Profile Magazine by Profile Magazine

LADies AT LUNCH how green are you?

22 mukti

16 tani klein

Sally Barnes and Brooke Toholka

in this issue

mystyle

12 people Tania Hubbard

vanity case

style counsel

14 view Cath Manuel 16 success Tani Klein 18

ladies at lunch

22 cover – queen of green Mukti

O THE EC

life 48

the good life

52 advice

business

regulars 4 publisher’s note

35 wealthy’n’wise business promotion

in focus

6 pinboard

mybusiness

8 he says, she says

the panel

office space

may 2013

the last word Annette Sym

I S SU E

34 briefcase 43 win 30 abode

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ast month we were all about luxury. This month, we’re taking it right back to basics! The team has had such fun putting together this “green” issue of Profile Magazine. We know you will love reading about all the wonderful people on the Sunshine Coast who are doing their bit for a more sustainable future. You only have to look at the surge in organic converts, farmers markets, community gardens and those who have converted to solar energy to realise just how far we have come in the last decade and the Sunshine Coast is no exception. In fact, the Buderim community are the biggest users of solar energy in the South East. Pretty impressive! It’s testament to a community who are passionate about eating clean and living green and it’s infectious! We are delighted to showcase the queen of organic skin care, Mukti, on our cover this month. This Sunshine Coast businesswoman started her own business mixing potions from home and has grown her business to the thriving empire it is today. She shares with us the passion and ethos behind her luxurious skin care range. Cath Manuel, tells us about the wonderful community gardens she is running at the Big Pineapple, we introduce you to the Organic Sisters, Brooke Toholka and Sally Barnes who are quickly gaining a big following on social media for their amazing, simple organic recipes for healthy eating. Grain free, gluten free expert Tania Hubbard shares how to nourish the body and heal the mind, and Tani Klein tells us all about her eco-friendly children’s wear, so cute! I catch up with a gorgeous group of ladies over lunch to talk all things green and much more. Plus, as always our pages are packed full of beauty products, cars and homewares as well as lots of fabulous prizes up for grabs. Thank you also to the wonderful team at Profile Magazine. I work with such a dedicated, talented, hard-working group of people who go above and beyond the call of duty each month to bring you a magazine we are so very proud of. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we loved putting it together for you! Cheers, Ingrid Nelson EDITOR / journalist

What a great day we had shooting the cover this month! I think you will agree, our cover girl Mukti looks stunning! A big thank you to La Vida, Mooloolaba, Miss Manfield, Mooloolaba, In Fair Verona and Crown of Eden for dressing Mukti for the photo shoot as well as KJ Artistry for flawless makeup and the team at Strut Hair and Beauty, Maroochydore for the gorgeous, glamorous locks. Thank you also to our talented photographers Tanya Chesterton Smith of Chesterton Smith Photography and Ben Lockens of Just Photography for their stunning pictures. It is such a team effort to produce this magazine and we could not do it without each and every one of you. Thank you.

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managing director / publisher Genine Howard

publisher Hamish Rose

editor Ingrid Nelson

sub-editor Alli Grant

graphic designer Johanna Jensen

sales manager Maree McGrath

account manager Noosa international food and wine festival

Sue Base

feature writers

12 may spirit of giving Share the love of Mother’s Day around, think pink and enlist the whole family to register in the Mother’s Day Classic Walk. Follow an idyllic 4.5km walk along Cotton Tree and join in raising money and awareness for breast cancer research. Entry fees start from $20 per adult with family entries available.

Tonia Zemek, Jessica Jane Sammut, Anna Rawlings (intern), Christie Lenz (intern)

photography Tanya Chesterton Smith, Ben Lockens

email or call / fax

www.mothersdayclassic.com.au

info@proﬁlemag.com.au or 5451 0669 / 5475 4405

16 to 19 may foodies rejoice

Beach on Sixth, 104 / 65 Sixth Ave, Maroochydore

The Noosa International Food and Wine Festival is here to delight food lovers with a smorgasbord of food, wine, music and lifestyle programs. Celebrity and international chefs will combine with Australia’s hottest entertainers to celebrate a decade of this iconic and world class event. www.noosafoodandwine.com.au

23 may chari-tea This May, celebrate 20 years of the Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea as Australians come together to fight cancer. To participate in this great cause, host your own morning tea – it could be cupcakes with the girls, cake at work or brunch with the family. www.biggestmorningtea.com.au

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accounts Katherine Allan – accounts@proﬁlemag.com.au

26 may australia zoo wildlife fundraiser car rally Ready-set-go! Pile the family into the car and join this fantastic fundraising event as you solve puzzles and challenges to navigate your way around the Sunshine Coast – Amazing Race-style! Fantastic sponsors are onboard with exciting prizes to be won. Entry is $125 per car with all profits to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. www.wildlifemergency.com.au

31 may to 9 june nature’s dialogue Immerse yourself in nature at this environmental festival, Floating Land, held on the picturesque shores of Lake Cootharaba, Boreen Point. The 10-day event features international, national and local artists with a range of sculptures, dance, music and theatre to combine creativity and culture with the environment. www.floatingland.org.au

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Profile Magazine is a free publication (subscriptions available) published 12 times a year by Profile Magazine 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, Profile Magazine 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.

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he says, she says

It doesn’t seem that long ago that “going organic” was associated with donning hippy clothing, growing dreadlocks, becoming a vegan and joining Greenpeace! These days, chemical and pesticide-free produce is readily available in suburban Coles and Woolies outlets, and many Australians are making the switch. it’s fair to say that organic has finally gone mainstream. We asked Todd and Sami from HOT 91.1 for their take on organic and whether they have joined the growing trend. sami and todd

he says

or a long time now I’ve dined out (pardon the cheap pun) on ‘vego’ jokes. It’s not that I’m anti-organic and therefore satanic, it’s just a bit of fun, really. I’ve always suggested that there are no homeless peeps on the Coast, they’re simply vegetarians who’ve collapsed on the way to Erbachers Fresh Market. I’m a vego and I’m so hungry I could eat an organic horse ... radish. How many organic foodies does it take to change a lightbulb? Two – one to change it and the other to check it for animal products. Having said all this, I have to admit that I’ve started to go down the vego-inspired organic road, just a little. But let’s not be too harsh on our non-meat-eating friends. My mate Geezer’s wife is a vegetarian, not because she doesn’t like meat, but because she hates veggies and believes they should all die. Hey, if we’re not meant to eat animals, why are they made of meat? Another mate of mine is a vego, get this ... three days a week! He’ll eat fish and duck “coz ducks are almost fish, right?” but not meat ... three days a week. He’s a part-time vego. My wife, Michelle, has got me onto some hideous green sea-weedy powder called spirulina. Yeah, and I thought spirulina was the goalie for the Melbourne Victory. I know, right?! Michelle’s quite keen on organic food all of a sudden, and like the ‘My Family’ stickers, I’m hoping this is just a fad. I went to the Fisherman’s Road market on Sunday and told the organic vegetarian farmer the veggies were for my wife and I asked if they’d been sprayed with any poisonous chemicals, and the lady said, “No, you’ll have to add those yourself!”. Funny. The lady was funny. Very pale looking, but nonetheless, funny.

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She says

must admit I groaned when I was told our topic this month was to write about organic products. Not because I don’t like organic. It is quite the opposite. I think in a perfect world we would all buy beautiful bamboo baby wraps to swaddle our bubbas. We would all snack on organic treats and sit down at night with our perfect families and eat our healthy dinners. I have done stories over the years on cancer patients curing themselves by eating only organic foods. So you see I love organic products as much as the next person. Here comes the ‘but’. You see to me organic is associated with expensive. The last time we addressed this topic, Todd and I received a lot of abusive emails about this very issue. Please send them again, but also remember that these are our opinions and shaped on our reality on how we live our lives. We are all busy and our hard-earned dollars have to spread across many purchases in any given week. I do try to buy organic at least some of the time and our household has just signed up to have a box of organic fruit and vegetables delivered to the door every fortnight. This made me feel proud. As if finally I was doing something to get organised and inject some health into our little family as we head into winter. Of course, I still need to find the time and discipline to use each and every seasonal product in that box. If in a few months time the produce is still in my fridge ruining in the crispy then I will have failed at this little venture as well! But it is a small step and it has made me feel very good about myself when most days I worry that I don’t make homemade meals for my children / I don’t save enough / I don’t see my friends and mother often enough / I don’t walk the dogs often enough etc etc. So we will wait and see if this magic box transforms me into a Stepford Wife or if I am just left with mouldy tomatoes in my fridge. At least they will be organic.

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• • •

•

• •

•

REVIVAL may 2013

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photography ben lockens, just photography

ll styling ingrid nelson and johanna jensen

La’Or fashion designer Julie Schrag pictured right. Model Jessica Linton from ASHA Model Management wears Ocean’s Mystery dress. La’Or fabric underlay (100 per cent hand-loomed, hand-dyed silk ocean colours) with french lace overlay, hand beaded and finished. Handmade in Cambodia. RRP $1,600. Synthetic fur shrug, $120. Hair and makeup by Universal Hair Salons, 1300 554 522. Shot on location at Oceans Resort, Mooloolaba.

Fashion is synonymous with luxury, and Coastline BMW is proud to present the ‘Driving Style’ campaign in support of our very own thriving fashion industry. The Sunshine Coast plays host to a plethora of talent, with fashion designers leading the way and making their mark on the world stage. Julie Schrag is one such designer. Her glamorous and feminine label La’Or is the epitome of elegance and class. Inspired by sustainable, fair-trade and ethical practices, Julie’s fabrics are hand-loomed and hand-dyed in Cambodia. 10

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MEET JULIE profile: Have you always wanted to be a designer? julie: No actually. Fashion has been part of a change in life interests and reinvention during my more mature years. profile: Tell us a little about your background? julie: After importing Khmer silk to Australia for five years, three years ago I embarked on a project with traditional weaving centres and experimented with dye techniques which became La’Or fabrics and fashion followed. In 2009, a small collection was launched with a great response followed by the 2011 collection “Web of Life”, shown successfully at Australian and Cambodian Fashion Weeks. With the 2012 collection “Sunset Moments”, La’Or continued the success on Australian runways. profilemag.com.au

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profile: Describe your style? julie: La’Or represents ethical fashion with designs based on simplicity and elegance. La’Or Fashion encompasses daywear, cocktail, evening and bridal couture predominantly of Khmer silk with the use of beautiful lace to add texture and allure. La’Or Fabrics include one-off silk pieces, hand-loomed and hand-dyed in Cambodia. profile: What or who is the inspiration behind your work? julie: Sustainable, fair-trade and ethical practices are my main inspiration. By supporting the industry of silk from inception, production to completion ... growing silk, spinning, weaving, dyeing, sewing and no waste policies.

may 2013

profile: Who have been your biggest influences? julie: I initially started my business as part of a support network restoring lives to young girls in Cambodia. The many girls in the world who are sold, trafficked and subjected to hideous crimes, or just unfortunate to be born in a third world country, having a less fortunate life than mine. profile: Tell us about your current collection? julie: The new collection called “La Femme Mystique” is the ultimate feminine sensual experience. “The Woman of Mystery” is freely apparent to her admirers, a subtle intriguing quality that is priceless to the discerning. Ocean colours, sequins like sparklets on water, bursts of pure sunrise yellow and the sensual swish of pure silk glimpsed through lace windows.

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people

words jessica jane sammut ll photography chesterton smith photography

Tania Hubbard is an eco-foodie with a heart. Jessica Jane Sammut chats to the woman who wants to dominate the world with lots of love.

tania hubbard at empire organics cafe, nambour

utrition, it’s a hot topic at the moment. The penny is starting to drop that what we put into our bodies is truly what we become. It used to be considered paranoid mumbo jumbo. It was heard but not implemented. “You are what you eat” people would repeat at the beginning of this decade, but no one was really taking affirmative action. Except Tania Hubbard. Tania, since she was a young child, has always chosen to swim against the flow. And it’s a good job she does. “I was not traditional as a youngster,” Tania smiles. “I was a bit of a handful. I was adopted when I was young and in a sense this gave me the freedom to really explore who I was, as I wasn’t confined by having my identity entwined with that of my parents. I always had a fire inside of me.”

