The
Quality Cut OPAL
LOGAN VILLAGE
Issue Seven | February 2018
Get Crafty Discover your Hidden VanGogh!
Looking Back Logan Village Lights Up for Christmas
Featured Floorplan Live the lifestyle you deserve!
Toucan
General Manager’s Message Welcome to the February edition of our newsletter! We’re set to have another tremendous year here at Opal by Living Gems. We’ve nearly sold out our phenomenal resort, so it’s incredibly important to make sure that these last few homes get snapped up! If you have friends or family who are also enamoured with the Living Gems way of life, make sure that you let them know – you could be recognised with our referral program! So, refer a friend and reward yourself. Please enjoy our newsletter which is full of all the latest fun and a great snapshot of life within this exceptional resort. Vlad Pullich General Manager Living Gems
Sales Manager’s Message
1. INSPECT
We have certainly hit the ground running this year, and with everyone back after the holidays, the site is charging ahead. We are in the final stages of development now, so don’t miss out on your chance to secure a spot at Opal by Living Gems. Opal by Living Gems rides itself on being positioned in one of Australia’s most desirable locations - this resort is surrounded by the picturesque countryside in the Logan Village area.
The Living Gems Process
We have so many fantastic social events planned for 2018, I hope to see you there. If you would like more information or have any questions about Living Gems by Opal, please stop by the sales office, call me on 07 5547 2333 or send through an email to: opalsales@livinggems.com.au
View our spacious, architectdesigned display homes and premium resort facilities over a coffee and cake.
2. SELECT Choose from one of our signature display homes or select your ideal block and standard house design that best meets your needs.
3. SECURE Register your interest and pay a holding deposit to confirm your display home or land position.
4. CUSTOMISE Liaise with our in-house Design Team for professional advice on colour selections and furnishings.
Have you seen our workshop in action? https://youtu.be/VZTIdR051wU Find us on YouTube for a sneek peek into what you can do in our workshop.
2
The Quality Cut Opal Logan Village
5. BUILD If you elect to build, let us take care of all the hard work and sit back as your dream home unfolds before your eyes.
42 Quinzeh Creek Road, Logan Village Qld 4207
Social Update
e k a L e h t Love by
Swoon! Just take a look at that view! What better place to take a romantic stroll with a loved one than your local Opal lake. Opal is situated on over 40 acres with over 20 acres being beautiful lake and parklands. We are currently constructing two bridges over Quinzeh Creek to extend
our walking tracks. Our residents make use of the tracks and you often see them setting off with a picnic basket to sit on the banks of the creek and enjoy a lovely commune with nature whilst indulging in a leisurely lunch. There is so much to love here at Opal by Living Gems.
Duck, Duck, Goose!
Water Aerobics at Opal
Not losing one’s connection with nature is something we take seriously at Opal by Living Gems. Our resident geese have become quite the attraction on our lake with regular feedings and not to mention the fantastic security element! It is said that geese can sometimes make more effective guard dogs than actual guard dogs!
Staying fit and having fun are some of our key principles at Opal by Living Gems. Our water aerobics group team meet regularly and is hugely popular with our residents. It’s a great way to get active without having to stress the joints too hard. If you’d like to join in future sessions, get in touch with your social secretary.
07 5547 2333 | www.livinggems.com.au
Issue Seven – February 2018
3
w o N s i e Your Tim
DEBT FREE If you do not have a mortgage, credit or car loan hanging over you, this may be the most obvious point of being able to retire. HEALTHCARE Provided that health can somewhat deteriorate over time, having your healthcare covered is a priority. RETIREMENT FUNDS If you can currently live on your retirement budget, this may be a clear indication that retirement is achievable! STRONG SUPPORT If your partner is on the same page as you are with your retirement ambitions, and your family are in full support, it will make the transition a whole lot easier for all.
At GemLife/Living Gems, we are always faced with customers who are in two minds about their change of lifestyle. Whilst our resorts cater to those who are still in the workforce, a large percentage of our residents have decided to hang up their coats and finish up their working lifestyle. There are many variables that will determine whether you are at the right place to retire.
