TNQ Profile Magazine

March 2012

mystyle

divine decadence a kingfisher bay escape

quaint queenslander getaway Fraser McCulloch

forging a life

Ladies AT LUNCH the ‘fifo’ way of life

JULIA FULFORD-KIRBY

follow your dreams BRIDGET and luke EVANS

two hearts, one dream TYSON FRANKLIN

feet first ANTHONY MIROTSOS

the last word

Clare Azzopardi

the cherry on top

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11

Fraser McCulloch

22 Clare Azzopardi

Bridget and luke Evans

features 11

view – forging a life Fraser McCulloch

14

people – follow your dreams Julia Fulfor-Kirby

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success – two hearts, one dream Bridget and Luke Evans

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ladies at lunch – the ‘fifo’ way of life Our lunching ladies discuss the dilemmas of a mining lifestyle

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cover – the cherry on top Clare Azzopardi

50

milestones – feet first Tyson Franklin

54

the last word Anthony Mirotsos

regulars 4 publisher’s note

28 vanity case

52 win

6 pinboard

34 travelfile

53 on the road

8 he says, she says

40 on the table

26 profile loves

42 abode

30 life

46 business

a kingfisher bay escape special feature 36 mission beach feature

Mediterranean and Seafood Restaurant

march 2012

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‘F

ind a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.’ How many of us have heard this before, but never really got it? Well, I get it.

I am one of those really lucky people who have worked out what their purpose in life is and I am living it each day. Now, don’t get me wrong. Like everyone else, I have ‘those days’.

But in general, I am able to spring out of bed each day and work my little behind off because I have found my passion – my calling, my ‘thing’.

My passion is to help other women create their own success. Yep. There it is. Plain and simple.

Sounds easy, hey? Well, honestly once you find your thing (let’s call it passion as ‘thing’ is creeping me out a little), everything falls into place.

So how I am I using my passion? Each and every day I get to create two amazing magazines – on the Sunshine Coast and in Tropical North Queensland – that set out to inspire others. By reading our suite of magazines we hope you will walk away with a little bit of newfound passion nipping at your heals, and perhaps a whiff of what is possible.

I am also excited to have launched a sisterbusiness with my dear friend and business partner Alli Grant … funnily enough called Alli & Genine. In our little online world and upcoming books we inspire other women, and with every word on every page and every blog confession we show women we are real, just like them. If you want a bit of the raw and honest world of Alli & Genine, head over to www.alliandgenine.com.

Why am I telling you all this? To brag? To get you to sign up to our blog (well, actually, yes … can you?). But seriously, I am telling you this because it is time for you to find your passion. Just like our cover person Clare Azzopardi – a mum and now fashion designer who took her love of all things vintage and turned it into her business. Read her inspiring story on page 22.

So what is your passion? After the crumminess of the past few years I believe it is the ones who stand up and show their thing to the world (hang on, that came out a bit wrong, I meant passion) – who will find success.

Go and find your thing!

follow us on twitter.com/profilemag visit us on facebook.com/profilemag watch us on youtube.com/user/profilemagazine

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GENINE HOWARD PUBLISHER / group MANAGING direcTOR

www.profilemag.com.au group managing director / publisher Genine Howard

group general manager / publisher Hamish Rose

group editor-in-chief / publisher Alli Grant

publication manager Coral Florian, 0419 483 183

account manager Jodie Sherman, 0477 642 424

account manager Anne Riley, 0418 376 470

sub editors Phyl Grant, Candice Jayde Fox

creative director Kara de Schot

graphic designer Johanna Jensen

profile writers Mia Lacy, Samantha Alexander, Bronwyn Webb, Juliana Doupe, Stacey Carrick

photography Stuart Frost, Carly Whouley, Charlotte Rose

email Sales: tnqsales@profilemag.com.au Editorial: tnqeditorial@profilemag.com.au General: info@profilemag.com.au

call / fax (head office) 07 5451 0669 / 07 5475 4405

post (head office) PO Box 1065, Cotton Tree, QLD 4558

distribution 14,000 copies printed monthly.9,300 are home delivered and 4,700 copies are street delivered to high traffic areas such as high-end cafes, boutiques, hairdressers and professional offices across the TNQ region (from Cairns to Port Douglas), monthly, and online along with an eMAG to 6000 inboxes regularly.

subscriptions

www.profilemag.com.au/subscriptions, $65 + gst (12 issues)

accounts Katherine Allan – accounts@profilemag.com.au

Profile magazine is a free publication (subscriptions available) published 12 times a year by Brisbane Profile Publishing Group Pty Ltd. All rights are reserved and the contents are copyright and may not be reproduced without the written consent of The Publisher, Brisbane Profile Publishing Group Pty Ltd (“The Publisher”), their related companies and officers hereby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with copy information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of The Publisher, or any persons actions in reliance thereon. Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication.

Inclusion of any copy must not be taken as any endorsement by The Publisher. Views expressed by contributors are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

profilemag.com.au

Sally

Virginia

Kirsten

Karen

Sam

Amanda

Jo

Kerry

Chris

Executive & General Management | Finance & Accounting | Information Technology | Legal Sales & Marketing | Human Resources | Engineering & Technical | Secretarial Office Administration | Government | Community Services

march 2012

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pinboard

with Jennifer Thompson A List Events International To register your event email jennifer@alistevents.com.au

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2 march josh pyke at tanks Josh Pyke weaves intelligent lyrics with warm melodies and quirky song structures to win the hearts and minds of fans. Tank Arts Centre. Tickets $40.

australian tourism awards

phone 07 4032 6600 or visit www.tanksartscentre.com

The best of the best in the tourism industry will be acknowledged at the Cairns Convention Centre in these prestigious national awards.

8 march international women’s day

phone 02 9264 2185 or visit www.australiantourismawards.com.au

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. visit www.internationalwomensday.com

8 march shaolin kung fu monks

9 - 24

at sea, staring up Commissioned by JUTE and penned by internationally recognised playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer, At Sea, Staring Up promises to sweep audiences away on a journey to worlds that are both magical and real. phone 07 4050 9444 or visit www.jute.com.au

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cairns business women’s club luncheon Selina Scoble is widely recognised as the expert for those wanting to ‘achieve success fast’. She has the rare distinction of being an Sydney 2000 Olympian and a mentor to top business coaches.

March’s lunch will be held at the Hilton Cairns, home of the CBWC. www.cbwc.org.au

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Direct from China, Shaolin Kung Fu is set to captivate Cairns with its high-octane kung fu mastery. Each performance moves seamlessly into the next, creating a heady mix of agility, flexibility, stamina and beauty. Cairns Civic Theatre. Tickets $42. phone 1300 855 835 or visit www.ticketlink.com.au

16 march kamerunga live at the tanks Kamerunga, a much-admired Cairns band boasting an ARIA nomination and national acclaim, will launch their new CD at the Tanks Arts Centre in March. Tickets $15, available only at the door. www.myspace.com/kamerunga

17 march st patrick’s day at paradise palms Celebrate this special Irish tradition at Paradise Palms with traditional Irish fare and a Guinness at their restaurant and bar, all weekend. phone 4059 924 or visit www.paradisepalms.com.au

21 march indigenous employment and careers expo Sponsored by the Australian Government, this expo provides indigenous job seekers and school leavers throughout Queensland with the opportunity to connect with a selection of the state’s most prominent employers, education and training providers. Held at the Cairns Exhibition Centre. phone 07 3331 5062 or visit www.fogs.com.au

23 march james morrison: jazz up north The legendary James Morrison is the first act in the Tanks Art

profilemag.com.au

pinboard

Centre’s Jazz Up North 2012 series. A virtuoso in the true sense of the word, this multi-instrumentalist plays trumpet (of course!), trombone, euphonium, flugel horn, tuba, saxophones and piano.

Tickets $55. phone 07 4032 6600 or visit www.tanksartscentre.com

25 march in bed by ron mueck Australia-born, London-based artist Ron Mueck creates astoundingly realistic sculptures that are some of the most widely acclaimed and identifiable works in the international contemporary art arena. In Bed by Ron Mueck at Kick Arts, Centre of Contemporary Arts. Free entry. phone 07 3840 7303 or visit www.qag.qld.gov.au

30 march – 1 april undara outback country rock and blues Enjoy a weekend of talent and entertainment with some of Queensland’s premium rock and blues performers. Featuring The Bobkatz, Sunbirds, Jayson Watkin, David Hudson, Kel Cork and The Rain. phone 1800 990 992 or visit www.undara.com.au

next month 1 april behind the lines: year’s best cartoons 2011 Laugh and cry as you follow the year’s twists and turns in politics with Australia’s top cartoonists. An exhibition from the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House to be shown at the Cairns Regional Gallery. phone 02 6270 8222 or visit www.moadoph.gov.au

march 2012

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rhonda burchmore With a stunning voice and precision-perfect dance steps, Rhonda Burchmore will be commanding the Cairns Civic Theatre stage with her latest show, Legs 11. Her show is a feel-good musical biography of 25 years in the spotlight. Tickets $44. phone 1300 855 835 or visit www.ticketlink.com.au

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cairns chamber of commerce annual general meeting Engagement with members and local business – that’s what the Cairns Chamber delivers at their monthly lunch meetings. Look forward to a quality and informative speaker at this AGM and luncheon. visit www.cairnschamber.com.au

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he says, she says

There are two things we’re taught not to talk about: politics and religion. But of course, we’re not big on rules … so with elections upon us, we have decided to throw the manners book out the window and get down and dirty on the topic of the politics of politics. Dave and Inkie from Zinc FM share their thoughts ...

he says

P

olitics is like Eddie Maguire; it’s everywhere, all the time. Poking its Keating-esque nose into every little societal nook and cranny.

The office, the bedroom, the locker room and the P&C meeting. It permeates aid agencies and charities. It’s the art of getting what you want for what you believe in, in order to further your own cause. There is always collateral damage. It incorporates the ugly side of the human condition; ego, selfishness, materialism, populism. It’s enough to make a Buddhist vomit.

Ever wondered why politicians sit in the top one percentile of the leasttrusted people in our society? Watch a few episodes of Nigel Hawthorne in Yes, Minister or Rick Mayall in The New Statesman and you’ll soon see that quite simply, you can’t trust the bastards. There’s been more than enough bad apples to taint the whole orchard. They’re way up there with used car salesmen, lawyers, drug dealers and the entire Collingwood Football Club.

I know not all politicians are bad. I’m certain many have a heart of gold with the best interests of their community lovingly stuffed into the centre of that heart, who work tirelessly for their constituents at the expense of their own family and personal life. Take a bow, Curtis Pitt, state member for Mulgrave.

At the other end of the spectrum, take a flying leap Gordon Nuttall.

I could never enter the political arena, and nor would I want to. I don’t have the time or energy to be continually molested by those on the other side of the political fence.

That, and the fact that I’ve got way too many skeletons in my closet. I’m not particularly hiding anything, it’s just that my opponents wouldn’t even have to get out the shovel. A light dusting would reveal enough to see me unelectable for the next 1000 years or so, or at least until they repeal several public nudity laws. Happy ballot boxing!

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ZINC’S d

in ave and

kie

She says

S

omeone once told me that unless you want to start an argument you should avoid three topics – religion, money and politics. Religion?

Each to your own on this one, if you want to pray to Buddha, Allah, Jesus, Barbara Streisand: I say go for it, if that’s what floats your boat.

Money? Not being a millionaire myself (even though I tend to spend like one), I can only imagine the joy I’d feel heading along Grafton Street and buying myself a couple of cute little outfits without worrying about the mortgage.

Politics? Well, to tell you the truth I don’t know a great deal about politics so in the name of research for this article I’ve poured myself a cuppa, grabbed a sneaky Tim Tam (or five) out of the fridge, got the TV remote at the ready and the clock’s just ticked over to 1:00pm. So, ‘ding ding!’ Bring on parliamentary Q&A time! Confession: I only lasted seven minutes and 18 seconds before being distracted by my chipped pink toe nail polish. It’s like they’re all in a classroom; a pack of naughty school kids who keep dobbing on each other to the teacher (aka Mr Speaker) who tells them to sit down, put their hands on their heads and behave.

I’m going to take a look back on what I know about our top pollies in order to get a starting point. I know Kevin Rudd likes to pick his nose and eat it. Former prime minister John Howard has the most banging tracksuit collection I’ve ever seen. Transport Minister Anthony Albanese likes to rip his speeches straight out of the Hollywood movie American President. Tony Abbott likes to embarrass his kids by wearing his budgie smugglers out in public. Politics! I don’t know if I’ll ever really understand this complicated, emotionally-charged game, but I do feel fortunate to live in this incredible country, Australia. We’ve not only got the freedom to vote, but it’s actually illegal not to do so. So I say: have your say!

profilemag.com.au

march 2012

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business promtion

Jacqui Lee Long and Olivia Reghenzani

meet ...

Jacqui Lee Long How long have you lived in Cairns?

18 years.

What does your family look like?

I am married with a 16-month-old daughter.

What is your role at MacDonnells Law? I am a lawyer practicing predominantly in the area of succession law which includes Estate Administration, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Estate Planning and Family Provision Applications.

Losing someone close to you is always emotionally challenging. Not only do you have to come to terms with the death itself and their subsequent absence from your life, but somehow you have to work out a way forward.

What would you say is the main difference between MacDonnells Lawyers and other firms?

We are a Queensland firm with offices in Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane who are committed to personalising our service to our client’s needs.

Our state-wide teams are able to work together to achieve our client’s desired outcomes.

Add to that being named executor of your loved one’s will, and the stress can be all-consuming.

You certainly need the help of a trusted advisor and friend; someone to guide you through this complicated and painful process.

What is your business ethos?

Strive to provide a high level of service whilst working with clients to achieve the best possible outcomes.

How would your friends describe you?

Practical, dependable, honest, cautious and loyal.

How would your boss describe you?

Hardworking, confidential, reliable and dedicated.

What is the best thing about living in Cairns?

The city life with a country feel.

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profilemagazine

Olivia Reghenzani has experienced such heartbreak.

When her father passed away in 1999, Olivia, along with two others, was appointed executor for his estate. Almost immediately, a wave of anxiety, despair and helplessness hit her.

Thankfully, the lawyer who drafted her father’s will had the foresight to recommend MacDonnells Law. Olivia quickly found herself in the very capable hands of her new lawyer, Jacqui Lee Long.

