he said.

The Single Bottle Club has explored grower Champagnes, which are those grown and made by the same person; celebrated five decades of Yarra Yering Red No. 1 going back to 1977 and including the 2019 vintage which James Halliday named as Wine of the Year; and has hosted special guests.

One such guest was Michael Hill Smith, who was the first Australian to pass the rigorous Master of Wine examination, and has been awarded an Order of Australia for his contribution to the Australian Wine Industry.

He is also the co-founder of Shaw + Smith in the Adelaide Hills and Tolpuddle Vineyards in Tasmania, and guided guests through four Tolpuddle Chardonnays and four Pinot Noirs from 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2020.

“To have someone of Michael’s calibre and with the knowledge and passion that he has for winemaking was a rare experience and a treat for wine lovers,” Tony said.

The third club just sounds like a heap of fun! The Market Lunch Club has rotating guests sharing new releases and fun and exclusive wines designed to deepen people’s appreciation and understanding of wine that’s as impressive on the palate as on the plate.

Whatever your passion or preference, Market Wine Store’s clubs offer a fun and fantastical journey into fine flavours.

I’ll drink to that! Find out more www.marketwinestore.com.au

Market wine Store Manager Peter Marchant

Idée Fixe literally translates as obsession or passion and represents the latest step in the Vasse Felix story which commenced in 1967.

With Vasse Felix already wellestablished in the northern area of Margaret River and producing chardonnay and cabernet that comfortably sit at the upper echelons of both varieties in Australia, the purchase of vineyards situated in Karridale in the cooler southern area of Margaret River, where they discovered Champagne clones in the vineyard, gave rise to the opportunity to grow cool climate chardonnay and interpret that as sparkling wine.

The vineyard is sited on calcareous soils which means it is rich in calcium, a feature of the Côte des Blancs in Champagne where chalk soils are home to chardonnay grapes that feature in some of the greatest and long-lived Champagnes – think Salon, Krug Clos du Mesnil among many splendid drinks.

Whilst not putting the Idée Fixe wines at the same level as Salon et al they represent an exciting new sparkling wine range, focused on chardonnay, which promise to be a third premium string to the bow of Vasse Felix in conjunction with chardonnay and cabernet.

The two wines are a blanc which is 100% chardonnay; and the rosé which is 91% chardonnay with the addition of 9% still pinot noir, both made using the traditional method.

Let’s start with the 2019 Premier Brut Blanc de Blancs. Featuring handpicked fruit and gently-pressed free run juice; the trademark chardonnay flavours of green apple and lemon are immediately obvious. With a fine acid line and saline edge towards the back of the palate it is a wine that makes the perfect aperitif or would sit comfortably next to some freshly-shucked oysters.

The 2019 Idée Fixe Brut Rosé features 91% chardonnay stained with 9% pinot noir. On the palate the power of the pinot noir was evident, with the aged oak nuance from the pinot noir providing mid-palate breadth to complement the

drive and freshness of the chardonnay. This is a wine that comfortably can be enjoyed with duck as a main course and at this early stage of its life would be better served in a burgundy glass rather than a flute to allow the wine to open up.

Idée Fixe is the culmination of the desire to produce exemplary sparkling wine in the Margaret River wine region, a fixation Vasse Felix has held for decades. The dedicated sparkling wine production facility, physically independent from Vasse Felix which lies in the northern area of Margaret River, is sure to guarantee a total dedication to extracting the highest possible quality from their exemplary vineyards. Enjoy!

...the perfect aperitif that would sit comfortably next to some freshly-shucked oysters.

PINEAPPLE · parfait gin ·

A contemporary tropical fruit salad gin packed with flavour that tastes like a holiday. Pineapple, passionfruit, strawberry, mango, vanilla and coconut combine to make a surprising, delightful and evocative gin.

We’d love to see you at our Distillery Door!

Open every day 10am ‘til sunset. 104 Nambour Connection Rd, Woombye gday@sunshineandsons.com.au | sunshineandsons.com.au

SPREAD THE Sunshine

The team at Sunshine & Sons, the distillers at Woombye, continue to go from strength-to-strength picking up major awards at the recent Australian Gin Awards. Tony Cox discovers there is more on the horizon for this powerhouse distillery.

After just 18 months in business, Sunshine & Sons shone at the Australian Gin Awards where their Original Dry Gin won Gold and the real star – the Small Batch Barrel Aged Gin - won the Best in Class trophy for Best Matured Gin

With 370 entries submitted across seven categories the result is confirmation the team is on the right track, with on-premise, retail and online sales showing an uptick once the results were announced.

The experienced team, forever humble, put it down to the passion and commitment of Head Distiller, Adam Chapman, who has a diverse background across both wine and spirit production. They are proud that Adam’s labours are seeing him acknowledged by his peers as

being in the upper echelon of his craft in the country.

With the gins performing well and having distribution with all of Australia’s major retail groups, the business is in a position where new offerings can be contemplated.

Being Queensland born and bred, the logical next step was to utilise the abundance of sugar cane (fun fact: Queensland grows 85% of Australia’s sugar cane) and produce a rum with Queensland molasses as the base ingredient.

Nil Desperandum, meaning ‘do not despair or worry’, is the next chapter in the book. Named after the first licenced premise in Woombye, it was the Cobb & Co staging point and those heading north in the 1800s would certainly

require some fortifying for the adventures facing them!

The resultant rum, to be released on Tuesday 22 February 2022 at 2.22pm, will be the first Australian rum utilising certified organic molasses and the distillery proudly boasts Australian Certified Organic certification, one of only a handful in the country to be bestowed such an honour.

Aged a minimum two years, with used Australian red wine and bourbon barrels being the ageing vessels of choice, we are eager to see the results when revealed early next year. At this stage, we are as much in the dark as you with only the Head Distiller, Australia’s only ‘Rummelier’, having the complete picture. We can’t wait!

With borders opening soon and people on holidays looking for something to occupy their time, why not drop into the Distillery Door next to the Big Pineapple at Woombye for a tasting of Awardwinning spirits where you can pull up a bean bag and immerse yourself in nature and ask yourself, ‘Does life really get any better than this?’

May the sun continue to shine on this crew of bright locals!

...the first Australian rum utilising certified organic molasses and the distillery proudly boasts Australian Certified Organic certification...

Co-founders Matt Hobson and Michael Conrad

YOUR SUMMER Oasis

Deb Caruso discovers the perfect place to spend summer days – live music, refreshing drinks, food trucks and a few wild animals thrown in for fun!

Diablo Co has built a strong following for its Alcoholic Ginger Beer made from 100% Queensland ingredients.

The creation of Dimitris Limnatitis, Diablo Co also has a range of mouthwatering spirits and liqueurs that are screaming out to be crushed, shaken and stirred in deliciously refreshing cocktails.

The man behind much-loved venues such as SolBar, The Nautical and Rooftop Bar, Dimi understands the key ingredients to a good time.

“You have to have premium drinks that satisfy your thirst and an environment that allows for the creation of good times,” Dimi said. “Diablo Oasis is a great space for all ages with a relaxed and family-friendly vibe.

“We have games for kids, some of the Coast’s best musicians, food trucks and of course, the spirit of Queensland with our range of Diablo Co drinks.”

In true Dimi style he has also provided the opportunity for other local businesses to benefit. From featuring local craft beers on tap to live music and the food truck operators such as The Pad Thai Guy and Just Steak It who will feature in December.

Dimi is also a good neighbour with the team from Wildlife HQ always welcome to bring some of the animals to visit. From snakes to Quokkas, the handlers enjoy sharing their passion for animals with the Diablo Co devotees.

Making use of the elevated site just next to the Diablo HQ and behind the Big Pineapple, Dimi has literally created an oasis. With beautiful shady trees, the iconic red and white striped Diablo Co umbrellas, bean bags and more, Diablo

Oasis offers a venue that is as cool as the cocktails on offer.

“Being an outdoor venue, we are family friendly, including the fourlegged kind,” Dimi said. “Our whole aim is to provide a space where people and their pets can come together and enjoy a great day out.”

Games for kids, live music, food trucks and special guests – what more could you ask for? That’s right, cocktails! And if you love what you’re drinking, you can take the Diablo Co experience home with all the products available for purchase. Scan the QR code (right) to access the Diablo Co Cocktail Book with more than 40 cocktails to surprise and delight – from spritzes to sours; martinis to mojitos!

Keep an eye out for the Pineapple Country music festivals where the likes

Soak up the summer vibe under the shade of palms and a centrepiece Poinciana tree that provides shade by day and a fairy-lit paradise by night. Cool breezes and lush green forests surround the space creating a true oasis.

Get the gang together and book a table (phone 0403 189 884) or turn up and claim your patch of grass this weekend. Open from 11.30am until late Friday –Sunday throughout summer.

Keep an eye on Instagram and Facebook @diabloco for all the latest events! See you there!

WANT SUMMER COCKTAILS?

Scan the QR code to download the Diablo Co Cocktail Book.

of Alex Lloyd, Busby Marou and Troy Cassar-Daley have featured.

BOURNEIdentity

Tony Cox checks out the latest entry in the gin genre and reveals the secret weapon to success.

When long-time Noosa resident, Hayden Weir, established Seabourne Gin his aim was pretty simple, to make award-winning spirits that have a place amongst the best of their type in the world.

Not having a background in distilling, Hayden was fortunate that Brazilian head distiller, Thiago Lopes, who was plying his trade at Manly Spirits Co. in Sydney, was looking for a lifestyle away from the city where he could continue his passion for spirits. That looks a pretty handy training ground given Manly Spirits Co. has won the Best Australian London Dry Gin at the World Gin Awards in both 2019 and 2020.

