The
Quality Cut CABOOLTURE
Issue Four | November 2017
Mountains of Fun:
Display Homes unveiling THURSDAY 23 NOVEMBER
Ray & Di StClare Share their European Adventures
Your Country Club: Construction Update
Featured Facility: Spoilt for Choice
www.livinggems.com.au | 1800 288 918
The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
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YOU ARE INVITED
Sales Manager’s Message There are lots of changes happening at Living Gems Caboolture, with many new display homes available to view and of course, buy! The advantage of purchasing a display home is that it can really take the stress out of choosing a site and buying, so if you’re looking to move quickly – now is your chance. The selling season is truly upon us, so now is the time to put your home on the market and move into Living Gems Caboolture. In resort news, the clubhouse is nearing completion, with an announcement of its grand opening coming very soon! Our residents simply can’t wait for it to be
completed, so in the meantime, they have been improvising with the donated marquee on the village green. The marquee has housed everything from happy hour to line dancing – there really is no stopping our residents’ enthusiasm for a good get-together. In this issue of our newsletter, you can see for yourself all the fun activities that have happened at the resort over the last month. We also highlight some of our residents’ fascinating travel tales, their very chatty pets, and not forgetting all the latest construction news on site. If you’d like any more information about our resort, homes, or perhaps have any questions, please feel free to give me a call or an email.
g n i n r o M Tea WEDNESDAY 10AM
here
ou t We hope to see y
If you are interested, get in touch with us via phone
1800 288 918
Sherry McOmish Sales Manager
or email sherry@livinggems.com.au
Strike Lucky One of the greatest things that we offer at Living Gems, is the opportunity to have a day out, without having to travel anywhere! Our state-of-the art tenpin bowling alley will do just that. With three lanes, you’ll never have to think about what to do with the grandkids or activities for a Saturday evening with friends. Maybe you’d like to get a bowling team together and take it all very seriously – the choice is yours!
Located in the outstanding country club, we have gone to great lengths to provide a quality experience through the use of extensive insulation (to prevent noise carrying to other areas) and accessibility.
Gem of a Home: $472,182 This is your chance to own one of the most desirable homes in the entire Living Gems Caboolture resort! This Gemstone plan is situated on a premium site with stunning views out to the river – total bliss. With three bedrooms plus a bonus study nook, there is space to burn in this open-plan design. The large alfresco means that entertaining is made easy, supplemented by the designer kitchen with stunning island bench. 1800 288 918 or email: sherry@livinggems.com.au for more information or to view our stunning range of homes.
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The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Ensuite • Walk-in wardrobe
• Remote control 2 car garage • Air conditioning
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
Display Homes Unveiling T H U R S D AY 2 3 N O V E M B E R @ 1 0 : 3 0 A M
Bring a friend and come along to view our fabulous new display homes. Indulge in a delectable morning tea while you find out about why Living Gems Caboolture really is the place to be!
FROM
$357,000
Exclusive display tours start at 10:30am, 11:30am, and 12.30pm. To register your interest, please RSVP by Thursday 16 November. Call Sherry on: 0417 973 819 or email at: sherry@livinggems.com.au. Living Gems Caboolture | 176 Torrens Road, Caboolture www.livinggems.com.au | 1800 288 918
The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
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In the Spotlight
A Mountain of European Fun: Ray and Di StClare The peak of the Matterhorn has inspired some of the greatest climbers of the mid 19th century. Despite there being many taller mountains in Europe, it was one of the last to be summited, because it inspired such fear. For Living Gems Caboolture residents Ray and Di StClare, the ascent of the Matterhorn was a little bit easier, as they took the cog railway – the highest in Europe. But being safely encased in a carriage did not dim the excitement of travelling up one of Europe’s most spectacular mountains. The mountain ascent was the highlight of a month-long European holiday that included a two-week Mediterranean cruise on the Royal Princess, and another two weeks on a Globus Bus Tour through northern Italy and Switzerland. “Probably the most exciting part was climbing out of the gorges; the bus would go up and around a hair pin, forward and back, forward and back, climbing, climbing, climbing, right up to the top,” says Ray. “On both sides of the bus, you had a chance to have a look down to the valley below because of the hairpin bends. We had a good bus driver – he was very careful.”