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And it was this fire that lead Tania to question traditional modes of thinking with regard to the relationship between health and food, searching for answers by studying nutrition at university, although she found the course lacking. “It was a disappointment,” explains Tania. “I wanted to know how to nourish the body; how to heal the mind. But I found that I was only learning about food groups and their components. It was very one dimensional and didn’t have the depth I was looking for.” In fact, it wasn’t until several years later that Tania re-opened her quest for answers when she found herself totally run down after an emotionally intense job left her burnt out. “I had been working as the CEO of Bathurst Women’s Housing Program and was totally exhausted.” Tania recalls. “I couldn’t go out. I couldn’t get up off the couch. I literally had no energy and my health declined from there.” Tania found herself in a downward spiral. Her mind was low and her body weak. “I seemed to lurch from one illness to the next. I got pleurisy, pneumonia, suffered a collapsed lung, and a couple of malignant tumours were discovered in my arm. I was not taking care of myself. I didn’t have time! Isn’t that the excuse everyone gives?” It was then that Tania tested positive for a gluten and lectin intolerance. She was slightly dubious at the result. profilemag.com.au

“Up until that point, I had been very interested in healthy eating and a keen advocate for trying to feed your body the right fuel, but I had not considered the effect of gluten. I didn’t believe my new-found intolerance had anything to do with my failing health, but I listened to what the doctors said and cut gluten from my diet completely as a test. Within days, the difference was astounding. I was able to sleep (something I had struggled with all my life), I felt energetic and I started to lose weight. I could feel my whole immune system rebuilding.” It was then Tania once again found herself on the path of nutrition, albeit a deeper one, as she began to research the benefits of unprocessed, natural wholefoods, working out how such a diet could be incorporated into everyday life. And the more she looked into it, the more she realised the health implications of clean food, launching Husk & Honey, the Coast’s first gluten-free, grain-free café in Nambour, along with The Gluten Free Grain Free Company (www.glutenfreegrainfree.com.au). Husk & Honey was a smash hit and has since been sold by Tania, who is now concentrating on her company which teaches people all over Australia about how to change their lifestyle and the importance of choosing food wisely. Tania has developed a whole range of gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, nut-free cake and bread mixes (which are 85 per cent organic, 70 per cent fairtrade and use recycled and recyclable packaging, with the label printed locally), making it easy for those wishing to indulge in a little treat to do so.

A lifestyle change and eating well has to be practical. It has to fit in with the everyday grind.” “I launched the range in March this year,” smiles Tania. “It is extremely rewarding seeing people enjoy the products. One mother contacted me to say her child had been able to have a birthday cake at their party for the first time. It made me melt. This is why I do what I do! We have had such positive feedback, and have moved into a production facility now, which is where I am living too. I literally sleep with my products!” Tania has also set up a blog, Tania’s Pantry (www.taniaspantry.com), to “give something back”, she says. Offering free recipes and simple instructions on how to eat well with basic staples, Tania is forging ahead with trying to demystify the whole topic of listening to your body and eating accordingly. Her book, Gluten Free Grain Free – Food We Love, is further full of inspiring and real examples of how we can eat for our bodies, and is a useful guide for anyone wanting to look after themselves. There are so many cooking programs, books and websites professing to have the answers that it can sometimes be quite overwhelming when trying to make a change, so Tania’s mission to simplify the process, not make it harder, is a refreshing approach. “People don’t have time in today’s world. People are bombarded with choice and too much conflicting information. A lifestyle change and eating well has to be practical. It has to fit in with the everyday grind. Tania’s Pantry and The Gluten Free Grain Free Company is about using what’s in your cupboard to make simple yet healthy meals packed full of goodness. And if you can master one of the recipes, you will be able to tweak it and make something else. I show you how. It doesn’t have to be difficult. You don’t need a million ingredients in your kitchen.” Tania is the real deal. An authentic health advocate, she is not about the money or the enterprise or the fame. She is a 100 per cent believer in her cause. Tania has not been made glossy by the fancy marketing machines of the corporate world or told what to say by a bunch of PRs. She is credible and low key, but she is dynamite. It’s always the quiet ones. “If someone was to ask me what my goal is, I would say to add to the country’s gross domestic happiness through food!” Tania giggles. Like I say, a wellness warrior with a cake mixer. What could be better than that? may 2013

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words anna rawlings ll photography chesterton smith photography

In the recipe of life, it can be hard to find the right balance of ingredients. But Cath Manuel seems to have found the perfect mix. Anna Rawlings sits down to find out more about her secret to a happy and sustainable life.

try my best to lead an environmentally-friendly and sustainable lifestyle. I recycle where possible, I choose locally-owned stores over supermarket chains, avoid processed foods and buy organic. I know I’m not alone. With awareness of the environment and our health growing every day, more and more people are buying into the “eco” way of life – it’s no longer just a fad, it’s a lifestyle. Luckily, for those unfamiliar with the how-to’s of producing home-grown fruit and vegetables, we have eco-warriors like Cath Manuel to guide us on the pathway to sustainable health. Brimming with the glow that only the super-healthy seem to have, Cath is warm and inviting and has a true passion to spread her message of health and sustainable living. No stranger to transition herself, Cath has transformed her lifestyle from perennial Cronulla party girl and fashion design student to suburban Queensland mum, before laying her roots firmly and literally in the ground as a sustainable living advocate. Residing on a sustainable and environmentally-friendly property in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Cath and her young family lead by example, with a philosophy to utilise onsite resources and sustainable materials. Cath and husband Paul settled on the Sunshine Coast in 1997, purchasing a home in Sunrise Beach. Always nurturing a keen interest in gardening and horticulture thanks to green-thumbed parents, Cath’s keen interest in sustainable horticulture was sparked after the birth of her boys, Edison, 11 and Archey, seven. “Although we loved living by the beach, we wanted to get out of suburbia,” says Cath, who was working in retail at the time. “And I got to a point in my 30’s where I needed a career change.” From there, she completed a diploma of horticulture and permaculture design, before setting up a successful landscape gardening business and then switching to organic growing practices to create productive and beautiful gardens for clients. But Cath wanted to practice what she preached, so, after some property searching, they hit the jackpot, moving to three and a half acres in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland in 2008. What was empty land is now an eco-haven. Their resources are solar power, bio-cycle compost systems and rainwater tanks. Inside the house, the cleaning, washing and bathroom products are all chemical-free. The ‘kitchen garden’ out the back is stocked full of seasonal vegetables, while an orchard houses orange,

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cath manuel (third from left) in the community garden at the big pineapple

lemon, nut and coffee trees, to name a few, and the herb gardens, dotted with flowers, offer medicinal plants for an holistic approach. The incredible, eco-friendly features on their property were meticulously planned by Cath, who spent months mapping out the layout of their dream home on an aerial site plan. “I just thought of my boys – what could I put in place that would benefit them for years to come. I feel that as a wife and mother to provide something to your loved ones that you have put all the work into producing is so incredibly satisfying and this is what I want everyone to feel,” she says. Cath’s favourite ingredients – Asian herbs – are in plentiful supply and she will often make her own curry pastes and season their meals with ginger, chilli and lemongrass. She loves seeing the boys snacking on snow peas and strawberries that she has planted, nurtured and picked. “I love knowing that they are eating vitamin-filled and chemical-free food,” she says. As her family, gardens and produce flourished, so too did her sustainable gardening business. “I had this feeling it was going to turn into something amazing and I like to dream big! It was just one of those moments where I realised that I had nurtured the business into having its own life. I just had to take a step back, reassess the direction I wanted myself and my business to go, and seek the help of people who had amazing skills to help me make my dreams happen,” she shares. And so from a budding idea, her business, Soil to Supper (www.soiltosupper. com.au), bloomed. Cath and her team specialise in building organic gardens and sustainable systems for clients, allowing Cath to share her passion for eco-sustainability. “I knew that I had a lot of knowledge and skills, and I wanted to inspire people.” Cath’s focus is on the entire process of successfully growing and harvesting. “A lot of people don’t realise how important soil is – it literally all starts from the soil to your dinner plate.” With future plans to expand Soil to Supper into a nationwide franchise, Cath can also be found as the centre director at the Centre for Growing Sustainability (www.centreforgrowingsustainability.org), based onsite at The Big Pineapple, due to officially open on Saturday May 18. As our interview comes to an end, I can’t resist asking for her insider tips on what I could plant at home (kale, broccoli and cauliflower are in season) and ask how we can all introduce a bit of “greenness” to our lives. “Dream big and start small,” she shares. And, true to her roots and busy sowing the seeds of knowledge for the future, Cath has done just that. profilemag.com.au

may 2013

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success

tani klein with mila and oscar

words tonia zemek ll photography chesterton smith photography

Sometimes a business seems to grow organically, just ask Tani Klein. She started out doodling designs to amuse her newborns. From those humble beginnings sprung Doodlebug, Tani’s eco-conscious kids’ clothing line. Now bubs from New Zealand to Norway are donning Doodlebug designs, as Tonia Zemek discovers.

quick browse on the Doodlebug website leaves me feeling clucky. The site is packed with snaps of cute little bambinos sporting bamboo fabrics fashioned into onesies, overalls and dresses. I hadn’t realised two of the tiny tots are in fact designer Tani Klein’s offspring. Move over Miranda Kerr and David Beckham. Three-year-old Oscar and six-year-old Mila make wonderful miniature models. “This business really is a family affair,” laughs entrepreneurial mum Tani. “My husband, Greg, helps out with the illustrations and the kids have modelled in every collection.” 16

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THE EC

I S SU E

I’m curious to know the genesis of her first range. It was, in fact, a combination of creativity and circumstance. Tani was born in New Zealand, which is where she met her Canadian husband, Greg. The pair welcomed the arrival of baby Mila before Greg’s work as a civil engineer led to a transfer to the Sunshine Coast. The young family moved to Yaroomba just before the global financial crisis hit. In New Zealand, Tani had worked as a secondary school teacher but she struggled to find work here. “Given the economy and the fact I was a recent graduate and a Kiwi – it was all quite a frustrating process.” She started drawing and painting to take respite from the job hunt. “I did profilemag.com.au

success “I’m a fixer rather than a buyer. If something is broken, I’ll figure out how I can get more life out it. I’m still using the same dressing table I received for my 14th birthday. I’ve just scraped it back and re-painted it. In my office, I recycle any old paper for the kids to use for colouring and drawing.” Tani’s green gene has certainly made an impression on her business. Doodlebug (www.ilovedoodlebug.com.au) embraces biodegradable packaging and electronic catalogues to save on paper. Tani has also developed a range of wooden stationery, including postcards, bookmarks and gift tags, all made from Cherrywood. “The timber comes from sustainable plantations and for every tree felled to make our goods, another five are planted,” she says. Tani’s certainly harvested a hearty success, with Doodlebug snapped up by around 40 retailers across the country since her first collection in 2010. “It was terrifying going from never having designed a range to creating my first collection and putting it out to the world. Luckily for me, the response was awesome.”

I didn’t set out to create an ecofriendly business, it’s just the way I run all aspects of my life ... I can’t throw anything away, even the pulp from the juicer gets turned into muffins or pasta sauce.” a series of black and white images and then I thought they might look cool on one of Mila’s little t-shirts.” The response from family and friends was phenomenal and before long the Doodlebug label was born. When Tani first took her designs to the Peregian Markets, they immediately sold out. Although she initially printed onto a mix of materials, she was determined to find a gentle, eco-friendly fabric suitable for infants and toddlers. “When you’re designing for babies, it’s important you feel confident about the materials you’re using,” she said. “I had seen fabric made from bamboo and I’d heard that it was amazing.” After sampling the bamboo material, Tani was hooked. Apparently bamboo fibres naturally have smooth ends that can help reduce irritation to delicate skin. Tani describes bamboo fabric as super soft, well-wearing and sustainable (thanks to bamboo’s reputation for prolific growth). “I didn’t set out to create an eco-friendly business, it’s just the way I run all aspects of my life,” Tani reveals. “I can’t throw anything away, even the pulp from the juicer gets turned into muffins or pasta sauce,” Tani laughs, as she reels off her recycling rituals.

may 2013

I compliment her success but Tani is humble about how far she’s come. “I joke about getting promoted every year,” she says. “I started off on the kitchen table, then I moved to the garage, then to a tiny bedroom, and now I’m based in a much larger room with a view of the kids’ play area.” Juggling motherhood and mastering the machinations of a burgeoning business can’t have been easy. “Working from home is such a double-edged sword,” she says. When Oscar was a newborn Tani was nurturing her new business as well as caring for his big sister, Mila. “There have been so many hard times when I’ve wanted to scream and give up but I genuinely love what I do and I’d do it even if I didn’t make any money from it.” So what does the future hold for Tani and Doodlebug? “I don’t really need to take over the world. I just need to keep going and build the brand.” Along the way she gets to stretch her creativity with whimsical designs that feature feminine, detailed graphics. Meanwhile her husband, Greg, pens more masculine images like pirate ships and giant squids! Personally, I’d like to see a frog feature in their collection. Poor Kermit reckons it’s not easy being green, but I’m sure Tani could show him how it’s done.

