Brisbane STYLE - Summer 2010/2011

brisbanestyle Summer 2010/11 $5.50 incl GST

HOMES, INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE, FASHION, FOOD, WINE, ART, MOTORING, REAL ESTATE & TRAVEL

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Welcome to our stunning Gold summer edition...

Kaylene Murray - Editor

WHERE HAS THIS YEAR GONE??

I

COVER LUXURY STYLE: The new Oracle Apartments, Hotel and Shopping complex at Broadbeach COVER BRISBANE STYLE: The Harmony Dress Label: Taree Birse Model: Marnie Fullerton-Smith Make-up: Becca Gilmartin Stylist: Simone at Style Haute Photographer: Thor Elias

remember having these same thoughts not so long ago. Was it really 11 months? It has been such a strange year for everyone. Positivity seems to have flown out Australia's window.

Weird weather patterns across Australia; an election that left just about everyone feeling confused and deflated; and big banks once again making sure that everyone pays for their mega profits.

But, don't worry, we Australians are a resilient lot!

Luckily, it's nearly Christmas and Santa Claus will ensure that all our dreams come true for the New Year. Or so I hope.

On a brighter note, over the year we have met some very special people; indulged in fabulous food and wines; cooked with brilliant chefs; visited outstanding regions; viewed phenomenal wildlife; and enjoyed the honour of bringing all these stories to you - our readers.

This issue we take a look at the fabulous fashions and accessories available to make you stand out at the Magic Millions events and race days, pre-Christmas parties, New Year's Eve Balls and fabulous dining events with friends.

With all our expert hair, makeup and style tips - you will be a force to be reckoned with this season!

On the homefront, we travel to Hamilton Island to showcase the beautiful Luxury Yacht

stylelivingMAGAZINES publishers since 1979

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sunshine coast &

LIVING

published by Style Living Magazines PO Box 1003 Paradise Point 4216 P: 07 5577 2886 F: 07 5577 3354 e-mail: info@styleliving.com.au www.STYLEliving.com.au enquiries Ph (07) 5577 2886 fax (07) 5577 3354

Club Villas, and for those looking to renovate, update or redesign their current home or rental property, we bring you the latest interior design trends and furniture.

For our summer issue, we have chosen some very special people to introduce you to, including a very interesting and exciting group of entertainers, the Phoenix Fire Tribe, who we have been running into at functions and cocktail parties for many years now.

Here is a career path that you might never have considered before.

We also catch up with those charming Designer Boys and see what they have been up to lately. And, ask them what they think about the new tenants of The Block.

Our summer magazine is also full of wonderful cooking ideas to make you the master of your own kitchen, as well as the perfect wines and beverages to complement the party season.

And, we have chosen a great selection of the latest cookbooks from all your favourite celebrity chefs to inspire your culinary passions over the holiday season.

Be sure to check out our stylish getaways, holiday reading, latest movies and DVDs, as well as the latest theatre and arts offerings.

Our GOLD issue is perfect for all your holiday reading whilst whiling away the summer days in peace and harmony.

To all our loyal readers, advertisers, staff and contributors, we thank you for your continued and valued support over the past twelve months.

We also look forward to bringing you even more exciting stories and features over the coming year.

We wish you and your families and loved ones - a wondrous Christmas and happy and healthy New Year full of joy and endless possibilities.

Please choose a perfect spot in the shade, sit back (preferably with a glass of champagne) read and enjoy

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publisher Tom Murray tom@STYLEliving.com.au GROUP EDITOR food / wine / travel / features Kaylene Murray kaylene@STYLEliving.com.au noosa editor Helen Flanagan helen@STYLEliving.com.au fashion editor Rachel Syers rachel@STYLEliving.com.au

production Joshua Murray art@STYLEliving.com.au sales Di Baxter di@STYLEliving.com.au mob: 0437 739 916

RSVP - Openings, Launches & Social Events Bec McConnell We discover how she chose her exciting career path Fashion... what’s happening This season’s new swimwear collections & what the ladies will be wearing for the races & New Years Eve Face 2 Face with Joe Labero We speak to one of the world’s best illusionists Food & wine Food and wine events around Brisbane & the Gold Coast Design & Property Hamilton Islands luxurious Yacht Club Villas & Oracle Designer Boys Top tips for your summer Books/Movies/Theatre We take a look at what’s new and entertaining Artists and Artisans Noosa Painter & Brisbane poet team up. Brisbane sculptor explains his passion Travel For short drive Noosaville is great ... for the more adventurous we travel to Botswana Style Motoring Build your own hot rod or wait for the new electric Jaguar Gypsy King Hungarian Roby Lakatos will have you dancing in the aisles Whilst all efforts are made to ensure information and advertising material is correct, no responsibility is accepted for wrong or misleading information.

Copyright: All original material supplied by the publisher is copyright and cannot be used or reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Views expressed by contributors are personal views and they are not necessarily those of the Publisher.

published Quarterly - distributed complimentary through exclusive locations, hotels, selected retailers, developers, and selected newsagents

what’s on in town?... read our online magEzines @ www.STYLEliving.com.au 4

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ROCOCO Design

....bringing the hamptons to your home 93 ashmore road bundall tel: 07 5538 0830 www.rococodesign.com.au 5

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100% Kylie - Lucy Holmes keeping everyone entertained

Cup Carnivale under the Big Top at Sanctuary Cove...

On a bright and sunny day, under a huge red big-top on the edge of the marina at Sanctuary Cove, 400 ladies and gents dressed in their finest racing garb and hats, sipped on bubbles and dined on a buffet fit for a King. This would have to be the most high energy event on the Gold Coast - with a Brazilian troupe encouraging attendees to shake their booty on the dance floor as a warm-up to the headline act. Australia's own, world-performing 100%

Kylie performer - Lucy Holmes and her male dancers then took to the stage and won the audience over immediately.

Rolls Royce Ghost arrives on the Gold Coast

the event and were possibly looking to increase their prestige motoring stable.

Guests sipped on French champagne and supped on designer canapes whilst lusting over the magnificent machines.

Guests donned their finest garb and ventured to Bruce Lynton's BMW showroom recently to preview the ultimate drive - the new Rolls Royce Ghost, as well as two Rolls Royce Spirits..

Michael and Donrecka Issaakidis who had just flown in from France, drove one their own beautiful Rolls Royce to Michael & Donrecka Issaakidis

Gordana Savic & Tony Percuoco

Hayley & Jeff Butler

Astra & Steven Ciobo

Ristorante Tartufo - dreams do come true...

Just ask hosts and co-owners of Brisbane's newest upmarket restaurant, Tony Percuoco and Gordana Savic. Opening night saw most of the Gold Coast's dining elite descend on Brisbane's Emporium Hotel, to join with Brisbane's dining officiandos to celebrate their exciting new venture.

The iconic feel to the stylish restaurant is enhanced by the black and white ceiling and floors, whilst the warm dark timber adds a European warmth to the whole area.

As champagne corks sighed and flutes were filled with French bubbles, guests mingled, and devoured a tempting array of fine Italian delicacies and planned their return visit.

The restaurant buzzed with excitement. all night, and Tony and Gordana were notably thrilled with the whole event.

Tony's elder brother Armando Percuoco flew in to officially open the restaurant, while other family members including Tony's mother and younger brother Carlo and cousins were there to lend their support.

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profile

...now that's entertainment!

TWO SISTERS HAVE TAKEN THE THRILL OF A CIRCUS ROUTINE TO NEW HEIGHTS OF SOPHISTICATED ENTERTAINMENT, NEVER GIVING UP ON THEIR GOAL TO HAVE FUN THE ENTIRE WAY ALONG THEIR JOURNEY TO SUCCESS … AS RACHEL SYERS WRITES.

Photo:Staging Connections

T

Bec McConnell

here is no denying Bec McConnell

Arts at the University of Queensland which had so much more fun

seemed to have a typically normal

stuff.”

Aussie childhood. She liked playing

Since fun had always been a part of Bec's existence, all the while

games with her little sister Elke, she leant

she was studying, she maintained a close relationship with her little

how to play the piano, studied maths and

sister, who aided an abetted Bec's penchant for creative

science at high school and excelled enough

enjoyment. “My sister and I started playing around with circus type

to pursue tertiary education.

activities, like juggling, fire twirling, stilt walking and body-painted

So Bec enrolled in the Griffith University

human statues. “I was about 18 and she was 15, and we would

Queensland Conservatorium of Music in

pretty much stand there for hours throwing balls and things at

Brisbane, as any good girl with a secure

each other teaching ourselves what to do,” she laughs.

future in mind would, to educate herself

“Remember, this was around 1994 or '95, so while there was the

further in the finer intricacies of music - the

internet, there certainly wasn't the support network for those types

French horn in particular.

of things that exists today like online communities getting

Her parents were proud their teenage daughter had made such sensible choices in life … but then her typical career plans turned on their head.

together for conferencing or workshops – you just had to find your own way.”

They loved the challenge of mastering a new skill, and the

Bec laughs as she recalls becoming more interested in the

sisters' 'creative hobby' soon overtook them with a passion to

appeal of an Arts degree and its subject offerings such as

pursue all things fun and creative. “We began exploring all kinds of

philosophy.

visual spectacle entertainment – anything visual with that 'wow'

“I was studying composition at the Conservatorium to become

factor, and soon enough we started making appearances at events

a composer - my main creative outlet was music, but then after

like festivals and parties, and even started holding our own

two years I transferred to study

workshops to teach others what we had learned.”

“For the first few years it was word of mouth and we were still

Main photo Naomi Mawson

doing it for fun, but then it was becoming a business and we

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made a conscious decision somewhere along the line that we could actually do this as a serious business.”

Fifteen years later and Bec and Elke have turned their teenage exploration of 'circus fun stuff' into a

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thriving and well-respected performance-based business, Phoenix Fire Tribe.

The girls are busy entertaining everyone from intimate gatherings in art galleries to massive corporate events and festivals with audiences in the thousands.

Specialising in themed performances, the sisters and their team of fun-loving performers can offer the likes of Bollywood themed entertainment complete with dancers, Hindi-style human statues and henna artists, nautical themed events with pin-up poolside performers and pirate-themed feature fire show, and

...now that's entertainment! an underwater themed event featuring roving mermaids and sea creatures encased in giant 'Dreamsphere' bubbles.

The pair also offer wonderland entertainment where Cupcake Girls and Alice herself can wander through the crowd handing out tempting desserts and treats to guests, not to mention other entertainment such as hulahoop girls, showgirls and dancers, human statues, fire acts, stiltwalkers and crystal juggling.

“Every day is different in this business, and I have no regrets leaving the Conservatorium behind – it's been a fantastic journey so far,” says Bec, adding her business has given her amazing travel opportunities from The Whitsundays to Fiji and Singapore.

“I could have done other things in a parallel life and

Photo: Margita Regazzoli

could have easily taken that path, but we had enough Photo: Kate Nutt

courage to pursue our passion and we did it gradually and sensibly until it became viable.

“We've taken the fringe elements like circus acts out of the old big top, and taken fire twirling off the beaches and added that showgirl sparkle to make it edgy and classy in a way that is now acceptable as high-end entertainment.

“It's hasn’t exactly been the most predictable career path but luckily our parents are really supportive in our desire to be creative and they were happy for us to go that way … particularly when they saw how viable it could be.

“My parents are still proud,” she laughs.

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Pinching Mum's Lippy Inspired A Lifelong Passion For Pampering Stephanie Shepherd Takes Her Luxury Spa Dream To New Heights It began as a modest two-room beauty salon in Camp Hill and has evolved in to a portfolio of highly regarded luxury spas across South East Queensland. "It" is "Stephanies Spa" and Stephanie Shepherd is the CEO, founder and woman behind the brand. A revered boutique of spas, “Stephanies” offer exceptional quality pampering to everyone from international celebrities and corporate high flyers, to everyday Mum's and Dad's.

Stephanie Shepherd spent much of her childhood in the NSW outback town of Broken Hill. Inspired by her Mothers lipstick collection, Stephanie began experimenting with beauty items at a young age and reveled in the joy of creating customised mud masks for skeptical members of the family.

The family relocated to the NSW Coast of Tweed Heads when Stephanie was 18.

Determined to pursue a career in beauty therapy, the eager teenager started applying for positions in the “big smoke”, Brisbane. The next few years saw Stephanie work in a variety of beauty industries across Queensland.

At the age of just 26, with 10 years experience already under her belt, Stephanie opened her own business in Camp Hill, a modest two-room beauty therapy salon called “Stephanies Natural Beauty”.

A loyal and expanding base of clients saw Shepherd soon outgrow the business premise, resulting in the relocation to the up-market suburb of Bulimba.

“I had a vision and desire to combine beauty therapies with peaceful places of harmony and balance. I dreamt of creating more than a beauty therapist salon. I wanted to design spas where people could cocoon themselves from the outside world.

Even if my clients were only visiting for a short time, I wanted them to feel like they had entered another world when they stepped through the doors,” says Shepherd.

And this is exactly what Stephanie Shepherd has created, luxury retreats where clients indulge in decadent world-class treatments or the simple pleasures of the monthly maintenance manicure.

Stephanies Urban Spa is a popular haven for local clientele. The Urban Spa specialises in maintenance beauty therapies, as well as advanced skin care and microdermabrasion.

Stephanies Spa Retreat, located on level three of Sofitel Brisbane Central is a welcome city escape for “locals in the know”, visiting celebrities and hotel guests. The sensory and tranquility lounges of the retreat are ideal for group bookings and are popular for hen’s evenings, pre-wedding parties and baby showers. The “Opal Rasul Temple” is undoubtedly the masterpiece of the spa. The unique mosaic dome style cave is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Stephanies Ocean Spa is the latest luxury to be revealed. Opening in July 2010, the spa is located in the heart of cosmopolitan Noosa at the new Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort & Spa. The largest in the group, the spa boasts 11 magnificent treatment rooms including couples suites, a triple treatment suite with private floatation pool and a rain therapy vichy shower, complete with a stunning hand crafted acacia cedar shower bed. The rooms offer state of the art, heated leather massage beds and Stephanie has created her own range of exclusive products to compliment many of the treatments, including a selection of spa essences and a unique sugar scrub.

“The architectural design of the Noosa spa allowed us to create a variety of treatment spaces, from private garden suites to geisha hydro baths, floatation pools and comfortable group domains. It’s important to offer the basics in spa therapy as well as introduce new and amazing treatments for our clients to experience”, says Shepherd.

True to her word, the various spa menus incorporate everyday beauty therapies and unique treatments, such as anti aging vino therapies and the amazing health benefits of the mineral therapy floatation pool. Each spa is unique in design, and between them offer private suites, couples escapes and group treatments.

“I simply love creating new treatments and luxury spa experiences for my clients. I draw on my talented team of therapists, my husband and my adorable fury four legged family members for my inspiration,” concludes Shepherd.

With three luxury spas across South East Queensland, the passionate Queensland spa identity isn’t done yet. A fourth location, a Mountain Spa, is scheduled to open early next year.

Stephanies luxury spa’s offer specialised menus for women and men, romantic couples treatments and unique group menus; perfect for hens parties, bridal showers and special occasions.

In addition to signature treatments, Stephanies offer massage therapy, facial treatments, spray tanning, body waxing, makeup for special occasions; and unique hand and sole rejuvenation treatments.