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The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
Even in the European summer, there is snow and glaciers on the upper reaches of the alps where the tour explored. “We got out of the bus and walked in snow,” says Ray.
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
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They travelled from Munich up into the north of Italy and on to Switzerland via the Dolomite Ranges. along the stunning waterways of the region, and past goat farms, apple orchards, and vineyards. With its multicoloured buildings right on the edge of the Mediterranean, Portofino, was another highlight, as were the cities of Genoa and Rapallo. “Those cities were very beautiful in August,” says Ray. Cruising also appeals to Ray and Di, because once they are on board, there is nothing to worry about – they can just relax and enjoy the holiday. The Royal Princess took them from Barcelona, and then on to the ports of Spain, northern Italy, Rome, and Malta, and then down to the Greek Islands before finishing in Athens. After Athens, Ray and Di flew to Munich, where they explored the city for a few days and visited the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, before meeting the bus tour group. Ray says the character and history of Europe has always attracted him. “The cobblestone streets, the buildings that are hundreds of years old, the big water features in the middle of roundabouts – there is just so much character and history. I love it.” As a Living Gems resident, Ray says that he always feels comfortable leaving his villa for extended holidays. “Living in a gated community, you feel less prone to break and enter than living out in a normal residential www.livinggems.com.au | 1800 288 918
“At Living Gems, you know the neighbours, and there is an on-site manager, you have that additional peace of mind.” 5
property. Because you know the neighbours, and there is an on-site manager, you have that additional peace of mind. It is a big advantage.” If you would like to contribute to our Resident’s Spotlight section in a future newsletter, contact the Editor at: editor@livinggems.com.au.
Clockwise from top: 1 Panorama of the Swiss Alps. 2 Not for the faint of heart! This convertible cable car ascending Mount Stanserhorn in Switzerland. 3 The stunning architecture of the Sagrada Família in Barcelona. 4 Portofino, Italy. 5 The Matterhorn in Switzerland. 6 Ray and Di StClare enjoying the trip of a lifetime in the European mountain ranges. The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
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FACADE 1
Crystal
FACADE 2
What a home! Offering open-plan living at its finest, the Crystal gives you so much, for so little! With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, this plan gives you plenty of room to relax, recline, or entertain. The possibilities are endless. A study nook affords you an extra space to work, unwind, or read a good book. With a walk-in pantry and double garage, downsizing from a larger home couldn’t be easier.
• 1 bathroom & ensuite
• Remote control double garage
• Walk-in wardrobe
• Air-conditioning
• 2 bedrooms
If you would like more information about this home or to arrange a viewing, call 1800 288 918 today.
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The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
5 Low-impact Exercises for the Summer Season A low-impact exercise routine can benefit your health by stretching and lengthening your muscles and maintaining the strength of your bones to protect against injury. It can even help lower your blood pressure and reduce stress. You want to hit all the four key exercise targets into your routine: endurance, strength, flexibility and balance. These five low-impact exercises cover the four targets in a fun and enjoyable way. So, grab a friend and get started!
Stretching Adding some gentle stretching to your workout routine will improve your flexibility and range of motion.
You don’t need any equipment to get started and it can be very social activity if you walk with a friend. It’s also easy on the joints. The key is to make sure you have comfortable, well-fitting shoes and to stretch before and after your walk.
Swimming
You want to hit all the four key exercise targets into your routine: endurance, strength, flexibility and balance.
Now that the weather is heating up, swimming is a lot more inviting.
Start with a yoga video in your living room, or get a group together for a class.
As we age, our muscles tend to lose flexibility, so stretching is something that you should be doing every day.
Swimming is great for flexibility and endurance, and is another exercise that relieves stress on your joints and bones.
A good instructor will offer alternative positions and poses to any that you have trouble with.