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ladies at lunch

Ladies at lunch is proudly sponsored by

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1 3

VENUE Mooloolaba Yacht Club

1. Tamara wrigley 2. sue base 3. michelle hurd 4. grilled atlantic salmon 5. anna rawlings 6. debbie battaglini-clarke

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ladies at lunch

words ingrid nelson ll photography tanya chesterton smith ll sponsored by boq maroochydore and wealthways ll venue mooloolaba yacht club

The balance between earth and sustainability has grown more precarious with advances in technology and population growth – it’s a fact of life we have to accept as the human race expands. However, there is salvation in the practice of sustainable living to respect nature, minimise our carbon footprint and restore the natural balance back to the environment. This is the popular term coined “green living” and you don’t have to be a tree-hugger, Captain Planet or a die-hard environmentalist to do your bit, as ingrid nelson discovered over lunch at Mooloolaba Yacht Club with some lovely local ladies.

o I have a confession. I was left a little red-faced recently when my 11-year-old daughter, Chloe, pulled me up for not putting the recyclable items in the yellow bin! “Mum, don’t you know about recycling?” she asked incredulously. Whoops, sprung! Admittedly, she is quite the greenie, and she’s not alone. In fact, eco education starts early these days, with educational trips to the recycling plant now part of the kindy curriculum. My five-year-old daughter, Paris, gave me quite an education when she visited the plant last year. Not only are school children encouraged to recycle waste and reduce their carbon footprint, something we hadn’t so much as heard about as children, they are also encouraged to eat nude. No, that doesn’t mean eating their lunch naked, but rather encouraging parents to send them to school with foods that don’t require any packaging, hence promoting healthy eating and less waste. Makes perfect sense really, and is something we are certainly working towards as a family. I recently caught up with a bunch of gorgeous girls over a delicious lunch at the recently renovated Mooloolaba Yacht Club for a candid chat about how “green” we are. Needless to say, we had a lot of laughs and I came away from our lunch determined to try even harder to do my bit for the environment. Co-hosting lunch was Debbie BattagliniClarke, co owner of BOQ Maroochydore, and joining us were Tamara Wrigley of Carolans First National Real Estate, Nambour; Anna Rawlings, journalism intern with Profile Magazine; Michelle Hurd of Pelican Waters Golf Club; photographer Tanya Chesterton Smith of Chesterton Smith Photography, and last but not least, Profile’s newest sales team member, Sue Base. profile: Let’s cut straight to the chase, ladies, just how green are you? debbie: From a home perspective, we have the trash bin and the recycle bin. We have our own may 2013

little herb garden too and we are working towards a worm farm. I look after the inside of the house, and Laurie’s domain is outside. So far the inside is looking pretty good but I don’t know if the worms would survive! From a work perspective, we are pretty good. It’s hard in the banking industry because we have to be confidential with information so we have shredders for all the paperwork but the paper is recycled and staff are very conscious about what goes into recycling and what goes into trash. We try to be as eco-friendly as we can but we could do a lot better at home michelle: We try hard at home. We are growing a herb garden. The children are a challenge though – they love their long showers. I am often at the door saying, ‘That’s enough, time to get out’. Coming from Melbourne, we were used to water restrictions which has helped. I do turn switches off but I haven’t got time to go around them all. At work, we recycle all the cardboard and paper. anna: I am currently living at home while I’m studying. The family home is on acreage so we have rainwater tanks that feed the paddocks and we have a dozen chicks that provide us with free range, organic eggs, which is great. I don’t eat processed food and I try to use organic skincare products. I shop for fruit and veggies at Erbachers to support local growers too. If I do shop at the larger supermarkets I buy organic. profile: Do you do organic and why? anna: I do and I suppose it’s for the health side of things as well as being conscious about the environment. Organic products tend to be more sustainable for the environment. I guess I have had a recent shift due to new knowledge about what is good to put in and on my body. debbie: I think organic has certainly taken over. We shop organic. When I go to the supermarket we don’t buy anything with preservatives or packaged. “My six-year-old daughter asks me, “Mum, is that organic?” So she is making the right choices at six! sue: There is only myself and my partner at home

now. We eat healthy and we eat good quality food. We go the farmers’ markets in Noosa and buy the fresh fruit and veggies, and buy organic where possible. Overall, the produce has been grown in a paddock and is much fresher. debbie: It also comes down to affordability. A lot of people would probably agree the more disposable income you have the easier it is to shop organic. anna: In a way we are being forced to put a price on our health which is sad. profile: What sort of things have you implemented at home or office to be more green? tanya: Just recently our family made a conscious decision to buy less pre-packaged foods and get back to basics. My husband and I have been baking things like simple scones or a banana cake for the kids’ lunches. We have stopped buying muesli bars and poppers. They are handy but full of additives and preservatives and, of course, a lot of packaging. In the office, I recently changed to USB for digital files so it’s cutting down on what you hand over to clients paper wise. We also made a conscious decision to not install air conditioning when we built our home. I do use a clothes dryer quite a bit, which I hate. I tend to do a lot of washing and laundry at night so it’s my worst side of not being so eco-friendly. tamara: To a degree we have gone semi-paperless in our office because a lot can now be emailed as the law has changed. Before, it had to be posted. It’s all done electronically, so that has cut a lot of paper down. I find it can be hard when you are so busy. My daughter and I tried to do a veggie garden and I think it lasted about a week! We came from Brisbane when they had the strict water restrictions, we got to a point where we had buckets in the shower to throw on the lawns. The kids are pretty water smart now because of it. sue: Just turning the tap off when you are brushing your teeth can make such a difference. debbie: We have recently moved to an acreage property so we rely on tank water. Previously I profilemagazine

ladies at lunch

michelle, tamara, debbie, ingrid, sue and anna

would leave the tap running while I wiped the bench, not anymore though! sue: I saw a nice concept to grow herbs and some veggies recently – a vertical garden. It’s easy to maintain and great for kiddies and smaller spaces. profile: Why do you think there has been a big shift towards eco / organic living? debbie: I think there are a lot more people who are conscious of their options and their health. If you invest in your health today it will pay off for life. tamara: There has been a lot of evidence to prove that by healthy living and eating organic you are certainly reducing your risk of cancers and other illnesses. debbie: You had your hippie friends that were doing it back then but now it’s mainstream.

debbie: Here’s a question for everyone? How many of us remember to bring bags when we do our grocery shopping? tamara: Unfortunately, it’s often the last thing I think of! sue: Even if I leave them in the car, I still forget them! tamara: Having to pay for bags works though. I see so many people go to the checkout and they won’t pay for a bag and you see them carrying tonnes of stuff rather than buy a bag! tanya: I often say no to a bag and then drop it all as I walk out the door! profile: What was your main incentive for making changes to become greener? tamara: We were going through five boxes of paper a month so we wanted to reduce cost, and also you need to look at the environment. I actually think they need to empty the recycle bins more than once a fortnight. debbie: It’s more about sustainability for us. I will admit I also like to cut down on electricity and water where I can to save money so I can spend it in other areas. Although Laurie thinks that money should go into savings, of course! So there you have it. As a nation, it is clear we are certainly becoming more aware of just how important it is to maintain a sustainable environment for future generations to enjoy. In a nutshell, the general consensus among the lunching ladies was the importance of eating clean and living green. Even the smallest changes can make a big difference if we are united. I, for one, came away from our lunch determined to become a better recycler. Small steps right? Chloe will be proud ...

MOOLOOLABA YACHT CLUB

Boasting expansive wall-to-wall windows overlooking the yacht-filled marina, the Mooloolaba Yacht Club is the perfect spot to catch up for lunch with girlfriends. Even better, it’s very child-friendly so the kiddies will be happy too. In fact, on the day of our visit during the school holidays, or photographer, Tanya Chesterton Smith, brought along her two little ones, both of whom were perfectly behaved and enjoyed a delicious lunch while we ladies waxed lyrical about all things “green”. We kicked off with shared plates of crusty Turkish bread, with marinated olives, almond dukkah, hummus and evoo. It was the perfect start to our lunch. A choice of grilled Atlantic salmon, polenta, creamed leeks, sauce vierge and sautéed greens, or chicken Maryland with Spanish wet rice beans, saffron and prosciutto was on offer for mains. The salmon was a popular choice, with all but two of the ladies ordering the dish. Golden on the outside and tender inside, my chicken Maryland was cooked to perfection and was perfectly accompanied with the tasty bed of saffron rice. Judging by the empty plates, the Atlantic salmon was also a winner. Lucky we had left just enough room for dessert, which was a standout dish for me. The chocolate and yoghurt panna cotta with honeycomb and rice pudding sauce was divine. Rich and creamy, it was the perfect sweet treat to finish off our lunch. Even the children couldn’t resist a taste of mum’s. Service was prompt, attentive and very friendly. Good food, affordable prices, friendly service and a wonderful view, what more could you ask for? 33-45 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba 5370 1718 www.theyachtclub.com.au

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cover story

words jessica jane sammut ll photography chesterton-smith photgraphy styling ingrid nelson ll hair strut hair and beauty ll makeup kj artistry

Mukti by name and Mukti by nature, Jessica Jane Sammut chats to the queen of green to discover the power of speaking the truth, believing in what you are doing and creating your own destiny.

mukti wears â&#x20AC;&#x153;Journeyâ&#x20AC;? dress by Wish, RRP $159.95, from La Vida, Mooloolaba. phone 5444 8833. Crown of Eden Autumn falls head piece, RRP $49.95 (www.crownofeden.etsy.com). Hair by Strut Hair and Beauty, Maroochydore (www.struthair.com.au). Make up by KJ Artistry (www.kjartistry.com). Photography by Chesterton Smith Photography (www.chestertonsmith.com). Shot at Chesterton Smith Photography studio, Mt Coolum

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n Eastern philosophy, mukti (moo k-tee) is the liberation of the senses from the clutches of the mind. A state of enlightenment or of self-realisation, the Sanskrit word evokes a sense of awakening and is often associated with bakti (devotion) of a higher realm. So it was with great anticipation that I made my way into the lush Maleny hinterland one morning to meet a woman of the same name. And not just any woman, but a thought-leader I had heard much about with regard to her single-handed contribution to the organic skincare industry, a passionate advocate of looking after not only the environment but also ourselves, and a driver in the belief that life is the creation of our own journey and not to be wasted on following the crowd. I was intrigued. I liked this woman already and I hadn’t even met her yet. Travelling along the winding road into the Coast’s rugged countryside that morning, shaded by the canopy of the trees above, I pondered upon the form our meeting would take. I had deadlines on my mind, kids with a busier social schedule that myself to contemplate and a house in a state of minor chaos that needed tending to when I returned home. Would we have a quick green tea followed by 20 minutes of chat, or would Mukti wish to show me her botanical skin range to start with, I wondered? Hmm, what would work best? I had a window in my diary for this interview and I wanted to fill it appropriately. But I needn’t have bothered planning my time with Mukti, because from the moment she opened the door and welcomed me with open arms into her home, I felt an immense presence and connection that I had not been prepared for. Having just returned from Bali, Mukti should have been exhausted, but she wasn’t. She was bright and enthusiastic and warm. A warmth that touched me to my core. A warmth that made me feel like I had known Mukti for years, and I was merely meeting up with an old friend that day for a long, overdue catch-up. My ever-present ticking mind – always planning, organising and pushing forward – calmed; the white noise in my head became still; and my worries left my body with each breath. I felt safe. I realised that my meeting with Mukti was going to be so much more than I had envisaged. For this woman is something else. This woman radiates hope like I had never encountered and I couldn’t wait to hear her story. Born in Tamworth, NSW, Mukti was the middle child sandwiched between two brothers. Raised in a very affluent family to a father who was a lawyer and a mother whom Mukti describes as “beautiful”, Mukti had the ideal childhood on paper. But the reality was quite different. “My father was emotionally unavailable to me as a child and as an adult. I found this extremely hard to deal with. He never gave me his approval and I spent my life consequently trying to seek it. It greatly affected my self-esteem and my understanding of men, and it wasn’t until I was in my 30’s that I may 2013

cover story realised how much of an impact this had had on me. “In year eight I was sent to boarding school, which was a watershed moment in my life. All the girls there had already formed their cliques and I found myself on my 13th birthday alone and desperately unhappy. Both my parents missed my entry into teenagerhood. I was crushed.” Not one to be held down, however, Mukti turned her sense of misplacement into a positive, and was noted to be a resilient and determined little girl. “My father never showed me love and it made me stronger in a way. ‘I’ll show you!’ I used to think. I wanted to be a success to prove to him that I was worth something.” Always tuned into her surroundings, Mukti enjoyed the beauty of the world around her, and after leaving school found herself working in hospitality on the stunning Dunk, Lizard and South Molle Islands, ending up in Perth working on yachts for the Americas Cup. It was then that Mukti began to migrate towards the field she was to end up in. “After Perth, I found myself in Brisbane and I saw an advert for the Australian College of Natural Medicine and so I enrolled to study naturopathy and natural therapies, together with massage. I loved it. It began to open my eyes to a different way of life. It was shortly after that I got married, choosing a big, white wedding in the country in an old shed where our guests were asked to bring a bottle of Champagne and a plate of food instead of a gift. It was hippie dippy and it was fabulous! We had a party and a half!” It was about this time that Mukti really began to embrace her spiritual side. Raised with an awareness and appreciation of Buddhism and Eastern philosophy, this had stayed with her always, and when Mukti fell pregnant with her first child, Kiyana, she found herself yearning for a spiritual hideaway in which to raise her family. “I was talking to a massage client about where I wanted to raise my baby girl when she came into the world, and he told me about a permaculture eco village in Crystal Waters near Maleny. It sounded ideal. I wanted to raise my kids out of the city and so off we went. Within a month of arriving, I had started a cooperative in terms of food and a shop. I was five months pregnant at the time and I didn’t quite think it through – it was hard work! Kiyana was later born via a home water birth in a tepee. Yes, it was very alternative!” After having her daughter, Mukti felt isolated at Crystal Waters. With her husband working in Brisbane during the week, Mukti found new motherhood overwhelming, and shortly afterwards, Mukti and her husband separated. “Sadly, we were never the right fit to begin with,” explains Mukti. “I was a little naïve when I got married and reality since then had kicked in.