Spa VIP…

enjoy amazing spa savings and exclusive members offers with Stephanies Spa membership program. Membership levels range to suit individual budgets and yearly spa needs. Contact Stephanies today for more details on becoming a spa VIP.

Stephanies Gift Cards … a thoughtful gift solution for loved ones, friends and the “impossible to buy for”.

Beautifully wrapped and presented they make the perfect luxury beginning to the spa journey that awaits their recipient.

NEW MediSpa at Stephanies® … Stephanies new Medi-Spa, led by respected specialist Doctor Hung Nguyen, offers a range of cosmetic medical procedures such as anti-wrinkle injections, lip enhancements and dermal fillers. The minimally invasive procedures boast no downtime and are performed in the comfort of our Bulimba MediSpa suites.

Creating beautiful spa journeys Stephanies Urban Spa Bulimba – 07 3899 5333 Stephanies Spa Retreat Sofitel Brisbane – 07 3221 8800 Stephanies Ocean Spa Noosa – 07 5473 5353

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people in style

Biggest selling international superstar Brisbane author Kate Morton chats with Helen Flanagan about juggling family life and becoming a publishing sensation.

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ith three million books sold, Kate Morton is being compared to novelists such as Colleen McCullough whose hit Thornbirds was published in America in 1977. But whilst there have been many successful Australian writers in recent years, publishing has changed and Kate, now 34 is the first to tap into what she describes as “contemporary gothic” which combines romance, mystery and period atmosphere. She has become one of Australia’s most famous and highly paid authors, but becoming the writer of popular sagas did mean travelling the circuitous route.

Kate, the eldest of three sisters was born in the small South Australian town of Berri and was brought up in Maryborough, then Mt Tamborine in the Gold Coast hinterland. She was smitten with reading as a small child, particularly by Enid Blyton mysteries, which she picked off dusty shelves in second hand shops hoping to ‘escape’ with the Famous Five into Smugglers’ Cove, while her mother an antique dealer, rummaged for collectibles.

At 10 she met Herbert and Rita Davies and took private drama lessons from Rita, a former repertory actor who introduced her to a world of theatre and books. Later she also took lessons with Herbert who was the former head of drama for the BBC in London. The friendship with the Davies lasted for 20 years until Herbert died a few years ago aged 93.

After an ill-fated attempt to do something sensible and obtain and arts/law degree, Kate went to London for a speech and drama course at the Trinity College followed by a Shakespeare summer course at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. “It was great fun but I lived in Brisbane, The Distant Hours by Kate Morton, Allen & Unwin, $40 my boyfriend (now my husband) was in a band and you just don’t get up and leave your band mates,” recalls Kate in her very polished accent, “making it difficult to belong to an English repertory company. While there I received a letter saying I’d been given a scholarship to do a masters degree at the University of Queensland. It was for the princely sum of $16,000 per year. A king’s ransom and at

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the same time what I realised was that I loved story telling and words rather than getting up and performing them. I could do it all myself and be right with the world.”

Kate graduated with first class honours in English literature, completed a master’s degree focusing on tragedy in Victorian literature and met UQ alumnus Kim Wilkins who writes erotically charged horror novels and taught creative writing. Kim’s methods helped shape otherwise unruly ideas and the girls became best friends.

In-between working in restaurants part time and selling jewellery at Hardy Brothers, Kate wrote two full-length manuscripts which were given to Kim’s agent. Double rejection.

“Looking at it now, I can see how it happened. I was pregnant with my first son and after Oliver was born I felt this great divide between me and the world of publishing. But there was no way I was going to stop. I had to write something different and not think about genres, marketability or publishing trends…just write a book with everything I love in it. And that’s what I did with the Shifting Fog, which was published in 2007.

“When I was small, I always hid to read. I couldn’t shake the feeling that because reading was so pleasurable, I thought it must somehow be illicit. And when I’m writing I prefer to think that I am writing for one person whose tastes are like mine. But books don’t begin to breathe until they’re read so to imagine millions of readers is inconceivable.”

The Shifting Fog (published overseas as The House at Riverton) and her second novel The Forgotten Garden (2008), both published by Allen & Unwin, are set in England and contain the same “gothic tropes”. They have been sold to 38 countries, are guided by her Sydney agent Selwa Anthony who believes the secret to her success is timeless storytelling, hence heading straight to top-10 best seller lists alongside stalwarts such as Ken Follett and Michael Connolly.

The Distant Hours, her third novel is even more intricately plotted, although it did not start off that way.

“I’d written about a third of it and it was going OK, but I didn’t feel a passion for the story. Then I had this other idea that I couldn’t make go away. I gave myself a week, put aside my other project and in one night I wrote what became the first chapter. It was an entirely different experience, partly history, mystery, it’s got a presence and I instantly knew the mysterious Blythe sisters would be the stars. I’m really proud of it.”

It’s abundantly clear that writing is paramount and joyful in Kate’s life. There have been no dramatic changes, apart from upsizing the family home twice since her first book was published. All three houses have been in the same street in the leafy inner Brisbane suburb of Paddington. These days she no longer uses the kitchen bench or converted cupboard to write stories.

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...she no longer uses the kitchen bench or conver ted cupboard to write stories

“We like change but we don’t like change. I think moving nearby is a more stressful move than moving further away. You presume you’ll be able to a lot of it yourself, think it’s simple but it’s not. My husband (Davin Patterson), would say I’ve got a compulsion for change.

And there are practical reasons. Our first house had one bedroom then we had Oliver (now 7) so we needed two bedrooms, then we had another child (Louis now 2) so we needed three bedrooms plus of course my very own space with walls and a door.”

Davin, a jazz musician and AFI-nominated soundtrack composer also works from home and the children’s grandparents are very supportive. “We’re really lucky, we manage to juggle it without dropping any of the important balls.”

Cancerian Kate admits to being shy, is happy to talk about her books but freezes at the thought of making a speech.

She says her family love Brisbane and do all the regular things. “We take advantage of the bike ways, the many brilliant coffee shops and restaurants that surround us, the antique centre and book shops plus I really love the eclectic people from the elderly who’ve lived here since they were children to students, professionals and families.”

With a contract for three more books and no completion date, you might think Kate has a skewed perspective on life, but nothing could be further from the truth. She is not only elegant and beautiful but is friendly and so down-toearth. “At the end of the day, what’s most important is family and friends. I don’t deny that it’s lovely to get great international reviews or emails from readers passionate about my books, but the texture of daily life is that there are children to attend to, friends to catch up with and family to keep you grounded.”

www.whitfieldphoto.com

kate morton

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summer stunner If you're going to look good in swimwear, it's got to stand out from the crowd. Fashion Editor Rachel Syers has sourced some sultry, sophisticated and seriously stunning swimwear for Style readers this summer season‌

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ith such little fabric, the colour, pattern, print, fabric and fit of your swimwear is what sets you aside from the rest.Whether it's poolside, by the beach or unwinding at the spa, your choice of swimwear will speak silent volumes about your sense of style, so long as the cut suits your body type.

And the best thing is, you don't need to look further that your backyard of emerging local designers all keen to make their mark on the swimwear scene.

The styles are wide and varied, allowing you to choose from brief bikinis and sensual cut-out styles, to retro bandeaus, ruched tieside briefs and sensible one-pieces that hold everything in place, including your self-esteem.

Modern graphics are hot this summer – especially put to good use by Brisbane designer James Lillis of the cult label Black Milk who began with leggings and had evolved with a sensation swimwear line that combines cultural classics with wearable art - but also impacting on the scene are pretty block colours for simplicity and understated chic, such as the stunning bikini sets from another Brisbane name, Terri Winyard of the Terri Donna label.

Plus there are plenty of the new millennium trend of details, details, details, from studs to buckles, alongside traditional favourites such as animal prints with a modern twist and popular nautical tones, explored by up and coming Gold Coast swimwear designer Joanne Rahn, with her labels Glamorous Life and Lovebirds Australia.

With so many styles to entice, this summer swimwear season is set to be one of the hottest on record.

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Previous page 1: ANIMAL MAGNETISM: The Fancy bandeau with removable neck ties in navy safari, $49.99, worn with the Cheeky boyleg pants in navy, $49.99, by Lovebirds Australia. For stockists visit www.lovebirdsaustralia.com or call 07) 3844 8613.

2: BACK TO BLACK: Terri Donna black stud one-piece, $169.95, available at The Tribune in Fortitude Valley, Don't Tell Fannie at West End, Ecume in Paddington, and I Hate My Skirt at Nobby Beach on the Gold Coast. Also online at www.terridonna.com 3: FEMININE FRILLS: From Glamorous Life by Joanne Rahn, is the 'Nadia' red V-neck cutaway mailot swimsuit featuring red stretch lace ruffle detail, $240, and the 'Taree' black cutaway mailot swimsuit featuring red stretch lace trim detail, $220. For stockists call 07) 3844 8613 or visit www.glamorouslifeswimear.com 4: ASTRO GIRL: The Space Man one-piece by label Black Milk, $90, at www.blackmilkclothing.com 5: GREEN DREAMS: Terri Donna green twist bandeau, $69.95, with Terri Donna green classic pants, $59.95, available from The Tribune in Fortitude Valley, Don't Tell Fannie at West End, Ecume in Paddington, and I Hate My Skirt at Nobby Beach on the Gold Coast. Also online at www.terridonna.com 6: SAIL AWAY: The Crush tube halter top in navy, $49.99, and the Smitten tieside bikini bottoms in white, $39.99, from the Lovebirds Australia label. For stockists visit www.lovebirdsaustralia.com or call 07) 3844 8613.

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summer stunners

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Meegs Boutique located on the fashion level of Oasis Shopping Centre features Mela Purdie’s latest fashion range

Imelda’s on Quay has a fabulous range of Imported shoes, bags and accessories available from their Sanctuary Cove store.

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New & Exciting Look for Mela Purdie In Store Now • Mela Purdie • Gabriella Frattini • Walking Art • Joseph Ribkoff • Ravel • Juo • David Pond • Marco Polo • Gitane • Sequel • Vers • Philosophy

Oasis Shopping Centre Shop 35, Level 1 Broadbeach, Gold Coast p 07 5592 3099 f 07 5592 3901

to top it all off...

Featured hats designed by Ascot Hats and available exclusively on the Gold Coast at Cheran Shoes, Main Beach

Available at Village Live Inspired, Bundall

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NEW LOCATION - NEW SEASON STOCK ARRIVING

No matter how perfect those shoes and bag match, that dress sparkles in the sunlight and those sunglasses transform you into a starlet, a girl simply must choose the right head wear to top off her statement of style for the races.

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ut as any stylista can appreciate, it's not just about if the hat fits, wear it.There is plenty to consider come raceday, including whether the event is held indoors or on the grassy lawn, if there'll be wind, the temperature, and of course, how many cheeks to be air-kissed.

That can help determine the level of practicality you'll need with your head wear – broad rim hats will protect you from the sun but can lift in the wind, make it difficult to get close to people and look too over the top for a more casual event, but can be a brilliant statement piece for a sophisticated race luncheon.

While fascinators are incredibly elegant, less cumbersome, and often easier to wear for a long day out and about, but can leave you sun sizzled, take flight if there's plenty of feathers, and may simply not be enough of a silhouette to balance an impacting outfit. Also, try on the fascinator first allowing for your hair style, opting for what works better on the day by way of a headband attachment or hair comb attachment.

And aside from the colour and style of your racewear, remember the one element you can't change ‌ your complexion and hair colour. Always ensure you choose colours in a head piece that compliment your skin tone instead of wash you out, even if it's the latest hue on the fashion circuit.

And be bold, mixing incredible colours, patterns and textures - so long as they don't clash with the predominant colour of your racewear or accessories you'll be lengths ahead in the fashion stakes.

- Rachel Syers

JETS Available at Calypso Resort, Sanctuary Cove

shop 7 - 24 tedder avenue main beach phone 5571 1449 cheranshoes@bigpond.com

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shopping

jewellery, such as huge rings are turning heads.

Inspired by a line of glamorous and expensive enamel jewellery from Italy, the Miabelle hand painted enamel range of rings, bangles, earrings, pendants and necklaces, brings beauty, quality and affordability together in one creation. The “little work of art you can wear” covering the Bold and edgy are the keys to beauty and fashion full colour spectrum, from soft pink and blue to vibrant accessories this season. orange and red, is crafted in sterling silver and individually set with semi-precious stones including agate, amethyst, et’s face it. The look is a healthy, natural glow with a citrine, garnet, onyx, peridot, quartz, rhodolite and topaz. twist of something out-there and unnatural such as Jewellery that the fashion world is going to be seeing a brightly coloured eyelids in pinks, yellows and blue. lot more of is the back necklace, the extra long accessory How do you achieve it? Clean and moisturise the face, apply that clasps in the front and hangs down the back. However a radiant, mineral-based face powder, add a touch of nude, with any look-at-me make-a-statement jewellery, remember natural shine gloss, then a touch of pink, yellow or blue on to style it conservatively. For example if wearing a huge the top or bottom eyelid. Not too much, just so it almost chain bracelet, complement it with a more basic outfit. blends in with the natural look, without destroying it.

For the dramatic cat-eye trend, apply a thin, matte powder, a natural, matte lipstick on the lips as Lindsay Phillips SwitchFlops have just well, then hit the crescendo button landed in Australia, offering savvy with a heavy, black eyeliner. Try it at home shoppers unlimited shoe before venturing onto the streets and choices with the click of a remember the more dramatic the eye liner snap or strap – depends on how dramatic a woman dares to go! and all just in And let’s not forget the all-important eyebrows. The time for Summer! fashion gods are still debating whether it’s shaved or They offer functional and bleached eyebrows or alternatively, overly dramatic comfortable soles adorned by a unique, eyebrows have also hit the runways. Some models are even inter-changeable decorative button or sporting shaved eyebrows that are then drawn in. colourful strap. With a diverse array of clip on buttons, Rock ‘n’ roll accessories such as studded headbands, including bejeweled and floral motifs. Available exclusively bracelets and flower cuffs are very trendy especially from Terry White Chemists nationally, with prices starting at amongst California girls. Chain necklaces, bracelets and just $34.95 for the shoes and $9.95 for the straps and snaps. bracelet rings are feminine with an edge. Statement

Baubles bangles bright shiny bling

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This Summer Change Your Style, Not Your Sole…

A new addition to Chevron island retailers is AurAna Treasures of the World... A literal treasure of interesting and unusual pieces from jewellery & furniture to clothing and incense... AurAna Treasures of the World

Spring into Summer

with these great specials!

French Gel Toes & Spray Tan Grafted Silk Eyelashes & Eyebrow Wax Body Piercing Includes Sss Jewellery Microdermabrasion & Vitamin Infusion Facial

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$70 $99 $49 $99

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BEAUTY SALON

Suite 5 Runaway Shopping Village P: 5528 9324 Shop 202 Tweed City Shopping Centre P: 5524 4455 Shop 39 Beenleigh Marketplace P: 3382 0900

Book Online: www.blushbeautysalons.com.au

T U S C A N TA N • U LT R A C E U T I C A L S • C R E AT I V E N A I L S • C ATA L I N A G E O 22

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luxurystyle

Luxury vintage bags never go out of fashion..

