Ruby Winter 2013 by Adcell Group

ruby editor

We love you, too! Hello again, ladies. I know we’ve kept you waiting for this latest edition, and can only hope that it’s been worth the wait.

contents

Ruby Network

Ruby Food

Ruby Tuesday

Ruby Fashion

Ruby Psychology

Ruby Wine

Ruby Shop

UN Women

Ruby Arts

Ruby Health

Sit & Sip

Ruby Book Club

In Memorium Hazel Hawke

We’ve spent the past few months giving our beloved Ruby a makeover, with more fabulous articles than ever before. In this winter edition, we are talking health. Angelina Jolie got the whole world talking when she bravely shared her decision to undergo a preventative double mastectomy. We talk about what women need to know when it comes to testing for the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes in Australia. We also hear about one local woman’s heartbreaking experience of ectopic pregnancy. On the lighter side – and let’s face it, when it’s bitterly cold outside, we all need a good laugh or two – I went totally girly recently, just so that I could share with you all what happens when you send a walking domestic disaster to a flower arranging class, and how a beauty treatment phobic coped with laser hair removal. We’ve been blown away with the love so many of you out there have for our little magazine. Every time we drop a box of mags off anywhere across town, they get snapped up almost immediately. We have thought long and hard about how to make Ruby more accessible for everyone who wants it, and we came up with… Ruby Network. Check it out on page 5. But all of this is pointless without you – the wonderful women of our region. Ruby is, first and foremost, about you. If you have a story to tell, feedback on anything you’ve seen or would like to see in Ruby, or just want to share something that made you smile, laugh or cry, let us know.

‘Like’ us at MagazineRuby words davina montgomery 02 Ruby Winter

20 July 1929 – 23 May 2013 Fiercely intelligent, refreshingly honest, extraordinarily caring and one of the greatest examples of the strength and capability of women this fair nation has ever seen. We will never forget Hazel Hawke. photo ‘Hazel: My Mother’s Story’ Sue Pieters-Hawke courtesy Pan Macmillian Australia RUBY, an Adcell Print Group publication, is mailed to more than 5000 businesses in regional Victoria. If you would like to be added to the Ruby mailing list please contact us. PUBLISHER Maureen Tayler ISSN: 1838-1456 MANAGER Caroline Tayler EDITOR Davina Montgomery davina@adcellgroup.com.au ADVERTISE IN RUBY MAGAZINE Vinnie Kerr M 0409 427 473 vinnie@adcellgroup.com.au Tanya Carroll M 0418 302 869 tanya@adcellgroup.com.au Adcell Print Group Geelong - Head Office T (03) 5221 4408 / F (03) 5221 3322 203 Malop Street, PO Box 491, Geelong, VIC 3220

rubymagazine.com.au

introducing the ruby team

INTRODUCING... Because we all like to see the faces behind the names… Yep, we ladied up for an early weekend photo shoot. It all started with us being polite, sensible and professional, but there were macarons and strong coffee, and, well, this is where it ended up!

Judy Baulch Living the daily juggle, Judy is an experienced journalist and editor. When she’s not running around after her two young kids, or busy with any number of work projects, she brings us her warmth, her humour and her insight into the ups and downs of life as a working mum.

Courtney Buchanan A bright young thing, with a passion for beauty and journalism, provides Ruby with the perspective of youth, as well as some very handy everyday beauty tips. Courtney lives with her boyfriend, travels when she can, and juggles multiple careers.

Charmaine Morse

Anna-Marie Hughes

As a highly regarded local psychologist, when it comes to relationships, Charmaine has heard it all. While we are very grateful for her professional experience, what we love about her is her life experience and insight into just how funny basic human nature ature can be.

A wise, warm and wonderful woman of a certain age, AnnaMarie has been writing for more years than she cares to remember. Like many of you, she knows that when the kids move out, a woman’s work is still not done… especially if the hubby is still at home!

Elisha Lindsay With a passion for capturing special moments, Elisha Lindsay is a Geelong-based photographer who is fine-tuned to seeing life through the lens. When she’s not peeking out from behind a camera, she juggles the many and varied demands of a family ranging from teen to toddler.

Bianca White With photography so delicious it makes you hungry, Bianca is a talented young photographer from the Geelong region. Her textural, evocative work is in demand across regional Victoria, and her beautiful food photography is on show in each edition of Ruby.

photos elisha lindsay, elphotography.com.au 03 Ruby Winter

ruby network Check out what Ruby Network is all about at www.rubymagazine.com.au

like Ruby MAGAZINE? You’ll love Ruby Network! We all love to have a chat, after all, that’s what Ruby is all about. When women connect, we are reminded about how much we have in common, and how many stories we have to share, which is why we’re starting Ruby Network. Everyone we speak to has a story to tell, and like women everywhere, as soon as we get talking in a group, we find we have SO much in common. That is one of the best things about living in a regional city, that along with the lack of traffic congestion, people tend to be very connected to the people around them. Sure, there are some challenges that come with living somewhere where the usual six-degrees of separation feels more like one-degree of separation… maybe two-degrees at a stretch. But on the whole, that sense of community connectedness is one of our greatest strengths. But, it is also easy to become disconnected. Life can change so quickly. A relationship breakdown, a change of job or career, moving house, having a baby, becoming ill or simply becoming older can leave us without someone to lend a sympathetic ear. Catching up for a cuppa, going to the movies, or starting that regimen of daily exercise

are all so much more enjoyable if there is someone else to share the experience with. Business girls, what about drinks at the end of the week to discuss that latest new client, bounce an idea off or just a wind down after the pressures of the busy working week? This was the topic of conversation around the Ruby office one day, when one of the Ruby ladies suggested we start a network for Ruby readers, and all women around our region – somewhere for women to share their stories. When it comes to women’s health, the daily juggle, or just the everyday woes and wows of being a woman, no one understands like other women. So, here it is. Ruby Network, accessed easily online at our brand spanking new website, www.rubymagazine.com.au. It’s a little bit like your local school or community newsletter, only much girlier and heaps more fun. Joining the network is free, but if you, like so many of our gorgeous, fabulous and cherished Ruby readers, can’t seem to get your hands on a copy of rubymagazine.com.au

04 Ruby Winter

the mag (everyone can access Ruby online, but when you want to curl up with a cuppa to have a read, or jump in a nice hot bath, laptops and tablets just don’t cut it), you can join up as a Ruby Member and you will be mailed the latest edition of Ruby each season. Ruby Member fees are a low, low $25 per annum, which not only gets you a Ruby subscription, but access to exclusive Ruby Network content – including access to other Ruby Members and discounts to Ruby events. We’ll be holding catch up events for Ruby Ladies throughout the year, and we are already in planning for a ladies day out with a difference… but more on that later! To join, simply log on to the website, click on the Ruby Network link and sign up. Ruby Network is all about Ruby Ladies everywhere – because as much as we would love to meet and chat with you all, we’d really love for you to meet each other. After all, life is always better when you’re connected to other women around you.

ruby tuesday

Shield’s up ladies, it’s MANOPAUSE! There are many, many charming middle-aged men (MAMs), and I don’t mean charming in a smarmy, ‘I’m putting my arm around you in a friendly, caring manner that purely by coincidence involves a hand brush by your left boob’; I mean gentlemanly charming. Think a younger David Attenborough, or an older Ryan Gosling... Mmm... Then there are the not-so-charming types. Take, for instance, the less than delightful gent I came across recently. Feeling ever so slightly delicate, we had caved in to the well-timed hounding of our offspring to eat in at a takeaway chain. I had explained this defeated the point of takeaway food, but was quickly howled down into a state of sullen resentment that was not improved by having to wait quite some time, off to the side of a growing queue, for what was patently failing to be fast food, while hubby watched the kids tackle the social minefield that is the indoor playground. Having put myself into a pseudomeditative state by staring at repetitive tile grout, I was approaching the proffered plastic tray containing our order when I was confronted with a very angry middle-aged man, who thought I was queue jumping. Bemused, I explained I had already ordered, and was just collecting, not queue jumping. But that just set him off again. With not enough functional

synapsis to cope with this raging case of manopause, I wandered back to the table, only for hubby for fall about laughing. “Any other day you’d have taken that bloke to the cleaners, you must be bad!” Later, when I was significantly less dazed, but still bemused, I found myself confronted with yet another irate MAM - again, going through what could only be manopause. Sadly, this time, I was related to him. Dad had popped in for a cuppa, and to blow off some steam over a recent medical procedure that involved a series of doctors and nurses asking the usual medical history / allergy questions (GASP!) “The same questions. Over and over again! Can’t they read?” I remember the day I realised by Dad had crossed over into MAMdome. As a much younger hubby and I were trying to scrape together our first house deposit, we had taken up my parents’ offer to

move in with them for a few months. Having been out of home for five years at this point, it was a shock to the system to have someone bellow at you, ‘Turn the lights off when you leave the room. Don’t you know how much electricity you’re wasting?’ Then came the tanty over the chair - HIS chair - in an unwittingly hilarious parody of Papa Bear, ‘Who’s been sitting in MY chair?’ (He actually said that!) Then it was, ‘Who’s been reading MY paper?’ and, ‘Who’s been using MY mug?’ Honestly, it was almost enough to turn a girl off of porridge for life! Over a coffee with some school mum friends, I told the girls about my attack of manopause week. They all had their own stories, and an hour later, wiping away tears of laughter, we went our separate ways smiling. After all, it’s not easy being a mum, and we would never turn into middleaged men… although, we might end up married to them. Eek!

words tuesday jones

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05 Ruby Winter

Friends with HIM?

06 Ruby Winter

ruby psychology

Outside the intimacy zone: Can we be friends with our ex? Neil Sedaka knew it when he penned ‘Breaking up is hard to do’ - and you know it too, we’ve all been there. But the big question is, can you still be friends with the ex? I’m supposing the answer could be dependent on whether you are the dumper or the dumpee. The dumper has already emotionally moved on anyway, and may feel compelled to deliver that age-old line: “It’s not you, it’s me and we can still be friends.” Yeah, right! The heartbreaker has eased the guilt. But do you really want to hang out with this person who has just callously ripped your heart out? Now, please don’t read any further if you and the ex broke up in a mutually agreeable fashion with no experience of jealousy, betrayal and bitterness. I’ve been led to believe that somewhere, somehow, this actually happened... to someone’s sister’s mother’s best friend.

really the bloke you thought he was - so amazing, so thoughtful, so romantic, and so in touch with his feelings?

been made and you are off and running at full speed away from your ex, literally and figuratively!

Darn it - no; so what were you thinking? Why didn’t you notice sooner that he actually had the mental age of a three year-old? No wonder he loved watching Sponge Bob Square Pants. You just thought it was cute and that he had a predilection toward marine life, didn’t you? Ah, beware the pheromones of animal attraction; they’ll do it to you every time.

Anyway, hopefully you will now be able to move into the maintenance stage, where change has been created and needs to be sustained. However, this is where some support may be necessary, so that you don’t relapse, and can exit the dreaded cycle altogether.

So, here you are, no longer in the intimacy zone, but out in the cold trying to fathom what the hell happened. Wild irrational thoughts of revenge, coupled with the fantasy of getting back together

“The let’s be friend’s scenario might just postpone the removal of those rose-coloured glasses that you have become so accustomed to wearing... It may be time to unfriend him on Facebook.”

Anyway, let’s have a closer look at this. The ex - the person to whom you have unashamedly exposed your soul - not to mention exposed your private parts to on a regular and close-up basis. Can you really bring an intimate relationship back into the norm of what is a termed a friendship after that? You were besotted and maybe you still are. This in itself might give rise to the temptation of wanting to be friends, or at least testing it out. Some might call it a transition period. Some may say it’s mature and psychologically healthy, and others may scream, “Are you mad?” The let’s be friend’s scenario might just postpone the removal of those rosecoloured glasses that you have become so accustomed to wearing. Was he

with the ex, fill your waking hours. The obsessive checking of Facebook every thirty seconds to see what he’s up to and continually checking his status is driving you nuts. It may be time to unfriend him on Facebook, unfollow him on Twitter and delete his number from your phone. Yep, breaking up is hard to do. Welcome to the Cycle of Change. It goes like this; first you are in the precontemplation stage where no convincing reason has presented itself for you not to be friends with the ex. Then you move into the contemplation stage and you are feeling a bit on the ambivalent side and are in two minds of what to do. Then, wham, BAM - you move into the action stage and you go for it. The decision has

It’s a bit like giving up smoking! So, if you have reached this rational state of mind, perhaps it’s time to set some ground rules to help you get through. Throw away old expectations because things have changed now. Exes are just that, exes. Let’s see, don’t be tempted to phone your ex for emotional support when the dog gets sick - call a girlfriend, or better still, call the vet. As noted above, unfriend and unfollow, because you will only trigger old painful emotions and you don’t need that. And, by the way, don’t be using the ex’s ringtone again, even though it was your favourite. Do spend time with friends and family, but beware of boring them into oblivion with your breakup. You could probably get away with two or three times and then it hits the use by date. But you’d work that out, wouldn’t you, when their eyes glaze over? And how could I forget? NO sex for old times’ sake. That would definitely catapult you into the lapse or relapse stage, and then it’s back to the beginning of the cycle. When, at long last, you don’t feel depressed, dejected, despondent, and desolate when a mutual friend tells you that your ex is in a fantastic relationship, you can pat yourself on the back. All that hard work and resolve has paid off, or could it just be that you have met someone new and that ever-lovin’ feeling has kicked in big time?

words charmaine morse, psychologist 07 Ruby Winter

ruby shop

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AFTERNOON DELIGHT It was a footy function with a diff erence when the Geelong Catsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ladies supporter group, Nine-Lives, met for High Tea. It was like stepping back in time, to eras past, where afternoon soirees at tea rooms were commonplace, for the members and friends of Nine-Lives. Held at Truffleduck, Fyansford, on a glorious autumn afternoon, these 21st Century ladies (and the occasional gent) took pause to delight in the glorious tradition of a high tea.

