The
Quality Cut TOOWOOMBA
Issue Seven | February 2018
Summer Nights We Tell You More
Love is in the Air The Five Love Languages Explained
Tackling Travel Live the lifestyle you deserve!
Our Resident Stories
General Manager’s Message Welcome to the February edition of our newsletter! The year is still young but it is more important than ever before to secure your spot in our country paradise. In this issue of our coveted newsletter, we see once again how our residents pull together to have fun, whatever the weather. There really is such an excellent sense of community within our resort and we have residents from all walks of life and corners of the globe.
If you, your friends or family are interested in coming to take a look at our luxurious lifestyle, do get in touch with our exceptional Sales Team either by phone, email or dropping into our Sales Office. Vlad Pullich General Manager Living Gems
Feature Floorplan: $389,000
Rose
What better home to feature during the romantic month of February than the Rose? This gorgeous three bedroom, two bathroom plan ensures that you always look forward to coming home. An open-plan kitchen, living and dining area act as the beating heart of this home. A large alfresco allows you to entertain all year round, along with the two additional bedrooms to the master that means your guests always have somewhere to stay. If you’d like to learn more about this outstanding floorplan, please contact the Sales Team on: 1800 348 977 or email at: shirley@livinggems.com.au
Sales Manager’s Message
Did you know that we have a Facebook page? Find us at www.facebook.com LivingGemsAus and click follow to be kept up-to-date with the latest and greatest news and fun.
February is looking like it’s set to be a busy month with all trades back on deck after the holiday break. We now have another beautifully furnished villa for viewing. The Wattle is priced at just $398,000 and comes with a cute study nook as well as two generous sized bedrooms, two bathrooms, a double garage and many extras – certainly a must to inspect!
Our country club is now well under way and there is a buzz of excitement as we eagerly anticipate its opening in March. Though you don’t have to wait until then to come and see what Living Gems has to offer those who are after a resort lifestyle. Shirley Ortez Sales Manager
2
The Quality Cut Toowooomba
500 South Street, Glenvale QLD 4350
The Five Love Languages Did you know that whilst most of us 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 Living Gems Toowoomba promotes an active and healthy lifestyle where you can meet like-minded others. For more information, call: 1800 348 977 or visit: www.livinggems.com.au
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 sticky salt feeling on your skin after you’ve gotten out.
Pow! It’s the Batmobile! One of our residents, Hilda Latcham scored a ride in the Batmobile recently after successfully outbidding others at a charity auction to raise money for Brain Cancer Research. Hilda’s daughter is heavily involved in the fundraising for this worthy cause.
1800 348 977 | www.livinggems.com.au
Issue Seven – February 2018
3
Social Update
Those s t h g i N r Summe Recently, Resort Managers Rick and Cheryl hosted a dinner for residents. It was a fabulous night with plenty of yakkety yak. Some residents sat outside and nursed their meals as it was quite warm! Once the meal was over, the residents formed a huge circle out in the balmy night after the hot day and told a few jokes and enjoyed each other’s company. One resident said: “This is just like being in a huge family as you get to know everyone, it’s just lovely!”
“This is just like being in a huge family as you get to know everyone, it’s just lovely!”
The menu for the evening was: BBQ pork chops, broccoli au gratin, potato bake and baby carrots for the main, followed by strawberry cheesecake and ice cream for dessert.
4
The Quality Cut Toowooomba
500 South Street, Glenvale QLD 4350
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
CHEF’S TIP: Stood up for your hot date? This meal can be frozen for up to a month!
• 5 tbsp parmesan, finely grated • 140g butter, softened
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.
Gem of a Home: $350,000 Even though this is our lowest priced villa, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a 1.5 garage, it certainly doesn’t compromise on a very generously sized living area. The large alfresco will allow you to enjoy Australia’s weather in the warmer months, and then retreat back to the cosy living room during Toowoomba’s winter – the perfect balance!
Tulip 1800 348 977 | www.livinggems.com.au
• Two bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Ensuite
• Remote control 1.5 car garage • Air conditioning
Call our Sales Team on: 1800 348 977 or email: shirley@livinggems.com.au for more information or to view our stunning range of homes.
