Sunset over the rocks of Batemans Bay
Jessica
CREATIVE
Jessica
CONTRIBUTORS
Amy
Belinda
COVER
Caleb
Welcome
Welcome to the Summer 2025 issue of the Inspired Living Magazine. Brought to our community by Blackshaw to showcase and provide readers with the current trends and topics related to homes, from the nation’s capital to the south coast region of Batemans Bay.
Inspired Living is all about discovering possibilities. Being inspired in life and in your home, and gaining insights into local causes and topics that matter. Providing our readers with a unique perspective from property enthusiasts and local talents. We are always on the lookout to showcase collections from local designers, artists and more.
Our Summer issue is brimming with inspiring ideas and refreshing insights to elevate your home for the season. Immerse yourself in the pleasure of a great beach read and discover how to cultivate both mental and physical wellness during these sunny months. Benefit from our expert advice on keeping your rental home safe and secure throughout the summer. Stay ahead of the trend with our handpicked selection of prime fishing spots, perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. Prepare for adventure with our essential road trip checklist, ensuring a smooth journey wherever your travels take you. Lastly, for those looking to capitalise on the summer market, we share our most effective strategies and tips for successfully selling your home this season!
Enjoy this complimentary magazine, continue to feel inspired to find endless possibilities to enhance your own living.
Belinda Chamberlain, Corporate Director Blackshaw Real Estate
by William Pickard
Photography
How to prepare your home for a summer sale
There are many benefits to putting your home on the market in the summer time – the warmer, longer days and beautiful weather can often show the property in its best light. But no property is perfect, and there’s a lot you can do to boost your home’s curb appeal so you can get the best price possible.
Here are our top tips for selling your home this summer.
Photography by Blackshaw Real Estate
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
When it comes to property, first impressions last, so it’s important that your home has curb appeal as soon as it goes on the market. Start by looking at your property from the street and then ask yourself – does my home look tired? Is everything clean, tidy and well-maintained, including the garden and driveway? Do any exterior areas need to be repaired, replaced, or spruced up with a lick of paint? Small things such as dirty windows, cracked rendering, overgrown gardens, and broken fencing can collectively make a property look run-down and unwelcoming, ultimately affecting its value and saleability. This is particularly important as potential buyers will likely drive past your home before viewing it to check if it’s worth their time. The same can be said for first impressions when buyers walk through the front door –will they see scuffed walls, stained carpets, dirty bathrooms and lots of clutter? All the little things add up and can make your property appear older and less valuable, so put the time and effort in well before it hits the market.
SELL THE SUMMER LIFESTYLE
Buyers will be eager to see the potential of your outdoor spaces over the summer months, so you want everything to look its very best. Essentially, you want buyers to visualise themselves in your home, whether that’s relaxing on a sun lounge alongside the manicured gardens or by the sparkling clean pool, enjoying a drink or barbeque on a balmy evening in a comfortable entertaining area, or playing backyard cricket on the luscious well-kept lawn. You want your outdoor space to look as inviting as possible, so think about introducing some pots with statement greenery and planting colourful flowers in your garden beds. Then, perhaps add a big shady umbrella and a stylish outdoor setting with bright cushions. If you have a swimming pool, it’s likely to be the centrepiece of your backyard, so make sure it is safe, clean and well-maintained.
Photography by Teguh Pratama
Photography by Pierre Chatel
Photography by Giorgio Trovat
KEEP INSPECTIONS COMFORTABLE
When it comes to making inspections comfortable for buyers in the peak of summer, aim for lots of light, super airy spaces and temperature control. If your inspection is held on a hot day, then turn your airconditioning on well before buyers arrive to allow the cool air to flow through all of your rooms – but not too cold, otherwise your buyers will be freezing and uncomfortable. The late afternoon and early evening can be ideal for inspections as the milder temperatures can sometimes create a cool summer breeze, so open the curtains, blinds and doors and allow air to flow through the property well before people arrive.