01. Jean Smith, Emma Watson, Carleen Zanoni and Irena Gral, 02. Sara and Karen Blicavs, 03. Colin Carter, 04. Sally Wall, Meg Parsons, Amarra Bowketi and Roxie Bennett.

photos elisha lindsay, elphotography.com.au

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10 Ruby Winter

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ANDREA’S STORY When Ruby spoke to Andrea, she was in hospital receiving cancer treatment. This wasn’t her first time through the process, she was here last year, when it was found that the lower abdominal pain she was experiencing was not, as first suspected, a sign of the onset of menopause, but an extremely rare form of cancer. Andrea was diagnosed with urachal adenocarcinoma in March last year. She immediately went into treatment, becoming a bit of a celebrity in the oncology department, as there are only around 15 cases of this type of cancer in the world, Andrea’s is the first diagnosed case in Australia. After a barrage of tests, major surgery and cancer treatment, the cancer was declared in remission, only to return a few months ago. “It has totally changed my life - totally changed my outlook on everything. It’s much more about living for now rather than living for later, and making the most of every opportunity that you’re given. You think you do that anyway, but having cancer gives you a big dose of reality,” Andrea said. While cancer almost always changes your outlook on life, the day-to-day realities of family life don’t change. Someone still has to do the shopping and the cooking, the washing needs to be done, and there are still the mortgage payments, the school fees, car payments and bills to be paid. “We’ve had [personal] insurance pretty much since we got married, so nearly 25 years… We thought more along the lines of needing it for my husband, so that if anything happened to him, that we’d all be fine,” Andrea said.

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Fortunately, Andrea had trauma insurance, which meant that when she was diagnosed, the family mortgage was paid out and a lump sum provided to help cover the everyday costs of living, as well as any additional medical bills. “If we hadn’t, we probably would have had to move the kids out of private school, which is exactly what you don’t want to do.” Andrea explained that her and her husband have been very conscious of trying to keep life as normal as possible for their three teenage kids - keeping them in sport and spending time with their mates, which they’ve been able to do, with the help of family and friends. The school even changed the bus route to help out. “[The insurance] really took the pressure of us financially, especially paying out the mortgage. You know that whatever money is there each month is yours. “And if it did come to the point that I did pass away, at least you know that the house is paid for, that my husband and kids wouldn’t have to move - but, I’m not going anywhere yet!” Andrea can laugh about how special her case is, but the reality is that women are diagnosed with cancer every day, and accidents do happen, and people do get sick. When it that happens, having personal insurance can at least take care of the financial stresses. DISCLAIMER: This article is for guidance only, and professional advice should be obtained before acting on any information contained herein. Neither the writer, publishers nor the distributors can accept any responsibility for loss occasioned to any person as a result of action taken or refrained from in consequence of the contents of this article. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

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11 Ruby Winter

STYLISH energy efficiency this winter

Did you know that most of your home’s energy is lost through uncovered windows? YEARS

C ELEBR

G ATIN

More than just blinds…

At Brax we have a range of options available to help insulate your windows – including the exclusive DUETTE ® Architella Shades. How LUXAFLEX® DUETTE® Architella Shades work: UÊÊ/ ÀiiÊ` ÃÌ VÌÊ> ÀÊ« V iÌÃÊv ÀÊÃÕ«iÀ ÀÊi iÀ}ÞÊivwV i VÞÊ> `Ê VÀi>Ãi`Ê insulation UÊÊ/ iÊ iÀÊ/ÀÕ* i>ÌÊV ÃÌÀÕVÌ Ê ii«ÃÊiÛiÀÞÊÃ >`iÊVÀ Ã«Ê> `ÊV Ã ÃÌi ÌÊ from front to back and top to bottom UÊ >ÞiÀÃÊ vÊv>LÀ VÊv ÀÊ ÀiÊ Õ ÕÃÊV ÕÀ UÊÊ >`iÊvÀ Ê> Ì ÃÌ>Ì V]Ê`ÕÃÌ ÀiÃ ÃÌ> ÌÊ« ÞiÃÌiÀ]Ê > }Ê ÌÊi>ÃÞÊÌ ÊV i> 6 Ã ÌÊ ÕÀÊÃ ÜÀ ÊÌ Êw `Ê ÕÌÊ Àio

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id you know that windows only make up around 8% of the total envelope vÊ ÕÀÊ iÃ]ÊÞiÌÊÕ«ÊÌ Ê{ ¯Ê vÊ i>ÌÊ ÃÃÊ VVÕÀÃÊÌ À Õ} ÊÕ V ÛiÀi`Ê} >ÃÃ¶Ê Ûi ÊÌ iÊÀ Ã }ÊV ÃÌÊ vÊi iÀ}Þ]ÊV L i`ÊÜ Ì Ê ÕÀÊÀiVi ÌÊV `ÊÜi>Ì iÀ]Ê ÌÊ made me look at how I was using my own blinds.

1ÃÕ> ÞÊ Ê ÞÊÕÃiÊÌ i Êv ÀÊ«À Û>VÞÊ«ÕÀ« ÃiÃÊ Ê Ê >`Ê > ÞÊ >À}iÊÜ ` ÜÃÊ that have blinds – but I never went to the effort of putting them down – until I heard this staggering fact. Ê ÞÊÃ ÌÕ>Ì ]Ê«À Û>VÞÊ ÃÊ ÌÊ> Ê ÃÃÕi]ÊLÕÌÊ ii« }ÊÜ>À Ê Ã]ÊÃ Ê ½ÛiÊÃÌ>ÀÌi`Ê«ÕÌÌ }ÊÌ iÃiÊ blinds down every night and it has made a big difference to how warm our home stays. 7 i ÊV Ã }ÊL `ÃÊÌ Ê i «Ê ÃÕ >ÌiÊÞ ÕÀÊ i]ÊÌ iÀiÊ>ÀiÊ>ÊviÜÊÌ }ÃÊÌ ÊÀi i LiÀ°Ê Ê Ã Õ}ÊwÌÊ ÊL Ì ÊÃ ìÃÊ> `Ê>ÌÊÌ iÊÌ «ÊÃÌ «ÃÊÜ>À Ê> ÀÊvÀ Ê Û }Ê` Ü ÊLi `ÊÌ iÊVÕÀÌ> Ê ÀÊ L `]Ê> `ÊV }°Ê ÃÌ> }Ê«i iÌÃÊ ÀÊÃ `ÊL>ÀÀ iÀÃÊ>L ÛiÊÌ iÊVÕÀÌ> ÃÊÜ Ê i «ÊV ÃiÊÌ iÊ gaps and prevent the convection of hot air. Drapes and pelmets have had a resurge in popularity – possibly due to their insulating Li iwÌÃÊqÊ> `ÊÌ iÊÀ> }iÊ vÊv>LÀ VÃÊ>Û> >L iÊ ÃÊiÝÌi Ã Ûi]ÊvÀ ÊÌÀ>` Ì > ÊÌ ÊV Ìi « À>ÀÞ° Some blinds are more effective insulators than others – Luxaflex® DUETTE® shades are a iÞV LÊVi Õ >ÀÊL `ÊìÃ } i`ÊÌ ÊÌÀ>«Ê> ÀÊ> `Ê«ÀiÛi ÌÊ i>ÌÊ ÃÃ°Ê/ iÃiÊ ìÀ ]ÊÃ « iÊ blinds are one of the best insulating blinds available – comparable with heavy lined drapes > `Ê«i iÌÃÊqÊ> `Ê >ÛiÊ>Ê}Ài>ÌÊÀ> }iÊ vÊv>Ã >L iÊV ÕÀÃ]ÊÃ Ê vÊ`À>«iÃÊÜ ½ÌÊÃÕ ÌÊÞ ÕÀÊ i]Ê 1 // ÁÊÃ >ìÃÊ« ÃÃ L ÞÊÜ ° Roller blinds can still provide insulation to your windows – by adding a pelmet you will effectively close the gap that will help prevent your heat escaping. And when looking for pelmets they don’t have to be bulky or fancy – a simple painted timber pelmet that matches your wall colour is just as effective and may suit your decor better.

i«i ` }Ê ÊÞ ÕÀÊLÕ`}iÌ]Ê Ì À Ã }ÊÞ ÕÀÊL `ÃÊ> `ÊÃiÌÌ }ÊÌ i ÊÌ Ê «iÀ>ÌiÊ ÊÌ iÀÃÊ >ÞÊLiÊÜ ÀÌ ÊV Ã `iÀ }°Ê7 Ì ÊÌ iÊÀ> }iÊ vÊ Ì À Ã>Ì Ê «Ì ÃÊ>Û> >L iÊÌ `>Þ]Ê>Ê Õ LiÀÊ vÊÃÌÞ iÃÊ vÊL `ÃÊV> ÊLiÊ Ì À Ãi`Ê> `ÊÃiÌÊÌ Ê «iÀ>ÌiÊ>ÌÊÃ«iV wVÊÌ iÃÊ vÊÌ iÊ`>Þ]Êi Ì iÀÊ Û >ÊÀi ÌiÊV ÌÀ ]ÊÌ ÕV Ê«> i ÃÊ ÀÊ Ìi}À>Ì Ê Ì ÊLÕ ` }Ê > >}i i ÌÊÃÞÃÌi Ã]ÊÌ iÀiLÞÊ increasing their effectiveness. The blinds will still close even if you don’t get home early enough. This can also be an effective security measure – giving the impression that someone is home when you may be away on holidays.

To view all the latest fashionable window furnishings, including the range of options for motorisation, we invite you to visit our showroom – Brax Window Treatments, 332 Pakington St, Newtown.

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ruby arts

Revel in old world charm this winter If the dull skies and chill winds are bringing you down, there is nothing better than a ladies day out to life your mood and brighten your day. Gather a gal pal or two and trip off to the big city where two fabulous exhibitions await. Trip along to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image at Federation Square to get up close and envious at the Hollywood Costume exhibition, then make your way to the National Gallery of Victoria and feel those winter blues float away while you drink in the wonder of Monet’s Garden.

So get out those gorgeous coats, scarves and gloves, pack your brolly and get your winter glam on. And to complete your experience of old world charm, book a table for high tea at The Windsor or The Langham.

Monet’s Garden The next best thing to standing in Claude Monet’s iconic garden at Giverny is standing in front of the masterpieces the garden inspired. With over fifty masterpieces from the Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, along with paintings from leading international museums and private collections around the world and early photographs of the artist in his garden, the exhibition features many of Monet’s most well-known works, from a suite of enormous waterlilies paintings to his iconic garden motifs, as well as some rarely seen late paintings.

“Monet’s Garden is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the world of Monet and the garden that became his lifelong obsession,” says NGV Director, Tony Ellwood The exhibition is organised by the Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris in association with the National Gallery of Victoria and Art Exhibitions Australia. Monet’s Garden: The Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris will be on at the National Gallery of Victoria until 8 September 2013. Tickets on sale now. Adult $26 | Child $10 | Concession $22.50. www.ngv.vic.gov.au

01. Unknown, Claude Monet outside his house at Giverny c.1921, 18.0 x 24.0 cm, autochrome, Musée d’Orsay, Paris, © Patrice Schmidt /musée d’Orsay distribution RMN. 02. Claude Monet, Waterlilies (Nymphéas) 1914-17, oil on canvas, 200 x 200 cm, Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, © Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, © Bridgeman-Giraudon / Presse. 03. Claude Monet, Waterlilies (Nymphéas) 1916–19, oil on canvas, 150.0 x 197.0 cm, Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, Gift of Michel Monet, 1966 (inv. 5164), © Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, © Bridgeman-Giraudon / Presse. 04. Claude Monet, French 1840–1926, The bridge over the waterlily pond 1900, oil on canvas, 89.8 x 101 cm, Art Institute Chicago, Illinois, Mr and Mrs Lewis Larned Coburn Memorial Collection, 1933 (inv. 1933.441), Photo: Art Institute Chicago, Illinois.

14 Ruby Winter

ruby arts

elphotog raphy 01 03

HOLLYWOOD WOOD COSTUME E Direct from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, Hollywood Costume explores the central role costume design plays in cinema storytelling. Bringing together the most iconic costumes from a century of filmmaking, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the clothes worn by unforgettable and beloved characters in films from The Wizard of Oz (1939) to Titanic (1997), Ben-Hur (1959) to Casino Royale (2006). This groundbreaking exhibition unites classics from the Golden Age of cinema, including Scarlett O’Hara’s green ‘curtain’ dress designed by Walter Plunkett for Gone with the Wind (1939) and the ‘little black dress’ designed by Hubert De Givenchy for Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) with costumes from the latest Hollywood releases including Consolata Boyle’s outfits for Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady (2011) and Lindy Hemming’s high-tech Batman suit for Christian Bale in The Dark Knight Rises (2012). Hollywood Costume is curated by eminent Hollywood costume designer Deborah Nadoolman Landis with Sir Christopher Frayling and Keith Lodwick. Hollywood Costume is open daily (10am - 5pm, Thursdays until 9pm) at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image until 18 August 2013. Tickets on sale now. Adult $19.50 | Conc $15.50 www.acmi.net.au 01. Bright Star (2009), Image Courtesy Hopscotch. 02. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), Courtesy Paramount, The Estate of Audrey Hepburn. Costume designed by Hubert de Givenchy. 03. The Wizard of Oz (1939), Judy Garland as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. TM & © Turner Entertainment Co. (s13) Costume designed by Adrian. 04. Replica Ruby Slippers, representing The Wizard of Oz (1939), Costume designed by Adrian.

e l i s h a @ e l p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m . a u 0 4 39 353 9 58 e l p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m . a u

words davina montgomery 15 Ruby Winter

sit & sip

A place to relax & unwind

Darriwill Farm gourmet shop and café brings country charm and quality to the city for all to enjoy.

Entering the café from the shop side I am enveloped in the sweet smell of cinnamon and smooth aroma of coffee. As I rest back into a comfortable cane chair, I glance around at the eye-catching enamel art works lining the walls, by Colac’s Desley Wilson. Immediately, I get the picture that people come here to relax and unwind. One mother is sitting with her teenage daughter sipping coffee and chatting about her day at school. Two women scuttle in from the blustery cold and settle into a corner for a good coffee and yarn. The coffee is rich, creamy, and hot, and I am served a lavender macaroon on the side. Owner, David Carlyle, believes people in the country take that little extra time to produce quality food and products with real taste. “Darriwill to me is everything homemade,” he says. All food is made fresh on the premises including the delectable cakes and slices - nothing is bought in. With the bi-fold doors opened on a warm day I imagine sitting for hours ensconced in a book. On this rainy day it has a cosier feel, and you could easily stay for more than one coffee passing the hours people-watching from the prime vantage point on the corner of Highton village. It has a warming ambience, one that clearly extends to the friendly staff who exchange light-hearted banter with the customers as they serve coffee. The café has a European feel, luxury food in a relaxed atmosphere, somewhere to unwind with that extra service and quality we all deserve.

Owner David Carlyle.

65-71 Barrabool Rd, Highton P: (03) 5241 2933 Open 7 days, Monday to Sunday, 7.30am - 5pm.

words courtney buchanan photos elisha lindsay, elphotography.com.au 16 Ruby Winter

sit & sip

SANDSTONE CAFE

STEAMPOCKET - PIZZERIA & CAFE

In the recent Geelong Otway Golden Plate Awards, Sandstone Cafe won the highly commended award ‘Best Value for Money Licenced Cafe.’