“When I first started dealing with Jacqui she certainly set my mind at ease. I felt completely confident in her abilities and knew that she would help me if problems arose. And she did – Jacqui guided me through all the issues along the way. I can still ring or email Jacqui at any time and my queries are attended to promptly.

“Jacqui’s guidance definitely enabled me to make the right decisions. She was very patient and it seemed like nothing was too much trouble for her.”

Jacqui is one of a team of lawyers at MacDonnells that practice in a specific expert area who have been born and raised in the region so they understand the issues peculiar to NQ and are focused on delivering the results desired by clients. You’re in safe hands with lawyers like Jacqui and MacDonnells Law.

Before working with MacDonnells, Olivia hadn’t worked with many law firms, but she certainly warmed to Jacqui and the team quickly. profilemag.com.au

view

words samantha alexander ll photography stuart frost

Fraser McCulloch

In a world where ‘individual’ and ‘original’ is cherished, there is now even more pressure on being different. This is something Fraser McCulloch has sorted. Fraser speaks to Samantha Alexander about his wrought iron business, creative drive, and his dedication to meeting customers’ needs.

I

must admit that I will often spend hours looking for that special something. I crave the new, the exciting, the innovative. I look for something that is unique and individual. It doesn’t matter what it is; from handbags to furniture, the same rule applies. Finding what I am looking for and what will truly satisfy me is something I enjoy.

I don’t mind if it takes hours or days.

I like knowing my purchase reflects who I am and hope I won’t see this particular piece with the stranger walking next to me or in my neighbours’ houses. Meeting Fraser, I was instantly excited about his work.

Owner and designer at Elefantus, Fraser makes people’s grand ideas come to life. In his wrought iron business, his team work with metals to create gates, pool fences and furniture right through to artworks. They even fashioned a DJ box to replicate a retro ghetto blaster!

Walking through his workshop, it is clear that plenty of hard work goes into each piece. “Everything we do is very labour intensive,” Fraser says. “The design process, fabricating the design with hot forging techniques, hot dip galvanising for rust-proofing, polishing the piece, painting it and finally installing it.”

Fraser and his team strain their bodies and minds daily to come up with amazing works, and this is what makes each piece from Elefantus so unique.

Despite the hard work, Fraser loves his job. He is a creative soul and this for him fits perfectly. Never having studied art or design, his work seems to come naturally. I prompt Fraser to fill in the gaps. How did he end up at Elefantus?

Originally from England, this artistic mind followed a love of music. A guitarist and singer, Fraser was drawn to Australia for the rock culture and ended up following its sweet sounds to Melbourne. Realising Melbourne was march 2012

much the same as England, he headed back north. “Coming from England, living in that often cold, dark environment I would dream of emigrating to a tropical beachy place. When I came to Cairns … I just couldn’t believe the lifestyle.”

Fraser worked with AJ Hackett entertainment and events for five years and was able to enjoy a lifestyle he was not accustomed to in England. Missing the creativity however, Fraser looked to his friend, Gus, who had a local wrought iron business.

“I started going along to his workshop and got involved with hot glass work which I loved experimenting with. Eventually we partnered up and started a new entity.”

An incredible 15 years later, Elefantus is still going strong. “We are always busy. We are lucky in that way. We’ve never had a time where we’ve had no work on. I think it’s the diversity of our business that dictates that.

Predominantly we are known as the place to go if you want some wrought iron gates, but we do so many different projects, jobs that other people can’t.”

Nothing is too difficult for Fraser’s team of four. “We’re not in the mindset that leaves us restricted in what we’ll take on. We’ll think outside the box to make things work. I think that’s a follow-on from creating art pieces … having that creative mind and being able to imagine the finished product.”

Fraser admits he is sometimes his own worst enemy. “After this amount of time, I should be able to pick the jobs that I want to do and those that will take more effort than they are worth, but I find it hard to say no. I like the challenge.”

He likes seeing the happiness he brings his customers by helping them and profilemagazine

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making something work when they thought it was never going to happen. This he finds rewarding.

Sometimes however, people fail to grasp that anything made by him and his team is a bespoke piece; it’s a one off. Even when they are recreating a design that someone has chosen from their website they still have to do so from scratch – from a bar or sheet of metal. And for this, there is no comparison.

“That’s the value of our work. Each piece is an unique invention that will last forever. It’s not something that’s going to end up in a garage sale; it is something that is going to be handed down to your children.”

It’s my business, but it’s not my life.

My family is my life.”

He goes on. “There’s nothing better in life than having something that you love looking at, or touching, or telling your friends about. Everyday you get pleasure out of it.” Fraser easily identifies that it is the diversity in his work that keeps him going. Describing his work for the week, he lists four jobs of an entirely different nature, extending from Cairns through to Karumba and all the way to Weipa. “I never know what I am going to be working on. There’s stuff coming from all over and I don’t know what it’s going to be week to week.”

Among the diversity and pressure that comes with this business, Fraser remarkably has a calm nature and level head. For him, it is the 15-yearstrong partnership between him and Gus and the ability to not take things too seriously.

“Neither of us are business people as such. We’re not here to look at spreadsheets and increase the profit margin – we’re just here enjoying being creative and making a living out of it.” One thing he does emphasise though is that: “It’s my business, but it’s not my life. My family is my life.”

It is these strong family values that remind me of the importance of switching off at the end of the day and finding the ever-important work-life balance we all are striving for. It really is possible, and Fraser is a perfect model to follow toward that dream.

Fraser is a worker, an inventor, an artist and a business man, and these roles are welded together tightly in his every day life.

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profilemagazine

Fraser McCulloch

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© 2012 MicrOrganics profilemagazine 13

people

words stacey carrick ll photography stuart frost

Julia fulford-kirby is a woman of many talents, having recently released her first book, echoes of eve. Julia chats to stacey carrick about her multi-faceted career, the obstacles she has encountered along the way and the life lessons she has learnt.

I

’ve got a challenge for you. First, imagine writing a book. Hours and hours at the keyboard. Crippling writer’s block, weary eyes, the constant prodding of restless ideas day and night. Now, write two more. Try to imagine doing all this with a learning difficulty which makes reading and writing your biggest challenge. Oh, and do it all on the back of a lifetime of struggle, heartache and pain – in fact, make this the subject of your first book. Next, go and get these books published.

The waiting, the hoping, the automated and impersonal rejection letters.

Given up yet? I would have, long ago.

Julia Fulford-Kirby’s journey through these exact challenges and out the other side is a truly inspirational story. The product of a childhood wrought with pain and two separate divorces, she has used her difficulty in life to fuel dreams only few dare to dream.

Her first book, Echoes of Eve, was released in Australia, the US and the UK in late 2011. Julia is hoping to publish My Secret Self next year, and she is currently writing her third book, Reflecting Grace.

“Writing a book had been in the back of my mind for a long time,” she says. “I thought I would never do it, because I have dyslexia. It was daunting at first, but I broke it down into short stories to make it more manageable. I love the idea of writing; I thought it would be a cool thing to do.” [Dyslexia is a broad term for a set of learning disabilities that impair a person’s fluency or comprehension in reading.]

Echoes of Eve is the story of Julia’s childhood, which was turbulent, to say the least. A mother abandons her young family in favour of a married lover. The public humiliation, ridicule and shame that follow lead to her lover’s suicide and the loss of custody of her three daughters. Five years on, when the courts grant her increased child access, her ex-husband takes her children from Australia to England to start another life. Julia did not see her mother again until she was 18. Julia’s father was the first man in Australia to gain custody of his children.

“I am normally a very private person, so many people have commented that writing a personal book like Echoes of Eve was a brave thing to do,” Julia says. “Writing my memoirs was actually very therapeutic. I had a lot of emotions bottled up, writing was a way to release those emotions and get some order in my head.”

Julia’s broken family legacy had consequences that would echo throughout her life. Whether it was her role models, her natural tendency toward unhealthy relationships or simply making the wrong choices, history repeated. After two failed marriages and her own adulterous affair, she realised things had to change.

She embarked on a course of therapy through which she came to understand the subconscious effects of her parents’ actions, and recounts these visits in her book. Julia and her therapist addressed her second divorce, the sudden death of her father, the effect of home invasions and her decision to relocate from Sydney to Cairns. “Therapy is the best thing 14

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Julia Fulford-Kirby

I’ve ever done,” Julia says. “I highly recommend it. It really changed me.”

The big breakthrough for Julia during her therapy was deciding what healthy characteristics she should seek in a partner. “Both of my husbands had bad childhoods and came from broken homes,” she says. “Bringing two people together who have had such rough lives was really just a matter of bad chemistry. I needed someone who had a stable home life and a healthy, well-adjusted background.”

Julia also learnt a lot about herself through her relationships. “I learnt to stand up for myself, because I can be easily led, especially by men,” she says. “I now put my own wishes first and have realised I do not need to ask for permission to be happy.”

She says although Echoes of Eve is predominantly a female-oriented book, many men have also expressed their love of its subject matter. It is a book about triumph, persistence and self-invention – something that resonates with both sexes.

“The book is an in-depth look at why we do the things we do and how the past affects us every day,” she says. “Are we destined to repeat our parents’ actions? Do our childhood patterns affect how we make decisions?”

Julia has excelled at writing, but she has also been very successful at a number of other endeavours on the way to her literary career. Perhaps most notable is her artistic pursuits. She says many dyslexic people are destined to pursue a creative profession in order to avoid reading and writing.

This determined lady has produced three high-profile exhibitions – Humanity on the Cross, Celebrities on the Cross and Athletes in Action. Her artwork has been showcased on numerous television shows and in private collections throughout the US, the UK and Europe. You can also add modelling school owner and personal trainer to her vast and varied resume.

Julia now operates StudioEdge with her architect partner, specialising in property development and interior design while importing furniture and artefacts to complement her own artworks in their design gallery.

“My background is in art, so when I met my partner, architect Gordon Beath, we decided to follow our artistic passions together. We set up StudioEdge, which incorporated art, design and architecture, so it was a natural progression to work with him with interior colour selections and finishes on projects for clients.”

It is clear that variety is the spice of life for Julia. “I get bored easily, so I tend to do things in three-year patterns. Like horses, then art, then personal training. There’s so much to do, and so many different careers I could have. I never know what’s next. I just have to run with it. It might last a few months or a few years.”

It seems that whatever Julia tries to tackle ends up a success, which must be both surprising and wonderful for someone who has faced so much adversity, negativity and hardship. Julia’s story teaches us that the constraints placed on us by our childhoods, our environments or our capabilities only limit us as much as we allow them to. profilemag.com.au

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Audi Centre Cairns 309 Mulgrave Road, Cairns Tel. 4046 6322 | A/H: Jeff 0412 688 562 www.audicentrecairns.com.au *Driveaway price includes dealer delivery, stamp duty, CTP, and balance of registration. Offer excludes fleet and government buyers. While stocks last. Overseas models shown. ACA8103

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Smarter Business Solutions profilemagazine

15

success

words juliana doupe ll photography matthew evans

School-yard sweethearts Luke and Bridget Evans have been together for 12 years and are still going strong. Both now work for Paronella Park, and its story continues to inspire them. Juliana Doupe caught up with Luke and Bridget and heard about how their love story and the Park’s intertwine.

and Bridget Evans 16Luke profilemagazine

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I

first visited Paronella Park about 15 years ago.

I was working in vacation care and had the job of shepherding 50 over-excited primary school students through the park while their parents relaxed at work. While I was not in an ideal position to soak up the ambience or history of the pleasure gardens, I do remember the waterfall, the castle and the incongruity of this kind of place existing at all.

Spaniard José Paronella carved these gardens out of the virgin Mena Creek scrub in the early 20th century. His achievement – creating a Spanish castle in the tropical rainforest – continues to inspire the thousands of visitors who pour into the park each year to wander around, marvel at the tenacity of its creator, and for a moment, understand that if you want something badly enough, you can make it happen.

Among the inspired are Luke and Bridget Evans.

Luke’s parents, Mark and Judy, bought the park in 1993 and have grown it into a family business.

Their three children all work for Paronella: older son Matthew takes care of the web and the wedding photography, daughter Katherine is operations manager, Luke looks after communications and marketing while Bridget plans Paronella’s weddings. More than 50 couples got married at the park last year – their perfect day courtesy of Bridget’s meticulous organisational skills and lovely heart.

José’s story strikes a strong chord with the couple, who over the years have learned what patience, persistence and the power of love can do. But let’s go back to the beginning …

Luke was born in Fremantle but the family moved to Singapore when he was small. Mark (his dad) worked for General Electric while in Singapore but the Evans’ ultimate goal was to move back to Australia, get a caravan, travel around and buy a business.

In the early ‘90s the time was right and Mark and Judy, eight-year-old Luke, older brother Matthew and younger sister Katherine, spent a year and a half travelling around Australia, looking for the perfect place to stop and the perfect business to buy.

“It was supposed to be two years driving around, but it ended up being a year and half because we stumbled across Paronella Park,” explains Luke.

“They were supposed to buy a normal business; Mum would eye off corner shops and things along the way, we were almost going to settle in Tasmania for a while and run a restaurant and a trout farm, but we ended up here because somebody told Dad about this castle for sale in Innisfail …”

The Evans’ bought Paronella Park when Luke was 10; he attended the tiny Mena Creek State School, and went to high school in Innisfail. There, he met the love of his life, Bridget who, like Luke, was born a long way from the Tropical North.

“I was born in the New South Wales, so I go for the Blues in State of Origin, but we moved to Cairns when I was very young so I don’t remember it too well,” she says.

One of five children, her mum stayed home march 2012

success to care for the family while her father worked in the mines of Papua New Guinea. “My parents currently live in Papua New Guinea. My dad was born there and has worked there his whole life. I just went up there for the first time last year and it was beautiful,” she says.

Bridget attended school in Cairns, and then, with the support of her parents, moved down to Innisfail when she was 15.

“I was a bit of a rebellious child. I wanted to move away but I was scared to go too far away from my family, so we thought Innisfail was a healthy medium.”

Living in a granny flat on her own, at one point working three jobs to support herself, Bridget attended Good Counsel College, where she met Luke.

“Luke was the most popular guy in school. He was the hot stuff all the girls wanted and I was like, ‘I don’t see what all the fuss is about’. Then I started talking to him, and he was really funny and I fell for him too. All my girlfriends warned me; ‘Don’t go for Luke. He’ll break your heart,’ and here we are 12 years later and he hasn’t broken it yet.”

