The
Quality Cut CABOOLTURE
And They’re Off! Melbourne Cup luncheon
Tis the Season: The most nostalgic Christmas traditions
The Sweetest Angel: Meet our talking pet Live the Lifestyle you deserve!
Issue Four | November 2017
Sales Manager’s Message We have almost made it to the end of the year and the time has flown by, but as they say, time flies when you are having fun! Interest is at a great peak at Living Gems Caboolture, with the Sales Team full steam ahead with organising tours and planning events. The Sales Team are doing a remarkable job over this busy period and I cannot thank them enough for their efforts.
The Melbourne Cup luncheon was a huge success and a great day was had by our VIP guests, with a few even winning the sweeps. The fascinators and outfits were fantastic and definitely made the day more exciting. Construction of the new homes is all abuzz, with nine new home owners taking possession in December – what a great Christmas present! It is so exciting to watch the new facilities, the country club in particular, come into fruition.
I would also like to give a huge thank you to our resident volunteers who give up their valuable time to man the shopping centre stand each and every week. The dedication of all of you is inspiring. I hope you enjoy your Christmas break and are ready to take on 2018 in full swing! Sherry McOmish Sales Manager
Fancy a Dip? As we’re blessed with such outstanding weather in Queensland, it is fair to say that no resort is complete without its very own swimming pool! Whether you prefer relaxing in the shallow end or doing endless fitness laps, our swimming pools will cater for all desires. Our magnesium mineral pools are renowned for their endless health benefits, including: alleviating aches and pains, soothing the skin and having the added bonus of no chlorine smell or sticky salt feeling on your skin after you’ve gotten out.
Gem of a Home: $489,000 Take advantage of the extra space in the Pearl home. The Pearl caters for the travellers who have an extra set of wheels on their hands by way of caravan or boat. This home is able to be built on selected sites and will guarantee you the space you will need. Whilst this house is perfect for those who like to get away and need the added storage area, it is basically a holiday home for everyday use! • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Remote control 2 car garage
• Alfresco • Additional motorhome space
For more information or to view our stunning range of homes, Call 1800 288 918 or email: sherry@livinggems.com.au
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The Quality Cut Caboolture
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
Social Update
Living Gems Caboolture is expanding rapidly, and we have plenty going on in the neighbourhood! Last month we hosted our Melbourne Cup luncheon. With a great turnout, a bunch of fun was had by all and some came away with a few winnings! If you would like to get involved in future events, contact our Sales Team on 1800 288 918 or email at sherry@livinggems.com.au
1800 288 918 | www.livinggems.com.au
Issue Five – December 2017
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Construction Update
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Just in time for the upcoming Christmas festivities, the BBQ hoods have been installed on the alfresco areas and the outside walls of the country club have been rendered. It’s almost time to gather the family around for a lovely summer afternoon picnic in our great facilities. Despite the rather gloomy weather of late, construction is progressing nicely at Living Gems Caboolture. It won’t be long now until residents will be utilising the many facilities on offer at the resort and really settling in to the Living Gems way of life.
In great timing, the ceiling and lighting has been finished on the indoor lawn bowls green roof, with the scaffolding all packed away. Having the scaffolding taken down shows the massive space to be prepared for the green.
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Most importantly, our off the leash dog area now has turf for all of our pampered pooches at Living Gems Caboolture. Our furry friends will be able to run around the grass after only a few more weeks of waiting for the turf to take and the gates to be installed. Exciting times ahead! If you’d like to learn more about what’s on offer at Living Gems Caboolture, please contact our Sales Team on: 1800 288 918 or email at: sherry@livinggems.com.au From top: 1 The scaffold has been removed from the bowl green, finally displaying how big the facility really is. 2 The BBQ hoods have been installed in the alfresco areas, just in time for the holiday season! 3 Rendering has commenced on our country club-we cannot wait to see the progress!. 4 The doggies will be lapping up the luxury of our new off the leash dog area.