We’re all about artisan food - fresh, wholesome, house-made fare. All created with love. Think: brilliant breakfasts, lip-smacking lunches and pizzas worth dying for.

At Sandstone Cafe we have created something new and exciting in Grovedale to give people a great food, wine or function experience at very reasonable prices. Our food can be enjoyed in our airy and bright cafe or in the outdoor courtyard. We are fully licenced and our wine list has a large selection of local wine from our award winning wine regions. We choose to serve the award winning Dimattina coffee.

Dining takes on a new meaning in our laid-back courtyard. Friends mingle. Conversation flows (as does the barista coffee). Find a cosy corner or get amongst the action - either way you’ll love our no-fuss service.

284 Torquay Rd, Grovedale P: (03) 5244 2343 Open 7 days from 9am for Breakfast / Lunch. Dinner Fri and Sat.

313 Pakington St, Newtown P: (03) 5222 8969 / Catering P: (03) 5221 0677 Open Tuesday to Saturday.

We punch well above our size, with divine catering and sublime take-home meal options that spread our foodie love far beyond Steampocket into special occasions and family homes.

DIVERSitat wholefoods Diversitat Wholefoods aims to provide fresh, organic and unique products to the local community while promoting healthy living.

One of Geelong’s hidden treasures.

• Organic meals, coffee and chai, organic food supplies, eco-friendly products, take home meals and catering • Cultural cooking workshops – learn to cook traditional dishes from around the world 2 Baylie Place, Geelong P: (03) 5221 5421 Café: 10am-3pm Mon to Fri Shop: 10am-5pm Mon to Fri and 10am-2pm Sat www.diversitat.org.au/wholefoods ‘Like’ us at Geelongwholefoods

17 Ruby Winter

ruby events

Relax, enjoy, leave it to us

Arrive in style Plan.it Roxie has just moved into ‘banging’ new digs in the funky end of town! We’ve only just unpacked so we totally know what a pain the whole moving thing is. We also know what an amazing opportunity it is to showcase what we do and get a bit of face-to-face engagement time with our clients and suppliers. That’s why we’re having a big launch party to celebrate! Plus, we’re even having a separate, lower key event for all our neighbours, so we can say ‘Hi’ and they can welcome us to the neighbourhood.

marketing

•

events

•

engagement

One thing we do know is that everyone loves a ‘sticky’, they want to see what your new abode is like and get to see a bit more of your business, who you are and how you operate. It’s a great way for people to visually connect with you when most of the connecting these days is done through an email. It’s fair to say that not all locations can provide the perfect space for a gathering, but try and think creatively about how you can manipulate your locale. We have held events in factories amongst machinery (turned off!), marquees in car parks and had storerooms draped in black curtaining. It’s really important, if you can, to showcase your new address, and make it known to everyone that you’re thriving! “But I’ve got no money left after I bought that new chandelier for my office!”

0407 989 498 8 rutland street, newtown 3220

You can spend as little or as much as you can afford. It can be a few drinks and nibbles with your closest clients, or a total show stopper. If you’ve moved or moving, don’t miss a great opportunity to show off your business and create a perfect environment for your clients to network - with you as the talking point! words roxie bennett

18 Ruby Winter

ruby spotlight

Helping kids to play nice in the online playground There are bad news stories about the seedier aspects of the internet and social media almost every day and the effect it has on our children, both good and bad, is debated endlessly. Somehow, the beneficial aspects seem to get lost.

For Fiona Lucas, creator and founder of iRespectOnline and author of new book Future proof Your Kids, the key to creating a positive online environment and teaching children to behave well in the social media playground is right there in that word “respect” - respect for themselves and respect for others. Fiona says the online environment can have such a positive effect. However, having worked in schools for many years while raising two children of

“Let them know what’s acceptable behaviour online as you would in real life. It’s not ok to call people names in the playground and say things that aren’t true, and it’s not ok online either,” Fiona says. “There’s no point banning your children from using technology, so teach them how to use it. You wouldn’t take your three year old to a playground for the first time and say there’s the swing, there’s the slide, go for it. You’re there to hold their hand and catch them. Well, the social media

“Children need to learn how to engage in the online world - it is their world and parents need to learn about it to help keep them safe.” her own, she is also very aware of the negative impact technology, such as smartphones and social media, can have on young people, if they are not shown how to use it wisely. It’s parents, she says, who need to take the lead; from modelling positive online behaviour and use of technology, to setting boundaries around how their children use the internet, with appropriate consequences for breaking the rules.

slide is probably the slipperiest slide ever, and you really do want someone there to catch you when you’re learning how to use it.” The problem is that many parents are unsure how to use the internet themselves, are inadvertently risking their own reputations online or underestimate the effects - both positive and negative - that the online playground can have on their children.

As part of iRespectOnline’s mission, Fiona wrote Futureproof Your Kids, introducing readers to the social media playground and outlining the “4Rs Reputation Framework” - Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Research. The book aims to help parents to teach their children safe ways to enjoy what the internet and social media have to offer, while encouraging the same positive behaviour we would like to see in real life. “Children will embrace [new technology] because they are creatures of curiosity, and parents need to be there beside them and be aware of what they’re doing. Show interest in what games they’re playing, check out the apps they’re downloading, so you know what information is being collected and who has access to it and keep control of passwords. Be aware that negative stuff will happen, but if we help kids to develop resilience, the negativity can be turned into a positive experience.” Futureproof Your Kids by Fiona Lucas is available from www.iRespectOnline.com and www.futureproofyourkids.com *To vote for Fiona as Austraila’s Most Clickable Woman, log on to www.mamamia.com.au/clickablewomen

words judy baulch 19 Ruby Winter

ruby fitness

Don’t let the rain STOP you So, it’s wet, it’s cold and it’s dark - three great reasons to stop training during winter, also three great reasons to eat rib sticking, belly warming, comfort food, right? Well that’s all very convincing, I’ve even argued the point to myself a few times. But being a gym owner, I can tell you exactly what’s around the corner. What’s around the corner is spring, well more specifically September, and what traditionally happens in the gym biz in September is WE START GETTING REALLY BUSY!

bit dangerous. Wearing a hat will keep the rain from your face and reduce your chances of tripping or stumbling. Do not overdo your workout attire: One of the most common mistakes is wearing more layers than you should. Did you know the thicker the layers you have, the more you will get wet?

Don’t get me wrong, it’s great for business; in fact you could save us all the trouble and join the gym right now, but if that’s not your thing, you can still exercise during the colder, wetter months. You just to prepare for the weather. Dress up in layers of clothing: You might need layers, and when running, make sure that layer next to your skin is polypropylene or CoolMax. This type of garment has the ability to move perspiration away from the body, keeping your skin dry. You should make it a point to wear a water-resistant windbreaker jacket as part of your running apparel, especially when it is raining. Put on a hat while you run: Running in the rain can be fun, but can also be a little

Be noticeable to stay safe: It would be very helpful for a runner to choose an outer layer of running clothes that will show reflective strips or that are brightly coloured. Don’t mind the rain, simply run and run! Yes, runners say the most interesting part of running is when the rain is just about to start. Why? When you start running, your body warms up, despite the rain. Keep your shoes in shape: After finishing from a wet run, immediately remove your shoes and fill them up with crumpled newspaper rolled into balls. This keeps them in shape and helps dry them out. These tips may seem basic, but they will help you have a much more enjoyable experience out in the rain. Unfortunately, I can’t give you any tips about hitting the snooze button on cold wet cold mornings!

words scott dumbell, jetts fitness

NOW OPEN No N oc contracts. ontracts. Low Low fees. fee Open 24/7. Jetts To T Torquay rrqu quay Geelong West 61 538 380 0 T. 5261 5380 T. 5222 8945

Belmont T. 5244 3510

1300 JETTS 247 | jetts.com.au

20 Ruby Winter

ruby loves

oktoberdee

Oktoberdee is an upcoming label launched by ‘Geelong Girl’ Lauren Ferry that focuses on thoughtful design and inventive use of materials and technologies. Since its inception in 2005, Oktoberdee has evolved to focus primarily maril ily on leathergoods including handbags and purses, as well as featuring other products such h as jewellery and winter neckwear.

• Where is it based? Having been based in central Geelong for six years I recently relocated the business operations to our home.

• What is different about Oktoberdee? ee? The end product is different because the approach is unique. My approach certainly takes the formfollows-function line, meaning that I start with how a person will interact with a product before finalising the detailing. I also like to integrate different techniques that are non-typical such as using laser cut timber elements within the handbag designs. Perhaps what adds to the aesthetic too is my broad love of objects. Inspiration comes from the strangest of places when you’re looking at the details of things. • What is on trend? With my designs I certainly don’t like contributing to the on-trend culture - it’s just so disposable! The style of my pieces successfully outlive fads and trends, they’re pieces which woman just really love for their uniqueness and quirkiness, and those attributes never go out of fashion.

05 01. Capsule Necklace, 02. Counsellor Bag RRP $329, 03. Wendy Bag RRP $369, 04. Porter purse RRP $159, 05. Spice Necklace. Stockists Goose are the exclusive stockist of Oktoberdee in the Geelong region. Located in Garden St in East Geelong. Or alternatively visit www.oktoberdee.com.au oktoberdee.com.au 21 Ruby Winter

ruby beauty

Ardell Brow Defi ning Powder in Taupe, Ta $11.99 $11. 11 99 11.9 11. 9 Create a soft, smoky brow with h th this highly pigmented powder. Available ilila abl able in Taupe and Mink Brown.

Anastasia 5 Piece Kit, $99 Achieve stunning brows at home with this must-have lux Anastasia 5 Piece kit. Includes endorsed and approved signature items used in the Anastasia brow shaping system. Avaliable in a variety of colours and shades.

Tweezerman Slant Zebra Tweezer, from $44.95 These zebra print tweezers are a little on the wild side, but your brows don’t have to be.

ALL ABOUT BROWS WS S They say eyes are the windows of your soul. If that is the case, then eyebrows frame your soul. Do youu want your soul to be framed with not one - but two - wild, unruly, crooked frames, or lovely groomed and glamorous ones? Yes, I am talking all about eyebrows. They are incredibly important you know, as they frame and balance your whole face.

Prestige My Brow Duo Illuminating Jumbo Pencil, $15.95 This dual-ended pencil features a matte and shimmer end to define and highlight brows.

My obsession with eyebrows was inevitable, if not even hereditary. Mum taught me two things from an early age - don’t trust men who wear white leather shoes, and always have good brows.

Individual Brow Heroes Benefit Speed Brow, $32 Keep this little wonder handy at all times to tint, tame, and set brows in a flash.

While I haven’t always been so careful with watching the shoes I date, I have carefully maintained groomed brows (which no doubt landed me my trustworthy non-white-leather-shoewearing boyfriend of five years). Recently, I bumped into a friend, and was Re R mesmerised by her brows. They were such m a beautiful, natural shape, and groomed to absolute perfection. I had to know where a she s got them done, so I could too. Here are all my brow grooming secrets, including budget and lux brow grooming products, and the salon to visit for world class brow treatment. My soul has never been so happy! Anastasia Brow System at High Glam Beauty Find out why a long list of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Madonna are faithful to the Anastasia Brow System. Anastasia Soare was the first major ‘Brow Guru’, and has trained but a select few in her world famous brow shaping system.

Maybelline NY EyeStudio Master Shape Brow Pencil, $11.50 The natural waxes in this super-soft pencil help to keep hairs in place, whilst filling in gaps and providing definition. The brush end helps blend the colour and groom hairs.

Face of Australia HD Eyebrow Kit, $9.45 Those on a budget will love the quality - and price. Kit includes a wax, duo brow powder, brush, precision slant tweezers, plus a mirror. STOCKISTS. High Glam Beauty address: Shop 8/111 Pakington St, Geelong West, VIC 3218, to book an appointment call the salon on (03) 5221 4134; Anastasia 5 Piece Kit available at High Glam Beauty and online www.anastasiabeauty.com.au; Face of Australia available at Priceline, Priceline Pharmacy, Kmart, Big W and selected pharmacies Australia wide or call 03 9338 5222; Benefit available at Benefit Boutique, MYER stores nationally, www.myer.com.au/benefit or 02 8353 5000; Prestige 1800 352 454 or www.prestigecosmetics.com.au; Tweezerman www.i-glamour.com; Ardell available at Priceline, Terry White, and selected pharmacies; Maybelline available at selected pharmacies, department stores, variety stores and supermarkets nationwide.

words courtney buchanan 22 Ruby Winter

ruby workshop

A Night of Flower Therapy What happens when you send a domestically challenged writer - the kind of woman who’s been known to ‘sew’ with a stapler - to a flower arranging class?

photos elisha lindsay, elphotography.com.au

It was a chilly winter evening, but the thought of running away from hubby and boys for a bit of girly time had just the right amount of appeal, so along I tripped to the Geelong Flower Farm to see what these flower arranging courses were all about. Sitting around in semi-circle was a laughing, chatting group of women. Aged from early 20s to ‘ladies of a certain age’, they were all bright and bubbly, and armed with sturdy secateurs, gloves and aprons. They were halfway through their six-week course, and while not knowing each other beforehand, they had that easy, open manner with each other that you only get from experiencing something new amongst strangers. They seemed like old friends. We were to make a tropical arrangement; with my favourite flowers, Singapore orchids, nestled amongst Asiatic lilies, tropical leaves and bare branches. There were even some funky little gourds (like little pumpkins, in the craziest shapes) to add interest. I spotted a funny little gourd to finish my arrangement. If a pear could have an ugly stepsister, then this little gourd would be it, but it made me laugh, so in it went. We were using gorgeous containers from the Oohh range - handmade in Sri Lanka by women who have been trained so they can work at home with their babies. I learned about Oasis - that green florists’ foam - as well as floristry wire, how to weave blade grass, and the basics of cutting and arranging branches, flowers and leaves into something that looked, well, fabulous! After a delicious piece of orange chocolate slice, off I went home, elated and more than a little proud of the arrangement that was destined for my dining room table. What a great way to spend a chilly winter evening! words davina montgomery

Experience the joy of flower arranging

Bloom College have a large variety of single workshops and courses available in Geelong. Book now for Term 3. Online www.bloomcollege.com.au or call Yvette Timmins (03) 5229 8336 For those unable to attend class, Bloom College have created a DVD and video tutorial app for your iPad which can be purchased via the website.