We need to let go a little more and enjoy what is before us, taking note of all we have. We must learn to simplify in order to bring back balance and substance to life.”

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Mukti wears “Mohala” aphrodite kaftan by miss manfield, rrp $189

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But although it was a very hard time in my life, it was almost a moment of rebirth for me. It was then that I officially changed my name to Mukti. At that moment, I embraced what the name meant – freedom and liberation. I would prefer not to tell you what my birth name was as I have left that person behind now.” Mukti not only shed her skin, in terms of her name, she also left Crystal Waters and decided to embark on a cosmetic chemistry degree via distance learning. It was all change, but a step forward, not back. “I had been working, giving facials and massages as part of a pamper package for clients of a guest house, and I was struggling to find a product range that I really liked and felt comfortable using. I wanted something natural, something herbal, something that was at one with the body, and I just couldn’t find it. All I could find was chemicals. So I started to put products together myself as an experiment, going right back to basics, and I came up with a honey and macadamia nut lip balm. It was an instant hit and I had clients requesting more! “I gathered together my $2,000 savings and ordered some further raw materials. I was literally having the materials delivered to my house and making the balm in the evenings when Kiyana was asleep. I enrolled on the New Employment Incentive Scheme (NEIS), which taught me business management, and realised I was onto something with my idea. People wanted clean products. It was high time.” And she was right. Mukti was onto something, and in this way Mukti Organic Skincare was born – at home, alongside a child, in between work, in the middle of a divorce and after a whole heap of study. If anyone ever says something can’t be done, ask a mother with 100 other things on her plate if it can, and she’ll make it happen. It is what we women do. “Initially I was selling the basic cleanser, toner and moisturisers to my clients through my pamper packages and at the Eumundi Markets, but it soon became apparent that I could turn this into a proper little business. Demand was high and the feedback was nothing but positive so I completed a facial care range. In 2000, Mukti Organic Skincare officially launched. It went from strength to strength. Originally making and packaging the products from home all by myself, I soon had to enlist help, employing a couple of staff while I approached the health shops, pharmacies and concept stores to take the range.” And as the business grew, Mukti’s heart mended and she found herself in love again, pregnant with her second daughter, Aysha. “Life was looking up,” Mukti smiles. “Aysha was born in 2001, a sister for Kiyana, and the business continued to be doing well. But there was one thing that I truly wanted for Mukti Organic Skincare if I was to be taken seriously, and that was the Australian Certified Organic status. “The more I learnt about the industry, the more I realised that not all products are what you think, and the term ‘organic’ is bandied around without any enforced regulations or consumer watchdog.

I knew the process to get a certified status was going to be immense but I wanted my consumers to understand that their product was made of the very best ingredients for their skin and kind to the environment. I wanted them to trust in Mukti and have confidence. So we started the application process, and after mountains of red tape and some reformulation of items, the precious badge of honour was awarded in 2006. I was over the moon. In the same year we were also acknowledged with a small business export award, and due to expansion, moved into the existing premises in Coral Street, Maleny. It was all happening!” And the more Mukti gave back to the world by trying to make it a better place, the more inspired she became, finding herself drawn to Bali where she has become based for part of the year, in a bid to educate and help those who are less fortunate than herself, as well as to embrace a lifestyle change. “I love Bali and its spiritual ambience. It is a mecca of natural beauty. I like to go there to have time out and reset. I am writing a book on ageing naturally and gracefully and Bali is the perfect environment in which to tune out from the world. But I also want to give something back. Life is hard for so many over there and Western ways are being imposed on the East. If we are not careful, it will be ruined. The Balinese don’t understand about plastic and that it isn’t biodegradable. They don’t understand that their landscape needs to be protected. There are some eco warriors over there trying to educate and assist the Balinese in this regard and I would like to think I am one of them.” It’s a word Mukti would know well: karma. What goes around comes around. And certainly Mukti appears to be embodying this practice, giving her all to a business which puts the needs of its clients and the environment at the top of the list, not a profit margin, and in the process proving to her father (as she had longed to for all those years) that she can do anything she sets her mind to. “Life doesn’t have to be a struggle,” Mukti smiles. “Life is about lifestyle. We should all be living our lives now, true to who we are. Not playing the game according to someone else’s set of rules and waiting for Nirvana when we retire. We need to let go a little more and enjoy what is before us, taking note of all we have. We must learn to simplify in order to bring back balance and substance to life.” It is often said a devotee can achieve mukti (enlightenment) through bakti (devotion) and I think no-one can deny that Mukti has achieved this both in spirit and in name. As I left her abode that afternoon with a smile on my face, noticing the sun in the sky for the first time that day and imagining the loving embrace I was soon to receive from my pre-schooler, I realised that my mind wasn’t whirring with the stress of the jobs yet to be done or what I was going to cook the kids for dinner. I was in the moment; in that space in time, and I hoped a little bit of Mukti’s zen outlook had rubbed off on me, for I figure we all could use a bit of spiritual healing. Failing that, I clutched Mukti’s latest age defence serum if my hand. As they say, if you can’t be good, be beautiful. Bakti anyone? profilemag.com.au

cover story

We should all be living our lives now, true to who we are. Not playing the game according to someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s set of rules and waiting for Nirvana when we retire.â&#x20AC;?

Mukti wears AUDREY ON PEARLS gown by IN FAIR VERONA DESIGNS (www.infairveronadesigns. bigcartel.com), RRP $179 (Includes hand made embellishments and hand beaded glass and freshwater pearls and swarovski crystals)

may 2013

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ll photography ben lockens, just photograph

In the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat: Wendy Miller A professional businesswoman and mother of three, Wendy Miller is a true local. With more than 13 years in business on the Coast, Wendy prides herself on her exceptional customer service and ability to make a difference in her job. Most importantly, she also believes in having fun along the way! This month, Wendy shares her thoughts on the Volvo V40. 26

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wendy test drives the volvo v40

Sunset strip, city lights, beach side and long, winding country roads. The all new Volvo V40 gives you the ultimate driving experience, wherever you choose to drive.

this compact version did not leave me disappointed. I could not have been any more comfortable in the ergonomically-designed seats, and the interior had a sporty feeling which made me feel like racing off into the sunset.

Only arriving on Australian shores this year and landing at Pacific Motor Group in the first week of March, there is a huge buzz and a lot of hype around the Volvo V40. It’s brand new and once again claiming the title of the world’s safest car.

When Bryce Robinson of Pacific Motor Group and I got chatting and a little overexcited about this month’s review, we found we both felt a distinct “city-feel” from this vehicle. I personally think the V40 is not dissimilar to the sporty yet elegant Volvo C30 I reviewed in February this year. However, the V40 offers five doors and five seats as opposed to the three doors and four seats in the C30.

The V40 is appealing to those buyers who are either looking to downsize their vehicle without compromising the luxury, safety and aesthetic appeal, or those who are about to enter the luxury car market at a competitive price. Pacific Motor Group shared a link on their Facebook page to an interview by Sunrise with John Cadogan, motoring expert. In this interview John states that, “In independent tests in Europe this car scores higher than any other car that has been crash tested”. The most mentionable feature is the brand new pedestrian airbag that is released upon front impact at speeds up to 50km / hour from beneath the bonnet to cover the windscreen, cushioning the impact of the pedestrian and helping to prevent more serious injury. This car is now not only safe for the driver, but those around the vehicle, whether they be pedestrians or other drivers. All the latest features present across the Volvo range are available in the V40 – BLIS (blind spot information system), city safety (automatic braking) driver alert system, security, automatic features and functions, climate controls, audio and communications. There remains no question of the performance, handling and ability of the V40, it is available in six different models, all turbo charged in either diesel or petrol models complete with six-speed transmission. My experience with the Volvo V40 was highly positive. I’m beginning to know what to expect when it comes to test driving the Volvo range and

Rear seating might be considered a little tight for the taller passenger and there is not a lot of visibility for the smaller rear seated passenger due to the deep contoured seat design. That being said, there is no compromise on quality, comfort or safety of any one of the passenger and driver seats and overall, the ride in the Volvo V40 is comfortable, smooth, fast, powerful and solid. With a range of very distinct and striking colours to choose from, and also an array of alloy wheel designs, you can dress up the V40 to your exact liking. You will not be disappointed with the quality interior materials, design and features. I must make mention also of the personalisation options of the digital instrument cluster with three display themes being Elegance, Eco and Performance – all which can be changed as you desire according to your mood. The Volvo V40 is a strong contender in the small passenger vehicle market and with all the features and safety standards and options available, it should absolutely be considered in a buyer’s lineup for a test drive. Sports, elegance, performance, safety and style – why wouldn’t you consider this affordable luxury Volvo V40!?

VISIT PACIFIC VOLVO FOR A TEST DRIVE TODAY. 129 SUGAR ROAD MAROOCHYDORE. PHONE 1300 643 720. WWW.PACIFICMOTORGROUP.COM.AU

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Finding the perfect office space can be a tough job. We’ve put together our top tips that will help you to find the right space for your business.

technology Keep connected to

your clients with the latest information tools. Interactive projectors, recording or wifi are a great value add.

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modern design A neutral space is easy to work with and will let you create your own look.

ambience Make your office inviting and comfortable. Your client’s should know it’s business but still feel at home.

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Designers behind the XPAND serviced offices fit out, Open House, import directly from the manufactures, so there’s no middle man. They offer one-on-one service for all customer order furniture, from the smallest one-bedroom apartment, office spaces or resort fit outs, open house – they do it all. Specialising in mango wood indoor furniture and commercial grade synthetic outdoor suites they work with clients to make the space not only modern and stylish but functional, durable and most of all affordable. With two retail stores on the Sunshine Coast in Noosa and Maroochydore, Open House have a fantastic showroom feel, whether you are shopping for a commercial space or for yourself – they are a one stop shopping experience.

“I love the mango wood furniture with its grey / brown tones that work wonderfully with the brindle laminate and the hue of the carpet and accessories.” Katie Field – Interior Designer Open House ohnoosa@hotmail.com

Serviced offices can be a cost effective alternative to traditional office leasing. Essentially, under a managed system, a group of unconnected businesses can work as a collective who split costs. The right serviced office can give you the upside of more space without the upfront cost and ongoing commitment of signing a lease on new premises. Be Attitude, Better Balanced Books and Russell Sturgess have already made Xpand offices their work space. Key technology partners are All Computer Services, ASV Audio Visual and Fuji Xerox. Interested in Xpand offices?

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teaching success.

terri carr

f knowledge is power, Terri Carr is queen. With a teaching degree and passion for education tucked in her literal clipboard, this mum of two is no stranger to multi-tasking and could practically write the book on how to have a successful career with a young family. For as long as she can remember, Terri wanted to teach. Her pursuit of knowledge has led her on a journey across two states and a career change to become the successful businesswoman she is today, along with her “most important job ever”– being a role-model to daughters Belle, 14, and Abbey, eight. With her weekdays sometimes starting at 4am as she squeezes in a couple of hours work at home before the daily school run (ahem ... multi-tasking!) and heading into the office, Terri’s work ethic is obvious. This determination was instilled at an early age growing up in country Victoria. “Watching my grandparents and then my parents run a family business has inspired me to work hard with honesty and integrity,” Terri reflects. After honing her teaching skills in primary schools and kindergartens in Victoria, Terri, along with thenfive-month-old Belle, made the move to Queensland to call the Sunshine Coast home in 1999. Over the next few years, she took on contract work,

platinum style.

