Salt Magazine Autumn 2023

choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice for your new lifestyle home.

Sales office open Monday to Friday, to make an appointment please call 5443 2766.

ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

I’ve been passionate about photography for as long as I can remember. Initially a hobby, it developed into a profession (and obsession) in 1999. I love to help showcase the talents of creatives, as well as capturing the natural beauty of this place.

instagram @anastasiakphotographer

ON THE COVER

This pin oak tree was captured with a Canon 5D Mark II using a 100mm lens at f4 with 1/250 second exposure. I pointed the camera straight up the tree and shot with a wide aperture to create shallow depth-of-field in order to isolate one or two leaves from the rest and convey a somewhat dreamy autumnal atmosphere.

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate the new Sunflair Swimwear collection we are giving away a Sunflair gift pack to the value of approx. $310. It includes a beautiful kaftan, beach bag, sun hat and beach towel. Go to saltmagazine.com.au and click on win tab to enter.

SUE FOSTER SALES MANAGER

I love the Sunshine Coast every season, but this autumn I’m going to be a foodie and enjoy some of the Coast’s new restaurants.

DANIELLE BUSSA FASHION CO-ORDINATOR

I love autumn for its fashion. Shopping for that new season style boot is by far my favourite thing to do, followed by cake and caramel lattes!

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GENERAL ENQUIRIES

07 5444 0152. PO Box 6362

Maroochydore BC, Qld, Australia 4558

© Copyright 2023

salt is published by The Publishing Media Company Pty Ltd ATF The Media Trust.

Our distribution area covers the entire Sunshine Coast north to Rainbow Beach, south to Glass House Mountains and inland to Kenilworth.

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR

It’s funny how sometimes the theme of an edition comes together without even really planning it that way. The autumn edition of salt really showcases the clever creatives who call the Sunshine Coast home.

From a nursing duo who transferred their theatre skills to create delicious bespoke gin and vodka products, to young sisters who make luxurious wool blankets from factory floor offcuts

CONTRIBUTING TALENTS:

and textile waste, right through to a woman who has created a floral and Indigenous art business to help keep the memory of her precious daughter alive, the Coast sure is teeming with clever folk who have created businesses around their passion.

Lahnee and Pablo Pavlovich take us on a journey through the quaint township of Cooroy. From eclectic cafes and antique stores to a thriving art gallery, iconic German bakery and brewery, not to mention the great new family playground, who knew there was so much to do there. Make sure you arrive early!

Meanwhile, journalist Candice Holznagel delves into the importance of outdoor play for our little ones, especially post pandemic.

Plus, we have pages and pages of stunning fashion, beauty and homewares to inspire you.

Martin Duncan brings us up to date on what’s happening on the Sunshine Coast foodie scene and there is so much to look forward to!

Autumn is such a beautiful season on the Sunshine Coast. The days are still warm, the evenings a little crisper and it’s the perfect time to get out and explore what our region has to offer.

Whether it’s a picnic in the hinterland or a morning stroll along one of our stunning beaches, followed by a coffee at your favourite cafe, we really do live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.

Until next time, Enjoy!

What do you love most about autumn on the Sunshine Coast?

INGRID NELSON, EDITOR

ANAR HIGGINS

DARRYL OLSON

MICHAEL KRAMER

NOEL OLSON

PUBLISHERS

KATH HAWKINS

MORGAN EARNEY

JULIE EMMERSON

DESIGNERS

JANE TODD

MORGAN

EARNEY DESIGNER

As far as seasons on the Sunshine Coast go, autumn is my favourite. The evenings are cooler, the sun still shines bright and has a warmth during the day. I love spending the weekends sitting on the beach at Currimundi Lake with family and friends. Enjoying hot chips while watching my kids play in the water is the best.

LISA PEARL PHOTOGRAPHER

Autumn on the Sunshine Coast is one of my favourite times of year. I love the quieter beaches and the slightly cooler weather. Whether I’m paddle boarding at Cotton Tree or Noosa River, learning to surf at Maroochydore or spending lazy days exploring our beautiful hinterland areas, Sunshine Coast in autumn is magic!

PROOFREADER

ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

LISA PEARL

PABLO PAVLOVICH

MEGAN GILL

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ANNIE GROSSMAN

STEVE LESZCZYNSKI

LINDA READ

MARTIN DUNCAN

LAHNEE PAVLOVICH

JANINE HILL

CAITLIN ZERAFA

WRITERS

CANDICE HOLZNAGEL

SUB-EDITOR

DIANNE OLSON

TINA OLSON

DISTRIBUTION

ANITA MCEWAN

SOCIAL MEDIA & DIGITAL MANAGER

THANKS GO TO OUR OTHER CONTRIBUTING TALENTS TOO:

Image supplied: Bed Bath N Table

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AHIDDEN GEM

HAVE

YOU EVER VISITED Cooroy?

Nope, I hadn’t either, which is ironic considering it is only about a 20-minute drive from Noosa and at the heart of the Noosa Hinterland.

But I suppose with so much beauty across the Sunshine Coast, it’s hard to view it all and well, like me, perhaps you didn’t realise just how cool Cooroy really is.

So, let me enlighten you. My husband and I decided to venture up into the rolling hills of the hinterland and arrived

in the quaint little town of Cooroy (which I am told has no traffic lights) at around 10am. Neither of us had eaten yet so our first stop was going to be somewhere that dished up a delicious breakfast. Thankfully, we didn’t need to search for long to find such a place. We parked the car and wandered about 100 metres up Emerald Street.

It was then that I spotted some bowls of goodness waiting to be devoured by smiling patrons at Fika Cafe – so, that’s where we headed.

WORDS LAHNEE PAVLOVICH PHOTOS PABLO PAVLOVICH

Lahnee enjoying a feast for the eyes at The Shed

Named after the Swedish custom ‘fika’, which is all about taking a break from the day’s activity to drink coffee, eat yummy cakes and relax with others, I would say this cafe got it just right. The inside tables, where we sat, featured vases of dried flowers, while the cafe walls were adorned in local artwork.

The menu was fresh and inviting and even shared some insight into the local produce used in the cuisine. We ordered, ate, sipped, and then headed off to check out some antiques at The Shed, a funky looking store I spotted from the window of the cafe. Safe to say it took a whole of three minutes before I decided I wanted to buy every last piece in the store (I settled on a vintage heart necklace).

With items dating back hundreds of years, this shop is a destination in itself. They stock second-hand goods, collectables, decorator items, antique, vintage and retro wares from across the globe. Everything in this place has a story to tell and certainly captures your attention; even down to the resident water dragons who have made the store their home.

Post shop we decided to get a little lost… on purpose. Cooroy’s tiny laneways are perfect for just that. We discovered

more yummy cafes and bakeries – all with deliciously fresh cakes and pastries, boutique coffee beans and shaded sidewalk seats. We even stumbled across a quaint cafe and bookstore called A Little Shop of Soul. It was the perfect spot to browse the range of books, and to sit in the garden courtyard and relax as the happy faces of Cooroy strolled by.

By this stage, our day had turned into the most pleasant adventure and we were sold on this hinterland town. But it wasn’t over yet.

Some friendly locals suggested that we check out the new Hinterland Adventure Playground, stop by the Butter Factory Arts Centre, and taste the treats dished up at the famed German Bakehouse. So, that’s exactly what we did.

First up was the playground and it’s one worth the drive, no matter how far you live from Cooroy. Built on an old timber mill site, the landscaping and architecture were designed to integrate into the surrounding landscape. There are many diverse elements to inspire nature-based learning. Think waterplay, flying fox and swings, rock play areas, a sandpit, open green spaces, sensory garden and tunnels.

Eggplant chips at Copperhead Restaurant

Treats at the German Bakehouse

This park is sure to keep the whole family entertained all day. And when you’re finally done, you can wander a hundred metres or so and check out the town library and the Butter Factory Arts Centre, an institution in Cooroy.

As the name suggests, it is an old converted butter factory. Built in 1930, it now operates as a centre to provide a friendly and collaborative environment for both new and established artists working in any media. There is even a pottery studio where adults and kids can get hands on.

Happy with our art fix, we then chose to invest in another form of art – baking.

As we discovered, the only downfall to visiting the celebrated German Bakehouse is that it is really hard to choose just one tasty treat to eat. So, of course we chose about four. My favourite was the apple danish, which melted in my mouth.

Not only can you grab fresh pastries and breads here, the bakehouse has a dine-in menu and a range of cool European produce and grocery items for sale.

Owner Sven Noack is a third-generation ‘master baker’ originating from Berlin. At the age of 23 he was named the youngest person in Germany to qualify for the prestigious and honoured bäckermeister (master baker) title. He is still baking up a storm to this day.

My advice? Go and taste his cooking creations for yourself.

“ Sven Noack is a third-generation ‘master baker’… My advice? Go and taste his cooking creations for yourself ”

The Noosa Botanic Gardens

Enjoying a cold beverage at Copperhead Restaurant Brewery

Hinterland Adventure Playground

Needing to give our bellies a break we jumped back in the car, which until then had been rendered useless given the close proximity of the Corooy highlights we had so far experienced. Now, we drove a mere 10 minutes out of town to the Noosa Botanic Gardens.

On the shores of beautiful Lake Macdonald, these gardens are home to an abundance of wildlife and consist of eight hectares of native and exotic plant species. You will also find the photo-worthy Greek-style amphitheatre, fern house, lily pond, a play area for kids, and large lawn areas with winding paths. My highlights were the cacti garden and the view out to the lake from atop the amphitheatre.

It really would be easy to spend the entire day soaking up the sunshine in this natural playground.

With all the walking we had worked up an appetite (again) and a thirst for something tasty, so we headed back towards town to the Copperhead Restaurant Brewery. Along with some entrees, we enjoyed a tasting paddle of five icy cold beers (it’s paddle number two on the menu, if you’re interested), which included a Japanese rice lager, a hazy XPA (my favourite!), a spiced rum stout, a guava tropical pink beer and rauchbier (a German smoke beer).

Paired with arancini balls and eggplant chips cooked to perfection, I’d call this stop the perfect way to end a fantastic day of adventuring in a hidden gem of a town.

ADD A STOP!

Just a hop, skip and jump from Cooroy is another Noosa Hinterland gem, Pomona. Home to the historic Majestic Theatre which is the oldest continuously running silent movie cinema in the world, Pomona is most loved for its distillery, art galleries, yummy cafes and a cute weekly country market. It is also well known for hosting the annual King of the Mountain Festival at Mount Cooroora. Be sure to stop in while you’re up that way.

Specialising in custom-made Jewellery

Boutique Retail Showroom

Breakfast at Fika Cafe

On-site Jewellery Workshop

Your Argyle pink diamond specialist on the Sunshine Coast

LOCALsecrets

If you haven’t been to the MAROOCHY REGIONAL BUSHLAND BOTANIC GARDEN then now is the perfect time. Located in Tanawha, the magnificent 82-hectare garden is a haven for local plants and animals. It features a mix of natural forest, manicured native gardens, nature play spaces and art installations. It’s the perfect place for a bushland walk. For the children, Agents of Discovery is an educational mobile gaming platform that uses augmented reality to get youth active amongst nature. Why not pack a picnic and enjoy the relaxed outdoor space or enjoy food from the onsite cafe. Head to 51 Palm Creek Road at Tanawha. 5458 7601 or botanic-garden.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

Grab your family, friends or significant other and head along to this gorgeous coastal location for a laid-back evening full of good food and small Sunshine Coast businesses. The CURRIMUNDI LAKE

TWILIGHT MARKET is a popular local hangout running on the third Friday (excluding in June and July) of each month from 4pm to 8pm. Explore a range of delicious street food, foodie trucks, pop-up bars and live music all as the sun sets. Pack the picnic rug and relax in the park – it’s sure to be a great evening out. Dogs on leads are welcome too. Find the markets at 1 Watson Street, Currimundi or visit their Facebook page.

If you’re looking for a park perfect for the children then make sure to pay a visit to this hidden gem. Much loved by young families, KEVIN ASMUS PARK is connected to the Kawana Library, the community centre and thriving community garden. The park is interwoven with a large educational bike track where children can park their bikes and scooters at the many different play elements. The park’s main feature is the pirate ship with a tunnel, climbing ropes, interactive panels and slides. There’s also plenty of fun to be had at the swings and half basketball court. With picnic tables and plenty of shade it’s also perfect for an autumn barbecue. Find the park at 20 Nanyima Street, Buddina.

WORDS CAITLIN ZERAFA

Stage One Now Selling

Over-50s Prestige Living on the Sunshine Coast

With stage one now released, our most coveted over-50s lifestyle resort yet has commenced construction. Palm Lake Resort Pelican Waters has placed special emphasis on creating the most opulent and considered community facilities ever seen in an over-50s lifestyle community. Nestled right alongside the award-winning Greg Norman-designed Pelican Waters Golf Course on a swathe of stunning waterways behind the Sunshine Coast’s finest beaches, this is your time.

If you head up to Maleny make sure you keep an eye out for a bustling lane full of fabulous street food and live music. MALENY LANE is a vibrant and rustic space where you can enjoy flavours from around the world – think Korean, Indian and Japanese – plus local coffee, while sitting back and listening to some cool beats. It’s open every day except Tuesdays, plus every Friday night for the weekly twilight gigs. For those wanting to take part in an open mic event, check out the FrontUp Chalkboard every Monday night from 5.30pm to 9pm. Find Maleny Lane at 38 Maple Street, Maleny.

While the long summer days might be behind us, autumn is still a perfect time to enjoy the crystal clear water that the Coast has on offer. With many warm days still ahead, why not get out and enjoy STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING or KAYAKING? It’s fun for all ages and the Coast has some perfect locations where you can hire a board or other watercraft and explore. You can hire a board from Golden Beach and head out to the Pumicestone Passage where the Glass House Mountains form a stunning backdrop. Or if you are in Noosa, Gympie Terrace has a plethora of hire locations to make the most of the picturesque Noosa River. Otherwise enjoy the protected jewel that is Cotton Tree beach or the calm, flat waters of Currimundi Lake.

Take a step back in time and learn of the region’s cultural heritage this autumn. Be sure to pay a visit to BANKFOOT HOUSE at the Glass House Mountains. Visitors can take tours of the heritage-listed house, experience The Shed restoration project, strap on a headset for an award-winning virtual reality experience, view seasonal exhibitions in the Mary Grigor interpretive centre, enjoy a picnic in the scenic grounds, or try their hand at the big games available from the centre. Be sure to head along for the First Nations Family Fun Day on April 15 too. Happening from 10am, join Kabi Kabi and Jinibara First Nations people for a fun-filled day of cultural learning, games, dancing and craft activities for all ages. Find Bankfoot House at 1998 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains. 5420 8600 or heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ Bankfoot-House

PHOTO: Visit Sunshine Coast

PHOTO: Visit Sunshine Coast

Why not marvel in spectacular coastal views and keep fit at the same time with one of the region’s lesser-known walks. Located just south of Peregian Beach, EMU MOUNTAIN is the perfect choice. Nestled in the southern section of Noosa National Park you can enjoy a short hill climb through vivid wildflowers along the 1.1-kilometre return trip to the top. The mountain is also known as Mount Peregian – the Aboriginal word for emu. From the top, soak in magnificent panoramic views of the coastline from Noosa to Maroochydore. Keen eyes will spot the Glass House Mountains to the south-west and Mount Cooroora to the north-west. You can access Emu Mountain from Havana Road East, Coolum Beach. For park updates search ‘Emu Mountain Summit Walk’ at parks.des.qld.gov.au

Your best life, made easy

Tucked in the Noosa Hinterland town of Pomona and surrounded by lush gardens and Mount Cooroora as the backdrop, the POMONA RAILWAY STATION GALLERY is a must-visit. Since opening in March 2001, the volunteer-run gallery has grown from the two buildings acquired from the town’s original railway station to five, creating unique spaces for creative art and crafts. Throughout the year visitors can enjoy a range of exhibitions as well as the popular Art Market in the Paddock. The next event is happening on April 8 and is a great opportunity to meet the artists, buy original art and discover local handmade products. Find Pomona Railway Station Gallery at 10 Station Street, Pomona. 5485 2950 or pomonartgallery.com

PHOTO: Visit Noosa

DISTILLING a labour of love

IT IS A labour of love. That’s how Kate describes it. And by ‘it’ I am referring to Steampunk Distillery, a refreshingly unique, rural distillery set amongst the grassy knolls of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The business idea was brought to life by two theatre nurses, Megan Coffey and Kate Gibney, over a drink on their deck as they pondered the similarities between sterilising and distilling. Kate says the conversation went from drip rate, titrate, condensate to distillate and the rest, as they say, is history.

“Megs and I have both worked in the nursing trade for more than 30 years each, been partners for about 17 and distilling around 18 months,” she says.

“It has been a challenge, especially as we got our local licence about five minutes before COVID hit.”

The couple purchased the Towen Mountain land they now call home, and home to the Steampunk gin and vodka distillery, about nine years ago and began the huge job of reclaiming the old farming land.

“We used to drive up from Brisbane every week for a few years as we were working on bringing the farm back from what it was, which was a bean and bok choy farm, to the beautiful grassy

space we have today,” Kate says. “I am originally from the Sunshine Coast and Megs outback New South Wales and I think we have now both been up here on the farm for six years. We are pretty proud of what we have created.”

Not only have they converted their old shed into the distillery, they have also brought to life an on-site orchid and native beehives, and adopted six tame Angus lowline cattle.

“They are our fur babies,” Kate says. “The families love them too when they come up to the distillery, the kids hang outside and give the cows a cuddle or play in the orchard, while the adults get to taste and learn all about the gin and vodkas.

“We are a micro distillery, so we currently produce approximately 35 bottles at a time and the way we distil is time-consuming, but we want quality rather than quantity, using as many local and seasonal ingredients as we can. And we are incredibly fussy about the end product and love to chat about that process to those who come visit us at the distillery.

“We are really proud of ourselves and the fact that we were brave enough to start a new business despite a global pandemic, and the feedback we have had so far from the people who buy, support and love our distillery and our product is amazing.

WORDS LAHNEE PAVLOVICH PHOTOS PABLO PAVLOVICH

Kate Gibney & Megan Coffey

“It has been a big job though, especially with us both working almost full-time in nursing still. It was a huge financial outlay and took about two years to get the licensing for a homebased distillery and fit it all out, and then of course COVID hit so we put the brakes on it for a while. We are hopefully coming out of the soft start era and ready to be more visible now.”