After high school, the young couple felt the need to stretch their wings. In 2001, when they were both 18, they decided to move to Brisbane and try their luck in the big smoke.

“It was cheaper to get the train than to fly. We thought; ‘We’re young, we don’t need to get the sleeper carriage. We’ll get chairs!’ It was the most uncomfortable 24 hours of our lives. The noise, the chairs, the crazy people wandering the carriages ...

It was horrible!”

Bridget’s family moved to Brisbane when she was living in Innisfail, so the young couple had a place to stay – initially.

“Even though we’d been together for years and we’d lived together at Luke’s parents’ house, my parents wouldn’t let us sleep in the same bed. We had to have separate beds with a curtain separating us – like a hospital ward,” she laughs.

They both found work, Luke with a butcher and Bridget in property management. They rented an apartment and bought their first car. Like any young couple, they worked, partied and lived it up.

Then things changed.

“We had a bit of a separation,” Bridget explains.

“I wanted to settle down and get married and Luke wasn’t ready – so I threatened to take off. I was sort of bluffing a little bit, but he called my bluff and let me go but we still stayed best friends and talked on the phone every day. We saw each other constantly.”

Shortly afterwards, Cyclone Larry hit the Tropical North. Luke’s family rang and asked him to come home and help clean up Paronella Park, which had been devastated by the cyclone.

“I’d decided to come back up north for good,” Luke explains. “Cyclone Larry was a big reason – it was the biggest disaster the park had been through since my parents bought it in 1993. Bridget and I had split up, we were living apart and my job had run its course. There was no reason not to go.

“Just prior to the cyclone, my dad had a health

scare and was transferred to Brisbane for treatment.

Bridget had gone overseas with her sister and, all-in-all, it was a pretty trying time.”

Returning home, Luke saw the devastation the cyclone had caused. The general consensus was that Paronella Park wouldn’t reopen. The Evans family was made of stronger stuff though. With no income and Mark recuperating from an operation, the family got the park going again in just three months.

“Looking back, the cyclone was a good thing as it took Dad’s mind off the illness and gave him something else to focus on. In fact, it gave us all something else to focus on,” says Luke.

Bridget agrees, “The most challenging time in my life was when Luke and I had broken up. I didn’t handle it too well. I partied too much with my girlfriends and tried to pretend I didn’t miss him.”

Luke says his family made the difference during

He rang me up and asked me to marry him over the phone. I didn’t answer him straight away.

I hung up on him.” those challenging months, and something else happened too – he realised that he and Bridget shouldn’t be apart.

“It became very clear I wanted her to be with me,” he says. “So, I rang her and asked her to marry me.”

“He rang me up and asked me to marry him over the phone,” says Bridget. “I didn’t answer him straight away. I hung up on him and rang my parents and said, ‘Luke’s just asked me to marry him’ and Mum said, ‘I know, he rang me and your dad and asked for permission’. So I rang him back and said yes!”

After a two-year engagement, the couple got married at Paronella Park in 2009, although Luke was initially reluctant to use the venue.

“He didn’t want to. He worked there every day.

But then I started getting prices for other venues and suddenly it was a lot more appealing,” laughs Bridget.

After 12 years of love and two years of being man and wife, Paronella Park is inseparable from Luke and Bridget’s story. José’s ability to hold out, follow his dreams and stay the distance, continues to provide inspiration for the young couple.

“José Paronella came to Australia with nothing and built his dream,” Luke explains. “People said, ‘You never will; you’re crazy!’ He ignored that and did what he wanted to do – that’s really inspiring for both us.”

But something tells me they inspire each other too, each and every day. profilemagazine

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ladies at lunch

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“I think we really do have the best of both worlds.� sandy smith

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1. sandy smith 2. sunflower-crusted tofu salad 3. kate mills 4. middle eastern lamb pie 5. vivian reid

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ladies at lunch

words mia lacy ll photography jodie sherman ll venue lime tree bar and restaurant, trinity beach

About 3,000 Fly In, Fly Out (FIFO) families live in the Cairns region. Their jobs are in mines, gas, oil, customs and other far-reach industries. Their shared existence is dictated by a roster of ‘homes and aways’. What’s it like to live like this? Mia Lacy knows, and speaks to other FIFO wives.

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esterday, I dropped my partner at Qantas departures and he flew off to work. He cracks a joke that he only has to go to work six times a year, but it doesn’t make the goodbye any easier for me. When I return home, all that lovely male energy has left the building, and I’m going to be on my own for the next 28 days during his swing at work. I admit that I feel a bit out of kilter for the first 24 hours. I like to arrange something to boost myself up after his departure, and our ladies’ lunch day is just the treat I’ve been looking forward to. I’ve been keen to catch up with these women – all FIFO wives too – who identify with the ‘departure syndrome’ I’m experiencing.

Kate Mills, 40’s, has been married to Keith, a light vehicle mechanic who has worked at MMG Century Mine, for five years. Her neighbour, Vivian Reid, who describes herself as a marriage celebrant in the prime of her life, has been married to Geoff for 28 years. Geoff also works at Century’s mine, and is on the same swing (shift) as Keith. Sandy Smith, also in her 40’s, is married to Graeme who’s with Woodside Petroleum up on the North West Shelf. Graeme is an OIM on an FPSO (that’s offshore installation manager on a floating, production, storage and offloading facility – see how foreign even FIFO language can be?).

I had little idea what it was like to be in a relationship with a man who was around for half my life, but on balance I’d have to say the pros outweigh the cons considerably. I am interested to see if these ladies agree. profile: Have your relationships always been FIFO, and if not, can you compare the before and after? vivian: Ever since we were married, Geoff’s worked away. We had a safari company before and he was away for 14 days, home for seven. It’s easier now, as when our son was young I was running the business seven days a week as well as bringing up a child and juggling absolutely everything. Now march 2012

he’s away eight days and home for seven – it’s just a way of life for me after all this time. kate: Keith used to work from home and sometimes both of us being home together was a strain on our relationship. Now I miss him, but I find the FIFO lifestyle is great for both of us. He is more settled when he comes home and doesn’t have the need to want to go out as much. sandy: The past six weeks is the longest time we’ve ever spent together in our entire relationship and it’s been an indication that when Graeme finally retires, we’ll handle it fine! It went quickly and made it harder to say goodbye, after having a long period together. profile: How has your partner working FIFO impacted on your children? kate: I’d say it’s been mainly positive – a few times Chelsea has school things on he hasn’t been able to attend. But when he is home he’s got more quality time and he makes the most of it. vivian: In the earlier days when Will was growing up it had a big impact, as I sometimes felt like a single parent. Now, Will’s 27, has a partner and his own child and he is working with Geoff at the same mine, on the same shift. They have bonding ‘man time’ out there and I bond with the baby and Maddie at home – It’s great. sandy: I have my daughter from a previous relationship and Graeme has his son from a previous relationship so when he comes home, we go from a two-female household to having two males in the house with us! It has worked fine – the kids are the same age, they get on extremely well. They look forward to having each other for company when he’s home and my daughter likes it when he goes as she has me all to herself! We’re lucky, I think. profile: How do you cope with missing the big things together, like birthdays, anniversaries, and Christmas? kate: Once on our wedding anniversary he rang and said happy anniversary and I’d forgotten it! At

Easter we can go out to the mines, but it’s birthdays when he’s not there that you do miss him. vivian: It’s my birthday next week and it’s the first birthday that he hasn’t shared with me in quite a few years. We’re planning to just celebrate two days later. If he’s working over Christmas or New Year, then I’ll go out to the mine. You tend to adapt to whatever’s happening. sandy: Graeme is used to missing occasions and he doesn’t make a big deal of it, so it doesn’t seem to be one to me. I have my mum and my children here so I just get close to them on those days. When he comes home, we’ll celebrate it. Christmas and New Year are the times you miss them the most.

They alternate back-to-back, so you know next year they will be home for these holidays. profile: Do you make an extra effort to be romantic when your partners return? Does absence make the heart grow fonder? kate: It does. I always look forward to Keith coming home on a Tuesday night and I make sure he has a lovely meal. vivian: Same. Our husbands are on the same shift, so either of us will pick them up at the airport and prepare something nice for dinner and I try to take a day off during the week to spend together. sandy: I definitely prepare for when Graeme’s coming home. Do the nails, hair – that sort of thing. He’s been gone for three weeks, so you like to try and keep up the maintenance! After he arrives home he’s definitely much more attentive.

We try to spend one night away without the children during his swing home. profile: What advice or guidance do you have for new FIFO partners? kate: Be independent. Enjoy your own company: go out, do sports, catch up with friends. You are on your own, but you can immerse yourself in your hobbies and not think about anyone but yourself for a week or so. vivian: There are so many different circumstances for wives and partners. You have to learn to make profilemagazine

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ladies at lunch LIME TREE BAR & RESTAURANT, Trinity Beach It’s a wonderful world when there’s a super restaurant just around the corner. Trinity Beach locals are definitely in the know about Lime Tree Bar & Restaurant.

Owner chefs Paul Davies and Graeme Moore, together with Graeme’s partner Mia DiLeva, are definitely getting it right. “Our philosophy is to create innovative food for the locals,” says Graeme. After my visit with the FIFO ladies, I would say these guys have nailed it.

Lime Tree has a daily specials blackboard but we were tempted by the small plates.

My superbly Kiwi-sounding Pork and Puha (there is no explanation, you just had to live there) was twice-cooked pork belly, watercress and pistachio pesto with a spring onion mash. Just the right size, too. the fifo ladies enjoy a catch-up at lime tree bar & restaurant

he possibly could, yet I still had to go through that mourning process without him being here initially. During times like that, it is difficult.

“You sleep easier when they’re home.”

Kate Mills

decisions on your own, and look forward to the days when they are home. sandy: I agree with both of you. Learn to be able to ask for help with things when you need it. profile: Can you describe a difficult situation you had to face alone? kate: I had a bad neck injury and couldn’t get off the bed, and, of course, the first person I thought to ring was Keith. Phone coverage at the mines is good. Sometimes just hearing their voice helps. vivian: Last year just 15 minutes before I had to leave for the airport to fly out to do a wedding, the heavens opened. The drains on the road were blocked and also the gutters, so the water was literally pouring into the house. I was trying to sweep it out, standing there soaking wet. I called Geoff in a panic and said ‘You have to come home!’. He flew back that evening and he fixed everything. sandy: When my dad passed away suddenly last year, Graeme rushed home as quickly as 20

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profile: What are the nights alone like? kate: You sleep easier when they’re home. When there’s noises outside, dogs barking, you’re alert to them if you’re alone. vivian: You check the doors are locked. I don’t need to worry about that when Geoff’s home.

Sometimes I even get out of bed and double check! sandy: I have my dog beside my bed. vivian: I have my dog on my bed! sandy: Mine’s a bit too big for that – he’s a Bull-Arab cross! profile: How do you change your behavior when they leave? What are your secret indulgences? vivian: I get a dose of reality TV when he goes back to work. If he’s at home and I’m watching, say, The Biggest Loser, he talks all the way through it as he hates reality TV! kate: The girls and I are always happy with something easy for dinner, so I don’t have to think hard about what to cook.

My man is also an OIM, but the oil field he manages is in the middle of the South China Sea and it takes him 24 hours to get home from work. First there’s a chopper ride back to land and a vehicle trip to Bangkok, then 10 hours flying to Sydney, a dash over to domestic, and the morning flight up to Cairns. I’ll be parked in the wives’ waiting room – the lot at the entrance to the mangrove boardwalk – awaiting his text that he’s outside ready to be picked up. As my man always says; the day he flies home, his becomes the best job in the world!

Vivian, who describes herself as ‘vegetarian verging on vegan’, fully appreciated the sunflower-crusted, marinated tofu salad, saying it was cooked to perfection.

The menu also covers ‘large plates’. This is the men’s (and hungry women’s) end with beef cheeks, veal, duck, sirloin and rib eye.

Kate chose the Middle Eastern lamb pie, saying the pastry was very light and the flavours all the way through the very tender meat.

We looked at the enticing dessert menu, but since it was a very very warm day, we decided to order affogatos.

Affogato is an Italian word literally meaning ‘drowned’ and is a perfect pick me up: a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice-cream topped with a shot of hot espresso. Luckily for us, Lime Tree serves Genovese coffee. They also serve stylish cocktails, brunch from 10:00am and both their bar and main menus are available from 11:00am till close.

4055 6467 28 Trinity Beach Road, Trinity Beach www.facebook.com/limetreetrinitybeach

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promotion

It’s taken a year of hard work and all of our personal resources.”

steve ford and megan byrnes

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veryone knows that building a new home can be a tense time.

However, building on the side of a hill has its own issues and it’s not for the faint-hearted. Megan Byrnes and Russell Muller’s story started three years ago when they set out to achieve just that.

They employed an architect, undertook the necessary geo-technical reports, and had hoped that after doing all the right things they were set for success with their new home. Unexpected challenges lay in their future.

Last year’s wet season delivered a terrible blow to the Cairns couple when devastating Cyclone Yasi caused a spring in the side of Yorkey’s Knob hill to burst through the slope above their property. A landslide of dirt and rocks fell into their half-built home. In the aftermath, a small tree stood in the centre of their fresh, new bedroom.

“The dreadful realisation happened over days … Cyclone Anthony caused some slippage on the slope but then as Yasi’s force hit we just looked out at the torrential rain and knew it was going to get much worse. But how much? There was no time to shore-up the slope between the two systems, so in the end more than 100 metres of total area was lost. Yasi delivered the final blow.

“We had periods of total despair and the endless process has taken its toll.

It has taken complete dedication to keep going,” Megan recalls.

The home is the last of many; a dream home with views out to sea and all the wonderful aspects Cairns has to offer. It took the couple 20 years of building and renovating to arrive at this point. But Megan and Russell want to share their story with others so no one else has to live through the same experience. Knowing nothing about dormant seasonal springs and how common they are in and around the region, Megan and Russell advise new home owners to talk to the locals.

What may seem like a hill that has been there forever can suddenly become half of what it was. Bitumen on hillside roads are replaced often march 2012

from the effects of seasonal springs. Suburbs like Edge Hill, Smithfield and Gordonvale were hugely affected last season and erosion, like flooding, can be a tricky issue with insurance companies.