“SOMETHING NEW AND UNIQUE FOR THE GOLD COAST AND QUEENSLAND” SAYS AVOIR VINTAGE STORE OWNER MICHAEL LAWS.

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ontemporary vintage luxury designer bags, shoes & accessories “gently used & pre-loved“ 100% Authentic Designer goods

personally sourced internationally by the owner, with some of the items from the early 60’s, others being only seasons old are now available at Avoir Luxury Vintage at Thomas Drive Chevron Island.

“As our bags are mainly sourced internationally, we can offer designs that have not been seen previously in Australia all items are 100% authentic with a money back guarantee” he says.

“We carry a limited range of pre-loved Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Gucci & Louis Vuitton shoes and accessories, our range also covers purses, wallets and scarves such as Hermes, Ferragamo and Celine”.

Avoir are also happy to accept goods on consignment, once proven authentic by their in-house expert. Should you desire a particular bag, Avoir would be delighted to try and source specific items requests. For the handbag and shoe afficionado this is definitely the place to visit or if you just can’t wait any longer there are a limited range of items available on their website www.avoir.com.au

Vintage designer handbags •All items are 100% authentic with a money back Guarantee •We carry a limited range of pre-loved Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Gucci & Louis Vuitton, shoes and accessories.

•Our range also covers purses, wallets and scarves such as Hermes, Ferragamo and Celine

37 thomas drive chevron island t: (07) 5679 3337 e:info@avoir.com.au - www.avoir.com.au LuxuryStyleLiving

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face 2 face with He can saw his mother in half, he holds the current honour of 'Illusionist Showman of the Decade', and not only has an undeniable air of magic about him, but also a bottomless hat full of charm. The world-famous Swedish-born master magician Joe Labero, reveals his thoughts to Rachel Syers on the eve of launching his new live show at Conrad Jupiters Hotel and Casino Theatre on the Gold Coast ... 'Genesis – The Magic Spectacular' by Danze Fantasy Productions, running until May 8, 2011.

You have performed for presidents, royalty and celebrities … who has been the most amazing audience?

My performance for the Kennedy family was very good; the audience was responding really well and they interacted and became very excited and involved. It was a very classy and elegant setting.

Also Monte Carlo has a great crowd - it’s very classy. It feels so exclusive … the way they dress with white gloves and serve champagne and wine. There I have performed for Lionel Richie, Tom Jones, just to name a couple - they always have different superstars coming in.

How do you strive to keep pushing the boundaries of performance magic? You can always improve the performance by changing lighting and music ... it’s the details that keep it fresh.

What keeps you grounded when you are not on stage under the spotlight? When I’m off the stage I like to play golf - I really love golf! As soon as I have any spare time, I will go out to play golf. I like to do things where you don’t have to concentrate; a movie, or dining out, hanging about and doing nothing, enjoying life.

You always have to enjoy life, while you can.

Do you worry about the impact global technology has on giving away a magician's secrets? No. For example, if you are given musical sheets and you are shown how it’s done right in front of you, still you have to learn how to play the piano. It’s about the presentation. The secret itself is not that big - it’s only a small part of the entire package. It’s how it is done and how it’s presented that differentiates the performance. The magic can be lost a little bit, but it's only a small part of the entire package - it's all about presentation.

Do you believe everything you see? Yes, but I see it different too. I see right through it, but it doesn’t matter, it’s the effect on the audience. I once saw in Paris, a magician - he borrowed a tie from a gentleman and it stood up like a snake, he turned it into a snake right in front of my eyes, then BOOM!, he shot it with his hand pretending to be a gun and it fell down, then he gives it back to the guy. That’s magic for me, very strong. The expression on their faces was incredible. Then I found out later how the secret was done, but still, WOW!, the presentation and effect was everything.

Have you ever feared for your life during your performances? I was scared when I did the bullet catch in Tunisia,

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for the TV show, because the gun was real and the bullets were real, there was a lot of stress. I didn’t fear for my life, but I was really really scared. I remember thinking, 'Is this going to work or not?' That was one of my scariest moments.

Would you ever saw a member of your family in half?

Yes - my mother, she was my assistant in one of the first big illusions I learned. Before I had a magic assistant I used my mother. I also did the illusion with the boxes where I divide the boxes into three sections and pull the middle one out. I use to use my mother for that one too.

If you could have any magical power, what would it be?

Of course to make all this war disappear and the unfairness in the world. Yes, definitely to make bad people disappear.

What's are some of your favourite tricks in Genesis?

The dove act I like a lot, because I haven’t done that for 25 years.

When I first started my career I did that illusion and I haven’t done it for a while.

Also, when I borrow three rings from the audience and I link them all together. The camera captures the up-close magic right in front of the eyes of the audience. That is always a wow factor; you don’t need tonnes of equipment to amaze the audience. I think it’s the contrast from the big to the small illusions that is the success in Genesis.

What keeps you motivated when you perform so many shows night after night around the world? I always keep changing; I have a meeting with my crew every night with new ideas on how we can do things different or better. You can always improve the performance and if you think like that, it inspires you and it doesn’t get boring.

It’s also a new crowd every night. If you come see the show after 100 performances, there will be something different in every show. I remember last time I was on the Gold Coast I did 920 shows and we taped every show,. I looked back at those tapes and I saw how the show changed dramatically from the first to the last show.

Will magicians ever die out? Not if you keep up with time.

Magic is a classic art form. You need to repackage and reinvent yourself, keep the quality high and do it with style. I like to lift the level of magic by keeping with the times with new music and style.

luxurystyle

joe labero “

I was scared when I did the bullet catch in Tunisia for the TV show, because the gun was real and the bullets were real

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profile

Every fashionista’s favourite When it comes to the Victoria Cooper label, it’s all about looking current and cutting edge yet feeling comfortable.

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The styles are lifestyleinspired - generally casual and relaxed … wearable pieces for real women 26

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ne of Australia’s best known labels Country Road, was started in the 1970s by Steve Bennett and Victoria Cooper became his right hand lady in retail, opening the first store. The business by any standards was an incredible success story and it was an inspired exciting decade for Victoria.

Spurred on by her partner Denny Collins, whose background was in fashion marketing for companies such as Trent Nathan, Victoria started her own label in the mid 80s, manufacturing girls’ wear.

“We then developed a ladies’ wear range including tailored garments, which we manufactured in Australia, wholesaled throughout Australia and New Zealand plus we also opened our own boutiques in Sydney and Canberra,” says Victoria, who after major accomplishments in Sydney, decided it was time to downsize and slow down as Denny was in poor health. “We were attracted to the relaxed Queensland lifestyle and had many friends on the Gold Coast, so we gradually closed our boutiques, sold our warehouse in Waterloo and our home in Mosman and settled in Runaway Bay. That was nearly two years ago.

“Our lovely waterfront home is close to the Broadwater, which is always entertaining watching the various water-based activities. Even our precious Maltese pups Skip and Lily love it too whether chasing a ball or taking a dip at the beach. We are also close to many waterside restaurants and find everybody so very friendly.”

After locating a warehouse in Molendinar, Victoria once again donned her designer’s ‘hat’, found a manufacturer in China that produced quality garments in mostly natural fabrics such as linen and cotton and selected boutiques around Australia and New Zealand were eager stockists. “The styles are lifestyle-inspired - generally casual and relaxed for the 25+ age group. They’re wearable pieces for real women.

“We’ve added dresses to our summer collection, which has been very successful and we continue to offer our essential denim and cotton twill jeans-wear, classic and fancy Ts, cargo pants, shirts and tops plus interesting knitwear.”

Colours range from natural, orange, red, mid green, marine blue, aqua and Bali prints to lots of white and every woman’s favourite must-have – black.

victoria cooper

Affordable Extravagance

Liz Clift International boutique situated at Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre, along with The International Shoe store next door, are a one-stop shop.

Liz travels overseas constantly sourcing new and exciting designer labels from Europe and U.S.A. Her labels express a unique attitude, modern and casual chic. The elegant and exquisite style of Liz Clift International attracts customers from all over Australia. Liz Clift holds exclusivity to all her labels, and her experienced stylists can work with you to create your individual style.

benowa gardens - ashmore road, benowa, gold coast phone 5597 0000 - open 7 days LuxuryStyleLiving

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shoes to die for... stylesinstore

The Best Little Shoe Boutique In Town

Shoes on CHEVRON

Shop Eight, 49 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island Tel: 07 5539 8269 www.shoesonchevron.com.au

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Designer Imports Exclusive to Lanni Casual Tops Cocktail Wear Mother of the Bride Formal Wear Sizes S-XXX Jewellery & Evening Bags Available from Lanni - Runaway Bay Shopping Centre

VERY CHIC FASHION

now

Oh so very chic fashion with something to suit everyone - Available from Bella Bella Boutique Chevron Island

Shoes bags and accessories for any occasion - available from Shoes on Chevron - Chevron Island

2/49 Thomas Drv. Chevron Island • VERGE Specialist • MOSAIC

07 5538 4641

• GABRIELLA FRATTINI • BOO RADLEY • DIDIER

• DAVID POND • CARLOPIK

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in stores

Not Your Daughters Jeans (NYDJ) - Flattens the tummy; Lifts the butt; Subtly reshapes your curves; Fits and flatters most body shapes; Each jean has the perfect rise to eliminate the muffin top; Doesn't cut into the hip and expose undergarments; Makes the wearer look and feel one size smaller; The most comfortable jean on the market.

Let us give you that perfect fit.

Mention our ad, purchase an NYDJ jean and receive a NYDJ gift. Limited time only.

Style on Thomas - Chevron Island

Call in and see the stunning selection of dresses for any special occasion at Sweet Alma - Chevron Island

Olsen

germany - summer 2011

Jaeger

london - summer 2011

Coats & Jackets

Peer Gynt

available all seasons

French Custom Jewellery

UbU

available february

Imported Silk Scarves & Wraps

shop 1, cosmos building 49 thomas drive, chevron island tel: 07 5592 4905

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Lisa Z on Chevron Island sets the standard for classy fashion and accessories

NYDJ The Original Tummy Tuck Jean 56b Thomas Drive, Chevron Island, Ph 07 55 317688

Must haves...

Be Seduced with the Audacious New Scent GUESS SEDUCTIVE Created by perfumer Veronique Nyberg, GUESS Seductive is a sparkling, floriental woody fragrance evokes coy femininity and intoxicating seduction. The scent teases the senses, captivates attention, and leaves a lingering sensation of addiction—a fatal floral attraction. With bold top notes of zesty, dazzling bergamot, vibrant blackcurrant and crispy pear evoke mouthwatering, mesmerising desire. At the heart of the fragrance are feminine facets of orange flower, exotic touches of jasmine and the noble allure of precious Florentine orris, a legendary note harvested in Florence and used in perfumery for centuries to seduce the senses. At the base is a voluptuous trail of warm vanilla and spicy olibanum, finished with an intensely distinguished, musky essence of cashmere wood.

Eau de Toilette 30ml $55, 50ml $80, 75ml $120 Body Cream 200ml $40 & Shower Cream 200ml $30

THE DAISY RING IS BACK...

Marc Jacobs introduces the new Daisy Solid Perfume Dome Ring - a modern twist on the beloved original, and a playful fragrance accessory with a charming vintage feel.

This stylish, oversized ring captures the freespirited nature of Daisy with a whimsical scattering of daisies across the large, black lacquer dome.

The fragrance is a sparkling floral bouquet - sweet and playful. RRP $65.00

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ESTÉE LAUDER - SENSUOUS NOIR A fragrance that plunges straight into the heart of the original’s signature molten woods to reveal the most evocative and feminine side of a woman. Estée Lauder Sensuous Noir is sensuous after dark – a more mysterious and even more captivating expression of sensuality.

Estée Lauder Sensuous Noir will be available at all Estée Lauder counters nationwide and online at www.esteelauder.com.au RRP $95 for 50ml EDP and $120 for 100ml EDP.

Express Makeup by Tae Morris, Allen & Unwin, $39.99 Australia's leading makeup artist is a veteran of major international runway shows, where speed is critical, so she knows how to achieve beautiful looks fast. In Express Makeup, she reveals all the tricks and trade secrets she's learnt over her highly successful career, from how to apply razor-sharp eyeliner to how to transform your face with the perfect brow shape.

And her number one tip? When you're in a hurry, always do your eyes first, as you can easily apply foundation and lipstick in your compact or rear-view mirror.

Full of sensational looks, with step-by-step photographs and easy to follow instructions on how to achieve them, this is the must-have makeup book for women who want to look gorgeous in just minutes.

a bazaar of collectables from all over the world...

• CLOTHING • JEWELLERY • HOMEWARES • INCENSE • BATH PRODUCTS • GIFTS • ARTIFACTS

Capture the joy of life’s simple pleasures with a New, Luscious Fruity Floral Fragrance ESTÉE LAUDER PLEASURES BLOOM

IMPORTED SHOES, BAGS, HATS & ACCESSORIES

A contemporary of the original, iconic pleasures, Pleasures Bloom is a fruity floral fragrance, that embodies the vibrancy and playfulness of modern life with a blend of luscious fruits and colourful florals.

Available at all Estée Lauder counters nationwide RRP $100 for 50ml EDP and $145 for 100ml EDP.

The next generation of high impact colour with the NEW...

Estée Lauder Pure Colour EyeShadow & Pure Colour Gloss; a vibrant collection of eyeshadows that envelop the eyes in raw attitude and style, and glosses that drench lips in enviably chic shades - lasting shine, maximum moisture and three multidimensional finishes.

Estée Lauder Pure Colour EyeShadow & Pure Colour Gloss are now available at all Estée Lauder counters nationwide. EyeShadow RRP $42.00 and Gloss RRP $42.00.

The Tom Ford Private Blend Collection...

Azzure Lime Capturing the easy style and relaxed glamour of the Caribbean island of Mustique, with it's captivating sense of warmth and luminosity, balanced with an oldworld charm.

Private Blend Azure Lime EDP Spray 50ml RRP $290.00 - Private Blend Azure Lime EDP Decanter 250ml RRP $750.00

IOMELDA’S Q N

U A Y

41c Quay Street Sanctuary Cove Phone 5514 8392 www.imeldasonquay.com.au

54 Thomas Drive Chevron Island Phone 0400 900 069 e: aurana@ymail.com LuxuryStyleLiving

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infashion

forefront of underwear change A FORMER LABOURER IS TAKING THE MALE UNDERWEAR MARKET HEAD-ON.

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e’s only 20 and not a household name but already Gold Coaster Dan Murray is considered a male underwear entrepreneur. His youthful exuberance and innovative approach to business is rapidly making his underwear brand one of the most sought-after on the market.

The bold, edgy designs of the Sly brand are rooted in the origins of the company itself. Six months out of high school and putting in fifty hour weeks as a labourer, Murray took a chance to enter the world of men’s underwear design, a gutsy decision that is paying off in a big way as he quietly edges into the lucrative yet highly competitive $4 billion global market.

Many believe Sly is at the forefront of a

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wave of change in the underwear market that industry observers liken to the seismic shift taking place in the Australian surfwear scene, says industry expert and former managing director of surfwear giant Cult Steve Barrett: “The unmistakable shift in power seen in the local surfwear industry over the past five years is having a clear ripple effect onto other forms of apparel. Gone are the days of total corporate dominance in the market place.