The name Steampunk is a fun play on words which comes from the sterilisation and infection control steaming process that the ladies engage in within the nursing field.

“Even the logo is created from medical equipment and surgical instruments including a few antique instruments from when I started my theatre career, and our logo has itself become instrumental in our operation,” Kate says.

The small home-based distillery currently produces six gin and three vodka varieties.

“We pour a lot of ourselves into the products too, using local produce mostly from our farm, like citrus and botanicals from the orchard – the lemon myrtle, lemon eucalypt, cinnamon, kaffir lime leaf, chillies. Every drink has a lot of us in it, and the vodkas are fermented on site and triple-distilled in a beautiful labour of love,” Kate says.

“It’s quite insane to think we have such a great range in just 18 months,” she says. “And that we already have a few awards under our belt too.”

“We actually entered our lemon eucalypt gin and signature vodka in the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards just five weeks after kicking off and ended up with silver. I was too gutless to enter the dry gin that round, but when I did work up the courage to enter it in the Australian Gin Awards in 2022, we won gold.

SHOP ONLINE

HOW DO KATE AND MEGAN ENJOY THEIR SPIRITS?

“We personally add ice, leave for a couple of minutes to meld and sip it straight. Our ambition is for our customers to be able to drink our spirits however they wish. Using a light tonic or soda (or a mix of both) is recommended, as this will not detract from the gin botanicals.”

“There were over 200 entries in that category and we were top eight nationally. It was a pretty amazing experience and we didn’t realise the magnitude until we met another distiller who had been entering for 15 years and never won gold,” Kate says. “We also won a few more silver and bronze awards so the experience was huge for us.” steampunkdistillery.com.au

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WILD ONES

YOU CAN HEAR the giggles and the squeals of excitement wafting from within the nearby forest.

Rather than be alarmed that there are small children traipsing through the undergrowth, lost in a wilderness of unknown risks, the nearby adults are calm, collected, smiling.

This is the world of forest school, a growing phenomenon around the world; a school that nurtures children in nature and encourages learning, developmental growth and mindfulness in a serene environment.

In recent years a renewed interest has been placed on the importance of environmental interaction, green living and the connection to wellbeing. When you consider what humanity has collectively experienced, it’s not surprising.

The world has emerged from a period of uncertainty unlike anything any living generation has experienced.

Education and routine disruption, social impacts –COVID-19 has certainly left its scars.

The impact on our children is not yet fully known, but researchers have already clearly confirmed what many parents fear: the Alpha generation may experience long-term psychological issues.

The Children’s Health Queensland COVID-19 Unmasked (Young Children) study showed that more than a year into the pandemic, one in four young Australian children, aged one to five, were still experiencing higher than average levels of anxiety.

McCrindle research predicts that young children’s COVID-19 related trauma will be embedded in their psyche, with the period deemed to be a defining event for the next

generation. The research showed that more than four in five adults – or 84 per cent – believe COVID-19 will play a significant role in shaping the children of today, while 65 per cent think the pandemic will have an ongoing negative impact on young people’s mental health.

Through COVID, our children were the innocent bystanders, forced to disconnect from those around them. In some ways the pandemic created resilience, but it also revealed

Nicki Farrell, Vicci Oliver

gaps that some educators are now attempting to fill with nature-based therapy and experience.

Sunshine Coast mother of two and forest school educator Vicci Oliver is an advocate for providing children with the opportunity to connect with the great outdoors. And what better place to do so than here on the Sunshine Coast – home to lakes, streams, beaches, mountains and forest.

“Spending time in nature encourages the idea that we aren’t separate from nature, we are part of it,” she says. “If children don’t have that connection they can feel a wider disconnect with the world. We have gone through a period of uncertainty, and until then many children had never been given an opportunity in their everyday lives to go up against uncertainty.

Vicci explains: “In nature that happens all the time. If they [children] balance on something and fall off, it creates uncertainty. If it doesn’t work out how you want it to, you learn to use other strategies. If you are in a forest and there is a change in the weather, you are faced with the questions, ‘do you stay or do you not? Can you keep safe? Can you stay dry?’. There are so many decisions that need to be made and that level of uncertainty builds that resilience.

“Children these days don’t have the opportunity to do that. They get out of bed on to a level surface, they get into the car to go to school – it’s a levelled environment. We generally know what is going to happen.

“As soon as we take them out of that environment anything can happen. A lot of time it’s beautiful things that happen. Nature is such a sensory experience; you experience it with your whole body.”

Vicci and her friend, fellow university-educated teacher Nicki Farrell, are the founders and directors of Wildlings Forest School. The school, which has a base in Nambour and another in Brisbane, provides the opportunity to prioritise risky play experiences for children in natural, untouched wild spaces.

There are a range of sessions including a playgroup, kindy, school holiday program, homeschool and afterschool groups.

Students range from as young as one right up to the ages of 12 or 13, and include children of all abilities, including those with autism spectrum disorders, and children who require an alternative program to traditional schooling.

Children build rafts, learn how to cook around a fire, use hand tools, climb trees, splash in freshwater creeks, create bush crafts, tie knots and build cubbies. Participants also learn how to identify flora and fauna and learn about seasonal weather patterns, as well as sustainability and environmental science.

The forest school philosophy originates in Scandinavia, where play-based learning has led the way for many years. Here at home the Australian Forest School Association launched in January, but the industry has been growing for some time.

“Nicki and I met when I was running a nature playgroup for children,” Vicci says. “There was nothing around that suited what I thought my children needed. When Nicki and I connected, we came from similar backgrounds and shared similar ideas for what we wanted for our children.”

Vicci believes the move towards homeschool and online learning during 2020 was an eye-opener for many parents. For the first time, parents witnessed the limitations traditional school environments can place on children, and the pressure teachers face on a day-to-day basis.

She says this realisation has driven the growth and interest in alternative programs.

“I think COVID definitely made people look at the way

children experience childhood and how important it is to be able to move bodies and be outside. They had a hard look at what was being experienced at school,” Vicci tells salt.

“Everything we do with Wildlings, at the core is the thought, ‘how do we help children thrive?’.

“We want them to experience freedom and autonomy in nature and in wild spaces, places that have uncertainty.

“The program is completely child led and child centred. The magical moments we have seen with children, it’s really hard to explain unless you watch the children and witness the flow, the state of play.”

wildlingsforestschool.com

GET WILD

There are so many ways you can encourage your children to interact with nature.

1. Grab a blanket and a basket of books and head outside. Reading under the trees will help infants and toddlers identify with nature’s sounds, smells and sights. For older children, being outdoors with a book in hand can help regulate and calm.

2. Bush art – Sticks, twigs, leaves, rocks. You name it and you can use it. Grab some paper, some glue and a bag or basket to collect your art supplies. Let the kids be as creative as they like, touching and identifying each object before they attach it to their paper.

3. Scavenger hunt – Make a list and send them on a fun search. Be as creative and descriptive as possible.

4. Take a family walk. The Sunshine Coast is home to so many beautiful locations such as Kondalilla Falls, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden.

5. Go fishing. Teach the kids how to set up and bait their own line, and hook a fish. They will feel the sand between their toes, the sunshine on their faces, and will get great joy out of catching a little fish. We recommend Pumicestone Passage at Golden Beach or the Maroochy River.

EXPLORE DREAM DISCOVER

CHECK OUT THESE LOCAL EVENTS

MAR 31 to APR 2

NAMBOUR EXPO

If you love the great outdoors be sure to mark one of largest adventure events in the region into your calendar. At The Nambour Expo outdoorenthusiasts can compare the latest caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, accessories, fishing gear and more, plus discover new holiday and touring destinations. There’s plenty to see across the weekend, including great entertainment for the whole family. when March 31 to April 2

where Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Avenue, Nambour visit nambourexpo.com.au

THE SUNSHINE COAT

Appreciate the beauty and versatility of sustainable fashion. The Sunshine Coat is a multi-layered slow fashion and photography exhibition directed by local artists Shaye Hardisty and Ketakii Jewson-Brown. The exhibition weaves feelings of place, belonging and expression into the fabric of Nambour, celebrating and paying homage to the uniqueness and diversity of the town through fashion and photography in a collaborative and playful way.

when April 4 to 29

where The Old Ambulance Station Gallery, 80 Howard Street, Nambour visit theoldambulancestation.com

EASTER ART EXHIBITION

TREX CROSS TRIATHLON SERIES SUNSHINE COAST

Based on the banks of Ewen Maddock Dam TreX

Sunshine Coast brings triathletes together to compete off-road through the region’s rainforest trails and fern-filled bushland. The course includes some of the best fast and flowing single track mountain bike trails and gritty off-road running trails found anywhere in Australia. This is the Triathlon Queensland State Championships and events include a standard distance, sprint, junior, dirt kids, duathlon and aquabike courses, so there’s something on offer for all ages and abilities.

APR

when April 22

where Ewen Maddock Dam, Landsborough visit trextriathlon.com.au/event/sunshine-coast

MALENY WOOD EXPO

Since 1996 the Maleny Wood Expo has been a much-loved event celebrating all things sustainable timber. Designed to promote beautiful native timbers through the work of local and regional wood artisans, the expo is now recognised as one of the best wood shows in Australia. It will host a range of fun and immersive activities for all ages with a fanfare of activity from the prestigious woodworking competitions, exhibitions and the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize to workshops and children’s activities. when April 29 to May 1

where Maleny Showground, 13 Maleny Stanley River Road, Maleny visit malenywoodexpo.com

GROOVIN THE MOO

APR 7 TO 10

For all art lovers out there, be sure to head to Coolum Art Collective’s popular and ever-growing Easter Art Exhibition. This year the event has been extended to run across four days and will feature more than 200 art and craft works by some of the Sunshine Coast’s leading artists and artisans using traditional and modern mediums. Entry is free and visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite artist in the People’s Choice award.

when April 7 to 10

where Coolum Civic Centre, 2-4 Park Street, Coolum Beach visit coolumartgroupinc.com.au

Get your groove on with the Sunshine Coast set to host a renowned annual music festival for the first time. With a line-up to include Eliza Rose, Ball Park Music, Alt-J, Amy Shark and Ocean Alley, Groovin the Moo will hit six regional locations across Australia across three weekends. The licensed all-ages event will have everyone up and dancing and will include triple j Unearthed, Fresh Produce artists and community programs.

when April 30 where Kawana Sports Western Precinct, Milieu Place, Warana visit gtm.net.au/sunshine-coast

APR 4 TO 24

Amy Shark

ARTWORK: Ursula Kelly (image has been cropped)

THE ISLAND CHARITY SWIM

MAY

If you want to test your endurance all while supporting local children the Island Charity Swim is an event not to miss. The 10-kilometre swim starts from Mudjimba Beach and continues around Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island) before finishing at Mooloolaba Beach. And it’s not just for the elite – anyone aged over 18 who thinks they have enough fitness can take part. There’s even a team category. Funds raised from the event go to children at Currimundi, Nambour and Palmview Special Schools.

when May 13

DOWNUNDER BEACHFEST

Downunder Beachfest is an annual event that celebrates hot rod, custom and classic motor vehicles and the rock and roll lifestyle. Running since 2015, the five-day festivity will be full of car displays, entertainment, dancing and a range of events to bring the main street of Caloundra to life. Car enthusiasts can enter their pride and joy in the show with proceeds for the 2023 event to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

when June 7 to 11

where Bulcock Street, Caloundra visit beachfestdownunder.com

SUNSHINE COAST AGRICULTURAL SHOW

Roll up, roll up! The Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show is back again in 2023. As the oldest calendar event in the region, the family show highlights the abilities and talents of the local community while providing a platform to showcase local produce, livestock and other competitions such as wood chop and horse jumping. There’s also plenty of fun to have with entertainment, side show alley and a wheelchair-friendly Ferris wheel. Park at Nambour train station and use the free courtesy shuttle bus straight to the main gate.

when June 16 to 18

JUN 16 TO 18

where Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Avenue, Nambour visit sunshinecoastshow.com.au

13 PLEASE

the full collection in-store or online .

Released

as you are.

BRIGHTENING life after loss

WORDS CANDICE HOLZNAGEL PHOTOS LISA PEARL

DOMICA HILL HAS one of those souls that shines bright and radiates goodness, strength and compassion.

When you speak with Domica, you walk away feeling inspired to climb higher and brave enough to tackle whatever challenge or issue you are facing.

This woman has taken the scars she has been dealt and worked hard to heal them with love and passion.

In early 2020, Domica’s life was great.

She and her husband Jarrod were excitedly expecting their first child, and she was working in her dream job –educating children.

After years of research and healing, Domica had recently connected with her Aboriginal heritage and as a teacher, she wanted to share her new-found knowledge and understanding with the wider community.

“I had started a business with one of my best friends who is a Yorta Yorta woman,” she tells salt

“We started a cultural incursion business and went around to schools holding workshops – art workshops, history workshops, traditional Aboriginal games. The company was going well.”

Then, her world came crashing down.

“That is where everything changed for me. I fell pregnant and COVID hit, and then we found out there were some complications in the pregnancy and the baby wasn’t growing properly,” Domica recalls.

“I had her at 24 weeks. She didn’t make it. When we lost Briar, I signed the business over to my friend and I put all of my time into a healing journey. I used to think about people in these situations: ‘I don’t know how they do it’. But things do happen and somehow you get through it. Somehow you find ways to help.”

In her grief, Domica began to create. The more art she created, the more she discovered it to be a therapeutic way to heal.

“A lot of my artworks are about my journey and about losing Briar. It opened up my different passion that I didn’t have time for before.”

Domica was determined to find a way to honour Briar’s memory and so the online business Briar Blooms was born. Then, a year after the loss of their beautiful baby girl, the Hill family relocated to the Sunshine Coast, bringing with them their much-loved son Jyka, who is now 18 months old.

It was here that Domica fulfilled another dream: opening her first bricks-and-mortar Briar Blooms boutique, located in Bulcock Street, Caloundra. In this store, you will find Domica’s heart and soul – from the stunning and intricate dried-flower arrangements to original Indigenous artworks.

“After we lost Briar, we had so many flowers. They wilted away and I just wanted to have things to remember her by. I really thought that dried flowers were something that can last.

“People can gift this as a gift that will last – they don’t change, they don’t die, they still look beautiful in years to come.”

Domica’s artwork is as popular as her floral arrangements. The paintings reflect her connection with Country, her Indigenous heritage and the journey she has walked.

As a young girl, fair-skinned Domica was taught not to draw

attention to her race. But as an adult, she pushed through boundaries and broke down barriers to form a connection with the rich culture that runs deep through her blood, her heart, her soul. Born in Townsville, Domica is the daughter of a Palawa woman whose parents didn’t want to acknowledge the Aboriginal race.

“My parents believed we didn’t have to tell people we were Indigenous,” she says. “My mum didn’t have pride in it. Townsville was a hard place to do that. Being a fair-skinned Aboriginal made it harder. Moving to Victoria, it was much more culturally diverse. It was easier to talk to people and get to know other Aboriginal women and Elders, to learn more about my culture.

“I still get asked at least once a week, ‘How Aboriginal are you? One-eighth?’. I never ask someone how Chinese or Italian they are. It’s such a weird question and [for someone] to think it’s okay to ask.”

As an Aboriginal Australian, Domica believes it is important to sell Aussie-made products to support the country and also educate people.

“Five years ago, I never thought I would be an artist and creating art for a living,” Domica says.

“What we’ve been through with the loss of Briar gave the inspiration for other people to have something really nice to connect to. A lot of commission works are based on their own stories. There are a lot of people connecting with me who have had miscarriages or lost people and, in a sense, they want to have a representation of their story to look at.

“It’s such a beautiful way they can remember them. I do think it’s helping other people. As a teacher I did that as well, and that’s what I feel like I’m meant to do in some form. My career path has changed a little, but I’m still helping people.

Briar Blooms is 100-per cent Aboriginal owned and located at Shop 4, 90 Bulcock Street, Caloundra. Visit briarblooms.com.au

“ What we’ve been through with the loss of Briar gave the inspiration for other people to have something really nice to connect to”

HOW MUCH is enough?

COULD YOU GIVE up eating out for 90 days? Not spend any money, unless it was on absolutely essential items? Could you also go home from work every day on time – for the whole three months?

When Sunshine Coast radio broadcaster and author Sheridan Stewart set herself this very challenge, with a view to simply spend less money, she had no idea how momentously her life would change.

And it wasn’t just the welcome benefit of a healthier bank balance that made a difference – it was the profound realisation, after years of striving to have more, do more, and be more, that she actually was already enough.

She was so inspired in fact, she wrote a book about it – I Am Enough: A 90-day Challenge to Find Contentment. Told with insight and humour, and sparked by Sheridan’s 90-day challenge – or quest, as she calls it – the book is an antidote to the constant pressure we all seem to be under to do more, have more and be more.

The light-heartedness with which she writes (she’s always had “bad undies” as her penance for not having the “perfect bikini body”) underscores the very serious issues of burnout, anxiety and other health problems, all of which Sheridan has experienced first-hand and which are the inevitable byproducts of the relentless quest for perfectionism that

WORDS LINDA READ PHOTOS MEGAN GILL

pervade modern life.

As a journalist, speaker, writer and broadcaster, selfdeclared driven over-achiever Sheridan has had a stellar career.

She grew up in Sydney, Hawaii and Colorado, and at age 11, became the youngest person in the country to be awarded a grant from the Australian Film Commission to produce a film based on an original script.

She’s been an FM presenter, music journalist, comedy producer and exhibiting artist, as well as having facilitated personal and professional development workshops for women, before joining the ABC Radio in 2014. Sheridan currently broadcasts from the Sunshine Coast and contributes to ABC online.

It was during her time working in emergency broadcasting through the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-20, followed closely by the COVID pandemic, that she began to realise something was seriously amiss.

“As I went through the quest, I realised these things were becoming more serious,” Sheridan tells salt

“I was paying lip service to the fact that I knew I was struggling with burnout to some degree, but perhaps didn’t think of it as something that I needed to address immediately. I just kept thinking that if I could just keep going, if I could just get through this next challenge, there’d be an end to it. But it’s life.

