Salt Magazine Winter 2024

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Lancelin Precinct Stage III is within weeks of allotment titles being issued. Opening the way for some of Sunshine Cove’s most stunning homes to be built. You still have the opportunity to purchase land within Stage III, to take advantage of its breathtaking waterfront land or urban allotments. One last chance to build the lifestyle home of your dreams.

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ON THE COVER

This photo was taken last year during the bushfire at Beerwah.

I decided to head out to watch the sunset and was lucky to still have access to Mount Ngungun.

There were a few people on the mountain that day, and after most of them left, the real light show began.

It was such a spiritual feeling to be on the mountain at that time. You can feel the eons of time that these mountains have witnessed.

This photo is taken looking toward Mount Coonawrin with Mount Beerwah behind it. It was shot with an iPhone 14 ProMax with a tripod.

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Our winter is so beautiful with the warm sun on your back and a cuppa in your hand. We are so lucky to live here on the Coast.

DANIELLE BUSSA FASHION CO-ORDINATOR

I love wintertime, spending cosy nights by the fireplace and taking in a chick flick, while sipping a Nutella coffee. Bliss.

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WINTER WONDERS

While summer might be the season that typically steals the spotlight on the Sunshine Coast, winter in our region has its own special charms.

As the air gets crisper and the winter woollies are taken out of storage, the milder temperatures provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the natural wonders we are so lucky to have in our backyard.

Despite the cooler days, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy during the winter months. And if it’s culture, arts and entertainment you are seeking, the Sunshine Coast has an array of fabulous activities on offer to keep you entertained. Turn to page eight for some great upcoming events to add to your calendar.

The winter months are also a great opportunity to take advantage of the plethora of cosy cafes and restaurants serving up delicious

CONTRIBUTING TALENTS:

What do you love about winter on the Sunshine Coast?

SHIRLEY SINCLAIR WRITER

I love winter on the Sunshine Coast because you can still wear T-shirts and shorts during the day in the sunshine, but layer up in the winter woollies for the cool nights and early mornings. I also love a catch-up with friends at a plethora of cafes and bars, microbreweries and distilleries, or to explore more of the hinterland.

dishes that highlight the best of our local produce. Our Sunshine Coast Foodie, Martin Duncan, has all the latest culinary news and events you need to know in our Nosh News feature (page 48).

Our hinterland towns really shine during the cooler months. Why not spend a night or two at one of the many quaint treetop accommodation houses nestled in the picturesque towns of Maleny and Montville? There is nothing better than escaping the hustle and bustle, snuggling up with a smooth red and enjoying a good book by an open fire.

Speaking of wine, the Sunshine Coast’s burgeoning wine scene is a hidden gem waiting to be uncorked. Writer Candice Holznagel discovers an emerging industry and takes us on a tour of some of the region’s best-kept secrets. Cheers to that!

We have a great line-up of stories for you this edition, including some inspiring locals who are making their mark in their fields. From a record-breaking freediver to a jewellery designer who has had great success overseas and a young university student changing lives in Myanmar, I’m sure you will love reading their stories as much as I did.

We hope you enjoy this winter edition of salt magazine. Take time to relax, put your feet up and enjoy.

Until next time

JANE STEPHENS WRITER

I love the sky’s colours at dawn and dusk and the chill in the morning air. Even though we don’t have snow (like in my photo, taken in Japan in February) a beanie, a hearty vegetable soup and a gathering of friends around a firepit are also winter perfection.

INGRID NELSON, EDITOR

THANKS GO TO OUR OTHER CONTRIBUTING TALENTS TOO:

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WINTER 2024

AMONG THE VINES

WORDS CANDICE HOLZNAGEL

THE SUNSHINE COAST – home to beautiful beaches, rolling hinterland hills, lush forests, fantastic locally farmed produce and wine.

Yes, you read that right. Wine. The foundation of an emerging industry that, with a little love, dedication and support, could become another feather in the Coast’s tourism cap.

Here, among the region’s sprawling vines, growers are finding success thanks to the high altitude and cool microclimate – a recipe that has weaved magic in other areas of the sunshine state.

Southeast Queensland is fast becoming a national and

internationally recognised producer of all things vino.

Launched in 2020, the Vine and Shine Trail connects around 70 wineries, vineyards and cellar doors across Queensland, winding its way from the Gold Coast Hinterland out to the Granite Belt and up to the Sunshine Coast.

While the impacts of the pandemic and subsequent economic times have hit the industry hard, resulting in a number of cellar door closures across the country, there is still a plethora of vineyards producing top drops.

The Australian wine industry’s rich history stems back 160 years, with growers producing shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and

The Barrel. Photo: Visit Sunshine Coast

chardonnay, as well as less-known varieties, including vermentino, fiano and saperavi.

And while the Granite Belt is considered Queensland’s premier wine district, the Sunshine Coast’s own wine scene has the potential to flourish, according to long-time grower Tony Thompson.

“It comes down to sensible investors and the right qualified people being involved.” Tony cuts straight to the point. His instinct for business is as bold and fruitful as the wine he produces.

“You’ve got to be really good at growing grapes.

“Sunshine Coast wines are really well received. More and more people are becoming interested in Queensland wine,” he tells salt. With a laugh, he adds, “Now, we need to get as many people interested in Queensland wine as there are interested in the NRL.”

He points to the region’s rich soil as a firm foundation for harvesting a successful crop. “The soil conditions make grape growing doable. You just have to target the right grape varieties and have the right people around you.

“The main part of what I do is control the viticulture. If you don’t have great grapes, you won’t have great wine.”

Given that Tony’s business, Flame Hill Vineyard, has served up winning drop after winning drop, it’s fair to say he

knows what he’s doing.

Flame Hill is home to two cellar doors and three vineyards. Unlike others who don’t grow and harvest their own grapes, Tony’s Montville property is home to 5000 plants.

The grapes are handpicked and then processed at Flame Hill’s Severn vineyard, which is located along the Granite Belt. The business’s fortified wines are made here on the Coast.

Tony purchased the Montville farm back in 2007 before adding two more properties to his portfolio – Kurrajong in 2012 and the Severn vineyard in 2022.

In total, he has around 70,000 plants and all of the wines are produced in southeast Queensland.

“All you can do is do your best to be consistent, give people good experiences, communicate well with people,

Flame Hill Vineyard, Montville. Photo: Visit Sunshine Coast

The Barrel. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

50 PIONEER RD, YANDINA

try and have the right staff in the right places,” Tony says.

“I’m so confident with our wine that I’d back it against any wine, anywhere.” Sounds good to us!

What better time to explore the Sunshine Coast’s wine trail than on a beautiful winter’s day? Let’s go.

WOONGOOROO ESTATE – KILCOY

Open by appointment, woongoorooestate.com

Located just 45 minutes south of Caloundra, this family-owned and operated vineyard has been a labour of love for retired school teachers Phil and Gail Close.

The couple, who purchased the 16-hectare Kilcoy property 45 years ago, planted their first vines back in the year 2000.

At the height of their production, they tended to 5000 plants, ranging from chardonnay and semillon varieties to verdelho, shiraz, merlot and cabernet franc.

Last year, the Closes decided it was time to say goodbye to the art of viticulture.

“We are retiring and putting our feet up to drink all of the wine,” Phil laughs.

While Woongooroo is now closed to the general public, it is open by appointment for groups of 10 or more people.

The estate hosts bus tours and social and club events and is also available for intimate wine and cheese tastings, which highlight Maleny and Kenilworth produce. Participants will learn how to recognise the characteristics of grape varieties, how to pair food and wine and how to taste wine “the way the experts do”.

THE BARREL @ CLOUDS VINEYARD – MALENY

Open Friday to Monday, 10am to 4pm, cloudsretreats.com.au/the-barrel

There could not be a more iconic hinterland location than the

Dingo Creek Vineyard

Dingo Creek Vineyard. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

Flame Hill Vineyard

big barrel located on the outskirts of Maleny. Although The Barrel team does not produce their own wine, they still serve up a great drop.

For $22, visitors can experience The Barrel Range wine tasting, which includes a chardonnay, shiraz rose, shiraz and merlot. All of the Clouds-labelled wines are from southeast Queensland, predominantly from the Granite Belt.

Lap up the winter sun at one of the big outdoor timber tables or take a stroll through the vineyard before settling in for lunch.

FLAME HILL VINEYARD – MONTVILLE

Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10.30am to 5pm, flamehill.com.au

This award-winning winery offers tastings, as well as a dining experience and boutique accommodation. The kitchen team sources local produce (they even grow their own herbs) to dish up a true paddock-to-plate experience. The deck and terrace provide an outlook over the sprawling vineyard, offering beautiful views.

A selection of white and red varieties are grown at the Montville property and harvested depending on growth and weather. These estate-grown wines include a refreshing verdelho, crisp chardonnay, barbera and red-favourite shiraz. If you need a wider selection, there’s good news as the local cellar door stocks wines from all three of Flame Hill’s southeast Queensland vineyards. You’ll even find the 2023 Australian Small Winemakers Show bronze-medal verdejo, barbera and sauvignon blanc varieties.

Recommendation: The Montville-grown verdelho is a fresh, fruity white and a great match for a long lunch or picnic. The Severn-grown lagrein is a trophy winner and is available to purchase on the Sunshine Coast.

DINGO CREEK VINEYARD

– TRAVESTON

Open Friday to Sunday, 11am-5pm, dingocreek.com.au

Located on a quiet piece of countryside, only thirty minutes from the hustle and bustle of Noosa, Dingo Creek offers interactive wine tastings, meals and picnic baskets, all by appointment.

We recommend reserving your place for the ‘picnic in the vines’ experience, which includes a beautiful grazing platter boasting locally cured meats, bread, cheeses, fruit and crackers, plus a bottle of wine (of course) enjoyed at a designated table overlooking the vineyard. Songbird, serenity and a glass of sparkling shiraz – bliss.

Alternatively, visitors can simply stop by the cellar door to browse the range.

Top drop: The cabernet sauvignon merlot is a great drop for winter nights.

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Flame Hill Vineyard, Montville

FEED your soul

WORDS CANDICE HOLZNAGEL

SUMMER AND MUSIC festivals have traditionally gone hand in hand. But here on the Sunshine Coast, it’s our pretty winter days that deliver a feast of festivals to feed our cultural hunger. Despite changes to the region’s calendar, including the surprising cancellation of the annual Caloundra Music Festival, there is still plenty for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

From long lunches and literary events to jazz and country vibes, our entertainment scene is about to heat up. Read on and have your calendar ready to ensure you don’t miss any of the fun and fabulous activities.

July

19 to 28 – NOOSA

ALIVE

One of Queensland’s longest-running successful festivals, NOOSA alive!, has been a staple on the Coast’s cultural calendar for the past 23 years. It features an ever-changing and diverse line-up of acts, workshops and events that span 10 days across various Noosa locations. From comedians and artists to authors, environmentalists, commentators, dancers and actors, the festival attracts some of the nation’s best entertainers.

This year, it will kick off with the Seaside Vibes music event at Main Beach, headlined by country/Americana roots rocker Wesley Dean.

Better known in Australia as Aria chart-topper Wes Carr, his Noosa performance will be supported by The Froth, Gold Creek and Waiting For Tom. Seaside Vibes is an 18-plus event and tickets are available through the NOOSA alive! website.

The festival will continue throughout the week, with events ranging from a performance by much-loved Aussie comedian

Tom Gleeson to an evening with acclaimed Australian actor John Bell and classical pianist Simon Tedeschi. There will also be an In Conversation morning with writer and actor William McInnes, plus various food, wine and film offerings.

NOOSA alive! president Andrew Stafford says he is excited to bring the festival to the Coast’s stage.

“We have high-level artistic inclusions with an interactive point of difference allowing the community to be involved in performances, masterclasses and workshops with some of Australia’s best artists, such as John Bell AO OBE,” he tells salt

“The literary program continues to grow, a new inclusion is two world-class magicians, and [Australian Chamber Orchestra artistic director and violinist] Richard Tognetti returns with Satu In The Beyond.

Andrew says with ticket prices remaining affordable, there is something for everyone.

“From children’s eco-friendly interactive musical performances to our popular opera on the beach. We welcome Queensland Ballet for their eleventh consecutive year, showcasing two performances with one being a world premiere, our Noosa Stars alive! talent search is in its third year, and a smorgasbord of live performances and surprises for everyone.”

Visit noosaalive.com.au

Don’t miss: Swifties can dig out their sequins, glitter and friendship bracelets for the Taylor Swift Tribute Show. There are two performances – a 45-minute show at Noosa’s Main Beach under the Bendigo Bank Marquee on Sunday, July 21 and a full performance at The J Theatre on Tuesday, July 23.

NOOSA alive!: Taylor Swift Tribute Show

NOOSA alive!: Wesley Dean

drag bingo, a First Nations’ gourmet and culture experience and young muso events.

The Rangebow Festival is one of the first offerings funded under the Sunshine Coast Council’s Major Events Sponsorship Program’s Emerging Events category.

Visit therangebowfestival.org

One for the families: The Enchanted Garden Festival Hub will be located in the Montville Village Green and feature free performances across the four-day event. There will be circus acts, creative workshops, live music and ice-cream and pizza available to buy.

July 26 to August 4 – THE CURATED

PLATE

This favourite foodie festival is back for another year to give people a taste of all things Sunshine Coast. Participants will enjoy culinary delights from local chefs, with local produce the star of the event.

This year’s program includes a Chefs in Conversation afternoon on July 27 hosted by celebrity cook Hayden Quinn of Masterchef fame. Hayden will uncover the secrets behind four of the Coast’s celebrated chefs while guests enjoy a cocktail and curated menu of locally produced canapes.

Another Curated Plate highlight will be the Asian Food Festival with The Tamarind, Rice Boi and Spirit House coming together at Spicers Tamarind Retreat in Maleny on August 3 and 4. People are invited to head along with a blanket and laze in the sun as they enjoy some of the region’s best Asian tastes.

With farm tours, under-the-stars dining events, cooking classes, brewery and wine offerings, and even a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, there will be something for everyone at this year’s celebration of all things food.

Visit thecuratedplate.com.au

TIP! Don’t miss the Yanalla Farms Celebrate Glass House Country Long Lunch on July 27.

August 1 to 4 – THE RANGEBOW FESTIVAL

Culture, community, diversity and creativity – what more could you ask for from a hinterland festival? Over four days, Maleny, Montville, Flaxton and Mapleton will shine brightly for this colourful festival, which focuses on the themes of wellbeing, cohesive community and value.

Enjoy the sweet sounds of the Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra and opera singers of international acclaim as they perform a selection of the world’s most popular arias. There will also be a burlesque show featuring The Kitty Kats, plus

August 9 to 10 – AUSTRALIAN WEARABLE ART FESTIVAL

Art enthusiasts, creative minds and the fashion-forward have been coming together since 2019 to celebrate the wearable art scene and talent at its best, and this year will be no different. Thirty-nine national and international art pieces will spring to life on the 27-metre-long catwalk across four categories: recycled trashion, foraged organics in sustainable nature, floriana incorporating floristry elements and avante-garde.

Festival curator Wendy Roe says the event produces sculptural artworks that would not be out of place at the Met Gala or Paris Fashion Week. Ms Roe believes the festival’s success is rooted in a unique and authentically delivered showcase that connects audiences and artists.

“As a meeting point of art, fashion, costuming and technology, the festival fills a particular niche in the national art landscape. It’s designed as an opportunity to connect wearable artists and designers to industry; there are few events where relatively unknown artists can gain national exposure on the scale we see at the Australian Wearable Art Festival.”

The festival will be held at Venue 114, Bokarina. For tickets, visit australianwearableart.com.au

Need to know: The festival includes three sessions – a Friday night show, a Saturday matinee and the Saturday night gala event.

August 11 – THE SUNSHINE COAST MARATHON & COMMUNITY RUN FESTIVAL

What better time to enjoy a run than during a Sunshine Coast winter? And with little more than blue skies and the deep blue water of the Pacific stretching before you, this sporting event is a popular date on the local calendar. The Alexandra Headlandbased festival boasts a range of competitive events, including

AWAF 2023 Supreme Winner Floriana Winner Isabelle Cameron Dear Babushka

The Curated Plate

Rangebow: The Kitty Kats

PHOTO:

Barry Alsop

the marathon, half marathon, 10 kilometre, five kilometre and two-kilometre runs.

Visit sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au

Winning formula: The marathon has raised more than $2 million for charities and community groups.

August 22 to September 1 – NOOSA JAZZ FESTIVAL

Let the smooth sound of jazz tickle your ears as leading Australian and international musicians share their talent across a range of venues, including concert theatres, restaurants, bars, parks and even river cruises. Hosted by the Noosa Heads Jazz Club, the festival kicks off with a joint concert featuring the Australian Jazz Ensemble and the Noosa Chorale.