In any natural disaster, some companies step forward, knowing the extent of the complications. Without their expertise, a situation like that of this Cairns couple would be impossible to manage. Russell and Megan were lucky to have found several local companies who stepped up to the plate to help them as they faced the long road ahead.

More than 12 months on, they are finally on their way. Steve Ford from GEO investigate/design/construct have reconstructed the slope using soil bags that grow grasses and vines. Now the construction of the house is underway. Local builder Jason English Constructions has put together a plan for the couple that has been amended three times.

“We really needed someone as resourceful as he is, because it’s taken a year of hard work and all of our personal resources,” says Megan. “At times we have certainly been at a low ebb - it’s tough, especially the delays.

“Many builders don’t want a complicated repair plan. They want to expand the base budget for contingency’s sake,” Russell adds. “Jason is managing to streamline and save costs.”

The couple is extremely grateful for assistance provided by the Premier’s Disaster Fund and the following local firms; Doran Electrics, Bruce and Associates Engineering, Solitaire Plumbing, Rob Milgate, English Engineering, Cairns Regional Council Planning Department, Bill Owen Insurance Brokers and GEO investigate/design/construct.

Thankfully, it’s all coming together for Russell and Megan, despite a long list of delays and obstacles.

“We are getting through it but only with the right help – and for that we’re very grateful,” adds Megan. A wonderful example of community support. profilemagazine

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cover story

I am just a mum who wears thongs to work because I don’t have to leave the house.�

Clare Azzopardi wears her own dress made from an original 1953 pattern using authentic reprinted vintage fabric. Shot on location at a country farm on the banks of the Barron River in Freshwater, Cairns.

Cherry Tom dresses pictured: And the Boys (doily bib with shoulder ruffle straps) and Sunlight (halterneck crossback tops) both retail for $176.00. Available at Love from Lucy Gold Coast and The Temple Cairns

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cover story

words bronwyn webb ll photography charlotte rose ll hair and makeup pulse hair and beauty

To her family, Clare Azzopardi is just ‘Mum’, but to fashionistas across the country, Clare’s designs are becoming a must-have item. Proud owner of the label Cherry Tom, her story is one of strength, chance and a mother’s love for her family. The creative mother of four shares her tale with Bronwyn Webb.

I

am dressed in a faded denim skirt and uninspiring singlet. I’m the mum of a toddler, so like many mums, easy and comfortable has pretty much become my uniform.

Clare Azzopardi is a stay-at-home mum too, in a way. She’s a mother and she stays at home, but when the kids are at school and Clare is alone, she’s actually creating masterpieces fashionistas are desperate to wear, and definitely not slouching around in denim and cheap singlets.

On meeting Clare, I inwardly cringe at having not put more effort into my choice of wardrobe.

After all, this woman is a fashion designer. But I needn’t have worried, because if anyone knows something of the struggles and sacrifices of motherhood, it is Clare. Despite her new-found stardom in the world of fashion, Clare is a mother, first and foremost. Anything else in her life is just icing on the cake – or the cherry on top.

As Clare begins her story, I realise this woman, whose frilly, feminine garments in her Cherry Tom line are making the fashion world buzz with excitement, has had it tough. She really deserves the chance she now has to do something truly inspiring, something from her heart.

At 45, Clare has three daughters and a son, three of them born in very quick succession. She laughs as she remembers a time when she developed tennis elbow from washing so many nappies – a chore she did for six years straight with three children under three. But what truly makes Clare’s story march 2012

of success so inspiring is that her son, Philip, has Aspergers Syndrome.

“Phil was diagnosed with Aspergers when he was in grade two. Aspergers is a struggle with socialising and interacting, a sensory overload. So when he was little he found school very difficult.

To fit in around his needs I worked nights and weekends.”

“The condition affects what you do every day.

For many years it was very hard for the family, but I was always there for him. Phil is in grade 11 now and coping very well.”

The Azzopardis moved to Cairns three years ago when Clare’s husband, Mark, scored a job working as a project manager at Cairns Airport. She moved Philip and two of her daughters north, Gabrielle, now 18, and Olivia, now 15. Making the break from her eldest child, Laura, was difficult, as Laura had just begun university.

Until then, Clare had worked in sales for the Brisbane Entertainment Centre – a job she loved.

Yet she saw an easy future in retail in the Tropical North and decided a move would be best for the family. Clare was devastated to find that because of the global financial crisis, jobs in this sector were hard to find. “It was rough, but family is the most important thing to me. They will always come first and whatever I have done it has always been with my family in mind.”

Clare now credits Philip’s needs for forcing her to take a chance with Cherry Tom.

“My kids might be teenagers but they still need me to be there for them. Now I get to work from home and I am always available for Phil. It is all about choice. If I didn’t have Phil, I would be working in retail but because of his needs and my keenness to make myself available to him, I’ve chosen to do this from home,” she explains.

“I’m like any mum; I just want the best for my kids. I have always put them first and stood to the back. That is why I find it so hard now that people want to talk to me and think I am doing something great. It seemed fundamental to me; I did what I had to do.

“It was really odd the first time someone came up to me and started talking to me because they knew who I was but I had no idea who they were. I am just a mum who wears thongs to work because I don’t have to leave the house.”

Clare admits she finds it difficult to talk about herself – saying she is a regular woman who loves music and collects tea towels as a hobby. But when she is forced to take her mother hat off and put on her designer cap, a true passion for vintage-inspired clothing is revealed.

Give her an old, often smelly and sometimes stained pillowcase, tablecloth, curtain or doily, or even one of her beloved tea towels, and she’ll soon have it in pristine condition and whipped into a gorgeous, feminine frock guaranteed to turn heads.

In any given week, up to a dozen frocks or tops are created from something granny used or wore, profilemagazine

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cover story

The dresses are different, unique, individual. Every piece has its own story.”

Clare Azzopardi is one of those clever fish who has managed to turn her passion for vintage fashion into a thriving business

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including her nighties, and has often been sitting in someone’s linen cupboard for decades or found on the back shelf in an op shop. Clare has even placed ads in the local newspaper to source material.

“The dresses are different, unique, individual. Every piece has its own story.

“I especially like getting to know the story of where the fabric comes from, who owned it and what kind of life they had. I prefer to get stuff from people so I know the story. Old fabrics are lovely to work with because they are already worn in – soft and comfortable. I love it when someone comes to me with a story and wants the item turned into something that can be loved all over again.”

Clare adds; “I hate waste. This has really made me realise how much wastage there is in the world. I like to be able to take something and change it into something else so it is appreciated all over again.”

And appreciated it certainly is.

In just two short years, Cherry Tom is already being sold in boutiques across Queensland and New South Wales. Clare dreams it will one day be sold to ‘hipster’ enthusiasts in Melbourne.

“I used to make clothes and costumes for the kids, learning from my mother and my mother-in-law. I wanted the girls to wear clothes that were a bit different.

Everything for girls is the same from the cheap shops right through to the expensive ones. It is good for girls to be individuals and I like girls to be girly. Girls don’t have to wear a denim skirt and singlet everywhere they go.”

Uh oh! Cringe!

As a mum of a little girl, I have to agree. And as she is a mum who has always put her children first, I know Clare understands why I am wearing what I am and why my daughter has a wardrobe Suri Cruise would be proud to call her own!

“It all began when Laura started uni. I pulled out the sewing machine again and began making things for her to wear because she wanted something different that not everyone else had. And then her friends started noticing and wanted clothes made for them too.”

What happened next is the stuff dreams are made of.

Still unable to find work in Cairns, Clare turned to her sewing machine and began making garments to sell to Laura’s friends in a party plan concept in Brisbane. Just days before the party, Laura was spotted by a Brisbane boutique owner in one of her mother’s creations.

The rest, as they say, is history.

“They said they wanted to buy whatever we didn’t sell at the party. It happened that quickly.

“When I came home from Brisbane I asked Mark if he thought I should make a go of it and he said, ‘Why not?’ So I took the chance and registered the business.”

From that moment things escalated quickly, with the Cherry Tom label chosen to open the Mercedes Benz Fashion Parade in 2010, held at the Cairns Cruise Ship Terminal, and being picked-up by stores in six towns and cities, including the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Cairns and Port Douglas.

“I took my family to the fashion parade, which was only the second one I had ever been to in my life. It was a wonderful experience. My family, and particularly Phil, had only seen me as their mother. He was so proud. It was a great way of teaching him that you don’t have to

be educated or have a uni degree to achieve. It was like a light came on for him. From there he began to realise anything is possible.”

Clare says Cherry Tom has also influenced her three daughters, who are all interested in creative pursuits and are somewhat involved in the business in their own ways.

They assist their mother with the drawing of sketches and help to put her ideas down on paper. Clare happily admits her daughters are definitely the artists in the family.

This woman is clearly a talented, stylish and fashionforward lady but surprisingly is not wearing one of her own garments to this interview. She says it is because she prefers the thrill of seeing others dressed in her designs, although she has been known to knock together a frock for herself from a vintage pattern (like the one she made exclusively for this shoot).

“Because I have always made clothes for my kids and this started out as making clothes for Laura’s friends, I kind of see them as something for the younger ones.

Though ladies of my vintage,” she says with a wink, “have been known to love them and wear them.

“I remember the first time I saw someone wearing one of my dresses. It was mind blowing, but I got a bit embarrassed and a bit shy. I think I just said, ‘Nice dress’ when she walked by and she said, ‘Yeah, I love it’. When someone makes a comment on Facebook saying they really love it – that makes it all worthwhile.”

Fans of the Cherry Tom label will notice each style of garment comes with a name – a song title – another ‘Clare-ism’ thrown into her creative pursuit.

“I love music. Everything is named depending on what I am listening to when I sit down at the sewing machine.

I am a huge fan of music festivals. I’ve been going since I was 40. I would love to go to a Splendour – that would be my last hurrah!”

She admits being a festival fanatic is an unusual interest for someone who collects tea towels and spends hours scouring op shops.

Examples of the song (and garment) title styles in the Cherry Tom collection include ‘On The Road’, ‘And The Boys’, ‘Summer Sun’ and ‘I Look To You’.

With the rapid success of Cherry Tom, Clare has had little chance to think about the future, although knows for certain she will continue to make the old new again.

She says expansion is a possibility but she will cross that bridge when she comes to it. For now she is just thankful that two years ago she took a leap of faith and launched Cherry Tom into the glamorous world of fashion.

“Sometimes in life you just have to take chances when they land in your lap. Now I design and sew four days a week and the other day is spent doing all the other things that go with running a business.

“But the best part is that I am at home. I still really love it and am passionate about it. I love being able to wake up in the morning and know that I am going to spend the day doing something I am passionate about, and then when I am done I can walk back upstairs and cook my family dinner. I am really blessed.”

It seems Clare has found the elusive work-life balance we all so desperately yearn for. Definitely the cherry on top of life for this Cairns mum and fashion designer.

profilemag.com.au

cover story

Sometimes in life you just have to take chances when they land in your lap.�

Clare Azzopardi

march 2012

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profile loves crystal clear Ipanema Necklace, RRP $59.95. Antique gold-plated necklace with intricately etched beads and generous teardropshaped clear crystal beads. For stockists, head to www.charachara.com

classic chic Tresor Paris, Czech 9 crystal bracelet, RRP $199 each. For stockists head to www.tresor-paris.com.au

time to shine Classique Ceramic sports chronograph CZ watch, RRP $525. For stockists head to www.classiquewatches.com

divine

Luxury can be understated … or over the top! We are loving embellishments this month – think sparkle, shine and bling.

Bling it on!

chain mail Wayne by wayne cooper laetitia shoulder bag, rrp $119. Available from selected stockists and Myer cairns central, head to www.waynecooper.com.au

golden glow

divine dress

Burnished Golden Beauty Necklace, RRP $69.95.

Burnished gold-plated with a mesh-like structure which adds to the beauty of the piece. Fabulous clear crystal beads position themselves in between the necklace matrix adding glamour to the piece. For stockists, head to www.charachara.com

Rose Noir gown, RRP POA. Rose Noir gowns exclusive to Tea Lily, Grafton Street, Cairns. Phone 4041 4150

delicious-istic Annie named this bracelet ‘Delicious-istic’ as it will set off any delicious outfit or delicious-up a plain one. RRP $49 at Annie’s Cairns and Annie’s Palm Cove. phone 4059 2112. Available in Ivory, Black and Aqua

flower power shining light BJC gold detailed dress, RRP $209, Shine on Grafton, cairns. Phone 4041 0660

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Hibiscus style flower ring featuring white and yellow diamonds, RRP $5200. Available exclusively from Rowe Design Gold and Silversmith. Grafton Street, Cairns. Phone 0404 647 613

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beauty files

with Louisa Bradley

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march 2012

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art of science Crème L/X from ARTISTRY, RRP $415. The definitive solution to youthful appearance.

Forward-thinking science and exclusive CellEffect technology confront internal and external skin aging factors. For stockists head to www.artistry.com.au

nature’s luxury Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask, RRP $120. This luxurious cream mask combines the power of quartz with padina pavonica, adaptogenic noni, moringa and argan tree oil to instantly uplift and hydrate the skin. www.bellabox.com.au

fountain of youth Skin Virtue Pure Line Repair eye cream, RRP $68. A deep penetrating ultra rich eye renewal complex formulated to replenish eye contour area provides extra moisture needed to fight first signs of ageing. For stockists head to www.fountaincosmetics.com.au

everything that shimmers ...

Orofluido Beauty Elixir and Gold Shimmer Dust Gift Box, RRP $49.95. Set features a full sized bottle of Orofluido Beauty Elixir, plus a Gold Dust hair shimmer powder in a beautiful atomiser. www.bellabox.com.au or pulse hair, spence street, cairns 4051 4212

Rouge Pur Couture

We have found the best-of-the best beauty secrets for your vanity case … tried and tested, these beauty products should have their own red carpet.

It’s the A List of beauty!

Vernis à Lèvres YSL Glossy Stain, RRP $50. This new go-everywhere talisman is applied with an applicator with a totally surprising shape.