“So what I discovered during the challenge, was that if I want a different result, I actually have to change either what I’m doing, or how I’m doing it, or the amount of it I’m doing.”

Firstly, she says, there was a stripping back to what is really essential; using what she already had instead of buying more. Then, taking small actions that better serve her physical, emotional and financial wellbeing, such as de-cluttering a room or wardrobe, listening to music she loves, or getting more sleep. Over time, this led to the ability to make huge and lasting changes in her life by questioning lifelong attitudes and habits and the real reasons she had formed them.

Having a negative body image is one of the issues that Sheridan, a chronic dieter and lifelong bad undies-wearer, has struggled with all her life – a struggle shared by many. It led

her to avoid the beach when she was younger, even though she loves swimming. She’s now far more accepting of her body, largely thanks to the example set by her close friend Mel, whose inspirational attitude is highlighted in the book.

Five years after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Mel was then also diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), but was able to find joy in life and be thankful for the strength of her body.

“It was as though as her physical body was becoming more restricted, her essence or her soul or her greater self was expanding,” Sheridan tells salt

“How can I take for granted that I can go for a swim every day, no matter what size or shape I’m in?

“We often punish ourselves, don’t we? It starts really young – put a picture of your dream body on the fridge to stop you eating – there’s this punishment/reward going on around some sort of ideal. It’s unachievable, it’s not real, and even though we know that everybody’s tweaked and botoxed and full of fillers and they’re taking photos at their best angles through filters and all that sort of thing – we know all of that, and yet we’ve been trained, and we still want it.

“It's deeply ingrained. We could search our whole lifetime and perhaps not entirely lose that, but we can choose to set it aside. If today was my last day on the planet and I didn’t go for a swim, that would be a bigger tragedy than never losing weight.”

“ i just kept thinking that if i could just keep going, if i could just get through this next challenge, there'd be an end to it”

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communityprojectsworldwide.com.au 2. @oceanicartworks 3. fabricsociety.com.au 4. saltlakesoaps.com.au 5. healthyfocus.com.au 6. eumundibamboo.com.au 7. @mrsjonesmarketkitchen 8. aussiesoles.com.au 9. Bella’n Jo 10. aussiewool.com.au 11. voiceinc.com.au 12. 4yourpets.com.au 13. chezprovence.au 14. urbancoyote.com.au 15. myhappyshoes.com.au 16. @beachbohemia 17. @hellohoneybunny_eumundi 18. zoomonkeys.com.au 19. @got.the.blenz 20. @littleshopoftoys 21. @willowandgypsy 22. naturesboards.au 23. @thelaundryshed 24. bowerbirdpantry.com.au 25. zephyrwares.com 26. @shop101forhatsgalore 27. eclecticdreams.com.au

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WEAVING WASTE into warmth

RECYCLING WASTE MAY not be a new idea, but two savvy Sunshine Coast sisters with a collective social and environmental conscience have taken the closed loop concept to a whole new level.

Seljak Brand, founded by Karina and Sam Seljak in 2016, produces luxurious and unique wool blankets, woven from factory floor offcuts and textile waste.

With 50 stockists throughout Australia and New Zealand – including retailer giants David Jones and The Iconic – as well as a distributor in Japan and an expanding international market, Seljak Brand is fast becoming known for its ethically produced high-end designs.

In keeping with the brand’s social conscience, five dollars from the sale of each blanket is donated to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC). This is a cause close to the sisters' hearts, as their grandparents were refugees from Slovenia after the Second World War.

Waste is sourced from wool mills in Australia and Europe. At first, a 150-year-old mill in Tasmania alone supplied the offcuts, but the sisters had to go global when that waste started to run out. They discovered a factory in Lithuania that collects its own textile waste and that of other mills in Europe.

“Lithuania has a rich textiles history and industry,” Karina tells salt. “By working in Europe, we were able to work with textile waste that was pulled from 16 wool mills, so that kind of scale is what we needed.

“But also, the expertise in Europe with textiles and the equipment means that the range of design options also opened up to us, and we were able to start creating art works in our blankets, rather than just block colours or stripes. It’s such a lovely process designing the blankets; each of them speaks to an Australian landscape that inspires us.”

Each mill the sisters work with plays a unique role in the circular production process. At the Tasmanian mill, factory floor offcuts and old blankets – including Seljak blankets that can be returned at the end of their lives – are collected and ripped up in an industrial ragging machine

into small fibres of consistent size and shape. A carding machine cleans and makes the fibres parallel, before they are spun into yarn, using a small amount of polyester so the recycled fibres have something to grab on to. The fibres are then dyed and the yarn woven into fabric, milled and dried, before the finishing touches such as fringing, whipstitching and labelling are added.

Another Australian mill in Geelong, Victoria, that specialises in commercial and domestic upholstery and apparel fabrics, weaves the brand’s Rugged range using deadstock yarn – yarn that has been over-ordered and that would otherwise go to landfill.

In Italy, Seljak Brand uses yarn made from post-consumer textiles waste – discarded clothing like old woollen jumpers. These are recycled into new yarn at mills in a textile region near Florence, where the garments are sorted into colours, material type and fibre quality, before being ragged, shredded and spun into new yarn.

The Lithuanian mill uses Italian machinery to produce high-quality textiles from the factory floor offcuts of 16 mills around Europe. The mill is also home to a specialty Jacquard loom, which means abstract patterns and intricate designs can be woven into the blankets.

Karina explains that the collaboration between her and her sister was based on a shared passion for the power of social enterprise, after their individual careers saw them gravitate to imagining a “closed loop” economy.

Karina’s double degree in fashion design and business, combined with Sam’s double degree in journalism and business, made the sisters well qualified for the task. With Karina’s love of natural fibres and a shared passion for more sustainable production, Seljak Brand evolved naturally.

“There’s a durability element, and people form emotional connections with their blankets, so it’s just a really great way to

communicate that philosophy of thinking of more circular ways of how we’re treating the things in our lives,” Karina tells salt

“And that is therefore having less impact on the world around us, in the way that we’re extracting less resources, polluting less and so on.”

Karina explains that they see the way forward as not just working with waste, but about considering more circular systems. They are currently researching regenerative wool farming, where they are focussing on more sustainable production of the raw material itself.

“It’s really interesting to think about the lineage of circular thinking,” she says. “It’s not new in a sense, because it’s so obvious, and it’s the way our grandparents were thinking.

“For our grandparents and great grandparents it was wartime that was pushing them; for us, it’s really a climate change situation.

“It really is the legacy of our grandparents and the values we watched them live by that inspired us and is a shared thing between my sister and I, even though we’ve got different skills and work in complementary ways.”

seljakbrand.com.au

“ It's really interesting to think about the lineage of circular thinking. It's not new in a sense”

Pam Maclean

What do you do?

I operate two beautiful childcare centres in central Maroochydore called Out & About Care & Education with fabulous team members and many lovely children and families. I have been involved in this sector for about 40 years and as they say, it’s not work if you love it!

What would you do if you weren’t in your current career?

My other big love, is renovating properties. My husband and I have done quite a few over the years – way before it became a staple television offering. I also have a consultancy business where I get to design childcare centres and playgrounds, which affords me the opportunity to use those creative design skills for other children and communities across Australia.

When you have visitors where do you take them to show off our beautiful region?

We mix it up and take people up to the hinterland, or to a variety of stunning spots along the coastline for fabulous meals and enjoyable days out, such as the little pockets of shops and parks

Ocean Ended

along the coastline, to Eumundi village . . . so many beautiful spots to visit.

What is your favourite restaurant?

Some of our regular favourites include Ocean Ended and Orleans on Duporth Avenue, Maroochydore. A recent happy discovery is Psari on Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba and of course the always fabulous Fish on Parkyn and Local Flow Eatery in Cotton Tree.

What is your favourite meal?

I usually select a seafood meal when we go out as we have such amazing fresh seafood here, however, I also think whoever first created the pork belly meal should get a medal.

Your favourite song?

I love the classics from the past that we all know and can find ourselves singing along to like the early Bee Gees and other groups of that era (minus the disco portion of their repertoire).

What is your favourite shop in the region?

I find the Cotton Tree stores never disappoint and I love the fact that we have so many lovely pockets of gorgeousness along the coast such as in Buderim, Peregian Beach, Noosaville, Eumundi, Noosa and others.

What is your most prized possession?

Family and good health are everything, operating a successful business is also a favourite item for me as it shows the results of all the hard work and seven-day weeks put in over time. At the end of the day, the best so called ‘possessions’ are the relationships established along the way between our own family, our teams, families and children.

Who inspires you?

I have three people who have been great role models for me, although two have sadly passed on. My mother who worked so hard and gave us the gifts of resilience, determination, and the

The Bee Gees

of our third Out & About childcare centre in Mooloolah Valley in about May this year, all going well.

What are you reading now?

At the moment, I am reading the latest Lee Child’s book, The Secret, in the Jack Reacher series. I really enjoy the detail in these and how we are offered insights into how Jack thinks in any situation.

What was the best day of your life?

The births of my children were very emotional moments, and I am unashamedly proud of them. When my children married lovely people and

Seaf d spread

drive to work hard. My father in-law, who overcame many challenges to become a very well-respected businessman. The third is my sister who, after putting family and everyone else first for many years, has recently qualified to be a high school teacher.

What are you most looking forward to at the moment?

I have been feeling the itch to travel again so I am planning a trip in 2024. I think it is time to head to the US or perhaps back to Africa, which is a stunning place to visit. I am also looking forward to the opening

Out of Africa Hinterland hub

launched into their own lives and families was another ‘moment’. I suppose completing a master’s degree while working and running the business was a bit of a moment as well.

What do you miss most about the Sunshine Coast when you are not at home?

Everything. We are so blessed to live in such a stunning and friendly part of the world. It is fabulous to travel and explore other places, but it really drives home to us how lucky we are to live here. How could you not love it?

outandabout.net.au

about it Read

LITTLE ASH (BOOK SERIES)

Ash Barty | Harper Collins | $8 each

All of Australia loves Ash Barty. She is a sporting champion and a humble, warm human being, now expecting her first child. It therefore seems quite logical that she publishes a series of books suitable for young children. Little Ash is a series of six books (at this moment – more to come!), featuring six-year-old Ash, who is a tennis fan, and very keen to play tennis with the “big kids” at school. They are simple stories about friendship, family, school and sport, which will delight first readers moving from picture books to novels. Congratulations Ash Barty on another win!

THE BOOKBINDER OF JERICHO

Pip Williams | Affirm Press | $33

This is a new beautiful novel from the author of The Dictionary of Lost Words, which was published in 2020 and continues to be a global bestseller. The author returns to the world of words. This book is set in the Oxford University Press book bindery at the beginning of the First World War. Peggy and Maude are twin sisters, living on a narrowboat and working in the bindery. Peggy is passionate about books, and dreams of studying at Oxford University, but as a woman, her job is to bind the books, not read them. Maude is a more fragile soul, happy with her simple life, but Peggy is aware of her vulnerability and watches over her, ensuring she is protected. The Bookbinder of Jericho is a story about two women navigating a world where censorship abounds, and access to knowledge and opportunity are not available to everybody as they are today.

Book giveaway

Thanks to Annie’s Books on Peregian, we have a copy of KNEAD PEACE: RECIPES FROM THE WORLD’S BEST BAKERS IN SUPPORT OF UKRAINE to give away. For your chance to win this prize, head to saltmagazine.com.au and click on the ‘win’ tab to enter.

GRAJAGAN: SURFING IN THE TIGER’S LAIR – G-LAND 1972-84

Mike Ritter & Jack McCoy | Cyclops Press | $55

“Grajagan tells the authentic story of the discovery of a surfing paradise by those who were there.”

Authors Mike Ritter and Jack McCoy, along with publisher John Ogden, first ventured to Indonesia in the 1970s. Kuta was still a small, sleepy village, and tourism was yet to arrive and impact this tiny piece of paradise. They discovered Grajagan in East Java in the 1980s; a narrow strip of sand that separated wild jungle from surfers’ heaven. It was an awe-inspiring place. Surfing Indo has thrived, and has become increasingly commercial and homogenised as the years have passed, but Grajagan has remained one of the crown jewels of surfing. The book has been published in a fabulous vintage style and is full of photographs, facts and interviews; perfect for any lovers of surfing.

Jack McCoy says, “To this day if I have trouble sleeping, I close my eyes, breathe deeply, and dream myself to Grajagan ”

Recline in your favourite chair with one of these beauties.

all

KNEAD PEACE: RECIPES FROM THE WORLD’S BEST BAKERS IN SUPPORT OF UKRAINE

Foreword by Anna Makievska from The Bakehouse in Kyiv, Ukraine | Hachette | $55

Anna Makievska opened The Bakehouse in Kyiv in October 2021, during the first days of the war between the Ukraine and Russia. The bakery was much too near to the explosions and attacks, and Anna had to close the doors of the business just a few months after opening, and relocate to the basement. Right from day three of the war, Anna’s team have baked bread day and night, and given it free of charge to hospitals, soldiers, the elderly and people impacted by the war with Russia; they bake and distribute anything between 400 and 1,000 loves every single day. Just imagine trying to source ingredients, find workers and run a business in a war zone? It doesn’t bear thinking about! Sixty-five bakers from around the globe have contributed recipes to this book, which is the initiative of Andrew Green from Knead Peace. He says: “Knead Peace was born from the idea that baking is a community that has the power to make a difference from the war, hatred, violence and knife and gun crimes that have caused so much pain in today’s world”. A great cause – and a wonderful and varied collection of baking recipes.

OUR TOP FIVE ONLINE PICKS

Do you need some motivation to achieve your goals? Then check out LEVEL UP LIFE. This online platform lets you track your daily achievements big or small. Simply put in your real-life goals you are working towards and when you reach them, you are awarded points to unlock increasingly difficult achievements. Even better, it features old-school game graphics. lvluplife.com.

Reported to be majorly addictive, GEO GUESSR drops you somewhere in the world on Google Street View and you have to guess where you are! Play on your own or create parties with friends and learn lots about the world at the same time. You can even decide what part of the world you want to be transported to. The closer you pinpoint your location on the map, the more points you earn. geoguessr.com.

Ever wondered why sea shells sound like the ocean or why yawning is contagious? Look no further than MENTAL FLOSS. A super addictive online magazine with well-written articles covering a huge range of topics. You can even submit your own questions. mentalfloss.com

From money saving tips to clever uses for household items and more, LIFEHACKER is a hub of tips, tricks and downloads. Think of it as a collection of all the information that would be really useful to know, but no one really teaches you. For example, did you know there are four lengths of naps that will each benefit you in a different way? Along with the fun articles, the site has some pretty awesome, in-depth articles, like ‘how to plant ideas in someone’s mind’, as well as helpful listicles like the top 10 obscure Google search tricks. lifehacker.com

You’ve probably heard of Wordle, but do you know about HEARDLE? Perfect for music lovers and connoisseurs, it launched shortly after Wordle and works by playing a short snippet of a song and allowing you six tries to guess the right song. spotify.com/heardle

Discover Flinders

Book reviews by Annie’s Books on Peregian, 8 Kingfisher Drive, Peregian Beach. 5448 2053 or anniesbooksonperegian.com.au

The online picks were selected by salt HQ.

UNIQUELY Queensland

THERE WAS NOTHING to despair, in fact no worries at all, as we pulled into the Sunshine & Sons, Nil Desperandum distillery in beautiful Woombye.

The sun was shining, beautiful blue feathered birds were ducking in and out of the surrounding trees, premium quality gin, vodka and rum lined up against the rainforest backdrop… how could you feel a worry in the world?

Fitting when you consider that the namesake for the delicious dark spirits we were about to taste is Nil Desperandum, a Latin phrase that roughly translates into the old Aussie adage, ‘no worries’. A delightful play on words and homage to the first licensed premise in Woombye.

“In 1871 James Costar was granted a license to sell ‘Fermented and Spirituous Liquors’ at premises in Woombye and his establishment was named Nil Desperandum so when it came time to pick a name for our rum, it seemed fitting. We also think it sums up the relaxed vibe of the Sunshine Coast,” says Matt Hobson, one of the four mates who opened the overarching brand, CAVU Distilling back in July 2019.

The group, also consisting of Adam Chapman, Daniel Vinson and Michael Conrad, took the chance to live out their dream when they left their jobs and got into the distilling game. And, it was a risk that has certainly paid off.

The business opened its doors in January 2020 and began by distilling gin and vodka under the Sunshine & Sons brand. This followed with the launch of the Nil Desperandum rum in early 2022. “We thought we would try our hand at making rum, so on the 22nd of the second, 2022 at 2:22pm, we released Australia’s

first certified organic molasses rum and it was a huge success,” Matt says. “We are now, already, the third largest rum producer in Australia.

“We take a lot of pride in this, because we believe rum is Australia’s national spirit. It was on the first fleet in huge quantities. Back then the navy officers of the era were managed with rum. It was rationed out to the military, even used as currency, so rum was really enmeshed in the early history of those settlements.

“We also believe it is a uniquely Queensland spirit, as most

WORDS LAHNEE PAVLOVICH PHOTOS PABLO PAVLOVICH

Matt Hobson

of the sugar cane is grown here in our very own state,” he says. “Despite this, Australian rum hasn’t achieved a worldwide reputation yet and we want to change that. Our goal is to bring amazing quality rum to the world stage.”

And after taste testing a few of them, I can safely say Nil Desperandum is well on track to achieving that dream.

The distillery initially launched with a premium limited release rum, The First, in 2022, followed by One Second, which was produced with a more delicate palate. Next up, The Third, aged in a sherry-finished barrel. Finally, came Botanical, a beautiful hybrid rum with subtle notes of coffee bean, cinnamon bark and segments of Sunshine Coast grown limes.

“Every bottle of our rum is unique, designed from a distiller’s point of view and produced with love, art and science using organic molasses, natural wild fermentation, bespoke Australian made copper stills and the finest American bourbon barrels,” Matt says.

“We are unique in that we are one of the only certified organic distilleries in Australia, using beautiful organically certified sugar cane which is harvested and milled here in Queensland. The molasses is a by-product of the milling and we accept that in very large quantities without any man-made chemicals tainting the crisp expressive molasses from that organic sugar cane.