Visit noosajazzclub.com

Don’t miss: The festival will close with an afternoon concert at The Riverstage along the Noosa River on Father’s Day.

From August 23 – SUNSHINE COAST NATIONAL ART PRIZE

Touted as one of the nation’s most recognised and celebrated art events, this Coast-based competition brings together 40 finalists as they compete for their share of the $35,000 prize pool. Featuring a vibrant and dynamic array of pieces, the art prize is open to Australian contemporary artists working in any 2D medium and in new media. The work of the finalists will be on display at the Caloundra Regional Art Gallery until October 13. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday.

Visit gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Did you know? This festival of the arts is now celebrating its 18th year here on the Sunshine Coast.

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Located 10 minutes from Hastings Street with free parking, Noosa Civic has all your shopping needs covered in air-conditioned comfort.

To find out what’s on in Centre, visit noosacivic.com.au or scan the QR code

CALENDAR CHANGES

A popular 10-day arts festival will be held at a different time of year than usual to fill a gap in the Sunshine Coast events calendar.

The Horizon Festival will move from August to the quieter period of May 2-11 next year. Horizon’s opening weekend will coincide with the 2025 Labour Day public holiday, allowing more people to come and enjoy the festival, according to the Sunshine Coast Council.

The move follows the news that the annual Caloundra Music Festival has been cancelled for 2024.

The council cited rising operational costs and the impact of higher interest rates and living costs as the reason. It is hoped the festival will return to the events calendar next year.

PHOTO: Visit Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast Marathon

DISCOVER

EXPLORE DREAM

CHECK OUT THESE LOCAL EVENTS

MELBOURNE

INTERNATIONAL COMEDY

FESTIVAL ROADSHOW

Australia’s biggest and best comedy spectacular is setting off on its 26th annual road trip around the country. Showcasing the finest talents from the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, they will deliver a dose of laughter right to your doorstep. The show will feature a line-up of comedy royalty alongside fresh faces from the festival.

when June 21

where The Events Centre, Minchinton Street, Caloundra visit theeventscentre.com.au

QUEENSLAND GARDEN EXPO

AUG 10

GOOD VIBRATIONS FESTIVAL

A day celebration of all things yesteryear, Good Vibrations brings together the classics from the good old days. Enjoy classic cars, retro tunes, vintage surfboards, fashion and finds, old-school entertainment and more. Experience an Elvis Presley tribute show presented by Doug Charles, winner of the National 2023 Parkes Elvis Festival Competition. Enjoy shows from renowned artists Peaches & The Alphasonics, Jake & the Cadillacs, local vinyl DJ Nico Tropico and more. Tickets are available online.

when August 10

where Jack Morgan Park, Coolum Beach visit cartelmusicandevents.com.au

AUG 7-10

JUL 4-7

The Queensland Garden Expo is turning 40! The four-day celebration of gardening attracts more than 40,000 visitors and whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, you will find something to transform your green space. The expo includes demonstration programs and lectures, landscape display gardens and more than 360 exhibits, including 55 nurseries, a giant kitchen garden and a cooking stage. when July 4 to 7

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

JUL 27

STEPS GRAND WINTER BALL

Held every winter, the STEPS Grand Winter Ball raises funds for STEPS Pathways Charity, helping to create a brighter future for young people with disability and autism. The Grand Winter Ball is a prestigious black-tie event – an enchanting night of celebration, fine dining, live entertainment, generosity, joy, and warmth as the community spirit of our region shines. Help make dreams come true this winter. when July 27

where The Sunshine Coast Function Centre, West Terrace, Caloundra visit thestepsgrandwinterball.com.au

The original New York and Las Vegas hit, Menopause The Musical, is coming to Caloundra. Inspired by a hot flush and a bottle of wine, Menopause The Musical is a celebration for women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived ‘the change’. This side-splitting musical parody set to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s will have everyone cheering and dancing in the aisles.

when August 7 to 10

where The Events Centre, Minchinton Street, Caloundra visit theeventscentre.com.au

The Dunga Derby is an annual fundraising event that involves 45 teams and around 200 people taking part in a four-day car rally, travelling from the coast to the country, all with the aim of raising funds for Rally for a Cause. Rally for a Cause actively supports Sunshine Coast people affected by life-limiting medical conditions and those whose lives have been disrupted by detrimental circumstances beyond their control.

when August 15 to 18

where Aussie World, Frizzo Road, Palmview visit sunshinecoast.dungaderby.com.au

DUNGA DERBY

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL

LET’S GO SUNSHINE COAST CARAVAN AND OUTDOOR EXPO

The biggest caravanning event on the Sunshine Coast will return to Nambour Showgrounds in 2024. The latest models of caravans, motorhomes, campervans, camper/tent trailers and slide-ons, plus Queensland Tourism information, will be on display during the three-day event.

when August 16 to 18

where Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Avenue, Nambour  visit caravanqld.com.au/show/lets-go-sunshine-coast-caravanoutdoor-expo

GYMPIE MUSIC MUSTER

Fancy spending the weekend with some of Australia’s best musicians plus fantastic local talent? Well, dust off your boots because the Gympie Music Muster is coming. There will be more than 100 performers, including Shannon Noll, Lee Kernaghan, Taylor Moss, and The Bushwackers, across six venues celebrating country, roots and blues, folk and rock music.

when August 22 to 25 where Amamoor State Forest visit muster.com.au

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Bokarina Beach Outlook

MAKING it count

IT WAS OUTRAGE that started it, this passion Hayley Rodgers has for helping others. Upset over injustice, incredulity at the lack of equity in the world – but mostly, it was outrage.

“I have always felt lucky,” the 21-year-old filmmaker, entrepreneur and international charity boss says. “I grew up on a farm outside Inverell in New South Wales and am grateful I had a childhood on the land and in touch with nature.

“Then my parents moved us to the Sunshine Coast, and I had opportunities I never imagined: a job, travel, the ability to go to university and study my passion.

“But I am sharply aware that others are not so lucky, so I do whatever I can to help and to try to make their lives better.”

This might be a broad, sometimes overdone statement, but Hayley – a final-year University of the Sunshine Coast student from Nirimba – puts action where her words are and has already helped make countless people’s lives not only better but utterly transformed.

Hayley and her friend Rosemary Breen run Living Water Myanmar, a charity that has so far built 458 water tanks for people who live in the parched, dry zone of the troubled nation.

Now, instead of people in a community or school having to travel great distances to access a dirty watering hole shared with animals, they have their own precious source, provided by the generosity of strangers.

The sheer scale of the Living Water Myanmar water tank project is stunning. Hayley, who is in her final semester of study in a Bachelor of Creative Industries degree with focuses on screen media, theatre and photography, says Living Water Myanmar hopes to have 500 tanks built by this year’s end.

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Rosemary

Rosemary, 85, of Inverell, began the charity in 2011 after years of regular trips to the country to teach English. It started with facilitating the building of one tank after a student told her about their lack of access to clean water, but quickly mushroomed when it became obvious the student was not the only one in need.

Rosemary says she is glad to have Hayley as her partner in the charity. Hayley’s mother grew up next door to Rosemary, and Rosemary has known Hayley all her life.

“She is truly a remarkable person,” Rosemary says. “She is brave, visiting Myanmar on her own last year and working very hard in so many ways to help get these tanks built. I am fortunate to know her, first as a little girl, then as a friend and now also as a partner.”

Hayley says taking on the charity work that Rosemary began is a privilege.

“Rosemary is my guiding light in everything I do,” Hayley says. “She is my friend, my mentor, my everything. If I could vote anyone on Earth to be a saint, it would be that woman.”

Hayley and Rosemary fundraise, with proceeds handled by the non-profit Brisbane-based organisation Global Development Group, so that donations are tax-deductible.

The funds then go to the Myanmar coordinator, a

volunteer who handles supplies, construction crews and logistics on the ground.

“To ensure the communities or schools are ready, we have an agreement that they must supply the rocks and provide a solid foundation for the tank and that they need to plant 10 trees near the tank – Rosemary’s way of rewilding a little bit of Myanmar as well,” Hayley says.

Hayley, who currently works as a photographer at Sea

Hayley and Rosemary

Life, shot a short film about the water tank project during her visit last year. It has had a screening at Kawana Event Cinemas, with others planned.

After graduating from university this year, Hayley plans to continue to use her filmmaking skills to amplify conditions and situations in the world that may not be in plain sight.

“When I went to Myanmar, I saw for myself, and my own understanding deepened,” Hayley says. “But through film, I can come back and share that, and even if two other people see, that is three times as much understanding. Through filmmaking, everything I do can be shared.

“I want to share stories and to capture the parts of real life that people don’t often see.”

Hayley’s first overseas trip was in Year 11 with a Caloundra State High School trip to work on a Raw Impact project in Cambodia. The student contingent built structures, including toilets as part of the organisation’s mission to offer villagers a hand up out of poverty.

“It had a massive impact on me,” Hayley says. “To have a woman cry in my arms with gratitude because she now has a toilet and I come back home, and we have three – that kind of thing really distilled the need for gratitude, to actively appreciate what I have and to keep doing all I can for other people.”

Hayley will return to Myanmar in September and has further travel and charity work planned, with an eye on possible involvement in a project in Tanzania.

“When we have problems in Australia, people discuss them, they are informed about them. The world knows what happens here,” she says.

“In contrast, I need to go to places that people are scared to go to because of injustices, the places that people are scared to live in. The people in places like Myanmar need me and people who are like me.

“They have shut down all of the media there, and I really think you have to see some things to believe them. The people there need my film, my photos and my voice.

“I can come home and drink from the tap and go to school or university and travel and be safe. They can’t. That is why I need to do this work.”

To donate, visit globaldevelopmentgroup.org/ and search for Living Water Myanmar (J812N).

OUT OF the blue

WORDS JANE STEPHENS IMAGES LISA PEARL & SUPPLIED

A SINGLE BREATH. Lungs inflated with life-giving air, mind focused, cells firing, body propelling through the ocean. How far can a single breath take you? How deep? How long can you last?

Under the ocean surface is freedom, beauty and adventure for divers, and for freediver Jenna Black – unencumbered by air tank or gear – it is also her stadium, her forum, her performance space.

A year ago, Jenna gave up her corporate media job to dedicate herself to freediving, and the results have been extraordinary: she is so good at it, Jenna has been selected as one of four women in the Australian freediving team that will compete at the Freediving World Championships in Lithuania in June.

“It’s my first competition of this size, so my plan is simply to perform to the best of my ability and soak up the experience of being surrounded by the best freedivers in the world,” Jenna says. “It is all very new, and I am still constantly surprised at what I can do.”

At an international competition in Jakarta in February against many of the world’s finest freedivers, the proud Sunshine Coaster came from out of the blue to secure the silver medal, shocking herself and her competitors. But while she is relatively new to competition, Jenna’s love of freediving has long been a lingering, deepening affair.

“Just being in the ocean drew me to freediving initially,” Jenna says. “I have always had that pull, that love of the water and the ocean: growing up on the Sunshine Coast, I have always been close to the beach.

PHOTO: @instagram.com/jenna.black

PHOTO: @Instagram.com/jenna.black

“In the water, you are away from technology, away from the noise and busyness of life. The ocean is my happy place, my place of calm and place of peace.”

Jenna, now 36, snorkelled as a child and was the kind of kid who was often diving down to look at something or seeing how long she could hold her breath. Scuba was naturally next for her, and it may well have been in her blood: her parents had met on a scuba trip.

“Then I got the chance to freedive,” Jenna says. “It was immediately appealing because it gave me the ability to be in the ocean and explore it without so much equipment. The free part of freediving was the magic for me to start with. It was the joy without the bulky gear that accompanies scuba.”

Under the sea, Jenna says the environment is as varied as it is breathtaking. Curious marine animals interact. Colourful coral and sea sponges are a visual feast. It is nature, but a world away from the wild places experienced on land.

“Being relaxed and finding that stillness, that calmness of mind, is definitely one of the keys to holding your breath comfortably,” she says. “If you can fully be in the moment and be focused on what you are looking at and what you are exploring, then the breath-hold part becomes secondary to that.

“Obviously, you have to breathe at some point, but recreationally, it is about being there, being so in the moment that you are less focused on needing to breathe.”

But it is in the sport of freediving that Jenna has found the joy of physical challenges and the ability to calm her mind.

The brain makes up two per cent of human body weight, but it takes up 20 per cent of the oxygen breathed and 20 per cent of the energy consumed. This enormous consumption of oxygen and energy fuels many thousands of chemical reactions in the brain every second.

“The more you can calm your mind, the less oxygen you will consume,” Jenna says. “It is pure science, and it is necessary in the sport and for those who want to stay under

“ The mindfulness that comes with freediving has been a life changer for me in more than just the way i compete”

the water as long as possible. The mindfulness that comes with freediving has been a life changer for me in more than just the way I compete.”

The sport of freediving involves a lot of data. Oxygen uptake, resting heart rates, sleep quality, maximal oxygen consumption all offer up information that are part and parcel with elite sport.

“In the sport, all of that technology and data is excellent for revealing how your body is responding,” Jenna says. “What it cannot measure is how your mind is responding to that breath-hold. The technology will help you become physically capable of completing your best dive possible, but even if your body is capable of that, there is such a mental element that your mind has to be capable of the dive as well.

“And there is no device for mindfulness, visualisation, meditation and breathing techniques, but they are arguably just as important as the physical capability.”

Jenna’s partner in life, business and freediving is Matt Turnbull, an accomplished freediver who will also compete at the Freediving World Championships in Lithuania –representing the United Kingdom. Together with their friend Gonzalo Cortes, Jenna and Matt run OceanSense, providing freediving courses, certification and dive trips locally and internationally.

“It is a gift, this synergy we have,” Jenna says of Matt. “I could not ask for more than to have a partner who doesn’t just understand but who shares my passion.”

Jenna and Matt were away for four months last year, visiting 15 countries. They tie in OceanSense retreats with

freediving competitions wherever possible. Being able to find routine, eat well and pack efficiently (her dive gear takes up three-quarters of her bag) are skills Jenna has honed so that she can settle wherever her head rests. But home on the Sunshine Coast is Mount Coolum, the ancient sentinel that has watched over the sea almost since time began.

Australian freedivers spend most of their training time in swimming pools, partly because the continental shelf offshore means there is not enough depth to properly train for freediving. Even if an Aussie diver spends hours on a boat to

get out deep enough, they are then in open ocean, which is not conducive to good training conditions either.

So it is to the pool that athletes go, until they get the chance to visit Bali or the Philippines for depth diving training. The world championships are to be held in a pool, which suits Jenna.

“I have trained really hard and I will be ready. In competition, I know I can trust myself now; I can still thevoices in my head that tell me to surface and take a breath and listen to the one that says I am okay, that I can stay down a little longer.

“It is a wonderful space, a place of peace, even in the heat of the moment. I actively love everything about it and I remind myself that I get to do this, I get to follow my passion. It really could not be better for me.”

PHOTO: @Instagram.com/jenna.black

PHOTO: @Instagram.com/jenna.black

GLOBAL inspiration

WORDS LINDA READ PHOTOS LISA PEARL

THE FASHION INDUSTRIES of New York and Los Angeles are just a couple of the settings in which Sunshine Coast designer Salita Matthews has found herself during her creative journey that spans continents.

Bangkok is another — originally in her grandmother’s silk factories where she heard the endless click-clacking of the giant looms as they produced luxurious Thai silks.

Salita is the founder of Salita Matthews, a brand specialising in handcrafted, contemporary, pearl and semiprecious stone jewellery designs, which hint at the faraway places that provide their creator’s inspiration.

Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Salita hails from a family of silk and leather artisans with creativity literally in her blood. Her mother, Nu, who originally comes from Thailand, is a retired chef.

“Not only is she brilliant at making amazing and inspired food, but her creative skills extend to so many other areas,” says Salita.

“Growing up with Mum, she taught me to cut and sew, and we were always surrounded by beautiful arrays of flowers that Mum enjoyed arranging.

“Mum’s uncle was a leather craftsman and my uncle in Australia is a leather craftsman and wood carver.”

Salita speaks Thai fluently and travels to Thailand twice a year to source the pearls and stones that feature in her designs, as well as to visit her silversmith in Chiang Mai.

“Even though I was born in Queensland, it’s like going home whenever I go back to Bangkok as I just slip in so comfortably,” she says.

“Bangkok strongly inspires my designs, and I just love trawling through the gemstone suppliers that are scattered throughout the city, rummaging through buckets of turquoise and pearls and everything else.

“It’s always like a bit of a treasure hunt visiting these places, and I enjoy coming home with my finds and piecing them together to form my designs. I like to think of it as a dynamic jigsaw puzzle.”

Given her creative roots, Salita’s direction of choice after finishing school is not surprising. She studied fashion at the Nambour campus of TAFE Queensland.