The commitment to quality is evident across all touch points of the concept. The cellar door in Rene Street, Noosaville, is all about style, a nod to clean lines, warm pastels, barn doors –just a nice place to interact whilst taking a tour.

Currently open Monday to Friday for takeaway sales from 10am-4pm and for tours from 12-8pm Saturday and 12-6pm Sundays which wrap up with either a couple of cocktails or the spirit range served with tonic all prepared by Grant and his capable team from The Bartenders, who happens to be a school mate of Hayden’s.

The onsite experience is supplemented by availability at leading local bars and restaurants including Localé, Sofitel and Gusto, and independent retailer XO Cellars.

Bottle design is impressive with the base of the bottle replicating a ripple in the sand from the punt of the bottle.

Enough of the sizzle, let’s get to the sausage and what these drinks taste like.

The Coastal Dry Gin is all about celebrating the essence of Noosa - fresh, green, clean with a touch of saline, a

cacophony of botanicals including mint, mountain pepperleaf, sea parsley and citrus served with Fevertree Mediterranean tonic and a wedge of grapefruit. Incredibly refreshing!

The Berry Blush Gin sees an infusion of blackberry and raspberry impart a pink tinge to this gin. Add in a very different botanical mix, think sweet spice like vanilla pod, sandalwood, with more traditional juniper and lemon aspen and the result is very different. The red fruit notes become evident at the back of your palate when consumed neat but this again is a very refreshing long drink when enjoyed with a splash of tonic.

The most interesting beverage in the range is the Sunset Bitters which is based on grapefruit and designed to sit between Campari and Aperol in style. Hayden has informed me that the concoctions The

Bartenders create in freestyle cocktail sessions at the distillery with this drink have been nothing short of sensational. To my palate, whilst it does have a bitter edge I feel the viscosity and sweetness are better suited over ice at the back end of a meal, comfortably sitting in that space the Italians call digestive – utterly delicious.

It is great to see another beverage producer having a crack in the industrial area of Noosaville where three breweries are already plying their wares, each with their own niché. We wish Hayden and his team all the best in this endeavour and whether you see it at a restaurant or bar, grab a bottle at XO Cellars or do the tasting tour at Cellar Door the one thing you can be assured of is quality product, thoughtfully produced utilising quality ingredients.

SHAKEN AND STIRRED

Since setting up The Bartenders five years ago, Grant Hawthorne has been on a mission to shake up the drinks world with impeccable service, creative cocktails and interactive experiences that allow people of all skill levels to appreciate the art of the cocktail.

Grant has earnt a keen following for corporate or private functions to add a touch of class, panache and a little zest on top. So it seems logical that when a new distiller is trying to tap into the thirsty market of Noosa and beyond, The Bartenders is the secret weapon.

In addition to private masterclasses and interactive sessions at The Ohana

Group’s recently-opened Venu at Coolum Beach but he has shared his expertise with Seabourne to assist with brand identity, positioning and activations in the stunning Rene Street distillery.

The Bartenders Cocktail Superstar, Errico will be the key face at Seabourne, showcasing his passion for cocktails on weekends with distillery experiences showcasing the Coastal Dry and Berry Blush Gin, as well as the Sunset Bitters.

The interactive cocktail masterclasses and workshop packages include a seasonal snack, private mixologist and everything required for three cocktails per person.

You will learn the art behind cocktail

bartending, how to make a variety of cocktails and have the chance to shake up your own creation!

You can also book Seabourne Distillery as a private event space – why not book The Bartenders at the same time?!

Tickets can be purchased through The Bartenders website or at the distillery. Why not surprise a wanna-be cocktail star with a gift card from The Bartenders that can be used for products or experiences?

www.thebartenders.com.au

Brew BAVARIAN

Heads of Noosa celebrated Oktoberfest with a limited-edition, Bavarian-style Pilsner

The crew at Heads of Noosa celebrated Oktoberfest in good form with the release of a limited-edition Pilsner.

Owners and brew-brothers Craig and Lance Masterton said that after two years, they were excited to announce the addition of a Noosa crowd favourite to their core range.

“As one of our most popular brews in the Taproom and an increasing demand from our customers, we have finally decided to give the people what they want and put it into bottles,” Lance said.

“This is a Bavarian-style Pilsner brewed to the Australian palate. Deliciously full bodied with a bisuity-bready malt character, hopped with traditional German nobles to a bitterness level we can all enjoy.” Prost!

The brew has proved so popular there are rumours it might be added to their core range so watch this space.

Shout out to our IN Noosa Magazine’s Fashion Editor Lesley Clough and husband Bobby Taylor for going all-out and dressing the part.

Loving the look you Bavarian beauties!

PHOTOS: KATJA ANTON

IT’S ALL ABOUT Balance

Do you feel as if your life is perfectly balanced at this point in time? Does your mind and body have a steady neutral rhythm day in, day out? Is your YIN completely equal with your YANG?

Erin Yarwood finds shares some ideas on how to restore the balance.

Most of the time we are slightly off kilter, in some way or another. And often without even realising it. With our health and fitness regimes for example, we’re usually ‘all in’ with one form of activity or another, completely committed to our favourite workout style, or what we feel or are led to believe we are meant to be doing.

Yet being open minded to trying new things, along with what we already love can be beneficial to both our minds and our bodies, often resulting in far better outcomes with training. Thus, having a more noticeable effect on the benefits that physical activity adds to your life and wellbeing.

For example, you might be a complete

gym junkie, hitting the gym at any moment you get the chance, even if your shoulders and triceps are still hurting from this morning’s upper body session. You love lifting weights and getting big and strong, and that is awesome! The thought of stretching out or doing a Pilates class for example may make your skin crawl and muscles shriek with bewilderment, but did you know that some simple stretches or focused core work may be just what your body requires? By adding these often unthought of or somewhat foreign activities to your current schedule, you may find that your form improves considerably, and you begin lifting heavier weights with ease.

Or perhaps you may like your simple stroll along the beach, a brisk march along the boardwalk or hiking the trails out along our amazing local trail network. But as much as you love the outdoors and often rugged and uneven terrain, you are finding injury is beginning to muck up your favoured outdoor activities. The thought of finding the time to even begin a rehab routine at the gym to help improve your stability, strength and balance might make your mind slightly boggle, but it may be the perfect addition that your body is craving. And in turn, enabling you to take more pride in your stride each time you trek out on your expedition, with confidence and certainty.

Maybe you are amazingly flexible, prefer the slower paced momentum in life and are known as a chilled out and relaxed individual. Someone who is often in their complete Zen zone. Sometimes that tranquil quality has got to give, especially with certain stresses we encounter each day. You may benefit from leaving your usual comfort zone and chucking on a pair of boxing gloves to throw a stress releasing punch or three here and there, helping to iron out any frustration or uneasy feelings. The natural endorphins released will have you feeling a million bucks in no time, and soon you’ll be back to your normal, calm and happy self.

It’s all about balance. And about opening our minds to experience life at its best and for our minds and bodies to perform at their optimum level.

If that means pushing yourself out of your comfort zone by trying something completely new or adding something to your day-to-day routine that you never dreamed you would in a million years, it might just be what you need to create complete harmony, happiness and balance to your life.

...make your skin crawl and muscles shriek with bewilderment, but did you know that some simple stretches or focused core work may be just what your body requires?

AND CALM Creativity

Carlie Wacker steps inside the home of health and wellness. A destination that brings creativity and calm together – City Cave.

Athletes and active people have long known and practiced the art of rehabilitation, recovery and relaxation to improve performance physically and mentally. It is only recently that I’ve discovered their secret ingredient and wanted a bit of what their having (albeit without the gruelling training and serious elite sports competition). I have discovered you can have it all at a wellness destination called City Cave which houses Float Therapy, massage and Infrared Sauna. Singularly or combined, these therapies can have magnificent benefits on the body and mind (including those that aren’t very sporty or focused like mine).

It’s all very exciting to think that access to these important wellbeing tools is at our fingertips on the Sunshine Coast. In fact, City Cave have locations in Noosa, Maroochydore, Kawana and soon one will open in Caloundra. My experiences at City Cave make it feel like a home away from home. I say that because I cannot think of any other place that I have felt more relaxed than at

home. It’s hard not to be lulled into a sense of complete calm at the Cave.

The lighting and mood set the scene on arrival at all their locations, it’s tranquil, quiet and places you in readiness to let your mind and body rest and reset. I am ready for the Complete Wellness Package which included a 45 minute Infrared Sauna, 45 minute Massage and 60 minute Float Therapy.

The Infrared Sauna is something I have used in the past but since I started back at the gym (not at full gym junkie stage yet) I have realised just how beneficial these sessions are. Not only can you burn up to 600 calories in one sitting (or lying which is how I roll) but it truly helps with joint pain and muscle recovery plus detoxifies and improves your mood.

Once you feel the fresh buzz postsauna you will soon become addicted which is why I became a member (yep, I joined the club).

The next stage of my City Cave adventure was a massage treatment. Each of the locations offer a range of

massage therapies that can help you improve your health and achieve deep relaxation including remedial, sports, pregnancy and relaxation massage therapies.

Float Therapy offers the equivalent of 4-8 hours of sleep with benefits that last for days and when paired with a massage and Infrared Sauna, are amplified considerably. Floating before a massage will speed up the process of your muscles relaxing and Float Therapy post-massage will further treat the specific areas your therapist worked on. Add in the detoxification benefits of Infrared Sauna and you have the complete package.

...floating can result in muscle relaxation, better sleep, decrease in pain and decreased stress and anxiety

Following the massage I went into my private Float Therapy room. Several studies reinforce the belief that Float Therapy can result in muscle relaxation, better sleep, decrease in pain and decreased stress and anxiety, amongst others. It is believed that Float Therapy takes us from a ‘flight or fight’ stress response into a ‘rest and recover’ phase.