Incredibly simple yet really sophisticated. Phone 1300651991 for stockists

nature’s nectar La Mav Antioxident rich nightly repair nectar, RRP $69.95. La Mav is Australia’s first certified organic skin care range with scientifically proven bio-actives. For stockists head to www.lamav.com

age defying Thalgo Hyaluronic Cream, RRP $129, and Thalgo Hyaluronic FILLER RRP $69. New Anti-Ageing Skincare Programme using Hyaluronic specially designed for those aged 35 and over. Available at beauty spa club international shambhala. phone 4031 8800

pure decadence Botáni Olive Skin Serum, RRP $31.95 (15 ml). A must for all skin types Botáni’s Olive Skin Serum’s ‘intelligent ingredients’ deliver visible results, leaving the skin silky smooth, with a youthful glow.

Available across Queensland from Terry White Pharmacies, Priceline and independent health food stores and pharmacies www.botani.com.au

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elite of the elite

business promotion

Heart, soul, character and integrity play a huge role in whether you are chosen to start your career with the team at Elite Avenue.

P

aris Fashion Week, fashion TV, haute couture ... just some of the things that come to mind when describing the new fashion enterprise launched in 2011 in Cairns. That business is Elite Avenue, created by Louisa Bradley.

This month, we peek into the intricate world of Louisa Bradley and learn more about the inspiration behind high-end fashion enterprise Elite Avenue.

Elite Avenue was founded in July of last year.

Proprietor and premium hair stylist Louisa Bradley, just 23-years-young, was ambitious enough to take on Queensland’s world of fashion.

Talk about brave! Onlookers cannot help but be in awe of what Louisa and her team has accomplished so far.

Ultimately the inspiration behind Elite Avenue was Louisa’s lifelong dream of one day owning a shopfront on New York City’s fashion street ... Fifth Avenue.

Elite Avenue is an exciting enterprise encompassing all things fashion; hair-stylists, makeup artists, designers, photographers, model management and the performing arts.

The enterprise also provides editorial and commercial work that reflects the fashion industry as a whole. “I love the editorial side of the business most,” says Louisa. She notes Janelle Burns of Studio Hair Fashions in Moranbah as her inspiration. “Janelle was my boss and mentor during my apprenticeship; she helped me through life. She inspired me to make a difference in the world of hairdressing, and she was like a mother to me.

Janelle pushed me to succeed in my work, no matter how many late nights or one-on-one training sessions I needed (that I’m sure were sometimes tasking on her). She always believed in me.”

Why did Louisa launch Elite Avenue?

“In 2008, I was working as an apprentice hairstylist. I entered L’oreal’s Catwalk and Street Stylist competition. I was to produce an image and hairstyle on a model and send it away in the hope of getting picked.

“I was selected out of thousands of applicants to be sent to Gianni Portside in Brisbane for entry into my first well-known fashion show. I learnt about everything; hair, makeup, dressing models ... I realised I had to be able to combine all the things I loved doing into one role. This is why I launched Elite Avenue.”

Louisa’s business accepts both men and women into her enterprise.

“Heart, soul, character and integrity play a huge role in whether you are chosen to start your career with the team at Elite Avenue.”

march 2012

All members are put through a lengthy interview process to see if they can meet the demands. They then undertake a probationary period before starting on their trade certificates, which cover aspects of training such as etiquette, grooming, catwalk and photoshoots. A long list of competencies must be achieved to be signed off as an ‘Elite’ model.

“I have always been career-driven, with a strong work ethic. I guess I have a demanding personality and won’t settle for anything less than the best.

My father plays a huge role in guiding me through life; we have very similar traits when it comes to work situations. Although, I don’t see Elite Avenue as just a job, more as a career and passion!”

Widely praised for her eye for fashion trends, Louisa’s thought process definitely goes above and beyond when it comes to her creative streak. She is a strong business woman who knows what she wants and will not compromise.

“Our clients look to us for high calibre models, so we must always showcase our best talent; along with consistently ensuring that we provide professional assistance. Our team knows our degree of worth and quality. They ensure Elite Avenue stays well-respected within the industry,” says Louisa.

Behind the scenes of Elite Avenue in Cairns is Brianah Blackmore, Louisa’s first assistant and Cairns ambassador.

Brianah is a premium hair stylist and model. Her skills and level of commitment is second-to-none when it comes to training the team. “In the end it comes down to your vision of where you are heading in your life. You can’t be constantly comparing yourself to the competition or worrying about what other people are doing. You have to maintain an original and captivating image. You have to be ambitious enough to take risks in this industry.”

What’s next for Elite Avenue?

“We are flat out! Every day we are so busy. We love it all, from photoshoots to training sessions, to interviews ... it never stops. The Cairns division is becoming very well-established now. We have recently launched our second division in Mackay as there’s so much talent in Queensland! We are hosting ‘Mackay’s Search for an Elite Supermodel’ which will kick-off in late April.”

“As for the Cairns division, Bri and the team have been holding events and fundraisers that will get them to the Miss Fashion Australia Awards this year,” Louisa proudly explains.

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life

faulty foundations with Tyson Franklin Most patients will see a podiatrist when experiencing ongoing foot and lower limb problems. Basically, if it is below the waist, they think podiatry. However, many patients will comment that after being fitted with orthotics for ongoing foot problems their back also feels better. This is no coincidence. Sometimes, thinking outside the square in terms of what may be wrong with your body and what the solution may be can be beneficial.

Patients tend to keep back pain information to themselves when they visit a foot specialist, as they do not think it has any relevance to their foot problem. Well, it can. Basically, your foot position while standing, walking or sitting will determine how your body weight transfers through the rest of your body – including your spine. Your feet are very similar to the foundations of a building. Faulty foundations lead to long-term building problems.

Does this mean if you have back pain you should not see a physiotherapist or osteopath? Not at all, as I am a regular patient at these clinics when the need arises. If you’ve hurt your back doing some form of activity or exercise, your first thought should be to see a physiotherapist or osteopath – it just makes sense and this is exactly what I would do myself. However, if, after regular treatment, you’re still having ongoing symptoms from the initial injury, your foot may be a contributing factor and should be taken into consideration and assessed professionally.

The point I am trying to make here is that sometimes specialists think in their own sphere of knowledge. It might take a few healthy suggestions from you to get the wheels turning.

The body is connected, and sometimes our ailments are caused by the strangest things. As a human being, you do yourself the best service

by investigating treatments as widely as you can if you have ongoing problems.

Highly professional physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors who are well-trained will usually identify that your feet may be part of your ongoing back problem and will refer you to a podiatrist for further assessment. Beware! If a physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor tells you your feet need to be supported, then tries to sell you an off-theshelf arch support instead of referring you to see a podiatrist, you should probably see someone else for future treatment. Get informed, be kind to yourself, and think laterally about your health issues. You will feel the benefits.

Proarch Podiatry 1300 776 272 www.proarch.com.au

haven’t had your mammogram? with Robin Gordon Many years of research have demonstrated the benefits of mammography, yet many women have yet to have their first mammogram. Why? Everyone has their own reasons, some of which may include: discomfort with the procedure, concerns about cost, embarrassment, lack of available mammography centres, concerns about radiation and a general sense of fear.

symptoms. A diagnostic mammogram is for women who have breast symptoms, such as pain or a lump. Some types of mammograms are free, while others carry a charge. Medicare also has certain criteria that may affect any cost.

Embarrassment

There is a common perception that having a mammogram is painful. Although some women do experience discomfort, most report no discomfort or pain. Having a mammogram includes the compression (flattening) of your breast to obtain an x-ray, and this compression that can cause the discomfort. Compression is very important in obtaining a clear image and lasts for less than 15 seconds.

Some women are embarrassed to have a mammogram as they don’t like anyone other than themselves or their partner to see and touch their breasts. This, in conjunction with any misconceived perceptions about the examination, makes it even more difficult to manage. To help, make sure the facility you go to has highly-trained female technicians who will be doing the mammogram, as they will be sensitive to your needs and make the experience a bit easier to manage. The examination is done in privacy.

Concerns about cost

Lack of available mammography centres

The cost of a mammogram depends on the type of mammogram you’re having: screening or diagnostic. A screening mammogram is for women who have no breast complaints or

Cairns is very lucky. The government screening program is available for ‘well’ women, as is Cairns Women’s Imaging.

Discomfort with the procedure

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Concerns about radiation Mammograms require very small doses of radiation. The benefits, however, nearly always outweigh the risk. Also, newer digital mammogram machines have been found to deliver significantly lower radiation doses than conventional machines.

Fear Almost everyone coming for a mammogram has an underlying fear of being diagnosed with breast cancer. There is a false belief that not knowing means not having. To overcome this, you may want to consider that no amount of fear, pain, embarrassment and emotional anguish from having a mammogram comes close to that of being diagnosed with an advanced cancer.

Ultimately, everyone must make their own decision about having a mammogram. Hopefully, your choice is the right one!

Cairns Woman’s Imaging 4042 6888 admin@cairnswomensimaging.com.au

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We Are Taking Appointments Now...

Ph: 4044 0444 option 2

Let us help you keep your Smile Beautiful 318 Mulgrave Road E: thedentists@thedoctors.com.au

march 2012

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life

the emotional face of infertility with Maggie Balatti •• Acknowledging the emotional challenge of infertility and recognising that it is normal to feel such a smorgasbord of negative emotions. It is important not to perceive oneself as weak or petty when feeling these emotions. Facing and accepting such trauma is the first step in helping you move beyond it.

Once a couple has decided to get pregnant and they’ve been unsuccessful for several months, trying to conceive can become frustrating, disheartening and burdensome. A diagnosis of infertility can only exacerbate this situation.

For many couples, this is a confronting and challenging experience. Infertility can bring on feelings of anger, stress, anxiety, shame, guilt, loneliness, grief and despair. For some people, trying to conceive can dominate their lives whereby their relationship, family, friends, interests and work inadvertently become of secondary importance.

•• Blaming yourself or your partner is destructive.

When we cannot find an explanation for something or we are unable to exert control over it, it is easy to attribute blame. ‘I shouldn’t have waited; I should have put having a baby before that promotion; I thought I would be fertile for ages,’ are common thoughts.

Continually berating yourself with thoughts of what you could or should have done is counterproductive and will only halt any productive coping.

Unfortunately, our society often fails to recognise the grief caused by infertility, so those denied parenthood tend to hide their sorrow which only amplifies their feelings of loneliness and sadness. Although a diagnosis of infertility and its eventual outcome is beyond a person’s control, it is important to have a ‘tool box’ of coping strategies. These may include the following:

•• Working as a team with your partner is critical.

Trying to conceive a baby is like a project – you’re in this together. Infertility does not

belong to one person only! Communicating honestly and openly with each other is most important in being able to find practical ways to share the difficulties.

•• Educating yourself is most important in becoming familiar with the world of infertility treatments and therefore allowing you to make informed decisions. Knowledge can be empowering, which in turn allows us to get a sense of control.

•• Nurturing yourself and your relationship is critical while navigating the pathway of fertility treatments. The pathway can be extremely emotionally, physically and financially draining, and unless our batteries are recharged we simply don’t cope. It is paramount to engage in those activities that are pleasurable and relaxing.

Queensland Fertility Group, Cairns 4041 2400 cairnsivf@qfg.com.au

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Hear Life. Live Life. Love Life

INVISIBLE HEARING INSTRUMENTS AS SEEN ON TV

Call 4041 7860 125 GRAFTON ST CAIRNS www.audiohealth.com.au CAIRNS 32

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the latest in hearing news with Kerry Magee Lyric, the latest in hearing devices known as the ‘contact lens for the ear’, is a multiple award winner and was recently showcased on the Today Show, national and Sky news. It is now available in the Cairns clinic. Having just completed the certified training in Sydney for this device, I am very excited at the prospects of fitting clients for Lyric. This product is the latest in hearing technology, 100 per cent invisible and a long-wear hearing instrument, 24 hours, seven days, for up to four months.

The device breaks down the most common barriers of those who decide against using hearing aids. Most people don’t want visible, clunky, inconvenient devices. One of the main benefits for this device has been identified as

march 2012

convenience. Wear it while playing sports, working, showering, sleeping, listening to music wearing headphones and even swimming.

Good, problem-free hearing is now possible in any situation.

Another benefit is ease of use. With no battery insertion required, natural sound quality and updated technology is available with each change of device.

Lyric is positioned comfortably deep in the ear canal so the natural resonance of the ear canal is maintained, and other abilities, such as localisation of sound, are fully functional. As the device remains continually in the ear, people feel more empowered, as they can enjoy effortless

listening without being reminded of their hearing impairment.

Lyric takes advantage of a new concept in hearing device purchase. It is paid for by subscription.

The subscription can be paid in full per year, or paid in monthly instalments over a period of up to three years.

People using Lyric technology have stated that they completely forget they had a hearing device and were able to enjoy hearing as naturally as possible.

Audio Health 4041 7860 www.audiohealth.com.au

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travelfile

ll words alli grant There’s nothing quite like an old Queenslander, with its high ceilings and sprawling verandas. Heavenly. Alli Grant and the Profile Magazine team recently discovered the newest accommodation option on the sunshine coast’s hinterland block, Montville Lake Terrace, the quintessential Queenslander with a twist. Alli, Genine and Hamish decided it was the perfect place to combine a little work and play.

dining room

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travelfile

The yesteryear feel has been perfectly balanced with contemporary fittings and modern touches. Give me a claw foot tub or a wrought-iron bed any day!’

I

spent most of my formative years living in the most stunning Queenslander home. Polished floors, sash windows, 14-foot ceilings, stained glass, sweeping verandas, attic, French doors ... I loved it all. While these days I live in a relatively new home, sans those delicious French doors, I love going home to Mum and Dad’s. I instantly feel transported back to a time of innocence: my childhood. And if I had a dollar for every time I snuck out of those French doors in the middle of the night ... Just kidding, Mum! I recently had another little déjà vu moment, courtesy of a weekend away at Montville Lake Terrace on the Sunshine Coast – a gorgeous Queenslander set on nine acres of green rolling hills with to-die-for views. For our little organisation, it was the perfect place to combine a bit of business with a bit more pleasure.

You see, Genine, Hamish and I were in need of a little business planning.

And if there’s one thing we are good at, it’s business planning in exotic locations on work-play escapes ... with our partners in tow. And that’s the wonderful thing about Lake Terrace. No matter what your special occasion – family holiday, romantic getaway, escape with friends, work retreat or even a small wedding (glorious venue for photography), Lake Terrace is the perfect spot.

The views are spectacular – out over Lake Baroon and the Blackall Range – and instantly relaxing. But it was the actual homestead I fell in love with on our visit. For me, it felt just like home.