Photography by Shawn Ho
Photography by Joy AJ
Our ultimate guide for your next road trip
Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend getaway or embarking on a crosscountry adventure, a road trip is a fantastic way to explore new places and create lasting memories.
Here’s our essential guide to help you have a fun, safe and smooth journey.
Photography by Austin Neill
PLAN AHEAD
A successful road trip is all about balancing spontaneity with preparation. Spontaneity is important – and adds a little fun – but a little planning goes a long way toward making your road trip safer, more enjoyable, and as stress-free as possible, no matter the duration. Once you’ve decided on your destination, plan some breaks along the way, aiming for every 1-2 hours to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and prevent fatigue. Identify some stops on your route that you’re looking forward to seeing, which could be parks, historic sites, famous attractions or some cute towns you’ve never been to. If you’re planning to stay overnight in hotels or motels, book in advance when possible. If not, have a few options researched so you can avoid scrambling for last-minute accommodation. Always be prepared for unexpected detours and familiarise yourself with alternative routes in case of bad traffic or road closures. Consider a plan-B route, which could be via the countryside or along the coastline. Finally, make sure you’ve budgeted enough for petrol and any overnight stays along the way.
Photography by Katie Drazdaus
Photography by Joshua Hibbert
PREPARE YOUR VEHICLE
A reliable vehicle is key to a successful road trip, so be sure to start with a thorough check. This includes fluid levels, such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and transmission fluid. Next, check that your windscreen wipers, airconditioning and heating are all working. Check your tyre pressure, make sure you have enough tread on each tyre, and check that your spare tyre is in good condition. Remember to include all the tools you’ll need to change your tyres if you’re unlucky enough to get a puncture. If you’re not comfortable changing a tyre, then sign up for roadside assistance just to cover yourself. Next, test your battery, especially if it’s a few years old, and also test your brakes, headlights, taillights, and indicators. If you’re not confident doing these checks, then take your vehicle to a mechanic for a pre-trip inspection.
Photography by Benjamin Brunner
Photography by Snowy Kate Ibragumova
WHAT TO PACK
When it comes to packing for your road trip, the key is to strike a balance between essentials and comfort. For essentials, bring along a first aid kit, sun protection, tissues and toilet paper, a torch or headlamp with extra batteries, non-perishable snacks and refillable water bottles so everyone stays hydrated. As for comfort items, think neck pillows and blankets, as well as entertainment and technology – think books, magazines, a music playlist, or some pre-downloaded podcasts and audiobooks to help make long stretches more enjoyable. Essential items like food, drinks, maps, chargers and cables should be within easy reach for a smoother drive.
Photography by Mitchell Hartley
Photography by Jairph
Photography by Negley Stockman
SAFETY AND EMERGENCIES
Before you set off, always share your plans with friends or family members, telling them your route, planned stops, and when you’re due home. Make sure you take your ID, insurance information, any required medications, cash and all your debit and credit cards. While you might expect your car or phone GPS to work well the entire trip, be ready in case of a bad signal, especially in remote areas, and always take a printed map as a backup, or consider downloading offline maps to help you stay on track. Don’t forget to bring a charger, cords and a power bank to keep your tech fully charged at all times, especially if you’re going to rely on using the map on your phone. And finally, always check the weather forecast before you set off and plan for all scenarios.
Photography by Avery Evans
Photography by Snowy Michael Skok
Photography by Maxim Hopman
How to keep your rental home safe this summer
The Australian summer is one of the harshest in the world, and with extreme heat comes increased risks. As a tenant, there’s a lot you can do to ensure your rental home stays safe for you, your family and your pets. Here’s our guide for keeping risks at bay this summer.
Photography by Bernie Almanzer
Photography by Erik Mclean
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS
As a tenant, it’s important to address maintenance issues as and when they arise – not just at routine inspections – before they worsen and cause further damage. Take some time to walk around your property, inside and out, and make a list of anything that might need replacing or repair before summer sets in. Tenants play an important role in raising issues in a timely manner to ensure their property stays safe and remains in the best possible condition. Property managers have strict procedures to ensure maintenance issues and repair requests are raised with the landlord quickly, and landlords are provided with solutions for rectification. Landlords will always be contacted first to obtain approval before proceeding with any maintenance.