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here’s nothing like a breath of fresh air, and everything about Bridget Turvey, newest team member to join the talented ladies at Platinum Scissors, is fresh. Having only been at Platinum Scissors for a few weeks, the fresh-faced style director is already building a fan base of dedicated clients with her energy. Brunette beauty Bridget was born in New Zealand, growing up in Whangarei near the Bay of Islands. Indulging her love of hairdressing from a young age, with her little sister a handy hair model, meant Bridget knew exactly what she wanted to do when she graduated from high school, entering into an apprenticeship with a local hairdresser. Bridget quickly became a hard worker, juggling learning with intensive study, but loved every snip and cut of it. Once she completed her studies, Bridget made the decision to move to Australia, and started her new life with a fun-filled year of hairdressing in the South Shire, Sydney. After this, a move north beckoned. Adding to the temptation were Bridget’s parents and sister who had also relocated to the Sunshine Coast. Bridget quickly settled in, and along with her husband and their toddler son, has been a local for six years. “We absolutely love living here, it’s just so beautiful,” she says. With 10 years’ experience, high profile hairdressing

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before welcoming her second daughter, Abbey. It was after Abbey’s birth that something clicked. “I decided I wanted a balance between work / life to spend more time with my girls,” Terri says of the career change that saw her swap homework plans for legislation and her pupils become business professionals. After realising her teaching skills could be transferrable, she took her first steps in 2004 towards setting up her own business. Today, forget about running – Terri is flying. The business is thriving, with Ballinger Training and Consultancy (RTO officiated in 2005) providing exceptional training and customised courses to businesses and individuals. Terri, who now focuses on business development and oversees operations, is supported by her strong team of education professionals, (“I love them – I cannot speak highly enough of them!”) and she is rewarded every day by a strong sense of achievement. “For me, the best thing is seeing the confidence people get from having new understanding and knowledge.” Terri loves that she has found an innovative way to continue to impart her knowledge. “I always wanted to run a school – it has dawned on me that now in its own way I do have my own school!” she laughs.

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mentors and multiple salon and management courses to draw on, Bridget came well-equipped to join the polished team at Platinum Scissors. “I worked in a management position at the Sunshine Plaza for about five years, but I really needed a change,” she says, remarking on the more relaxed atmosphere where the salon is nestled in Cotton Tree, with her beloved beach on the doorstep. Now Bridget, the salon’s go-to-girl for Keratin treatments, hopes to grow with the business and continue to follow her inspiration – “I want to make people feel good and make their day”. She has plans to enter an international colouring competition that could see her travel to America for the finals. Her monitoring of online forums, style magazines and “personal favourite” Pinterest show her vibrant, and yes fresh, approach to her craft. “I do love the team here – there is a great vibe and it’s great to work somewhere where I am so supported,” she remarks fondly of her colleagues, Lisa and Lauren. “I am a really creative and social person and I couldn’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing.” She clearly has a passion for her work, along with her love for her family, beaming with an exuberance that is just so refreshing. “I’m a mum and I’m a hairdresser and they are my two roles in life.”. profilemag.com.au

MAGAZINE FEATURE

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WEALTHY ‘N’ WISE

WELCOME to this Wealthy ‘n’ Wise magazine feature, where property investment expert

Chris Childs gives you insight into her world of creating wealth through property investment. In this issue, Chris explains the steps to get your finance platform right, and Jack Childs from Think Investment Realty explains how doing the right research is one of the keys to successful investing. You will also hear from Michael Ord about building to your portfolio using self managed super! We hope you enjoy this magazine feature, and if you need any further information head to the Think Money website at www.thinkmoney.com.au or email chris@thinkmoney.com.au.

WHAT A CLIENT HAS TO SAY...

CHRIS CHILDS

MEET CHRIS CHILDS THINK MONEY WEALTH THROUGH PROPERTY FOUNDER

Experience. There is no substitute for it in any successful business. Just ask Chris Childs, founder of Think Money Wealth Through Property. With more than 20 years’ experience under her belt in the financial planning, mortgage broking and wealth creation through property industries, Chris has helped countless people take charge of their finances and turn their lives around. More importantly, Chris has achieved success from her own personal experience, creating her winning system not from theories but from years of experience creating wealth through property herself.

‘Most mortgages can be paid out in five to seven years, just by doing your banking differently.’ Having been a financial planner and mortgage broker for many years, Chris and her husband, Jack, bought their first investment property in 2000. The dynamic duo went on to buy, sell and renovate several properties over the next three years, but it wasn’t until they bought and kept an investment property that they started to see the real value of capital growth. In addition to accumulating a large property portfolio, Chris also opened three mortgage companies in three years and began to teach some of her clients her top tips and strategies on accumulating wealth through property – hence Think Money was born in 2007. “My mortgage broking clients, having been diligently learning my debt reduction strategies, wanted to learn more about how we were accumulating properties. So I began to teach some of my clients what to do and more importantly what not to do.” Passionate about helping others achieve the same financial freedom she and her family have achieved, Chris now employs a team of professionals to assist clients to achieve their goals while avoiding the pitfalls most of us suffer when we begin the daunting property investment journey with little knowledge and experience. Chris says reducing your debt and accumulating property doesn’t have to impede your lifestyle.

Clint and Daphne Keen came to Think Money in 2009 to get assistance with debt reduction and to plan for their retirement. Knowledge, mentoring and motivation have been the keys to their ongoing success. Looking at investing in the property market? Now would have to be one of the best times to start, with low interest rates and many promising investment opportunities to take advantage of. But where do we start? This is one of the biggest questions any prospective investor will ask, and we did. Contacting Think Money was the most important thing we could have done. The advice and knowledge we have gained and the strategies we have learned from them are immeasurable. This month we signed a contract for the purchase of our 4th investment property. What an awesome achievement, considering we bought our first property in 2009. Actually we bought 2 in that year, another last year. We could not have done it without the guidance of Chris Childs, founder and the entire team at Think Money. Chris’ knowledge and experience in every aspect of creating wealth through property is phenomenal. When you meet Chris, who is also our wealth coach, you will instantly get the feeling that nothing is ever too much trouble or out of the question. She is very approachable, caring and willingly shares her knowledge from personal experience. Chris’ husband Jack, (CEO of QIBC) provides investors with a range of quality properties in well researched locations, a business which compliments the Think Money strategies. Think Money also works with and recommends professionals with regard to finance, tax, insurance, letting and legal matters who work for you to get the best possible outcome. At this stage we are receiving maximum rentals in growth areas, which also come with valuable tax breaks, achieved simply by following the advice and strategies provided by the Think Money team. More importantly, our property investments offer long term capital growth with ongoing rental income so we can look forward to increasing our property portfolio with confidence and living comfortably in retirement. Thanks Think Money. As a prospective new client you will most certainly be experiencing the fear factor, but we assure you your team at Think Money will soon make you feel comfortable as they hold your hand through each stage of your wealth creation journey, wherever you wish to enter. The results we have personally achieved in a short time speak for themselves. It just works. Clinton and Daphne Keen Midas Touch Clients

WEALTHY ‘N’ WISE

SUPERCHARGE YOUR INVESTING POWER Set up your finance platform Control your money, reduce your debt, create wealth through property. Having the right finance platform is the secret to taking control of your finances, accelerating your debt reduction and successfully launching into a strong and sustainable property portfolio. 1.5 million people in Australia invest in property, only 0.5% of these reach five properties or more and the majority of the remaining investors sell out within a year or two due to financial pressure. The main reason people struggle with their finances is because they do not separate personal and investment income and expenses. It is vital that your home mortgage, living expenses and personal income is kept totally separate from investment property debt, expenses and rental income. This strategy forms a huge part of my clients’ success with property investment. Having the right finance platform and advice means most are not only on the path to 10 properties in 10 years, but don’t have any investment costs coming out of their personal funds. Having a self-funding portfolio doesn’t require investing in higher risk, positively geared properties. Conservative properties that are negatively geared are just as easy to manage in the right system.

STEP 2 Review your current Loan structure There are so many different banking options available it is hard to know where to start. Most people get their advice from a bank – what sort of accounts to open, what sort of loans to have. A bit of a laugh really, with most of the profits the banks make coming from their smallest account holders it’s like asking the mouse where to keep the cheese. Getting independent advice on what would work best for you rather than the banks is an important part of setting up your finance platform successfully. Working out how to reduce your debt fast, finding out about the up and down sides of debt consolidation, creating a perfect system of using credit cards to benefit you and not the bank are just a few things a wealth coach can advise on to accelerate your debt reduction and get you on the road to investing.

Let’s look at the steps to creating a successful finance platform in more detail.

STEP 1 Analyse your starting position Getting your personal money organised is a vital part of getting started. It is like spring cleaning your money house. Knowing what money comes in and goes out and ensuring that there is actually a surplus is a good way to start. Obviously if your expenses exceed your income the future of any plan would be very bleak. It is amazing just how many people use the ‘head in the sand’ mentality to avoid finding out if that is the case. This is the source of spiralling credit card debt that can only end up in disaster. Filling in a budget is the first step, but the secret of a healthy financial life is to actually use a cash management system. Most people think a budget is a list of income vs outgoings, however, this is just a list. A true budget or cash management system requires the constant tracking of spending against income to ensure the budget is staying on track.

ARTICLE CONTINUED OVER PAGE

WEALTHY ‘N’ WISE

STEP 3 Separating your personal and investing lives The most important step of wealth creation is to set up your investment finances totally separately from your personal side. Yet strangely enough, it is rare to see this happening. The reason most property investors fail is the financial pressure that occurs when the rental property expenses and income flow in and out of their personal accounts. When the rent comes in it is often tempting to use it for personal bills and expenses leaving a huge financial pressure when the mortgage payment is due. This constant in-flow and out-flow brings the property to the forefront of any financial decisions such as holidays or personal purchases. Worse still, should there be a problem, such as a tenant kicking a door in or leaving without paying rent, the financial burden of the investment weighs heavily on the personal lifestyle of the investor. This can be totally overcome by having an investment pot or buffer fund in place to allow breathing space during these times of crisis, and to also ensure the income is only offsetting the true investment expenses.

STEP 4 Creating a self-funding property portfolio Let’s cut out the middle man, your bank account that earns you nothing but costs you to have it is like the middle man in a transaction. Banking your money straight into your home loan is like going straight to the wholesaler – saving you a fortune! Your line of credit is just like a bank account. You can bank money in, set up direct debits (but first check if the direct debit can be on the credit card for no extra cost), and you can use an Eftpos card to withdraw cash. All the while your cash is sitting on your loan, reducing the principal and you are paying much less interest. All of your normal spending is being done on your credit card, and you are paying no interest at all on the card. The credit card can be paid out in full on the due date from the line of credit. This can also be set up automatically so you don’t forget!

STEP 5 The Power of Equity Equity in your own home is the quickest and easiest way to get started. Many people have a fear of using their property as leverage to purchase an investment property as they fear risking their own home. The risk can be minimised by having a clear plan and exit strategy. As the investment property increases in value, the bank would no longer require your home to form part of the security and the investment would be able to stand alone. However, for those people wanting to accumulate a bigger portfolio much more quickly, using existing equity allows for the building of a property portfolio faster. As the number of properties grow, so does the amount of equity as you are gaining equity on multiple properties. It is a simple matter of getting the right advice or doing extensive research yourself to purchase properties in the right area at the right time to maximise the growth. Buying the wrong property or buying in the wrong area can just as quickly stop you in your tracks. In any property cycle, you usually have two or three years of high growth, then can have five or six years when the market can be flat, and one or two years of negative growth. Timing the market is vital for gaining growth therefore the ability to use that growth to buy again.

STEP 6 Diversification, Risk and SMSF Diversification: For the exact reasons regarding timing the market, another vital part of the puzzle is diversification. If, for example, you buy all of your properties in your own back yard, you will eventually go into a flat market. One of the biggest secrets of building a portfolio is to diversify not only the areas you buy in, but also the type of investments. Demographics, yield variations and supply and demand should form part of the complex decision making when choosing where and what to invest in. Risk Management: Another important part of the plan is to cover your ‘bottom line’. Having the right insurances is vital to success. Not only do you need to make sure the physical things in your life are insured, you also need to ensure you have adequate life, trauma and income protection in place. This protects you, your family and your future retirement security should anything untoward happen. SMSF: Self-managed super funds are becoming quite popular as part of the bigger picture in property investing. Taking control of your super can be an exciting way of breaking into the investment property market when you have limited equity or resources in your personal life. There are obviously many things to consider before going down this path, however, a review of your current situation with a financial planner would certainly be a place to start. Make time to look at where you are heading financially. Chris Childs and her team at Think Money have helped hundreds of people just like you to take control of their money, reduce their debts and create wealth through property. Call and make a time to talk to Chris today on 0419 744 193 / 5430 4777.