It was a decision that would launch her design career, landing her a job in fashion on the Coast and leading her eventually to the world design capitals of New York and Los Angeles.

In one job there, she worked as a stylist for a freelance photographer and was charged with sourcing pieces for shoots from places such as the Universal Studios costume department.

“I remember that I had a hire car at the time and was armed with a five-dollar, fold-out street map of LA from the servo and managed to make my way around town by reading that map. This was way before the era of smartphones,” she tells salt

Back in Australia, she joined a fledgling Noosa clothing designer who was having all their manufacturing done in Bali; Salita accompanied them as a fit model (a person employed by a designer to check the fitting of garments) and worked in quality assurance, all the while adding to her burgeoning creative skill set.

Soon, she felt she had enough experience and knowledge

under her belt to start her own label. She could not only design, but she could make patterns and sew.

She launched Salita Matthews in 2007, originally as a clothing label, with the idea of having a platform to travel to Thailand regularly with her mother to indulge their shared love of fashion and to utilise the expertise of the skilled Thai artisans. It was her accessories, however, that became the real stars of the show.

“My label evolved from being a clothing label to a jewellery label after discovering a huge demand for my accessories,” Salita says.

“I found jewellery to be easier to work with as it didn’t discriminate — you can be short or tall, size doesn’t matter, and you don’t need to try it on to make sure it fits.

“You can buy it for someone else, and you don’t have to worry about getting them the right size.

“It was more sustainable than making fashion where I’d end up with leftover clothes at the end of the season that I couldn’t do anything with.

“Working with jewellery, I can break pieces down and remake and reuse the components. Plus, pearls are a great sustainable material to work with.

“I love the organic nature of pearls and how perfectly imperfect they are and how they are as individual as we are.

“The natural luminosity of pearls is so complementary to the complexion when worn, and each pearl has its own quirks and irregularities, so each piece of mine has its own personality, making it unique to the individual wearer.”

For Salita, travelling the world provides an endless source of inspiration for her to create her unique designs that are in demand both throughout Queensland and internationally.

She also supplies a chain of Gold-Coast based bridal boutiques, Grace Loves Lace, that has numerous international stores, including 20 boutiques across the United States.

“ I found jewellery to be easier to work with it doesn’t discriminate – you can be short or tall, size doesn’t matter”

“I love beautiful things,” Salita says.

“I am drawn to the beauty in architecture, in flowers, in food, nature and most obviously in fashion.

“My experiences from my travels influence and inspire me to create and design. Without travel, I feel so uninspired.”

While her creative inspiration may come from her extensive travels, she is proud to call herself a Sunshine Coast “original resident”, and works from her “humble little studio in Moffat Beach”. (Salita is quick to acknowledge, however, that she is “not as original” as someone from the Gubbi Gubbi people, the traditional custodians of the region).

“I am so grateful to live in this very special part of the world and always look forward to coming home to this place,” she says.

“We have an excellent quality of life here, and going overseas makes me truly appreciate how good we have it here.

“My philosophy is to create beautiful pieces that make the wearer feel good in their own skin.”

THE GREAT ESCAPE

WORDS SHIRLEY SINCLAIR

‘EAT, DRINK AND be merry’ is the mantra at the heart of Queensland’s premier wine country.

Under a four-hour drive from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland country’s Southern Downs and Granite Belt used to be known just for apples and the promise of snow in winter.

But in recent decades, the rural hubs of Stanthorpe and Warwick – and a sprinkling of smaller border towns and villages including Ballandean, Applethorpe, The Summit and Wallangarra – have made a name for themselves as an underrated Australian wine-producing area that likes to over-deliver on country hospitality and foodie experiences.

With more than 30 wineries and cellar doors, new accommodation styles and an increasing number of artisan and fresh food outlets, the region has become a four-seasons destination. And the reasons to visit – to taste something a little different – grow year on year.

‘NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK’

Boutique winery View Wine in Ballandean will open its cellar door in August, showcasing memorable drops, including a sauvignon blanc as buttery as any chardonnay.

The View Wine grape-to-glass experience starts in the vineyard where visitors can immerse themselves in the wineproducing process. Stroll the rows of vines at any time in the growing season, taste the hand-harvested grapes and see the prunings. The journey continues inside with the working equipment of the winery, tasting samples from the barrels like a true winemaker.

“It’s about making the vineyard more a part of the wine tasting,” says owner Stacey Allan, who runs the venture with husband Brad.

Formerly Gladstone-based and with a background in civil

construction, the Allans had decided to leave behind the all-consuming industry and “do something” for themselves.

A winery or accommodation business loomed large in their minds as the change they needed. Travelling throughout Europe in 2012, they were inspired by a friend of a family friend who ran a winery south of Paris in the hilltop village of Sancerre.

The Allans found what they were looking for in Ballandean, purchasing the Smiths Vineyard the following year and becoming, as Stacey acknowledges, “the new kids on the block”. They now grow six varieties that form the basis of all their wines: sauvignon blanc, semillon, alvarinho, gros manseng, merlot and shiraz.

View Wine also offers a private wine-tasting experience for up to eight guests, overlooking the vineyard from the deck or by the fireplace.

View Wine by Sancerre Estate, 60 Zambelli Road, Ballandean. Visit viewwine.au or call 0428 777 166.

PASSION PROJECTS

Winery owner Adam Penberthy hopes St Judes Estate – home of Dear Vincent Wines, in a nod to the patron saint of winemakers – will become a leading tourism development for the region.

March 30 and 31 this year offered a taste of big things to come when Adam and his team hosted a pop-up cellar door at the vineyard. Visitors were treated to tastings of the initial range of five 100 per cent estate wines (2023 Field Blend Pet Nat, 2023 Viognier, 2023 Skinsy Pinot Gris, 2021 Shiraz Viognier and 2023 Cabernet Durif), served off the back of a ute.

The pop-up – located next to the 25 years-plus shiraz vines, overlooking Ballandean village, with views to Sundown National Park – is open every weekend until the permanent cellar door is

Adam Penberthy, Dear Vincent Wines Barrel View Luxury Cabins

completed by about the end of September. Plans also include a restaurant, function spaces and accommodation.

The winery isn’t the only passion project, however. Adam, wife Sammie and their three children recently renovated and re-opened Ballandean Pub, with a large kids’ playground, beer garden out the front and old Bedford truck stage for live music.

Dear Vincent Wines at St Judes Estate, 64 St Judes Lane, Ballandean. Visit stjudesestate.com.au or call 0422 057 333.

ACCOMMODATING ALL TASTES

The diverse range of Southern Downs and Granite Belt accommodation has spouted like local Country Farm mushrooms in recent years.

Visitors can lounge among the vines in a Ridgemill Estate villa, stay crawling distance from brew tastings in a Granite Belt Retreat and Brewery cabin, or relax in the lap of luxury within a national park at Girraween Environmental Lodge, for example.

But few properties have garnered the celebrity status of Barrel View Luxury Cabins at Ballandean. Amy and Steven Torrisi elevated a quirky idea and created something special within their 16 hectares (40 acres), complete with hiking trails and 180-degree views over Girraween and Sundown national parks.

Billed as Australia’s first wine barrel accommodation, the trio

of lavish retreats are named after Strange Bird grape varieties (that account for less than one per cent of Australia’s plantings): barbera, tempranillo and saperavi (this one includes an outdoor bath).

From their king-size bed, couples can stargaze or watch the sunrise through the arch window.

Barrel View Luxury Cabins, 137 Days Road, Ballandean. Visit barrelview.com.au or call 0488 020 808.

IMMERSED IN TRUFFLES

The Folly – a gamble on setting up Queensland’s first commercial truffle farm in 2016 – is paying off for the Egerton family.

The business is known for weekend truffle hunts from mid to late winter, cooking demonstrations, year-round farm tours and farmgate sales of truffles and truffle-infused products.

Now, visitors can immerse themselves in the farm experience with off-grid campsites for self-sufficient caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers.

The 16 tranquil, eco-friendly sites in the tourist park have 360-degree views.

Guests can explore the working truffle farm and surrounding 688 hectares, including seven kilometres of Severn River frontage.

The Folly Truffles, 1110 Bents Road, Ballandean. Visit thefollytruffles.com.au or call 0488 392 979. Book a campsite at thefollyballandean.com.au/caravans/

SERENDIPITOUS ADVENTURE

Caitlin and Nick Roberts had no intention of buying a winery in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.

With backgrounds in marketing and finance, the couple was living in London when Caitlin’s father took ill, prompting an urgent trip to Australia to see him. After his recovery, Caitlin and Nick joined him on a wine-tasting tour of the region where they met boutique winemaker Mark Ravenscroft.

Mark told the group he was selling the winery and vineyard, which is located 12 kilometres northwest of Stanthorpe. What happened next is what Caitlin describes as “very serendipitous”.

“We signed the contract at the property and found out I was pregnant on the same day,” she says. “Twenty-six acres (10.5 hectares) but 2.5 (one hectare) under vine. We’re a small, boutique vineyard, and that’s enough for us.”

Ravenscroft Vineyard specialises in high-quality, veganfriendly, small-batch wines using minimal intervention and additives. The small yields mean that every step of the winemaking process is done on-site – from tending the vines and hand-harvesting to crushing and pressing, bottling and labelling.

Pinotage – a South African hybrid of pinot noir and cinsault grapes – is Ravenscroft Vineyard’s specialty, being one of only about five producers Australia-wide who grow and produce it.

Ravenscroft Vineyard, 274 Spring Creek Road, Stanthorpe. Visit ravenscroftvineyard.com or call 0403 357 596.

Download the visitor app at: granitebeltwinecountry.com.au/ download-the-visitor-app/

Truffles

View Wine

Ravenscroft Vineyard PHOTO: Shutterstock

PARIS to POLAR BEARS

CALLING ALL

POLAR EXPLORERS!

FJORDS & GLACIERS OF SPITSBERGEN

Spitsbergen to Spitsbergen

Includes:

Return flight Paris/Longyearbyen Airport transfers in Longyearbyen

From $14,850 per person*

7 NIGHTS

14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 June. 2025 12, 19 July. 2025

Aboard Le Lyrial & Le Boréal

* In a Deluxe Stateroom with balcony. Enjoy Free Solo Supplement to The Arctic.

REDEFINING LUXURY

INNOVATIVE DEVELOPERS RCQ is breaking the mould with its latest offering – a premium residential development that will redefine luxury living in Caloundra.

Introducing BIANCO, where luxury meets the horizon. Touted as a beacon of classic, timeless elegance amidst the laid-back vibe of Bulcock Beach, BIANCO is located at the corner of Bulcock Street and Tay Avenue.

Construction began in July 2023 and is tracking along well, with completion earmarked for mid-2025.

BIANCO’s general manager Justin Stainton says, “We have made significant strides over the past few months with the power undergrounding and erection of the tower crane. With the recent completion of the three-level basement, we are looking forward to seeing the building start to come up out of the ground over the next few weeks”.

BIANCO stands right by the water, offering unparalleled views of the Pumicestone Passage and easy access to Bulcock Beach, which is right on its doorstep.

This development combines the best elements of modern, coastal design with high-end finishes and amenities, catering to those who seek a beachside lifestyle without compromising on luxury. BIANCO really does offer residents the best of both worlds – serene coastal living and easy access to a vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants and shops.

RCQ also recently announced the first of the retail tenants to feature on the development’s ground floor – Bunker Espresso. Bunker Specialty Coffee Co has been operating for eight years, supplying high-end Melbourne coffee to cafes and espresso bars across the Sunshine Coast.

Owner Kate Saultry says the group is excited to open its second Bunker Espresso.

“We are looking forward to designing our second site to be a sleek modern space that fits seamlessly into the sophisticated BIANCO building,” she says.

“We chose BIANCO because of its amazing location, being right in the heart of town and also waterside.”

An architectural masterpiece featuring 27 residential apartments across eight waterside levels, available in two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments and skyhomes, BIANCO

is already creating interest with more than 50 per cent of the development sold.

About RCQ

Starting from humble beginnings on the Sunshine Coast, RCQ has gone from strength to strength over the past three decades, earning a reputation as a trusted builder and developer. RCQ’s projects include Noosa’s Settlers Cove, Serene Yaroomba, One The Esplanade in Cotton Tree and Reflection Cove, Maroochydore.

Prices start from $1.375 million. For more information about the project, visit biancocaloundra.com. For sales inquiries, visit belleproperty.com/maroochydore.

Artist impression

• An architectural masterpiece of 27 residences across 8 waterside levels.

• Modern coastal luxury set against a breathtaking coastal backdrop.

• Panoramic views of The Pumicestone Passage, Bribie Island & beyond.

• Strata titled residences offering 2, 3 and 4 bedroom configurations.

• Each apartment reflects unique styles that mirror the passion behind its design.

• Offering the ultimate blend of privacy, accessibility & indulgence, BIANCO rises to a stunning new level of premium coastal living in the centre of Caloundra.

Skyhome 803 - Kitchen - Artist impression

Artist impression

Dive instructor

What is your favourite shop in the region?

So, to be frank, I don’t like shopping for anything other than food!

But , I do enjoy getting lost at Kickback Books on Parkyn Parade. I love a physical book and that musty old book smell, so many memories. And I love my barber, Sam, at Have Heart Barber Shop on Brisbane Road.

What is your favourite restaurant on the Sunshine Coast?

That’s tough; there are so many. Bocca at Bokarina and Nouc Chấm Vietnamese on Parkyn Parade, I think, would be my most memorable food and service experiences.

What is your favourite meal?

Sushi, followed closely by pizza.

Your favourite song?

Cold Ain’t for Me by Oceans. I suspect very few people have heard it. YouTube it; it’s such an awesome beach/chill vibe song.

What is your most prized possession?

Haha, my wife will be turning red when she reads this my camping torch. This thing is next level bright, like a Jedi lightsaber. One of my best mates bought it as a present, and I have to say I love it!

Point Cartwright Greg Spinda

Partner, Travis Schultz & Partners

What do you do?

I guide people through complex insurance and compensation scheme processes when they have been injured through no fault of their own. I am a listener and a storyteller, so I can understand what my clients are going through and explain that in the right way to insurers. I love what I do because there is so much I need to constantly learn across law, medicine, finance, technology and so much more. I am a personal injury lawyer with Travis Schultz & Partners.

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

I would love to be a dive instructor and live along the coastline in South America. Imagine that, go for a hike in the rainforest one day, and then go to work in the warm ocean the next! In the real world, if not a lawyer, I suspect I would enjoy doing advisory or policy work with parliament; I am super nerdy about political history. When you have visitors, where do you take them to show off our beautiful region?

Our favourite spots along the coast have to be Currimundi Lake and Point Cartwright. The foreshore walk from Bokarina all the way to Point Cartwright is just magic. Of course, Australia Zoo, that annual pass gets a good workout.

Bocca

Who inspires you?

My wife and kids, to always be present for the ones you love. Though I think I need to do much better. There is nothing better than coming home after a tough day and getting unconditional love (or punches or a toy thrown at you)!

Sushi

Cairns

What are you most looking forward to at the moment?

A family holiday to Cairns. Our last planned family holiday was cancelled due to COVID, so this is a very long time coming. This will be my little man’s first time on a plane, and he is going to flip. He loves pointing at the planes overhead. Shame the Bonza planes will no longer be coming overhead. I can’t wait to see his face when we actually get into a plane.

What are you reading now?

The Crossroad by Mark Donaldson VC. An autobiography about the incredible life and experiences of an Australian soldier. The men and women in uniform, whether in peacetime or turbulence, selflessly put

themselves at the front of any natural or man-made disaster, tough training routines, all to keep us and others safe. I have great respect for them, especially given the horrors that some of them will experience in their careers.

What was the best day of your life?

I’ll have to claim the two days when my kids were born. Best experiences ever. I’m not sure there is a better moment than holding them for the first time despite the lack of sleep and despite the sass they now give me as they get older.

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

The peace and quiet. And my torch.

The Crossroad

all about it Read

Recline in your favourite chair with one of these beauties.

GALAH: STORIES OF LIFE OUTSIDE THE CITY

Murdoch Books | $70 | Edited by Annabelle Hickson

Galah is a large format, beautifully published book which celebrates Australia and her people like no other. Editor Annabelle Hickson has gathered more than 50 leading Australian writers, photographers and artists and their work to produce a truly unique publication. Annabelle’s dream was to gather a collection of stories about the Australian country which did not only concentrate on the hardships but told of the joys of life outside the big smoke and illustrated the wonderful, diverse and creative people found in every corner of this wide land. People have been sharing stories since the beginning of time, and we understand the importance of stories for knowledge and connection; dip into GALAH and find a treasure trove of words and images and even a few recipes!

Book giveaway

Thanks to Annie’s Books on Peregian, we have a copy of GALAH: Stories of Life Outside the City to give away. For your chance to win this prize, head to saltmagazine.com.au and click on the ‘win’ tab to enter.