The benefits of Float Therapy arise from sensory deprivation or the more popularly termed REST (Restricted

Environment Stimulation Therapy) with the basic premise is that if you remove external stimuli to the brain (such as gravity, body temperature regulation, sight and sound), then it can get to work on other important activities such as repairing the body, rejuvenating cells and recovering from injury or exertion.

Some people have told me they fall asleep during Float Therapy. I found myself in a creative little pool of nonspecific thoughts. I was floating around,

experimenting with positions of comfort in this new experience but also challenging the water to a competition to see if I could beat it and sink – I couldn’t.

Before I knew it relaxing music brought me back to reality and my creative little float bubble was done.

It is widely supported that Float Therapy enhances creativity while also improving sleep - if only you could read my imaginative mind while I was in that pool of pleasure (had some sweet dreams that night too).

With services including Float Therapy; Infrared Saunas and massage all under one roof, City Cave is a destination for health and wellness with a supportive and nurturing team.

If it was an Olympic sport, they’d be the Gold Medal winners.

INTRODUCTORY OFFER

City Cave Kawana, Maroochydore and Caloundra are offering a special introductory Float Pack of three x 60-minute Float Therapies plus a free 45-minute Tnfrared Sauna session for $149. That’s a saving of $120 off the standard prices. Mention Hello Sunshine Magazine when booking.

SHADES OF Summer

This Summer we are ready for sun, fun and socialising- it calls for fashion that feels and looks good but is also functional. We have places to be and moments to make up for and our gorgeous garments need to work with our active Sunshine Coast lifestyle.

I’ve sourced the best beach-to-bar vibes for this fashion editorial with a focus on prints, patterns and pastels that sing summer to me. From the waves to the Wharf and the hills to Hinterland cafes whatever your shade of summer – we have you covered!

Our local models Imika and Nick shine on the fashion pages of Hello Sunshine Magazine shot by the amazing Lauren Biggs in her studio with stunning hair and makeup by Justina Simone (who also features as a model in our story on floral art in this issue).

I’ve also put together a jewellery edit showcasing the spectacular gems of our region. Inspired by Summer sunsets and the beauty of the coast you’ll need your shades for this dazzling display. Plus check out my top three Summer statement accessories – go bold or go home!

Summer Love.

Creative Director Carlie Wacker @worldofwacker

Assistant Creative Director @georgiabeard57

Photographer @laurenbiggslbph

HMUA @justina_simone

Models Imika and Nick @imikaneylan @frendo_smith

SHOP 34B Bulcock Street, Caloundra

SHOP 8 23 Cotton Tree Parade, Cotton Tree

Open 7 Days

@sweetcharlottestudio

sweetcharlotteboutique@gmail.com

FACING PAGE - IMIKA WEARS dress and earrings, Uncle George, 5474 5871.

Holiday bow slides, Ration’al, 0414 053 767

Earrings, Uncle George, 5474 5871.

YellowBird clutch, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 0421 795 888

Oroton Sutton sunglasses, Hammond Optometry, 5476 2333

IMIKA WEARS mint striped overalls Chuckles and Boo, 0423 082 124; beaded tan slides, Hill Top Toes, 5442 9326; bangles by Res Art Designs; earrings by World Of Wacker Collective, @worldofwackercollective; Shanty hat and Tanora bag, Belle Collective and Co, 0407 762 436.

IMIKA WEARS Rubyyaya Hepburn dress, Birds In Paradise and Ayala Bar earrings and necklace, Avenue J, 5444 4422.

FACING PAGE: IMIKA WEARS Jaya Shangrila The Dreamer dress and classic Columbian frayed detail hat, OV Boutique, 5479 4505

IMIKA WEARS Mos Mosh Nelly string shorts, Margot pink striped jacket, Vicenza tan sandal, Fiesta Josie hat, baroque pearl necklace, pearl earrings, Buddha necklace, gold bracelets and Veloma duffle, OV Boutique, 5479 4505

FACING PAGE: IMIKA WEARS Rue Stiic blue knit set and Louenhide bag, Belle Collective and Co, 0407 762 436

IMIKA WEARS Caroline Abram Paris sunglasses, Eyes on Buderim, 5477 0293

IMIKA WEARS Lilo Montana bikini by Amali Swim and earrings from Uncle George, 5474 5871; George Gina & Lucy crossbody bag, OV Boutique, 5479 4505

IMIKA WEARS Georgie A maxi dress, earrings and Verdura shoes, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 0421 795 888 (Verdura shoes also available from OV Boutique, 5479 4505).

shirt and natural linen short, Okanui, 1800 652 684;

shoes from Feet First Footwear, 5447 2211. IMIKA WEARS silk camisole and drawstring pant, Chuckles and Boo, 0423 082 124; Tsonga slides, Hill Top Toes, 5442 9326; Original Art Deco White and Yellow Gold Teardrop shape Diamond earrings, Original Art Deco Platinum Diamond and Sapphire articulated bracelet, Australian Pink Argyle Diamond and Black Opal and Diamond Cluster ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422; bag by Madame Melanie, bangle stylist’s own.

IMIKA WEARS Zoe Kratzmann Beckon dress and bangles, Belle Collective and Co, 0407 762 436 and earrings by Adrienne Reid.

NICK WEARS Noosa Fog Blue Aloha

Birkenstock

NICK WEARS black short sleeved linen shirt and natural linen short, Okanui, 1800 652 684. IMIKA WEARS pants and earrings, Uncle George, 5474 5871 and Anja bikini top by Matilda Cove.

IMIKA WEARS Georgie A top, earrings and shell necklace, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 0421 795 888.

AS UNIQUE as you are.

Released from the rough, carefully shaped, and polished to perfection.

It's rare, it's precious and utterly unique. There will never be another one like it.

We know that what we do is something very special because there is nothing quite like the moment when an opal captures your heart.

See the full collection in-store or online .

@opalsdownundersc

Open 7 Days

11 Ballantyne Ct, Glenview QLD 4553 (07) 5494 5400

opalsdownunder.com.au

accepting

NICK WEARS Woow Be Safe glasses, Hammond Optometry, 5476 2333; and black short sleeve linen shirt, Okanui, 1800 652 684. IMIKA WEARS Paul Taylor sunglasses, Hammond Optometry, 5476 2333; Georgia A top and earrings, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 0421 795 888.

IMIKA WEARS Original Art Deco Platinum Diamond and Emerald Dress Clip, Original Art Deco White and Yellow Gold Teardrop shape Diamond earrings, Original Art Deco Platinum Diamond and Sapphire articulated bracelet, Australian Pink Argyle Diamond and Black Opal and Diamond Cluster ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422.

SUNRISE OVER THE SEA

We draw inspiration from the beautiful natural elements that make the Sunshine Coast so pretty. Those pastel pinks, purples and citrus colours shine bright and remind us that everyday begins and ends with true beauty.

Victorian 18ct Yellow Gold 5 x Natural Pink Sapphire Half Hoop Ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422

18ct White Gold Tanzanite & Diamond Cluster Stud Earrings, Avenue J, 5444 4422

Victorian 9ct Rose Gold Oval Locket Engraved With Scroll Leaf Detail, Avenue J, 5444 4422

9ct Rose Gold Emerald & Diamond Daisy Ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422

Art Deco Handmade Platinum 3 x Old Cut Diamond Ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422

18ct Rose & White Gold Oval Pink Sapphire & Diamond Art Deco Style Ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422

9ct Yellow Gold Blue Topaz & Pink Tourmaline Diamond Set Wide Barrel Ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422

Retro 18ct Yellow Gold Large Rectangular Aquamarine Ring, Avenue J, 5444 4422

Victorian Sterling Silver Bangle With Rose & Yellow Gold Floral Detail Overlay Hallmarked Birmingham 1882, Avenue J, 5444 4422

SUNSET DREAMS

Gold Hoop earring, To Hold and To Have, 5477 0561

Pink Australian Argyle Diamond Art Deco ring, To Hold and To Have, 5477 0561

14kt Yellow Gold Italian Necklace, Antiques and Possibilities, 5372 8838

14k White Gold Ring with Diamonds and 0.58ct Crystal Opal, Opals Down Under, 5494 5400

14k Yellow Gold Drop Earrings with 5.3ct of Crystal Opals, Opals Down Under, 5494 5400

14k Yellow Gold Ring with Diamonds and 1.55ct White, Opals Down Under, 5494 5400

9ct yellow gold drop earrings, Diamonds of Distinction, 5445 5709

14kt Yellow Gold Italian Bracelet, Antiques and Possibilities, 5372 8838

Australian Argyle Chocolate Diamond Snowflake cluster ring, To Hold and To Have, 5477 0561

Gold Hammered disc earrings with diamond drops, To Hold and To Have, 5477 0561

14k White Gold Ring with Diamonds and 5.2ct Crystal Opal, Opals Down Under, 5494 5400

Diamond Slider pendants, To Hold and To Have, 5477 0561

HINTERLAND GEMS

Jewellery that captures the lush hinterlands rolling hills and scenic trails, flora and fauna of our beautiful region.

Multi Colour Tahitian pearl strand, Diamonds of Distinction, 5445 5709

18ct white gold pendant and earrings featuring green tourmaline and accent diamonds, Diamonds of Distinction, 5445 5709

London Blue Topaz Pendant, Maleny Jewellers, 5494 3477

London Blue Topaz Earrings, Maleny Jewellers, 5494 3477

7.4ct Emerald Earrings set with Diamonds in 18k white gold, Antiques and Possibilities, 5372 8838

Garnet and Diamond Ring, Maleny Jewellers, 5494 3477

Limited Edition Tourmaline and Diamond Platinum Ring, Maleny Jewellers, 5494 3477

Limited Edition Australian Sapphire and Pink Argyle Diamond Ring, Maleny Jewellers, 5494 3477

Aquamarine and Tanzanite Ring, Maleny Jewellers, 5494 3477

The fashion future is bright on the Sunshine Coast. Carlie Wacker spent time with the 2021 TAFE Queensland graduates as they shared their capsule collections that mimic the way young people see the world right now.