Issue Seven – February 2018
5
Social Update Starting off with a few drinks, a BBQ and great conversation, the night drew on with plenty of laughs and fun – as you can see by the photos!
New Year’s Party
Rick and Cheryl kindly donated six bottles of wine which were raffled off, and the winners were the grinners! Over 26 people attended the night and a total of 13 stayed to see the new year in – well done you rebels! A great night was had by all – and a Happy New Year!
Talking Pets Happy Graduation Congratulations to Lily for her graduation from Puppy Preschool! Well done to Dad, Robert, for his vigilant training too!
6
The Quality Cut Toowooomba
Keeping watch
Cheeky Panda
We take security seriously here at Living Gems Toowoomba. A Resident’s dog, Abbey keeps a watchful eye over the area – there’s no messing with this pup!
Just one of our friendly furry residents here at Living Gems Toowoomba. Here we have cheeky little Panda displaying one of her best poker faces!
500 South Street, Glenvale QLD 4350
Construction update
2 1
3
4
Onwards and Upwards Construction is steaming along here at the country club in Living Gems Toowoomba. Here’s the latest from the frontline! Top left to bottem right: 1 The windows are in between the pool and the tennis court 2 The bowling green 3 The stage getting its paint job 4 Front entrance to the County Club 5 Wallpapering to the front entry 6 Kitchen fitouts 7 Alfresco BBQ area 5 6
1800 348 977 | www.livinggems.com.au
7
Issue Seven – February 2018
7
What’s On February Instagram for Beginners
$30
Tuesday, 6 February, 10:00am – 12:00pm 325 Margaret Street, Toowoomba City Get ahead of the times and learn how to use one of the most popular social media platforms, Instagram. This workshop will provide insight as to how to download the program on your smart device, navigate through the site, and even upload your own photos.
A Night of Luxury with Uniworld and Insight Vacations
FREE
Monday, 12 February, 6:00pm Fitzy’s Tapestry Function Room 153 Margaret Street, Toowoomba City Join the team at Escape Travel Clifford Gardens and Toowoomba for a night out learning about expert travel tips and special deals. You will receive light refreshments and platters throughout the night and one person will even go home with a lucky door prize! Come along to be in it! RSVP by 6 February.
Happy Valentine’s Dinner
$49.90
Wednesday, 14 February 6:00pm – 10:00pm City Golf Club Toowoomba, Toowoomba Treat yourself and someone special to a delicious dinner to celebrate Valentine’s Day 2018. Enjoy a three-course meal at City Golf Club in Toowoomba. Bookings and prepayment are essential for this event. Book a table today by contacting reception on 4636 9000.
FREE PCYC Markets Every Sunday, 6:30am – 12:30pm 219A James Street Toowoomba Bargains include plants, meats, pottery, fruit and vegetables, seafood, flowers, goldfish, tools and knick-knacks. All money raised goes to keeping PCYC operational.
$3 Highfields Zumba Gold Thursday, 22 February 9:30am – 10:30am Highfields Sports & Recreation Centre Zumba Gold is a modified version of the Zumba you know and love that recreates the original moves at a lower intensity. This class is perfect for the active older adult, beginners or those that have tried Zumba and found it a bit too difficult to keep up with. Classes are $3 a person, so come along and join the fun!
Theatre Performance: First Date
$100
Couple table entry, food & 2 glasses of champagne
$35
Adult
Thursday,15 – Saturday 17 February, 8:00pm Shoebox Theatre Company 54-56 Neil, Toowoomba Pop down to the local theatre this February to see First Date, a hilarious story of Aaron a blind date newbie and Casey his blind date. In an unexpected twist, Aaron and Casey’s inner critics take on a life of their own when other restaurant patrons transform into supportive best friends, manipulative exes and protective parents, who sing and dance them through icebreakers, appetisers and potential conversational landmines. Contains mild course language.
500 South Street, Glenvale QLD 4350
1800 348 977 | www.livinggems.com.au
FREE Toowoomba Farmers’ Markets Saturday, 27 February 7:00am – 12:00pm Toowoomba Showgrounds Offering all things foodie, farm, county and community. The market days include education programs such as caring for animals, growing fruits and vegetables, harvesting crops and milking cows. The market is held on the last Saturday of each month at Toowoomba Showgrounds.