THE GIRL WITH THE VIOLIN

Shelley Davidow | Harper Collins | $33

Global traveller Shelley Davidow has been a resident of the Sunshine Coast for several years. She is the author of 50 books, including those for early readers, academic texts, three memoirs and some exceptional pieces of writing. Her latest work, The Girl with the Violin, is her first venture into contemporary adult fiction. The novel is set in 1989, the day the Berlin Wall fell, a moment Shelley herself witnessed. The story follows Jewish-Australian violinist Susanna, who is swept into a journey of memory, music and passion under the guidance of her enigmatic violin teacher, Stefan. Susanna’s desire is to compose a piece of music to honour her grandmother Mirla, a victim of the atrocities at Buchenwald concentration camp, and to deepen her connection to her family history. The novel promises to transport readers with its captivating story, the world of Susanna’s music, the vibrant atmosphere of new Berlin, and Shelley Davidow’s stunning writing style.

NEW COASTAL: INSPIRATION FOR A LIFE BY THE SEA

Ingrid Weir | Hardie Grant Publishing | $60

Ingrid Weir is a well-known and respected Australian interior designer, born on Sydney’s beautiful northern beaches. She has designed projects for high-profile clients, including the Sydney Opera House, the Macquarie Group and National Parks and Wildlife, and has designed many private residences. Following on from her fabulous book New Rural, this eagerly awaited publication features some of her fresh, new designs, influenced by her observations of how people live beside the sea. Weir travelled around the country and to the United States, visiting remote beach locations and islands, hunting for inspiration and exciting new ideas to feature in New Coastal. This lavish publication is full of fabulous photography and invaluable design tips and information for people who live by the sea and those who aspire to do so.

ITALY IN A WINE GLASS

Mark Millon | Hurst Publishers | $35

Wine! Most of us love it; it’s a major part of how we socialise, dine and travel, and it is commonly enjoyed as a part of our daily life. We sip, we quaff, we toast, we share, we cook with wine, and we are blessed to live in a country with access to some of the world’s best wines and wineries. Marc Millon’s book dives deeply into Italian history and wine’s important place in their civilisation over the past 6000 years or more. Wine was originally used in ceremonies and rituals, and it still is today in parts of the globe. It was used to celebrate triumphs in battle and political negotiation, and enjoyed by kings and queens, warriors, peasants, popes and bishops. Millon says the stories of Italy are contained within almost every single bottle of Italian wine, and in this wonderful book, he tells the long story of Italy through wines in chronological order, beginning in the ancient days of Homer and the Trojan War, through to the 21st century. It is not a fully comprehensive history of Italy, but an enjoyable plunge into wine’s place in our world. Millon writes with a light hand, resulting in an enormously entertaining and enlightening book.

THE OCEAN SPEAKS: A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY AND HOPE

Matt Porteous & Tamsin Raine | White Lion Publishing | $60

This large format, beautifully published book is a fascinating look at our oceans from the perspective of 45 people who wish to give a voice to the oceans and preserve them for the future. There are contributions from surfers, divers, marine biologists and more, each with their own experiences and a passion for protecting this largely unknown world.  At this time, around 80 per cent of our oceans remain unmapped and unexplored – even as we are reaching further and further into space! As well as being packed with information, stories and testimonies, there are more than 200 stunning images from various photographers. This book is a celebration of our underwater world, the largest habitat on the planet, and the battle we must all face to protect it. The power of storytelling and the ability to collaborate with others will ultimately give a voice to our oceans.

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

SHOWCASE DAY

9:15am Tue 16 July

At NCC, we offer students an enriching and nurturing learning environment that focuses on cultivating character and fostering a sense of community in each student. Our extensive programs and opportunities empower your children to develop into confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals, equipped to make a positive impact on the world. With an education at NCC, your child will be prepared to embrace their future with purpose and excellence.

CHEERS TO THAT

WORDS LUCINDA DEAN PHOTOS MATEO BRASELLI

MULTI-AWARD WINNER Sunshine & Sons has done it again. Earlier this year, the Coast distillery’s Original Vodka was declared the World’s Best Botanical Vodka. Now, its certified organic rum brand, Nil Desperandum, has had a podium finish at the World Rum Awards (2024), winning gold for its botanical rum.

The exciting young rum brand was also awarded two silver medals for its Special and Artfully Corrupted Spiced rums and two bronze medals for its Premier and Artfully Corrupted Orange rums.

We simply had to find out what all the hype was about, so I dropped in for a tasting and a chat with founder Matt Hobson at the distillery door.

According to Matt, the conflux of place, climate and soil produced the perfect conditions to craft a range of premium rums, which recently were deemed among the best in the world.

“Nil Desperandum at its essence is all about pure, unadulterated beautifully expressive no-additive rums that are Australian-certified organic,” says Matt.

“Special, Premier and Botanical are great examples of that – there is no added sugar.”

Botanical, which won gold, is made from four different local botanicals: sugar cane, which is halved and charred; orchard fresh limes; aromatic ginger; and quartered and barbecued pineapples.

The botanicals are placed in gin baskets (a bit like a leaf tea infuser but on a much bigger scale) inside the distillery’s two copper pot stills and are vapour infused. Each of the four distillates are aged separately for almost three years.

According to Matt, this process of double-pot, still-vapour infusion is an “absolute world first”.

“No one has ever produced rum in this style, so to get a gold medal at the world rum awards, we’re super proud that we believed in us and in trialling this method.”

Premier, which won Bronze, is aged for a minimum of three years and has that lively interaction of bourbon-soaked barrel, environment, temperature and humidity.

Matt said this was because we live in a subtropical climate that’s perfect for really elevating and concentrating those ripe, floral aromas and rich tropical fruit characteristics on the palate.

Having a bit of a sweet tooth, I was drawn to Nil Desperandum’s Artfully Corrupted Spiced, which won silver.

“Spiced rum has a history of being cheaply made with inferior rum, cordials, syrups and artificial flavourings and colourings,” Matt explains.

“What we do is the opposite to that. We take our exceptional quality unadulterated rums and artfully add rich toasted aromatic spices and a little honey and sugar to sweeten them.”

Word is spreading fast about the distillery experience, which is just $15 per person to taste the entire Sunshine & Sons spirits and Nil Desperandum rum ranges. It runs daily on the hour from 10am to 5pm. You get to keep your spirits-tasting tumbler, plus receive $15 off the purchase price of any 700ml bottle.

Walk-ins welcome or book online to avoid disappointment. sunshineandsons.com.au/tours-and-tastings/

SHAKEN AND STIRRED: COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS

My senses are stirred the moment I enter the distillery. My eyes drink in the stacked racks of bourbon-soaked oak barrels, and heady wafts of rum distillate tickle my nostrils. I inhale deeply. I’m excited about the immersive experience that awaits.

Laid out on a long bar are assorted cocktail-making implements, bottles of spirits, citrus and other essential ingredients. Ash, our master mixologist, greets my friend Ali and I with a broad smile and upbeat energy. She runs through today’s ‘assignment’: a rum sour, an espresso martini and a near north (a twist on a Brazilian caipirinha). Ash stresses the recipes and instructions are merely guidelines because cocktail-making is all about improvisation and having fun. First, we must familiarise ourselves with the tools of the trade and learn their correct names: a jigger (a dual-sided measuring cup, which I erroneously called a nip measure); a Hawthorn strainer, which attaches snuggly to the Boston shaker base; a muddler for crushing limes and the like; and a long bar spoon.

The masterclass caters equally for cocktail-making virgins (me) or seasoned home bartenders like Ali, who makes an exotic Christmas cocktail each year.

We measure our pours for the rum sour, hand-juice half a lemon and then add ice. Ash demonstrates the correct angle to wedge the hospitality-grade glass into the Boston shaker base before locking it into place with a thud. Then a whole lot of vigorous shaking takes place.

Ali produces a rum sour with a perfect foam and declares this is her new Christmas cocktail. So simple to make yet deliciously refreshing. Using aquafaba (literally chickpea juice) instead of egg whites to create the foam makes it veganfriendly too. We wash down our rum sours with a ‘chaser’ of Woombye washed rind cheese, the best organic sourdough crackers from Silver Tongue Foods and roasted macadamias from Nutworks at Yandina.

Feeling the need for a wake-up and a shake-up, Ash sets us the task of making Mr Barista martinis. Instead of using inferior ingredients, Ash hands us the secret sauce: Mr Barista, which is made from wild fermented organic molasses, Segafredo Zanetti cold-brewed coffee and twice-roasted Nutworks macadamias. Delicious!

Next we muddle a few segments of fresh lime in a cocktail shaker and then add a couple of nips of Sunshine & Sons Original Cane topped with ice to make a near north. I throw my entire body into shake, shake, shaking it up.

We might not have been flipping bottles like Tom Cruise in Cocktail, but by the end of the masterclass, I feel like I’ve hit my stride. The masterclass runs Tuesday to Friday from 3-5pm. Minimum two people; maximum 10. Great for birthdays, hen’s parties or just because. It’s $99 per person and bookings are essential.

sunshineandsons.com.au/tours-and-tastings/

NEW WINTER WARMERS ON THE MENU

Rum Toddy

• 45ml Special

• 30ml sugar syrup

• 15ml lemon juice

• 180ml boiling water

• Slice of lemon rind

Combine all ingredients and serve.

Gin Gluhwein (Woombye warmer)

• 45ml Original Dry Gin

• 30ml Gluhwein

• 30ml chai syrup

• 120ml apple juice

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 star anise

• 1 orange wheel

Combine all ingredients, heat in a small saucepan or microwave until hot (do not boil).

the

Made here on the Sunshine Coast

TOURS, TASTINGS, COCKTAILS AND NIL DESPERANDUM RUM premium spirits

VISIT OUR DISTILLERY DOOR OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 10AM 104 NAMBOUR CONNECTION RD, WOOMBYE 4559

FLAVOUR FUELLED

WORDS LUCINDA DEAN

ASK ANY LOCAL what Eumundi is famous for and they’ll unequivocally tell you it’s the artisan market. But now Eumundi has a new claim to fame as the nation’s home to Australia’s first alcoholic ginger beer. It’s all thanks to market disruptor and exciting innovator, Matso’s.

The craft brewery, which was born in Broome in 1997, opened the doors to its second Australian home in Eumundi late last year, giving iconic Queensland pub Joe’s Waterhole a colourful new lease on life.

Part brewery, part distillery, Matso’s is just a hop, skip and a jump from the Eumundi markets. It’s becoming well-known with locals and visitors alike for its selection of on-tap, deliciously tasty, tropical fruit-driven beers, thirst-quenching lagers and pales, and pre-mixed alcoholic cocktails.

Matso’s is famous for its firsts. It was first to market with Australia’s original alcoholic ginger beer, which was brewed to beat the heat and humidity of Broome, a tropical tourist destination where beer was no longer refreshing enough. Similarly, Matso’s mango beer was created especially for the Coast’s subtropical climate.

“We’ve always done things that go against the grain and are a little left of centre,” Nick says.

“We’re all about experimentation and doing interesting things with flavour.”

“Our original ginger beer is used as the base for our chilli and lime ginger beer, which has quickly become a crowd favourite. It’s big ginger bite and refreshing acidity is elevated through the addition of chilli for those who love a bit of extra spice and the lime providing some extra tang to balance the sweetness.

“On the nose you get a big hit of ginger with the additional notes of chilli and lime; they make such a complementary pairing. When it hits the palate you get that classic ginger hit that everybody knows and loves with the addition of some extra heat from the chillis. This is rounded out with a beautiful lime flavour that really refreshes the palate.”

Hubby and I visited Matso’s one dark and stormy evening on the cusp of winter. While it’s a big open space, it still manages to feel cosy.

“We collaborated with some local artists: Alison Mooney, Zartisha Davis and E&E Murals. They did some really fantastic artwork for us around the space, which helped us to create different zones and a great atmosphere,” Nick says.

The front entrance is through the historic façade of Old Joe’s while the side entrance is down a laneway, which reminds me of the uber cool Melbourne alleyway bars. Alison Mooney created a mural emblazoned with ‘Matso’s’ along the side of the building leading to the beer garden. Inside is an amazing painting from Zartisha Davis, a First Nations artist.

“We wanted to acknowledge that our site sits on the land of the Gubbi Gubbi people,” Nick says.

As a local who loved listening to live music in Joe’s dank and atmospheric back room, I was heartened to discover Matso’s has retained the character and spirit of the original front bar. The beer-soaked wooden floorboards have been returned to their original state and some of the old furniture remains mixed in with the new.

If you look around, you can see bits of ‘old Joe’s’ repurposed throughout the entire venue. Nick says they often hear stories about the live music history of the place, which is something Matso’s is committed to keeping alive.

“We have local musicians performing acoustic sets every weekend with Australian Idol top 10 Tyler Hammill and Kiani on regular rotation.”

Staying a while? Matso’s bistro-style menu is peppered with fresh produce from local suppliers: Noosa Reds tomatoes, Kilcoy beef, spray-free and organic Queensland greens, mushrooms from local farms, Mooloolaba prawns straight off the boat and line-caught fish from the Gold Coast. The kitchen also uses Matso’s ginger and mango beers in its cooking.

Nick says the venue offers something for everyone, including fantastic wood-fired style pizzas and great steak. The beer garden overlooks the playground with an old FJ55 Landcruiser in the sandpit, so parents can relax knowing their kids are having a ball. “We want everyone who walks away to have had a great experience.”

matsos.com.au/sunshinecoast

SunshineYour

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 winter edition, 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.

Chef Peter Brown and team are rocking Arrows Bistro and the Vine Wine Bar at The Bower Tree, Sippy Downs. You’ll love their house-made gnocchi or orecchiette with a cheeky glass of red wine.

Embark on a journey to the Mediterranean this winter at Casita Wine Bar in Mooloolaba, a cool, intimate tapas bar perfect for catch-ups with friends!

Check out the signature brunch dish at White Picket Fence in Caloundra. I’m modelling the hash Benny – house-made hash browns topped with two poached eggs, chipotle hollandaise, chimichurri and corn salsa. Oh my, yum!

Best put July 4-7 in your diary as the Queensland Garden Expo is a ‘must see’ for green thumbs and novice gardeners alike. Held in the Sunshine Coast hinterland town of Nambour, this three-day expo is Queensland’s premier gardening event, attracting visitors from all over Australia. Australia’s leading gardening experts take part in three days of lectures; yours truly will be in cooks’ garden marquee with great speakers sharing tips on growing your own produce and how to turn it into delicious gourmet meals.

Plus, there will be lots of great information about using plant-based remedies for common ailments, organic gardening demonstrations, workshops and more. You won’t want to miss it!

Psst… I’m very excited to be hosting a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on Friday, July 26, plus a special Celebrate Glasshouse Country long lunch at Yanalla Farms on Saturday, July 27, with chef Dan Penfold of Penfolds Catering. Both events feature in this year’s program of The Curated Plate.

I look forward to sharing more great stories about our artisan producers and Sunshine Coast foodies in future editions. Until next time, bon appetit!

MARTIN DUNCAN

Step through the arched doors and be whisked away to a realm of warmth and flavour reminiscent of sun-kissed shores and azure waters at CASITA WINE BAR. Indulge in their tantalising tapas plate selection, carefully crafted to transport your taste buds to the coast of Italy and the vibrant streets of Spain. Kate Yates and team offer curated cheese and charcuterie boards evoking the rustic charm of European markets. Amidst the cosy ambience and the welcoming smiles of the staff, allow yourself to be swept away to a place where every sip of wine and every bite of food invites you to be present, relishing moments with friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Casita Wine Bar is your winter destination for embracing ‘the art of living’.

Casita Wine Bar is at 3/26 River Esplanade, Mooloolaba.

Looking to celebrate a special occasion or to treat friends and loved ones? A few minutes from Hastings Street, in Noosa Heads, is NOOSA SPRINGS GOLF AND SPA RESORT, where you can relax and enjoy a traditional, elegant high tea while taking in the beautiful golf course and garden views from their terrace. Their high teas are made in-house and are served on a three-tiered stand. They include an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, mini quiches, a selection of petite fours and macaroons, plus a choice of sparkling wine or orange juice and a barista-made coffee or a pot of tea for $50 per person. Available everyday; however bookings are essential, require a minimum of two people and must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Payment is also required at the time of booking. Some dietary requirements can be catered for; please ask when booking. Noosa Springs Golf and Spa is at Links Dr, Noosa Heads. Phone 5440 3317. noosasprings.com.au/dining/specials

Kate Yates

Daneyl Green, the visionary behind MIX, TASTE, EAT in Nambour, has been inspiring home cooking enthusiasts for nearly a decade through her engaging cooking workshops. With a deep commitment to her Sunshine Coast community, Daneyl has made it her mission to encourage food and cooking exploration and innovation through her workshops. Mix, Taste, Eat offers more than just cooking classes; it’s a gathering place where individuals can come together and immerse themselves in the world of food. As a nutritionist, Daneyl is driven by a passion for imparting fundamental knowledge on how food can be a powerful ally in supporting one’s health. Mix, Taste, Eat serves as a dynamic hub, inviting people from diverse backgrounds to embark on a culinary journey.