FASHION Re-generation

The 2021 Advanced Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising graduates have proved that resilience is a superpower and despite a tumultuous two years in the world our young people can adapt, reimagine and pave a way to a successful future.

Nine emerging fashion designers presented their catwalk collection as the final assessment in their course. I was honoured to be on the guest industry panel to witness the students share their labour of fashion love – the finished designs and business plan for their brand.

Alongside teachers Amanda Knights and Jodie Araya I gained real insight into the changing face of fashion post pandemic and as a new generation of designers enter into the industry.

“These students started the course just as the pandemic hit in 2020. I feel it gave them more time to explore their creative side and the outcome has been quite different to previous years,” Amanda said.

The overriding theme in the students’ work has been regeneration with waste reduction, sustainability, recycling, upcycling and ethical production featured heavily. I was so pleased to see a movement towards quality over quantity and a real desire to see the industry push forward on a path towards putting people and the planet first.

One student Nicola Hatfield of Lioness Nila Fashion presented a collection named “Garden Craft” with the intent to spark a regenerative movement.

“I want to inspire creative methods to upcycle,” she said. Her designs were salt of the earth with almost zero waste, even using the leftover thread from sewing garments to create a bird nest inspired embellishment for one of her pieces.

A trend towards gender neutral dressing was also prevalent in the works to emerge from the students. Savannah Whites collection of non-gendered ensembles explored the societal views on roles and the personal presentation of people based on sex.

Inclusivity in size options available in the market facilitated collections by students Missy Harwood and Maddy Crowhurst to offer fun and young fashion to a demographic oft forgotten.

There was an epic festival vibe through some of the student’s work which suggests to me that our young people are ready to make up for lost time and head out to festivals, music gigs and nightclubs.

As the entrepreneurial capital of the country our fashion future is safe in the hands of these rising design stars.

GET YOUR SEW ON

TAFE Queensland offers several options at its Mooloolaba campus for locals seeking to develop their skills in the fashion space, including:

• Beginners Sewing (non-accredited short course)

• Certificate II in Applied Fashion Design and Technology (available through TAFE at School)

• Certificate III in Applied Fashion Design and Technology

• Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising

• Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising / Advanced Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising (dual award)

The overriding theme in the students’ work has been regeneration. Waste reduction, sustainability, recycling, upcycling and ethical production...

Nicola Hatfield – Garden Craft collection by Lioness Nila Fashion

Carlie Wacker with dress by Ashley Babio (pictured in middle) from the Miss Avirl Apparel Heartbreak Hotel collection and student designer Missy Harwood.

Ashley Ferguson – Festival Vibes for her label Svbmerge

Madalyn Crowhurst – Size inclusive, gender neutral designs from her label Maple and Reign Designs

THE ART OF Manufacture

A century-old tradition is being practiced daily in Buderim. Carlie Wacker meets the Master Jeweller who aims to keep the tradition alive and thriving on the Sunshine Coast.

Adrian Schulz was born to be a jeweller and a very good one indeed – a Master Jeweller.

He was born in Idar-Oberstein, the mining, jewellery and gemstone cutting capital of West Germany. Both his father and grandfather are qualified Master Goldsmiths with the family business beginning in 1933.

When Adrian was young the family moved to Australia to explore an exciting new world of gemstones and settled in a remote north-western NSW mining town, Lightning Ridge – the home of the world famous and most precious of all opals, the Black Opal.

“After completing high school and deferring university, I began an apprenticeship with my father,” says Adrian. “Since I was little I’ve always looked over his shoulder and been fascinated by the craft.”

Staying at the coal face of the industry, Adrian also mined part-time while completing his apprenticeship and worked under his father for 10 years.

Over the next 15 years he worked his skillful trade under several jewellers, and in 2016 was awarded the title of a Jewellers Association of Aus. Accredited Master Jeweller, one of only four in Australia at the time.

This was the first time Australia had an official ‘Master Jeweller’ accreditation, and Adrian found a new home for his creativity and passion taking over the much-loved Buderim jewellery studio - Diamonds of Distinction. The store is now a luxury destination for highquality, custom-made jewellery.

The store has a real sense of luxury, timeless tradition and unmistakable style. The work of the third generation master jeweller speaks for itself and the love of this centuries old craft is evident.

“I specialise in unique, custom made, one-off pieces of jewellery, using premium materials and unusual and exciting gemstones from all over the world. My favourite design style is contemporary avant-garde.”

When designing a special piece for a client, Adrian said the actual design process starts with an idea.

“This can come from something a client has said, from a gemstone, or from a theme. We then begin imagining and sketching and eventually a concept is realised.”

Diamonds of Distinction are dedicated to providing conflict-free certified diamonds and precious gemstones from all over the world. Their supplier network has been established over generations in the industry.

“We only use trusted and established names. Our diamond suppliers are signatories to the Kimberley Process and we source as many Australian diamonds and gemstones as possible, which are of course ethically mined. Apart from the amazing pink and coloured diamonds we are known for; we also have a large selection of white Argyle diamonds

available. These are increasingly popular with our clients.”

With all this skill and style it’s no surprise that the business is expanding.

“We are very much in a growth phase! I am a single, full-time Dad, bringing my original plans for the business to life, including opening a second premisestay tuned for our exciting Noosa store announcement,” he shares. “Over the last year we have been extremely busy, with many people insisting on locally made and locally sourced and we have actually increased our workforce. We are a growing our team of three design consultants and a second jeweller, with a third jeweller and more salespeople starting in the new year.

“We have big plans to engage and train apprentices and keep the Australian manufacturing industry strong. We have some amazing jewellers in Australia and it would be tragic to lose them, so we will do what we can to keep our trade numbers up.”

From Idar-Oberstein to Lightning Ridge, Buderim to Noosa – there is no stopping Adrian Schulz.

Whether you are looking for a brandnew custom piece, a repair, a restoration, or the remodelling/restoration of your beloved jewellery, Diamonds of Distinction pride themselves on quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.

Adrian Schulz

Dream

Carlie Wacker meets a business owner who literally (hand)made her dreams come true with a passion sown (sewn) early in life.

How and when was your business born?

Chuckles and Boo officially started in 2011 but I feel I started dreaming it up in my teens. I’d sew and make clothes for myself and my girlfriends and dreamt it would somehow serve me later in life.

Creating my own pieces just brought me so much joy and if I had a weekend off school or work I’d just sew my brains out, frantically trying to get something finished to wear the following weekend - it was the best high!

For as many hits I made, I also made epic fails! Scouring the op shops for vintage crochet fabrics and tablecloths I would make them into some kind of wearable creation.

After years in the wrong profession (secretarial / office duties) it wasn’t until I was a stay-at-home mum trying to contribute a little extra cash for the family that my earlier skills came to fruition. Ebay was my gateway to selling my handmade creations which then led to markets and then our own shops!

How would you describe Chuckles & Boo?

Very much a coastal boutique welcoming women of all generations, shapes and sizes wanting to explore their inner boheme.

We offer a wide selection of hand curated pieces from Italy, fine Indian cotton and some of my original handmade pieces made from vintage lace.

Describe your Chuckles & Boo clients

Every lady that walks through our doors is beautiful in her own way.

Every wrinkle, lump, bump or grey hair just makes them all that more stunning because they have their own story and uniqueness.

What do you love most about working and living on the Sunshine Coast?

Our beach lifestyle is one to be envied the world over. We have everything we need here from cafe culture to some of the best restaurants. It’s just been the most wonderful place to raise our family in a relaxed atmosphere and we can enjoy some of the best longboarding waves in the world! We feel very blessed.

What business advice can you share?

If you’ve got a burning passion to create your own unique look or if you are always finding yourself dreaming up ideas of what you could do to make an amazing little nook to sell your wares then go for it! Choose a mentor and follow them and their story - start small and that way you can grow with confidence.

Don’t let anyone extinguish that burning flame you have but also be humble enough to listen and learn from other business owners’ advice and take it on board.

What are you loving this season?

I am embracing the happy colour of yellow this summer. I think we all need that lift at the moment after such a tough couple years. As always, fresh, feminine and floaty lines and of course, a good dose of animal print!

FAVE FIVE

Fave Hobby: Sewing/surfing

Fave Food: Thai

Fave Colour: Turquoise

Fave Saying: Treat others as you would have them treat you.

Fave Accessory: A smile

FLOWER Power

For 35 years, the Nambour Floral Art Society has been creating elegant art pieces from homegrown flora. Their love for this botanical craft has led them beyond club competitions and into the community, where the locals delight in their creations, as Georgia Beard discovers.

When the Nambour Floral Art Society (NFAS) gathers on the third Wednesday of every month, creativity comes into bloom. This evergreen group of floral enthusiasts meet in the Nambour Uniting Church, transforming flowers and foliage into intricate natural designs. They prove that floral arrangement is more than a craft – it connects people and communities.

The group attracts members from Bundaberg to Caboolture; anyone with an imaginative mind and green fingers to translate it. Each member brings a basket from their garden and settles in for a workshop or demonstration. They manipulate leaves and stems, arrange bouquets, design tribal headpieces – all culminating in group competitions known as benchwork.

NFAS literally grew from the ground up in 1987. After completing a course in flower arrangement at TAFE and loving it, founding member Beryl Robertson formed a club with a handful of classmates. Since then, members have created floral art for their own homes, church services, community initiatives and everything in between.