“We add the molasses, which we dilute on site, with beautiful local Woombye water and dunder, a waste product of distillation because it gives a great taste profile after the sugars have been consumed by fermentation. The dunder has a lot of great minerals in it too. Then, we are really pushing the boundaries of science by adding a secondary bacterial infection into the dunder to create muck which brings some expressive aromatic and flavour profiles,” Matt says.

The team at Nil Desperandum has already won multiple awards for their rums in 2022 and have plans to release a Nil Desperandum Special rum in May of 2023.

“It is a big milestone for us so we have decided to partner with a distributor, Proof Drinks Australia, so we can get our brands out to the world. We have a bold vision to be Australia’s finest rum,” Matt tells salt

“It is a very exciting time and we want to bring out a premium rum at a very competitive price point so rum lovers and aficionados can all enjoy it.”

“Our rum is made with so much love and passion and we believe it shines through. All of our rums are very approachable and have what we believe it takes to finally get Australian rum on the international map.”

Not only that, the bottles themselves are impressive.

“Just as the name represents the first legal drinking establishment in the area, we also wanted to pay respect to the traditional custodians of the land we are on – the Gubbi Gubbi people,” Matt says.

“The name Woombye comes from their word ‘Wumbai’ meaning ‘black snake’, so we have a beautiful textured black snake on every single bottle.

“Not only that, a black snake can take out a polar bear with one bite, if you catch my drift…,” he laughs.

MARTIN DUNCAN

SunshineYour f die

Martin Duncan AKA the ‘Sunshine Coast Foodie’ has a passion for showcasing the Sunshine Coast’s restaurants, cafes, producers and products. He is a former chef and restaurateur, and a true connector of people in food agribusiness, including the plant nursery and hospitality industries. Martin’s other passion is Sconetime – a wonderful opportunity for older people, along with their carers, companions and family, to establish social connections and come together with other people from the community over scones.

NOSH news

IN THIS BEAUTIFUL autumn edition of salt magazine, we have plenty of pages full of delicious foodie pics and stories for you to pore over as well as what’s hot in food and beverages, produce, products and venues.

Don’t miss chef Frank Boulay’s delicious signature dish on page 52. His spanner crab spaghettini and bottarga recipe is sure to impress your guests at your next dinner party.

Speaking of seafood, The Surf Club Mooloolaba is always serving up delicious morsels from the sea including their famous Mooloolaba prawns. Local artists perform every Friday afternoon with stunning vistas into the night. Do yourself a favour and treat yourself with a visit to the club’s Bayview Bar and Bites on level two sometime soon; you won’t be disappointed.

Our eclectic dining scene continues to grow too, with some new kids on the block who are quickly making a name for themselves.

Make sure you pop into WAT Den in Mooloolaba, an elegant new destination whisky and tequila bar. Located right on the esplanade with a signature cigar lounge theme, it is a little piece of Melbourne in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

You will also love The Doonan at Doonan – an exciting new Comiskey Group venue with an Italian-inspired restaurant, pizzeria and designer landscaping, alfresco dining and kids playground.

There are also lots of foodie events to explore throughout our region including GourMay. Running throughout the month of May in our beautiful Mary Valley, the festival will showcase local farmers, producers, chefs and caterers. Come say g’day on Saturday, May 6 as yours truly will be emcee in the gourmet kitchen at Imbil Rail Park. Also in May, rosella queen, CC Petersen of CC’s Kitchen, is hosting the 8th Big Rosella Field Day. It’s on May 6 and 7 at Woolooga.

Last but not least, the Curated Plate makes a return for the second year from July 28 to August 6. The Curated Plate is a delicious celebration of the Sunshine Coast’s local produce, producers, chefs and unique natural assets from the sea to the hinterland. The program is developed through collaboration between local producers, suppliers and businesses who come together to tell their stories not only through food but experiences.

I look forward to sharing more great stories on our artisan producers and Sunshine Coast foodies in future editions.

Until next time, bon appetit!

If you are inspired by the ocean views you will love THE SURF CLUB MOOLOOLABA overlooking Mooloolaba Beach and boasting the best views of the Sunshine Coast. It’s the perfect place to kick back and relax to enjoy a cold beer, glass of bubbles or delicious cocktail. Our favourite spaces are the deck on the ground floor for people watching and Bayview Bar and Bites located on level two. The menu is inspired by the view and features fresh local seafood including Mooloolaba prawns and local produce. Local artists perform every Friday afternoon with stunning vistas into the night, then you can watch trawlers come into Mooloolaba Spit. Magic.

The Surf Club Mooloolaba is at Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba. 5444 1300 or thesurfclub.com.au

Ginger has been celebrated for centuries for its unique health benefits, but it’s also delicious and can be used in so many ways. BUDERIM GINGER is delighted to introduce some exciting new products to their range of goodies as well as a new ginger nursery, which is now open. Try their new Australian Ginger Shots – best drunk cold, enjoy this spicy shot daily or add it to your favourite smoothie, salad dressing or stir-fry. Another variation is the authentic Jamu shots – this traditional Indonesian herbal drink is said to promote inner and outer health and beauty and its main ingredient also happens to be ginger. Love sushi? Then you must try their sushi ginger to add that extra little zing to your favourite roll. The Ginger Factory is also a great day out with fun rides, fascinating tours, a unique retail precinct and cafe surrounded by beautiful sub-tropical gardens for all to enjoy. Free entry and open seven days, there is something for everyone.

Ps … Their ginger scones with Buderim Ginger and lashings of cream are worthy of a visit.

Buderim Ginger is at 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina. 5447 8400 or buderimginger.com

Michelle O’Brien, Ginger Factory park manager, Brenda Bailey, tourism manager

A hinterland tavern steeped in history, MAPLETON PUBLIC HOUSE is a paddock to plate destination. Owners Ben Johnston and Jess Huddart, who also own The Falls Farm just three kilometres away, have a passion for fresh, quality produce, and with executive chef Cameron Matthews at the helm it’s a match made in heaven. Cameron received a Winston Churchill Fellowship to study internationally sustainable restaurant practices, while The Falls Farm won the From the Earth category in the Queensland and national Delicious Produce Awards. The vision is to showcase The Falls Farm’s produce and that of other local producers who grow ethically – including eggs, milk, mushrooms, cheese, beef and pork. Produce is ordered, picked and delivered within 24 hours. Ben, Jess and Cameron say they are honoured to be continuing the 113-year legacy of the Mapleton Public House and are excited about the possibilities for the future.

The Mapleton Public House is at 2 Flaxton Drive, Mapleton. 5445 7499 or mapleton.pub

You will adore the ever-changing cakes, breakfast and lunch specials and homemade pies on offer at the EUDLO GENERAL STORE. The store is the latest venture by Tony Kelly Restaurant Group and the team is on a mission to deliver the best pie on the Sunshine Coast and they believe they have cracked the code. Kiera, Rory and the team offer great food, coffee and friendly service daily from 7am until 4pm. Rory’s pies have a homemade feel, like your nanna made back in the day – crammed full of tender beef and so tasty. The roast chicken and cheesy cauliflower pies are other firm favourites. Now you can also enjoy a delicious dinner every Friday and Saturday night from 5.30pm, and the venue is licensed for intimate weddings and celebratory events. The weekly seasonal menu is top class and excellent value at just $45 for two courses, or $55 for three.

Eudlo General Store is at 9-11 Rosebed Street, Eudlo. 4445 3545 or facebook.com/eudlogeneralstore

Based on their five-acre property in beautiful Cooroy and serving delicious coffee and treats from their gorgeous old bus, Rob and Beth are your charming, friendly hosts at BUSSTOP ESPRESSO. Serving delicious Cooroy Coffee Roasters coffee and drinks with simple fresh fare, they offer a range of milkshakes, smoothies, fresh juices, toasted sandwiches and locally made fresh cakes. Kids will love when the ice-cream van stops by on the weekends (and the big kids will love their affogatos). You can also pick up locally grown fresh produce including chook and duck eggs, mushrooms, avocados, honey and a range of small goods. Kids will love the Cooroy playground located a short drive away.

Busstop Espresso is at 201 Mary River Road, Cooroy. 0456 789 198 or busstopespresso.com.au

Keira & Rory Thorpe

Executive chef Cameron Matthews

Rob & Beth Noy

If you’re looking for Asian street food with soul, then ROTI & BAO at Sunshine Plaza is your foodie destination. The team at Roti & Bao pride themselves on providing food with soul, using the freshest ingredients and authentic cooking techniques. Open for lunch daily, the roti is made fresh in house and cooked to order, while the delicious buns and dumplings are stuffed fresh every day. Located conveniently near the centre court Sunshine Plaza. For further details visit sunshineplaza.com

Seafood

Restaurant & River Lounge

just a ferry ride up the river from Hastings Street

a modern approach to dining with old world charm

river lounge specials half price oysters 3pm-4pm happy hour 4pm-5:30pm

Aunty Dale Chapman is an Indigenous woman born in Dirranbandi in southwest Queensland on Yuwaalaraay and Kooma tribal lands. She has lived on Gubbi Gubbi land, known as the Sunshine Coast, since 1976. “Wunya” means welcome in Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi and Aunty Dale uses it a lot because she lives, works and plays here in our beautiful region. She conducts numerous bushfood workshops and training sessions designed for the participants to become aware of the unique array of flavours and textures of bushfood and how easy it is today to incorporate in our daily lives. You’ll find MY DILLY BAG store tucked behind the shops at Forest Glen. Enjoy a pot of First Light Tea (black tea, rose petals, sliver needle, vanilla, kulbanyi and strawberry gum) with a delicious wattle seed biscuit or two – yes please!

My Dilly Bag is at 5B/354 Mons Road, Forest Glen. 0402 616 056 or mydillybag.com.au

luciosmarina luciosmarina.com

Aunty Dale Chapman

Bubble tea has fast become one of the most popular drinks for both young and old. But GOTCHA FRESH TEA is much more than another bubble tea. They farm their own tea and pick from a single tea plantation in Mount Ali located in the northeast part of the Chiayi County in Taiwan, so the flavour is unique and unmistakable. Gotcha Fresh Tea is also freshly brewed and made for each individual order. With a delectable selection of handcrafted teas, collagen teas and milk teas, Gotcha has a tea for all connoisseurs to enjoy, whether they be from the east or the west. Like a single origin coffee or a fine bottle of French wine from a single vineyard, Gotcha Fresh Tea is the ultimate in bubble tea. Pop in and try one for yourself; you won’t be disappointed. For further details visit sunshineplaza.com

If you’re wondering why the ice-cream tastes so good at COTTON TREE ICE CREAMERY, the secret is all in the whipping. Owner Pete Milton’s method of handmaking the ice-cream means it has far less air whipped into it, making it smoother and creamier than some commercial brands. Specialising in ice-cream cakes, Peter and wife Cate opened the Cotton Tree Ice Creamery in 2017, where Peter proudly churns their small batch ice-cream every day. Choose from a range of flavours in store or order online and pick up. It’s easy to see why they are known as one of the sweetest spots on the Sunshine Coast. Their ice-cream cakes are perfect for any celebratory event or even just as a special family treat.

Cotton Tree Ice Creamery is at Shop 3/1-3 King Street, Maroochydore. 5443 4094 or cottontreeicecreamery.com.au

Cate Milton

LOVE, FAMILY & fine food

WHEN THE FAMOUS Lucio’s in Sydney closed in 2020 members of the Galletto family were unsure if, or where, they would open another restaurant.

The Italian restaurant in Paddington had become an institution since it was opened by Lucio Galletto in 1983.

The Gallettos were not to be out of restaurants for long. Matteo Galletto was ready to open a seafood trattoria at the Noosa Marina in Tewantin by the end of 2021 and Lucio’s Marina, named after his father, recently celebrated its first anniversary.

WORDS JANINE HILL PHOTOS ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

Noosa was high on the list when Matteo was looking for a location for a new venture.

Lucio was always a regular guest chef at the Noosa Food and Wine Festival organised by Noosa restaurateur Jim Berardo and used to bring the family with him.

“From about the year 2000, every year there was a festival on, he’d come up, bring up one of his chefs and do cooking demonstrations,” Matteo says.

“It was a really a very special time for him, a special time for the restaurant, to get to know people here, and he always really admired the way Jim could bring all these people together. That was just a small connection to Noosa that we always had.”

Matteo decided to rethink the future after his wife, Dieuwke Albertsma, gave birth to the first of their two young children.

“It makes you look at 10 years out, 15 years out to give you

“ We saw the growth of noosa, the expansion into the junction and gympie terrace extending down the river. we saw a lot of potential”

Matteo Galletto (standing), Restaurant Manager Christian Viant & Supervisor Bea Ori

a little bit better longer view of things,” he says.

“We stepped back and looked at the business, the restaurant scene in Sydney and how it was moving, and what it takes to provide for a family in Sydney these days, all these things, and we realised we needed a larger venue. Lucio’s was a small 60-seater restaurant and we’d really reached the peak of what could be done in that space.”

The Gallettos put an end-date on Lucio’s after guiding it through the first COVID lockdown.

“It was very sad, but we knew the time was coming up for that space,” Matteo tells salt

He and Dieuwke were impressed when they caught up with Noosa.

“We just saw the growth of Noosa, the expansion into the Junction and Gympie Terrace extending down the river. We saw a lot of potential,” he says.

A year in, Matteo feels the trattoria has found a good rhythm but it has not come without hard work.

“Even with me, 15 years working with my father, continuing a restaurant that has been around for 40 years, when you start new it’s a whole diff erent game, so it’s taken us a while to find our feet and get the product where we want it to be, but now we’re fi ring on all cylinders.”

Matteo says head chef Alberto Vitassovich, who

Bar manager Nicola Ziglio

shares similar philosophies on food, hails from the Liguria region of northern Italy, just like Lucio. Restaurant manager, Christian Viant, has relocated from Sydney to join the team. Matteo credits both Christian and Alberto as being a key part of the trattoria hitting its groove.

Lucio moved to Australia in 1977 after falling in love with an Australian girl, Sally, who had been visiting her sister, Lucio’s cousin’s wife.

Lucio’s parents, uncle and aunt had pulled themselves out of poverty in the 1950s by selling seafood from a shack on the bank of Italy’s Magra River.

Lucio continued the family tradition by starting his restaurant after moving to Australia.

Matteo worked in Lucio’s with his father. He also spent a year in Liguria working with family members who continue to run the family restaurant there, now a bustling 300-350 seater.

Although he studied arts and commerce, restaurants stole him back before he finished his degree.

He opened a restaurant in partnership a few years ago before returning to Lucio’s and acknowledges that starting a restaurant is very different from working in an established one.

“It was a luxury to be able to come into Lucio’s and just take a step back and think, ‘Okay, how can we do things a little bit better every day?’ whereas when you’re setting up a new business you have to figure out what you want the business to be,” he says.

“And then you open the doors, and after the first night you throw that whole plan and start again, and then you keep doing that for about three or four months. Every night you throw away the plans.

“We’re trying to do something quite different for Noosa. We really try and focus on the seafood and novel ways to present it.”

Matteo and Lucio had often talked about turning Lucio’s into a seafood restaurant.

“We would go over to Italy every couple of years from as young as I can remember to visit the family,” Matteo says.

“The first stop was always the grandparents and then the restaurant. As we got older, even as kids, the seafood was always amazing.

“We always came back and Dad and I would always lament we can never find this food here.”

These days, Matteo and Alberto talk about dishes from Italy that they miss and how to put them on the menu.

“Our seafood platter is a completely raw platter, for instance, so we’ve got fantastic West Australian scampi, small grade. We serve them raw,” Matteo says.

“Italians come in and see raw scampi on the menu and they’re transported back to Italy.”

“That’s very gratifying when you see Italians come in and appreciate dishes you forget about because you don’t see them much.”

“That’s been very rewarding, to put these things on the menu that we’re really passionate about and see people appreciate them as well.”

Lucio has mostly retired from kitchens but Matteo hopes he might one day do a spell on the floor, charming customers.

In the meantime, a portrait of him, one of a handful of artworks from the original Lucio’s, watches over the trattoria. Buono.

“I love restaurants. I love to go out, I love to experience restaurants and then when I’m going out, and I can’t find the experiences I want, I want to create them for other people,” he tells salt luciosmarina.com

Head chef Alberto Vitassovich

A MEAL to treasure

IF YOU DINE at Chew Chew Bistro in the quaint hinterland town of Palmwoods, don’t be surprised if you come home with something pleasantly unexpected. It may be a vintage Rolex watch, or a handembroidered antique linen tablecloth. It may even be a crystal chandelier.

While this may seem like an unusual thing to happen over lunch, it tends to be a common experience for patrons of Chew Chew, located within vintage emporium The Shed Palmwoods, where expecting the unexpected is par for the course.

Nestled beside the railway tracks, The Shed Palmwoods came to life in 2021, after the bank of old railway sheds caught the eye of veteran business owners Geoff and Dianna Ryan. Having outgrown their previous premises at an industrial shed at Forest Glen where their business had been operating

French Mediterranean cooking using locally grown products

Nestled in the beautiful village square of Peregian Beach, Periwinkle restaurant offer a modern French Mediterranean cuisine with delicious seafood, hand crafted sourdough breads, char grill beef and seasonal vegetables.

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast, lunch or dinner in the family friendly village square park.

Monday to Friday 11am - 8.30pm Saturday & Sunday 8.30am - 8.30pm 2/216 David Low Way

Peregian Beach QLD 4573 07 5448 3251

periwinklerestaurant.com.au

WORDS LINDA READ PHOTOS ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

Geoff & Dianna Ryan, with Bistro Manager Claudia Hankinson

for several years, the couple could not resist the charm of the 103-year-old building. Their vision was shared by

suppliers in the region.

The breakfast menu includes a selection of eggs benedict variations, a breaky burrito wrap, and local lady finger banana pancakes.

“People come from far and wide for our breakfasts,” Geoff tells salt

“Our chef’s very creative; he puts a modern twist on Australian and some international cuisine. But I think it’s the fresh quality, the portion size and the price, that keep people coming back.”

It’s not just people that are coming to Chew Chew Bistro either – the dog-friendly front and back outdoor dining areas are proving popular with local pooches, who find the deck to be the perfect spot for an afternoon siesta. Resident ‘Shed dog’ Bentley, a black spoodle puppy who is still learning the ropes, will be on hand to make new friends at any time.