You’ll love the chic vintage decor and plush Chesterfield lounges at CHEW CHEW BISTRO AT THE SHED PALMWOODS

Chew Chew Bistro is a licensed bistro offering delicious breakfasts until 11.30 am and sensational lunches five days a week. They have a range of decadent housemade cakes and pastries on offer as well as their fabulous freshly brewed coffee. The Bistro is also available for functions of up to 80 people. Their retail space is a feast for the eyes, with upmarket vintage and new homewares, jewellery, gift lines, soft furnishings and art. This venue has become a favourite with visitors and locals as you can enjoy a drink (or two) while you enjoy the unique ambience of shopping and dining by the tracks. Open 7.30am4pm Wednesday till Sundays. Their retail space is open 9am-4pm.

The Shed Palmwoods, 3 to 5 Main St, Palmwoods. Phone 5479 6603. theshedsca.com.au

mixtasteeat.com

Sunshine Plaza’s newest arrival to the Riverwalk, ZAMBRERO, is now open and ser ving up delicious, fresh food every day. The menu consists of the ultimate Mexican favourites, including nachos, burritos, burrito bowls, tacos and more. Plus, Zambrero is passionate about giving back to the community with its Plate 4 Plate initiative, where with every big and regular burrito or bowl, Zam kids box and retail item sold, a meal is donated to someone in need. Since beginning this initiative, Zambrero has donated more than 70 million meals.

sunshineplaza.com

Owners Dianna & Geoff Ryan with chef Tristen Ostby (centre)

Daneyl Green

Holy cannoli! Check out these Sicilian sweet treats at Golden Beach’s CAFÉ SISILY

Cannoli is something you’ll never tire of – it’s crispy and sweet (but not too sweet), and so tasty. Pastry chef Paolo Valvoletti rocks out these crispy fried pastry tubes painted with chocolate and filled with chocolate, vanilla or traditional ricotta filling. You’ll also enjoy great coffee and the best fresh-baked pastries! Perfect desserts for a dinner party or as a treat for your mum, dad, nan or pop!

Psst… This Sicilian icon has a fabulous sister right next door. PIZZERIA SISILY offers expertly-made woodfired pizza, antipasti, mains, desserts, wines, craft brews and curated cocktails right in the heart of Golden Beach.

Café Sisily is at 40 Landsborough Parade, Golden Beach. Phone 0423 800 482. cafesisily.com.au pizzeriasisily.com.au

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.

Introducing ALL ANTICA at Buddina, A place where families and special friends gather to relax and celebrate life over an amazing pizza with a side of pasta and a glass of wine. Try their Sicilian seafood hot pot or gnocchi with beef cheek ragu. It is delicious! Heads up –All’ Antica in Italian means ‘in the traditional way’ or ‘old-fashioned way’ and is a popular name for family trattoria’s across Italy. The team at All’ Antica strives to bring you an authentic Italian dining experience that is free from pretension but with a focus on quality homemade food sourced both locally and from overseas. Bravo! Molto bene! Bellissimo! All Antica is at 3/115a Point Cartwright Drive, Buddina. Phone 5444 0988. allantica.com.au

Monday to Sunday 11am - 8.30pm 2/216 David Low Way Peregian Beach QLD 4573 07 5448 3251

periwinklerestaurant.com.au

Chef Davide De Scisciolo, owner Lawrence Monforte

Paolo Valvoletti

SALTWATER ECO TOURS forges a deeper connection to Australia’s Indigenous culture through unique marine experiences on board a beautifully restored, heritage-listed vessel. Simon Thornalley, along with his partner Jenna, Traditional Owner Aunty Bridgette Chilli, and their experienced crew, pride themselves in authenticity, passion and a genuine love for saltwater. Operating on the peaceful waterways in Mooloolaba, Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi Country, the company is the first of its kind, combining culture, maritime history, native foods and unforgettable live music experiences.

Marvel at what you can find at THE BOWER TREE

Be captivated by the many destinations as you stroll through the laneway of the club, which recently celebrated its first birthday. With a café, restaurant, pizzeria, kids’ facilities, plus its partner venue, VineWine Bar, the options are endless. Your tastebuds will be dancing. Not to mention, there are function facilities that are state-of-the-art, in fact, the top level is dedicated to functions and events. Your guests will experience a seamless journey from the car park to the function level, thanks to convenient lift access. The VineWine Bar is a great find; it is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family. You can even hire the VineWine Bar for team building or celebratory events. The Bower Tree is the place to unwind after a long day – a time to enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of this stylish club.

The Bower Tree is at 10 Courage Street, Sippy Downs. Phone 5450 4288. thebowertree.com.au

The Wharf, Mooloolaba, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba. Phone 0447 085 521. saltwaterecotours.com.au

GATHAA FIRST NATIONS MARKET is a fun family day out filled with bushfood, music, crafts and cultural activities. Immerse yourself in cultural workshops, bushfood demonstrations and the yarning circle or engage in conversations with our First Nations stallholders, who offer an array of products from arts and crafts to apparel, jewellery, homewares, artefacts, kids’ fashion, live entertainment and much more. An enriching celebration where culture meets community. Heads up: the future market dates in 2024 are July 28 and September 22. Everyone is welcome. Entry is free (no pets, sorry).

Gathaa First Nations Market is at Forest Glen Village. mydillybag.com.au

CEO Suzanne Long, executive chef Peter Brown

Simon Thornalley

Market participants Dale Chapman & Robby Peters

Exciting news! The team at FLO’S CREPERIE will soon be introducing a full French dinner menu to complement their delicious crêpes and galettes. Designed by chef Francois Poulard, who also executed the sold-out Go With The Flo tasting dinners, the new dinner dishes feature a range of French classics with a Flo’s twist. Think steak frites, fricassée, rillettes, bouillabaisse – all those dishes that are hard to pronounce but easy to indulge in. And of course, the signature crêpes and galettes will feature heavily.

Flo’s Creperie is at The Wharf Mooloolaba, 23/123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba. Phone 5444 1680 or visit floscreperie.com/book to book your table.

Kick back and relax at the iconic SURF CLUB MOOLOOLABA. Chef Nick Lockyer and team are smashing out great food on all levels, boasting panoramic views of the Mooloolaba beachfront. With a focus on fresh seafood, enjoy freshly shucked oysters, salt and pepper calamari, or a bucket of Mooloolaba prawns and a beverage – magic! Upstairs, Bayview Bar & Bites restaurant amps it up with white linen tablecloths, serving up cracking lunch and dinner specials. Try their crispy duck confit with roasted speck, white and green bean medley and truffle pea purée. The team will keep you entertained at The Surf Club Mooloolaba with raffles, member’s draws, live music, special events and more.

The Surf Club Mooloolaba, The Esplanade, Mooloolaba. Phone 5444 1300. thesurfclub.com.au

Sharing an amazing meal with family and friends in a stunning location can be a joyful experience. Introducing THE BEACH BARS, found in two of the most gorgeous waterfront locations on the Sunshine Coast – Cotton Tree Esplanade and Kings Beach. Customers can expect a friendly and informal atmosphere, always with a touch of humour to polish off the consistently awesome vibe. Peruse the cocktail list and delve into the freshest, expertly crafted dishes made by well-travelled chefs. Be sure to try the satay chicken bowl – succulent chicken breast that falls apart, accompanied by mouthwatering house-made sauce, coconut rice and fresh herbs and spices. Pair it with a wine or beer for the ultimate experience. Both Beach Bars are open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between so you can order all day long, seven days a week. thebeachbars.com.au

Indulge in the ultimate dining experience at TGIFRIDAYS, Sunshine Plaza. Savour every bite from their mouthwatering dishes. From their signature Jack Daniel’s® glazed ribs to their iconic loaded potato skins, each dish is a celebration of flavour. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter, great food and even better company. Whether it’s a casual lunch or dinner with friends, TGI Fridays is your go-to destination to fuel up on delicious food and drink while soaking up some sunshine. sunshineplaza.com

Enjoy stunning views of Pumicestone Passage out to Bribie Island and over to Bulcock Beach while enjoying premium cuisine at ACQUA RESTAURANT AND BAR

With an offering of quality steaks, a great selection of seafood and many other modern dishes, Acqua has something to please everyone. The extensive wine and cocktail selection makes Acqua a great place to relax while taking in the ocean views. They are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, so why not pop in, have a drink, try one of their lovely meals, and let their friendly staff look after you.

Acqua Restaurant and Bar is at the corner of The Esplanade and Otranto Avenue, Caloundra. Phone 5492 8155. aquarestaurant.com.au

Owner Jonny Giles

Introducing Rebecca, Sally and Darius of SIMPLEE SWEET ON BUDERIM. They are a small local family that makes cupcakes, scones and other cakes, plus sweet grazing gift boxes for morning teas, business meetings and other events. They began early in 2020 by baking for the frontline workers at Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH) and other emergency crews, including local police, ambulance, firies, life savers, Life Flight, the Sippy Downs Respiratory Clinic and Wishlist – all at their own expense. We love these unsung heroes. They saw the need for those who were under pressure during the challenging time of COVID to be supplied with nutritious, home-cooked meals and baked goods, including bread and cakes. Bec and Sally still supply and regularly support Wishlist, Bloomhill, Coast to Bay and SCUH volunteers and have joined the Sconetime family. Simplee Sweet on Buderim. Phone 0438 910 880.

Indulge in a wonderful dining experience on PARK & COVE’S deck at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas. You’ll love the breathtaking vistas of Noosa National Park and Little Cove. With a culinary team spearheaded by talented chef Andrew Wilcox, Park & Cove’s menu brings a genuine passion for the region and its vibrant produce. Andrew, a proud third-generation Noosa native, embarked on his culinary journey at the age of 13. After completing a schoolbased apprenticeship, he ventured to Melbourne, immersing himself in the bustling food scene and managing kitchens with unwavering dedication. Upon returning to Noosa, Andrew was inspired to unite families with his tantalising taste sensations. Today, as the executive chef of Park & Cove, Andrew crafts innovative, locally inspired dishes to delight visitors. His style blends old-fashioned charm with a touch of modern cuisine, while his keen attention to detail shines through in his meticulously plated creations.

Park & Cove is at 33A Viewland Drive, Noosa Heads. Phone 5445 2209. parkandcovenoosa.com.au

Andrew Wilcox

Rebecca Kiss, Darius Kiss, Sally Gillies

WORDS LINDA READ PHOTOS BRIAN KERR

IT’S A LIME – but not as you know it.

Filled with pink, green and champagne-coloured pearls that look like beads of caviar and burst with a tangy taste sensation in the mouth, the Australian native fingerlime is not your average citrus.

Its varietal names – red champagne, chartreuse, emerald –suggest something just a little bit fancy: a fitting way to describe this small, cylindrical rainforest fruit that is taking the world by storm.

Sunshine Coast agronomist, farmer, and owner of Green Valley Fingerlimes Jade King is at the forefront of the push to extol the virtues, both locally and internationally, of this native gem, used by Indigenous Australians for millenia both medicinally and as a food source.

Jade, who is also head of agriculture at the Glasshouse

Christian College, has 2000 fingerlimes growing at her 72-acre, aptly-named property, Green Valley, a serene slice of hinterland heaven between Beerwah and Peachester where she also farms Brangus beef cattle, Wiltipoll sheep, pigs and ginger.

Food sustainability is key to Jade’s agronomist philosophy, as well as the practice of keeping all her products spray-free.

She established the fingerlime orchard at Green Valley about 10 years ago as a result of an assignment she had set for a group of agricultural students.

A few hundred trees were planted initially, which Jade thought would make an ideal market garden.

“I thought I had five years, but I was harvesting within two-and-a-half,” she tells salt.

“And suddenly, I’d become a commercial finger lime grower overnight. Then I expanded further on and more and more, and

now I’m up to 2000.

“I’m pretty sure that’s enough; it does make me one of the larger growers in Australia.”

She has spent the past two years travelling overseas extensively as a Nuffield Scholar – an international scholarship that encourages agricultural learning across the globe – an experience that has allowed Jade to share her own knowledge with the world while learning about international farming and production practices.

Although the fingerlime is endemic to Australia, it is grown extensively in several countries overseas with large established farms in Guatemala, France, Spain, Thailand and many other countries.

Jade is passionate about ensuring Australian proprietorship and leadership in the production, research and marketing of this native fruit and has established the Australian Native Fingerlime Alliance with these aims in mind.

“I want to identify that it is an Australian original product;

“ I would like australia to lead the quality, the production and be known for such an amazing fruit”

I would like Australia to lead the quality, the production and be known for such an amazing fruit,” she says.

“And also, to recognise the fact that it has been used by Indigenous Australians [for a very long time].”

The fingerlime’s uses and benefits are numerous and it is thought to contain higher levels of folate, potassium and vitamins C and E than a normal citrus fruit.

While the tree itself is thorny, the juicy crystals the fruit holds within its glossy skin are making it increasingly popular in the culinary world for use in desserts, seafood dishes and drinks.

“They always go really well with any of the creamier products, as well as seafood, anything you would put a lime with,” says Jade.

“Just put it in sparkling water, and the pearls actually dance with the carbonated water.

“It’s pretty incredible because instead of just a lime flavour, it’s an experience.

“That pop, that burst of the pearl in your mouth, is the experience side of it.

“Unlike normal lime, that you would squeeze over a salad or seafood, the pearls keep the lime all held, and that flavour explosion happens only when you burst those pearls.

“So I think they’re very unique and a really amazing

Australian native product. I fell in love with them straight away.”

Green Valley Fingerlimes supplies to Network 10’s cooking show Masterchef, as well as some of the Sunshine Coast region’s most prestigious restaurants including Spirit House at Yandina and Honeysuckle at Buderim.

Outside of Australia, the fingerlimes are also in high demand – in fact, Jade says, the world cannot get enough of them.

“My main [international] market currently is Singapore, but I export to Italy, Hong Kong, Macau, all across the board,” she says.

“I’ve just recently had another contact from France wanting some more.”

She has recently returned from a trip to Germany, Ireland and Texas and plans to visit India and Sri Lanka later this year, all with the aim of spreading the word about fingerlime production. She will also be presenting her findings from the Nuffield Scholarship travels at horticultural conferences in Melbourne and Tasmania in September.

It’s not only the fingerlime’s culinary assets that are responsible for its popularity – its natural resistance to some of the diseases other citrus fruit is prone to has also piqued the international horticultural community’s interest.

“California University [in the US] is currently doing studies on them. They’ve got a great collection of fingerlimes over there that they got in for research purposes, and they are using them only for the purpose of [researching] resistance of mainstream citrus.

“So they’re amazing, and they’re full of all these genetic possibilities that can help the world in citrus production and be a unique product on its own,” Jade adds.

One of the challenges faced by Australian fingerlime growers, she explains, is the difficulty in exporting the fruit because of the quarantine guidelines for some countries.

However, she plans to mitigate this by creating a variety of other products from the limes themselves, such as dried cocktails, powders and cordials.

“I’d love to expand the opportunities of product for fingerlimes,” she says. “That will be my next endeavour.”

She also plans to expand her research interests, having established a collaboration with the University of Queensland, which has set up research trials at Green Valley.

Despite her continuing and extensive travels to some of the world’s most envious destinations, Jade is thrilled to be a part of the Sunshine Coast farming community, which she believes is a one-of-a-kind collection of some of the country’s finest produce.

“I’m pretty lucky, to be honest,” she says.

“There are some amazing producers all over this area. It’s this amazing little boutique area of food.

“It’s incredible.”

LITTLE PIECE of Italy

WORDS INGRID NELSON PHOTOS BRIAN KERR

THERE IS NOTHING more comforting on a cold, rainy evening after a long day at work than a bowl of delicious pasta, and if it’s authentic Italian fare you are craving, then look no further than All’ Antica Italian Restaurant at Buddina.

Keeping true to tradition since opening in 1990, All’ Antica Italian Restaurant, which means ‘old-fashioned way’ has a rich history and heritage and has maintained its reputation for serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm, welcoming, rustic environment.

Boasting an inviting, intimate atmosphere and furnished with sleek dark furniture, stylish ceiling lamps and brick feature walls, All’ Antica is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two, a catch-up with friends or a big family affair.

My daughter, Miss Chloe, and I dined at the popular restaurant recently, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s not surprising that it is such a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

On the evening of our visit, the atmosphere was lively yet relaxed and service was friendly and attentive from the moment we arrived and were seated.