NFAS President Sue Fingleton hasn’t missed a meeting since she joined in 2000. Before then, she and her sister used to arrange their mother’s gerberas, posies and chrysanthemums in bunches

to sell at markets.

“My mother always said we should learn how to arrange flowers properly, because we were just making it up as we were going along,” Sue says.

Alongside Beryl, she’s now a qualified judge on the competition panel. Every month, members bring a chosen theme to life with organic displays of homegrown flora. Winners then get to progress to new levels of expertise, from novice to advanced.

Sue says she encourages competing members to use sprays of foliage, highlighting a small number of purposefully selected flowers.

“We usually use what’s available around here. For special occasions, we’ll call in on the big guys and go to the wholesalers and order in,” she says. “We can go wild and use what we like.”

Every year, the NFAS hits the Queensland Garden Expo with exhibitions and installations. Sue says it’s often where they pick up new members, too.

Model Kane wears headpiece by Liz O’SullivanModel Jade wears headpiece by Judith Jenner

Model Justina wears headpiece by Beryl Robertson

This year, NFAS will also offer a demonstrator for the virtual Australian Floral Art Association Convention, a nation-wide conference connecting regional and state clubs with workshops and competitions.

But showcasing their talent isn’t the only reason members commit to the craft. They often take on projects to reach out to communities, bringing colour and comfort to the lives of locals.

Sue says the group hosts workshops with aged care homes, teaching residents how to arrange bouquets and art pieces.

“We also do a thing called Lonely Posy, where clubs will create little posy bunches and drop them in places,” she says. “They’re random acts of kindness. You leave them sitting somewhere, and it’s got a little note on it saying, ‘Take me home, I’m yours’.

“A couple of years, we’ve dropped

them at breast cancer clinics. Everybody who’s there on the day gets a posy to take home, which brightens their day a little bit and makes them take their mind off their treatment.”

From a fresh bunch of students to a flourishing garden of florists, artists and locals alike, the Nambour Floral Art Society has grown in reach.

They inspire and support the Sunshine Coast, sometimes with nothing but a handful of flower clippings and foliage. Sometimes that’s all they need.

From February, NFAS will meet on the third Wednesday each month at 9am in the Nambour Uniting Church Hall or follow them on Facebook.

Hair and Makeup: Justina Simone @justina_simone

Photography: Lauren Biggs

Model: @justina_simone @mr_rastovac @jadecallianiotis

Model Jade wears headpiece by Sue Fingleton

PHOTOS: LAUREN BIGGS

PHOTOGRAPHYmind...ful

With mental health issues on the increase, our children need an outlet to express themselves and become more creative. Jackie Hillegers shares how mindful photography and art therapy is bringing a sense of purpose to young people in our community.

Photography has always been something I have been passionate about since I was a teenager and 35 years later, I still have that same passion, if not more. My first proper camera was a Canon film camera when I was 18 –and I started out taking photos of pets, kids, families and moved onto weddings.

Back in the film day we had to wait up to a week to get our photos printed and just hope the result would be what we imagined. There were 24 photos on each roll of film (36 if you were lucky) and you had to be really careful when you placed or removed the films from the back of the camera so they were not exposed to light. So much pressure!

One of my early photography memories was sitting in a camera club meeting at the local hall, hidden up the back of the room so I didn’t have to present my photos. I would watch as everyone browsed the long wooden tables of neatly set-out and matted prints, oohing and ahhing over the sharpness of the prints.

The photo with the depth of field in complete focus, and crisp, sharp edges was awarded the certificate for ‘photo of the month’. This was when I knew that my photography was different to everyone else’s - and in true introvert style I snuck out, never to return. I nearly gave up that day!

The problem was that my photos were purposely blurred, they were angled, imaginative and border-line quirky - just the way I liked them. They were of the lone-weed wedged between two flawless flowers (because I felt sorry for it) or an abandoned rusty car in the middle of a paddock at sunset with the light pouring into its empty shell.

I now realise my style was more in line with what we now call ‘mindful photography’. I was expressing my feelings, my emotions and enjoying the process so much that every photo told a story of the beautifully unbeautiful.

Fast-forward to today, and I couldn’t be happier to incorporate mindful photography into my holistic art therapy sessions, and to say it has worked is an understatement. It has opened a whole new world to young clients expressing themselves in a more creative manner. With suicide and mental health on the increase our teens need an outlet - they need to express themselves, become more creative and have a sense of purpose in their lives. Wanting to branch out to more teens struggling with mental health, I have created a range of Online

Mindful Photography Courses.

These Courses are a must for all children and teens to get them out in nature, exploring, talking, creating and releasing emotions. I am also working on a platform to help sell their work online through commission. Work must be of a high standard and students as young as eight-years-old are already coming up with great style and creativity.

With two photography exhibitions already under our belt, I have realised that it is not just these talented students that benefit from their work being shown. The general public also take pleasure in the experience of viewing the photos and reading the meaning behind them. I am grateful I never gave up on my photography - I’ve come full-circle as I get to teach MY quirky, fun way to others.

Find out more: www.pheatherine.com

TALLEST TREE, “We feel so small when we look up at the tallest tree” - Spencer, 7

SPOODER, “Just a spider trying to live it’s best life” - Ben, 14

HANGING ON “Sometimes in life you feel like you are hanging by a thread when really you have ben handed a life line” - Ben, 14

ART SCHOOL CO.

Home to the creative soul, Art School Co. is a new destination for fine art supplies and art classes. Directed by award winning artist Jess Le Clerc, Art School Co. guarantees the best priced art supplies on the Sunshine Coast.

The Zone, 32 Wises Road, Buderim Phone 0491 756 172 artschoolco.com

JENNY HINES ART

Specialising in Statement Pieces, Jenny is a painter, photographer, printmaker and mixed media artist who creates bold and colourful abstract works in oil and acrylics, often from memory.

16 Headland Drive, Noosaville Phone 0439 375 980 jennyhinesartist.com

MY SALTY LIFE

Aamie specialises in capturing photographs of the ocean and nature in all her beauty, creating family, maternity and love memories that will last forever. PO Box 1052 Coolum Beach Phone 0417 762 898 mysaltylife.com.au

SEAJAY ART

Inspired by the ocean and natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast, Carlie moulds and manipulates resin to bring depth and texture to wall art as well as creating beautiful and unique homewares. 80 Nojoor Road, Mudjimba Phone 0402 007 758 seajayart.com.au

Are we heading for a dystopian or utopian future? Artists and writers imagine the world in 2070.

PURE UNDERWATER IMAGING

Award winning artist and photographer, Justin Bruhn brings you a stunning collection of premium quality underwater artworks to connect you with the magic of the ocean in your living room.

PO Box 1814 Noosa Heads

Phone 0411 050 133

pureunderwaterimaging.com

DEFINE ART

Local Artisan Collective showcasing and supporting our talented and amazing Sunshine Coast artists and creatives. Everything in our store is hand made here on the Sunshine Coast. Shop 91/1 King Street, Cotton Tree Phone 0437 141 786

Emily Floyd, Literary Parrot, Poll (2017), cast aluminium, automotive paint. Courtesy of the artist and Anna Schwartz Gallery.

Clare Poppi, Bio-headpiece (2021). Image courtesy of artisan. Photo by Michelle Bowden

OPEN ART

There is something mighty special about the Sunshine Coast beaches and hinterlands that brings out the artist is us all. Pete Goodlet gets excited about the return of Open Studios Sunshine Coast.

It’s time to flip the lid on the convertible and explore everything Open Studios Sunshine Coast has to offer.

This dynamic event running from 18 to 27 of March explores the creative spaces of artists all the way from Coolum to Caloundra. You can tootle one way down on the coastal trail and wind your way back through our curvaceous and creative hinterland. Or make a weekend of it, exploring new horizons each day.

Visit artistic hotspots like Montville and Maleny and discover hidden places you didn’t know existed.

When an artist opens their studio, they invite you into their creative sanctuary. Discover creative spaces in magical garden settings, industrial estates, and everything in-between.

Watch the artist in action and get an inkling of what makes them tick. This is the perfect chance to meet the person behind the work you may have admired or to stumble upon an artist and discover creations that you love.

With more than eighty artists taking part there is bound to be something to tickle your fancy.

With boutique distilleries, gourmet eateries and micro-breweries dotted throughout the Sunshine Coast and hinterland you can graze as you tour. Or pop a picnic basket on the backseat and have a nibble by a waterfall or park

at a local beauty spot and gaze over the Glasshouse mountains and coastline.

Throughout the week of Open Studios Sunshine Coast, you can take part in a variety of workshops offered by the artists involved.

This is the perfect opportunity to explore your artistic side and pick up a new skill. Not only will you have the pleasure of creating a beautiful art piece, but you also get to take it home and proudly display it.

The intimate class sizes make for a great learning experience. Many practicing artists use these workshops as a chance to try new mediums or push their skills to a whole new level.

Art enthusiasts and collectors welcome the opportunity to visit artists in their own studios. You can find work not found in galleries and create a relationship with artists you admire. If

you see a piece that you fall head over heels for, then snap it up. These opportunities are rare and it’s always best to act quickly.

We can all remember that one piece of art that we really wish we had bought when we saw it. Art regretsy is a terrible thing and nobody wants FOMA (Fear of Missing Art).

Art in all its forms will be on view during Open Studios Sunshine Coast from textiles, ceramics, drawings,

Tah-Nee Hooper

If you see a piece that you fall head over heels for, then snap it up

sculpture, photography and print to metalwork, woodwork, jewellery, installation, printmaking and more.

A cornucopian feast of artistic endeavour awaits!