We hope these tips help you in your decision-making processes!
Feature Floorplan
2
I I o g n i Flam
With two bedrooms and two bathrooms plus a study, this home is a stunner with buckets of space! Offering open-plan living with a carefully designed layout, the Flamingo is as beautiful and colourful as its namesake. With a 1.5 garage, you have plenty of space for storage – perfect for someone who is downsizing. If you would like more information about this home or to arrange a viewing, call 07 5547 2333 today or email: opalsales@livinggems.com.au
4
The Quality Cut Opal Logan Village
PLANS! Most of our residents have the plan to slow it down and enjoy their new found active lifestyle. If this is a plan that has been on your mind, then retirement might be on the horizon for you.
2
1.5
• Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Ensuite • Walk-through wardrobe • Study • Remote controlled garage
42 Quinzeh Creek Road, Logan Village Qld 4207
Gem’s One Pot Wonders It’s a romantic month, so why not enjoy a special meal with a loved one? A luxurious recipe that has been praised by the top chefs throughout the ages, this simplified recipe of a classic favourite will leave you licking your lips for more.
ith Lobster w Thermidor Butter
Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: • 2 cooked lobsters • 150ml dry white wine • 1 shallot, very finely chopped • Handful of tarragon leaves, chopped • Handful of parsley leaves, chopped • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • Juice of 1/2 a lemon • Pinch of paprika • Dash of Tabasco sauce • 5 tbsp parmesan, finely grated • 140g butter, softened
CHEF’S TIP: Stood up for your hot date? This meal can be frozen for up to a month!
Method: 1. First make the butter. Put the wine and shallot into a pan, then bring to the boil and simmer until nearly dry. Tip into a bowl to cool, mix all the ingredients together, roll into a log, using cling film or foil, then chill to harden. 2. Snap away the claws from the lobster. Using a large chef’s knife, cut the lobster in half and wash the head cavity under cold water, then dry with paper towel. Lay the lobsters, cut side up on a baking tray. Crack the claws and remove the claw meat. Divide the claw meat
between the head cavities. This can be done the day before and the lobster kept in the fridge ready for grilling. 3. Heat grill to high. Slice the butter into thin rounds and lay it along the lobsters so all the meat is covered. Grill for 5–8 minutes until the butter is bubbling and starting to brown. Put the lobsters on plates, pouring any butter from the tray over them. Serve with potatoes and some dressed salad leaves – or if you’re feeling really adventurous – a light pasta.
Furry Facilities: Opal’s Dog Run Finding a safe place for your pooch to stretch his or her legs are often few and far between. So isn’t it lovely that this space is made available just for our hairier residents? In this spot your dog can run free off of their leash and enjoy the company of other dogs and people alike. There are whispers about new agility toys for dogs to play with so you can practice some exciting tips, tricks and training.
07 5547 2333 | www.livinggems.com.au
Issue Seven – February 2018
5
The Five Love Languages Did you know that whilst we all might speak English – we can talk in totally different love languages? It sounds rather cheesy, but we generally have five ways that we express love for someone. Each person has a primary and secondary love language, and it is theorised that people tend to give love in the way that they prefer to receive love. Since we don’t all have the same preferences as our partners when it comes to giving and receiving love – relationships can get tricky.
1
WORDS
OF AFFIRMATION
The person who prefers words of affirmation might like to hear words expressing their value to someone. Perhaps your partner likes to hear ‘I love you’ or other compliments. Words hold real value to this person – furthermore, negative or insulting comments can cut deep and won’t be easily forgiven.
2
QUALITY
TIME
Some people enjoy receiving undivided attention from the one they love. Unlike words of affirmation, talk is cheap and being a loved one’s main focus is invaluable. Distractions and postponed plans can be especially hurtful.
3
RECEIVING
5
GIFTS
Though it can appear materialistic – this is not necessarily the case. For some, receiving a tangible and thoughtful gift makes them feel appreciated. These gifts do not necessarily have to have a monetary value at all!