You wouldn’t know it to look at it, as Queenslanders are pretty common in these parts, but this particular home isn’t originally from the Hinterland.

No siree; it’s an old schoolhouse that was once a part of St Aiden’s school in Corinda (Brisbane), used for performing arts and dance. The building itself is from the early 1900s, so it has all the bells and whistles of a typical Queenslander – VJ walls, polished floors, big verandas ... but with a modern twist.

But it begs the question, how did it get here? And why? Neil and Heidi Holmes brought the house to Montville to fulfil their dream of renovating and running a holiday home in the Hinterland. That was two years ago. After a lot of blood, sweat and tears, the old schoolhouse is finished and open for business. And she’s a beauty! The yesteryear feel has been perfectly balanced with contemporary fittings and modern touches. Give me a claw foot tub or a wrought-iron bed any day! It is a premium quality property – no expense has been spared on its restoration, and Neil and Heidi should be proud of what they have achieved.

While we three plotted, planned and strategised on the veranda overlooking the dam, our significant others went about planning for our evening of team bonding. The kitchen is fitted with all the mod-cons, plus there’s a barbeque, so I was the first to put my hand up to be in charge of catering. But then again, I always do! We decided on a good old barbeque, with gourmet trimmings, and off they went, bound for the nearest Woolies. Maleny is only a short drive away.

But the biggest decision was yet to be made. Who would sleep where? There are definitely options, as the home accommodates 10. Admittedly, when our little convoy arrived, we all ran from room to room like excited kiddies eager to snag the top bunk on school camp. Quickly we realised they were all fabulous rooms, so we let fate decide – by drawing names out of a hat. All so very sophisticated and mature, but at least we avoided any fights.

Upstairs the home boasts a study, lounge room, dining room, balcony, laundry, two bedrooms (one has an ensuite) and a second bathroom. A wander downstairs reveals a second and third bedroom (both are massive and one has an ensuite) and another bathroom. Oh, I may have forgotten the media room – the boys snuck off for a while and no surprise where we found them!

Off to cook the barbie with you, boys! That’s downstairs on one of the home’s

many, many decks and verandas.

My husband and I scored one of the downstairs bedrooms, also known as the family room. Ironic really, as we had left our little one with Nonna for the night, so for a change we weren’t really in need of that extra bed. Certainly an excellent option for our next visit, though.

The homestead features ducted air-con, Wi-Fi (perfect for our working holiday), broadband in each of the bedrooms, Austar (although we didn’t even turn the TV on) and an espresso machine in the kitchen. This is a must for my husband, who lives for caffeine. Although it did take the menfolk a few minutes to work out how to use the thing (there’s a joke in there about how many men it takes to turn on an espresso machine, but I’ll leave that for another day).

No expense has been spared on the finishings. The artwork is thoughtful, the towels fluffy, the sheets clearly high on thread count, and the little touches are carefully thought out. Heidi, an interior designer by trade, had some serious fun decking this place out.

At the risk of stealing a line straight out of movie The Castle, I have to say; “Ah, the serenity”. It really is as peaceful as it gets out there.

As we only had one night away from reality, we made the most of it, finished up work quickly and grabbed an icy cold drink, before I started on dinner.

As someone who likes to dabble in the kitchen, it was a pleasure to do so at Lake Terrace. The kitchen is spacious, with an island bench that features a Belfast-style sink and a six-burner gas cooker. Heaven!

The six of us sat and watched the sun go down while the steaks sizzled and we contemplated world domination, as only we can. And after dinner? Board games, a few more drinks, a bit of daggy dancing, a bit more team bonding and off to bed, for we all had early starts in the morning.

Back to being a grown-up ... with a thud.

Bathroo

m

master be

droom

Montville Lake Terrace 226 Western Avenue, Montville 5478 5298 www.laketerrace.com.au reception@laketerrace.com.au

Supporting Queensland Tourism: Profile Magazine, a privately-owned Queensland business, is doing its part to promote Queensland tourism destinations.

march 2012

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Hydro Powered

Original 1930s system

Japoonvale Rd, Mena Creek 45 minutes from Mission Beach, via Silkwood.

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(07) 4065 0000 www.paronellapark.com.au info@paronellapark.com.au

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mission beach feature

words alli grant ll photography courtesy of ttnq

L

ast February, Cyclone Yasi unleashed hell on the peaceful little village of Mission Beach. Homes were torn apart and thrown about like rag dolls, businesses were destroyed and hearts were broken.

Fast-forward to today. More than 12 months on, Mission Beach has most definitely recovered.

It hasn’t been an easy task, but locals are positive about the future for this pretty piece of the Tropical North.

I first visited Mission Beach not long after Cyclone Larry. In fact, I was attending the launch of a new tourism product at a beachfront resort.

Back then, I was shocked to see the trees shredded and the once picturesque village so badly knocked about. And by all accounts, Larry was child’s play compared the fury of Cyclone Yasi.

The fabulous news is that Mission Beach is well and truly back in business and locals are stronger from the experience. Community spirits are high, with almost $600 million in reconstruction activity happening in North and Far North Queensland.

Visitors will attest to the fact that the beaches are still spectacular, the restaurants, resorts and hotels are full of life and there’s still a bevy of entertainment options and activities on offer.

But Mission Beach can’t completely recover without the support of the greater Tropical North community, so why not consider heading south for your next romantic escape or family adventure? Just two hours from Cairns and the natural midway point between Cairns and Townsville, Mission Beach certainly has a lot to offer visitors.

What’s the major appeal of Mission Beach? Well, it is one of only a few spots in Australia where two world heritage listed areas – the Wet Tropics rain forest and the Great Barrier Reef – meet.

If it’s adventure you’re after, the Great Barrier Reef is just 38 kilometres from Mission Beach. march 2012

It boasts some of the world’s greatest snorkeling and scuba diving. Offshore from Mission Beach are the beautiful Dunk and Bedarra Islands, and just south is the largest national park island in the world, Hinchinbrook Island.

You name it, you can do it in or around Mission Beach, from skydiving to white-water rafting, sea kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, trekking and fishing.

But if you’re looking for a more laidback pace, Mission Beach can provide all you need for a bit of rest and relaxation. From day spas to relaxing resorts with five-start dining experiences, it’s all there. Bliss!

You’re certainly not short of choice on the accommodation front, with everything from backpackers to hotels and five-star resorts on offer.

Check out the recently refurbished and somewhat iconic Castaways Resort & Spa Mission Beach, boasting the most divine waterfront location and all the trimmings. Or try Mackays Mission Beach Motel, just 50 metres from the sand and a more budget-friendly option with a boutique hotel feel.

A trip to nearby Paronella Park is a must. On five hectares beside Mena Creek Falls, José Paronella built his castle, picnic area by the falls, tennis courts, bridges, a tunnel, and wrapped it up in an amazing range of 7,500 tropical plants and trees.

He even harnessed the waterfall for his electricity.

Today, visitors can take a 45 minute guided walk that explains this extraordinary story and takes you through the highlights, as well as the stunning Darkness Falls Tour, where the castles and waterfall are flood-lit to provide amazing photo opportunities.

If the arts is your thing, pay a visit to the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre (www. missionarts.net) – a government funded centre run by a dedicated team of volunteers who provide

mission beach

a wide range of courses, workshops, facilities and services to locals.

While in town, check out the new public artwork on the beachfront inspired by the aftermath of Cyclone Yasi. Titled ‘Eight Black Feathers – the First Flashes of Recovery’, this public piece is inspired by artist­and sculptor Braham Stevens’ encounter with a flock of red-tailed black cockatoos while cleaning up post-Cyclone Yasi on the Mission Beach foreshore. This installation has certainly received a fair bit of attention – positive and negative.

If you’re looking for a more laidback pace, Mission Beach can provide all you need for a bit of rest and relaxation.’

Make sure you stop by the Mission Beach markets, which sell fresh local produce, plants, arts and crafts, clothing, hats and delicious fresh food, opposite the Hideaway Caravan Park on the first and third Sunday of each month. Head to www. missionbeachtourism.com for all the up-to-date event action and information on all your holiday needs. You can even check in on the progress being made post-Yasi.

As we all know, what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. Having lived through Cyclone Yasi, Mission Beach locals are certainly flexing their collective muscle as they move onwards and upwards. They just need one more thing – our support.

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business promotion

If you wish to indulge yourself in a week or a weekend away with a little bit of outdoor activity or little bit of wining and dining, or just relaxing with your loved one, family and friends, then consider visiting Mission Beach.

M

ission Beach Holidays are the ‘Holiday Specialists’ of Mission Beach. The choice of private locations from very romantic to very luxurious or if a family or group are wishing to meet up then contact Mission Beach Holidays.

Just imagine staying with your family in a fun holiday house on the beachfront or a spacious luxury apartment. There are properties to suit every budget and every wish list.

Mission Beach has pristine beaches with views to the Family Group of Islands. Just walking along the almost endless beach can take up half a day at a beachcomber walking speed.

There are so many facets for people to enjoy.

Almost unknown are the rainforest walks.

Mission Beach backs onto World Heritage Rainforest, just as good in all respects as the Daintree Forest. While it is damaged from recent events, its regrowth is phenomenal and it’s looking pretty good. Lush and green.

You may like to jump on a boat and walk on the island beaches – stroll along the rainforest walking tracks of Dunk Island – take a picnic to one of the other islands in the Family Group.

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If wining and dining appeals, Mission Beach has a fine group of exciting venues to enjoy a memorable time. Ask a local – everyone has a different favourite. Eating out at some of Mission Beach’s restaurants can be a lot of fun as later in the evening the venues can turn into a party-like atmosphere.

For those who just wish to relax and unwind – Mission Beach is also the perfect choice. Why not arrange a relaxing massage with Mission Beach Holidays’ in-house Massuere. Bring your favourite book or movie and just chill-out at your amazing accommodation place.

Don’t wait any longer. Come and stay at Mission Beach this summer. Mission Beach Holidays offer great Summer Special Deals to March 31. If you are still looking to getaway over Easter there is still a selection of properties available. BE QUICK THOUGH! Contact Vicki or Nancy at Mission Beach Holidays who will happily assist with your getaway to Mission Beach. www.missionbeachholidays.com.au Phone: 4088 6699

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on the table

IoN W rdie’s yn & C

R 52 n page b o ok o with Ryn & Cordie Ryn & Cordie – In Search Of The Perfect Partner (The Food & Wine Matching Formula) www.rynandcordie.com.au

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he world of Ryn & Cordie is all about demystifying the art of food and wine matching. We knew that matching the right wines to our recipes would require a great deal of research. There’s nothing worse than a match that makes our wines sour or bitter or our food bland, and nothing better than the perfect harmony of a match that brings out the beauty in both food and wine flavours. We were up for discovering this magic!

Especially if it included travelling to the south of France and cycling across paddocks of lavender ... turns out it didn’t. So instead, we did what we do best; we sipped samples, took notes, researched, conjured ideas and talked to the people around us. And our book was born.

Now matching food and wine is no longer only the domain of those in the know. Nor is it left on the shelf for the occasional posh dinner party. So join us, embrace it and welcome it to your everyday life.

This delicious recipe and wine match comes from our award-winning, everyday food and wine matching cookbook In Search of the Perfect Partner (The Food & Wine Matching Formula). Enjoy it! Oh, and you can find us on Facebook and Twitter or catch up with new recipes and wine matches at www.rynandcordie.com. au.

Ryn and Cordie

Marinated squid salad

Wine Match!

This Asia-style seafood dish just screams for riesling. Our choice and the one pictured is a delicious and refined drop from De Bortoli’s Yarra Valley Reserve Release range. Match, serve and enjoy!

marinated squid salad (serves 4) ingredients •• 100ml sweet chilli sauce •• 2 tablespoons fish sauce

method

•• Juice of 1 lime

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.

•• 1 bunch coriander (½ chopped, ½ leaves picked)

2. In a large bowl, combine chilli sauce, fish sauce, lime juice and chopped coriander.

•• 500g squid tubes, cut into rings •• 1 red capsicum, sliced

3. To cook the squid, place into the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes. Drain immediately, then pour the squid into the chilli dressing. Allow the squid to cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

•• 300g snow peas

to serve

•• 200g snow pea tendrils (use rocket if unavailable)

•• ½ bunch mint leaves •• 100g roasted peanuts •• ¼ cup golden shallots, cut thinly on an angle

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On a large platter, scatter the snow pea tendrils, then the capsicum and snow peas.

Add the squid and top with the picked coriander and mint leaves, roasted peanuts and golden shallots. Drizzle with some of the leftover dressing.

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• • • • • • •

march 2012

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abode

the instant garden with Marcus Achatz I’m blaming all those reality TV shows for promoting the idea that a bare yard can be transformed into a complete garden in 24 hours.

I don’t think what’s being created is really a garden, but more a decorated yard. Some paving has been laid, a new barbeque has been rolled in and a truck-load of large plants have been dropped into holes. It’s not really gardening, is it? Just like having a pizza delivered isn’t really cooking.

In this fast-paced society, we want everything to be instant. Why sow a seed or strike a cutting when you can buy a semi-mature plant in a pot for that instant result? Even Yuruga Nursery, which has had the 140mm pot as their standard for many years, is now producing larger plants to cater for the desire for even more instant results.

I realise it’s just the way the world is going and

there really isn’t any point in fighting it. However, there is something I’d like you to think about.

Many plants grow slowly, and subsequently it takes a long time for a nursery to grow them to a large instant garden size. And the longer they take to grow, the more expensive they need to be to cover the cost of nurturing them.

As predictable human beings, people will generally opt for the biggest and cheapest plants available. After all, that way they save time and money. And the increased demand for bigger and cheaper drives nurseries to produce more of the same. Gradually, a strong trend develops in favour of a very small selection of plants.

Example? How about the golden cane palm?

If you plant an instant garden, it’s likely that you’ll end up with one that looks identical to every other instant garden on your street. Which I guess is

okay, if that’s the look you’re aiming for.

So what’s the alternative? May I suggest that the use of advanced instant garden plants be reserved for where they are truly needed, be that to create an instant feature, create instant shade, or instantly block the view of the neighbour.

After that’s taken care of, take the time to enjoy gardening. Search for plants that appeal to you on a deeper level and then enjoy watching them grow, because gardening is about and that’s what makes it enjoyable. And if that’s not enough to convince you, then consider this: as a general rule, slower plants live longer and age more gracefully.