Floristry Classes - Melbourne & Geelong 23 Ruby Winter

ruby business

AVOIDING THE 5 MISTAKES MADE IN BUSINESS Over the years I have noticed some common mistakes I see women in business make, so I thought I would share these 5 mistakes with you and give you some tips to avoid them. 1. Lack of Planning: So many women who own a business don’t spend enough time on planning and goal setting. It’s like they are in a boat with no steering or paddles. The most common words I hear are, “I didn’t see that coming”. Goal setting is simple to do, what is imperative, is doing it and sticking with it. I often get asked, “How can I stick to my goals?” My number one answer is to know why you want to achieve them. So, be very clear on your WHY.

2. Lack of Support: A lot of women in business that I have come across believe they can (and should) do it all. That being Superwoman will make things better. Not the case - in fact we can become like a crepe spreading over the side of the pan, spreading ourselves too thin. Many of us have some support, but my question is, is it the right support? ’m a great believer in networking, and I am also a believer in having a coach or mentor - I have one and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. 3. Lack of Tools: We have the goals, but we don’t always have the tools to get there. So many of us have formed a business because of a hobby, a passion, or maybe we kind of fell into it because we are good at what we do. This doesn’t mean we know how to sell that idea, service or product. Working ON your business must take up a huge

part of your time. This includes planning and marketing. As a business owner, we are marketers. 4. Lack of Investing in Self: Too many women put themselves last. “If you’re not green and growing, you are ripe and rotting,” says Ray Kroc. It is so true! In order to grow our business and contribute back to our family, our community and our society, we simply must keep educating ourselves. We must invest the time and the money into us and say YES to us. 5. Lack of Self-Belief: So many women I have worked with (including me in the past!) lack the self-belief that we can do this. Self-belief comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and just doing it. As you get closer to the fear, it will shrink just like shadows.

words sarah valentine Sarah Valentine works with business owners to move from survival to thrivel Aligning the business with its purpose and implementing the right strategies to support achieving the desired outcomes. Business owners create positive change and increase their results in business and life. Challenging business owners to rethink their approach to business – moving from technician to entrepreneur. Clients have clear direction on where they are going, the steps to get there and the support needed to create an outstanding business and life.

Business Coach | Facilitator | Presenter

www.sarahvalentine.com.au

24 Ruby Winter

Download your FREE Mission with Passion MP3 & workbook today at www.sarahvalentine.com.au valued at $147

0412 199 467

sarah@sarahvalentine.com.au

ruby food

If your dreams of escaping to warmer climes are destined to remain mere dreams this winter, you can still go on a culinary journey, right in the warmth and comfort of your own kitchen. Baveras Brasserie Head Chef, Darius Sorkis, brings the flavours of the world to his modern Australian cuisine, and he offers up two of his winter favourites for you to try at home. Imagine dishing up Pork, Prawn and Shitake mushroom dumplings with a Mushroom Broth, or spice things up with Harissa Chicken with Olives. Pretty much anywhere you go in the world, you will find a variety of dumpling. From British and Irish savoury dumplings, to Italian ravioli or tortellini, and Scandanavian potato dumplings; from the enormous variety of sweet, savoury, dough, potato or meat dumplings of Central Europe to the spiced meat dumplings of the Middle East; from Egyptian Qatayef, to Jewish Matzah Balls; from Turkish Manti to American baked dumplings or the famed delicate dumplings in broth found across Asia; served as a snack or as a hearty meal, dumplings are one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most multicultural dishes. While dumplings are a global dish, Harissa immediately evokes the spicy aromos of Northern Africa. Traditionally a Tunisian hot chilli sauce, Harissa is now a staple of Moroccan food and is widely used across the world in countries with a strong Arabic influence. A blend of chilli peppers, and herbs and spices such as garlic, coriander and caraway seeds, Harissa is a beautifully versatile spice blend. This Harissa Chicken recipe will take your senses to the melting heat of North Africa, even if the rest of you is shivering it out in southern Australia. Enjoy!

photos biancawhitephotography.com.au 25 Ruby Winter

ruby food Pork, Prawn & Shitake Mushroom Dumplings with a Mushroom Broth 500g pork mince 200g prawns, cleaned and de veined ¼ bunch coriander 2 garlic cloves, peeled 1 piece of ginger, 5cm long 1 tbs fish sauce 1 tbs salt reduced soy sauce ½ punnet shitake mushrooms, diced 1 packet of square wonton wrappers Method In a food processor, add coriander, garlic, ginger, fish sauce and soy sauce and process until you have a smooth paste. Cut the prawns and the mushrooms into 5mm pieces and then mix the pork mince, prawns, mushrooms and paste together until well combined. To make the dumplings Place square wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Spoon 1 tablespoon of filling into the centre of your wrapper. Fold up sides to form a pyramidshaped pouch then pinch the edges together to enclose. Place wontons on a floured tray and place in fridge until you’re ready to cook them. Mushroom Broth 1 lt water or chicken stock 5cm piece ginger, roughly chopped 2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped ¼ cup shao xing cooking wine ½ punnet shitake mushrooms 100g dried shitake mushrooms 100g field mushrooms, sliced 2 ½ tbs salt reduced soy sauce 4 spring onions, roughly chopped Method Place a small amount of oil into a pot and heat, add garlic and ginger and lightly sweat off. Add the rest of the ingredients for your broth and bring to the boil. Turn the pot down and gently simmer for 1 hour. After an hour, remove pot from heat and allow the flavours to infuse for ½ hour. Strain the broth and place into a new pot and bring to the boil again. Place the dumplings into the broth (careful not to overcrowd the pot) and simmer for 5 minutes. Spoon the dumplings out of the broth and into a bowl; add a generous ladle of broth. You can also add some extra mushrooms and Bok Choy to the broth when cooking your dumplings to compliment your meal.

26 Ruby Winter

ruby food

Harissa Chicken with Olives & Roast Capsicum

2 red capsicums, roasted, peeled and roughly chopped

4 chicken Maryland’s

1 punnet of truss vine ripened cherry tomatoes (you can use roma tomatoes cut into quarters)

4 cloves peeled garlic

Method

½ cup mixed olives

Preheat oven to 180 degrees

1/8 cup tomato paste

Season the chicken Maryland’s on both sides and seal off chicken pieces in a hot pan until golden brown.

½ tablespoon harissa paste ½ tablespoon dark brown sugar 1 cup chicken stock Pinch of cinnamon Salt and pepper

Remove chicken from pan and place in a baking dish. Add garlic, olives and roasted capsicum to the baking dish, distributing evenly over the chicken pieces.

harissa paste, brown sugar, chicken stock and pinch of cinnamon and mix well to combine. Pour liquid over the chicken, garlic, olives and capsicum. Lightly season and cover the entire dish tightly with aluminium foil and roast for 1 hour. Increase the temperature of the oven to 190 degrees, remove the foil and add the tomatoes; roast for another 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. When the chicken is cooked and golden, serve with some mashed potato or some sautéed green beans.

In a bowl combine the tomato paste,

words darius sarkis, baveras

$19.90* s 1 course & a glass

of beer, wine or soft s In & out in the hour

Catch up over the water with an Express Lunch Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch & dinner. (03) 5222 6377 reservations@baveras.com.au www.baveras.com.au

(*Available Mon-Fri, 12pm-3pm)

Baveras

@BaverasThePier

27 Ruby Winter

ruby fashion

ALL EYES ON YOU “Men seldom make passes at girls who wear glasses.” Oh, Dorothy Parker, if only you could see the exciting range of fashion-forward eyewear available today... we’re quite convinced you’ d change your mind. Established in 1995 in Los Angeles, the Dita range of eyewear is handmade in Japan by veteran craftsmen. Passionate about art and driven by vintage styles from the 1950s to 1980s, life-long friends, Jeff Solorio and John Jupiter, poured their love for design into Dita when they launched the celebrated collection in 1996. Dita is an alternative to label-brande d eyewear, distinguished by quality, look and fit, so that the frame concentrates on complementing your features and overall style, and not a huge logo overshadowing your face.

exclusive to eyewear on pako

Today, Jeff and John are one of the world’s most celebrated eyewear designers, and Dita is the it frame for celebrities and trendsetters - from David Beckham and Penelope Cruz, to Brad Pitt and Jennifer Lopez. The fashion elite and A-list celebrities wear Dita Eyewear not because they are paid to, but because they desire to own the very best. All Dita frames are handmade using only the highest quality materials, including titanium, 18k gold, white gold and the finest acetates. The meticulous attention given to every detail of a Dita frame - from its custom hardware to its flawless finish - is unmatched. Each new Dita design is an artistic statement, the expression of our belief that they are for those who demand and dare to wear eyewear unbound by convention. It’s not necessarily who wears Dita that makes the glasses special, but why they wear them. Dita eyewear collection is available now at Eyewear on Pako. eyewearonpako.com.au

28 Ruby Winter

12.

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“Shake off the winter blues with a bright, bold pop of colour.”

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DYMOCKS - 1. ‘The Rosie Project’ Graeme Simsion $29.99, 2. ‘Sex, Drugs and Meditation’ Mary-Lou Stephens $32.99, 3. ‘A Delicate Truth’ John Le Carre $29.99. LIFESTYLE BAGS & LUGGAGE - 4. Milleni Fashion Bag (Brown/Yellow) $49.95, 5. Kardashian Collection Bag (Blue) $99.95, 6. Via Conditti Leather Wallet (Green/Multi) $49.95. NOVO - 7. ‘Eilish’ Flats (Blue/ Gold) $29.95, 8. ‘Cairo’ Flats (Jade) $49.95.

DICK SMITH - 9. Sony ‘Extra Bass’ Headphones (Violet) $39.98 TONIK - 10. Nixon ‘Monopoly’ Watch (Rose Gold) $279.99, 11. DC ‘Studio’ Runners (Hot Coral) $39.95, 12. Volcom ‘Misty’ Beanie (Multi) $39.99, 13. Hurley ‘Player’ Pop Fleece (Blue) $89.99, 14. Roxy ‘Randomness’ ¾ Trackies (Melon) $29.

DISCLAIMER: Price and product availability for all items on the following pages, accurate at time of printing and subject to change without notice.

29 Ruby Winter

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C&T MOBILE ACCESSORIES - 1. iPad Mini Cover (Red) $35. DYMOCKS - 2. ‘Design Your Home’ Shaynna Blaze $39.99. FEMME CONNECTION - 3. Caroline Morgan Dress (Red) $29.99, 4. Caroline Morgan Jacket (Assorted) $59.99, 5. Femme Connection Shoes (Blue) $44.99. GLAM GIRL - 6. Stretch band watch (gold) $39.95. PROUDS - 7. 9ct Hoop Earrings (2401230) $199, 8. 9ct Diamond Ring (7021910) $699.

30 Ruby Winter

FEMME CONNECTION - 9. Union Jack Wallet (Black) $14.99. GLAM GIRL - 10. Scarf With Pom Poms (Assorted) $44.95. SPENDLESS SHOES - 11. Wildfire ‘Menace’ Boots (Black) $29.95. TONIK - 12. Hurley Skinny Jeans (Mustard) $99.99, 13. Hurley ‘Patient’ Cardigan (Grey/Black) $79.99, 14. Roxy ‘Golden Hill’ Duffle $109, 15. Nixon ‘Time Teller’ Uni-Sex Watch (White) $149.99, 16. Vans Sunnies (Brown) $19.99.

33.

24. 30. 22.

18.

27.

21.

19.

17. 29.

32. 26.

25.

31.

28.

20.

23.

BURDINES - 17. IQ Wool Jacket (Turquoise) $119, 18. IQ Roll Neck Skivvy Tee (Assorted) $39, 19. IQ Polo Collar Pullover (Mocha) $89, 20. IQ Stretch Cord Jeans (Mocha) $89. DYMOCKS - 21. ‘The Golden Land’ Di Morrissey $32.99. GLAM GIRL - 22. Scarf $69.95, 23. Sabella ‘Darcy’ Boots (Light Grey) $179.95. OPSM - 24. Coach Glasses (Turquoise) $249.00. PRICELINE - 25. Sally Hansen Nail Polish (Assorted) $14.95each. PROUDS - 26. Silver CZ Fancy Cluster Ring (1801626) $59, 27. Silver Pear CZ Drop Earrings (1601363) $29.

34.

GLAM GIRL - 28. Sabella ‘Chanel’ Boots (Black) $169.95. LIFESTYLE BAGS & LUGGAGE - 29. Gisele quilted satchel (orange/ blue) $69.95. ON STAGE - 30. Lilia Cardigan (Multi) $75, 31. Teaberry Strech Pants (Black) $59. PROUDS - 32. 9ct Diamond & Sapphire Ring (7012604) $499, 33. 9ct Diamond & Sapphire Pendant (7554535) $399. SPENDLESS SHOES - 34. ‘Frost’ Flats (Melon) $29.95.

31 Ruby Winter

ruby fashion 7.

11.

10. 8. 5. 3. 2.

15.

16.

14.

13.

12.

FEMME CONNECTION - 2. Caroline Morgan Dress (Green) $19.99, 3. Caroline Morgan Jacket (Assorted) $49.99, 4. Caroline Morgan Scarf (Assorted) from $12.99, 5. Femme Connection Bag (Brown) $39.99. NOVO SHOES - 6. ‘Beyond’ Boots $79.99. OPSM - 7. Prada Reading Glasses (Black) $429. PROUDS - 8. Diamond Cluster Ring TDW=.50ct (8641090) $1,499, 9. 9ct 2 Tone Oval Pendant (2529117) $199, 10. 9ct 2 Tone Diamond Cut Oval Hoop Earrings (2449220) $199. SPENDLESS SHOES - 11. Vybe ‘Wrangle’ Studded Flats (Black) $19.95.

NOVO SHOES - 12. ‘Dimity’ Boots (Black) $89.95, 13. ‘Demi’ Boots (Taupe) $89.95, 14. ‘Brunston’ Boots (Black) $69.95, 15. ‘Alma’ Bag (Taupe) $79.95, 16. ‘Art’ Clutch (Black) $49.95.

waurn ponds shopping centre 32 Ruby Winter

Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre 173-199 Pioneer Road, Waurn Ponds Tel: (03) 5244 2580 www.waurnpondssc.com.au

ruby fashion

WINTER BOOTS. THE LONG & THE SHORT OF IT Boots are one of the few things I like about this time of year - they’re like my little ray of sunshine as the cold, wintery weather sets in. I truly believe a dame can never have too many boots. There’s day boots, dressed up boots, ankle boots, knee length boots, over the knee boots, flat boots, heeled boots - throw in a rainbow of colours and different materials and there is, seriously, a boot for every occasion! The one question I get asked the most is whether to go for long or short boots. My usual answer is there is no easy answer. It really depends on what purpose you want your boots to serve, what ‘gaps’ you’ve got in your wardrobe and what style is going to suit best. There is no denying we’ve had a serious love affair with ankle boots over the last few seasons and this year is no different. As a lady whose collection of short boots has increased dramatically over the last couple of years, I totally get the obsession! They’re perfect for slipping on under jeans or pants and are the ultimate mate for tights and dresses. The little wonders are also a great option for girls who have trouble finding long boots wide enough for their calves - nothing pesky to worry about here, just slip them and you’re right to go. If, like me, you’re a little vertically challenged and are worried about ankle boots cutting you off, look for a boot which sits below than the ankle (think a little bootie style) or with a lower cut front. This will help lengthen the leg, particularly if you want to wear them with dresses or skirts.