The unmistakable ambience is also a large part of the attraction, with Dianna describing a palpable “energy” that permeates the entire premises.

“We just wanted to create a place that would feed the soul for people, that they could come to, feel good, enjoy beautiful food in a relaxing and unique atmosphere, and go away feeling really positive and that they’ve had a great experience,” she says.

The energy Dianna describes emanates in large part from the abundance of quirky, curious, and captivating items that fill the store to the brim, and provide customers with a veritable treasure trove to explore. With 70 per cent of the items antique or vintage, and 30 per cent new, there is little chance that what you find here will be replicated anywhere else. Each and every item is handpicked by Dianna and Geoff

“We get new stock every single day,” Dianna tells salt

“People bring things in boxes, or pull the car up and open the boot. We get things from all over the world. The criteria is that it has to be beautiful, it has to be high quality, and it has to be in very good condition or really interesting, weird and quirky.”

One of the most popular items is antique linen sets, according to Dianna, which would have made up a large part of a woman’s dowry in times past.

“They’re still in immaculate condition. What I love about that is that there’s been so much time and love put into making them, and you can buy that today and put it on your table, and you’ve got this amazing energy of something beautiful. I always wonder, how many people laughing round the table enjoying food, have used this tablecloth? I love that element of it.”

MATCH MADE in foodie heaven

PHOTOS ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

chef’s tip

Fresh focaccia bread with confit garlic and some marinated olives are a perfect starter with a glass of rose or prosecco. We like to use the oil from the garlic confit to marinate our olives and also add orange and lemon peel.

SPANNER CRAB SPAGHETTINI AND BOTTARGA

Add a twist to this classic coastal dish by adding white miso and bottarga. The addition of both ingredients elevates the dish and give a wonderful umami (complex) flavour.

Serves 4 people

INGREDIENTSMETHOD

Pasta dough

400g OO flour

4 whole eggs

Sauce

400g raw spanner crab

500ml chicken stock

2 tbsp white miso

100g butter

1lt white wine

Lemon juice (1 lemon)

Combine eggs and flour to form a dough.

Knead the dough for 10 minutes, wrap it in cling film and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Laminate the dough through a pasta roller to a 2mm thickness and cut with a sharp knife to 2mm wide. Put the pasta to the side.

Meanwhile, bring chicken stock to boil, add lemon juice, white wine, white miso and butter. Add the crab to the stock mixture. Start cooking pasta in boiling water. Cook for two minutes and add to the crab sauce.

Cook the pasta and crab sauce for one minute. Dress on a plate and using a microplane, grate some bottarga on top. Serve straight away and enjoy.

This recipe is courtesy of Frank Boulay, owner and head chef of Bottarga Restaurant, Maroochydore. bottargarestaurant.com.au

PERFECT MATCH

NAILING THE MARRIAGE between food and wine heightens and elevates the dining experience. The endless combinations of flavours and textures make the exploration even more enjoyable. Follow a few simple rules and your taste buds will thank you.

One of the basics to keep in mind when making a pairing is that the food and wine should be equally as intense as one another. We’ve all had a blustering red wine with a meal that just can’t take the weight or power. Conversely, a light-bodied wine gets lost with a dense, heavy meal.

In keeping with this, a classic rule of thumb is to drink older wines with dishes that have been cooked for a long time. Think of a 10- or 20-year-old red wine – would it be better suited with a steak that is cooked quickly at high temperature or would it embrace that beef bourguignon that has been simmering away for a number of hours? The latter will always win out.

Going further, work around sweetness, bitterness, saltiness, acidity, spice and fat and their various intensities and you’ll smash the brief every time.

High acid wines cleanse the palate from oily foods. That’s why crisp and zippy wines like riesling and semillon are great with sashimi, fresh seafood and deep-fried fish and chips. Arm yourself with a Miss Zilm riesling 2022 ($30) where the minerality and lemony drive just sizzles. Stretch your curiosity a little further and try an emerging variety such as vermentino. Born by the Italian seaside, it is fit for the purpose. One of the best you’ll find in Australia is Queensland’s own Golden Grove Estate vermentino 2022 ($35) with its vibrancy and ripples of lemon juice calling you back time and again.

Softly spiced Asian dishes would be well-suited to the fine

spices of the O’Leary Walker grüner veltliner 2022 ($35) or even an off-dry riesling such as Gundog Estate Gundaroo riesling 2022 ($40) with that lick of sweetness from some residual sugar. But finely spiced foods can also be complemented by a delicately spiced wine. Consider the cool climate vibes of Seville Estate Old Vine Reserve 2020 ($95) to add a touch of class.

A lazy afternoon absorbing the sunset sometimes calls for a bag of chips. Sea salt crisps and a glass or two of Limefinger Polish Hill River riesling 2022 ($39) smashes the brief. The flicker of spice in Samboy Barbecue complements the medium-bodied and fine spice tickle of the De Iuliis Estate shiraz 2020 ($25).

New world chardonnay is really on trend right now. The subtle creaminess with a white-fleshed stone fruit and citrusy drive sees an abundance of delicious examples on the shelves.

Creamy pasta dishes would be an ideal partner for something like the Montalto The Eleven chardonnay 2021 ($90). Chardonnay works equally as well with roast pork and roast chicken while the nuttiness of aged chardonnay pairs wonderfully with hard cheeses.

The delicate profile of pinot noir is a favourite beside duck, but the medium body of grenache works just as well. The juicy red fruits and flicker of spice lifts the dish that little bit more. Try Arila Gardens Sand Garden grenache 2021 ($85) for a thrilling example of the variety.

But if pinot noir is your thing, its light frame is a wonderful partner for richer fish like salmon. The Oakridge Vineyard Series Henk pinot noir 2021 ($45) is super impressive and will pay dividends.

When working with plated dishes, another consideration is to

WORDS STEVE LESZCZYNSKI

match the wine to the sauce rather than the protein. We’ve all heard the rule to drink red wine with red meat, but go a little deeper than that to strike the right combo.

Mushroom sauces, as an example, would be better suited to earthy and savoury wines such as the Hutton Vale Grenache mataro 2018 ($55).

The full body and high tannins of a cabernet ensure it partners robust meats such as lamb with aplomb. Splash out and race for the Jim Brand cabernets 2019 ($85) for that assignment.

Although shiraz and beef is also a classic combo, consider mixing up steak night a little with the Georgian variety saperavi. Wonderfully fragrant with chewy tannins, the Hugh Hamilton Oddball saperavi 2019 ($75) is sure to impress.

When it comes to dessert, serve a wine sweeter than the food. Flip this around the other way and the wine will go missing. The silky, long and luscious drive of the Yalumba FSW botrytis

Viognier 2020 ($30) is a match made in heaven beside a citrus tart.

Above all, try something new, enjoy the exploration and you may just land yourself a new favourite.

HERE’S CHEERS TO SUNSHINE COAST BEER

10 Toes Culture Kick Blueberry Pastry Sour (4.0%) - This sour oozes refreshment. Blueberries cannon through the mouth with a delicate pastry feel. Add a flash of citrus and vanilla and it’s gone in no time.

10 Toes Lazy Hazy Session NEIPA (3.8%) – A tin full of tropical fruit with a mango cameo and citrusy tang. Light and refreshing, it sits a fraction above one standard drink. Tick!

Magazine. Steve is a passionate supporter of the Queensland wine industry.

STEVE LESZCZYNSKI is a wine writer, wine dinner host and emcee. Apart from writing for his website QwineReviews.com, Steve contributes to Halliday Wine Companion Magazine, Vinomofo, Wine Business Magazine and Grapegrower Winemaker

SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW

IT IS SAID that your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life. But what if a loved one is no longer present to walk beside you, hold your hand and offer their love and support on your special day?

When Mel Coulstock was planning her wedding to now-husband Gary, she knew that honouring her mother’s spirit was a must.

“We were married on October 27 last year,” Mel says with a smile in her voice.

“We had it planned, and then postponed two years in row. Finally last year we said, ‘regardless of what happens with COVID, we are not waiting anymore’. It was always that date. It was super special as that was my mum’s birthday. She died at the age of 60, overnight and completely unexpected. That is why that date is so important.”

Believe it or not, Mel’s mum made sure her daughter knew she was there in spirit to oversee the celebrations.

“Mum died nine years ago. The kids were little. They were super close to mum and really missed her,” Mel tells salt.

“I said to them at the time, ‘whenever you see a rainbow, no matter if you are sad or happy, know that Grandma is walking beside you in that time’.

“On my wedding day, it was a beautiful hot day. It was so hot. By the time we had the ceremony, the sky was overcast and clouds had come over. By the reception it was raining and there was a little storm. All of my friends kept coming inside and saying, ‘there’s a rainbow’. It was a double rainbow too. It was extremely significant.’’

Although Gary never had the chance to meet his mother-inlaw, he understands the value Mel places on family, which is why he chose to propose in a large and festive way.

It was Christmas 2019 and the couple were celebrating with

their extended families, including Mel’s three children, and Gary’s daughter.

“I am Christmas crazy. A lot Christmas crazy,” Mel laughs. “We had talked about getting engaged, but I didn’t see it coming. All the family were there… Gary’s parents, siblings, kids, the lot. I knew exactly what presents were under the tree.

“I looked back and noticed one present left. I was looking at the present and thinking ‘what is this?’. My dad came over, bent down and picked up this present. He gave it to Gaz and before I realised what was happening, he was on bended knee.”

Mel and Gary were married at the charming Montville Chapel in front of around 100 guests. They chose to celebrate with a reception at the beautiful Flaxton Gardens.

“One of the things we were super keen on was that everyone had an amazing time, one big party,” Mel tells salt. “I think we were the last to leave. We used every single minute at Flaxton. It was stunning.”

The couple opted for a romantic theme featuring natural shades of pink and white, with “lots and lots” of flowers –peonies, roses and white orchids.

“We added a couple of personal touches,” Mel says. “One was the date, and the other one was the orchids. My mum loved orchids. We had the white orchids flown in. They were really beautiful.”

The reception was held in the venue’s Winery function space where the guests danced the night away under a ceiling of fairy lights and fresh flowers.

There was no stress, no ‘bridezilla’ moment – just a lot of love and laughter, even when the bride was 45 minutes late to the ceremony.

“The car broke down. It was hilarious. This random guy pulled over and helped us push it off the road. The guests didn’t find it funny sitting in the chapel on that super hot day. The limo that was taking the girls came back and drove me. I was like, oh well, that’s so funny,” Mel says with a laugh.

WEDDING DAY ROLL CALL

Ceremony venue

The Chapel Montville thechapelmontville.com.au

Celebrant

Sommer Saunders, Sunshine Coast sommersaundercelebrancy.com.au

Dress

Luv Bridal, Maroochydore luvbridal.com.au

Stylist

Simply Style Co, Noosa simplystyleco.com.au

Florist

Willow Bud Wedding Flowers, Perwillowen willowbudweddingflowers.com.au

Photographer Ben Connolly, Dicky Beach benconnolly.com.au

“Life happens. The heat of the day affected the flowers, but the [florist] girls did amazing with what they had. You can’t control the weather. I said to every single supplier the week before my wedding that I would leave it all with them. This is what they do every single week. Don’t be a bridezilla, just let it flow. What is meant to be, will be.

“My only tip for a bride to be is to take your glasses if you need them! I wear glasses for reading. It didn’t dawn on me to take my glasses and I had to borrow someone’s glasses to read the ceremony.

“I would do my wedding day over and over again.”

And the best part?

“Getting married to my husband, and saying I do,” Mel says with a smile.

THE VENUE

Flaxton Gardens is one of the Sunshine Coast’s premier wedding venues. Nestled in the lush hinterland and offering sweeping coastal views, it hosts luxury weddings and events. Couples are assigned a professional wedding planner to help design their perfect wedding, with options ranging from a Tuscanthemed terrace celebration to an elegant marquee that offers views of the night sky above.

“I fell in love with the venue,” Mel says. “I wouldn’t change a thing at Flaxton. The wedding planner Alicia was so easy to deal with, and organised. She was the bomb. There was no reason for stress.”

Visit flaxtongardens.com.au

DELICATE DANCE

We’ve all heard of the couple’s first dance – it’s iconic. But in 2023 a trend we are seeing emerge at weddings is a PRIVATE LAST DANCE. Yep, that’s right, when all the guests have left for the night, loved up newlyweds embrace the magic of their special day a little longer. With just the photographer and videographer in the room it’s a chance to reflect on the day and savour the last few moments before embracing the world together as a married couple. How romantic!

UNIQUE LIGHTING

In 2023 bespoke lighting is set to dominate weddings with candles and low-hanging bulbs set to add some soft backlight to the wedding pictures. The right LIGHTING can create a magical and ultra-romantic setting for a wedding wonderland. Delicate fairy lights, curtain lights or even Edison bulbs create a more relaxed and close-knit setting, matching the growing interest from couples in intimate gatherings. If you’re having an outdoor wedding why not look at lanterns on low-hanging tree branches? Another trend taking off is neon signage. These signs add a bright pop of colour and can be a fun focal point for photos. Have them made with a wedding hashtag, the couple’s names, or phrases like ‘love’ or ‘happily ever after’.

DREAMY DESTINATIONS

Destination weddings are receiving a shake-up in 2023. Although borders are open, couples are now choosing to recreate the look and feel of their dream destinations, right here in Australia. What a cool concept! They are drawing on inspiration from LUXURY EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS – whether it’s a Tuscan-themed wedding or the Greek Islands. To achieve this, be creative with styling, food and music, and add your own personal touches. This will allow you to experience the destination wedding of your dreams while in your own backyard. Another bonus of course is that all the friends and family who may not have been able to make a destination wedding will be able to experience Europe at home with you.

IHere are our picks of fashionable locations, must-have products, and the latest trends in weddings.

BACK TO BLUE

This is one for the groom as the BLUE SUIT proves a continuing classic look for 2023. With blue already the colour trend of the year for weddings, it’s no surprises this is translating into the outfit choices. Blue can add a wonderful sense of masculinity to the groom’s attire and is versatile enough to go with your wedding colour palate. Try adding a touch of colour with a bow tie, tie, shirt or in a boutonnière. The groom’s tuxedo is another staple in wedding outfits today with linen also a popular fabric choice. Why not have some fun mixing and matching a couple of the trends for the perfect look?

FUN ON FILM

With all things retro making a comeback, it would be rude to ignore the re-emergence of film cameras. Whether it’s disposable cameras in the centre of the tables or POLAROIDS, analogue film is making a big appearance at weddings this autumn. This trend can lead to fun, candid one-off photos as guests capture the celebration. This is also translating to a fun new way of guests signing the traditional message book. Why not have a photo booth strip or polaroid printed and stuck into the book and each guest can write a little message next to their photo?

LET THE CHAMPAGNE FLOW

Nothing says it’s time to party like popping a bottle of bubbles. If you are looking to wow your guests and make a statement, then consider adding a CHAMPAGNE TOWER to include a splash of sparkle on your special day. This trend is fast becoming a must-have interactive spectacle in the 2023 wedding season. The experience is the perfect opportunity to kick off your reception and get you and your guests excited for what’s to come. You can easily hire vendors that specialise in champagne towers, if the service isn’t already available at your venue. Now all that’s left is to say cheers!

RETRO RETURN

The ’80s are back baby. We’re talking puffy sleeves, plenty of bows, thick dresses and dramatic detail. If Stranger Things can bring back Kate Bush and Tom Cruise can bring back Top Gun, then there is no stopping a dress revival from a bygone era. Cue the beautiful Princess Diana look and envision cathedral-length or embroidered veils. Why not opt for wedding gloves to give 1980s glam vibes? Brides can opt for empire-waist gowns with a square neckline and make use of delicate antique accessories such as teardrop earrings or a dainty tiara.

EYES ON LUMINOUS

Makeup trends are ever evolving but this season minimal, DEWY LOOKS, fluffy eyebrows and foxy eyes are sure to be popular. Trends we are seeing online and from top makeup influencers are inspiring brides to opt for looks using cream products with a luminous finish that makes the skin look radiant, fresh and naturally dewy without looking like you’re wearing a full face of makeup. The salt team loves the addition of cream blush to lift the cheekbones and give an extra healthy glow. We all know big, brushed, fluffy eyebrows and brow lamination are in, so expect to also see this in bridal makeup. The fox-eye trend is designed to elongate and lift the eye. The look uses a soft, thin wing just on the outer corners of the eyes, which subtly blends away.