Owners Helen and Shane McNally pride themselves on their friendly customer service. Guests are made to feel more like family. And, if the friendly, familiar banter and welcoming hugs with their guests are anything to go by, they have plenty of repeat customers.

Offering a fully-stocked bar, we were spoilt for choice when it came to selecting a beverage. All’ Antica has a quality wine list, plus all your favourite cocktails, beers/ciders, spirits and liquors.

While I settled on a glass of McLaren Vale shiraz, Miss Chloe couldn’t resist Helen’s suggestion of the Elderflower martini. It didn’t disappoint.

Renowned for mouth-watering pizza and pasta dishes, fresh seafood and hearty mains, the extensive menu has a focus on quality homemade food, sourced both locally and from overseas, that showcases the diverse regions throughout Italy.

It offers all the traditional Italian favourites you know and love, such as lasagna, bolognaise, carbonara and napolitana, as well as a selection of authentic house-made pizzas, calzone and main dishes.

We kicked things off with the daily special. The house-made toasted garlic bread served with a terracotta pot of delicious cheese fondue really hit the spot. The delicious, warm gooey cheese was as decadent as it sounds.

For mains, both the risotto al pollo with chicken, mushrooms, pine nuts, sage and pumpkin in traditional risotto bianco and the prawns with spaghetti were vying for my attention. However, as a self-confessed seafood-lover, I couldn’t go past the succulent king prawns with garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, fresh chilli, black pepper and parsley.

The delicious dish had a plentiful number of prawns stirred through perfectly al dente spaghetti with an elegant sauce. It was topped with lashings of fresh Italian grana padano cheese – 10/10.

Miss Chloe was just as impressed with her choice. The spinach and ricotta ravioli with semi-dried tomatoes, baby spinach and caramelised pumpkin in buttered sage almond crème was sublime. The soft pillows of pasta were bursting with flavour and balanced with a delicate tomato cream sauce.

We also ordered a side of the parmesan truffle-oil roast

potatoes with rosemary, parmesan and white truffle oil, which I can highly recommend.

Other highlights on the menu include the chef’s rustic Sicilian seafood hot pot with blue lip mussels, king prawns, clams, calamari, fish and scallops in tomato concasse with green olives, capers, chilli, basil and sourdough.

When it came to dessert, we couldn’t decide between several of the delicious options on offer, so Helen suggested the sharing plate, which was a great way to sample some of the well-known favourites. It features the chef’s white chocolate tiramisu, vanilla bean panna cotta with mixed berry compote, lemon ricotta cake with limoncello syrup and mascarpone crème and strawberry gelato with mixed berry compote and wafers – yum!

A traditional Italian feast simply would not be complete without a refreshing limoncello to cleanse the palate and it was the perfect way to finish our gastronomic experience.

If you love traditional Italian food, you must try All’ Antica at Buddina. It’s a little bit of Italy right here on the Sunshine Coast.

Salute!

COASTAL tastes

NEW ENGLAND SEAFOOD CHOWDER

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

40ml vegetable oil

1 onion, finely sliced

2 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced

120ml dry white wine

750g potatoes, cut into chunks

750ml good fish stock

250ml thickened cream

2 bay leaves

Megachef fish sauce

White pepper – to taste

420g smoked kingfish – 100g in soup, 320g to garnish (available at Noosa Fish Providores)

Garnish:

16 cooked Mooloolaba prawns

2 corn cobs, cooked with kernels cut off

3 rashes of bacon, diced and cooked

Chives, chopped

Olive oil

tserve with

METHOD

Over a medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in a fry pan until soft

Deglaze with white wine.

Add potatoes, bay leaves and fish stock and gently simmer until potatoes are very soft

Add 100g of fish and cook for two minutes.

Blend, add cream and season to taste with fish sauce and white pepper.

Divide it into four bowls.

Garnish with fresh corn, Mooloolaba prawns (four per serve), remaining smoked kingfish (80g per bowl), crispy bacon, chives and a drizzle of olive oil.

bacon, chives and a drizzle of olive oil.

This recipe is courtesy of Noosa Boathouse.

Crunchy sourdough bread.

A LOCAL DROP

SEEN AS A SLEEPY coastal village, the laidback feel of Coolum appeals to a vast array of holidaymakers. With many businesses heading to the larger centres to hone their craft and target bigger audiences, two new producers have seized on an opportunity to bring some life to the local beverage scene.

The new players join Blackflag Brewing, the first to make the move when they opened their Coolum location in 2022.

The latest? Enter the Coolum Beer Company. Five locals with a passion for beer who met at a homebrewing club have joined forces. Located in the industrial estate on Junction Drive at Coolum Beach, the doors officially opened in December 2023, and the team behind the launch haven’t looked back.

Jesse Atkinson is the man behind the beer. Having honed his craft for a decade at Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co, he brings a wealth of experience and creativity to an extensive list of beers. There are three beers in the core range: Coolum Common Draught, Point Perry Pale Ale and the flagship Beach Days Session Ale. Expect to come across lagers, pilsners, stouts and IPAs, to name a few.

Idaho 7 is Atkinson’s hop of choice and that is clear given its use in a number of beers throughout the range. It delivers continuity, balance and drinkability. With 12 rotating taps to keep things fresh, two of these are dedicated to other local Sunshine Coast breweries, demonstrating the collegiality that the brewing community shares.

The retro and nostalgic feel of the taphouse is the work of local artist Alison Mooney. Uplifting vibrant colours set the tone, and the expansive indoor area opens out onto a spacious lawn with bench seating and various games enticing you to soak up the sun. A hit with young families, the relaxed atmosphere is precisely what the team set out to achieve.

With an aim to source everything as local as possible, a full kitchen is available with a classic range of brew-friendly food, including burgers, tacos and a late-night pizza menu.

Don’t despair if beer isn’t your thing; the focus on locals is highlighted furthermore with Sunshine and Sons gin and vodka on the shelves, as well as a vast array of wines from Queensland’s Granite Belt, including Ridgemill Estate, Golden Grove Estate and Le Petite Mort.

A mezzanine level can be hired as a function space, and you can be sure to catch some live music from local artists on Fridays through to Sunday.

Tourists need not worry that the brewery is on the other side of the motorway in the industrial estate. Getting there couldn’t be easier with a courtesy bus servicing the area. It’s just another reason you can stay a little longer.

You’ll find me at the bar with the flagship Beach Days Session Ale (3.5 per cent alcohol). Clean and fresh with a good mouthfeel, it’s tropical and citrusy with a dash of bitterness.

Coolum Beer Company is open Wednesday to Sunday.

Located a hop, skip and a jump around the corner is the other new venue: Dacelo Distilling – Coolum’s first distillery. A passion project for owners Sammy and Siobhan, Dacelo is the genus name for the Kookaburra.

Both locals themselves, Sammy and Siobhan wanted to pursue something apart from their regular day jobs that could

WORDS STEVE LESZCZYNSKI

Coolum Beer Company

Coolum Beer Company

Dacelo Distilling

sustain the family and contribute to the local community.

New to distilling, they have built a strong reputation already since opening the doors in October 2023.

That community vibe is certainly felt at Dacelo, with as much produce sourced locally as possible. The cheese and salami for their charcuterie boards come from nearby, and they also reuse the produce that goes into the gin to make jams and preserves.

The bar area has a capacity for 40 patrons, with a mezzanine area overlooking the lake behind the property – the perfect spot to enjoy one of the many cocktails on offer.

Seven gins are currently produced using an array of native botanicals, and a whiskey is available too. Guests are welcome to taste all gins, and if you can’t make up your mind, the sampler pack of six 100-millilitre gins has proven popular.

Of the gins themselves, the runaway success has been the Gumbi Gumbi. The earthiest of the range, Gumbi Gumbi leaves are infused with strawberry gum, white kunzea and desert wattle seed with a delicate mintiness tickling the palate on close. For those seeking a more classic style, the White Leucistic is the classic dry gin made with a native juniper. It shows subtle notes of lemon tea tree and old man saltbush.

Open every Friday and Saturday from 12-6pm, Dacelo Distilling is located at 9/48 Lysaght Street, Coolum Beach.

STEVE LESZCZYNSKI is a wine writer, author, wine dinner host and MC. Apart from writing for his website qwinereviews.com, Steve co-authored a book, Grenache – Barossa Grown He contributes to Halliday Wine Companion magazine, Vinomofo, Wine Business Magazine and Grapegrower & Winemaker magazine.

Sammy, Dacelo Distilling

Coolum Beer Company

INSTANT attraction

WORDS CAITLIN ZERAFA PHOTOS CLOVER STUDIOS

Michela

IT’S A LOVE story that spans across the globe. From opposite sides of the world, it must have been fate that prompted Michela and Matthew Smith to attend the same festival in Spain.

Matthew

They met in 2016 while at La Tomatina, the famous Spanish tomato-throwing festival held near the city of Valencia.

They were both young, backpacking through Europe at the time. Michela was from Vancouver, Canada, while Matthew heralded from Brisbane.

Michela admits it was “lust” at first sight and says they both liked each other instantly.

They decided to keep in touch, especially since Matthew was already planning to work a ski season in Canada.

“I think it was a few months later our relationship started when Matt landed in Vancouver,” Michela shares.

“We had five months there and then five months long distance, and then I moved here, and I’ve been here for almost seven years.”

Now based in Brisbane together, Michela says she had been hinting at the idea of marriage for quite some time, not-so-subtly sending screenshots of rings she liked.

She says she knew a proposal was coming but had no idea when or where.

“In 2022, we went to Canada for Christmas and then went over to Mexico with my family for a holiday,” she tells salt

“While we were in Mexico, he proposed at sunset, which was very nice.

“I had an inkling, as it had been six years at that stage, so he was getting the nudge from me.”

The couple wed at Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort

on March 15, 2024.

WEDDING DAY ROLL CALL

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION

Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort

DRESS

Made with Love Bridal

HAIR

Niki Taylor

MAKEUP

The Face Cartel

FLORIST

Your Bud

PHOTOGRAPHER

Clover Studios

CONTENT CREATOR

Creative Haus Weddings

EARRINGS

Lolaknight

Michela says they wanted a “timeless” look, opting for black and white as the colour theme for their special day.

“I wanted it to have a timeless feel,” she says.

“The groomsmen wore black suits, my bridesmaids were in black dresses, and we had white florals everywhere.”

With the ceremony, reception and guest accommodation all on site, Michela says the choice of location made it a smooth day for the couple and their 75 guests.

“The ceremony was in The Plateau, which was the garden, and all our guests stayed there after for the cocktail hour while we went and got our photos.

“Right after the ceremony, we had a champagne tower, which was really nice.

“Then we moved into the reception area for dinner and dancing. It was really nice having the whole wedding in the same area, and we also stayed there in the accommodation.”

Michela says the weather was in the couple’s favour, and she felt extremely relaxed for the big day.

“We were really blessed with the weather. The weather in Noosa was shocking the whole week, and then, on our wedding day, it was blue skies.

“I also felt really relaxed on the day,” she adds. “Everything went really smooth.

“The staff were great, and we really got to enjoy ourselves.”

As a special touch to their special day, Michela and Matthew chose a close friend as their celebrant.

Michela says one of her favourite parts of the day was

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18ct white gold ring with seven baguette, 12 princess and 30 round modern brilliant-cut diamonds, $19,500, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

Art Deco handmade platinum and 18ct yellow gold diamond cluster drop earrings, $12,750, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

14ct white gold pendant with 1.67ct Queensland boulder opal, Opals Down Under, Glenview, 5494 5400

Handmade platinum and yellow gold parti sapphire and diamond ring, $7445, NY2K, Cotton Tree, 5443 1955

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4. Georgie A dress, Minx & Max. Noosa Heads, 5447 3366.

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9ct rose gold Dearest Flower ring, $1495, Avenue J, Mooloolaba, 5444 4422

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Boulder opal ring set in yellow gold, $1350, The Opalcutter, Montville, 5442 9598

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5. Mot Cle boot, Dianas of Noosa.

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Shivani hoops Nzari, Mooloolaba, nzari.com.au.

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1. Multi sequin tote, Nzari

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FRIENDLY FIND

WHEN TONY FERRETTI was offered a redundancy due to the COVID pandemic after a 25-year career with Qantas, he decided to put a long-held dream into action.

Rosa, who has previously owned retail and management businesses, brought a swag of business acumen to the table.

Both brought a lifetime of customer service expertise and a love for the Sunshine Coast community they have each made their home.

In what is becoming a familiar narrative, COVID and its aftermath provided the opportunity they’d been waiting for; the friends became business partners two years ago when they bought Maleny Additions, a gift and clothing destination specialising in unique, high-quality gifts and clothing in the charming hinterland town of Maleny.

Emerging from the clouds that often cover the top of the Blackall Range with a misty cloak, Maleny is famous for its milk, its platypuses, a laid-back vibe, an evergreen landscape and an eclectic population.

It’s also a popular destination for interstate and international tourists eager to see what the fuss is about.

One of the biggest drawcards is the main street itself, where you can find upmarket homewares and clothing stores, op shops, delectable handmade sweets, art galleries, excellent bookshops, and an array of cafés in which to while away the time while breathing in the distinctively fresh mountain air.

It’s also here, in the heart of the action, where Maleny Additions can be found.

In fact, the store has been part of the town’s streetscape for

the past 12 years and has become a much-loved member of the local retail community.

So much so, in fact, that when Rosa and Tony took over the business, the previous owners held an evening to thank their loyal customers and to introduce the newcomers to the community.

“It’s been really lovely that they did that because all of the customers love the shop and they were really concerned about what we were going to do with it,” Tony says.

However, locals need not have worried.

Tony explains that those original owners had created a strong following by sourcing high-quality brands, a tradition

WORDS LINDA READ PHOTOS BRIAN KERR

pull back towards the coast,” Tony explains.

“Rosa and her husband moved up from Brisbane about 18 years ago, and they had a business in Caloundra, managing an apartment complex.”

that he and Rosa are proudly continuing.

They are also building their online offering and constantly on the lookout for new brands that fit the ethos of the store.

“Our motivation for buying the particular business that is Maleny Additions was the fact that Rosa knew it quite well as she had shopped there often, and the fact that we would inherit the beautiful brands that were sourced and curated by the ladies [who had established the business].

“We really do look for quality items; what we’re trying to do is make sure we have our firm brands that you can rely on all the time, but we are constantly sourcing new items as well so that the locals have a lot to choose from and are not just coming in and seeing the same things.”

Some of the well-loved brands on offer include Muse, a clothing label specialising in linen and other natural fibres, designed and tailored in Brisbane; Esperance & Co, a range of responsibly sourced pure Alashan cashmere garments that feel like silk; and Regn, a collection of stylish rainwear sourced from Denmark.

There’s babywear from the Australian Wilson and Frenchy range, which features whimsical designs on natural and organic fabrics; sleek, German-made Lamy pens; and a range of men’s gifts, fragrances, games and homewares.

“We like to think we have something for everyone,” says Tony. “There’s electronics, we have a range of women’s clothes, we have homewares, candles, perfumes, and we have a gardening section.

“We love beautiful quality products, and once people buy them, they often come back in to buy them as gifts for friends and family.”

Tony and Rosa both grew up in Brisbane,and while not strictly related, their childhoods were one and the same.

“We call ourselves cousins because it’s a lot easier, even though we’re not,” says Tony.

“We do share a cousin in common, so Rosa’s parents were my godparents and vice versa.

“I grew up with Rosa and her sister and brother, so our families have always been very close; she’s always been like that big sister.”

Although they may both be Brisbane-born and raised, they are both now firmly established as Sunshine Coast locals.

“Prior to going into Qantas, I was a teacher, and my first posting was Kawana, so that’s why I’ve had this gravitational

Tony and Rosa treasure the hinterland community they work in, which has continued to embrace their business wholeheartedly, along with a burgeoning cohort of interstate and international tourists who are drawn to Maleny’s unique charms.

“We’re very lucky in that sense that we have great support from the people of Maleny and also the surrounding towns, but it’s also become a real tourist destination.

“We get everyone, from lots of Victorians and people from New South Wales.

“But what’s really lovely, especially this year, is to see a lot more international people coming from as far as Canada, the UK, Italy and France.”

And luckily, the duo’s longstanding friendship remains firmly intact – not always an easy task for a seven-day-a-week operation – thanks to a lot of mutual respect and some clever scheduling.

“We do week-on, week-off, and normally we are there together on Saturdays,” Tony says.

“It gives us a really good work-life balance. We talk daily and sound off each other about what’s come in and what we need to order.

“I wouldn’t have done this by myself, and I couldn’t have picked a better business partner; because we’ve known each other for such a long time, we know each other’s work ethic.

“It’s great that Rosa has the business experience, and we both have a strong customer service focus.”

Shop owners, Rosa and Tony

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LET’S BREAK the pattern

ISN’T IT REMARKABLE that many women can live up to half of their lives after menopause?