Whilst we’re so caught up with the short boot, we shouldn’t forget the value of their longer friends too. They’re the ultimate layering accessory for winter, letting you add them to jeans or tights for extra warmth on those cold, blustery days. There’s a big trend towards wearing knee length boots with longer length skirts and dresses, embracing a relaxed boho look that’s always so effortless and gorgeous. This is a look that can easily move outside of winter too, meaning you’re able to get a few more months of wear out of a traditionally winter style. If you prefer to wear long boots over pants or jeans, make sure the leg of your pants are nice and slim for the most flattering fit. And if you’re looking to wear them underneath pants, well you’re best to look for a boot that really hugs your leg to avoid any ‘boot bulge’ showing through. And when it comes to style, unless you like buying a new pair of long boots every year, look for something classic in its shape and finish so you know you’ll get good bang for your buck. So there it is - a quick wrap up of the two key boot lengths. No matter what length you end up picking, your boots are bound to become a staple in your winter wardrobe. Or if you’re like me and you can’t decide, you might just end up with a pair (or more) of each to make surviving winter just that little bit easier. words bridget connor, footique

Get your feet into the most beautiful boots in town

33 Ruby Winter

ruby wine

Winter has me seeing red… It’s pruning time across our region’s vineyards and after a long cold day amongst the bare canes, wine types want nothing more than to be enveloped in the soothing comforts of a hearty winter meal and deeply satisfying, full-bodied glass of red, or maybe even two… and you just know that Ruby loves its red. When the mercury goes down, give the summer whites a rest and bring out the rich, warm reds. Or, if you can’t bring yourself to cross to the paler side of the grape divide, these cold winter evenings lend themselves more to full-bodied whites - think Chardonnay rather than Sauv Blanc. This is the time of year that we crave those heartening slow cooked braises, roasts and rich pastas, which makes it the perfect time to raid those cellared wines. But when faced with a myriad of choices, what to drink? Steven Paul from Oakdene Wines gave his sage advice on narrowing the search. “Most local producers are producing from a single vineyard, so it’s best to stick to vintages that have produced really good wines of that style,” he says. “If you’re in the mood for a big red, look out for 2010s. Wineries will be releasing their lighter, fruitier styles of 2012 around mid-winter, so keep an eye out for new release local Pinot Noirs.” If you are looking for a lighter, spicier red, Steven suggests the 2011 vintage Pinots and Shiraz, which tended to have a lower alcohol content. But if you are looking to settle indoors with the heady aromas of roast lamb, mashed potato and roasted garlic, then the richer, heavier mouth feel of cabernet and merlot blends fits the bill perfectly. And if you have them, winter is the perfect time to invite some friends over and crack open one or two high quality bottles that have been cellared for a few years. “A really special wine doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does have to be high quality from a good vintage,” Steven says. “Make a special occasion of opening that bottle with friends and cook a meal around that wine. “Everyone says you should match wine with food, but if you have a wine that means something to you, why not match food with that wine?” “I firmly believe that wine is made to be drunk - not just kept in a cellar.

Steve’s top winter tip: Warm the cockles with a rich Bolognese and double up on the sauce so you can make lasagna with it the second night. Enjoy with a nice, spicy Geelong Shiraz. Perfect! OakdeneVineyards

34 Ruby Winter

@Oakdenewines

ruby wine

William Shiraz 2010

Bernardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cabernets 2011

Elizabeth Chardonnay 2011

Petaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pinot Noir 2012

Appearance: Deep crimson.

Appearance: Mid crimson.

Appearance: Pale straw.

Appearance: Garnet.

Bouquet: Highly perfumed with meaty, spicy red fruit aromas leading to pepper and whole bunch stemmy notes.

Bouqet: Complex bouquet of red currants, black fruits, tobacco leaf and cedar oak.

Bouquet: Complex bouquet, with notes of struck match, white peach, citus and toasted oak.

Bouquet: An intense bouquet of cherry, spice, mocha and smoked meats, leading to sweet cherry, briar and hints of clove.

Palate: Medium bodied, with savoury red and dark fruit characters, leading to firm but fine tannins and well integrated oak. Silken texture, with good ripeness, balance and a long finish. Conclusion: Highly enjoyable now, or cellar for 7 to 10 years.

Palate: Medium bodied palate, dominated by red currants, and some leafiness. Balanced by a fine-structured tannin backbone, fine acidity, and elegant, classic, ripe red fruit aromatics. Conclusion: Drink now or cellar for 4 to 8 years.

Palate: Fresh and bright, with excellent mid palate weight, and a creamy texture, nectarine, white peach and citrus are balance by taut acidity and a toasty oak finish.. Conclusion: Enjoy now or cellar for 4 to 6 years.

Palate: The mid palate offers earthy, cherry, plum notes and some spice and stalkiness. The wine has excellent palate weight, a silky mouth feel, fine tannins and a long finish. Conclusion: Enjoy now with food or cellar for 4 to 7 years.

oakdene.com.au

Restaurant - Cellar Door - Wine Sales - Accommodation - Events - Functions Oakdene Cellar Door: Open 7 days, 10am to 4pm | P (03) 5256 3886 | E cellardoor@oakdene.com.au Oakdene Restaurant: Lunch Wed - Sun, Dinner Wed - Sat | P (03) 5255 1255 | E restaurant@oakdene.com.au 255 Grubb Road, Wallington, Victoria 3222 | www.oakdene.com.au

35 Ruby Winter

un women

photo Aga Khan Foundation: Sandra Calligaro 36 Ruby Winter

un women Donate to the UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women via www.unwomen.org.au.

Casualties of war With international forces withdrawing from Afghanistan, the future for all Afghans is uncertain. Afghani women and children are not only casualties of the ongoing conflict, but are increasingly becoming the targets of violent attacks.

Gender-based and sexual violence is systematically used as a tactic of warfare to shame, terrorise and control communities.

under 15 years old are being forced into marriage. Between 60 to 80% of marriages in Afghanistan are forced. UN Women in Afghanistan works to educate communities to understand the negative social, economic and health implications of underage marriage and to help girls who have left forced and underage marriages through its shelter operations on behalf of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs.

The Director of Human Rights for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, Georgette Gagnon, reported in February this year that targeted attacks on civilian women and children as they go to work or school have increased by 20% in the last year.

The war has touched all aspects of Afghan society, but women and girls have been disproportionately affected during and in the aftermath of the conflict. The war has left 2.5 million Afghan widows with little or no means to support themselves post-conflict.

Women in Afghanistan face many trials in their everyday lives. Tension and violence in society has left many women in dangerous situations, unable to access basic services or plan for the future.

“Women in Afghanistan face many trials in their everyday lives... Gender-based and sexual violence is systematically used as a tactic of warfare to shame, terrorise and control communities.”

Heightened tension and militarisation in society can spur increased violence at home, in schools and in the workplace.

They live in abject poverty, with little opportunity to work or for their children to get an education.

The statistics tell just part of the story. 87% of women in Afghanistan have experienced at least one form of domestic violence; including physical, sexual, and psychological violence, or forced marriage. Pressure from society and custom means that there is little recourse for Afghan women who have experienced domestic violence. UN Women strives to make those women and their concerns heard, within society and in the Afghanistan government.

Education continues to be the key to unlocking someone’s potential. Only 12% of Afghan women aged 15 and over are literate. Attacks on school children, especially girls, hinder the efforts to increase literacy and improve the status of women and girls. When it is not safe or practical for a girl to attend a school, this is unlikely to improve.

Underage and forced marriages are outlawed in Afghanistan, yet girls

If a woman cannot participate in the political process without fearing for her and her family’s safety, progress is difficult to achieve. Female political

candidates are the targets of 90% of all threats against candidates in Afghanistan. When no one is representing the voices of women and girls, government bodies ignore their issues. UN Women is working to provide support services for Afghan women facing uncertainty in their lives. There are currently 19 Women Protection Centres on Afghanistan, 10 of which are supported by UN Women. Ensuring the safety of those fleeing violence, and seeking justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence is key to stabilising the situation of Afghan women. UN Women in Afghanistan also looks to safeguard the right of women to participate in elections, through training of the Independent Elections Commission’s Gender Focal Points, conducting voter education campaigns and supporting female candidates and voters. UN Women will also be advocating for improved security for women voters, at the polling centres in particular. Earmarking aid money specifically for projects that target the needs of women is an essential step in securing a country in which women can thrive. Access to health services, education, and political participation and leadership can only improve the state of society. Women’s issues need to be included in peace negotiations; with only 16% of peace agreements in the last two decades having contained a reference to women and gender. For further information about UN Women’s work in Afghanistan, log on to www.unwomen.org.au

unwoman.org.au 37 Ruby Winter

ruby real estate

How to have healthy rental relationships The key to a healthy relationship between agents, landlords and tenants, is communication and respect. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a landlord, listen to your agent - they have the experience on how to manage and present your property. They can tell you if there may be risk factors, such as torn carpet or vinyl, or cracks in windows or shower screens, and how best to address them. Agents are a valuable source of advice on getting the best value out of your property, which can be as simple as a fresh coat of paint. One of the most important factors in successfully managing rental properties is being realistic with the rent. Your agent should know the market and be able to provide you with comparable property rentals. Talk to your agent; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to ask questions about tenancy applications, inspections, end of tenancy, maintenance and selling your investment. You need to be able to trust your property manager to care for and manage your asset. All relationships are a two-way street and it is every bit as important for an agent to listen to their landlord as it is for a landlord to listen to their agent. Everyone has a story behind their investment - ranging from pure business transactions with little or no emotion attached, to the family home, where each room holds precious memories. Agents need to respect the instructions of their landlord, as well as guiding landlords through the maze of legislation that must be applied. Respect and open communication is also important for tenants. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a tenant, listen to your agent - they have to weave through a maze of legislation to ensure a tenancy runs smoothly. It is sensible practice to talk to your property manager if there are any issues concerning your tenancy. Your property manager can then discuss your concerns with the landlord to reach a resolution. But again, agents need to listen to tenants. Everyone deserves respect in the manner in which they are treated. Agents form relationships with tenants that may span years; treating each other with respect can make sure those are good years. words gina tobolov, west end real estate 38 Ruby Winter

ruby recruitment

women leading the way Our region has opportunities for females at all levels, and I have never once been provided with a brief that is gender driven. Change on the gender equality front has happened in Geelong for two very important reasons; firstly, we have a strong track record of successful female leaders, and secondly, because of an undisputed change around the world. We have a diversity of successful females that have broken through the traditional barriers and created a new norm; where we are used to seeing a woman in key roles that previously may have been considered the domain of males. Examples can be seen at Deakin, TAC, Harwood Andrews Lawyers, Coulter Roache Lawyers, and the Rotary Club of Geelong, where the incoming President is Sue De Gilio. Sue was previously the CEO of Barwon Health and G-Force. She also sat on the Board of the Committee for Geelong, that also has a female CEO in Rebecca Casson. The Geelong Business Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club recognised the change in demographics in the local business community and, over a decade ago, changed its name to The Geelong Business Club. Right through the fabric of business and organisations in Geelong, gender is represented; be that legal, accounting, administration, health, sales, science, academic, research, IT or distribution. The late Stephen Covey, researcher and author, presented the five stages of civilizations; from us initially being hunters and gathers, to developing agriculture, then creating an industrial landscape with factories, to the emergence of the information and knowledge worker, to the

current transition to a civilization based on wisdom. Clearly, the first three - hunter, agriculture and industrial - were male dominated. Males are built differently and generally are physically stronger. Females do have the families and are generally physically weaker. The practicalities of being a hunter, working on the land, or in a factory, tended to be dominated by men. Knowledge and wisdom civilizations are not bound by gender. A female can take time off during their career to have a family; equally there is no reason why a male cannot be the stay home parent. Whilst these limitations are lifted, and significant change is taking place, we as a local community are still in transition. As Sue De Gilio advised my male business partner, even after running Barwon Health and G-Force, she still received comments, predominantly from male senior managers, that provided encouragement but still inferred that she was operating in a male domain. The reality is that some prejudice does still exist in the minds of both men and women. Historical conditioning is not easily overcome, and you should be aware of that ongoing transition as you develop and build your career. But you should also make your career and life decisions knowing civilization has changed forever. In my next article, I will provide some pointers for resume and interview preparation to support your new mindset of equality.

words sarah thomas, sj personnel

Generations of experience tailoring recruitment to your needs. We take the time to understand your business to ensure we present you with candidates that have the skills, behaviours and attributes you need for a productive workplace. We provide recruitment services to industries including: Sales s Finance s Marketing s Retailing Engineering s Facilities Management Mining s Transport Business Services s Construction industries Recruitment Services Geelong and Ballarat CALL US: Sarah 0487 591 660 | Adam 0439 000 292 | www.sjpersonnel.com.au

39 Ruby Winter

ruby insurance

Risky Business… sooo 1983! We’ve all seen the movie. Now, if only Tom’s parents had taken better precautions... and locked up the car keys! Insurance is all about transferring your risky business, but even better than coping with the consequences of risk is reducing your risk in the first place. Firstly, ‘Just take those old records off the shelf...’ Take a look around your home. We all enjoy the rain on the roof, ‘That kinda music just sooths the soul’. Unless there’s a leak... Have the roof checked for leaks, loose tiles or broken tiles. Checking door seals and window seals; repairing or replacing worn seals might just stop water from getting into your home. Secure your outdoor furniture; it can rock and roll, damage your home, be broken or blow over the hill. Tie the trampoline down! You will be astonished the damage an unfastened trampoline can do - think busted roof, window, couch, fence and then the neighbours car! Unblocking the drainpipes reduces the chance of the spouts overflowing. Empty out the leaves from the spouts, allowing storm water a clean getaway. Have an alarm system installed, deadlocks on your doors and key locks on your windows. Are your smoke detectors functioning correctly? Do the kids have parties when you are away on holidays? Do you remember the kind of parties you used to go to? When it comes teenagers doing what teenagers do best, prevention is so much better than the cure!