FIRE SAFETY
Aside from maintenance, fire safety should be top of mind all year round, not just during the summer months. Start by checking that all smoke detectors are working and have new batteries. It’s important to have fire extinguishers and fire blankets on hand, especially in the kitchen and around barbeques and outdoor grills where open flames and grease are present. Make sure to regularly clean your barbeque and check that it’s free from cracks and damage, especially near any outlets or pipes. Be sure to remove unused timber and other flammable items that might be lying around outside, as they might pose a fire hazard in extreme heat. Finally, any visibly worn electrical wiring or blocked drains, pipes or gutters need to be attended to immediately.
“There’s no better way to cool down on a hot summer’s day than in a swimming pool!”
Photography by Brian Wangenheim
Photography by Frames FYH
AIR CONDITIONING
As the temperature begins to rise, you’ll want to check that your air conditioner works properly in time for the peak of summer. Be sure to give all units and vents a clean as dust and debris can lower air quality and make the air conditioner work harder. This extra strain can also increase energy bills and the risk of damage. Testing and cleaning your system as early in the season as possible should allow enough time for you to lodge a maintenance request for a service or repair before the summer heat really sets in. It’s important to keep flammable materials like clothes, carpeting and drapes away from your air conditioner, and never leave the air conditioner running unattended when you’re not home. Watch for signs of overheating, such as blowing out warm air or any strange smells or sounds; if this happens, turn the air conditioner off immediately. Test the unit again after a short break, and if it still isn’t working, call your property manager to arrange for an inspection by a professional.
S WIMMING POOL
There’s no better way to cool down on a hot summer’s day than in a swimming pool, but it’s important to keep everyone safe, especially little ones and pets. According to the Royal Life Saving Society Australia, swimming pools are the leading location for drowning deaths in young children. These days, we are lucky enough to have strong laws around pool fencing, but risks still exist and precautions need to be taken. Tenants with pools should inspect their fences and gates and alert the property manager of any problems straight away. Never leave pool gates propped open for any reason, and remove objects from around the pool’s perimeter that a child or pet could use to climb on and over the fence. While floating toys and noodles are great fun to use in the pool, they shouldn’t be relied upon for weak swimmers or considered safety equipment. Non-swimmers and weak swimmers of any age should not swim alone and should stay in shallow water. Children must always be supervised by a parent or guardian who knows how to swim and can administer CPR if needed.
Photography by Thom Milkovic
Photography by Sydney Rae
Photography by Carlos Lindner
Summer reading: Essential beach books
Few things are better than relaxing under the summer sun with a good beach read. Whether it’s a nail-biting thriller or murder mystery, a lustful romance, some historical fiction to take you back in time, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or some inspiring non-fiction – no genre is off the cards.
So when summer hits, get your hat, sunscreen, snacks and some summer reading at the ready, and find yourself a cosy spot to get lost in the pages.
Photography by Chen Mizrach
INTERMEZZO
Global phenomenon and multimillion-copy bestselling author of Normal People, Sally Rooney has just released her latest novel, Intermezzo, touted as the most anticipated book of the year. A deeply moving story about two grieving brothers, the people they love, and a new chapter filled with desire, despair and possibility – a chance to find out how much one life might hold inside itself without breaking.
LEAVE THE GIRLS BEHIND
Jacqueline Bublitz, New Zealand-born acclaimed author of Before You Knew My Name returns with a psychological thriller with a supernatural twist. After 19 years, a woman is still haunted by her friend’s murder and the now-deceased serial killer – and the ghosts he left behind. As another girl goes missing, she travels around the world to find the truth, convinced the serial killer has living accomplices. But who will hold the key to what happened to the missing girl, and her childhood friend, all those years ago?
Photography by Amazon
Photography by Amazon
FUNNY STORY
A joyful new romance novel about a pair of opposites with the wrong thing in common, from #1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author Emily Henry. Set over one summer comes a story about the happily-ever-after that wasn’t and the exes determined to make the best of it. A witty love story with the perfect balance between steamy and sweet.