WEALTHY ‘N’ WISE

The Key To Successful Investing JACK CHILDS | 0418 794 512 | jack@qibc.com.au

MEET JACK CHILDS Having spent the past 30 years in the building industry, Jack Childs, director of QIBC and Think Investment Realty is more than qualified to offer sound advice when it comes to building spec homes or investment properties to add to your portfolio. Jack has monitored more than 200 successful house constructions and continues to brings his clients investment opportunities across Queensland. Working alongside wife Chris and daughter Juanita of Think Money, the family are passionate about what they do, making them a formidable team. Jack and his dedicated team take the guess work out of building an investment home. Monitoring the whole process from start to finish, ensuring a hassle free experience, they also pride themselves on the extensive research the company puts into each area. Jack says he has seen too many inexperienced investors getting caught out buying an investment home, only to find it doesn’t rent easily or takes months to sell – at a discount. “Doing your research on an area to buy an investment property is much more than just typing it into Google and unfortunately many people get it so wrong,” says Jack. “We research, research and then research some more, that is what sets us apart.” Beginning his career in the home improvement and building industry in Rockhampton working in management and sales, Jack gained a wealth of experience about the building industry over the years. Jack started as a salesman with Trueline Aluminium where he stayed for 26 years working his way through the ranks to become State General Manager. Having always had an affinity with the Sunshine Coast, Jack and his family moved to the region in 2007 and haven’t looked back. “I had been coming to the Sunshine Coast for holidays for about 25 years and we have always loved it so we decided to take the plunge and plan towards it, it’s such a beautiful place to call home.” Little did they know it was to be a life-changing move that would lead to

starting three successful businesses between them. Chris, previously a financial planner expanded her CQ mortgage broking business and opened a branch here. It was during this time, the couple began purchasing some investment properties and their lives took a different direction. “Chris’s clients could see what we were doing and they started to ask, how we did it. So that’s when Chris came up with the idea of Think Money and started to educate people how to create wealth through property. “What she found though was that they were going out buying property that they thought was good or what a smooth talking sales person told them was good and unfortunately often times it wasn’t.”

‘Jack and his dedicated team take the guess work out of building an investment home. Monitoring the whole process from start to finish, ensuring a hassle free experience, they also pride themselves on the extensive research the company puts into each area.’ Tired of commuting to Brisbane, Jack, who had always done the research for their own properties decided to open his own businesses QIBC and Think Investment Realty (TIR). It was the perfect combination to allow him to combine his years of experience in the building industry with his passion for investing in property and help his clients build and buy investment properties in the right areas. “Having worked in the home improvement industry for 26 years, rising to the position of General Manager, I left to open QIBC and TIR. This has also assisted Think Money clients by having well researched properties to choose from.”

WEALTHY ‘N’ WISE

“We make a great team because QIBC specialises in house and land and the construction side of things. While Think Investment Realty is a real estate agency, we specialise in research. We research first and find the property second. Then Chris will educate you in all the things you need to do to make it work for you. “Some people don’t want the education, they just want to buy a good investment property, so you can talk to me or one of the crew and we can show you all the research. We find the property to suit what the buyer wants.” “We print out in-depth research documents for our clients. We don’t just hand them out to everyone but those buying a property from me are supplied with a copy of all the research.” Jack says, importantly, there are always going to be different properties for different people and what they are wanting to achieve and that is where Think Investment Realty can help.

Call today to book your free property strategy session INVESTMENT REALTY ✓

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Right property Right Area

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TOWNSVILLE MACKAY

“For example, a highly positively geared property will have a high rental income but capital growth is a bit slow in a volatile market so it is a little higher risk. You might buy something positively geared so you can then use the extra income to support a negatively geared property. Every property is a worthwhile property as long as you buy it at the right price and you know why you are buying it.”

‘Jack says it’s not only about where you want to buy, finding the right property in the right area is essential.’ “Places like Rockhampton and Toowoomba are good steady places to buy a property, they may not be positively geared when you buy them, but in five years they will be and you can guarantee it’s going to have good capital growth.” Jack says it’s not only about where you want to buy, finding the right property in the right area is essential. “Demographics is one of the most important things. It also has to be in the right area. For example, there are areas in Gladstone where I wouldn’t buy just like there are parts of Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast where I wouldn’t buy. It all comes down to research and I am proud to say we do get it right most of the time, which lowers the risk considerably.” Jack also points out that buying a new property rather than renovating an older one can be a wiser choice, due to tax benefits. “A lot of people only buy second-hand and after a while you work out that doesn’t always work. It creates a bit of cash flow but I also see a lot of people get it wrong with renovations, they spend too much. If you buy new you are going to get maximum rent and a minimum of 10 years worry-free as it’s all covered by building guarantees.” Speaking with Jack, I can see the passion in his eyes, this is one man who truly loves what he does.

Right Time Maximise Profit

✓

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CALL JACK - 0418 794 512 Some of the ways Jack and his team CAN help: • Building Project Management • Negotiate with the builders on your behalf to get the very best price • Ensure you have a FIXED PRICE Contract – no hidden surprises • Check that the planned finish and fittings for your home are relevant to your needs (eg speckie or investor) • Assist with colour selection, and Prime Cost (PC) items are suitable for the property • Check your house and land contracts • Check council and Covenant requirements • Check compliance with the Green laws

“I guess you can buy properties from people who haven’t got properties themselves, the difference is we do, we have been there, we have the knowledge and the experience.

• Monitor and check each stage for completion to superior standard

“People often ask me why we don’t retire and I say, ‘Why would we?’, we enjoy it so much, we just love what we do.”

• Notify you when you should approve the progress draws for payment

And it shows. I feel I have learned so much in the half an hour I have had with Jack. His enthusiasm is infectious and certainly got me thinking about moving out of my comfort zone and start thinking about a smarter way towards financial independence.

• Check the house at each stage of development

Contact Jack today on 0418 794 512 or email jack@qibc.com.au

• Send photos and regular updates by email

• Ensure builder stays on track and is time wise with build to get a speedy finish. • Stay in touch with you regularly to guide you through the whole process.

We are proud to announce our latest offering from the Think Money Group – Think Wealth 4 Women, designed for women with a great attitude and a passion for creating wealth through property. It is great to see that more and more women want to have control of where their money is going and how they can grow it faster. They want to be educated. From taking control over your budget and finances to growing an investment property portfolio, from controlling your superannuation to looking at your needs for covering risks, the path can seem daunting and even overwhelming. If you would like more confidence to understand your finances then it’s time to check out the Think Wealth 4 Women Group and discover first-hand the knowledge and support we can offer. As part of the Think Wealth 4 Women Group you can expect to receive: • A wealth creation education second-to-none. • One-on-one coaching sessions with experts in finance, property and goal creation. • Access to wealth retreats and adventures all centred around financial education with a touch of wellbeing and some spa treatments thrown in! • Think Wealth 4 Women Education DVD’s / CDs. • Free access to our weekly webinars and ‘wealth chats’. Don’t miss this great day of financial education! Financial education set around goals and mindset will leave you feeling that anything is possible and what’s more achievable with the right support.

Meet Chris Childs and Lynn Levitt Chris has educated and mentored me to a greater place both financially and personally. While going through my own wealth journey, I found it a little daunting to put my trust in people who already had what I wanted. I also struggled to have these conversations with my family and friends. Being coached by Chris has shown me very easy steps to better money management. This has resulted in a multitude of great benefits to my life, both financially and personally. So much so that I am now pleased to be part of the Think Money Group and assisting Chris with the development of Think Wealth 4 Women, to empower women with finances. I am well on my way to owning multiple properties and have far better cash flow in my life than I have ever experienced. I would like to introduce Chris Childs to you through Think Wealth 4 Women and you can see for yourself how fabulous it is to be in control of your financial destiny as opposed to being a slave to it. About Chris Childs: I would love to see you all at our launch of Think Wealth 4 Women so I can share with you the many stories of my clients, who, like Lynn, were unsure of their situation with regards to finances. Whether you are partnered, single or separating, having a good, healthy mindset around your finances is crucial to your well-being. My role is to mentor and guide you through the process and give you access to the information that will most definitely change your life for the better. Call 5430 4777 for more information

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win a mother / daughter glamour shoot With Mother’s Day just around the corner all mums deserve a day off to indulge in some pampering, attention and fun. At Heidi Cooper’s newly opened Buderim photography studio, Style studios (www.stylestudios.com.au), Heidi specialises in glamour portraiture for all ages and families, as well as dance photography. Profile Magazine and Style Studios are offering one lucky mother and daughter the ultimate girls’ day out with a glamour shoot valued at $500. The prize is something precious to keep forever and promises to capture the warmth between mother and daughter. The package includes a makeover, refreshments, photo shoot in studio and two art mounted portraits signed by Heidi Cooper.

win designer costume jewellery Born from a love of collecting one-off, glamorous, high-end vintage and international designer costume jewellery, clothing and handbags, Daniella Balscheit founded her successful Melbourne-based jewellery label, Goldie. Launched in 2009, Goldie (www. goldie.net.au) is an impressive collection of indulgent, contemporary and rare vintage costume jewellery pieces, built from years of travel to all corners of the globe, but mostly sourced from New York. The label offers individual, striking pieces designed to be worn with confidence and exude glamour. Profile readers have the chance to own a stunning gold plated black and gold Trifari neck cuff which includes black polished gem stones, valued at $500. may 2013

Over 200 ways to tasty, healthy, low-fat homestyle cooking!

by Annette Sym BONUS

GLUTEN FREE SWEET ECTION S

Over 20 0 wa low-fa ys to tasty, he t home style co althy, oking! by

Annett

e Sym

BONUS

SWEET GLUTEN FR EE SECTION

Australia’s #1 low-fat cookbook series. Over 3.5 million sold!

win a great cook book

Australi a’s cookbo #1 low-fat Over 3.5 ok series. million sold!

Having sold more than 3.5 million cookbooks to date, local Annette Sym is a leader in her field. Her Symply Too Good low fat recipe books have helped so many people lose unwanted weight and regain their lives. More importantly, Annette makes it so simple. Annette is delighted to announce that her seventh book is going digital too! “This one has been a little bit more intense than the previous six because I have decided to get technical,” says Annette. “It will be available in digital format for iPad and Android tablets. The other exciting thing about this book is that both the printed book and digital versions will be interactive, so you will be able to scan a QR code (or click on a button if you have the digital version) and view more information, watch me cook a recipe or share some tips.” Book seven has more recipes than any of Annette’s previous books, with two bonus sections for you to enjoy - Sweet Gluten Free and Bonza Burgers. Twenty lucky Profile readers will win a copy of Annette’s book, valued at $14.95. For more information go to www.symplytoogood.com.au. profilemagazine

At design initial the philosophy is simple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; give the choice back to the customers. Our range of furniture is modern and includes customisation of sofas and wall units to suit any living space. Live in the style and comfort you deserve.

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sunshine coast

maroochydore homemaker center．11-55 maroochy blvd．QLD．07 5479 3286

brisbane ．melbourne． gold coast opening soon

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vanity case

soft tint Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm, RRP $14.95. Available from David Jones, Myer and Priceline stores

natural beauty Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser, RRP $14.99. Phone 1800 678 380 for stockists

miracle oil

organic care

O THE EC

TOM organic tampons, RRP from $6.29. Available from Coles, Woolworths and selected health stores and pharmacies

I S SU E

Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, RRP $35.95 (45ml). Visit www.trilogyproducts.com

with Johanna Jensen fashion and beauty editor

PURE

sugar scrub Saya RAW SUGAR BODY POLISH 250 GRAMS, RRP $25. Made from organic raw sugar, organic cold pressed coconut oil and macadamia. Available from www.sayaskin.com

Want to improve your skin naturally without breaking the bank? We’ve found an amazing range of beautiful products that won’t cost the earth. renew your skin Scientific Organics Phytocell Cream RRP $105. An intensive age-fighting and hydrating cream with concentrated grape stem cells designed to help revitalise, protect, brighten and renew skin. Available from Bliss on Buderim. Phone 5477 1430

age-defying Skip botox and try the mukti age defence collection, RRP $247. Available from www.muktiorganics.com or phone 1300 306 554

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saving grace

protect your hair

Antipodes Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser, RRP $39. A blend of raspberry seed, aloe vera, marshmallow, mamuka black fern and Bulgarian rose oil. Certified organic. Available from Myer and selected pharmacies

muk Spa Argan Oil Repair Treatment is a blend of pure Moroccan Argan Oil, linseed oil, sweet almond oil, keratin protein and aloe vera, RRP $34.95. Phone 1300 768 264 for stockists

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bliss on buderim

beauty

...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about you

may 2013

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the good life profile: What is your personal philosophy when it comes to health and well-being? brooke: Do the best that you can. Often on your health journey you can feel overwhelmed by different opinions, information and ideas. You must do what feels right for you and if you are doing your best that’s all that matters. profile: Do you consider yourself a fit and healthy person? sally: Yes, although we are always looking for avenues to make us feel better and we are continually learning. profile: How do you keep fit and healthy? brooke: Finding balance can be challenging when you’re a mother – we always try to find ways to do something every day, whether it’s gardening, gym visits, walking, yoga or some weights at home, and we fuel our bodies with nourishing, whole foods. Variety is the key, both in exercise and diet. profile: Why do you choose organic? sally: The benefits are not only for you but also for the planet. We choose organic because it’s better for you, it tastes better, it is free of chemicals and pesticides, it promotes sustainable farming, and supports our local organic farmers. profile: What would you say to those who say organic = expensive! sally: Yes, sometimes it can be more expensive up front. However, we see more value in the long-term health benefits over the increased cost. We prefer to spend a bit more on our fresh, organic food every week than on other things. We haven’t always been like that but our priorities over the last few years have really changed. We shop at local farmers’ markets and have also started growing our own organic produce, which helps with the cost as well. profile: You are obviously passionate about passing on your good eating habits to your children? Is this something you were brought up with? brooke: Yes, to a certain extent, and we are very grateful for that. Our parents always had a veggie patch when we were young. They really did the best with the knowledge that they had at the time, just as we are trying to do the best now that we can for our children.

sister act

ll photography chesterton smith photography

Sally Barnes and Brooke Toholka

unshine Coast sisters 28-year-old Sally Barnes and 31-year-old Brooke Toholka certainly share a common gene when it comes to their passion for creating healthy, organic food and recipes for their own young families. Dedicated to providing their children with the foundations to live a holistic and creative life, this healthy duo is dedicated to doing their bit for the planet by choosing chemical and pesticide-free foods, promoting sustainable farming, and supporting our local organic farmers. Their Facebook page, aptly named Organic Sisters, is gaining quite a following and the girls are planning new and innovative ways to share their recipes and ideas with the wider community, with a recipe book in the pipeline.

