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FROM THE EDITOR
BY SHARI HALL // PHOTO: EMPIRE ART PHOTOGRAPHY
Dear Matters Magazine Readers,
In this issue of Matters Magazine, we explore the theme of family—an integral part of both life and business. Family can take many forms: our loved ones, business colleagues, employees, clients, and even the broader communities that form our support network.
Family plays a vital role in shaping our experiences, decisions and ultimately, our success.
Family is the foundation that supports us, whether it's those we share our homes with or those we build dreams alongside. In the strength of these relationships, we find our greatest successes and create legacies that endure.
DR SHARI HALL
For those running family-owned businesses, the blend of personal and professional life can bring rewards and challenges. The shared victories are sweeter, but the tough decisions can hit harder. This mix of love, passion and perseverance often drives family businesses to succeed and build legacies that span generations, as Adam from Cursio Property Group shares in this issue.
For business owners like Elvis and Bianca Pereira of Lauxen Cleaning Solutions, their team is their family. Their connection with employees runs deep, creating a sense of loyalty and shared purpose. Walking into the office each day isn’t just about work—it’s about continuing to build something meaningful with people who feel like family. This bond is reflected in the strong, supportive environment they have cultivated, fostering resilience and forward-thinking success.
Our professional networks also act as a kind of family. Groups like BNI, Bx, B2B Sunshine Coast, and the local Chamber of Commerce bring together mentors, peers and clients who challenge, support and collaborate with us. These relationships remind us that no one succeeds alone. The connections we build can profoundly impact our personal and professional lives, providing the guidance and encouragement we all need at times.
This issue features inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who have turned family dreams into business realities, such as Danny and Kristy Cook of Coastal Lawn Solutions. You’ll also hear from companies like East Coast Freight Distribution, where the sense of belonging within the team has fostered strong business foundations. You’ll also read about families like the DeCourcys from Brightaire Property Services, who are creating a legacy for future generations.
Our cover story features Judy Bartlett and her son Nick from Rapid Response First Aid as they navigate the pursuit of work-life balance. Like so many, they are learning that this balance requires creativity, perseverance and a whole lot of love.
We’re also thrilled to bring you special messages from key figures who offer their insights from various perspectives: Dominique Lamb, the Queensland Small Business Commissioner; Rosanna Natoli, the Mayor of the Sunshine Coast; and Professor Mark Loon, Dean of the School of Business and Creative Industries at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Together, they provide invaluable insights from a state, local and educational viewpoint, enriching this conversation around the evolving role of family in business.
Family is at the heart of everything we do—it motivates, challenges, and supports us personally and professionally. Whether family means your loved ones at home, colleagues at work, or the network that uplifts you, this issue is dedicated to you.
Thank you for being part of the Matters Magazine family, especially my family and my Matters team, who have supported Luke and me throughout this amazing first year as owners of this Sunshine Coast icon. We hope this issue resonates with your experiences and reminds you of the incredible power of family—in whatever form it takes.