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The Quality Cut Caboolture
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
Our Living Gems Adrian Puljich our General Manager and Ben Livingstone our Sales and Marketing Director team up this month to speak with us about their lives, loves, and Living Gems experience. Being the faces of Living Gems, Adrian as well as Ben are deeply invested in the resorts and provide us behind the scenes insight. What is your proudest accomplishment? AP: My proudest achievement would have to be the day I married my beautiful wife. It might be cliché to say, but it truly was the best day of my life. BL: My proudest accomplishment would be graduating from university as a qualified paramedic. I however decided not to venture down this career path as funnily enough, I discovered that I am afraid of needles! What TV show are you currently watching? AP: I am currently hooked on “Have you been paying attention?” I can watch that show for hours (if my wife would let me). I normally just switch on a game of any type of sport but I do prefer football. BL: Well, I was utterly invested in “The Block” before it finished for the season. I am guilty of becoming caught up in the melodrama between House three and the rest of the contestants. I am glad that another Queensland team won, but I really was betting on Sticks and Wombat. I am trying to persuade Adrian to make a team for next season but I don’t think he is entertaining the idea – I will keep trying though. What inspires you? AP: I am definitely inspired by my staff. When I see how hard they work day in and day out, I cannot help but be proud of their achievements. It motivates me to want to be as proactive as they are. I am also inspired by the home owners at Living Gems. When I see how hard they have worked their whole lives and are finally able to relax in their new home with their loved ones, it really makes 1800 288 918 | www.livinggems.com.au
I hope to be providing quality homes to many future homeowners and making them as happy to own it as I am to provide it. me feel inspired to continue doing what I am doing at Living Gems. BL: My mother is really my life inspiration. She was the reason I became interested in property development as she too had a long career in the field. She has always pushed me to achieve whatever I set my mind on and when I have the odd stressful day, she knows how to place me back on my feet and keep me level headed. I am not embarrassed to say that I am a Mummy’s Boy at times – just not in front of my friends! What is your favourite floor plan? AP: My favourite floor plan would have to be the Emerald. I was really invested in the design process of this layout and really love how each room has its own different ambiance. I have even followed this layout for my own home. BL: I think the Quartz is my favourite. I like how as you exit the garage, you enter straight into the laundry room. I think this aspect is quite modern and convenient, especially for those of us who get told off for trailing mud and dirt through the hallway. With the laundry right there, you can take your shoes and socks off straight away.
How do you like to spend your spare time? AP: I enjoy watching a game of football (known as soccer for us in the Southern Hemisphere) with a few friends on a Saturday afternoon with a cold, crisp beer in hand. It is definitely my favourite pastime. BL: I enjoy Mixed Martial Arts so I spend most of my spare time down at my local studio, learning new techniques and gaining more strength and stamina. It is a great stress reliever and teaches me to acquire patience. Where do you see yourself in ten years? AP: If I am completely honest, I really have no idea where I will be in ten years. I do however hope to be doing exactly what I am doing right now. I hope to be providing quality homes to many future homeowners and making them as happy to own it as I am to provide it. BL: I would love to be married and settled down with someone special, just as I see most of our Living Gems homeowners are. You know, the white picket fence, couple of kids and a dog in the backyard whilst I fire up the BBQ – the true Aussie dream. 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 Issue Five – December 2017
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Feature Floorplan
The Pearl II provides for cosy and comfortable living, perfect for those contemplating a downsize on space but not quality. Offering an attractive and liveable ambiance, this design possesses conventional styles in its open living layout. Hosting an afternoon luncheon in the alfresco, surrounded by your friends and family is made easy in the Pearl II. To find out more information about Pearl II, or any of our floorplans, call the sales manager on 1800 288 918 or email at sherry@livinggems.com.au Disclaimer: All area sizes are m2. All reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of these floor plans and artists impressions. Please refer to working drawings for precise dimensions. Plans are correct at the time of printing, subject to change without notice. Images are artists’ impressions. Interior and exterior finishes, colours, rooflines and landscaping are for illustration purposes only.
Sales Office Holiday Open Hours The Living Gems Caboolture Sales Office will be closed from Christmas day and reopening at 9am on the 2 January. The office will be open by appointment only on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 December.
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The Quality Cut Caboolture
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
5 Most Nostalgic Christmas Traditions The Christmas season entices us to bring our inner child out and get creative with quirky festive decorations and décor. These five Christmas traditions will hopefully provide you with ideas or memories of a favourite pastime that can be carried on to your future generations.