EVER AFTER

collection

1. Starry nights dress, pearl, Billy J Boutique. 2. Izy maxi dress, champagne, Billy J Boutique. 3. Yazmin heel, nude, Billy J Boutique. 4. Keira midi dress, champagne, Billy J Boutique. 5. Sol Sana Reina heel, white, Billy J Boutique. 6. Effie top and skirt and Carmen dress, sage, Billy J Boutique. 7. Ziah maxi dress, champagne, Billy J Boutique. 8. Ziah maxi dress & Ilana maxi dress, yellow, Billy J Boutique. billyj.com.au

Fine chain long pearl drop necklace, gold, Billy J Boutique, Kawana Shoppingworld,

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F Kawana Sh 5444 29

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Miley sleepers, gold, Billy J Boutique, Kawana Shoppingworld, 5444 2949

bright SHINE

9ct yellow gold checkerboard amethyst slider necklace, $780, Diamonds of Distinction, Buderim, 5445 5709

8778

Handmade tarnish resistant palladium silver and solid 9ct yellow gold abstract bangle, $1450, Diamonds of Distinction, Buderim, 5445 5709

Platinum pink spinel & diamond ring, $5770, Diamonds of Distinction, Buderim, 5445 5709

Australian Sapphire Dreams collection, exclusive to NY2K, Cotton Tree, 5443 1955

Moritz Grossmann Tefnut lady rose gold diamond, $50,500, Define Watches, Noosa Heads 5447 4643

Diamond rhythm ring in 9ct yellow gold, To Hold & To Have, Buderim, 5477 0561

9ct yellow gold fruit salad multi semi-precious gem set ring in flower design $2595, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

14ct yellow gold and diamond ring, with solid boulder opal, Opals Down Under, Glenview, 5494 5400

Pearl necklace, Pearls for Girls, Eumundi, 5442 8778

Pearl studs, Pearls for Girls, Eumundi, 5442

Art deco handmade 18ct yellow gold & platinum tear-drop design diamond drop earrings $5200, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

DIAMONDS OF DISTINCTION

Fine Jewellery Design & Manufacture

Pink Diamond Specialists

rd

ADRIAN G. SCHULZ

Generation Qualified Designer & Manufacturing Jeweller

JAA Accredited Master Jeweller

Modern design pendant, boulder opal set in 18ct yellow gold, $4690, handmade by The Opalcutter, Montville, 5442 9598

Daniel bentley loop earrings, $1175, The Opalcutter, Montville, 5442 9598

14ct yellow gold crystal opal pendant with diamond highlights, Opals Down Under, Glenview, 5494 5400

Edwardian 9ct rose gold solid curb link bracelet hallmarked Chester 1912, ‘Shelagh’ engraved on padlock $3750, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

Moritz Grossmann Tefnut Arabian Nights milanaise white gold, $99,500, Define Watches, Noosa Heads, 5447 4643

Australian Argyle champagne and white diamond 18ct yellow and white gold dress ring, To Hold & To Have, Buderim, 5477 0561

18ct and 9ct white and yellow gold peridot dress ring, $3495, NY2K, Cotton Tree, 5443 1955

AUTUMN awakening

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1.Glasses, Noosa Optical 2. Arcopedico Galileu shoes, Zilba Lifestyle Footwear. 3. Miann & Co Beth square neck maxi dress, coconut, $199, Coast Store. 4. Taos Plim Soul canvas, white, Zilba Lifestyle Footwear 5. Crocs classic clog, bone, Zilba Lifestyle Footwear. 6. Glasses, Noosa Optical, Noosa Heads, noosaoptical.com.au. 7. By Zoe Kratzmann Lilt top, sardine floral, $199, Coast Store, 0423 247 372. 8. Birkenstock Sydney vegan light rose multi sandal, Zilba Lifestyle Footwear, Caloundra, 5492 7185, Noosaville, 5447 1755.

The Alexander Shorokhoff Autumn – Bronzed steel Ladies Automatic Luxury watch, $2750, Define Watches, Noosa Heads, 5447 4643

Eivissa sleeper $99, Coast Store, Cotton Tree, 0423 247 372

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Designer precious stone cuff, La Extravaganza, Mooloolaba,

In my Garden necklace with gold pod, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa,

Shop 5/47 Burnett Street

Buderim

Ph 5477 0902

onyxpoppy.com.au

WALK THIS way

1. Orange Grove midi wrap in apricot poppy, Onyx Poppy Boutique. 2. La Strada crossover floral silk dress, Onyx Poppy Boutique. 3. Nude leather shoes in champagne gold, Onyx Poppy Boutique. 4. Ola Berg bag, Onyx Poppy Boutique. 5. La Strada bubble gum pink crossover dress, Onyx Poppy Boutique. 6. Frank Lyman fuchsia Motto jacket, Onyx Poppy Boutique. 7. Sasha Drake Hanworth House wrap dress in apple green, Onyx Poppy Boutique, Buderim, 5477 0902. onyxpoppy.com.au

Wide starset gem ring, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745, debrafallowfield.com

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oppyOnyxPoppyBoutique2 L

Pink Argyle diamond pendant, To Hold & To Have

Widtti

, Buderim, 5477 0561

Tutima Watches Saxon One lady automatic watch $3900, Define Watches, Noosa Heads 5447 4643

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Organic circle necklace, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745 debrafallowfield.com

Sapphire and diamond narrow wedding band, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745 debrafallowfield.com

ONE OF A KIND JEWELLERY

Rata leave diamond earrings, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745 debrafallowfield.com

Rata

Debra Fallowfield creates beautiful jewels for those who prefer to stand out rather than fit in...

Green Queen ring, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745 debrafallowfield.com

An acclaimed designer and maker in New Zealand for over 25 years she is renowned for her bold, organic, “one of a kind pieces” and exquisite engagement and wedding rings.

Debra has recently relocated to the Noosa Hinterland and welcomes visits to her studio/showroom, via appointment

Alantas silver rings, custom made to order, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745 debrafallowfield.com

Minty 2 custom-made ring, Debra Fallowfield, Noosa, 0473 072 745 debrafallowfield.com

TEL 0473 072 745 www.debrafallowfield.com

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design OPULENT

Argyle pink and white diamond pendant, NY2K, Cotton Tree, 5443 1955

Southsea pearl ring, Pearls for Girls, Eumundi, 5442 8778

18ct white gold ring featuring channel set princess-cut diamonds

TDW 1.12ct, $8250, Diamonds of Distinction, Buderim 5445 5709

Tutima Watches Saxon One Lady S Diamonds, $4250, Define Watches, Noosa Heads 5447 4643

Handmade 18ct white gold bezel set princess-cut diamond studs, $1300, Diamonds of Distinction, Buderim, 5445 5709

Handmade 1.80ct aquamarine, pink spinel and diamond ring, $8600, NY2K, Cotton Tree, 5443 1955

Boulder opal ring, with a sleek split shank style in 14ct white gold, Opals Down Under, Glenview, 5494 5400

18ct white gold pear-cut emerald & diamond cluster drop earrings $12,950, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

Australian Argyle pink, white, grey diamonds set in 18ct white gold, To Hold & To Have, Buderim, 5477 0561

Pearl and diamond earrings, Pearls for Girls, Eumundi, 5442 8778

18ct white gold fine Lightning Ridge black opal & Australian pink Argyle diamond & white diamond cluster ring $84,250, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

Boulder opal ring with a modern design in yellow gold, The Opalcutter, Montville, 5442 9598

Boulder opal pendant, set in 14ct yellow gold with diamond accents. Opals Down Under, Glenview, 5494 5400

18ct white gold diamond & pearl cuff bangle with 11mm white Autore South Sea Pearl $10,950, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

Habring2 Doppel Felix tachy green men’s manual luxury watch, $12,790, Define Watches, Noosa Heads 5447 4643

Australian Argyle chocolate diamond and white diamond rose & white gold pendant, To Hold & To Have Buderim, 5477 0561

Australian Sapphire Dreams collection, exclusive to NY2K, Cotton Tree, 5443 1955

Designer piece, faceted opal in Argentium silver and fine gold, The Opalcutter, Montville, 5442 9598

1. Gaimo boots, Minx & Max. 2. Glasses, Noosa Optical, Noosa Heads, noosaoptical.com.au. 3. Verge Oasis scoop sweater and Temp pant, Minx & Max. 4. Django & Juliette Ampard black leather loafers, Classy Lady.

5. Mayhem jacket and pant, Minx & Max. 6. Nü x Neo suede flat, Classy Lady. 7. Juju woven bag, Minx & Max, Noosa Heads, 5447 3366. 8. Django & Juliette Ampard tan leather loafers, Classy Lady, Noosaville, 5449

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5. 8. New Autumn Styles Available in store now

THE ACCESSORIES edit

1. Gaimo boots, Minx & Max, Noosa Heads, 5447 3366. 2. Sunglasses, Noosa Optical, Noosa Heads, noosaoptical.com.au. 3. Nü x Neo punch leather flat, Classy Lady. 4. Suede flats, Classy Lady, Noosaville, 5449 7599.

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627 886

Carved rhodochrosite owl, Karen Curwen, Sunshine Coast, 0473 072 745

5. Roxanne boot in Silverstone, Tirzart Boutique. 6. Summer Silverstone cream leather backpack $928, Tirzart Boutique. 7. Byron Natures Shore bag $969, Tirzart Boutique, Caloundra, tirzart.com.au

8. Emerald green suede tassel bag, La Extravaganza. 9. Suede flats, Classy Lady, Noosaville, 5449 7599. 10. Recycled pull tab bag, La Extravaganza, Mooloolaba, 0478

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COUNTRYcouture

1. Cattleman nut lifestyle boots, $1395, Agave Blue. 2. Sunglasses, Noosa Optical, Noosa Heads, noosaoptical.com.au. 3. Hard to Handle boots, $710, Agave Blue. 4. Cossette boot, $750, Agave Blue. 5. Courtney boot, $399-$499, Agave Blue. 6. Legacy taupe, $715, Agave Blue. 7. Kiss me at midnight, caramel boot, $425, Agave Blue, Eumundi, 0409 273 946.

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The latest western leather boot styles, trends and designs.

HANDCRAFTED LEATHER BOOTS

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BURNT AMBER skies

1. New season smock, Zephyr. 2. Button up blouse and black pants, Zephyr. 3. Noosa hat in white, The Noosa Hat, Eumundi, 0412 099 081. 4. Leather tassel flats, Classy Lady, Noosaville, 5449 7599. 5. Button up jacket and pants, Zephyr. 6. Tunic, Zephyr. 7. Button up blouse, Zephyr, Noosaville, 1800 804 776.

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18ct yellow gold slider necklace featuring solid Lightning Ridge black opals, $2100, Diamonds of Distinction, Buderim, 5445 5709

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3.

Hand-painted porcelain wolf with jasper gemstone, Karen Curwen, Sunshine Coast, 0473 072 745

Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm

Sunday 10am to 2pm

Parking behind the store

50 Mary Street Noosaville 1800 804 776 www.zephyrwares.com

Also at Eumundi Square Market Wednesday, Friday and Saturday

7.

1. Pink tassel bag, Tirzart Boutique. 2. Texan boots, Tirzart Boutique. 3. Texan boots, Tirzart Boutique. 4. Texan boots, Tirzart Boutique. 5. Texan boots, Tirzart Boutique. 6. Texan boots, Tirzart Boutique, Caloundra, tirzart.com.au

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1. Campomaggi Liri black leather shoulder bag, Nzari. 2. Woven pom pom bag, Nzari. 3. Kokki Eco dress, Nzari, Mooloolaba. nzari.com.au

Handmade jewellery, Nzari, Mooloolaba, nzari.com.au

Handmade jewellery, Nzari, Mooloolaba, nzari.com.au

Handmade jewellery, Nzari, Mooloolaba, nzari.com.au

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SELF-BELIEF & success

A WHITE FEATHERED headdress tumbles towards the floor next to summer dresses watched over by a sunset-hued portrait of a painted Native American face.

Vintage-style t-shirts wheel around a central timber table stand under a shell chandelier, while a bleached timber stand of giant proportion lords over the room.

It is not quite opening time on a Saturday morning and Tirzart Boutique is already catching the eye of shoppers walking along Caloundra’s main street.

After four years, Tirza Rose feels confident her business is heading in the right direction, but the boutique is one that almost did not get off the ground.

Tirzart was a fledgling business when COVID struck and Tirza was not sure if or how she could continue.

“I had started off with a pop-up shop and was slowly finding my way with stock,” Tirza says.

“I had designed and got shoes made and things like that

and when COVID came, I lost a lot of stock.

“A lot of the factories went down, and I couldn’t get any of my stock that I had originally designed and had done.

“A lot of them didn’t let you know. They just went bust and disappeared. It was really tough, crazy.

“I started trying to get stock from here and there and trying to keep it afloat. It was hard.”

Friends and family thought it safer and less stressful for her to opt out and do something else for a living, but faced with a fork in life’s road, Tirza chose to stick with the boutique.

“There were times when I thought I’d have to shut shop but then I thought, ‘I do have a great landlord’. Because of him, that saved me.”

“I thought, ‘I’ve got nothing to lose.’ I just didn’t want to give up.”

Making the shop work was a test of Tirza’s belief in herself and her direction.

“I really love unique, different things. I’m not a run-of-the mill person, and what I wanted to bring into the shop was really unique products from everywhere, all over the world, so I just went searching,” she says.

“Before COVID, I travelled to find different things as well but with COVID, it got harder and harder. You couldn’t really do anything.”

Tirza put her hunter’s hat on, tracked down replacement stock from Paris, Italy, and the United States, and kept going as the initial economic shock of the pandemic wore off.

Her knack for finding the unusual led her to El Vaquero boots: leather boots, heavy on fringing and Indian-moccasinbohemian style, handmade by a father and son in Tuscany.

“I even went over there to try and visit them but I ended up getting really sick so I couldn’t go and see them, but they knew I wasn’t far from them in Italy, and we still talked and ended up doing Zoom meetings,” she says.

“They sent me boots and I just fell in love with them. Now I sort of help choose pieces that will suit Australia because the Italian market’s a little different to here.”

“I think they are more way out in colours and that sort of thing. I’m trying to bring a little bit of that here.”

Tirza is now the sole agent for El Vaquero’s limited-edition boots in Australia.

The boots take their place in the boutique along with leather bags; recycled aluminium and sterling silver jewellery; European and American-infl uenced dresses strong in natural fibres such as cotton, linen, and silk; lace and crochet skirts; striking denim pieces; vintage-style t-shirts; candles and lotions.

Recycled aluminium jewellery and silver jewellery, along with her own range of bags and purses, led Tirza into the shop.

While travelling a few years ago, she came across a manufacturer of recycled aluminium beads and jewellery shapes.

She bought and threaded the beads into her own range of alo jewellery which she sold through a shop at Eumundi market square and a stall at the Caloundra markets.

Although the jewellery was working well, she was considering relocating to Melbourne for a life change when an opportunity arose to open a pop-up shop at Caloundra.

“I thought, ‘I’ll get in and just try it out,’ and we’ve just kind of grown. Everyone loved the shop and what I had.”

Tirza describes the boutique’s overall style as boho-luxe. Free spirit with luxury.

People often comment on how beautiful the shop is.

Tirza believes her eye for presentation and design was influenced by her grandmother.

“My grandmother was very into fashion. She was always buying Vogue magazine,” she says.

“

i’ve had to build my confidence, my selfesteem. if there’s one thing this shop has taught me, it’s to have confidence in myself”

“She was always sewing. She would run up things like you would see in Vogue. She always made our clothes. Not daggy – she always had style.”

Tirza seems to have inherited her grandmother’s eye for style. After growing up in Sydney and Tasmania, she found herself working in a French patisserie where the owner noticed her creativity and flair for presentation.

He offered her the opportunity to go into a cake business next door, but she did not take it up.

“I was so shy. I’ve often regretted that I didn’t take it up, what he offered me. I would have loved to have done something amazing,” she says.

“My big thing is that I’ve had to build my confidence, my

self-esteem. If there’s one thing the shop has taught me, it’s to have confidence in myself.”

Tirza tries to imbue her customers with confidence as well. For her, the satisfaction of running the shop does not come from selling, but from seeing customers walk out the door feeling positive about themselves.

“I love seeing women not afraid to wear things that they love,” she says. “A lot of women come in and say, ‘I’m too old for that,’ but there are still styles you can wear that are fun and great, and you’re never too old. I think you’re only as old as you believe.”

“I love the idea of empowering women to wear something they love. I’m also a free spirit. I really love that idea of being a free spirit, a strong woman.

“I want to empower women to wear clothes they love.”

RELAX& rejuvenate

AFTER WHAT HAD been a long week at work, I was really looking forward to some much-needed R and R to nurture the mind, body and soul and the luxurious Noosa Springs Spa did not disappoint.

Part of Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort and situated between the lush Noosa National Park and picturesque Lake Weyba, just three kilometres from the heart of Noosa, the spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. From the moment you enter the beautiful resort, you feel an instant sense of calm and relaxation.

This was my first visit to the Noosa Springs Spa but I had heard great things about their unique thermal suite, which they are renowned for. Based on European aqua therapy, the amazing experience includes hot and cold aqua therapies, steam room, infrared sauna and a blitz shower.

You can enjoy the thermal suite as part of a treatment package or on its own. At just $75 for 55 minutes, or $120 for 120 minutes including a decadent high tea and a glass of sparkling or juice, it’s great as a mother-daughter experience or a fun day out with a group of girlfriends

Fortunately, the thermal suite experience was included as part of my Revitalise & Replenish package, followed by an indulgent cleansing body scrub – bliss.

Set at a very comfortable near-body temperature, the hydro massage pool was the perfect precursor to my treatment. The strong underwater jets worked their magic on my tired and achy muscles, so I was ready to take full advantage of my relaxing body scrub. There is also a flotation pool experience available, which allows you to enjoy total weightlessness.

Starting with a gentle brush of my skin to exfoliate, my

therapist expertly massaged a decadent sugar scrub into my skin to invigorate and revitalise. Then, after a refreshing shower to remove any excess scrub, a rich moisturiser was applied, leaving my entire body feeling silky smooth.

After slipping into the comfortable robe provided, I enjoyed the next hour of ‘me time’ in the gorgeous courtyard, relaxing over a glass of chilled bubbles and a delicious platter of cheese, fruit and chocolates – talk about being pampered.

I left Noosa Springs Spa feeling like a new person. Revived and rejuvenated and ready to face the rest of the week. I am already thinking about my next treatment. With such an amazing array of beautiful experiences to choose from, the only problem will be deciding what to book.

noosasprings.com.au

PHOTOS: Lisa Pearl

Nourish your

SKIN

Saya embodies the fusion of botanical wisdom and technology, combining only the best of Australian natives and botanicals with powerful active ingredients. Supported by research, backed by science, optimising skin health. The results? Skincare that works. Shop SAYA online or in store, Noosaville, sayaskin.com.au

Australia HIFU has developed this unique serum to assist the skin to feel smooth and protected. Jojoba oil is a humectant ingredient, this means it works to seal your skin with a protective barrier to keep it from losing moisture. It has anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and healing properties – it’s liquid gold, as we like to call it.

HIFU AUSTRALIA, 0408 200 059. Birtinya, Wynnum and Hamilton. australiahifu.com.au

Plump

SCRUB IT is for normal skin and is made up of a blend of fine and coarse pumicestone, which has been mixed into a rich emollient base to help exfoliate the skin and replenish its natural oils. It contains a mild surfactant which allows for the easy removal of dead skin cells and makes your skin feel fresh and vibrant.

HIFU AUSTRALIA, 0408 200 059. Birtinya, Wynnum and Hamilton. australiahifu.com.au

We love the unique and modern fragrances from The Better Brand. Find your perfect scent. Available from NOOSA SPRINGS SPA, noosasprings.com.au

& hydrate

A convenient cosmeceutical for those on the go! In its travel-friendly packaging, the Active Balm is a unique product formulated with active ingredients specifically designed to target ageing skin around the eye and lip areas. It can be used whenever your skin requires a nutritious touch up.