Key areas to target include your neck, shoulders, upper arms, back, ankles, legs, hips and calves.
Swimming carries a very low risk of injury, making it an ideal choice.
Lifting weights
It also conditions the whole body. While swimming, you are strengthening the muscles in your back, arms, legs and shoulders.
Weight training doesn’t have to be strenuous. In fact, a few repetitions with some light free weights is an excellent low-impact way to improve muscle tone and safeguard against osteoporosis.
This may sound like a lot but if you do a few stretching exercises each day, you will cover these areas quickly. Make sure you don’t over-stretch too. Take it slowly and don’t push yourself beyond what you can handle.
Yoga Yoga is a fantastic low-impact exercise that carries many benefits.
Start with some light weights and increase the number of repetitions and the amount you’re lifting over time.
Walking
It combines all elements of endurance, strength, flexibility and balance in one. It’s also a great de-stressor.
Remember though, if an exercise causes you pain, back off and try a lighter weight.
Walking is one of the best low-impact endurance exercises. www.livinggems.com.au | 1800 288 918
The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
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Construction Update
Cinema
Roof over Front Entry & Pool Stage and Dressing Rooms
Ten Pin Bowling Pool
Construction is moving along nicely here at Living Gems Caboolture, despite the torrential wet weather that has plagued the area of late. Currently, the country club is moving through the final steps towards having its roof completed. If you’d like more updates on construction at the resort, be sure to follow our Facebook page, or call our Sales Team on: 1800 288 918 or email at: sherry@livinggems.com.au.
Your Sales Team Come and meet the dynamic sales team at Living Gems Caboolture by attending one of our many planned events in the upcoming months. 8
The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
We are more than happy to take you on a guided personal tour around the resort to visit our luxurious displays that enable you to have all the hard decisionmaking done for you. You’ll be able to have a good look at our phenomenal country club which, once complete, will
become the beating heart of the entire resort. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about us, give us a call on: 1800 288 918 or email at sherry@livinggems.com.au. Left to right: Viki, Dee and Sherry
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
Our Living Gems At Living Gems, we’re a community inside and out. We love getting to know our resident stakeholders, so here’s an opportunity for you to get to know us better too. A family-run business through and through, Living Gems would be nowhere without its staff members and we like to make sure they know that they’re appreciated. Learn more about them here:
Natalie Kingcott has been with us nearly nine months now and she has certainly not shown any sign of slowing down. Nat is our resident artist and all-round good-time gal. To Nat’s two beautiful daughters, she is known as ‘Wonder Woman’. Nat regularly takes our colleagues under her wing and always offers a friendly ear or a dry joke. Offering 20 years of graphic design experience, Nat is a huge asset to our creative team. How did you get into graphic design? NK: I’ve been an artist my entire life. As a child, I was painting and drawing all the time and I just couldn’t think about any other path. No other thought ever came into my head – I was always going to be a graphic designer. I did an Associate Diploma in Visual Communication at Design College Australia, Brisbane, and from that point onwards I’ve been working in the field ever since. It’s been some 20 years since I graduated and I’ve worked for in construction and education mostly, and I really haven’t looked back! What inspires you? NK: In a word, happiness! I get excited and feel inspired when I’m working
on new things and ideas. I get bored with the monotony of daily life, so I’m always looking to mix it up, which always produces my best work. When I’m struggling to come up with new ideas and concepts I often seek inspiration from other artists as it allows me to feel connected to the heart of the industry and really makes me believe in myself. What do you most enjoy about your role? NK: The people! We’re always very busy here with lots of new projects on the horizon – whether that’s the announcement of a new site or a new task that we haven’t done before. I really love the variety and the ‘go get it’ attitude of our office. It’s really great to have such a supportive team that trust me to do the best job possible and demonstrate my experience without someone having to look over my shoulder. Being proactive is encouraged and everyone always takes that in their stride. What is your favourite Living Gems home? NK: Gemstone! Not just because of the awesome name, but mostly because of the gorgeous façade options and the clever zoning. The three bedrooms would be perfect for me and my two girls. Plus, I would use the large gallery to display some of my art work.