What I have found in the conversations during my 21 years as a hormone and ageing specialist naturopath is that women can feel disheartened, fearful, confused and hopeless when it comes to transitioning into menopause.

What if we were to throw this dialogue upside down?

What if we were to go so far as to call this age and stage a ‘celebration of life’. Yes, it has its challenges. Inherently, it does. But let’s think of this natural state of hormonal transition as a celebration and a reawakening.

This is our time to truly come into our power. We are older, wiser and more intuitive. We have experienced personal growth, life experiences, achievements and boundaries and are less willing to deal with drama.

For many of us, our grandmother’s and mother’s generations referred to menopause as “the change of life”, and women’s circles declared, “It’s all downhill from here, ladies”.

I do feel for this cohort of women. They didn’t have the knowledge or support they needed throughout their hormonal transitional journeys and certainly didn’t have conversations about proactive ageing strategies.

In today’s culture, circumstances can be quite the contrary. I meet many women who are completely overwhelmed with the amount of data available about hormones. Information overwhelm can be daunting and debilitating without a clear direction on how it applies uniquely to you.

It is so inspiring that, in this era, we have a unique and empowering opportunity to break a generational thought pattern of yesteryear.

This is our time to show the younger generations of women, importantly our daughters, nieces and granddaughters, that this age and stage of life can be a remarkable, vibrant, healthy, playful time.

Let’s, however, not sugarcoat the challenges.

Menopause can be like the ultimate hormonal surprise party. Your body can casually decide to throw a wild party without consulting you first with rogue and unwanted symptoms showing up uninvited.

Physically many of us may gain weight and experience hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, vaginal dryness, brain fog, joint pain, fatigue, itchiness and low libido.

Emotionally, women may feel less confident and

WORDS MARY MARTIN

“ make this your time to get on top of your health, prepare for your future and come into your power”

experience mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression, adrenal fatigue, overwhelm and memory loss.

Even a fraction of these symptoms is enough for the strongest. Most capable women fall over. So where are you in the ‘pause’?

Perimenopause is where hormonal shifts begin (often around the age of 40 to 45). You still have a menstrual cycle, but hormones can go haywire, periods erratic, eggs dwindling and in the ‘waiting room’ for menopause on the horizon. Sadly, many women are misdiagnosed in this stage and don’t realise they are in the throes of hormone transition.

Menopause is technically one year after your menstrual cycle ends (often around 45 to 55). Women are ‘out the other side’, but many still have unwanted hormonal symptoms hanging around.

Post-menopause begins well over a year after the last period (around the ages of 55 to 65). Pesky hormonal symptoms can still be lingering, and often, some new age-related ones have set in.

You may notice that these shifts in hormones can cause a ripple effect in your health creating symptoms and disharmony in other parts of your body.

Bad habits may creep in with less energy, vitality and motivation. Exercise, healthy meals and self-care can take a back seat, and that feeling of just being able to get by may set in. This may or may not involve coffee to get through the day and wine to wind down at night.

A hormone cleanse is an effective way to balance hormones, regulate temperature, treat the nervous system, detox the liver and kidneys, decrease inflammation, identify food intolerances, correct nutrient deficiencies, stimulate fat burning, and implement healthy meal and lifestyle choices.

I take women through this process as a complete reset, getting to the root of health challenges rather than the bandage approach.

Hormone Queen’s naturopathic toolbox includes effective nutrients and strategies like vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle and dietary advice, in-depth testing, exercise plans and mindset mapping.

Looking forward, we must be mindful that shifts in hormonal patterns can increase the risk of breast cancer, heart disease, decreased bone density and cognitive function.

This next phase of life is coming, ready or not.

So why not be ready?

If we know where to put our efforts, we can identify, achieve and maintain lifestyle habits for a healthier, happier, longer life.

How exciting that we have this proactive window of opportunity to make health, diet and lifestyle choices that can help slow the ageing process and help decrease the risk of various disease states.

Make this your time to get on top of your health, prepare for your future and come into your power to truly enjoy this dynamic age and stage of life.

There is no need to wait for the worst of menopausal symptoms to be over or make this state your new normal.

Hormones need a road map, individual strategies and expert guidance to alleviate hormone-imbalance symptoms. Please reach out for a free clarity call to get to the heart of your unique challenges and solutions.

I hear complaints of poor digestion, inflammation, skin and allergy flare-ups, increased infections, bowel irregularities, fluid retention, hair loss, weak nails, food intolerances and dry everything. hormonequeens.com

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SMARTER design

WORDS LUCINDA DEAN PHOTOS LISA PEARL

TWO ICONIC COAST homes, two very different makeovers. But, what constitutes clever and responsive interior design? That’s the question salt posed to principal and founder of Box Clever Interiors Hilary Sharp.

She says it all starts with a pen and paper and a conversation between the homeowner and one of her team’s award-winning, qualified interior designers.

Hilary believes it is important in every project to understand and articulate the owner’s vision while making best use of the space and context of the home in situ.

Box Clever Interiors provides end-to-end design solutions from redesigning outmoded kitchens and bathrooms down to the placement of lighting fixtures and electrical sockets and everything in between, including window treatments (or dressings) and furniture procurement.

Hilary likes to call a recent makeover of a fourth-floor apartment on the Esplanade at Kings Beach ‘un petit bijou’ (a little jewel). The circa 1994 80 metre-squared apartment is typical of hundreds of older-style apartments dotted along the Coast.

It was a holiday let and had not been updated since it was built. The owner was planning to retire and make it her permanent home. It had to have character, be functional and make the most of the breathtaking ocean views.

“Everything about the apartment had to be empathetic of the fact that your eyes were drawn to the view,” Hilary says.

The biggest design challenge was how to maximise space in what was an incredibly awkward-shaped apartment. Hilary maintains that many of these older-style apartments were architecturally designed on the outside, but very little thought was given to how people would live in them or furnish them.

“This particular project was a huge exploration of using small space efficiently,” Hilary says.

“It’s something which excites me because I grew up in

Ireland, and in Europe in general, we live in smaller houses, so a lot of that European design can be translated into the smarter design of smaller spaces. I really embraced that European aesthetic with this apartment.”

The original laundry, bathroom and separate toilet were a maze of doors. “It was just a (design) disaster really.” These separate spaces were knocked down and reconfigured into a space that was functional and flowed.

The ensuite and robe in the master bedroom were also redesigned to create more space, especially in the shower area.

“In both bathrooms, we raised the vanity off the floor, and this again was to give the illusion of more space in that area.”

The beating heart of the home – the kitchen and living area – was completely revamped.

“We put in a brand-new kitchen with integrated appliances because the kitchen and the living space were right beside each other. We didn’t want to do a beautiful kitchen and then have a big fridge stuck in the middle of it, so everything was hidden behind doors and tucked away.”

The addition of banquet seating in the dining room was another example of where form meets function – the extra storage space maximised the space available.

Kings Beach before and after

The living room, however, was quite difficult to design because of the angle of the walls. Hilary said there was only one possible wall that a TV could be mounted on, but having a couch face that wall would compromise the commanding ocean view. So, she suggested not having a couch in the living room at all and opting for occasional chairs instead.

The client was receptive to the idea so the living room now features a round rug, curved swivel occasional chairs and a round glass coffee table. The space feels open and invites flexibility and functionality.

“It’s a little jewel because every aspect of that small space was thoughtfully curated to maximise its potential.”

At the other end of the design challenge spectrum was a grand canal-front home at Twin Waters. According to Hilary, sometimes the fixtures and finishes builders throw into homes of this proportion really don’t reflect the opulence or the price tag that these houses have, or, more importantly, the

aspirations of the owners who live there.

Hilary says the important thing was to ensure the design reflected her client’s lifestyle and desire. It is a holiday home for a Canberra-based couple. It was built in 2004 and due for its 20-year refresh.

Her clients had spent a lot of time working and living in Asia and had amassed a collection of objects and artworks from the region. Their existing furniture was classic in style.

“For me, it was important that the design was sympathetic to their style. And while it’s a more formal and classic interior, it’s still light and refreshing, and that works for a canal-style home without being beachy.

“There are elements of tropical Queensland that we can bring into our interiors too. It’s important for people not to feel like they’re going to be pigeonholed and think, ‘Oh, coastal, I need to use rattan, I need to use bleached oak, I need to whitewash everything’.

Kings Beach

Kings Beach

Kings Beach

“You can still have a very formal kitchen and interior, and yet it can still have a relaxed elegance.”

The original brief was to redesign the kitchen. However, in a similar process to the Kings Beach apartment, the team analysed the space and made “a few different smarts out of it”.

The laundry door, which was straight off the kitchen, was concealed to make it look like it was cabinetry, and a huge, tall wine fridge was likewise concealed behind a door to “create something really different and beautiful”.

The clients also embraced porcelain slab for their benchtop and splashback, which is not only a beautiful product but is moving with the times as the use of engineered stone is being banned in Australia.

The master bedroom, which looks onto a canal terrace, had a huge flat ceiling, so they put in a bulkhead with lighting all around it to elevate it “from a good three-star hotel look to five-stars”. The ensuite was also reconfigured and given a beautiful and elegant New England vibe. Custom bedheads, bedspreads and cushions were added to enhance the feeling of luxury in the master bedroom.

“We like to think outside the box and be bold, be different and our clients were happy to go with our new suggestions,” Hilary says.

Both clients (Kings Beach and Twin Waters) were living elsewhere, so the team found them a builder on the Coast and helped manage the builds.

“The builder would contact us if he had any design-related queries. We could walk around the property several times to make sure everything was going okay.

“With renovations, cabinetmakers and builders can run into tricky design details that only become apparent when

things are ripped out, but we just troubleshoot that with them,” Hilary explains.

She stresses these were two projects where the team did everything from start to finish, down to working out where to place that finishing touch – a cushion on the couch.

“That’s the final icing on the cake.”

Twin Waters

Twin Waters

Twin Waters

Twin Waters

Twin Waters

1. Idris console, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

2. Resin tableware, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

3. All fired up pottery assorted, NZARI, 0401 815 811, nzari.com.au

4. Lola & Fleur vases, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

5. Designer chair, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

6. Al.ive Body Lotion & Body Wash Duo, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

7. Oskar rattan arch console, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

8. Black pedestal bowls, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

9. Arc lamp, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0418 108 299

10. Resin tableware, SOCIETY THREE HOME, Bli Bli, 0412 443 057, societythreehome.com.au

11. Marocain foot pouf, NZARI, 0401 815 811, nzari.com.au

12. All fired up pottery, NZARI, 0401 815 811, nzari.com.au

1. Wire kingfisher, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0418 108 299

2. Sorbet bowls, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0418 108 299

3. Fragrant sheets, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603, theshedsca.com.au

4. Portuguese glass blown goblets, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603, theshedsca.com.au

5. Sterling silver candle sticks, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603, theshedsca.com.au

6. Butter dish, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603, theshedsca.com.au

7. Bush walk greeting cards, HEARTS AND MINDS ART, 1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, 0418 108 299

8. All fired up pottery assorted, NZARI, 0401 815 811, nzari.com.au

9. Thatcham creamware lidded bowl and sunflower plate, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603, theshedsca.com.au

10. Amani figurine, THE SHED, 3-5 Main Street, Palmwoods, 5479 6603, theshedsca.com.au

EXPLORE A MYSTICAL FOREST TRAIL

Embark on a magical journey through the enchanting Zog Forest Trail, a captivating experience at THE GINGER FACTORY. Learn to roar, fly, breathe fire and take care of the forest in this free experience, open seven days a week. Prepare to be amazed as characters spring to life through augmented reality. Plus, elevate the adventure with the activity packs boasting dragon wings, stickers, and boundless fun. Don’t forget the camera; you may just meet the real Zog on the trail. gingerfactory.com.au

LOTS TO DISCOVER AT UNIQUE NOOSA SHOPPING DESTINATION

Discover the future of healthcare at Noosa Civic Medihub, which is set to open later this year. Offering medical and allied health space, Noosa Civic Medihub is designed to support a wide range of medical professionals and services, including general medical practice, radiology, pathology, and various specialties. NOOSA CIVIC is the premium shopping destination on the northern end of the Sunshine Coast and is home to 100 specialty stores, including a homemaker and business/commercial precinct offering a leisurely shopping experience. noosacivic.com.au or noosabusinesscentre.com.au

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.

LOCALS love

THE FUN IS NEXT LEVEL AT THIS EXCITING ADVENTURE PARK

Experience the thrills of NEXT LEVEL ADVENTURE PARK, Australia’s largest high ropes course on poles. Let the kids scale the high ropes while adults can enjoy the fresh air at Sunshine Plaza. With circuits suitable for children aged six years and older, little adventurers can embark on more than 140 aerial challenges, including 16 ziplines crossing Cornmeal Creek. It’s a great place for all ages to unleash their inner adventurer and take their excitement to the next level. sunshineplaza.com or nextlevelpark.com.au

IMAGE: Jennifer Hillhouse

PLENTY ON OFFER AT FAVOURITE RSL

MAROOCHY RSL has modern facilities, including a large multi-room events centre. At the bustling bistro, the team explores fresh local produce and offers a range of quality classic meals, while the café boasts Maroochydore’s best cake cabinet with fresh house-made offerings. A kids’ club with family seating nearby will keep little ones entertained. Meanwhile, there’s a sports bar for the grown-ups. As a not-for-profit organisation, Maroochy RSL’s annual charity contributions also help many local groups, including its own Veteran Hub, community groups, schools and sporting clubs. Find the Maroochy RSL at 105 Memorial Avenue, Maroochydore. maroochyrsl.com.au

IMMERSE IN THE WINTER SEASON AT BEAUTIFUL EUMUNDI

It’s the perfect time of year to visit the I LOVE EUMUNDI MARKETS

Beautiful aromas of freshly brewed barista coffee, organic cinnamon doughnuts and breakfast delights will send taste buds into a frenzy. See handmade ceramics, original art pieces, seasonal produce and locally designed jewellery, or make time to enjoy a massage or indulge in natural oils and balms. I Love Eumundi Markets is open Wednesday and Saturday from 7.30am to 2pm. It includes the Eumundi Square, Eumundi Parkside Markets and The Terraces. Eumundi Square is also open Friday from 8.30am to 1pm. iloveeumundimarkets.com

SCENIC WHALE WATCHING ABOARD AWARD-WINNING OCEAN RIDER

This scenic journey is a favourite for locals and visitors. Winning the best Queensland experience in 2022, 2023 and 2024 the NOOSA OCEAN RIDER creates a bonding experience never to be forgotten. While aboard from June to mid-October, you have a chance to witness majestic humpback whales on their annual migration. The fast boat seats 12 guests and is guided by an experienced captain departing from Noosa Marina. oceanrider.com.au

MONDAY NIGHT - Play Free Trivia

TUESDAY NIGHT - Burger Night

WEDNESDAY NIGHT - $23.50 Steak Night

THURSDAY NIGHT - $19 Schnitzel Night

FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS - Free Live Music, $3,000 in Gaming Draws each night!

SUNDAY LUNCH - Kids Eat Free with a adult main meal purchase & free family entertainment

T&Cs apply, offers subject to change

ENHANCE YOUR FITNESS WITH THE ART OF BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU

Why not learn the art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu? SJJA NOOSA is a world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy located at Noosa Civic. Lead by a community of dedicated practitioners, learn self-defence techniques and enhance fitness while mastering this empowering martial art. SJJA Noosa’s expert instructors provide personalised guidance in a supportive environment, ensuring progress at every level from the age of three up. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, it is a great opportunity to unlock your potential and achieve your goals. sjjanoosa.com.au

A SPLASH OF FUN AT THE PLAZA

Enjoy your next shopping trip with an extra splash of sunshine and jump on board an aquatic experience with PLAZA PONTOON. Located at Sunshine Plaza, cruise along Cornmeal Creek on the paddle boats and feed the fish. Guests can also choose to experience the thrill of electric mini speed boats or explore the Maroochy River and Cotton Tree on a kayak excursion. sunshineplaza.com or plazapontoon.com.au

CELEBRATE THE LOCAL SPIRIT AT WORLD-FAMOUS MARKETS

Experience the essence of the Sunshine Coast this winter at THE ORIGINAL EUMUNDI MARKETS. Rain, hail, or shine, every Wednesday and Saturday, immerse in the ‘love local’ spirit while exploring diverse stalls, perfect for a school holiday adventure. Support small businesses and dive into the vibrant culture of Eumundi. The markets offer handmade goods and local delights on every corner, and while in town, be sure to check out the newest brewery, Matso’s Sunshine Coast. The Original Eumundi Markets are open every Saturday from 7am to 2pm and Wednesday from 8am to 2pm. eumundimarkets.com.au

FOSSICK AND DISCOVER A NEW WORLD OF PRETTY GEMSTONES

Fossick through thousands of different semi-precious gemstones where you can spend hours finding your own collection at OPALS DOWN UNDER. Visit the gem fossicking scratch patch where you can fill up small or large containers of gemstones – and even find an opal along the way. It is great fun for kids and adults, and you can discover a whole new world of gemstones. Located at 11 Ballantyne Court, Glenview, the fossicking patch is open daily from 9am to 4.30pm (4pm on Sundays) and has space for birthday parties. opalsdownunder.com.au

HAVE A WHALE OF A TIME DURING THIS MIGRATION SEASON

More than 22,000 humpback whales have begun their 10,000-kilometre migration from Antarctica to their breeding grounds in north Queensland. Warmer waters provide a safe haven for newborn calves to grow and learn on their maiden voyage back to Antarctica. Witness the playful spectacle up close with whale watching tours on Whale One or Adventure Rafting, or swim with these gentle giants on a SunReef tour. All tours operate regularly from THE WHARF MOOLOOLABA, with the Sunshine Coast offering one of the best seats in the house to see all the action. wharfmooloolaba.com.au

TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH MONTHLY THEMED DISHES

On the first Friday of each month, Relish Restaurant at the NOOSA SPRINGS GOLF AND SPA RESORT holds themed dinners. Head chef Graham Waddell creates a delicious four-course dinner representing a different cuisine and country. Upcoming nights include New Zealand, Spanish and French cuisines, and guests can enjoy dining on a beautiful festoon-lit terrace overlooking the course and gardens or cosy up inside on those cooler nights. The dinners sell out each month, so bookings are essential on 5440 3317. noosasprings.com.au

CREATING connections

WORDS JANINE HILL

NOBODY WILL TRAVEL further to Casey Burrill’s first solo exhibition than the artist herself.