Consumers are looking more and more to the smaller, less branded labels with a transparent and open structure. Sly displays all the characteristics to be the catalyst for a similar change in the underwear market.”

With many of the country’s top retailers on board, including City Beach, plus Dan’s dynamic yet affordable approach to a mostly conservative, corporate-dominated market, there’s no looking back as major retailers across three continents jump on board.

Spice

up your wardrobe in 3 affordable steps

Elegance & Style

Fabulous

1 Fashion 2

Glamorous Shoes

3 Designer

Handbags & Jewellery

Be spoilt ‘top to toe’ in glamour & style with Sonya’s handpicked designer wear, footwear & accessories.

Points Boutique is the place to come for that certain complete outfit...

Designer Imports Exclusive to Lanni Casual Tops Cocktail Wear Mother of the Bride Formal Wear Sizes S-XXX Jewellery & Evening Bags

LANNI Runaway Bay Shopping Village

6C, 6-8 Grice Ave. Paradise Point Phone 07 5501 5544

Opposite Best & Less 10-12 Lae Drv. Runaway Bay • Ph: 5500 6511

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health and fitness

Open Daily 9.00am-5.30pm Ph: 07 5577 8981

step up to su

32 A/B Masthead Way. Sanctuary Cove

…it decreases your appetite •JETS •Gabriella Frattini •Ravel •Rarity •Sacha Drake •Hot Clothing also most popular swimwear labels

and stimulates the thyroid to burn calories all day

Open Daily 9.00am-5.30pm Ph: 07 5577 8288

Shop 41E, Quay St. Sanctuary Cove

Surf and sun mean shor ts, sarongs, SPF30 and more, but are you in the shape you want to be?

•Joseph Ribkoff •MR K •Philosophy •Vers •7 Sisters •Ping Pong •Marco Polo •Charlie Brown … and more

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osing weight is never easy especially when you’re lusting after

new boardies or that barely-there summer dress. With willpower and hard work, you can sensibly transform your body. But forget

crash diets or excessive workouts.

We’re getting heavier because we’re moving less. We’ve been walking for two and a half million years, and now, all of sudden - evolutionarily speaking, we’re sitting down - in cars and in front of television and computers. Walk or take stairs whenever possible. Short workouts spread throughout the day can have a big impact on a waistline over time.

There is no point in shedding lots of kilos in one week by starving.

Ask yourself, before you eat "is it hunger - or habit?" If it’s the latter, train yourself to say "no" and remember to have any lasting effect, a diet has to suit the dieter’s lifestyle, likes, dislikes and budget.

A seasonal diet isn’t just good for you, it’s good for the planet too.

Eating seasonal, locally grown food supports sustainable small-scale farming, promotes a natural growth cycle that improves soil quality and reduces greenhouse emissions.

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ummer....

Are you feeling fat?

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olive oil in place of other cooking oils. Essential fatty acids cannot be produced by the body and as a result must be obtained from the diet. Omega 3s are essential for cardiovascular health.

Statistically plates have become bigger and we’re filling them so use smaller plates, eat more green vegetables and salad and always think about the starving children in Africa. Leaving food on your plate is OK. If you’ve eaten your fill, stop.

Exercise in the mornings whenever possible. When you work out at the start of each day it decreases your appetite and stimulates the thyroid to burn calories all day. Try power walking, jogging or swimming, add some push-ups, pull-ups, crunches and squats at the end of the workout

Includes Computer Body Scan

to further stimulate the fat burning process.

The right footwear is essential, whether you’re running, dancing or playing tennis. And don't exercise in worn-out shoes - your feet need to be supported and comfortable.

Drinking water sounds simple enough, yet it’s so difficult for many. Boosting water intake will increase metabolism. If you’re worried about excess “water weight,” remember you’re likely to retain more water (causing swelling in ankles, feet, hands, and face) when you’re not drinking an adequate quantity.

Last but by no means least – laugh it off. Laughing boosts the immune system, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones and increases muscle flexion. And whenever possible laugh to excess!

12 Grice Avenue

PARADISE POINT 07 5529 6736 LuxuryStyleLiving

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style file

TER TIME BEEN A BET R E V E N 'S E R E BIGGEST THE PS, WITH TH ACHING -U S S E R D R O F PRO HE YEAR AP NIGHT OF T ECEMBER 31.

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dress to impress … from New Year's Eve to the Magic Millions

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8:

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1: SUIT YOURSELF: From the Spring-Summer 2010 collection of the Farage label, comes the Milla cream tux jacket, $695, and Milla cream trousers, $329.

Stockists (02) 9212 4509.

2: RACE READY: The Dahlia Dress, $380, from the Taree Birse label. Stockists include The Tribune in Fortitude Valley, Traffic Driven By Style in Camp Hill, or for stockists call 0418 192 640.

3: CUFF CUTIE: The Cuff Bracelet from Otazu jewellery, $675. Phone Otazu @ Liberta Jewell on 0412 193 763.

4: A SHOE IN: The Gostosa 'Marisa' platform wedge, $249, and Gostosa 'Ruth' heels, $249, from Brisbane's Gostosa Shoes, at www.gostosa.com.au 5: BAG A WINNER: The Delores Addicted bag from Spencer & Rutherford's Spring-Summer 2010/2011 collection, $299 and the Daisy Addicted clutch, $59. Stockists (03) 9536 8777 or www.spencerandrutherford.com 7: THE HIGH LIFE: The Sanna ‘Victoria’ heel, $229, from www.sanna.com.au 8: PARTY APPEAL: The Tallulah Dress, $395, from the Taree Birse label.

9: TICKLE YOUR FANCY? The Modern Dress, $519, by Brisbane designer Benjamin Ringuet, at www.benjaminringuet.com

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foodie events & news

Whetting appetites

Sommelier Peter Marchant, Plumm Glasswear designer Dana Morris & Conviction Kitchens Lisa Parker at the launch of Plumm’s new range of glasses at Gusto da Gianni’s at Portside Hamilton.

Burleigh Brewing Company’s Brennan Feilding was the winner at the recent The Royal Queensland Food & Wine Show

The Royal Queensland Food & Wine Show stimulated the taste buds of a nation of beer drinkers with the results of their first ever Beer Competition.

Offering a comprehensive snapshot of the quality of Australian brewing for the industry, and a trustworthy purchasing guide for consumers through gold, silver and bronze RNA medals.

The Gold Coast’s Burleigh Brewing Company was the big winner, taking out the rubberstampbeer.com.au trophy for Champion Beer of Show, and the Drinx trophy for Champion Queensland Beer of Show. Other gold medal winners include Murray’s Craft Brewing Co New World Pilsner; Carlton & United Breweries (Yatala) Carlton Dry; Red Oak Oktoberfest; Matilda Bay Brewing Co Fat Yak Pale Ale; and Murray’s Craft Brewing Co Wild Thing Imperial Stout.

Brennan Fielding the BBC brewer and owner accepted the trophies, “I’m very thankful to everyone who was involved - but I wasn’t part of the judging panel! I was hoping that maybe one of the beers we entered was worthy of a gold medal, but it was completely beyond my expectations that the best Queensland beer was also the best beer in show, so to win it is just awesome.”

where guests were seated at a central table area and mesmerised by the talents of Kelly and dazzled by the dishes they watched being prepared for their tasting.

Each evening the restaurant was booked out by excited diners intent on savouring Spirit House cuisine The Southport Sharks' signature restaurant prepared by Kelly and the Carmody's team. Diners Carmody's Grill has a fine reputation for presenting were rewarded with outstanding Thai cuisine lovingly fabulous food, as well as fine wining and dining events. presented and expertly prepared and fabulous dishes The quality of these specialised events sees diners including Miang of sand crab and lychee with toasted travel from far afield to be part of the popular coconut and lime; Spirit House's signature standing whole crispy fish lavishly covered in fresh herbs and occasions.

Recently, Restaurant Manager Socky Soares invited Tamarind chili sauce; lemongrass infused panna cotta chef Kelly Lord from the award-winning Spirit House with red pawpaw and mint salad; to mention but a few.

Check out Carmody's upcoming events and dining Restaurant and Cooking School on the Sunshine Coast, to share his food philosophy at the restaurant over options by visiting http://www.southportsharks.com.au/take-athree very special days. The Spirit House Week included a daytime Thai cooking class and tastings luncheon, look/carmodys.php

The Spirit House comes to Carmody’s

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Embassy XO co-owners Roark Walsh & Executive chef Brendon Barker and Lisa Barker at the launch of The Courier Mail Good Food Guide.

Toby Puttock from Fifteen, Melbourne and Noosa’s Belinda Tucker relax after Toby’s recent book launch in Noosa

Royal Pines goes back to the 80’s for one night only...

For one night only - a select group of guests were taken back to the eighties, to both celebrate and commiserate the closing for refurbishments of RPR's Restaurant on the 24th floor of the RACV Royal Pines Resort.

Guests dressed to impress in their finest 80s inspired garb, and sipped on champagne and fine wines as they supped on a menu reminiscent of the era, caesar salad, steak diane and crepe suzette - all prepared by the hotel's chefs Guéridon Service style (table side cooking stations) to herald a new era of dining on the horizon for the restaurant. when it reopens in about 6 months time.

Left: Guests Camilla Westerlund and Stuart Jansen were served by RACV Royal Pines Resort General Manager Greg Magi at the farewell dinner of the resorts signature restaurant RPR’s.

Courier Mail Good Food Guide 2011 The Courier-Mail Queensland Food & Wine Guide provides a delicious snapshot of all that's worth eating and drinking in Queensland.

With 538 venues reviewed, categories for everything from restaurants, bistros, cafes and bars to cheap eats, delis, organics, provedores and markets. All the reviews are unannounced and conducted anonymously. All meals are paid for. Some venues are visited several times.

Edited and reviewed by The CourierMail’s restaurant critics, Lizzie Loel and Fiona Donnelly.

“If it's not a place we'd recommend to friends, it won't appear in the guide” says Lizzie. Available at bookshops & newsagents or go online: www.foodandwineguide.com.au The Awards San Pellegrino Restaurant of the Year: Ortiga Chef of the Year Pablo Tordesillas, Ortiga Young Chef of the Year: Joint winners Ashly Hicks, the Buffalo Club; Matt Osborne, 1889 Enoteca/Tartufo Pol Roger Wine list of the Year Ortiga Special Commendation to: 1889 Enoteca and Aria Brisbane The Courier-Mail Best New Restaurant: The Euro

Regional Restaurant of the Year Nu Nu, Palm Cove Best Casual Dining South Bank Surf Club, South Brisbane Café of the Year Anouk, Paddington Merlo Barista of the Year Josh Russell Cup Coffee, West End Bar of the Year Canvas, Woolloongabba Outstanding Service Shawn Gomes, Il Centro, Brisbane Service to the Industry Gerry Pennisi

A full list of 1,2, & 3 star restaurants and reviews appear in the book.

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foodie events & news

Moo Moo steaking an island claim...

LOCAL GOLD COAST BUSINESS DYNAMOS, AUTUMN AND STEVEN ADAMS HAVE LAUNCHED AN INTERNATIONAL ATTACK ON THE DINING COMMUNITIES OF THE WORLD. WITH THE OPENING OF THEIR THIRD MOO MOO THE WINE BAR + GRILL IN FIJI.

famous Wagyu steak as a signature dish, there will now be the Walu Kokoda a local Fijian fish sourced fresh from local waters.

A specialty beef menu, hand selected by Mr Adams is sure to win the approval of beef connoisseurs from around the world visiting Fiji, with a

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ever ones to rest on their laurels, this dynamic team who earlier this year launched into the Brisbane dining community with a Moo Moo bar and restaurant in the historic old Siggis precinct. have now launched their third restaurant - across the bright blue ocean - on Fiji’s exotic Denarau Island.

After 5 years of award-winning trading on the Gold Coast, and their highly successful launch into Brisbane, the entrepreneurial duo have found the perfect location for their 3rd restaurant - on the beachfront at the luxurious Westin Island Resort and Spa. This restaurant is set to follow suit as a dining destination must, when visiting Fiji.

Featuring a five star kitchen cast lead by Moo Moo’s Australian executive chef Phillip Edwards, renowned for his impressive resume - boasting former sous chef roles at Victorian favourites Est est est and Ondine; and a team that was brought from Fiji and trained on the Gold Coast, diners will be indulged in true Moo Moo style - island style!

Steve Adams explained that the new location has been designed to reflect the Fijian culture and the warm relaxing ambience of the South Pacific, whilst still capturing the sophistication of the Moo Moo brand.

The menu will reflect all their signature dishes, but Joining Moo Moo’s

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selection of mouth watering modern Australian mains to complimenting a signature steak A-list.

Mr Adams said the decision to set up off shore was brought on by a request from the Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, who had approached him earlier in the year.

“Culturally I think the Fijian resort atmosphere will be a good fit for Moo Moo. People on holiday are often looking for a special dining experience, great quality food and an extra level of service, and I’m confident we can deliver exactly that”, he said.

For booking details please call the resort direct on +679 675 0000 or email restaurant.fiji@westin.com.

Thai Lanna An absolute gem in the heart of Labrador Owner and head chef Vitthaya Sountornsorn (who everyone calls V) and his wife and partner Jan have been the familiar face of their extremely popular restaurant Thai Lanna for over 19 years.

And, despite the almost never-ending road works being carried out on Frank Street, they have continued to present their delicious dishes to their loyal and longstanding customers. No matter what.

V's love of food started at a tender age in his family home in Bangkok cooking with his family, and it is these skills and authentic Thai cooking style that shines through every dish that he prepares in his restaurant's vast kitchen. Jan's family also own Thai Restaurants in Brisbane, so the love of food is deeply held by both.

Over the years, Australians have come to love the diversity of global foods available to them. And none more so than Thai cuisine.

Perhaps it is the freshness of the dishes that so agrees with our palates, especially in Queensland where it is usually hot.

The addition of tropical fruits, spices and flavours - the aromatics and use of the best possible ingredients combine to make the dishes so comforting and satisfying.

And no more so than at Thai Lanna.

Offering both indoor and outdoor garden settings, diners may choose to sit in the restaurant's air-conditioned interior which offers separate dining areas for groups and couples to share a meal and a conversation. or the fully covered garden area with its fish pond and traditional Thai statues. The tables are clothed in rich purple tablecloths and the charming ambience is permeated by soft Thai music, as the courteous waitstaff all dressed in traditional Thai pha sin (skirts) resplendent in bright jewell hues go about their duties, ensuring that diners are looked after.

The menu is extensive and covers all your favourite Thai dishes - all presented on decorative Thai plateware.

Entrees including Tod Man Pla tender Thai fish cakes; Goong Ma Praw prawns in shredded coconut battered and deep fried; Gari Puff Gai curry puffs filled with chicken and vegetables. The mains including Pla Tod Grob deep fried, fresh fish fillet of the day battered and served with your choice of sauce, including sweet chili, basil & chili, ginger & onion; or the Pad Met Ma-Muang a spicy stir fry with your choice of chicken, pork, beef or seafood - cooked with cashew nuts and chili. The Goong Tod Grob crispy fried prawns topped with sweet chili sauce is fantastic. Their are green, red and yellow curry options available, as well as vegetarian options - all complemented by noodle and rice choices to accentuate the flavours of your chosen dishes.

Savvy diners have learned to also choose a dish from V's gourmet specialities, as these dishes are ones you may not have experienced before.