HIFU AUSTRALIA, 0408 200 059. Birtinya, Wynnum and Hamilton. australiahifu.com.au

Smooth & soothe

A highly moisturising, intensely active collagen serum by ORGANIC COLLAGEN AUSTRALIA. The addition of aloe, kangaroo paw and pine bark extract, along with organic cosmetic-grade hydrolysed collagen, provides potent hydration to soothe and soften, contributing to a smoother texture and more youthful complexion. We have been told that it’s the only serum containing 100 per cent Australian, clean and green organic hydrolysed collagen! ORGANIC COLLAGEN AUSTRALIA, organiccollagenaustralia.com.au

NoosaSpringsSpa

locatedintheheartofNoosa&open7daysaweek.

Giftvouchersavailable

NoosaSpringsGolf&SpaResort-LinksDrive,NoosaHeads Ph:0754403355Iwww.noosasprings.com.au/spa

A moisturising, intensely rich organic collagen lip mask delivering organic cosmetic-grade hydrolysed collagen to lips in need and offering supplement and firmness while visibly plumping fine lines and wrinkles. It is said to be the only lip mask containing 100 per cent Australian clean and green organic hydrolysed collagen.

ORGANIC COLLAGEN AUSTRALIA, organiccollagenaustralia.com.au

SWEET TEMPTATION AT NEW DINING LOCATION

Have you discovered SUNSHINE PLAZA’S newest dining spot along The Riverwalk? Coca Bar is the first and coolest Asian dessert cafe on the Sunshine Coast, and it makes for a great tummy satisfying late-night hangout too! With a broad menu of options but specialising in Asian shaved ice desserts (bingsu), bubble tea, cocktails, mochi waffles and grilled satay skewers, Coca Bar is adding a new depth to the Sunshine Coast’s expanding Asian food scene. Enjoy waterside dining throughout the day, across breakfast, lunch and dinner. sunshineplaza.com

LOCALS love

BE INSPIRED BY CREATIVE STALLHOLDERS AT MARKETS THIS AUTUMN

As it cools down throughout the hinterland, take the day off to unwind and explore the markets in Eumundi. Be drawn to works of art that express how you feel. At I LOVE EUMUNDI MARKETS find that piece of crafted jewellery or locally designed clothing that connects with you. Be inspired, be ready for change and open to learning more about yourself. The market stallholders are creative, passionate people who put so much love and care into their offerings. The markets are on Wednesday and Saturday, 7.30am to 2pm. Eumundi Square open Fridays 8.30am to 1pm. iloveeumundimarkets.com

SPECIALITY ROAST MEETS INDUSTRIAL STYLE

Driven by a mission to make a great cup of coffee even better, the team at FLYING WEST have honed their roasting skills and style to create a range so good that you’ll look forward to your morning coffee. From delicate and subtle to full flavoured and bold, the team’s carefully crafted range of single origins and blends will have you coming back for more. Visit Flying West’s open-plan industrial style cafe and specialty coffee roastery in Doonan or find them on the weekends slinging shots at the Noosa Farmers Market, Yandina Markets and Eumundi Markets. flyingwest.com.au

EXPERIENCE THE STRETCHLAB DIFFERENCE

A new global fitness concept is coming to Noosa Civic Shopping Centre. Hit your body’s reset button, decrease pain, move better and feel better at STRETCHLABS. The StretchLabs team of highly trained ‘flexologists’ will provide one-on-one assisted stretching for people of all ages and fitness levels, giving a deeper stretch than you could achieve on your own. stretchlab.com.au/location/noosa

There are plenty of things to explore, see and do on the Sunshine Coast, so get out there and enjoy the range of activities, events and attractions.

RELAX AND UNWIND AT NOOSA MARINA

NOOSA MARINA has been a local favourite for more than 30 years. It’s an ideal dining destination with Lucio’s Marina, Noosa Italian Restaurant, Café Vincino or fish and chips from the Noosa Harbour Fish Market. There’s always something new to see with a variety of fashion shops, hairdressers or a day spa on offer. Noosa Marina is also a departure point for many river cruises including sunset and dinner cruises. Sundays are a fanfare of colour and entertainment with the regular markets and live music. Why not arrive relaxed by ferry and enjoy breakfast, lunch or a lovely dinner with views straight up the Noosa River. noosamarina.com.au

EAT, DRINK AND SHOP LOCAL AT ONE OF QUEENSLAND’S BEST-KNOWN MARKETS

If you’re looking for a beautiful way to support small business here on the Sunshine Coast look no further than THE ORIGINAL EUMUNDI MARKETS. Nestled into the shady tree-lined canopies of Eumundi you’ll find hundreds of unique artisans sharing their passions and crafts with the world. Make sure to visit the new area, Picnic Lane, which launched in April. The Original Eumundi Markets is a great place for locals and visitors seeking fresh produce, baked treats, flowers and much more, along with live music and lawn games. It’s on Saturday from 7am to 2pm and Wednesday from 8am to 2pm. eumundimarkets.com.au

SET SAIL WITH SPECIALIST COURSES

SUNSHINE SAILING AUSTRALIA’S sailing school is recognised as one of Australia’s leading sail training and experience providers. Sailing lessons are taught in the classroom and on the waters around Mooloolaba, Gold Coast, Whitsundays Islands, Lord Howe Island and Brisbane. The Sunshine Coast-based school’s professional and experienced skippers deliver RYA sail and power courses plus dinghy, keelboat and race training. learn2sail.com.au

COLOURFUL FESTIVAL FUN FOR CHILDREN THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Bring the hype these school holidays with a free Kidchella festival at NOOSA CIVIC. Each session will feature a festival-themed craft and dance party with giant boom box and light up dance floor. Crafts include flower crowns, tie-dye caps and bucket hats, macramé wall hangers, stencil canvas art and more. Happening from April 3 to 14 (excluding Good Friday), near the food court, Kidchella is suitable for ages four to 12 years. Bookings are essential, and spaces are limited. noosacivic.com.au

ALL ABOARD HISTORIC RAIL JOURNEY OF FUN

The MARY VALLEY RATTLER is a heritage rail journey through the stunning Mary Valley. The steam train journeys depart the historic Gympie Station on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays and an all-access carriage provides facilities for wheelchair and other assisted-access passengers. You can also check out the popular Pets on Board service. The three-hour journey captures the beauty and history of the rich agricultural and former gold mining region from the comfort of beautifully restored heritage carriages dating back to 1924. The Rusty Rails Cafe at Gympie Station is open seven days for breakfast, brunch or lunch, all created from locally sourced produce. maryvalleyrattler.com.au

CELEBRATE AN EXPLOSION OF COLOUR WITH LOCAL ART YOU WILL LOVE

STEVENS STREET GALLERY in Yandina is an independently run creative space that supports local makers. The gallery content changes every two months, featuring new artists’ work across a range of media celebrated with gallery events. Through to April 30 the gallery will be an explosion of colour for the Bloom and Bird exhibition. Then from May 3 to July 2 be sure to experience Country & Landscapes, an exhibition showcasing local artists’ perspective of our landscape, country and places. The gallery also hosts seasonal Open Gallery nights with inspiring local art, creative conversations and some great cocktails at nearby Bar Deco. stevensstreetgallery.com.au

EXPLORE A BOTANICAL WONDERLAND

Wander through the subtropical gardens of THE GINGER FACTORY and marvel at the breathtaking Rainbrella Project, featuring hundreds of rainbow umbrellas suspended among the trees. This free art installation is picture perfect. Explore the extensive range of ginger plants, tropical heliconias, indoor and outdoor plants available for purchase at the Potting Shed – it is truly a garden lover’s paradise. It is time to experience the beauty of nature and let your imagination run wild at The Ginger Factory. gingerfactory.com.au

RELAX AT THIS TEWANTIN FAMILY-FRIENDLY BISTRO

The Bistro at the TEWANTIN NOOSA RSL offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, with one of the best kids’ rooms on the Sunshine Coast. Enjoy one of the restaurant’s fantastic parmas with ‘Parmageddon’ every Tuesday night, while kids eat free on Wednesday nights, making the RSL the ideal family venue. All your dining needs are covered with the bistro and coffee shop serving up delicious food, while there are three bars to choose from. The club’s jam-packed entertainment calendar offers something to suit all with live music on Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday lunch. noosarsl.com.au

IMAGE: Flower

Haze by Claire Manchanda

RUSTIC grandeur

WORDS LAHNEE PAVLOVICH

IT WOULD BE easy to believe you are a million miles away from anywhere when standing on the deck by the wet edge pool, looking out over fields of green, lush bushland, and the pooling dam. The early morning rays of sunshine beam down onto a desert-style garden, the birds chirping in the distance.

Nature really does consume you out here at The Barn –a house that is far more than just that. It is a home; it is a

Fantastic Ms Fox

masterpiece and it is located “somewhere” in the vicinity of the Glass House Mountains.

The Barn, as it is so beautifully and almost ironically named given its sheer grandeur, took around two-and-a-half years to bring to life from concept to design, construction and completion. And, if you were to ask anyone instrumental in its evolution, they would say the impressive wait was well worth

the time. In fact, the home won two coveted awards at last year’s Housing Industry Association Awards including Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay Home of the Year, Queensland Outdoor Project of the Year and was also a finalist in the Queensland Custom Built Home of the Year.

According to Dayne Lawrie of Dayne Lawrie Constructions, the project presented a number of challenges and hurdles.

“It was certainly a project that tested everyone’s problemsolving skills because we wanted it to be just right,” he says.

“There were months of planning that went into this, and a lot of time obsessing over every detail, but anyone who has had the pleasure of visiting the property now, is simply in awe of its presence.

“ There is true craftmanship at every corner of this building, and intricate details feature throughout”

“It is beautiful, down to the finest details, and it is a humbling experience to stand back and take it in now that it is finished.”

Designed to complement the natural beauty of the area, every last detail was considered so that the building sits perfectly amongst its surrounding landscape.

“The idea is to let the outside in and the inside flow seamlessly out too,” Dayne says. “Everything melts into its surroundings, the natural colours and timbers, the décor, the landscaping, the entire team has created something magic here.”

It would be safe to say that as impressive as they are, even the photos don’t do this home justice.

The true scale of the building isn’t realised until you are standing at the entrance and facing two large pivot doors, both which needed to be built on site due to their sheer weight and size. Once inside, the concrete floors, use of timber and neutral tones help bring a sense of calm.

Massive Glass House Mountain stone walls, laid by hand over several months, help give the building a sense of grandeur and mass, and are complemented by the large pitched roof line.

The roof beams and all other timber throughout the home are a mix of spotted gum and iron bark recycled timber with the timber beams weighing a mighty 250-350 kilograms each.

This is yet another element that took time and precision as each beam was manually handled and cut on the ground before being craned into position.

There is true craftsmanship at every corner of this building, and intricate details feature throughout, adding to the home’s strangely rustic charm. In fact, even that was on purpose.

“We wanted to create a building that feels like it has been around for generations,” Dayne says.

“And yet, it is unique in that it is robust, but still encompasses the latest technology and automation, and really promotes the ability for quality entertaining.”

Speaking of entertaining, the outside of this property is designed for exactly that.

Large sliding doors open up to a natural amphitheatre of gum trees with the outdoor area and pool positioned below.

“The large pool with wet edge was carefully considered and set out to work with full tiles,” Dayne says. “You can imagine just by looking at the space how peaceful it would be to sit back on the pool’s edge, with the imported natural stone tiles, watching the beautiful sunsets each night.”

The outside entertaining space also boasts a sauna, outdoor shower, spa, pizza oven and fireplace and firepit to enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire as day turns to night, and summer gives way to the cooler months.

“The outdoor area also used recycled beams and battens which were carefully set-out, and includes an acrylic ceiling behind to allow light to pass through into the outdoor space,” Dayne says. “The barbecue and seating area showcases off-form concrete that had weeks of preparation work to produce the quality of finish you see now.

“There are a number of solar panels lining the roof and all of the spaces use large glass doors and windows to really open the home from the inside out so we are making use of natural lighting. We have also created a brighter, white space in the main bedroom to add to this natural, open and airy feel. There is a corridor of bunk beds, something that came mid-way through the design process and space for additional bedrooms or loving spaces as well as master ensuite if the owners choose to expand in the future,” he says.

“Overall, this home was a wonderful collaboration between the homeowners, architect, landscaping team and us, and we are very proud of the end product.”

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4. Marimekko Fokus tray and a combination of Sirrtolapuutarha Rasymatto cups, THE MODERN FURNITURE STORE, Noosa Heads, themodern.com.au

5. Moroccan mother of pearl inlay chair, two available, $1500 each, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

6. Vintage Asian carved resin vase, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

7. Mexican hanging pots, available at NZARI, 0401 815 811 or nzari.com.au

8. Marimekko cushion cover, Pieni Sirrtolapuutarha pattern, $89, THE MODERN FURNITURE STORE, Noosa Heads, themodern.com.au

9. All things Noosa, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0407 840 745

10. Vintage handmade clay urn, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

11. Mother of pearl inlay window and frame, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

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BOLDISTHE

beige

1. David Bromley XL limited edition Zippora in Sunshine $4299, COAST STORE, coaststore.com.au

2. Yin Yang candles $44.99, COAST STORE, coaststore.com.au

3. Handcrafted resin icy poles, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0407 840 745

4. Ostrich feather resin floor light, available at FANTASTIC MS FOX, 0407 066 500 or fantasticmsfox.com

5. Jug Rock, large honeycomb by Dinosaur Designs $255, COAST STORE, coaststore.com.au

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6. Kollab designer picnic products from $22.95 to $109, COAST STORE, coaststore.com.au

7. Handcrafted resin salad bowls and servers, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0407 840 745

8. Cleanse smokers, available at NZARI, 0401 815 811 or nzari.com.au

WAVES Nautical

Awash your home with colours inspired by our coastline.

1. Handcrafted glass waves, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads 0407 840 745

2. Emerald glassware, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

3. Handcrafted silver bather brooches, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0407 840 745

4. Unique and antique homewares, available at THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

5. Handcrafted candle stand, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

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6. Travertine side tables, $1380 pair, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

7. Stunning homewares available at FANTASTIC MS FOX, 0407 066 500 or fantasticmsfox.com

8. Fillable glass bottle lamp with linen shade, $259. COAST STORE, coaststore.com.au

9. Brass monkey bookends, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

10. White dining chair, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

11. Facewashers from THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

12. Brass bumble bee clothing hooks, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

67 The Esplanade (Cnr First Ave) Maroochydore - Parking at rear

Open 10am - 4pm Tuesday to Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday coaststore.com.au

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MIX An eclectic

Make a statement and let your personality shine.

1. Wall crosses, Available at NZARI,0401 815 811 or nzari.com.au

2. Unikko (poppy) symbolizing creativity, the hallmark of the Marimekko brand, THE MODERN FURNITURE STORE, Noosa Heads, themodern.com.au

3. Round boat window mirror, FANTASTIC MS FOX, 0407 066 500 or fantasticmsfox.com

4. Marimeko’s Unikko red teapot, $149, THE MODERN FURNITURE STORE, Noosa Heads, themodern.com.au

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5. Green art deco jars and boxes, FANTASTIC MS FOX, 0407 066 500 or fantasticmsfox.com

6. Vintage Japanese float, LA EXTRAVAGANZA, River Esplanade, Mooloolaba, 0478 627 886 or laextravaganza.com.au

7. Moroccan leather poufe, available at NZARI,0401 815 811 or nzari.com.au

8. Lavender tins in various sizes available at THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603 or theshedsca.com.au

9. Modern furniture, FANTASTIC MS FOX, 0407 066 500 or fantasticmsfox.com

Clothing accessoriesandfor every occasion very o

Gorgeous unique clothing

Sunni Scenes reversible throw rugs

Luminous by Nature Stained glass designs Antique new homewares

Top of River Esplanade Mooloolaba

Drift Candles in various scents ts

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ART, LIFE & CURIOSITY

WORDS JANINE HILL PHOTOS LISA PEARL

ABBEY TWISS HAS long had a creative streak which has metamorphosed into different forms. She has painted. She has drawn. She taught herself to knit and crochet.

“I’ll dabble for a while and then when I’ve got that, I’m on to the next thing,” she says of her movement from one creative pursuit to the next.

A few years ago, Abbey’s artistry veered into the garden at the Buderim home she shares with her husband, Gene, and their dog, Shade. Tropical plants absorbed her interest.

“It started off with two or three plants in the house and then I had a lot more, then it was, ‘No, this is too much,’ so my husband built me a shadehouse out the back,” she tells salt

“During COVID, a lot of people got into plants and I already had a lot of rare plants so I made quite a good living from my plants during 2020-21.

“And then last year, we did the garden, which had just been a barren wasteland. A lot of the plants that were getting too big went in there.

“And then this happened.”

By this, Abbey means her cabinets of curiosity: glass domes and boxes displaying exquisite vignettes of the natural world, with a dash of the fantastical.

Hundreds of years ago, a cabinet of curiosities was the place to store your weird and wonderful finds for “show and tell” or discussion with friends. Natural objects, antiquities, exotic finds from far flung places and more, found their way into these carefully curated personal collections.

Abbey has long been interested in bizarre, eccentric, irregular finds, particularly those of the natural world, and has known of cabinets of curiosity for a long time.

An out-of-the-ordinary find set her on her current artistic path at a time when she really needed something to excite her.

“I have been having like a tough time health wise and it was suggested to me to get back into a hobby because everything had sort of stopped a bit.

“I was just sort of like thinking about what I would want to do, and then one day I was out walking our dog.

“I stopped to talk to a neighbour and there was this beautiful dead butterfly at my feet. It was pretty near perfect and you don’t often see that, so I carried this thing the whole way home in my hand.

“For some reason, I knew you had to set them. I don’t know where I’ve come across that but I googled it and saw on YouTube how to set the wings.”

Abbey set the butterfly on baking paper with some pins in the house and then put it aside in the home office, where it remained for months until a family friend visited one day.

“He said it was beautiful and I should definitely be doing something like that. A couple of days later he rings me and

says, ‘I found this amazing dragonfly in my washing. It’s dead. Do you want it?”

“That was how it happened.”

Abbey began setting insects for display in some glass domes she had for plants.