So, get out your diaries and put a big asterisk on the middle-end of March. Open Studios Sunshine Coast is coming and is going to be bigger, better and brighter than ever.

OPEN ART AGENDA

In 2022, Open Studios Sunshine Coast will take place from Friday 18 March to Sunday 27 March 2022. Coast artists will open their doors on the 19 -20 March (some on 18 March), and the Hinterland artists on the 26 - 27 of March both with the option of opening in the week between. The 5 days in-between will feature artist run workshops. www.openstudiossunshinecoast.com.au

openstudiossunshinecoast

> EXPLORE THE SUNSHINE COAST’S ART TRAILS

Meet established and emerging local artists as they open their studio doors, rarely open to the public. Open Studios Sunshine Coast offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Sunshine Coast’s most intriguing artists’, studios and galleries. Visit openstudiossunshinecoast.com.au for more information

Jo Turner

Denise Daffara

Tony Coles

CURATED ART TRAILS - WORKSHOPS - EVENTS

ARTS RADAR

A new season brings exciting new exhibitions and the Sunshine Coast’s galleries, studios and arts centres have something for everyone!

STEVENS STREET GALLERY

17 DECEMBER

OPEN GALLERY NIGHT

Meet exhibiting artists including Deann Cumner, Denise Daffara, Steve Allen, Sam Goodwin and Samantha Hobbelen at the next Open Gallery Night. This will be an evening of inspiring local art and creative conversations, live music and culinary delights from 5pm to 9pm.

18 DECEMBER

MIXED MEDIA & COLLAGE WITH YVETTE FANCIULLI

Spend a few hours with Yvette Fanciulli creating collage pieces with lovely quotes and affirmations to use on cards. Enjoy stamping, painting and basic line work in a feel-good, relaxing class with all materials and morning tea provided from 10am to 1pm.

8 JANUARY

RESIN JEWELLERY WITH JEN EALES

Learn techniques to create statement resin jewellery such as earrings, bangles and rings. Jeweller Jen Eales will teach how to mix resin, add colour, pour and finish pieces with a brief explanation and demonstration of the medium. All materials are supplied during the workshop from 10am to 1am.

2 Stevens Street, Yandina

Toni – 0414 687 895 Alicia – 0437 141 786 www.stevensstreetgallery.com.au

MAROOCHYDORE LIBRARY ARTSPACE

UNTIL 18 DECEMBER

JOE FURLONGER: REGIONAL QUEENSLAND LANDSCAPES, FIGURES AND STILL LIFE

Explore selected works from a private collection of watercolour sketches by celebrated Queensland contemporary artist, Joe Furlonger, whose artistic career in works on paper, ceramics and painting spans from the late 1980s to the present. 44 Sixth Avenue, Cotton Tree; Ph 5475 8989 www.gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ Exhibitions/Maroochydore-Artspace

OLD LOCK UP MAROOCHYDORE

18 DECEMBER, 29 JANUARY, 26 MARCH IN | CITE

A social meeting place for artists from all art forms to talk, shop and test ideas from 4pm to 5.30pm. In response to the month’s theme, artists are invited to bring along some of their work; have a yarn or have a listen to an artist Show x Tell. You can also join an artist-led roundtable conversation about what provocations this concept might offer for artistic practice, processes, concepts and aesthetics.

UNTIL 18 DECEMBER CHERRY STONES

Artist Aaron Perkins and screenwriter/ director Sam Dixon’s paintings and writings converse across media to invite make-believe and to offer an imaginative escape from the game of life carried on just outside the pockmarked and graffitied walls of The Old Lock Up. Catch the Artist Talk and Film Screening on 18 December 2.30pm.

FROM 22 JANUARY UNTIL 28 JANUARY ENTWINED AS OTHERS

Helen Hardess and Tiana Jefferies combine their shared art practices of casting, collecting, assembling and collaborative action to explore affective registers of objects, bodies, and architecture of The Old Lock Up site. The project explores the ungraspable forces of our destabilised biosphere and recognises that humanity cannot survive without non-human others. Attend the opening event on 22 January from 5pm to 7pm and the workshop on 29 January.

4 First Ave, Maroochydore; Ph 0412 528 925 www.theoldlockup.net/

USC GALLERY

UNTIL 15 JANUARY

SAFE SPACE CONTEMPORARY SCULPTURE

This exhibition brings together threedimensional artworks by twelve Australian artists exploring psychological

aspects of physical space. The artists use diverse styles and materials to represent tones ranging from humour and playfulness, nurturing and warmth, through to unease, psychodrama and melancholy

USC Sunshine Coast; Ph 5459 4645 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs www.usc.edu.au/art-gallery

OLD AMBULANCE STATION NAMBOUR

UNTIL 22 JANUARY

MINDME: ARTS AND HEALTH

This exhibition is part of an ongoing personal and collaborative exploration about arts and health, started in 2013. Bringing together raw, emotive and engaging expressions by artists working to understand and communicate their sense of self and mental health. 80 Howard Street, Nambour www.theoldambulancestation.com

CALOUNDRA REGIONAL GALLERY

UNTIL 30 JANUARY

THE ART OF MAKING: ART IN PUBLIC SPACES

Part retrospective and part glimpse into the future, this exhibition heroes finished artworks alongside conceptual processes. From drawings, designs and maquettes to sculptures and surveys of large-scale installations.

FROM 3 FEBRUARY UNTIL 20 MARCH

DYSTOPIA/UTOPIA: 2070

Artists and writers respond to speculative fiction and imagine possible future scenarios of dystopian and utopian worlds. This exhibition is designed to stimulate discussion about our future, to emphasise that the arts in conjunction with science are at the forefront of our survival, and to question what we take for granted.

22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra

Ph 5420 8299

www.gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

SAY HELLO TOFrida

The Sip N’ Paint sensation is now unleashed on the Sunshine Coast!

Lovers of good times and creating magic are in for a treat as Frida’s Sip N’ Paint has launched in Mooloolaba, just one street from the Esplanade.

BYO food and wine and let Frida’s look after the good times as you sip, paint and dance your way to a surprisingly-good creation!

Tash and the team all agree that no experience is necessary, “it’s about fun art, not fine art.”

PHOTOS: MELISSA HOAREAU

Channel

Petrol and terracotta vases, Buds on Buderim, 5445 3211

Classique Oval Small Shelf Console in Matt Dark Oak by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Painted platter and olive green vase, Buds on Buderim, 5445 3211

Velvet chair in emerald, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Weave basket, Manawee Garden Centre, 5445 2406

Canvas wall art, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Aruba Frame Occasional Chair in Moss/ Black by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Blue bone inlay chest of drawers, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Black vase, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Black crochet Mee.Ka pot, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Brass frog table lamp, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Woodland Carved Nancy Stool in Black by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Brass wine cooler tub, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Cut glass scented candle, Belle Collective and Co, 0407 762 436

Marble and brass candle holder with dripless candle, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Black stem vase, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Brass pineapple canister, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

POPS OF Colour

Flower coasters and placemat, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Canvas wall art, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Bahama rattan sofa, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Woodland Organic Coffee Table in Natural Suarwood by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015 Hand painted flower bowl, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Hand soap, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Vittoria Retreat Round Ottoman in Oat Boucle by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Blink Living has all the furniture solutions for you.

● creating beautiful spaces that sell

● creating your forever home

● creating or refreshing your holiday home

We welcome you to visit our retail showroom located at our Noosaville HQ to experience your one-on-one with a member from the skilled design team. Open Tue to Fri 10am - 4pm or by appointment.

Blink now offers elepay PAY-LATER for property styling or furniture purchases. To find out more simply scan the QR code.

Medusa raffia pendant light,

Peach printed tea towel, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Bright peach scallop vase, Buds on Buderim, 5445 3211

Chubby Occasional Chair in Putty by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Woven basket large, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Pineapple lamp base and galah embroidered lamp shade, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Bone inlay chest of drawers, Uncle George, 5474 5871

NATURALLY Neutral

Striped vases, Buds on Buderim, 5445 3211

Tonic soap bar, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Blonde wall clock, Clock Shop, 5442 9409

The Urban sofa in oat, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Willow hanging chair, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Brass mermaid door handle, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Canvas wall art, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Raffia placemat, Belle Collective and Co, 0407 762 436

Hand painted rainbow jug and pitcher, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Magnolia Table, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Lark Drum Woven Set 3 Baskets in Natural by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Ceramic flower dish, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Tahiti rattan pendant shade, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Silent analogue alarm clock in lilac, Clock Shop, 5442 9409

Bath soak, Buds on Buderim, 5445 3211

Omorfia jute pendant shade, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Timber bench chair, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Brass edged marble coasters, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Brass leaf wall hook, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Tonic Vanity bag, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Hand painted palm jug, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Cocktail handbook, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Ribbed water jug, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Ceramic mugs, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Woven bench seat, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Woven basket, Manawee Garden Centre, 5445 2406

SUGAR & Spice

Sketch Poise Occasional Arm Chair in Camel Leather / Light Oak by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Byron sofa in marsala, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Hand carved timber stand, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Woven basket with bamboo handle, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Velvet chair in copper, Eclectic Style, 5470 2946

Timber candle holder, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Phone 5470 2946 | eclecticstyle.com.au

Condiment dishes, Manawee Garden Centre, 5445 2406

Timber serving boards, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Hadiza rattan pendant, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Marble bowl, Sweet Charlotte Studio, 5491 1593

Clock Shop, 5442 9409

Canvas wall art , Uncle George, 5474 5871

Shop 10, Noosa Homemaker Centre, Thomas Street, Noosaville

Antique card table, Antiques and Possibilities, 5372 8838

Velvet occasional chair, Uncle George, 5474 5871

Brass Kantha candlestick holder, OMG I Would Like, 0413 376 336

Flower Box room perfume, Belle Collective and Co, 0407 762 436

Ridge Round Small Marble Bowl in Beige / Marble Brass by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

Ridge Goblet Bowl in Beige Marble by Globe West, Blink Living Retail, 5455 5015

LITTLE Luxuries

There’s a local family behind your holiday stay that is quietly keeping a watchful eye over your guest experience. Carlie Wacker takes a look at the little things that make your holiday experience a little bit luxe and a lot local.