“Don’t try to take me to a Disco,” unless you have your car properly serviced and maintained. Check the tread wear and, importantly, the pressures of your tyres - have them aligned and balanced if needed. Check the brake wear. If you are going to hit something, it’s best to do it as slowly as possible. Check your wiper blades and windscreen, you want to see what you are trying not to hit. Check all your lights are working; how many times have you seen cars with only one headlight? And drive according to the conditions. Allow extra stopping distance when it’s wet or when traffic is heavy. What about your business’ risky business? Claims have an impact on productivity, morale and cash flow. Can you afford that? How is your alarm system? Do you have local or monitored security? When was the last time you actually checked that it operates as it should? Locks, bars, bollards, shutters, fences, lighting and security cameras are great deterrents. Are your fire extinguishers and hose reels regularly serviced? Do you have business interruption insurance? You can protect your income if you can’t operate due to an event such as a fire or storm affecting your business. ‘Call me a relic, call me what you will…’ Just remember to call. And remember, having the right insurance, is no accident!

DISCLAIMER: This article is for guidance only, and professional advice should be obtained before acting on any information contained herein. Neither the writer, publishers nor the distributors can accept any responsibility for loss occasioned to any person as a result of action taken or refrained from in consequence of the contents of this article. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

words melissa vella, allsure insurance

ALLSURE insurance Having the right insurance, is no accident.

40 Ruby Winter

www.allsure.com.au like us on follow us on

InsureAllsure @InsureAllsure

P: 5278 6808

ruby money

TaX Time. Don’t stress! June 30 has been and gone and that means - da, Da, DAAH - it’s tax time. But don’t worry, advice is at hand. Just when you think you’ve finished the winter madness of End of Financial Year, you realise that now you have to gather your records and prepare your tax return. But tax time doesn’t have to be an annual cause of alarm; the key to a smooth interaction with the ATO is to be prepared. Here’s how: Fixed assets: Review fixed assets’ useful life and determine if there are any benefits in scrapping or trading in assets. Write off obsolete inventory: The year-end stocktake should involve a review of all inventory. Obsolete stock may be scrapped or valued below cost, subject to specific guidelines. Small business CGT concessions: Individuals operating a small business may be eligible for CGT concessions on the sale of business assets. Capital expenditure vs. repairs: Review all spending during the year to determine if all items are deductible or if they are capital by nature and need to be depreciated. ATO benchmarking: Benchmarks for specific industries have been developed by the ATO to identify taxpayers who report income or expenses different to similar businesses. Super guarantee changes: From 1 July 2013 the super guarantee rate is going up to 9.25 per cent, and the upper age limit of 70 years has been removed. Instant asset write-off: Small businesses can claim an instant asset write-off for a depreciating asset that cost up to $6,500. Bad debts: Write off bad debts before year-end. It must be bad, not merely doubtful, and must have been previously included as assessable income. Review unpaid expenses: Businesses who are falling behind in their rent and other expenses that work on an accruals basis may claim the arrears amount as a tax deduction. Superannuation contributions: Your superannuation contributions should have been deposited into the fund’s bank account before 30th June. If you personally contributed to superannuation make sure you have notified your fund if any of that contribution has been claimed as a tax deduction. DISCLAIMER: This article is for guidance only, and professional advice should be obtained before acting on any information contained herein. Neither the writer, publishers nor the distributors can accept any responsibility for loss occasioned to any person as a result of action taken or refrained from in consequence of the contents of this article. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

words reneé jovic, jovic accounting

Specialised Services

Renée Jovic

Property Investment Accounting Taxation Business Solutions

80 Pakington Street, Geelong West E: admin@jovicaccounting.com.au P: 03 5222 6962

“Providing Solutions to Businesses, Individuals and Property Investors. With a Personal Approach”

Web: www.jovicaccounting.com.au and www.bantacs.com.au

41 Ruby Winter

ruby socialites

DUFFS GOLF DAY Held at the magnificent Sands Torquay, the inaugural Duff ’s Jewellers Diamond Golf Classic was a fun-filled Ambrose golf classic, which raised over $18,000 for Give Where You Live. The morning commenced with a Zumba class with Paula Kontelj from Geelong’s Gym to get the field warmed up. The golf classic was followed by a gourmet chicken and champagne luncheon and a Lorna Jane Fashion Parade.

Kath Egan, Allison Murphy, Roxie Bennett and Fluer Taylor took out the golf Classic and went home with the first prize of diamond earrings from Duff’s Jewellers.

04 01. Winners - Kath Egan, Fleur Taylor, Roxie Bennett and Allison, 02. The Duffs Jewellers Team, 03. Terry Barrow won ‘Most Blinged,’ 04. The Faggs Mitre 10 Team, 05. Christine Brackin, Gail Richards, Heather Smith and Lynne Hy.

givewhereyoulive.com.au 42 Ruby Winter

ruby marketing

IS YOUR BUSINESS BLOOMING…? To market, to market… Oh, how to market? It’s the million dollar question that every business owner aspires to lucratively conquer! For most small business owners, marketing is no easy feat; with today’s changing market place and the growth of social media and online marketing, it can seem like an overwhelming task understanding where to start in marketing your business…

also offer their services to help you achieve the correct marketing mix to meet your business objectives. They can point you in the right direction with a basic marketing strategy overview and give you the tools required to get your show on the road.

How do I promote my product or service and where? Is my logo eye catching and do I have the right marketing materials? Who is my competition and what are they promoting? Who is my target audience and how do I connect with them? Which newspaper or magazine should I choose to advertise in? Do I have a quality website that ranks high in Google searches? How do I achieve consistent branding in all of my marketing activities? How can I market my business when I have so many other priorities such as sales, customers, staff, rosters, payroll, BAS etc.?

Donna reinforces that having the marketing know-how is the key to marketing success. “All too often we see business owners tackle their own marketing (or they get one of their staff to do it) because they think hiring a marketing consultant will cost too much. They waste valuable time, energy and money, resulting in a mishmash marketing effort, simply from lack of marketing expertise and the right industry contacts. This is particularly the case for those providing a service; they are generally better-off spending their time serving customers or satisfying clients than devoting hours to a marketing project or sourcing quotes, which would probably take us half the time”. So whether you are a small business just starting out, rebranding or simply need a little help with advertising and promotions, Bloom Marketing Solutions can support you in making the right decisions to assist your business to bloom and flourish.

As the owner of her own small business, Bloom Marketing Solutions, these are questions that Donna Carroll knows all too well. With a sales and marketing background working in the corporate world, Donna, teamed with colleague Melisa Thompson, now consults as a small business marketer helping business owners and managers to co-ordinate their marketing efforts. These Geelong ladies nourish their passion for marketing whilst juggling their duties as wives and busy mothers. Hence, bloomin’ good multi-taskers! Bloom Marketing Solutions operates as a fully mobile marketing service – so Donna and Melisa come to you. In true boutique style, they personalise the marketing strategy to each individual business, no matter what industry. They work on a casual needs basis, so no contracts or obligation to continue utilising their services for a certain period of time. They believe no business is too small and where there is competition; there is a place for effective marketing.

• branding • advertising & promotions • media publicity • marketing materials • strategic marketing planning • online marketing & website development • market research For a full list of marketing services, visit bloommarketing.com.au alternatively, email bloom@bloommarketing.com.au or call 0408 476 276 for a chat or obligation-free meeting at your workplace or somewhere nearby serving good coffee!

Bloom Marketing Solutions specialise in small business marketing management across a broad spectrum of industries, including retail, health, medical, beauty, wine, hospitality, building and various trades. Services range from basic one-off tasks such as organising business cards and print publications to detailed strategic marketing plans, market research, special offers/ promotions, media publicity, online marketing including social media, website development and content management. If you are a small business with a DIY attitude, Donna and Melisa

Donna Carroll

Melisa Thompson

advertorial bloommarketing.com.au

43 Ruby Winter

this, that & more

87 Barrabool Rd, Highton (Next to 63 Degrees) P (03) 5243 5600 F (03) 5244 0443 E info@eyegallery.net.au www.eyegallery.net.au

GIVENCHY SASS & BIDE MICHAEL KORS TED BAKER GLOBAL CONQUISTADOR FENDI NINA RICCI ROBERTO CAVALLI VERA WANG ETNIA CALVIN KLEIN DANIEL HECHTER TOM FORD MOSCHINO HUGO BOSS SERENGETI ESCADA TRUSSARDI KENZO LACOSTE GUCCI SONIA RYKIEL BOLLE ANDY WOLF MIKLI THIERRY LASRY FURLA SEIKO ZERO CHARLIE BROWN CARLA ZAMPATTI

“Like” on Facebook to see Real People in Real Glasses.

Help the environment and your community by donating your quality used clothing, furniture, bric-a-brac, kitchen, small electrical and homewares to the MS Community Shop. MS Community Shop 1/ 96 Pakington Street Geelong West Monday – Friday 9.30 – 5 pm Saturday 9am – 3 pm Ph: (03) 5229 6247

Australian Moorcroft Foundation Retailer

Moorcroft Pottery “Peacock Parade” Collection. Great for a new collector with pieces starting from $174.00

to advertise your services or products in “this, that & more” please email vinnie kerr - vinnie@adcellgroup.com.au

44 Ruby Winter

170 Moorabool St, Geelong P (03) 5229 7006 E fyanscottage@bigpond.com.au www.fyanscottage.com.au

ruby health

HEALTH CALENDAR Good health is one of the biggest factors in leading a good life. The slower days of winter are the perfect time to give some thought to your health. Are you going dry this July? Have you had our eyes tested recently? How are your calcium and vitamin D levels? When was your last papsmear? Are you due for a breast check? Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mon ladies, you are too precious not to be as healthy as you can be!

July 2013 01 - 31

Dry July

www.dryjuly.com

Eye Health Awareness Month

www.eyefoundation.org.au

14 - 20

National Diabetes Week

www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

15 - 21

Wee Week

www.kidney.org.au

22 - 28

National Pain Week

www.chronicpainaustralia.org.au

World Hepatitis Day

www.hepatitisaustralia.com

04 - 10

National Healthy Bones Week

www.healthybones.com.au

25 - 31

Hearing Awareness Week

www.hearingawarenessweek.org.au

Daff odil Day - Cancer Council Australia

www.daff odilday.com.au

27 Aug - 02 Sep

National Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Awareness Week

www.parkinsons.org.au

August 2013

45 Ruby Winter

ruby health

Fitness on Facebook: trending now The health and fitness industry has found a new audience on social media, and a large one at that. If you have Facebook or Instagram, there’s a high chance you have seen the proliferation of health and fi tness pages on these sites. I used to associate Facebook and Instagram with laziness and procrastination, but not anymore. Take Australian social media sensation and self-styled ‘body transformation specialist’. Bines (aged 24) has amassed over 200,000 followers. Before and after photos of regular people transforming their bodies into chiselled masterpieces are posted almost daily across such accounts, credited to ‘clean eating’ and plenty of exercise. Clean eating has taken off as the latest diet craze to drop kilos, but in reality it’s mostly common sense. It’s about eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, protein, and cutting out processed foods. On Instagram, health and fi tness accounts theultimatefi tspo and

tonedtannedandfitness have enormous followings, well into the hundreds of thousands. A hash-tag followed by a key term or short phrase is used to link photos to certain trends. People upload pictures of their rock-hard abs (or someone else’s), natural, organic, or raw food recipes, and hashtag them as #cleaneating and #fitspo, amongst other popular slang fitness terms. Fitspo is short for fitsporation, which is a slang term for ‘fit inspiration’, or inspiration to get fit. You can search images trending with the same hash-tags and connect with users with similar interests. I searched #fitspo and was returned with over 1.4 million photos, #cleaneating showed over 2.1 million photos. You get the idea that health and fitness is certainly ‘trending’ on social media. The motto ‘strong is the new skinny’ is referred to often; Ashy Bines and theultimatefitspo have posted this quote with an accompanying picture of a hardbodied woman, and many other fitness accounts have posted a version or hashtagged the quote at least once. I began running eight months ago in a bid to get myself fit and healthy, and I really love it. words courtney buchanan

46 Ruby Winter

I’ve found bucket loads of inspiration, motivation, recipes, and workouts easily incorporated into my daily existence via Facebook and Instagram. Chia seeds, avocados, and an all-natural Almond, Brazil and Cashew spread (replacing peanut butter) have become mainstays of my diet, thanks to the tips and recipes posted online. However, I’ve also found an occasional twinge of guilt arises when I realise at the end of the week I haven’t done a high enough quota of squats, or any squats for that matter. It becomes easy to get caught up thinking you haven’t achieved if you don’t look like those hard-bodied, shiny, super tanned people. Obesity rates in Australia are far too high, so there’s no doubt that inspiring people to make better lifestyle choices in relation to health and fitness is a positive thing. When it comes to the social media #fitspo trend is to be inspired, and inspire if you wish, but don’t allow yourself to feel inadequate or get caught up to the extreme. Enjoy life, take on new tips to live a healthy lifestyle, but the moment you feel a twinge of guilt or longing, sign out and switch off.

ruby health

A peculiar kind of grief I found out I was pregnant with my third child at the same time I found out I was losing it. A bright spark of joy followed the shock of the news delivered very gently by the lovely A&E doctor, but was quickly swamped by the facts and a haze of morphine. I was lying in Emergency after a day spent in immense pain and had been bleeding for the past four. With hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin, or the pregnancy hormone) levels of 399, there was not much hope of a happy outcome. Because of the low hormone levels, the pain and bleeding, they suspected an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube, which can then rupture as the embryo grows, causing painful and potentially fatal complications. I was admitted until they could book me in for an ultrasound the next day

and given a bed in a room where the three male patients had had a week together to develop firm friendships and were gently courteous of “the lady’s” privacy. I had no idea what to think about anything, beyond the fact that I was exhausted and the morphine was doing a fine job of blocking out the pain unless someone poked me too hard in the exact spot.

Time Constructively and Get Stuff Done. But nothing went to plan.

It was late February and the year was already not turning out as it was supposed to. When my youngest started school I was going to work on my business while simultaneously taking time for myself; I was going to Use My

I felt sick all the time - in fact, as I kept telling people, “If I didn’t know better, I’d say I was seven weeks pregnant.” Except that I couldn’t be, because my periods were like clockwork and the third baby we’d been trying to conceive

Instead, I was constantly exhausted and slept every afternoon before the school run so I would have enough energy to get through after school, dinner, baths and bed. I put it down to a stressful Christmas and holiday season, or perhaps I wasn’t as well adjusted to my son starting school as I thought.