“I’ve seen other artists do this sort of thing and I had a couple of domes I’d bought over the years from other people,” she says. “I got some driftwood and Gene and I did it one day together. We set the dragonfly on driftwood that I’d found.

“I had the shell of cicadas that they grow out of and we made a dome and that’s where it all started.”

Abbey’s day job is medical typing but she has become increasingly consumed by her domes or cabinets since 2021.

Ethically-sourced butterflies, moths and other insects are often the cabinet heroes, carefully perched on wood or sticks and the displays artfully decorated with seed pods, dried flowers or other finds.

Abbey tries to give each dome or cabinet a fantasy feel.

“I’m really into fantasy as in movies, books, other planets that sort of thing. Escape,” she says.

“They have a fantasy, as in other worldly, type of feel to them because I don’t want to highlight the death. I’m not into macabre stuff. I want to highlight the beauty.”

Abbey achieves the fantasy feel by mixing elements that would not normally be seen together in nature.

She always has her eye out for pieces – such as interesting seed pods or pieces of wood – for the cabinets. She says this has contributed to her being more mindful.

“It helps me be more aware of my surroundings. I’m just keenly aware of what’s around me so when I’m out now, whether at the beach or taking the dog for a walk, I’m always looking for something interesting to hoard,” she says.

“And my friends are always bringing me stuff which is really nice.”

Friends encouraged Abbey to take the cabinets to a wider audience but she was wary.

“In the past, I’ve done things before for sale and I lost the joy for it and I was doing this as a mindful thing to help my state of mind so that was more my hesitation,” she says.

“I just wanted to do it on my own terms. I kind of just have an idea in my head but then it just evolves and I don’t like the pressure of making something to order.”

“I’ve been doing more commissions recently just because I feel more comfortable with what I’m doing.”

“I am much happier selling the pieces I create through a supportive gallery.”

Abbey’s work is available to purchase at Art Nuvo, a family-owned gallery in Buderim. Working closely with local and interstate established and emerging artists, the owners are passionate about showcasing a diverse range of mediums and subject matters in a wide scope of genres.

You can also view photos and videos of Abbey’s pieces on Instagram (cabinetofcuriosity).

The videos are often accompanied by clips of inspirational advice or quotes.

“I think in the past when it comes to this side of me, I’ve pushed a lot of it aside in order to be a functioning member of society,” she says.

‘Being artistic and creative, they are seen as not worth pursuing. I want to convey that it’s okay to be that.”

artnuvobuderim.com.au

THE ART OF re-invention

CHANGING PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS of contemporary art may seem like a fairly complicated task, but for Noosa Regional Gallery director Michael Brennan, it’s all in a day’s work.

After five years at the iconic gallery’s helm, Michael continues to breathe new life into the way contemporary art is displayed, viewed and interpreted, by continually reimagining concepts of how art practices interact with different spaces, the natural environment and each other.

The gallery’s diverse following is one of the key contributors to its expanded profile, both locally, nationally and internationally.

“One of the approaches I’ve tried to embrace since I’ve been here is recognising that it’s not only tourists that come into the gallery,” Michael tells salt.

“A lot of locals to Noosa, and the Sunshine Coast more broadly, really value having this as a kind of a beacon for contemporary art on the Coast here, and we make sure we’re providing new experiences for them each time they come in.

“It’s really about making sure that the artists who are living and practising locally, that exhibit in the gallery, are seen in a national and international context; putting them alongside artists from further afield that have rising or established reputations.”

Michael explains that the collaborative process between gallery and artist, as well as exhibiting differing artists’ work

side by side, is essential to “opening a conversation” between different art practices.

He cites an example of a recent exhibition at the gallery of First Nations artists Fiona Foley and Michael Cook.

“So, we’ve got a theme about the treatment of First Nations people across the gallery by two artists who have quite different photographic practices,” he tells salt.

“You get the chance to experience and engage with the individual works, but you’re left with these broader themes that open up between them as well, and I think that’s really valuable.”

A feature event of Noosa Regional Gallery’s artistic program is the Floating Land exhibition, a biennial outdoor exhibition in its twelfth iteration this year running from June 24 to July 30, where temporary outdoor art installations throughout the Noosa region can be viewed and engaged within unique spaces.

This year, the title of the event is Floating Land: Us and Them, which will feature about 15 diverse installations at various sites from the beaches to the hinterland.

The theme of this year’s exhibition examines the divisiveness that has arisen within sectors of society, largely as a by-product of the pandemic.

“There’ll be some really abrasive content in there, no doubt, but unless you confront things, there’s not really an opportunity to understand someone else’s point of view,” Michael says.

Noosa Regional Gallery

One of the projects in the exhibition is the work of Gosia Wlodarczak, an internationally acclaimed Melbourne-based drawing performance artist. She will be performing her drawings on perspex screens, or sneeze guards, that will be dividing up specially installed picnic tables.

Another key project for this year’s Floating Land is the work of Iranian artist Hoda Afshar, who came to prominence with a series of photographic portraits of detainees on Manus Island.

That series of photographs is to be presented in large scale on a weather resistant surface and displayed in the Noosa Woods area.

“It’s setting up a really contextual contrast, I guess; these portraits of men who were detained on Manus Island, and in the background we’ll be able to see the opulence of the Noosa River and the mansions behind,” Michael tells salt

“You probably couldn’t set up more of a stark contrast and subject matter. I think that dynamic really prompts

Juan Ford, You are Nature, Nature is You, Floating Land 2019. Photo: Your Life Photography

Lyndon Davis, Leah Barclay and Tricia King, Beeyali, Floating Land 2021. Photo: Raoul Slater

Tamara Kirby and Corrie Wright, Clash, Floating Land 2021. Photo: Warwick Gow

people to think about where they stand in that very broad spectrum of haves and have-nots.”

A film called Terror Nullius, presented by New York-based art duo Soda Jerk, presents an un-writing of Australian national mythologies, and will be shown at an outdoor starry night cinema experience at the Apollonian Hotel at Boreen Point.

Michael explains that the settings in which the Floating Land projects are viewed are integral to the works of art themselves.

“Floating Land has always had a strong connection to the natural environment; it’s often been about those kind of ecological, environmental, and by extension, social issues,” he says.

”I think that for all of these projects, even though some of them would be more commonly seen indoors, the meaning kind of shifts a little bit when you take it out into the natural environment.

“And vice versa – the environment that it’s in is temporarily affected by the artwork being there. So it helps us see spaces in a different way, but it helps us think about the artists’ works in a different way as well.”

Looking to the future, Michael strongly hints at the possibility of a larger, purpose-built gallery in the pipeline for developing new art projects in a region that is inextricably linked with its surroundings, and to continue expanding the gallery’s artistic program.

“There’s a lot to be said for the preservation of the natural environment I think, whether that’s the pristine beaches or the fantastic hinterland areas,” he says.

“It sets the tone for everything that you do and has the potential to be optimistic and positive. You feel like anything’s possible.”

ARTS CONNECT INC presents

OPEN STUDIOS SUNSHINE COAST

A treasure trove of creativity awaits you with the annual Open Studios Sunshine Coast. More than 70 artists will open their studios along with galleries throughout the coast and hinterland. They will be showcasing ceramicists, metalworkers, woodworkers, sculptors, glass artisans, jewellers, mixed media, mosaic and textile artists, painters, photographers, printmakers and more.

The event is presented by Arts Connect Inc, a not-for-profit organisation connecting artists with opportunities and the community.

Hinterland Studios and Galleries 20-21st May and Coastal 27-28th May.

noosaregionalgallery.com.au

Hoda Afshar, Portrait of Behrouz Boochani, Manus Island 2018, Archival pigment print. From the series Remain

ARTdates

Take

ONGOING

1. ART NUVO

Art Nuvo is brimming with a diverse range of mediums and subject matter in a wide range or genres, from luxurious, high-end paintings to fascinating sculptures and beautiful ceramics.

when ongoing

where Art Nuvo, 25 Gloucester Road, Buderim. 5456 2445 or artnuvobuderim.com.au

2. AUTUMN EXHIBITION

Hearts and Minds Art continues to showcase a stunning range of works by artists including Erin Hughes, Pepi Wren, Maree Welman, Yolan Eke, Christina Power, Sara Paxton, Kate Piekutowski, Phillip Rolton, Ray Wilson, Fi Clark Photography, Leigh Karen Joyce, Jeanette Smith, James McKay, Lupytha Hermin, Stacey Petersen, Ann Purdue.

when ongoing where Hearts and Minds Art, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads. 0418 108 299 or heartsandmindsart.com.au

MORNING TEA WITH MY NEIGHBOUR BY ROBYN HILLS, Caloundra Regional Gallery

SWIMMING BY RICK EVERINGHAM, Montville Art Gallery

3.

LOCAL ARTISTS – LOCAL CONTENT 2023 ART PRIZE EXHIBITION

This exhibition highlights the diverse beauty of the Sunshine Coast. From the ancient peaks of the Glass House Mountains to the shores of Caloundra to Noosa, the Sunshine Coast is one of the world’s most-loved destinations. Artists across the region showcase its beauty through painting, drawing, printmaking and sculptures at Caloundra Regional Gallery. when ongoing until May 7 where Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra. 5420 8299 or gallery.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au

APRIL

4. APRIL EXHIBITION

Montville Art Gallery is delighted to welcome internationally renowned

artist Rick Everingham as the featured artist for April. His work is imbued with a sense of subtle light and subjects include beaches, hillsides and Italian landscapes. Rick’s artworks will be on permanent display seven days a week at the gallery. when April 1 to 30 where Montville Art Gallery, 138 Main Street, Montville. 5442 9211 or montvilleartgallery.com.au

5. UNDER STILTS

Following a year of travel and change Mitchell Cheesman introduces us to his world in 2023 with his distinctive impasto style in this eagerly awaited solo show. He is known for his rich and eclectic works. Opening night is on April 15 from 6pm, RSVPs essential.

when April 13 to 30 where The G Contemporary, 6/32 Hastings Street, Laguna on Hastings, Noosa Heads. 0400 716 526 or thegalleryeumundi.com.au

6 February to 14 May 2023

6. NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT PRIZE 2022

The National Photographic Portrait Prize exhibition is selected from a national field of entries, reflecting the distinctive vision of Australia’s aspiring and professional portrait photographers and the unique nature of their subjects. One not to miss.

when April 14 to May 28 where Noosa Regional Gallery, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin. 5329 6145 or noosaregionalgallery.com.au

MAY

7. MAY EXHIBITION

Local artist Svetlana Soldatova is the featured artist this May. Ukrainian-born Svetlana uses oils in lush textured artworks full of rich colours and dreamlike landscapes. Her newest works will be in a special display seven days a week in the gallery and also available to see online via the website.

when May 1 to 31 where Montville Art Gallery, 138 Main Street, Montville. 5442 9211 or montvilleartgallery.com.au

Photo by

THE SHUTTLE BY A. ROVENKO, Noosa Regional Gallery

SEAJAY ART BOARDS BY CARLIE JOHNSTON, Open Studios Sunshine Coast

8. DIRECTOR’S CHOICE

See an eclectic collection of artists rotated weekly with a special showcasing of works by local artist Ben Hedström. when May 1 to 31 where The G Contemporary, 6/32 Hastings Street, Laguna on Hastings, Noosa Heads. 0400 716 526 or thegalleryeumundi.com.au

9. A WEARABLE CANVAS: A COLLECTION OF WORKS FROM AUSTRALIAN WEARABLE ART FESTIVAL

Paper, cable ties, bicycle tyres, feathers, bread bags and foraged local vines are just some of the materials that artists and designers have brought to life in the form of wearable art. Usually exhibited on a catwalk, this is a unique opportunity to take a closer look at how these spectacular works have been created. A fusion of high-end fashion and sculptural art forms. when May 12 to June 23 where Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra. 5420 8299 or gallery.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au

10. OPEN STUDIOS

SUNSHINE COAST

A treasure trove of creativity awaits with the annual Open Studios

Sunshine Coast. More than 70 artists will open their studios and galleries through the Coast and hinterland showcasing ceramicists, metalworkers, woodworkers, sculptors, glass artisans, jewellers, mixed media, mosaic and textile

artists, painters, photographers, printmakers and more. The event is presented by Arts Connect Inc, a not-for-profit organisation connecting artists with opportunities and the community. when May 19 to 28 where Sunshine Coast, various locations. openstudiossunshinecoast.com.au

11. KENILWORTH ARTSFEST

Kenilworth ArtsFest arose from humble beginnings with borrowed display boards and make-shift plinths in 1997 and is now one of the Sunshine Coast’s major art events. Celebrating its silver jubilee in 2023, this year’s festival will

HASTINGS STREET CORNER BY PHILLIP ROLTON, Hearts and Minds Art

ELVIS IN VEGAS BY LOREN WIMHURST, Art Nuvo

FIRST BAY BY BEN HEDSTRÖM, The G Contemporary

include visual art, 3D works, poetry and music, plus a special 3D section this year is for works made from recycled materials. Prizes include $5000 for the Kenilworth Art Award.

when May 26 to 28

where Kenilworth Public Hall, 7 Maleny Kenilworth Road, Kenilworth. kenilwortharts.org.au/kenilworth-arts-fest

JUNE

12. JUNE EXHIBITION

David Hinchliffe is our featured artist for June and will have a range of new works on display. His contemporary impressionist works feature iconic cities from around the world, along with recognisable Queensland landscapes with our gorgeously coloured trees. See all available works on the website and in the gallery, open seven days a week.

when June 1 to 30

where Montville Art Gallery, 138 Main Street, Montville. 5442 9211 or montvilleartgallery.com.au

13. AN ODE TO DIY

An exhibition of photographic works by Warwick Gow celebrating the DIY ethic that challenges notions of representation.

when June 3 to July 30

where Noosa Regional Gallery, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin. 5329 6145 or noosaregionalgallery.com.au

14. AFFORDABLE ART FAIR SYDNEY

Showcasing a director’s choice of gallery artists at The Royal Randwick Racecourse Winx Pavilion. Contact The G Contemporary for VIP tickets.

when June 15 to 18

where The Royal Randwick Racecourse Winx Pavilion Gate D, Alison Road, Randwick, NSW. 0400 716 526 or thegalleryeumundi.com.au

AUTUMN OFFERFREE STANDARD GLASS WITH EVERY CUSTOM FRAME

Our team is ready to help you frame all your art and precious memories. With the largest range of frames on the Coast, there’s nothing we can’t frame.

GOLDEN THOUGHTS BY JAMES STICKLAND, Kenilworth ArtsFest

BUDERIM

Art Nuvo, 25 Gloucester Road, 5456 2445

Koningen Art, 0490 778 462

Tiffany Jones, 0407 452 024

CALOUNDRA

Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Avenue, 5420 8299

COOLUM BEACH

Cool Art Picture Framing & Gallery, 5/43 Access Crescent, Coolum Beach. 5471 7366

COOROY

Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre, 11A Maple Street, 5442 6665

DOONAN

Art by Brooks, 0417 071 336

EUMUNDI

Apma Creations Aboriginal Art Gallery & Gift shop, Shop 3

Eumundi Village Centre, Eumundi, 0437 617 390

Artisans Gallery, 43 Caplick Way, 0409 848 098

David Suters Timber Craftsman, 43 Caplick Way, 0413 509 482

Red Desert Gallery, 43 Caplick Way, 0414 504 360

GLENVIEW

Opals Down Under, 11 Ballantyne Court, 5494 5400

Solitude Art, 163 Glenview Road, 0413 013 882

MALENY

David Linton Gallery, 14 Maple Street, 5429 6831

Maleny Art Direct, 21 Maple Street, 0413 885 220

Peace Of Green Gallery, 38 Maple Street, 5499 9311

MAPLETON

Art Antiques Antlers, 3/1 Post Office Road, 0414 782 079

MINYAMA

Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery, 3 Longwood Street, Minyama, 5444 0009

MOFFAT BEACH

Seaview Artists Gallery, 4 Seaview Terrace, 5491 4788

MONTVILLE

Ben Messina Landscapes Gallery, 178 Main Street, 5478 5164

Illume Creations Gallery, 4/127-133 Main Street, 5478 5440

Montville Antiques, 162 Main Street, 5442 9400

Montville Art Gallery, 138 Main Street, 5442 9211

Sally Hayes Art Studio, 6/133 Main Street, 0439 726 836

The Opalcutter, 4/171-183 Main Street, 5442 9598

Tina Cooper Art & Glass, 0417 194 329

MOOLOOLABA

Avenue J, 14/47-51 Mooloolaba

Esplanade, 5444 4422

Bluechip Investment Art

Galleries, 23/13 Mooloolaba

Esplanade, 5452 5600 Gallery Beneath, 5444 7775

NOOSA HEADS

Enigmatic Drawings, 75 Hastings Street, 0490 395 346

Hearts and Minds Art, 1 Hastings Street, 0407 840 745

Isabella’s Fine & Antique

Jewellery, 2/41-47 Hastings Street, 5449 2626

Poeta Herford On Hastings, 5/62 Hastings Street, 5455 4899

The G Contemporary, 6/32

Hastings Street, 0400 716 526, 0400 716 553

NOOSAVILLE

Art Vision, 4/47 Gateway Drive, 0400 490 720

Noosa Arts & Crafts, 1 Wallace Drive, 5474 1211

PALMWOODS

The Shed, 3-5 Main Street, 5479 6603

PEREGIAN BEACH

The Gallery Peregian Beach, 12 Grebe Street, 5448 2314

POMONA

Pomona Railway Station Gallery, 10 Station Street, 5485 2950

SIPPY DOWNS

University of the Sunshine Coast Art Gallery, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, 5459 4645

TEWANTIN

Gaiungan Gallery, 11b Tewantin Plaza, 113 Poinciana Avenue, 0401 742 678

Gallery93, 93 Poinciana Avenue, 0439 752 543

Noosa Regional Gallery, 9 Pelican Street, 5329 6145

TINBEERWAH

Art Tours Noosa, 0424 456 877

Phillips Gallery, 0406 198 300

YANDINA

Stevens Street Gallery, 2 Stevens Street, 0414 687 895

Yandina Historic House, 3 Pioneer Road, 5472 7181

Explore the region’s many galleries, artists’ studios and antiquestores from Noosa down to Caloundra.

“ IS BORN OF THE PUREST PARENTS, THE SUN AND THE SEA” PYTHAGORAS