See you at Yuruga.

Yuruga Nursery 4093 3826 www.yuruga.com.au

spend christmas in your new home with Roslyn Smith If you have been thinking about building a new home, whether it be your first home, an upsized family home or an investment property, there is still time to build it for Christmas. We’re coming towards the end of the wet season, so this is the time to do the planning, get your building contract in place and organise for your builder to start construction as soon as possible.

Start up requirements such as drawings, engineering certifications, colour selections, council and other authority approvals can take up to 12 weeks for regular projects and longer for larger ones. Many people don’t realise this all has to happen before you can even think about starting construction.

There has been a rise in building applications recently which has been good news for the

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building industry. This is partly to do with the Queensland government’s $10,000 building boost and stability in the marketplace. Uptake of the boost has not met the government’s predictions, so they have extended cut-off until the end of April 2012.

With more activity in the industry, we will soon start to see price rises. Remember that when the industry gets busy, suppliers prices increase.

Many suppliers, have been absorbing price increases due to the slower market and they can’t continue to absorb them for too much longer.

good discounts. Some banks have also relaxed their strict requirements for mortgage borrowing.

All this makes now the most affordable time to build a new home.

Sit down and come up with a detailed plan, work with a reputable builder and take advantage of all of this great opportunity while it lasts!

Affinity Designer Homes 4051 8866 www.affinitydh.com.au (Roslyn is a building designer and licensed builder QBSA 533314)

We’ve seen some very cheap house and land prices around as some developers have been liquidating their stock. Builders have been doing their best to generate activity by offering very

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business promotion

joybellsonline words jaclyn paul ll photography ben connolly, velocity images

Joybells has it all and then some, stocking the widest range of boutique art greeting cards, gorgeous collectible teddy bears, divine scented candles and soaps and gifts to suit any occasion – all online.

Walking into the Joybells in Caloundra is like leaving the real world for a fantasy land of trinkets, cards, gifts and treasures. Since opening in 2009, this family-owned and run business has made its mark on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, attracting attention from locals and visitors around the country. With increasing demand, a crowded store and a constant influx of emails from customers abroad, it was on the cards for Joybells to expand their business online to cater for customers everywhere.

Manager Haley Whitfield, her mum Jennifer and sister Katherine have witnessed firsthand the rapid growth of their unique store. They are in the midst of setting up the online shop to satisfy the needs of the many buyers outside of Caloundra’s reach. “We receive calls not only from people visiting the store on holidays, but even from Sunshine Coast locals who would ask for items to be posted to them,” explains Haley. “There were even calls coming from overseas inquiring about products people had seen or heard about.”

Haley

If you enter the bubbly, colourful shop located on Bulcock Street, it is sure to brighten your day. The staff are always friendly and helpful. It is this welcoming and joyful experience that the staff have integrated into the online store. “What makes Joybells such a hit is the fun, vibrant work environment where we strive to offer the most valuable and personal service,” Haley explains.

“We want customers to have the same shopping experience online as they do in the store, so the site will be updated with our favourite picks and all of the little quirks that make Joybells so unique.”

With the business expanding rapidly through cyberspace, great things are expected for Joybells. What started off as a small, tucked-away family business has now blossomed into an extensive card and gift world, gaining increasing demand and exposure around the country – something that the Whitfield girls hadn’t even planned. “We’ve come such a long way since opening two years ago,” admits Haley. “None of us expected Joybells to become this big of a hit.

It has endless potential.”

and m

akaya

Whitf

ield

“Our customers will be able to shop with us from the comfort of their own homes and it signals the beginning of a new chapter for us.” A new chapter indeed – Haley’s five-year-old daughter Makaya Joy is the third generation in the Whitfield family to help out in the store. “She’s adorable,” says Haley. “She loves to tie these perfect ribbons on every product bag before they leave the shop.

It’s a little personal touch that speaks true to the theme of the Joybells Card and Gift Store.”

07 54912266 |

joybellscardsandgifts

www.joybells.com.au

After long hours of research and preparation, Haley has designed the website to be convenient and easy to use, while offering a wide range of their products at reasonable prices. “We are really excited about adding a new dimension to our family business,” she continues. march 2012

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Logo Clearspace

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Master Builders

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Master Builders

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Master Builders

The Master Builders logo must be reproduced clear of any other graphics or type to a minimum distance of one ‘y’ unit surrounding the logo.

The clear space of one ‘y’ unit equals the measurement from the top of the Symbol to the top of the Logotype.

In regards to the reversed version (see Section 2.3), the clear space is filled with only the background colour.

If an Identifier is used, the clear space must extend to include it.

Any departure from the examples shown within this standards manual must be approved by Master Builders.

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Master Builders Brand Identity Standards Manual

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abode

great slate These 400mm x 900mm slate-look slab tiles (POA) are available from Marlin Tiles.

1 Water St, Cairns. Phone 4031 4300

keep it natural My favourite is the Amazonia wood tile, 300mm x 300mm, made from real timber. RRP $55 each.

Available from Beaumont Tiles. 15 Mc­Cormack Street, Manunda. Phone 4033 5566

Tiles are no longer flat, single-coloured and boring. These days, it’s all about texture and tone. Choose tiles with style! polished perfection Bella white polished granite tile, 400mm x 400mm. (priced from $32.00 sqm) available from tile factory outlet, www.tfo.com.au

heavy metal Metallic wall tile, 600mm x 900mm (POA). Available from Majer Tiles. 65 Mulgrave Road, Cairns. Phone 4041 1566

with Richie Stevens Inside Out Stylists www.insideoutstylists.com.au

pressed tin is in The latest design fad is pressed tin panels.

This is a 600mm x 600mm Balmain panel. Price varies by design, starting at $25 each. Available from www.presssedtinpanels.com.au

march 2012

mosaic masterpiece Glass mosaics are on trend and these are available in a multitude of colours (priced from $40 sqm) from Marlin Tiles. 1 Water St, Cairns. Phone 4031 4300

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business

for love or money with Kirsten Le Roux Do you live to work, or work to live? Are you a high achiever who thrives in a demanding career, or do you generally view work as a grind, a means to an end? If you don’t bound out of bed each day and rush to your job, which you’d happily do for free, you might be selling yourself short.

If you’ve got your pay slip pinned to your fridge, regularly look up salary surveys and find yourself calculating the days left until your next pay rise, you need to know there is more out there for you.

As a globe-trotter, I’ve been self-unemployed many times. I used to consider a job offer principally in terms of the salary package attached. Two experiences changed my views.

When I first moved to Melbourne from London, I met a lovely gentleman who often travelled overseas and needed his life and business organised. He offered me a role as his personal assistant. I wasn’t particularly inspired by his

proposal, until he offered me a ridiculously high salary package.

I lasted three months, and they were the longest three months of my life. I ate my lunch most days by 9:30am, and became paranoid that the other staff noticed I wasn’t contributing. I felt guilty that I was being paid handsomely to twiddle my thumbs.

My second job in Melbourne was in advertising and I acquired it by offering myself to the company as a work experience volunteer. Eventually, they offered me a lowly paid position, which I was able to work up from. Regardless of the salary, I absolutely loved working there and the time flew. I was engaged, challenged, impassioned, and felt that I was adding value to company and the clients.

I know with certainty which situation I would

rather be in now, regardless of bills, debt, market rate or lifestyle involved. Eight hours a day, five days a week is an extraordinarily long time when you are well-paid but uninspired.

There is an age-old idiom that tells us that if you do something you love, you won’t work a day in your life. To find a person who embodies this principle is rare, but when I do, a rich and healthy glow seems to surround and envelope them.

It’s important to know what you want and how to get it. This will allow you to develop realistic expectations about yourself, and to choose career paths and employers accordingly.

CBC Staff Selection 4051 9699 Kirsten@cbcstaff.com.au (Kirsten Le Roux is a senior recruitment consultant with CBC Staff Selection)

Want an Australian Visa?

At Visa Connection we provide expert and personalised immigration advice to individuals and corporations worldwide.

We have a vast knowledge of: • Australian Migration Law • General Migration Advice • Family sponsored visas • Spouse and Defacto visas • General Skilled Migration • Australian Citizenship and • Work sponsored visas (457 and RSMS/ENS)

Call us today on: (07) 4051 9043 to arrange your FREE half hour consultation Registered Migration Agents Fiona Ryan, Registered Migration Agent No. 0640004

e: info@visaconnect.com.au www.visaconnect.com.au 46

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business

family loans: handle with care with Naomi de Costa As a solicitor, I know just how many adult kids are out there, still getting a lot of financial help from their parents. This makes me feel better, that I am not alone in this category (thanks Dad!).

However, while the provision of such assistance seems to be increasing, both in the amount being loaned and the complexity of the transactions involved, it seems the delicate problem of paperwork is being ignored. I don’t think this is only due to people generally trying to avoid legal fees. It’s because things can get a bit awkward when you discuss the fine print with the in-laws, or even your own parents.

A recent case highlights the need to get these matters sorted properly from the start. Mr and Mrs Jones have a son, Peter. Peter and his wife purchased a property, but their bank wouldn’t

give them finance. Mr and Mrs Jones agreed to lend them $400,000 for the house. Why not?

Their son and their new daughter are madly in love, stable, sensible and mature. They thought about an agreement, and one was drafted, but the difficult questions raised in drawing up the loan agreement meant it got put in the ‘too hard’ basket.

More importantly, if more than six years had passed since the money had been advanced, it may cease to be a loan at all. It’s not well-known, but whenever a loan is deemed payable ‘on demand’ or there is no agreement about when it is repayable, the time period that you can try to recover it will usually expire six years after the money was advanced.

Five years later, Peter and his wife have split up.

No one saw it coming. When the topic of the money comes up, Peter says the money is a loan, and his ex-wife says it was a gift from Mr and Mrs Jones. Because there is no paperwork, it’s his word against hers. This makes a huge difference in the family law property settlement, and could be the difference between Mr and Mrs Jones getting their money back, or some or all of it going to Peter’s ex.

So the bottom line is this; if you are giving money to your (totally deserving, loyal, loving) children, think carefully about how things might change down the track, and get some advice about putting the proper paperwork in place.

Williams Graham Carman 4046 1111 www.wgc.com.au

Become a Selflet member today ential ed Residtion g a n a Self-M rty Informa Prope

Do you own an investment property in Queensland?

Selflet is dedicated to people who choose to self-manage their investment property and is run by experienced real estate professionals who can advise you about the legalities involved in managing your own property.

Find out more at www.selflet.com.au Selflet: you’ll swear by us, not at us! march 2012

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business

play hard, plan hard with David Stone (on behalf of John Milkota) Watching sport today, it’s easy to imagine what it might have been like watching real gladiators fight it out in ancient Rome. Today, as then, true athletes are powerful and fit; ready to risk everything for their teammates and country.

The kinetic energy of two colliding 115kg rugby props, Novak Djokovic’s chronic exhaustion after his Australian Open win, Greg Inglis doing anything – these and many more situations are wrought with injury potential.

Modern day gladiator Wayne ‘Buck’ Shelford made his All Blacks debut against France in 1985. It was in his second test that he endured what is frequently featured in those ‘10 worst ever sports injuries’ lists over 25 years later.

But the rugby props have sizable contracts and their own team of doctors and physios. Novak and Inglis probably have enough money to tide them over should injury put them out of the game.

The exact details aren’t appropriate for a family publication (a Google search will sate the curious), but the experience of watching it, particularly for male viewers, was almost as painful as the injury itself.

The point, my friends, is that sports injuries do occur and anticipating them is critical for any gladiator-wannabe.

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Not all sports injuries are fantastic or dramatic.

Famously, Texas Rangers star Charlie Hough broke his pinky finger while making a pinky swear.

Bill Gramatica of the Arizona Cardinals tore his anterior curicate ligament jumping up and down to celebrate a first-quarter field goal.

If you’re like me, you’re probably more likely to make one of these ‘10 lamest’ or ‘10 most pointless’ sports injuries lists, but you lack the medical team and the money. So what do we do?

The good news is that participation in sporting activities can be routinely covered as standard on many income protection policies.

Some more hazardous purists may attract a premium loading or an extended waiting period.

If you’re dead-keen on bungee jumping into crocodile-infested rivers or have won awards for your skills as a 100 metre hot-coals sprinter, or indeed, if you fancy yourself a real-life gladiator, you may be in this category. If you have a policy with an exclusion, particularly from some time ago, it really is as simple as contacting the insurer or your adviser and inquiring if the exclusion can be removed or reviewed with an another insurer.

Independent Capital Advisers, Cairns 4031 4575 www.incapital.com.au

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business

permanent skillselect work visa program with Fiona Ryan Australia’s General Skilled Migration program is for people who are not sponsored by an employer, but have skills in particular occupations required in Australia. Under this program, applicants can migrate individually on their own merits or through sponsorship by a state government, territory government or eligible relative. From July 1 2012, there will be a major overhaul of this program, and the SkillSelect program is being implemented.

Under SkillSelect, visa applicants interested in the independent skilled, family sponsored skilled, state or territory sponsored skilled or the business skills program will be required to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) first.

The EOI will contain an applicant’s personal details, their nominated occupation, work experience, study and education, level of English skills, details of a skills assessment and business and investment

experience. They will then need to receive an invitation to lodge a visa application.

Applicants must submit their EOI online and once submitted, the applicant will receive a points score based on their imputed information. The result and points score, along with the time of submission, becomes the applicant’s ranking.

For independent and family sponsored visas, invitations will be issued automatically to the highest ranking EOI’s (subject to occupation ceilings). For state and territory sponsored visas, the state or territory governments will locate and select skilled workers from the EOI pool.

If an applicant is selected, they will receive an invitation from SkillSelect. They will then have 60 days to make a valid visa application. For applicants who are not selected, their EOI’s will remain in the system for two years before being removed.

After each invitation round for the independent and family sponsored visas, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship will publish the lowest scoring points test mark that allowed an EOI to be invited for each occupation group on their website.

This will give applicants an indication of their potential for receiving an invitation in future rounds.

For applicants who do not meet the requirements of an EOI or applicants who are unsuccessful in obtaining an invitation from SkillSelect, the Employer Sponsored Visa Program remains unchanged, and eligible applicants could look at finding an employer to sponsor them to migrate to Australia.