“I’d definitely like to be a resort manager for Living Gems one day!” What do you like to do in your spare time? NK: I hang out with my two lovely daughters most of the time. When I get the odd moment to myself I do a lot of online gaming and binge-watching the latest shows. Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time? NK: I’ve always wanted to illustrate a children’s book – so that’s something I’d love to do in my spare time. I’d definitely like to be a resort manager for Living Gems one day! My kids will be teenagers by then, so things could certainly be interesting… If you would like to speak to one of our sales people regarding your home, please contact Sherry on: 1800 288 918 or email at: sherry@livinggems.com.au.
Your resort by the river
www.livinggems.com.au | 1800 288 918
The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
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Talking Pets
Bentley
Keeping up-to-date with our residents is very important to us here at Living Gems Caboolture. As a pet-friendly resort, we see our animals as part of the family – so in this section of our newsletter, we catch up with our hairier residents. Name: Bentley
What type of dog are you? I am a cavoodle – a King Charles cavalier-poodle cross. My tan and white coat is like wool and it doesn’t shed, much to the relief of my parents! How did you get your name? I was a present for my mum, Helen, and at the time, my dad, Warring, told her, “call him Bentley, because he cost nearly as much as a Bentley car”. Personally, I think I’m worth every penny! What’s your preferred food? All food! Mum’s roast is really good; and I do love happy hour – it’s great to go pick up all the titbits such as pies, sausage rolls, quiches, chips and nuts. No vacuum cleaner required in our house! I get my nose out of joint if mum and dad don’t take me out for these opportunistic Scooby-snacks. What is your favourite pastime? My favourite activity is going out for walks. Because I’m very friendly and
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The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
Age: 12
Sex: Male
have lots of puppy friends as well as adult friends, my walks take quite a while. I have to say hello to everyone and I always run into my mates of both the four-legged, and two-legged variety. Apart from walks, I like to lie around and generally enjoy life at Living Gems. Which part of Living Gems Caboolture do you enjoy the most? I like to walk out the front of Living Gems Caboolture on the grass next to the footpath and then down to the river. Every morning, dad takes me on a three-kilometre walk to the shops, which is great fun! What’s your most annoying habit? I’ll always sit down and watch people eat food until they finish their last mouthful with one of those ‘sad dog’ looks on my face. I’ve been practicing this look for a lifetime – so you might say it has become a fine art! I also get rather sulky when mum goes away
Parents: Helen & Warring Carlsson
without me (how dare she!) and will only perk back up once she’s home. Your greatest achievement? As a puppy, I learned a lot of tricks such as shaking hands, begging, and sitting. I can still do all those things, but don’t try and teach me any new tricks. Old dogs and all that… Who treats you the best? Mum or dad? Well, mum of course. Living Gems Caboolture is a pet-friendly resort that promotes active lifestyles and welcoming communities. If you are interested in becoming part of our resort and would like some more information, contact Sherry on: 1800 288 918 or email: sherry@livinggems.com.au.
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
Get stuffed with Living Gems Spanish Tortilla The Italians have the frittata, the French interestingly have the Spanish omelette, and the actual Spanish have the tortilla. Either way, it’s potato season! So, let’s use them in this deliciously light traditional dish. Prepare it vegetarian or meat-free the choice is yours and the opportunities are endless. Preparation time: 30 min
Cooking time: 50 min
Serves: 4
Equipment: Large non-stick frying pan
Ingredients:
Method
• 1 large white onion, sliced
• Put a large non-stick frying pan on a low heat. Cook the onion slowly in oil and butter until soft but not brown – this should take about 15 minutes. Add the potatoes, cover the pan and cook for a further 15-20 mins, stirring occasionally to make sure they fry evenly.
• 4 tbsp olive oil • 25g butter • 400g waxy potatoes, peeled, quartered and finely sliced • 6 garlic cloves • 8 eggs, beaten • H andful flat-leaf parsley, chopped, plus extra to serve.