47 Ruby Winter

ruby health for over a year on a “let’s see what happens, what will be, will be,” basis had been pushed to the back of my mind as I tried to work out my new role as not quite full-time mother and concentrated on getting my son settled at school.

“Tell her to stop working and rest” - to a health professional friend.

When I started bleeding half way through my cycle after a couple of days of uncomfortable pelvic sensations, I put it down to ovulation and/or crazy, “I’m almost 40” hormones.

Forty eight hours after my emergency room blood test I had another one. The next day we had an appointment with the Early Pregnancy Clinic to get the results of the blood test and talk about what would happen next. The hCG levels had gone down and apparently the “products” of my uterus would now come away naturally. I understood that medical speak is different to plain English, but I found that a particularly insensitive use of it. We went home again, I worked again, I went back the next day and had another blood test and waited for my follow up phone call from the clinic on Friday. When the doctor rang she said my levels had gone up again - only by ten, but that they would call that “stable,” so it

In Emergency they asked if I could be pregnant - I said it was highly unlikely, despite the fact ectopic pregnancy had occurred to me during that long day. But the dates didn’t work out - even if I was pregnant and it was lodged in my tube, the earliest it could be was three weeks gestation, too small to cause a problem yet and too small to detect on an ultrasound. But that was the second shock - the next morning as the familiar grainy picture of my uterus came up on the screen there was a gestational sac. It measured seven weeks, but, unlike

Friend, very carefully, “Well, in my professional capacity, I would have to say that work can serve a therapeutic purpose…”

“In my head I had given myself a week to get better - the news it was not over yet was unwelcome, although part of me began to think perhaps there was a chance for the baby after all?”

the ultrasounds of my other children at similar gestation, this one had no fluttering butterfly heartbeat, just a small white flake of something floating at the bottom. Aside from what they described as a lot of “debris” in the area, it seemed then that the best diagnosis was a straight forward miscarriage of what appeared to be a seven week pregnancy. None of the dates made sense and that made me feel even worse. Not only had I not known I was pregnant, I couldn’t even pinpoint when it might have happened. The sonographer could not have been kinder afterwards - it must be a distressing job at times. I went home and there wasn’t a lot to say. I waited to feel better, but I didn’t. I hid in my bedroom because it hurt to move around and submerged myself in work. Hubbie: “Don’t work, you should rest.” Me: “I’m sitting up in bed with my laptop, it’s hardly manual labour.”

48 Ruby Winter

probably needed to be investigated further. In my head I had given myself a week to get better - the news it was not over yet was unwelcome, although part of me began to think perhaps there was a chance for the baby after all? It was a small hope, but I presented myself for yet another blood test at A&E on Sunday and then we went along to the clinic again on Monday. The levels were up again and she didn’t like the look of me: I was tired, still in pain and still bleeding. I was readmitted for another ultrasound - again it was inconclusive, although the sac had gone and there now appeared to be a “structure” near my right ovary, although a lot of the “free fluid” visible on the previous ultrasound was gone. They kept me in overnight, and after much discussion among doctors, they decided it was best to treat me for an ectopic pregnancy based on the fact that I was still pregnant, but with levels not high enough for the pregnancy to

be viable, and there was no embryo in my uterus. I was confused about the presence of the sac, but didn’t seem to be able to ask sensible questions or understand the answers. I have never felt so unwell and physically fragile in my life - I felt if I moved the wrong way something would break in half. On Tuesday afternoon, I was injected with methotrexate, a cancer treatment drug given to stop cells multiplying. This would cause the embryo to stop growing and it would then slowly reabsorb into my body. I would need to have regular blood tests for the next few weeks to monitor the hCG levels and was given a sheaf of numbered pathology slips to go home with. Deep inside, I was disturbed about the methotrexate but I couldn’t find words to frame my concerns and I suspected the answer would involve, “What choice do you have?” Waiting for my tube to rupture didn’t seem like much of an option. I knew the embryo had no chance of ever developing into a normal pregnancy, I knew there was no happy ending, more than likely it was already dead, but I felt like I had betrayed it and let it down. I walked out of the hospital and met my husband and children on their way from school pick up. We had been careful what we’d said in front of the children and had told them only that I had a sore stomach and needed to be in hospital so the doctors could work out what was wrong. Now in the car, my son asked, “Mummy, did the doctors fix your tummy?” “Yes, sweetheart.” “But Mummy,” said my daughter, in a rather pointed way, “what’s in your tummy that’s making it hurt?” Obviously they had overheard more than we thought. “Well, there’s some cells in there that aren’t growing the way they should and I’ve had some medicine to stop them growing and now everything will be all right.” Several hours later I was back in Emergency after collapsing on my bathroom floor. The pain had returned with renewed fierceness and so had the bleeding. My husband called my sister and the ambulance and I went to the place I had gone to during my labours - focussing on my breathing, distracting myself with trivial things. The ambos were lovely, lovely men, competent and caring and I have never been so grateful to see anyone in my life. They

ruby health made me laugh, which hurt, but helped. “So,” one of them said, “this is your third confirmed pregnancy? And two viable children?” “Yes -” I said, listening to my son whispering excitedly to his sister the hallway, “Is Mum getting the ambulance? Oh my goodness, Mum is getting the ambulance!” “- two very viable children,” and we all laughed and he said, “Sorry love, it’s medical speak”. They gave me a green stick with magical pain killing properties to suck on and I was high as a kite as they wheeled me out my front door and down the path to the ambulance. I thought I was waving reassuringly to the kids, but was later told it was more like the queen waving to her subjects. Fortunately, the arrival of the ambulance had gone under the radar of the neighbours, so no one else was there to witness it. Readmitted once again, to the very ward and bed I had vacated only hours before, I slept and woke and slept and woke and tried to get comfortable

getting better fast enough. “No,” he said gently, “I would probably give it at least another ten days before you start to feel better. And then about six weeks after that before you’re completely back to normal.” It was a lesson in being careful what you wish for. At the start of the year I had yearned for time to just lie around and read books; but six weeks was a bit much. “You’ve had part of your body removed,” people said. “Go easy on yourself.” I didn’t know what I felt or what I was supposed to feel. All I knew was that I felt terrible inside and out. People talked to me about grief, but I couldn’t get my head around that. Mostly, in that first week before the surgery, I was just so sad for my baby, that no one knew it was there until it was already gone. That because I didn’t know I was pregnant the baby never had a chance for anyone to love it, and that I didn’t take care of it because I never had a chance to.

“I didn’t know what I felt or what I was supposed to feel... People talked to me about grief, but I couldn’t get my head around that... I was just so sad for my baby, that no one knew it was there until it was already gone.”

and tried not to move too much. My husband came with a worried face and I worried about him - it’s much easier to go through things yourself than it is to watch someone you love going through them. He did so well holding the house together, taking care of the kids, taking care of everything. I was grateful to all the friends and family who took care of him and asked him how he was feeling - when all the physical symptoms are happening to the woman, it’s easy to forget the man is losing his child as well. Late the next afternoon, my ruptured fallopian tube was removed and about half a litre of blood from my abdomen. When I woke after the surgery, I could feel immediately that the source of the pain was gone - the pain from the incisions was completely different. I expected to feel better and be up and about in the next couple of days - I’d had a laparoscopy before and it was no big deal. On day three I was at my GP’s in tears, telling him I wasn’t

To label that feeling as grief seemed too dramatic, seemed to take away from people who miscarry much later in pregnancy, who experience stillbirth and SIDs. In a way I was glad we hadn’t known I was pregnant, that we hadn’t had weeks to plan and anticipate, only for it to be taken away. That would have been so much harder. During my second admission to hospital, the woman in the bed next to me was miscarrying for the third time and I couldn’t work out why the nurses kept inquiring about her “loss”. I thought, “Why do they keep asking her that? It’s so cruel,” until I worked out they were asking about her blood loss, not her baby. And I thought about telling people, “I lost my baby,” and that would make me think - how careless of me to lose something so precious, I should have taken better care. But how could I have taken better care when I had no idea it was there, when it was doomed from the beginning? It is only recently that I

have referred to “my” or “our” baby, that I have come to accept I have had three pregnancies now, not two. The thing is, until I started to get better physically, I couldn’t even begin to process emotionally what had happened. People comforted us in our “grief” over our “loss” and were very kind, but I didn’t feel I was grieving; I wasn’t sure what I had lost. “Are we grieving?” I asked my husband. “Are we supposed to be? If so, what are we grieving?” The only thing that resonated was a card I received describing ectopic pregnancy as a “peculiar kind of grief” and I thought, “Yes, that’s it”. We had lost something that was already gone before we knew it was there; that had never had any chance of living and we didn’t know what, or how, to feel. Was it a sign we should try again? Or a sign that we should stop? I felt that because something had died, things should change in some way; but nothing had, and I wasn’t sure exactly what should change, just that life shouldn’t keep going on as if nothing had happened. But keep on it did - the kids still had to go to school, groceries needed to be bought, bills needed to be paid. As I recovered and went back on the school run, questions were inevitable; in fact my husband had been facing them the whole time. At first he said only that I’d been ill, but as time went by he just told people the truth. And, just like that, we were inducted into a whole new world of what people carry within them every day of their lives. Before this happened to us, I didn’t think I knew anyone else who had been through it, but now I know at least three or four friends have; some of them more than once (having one ectopic pregnancy raises the risk of having another). People shared their stories with us so that we would know we were not alone. Casual conversations in the playground turned intimate as other mums told me of their losses, as a way to remember and to let us know we were not alone - that what we felt was normal. Some of them just cried and hugged me and that let me know they knew how all this felt. I thank them from the bottom of my heart, my friends, my family, the women who treated me in hospital and told me their own stories of miscarriage, the playground mums. Thank you. And now I share our story, in the hope that it will help someone else.

in the interests of the privacy of the family involved, the writer’s name has been withheld. 49 Ruby Winter

ruby health

The New Approach to Lasting Fat Loss Body Conquest prides ourselves with doing three fundamental things for our clients: improving body composition (looking better), improving health (feeling fantastic) and improving your ability to be a role model and energetic wife/mum/worker (performing better). I think women often fail in ‘dieting’ because we think too far ahead and want ALL THE RESULTS RIGHT NOW. So we stress, and worry, and try to be perfect, and think about the future, and worry if we aren’t losing fast enough, or if we slip up we might as well give up. But that’s not how lasting fat loss works. Lasting Fat Loss happens one meal at a time, over time. Which bring me to the ‘Now Approach’. This approach is simple (and yet many of us don’t think this at all, even though it works). The premise is that all we can control is what we are doing right now. The Now Approach requires that we make the best choice available to us at the very next meal (what we are eating right NOW) or what workout we will do today (i.e. now, not tomorrow, or next week, or a year from now). That’s it. It’s simple and it works. Why? Because fat loss happens one meal at a time, one workout at a time, and all those small good choices add up to several large accomplishments and a wonderfully energetic, fit and healthy body. Even if you are super busy (AND without dieting) BUT are ready to: • drop your unwanted kilo’s permanently • drop inches off your hips and tummy • tighten everything and • enjoy a super level of energy and fitness, • Achieve all of your goals—WE CAN HELP!!!! Both our Fat Loss course and our brand new “Mamalicious” program will have you feeling and looking healthier in less than a fortnight. You will have some simple nutritional guidelines and our programs are designed to be fun, fat burning, and toning muscles all at the same time. Don’t let your next 12 months be the same as your last 12 months. Stay ahead of the game - join today! advertorial bodyconquest.com.au 51 Ruby Winter

ruby health

A question of genes “For any woman reading this, I hope it helps you to know you have options,” wrote actor Angelina Jolie in the New York Times in May. Ms Jolie stunned the public with the announcement she had undergone a preventative double mastectomy after discovering she carries a faulty BRCA1 gene and has an estimated 87 per cent chance of developing breast cancer and a 50 per cent chance of ovarian cancer. Her original New York Times piece ran in publications around the world. “I chose not to keep my story private because there are many women who do not know that they might be living under the shadow of cancer,” she wrote. “It is my hope that they, too, will be able to get gene tested, and if they have a high risk they will know they have strong options.” While Ange has certainly succeeded in starting the conversation, raising awareness also raises questions, and there are vast differences between the American and Australian health systems. Ruby spoke to Carole Renouf, CEO of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), to get some answers from the Australian perspective. Ruby: What are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes? Carole: The two BRCA genes fall into the category of genes known as cancer suppressors. Under normal circumstances, they would act to suppress uncontrolled cell growth and the development of tumours but, when subject to mutations, they fail to deliver this function and the person’s risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer is greatly increased, as [is] the risk of other cancers. How many Australian women are affected? About five per cent of the 14,000 breast cancers currently diagnosed in Australia each year, or about 700 cases, are linked to these mutations (and about 10 per cent of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer). Not all breast cancer in families is linked to the BRCA genes. What does testing for gene mutations involve? To qualify for the test, the person must meet certain criteria. Typically, words judy baulch 52 Ruby Winter

families where two or more relatives have been diagnosed with breast and/or ovarian cancer, with one aged younger than 40 years, will be considered for testing. There has to be at least a 10 per cent chance that a gene mutation will be identified. This depends on family history and tumour characteristics. For example, Ashkenazi Jewish heritage drives up the chances of having a gene mutation. There are three stages of testing. First, the family history is reviewed in a Family Cancer Clinic. Secondly, a gene mutation search test is carried out, usually on a family member who has been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer. Genetic counselling should accompany this test. Thirdly, if a mutation is identified, a predictive test for family members can be offered, looking for this gene fault. How do people go about organising a test? How much does it cost? Anyone interested in accessing genetic testing should start with a Family Cancer Clinic. (Visit Cancer Council Australia at cancer. org.au and search “Family Cancer Centres”). The testing is funded by State health systems via the hospitals the clinics are based in. It is not covered by Medicare and [funding eligibility] will depend on whether the person meets the criteria for testing under the State public health system. What should be considered before making a decision? It’s important to remember that the test is not 100 per cent foolproof and that a positive result only tells you about the risk of cancer, not the certainty you will get it. It’s thanks to the great advances in research over the past 20 years that genetic testing is now available for those who need it. NBCF is pleased that people with mutated BRCA genes are now in a position to make an informed choice. However, we would wish to see their options broadened through the results of future research. photo mammary gland mast cell tumour viewed under a microscopic lens.