Visa Connection Pty Ltd 4051 9043 info@visaconnect.com.au (Fiona Ryan, Registered Migration Agent No. 0640004)

INDEPENDENT CAPITAL ADVISERS PTY LTD Licensed Securities Dealer

PO Box 5667, Cairns Qld 4870 | Level 1, 55 Spence Street, Cairns Qld 4870 T + 61 7 4031 4575 | F + 61 7 4051 0880 | E admin@incapital.com.au

www.incapital.com.au Independent Capital Advisers Pty Ltd ABN 95 765 269 541 march 2012

Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) Number: 378693 profilemagazine

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milestones

words alli grant ll photography carly whouley

Celebrating 20 years in business is certainly a considerable achievement for anyone, and one that Tyson Franklin, owner of Proarch Podiatry, is clearly proud of. But when it comes to life milestones, this is just the tip of the iceberg for this Cairns local. Tyson has spent 20 years as a podiatrist with Proarch, one of the most advanced podiatry clinics in Australia.

As the father of three beautiful children, and a loving partner to his ‘soul-mate’ Christine, Tyson is a happy man with a blessed life.

And this man certainly knows feet, as Alli Grant discovered.

Milestones ...

Milestone 1: The death of my father, 1983 Up until that moment, my life was simple and uncomplicated. I went to school, visited friends in my spare time and played rugby league on the weekends. I just enjoyed life. Then suddenly that changed.

As strange as it may seem, the night before my father died he pulled me aside and said he wanted to have a chat. During our conversation he asked me to do three things for him. The first was to always look after my mother.

The second was to repeat grade 12, because he knew I wasn’t doing well and knew I could do better. The third was to go to university. He said he didn’t care what I did, I just had to go. A week later I told the principal I wanted to repeat grade 12. Up until that point I had never passed an exam. I made the decision to never fail again. University then followed in 1985. And yes, I still look after my mother.

Milestone 2: I moved to Cairns from the Gold Coast, 1982 When I was at university, the head of the podiatry department said that if he was going to set up a podiatry clinic he would move to an area that was under-serviced, somewhere like Cairns. The idea stuck with me.

But like most young people, I didn’t take good advice. When I graduated, I headed straight for the Gold Coast. I worked there for about three years and set up my own clinic in Southport. It was a really hard slog trying to build it up with little to no business knowledge. I took a drive up to Cairns to take a quick look. I arrived on August 19 1992. I decided to stay for a few months.

While in Cairns I had to see a doctor about my hands after an injury that had me off work. After a few visits, we got to talking about the lack of podiatrists in Cairns and one thing lead to another. Eventually, I started working from his clinic.

Milestone 3: Meeting my wife, 1996 I know this may sound like a cliché, but meeting my wife really did change my life. At that time, every decision I made was based on my own thoughts, opinions and past experiences. Once I met Christine and she became involved in the podiatry business, my business just kept growing, far beyond my own expectations. Our continued business growth wasn’t because Christine had all the answers, but more to do with her encouragement for me to pursue my goals and to stop second-guessing myself. Sometimes guys just need a little support to achieve big things. After 13 years of marriage she still supports me as much as she did from day one. I still think she is too good for me (and my friends remind me of this on a regular basis), but fortunately Christine hasn’t worked this out yet.

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Milestone 4: Attending an interesting business seminar in July 2001 My business success up until July 2001 had come about purely from trial and error, which is a good way to learn, but it can also be a slow and expensive process. I had made it a habit to attended practice management and business seminars and I always left with a little more knowledge than I had previously had. However, one particular seminar in July 2001 just blew me away and my podiatry business basically doubled within 12 months. Once again I must thank my wife Christine as she encouraged me to attend. What I learnt was that people set goals, but they never write them down and they tend to set the bar too low – probably to avoid disappointment. I left that weekend knowing that goals were very important; you should set them really high to stretch yourself. If for some reason you miss the target, then you reset them and start again, continually pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

Milestone 5: Proarch Podiatry won the Queensland Government and Telstra Small Business Award in July 2003 Proarch Podiatry was continually growing, year after year. We opened a second clinic in Mackay in 2002, and within 12 months the Mackay clinic had achieved what it took Proarch eight years to achieve in Cairns. The following year, 2003, I saw an advertisement for the Telstra Awards and thought maybe Proarch could be a contender. Christine encouraged me to enter. When I got the phone call to say Proarch had made the finals I was speechless, but when we arrived at the gala dinner and saw the competition we knew we stood no chance of winning. When Proarch Podiatry was announced as the winner Christine and I hugged and cheered ... then I realised I hadn’t written an acceptance speech.

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MIGRATION PLUS BUSINESS PROMOTION

communication is like a ball game with Dr Chris White Verbal communication is not a straightforward way of relating facts, feelings, desires and needs or actions to others, although we often assume so. The process of communicating has many quirks, challenges and unpredictable channels that can change and shape a message when it leaves the sender and arrives at the receiver.

When we look behind communication it’s easy to identify why this is the case. Consider for a moment that communication is like a ball being thrown from one person to another. The ball is the message, but it is not even the same thing to both parties. One person may see it as red or green. One person may see it as soft and round, the other as hard and oblong, or even just as a blur as it flies towards them or away from them.

How is it thrown, gently or stingingly hard, high or straight, in a soft curve or directly? How does the recipient catch the message?

Like a baseball catcher, like wicket keeper, like a rugby winger?

Or does the ball fly right past?

Even in the simplest of exchanges, there are at least three points of difference in how the message is perceived – the sender, the receiver and how the message itself is constructed. It is important to understand these points of difference when trying to get our message across to another.

When we anticipate these three points of difference in communication, we can make plans to communicate more effectively and better understand when our message is changed or damaged while its being received. We can have happier, more consistent and more real and truthful interactions as a result. Next time a communication causes you to react, consider: What does it really mean?

How was it thrown – am I upset by the message or the throw?

How did I catch it – as it was intended or putting my influence on it?

With practice you will identify three different takes on every message. Consider them in context!

Migration Plus 4041 2620 www.migrationplus.com.au

march 2012

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win

win a kingfisher bay long weekend Kingfisher Bay Resort (www.kingfisherbay.com) not only boasts golden beaches and sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see, but there are post-card moments at every turn. Fraser Island’s fresh-water lakes are perched in the dunes and are perfect for cooling down on a hot Queensland day. Swim, canoe, take a leisurely eco-walk and immerse yourself in pristine, natural surroundings or enjoy a ranger-guided tour.

This month, Kingfisher Bay Resort Fraser Island and Profile Magazine have a long-weekend package to give away, including three-nights accommodation, return passenger ferry transfers from River Heads and a full day Beauty Spots Tour for two adults. This stunning package is valued at $1200. (Conditions apply.)

win a castaways mission beach escape Newly refurbished Castaways Resort & Spa (www.castaways.com.au) in stunning Mission Beach is your absolute beachfront escape. Bound by the Great Barrier Reef and the world heritage listed Wet Tropics Rainforest, Castaways Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for couples, families and the corporate traveller. Located just one and a half hours south of Cairns, the four-star accommodation offers resort-styled rooms, as well as one and two bedroom apartments and ocean suites. This month, we have a two-night stay in an ocean view Coral Sea Room with breakfast daily for two, including a bottle of bubbles on arrival and a two-for-one treatment voucher from Drift Day Spa to give away, valued at $640 (conditions apply).

scan this with your smartphone to jump straight to our competition page

Head to the Profile Magazine website to enter and for terms and conditions.

win a ryn & cordie cookbook pack win a grubby bubby pack Grubby Bubby (www.grubbybubby.com) is all about providing practical parenting products that save time and mess. Perfect for busy mums! The Grubby Bubby high chair cover even encourages children to feed themselves and get tactile with food, without Mum or Dad having to worry about the mess. Parents can breathe a sigh of relief while these covers take care of all the dirty work.

Thanks to Grubby Bubby, seven lucky winners will receive a fuchsia high chair cover and an extra long bib, valued at $60 per pack.

Ryn & Cordie’s book In Search of the Perfect Partner (The Food & Wine Matching Formula) gives you inspiration and guidance on how to create an entire food and wine matching experience any day of the week. There are stacks of recipes with ideas on how to take your everyday food to the next level by incorporating a wine that will enhance the food. This month, the lovely Ryn & Cordie (www.rynandcordie.com.au) are sharing their wine-matching love with Profile readers, with five packs to give away. Each pack contains a cookbook, one of their hilarious aprons and a bottle cooler valued at $65 per prize package.

win a contours gym membership Contours (www.contours.net.au) understands exactly what women want and know what works, so they’ve redesigned their 29-minute workout to better fit your goals, your schedule and your wallet. Contours’ new program makes losing weight and toning up even easier for women. It’s fun, fast, convenient and perfect for all shapes and sizes. Together with Profile Magazine, this month Contours will give one lucky reader and her friend a two-week trial at Contours (Innisfail, Cairns or Smithfield studios) valued at $175 per pass ($350 total).

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on the road

2012 Holden SV6

A

dmittedly, I have been a big Holden VE Commodore fan since the model was released in 2006. I like what they stand for; the bold stance, sporty yet stylish look, plus they are great on the road. So much so that I first picked up my own VE Commodore in January 2007 and loved every driving minute of it. Since then, Holden has made a few revisions to the VE line-up, including a fuel consumption reduction of up to 18 per cent for some models. Needless to say, I was jumping out of my skin to test the 2012 Holden SV6.

Holden has introduced SIDI engine technology, which means a reduction in fuel consumption. The result is evident in the MY12 with the powerful 3.6L SIDI direct injection V6 producing a massive 210kw of power yet sipping under 10L of fuel per 100km. The features are what you would expect in this calibre of vehicle; maximum 5-star Ancap safety rating, six airbags, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control system, sports seats, and the clever Holden-IQ System (a fully-integrated multimedia centre with iPod integration, CD-ripping technology and hands-free bluetooth).

Opinion on exterior styling of any vehicle comes down to personal preference, but I really can’t see an angle that I don’t like when it comes to the look of the VE SV6. The SV6 boasts the addition of a sports body kit with dual chrome tip exhaust, fog lamps, and 18-inch alloy wheels. In addition, Holden has updated the colours for 2012, introducing two locally-designed colours – ‘Perfect Blue’ and march 2012

ll words hamish rose

‘Chlorophyll’.

Perfect Blue is my pick, as it not only adds a sporty look to the SV6, but also holds a special part in my heart by paying homage to the ultimate motor sport legend, Peter Brock. The colour is built from an actual paint chip match from his collector’s edition Formula Blue HDT Group A VK SS Commodore.

On the inside, the SV6 makes you feel welcome – sports front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, sports instrumentation, and the classy-looking Holden-IQ System, that is surprisingly easy to navigate even for a technological lightweight like me. Boot space is ample at 496 litres.

In my humble opinion, Holden make the ultimate driver’s car, and the SV6 certainly lives up to this claim without negatively impacting on comfort for passengers. The seating position is comfortable yet supportive, and the 210kw motor is mated perfectly with upgraded sports suspension that allows a really responsive drive, yet doesn’t sacrifice comfort.

Mountainous driving is where the engine and suspension mating of SV6 really shows, offering great balance, steering feedback, reliable braking, and enough torque on tap to power out of corners.

The SV6 really did live up to my expectations as a good mix of performance, sports and classy looks that would suit a variety of different buyers.

Currently, Ireland Holden is offering a 2012 plated SV6 for only $36,990 drive-away (price quoted is for the 6-speed manual and excludes Prestige Paint) with a bonus camera and rear park assist – incredible buying, in my opinion.

THE FACTS 2012 Holden SV6 FEATURES

•• •• •• ••

18-inch alloy wheels 5-star ANCAP safety rating Touch-screen Holden-iQ system Rear view camera and rear park assist (as tested) •• Dual zone climate control air-conditioning

ENGINE

•• 3.6L SIDI V6 with 210kw power and 350Nm torque FUEL CONSUMPTION

•• 9.8L per 100km combined PRICE

•• $36,990 drive-away at Ireland Holden with bonus camera and rear park assist (price quoted is for the 6 speed manual. Price excludes Prestige Paint) To test drive this vehicle, contact: Ireland Holden 227 Mulgrave Road, Cairns Phone 4052 3666

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the last word

Anthony Mirotsos

ll photography stuart frost Anthony Mirotsos wears a number of hats in the local Cairns business community. This well-known local lawyer is president of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, in-house counsel for Skytrans, a committee member of the Far North Queensland Law Association, and a board member of the Northern Pride Rugby League Club. Now that’s community spirit! When he’s not working, which isn’t often, he loves cycling, cooking, drawing and spending time with his family.

“When I was growing up I wanted to be … a fighter pilot.

I was probably inspired by Tom Cruise in Top Gun.

I grew up in …

Sydney’s northern beaches.

I would love to be a better … listener. Being a parent and a lawyer has helped me a little, although I think I have a long way to go before claiming greatness here.

I am at my happiest when …

I am on holidays and forgetting about my crazy schedule, appointments and everyone else’s problems.

When I am not working I am … probably thinking about work, or cycling and thinking about work, or dedicating time voluntarily to organisations which I am a part of – all while thinking about work.

The best meal I have had was … last night, of course, at home with my amazing partner.

Phew, that was close …

“

My favourite holiday spot is …

Skiathos in the Greek Islands. It’s an isolated, amazingly beautiful location with plenty to do.

Local lawyer Anthony Mirotsos is a busy man, juggling a number of roles within the local business community

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Most people don’t know that I … love to cook.

My hidden talent is … drawing.

When I was growing up I wanted to be … a fighter pilot. I was probably inspired by Tom Cruise in Top Gun. I couldn’t live without … coffee.

My greatest achievement is … being a dad.

My most annoying habit is … my iPhone, especially giving it more attention than human beings.

In five years I hope to be … doing what I do now, but be much, much better at it.

What makes me laugh out loud is … good, old-fashioned wit and my children doing goofy things.

The one person I would most like to meet … is my father, who passed away two years ago. I’d like to tell him all the things I ever wanted to, didn’t get a chance to or had not thought about before.

If I didn’t live in TNQ I’d live … in Switzerland, somewhere cold and close to other countries.

Everything that Cairns isn’t, because nothing could come close to Cairns! profilemag.com.au

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ONE STATION ALL THE ROCK LEGENDS

weekdays from 5.30am ZINC 102.7 ROCKING THE CAIRNS COMMUNITY ...

march 2012

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