THE CLOSE UP
An electrifying new thriller from Pip Drysdale, the bestselling author of The Sunday Girl, The Strangers We Know and The Next Girl. This is a dark and twisty tale about a struggling author who discovers the dark side of fame when her boyfriend’s stalker begins re-enacting violent events from her first novel – and she is the victim.
Photography by Amazon
Photography by Amazon
HERE ONE MOMENT
If you knew when you were going to die, what would you do differently? On an ordinary flight from Hobart to Sydney, a mysterious woman predicts how and when many of the passengers are going to die. For some, death is far in the future; for others, it is very close. Master storyteller and author of Big Little Lies, Liane Moriarty is back with another bestseller, Here One Moment, a story that looks at free will and destiny, grief and love, and the endless struggle to maintain control in an uncertain world.
THINGS WILL CALM DOWN SOON
As the founder of Australian skincare company, Go-To, Zoë Foster Blake has learned a lot in her decade of business, and in her 17th book, Things Will Calm Down Soon, she opens the doors into that hectic world. This highly relatable novel follows Kit, a talented hair stylist turned entrepreneur who is juggling family dramas, workplace near-catastrophes and relationship crises. She is certain – positive – things will calm down soon, because how can life possibly keep going at this pace?
Photography by Amazon
Photography by Amazon
Embrace Summer: A Wellness Guide for the Season
Summer brings warmth, longer days and plenty of opportunities to embrace the outdoors, but as much as we all might enjoy the heat and the frivolities of the festive season, staying physically and mentally well can sometimes require a little extra attention. Here are our top tips for a healthier, happier summer season.
Photography by Kike Vega
EAT WELL
Embrace summer’s delicious seasonal produce to help boost your nutritional intake, keep your energy levels high and prevent dehydration. Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, antioxidants and fibre, and in summer, the selection is vast –from juicy mangos, pineapples, nectarines, peaches and cherries to tasty cucumbers, tomatoes and capsicums. If you want to take your nutrition even further this summer, then jump into the kitchen (or straight out to the barbeque) and cook something new using some fresh summer produce. If you’re interested in learning how to work with different flavour combinations or cuisines, head online – YouTube is a great place to learn. Alternatively, sign up for a local cooking class or take a private lesson, then practise your new skills with loved ones.
Photography by Dana Devolk
Photography by Amin Ramezani
SLEEP EASY
Summer’s long days and warm nights can disrupt sleep schedules, making it difficult to fall asleep and rest comfortably throughout the night. To help you sleep better in the heat, keep your room as cool as possible – use a fan or air conditioner, close curtains during the day, invest in cooling sheets, and open windows if there’s an evening breeze. Like any time of year, but particularly in summer, it helps to establish a bedtime routine – going to bed and waking up at the same time can help regulate your body’s internal clock, making sleeping in the warmer months just that little bit easier. As always, try to limit screen time before bed, as it can interfere with melatonin production.
GET OUTDOORS
Physical activity has a range of benefits, from boosting your mood to keeping you fit and physically healthy. This summer, take advantage of the longer days and fresh, warm air and head outside for some activity – play some sport, go on a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike up a mountain, or jump on a bike and go for a ride somewhere new. Summer is also a perfect time to explore water-based activities, like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Do remember, exercising in the heat can also have its risks, so aim for cooler parts of the day, like the early mornings or evenings, and wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your body cool.
Photography by Dylan Gillis
Photography by Kaylee Garrett
BE SUN SMART
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and with the sun’s UV rays strongest in the summer, the risk of skin damage and sunburn increases significantly. By now, we should all know to slip, slop, slap and protect ourselves from the sun’s rays by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing that covers your skin. Always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours and after swimming or sweating. When used as directed, SPF 30 sunscreen filters 96.7% of UV radiation and SPF 50 filters 98%, so the higher the SPF, the better.