ruby health

QUALITY SERVICE & DISTINCTIVE CARE St John of God Geelong Hospital has long had a reputation for service quality and distinctive care, since the Sisters of St John of God took over a hospital set for closure back in 1974. From those formative years, the hospital has gone from strength to strength, and was recently named as the most outstanding provider of Day Surgery services in Press Ganey’s 2013 Australia wide patient satisfaction survey. The survey, which measures patients’ views on the quality of services provided, benchmarked results with over 140 facilities, and confirmed SJG as a clear Number One nationally. In what is thought to be a first, the hospital was also ranked national number one in Press Ganey results for Doctor Satisfaction and Staff Satisfaction results, for hospitals exceeding 150+ beds. Hospital CEO, Stephen Roberts said, “The results were fantastic, particularly the Day Surgery, which is an outstanding testament to the commitment of every caregiver to use their skills and passion to provide excellence in care - this is our hospital’s reason for being.” The Sisters of St John of God first arrived in Australia in 1895, and the growth and success of their hospitals, for over

a century now, has been consistently underpinned by a commitment to meeting the unique needs of each and every patient; and the journey in Geelong has been no different. Mr Roberts explained that following its naming as the overall winner of the 2005 Geelong Business Excellence Award, the hospital made a strategic commitment to use the result as the impetus to transform itself into becoming ‘the best regional private hospital in Australia’. “Geelong is an outstanding regional city that offers so much as a great place to live, and we are seeking to make a very positive contribution to this. We are currently undertaking a major redevelopment project that will deliver a range of new facilities and services to the community and, by project completion, we will have committed $100m in new infrastructure during the past 5 years.” Whilst this is important to our transformation, we are absolutely convinced that our greatest contribution to the city won’t come in bricks and mortar alone; rather, it’s linked to

our ability to understand the patient experience and to then align our caregivers skills and priorities with patient expectations. The recent results have been extremely encouraging for the team, given the redevelopment challenges that we have been working through during the past year, and is testament to their commitment and focus on delivering excellent patient care at all times. “As SJG’s current redevelopment project concludes in mid-2014, the Moorabool and Myers Street precinct will have been transformed. The hospital will have expanded its clinical services to include a new rehabilitation service and Geelong’s first private Emergency Department, and we will continue pursuing our goal to be the best private hospital in regional Australia. “Whilst our physical appearance will change, the one thing that won’t is our focus on responding to the unique needs of each and every patient entrusted into our care, that’s the SJG way and it always will be.”

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53 Ruby Winter

ruby health

WE ALL DESERVE DIGNITY AS WE AGE Local aged care provider Multicultural Aged Care Services (MACS) has announced the launch of a new service, which provides in-home care to people of all ages and abilities. Joy Leggo, CEO of MACS said, “We are delighted to announce our new Complete Care division is now operating. This is an exciting development for MACS and the Geelong community.” The new service, born out of a need in the community and the introduction of DisabilityCare Australia will offer a complete range of in-home care services. “We have care options to help our clients get out and about, so our staff will accompany clients to social lunch outings. We help to lighten the load at home, by lending a hand with tasks like meal preparation and child minding. Naturally, we also provide disability care, respite care, overnight care and Case Management and Coordination and much more,” Mrs Leggo said. A unique aspect of MACS is its multicultural heritage; providing culturally sensitive care for Geelong’s migrant community. “Because of our history, we take the time to carefully match our staff to our clients’ personalities, cultural background and language preference. Many of our employees come from nonEnglish speaking backgrounds, so the care we provide is culturally responsive, sensitive and appropriate. We deliver smiles in all languages,” Mrs Leggo said. advertorial macs.org.au 54 Ruby Winter

ruby health

I’m suffering from skin envy

Hair free by summer! medical grade laser hair removal

Have you ever met someone and found yourself marveling at her smooth, glowing skin? That is exactly how I felt walking into the Australian Skin Face Body clinic. There are women who are naturally at home in beauty clinics and those that are less so. I definitely fall into the latter - one whiff of essential oil burners and the soft strains of new age music and I can feel my tension levels rising. Thankfully, there was none of that here. The clinic was founded by Plastic Surgeon, Mr Ian Holten, and is professional, busy and blessedly incense-free. And, in what was one of the best in-situ marketing statements I’ve ever encountered, everyone - everyone - had glowing, gorgeous skin. These weren’t the overly plumped up, stretched and slightly scary faces you might associate with the industry, but just very, very fresh versions of their normal selves. And there it was, complete skin envy! After a quick précis over botox and fillers (Mr Holten has some firm views on why these shouldn’t be over-used, including references to a number of Hollywood A-listers) we got down to what I was here to see - the medical grade treatments. There was the space age AccuSculpt face and body contouring system to treat fat deposits, the medical grade laser hair removal, and the rather extraordinary, Australian-first INFINI skin needling system. What I was amazed at was the very short downtime associated with these new generation treatments. I had always thought a treatment like needling would result in days, perhaps even weeks of red, raw skin. Apparently it’s much closer to 24 - 48 hours of what looks a little like sunburn. Not so long ago, I was talking to someone who had recently had laser hair removal. She described the process as like having molten lava poured on her underarms - but absolutely worth the pain to never have to shave them again. I was intrigued. Isn’t hair removal the bane of every woman’s life? So, in I went to give it a go. Off with the dress, on with the towel and eye-saving yellow glasses and before I knew it we were ready. Meekly, I asked if it would hurt. ‘You might feel a bit of heat and the smell is just the burning hair.’ Here’s hoping… There was a sensation of a short, sharp spray of cold water as the laser treatment began. ‘Are you kidding me?’ I blurted out. Then, embarrassed, I explained I was expecting something a little more painful. But no, this machine delivers a spray of cold air to balance the heat of the laser. Fifteen minutes later, it was done. So easy! So painless! Why had I waited so long to do this? One month on and still silky smooth. Result! Soon I’ll be back in to book a few more sessions to really get rid of those loathed underarm spikes, which is what I was babbling away to a girlfriend at dinner a few weeks ago when I realised she was looking at me in horror. ‘What?’ ... Apparently, laser hair removal a few years ago was much less pleasant, and less successful. I slipped her a card!

50% off all medical grade laser hair removal*

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How does laser hair removal work? Laser uses a beam of light to penetrate your skin. The light is absorbed by the pigment in your hair and skin and is converted to heat. The heat damages the hair follicle so further hair cannot grow. A medical grade laser is far more effective than say IPL hair removal. Am I a suitable candidate for laser hair removal? Laser hair removal works best on dark hair and light skin. If you have fair hair, you maybe unsuitable for laser hair removal. How many treatments will I need? Depending on what part of the body you are having treated, on average between four and six treatments are needed. IPL hair removal requires more treatments. Does it cause ingrown hairs? No it prevents them. Does it hurt? The treatment we offer is one of the most comfortable available, ensuring effective results.

Australian Skin Face Body 50 Western Beach Road, Geelong Telephone 5221 2238 www.asfb.com.au AusSkinFaceBody

words davina montgomery 55 Ruby Winter

ruby health

Make a Health e choice.... Located on Shannon Avenue near the corner of Aberdeen Street in Geelong West is the busy medical hub, Health e Medical Centre. Established in 2005 by Dr Michael Carroll and Dr John Stekelenburg, this prominent medical centre has recently extended its premises and expanded its services. This purpose-built modern facility combines a broad range of medical and allied health services as well as incorporating a conveniently located adjacent pharmacy and pathology collection service centre. Although this is predominantly an appointment-based practice, the extended hours of opening and after hours on-call service ensures any patients of the practice have 24/7 medical advice available to them. Health e Medical Centre has experienced and committed practitioners to service a full range of medical conditions. A well-equipped 3-bed minor procedure / treatment room operates with the support of five experienced Division 1 nurses who assist Doctors with day-to-day patient care and aid in emergency situations. The nurses also participate and are actively involved with in-home health assessments and care plans. Their two female practitioners Dr Alison Maiden and Dr Azin Tabari, offer a comprehensive range of services including a monthly Women’s Health clinic held of an evening. Other specialised services include Flu vaccination clinics, travel medicine - incorporating advice on yellow fever accreditation, which is another feature of this practice that is not readily available elsewhere. The centre has also an established and comprehensive, highly creditable pre-employment medical service.

56 Ruby Winter

A strong link with Deakin University promotes and encourages medical students and nursing students to gain hands on experience in a real life clinical setting during their placements at Health e Medical Centre. Community involvement and commitments by Health e with varied sporting clubs, advocate and promotes the message of “Health e choices lead to a Health e lifestyle”. Health e Allied Services have recently moved into their new purpose-built rooms which will soon link directly through to the Medical Centre reception. High standards of service and care from the allied specialists include dietitian advice, physiotherapy, diabetes education, podiatry, exercise physiology, audiology, occupational therapy, as well as accommodating visiting specialist consultants. The allied team of professionals assist patients suffering from neck, back, leg and foot pain, headaches, sports injuries and other musculoskeletal conditions. They also help manage rehabilitation and exercise induced problems. Expert nutrition and diabetes advice is readily available as well as hearing assessments and advice on exercise and lifestyle modification. A new feature of the allied premises includes a large room for the purpose of conducting various physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises, clinical and floor Pilates sessions. New services soon to be added will include group sessions for the management of back care, joint replacement, cardiac and falls prevention as well as a strong senior’s group program. For more information on Health e Medical Centre and Allied Health Services, contact Practice Manager Rhonda Bennion on 5223 9999.

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DOCTORS

CLINICAL SERVICES

Dr Michael Carroll Dr John Stekelenburg Dr Scott Randall Dr Jeff Urquhart Dr John Newman Dr Derek Davey Dr Bahgat Bassili Dr Paul Hingston Dr Alison Maiden Dr Azin Tabari

• Immunisation • Travel Medicine • Skin Checks • Men & Women’s Health • Children’s Health • Geriatric Medicine • Emergency Care • Health Care Plans • Insurance Medicals • Chronic Disease Management

AUDIOLOGIST Orlando Zilich DIABETES EDUCATOR Olga Lutzko

PHYSIOTHERAPISTS Ryan Ogden Katrina Verhoeven Ben Bisset David Andrews

DIETITIAN Amy Trotter

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST Jace Kelly

PODIATRISTS Luke Madeley Leah McCombe Dean Cronkwright

FACILITIES Pilates/Exercise Studio Education Room Heel Pain Clinic

Telephone: 5223 9999 Email: info@hemc.com.au

Telephone: 5223 9900 Email: info@healtheas.com.au

OPEN 7 DAYS Mon to Fri 8am-8pm / Sat 9am-12noon / Sun 10am-12noon 258-264 Shannon Avenue, Geelong West www.hemc.com.au advertorial hemc.com.au 57 Ruby Winter

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RUBY BOOK CLUB

We Got the Water Dr Jill Gabrielle Klein

And the Mountains Echoed Khaled Hosseini

In the spring and summer of 1944, along with more than 400,000 other Hungarian Jews, the Klein family were forced from their home, sent to live in a ghetto, before boarding the now infamous trains to Auschwitz.

In Afghanistan, 1952, Abdullah and his sister, Pari, live with their father and stepmother in a small village. Each night they sleep together in their cot, their skulls touching, their limbs tangled.

Then sixteen year-old Gabi’s father, Herman, was killed in a Nazi gas chamber when they arrived.

One day the siblings journey across the desert to Kabul with their father. Pari and Abdullah have no sense of the fate that awaits them there; for the event that will tear their lives apart… sometimes a finger must be cut to save the hand.

We Got the Water, written by Gabi’s daughter, follows the rest of the family through Auschwitz and into slave labor camps in Poland and Germany, providing an inspirational narrative of resilience in the face of terror and incorporates stories from the aunts’ diaries, written in secret at the time. These remarkable historical documents paint a vivid picture of the horrors and suffering—as well as the small kindnesses and camaraderie—that defined life in the camps.

Crossing generations and continents, moving from Kabul, to Paris, to San Francisco, to the Greek island of Tinos, weaved throughout And the Mountains Echoed is profound wisdom, depth, insight and compassion. In his first book in six years, Khaled Hosseini writes about the bonds that define us and shape our lives.

The Patron Saint of Lost Dogs

Confessions of a Sociopath

Nick Trout

M.E. Thomas

A sweet and charming novel about a man who inherits his father’s failing veterinary practice and the unlikely friendships, adventures, and second chances that develop as he tries to save it.

If you’ve watched just about any crime show on TV, you would have heard of sociopaths – people incapable of empathy, often highly intelligent and successful, people who tend to be highly manipulative and who feel neither guilt or remorse.

Cyrus has a simple plan: restore and sell his deceased father’s practice as quickly as possible and then get out of town. Then his first patient, a down-on-her-luck Golden Retriever, named Frieda Fuzzypaws, wags her way through the door, and suddenly life gets complicated. With the help of a Black Labrador gifted in the art of swallowing underwear, a terrier whose days are numbered, a Persian cat determined to expose her owner’s lover as a gold digger, and the allure of a feisty, gorgeous waitress from the local diner, Cyrus gets caught up in a new community and its endearing and eccentric residents.

M.E. Thomas is a sociopath; it’s estimated that one in 25 people are. She is also a successful lawyer and law professor, she goes to church on Sundays, and she loves her family and friends. And here, in startlingly frank terms, is one woman’s account of living without the strictures of self-doubt or guilt. She writes about the confusion of trying to fit in as a child, to her growing need for power over others - from her successful stratagems at work, and in love, to the disasters that brought her greater understanding of herself and the motivation to control her behavior.

59 Ruby Winter

FREE )0-*%": FUN @ 8"63/ 10/%4 4)011*/( $&/53&

WEEK 1

MEET JEWEL SPARKLES .0/ +6-: '3* +6-:

11AM TO 2PM DAILY OUTSIDE TARGET Meet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jewel Sparklesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, one of the original eight Lala Loopsy dolls and let your imagination run wild at the all new Lala Loopsy activity centre, never seen before in Australia! â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jewel Sparklesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; will be roaming the Centre every half hour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see the Lala Loopsy oopsy activity centre team for appearance times and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget your camera! Used under license by The Entertainment Store ÂŠ MGA

WEEK 2

RIDE THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE MON 8 - FRI 12 JULY

11AM TO 3PM DAILY OUTSIDE TARGET Back by popular demand â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jump aboard Thomas The Tank Engine trackless train ride as he takes short trips around the centre. And kids can get active at the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hands-onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; daily craft workshops with different activities every day ÂŠ 2012 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ÂŠ 2012 HIT Entertainment Limited.

8BVSO1POET4$ 1 E 0QFO EBZT t 1I 173 - 199 Pioneer Road, Waurn Ponds 3216 www.waurnpondssc.com.au