Try the Scallop Red Curry - tender plump scallops cooked with red curry and coconut milk with lychees, tomato and pineapple lovingly presented in a fresh young coconut, with its own lid. Or the Moreton Bay bugs cooked in the shell with curry powder ; and don't forget to ask for the Soft shell crab deep fried with salt and dry garlic sauce.

If you're into desserts don't fear, the traditional options are on the menu including sticky rice and egg custard; bananas in sweet coconut milk; deepfried banana and ice cream, and one of V's creations a new pumpkin custard served with vanilla ice cream that is amazing.

Take away meals are available and the restaurant is both licensed and BYO for your convenience.

This is traditional Thai food at its best, providing diners with the chance to experience the dining delights of another culture without the expense of a plane ticket involved.

Thai Lanna Restaurant: 133-135 Frank Street, Labrador PH: 5532 9933 BYO & Licensed Lunch from Wed-Sun 11.30am-2.30pm & Dinner Tue-Sun 5pm-10pm Major credit cards accepted On site parking.

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cooking the books

Serge Dansereau’s French Kitchen Roasted Scallops with Leek and Bacon, Saint-Jacques rôties au poireau et au porc salé

Feasting Author: Karen Martini

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Published by: Lantern RRP $59.95

Your Place or Mine

by Gary Mehigan + George Calombaris

'If you can use this book to create a sense of occasion at mealtimes, if it makes entertaining a little easier and allows you to get together more often with your favourite people, then I'll consider my job well done.'

Karen Martini welcomes us to her table.

Here are 130 new recipes, organised into twenty menus – all easy to prepare and full of flavour. Karen invites us to choose just one delicious dish, put together an entire menu, or create our own unique feasts using recipes from different menus. We learn how to match starters with mains and mains with sides, and how to choose the perfect dessert to finish a meal. We discover the wonders of Mediterranean flavours and the art of serving multiple dishes at the centre of the table. We visit Asia for a banquet and the Middle East for a vegetarian feast, and then come back home for the old-fashioned comfort of roast chook, potatoes and greens.

Inspiring, instructive and beautifully photographed, Feasting reminds us that cooking is not just about producing good food, it's about creating a reason to connect and celebrate with family and friends.

Published by: Lantern RRP $49.95 What happens when you ask George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan to provide a list of their favourite ingredients and then each cook a dish? You end up (after much back and forth!) with the ‘short’ list of 43 ingredients celebrated with 86 incredibly different, varied and mouth-watering recipes from each of the boys.

Give them olives and Gary comes up with Swordfish with Iranian fish and green olives, and George dishes up a carrot cake with black olive caramel.

Serve up berries and you’ll get an incredible sweet cheese crumble soufflé with blackberries from Gary, and strawberry and Ouzo sorbet from George.

Learn the techniques of two consummate professionals and MasterChef Australia judges: the art of making a great souffle, melt-in-the-mouth ravioli and the perfect panna cotta. Then join the boys at home as they reveal the simple pleasures of family favourites with a professional twist, such as hearty braised beef - and chocolate mousse.

It is no wonder that these two adorable chefs have taken Australia by storm.

Serves: 4 From time to time a box of live scallops in their shells appears at the fish markets and it is always exciting to see. You can source saucer scallops from the warmer waters of Australia, such as Hervey Bay and Shark Bay. They are easy to recognise as they have a flat shell, but they do not possess the colourful roe of the Tasmanian variety. Either type of scallop can be used, but the saucer scallop will cook faster.

Ingredients: 20 scallops, in the shell 8 slices streaky pancetta or bacon 100 g butter, diced 1 leek, white part only, rinsed, halved lengthways and thinly sliced 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley 1 tablespoon snipped chives 2 handfuls wild rocket 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 lemons, cut into cheeks, to serve Method: Remove the scallops from their shells and clean them to remove the grit bag. Clean the shells and set aside. Set the scallops on a tray lined with paper towels to drain any moisture and refrigerate until needed.

Finely chop four of the pancetta slices and cut the remaining pancetta into strips about 2 cm wide. Set aside until needed.

Heat half of the butter in a frying pan over low heat. Add the leek, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the leek is tender.

Add the chopped pancetta to the pan and continue cooking for 5 minutes, or until cooked. Remove from the heat.

Put the remaining butter in a small bowl, add the herbs and a touch of salt and pepper and stir well to combine.

Preheat the oven to 240ºC. Lay half of the cleaned scallop shells on a baking tray. Place a spoonful of the leek mixture in the base of each shell, and top with a scallop. Arrange the pancetta strips over the top and spoon over a little herb butter to finish. Roast the scallops in the oven for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, toss the rocket with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Serve the scallops in the shell with the rocket and a lemon cheek on the side for squeezing.

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Roasted Scallops with Leek & Bacon, Saint -Jacques r么ties au poireau et au porc sal茅

Saké Brisbane to set sail at Eagle Street Pier AFTER ATTRACTING A COVETED CHEF’S HAT AND A LOYAL FAN BASE FOLLOWING A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR IN SYDNEY, SAKÉ RESTAURANT & BAR IS NOW GETTING SET TO SERVE UP CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE CUISINE AT BRISBANE’S ICONIC EAGLE STREET PIER. THE RESTAURANT DOORS WILL OFFICIALLY OPEN DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF DECEMBER, JUST IN TIME FOR THE BUSY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR RUSH.

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xecutive Chef Shaun Presland (who was brought up in Brisbane) will return to his hometown to present an outstanding à la carte menu that demonstrates his skill with contemporary Japanese cuisine, with Head Chef Shinichi Maeda ( previously with Wasabi Restaurant, Noosa) – drawing on his extensive knowledge of regional produce to deliver a sensational bar menu and seasonal additions to the main menu.

The menu has been paired with a selection of shochu varieties and ‘Kozaemon’ sakes – a premium range from a 300-year-old boutique brewery in Japan and exclusive to the two Saké venues. As in Japan, sake is treated like wine and all Saké Brisbane staff have been trained in sake appreciation.

A standout feature of the venue is Saké Bar, which has been designed to serve as a destination in itself. Saké Bar not only presents a mouth-watering range of sake and shochubased cocktails but is where you can sample Shinichi’s Otsumami menu. Literally translated to mean ‘snacks to go with alcohol’ Otsumami is a traditional Japanese concept and Shinichi has given it a Brisbane twist by focusing on local ingredients.

As far as the restaurant’s interior goes, customers can expect to enjoy the same distinctive look and relaxed vibe as Saké Sydney, but with a decidedly Brisbane feel. Along with a

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variety of seating options and a sushi bar, à la Sydney, awarding-winning design duo Luchetti Krelle have reconfigured the original space to include an impressive five private dining rooms and an outdoor dining area.

The Saké Brisbane team is just as stylish as the design.

Restaurant Manager Rob Gibson brings five years of experience at a trio of London’s most high-profile Japanese restaurants (including Japanese stars such as Zuma and Roka) to his role; Bar Manager Patrick White (previously of Astral Bar, Sydney) is presiding over a well-trained bar team and innovative drinks menu; and Sake Sommelier Miriam McLachlan (also of Zuma, London fame) is uniting her passion for Japanese beverages with extensive training experience to help educate customers about the wonders of sake and shochu.

To formally open Saké Brisbane, Mr Kozaemon San himself will be flying out from Japan especially to perform a traditional Japanese sake ceremony – it’s a great opportunity to meet the man behind the premium sake brand.

In the lead-up to Christmas, Saké Brisbane will be supporting StreetSmart’s ‘Dine out… Help Out’ campaign (for details visit www.streetsmartaustralia.org), and will hold a charity event in February (details to be announced). Also coming up in the New Year is the launch of the Sake Academy, which will aim to comprehensively educate anyone interested in learning about sake and its finer points.

Shinichi, Shaun, Rob and the Saké Brisbane team look forward to welcoming you soon.

Kanpai! (cheers) Saké Restaurant & Bar, Brisbane Level 1, 45 Eagle Street, Eagle Street Pier, Brisbane Ph: 07 3339 0999 or reservations@sakerestaurant.com.au www.sakerestaurant.com.au

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stylish recipes

Goats' Cheese, Radish, Beetroot and Orange Salad

Serves: 4-6 Ingredients: 6 baby beetroot 6 radishes - thinly sliced 4 oranges - segmented 500g rocket (or other bitter green lettuce) 100ml extra virgin olive oil 2 tbs walnut oil 2 tbs sherry vinegar 1 tbs castor sugar 250g fresh goats' cheese (Meredith chevre or similar) freshly ground salt & pepper to taste Method: Pre-heat oven to 200C. Remove each baby beetroot from the stalk. Wash and pat dry.

Wrap each in foil and bake for 25 – 35 mins or until tender.

Remove from oven, unwrap and leave to cool at room temperature before rubbing off the skins and dicing into small pieces.

Place washed rocket leaves, sliced radishes, and diced beetroot in a large bowl. Add orange segments and squeeze any juices from the remaining orange over leaves. Crumble goats cheese into the bowl and toss gently.

To make dressing, whisk together olive oil, walnut oil, sherry vinegar and sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour over leaves and toss gently.

Recipe courtesy of: Farmgate Cheese www.farmgatecheese.com.au

designer duds, electrical goods and everything in between. Now, thanks to Cherries Direct, an Australian company dedicated to sourcing the finest cherries on Healthy breakfasts are now just a keyboard the planet, you can jump online to have this click away, with the launch of Australia’s first summer’s most luscious Australian cherries delivered straight from the mix-your-own-muesli online store.

Mix My Muesli is an ultra-healthy, online, farm to your doorstep in just designer muesli store. And, it's so simple to use. 48 hours.

Whether purchasing a Just go online and make your selection from over 60 handpicked, nutritious ingredients fabulous festive gift, or including premium dried fruits with no added simply looking to stock your sugar, as well as organic options. All are labeled own fridge with nature’s according to their dietary status, so you’ll find most delectable candy, these gluten-free, wheat-free, organic or preservative- luscious Australian cherry free indicated with each. There are also boxes are available to enjoy superfoods in the range, including chia seeds, from November to February.

The system is perfect. You organic quinoa, organic amaranth and goji place you order and the folks berries.

To create your from Cherries Direct source plump summer cherries directly from own Australian farmers in New South Wales and Tasmania. The cherries are only picked when a customer places an order, ensuring the freshness of each 2 kilogram crop, which is then presented in a chic, black box at your door.

Cherries Direct can be ordered online for $40 per 2kg box at www.cherriesdirect.com.au or by calling 1300 857 776 and will be delivered, free of charge to metropolitan and regional centres along the eastern seaboard.

Special rates available for bulk orders.

Design your own Breakfast... online

Muesli, just follow three easy steps: 1. Choose your Muesli base 2. Add premium dried fruits (with no added sugar), nuts or seeds.

3. Then name your Mix - this will be printed on your Muesli cylinder - and check out Then your stylish Mix My Muesli cylinder is labeled with your 500 gm selection, including the nutritional breakdown of your custommade muesli and your unique ID so you can reorder quickly and conveniently. It’s handsome enough to give as a gift.

So start mixing now at www.mixmymuesli.com.au and you’ll be enjoying your own, custom-made muesli very soon.

Sweeten your summer with Cherries direct...

How would you like to receive this season’s most delicious cherries delivered from farm to front door in 48 hours?

Australians are pretty au fait with online shopping, ordering

Driven by a desire to combine their passions for good food and simple design, Travis and Laura Sanders a young Queensland-born creative duo have launched Farmgate Cheese a unique company that celebrates artisanal cheese and farmhouse products.

Having worked together closely for over 8 years, Travis and Laura's experience since leaving the Gold Coast, has included managing iconic Sydney cafes to playing integral roles in the expansion in Dubai and Singapore of Australian gourmet food stores, as well as collaborating with some of our country's best chefs and specialist suppliers along the way.

Farmgate Cheese has been established out of their passion for artisan cheeses. Now settled in Melbourne, they have established the Farmgate Cheese warehouse:showroom in Auburn Village, Hawthorn, and can deliver the best cheese, wine, accessories and accompaniments across Australia.

When the Brisbane leg of the 2010 Good Food & Wine Show hit the Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre recently, celebrity chefs George Calombaris, Manu Feildel and Matt Moran were lured into the Sunbeam Academy's cupcake kitchen and given 10 minutes to decorate five cupcakes - and become the Cupcake King (so to speak).

Now, one would assume that these masters of the kitchen wouldn't have a problem with such a simple task - and of course, would show complete professionalism in the task athand.

But, never let it be said that these dynamos of the kitchen don't know how to 'ham it up'. This was the kitchen story from hell, and poor, poor George couldn't win a trick (that's for you Manu!).

Matt Moran was chosen overall winner by the team of esteemed judges including Emily-Jade - or Emily Everywhere as she has been lovingly nicknamed.

Their hampers are filled with local and international farmhouse cheeses, matched with dried fruits, pastes and wines, and can be delivered anywhere in Australia overnight. By working very closely with the cheese makers, they ensure that each of their products reflect the best seasonal offerings.

Having only launched a few months ago, the pair have already delivered hampers across the country to many notable names and organisations, including the Sydney Theatre Company and FashionAid. The hampers are perfect to have sent to your home before a day out on the boat, a beautiful gift for a friend or family, or a delicious and impressive corporate gift. The options for giving and receiving are only limited by your imagination.

Visit their website for hamper options, cheese news and fun and fabulous recipes. www.farmgatecheese.com.au

foodie bites

From Farmgate to Table...

Cupcake Kings…

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out & about

Savouring the Seafood‌

on the menu at... omeros bros marina mirage

Omeros Bros...

With over 30 years experience in presenting diners with the freshest possible 'fruits of the sea' matched by impeccable service, a fine wine list, and a superb location overlooking the beautiful Broadwater and marina full of million-dollar-plus boats and watercraft, it is no wonder that Omeros Bros Restaurant has achieved a multitude of awards and accolades.

This is a long-standing family business, that continues to win accolades. At the helm and usually in the kitchen, is John Omeros continuing the family tradition with the support of his father Nick Omeros, and an integral part of the team, restaurant manager Robert Rank, who was first employed by Angelo Omeros and Nick Omeros at the original Paragon Seafood Restaurant at Burleigh Heads all those years ago.

Robert and John are almost always on-hand to welcome longtime and new diners, and as most of the staff have been at the restaurant for many years, that personal touch and attention to detail ensure diners a special dining experience.

The restaurant's modern design is chic and expansive, featuring a lounge area at the entrance for diners to gather prior to seating, and an adjacent large welcoming bar where cocktails are prepared with aplomb. Many diners tend to turn up early for their booking and catch up for a few cocktails or a glass of wine and conversation before dining.

The dining area itself sits on several levels, with diners offered inside, terrace and lower deck dining options, and with the large expansive windows and glass partitions all tables are afforded fabulous Gold Coast water views.

With the local fishing fleet berthed not 300 metres from the restaurants lower deck dining area, you could almost imagine the

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fisherman swinging their day's catch over the side of the wharf and directly into the arms of the restaurants waiting chefs, to be treated with the respect and simple cooking techniques that it deserves.