HYDRATION
Over the summer, it’s so important to stay hydrated. With the rising temperatures, your body loses water quickly, especially during outdoor activities. Aim for 8-10 glasses a day, increasing intake on hotter days and when you’re more active. If that seems like a lot to drink, why not incorporate hydrating, waterrich foods into your diet, like watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries. Another way to help with hydration is to limit sugary or caffeinated drinks. Instead, opt for flavourinfused water with mint, lemon or lime.
Photography by Angelo Pantazi
Photography by Daiga Ellaby
Photography by Jamie Street
SELF-CARE
Summer is the time for well-deserved holidays, Christmas celebrations and relaxation, but it can also be exhausting and stressful due to busy schedules, so it’s important to set aside time for self-care. Yoga, pilates and meditation can be effective ways to increase your wellbeing, whether that’s at home with an app or online video. Even a few minutes a day for meditation or journaling can help you reset and recharge. Classes, retreats and workshops can give you a more interactive experience, from yoga to guidance on nutrition, meditation or general wellbeing. If you’re after a bit of indulgence, then a day spa can offer you a variety of face and body treatments to relax and reduce stress. You can even create a home day spa with a bath, some candles and your favourite music. Spending time in nature can also help maintain your mental health over the busy period – studies show that being outdoors can reduce stress levels. It’s also important to stay connected with the people you love, so nurture the relationships closest to you, as they can greatly enhance mental and emotional wellness.
RETREATS, WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES
Canberra : changeyoga.com.au/workshops
Yass : heartspaceretreat.com.au
South Coast : welltraveller.com.au
Canberra + South Coast : classbento.com.au
Canberra : flowyogacanberra.com/workshops
South Coast : southcoastsoul.com.au/
Photography by Adrian Motroc
Photography by Roberto Nickso
Essential elements when marketing your property
SOCIAL MEDIA
PRINT ADS
A highly targeted, visual presentation of your property.
Print publications with large audience reach and a glossy finish.
MAIL FLYERS
Tailored insights for specific markets and communities.
ONLINE LISTING
A detailed resource for those who like their research.
LOOKING TO SELL OR LEASE YOUR PROPERTY?
There are a range of advertising platforms and tools to consider when showcasing your property’s finest features, to ensure it makes the right impact in the real estate market. Experience our professional perspective and see what we do to ensure a successful property marketing campaign.
E-NEWSLETTERS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOS
A way to stay in-touch and informed.
Something to hold onto, for those who appreciate the essentials.
A detailed virtual inspection for those who can’t find the time.
Local awareness and interest.
A SIGNBOARD
The South Coast’s best fishing hotspots
Batemans Bay is one of the state’s most popular fishing destinations, often touted as an angler’s paradise. The region offers excellent fishing across its vast coastlines, rivers, and offshore waters, which are filled with everything from tailor, kingfish, Australian salmon, luderick and snapper to bream, whiting, leatherjacket, flathead, mulloway, and many more!
Photography by Adam Sherez
NEW TO FISHING?
Here are the different types on offer in Batemans Bay:
Recreational fishing is typically known as shore-based fishing from beaches, rock platforms, jetties, lake shores, creek beds or riverbanks.
Boat fishing includes fishing from small dinghies to large charter boats, allowing anglers to access inshore, offshore, and reef environments. Charter fishing, also known as deep-sea or game fishing, is done in deeper waters offshore and targets larger species like tuna, marlin, and snapper.
Kayak fishing is ideal for anglers who want to access shallow areas suited to rivers, lakes, and estuaries.
Spearfishing is quite common in clear coastal waters and can be done freediving or with scuba gear.
Estuary fishing in the tidal mouth of a large river where the tide meets the stream is ideal for anglers looking for species found in nutrient-rich waters like bream, whiting, flathead, and mangrove jack.
Rock fishing is where anglers fish from rocky outcrops into the sea. It is a popular way to fish in Australia but can be very dangerous, so it’s important to always wear a life jacket.