4 ACTS OF SERVICE For some, actions speak louder than words ever will. Those who speak the language of service want their partner to recognise that life can be a struggle and to help them out. Those who prefer this language do not tolerate broken promises well. Doing something as simple as doing the laundry when it’s normally your partner’s chore ‘just because’ can speak volumes.
PHYSICAL
TOUCH
Everyday physical connection like handholding, kissing, hugging or any type of re-affirming contact can be greatly appreciated by the person who speaks this language. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be full ‘public display of affection’, but getting a little touchy-feely can make your partner feel safe and loved. To learn what Love Language you speak, take the quiz or even read the book at: www.5lovelanguages.com Opal by Living Gems promotes an active and healthy lifestyle where you can meet like-minded others. For more information, call: 07 5547 2333 or visit: www.livinggems.com.au
Gem of a Home: $365,000
Villa 162 Villa 162 bring luxury to the next level! With two spacious bedrooms and a large 1.5 gararage with epoxy floor finish – there is so much to love, for so little. Spend the warm afternoons in your own private side alfresco with ceiling fan and elevated roof for extra circulation – the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine and relax. For those who enjoy cooking, the chef’s kitchen offers a servery to the alfresco, making entertaining your guests even easier. The master bedroom boasts an ensuite, complete with walk through robe and built in cupboards – a true masterpiece!
• • • • •
Two bedrooms 1.5 garage with epoxy floor finish Private side alfresco Ensuite and walk-through robe Chef’s kitchen and servery to alfresco
Call 07 5547 2333 or email: opalsales@livinggems.com.au for more information or to view our stunning range of homes.
6
The Quality Cut Opal Logan Village
42 Quinzeh Creek Road, Logan Village Qld 4207
How to... Get started with social media Social media are computer based applications that facilitate in the creation and sharing of information, ideas, career interests and other forms of expression via virtual communities and networks. What is a social network?
Facebook – How to
Imagine that you are sitting in a restaurant full of your friends and family. It’s quiet, so you can clearly tune in and out of everyone’s conversations. You might also hear conversations about people you don’t know. Not only can you hear other people’s conversations, but they can hear yours.
Facebook is the most widely used social media platform in the world. An estimated 1.5 billion people use the free site for connecting with friends, family and other points of interest including celebrities, businesses and news.
Instead of sitting in a restaurant. You’re looking at Facebook. Why do I want to be on a social network? The great thing about social media is the ability to connect with your friends and family at any given time. Perhaps your granddaughter has moved to the UK and you want to be able to keep in touch with her. With a social network, you can keep up to date with all her latest activities abroad – any time you want. In addition to being able to talk or type to her in real time. Reasons to get started: • Bridging the geographical gap between friends and family • Reconnecting with old friends • Photo and video sharing • Reduces isolation and loneliness • Keeping informed on the go • Connecting with celebrities, politicians, sportspersons etc. • Make your voice be heard • Online coupons and discounts • ommunity engagement and belonging • Play online games Big Three – main types of social media and their uses: • Facebook – on Facebook you can have your own dedicated profile. Consider it like a fleshed-out version of your name in the phonebook. You can choose as much or as little information to include. If you’d like to use it just to be able to look at other people’s Facebook pages, that’s possible too. • Twitter – used more whimsically to express transient thoughts and ideas. Used by many celebrities and VIPs to connect with their fans and audience. • Instagram – an online gallery of images with wide range of photo editing tools where you can view or share depending on your different interests. Things you need to get started • An email address or mobile number • A computer, smartphone or tablet • An Internet connection, either via your home Wi-Fi or your mobile connection. 07 5547 2333 | www.livinggems.com.au