Of course, the most important part of any dining experience is the menu - and here is where the iconic status of the restaurant becomes apparent. With a name synonymous with fabulous seafood - that is exactly what you will find. A menu full of oysters (the boys do love their Sydney Rock), black mussels, king prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, lobsters and mud crabs from the live tanks, salmon, fresh fish from the day's catch, baby octopus and calamari. Of course their are superb dishes for those wanting a large tender fillet steak, perfectly cooked pasta or salad.

The menu may change to include new dishes, but the signature dishes that have become favourites with visiting international stars, politicians and savvy diners the world over, will always be there.

The seafood chowder, rich, creamy and full of luscious seafood; the 'original' grilled schnapper - perfectly cooked and presented with a lemon butter sauce (the dish favoured by longtime diehard diners); the fresh grilled lobster with drawn butter; the spectacular seafood platter for one (or more) which should come with a medal if you finish. The only recent change to this dish is that instead of perching atop a metal stand it now comes on a long white platter, and is much easier to see all the elements, including three styles of oysters, mornay, kilpatrick and natural, accompanied by large juicy prawn cutlets, barbecued prawns, Moreton Bay bug, grilled baby octopus, lightly battered sea scallops, calamari, tender crumbed fish portions, smoked salmon, fresh fruit, and complementing sauces. A meal fit for a King or Queen.

I can't wait to dine there again. Soon!

Lower level waterfront, Marina Mirage Open lunch and dinner daily. PH: 07 5591 7222 www.omerosbros.com

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Ristorante Fellini...

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Fine Dining - Italian Style

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radition, excellence and real food traditions are hard to find these days.

Everyone wants to tailor their menu to reflect the latest TV trends and food crazes, rather than stand by their principles when it comes to presenting honest food.

We keep seeing chefs pushing the boundaries - preparing food designed more as a chemistry experiment than a meal. Sometimes they work well - and other times they fail miserably, by confusing both the diner and their palate!

But, this definitely isn't the case at Ristorante Fellini at Marina Mirage on the Gold Coast. A stylish two level restaurant blessed by magnificent waterfront views from every seat, and a backdrop of multi million dollar boats at the marina.

Fourteen years on, and this committed team of professionals keep producing amazing Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Food that salutes their Italian heritage. Fellini's menu draws upon influences from many regions but mostly focuses on Neapolitan cuisine, passed on through generations of traditional family cooking.

And, although the menu has recently been amended to include an array of new dishes - they are technically 'old dishes' - traditional favourites. Dishes tried and tested by time and a culture steeped in food tradition, offering fresh, simple dishes that showcase the produce more than the technique. But don't worry, all the signature dishes are still on the menu.

With four partners at the helm, Carlo Percuoco, Richard Burt, Anna Cacace and Raffaele Di Benedetto, backed by a professional team covering front of house and the all-important open kitchens - you know that any dining experience will be memorable.

When we dined recently, head chef Richard Burt was at the kitchen helm, as it was Anna's night off, and he suggested that we forgo the menu and allow him the opportunity to choose a special tasting menu that would be complemented by wines chosen by the sommelier talents of Carlo Percuoco.

We started with the staple of any good Italian meal - freshly baked bread with quality olive oil, aged balsamic and roasted garlic. From this point on, we were continually rewarded with degustation sized plates and bowls brimming with flavour and as is the style of this kitchen team - a cook's passion and personality. All matched by perfectly chosen wines that exuded our discussion with Carlo and John Kyriasis, our waiter for the evening.

As our dishes were extensive (as is the menu) I will choose a few as an overview of a night that was resplendent with flavour, taste, style, class and good humour. All the hallmarks of an exceptional dining experience.

Our first tasting plate included a fine chicken patĂŠ served with a compote of fresh quince, crostini and cornichons, and then another plate arrived with a rolled goats cheese coated in parsley, basil and rosemary; and a succulent baby

spatchcock salad. Then a trio of seafood delights (whilst not on the menu, it soon will be) carpaccio di salmone e dentice, salmon with a snapper centre sliced paper thin and served raw with fire-roasted capsicum, capers, lemon, extra virgin oil, basil and freshly crushed pepper; timballo di granchi, fresh spanner crab meat in a delicate orange infused mayonnaise, layered between avocado and tomato with a segmented orange and lime salad; fiori di zucchini fritti, baby zucchini with flowers filled with spanner crab meat, then gently fried in a light yeast batter, served with a san marzano tomato salad with aged balsamic and extra virgin olive oil. Superb. Another stand-out dish was the mertuzzi fritti, fresh whiting fillets fried in a light egg, parsley and parmesan infused coating, served with a green pea and truffle scented puree. We also savoured the trota di mare al ragu di patate, fresh deep sea Tasmanian ocean trout crusted in black poppy seeds and grilled, served over a ragu of potato, leek, tomato, zucchini, saffron and chives. A remarkable dish.

Now that you can see how our evening was progressing, you will understand why I must stop teasing you with the delights that we shared. It is much better that you experience these delights for yourself.

I will however let you in on a little secret; even though we had said NO, No a hundred times NO to dessert. We were much too full to eat another mouthful.

We were tempted by the new addition to the menu - a banana and chocolate Panna cotta. Yum. Next time you visit Fellini be sure to give the 'professionals' the green light and let them design a complete meal and matching wine experience for you.

Ristorante Fellini Level One Waterfront, Marina Mirage, Main Beach Ph: 07 5531 0300

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Cheers...

The Plumm Story The right glassware can mean the difference between a good glass of wine and a great one. Like listening to great music requires the right acoustics, great wine needs the right glass to show you everything it has to offer.

The Plumm story is one of simplicity, of balance, of elegance and ultimately pleasure. Born of the wine industry and developed with specific grape varieties in mind, we’ve created five distinctive glasses produced across four different ranges; Plumm Handmade Vintage (hand blown), Plumm Vintage (machine made), The Plumm Glass (stemless tumbler) and Plumm Outdoors (unbreakable polycarbonate).

This is glassware designed for living – not for keeping high up in your cupboard, not for wheeling out on special occasions, or treating like they’re the last glasses you’re ever going to own. As far as we’re concerned that means functional, practical glassware for each and every time you raise a glass of wine to your lips.

‘Be Cointreauversial’ this Christmas...

To ensure a stylish Christmas this year, Cointreau has released a limited edition Dita Von Teese gift box only available for the 2010 festive period. Containing a limited edition Dita Von Teese label Cointreau 700ml bottle and a celebration cocktail booklet featuring six Cointreau cocktail recipes, this gift box is sure to make a très chic statement under the Christmas tree.

Cointreau is the iconic French spirit with its unique combination of colour, aroma and flavour.

Representing style and glamour since 1849, the 100 per cent pure, crystal clear orange liqueur has maintained its position as the most aromatic of orange liqueurs - and the perfect gift for stylish women this Christmas.

Made from natural sweet and bitter orange peels and Cointreau has the highest concentration in essential orange oils of all orange liqueurs, which creates a zesty taste and great freshness.

As a key ingredient to many classic cocktails including the Cosmopolitan and the White Lady, Cointreau is chosen by bartenders as the orange liqueur of choice ensuring that these cocktails are smoother, taste fresher and have a more balanced flavour. Available nationally. RRP $48.99

More than an eye for champagne Bernadette O’Shea is considered one of the greatest ambassadors of champagne. The naturally bubbly Brisbane resident holds a French knighthood, Chevalier de l’ordre du Merite Agricole, for her contribution to the champagne industry as well as other French awards. She has

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Professor Timothy Sullivan left of Queensland with other winners.

been honoured in Australia since 1984, when she became the first non professional woman to win the coveted Vin de Champagne Award, an award she currently co-judges.

At this year’s awards held at Sydney’s Bécasse Restaurant, the professional section, which is for people who gain income from the food and wine industries was won by Greg Plowes, the sommelier at Tetsuyas; the student section for 18-27 year olds who are enrolled in or have recently completed a wine, hospitality or catering course went to Curtin University’s Yuri Berns; however it was the amateur section – for those who have a passion about champagne, that Bernadette was notably excited.

Professor Timothy Sullivan from the Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, an ophthalmology and surgical specialist who practices exclusively in eyelid, lacrimal and orbital disease in adults and children, was the winner.

Bernadette says he is a former “student” and also a personal friend: “He’s a special person with a great palate and knowledge of champagne. I set him on the road to champagne 10 years ago and he has forsaken all his reds now and rarely drinks anything but champagne. “I was one of the four judges and he was certainly the clear winner in the amateur section. “What a great moment for Queensland. We also had a winner in 2006, another student of mine, Martin McAdam.”

Winners received a two week educational tour to the Champagne district where they will be presented with their medals from Comite Champagne and enjoy the legendary Champenois hospitality. The awards which have been running exclusively in Australia for over thirty years and have produced some of the finest champagne palates in the world, also confirm that Australia remains in the top ten markets for importing champagne.

Rémy Martin Cognac just perfect for Christmas...

To celebrate Christmas 2010, Rémy Martin are releasing a handsome gift box containing a 700ml Rémy Martin VSOP bottle and two classic rocks glasses. This elegant gift box is sure to make

luxurystyle

a stylish statement under the Christmas tree this year.

Rémy Martin VSOP is a smooth Fine Champagne Cognac and the number one selling VSOP worldwide. Produced exclusively from rare grapes obtained from the most sought after vineyards in the heart of the Cognac region, Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne, making it the perfect gift for those who appreciate a gift of luxury.

Aged between 4 and 14 years, it shows heady notes of violet, apricot, vanilla and oak, and is golden amber in colour with a brilliant clarity and significant viscosity.

Warm on the palate with hints of port wine, hazelnut and liquorice, this is the perfect ending for any fine meal. What more could you ask for this season?

Available at Dan Murphy’s, First Choice and exclusive independent stores.For further information please visit www.remy.com RRP$59.99 - $64.99

THE TRUCKS, ALL REVVED UP & READY TO GO...

After the huge success of The Trucks wines in the States, creators 585 Wine Partners of the Napa Valley, California contacted their mates in Australia at Cheviot Bridge and suggested recreating the wines here. Cheviot Bridge loved the idea and immediately licensed the Red Truck and White Truck brands in Australia and put one of their most talented winemakers, Shane Virgo, in charge of putting an Australian engine in this American classic.

Whilst the labels remain the same, featuring the appealing painting by internationally renowned Sonoma artist Dennis Ziemienski, the wines have become official Australian citizens being re-crafted from 100% South Australian fruit.

Following the philosophy of the original wine, Shane and the team behind The Truck wines are serious about making great wine, but they don’t take themselves too seriously. Shane confesses, “We had a great time jumping in our utes and driving all over the South Australian countryside in the sunshine, selecting the best quality grapes to use for these new wines.”

“Then the serious part kicked in and we went through a rigorous selection process. We tasted lots of different varieties, involving lots of different vineyards and winemaking techniques. We must have put over 50 different blends up on the bench at least 5 times, for each wine.

The driving factor (pardon the pun) for selection was definitely quality but we did also keep in mind reflecting the original style of the wines - a smooth ride of big-hearted, bright, juicy flavours, full of youthful energy and fun. It is a great added bonus that the wines are also distinctively Australian, with Shiraz being selected for the red blend and Chardonnay for the white ,” Shane says.

2008 Red Truck Shiraz RRP $14.99 The fruit for the 2008 Shiraz ended up being sourced from three vineyards; 60% from a gnarly old vineyard in the Barossa Hills, and then equally from one near the coast at McLaren Vale and one in Clare. The wine has a firmness and grip which delivers oomph and grunt.

GRANT BURGE WINES – KING OF THE FORTIFIEDS at Decanter World Wine Awards...

Grant Burge Wines received global acclaim at the Decanter World Wine Awards held recently in London, with the Grant Burge 20 Year Old Tawny awarded a coveted International Trophy for top Sweet Fortified wine in show. Grant Burge was also the only South Australian winery and one of only two Australian wineries to come home with an International Trophy - the highest award given by the prestigious wine competition.

The expert panel of judges from around the world had high praise for the Grant Burge 20 Year Old Tawny with a glowing tasting note: “Deep brown colour with a fantastic tangy rancio nose and superb concentration. Rich - very rich! - but all in balance, with voluptuous sweetness, exquisite poise and a very long finish.”

The win consolidates Grant Burge’s premier fortified winemaker status on a global scale following Gold Medal wins for the Tawny in 2006 and 2009, and trophies in 2004 and 2007 at the Decanter event. “I really believe fortified wines are due for a renaissance with a new generation of wine consumers, who have no experience with this aged style. RRP $59.95

Grant Burge Wines is celebrating the release of their new vintage sparkling wine range.

Whether it’s enjoying the atmosphere of the Spring Racing carnival, or simply soaking up the sunshine over lunch with friends, Grant Burge has a sparkling wine to enhance every occasion.

The Grant Burge Sparkling Pinot Noir Chardonnay NV, composed of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay grapes grown predominantly in Eden Valley, is treated with meticulous care under the methode traditionelle style, resulting in a yeasty, copper tinged sparkling wine with a rich palate, accented by a lean acid backbone from its cool climate fruit origins and a lingering creamy mouth feel due to extended time on lees. This is a sparkling wine equally suited to food as it is to being enjoyed on its own.

The Sparkling NV Blanc de Noirs, made with Pinot Noir grapes sourced from the Adelaide Hills and Alpine Valley prized for their delicate flavour and high acid content, is an elegant Australian sparkling showing alluring aromas of cream biscuits, brioche and fresh strawberry. The wine has a delicate creamy mouth feel, a fine bead and is balanced with natural acidity – the perfect appertif.

“The Blanc de Noirs is sophisticated, refined and elegant, we like to think of it as the Grace Kelly of sparkling wines,” explains Grant Burge.

The Grant Burge Sparkling Pinot Noir Chardonnay NV retails nationally for $35, and the Sparkling NV Blanc de Noirs is available at selected retailers for $37.

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days in the River Café, where Oliver was discovered and we used to have a bit of fun so ‘bend over’ became Bender,'' says Ben who sat down with the partners of South Bank Surf Club, which include one of Australia’s largest and most successful independent hospitality groups The Katarzyna Group. “They agreed on one thing and that was to keep clear of creating a fine dining restaurant.

“We do pristine fresh shucked to order Coffin Bay oysters from the crustacean bar, seafood platters and a plat du jour, which I have seen a lot in my travels and from working abroad in really good restaurants like The Ivy in London and Balthazaar in NY. It’s about creating a kind of culture where people know they can come in to the restaurant and enjoy a specific signature dish on any given night. The menu is definitely eclectic, perhaps modern Bris-Vegas however I think it’s imperative that my dishes are loyal to wherever they are from culturally.”

Expect lunch and dinner dishes such as Thai-style reef fish; drunken Spring Bay chilli mussels; chilli blue swimmer crab with XO sauce and crispy noodles; Moreton Bay bugs grilled and served simply with pancetta; wasabi prawns wrapped in kataifi pastry and set on small watermelon and papaya cubes; roast rib of Barcoo grass-fed Angus cross; share plates such as a “long board” of antipasti; and at weekends there’s a rolling brunch menu. Bacon and eggs with a twist? Yes, that’s a deep-fried egg, bacon and prawns with oyster sauce chilli on a hotcake.

Ben, who grew up in WA, near the Pilbara region, is in series three of The Best in Australia on LifeStyle FOOD, and his latest book At Home with Ben published by Hardie Grant and launched at the

at home with Ben!