Photography by Neil Mark Thomas
POPULAR FISHING SPOTS
Clyde River
The Clyde River is the main river flowing into Batemans Bay and is a great spot for estuary fishing, as well as kayak, boat and shore fishing. Here, you’ll find bream, flathead, whiting, estuary perch, and mulloway. Anglers often use soft plastics, lures and live bait here, or surface lures for whiting.
Batemans Bay Jetty
Located in the heart of Batemans Bay town, this wharf provides easy access for anglers without a boat. Here, you’ll find bream, flathead, trevally, tailor, and whiting. It’s best suited for fishing with bait such as prawns, squid, and pilchards.
Moruya River
The area around the Moruya River offers diverse fishing with sandbars, rock walls and oyster leases that attract bream and flathead all year round. Deeper channels may also hold jewfish. Anglers typically use soft plastics and live bait here.
Tomakin Beach and Tomaga River
The Tomakin Beach and Tomaga River are both popular spots for surf, river and estuary fishing. The seagrass beds and shallow sandbanks here attract bream, flathead and mulloway. The river is ideal for casting light tackle and lures, while the beach is good for bait fishing. Anglers are likely to find whiting and tailor in these waters.
Reef and continental shelf
The outer reefs and continental shelf located in the much deeper waters offshore are home to the region’s famous marlin and kingfish breeding grounds, especially popular with charters during the warmer months (December to March). Fish such as albacore and tuna are more prevalent in these waters in the months leading up to winter (April to June).
Surf Beach
This popular beach to the south of Batemans Bay is a fantastic surf fishing spot, especially in the gutters and at dawn or dusk. Anglers should use long casts and bait like pilchards or beach worms to catch Australian salmon, tailor, bream, and whiting.
Cullendulla Creek
Just north of Batemans Bay, this creek offers calm estuary waters perfect for catching bream, flathead, whiting, and mullet. It’s suitable for shore fishing and kayak fishing. The waters are ideal for using soft plastics and live bait, and even suitable for fly fishing.
Snapper Island
Located offshore near the mouth of the Clyde River, Snapper Island offers fishing for experienced anglers with snapper, kingfish, morwong, and other reef fish in the area. It is best accessed by boat, with bottom fishing and jigging popular here. The island is part of a marine park, so be sure to check local regulations before you set off.
Mosquito Bay
This spot is located south of Batemans Bay and features a small boat ramp, best for boat fishing around reefs and rock fishing for the more experienced. Anglers are likely to find snapper, bream, flathead, and other reef species here.
Photography by Vidar Nordli Mathisen
Photography by Aymane So
FADS
Every year, the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) places Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) along the NSW coastlines during the warmer months. The FADs are GPS-tracked floating buoys that anchor to the ocean floor and attract fish to increase catches for anglers. They work by casting a shadow into the water, providing structure, and acting as reference points for schooling. Mahi mahi, also known as dolphinfish, is the most common species found around FADs. For more information about FADs and their locations, plus other fishing resources, download the NSW DPI’s FishSmart app.
CHARTERS AND TOURS
Batemans Bay has a well-established charter fishing scene, offering shared and private services for full and half-day options for reef, deep-sea, and game fishing. Charters provide gear, guides, and access to specific locations and species. Here are four local charter providers to try out this summer:
• gameoncharters.net.au
• badenochcharters.com.au
• batemansbayfishing.com.au
• barzopenfishingcharters.com.au
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Every fishing style is governed by regulations, which vary by each Australian state and territory, to ensure sustainable fishing practices and to protect the country’s unique aquatic ecosystems. When fishing in NSW waters, both freshwater and saltwater, you are required by law to pay the NSW recreational fishing fee and carry a receipt showing the payment of the fee. This applies when spear fishing, handlining, hand gathering, trapping, bait collecting and prawn netting or when in possession of fishing gear in, on or adjacent to waters. For more information, visit dpi.nsw.gov. au. Also, note that a general boat driving licence is a minimum requirement if you’re driving any vessel for recreational purposes at 10 knots (approximately 18.5 km/h) or more on NSW waters. For more information, visit service.nsw.gov.au
Photography by Austin Neill
Photography by Kal Visuals
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