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Leaving treats for Santa and his reindeers
What better way to get the grandkids excited (and into bed early) than to leave a carrot out for Rudolph and a milk (or beer) for Santa. You can just imagine the kids’ faces when they awake to a half nibbled carrot – absolutely priceless!
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Decorating the Christmas Tree Sure, we may not all be able to
cut our own pine tree like they do in other places, but the tree from Kmart will do the job and you won’t need to clean up the needles! Bring the grandkids over to decorate the tree while you observe with a cup of hot chocolate in hand.
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Christmas Light Hunt Christmas lights put a sparkle into any child’s eye, so what
better way to start the festive season off than to take a drive around the suburb and hunt for the best Christmas light display. Even better than that, creating your own light display will light up the kids every night.
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Backyard Cricket
An easy and free activity that can keep the family occupied for hours. Buy a few bread rolls and a chicken, pack an esky and head to the local park and enjoy some family time whilst hitting some serves.
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Carols in the Park
A free event that is open to the public of Caboolture. This event provides a variety of children’s activities prior to the main event, the Christmas carols and fireworks. Event will be celebrated on Sunday 17 December 2017. Living Gem Caboolture promotes active and healthy lifestyle living where you can meet like-minded others. For more information, call: 1800 288 918 or email: sherry@livinggems.com.au
1800 288 918 | www.livinggems.com.au
Issue Five – December 2017
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Resident Spotlight
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What more could a man want? The dog lying on his feet, his favourite program on, and a cool drink! It is also jolly good for ‘er indoors too, she can watch whatever she wants on the tv in the lounge, with complete control of the remote – bliss… Can you tell us a little bit more about why you chose us? 1
Alan and Elizabeth Debreceny have been living in the resort for almost a year and are enjoying their new stress-free living. In this edition, we catch up with the lovely couple as they give us insight into their lives as residents at Living Gems Caboolture. What is the best part about living at Living Gems Caboolture? Living Gems Caboolture has a lovely community feel. We often laugh about going for an hour and half walk, but only actually walking half an hour. The other hour is spent talking to everyone we meet. We tend to see little groups of people (and dogs) out for a late afternoon walk, gathering in a shady spot and just enjoying a good catch up. We have made many friends and like-minded people – some with dogs, some without. But all just so friendly and with the same goals as ourselves. That is, a peaceful and safe retirement, with heaps to keep us busy should we want that, or to be able to shut our door and relax. We have the choice to do what we want. Sometimes we wander over to the country club and enjoy some Clockwise from top: 1 Ahoy there sailor! Elizabeth and Alan love a good night out! 2 Hardworking Alan loves a good project! 3 Elizabeth’s beautiful doll collection.
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The Quality Cut Caboolture
company along with a coffee or tea and watch the wonderful variety of birdlife outside the country club. It’s very exciting watching the country club growing closer to finishing day by day under the expert eye of Gary. He’s one busy chap, but friendly and obliging and always happy to let us know what is happening inside his project. It’s going to be an awesome addition to the resort and like most residents, we are so looking forward to the opening day and taking a look at what has been going on! The owners Peter and Vlad are very approachable and so keen to make this resort a happy place for their residents – we think they are succeeding very well! What floorplan did you decide to go with? We settled on the Gemstone design. We love it as it’s a nice big house, with plenty of room for us and our pooch. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a double garage, there is room to stretch out. Alan has made one corner of the garage into his “man cave”, complete with the mandatory telly on the wall, one of our best rugs (sigh) and a comfortable chair.
We have spent some time in two other over 50s resorts – both good ones, but there was something missing. When we drove in the gates here, I guess we found it. “It” is hard to define, perhaps it’s the community spirit alive and well here, friendly helpful faces, always someone to talk to should we want that. The sales people are very knowledgeable and kind, nothing is ever too much trouble. As soon as we took a look at the wonderful facilities the clubhouse is offering, well – the decision was made.