Dee & Ben O’Donoghue

Think surf club and you immediately conjure up lifesavers, waves crashing on the beach, beer and burgers. But not at TV chef and author Ben O’Donoghue’s Surf Club at South Bank. Well there is a beach and a lake albeit man-made and there the differences end.

pleasure and whose memory I treasure. The dishes that have been cooked for me by friends, my favourites from the many I have cooked in restaurants, and also the dishes I cook in my restaurant today.”

here the bougainvillea meets the edge of the

When not behind the burners, Ben loves the laidback Aussie lifestyle especially surfing, fly-fishing and playing with his three

further to the large terrace and open kitchen

young children Ruby, Herb and Cash.

W

Ben, who was based in the UK for 13 years, said he was nicknamed ‘Bender’ by his old mate Jamie Oliver, not because of the obvious connection to his name. “It goes back to the good old LuxuryStyleLiving

the concept of a shared experience: “Dishes that have brought me

beach, take the stairs to the first level and bar or up

which serves seafood centric fare.

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South Bank Surf Club, he says it’s all about recipes that represent

"I keep saying to my wife ‘why didn't we do it earlier’”, referring to the family’s return to Australia.

South Bank Surf Club, South Bank Parklands, 07 3844 7301 www.southbanksurfclub.com.au

luxurystyle

Classic chocolate fondant T his classic French dessert is so simple. Once you’ve mastered it,

Method:

you’ll ask yourself what all the fuss is about. The key is timing. I use

Preheat the oven to 180°C.

regular ramekins for this – they need to be the same shape and

Butter and flour six 140 ml ramekins.

thickness, as otherwise the cooking time will be affected. You need to

Place the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl positioned over a

make an initial test fondant, to check the temperature – just make sure

saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the

the temperature is the same when you cook the remaining fondants.

water. Melt until thick and glossy. Whisk the caster sugar, eggs and egg

Remember, it’s all about timing!

yolks together until the mixture reaches ribbon stage – thick and creamy

The fondant mixture can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge. For best results, use Valrhona or similar quality chocolate.

and holding its shape. Pour the melted chocolate over the egg mixture, and sift on the flour. Use a large metal spoon to carefully fold the flour into the mixture. Divide the mixture between the prepared ramekins, leaving

Ingredients:

space at the top for the fondants to rise a little. To check if the

140 g unsalted butter, plus extra for buttering

temperature is right, cook a test fondant. Place one of the ramekins in the

100 g plain flour, plus extra for dusting

oven and bake for 9–10 minutes. When cooked, the fondant should be

140 g dark chocolate, 70% minimum cacao 85 g caster sugar 3 eggs 3 egg yolks

molten and oozy in the centre. Place the remaining ramekins in the oven and bake for 9–10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for a minute or two. If the ramekins are too hot to handle, use a tea

cocoa or icing

towel to turn them out onto plates.

sugar, to serve

Dust the fondants with cocoa or

cream, to serve

icing sugar and serve with cream.

Serves 6 Classic chocolate fondant from: At Home With Ben

by Ben O’Donoghue – Hardie Grant $49.95

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home feature

Sail into a new life...

feature property... for sale

Live the Dream - Hamilton Island Style

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Cutting edge boat design, the forces of nature - wind and water, and tropical marine life heavily influenced the imagination of architect Walter Barda on a project that saw him create the dramatic new Hamilton Island Yacht Club; and then go on to design the impressive Luxury Yacht Club Villas.

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feature property... for sale

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Whether you arrive by boat at the international marina or plane at the commercial airport - it doesn't matter, because island life begins the moment you touch your feet on Hamilton Island.

The swaying palms, international marina, accommodation to suit any budget, and a shopping village full of interesting boutiques, stores, amenities, galleries, fine restaurants and cafĂŠs, are all part of the lifestyle that has seduced travellers for over 30 years.

Add to this the Island's rich history of sailing, international class new Hamilton Island Yacht Club the fruition of a dream by Hamilton Island owner Bob Oatley and international yachtsman Iain Murray, - brought to reality by designer Walter Barda; the new Hamilton Island Golf Course on adjacent Dent Island, fabulous homes, Qualia Resort and the annual AUDI Race Week, Australia's largest offshore sailing regatta - and you have a lifestyle that is the envy of all.

Bob Oatley has been quoted as saying that his long-term dream for Hamilton Island is to transform it into a worldclass holiday destination, where people can come to see the very best Australia has to offer. Be it architecture, leisure pursuits, entertainment or hospitality.

And, we are sure that with the new Yacht Club - already being described as the Opera House of the Whitsundays; a world-class Golf Club with panoramic views from every tee, and the stylish Luxury Yacht Club Villas already wooing purchasers - the dream is already well and truly coming to fruition.

The Luxury yacht Club Villas complement the unique nautical location and lifestyle of Hamilton Island. The standalone villas span over three or four storeys, each capturing magnificent vistas over Dent Passage to the Whitsunday Islands from large outdoor terraces and balconies on each level.

Drawing on natural elements from the environment, including shells, petals, marine and bird life, Barda's signature style of organic forms and materials reflects the beauty of the spectacular landscape.

The villas feature quality timbers and natural stone combined with a palette of muted tones to echo the natural surroundings. Detailed carved ceilings; open-plan living and dining areas, sliding glass doors and quality fittings all add to the overall effect.

Walter Barda's passion for boat building shines through each property, with his use of natural timbers in all possible applications, natural stone and subtle colour accents. With the addition of natural landscaping carried out by awardwinning Australian landscape designer (and Oprah Winfrey favourite) Jamie Durie, Barda has ensured the picture perfect homes are sympathetic to their surroundings.

These properties perfectly mirror the vision held by Bob Oatley in showcasing the island to the highest degree.

Along with the prestigious address of Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas, owners also receive a selection of other privileges afforded by Hamilton Island - exclusive membership to Hamilton Island Yacht Club, the iconic hub of boating on the Great Barrier Reef; priority access to marina berthing; the convenience of the Island Concierge Service and a wide range of other services befitting such a prestigious address.

This new prestige enclave offers purchasers an idyllic and secluded setting sitting proudly above the quiet blue passage and far away from the pressures of city living.

For further information visit www.hamiltonislandyachtclubvillas.com.au 62

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designerstyle

the designer lifestyle...

Warren Sonin and Gavin Atkins - “The Designer Boys”

WITH AUSTRALIAN TELEVISION AUDIENCES SPENDING THE LAST FEW MONTHS HOOKED ON WATCHING THE NEW CONTESTANT COUPLES IN THE BLOCK 2010 REALITY SERIES SWEAT, TOIL AND STRESS, STYLE'S RACHEL SYERS CAUGHT UP WITH THE ORIGINAL PAIR OF DESIGNER BOYS FROM THE VERY FIRST SERIES WHO WON THE NATIONAL AUDIENCE'S HEARTS WITH THEIR FUN, FLAIR AND FANTASTIC TALENT FOR INTERIOR DESIGN.

G

avin Atkins and Warren Sonin sound like they're in an underground bunker that's been stripped bare … and it turns out that's half true. Their voices echo as they bounce around the walls, but instead of a concrete bunker, it's their dream home the pair moved into barely a week ago and are yet to furnish.

After two years of enduring the design and building process, they can finally see the toil has paid off. “Oh my God, now we have to decide what to put in it!” says Gavin excitedly.

“As anyone in the design business will tell you, it's the hardest thing to actually decide how to decorate your own house,” adds Warren, laughing.

The duo are finally looking forward to living their dream now

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their home is finished, set on 60 acres of rolling farmland in the beautiful Byron hinterland of northern New South Wales.

And the best part of all is that they have found a way to balance the hectic industry of interior design with the idyllic dream of a picturesque lifestyle away from it all.

After their win on The Block back in 2003, the pair threw themselves into proving their talent in the real world and launched their Designer Boys business to the delight of many Sydneysiders.

“Warren and I decided that working our guts out in Sydney for four years was enough and made a drastic shift to Byron Bay which is an amazing location and fantastic lifestyle, but many people move here and then realise they can't sustain their income and have to leave again,” says Gavin.

“So we made a really big decision to put everything in to reinventing our business and it's worked!”

As well as refurbishment packages for homes and apartments, and home interior designs, the boys now do display suites for developers and have performed plenty of transformations on multi-million dollar properties from Noosa to Brisbane, down through the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, to Sydney.

“Probably over the last 16 months the interior design business side of us has gone to the next level with a lot of iconic developers actually calling us in to do all the displays - when we first started we never envisaged that would happen but there's been a lot of word of mouth,” says Warren.

“We always knew we were good at interior design but not commercially, so The Block really gave us the confidence we needed to get where we are today.”

They hope the year 2011 will also see their new side business expand – the Designer Boys Art Collections.

“We started out with 20 pieces and the idea – now we have six distributors around the country and a collection of 80 pieces all hand-crafted that we sell wholesale to other interior designers or

luxurystyle

Summer style ti ps from

decorators, as well as to developers, hotels and some boutique speciality stores,” says Gavin.

“We create the original designs, travel the world and source beautiful people to make them as they are all hand made, and we find objects we love and turn them into artwork,” explains Warren.

“And then every piece is framed in Byron Bay – there are some prints in the range but we put our own spin on them, and the boxed collections include real life seeds and pods that are beautifully done – lots of hotels and resorts are loving them.”

And the added bonus … to begin with, at least they have 80 things to choose from for filling up their new house!

• • • • • • • • •

the Designer Bo ys

Choose backgr ound textures and hues that white or in na soothe rather tural coloured than shock. Pa hues. Altern upholstered fa int your walls atively, you co brics or wallp in cream, uld create a aper for a mor colours that w feature wall e glamorous ill envelop yo in sensual and dramatic u and make yo look. Make su u feel safe and The most pow re you choose cocooned. er ful mood en hancing ingred of oversized la mps positione ient is light. At d on side tabl mosphere lig Create pocket es is a great w hting through s of tranquil ay to influence the use and flattering guests into yo the overall feel lighting throug ur room. of a room. h your lamps that draw yo Many people u and your think of the sp ace in a room important to realise the spac as something e you leave em that needs to is the rule he be filled. How pty is as impo re – by simpl ever, it’s rtant as the sp y allowing sp your room a se ace you fill. De ace between nse of flow an your furniture -cluttering d calmness. and accessorie Style doesn’t s, you will give mean somethi ng has to ha counts is how ve an expens you use it to ive label – qu create a sens when used w ite the opposit e of presence ith careful cons and how even e. What ideration, can the most mod bring your room We like to desc est objects, to life! ribe design as remove at leas like editing a book. When yo t one or two ac ur room is fin cessories or fu look. ished, look arou rniture pieces nd and from the spac e to complete An object by the perfect itself is only an object. Clump it with somet hing else - then your objects to gether in odd it becomes an numbers or co eye-catching Contemporary composition. mbine do es n’ t mean stark an disciplined w d lifeless. M ith too much ake sure your structure – th and add a to room doesn’ is look can leav uch of excitem t look overe you feeling ent to your extraordinary cold and blan room – this ! d. Always try helps turn it from the ordi Your room do nary to the esn’t need to be kept static. your space by Good style m simply movin eans you can g the furnitu accessories to continually re re around an create a fabulo generate d adding a fe us new look an w touches w d feel.

In the end it ith the latest all comes do wn to person simply follow al preference your intuition . There are no to create a sp remember to rules set in co ace you’re ha take a little ris ncrete … ppy and prou k and experim d to call your ent with your home. And style.

…

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noosastyle collectors

Your I n

terior CURTA INS, B Des LIND igne S AN phone: 07 5 r – 501 530 6 or 0 CAL D H 401 3 L 49 8 3 TOD O www 3 – AY ME FO R ema .your D il: m AF inter E icha R EE I CO el.yi iorde NH d@ R signer.c bigp OM . . .

E ond om.au CO DO .com NSU N L ’ TAT T PAY – ION Sho p 45 TOO M aM UCH arina Q uays

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Shop

ping V illage, 2 S

ickle Ave .

Hope Island

luxurystyle

Lock & unlock your new Aston from your watch...

Shop til you Drop with Hilton and David Jones

ASTON MARTIN AND HOROLOGICAL PARTNER, JAEGERLECOULTRE HAVE LAUNCHED THE AMVOX2 DB9 TRANSPONDER TIMEPIECE WHICH AFFORDS THE OWNER OF A DB9 THE LUXURY OF OPENING THEIR SPORTS CAR BY SIMPLY PRESSING ON THE SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL OF THEIR WATCH.

FASHION? HILTON? WHAT MORE COULD YOU POSSIBLY NEED? JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON, HILTON BRISBANE HAS LAUNCHED A ‘SHOP TIL YOU DROP’ ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE WITH BRISBANE’S MOST FASHIONABLE SHOPPING DESTINATION DAVID JONES.

T

he AMVOX2 DB9 Transponder heralds the third generation of the revolutionary creation that sealed the ties between Aston Martin and the Swiss watchmaker Jaeger-LeCoultre.

Released two years ago, the DBS Transponder watch was the first mechanical watch developed with the ability to control access to a luxury sports car by means of a built-in micro transmitter system serving to lock and unlock the Aston Martin DBS. As the driver nears the car, all he need do is press the OPEN position on the watch glass (between eight and nine o’clock) in order to unlock the car, whereas doing the same thing on the CLOSE position between three and four o’clock will lock the vehicle.

By pressing simultaneously on the "OPEN" and "CLOSE" rectangles, the watch emits a signal recognised by the car as a "FIND ME" function: the headlamps light up for several seconds, without unlocking the car, so as to enable the owner to find the car at a glance.

In-cased in grade five titanium, the black dial of the AMVOX2 DB9 Transponder is adorned with a grille-type motif and bears rhodiumplated metallic numerals coated in the centre with a luminescent black substance. The DB9 logo, which is gilded as are the hands and hourmarkers, appears to be floating in the centre in a window revealing the ruthenium mainplate and bridges of the exquisitely refined movement.

The AMVOX2 DB9 Transponder watch is available to order now from the Aston Martin dealership network priced at: UK: £12,426, EU: €15,833, US: $24,400 exclusive of local taxes and customs & duties charges.

French Charm on Robertson St. EX NOOSA RETAILER DIDIER LION FROM DIDIER’S LIVING PLACE AT THE HARVEY NORMAN CENTRE HAS NOW MOVED TO BRISBANE.

D

F

ashion? Hilton? What more could you possibly need? Just in time for the holiday season, Hilton Brisbane has launched a ‘Shop til you Drop’ accommodation package with Brisbane’s most fashionable shopping destination David Jones.

Indulge in a little retail therapy and take advantage of the hotel’s unrivalled location in the heart of the CBD on the vibrant Queen Street Mall. Pamper yourself in pre-Christmas shopping, or venture to the largest sales season of the year on Boxing Day and take comfort knowing that, Hilton and David Jones has everything covered.

Alternatively, purchase a ‘Shop til you Drop’ gift voucher for another one of your fashion loving friends or family as a Christmas gift.

Shop til you Drop with Hilton and David Jones Overnight deluxe accommodation for two plus Breakfast the following morning in The Atrium, served as late as 11am. Plus a $50.00 David Jones gift card.

All this from $295 per room per night, to book your shopping experience Ph: 1300 445 866 or visit www.hilton.com/brisbaneoffers and quote PR44ST when making your reservation.

idier decided on a ‘city change’ to expand his range of French inspired

furniture.