As we get set for a bumper summer, I wanted to explore what happens behind-the-scenes in hotel and holiday rental accommodation to ensure our visitors are getting the best experience – and I also found a way to make your home feel like a luxury holiday, every day.

I don’t know about you, but I simply love the summer holiday vibe when we get to truly enjoy where we live and share it with visitors. Trips to the hinterland, walks through National Parks, paddling and boating on the river, beach swims, long lunches and sunset cocktails – so much to explore.

With the borders open, we are ready to welcome visitors with open arms and local restaurants and accommodation houses have a cracking and busy time sharing the most amazing local food and locations.

Now we all know that the finest food offerings can be found around every corner of the Sunshine Coast but how does the hospitality stack up in the hotels and holiday rentals; and how can you make your own houseguests feel right at home?

To ensure our reputation as leaders in sustainable luxury is being upheld, I found a local, family-run business that has the hotel supplies industry covered - say hello to National Hotel Supplies.

Joseph and April Kennedy are graduates of the College of Tourism and Hospitality in Brisbane and have worked their way around the world experiencing and enjoying all aspects of the industry.

Identifying an opportunity to really make a difference, they founded a business that makes life simpler for the accommodation provider, whether professional or personal - and focuses on providing hotel supplies that are in line with the Sunshine Coast ethos of sustainable and luxurious!

Owner and Director Joseph said they were passionate about helping you help

the environment while also sourcing top-quality supplies from bathroom amenities to tea and biscuits, even coat hangers, luggage racks and more.

“We offer an extensive range of eco-friendly guest amenities and actively seek out ethical and sustainable products,” he said.

“We also have a range of Fairtrade and environmentally-friendly products available to ensure our customers can make responsible decisions when purchasing products for their

We’re here to help you leave a positive, lasting impression...

accommodation or simply to ensure their guests have the best experience.

“We are also seeing a move towards refillable hand pumps for shampoo, conditioner, shower gels as part of the move away from single use plastics.”

As any family would agree, you want your guests to feel welcome, cared for and in holiday mode when they come to stay and it doesn’t matter if it’s your spare bedroom, an Air BnB or a swanky hotel.

That’s where National Hotel Supplies really work the magic to provide more than amenities, linen and towelling. They have added room accessories, consumables, artwork and so much more to their offer.

“Ultimately your guests are as important to us as they are to you,” says April. “We’re here to help you leave a positive, lasting impression.”

You will be impressed when you start looking at the ways in which you can

guarantee a memorable experience for your guests.

It’s not just the major resort chains that can access the luxuries of resort style accommodation – it’s here and it’s a local family you are supporting in your sustainable accommodation styling journey.

Put your best foot forward this holiday season. All the good hotel and holiday supply gear can be found at www.nationalhotelsupplies.com.au

April Kennedy

A HOME LIKE No Other

Meg Mullins has been saying “OMG, I would like…” since she visited Bali and fell in love with the island’s handmade homewares a few years ago. After they inspired her interior design business, we find out how she gives back to Balinese communities with her custom-made products.

Name Meg Mullins

Business OMG I Would Like

How and when was your business born?

I have worked in visual merchandising and retail for a large portion of my life, and have always dreamt of owning my own store. I took a trip to Bali with my husband, daughters, and my next-door neighbours, where I discovered how many beautiful things that the people there had to offer. We ended up bringing home a multitude of pieces for our own home that my husband and I had just built.

Whilst I was there, I developed relationships within the community and found local family-owned businesses that could manufacture all the beautiful designs I had found & created; including furniture, brass ornaments, and light shades!

When I came home I had so many people asking me, “Where did you get that? Can you get that for me?” and the next thing you know, I made a business out of these relationships in Bali.

First, the business was an online store, and it’s only been online up until two months ago when I decided to open a retail space. But I see the retail space as more of a showroom for the online store than an actual shop.

Where did the business name come from?

When we went on that first Bali trip,

my neighbour and I would see products and say, “Oh my god, I would love that. Oh my god, I need that. Oh my god, I have to have that.”

Then our husbands would say, “No, it’s, ‘I would like’.” He would constantly correct us on the difference between need and like.

What do you love most about your work?

I’m a complete shopaholic. I love having the ability to buy and see all these products and feel like I’m shopping every week; except I’m doing it for other people’s homes and creating these special items that will then become the key piece in their space.

How would you describe your personal style and how it translates to your business?

My love for light shades and what they can do for a room when they’re lit and unlit influences my style. It changes the whole space. It’s dramatic, and that’s what I love about it. It translates to my

business structure. Most of my stock is made up of various light shades.

What is your favourite product right now?

Aside from the light shades, I also have an obsession with hanging chairs. To me, those hanging chairs are almost like little nests. When you sit in them, it gives you both a sense of calm and comfort, and you’re a little bit protected. It’s hanging free, so it gives you a sense of freedom. I love the feeling they give, but ultimately the aesthetic they offer.

What sets your business apart?

I stock items that are only ever made and created by villages in Bali. I don’t buy from wholesalers. All the stuff that happened during COVID pushed me towards this ethos. I created such loving relationships with these families and villagers because I was keeping the money in their village. They love how they’ve been given this opportunity. They love that I love their products, and it’s a

real honour for them to make these things for me, and it’s such an honor for me as well. I also have a strong online presence. Rather than just being a retail store that has a few bits and pieces online, my website is thorough. It has everything available on it. The retail store is just a bit of a show and tell, somewhere you can come and meet and see all the things that are online, and interact with them in real life.

What are the current trends you’re seeing?

I buy the stuff I love. I don’t follow trends. I feel that people should design their own space around what they want and what makes them feel like it’s home.

What are your top tips for styling?

Find an anchor piece. Find one piece that you absolutely love and style around that.

What do you love about the Sunshine Coast?

I love that you can be in the mountains, on the beach, and amongst it all without having to go far. And I love the weather.

What is your go-to item?

Without a doubt, a lamp shade. How it looks during the day and how it looks once the light’s turned on and the effect

of that in the room.

I also believe plants are a huge part of how to transform a room. Although I don’t sell plants, they’re an important design aesthetic.

FAVE FIVE

Fave Hobby: Renovating

Fave Drink: Scotch

Fave Food: Mexican

Fave Colour: Black or green

Fave Saying: It is what it is

When you sit in them, it gives you both a sense of calm and comfort, and you’re a little bit protected.

AWARD WINNERS

Awards are landing in the hands of local landscapers. Carlie Wacker finds out who got the gongs.

The 2021 Landscape Queensland Construction Excellence Awards was a celebration of the finest in green entrepreneurialism and creativity.

The awards program has been recognizing our talented Queenslanders for 38 years and it’s in recent times that the Sunshine Coast has pushed the competition to its peak.

In 2019 the overall Residential Landscape Construction of the Year was won by Living Style Landscapes and in 2021 Earth Creation Landscapes took home the top trophy.

In fact, seven of the winning projects were from the Sunshine Coast including category-winning entries by Living Style Landscapes and Earth Creation Landscapes, both with four awards; and Contemporary Landscaping, Ausplay Playscapes and Evolve Environmental Solutions, each receiving one award.

Landscape Queensland CEO, Mark Sorby said “it has been an extremely busy year for the landscape industry across Queensland.

“With consumers pouring money into home renovation, the backyard space had become a priority for many as they create their own private havens to share with family and friends,” he said.

“To this backdrop, this year’s industry awards program again showcased the high-level skills and professionalism of Landscape Queensland members.”

Our local landscaping legends wowed the judges.

Earth Creation Landscapes won the highest accolade of Queensland Residential Landscape Construction of the Year for their project in Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach project with the judges saying “this landscape is a demonstration of exceptional craftsmanship! Where every joint line, every screw fixing and each component was meticulously measured, considered and executed in the most precise and effective way. A truly stunning landscape that extols the skills of the landscape contractor.”

Also in Sunshine Beach, judges awarded a Living Style Landscapes project for Residential Landscape Construction, $250k Plus and said it was a “stand-out... In what would have been a complex logistical negotiation, the

landscape has been constructed to the highest of standards... pioneering achievement for residential landscapes where the seamless visual flow into the natural surrounds, belies its complex underpinning”.

That project also took out the award for Landscape Architect Designed Construction.

These awards recognise and showcase brilliance in landscape design and construction that make homes a haven.

Use a local Landscape Queensland member for your next project – look for the logo!

Find a Member at landscapequeensland.com.au/find-a-member

Earth Creation Landscapes: Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach. Winner: Residential Landscape Construction of the Year; Best Residential Landscape Construction $175-$250K; Best Residential Landscape Feature - Outdoor Shower.

Living Style Landscapes: Sunshine Beach. Winner: Residential Construction, $250k-plus; and Landscape Architect Designed Construction.

LIVING THE DREAM

Carlie Wacker meets a company that lives for seamless and stylish transitions from the indoors-out.

Over 12 years ago Leigh Barrett brought his dream to life in the pursuit of excellence in landscaping when he founded Living Style Co (formerly Living Style Landscapes). This is a business that transforms outdoor living spaces into works of art that focus on connecting the environment and architecture. Specialising in high end landscaping, luxury pool and structural stone masonry – you know a Living Style Co space when you see it.