Key terms: 1. Timeline – Your timeline is a personal profile. This includes everything from a profile photo (you can choose whatever image you like), a cover photo, to outlining your employment history or relationship status. Many of these are optional, so never feel that you must provide everything! It’s called a timeline because you can include important milestones and memories spanning your entire life. 2. Friends – As so many people already utilise Facebook, it’s very likely that many of your friends and family are already on it. You can search for them in the search box at the top of the page. As you add more and more friends, Facebook may suggest additional friends as it begins to identify your network such as old school friends who you may have lost contact with or even long-lost family members! 3. News feed – This area allows you to look at all your friends’ status updates, news, shared photos and any interesting links to articles etc. 4. Status update – You don’t ever have to provide a status update, but many of your Facebook friends do, regularly. Your own status update can consist of something as simple as how you’re feeling, where you are or if you have some interesting news to share. Your status update will then appear in your friends’ news feeds. 5. The ‘Like’ button – This powerful tool allows you to communicate your feelings or support of fellow users, brands, articles of products that appear on your newsfeed or other people’s timelines. 6. Tagging – Facebook tagging allows you to mention or directly link to another Facebook user whether in photos, status updates, check-ins or comments. When you tag someone in a photo, that person will receive a notification and be able to view the image immediately. 7. Privacy – You should always be mindful of what information you put on the Internet. Your safety online Being vigilant about your security online is very important. We hear of many people having their identities stolen, credit cards cloned or being taken advantage of via the Internet – but these stories are largely inflated by the media for shock value. So long as you are careful and use common sense, you can avoid being targeted. Issue Seven – February 2018
7
What’s On February Heritage Architecture 101
$11.49
FREE
Tuesday 6 February, 6:00pm – 8:00pm Australian Institute of Architects 70 Merivale Street, South Brisbane Have you always had a liking to colonial style homes? Or enjoy learning the ins and outs of architecture? Then this seminar is for you. Hosts Malcom Elliot and Ben Lyons present an insightful and informative presentation surrounding Queensland Town Planning, private developments and Queensland’s most treasured heritage listed homes and places.
Bridge to Volunteering
$132.96
Tuesday, 6 February, 10:00am – 11:00am Helensvale Library Volunteering Services Australia discuss their services and types of volunteering opportunities that support the Gold Coast community and beyond. Connect with your community at this fabulous event and learn how you can help the less fortunate.
Spoon Carving
Strawberry Farm for Valentine’s Day
PRICE VARY
Wednesday 14 February 912 Chambers Flat Road, Chambers Flat The most picture-perfect summer date for you and your loved one. Enjoy picking your own strawberries and taking them home to create a delicious dessert. Better yet, pick your strawberries and finish the day off overlooking the strawberry fields with strawberry ice cream in hand, or a chocolate covered fruit.
Saturday 24 February 8:00am – 12:00pm Vieille Branche 10 Fox Street, Albion If you are a keen wood works fan, this wood carving session will be a bundle of fun for you. Learn the technique of carving spoons using intricate carving tools supplied. Your workshop teacher, Carol Russell, is a furniture maker and restorer and has been in the industry for 25 years.
FlorAlchemy Workshop
$138.24
Saturday 17 February, 9:00am – 2:00pm Vieille Branche, 10 Fox Street, Albion Discover the beauty of using botanical and food waste creations on natural fibres at this florAlchemy workshop. The session will provide you with the tools and creativity as you create your very own silk scarf, made completely of foraged materials using a technique of bundle dying.
Logan Startup Hub
FREE
Tuesday 20 February, 6:00pm – 8:00pm Logan Startup Hub Unit 1/6 Booran Drive, Underwood Check out this insightful presentation about advance selling and marketing secrets by Tim Stokes. Tim will step you through the processes that has allowed him to become the marketing and business management guru that he is. Bring your questions and note pads to get some of the best tips of the trade.
42 Quinzeh Creek Road, Logan Village Qld 4207
07 5547 2333 | www.livinggems.com.au
$194.72 Resin Art Workshop Saturday 24 February 12:00pm – 4:00pm Cornubia Discover your inner Picasso with this beginner friendly resin art workshop. Hosts Vandra and Angela will assist you in creating your own masterpiece in this 3-4 hour hands on workshop. You only require the willingness to learn and your artistic mind. Contact artist@keirasharnee. com.au to secure your spot!