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We have been here for nearly ten months, we wouldn’t change a thing, we love it! Security is a big thing at this age so if we want to travel, we lock and leave our house, knowing there is always someone to keep an eye on things. Caboolture, well – it has simply everything! It doesn’t matter what we want or need, it’s here in Caboolture. If you would like to contribute to our Resident’s Spotlight section in a future newsletter, contact the Editor at: editor@livinggems.com.au
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
YOU ARE INVITED
THURSDAY 11 JANUARY | 10:00AM Join us for a relaxing afternoon with a range of fine drops, cheese platters and other delicacies. Wine or beer, the Ocean View Estate will cater to any pallet or preference. The tour will include insight into the process of creating these delicious drops, followed by some nibbles and a couple of drinks. The event is casual dress and the bus will be leaving at 10am sharp, so get in early as seats are limited.
2557 MOUNT MEE ROAD, OCEAN VIEW QLD 4521
This is an invite only event. Please RSVP to confirm your attendance by Monday 7 January. Call Sherry on 0417 973819 or email at: sherry@livinggems.com.au
1800 288 918 | www.livinggems.com.au
Issue Five – December 2017
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Talking Pets
Dad throws it once or twice, but really – I think it’s very boring if it goes on too long. If he wants to throw that ball any more than twice, I think he should fetch it himself! Dinner times are definitely the second best, but my walks - well, they are so much fun! I can’t sit still to get my lead on when Mum says “walkies?” She thinks she’s smart spelling it, W.A.L.K. time, but I know what that means! I’m not stupid and in fact (don’t tell them this) I’m ahead of them most of the time…
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.
What’s your favourite food?
What type of dog are you?
What is your favourite pastime?
What’s your most annoying habit?
Angel: I’m a pedigree German Pinscher (Pinscher means Terrier). My breed has been around from the 1700’s but not me of course, I’m only 8 years old! From the German Pinscher; Rottweiller, Greyhound and giant Schnauser came the Doberman in the 1900’s. Dad and Mum tell me all the time I’m just like the doberman they used to have, just smaller.
Oh, my favourite toys are definitely Dad and Mum. Without fail, I go into their bedroom every morning at about 5:30am and give them a love pat just to make sure they are awake. They appear to be a bit annoyed but I know secretly how pleased they are that I check in on them. I also have quite a few soft toys but I never tear them up, I just bite them to keep them in line basically! They get a bit smelly Mum says, and it’s just not the same when she gives them a wash. Why do that, I ask? They just start to smell okay and she goes and washes them, gee whizz....
Excuse me? There’s nothing annoying about me, my name should be “perfect”.
Which part of Living Gems Caboolture do you enjoy the most?
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 our Sales Team on: 1800 288 918 or email: sherry@livinggems.com.au
How did you get your name? Well, I was living with my breeder and was doing lots of shows. I won boxes full of ribbons and was quite the star. Apparently, I was a bit of a show-off, but as I always say, if you’ve got it- show it! When my show days came to an end, my breeder found me the perfect home, and that was with my Mum and Dad. My original name was Angelsun Back in Black (a bit of a mouthful, really) so Mum and Dad called me Angel – apparently it is a very apt name.
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The Quality Cut Caboolture
I’m a bit of a foodie they say, but I get fresh mince and chicken necks night and morning. Actually, I reckon they could double that easily, I think I should get about four meals a day and a lot more treats, though Mum says I’d get like Dad and get some handles I don’t need!
Well, I really enjoy all the other pooches, we’re generally a friendly bunch. Always lots to “talk” about when we meet. I’m retired too of course, so I have plenty of time on my paws. Dad likes to play fetch with me and I will chase the ball when
Do you have any tricks? Ah, I might do a high five if there’s a treat involved. I also like to “pat” Dad and Mum with my front paws, especially when they are relaxing and I’m ready for them to stop relaxing. It’s such fun pulling off Mums slippers – for me anyway!
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… Which parent lets you get away with more? Definitely Dad, I have him wound around my front paw, but don’t tell him that. Mum knows this of course. It is a secret we two share – girls together, you know!