It takes a team of incredibly skilled experts to create these outcomes and receive recognition at the most coveted annual industry awards, Landscape Queensland’s Excellence Awards.

Living Style Co was recognised as a leader in innovation and craftsmanship

with their first big award in 2012 and the awards kept coming.

In 2019 they won the Landscape Queensland Residential Landscape Construction of the Year for a project in Ilkley. Although the terrain was steep on this hillside acreage project the team created and constructed a three-sided infinity edge pool which gives the illusion of floating in bushland. The high-tech resort style pavilion serves as a state-of-the-art entertaining area with voice command controlling almost every element of the outdoor space.

In 2021 they added to the award tally with awards including the Landscape Architect Designed category award for a Sunshine Beach property which judges said “shows attention to detail... to provide construction solutions for what

is a very restricted, complex, challenging site and brief. The landscape construction sensitively compliments the context of the area and the design intent for the architecture ‘to be one with the site’. The landscape spaces clearly reflect and complement the incredible building, green roofs, and overall context. A well-considered variety of landscape textures, form and plant palette finish this project perfectly.”

In every aspect of their business Living Style Co combine their extensive knowledge of design and horticulture to create sensational and sustainable outdoor living realities for clients.

“The team is passionate about reinventing the way we use our natural environments so that generations to come will be able to enjoy and experience the magic of our breathtaking local climate,” says Leigh.

2021 Landscape Queensland Awards: Residential Construction, $125-$175k - Birtinya Residential Construction, $250K Plus Award - Sunshine Beach Landscape Architect Designed Construction - Sunshine Beach Residential Contractor Designed & Constructed Category 2 (over $100k) – Buderim

Pete

BIRDS, BEES AND Butterflies

In Noosa, our summer gardens are full of life, colour and subtropical splendour. The air is thick with luscious scents and a whole lot of critters are, as Marvin Gaye would sing, getting it on. From microscopic soil makers to the birds, bees and butterflies there’s a whole lot of lovin’ going on. If we offer up the renowned Noosa hospitality to our fine friends, we will find they pay us back by working away with a happy buzz on!

Let’s start with the little fellas working behind the scenes in our soil. Each teaspoon of soil contains millions of microscopic fauna that break down the soil and organic matter to provide food and minerals for our plants. Worms are munching away converting matter to droppings and aerating the soil as we go.

Be generous with the mulch and seaweed/fish emulsion fertilizer and these little helpers will multiply with gay abandon and give you a bountiful garden brimming with growth.

Wafting about without a care in the world are our spectacular, colourful butterflies. Jenny Kee would struggle to create the beauty and pattern that is woven into a butterfly’s wing. A recent visitor to my garden was the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly, a creature of such exquisite beauty that I wanted more.

A little research indicated that both the butterfly and the vines its caterpillars feed on are listed as vulnerable.

The Birdwing Butterfly Vine Pararistolochia praevenosa is available at local native nurseries and being a lover of critters, I raced out and planted four.

My hills will be alive with the flutter of Birdwings. On a side note, the muchplanted Dutchman’s Pipe is related to the native vine but is poison to the Birdwing caterpillars, so out it must come!

Fill your garden with colour and nectar rich flowers and the visitors will come.

You might even train a climber up a fence extension just to stop Beryl next door busting a garter trying to catch an eyeful of all the action in your garden. Butterflies love blues and purples so consider plants such as Buddleia [commonly known as the butterfly bush] Tibouchina, Lavender and ramblers such as the Purple Coral Pea Hardenbergia Violcea

The native violet Viola hederacea makes a great lawn alternative for a shady moist area and our cheeky little pollinators love

them too. If the space carries traffic, you can plant this violet around some beautiful cut stone pavers for a fabulous organic look. There’s nothing quite like playing tiptoe through the violets!

Consider creating a wild section of your garden, with some rocks and logs, grasses such as Lomandra longnifolia, which provides nectar as well as a matted area for birds and lizards to nest.

Pop in some Prickly Moses, worth it for its name alone, but also an excellent nesting site for small birds. This is also the spot to include some vines and foliage plants to feed the caterpillars, for you can’t have butterflies stealing the limelight without caterpillars doing the hard yards.

Water is an essential element for our little critters, moist mulch will be banging with life, a little bowl with pebbles and sticks will provide drinking water for our insect and feathered friends.

Outside a window you could place a large birdbath, preferably with a small fountain to keep the mosquitoes from getting their buzz on.

Try and include a little beach area to prevent accidental drownings. Big birdbaths can make a truly stunning garden feature, just don’t make it so big that Beryl leaps the fence and splashes about like a bird gone wild!

Making your garden critter friendly is rewarding in so many ways and there are many benefits to getting a little wild! There is colour movement and knowing you are doing good for the planet.

To create the perfect haven for you, the birds, bees and butterflies, visit your local garden centre for expert advice.

Goodlet provides some handy advice for getting it on in your garden.

Wafting about without a care in the world are our spectacular, colourful butterflies

Richmond Birdwing Butterfly

Buddleia or butterfly bush

The popularity of gardening is growing. Here’s the good gear to get into gardening - or to spoil the green thumb in your life!

When a butterfly emerges from its pupa stage, seemingly an entirely new creature from the voracious caterpillar which formed its chrysalis, it floats forth into a cascading senses explosion of a life on-the-wing.

It unfurls its wings, steadies itself and then sets off, bringing beauty to our eyes, weaving an erratic course (to us at least) over its relatively short life.

It knows not what the world brings. All is new. All is tumbling experience after tumbling experience. It wastes no time on its past or future. It lives and dies as part of the ongoing process of change in nature, and by extension, the Universe.

Why do I suggest you consider the butterfly as we end this tumultuous year and look to 2022?

The winged stage of the butterfly has been a symbol for the human soul for millennia. The Ancient Greek word for butterfly was “psyche” or soul.

British author of Wild Volumes, Simon Barnes, tells us in his book The History of the World in 100 Animals that the transition from pupa to butterfly is called, I think fittingly for 2022 inspiration, ‘the imagination’.

The beginning of the end of the pandemic and its octopus tentacles and disruptive ripples, bringing so much pain, misery and tumult to human civilisation, might be an opportunity.

Can we imitate the butterfly and use the pandemic for a complete metamorphosis of body and spirit? Can we move through our own imagination phase, creating a different future for ourselves and others?

I admit that my optimism bias delivered a bout of premature anticipation in the first half of the year.

I began to believe that the pandemic

“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do, than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

Can 2022 be your Year of the Butterfly?

Paul Bird offers a pandemic-Inspired Imagination Morph

was over, that our rather grim national psyche of earlier this year needed to shift to an economic recovery and all that that held for our material, mental and emotional wellbeing.

At the beginning of the year I boldly suggested the mantra for 2021: “The recession is over, opportunities abound”. Then along came Delta.

I may have gotten the timing wrong but I stand by the sentiment. Indeed, 2022 looks like being the Great Reset MkII – when we truly emerge from our own chrysalis (we Queenslanders acknowledge some have endured much more suffering than others) and can, if we commit to it, live like butterflies again - or for the first time.

Butterflies mostly live on nectar, flitting from flower or fruit to flower or fruit, sampling whatever that source of nourishment has to offer.

We can use the trauma and reflection so brutally visited upon us by the pandemic to take inspiration from this way of living – drinking deeply of all that a human life offers; the full gambit of experiences and emotions which make for a life well-lived.

Our brain, and the intellect which it provides to us, has driven our development as a species and delivered the kaleidoscope of processes, systems, structures, machines and technology that allow us the freedom to live as we do.

It can, however, drive us to great distraction.

The pandemic has given us all cause for pause. It has touched us in many and individual ways. It has brought pain and suffering, has robbed people of their very existence, severed familial ties and driven people to economic despair.

Because we are human we feel fear. The pandemic has brought a kind of

general background of terror to our human souls. We must not lose heart. For example, we can look to generationupon-generation of ancestors who have brought stoic and stubborn survival instincts to their own calamities, continuing on in order to give us the future which we call our present.

We can’t ignore the reality of what the world has endured over the past almost two years… and continues to endure. Seeing the world through the naivety of rose-tinted glasses all the time can only result in a riskier world.

However, I am suggesting you consider lifting your sights again. Re-grow ambition to live life as you envisioned it pre-pandemic; plus the imagination change factor driving the butterfly through its life cycle.

Perhaps in the Great Reset phase there might be a greater appreciation of the fragility of life, more humility and care. A set of clearer eyes to our goals and how to achieve them?

A living more in the moment as it happens rather than in the moments as interpreted by our magnificent but problematic and furtive mind.

The butterfly attitude is fit for all our walks of life – work, play, love, spiritual development. When the butterfly emerges it enters the same world but with a different view and capability.

Make no mistake, 2022 beckons as a changed world from the one we knew. However, it is still a beautiful world, replete with promise. It is up to us to launch forth into the new reality and make it our own. A butterfly soul for the times. The sentiment interrupted (by Delta) remains.

(Reset) mantra for 2022: “The recession is over, opportunities abound”.

Turn to the Experts to discover

Caroma’s stunning new Elvire collection

Caroma’s new Elvire Collection, available now at NCP, is where nature and luxury unite. It brings together a minimalist design aesthetic with beautiful materials for a stunning bathroom experience. This collection reflects contemporary minimalism with a design that is both practical and ultra-stylish. The design language of the circle is timeless and the closed loop represents Caroma’s commitment to water and its relationship to nature and the human response to that connection.

NCP’s expert staff can answer all your questions and show you baths, showers, tapware, vanities, basins and accessories from the Elvire Collection that will bring your design ideas to life.

So when you’re building or renovating, turn to the experts – turn to NCP.

ncpgroup.com.au