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profile: What’s your favourite ‘good’ food? sally: It would definitely be our daily green smoothies or juices – the greener the better! profile: What’s your favourite ‘indulgence’ food? brooke: Our homemade chocolate, homemade ice cream, and raw cakes! profile: Western medicine or natural medicine? What’s your preference? sally: Natural medicine. Obviously it’s a matter of choice, but over time we have progressively moved towards natural medicine as we have had better results. However, we do believe there is still a place for Western medicine. profile: What health tips do you swear by? brooke: Start your day by having a green smoothie or a fresh vegetable juice. Sometimes we get so busy and our minds are racing that we forget to breathe properly. Committing to meditation helps you to practice slow, deep breathing. And drink water, lots of it! profile: What motto do you live your life by? sally: Give thanks for everything; feeling true gratitude really changes your experiences in life. profilemag.com.au

may 2013

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advice style counsel

ll photography chesterton smith photography

Husband and wife team Liljana and Andrew Frey have combined their joint backgrounds in public relations, marketing and business development with their passion for fashion and the arts to create their new venture, The Handmade Exchange. The unique Noosa-based online boutique market showcases the work of local and interstate artists to an international audience and develops vital relationships with other artists. Their first Facebook ‘market night’ held in September garnered more than $2,000 in sales, with the following market bringing in a phenomenal $10,000. Their strong and growing clientele is testament to the commitment the Handmade Exchange continually makes to offer clients the best in quality design, style and workmanship. we catch up with liljana to learn more.

Liljana and Andrew Frey

profile: What do you love most about your job? liljana: I wake up each day knowing it will be different from the last. Working closely with a large number of artists and creators means new collections are constantly being released, and I find great joy in sharing these collections with other art enthusiasts. profile: What jewellery styles are in this season? liljana: Beautiful, bold statement pieces that speak of timeless elegance. I always choose jewellery that won’t go out of fashion the following season, but which still complements current trends. Studio Swoon is a great example of a local design label dedicated to handcrafting perpetually stylish jewellery. profile: What makes a great piece of jewellery? liljana: A perfect balance of contemporary design coupled with exquisite craftsmanship – a piece that commands attention, even when it is an understated set of earrings or a simple ring. Most importantly, it has to be handmade and preferably limited edition, rather than something mass-produced. profile: How would you describe your own style? liljana: I love a bright, summery sun dress paired with handmade jewellery and hair accessories. My wardrobe consists of countless variations of this look! profile: What inspired you to become involved in jewellery and design? liljana: My mum is an artist and I spent my childhood hanging around art studios in Sydney and Melbourne. From an early age I grew to appreciate the laborious creative processes employed by artists. After university Andrew and I spent several years travelling around Europe and the US, relishing in the vibrant art scenes of Holland and San Francisco. Upon settling back in Noosa, we decided to put our heads together and come up with a way that we could help put the Coast creative scene back on the map. From there we have just continued to expand! profile: What is your vision for the future? liljana: I’d love to see a mass movement of consumers choosing to support small, creative businesses. Handmade clothing, jewellery, shoes, accessories, homewares and other artistic works come with added value as they are highly unique and usually better made than mass-produced products.

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may 2013

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advice

why organic? with Benita May Anyone who knows me knows how passionate I am about organic. It all started when I was pregnant. I became aware of the multitude of chemicals present in nearly every single product, from food to clothes, household cleaning products, and of course, skincare. And so my journey began to eliminate as many chemicals from my home as possible.

nature, keeping harmful chemicals out of our environment, and building healthy soil and crops.

parabens, petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances. I am proud to say we have eliminated the nasties from our retail ranges and have a wonderful, chemical-free organic range. The company also plants a tree for every product sold, so this ticks the boxes for environmental responsibility.

But why organic? Certified organic products are grown and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, fertilisers, animal derivatives / cruelty or GMOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (genetically modified organisms).

Chemicals enter the body in three ways, through skin, through the digestive system, and through the respiratory system. The skin is the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest eliminatory organ and a semi-permeable membrane and it is proven that chemicals can enter the skin and end up in the bloodstream. Environmental illness and skin disorders are among the most common conditions in our modern day world, so it makes sense to me to reduce our exposure to chemicals as much as possible.

Organic products also help towards sustainability and reducing dependence on non-renewable resources in our environment. Organic production works in harmony with

One place to start is with what you put on your skin. There are many options available in organic skin care now as consumers become increasingly aware of the adverse effects of

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Learning to read ingredients and becoming aware of what you put on your skin, breathe in and digest are three ways to start your journey to an organic, more sustainable and healthy future. Bliss on Buderim 5477 1430 www.blissonbuderim.com.au

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DEANNE CERS • • •

may 2013

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advice

eating disorders and teeth with Dr Simone Ricketts Almost one million Australians are reported to be suffering from dangerous eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia and binge-eating. It is no longer the stereotyped image of women and adolescents who are affected by eating disorders, with an increasing number of males now making up approximately 10 per cent of sufferers. A common misconception regarding eating disorders is that they are simply a diet gone wrong, an attention-seeking exercise or a fad. Many significant factors cause eating disorders to develop, including low self-esteem, a fear of getting fat or experiencing a triggering life event. Eating disorders can have a major impact on teeth and the mouth. Patients suffering from eating disorders experience major tooth erosion, sensitive teeth and facial pain.

Teeth can become sensitive to temperature, and as the stomach acid from frequent vomiting erodes the teeth enamel they often become thin, break easily, expose the nerve, change colour, or change length, resulting in a shortening of the overall height of the face.

Firstly, it is essential not to brush immediately after vomiting. Instead, rinse the mouth with water as soon as possible after vomiting. Use a fluoride mouthrinse to remineralise and strengthen tooth enamel and chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow, which helps neutralise acids.

Each of these eating disorders deprives the body of essential minerals and vitamins necessary for good health. Without good nutrition, gums and soft tissues inside the mouth can bleed easily. Poor intake of vitamins may result in infections, ulcers and cracking at the corners of the mouth or inflammation of the tongue.

Remember that eating disorders have many dangerous effects, and it is often the dentist who first notices the impact on the teeth and mouth. If you are struggling with an eating disorder please talk to your healthcare provider.

Treatment of eating disorders is generally a long-term treatment. However, from a dental perspective there are some essential everyday hints to remember.

Smile by Design 5443 2888 www.smilebydesign.net.au

Find out why Anxiety, Nervousness, and Panic Attacks happen to you and how to overcome it! Do you wake in the morning feeling anxious for no apparent reason? Do you find yourself with panic overwhelming you through the day when nothing is planned? You might feel nervous about going to work or when the phone rings, when there’s nothing to be worried about. This can go on for months or years, and will cause debilitating emotions, reducing your ability to work, and cause relationship problems at home. There are a number of underlying causes that contribute to symptoms including anxiety, nervousness, depression, or lack of excitement and motivation for life. Stress feels overwhelming, and little upsets cause feelings of anger. Palpitations, irritable bowel syndrome, foggy brain and poor concentration can also occur. Even though it seems psychological, and you may have issues in your life contributing to it, there are two very common physical problems that cause your symptoms to feel more extreme than they should feel. These affect the nervous system, causing your fight / flight response to over-react. A malicious infection has been found to be a contributing factor in up to 90 per cent of tested patients. It’s picked up from

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overseas, or having contact with someone who has travelled which is only detected in specialised testing. This infection releases a toxin affecting the nervous system physically and mentally. It’s not often been associated with mental health, though studies show its impact on the brain. It’s passed on very easily, so more than one person in a household may suffer from similar symptoms. You will also find some people can carry this infection with no symptoms whatsoever, as it seems to act when there are other health or stress-related problems. Often we’re able to correlate the first sign of symptoms, coinciding with a stomach bug causing diarrhoea or vomiting. It’s passed on quite easily through schools, daycare centres, or places of work. It’s quite easy to treat, when done properly, and most symptoms are relieved as soon as the infection has been eradicated. Infections are just one part of a seven-step process for permanently treating anxiety and other mental health conditions. These steps have been proven with testing to improve the brain function immeasurably, without the help of medication.

To find out more, call the centre and arrange a free half-hour consultation, or view the free webinar 7 Steps to Freedom from Anxiety & Depression at www.advancedwellness.com. au. A webinar is simply a seminar that you can see on the internet. “Awesome, awesome, awesome ... this webinar is a MUST for everyone who cares about their overall health ...” J.M. from Buderim “Oh my lord, what an informative webinar … Brilliant” L.D. from Chermside “I thought the webinar was fantastic ... I now have a fuller understanding of my health” L.C. from Buderim www.advancedwellness.com.au Jodi Chapman B.H.Sc. Naturopath Suzi Le Fanue BSc(BMed) ND Naturopath & Nutritionist

Advanced Wellness & Behavioural Centre 5443 1987 44 Baden Powell St, Maroochydore

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • Suite 5 / 68 Jessica Boulevard, Minyama

* Conditions apply

may 2013

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» » » CT Scan » » » »

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inprofile focus

words christie lenz ll photography chesterton smith photography

Tasha Hungerford is one woman who proves that you don’t have to play by the rules when it comes to success. A mother at just 16 years of age, this clever businesswoman, determined to carve a successful career and lifestyle for her five beautiful children, turned her passion for numbers into a thriving business. Tasha is now at the helm of successful accountancy firm, Grow Accounting and is helping others realise their financial dreams. Profile chats with the savvy businesswoman, mother and grandmother to discover what makes her tick. Tasha Hungerford

ailure was simply never an option for Sunshine Coast businesswoman Tasha Hungerford – even early on, when life threw her obstacles which might have seen others decide the path to success was too hard to forge. She attributes that drive to succeed to her upbringing, where it was instilled from an early age that the world was her oyster. “My mother very much has a can-do attitude, so to me there was never really an alternative – you just do the best with what you can. I have a really close family and all very strong female role models so you grow up thinking that anything is possible.” When Tasha was introduced to the world of numbers while taking a business principles class in year eight, she knew she had found her calling. She quickly realised that numbers spoke to her and she understood them in a way that did not come to others as easily. From there it was a logical jump to use her gift to interpret them for people with no idea what the numbers meant and in the process improve their financial affairs. “It’s not that I love technical maths. When I told my mum she said ‘But you hate maths’. I don’t love maths but I love what the numbers can teach you and how they can help people.” Fast forward to today and Tasha successfully juggles raising four children while heading Sunshine Coast accounting firm Grow Accounting, and the curve balls she has overcome along the way are testament to what can be achieved if you never sacrifice your life goals. At just 16 years of age Tasha fell pregnant with daughter Brittany, and just five months after giving birth, she discovered she was pregnant with her second daughter, Rianna. But these two massive life changes would not set her back, nor would her daughter being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at age three, and later son, Kobe, with autism. “I guess it really just showed me at an early age how important family is and what I was working to achieve. You have to have that goal in mind – I’m building a business that supports my family and most importantly is structured to allow me to spend more time with my family, She says Kobe has taught her patience and tolerance because in dealing with autistic children you have to try and learn different ways to interact. “It has taught me to think outside the square and look at things in a completely different way to try and understand how he sees the world.

may 2013

This has a direct application for clients because I will be talking to my clients and you think, ‘Okay they are not getting how I am explaining that’, so I now have to approach it and explain it in a different way that resonates with them.” Grow Accounting has two major client bases – family-owned businesses and property owners. But for Tasha the approach is the same and it all comes back to working out what the client’s end goal is and asking them why they are doing what they are doing. For Tasha it stands to reason that clients aren’t in business or looking to buy property just to spend the money, but rather people have a vision of what they thought it would achieve for them. Grow accounting assists people with the financial side of achieving their goals, providing the right advice and mentoring along the way. Tasha is very proud of her team and loves that clients comment that everyone is so friendly, happy and relaxed while also knowing how to answer any technical questions. Professionally, last year was a big year, which saw the partners at Keating and Associates change the business name in early 2012, Tasha buy out other business partners and relocate to new premises. She is supported by the same team of accountants and administration that has always looked after their clients and found the premises at Twin Waters was starting to get a bit small for the team of 15. Tasha had been with the firm since 1999 and became a partner in 2008, and while most businesses were struggling in the wake of the GFC, business was unexpectedly booming for what was then Keating and Associates accounting. “We are actually finding we are busier since the GFC. We found that the businesses that were struggling came to us straight away and said we need help to get through this, which was brilliant. It really allowed us to start working closely with our clients and really help guide them towards where they were going to take their business and provide up to date financial information.” Tasha says the businesses were grateful for the support and often just wanted to know whether they would be okay, whether they were on the right track just giving them the confidence and security to continue on that path helped. With such passion, determination and drive, this is one business which I have no doubt will only continue to grow in leaps and bounds. Seems Tasha’s mum’s words really rang true for this go-getter. Life is your oyster, you just have to grab it with both hands. profilemagazine

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industry talk

Welcome to this month’s edition of Industry Talk; a place where we invite our business experts to answer your questions – for free! It can certainly be tough running a business on your own, so our experts will be on hand each month to offer advices in areas of accounting, law, marketing and human resources. Submissions are open for your business questions – simply email your question to editorial@profilemag.com.au (business name and contact details will only be published with consent).