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture, Brisbane North Qld 4510
Get Stuffed with Living Gems
Preparation time: 8 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves: 4
The holiday months should be filled with fun, laughter and a whole lot of scrumptious food. The perfect dessert to serve whilst entertaining guests, this dish is bound to be a hit on those sizzling summer afternoons. Ingredients:
Method
• 5 tablespoons sugar
1. Mix lemon juice, yolks and sugar into a small saucepan
• 3/4 cup heavy cream • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice • 4 large egg yolks • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into pieces
Preparation time: 8 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves: 4
1800 288 918 | www.livinggems.com.au
2. Cook this mixture on a medium-low heat for approximately 5-6 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. 3. Pour through a colander into a large bowl.
6. Chill the mixture for approximately 30 minutes. 7. Beat the cream with a whisk or an electric mixer to form stiff peaks 8. Fold the whipped cream into the chilled lemon mixture. 9. Allocate equal amounts of mixture into muffin tins lined with baking paper and freeze for 2 hours.
4. Add butter and stir until melted. 5. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and press the plastic against the surface of the mixture to prevent air bubbles.
If you have a family recipe that you’d love to share with us – send it through to the Editor at: editor@livinggems.com.au. Issue Five – December 2017
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What’s On December Caboolture Markets
FREE
Every Sunday 6am–12pm 140 Beerburrum Rd & Old Gympie Rd, Caboolture The Caboolture Markets provide the goods each Sunday morning with over 500 stalls, offering a range of homewares, crafts, collectables and delicacies. Enjoy the fresh and locally harvested produce. Whilst you’re there, you can also take a break from the shopping and watch the exhibits on show at the oval or arena.
Abe Tongia – Me’a Masani: Something Surpassingly Beautiful
FREE
Fri 1 to Sat 16 December 9am–3pm Hub Gallery, 4 Hasking St, Caboolture Discover cultivated Polynesian inspired artworks display at the Caboolture Regional Art Gallery. This showcase exhibits Tongan artwork through contrast mediums such as computer modelling, animation, laser cut and engraved printed objects, digital screen-printing and painting.
$25.51 Festival of Small Halls Queensland Summer Tour Saturday 16 December 6:30–10pm Mount Nebo Road, Mount Nebo Enjoy the harmonious folk sounds of Australia’s greatest contemporary artists as they travel all over, performing in a classic country setting of picturesque town halls. A short trip from Caboolture, artists will be performing at the local Mt Nebo Hall. Tickets are on sale now.
The Lyrical
FREE
Sunday 3 December 3.30–7pm Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club, 167 Alexandra Pde, Alexandra Headland We all know that a classic Sunday sesh never goes astray, especially when the weather is bringing out the goods this summer. Relax with a refreshing drink and the sound of mellow tunes in the Bluff Bar at the Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club. Places are limited!
Meditation
FREE
Friday 8 December 6–7pm Above Britannia Garage, 124 Bulcock St, Caloundra With the busy season right in our faces, life can become quite chaotic. Meditation holds great benefits for reducing stress levels, improving cardiovascular and immune system health, as well as increasing overall happiness and wellbeing. Join this guided meditation workshop and re-centre your inner and outer presence before the Christmas rush.
Brisbane Road to Bethlehem
FREE
Monday 11 December 337 Old Gympie Road, Dakabin, North Lakes Start the lead up to Christmas with this insightful and creative performance about the story behind Christmas. Follow the narrative of the birth of Jesus and the journey to Nazareth that Mary and Joseph travelled all that time ago. This production is completely run by volunteers, and is a complimentary gift to the local community.
176 Torrens Road, Caboolture Qld 4510
1800 288 918 | www.livinggems.com.au
FREE Caboolture Christmas Carols Sunday 17 December 3–8pm 60-78 King Street, Caboolture Continue the Christmas festivities with the local community at the Caboolture Christmas Carols. Entertainment, food stalls and an impressive firework show to wrap up the night. It is bound to be a great afternoon out – there may even be a secret guest for the children!
$25 Caloundra Lively 50+ Social Group Wednesday 13 December 11.30am Three Bar & Grill 1/6 Beerburrum St, Dicky Beach Join the Caloundra Lively 50+ social group in their end of year luncheon. Serving a 2 course meal consisting of both the main and dessert plus a glass of wine, beer or soft drink, the luncheon will expand your stomachs and also your friendship group.