Based in Geelong, Victoria, Casey lives almost 2000 kilometres from Buderim’s Art Nuvo gallery, which will host Connection from July 19 to August 10.

She has been in group exhibitions over the years but has never before chanced her work on its own.

So, why take such a big step so far away?

“There’s been a real change in the last few years. I’ve got the opportunity to do it and it feels good,” she says.

“It’s only a little show, but I’ve never done it before. It’s quite overwhelming, but it should be fun.

“I think I’ve been through a lot of personal change to being a lot more self-aware this year. Just feeling that change, feeling that it was the right time.”

Art Nuvo has played a role in the creative careers of many emerging and established artists over the years.

After stocking and selling Casey’s work, director Olivia Banks decided it was time for the artist to have an exhibition.

“I hadn’t known that this would be Casey’s first solo

exhibition when I asked her, and I was thrilled that we were going to be hosting it in Queensland for her,” she says.

“I see it as a bit of a moment for Art Nuvo, too, to be able to host a first solo exhibition for someone I know has a huge art career ahead of her. Allowing our collectors and new clients first access to the works is such a thrill.”

Casey says the works in Connection have personal meaning and reflect her path from “disconnection” to belonging.

She has been through a period of self-reflection and self-discovery, exploring her past and her influences to put it all together.

“It’s a really productive time for me. Things are back on track. It’s easy for me to paint,” she tells salt

“I don’t feel disconnected from myself anymore. I feel far more connected.

“This is what that show is about. Connecting the dots and thinking about who I am again, just really redefining it.”

She describes each piece in the exhibition as “moving meditations” and “blueprints” of her past.

Her love of painting and desire to create were embedded in her as a child.

“I cherish all my childhood memories of art, my thought processes,” she says.

“It goes back to my Pa, who was an amazing watercolour

artist in Tassie. I used to watch him paint down in Burnie.

“His paintings were very realistic, effortless. The memory is so vivid, even though I was a young age.”

At high school, Casey was the girl who spent every lunch hour in the art room.

“I would buy canvases when I was at high school and offer to paint canvases of people’s homes if I stayed there. There’s also that connection to art that feels like home.”

Abstract art took her interest when she attended an exhibition with a friend.

“We walked into a gallery, and she said, ‘This doesn’t make any sense to me’. She had a very analytical mind,” she says.

“I was like, ‘This is the first time this has really made any sense to me.’

“In my head, I was thinking, ‘Home. Now I feel at home.’”

The birth of Casey’s second daughter released a flood of creativity. She has not stopped since.

“I couldn’t stop painting. I took over the back room and couldn’t stop. It just poured out of me,” she says. “I don’t know where it came from.”

Olivia was originally drawn to Casey’s work through her Instagram platform.

“I initially wanted, of course, to have Casey’s original artworks in the gallery, but she was so busy with supply to galleries that I was happy to start with her limited edition prints on canvas,” she says.

“These are also artwork in themselves with very limited runs and stunning quality. Casey personally hand embellishes the pieces with gold leaf to make each of them even more of a unique art piece.”

Olivia says Casey has “an incredible way to balance abstract with colour, tone and pure joy”, and her work appeals to interior designers for homes and corporate environments.

“In Queensland, we love to have big open space homes with lots of beautiful colour,” she says.

“Sometimes you don’t need to be too bold with colour, but you need to have colours that can also work with the environment of the home, and that’s where Casey hits the mark.

“Each painting of hers has such a warmth and variety of colour that allows it to sit neatly into the surrounding decor.”

A single mum of three, Casey works full-time as an art teacher, paints at night in her home studio, and practises yoga and meditation, which she believes help her painting.

Her works are big, her brushstrokes bold, and she paints

“ painting feels like a safe place for me. i’ve got to make good memories with it”

on her feet.

“I don’t like painting small scale. I like to paint large. You can put your whole body into them,” she says.

“I sort of resonate with Jackson Pollock. He said art is ‘energy made visible’, and that resonates with me.

“He would dance around the canvas painting with sticks and that resonates. That feels like my painting.

“It’s the energy in an artist. I want to feel that as much as possible. Energy and flow.”

Casey does not paint when she feels down. It is not a feeling that she wants to shroud her work, or others, or herself.

“I don’t want to use the canvas for that,” she explains.

“It’s not that place.”

“I’m committed to maintaining a positive outlook, particularly in my approach to painting. I like to infuse my work with optimism, hope and reaffirmation. That’s why I strive to uncover the positivity in everything I create. It has

been a really hard few years, but I don’t embody that in my painting because my paintings are my hope, my salvation.

“Painting feels like a safe place for me. I’ve got to make good memories with it.

“It feels too good to put that sort of energy into it.”

artnuvobuderim.com.au

See What’s On at: gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au gallery@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au | | OmrahAvenu aloundra Tues toFri 10a pm | Sat to Sun 10a pm (free parking)

Jenni, in spirit form, watches the first UFOs appear over the West MacDonnell Ranges courtesy of the artist.

Coastline BMW

RAW beauty

WORDS KATIE ROBKE PHOTOS MATEO BRASELLI

IN THE QUIET hum of her work shed, Jodi Casey sits surrounded by a treasure trove of discarded materials, worn metal, and the earthy aroma of camphor laurel.

As we speak, she is busy completing a freestanding 20-centimetre-wide butterfly sculpture perched on a piece of aged driftwood. Its vibrant hues of teal and blue, sourced from vintage jewellery, intertwine delicately to its wings that are bordered by an old bicycle chain.

Jodi creates one-off recycled and repurposed sculptures using thoughtfully selected rusty metal objects, vintage jewellery and sustainably sourced timber.

Although creating these unique pieces is still a relatively new-found love for this Maroochydore-based artist, her fondness of the old began at a young age, growing up with parents who collected all things antique and second-hand.

“I love rusty things, which sort of evolved from my mum and dad who have always collected knick-knacks and nostalgicera pieces,” she says.

“I really loved art in school, but I didn’t ever pursue it,” Jodi says, sorting through the materials on her workbench. “I tried most things. I used to draw, paint, I did ceramics, but it was never my thing.”

While Jodi has always appreciated the diversity of art in all its forms, it was only five years ago she felt an artistic calling to create pieces of her own.

“When my boys grew older and needed me less, I really felt the pull to find a hobby,” Jodi says. “I was in my shed one day, and I thought, ‘I might just start making something with some metal’.”

The idea then progressed into making pieces for her family and friends, experimenting with different materials, and eventually, it took on its own life as a successful business venture. Completely self-taught, Jodi has embraced trial and error as her greatest teacher.

“My style is certainly not traditional, and I have never seen anything similar where there are so many diverse objects together to create a piece. It’s so free form,” she says.

“I do tend to gravitate towards nature for my sculptures, and if I’m making a bird, for example, I will find a picture of that bird online and study its stance. It doesn’t always turn out exactly like it, but I just try to let it all flow until I’m happy with it.”

While she’s open to taking on different types of sculpture projects, Jodi says her focus now is predominately on making freestanding sculptures; feature pieces that come with a base and are suitable for adorning kitchen tables, side tables, or even a verandah.

“I’m more mindful these days. I try not to make any sculptures that are too heavy,” Jodi says. “If I know I wouldn’t be able to lift it – I won’t make it. A lot of the time, this comes down to what timber I’ve selected.”

Jodi regularly scours op shops, garage sales and tip shops in search of treasures and trinkets to with which to adorn her works of art. The idea of creating pieces that hold a bit of

Over 40 artists on permanent display with a different featured artist each month... July - David Hinchliffe August - De Gillett Cox

history and nostalgia is what inspires her the most.

“For me, creating pieces that resonate with people is my biggest drive,” she says.

“When someone looks at a piece and says, ‘oh my nana used to have one of these’, or ‘my granddad had one of these in his shed’ – I love that connection.”

With many of her sculptures currently on show and available for purchase at Stephen Street Gallery in Yandina, Jodi finds joy in taking on commissioned work from time-totime, in particular creating memorial pieces for clients whose loved ones have passed.

“I had a lady from America send me all of her jewellery that were her grandmother’s, who she had looked after before she died,” she says.

“She asked if I could make something with it and we had a chat about what she [her grandmother] was like as a person

and what she loved doing.”

“When the pieces arrived in the mail and I put them all out on the table and started sorting through them all, I instantly saw a garden scene,” Jodi says. “Her grandmother loved gardening, so that’s what we created.”

For Jodi, art is like revealing a part of herself, it’s a natural way to express emotions with each piece reflecting feelings that can often take months to fully capture.

And while much of her days are spent in her work shed, assembling sculptures piece by piece, Jodi says she looks forward to annual events like the ones held by Arts Connect, a

non-for-profit organisation on the Sunshine Coast.

“There’s such a strong arts community here on the Coast, with so many diverse artists,” Jodi says.

“The Arts Trail and Sculpture on the Edge events that are held by Arts Connect each year are such a great way for artists and art-lovers to come together, ask questions and interact.”

Jodi was one of several artists who opened their studio space at the most recent Arts Trail event, welcoming more than 250 eager visitors.

“It’s so much fun to have these social events because being an artist is usually so solo,” she says.

Sculpture on the Edge, also held on the Sunshine Coast annually by Arts Connect, is exclusively for local sculptors to showcase and sell their works, give talks and offer workshops to the public.

For the rest of the year though, Jodi remains immersed in her creations, with the whir of her drill and her favourite playlist of bands providing the soundtrack for her creativity to flow.

“I go through moods with what music I’m listening to in the shed,” Jodi says.

“Sometimes when I do commissions, like the sentimental ones or a memorial piece, I’ll ask the client what sort of music the person listened to. If they say ‘Nina Simone’ I’ll say ‘okay, well that’s what I’m listening to’.”

ARTdates

Take a moment to peruse some of the finest works from some of the best galleries on the Coast.

ONGOING

1. WINTER EXHIBITION

Hearts and Minds Art continues to showcase a stunning range of works by artists including Erin Hughes, Pepi Wren, Maree Welman, Christina Power, Sara Paxton, Ray Wilson, Fi Clark Photography, Leigh Karen Joyce, Jeanette Smith, James McKay, Karen Gemming and Veronica van de Vorst. when ongoing

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

2. ART BY BROOKS

Amanda Brooks’ unique work reflects the contemporary, casual and colour-filled lifestyle of the picturesque Sunshine Coast. Her appointment-only gallery is brimming with original artworks, prints and a range of beautiful homewares. Amanda happily welcomes commissions and can arrange shipping interstate and worldwide. when ongoing

where Art By Brooks Gallery, Noosa Hinterland, visit by appointment only. 0417 071 336 or artbybrooks.com.au

HALF HIDDEN HOUSES BY STEVE ROSENDALE, The G Contemporary

PRETTY IN PINK BY MAREE WELMAN, Hearts and Minds Art

3. 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. The gallery regularly hosts solo and group exhibitions and encourages customers to meet the artists and support their ongoing careers in the creative industries. when ongoing where Art Nuvo, 25 Gloucester Road, Buderim. 5456 2445 or artnuvobuderim.com.au

JUNE

4. CONTEMPORARY SONGLINES – DHAKKAN/ MUNDAGUDDA (RAINBOW SERPENT) AND MAROOCHY (BLACK SWAN) PROJECT

This collaborative First Nations student/youth and women’s exhibition showcases First Nations regional artists’ collective stories and culture. Project creator, lead and cultural arts project curator, Aunty Jude Hammond (Gunggari/Kamilaroi), with support of Jaiva

TRANQUIL NATIONAL PARK WALKS BY AMANDA BROOKS, Art by Brooks

Davis (Gubbi Gubbi) – who is the First Nations cultural arts trainee at Integrated Family and Youth Services (IFYS) – have worked with schools at Burnside, Caloundra, Maroochydore and Noosa District and IFYS youth, as well as First Nations Women’s Art Group, to create ceramic/metal Songline sculptures. These sculptures share connections to place, people and ancestors. when June 21 to August 18 where Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra. 5420 8299 or gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

JULY

5. JULY EXHIBITION

In July, Montville Art Gallery is featuring the work of Brisbane artist David Hinchliffe. After a busy couple of months painting in Europe, David will be in the gallery on Sunday, July 7 doing a demonstration and will have new works on display. The gallery is open seven days a week, and all new works will be on the website.

when July 1 to 31

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

6. D’ELEGANCE ART COLLECTIVE

D’Elegance Art Collective at The G Contemporary is an innovative collection of selected artworks curated by the gallery directors. Indulge in art by local, interstate and international artists within the contemporary space on Hastings Street

while enjoying a complimentary glass of bubbles.

when July 13, 3pm to 6pm where The G Contemporary, 6/32 Hastings Street, Laguna on Hastings, Noosa Heads. 0400 716 526 or thegcontemporary.com

AUGUST

7. AUGUST EXHIBITION

Montville Art Gallery is featuring the acrylic works of De Gillett Cox. De’s works are bright, vivacious and colourful, much like the artist herself. New works are arriving for her August display and can be viewed seven days a week at the gallery. when August 1 to 31 where Montville Art Gallery, 138 Main Street, Montville. 5442 9211 or montvilleartgallery.com.au

8. THE ATMOSPHERICS OF LIGHT

A stunning exhibition of evocative abstract

landscapes by British artist Gareth Edwards RWA. Bringing St. Ives in the United Kingdom to Noosa, Gareth will introduce his work in person as part of his inaugural visit to Australia. Opening night is on Saturday, August 10 from 5pm to 7pm. RSVP is essential.

when August 7 to 21

where The G Contemporary, 6/32 Hastings Street, Laguna on Hastings, Noosa Heads. 0400 716 526 or thegcontemporary.com

9. SUNSHINE COAST NATIONAL ART PRIZE 2024

Entering its 18th year and reflecting the full breadth of the prize with a new name, Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2024 is the region’s flagship art award. It honours outstanding contemporary 2D and new media arts practice in Australia. The acquisitive art prize is part of Sunshine Coast Council’s strategic collecting strategy, to build a significant cultural asset for the region, which can be enjoyed

MAGIC WOODS BY SARA PAXTON, Art Nuvo

by current and future generations. From entries received across the country, the 40 finalist artworks will offer a profound and unapologetic interpretation of our world today, with a diverse portrayal of subjects in a range of styles, from traditional oils and acrylics to new media and digital compositions, that together, confront, celebrate, enlighten and engage. when August 24 to October 13 where Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra. 5420 8299 or gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

SEPTEMBER

10. TRANSLATIONS

See limited-edition bronze sculptures by leading First Nations artists, including Rosella Namok. Opening night is on Friday, September 27 from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. when September 26 to October 13 where The G Contemporary, 6/32 Hastings Street, Laguna on Hastings, Noosa Heads. 0400 716 526 or thegcontemporary.com

THE BLUE DRESS BY DAVID HINCHLIFFE, Montville Art Gallery

SONGLINE SCULPTURES BY NORTH COAST WOMEN’S ART GROUP, AUNTY JUDE HAMMOND AND JAIVA DAVIS, Caloundra Regional Gallery

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

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, 0434 917 610

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

Art by Brooks, 41 Sunset Drive, 0417 071 336

Enigmatic Drawings, 75 Hastings Street, 0490 395 346

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

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

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

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

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