Peta Grenfell B.Bus (Acc), CPA

Partner, PWA Financial Group Pty Ltd info@pwafinancial.com.au

“I’m looking at buying a new car – but should my company or trust buy it?” The short answer to this question is ... it depends! We have all heard conversations at a barbecue on a Sunday afternoon where Uncle Reg is telling anyone who will listen that he put his car in his company and he is much better off … so that’s what you should do too! But in reality, it is not always as simple as that. When deciding which entity to purchase your new car in, your individual circumstances need to be considered in light of the current tax laws. Legislation regarding the calculation of Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) on some cars has changed recently, and in some cases, it now means that the benefits previously available are no longer. The issues to consider include FBT, GST on purchase, sale and expenses, Luxury Car Tax (LCT) for cars that cost more than $59,133, Transfer Duty, your private use of the car and your personal tax rate, just to name a few. It is generally the case that low to medium priced cars that are financed and have high private use are usually better to be purchased by a company or trust. However, more expensive cars are almost always better to be purchased personally because of the limitations placed on deductions and GST under the LCT rules. Therefore, the message is to check with your accountant before you sign a contract and drive away in your new car!

may 2013

Laurie Clarke Co owner BOQ Maroochydore laurie.clarke@boq.com.au

“My debtors are paying me more slowly and cash flow is harder to manage. Can you lend me more money?” Borrowing more money is not always the best answer. It may seem the easiest option, but it comes at a cost and will have to be paid back at some stage in the future. Often an increase in your working capital facilities works in tandem with other business improvements. My first piece of advice is to review the business and set up a budget and action plan with your adviser. If you haven’t got a close relationship with your adviser, then get one. Don’t be concerned if that comes with a bill, the benefits you get from implementing good advice should more than pay for itself. Actively manage the debtor relationships. If you have set clear trading terms, follow them up and enforce them. Get help if you aren’t able to do it yourself. Remember you have not made a profit until the money is in the bank. Review and reduce your expenses – examples may include review telephone plans or find a way to clear surplus or obsolete inventory. Consider sub-letting unused space. I’m also often asked about renegotiating existing loan terms. For example, whether it’s worth switching to interest only repayments for a period of time or bedding down a hard core overdraft into a lower rate term loan. Often there is no single right answer to this common problem. A downturn in business or cash flow is the opportunity for a thorough review of operations. If you can hold onto these efficiencies as sales or cash flow improvements, the benefits will go straight to your bottom line.

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shopping with hidden dollars with Debbie Riddiford If you suddenly uncovered $10,000, what would you spend it on? We recently had a client who used hard-earned dollars we found for an overseas holiday. It could be a Louis Vuitton handbag or paying off credit card debt, but if you plan correctly you will find those hidden dollars, especially at this time of year, with tax planning. Here are some tips that will help you. We saved the aforementioned client $20,000 in cash / tax after we implemented a strategy for her small business by reducing tax legally. So what did we do? •• Deferred non-essential income until the new financial year – saving $5,000. •• Maximised her super contribution to $50,000 ($25,000 maximum this year) which saved her company tax after paying contribution tax in her SMSF.

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•• Suggested that she wait to purchase a new motor vehicle this year to gain the $5,000 accelerated deduction that was made available from 1 July, 2012. (TIP: If you are looking at buying a vehicle, have it ready for use before 30 June to ensure your eligibility for the $5,000 accelerated deduction.)

If you are reading this saying, “I don’t have any profits this year to save tax” – well, I have news for you. It was introduced last year that businesses would be allowed a one-year carry-back provision for the 2013 financial year where your 2013 loss can be applied against profits taxed in the 2012 financial year.

•• Kept the client under the payroll tax threshold by paying out fully franked dividends in place of her salary, saving her company considerably more in tax and providing her with a good refund personally from the franking credits.

From May there are only nine weeks until 30 June. Yes, that’s right, not long at all! So plan to find those hidden dollars now.

Additional tips:

PJT Accountants & Business Advisors 5413 9300 www.pjtaccountants.com.au

•• Bring forward any deductions (like interest payments on investments) if you know that you will be earning less during your next financial year. •• Review your investments to determine whether any should be sold to offset any capital gains made throughout the year.

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mybusiness

mybusiness welcome to my Business – where we introduce you to new and long-standing local business people who share their expertise and secrets to their success with our readers each month. This month, we introduce you to two successful businesses who are leading the way in their respective fields.

jamie grigg insurance Insurance, ahh the necessary evil we all need to cover our hard earned possessions and investments. Insurance is usually the last thing on your mind when purchasing a new house, investment property, motor vehicle or even a business. I can think of a number of reasons why this may be the case. Unlike many other professions, there is no education on insurance, it’s rare that the general public can identify their individual needs and obtain the right cover they require. Why use a broker? Insurance brokers are rigorously trained, regulated and monitored by ASIC to ensure you receive the most accurate, appropriate advice for your needs. Without dedicated professional advice, inadequate covers may be arranged by you resulting in uninsured losses. Insurance brokers deal with a multitude of insurance companies and therefore have access to varied policy covers. Brokers are aware of the various benefits, exclusions and costs of competing policies available in the market. Brokers will arrange and place cover and assist with documentation completion. A broker will also explain your policy and make you aware of any special cover restrictions. Losses can be traumatic and brokers are able to draw on their professional relationships with insurers in order to expedite claim settlements. Utilising the services of an insurance broker can save you time and money as we have the expertise to tailor appropriate covers. www.jginsurance.com.au

may 2013

think money Do you want to get out of a never-ending treadmill of a 25 year mortgage? Are you sick of the constant cycle of paying interest on credit card debt? Just by doing your banking differently – you could pay out your mortgage in five to seven years instead of 25! Over the past 10 years I have helped hundreds of clients do just that. Banks don’t teach you to do it the right way – banks profit from you getting it wrong in the first place. Yet it is the first place we normally go for advice on choosing home loans and which bank accounts to use. Think Money provides investors with education, personalised training and support to help create substantial wealth through property investment. We offer strategies and services for all types of investors. Think Money specialises in debt reduction – teaching you how to do your banking differently, effectively manage your money to reduce debt and take back control of your life without forfeiting your lifestyle. Once you have the knowledge on how to beat the banks at their own game you will be surprised to watch the years fall off your mortgage. Paying high interest on credit cards will be a thing of the past too. With Think Money’s Debt Reduction program you will have a caring professional by your side to teach you proven debt reduction strategies and guide you through the whole process. Chris Childs and the team at Think Money would like to offer you a free debt reduction session with one of our debt reduction specialists. This session is the perfect launch pad to accelerate your debt reduction. Many of our clients who now have multi-million dollar property portfolios, started here. If you want to reduce your debt to purchase your first property or to enable you to extend your portfolio and manage the holding costs this session will give you the right knowledge and insider knowledge to get started. For more information email chris@thinkmoney.com.au

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office space

go arty Adorn the office wall with this effortlessly fresh monochrome canvas piece, RRP $89, available from www.downthatlittlelane.com.au

ultra-tech Communication is key in the business world so stay in touch with these sleek tablets. Prices from RRP $496. available from Harvey Norman Maroochydore

caffeine co-worker Equip the office with this funky coffee machine to indulge in deliciously smooth cups of coffee or double shot espressos to kickstart the day. RRP $246 from Joyce Mayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre

take a seat Mix up the staple office chair with this statement piece that will add understated grandeur to any room with its contemporary, retro look. RRP $899, available from Oz Design, sunshine Homemakers Centre. phone 5479 1377

may 2013

Polish your businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; look instantly with these contemporary pieces for the consummate professional. Glossy colours, clean design and cutting-edge technology combine for the epitome of business chic.

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are you considering renovating? with Linda Ireland Are you finding your beloved home is struggling to meet your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growing needs but you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bear the thought of selling it? With house prices currently in a stagnant state in many areas, it might be a good time to consider renovating your property. This way you will be able to upgrade what is already yours to meet the needs of your family in terms of size, functionality and / or aesthetics. Homeowners should weigh up the costs versus the benefits of making any home improvements. If a homeowner can achieve their desired renovation or rebuild without over capitalising on the investment (when the cost of the renovation outweighs the value it will add to the property), they may wish to give further consideration to renovating or rebuilding. There are a number of different renovation finance options that you could consider, including, but not limited to the following.

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Loan top-ups tap into equity already built up in your property. Keep in mind there may be a minimum top-up amount and the extra funds will be stretched out over the remaining loan term. The potential loan amount accessible will depend on the amount of equity built up in the existing property and the lender may insist on a new property valuation. Personal loans can range from $10,000 to $25,000, they often include lower upfront and no ongoing fees, and there is no security required, meaning you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to offer your home as security. However, you are required to prove your ability to repay the loan. Note the interest rate on a personal loan is often higher than that on a mortgage and the loan term is typically between five and seven years. Line of credit loans are secured with a mortgage on a residential property. Funds up to a set limit can be withdrawn at any time and repayments can be made monthly or the balance

can be paid in full. You may place your income into the loan account to save on daily interest and use the credit card to make most purchases. Construction loans finance structural renovations and the building of new dwellings, where the funds are drawn down over time as the extension or dwelling is built, rather than in one lump sum. These drawdowns are sometimes referred to as progress payments, and the lender usually sets a 12-month time limit on the drawdown period. You can weigh up all the options, including selling and purchasing something more suitable verses renovating. To review your options and determine if the costs of renovating is worthwhile for you, talk to a trusted mortgage broker. Mortgage Choice 5476 9333 linda.ireland@mortgagechoice.com.au

profilemag.com.au

may 2013

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the last word

annette sym

ll photography chesterton smith photography Annette Sym suffered years of unhappiness as an overweight child, teen and adult. Weighing 100 kilos at her heaviest, it was a photograph of Annette that was the catalyst for her to turn her life around. Tired of failed fad diets over the years, Annette switched to a simple, low-fat, healthy diet and shed 35 kilos. Now a motivational speaker, businesswoman and author, Annette has sold more than 3.5 million cookbooks and is a leader in her field. She has just released her seventh book.

My hidden talent is … that I can talk under water

I grew up in … Sydney on the Northern Beaches.

When I was growing up I wanted to be … a nurse or teacher.

I start my day by … looking at a painting in my bedroom that is all about gratitude and acknowledging all the things I am grateful for that day.

My all time favourite movie is … Legends of the Fall. Brad Pitt was so hunky in this movie.

I would love to be better at … doing workouts and time management. When I am not working I am … trying to relax as much as I can. I love to read, go to the beach or play cards with friends. The best meal I have had was … from my new book 7, as I am so in love with the tastes and new recipes. I have no need to go out to eat when I can create so many delicious meals at home.

Symply Too Good To Be True author Annette Sym has released her seventh book – sure to be a best-seller 66

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I couldn’t live without … my husband, Bill. He is my rock, my everything. My greatest achievement is … losing weight, creating the Symply Too Good To Be True cookbook series, and most of all, my children. My most annoying habit is … I talk too much and I am a bit bossy. In five years I hope to be … seeing my books go worldwide, with my own TV show, and having the time of my life.

My favourite restaurant is … See at Mooloolaba, or Rickys on Noosa River.

What makes me laugh out loud is … my grandchildren, Porsha and Lincoln.

My favourite holiday spot is … definitely Patong Beach, Thailand … love it there.

The one person I would most like to meet … is Ellen DeGeneres, because she has risen over adversity and has achieved such success. I also would love to spend some time with Jamie Oliver and do a show with him.

Most people don’t know that I … am very intuitive, which helps when creating recipes and making good decisions.

My hidden talent is … that I can talk under water. profilemag.com.au