Optional extras: • 1 baguette, sliced • 4 vine tomatoes, peeled and coarsely grated • drizzle of olive oil
www.livinggems.com.au | 1800 288 918
• When the potatoes are soft and the onion is shiny, crush two garlic cloves and stir in, followed by the beaten eggs. • Put the lid back on the pan and leave the tortilla to cook gently. After 20 minutes, the edges and base should be golden, the top set but the middle still a little wobbly. To turn it over, slide it onto a plate and put another plate on top, turn the whole thing over and slide it back into the pan to finish cooking. Once cooked, transfer to a plate and serve the tortilla warm or cold, scattered with the chopped parsley.
• To accompany, take slices of warmed baguette, stab all over with a fork and rub with the remaining garlic, pile on grated tomatoes and season with sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
Chef’s top tips: To grate the tomatoes for serving, peel the tomatoes by scoring the skins with a cross, putting them in a bowl and pouring over just-boiled water. Drain the water after 2-3 minutes and the skins will peel away easily – you can the coarsely grate them. If you have a recipe that you’d love to share with us – send it through to the Editor at: editor@livinggems.com.au.
The Quality Cut – Caboolture Issue Four – November 2017
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What’s on
November Introduction to iPads Saturday 4 November, 2pm Caboolture Library
FREE
Have you wanted to get to grips with the latest tech and found yourself a little overwhelmed? Learn the basics of using the iPad in this hands-on workshop, including getting started, downloading apps, email and the Internet, and how to get the most out of your iPad.
Introduction to Social Media Friday 10 November, 9:30am Caboolture Library
FREE
Learn how to connect with family and friends on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and much more with this fantastic workshop. Soon you’ll be able to keep up-to-date with all your family and friends newsfeeds and Internet lives!
Spring in Your Step Saturday 11 November, 2pm Summerfields Drive Park
FREE
Perfect for all ages and abilities, this 2017/18 Moreton Bay Regional Council program will teach you how to use the region’s outdoor fitness equipment safely and effectively. Gain the knowledge and skills to use the equipment when it suits you. All sessions are delivered by qualified instructors to help you on your journey to a fitter lifestyle.
Adjusting to Change in Your Life
$100
Mondays & Fridays at 6:30am Meet at the front gate.
Mahjong Mondays at 1pm Enjoy a game or two with your neighbours.
Bingo Thursdays at 1pm Join the fun with a gold coin donation.
Get Crafty Wednesdays at 9:30am Get crafty and have a chat with other like-minded residents.
Library & Book Exchange Wednesdays from 10:00am to 4:30pm Read all about it, swap books and stories with your fellow neighbours.
Have you had a large change in your life and are struggling to cope with the adjustment? So many of us are taught that ‘pushing on’ with things will get us through however, it’s very important to learn more about how change impacts us physiologically. This seminar can help us find ways to feel more in control and at peace with the situation.
Thursdays at 9:30am at the Marquee
Education Dept. and School Records for Family History
Come and join the fun for an hour with tea and coffee after.
Are you interested in tracing your family tree? This presentation will highlight Queensland records relevant to school students, teachers, and district inspectors from 1860 onwards. This is an exceptionally useful presentation for researchers fascinated by their family history. Places are limited!
Discover eBooks and Audiobooks
FREE
Mixed Walking Group
Tuesday 14 November, 9:30am Anita Jane Perigo Psychology
Friday 17 November, 10:30am Caboolture Library
FREE
IN YOUR RESORT
Line Dancing
Mixed Lawn Bowls Fridays at 11:30am Embrace your competitive side, meet at the resort bus.
Happy Hour
Saturday 25 November, 2pm Caboolture Library
Fridays at 4:30pm
Discover the enormous range of free eBooks and Audiobooks at your fingertips. Learn how to download, listen to, and store books, audiobooks, and podcasts by bringing your own device, tablet, or smartphone. You will require a valid email address.
BYO chairs, drinks & nibbles. Local papers on the table plus villa tickets and raffle.