Together with business partner Victor Leon they have opened a beautiful new showroom in the trendy Robertson street Valley precinct. Paris Design Living, a wholesaler and importer of French Style furniture and accessories showcases a huge range of Accessories, Chairs, Sofas, Desks, Commodes, Tables, Cabinets, Bedheads...

With the launch of the Charm and Castle

collections, Paris Design Living provides an exclusive selection of unique and exquisite pieces, bringing a slice of Paris into your home or business.

Paris Design Living 105 Robertson St, Fortitude Valley, Tel: (07) 3852 6626 E: parisdesignliving@gmail.com www.parisdesignliving.com LuxuryStyleLiving

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luxurystyle

L’art de Vivre...

The art of living...

Welcome to The Oracle... a fusion of aesthetic beauty, simplicity and elegance...

Our inspiration comes from you. The discerning few, who appreciate and seek the ultimate living experience... the creation of space that embodies your desires and aspirations, whether it is the retreat to your private apartment or relaxing in the executive residents lounge with your personal temperate wine locker... unwinding with friends in the Zen gardens or taking the opportunity to stroll The Oracle Boulevard... comprising vibrant streetscapes and a magnetic mix of cosmopolitan boutiques and world class cuisine... In keeping with the lifespaces philosophy, The Oracle sets the benchmark for sophistication and luxury, in an unparalleled blend of urban and beachside living... where daily life is transformed into the fine art of living...

The Oracle... comprising ninety levels of residential apartments and two levels of commercial suites, The Oracle towers are separated by a retail shopping street, Oracle Boulevard which is set to become the Rodeo Drive of the Gold Coast. Oracle Boulevard is the Gold Coast’s first master planned shopping street, positioned to be THE retail destination of the future.

Visit the display apartments, open daily. Prices commencing from $595,000 Sales centre: Oracle Tower Two Reception Elizabeth Ave, Broadbeach, Gold Coast, Queensland.

Phone 55 926 980 or 1300 4 ORACLE. www.oraclerealestate.com.au

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events

is the striving for beauty, balance and harmony in every aspect of our daily lives, and it begins with the spaces we choose to live in...

luxurystyle noosastyle

W H O L E S A L E I M P O RT E R S FRENCH STYLE FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES MAJOR EXHIBITOR: DECOREX S YDNEY FURNITEX M ELBOURNE

105 R OBERTSON S TREET, F ORTITUDE VALLEY, B RISBANE E MAIL : PARISDESIGNLIVING @ GMAIL . COM S KYPE : PARISDESIGNLIVING T EL : 07 3852 6626 FAX : 07 3041 6077

WWW. PARISDESIGNLIVING . COM

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luxurystyle

good reads On a Roundabout to Murder

by Lawrence J Marr Published by Strategic Book Group RRP $13.95 www.strategicpublishinggroup.com /title/onaroundabouttomurder.html You can never tell when terrorism will raise its ugly head. Some neat twists and turns take university student Karrie Carter to a completely different future than she had ever envisioned. Taking a carefree summer vacation in Europe with her boyfriend, Karrie discovers that the man is really a terrorist. Unwittingly involved in a diamond heist, Karrie turns to CIA operative, Bill White, for help. The two end up marrying, with Karrie also joining the agency as an agent, her mission is to find traitors within the CIA. When Karrie’s former boyfriend shoots and wounds her new husband, Karrie confronts her ex and must decide if revenge is as important as her mission.

Backstage Politics Phillip Adams Published by: Viking RRP $32.95 Having been a confidant - or fierce opponent - of many of Australia's most influential figures over the past fifty years, Phillip Adams has built up an unparalleled collection of anecdotes about our political and cultural leaders. From Menzies to Rudd via Gorton, Whitlam, Fraser, Hawke, Keating, Hanson, Howard and others, Backstage Politics takes us on a funny, insightful and revealing journey through the Australian political landscape.

Fortune Cookie by Bryce Courtenay, Penguin, $49.95 With a nod to his illustrious career in advertising, this is a brilliant read - smart, funny, and masterful storytelling.

The 60’s creative revolution from NY changed Australian advertising from a deeply conservative business to exciting times for ambitious young writers and artists such as young Simon Koo, the new creative director at Samuel Oswald

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Wing, run by the three powerful Wing brothers in Singapore.

Keen to triumph, Simon throws himself into the hard-drinking life of an expat in a city full of beautiful women, only to discover that beneath the electric atmosphere there lies a moribund advertising industry that is very hard to crack. And who is the stunning Mercy B. Lord, and why does she mysteriously, inexplicably disappear every Thursday then altogether?

The Reversal by Michael Connelly, Allen & Unwin, $32.99 Longtime defense attorney Mickey Haller is recruited to change sides and prosecute the high profile retrial of a brutal child murder. After 24 years in prison, convicted killer Jason Jessup has been exonerated by new DNA evidence. Haller is convinced Jessup is guilty and takes the case on condition that he chooses his investigator LAPD Detective Harry Bosch. They set off on a case fraught with political and personal danger. Opposing them is Jessup, now out on bail, a defense lawyer who excels at manipulating the media and a runaway witness reluctant to testify after so many years. With the odds and evidence against them Bosch and Haller must nail a sadistic killer once and for all. Can a man be convicted of the same crime twice?

The Fry Chronicles by Stephen Fry, Michael Joseph, $39.95 Fans of TV’s QI will rejoice at gifted yet wayward Fry’s trademark wit, verbal brilliance and revealing memoirs of being a convicted fraudster and thief, and addict, liar, fantasist and failed suicide; university life with love, romance and the chance to stand on a stage and entertain; befriending bright young things like Emma Thompson and Hugh Laurie and (after working out how to cheat the university examination system); to emerging as one of the most promising

comic talents in England; plus shameful tales of sugar, shag and champagne jostle with insights into credit cards, classic cars and conspicuous consumption, Blackadder, Broadway and the BBC, he is not afraid to confront the aching chasm that separates public image from private feeling.

Creating and Australian Garden by Angus Stewart, Allen & Unwin, $49.99 No one understands Australia’s unique climate more than Gardening Australia’s Angus Stewart who five years ago bought a dream bush block and created a one hectare garden. This is the result. On every beautifully illustrated page learn about the needs to create a garden with year-round colour, vibrant foliage and havens for wildlife, plus practical tips on planning a garden from scratch; adapting an existing garden; using water-saving methods; creating mounds and raised beds to ensure adequate drainage; growing native plants in containers; choosing the best plants for your environment; easy-to-follow basics of soil preparation; 450 plant varieties, including many that are newly released and most importantly everything you need to know for a stunning native garden, wherever you live.

The Happiest Refugee by Anh Do, Allen & Unwin $32.99 The laugh-out-loud, reach-for-your-hanky story of one of Australia’s best-loved comedians, who nearly didn't make it here. Anh’s entire family came close to losing their lives on the sea as they escaped from war-torn Vietnam in an overcrowded boat. But nothing - not murderous pirates, nor the imminent threat of death by hunger, disease or dehydration as they drifted for days - could quench their desire to make a better life in the country they had dreamed about.

Life in Australia was hard, an endless succession of back-breaking work, crowded rooms, ruthless landlords, make-do everything and then his father left home when he was 13. Tragedy, humour, heartache, unswerving determination, university to comedy - a big life with big dreams.

luxurystyle

The art of tea making meets technology...

Diamonds are forever Culinary whiz Lyndey Milan is a typical woman when it comes to receiving useful gifts ahead of expensive sparkling jewellery.

It’s a no-go zone but for her friends there’s one notable exception: the Lyndey Milan branded Brilliant Cut Knife, featuring a worldfirst blade which includes diamonds and silver. The 19 centimetre blade will stay sharp up to 45 times longer than steel due to the world-first alloy. .

Priced at $249 including sharpener, the Brilliant Cut Knife by Lyndey Milan is available initially online via www.foreverknives.com.au Give Yourself a Hand...

Dexas Salad Hands won’t help you cook and wash up afterwards, they are really good

The Brilliant Lyndey Milan

at well... serving salad. Ideal for tossing, scooping and serving salads, pasta or the latest culinary creations, their unique design keeps them from slipping into the bowl and allows for easy handling. Available in orange, red, green and blue, these handy salad servers are a stylish addition to any modern kitchen.

RRP $17.95 Find more of the Dexas range of products at www.dexas.com.au.

Animals Light Up...

There is no doubt Christmas is the time for giving, and with these fabulous new Zzzoolights who can resist getting into the spirit. These fun creative lights add a touch of modern fun to your living room in their

squeezing each half in order to extract its fragrant juice, this funky little juicer has already won two international design awards.

The platinum silicon caging and re-sealable nozzle wraps perfectly around the lemon to maintain maximum, long-lasting freshness in the refrigerator.

Available from leading homewares stores nationally for RRP: $15

Haven Scents...

Adding to their popular beauty collection, Haven Naturals now offers a new gorgeous option for your home.

Creating a relaxed and peaceful surrounding is made easy with the stunning new Haven Naturals candles and diffusers.

You can select from two gorgeous scents lavender or rose, and fill your home with a subtle and soothing aroma that will linger all day long.

Presented in a beautiful gift box, the new Haven Diffuser has been designed with a uniquely shaped glass flute and aroma reeds with pretty bead detailing for complete contemporary form. Originating from Italy, sophistication, RRP $25. the Zzzoolight has been introduced to The Available at Target stores nationally.

Design Establishment collection as ready to use lamps, decorating your space with their Culinary Quintessential encapsulating original design.

A culinary quintessential the Royal VKB Cats, penguins, cows, elephants, bears Knives & Block set from Milk & Sugar is a mustand fish have been sculptured into white have in every kitchen. lamps with a polypropylene sheet shade.

The latest simple and stylish creation by Zzzoolights RRP $119.00. Dutch designer Jan Hoekstra, these knives will www.designestablishment.com.au let you slice and dice all ingredients - just like a master chef.

Lékué Lemon Press The set includes six professional knives, Accentuated by its simplicity, the Lékué with handles made with a non-slip, soft grip Lemon Press allows you to squeeze away material for an ergonomic use. without any hassles - meaning no Presented in a convenient storage block, unexpected squirts in the eye, juicy hands, the knives can be stored anywhere between pips or pulp. Designed to the most basic the plastic lamellas for ease and convenience, principles; cutting the lemon in two and and are dishwasher friendly. RRP $299.95

design ideas

The art of tea making meets technology...

As the most consumed beverage in the world after water, tea forms a daily ritual that requires careful preparation for maximum enjoyment. The new Automatic Tea Maker & Kettle from Breville knows exactly the right temperature and brewing time required to extract the full aroma and flavour from the most popular tea varieties.

Pouring freshly boiled water onto more delicate tea leaves, such as green, oolong and white varieties, may scald the leaves and result in a bitter, astringent taste. Similarly, brewing the tea for too long or too short can result in an unpleasant or tasteless cup.

Available from department stores and electrical retailers nationally. RRP $299.95

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Art, trends made in

We all know French are masters of style and elegance and seem to be born with 'style genes' for the way they combine their eye for beauty and comfor t.

It’s seems to be simply a natural thing for them to do.

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ixing and matching furniture and objets d'art in a relaxed and casual manner - which they artfully arrange with absolutely no effort - is what they do best. If the arrangement feels right, then it is right!

How do they do it? Not by following interior decorating rules and dictums, but simply being ever conscious of harmony, scale and balance as they arrange, layer, use contrasting textures, mix old and new, place the unexpected with the norm, and above all, keep it simple.

There is a gallery on Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley dedicated to the French Antiques and Decoration and to all who seek to capture the spirit of the French style.

Simple yet elegant - unaffected by decor trends

colours France

and fashion, this timeless boutique offers the decorative style that fits comfortably into any home without feeling antique.

The colour pallet used there to create harmony between pieces of furniture and pieces of art includes the full colour spectrum: from vibrant and strong to pale and neutral including the whites that Madame de Pompadour and Marie-Antoinette so loved.

Traditionally, French colours were reliant on each region local colour pigment. Different region would use local ingredients to make the pigments.

Weather and natural light also play an important role in influencing decorative colour choices. In a sunny area, tones are stronger and crispier, reflecting the surrounding landscape’s sharp contrast. Think of bright sunshine, clear blue skies, yellow sunflowers, lavender, olive and grapes. « Colour is an integral part of our stylistic vocabulary, although in our propositions, we only use it in light touches, so to enhance and emphasize the whole decor » explains the owner of Unique France Denis Geoffray, with a touch of mischievousness.

This is where the idea of this showroom came from, where objects are set up in harmony, and pieces of furniture are rich of different French provenances,

periods and types of wood. The floor in parquetry and the walls dressed up with natural pigments on handmade motives create the decor of this boutique.

Fabrics also are not only beautiful to behold, touch and feel but also play a dominant role in expressing colour and design thereby lifting other elements in the interiors. You’ll discover also at Unique France an exquisite collection of fabric from their exclusive brand: Karin Sajo Editions.

“The idea of coordinating colours, fabric and woods, for a long time considered old-fashioned, is becoming interesting again. In the greatest decorators work worldwide, a taste for French antiques is reappearing, treated as a glamrock mix in association with pop seventies objects or as a total look, for a warm and positive feeling”.

Inspired by the texture and the colours of the French decoration styles and based on the love, knowledge and respect of tradition, natural material and craftsmanship, Unique France focuses on harmony, scale and balance and what feels right.

Discover an exquisite slice of France at Unique France, 482 Brunswick Street 4006 Fortitude Valley. (07) 32540404. www.uniquefrance.com.au.

Living with Deborah Hutton..

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eborah Hutton is one of Australasia’s most respected women, with a known interest and flair for design. In her Living with Deborah Hutton for EziBuy collections she shows a contemporary and sophisticated range of affordable styles, which will complement and enhance your home's current styles.

“I’m passionate about good design and making my everyday living environment a beautiful experience,” says Deborah. “It’s been very rewarding to work with the like-minded team at EziBuy homewares to bring the ideas and inspirations to life in a real and affordable way. I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve.”

Living with Deborah Hutton consists of seven stories, titled Hamptons, Ashley, Aman, Urban Forest, Opulence, Madrid and Identity. Each story will consist of separate designs in bedding and complementary homeware styles.

For other items or collections visit www.ezibuy.com.au Identity Collection Duvet Cover Set (Queen) RRP $79.95 - Quilt - Multi (large) RRP $139.95 Floor Rug - sand & navy RRP $169.95- Lamp RRP $89.95

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luxurystyle luxurystyle

Very arty

A collaboration between Noosa North Shore artist Glenis Clelland and poet author Mocco Wollert has produced a a delightful hard cover featuring Glenis’s life nudes and accompaning words by Mocco.

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ife drawing has always been central to Glenis Clellands artistic development from her days at the Brisbane College of Art (now QUT), to her fashion career - winning the Queensland Fashion Awards in 1976- and to many years as a costume designer with Brisbane Arts Theatre and a ongoing artistic pursuits. For most artists the relationship between artist and model has always been an interpretation of the various interplay between ideas and feelings that allow the artist to process what they see and what they feel. “I draw the lines I feel not necessarily the lines I see. Therefore my life drawing has always had a strong narrative sometimes formed by my relationship (not sexual) with the model- ie I have to like the model I draw! My choice of model is usually not the 'perfect' figure but rather one whether male or female- where I can find a hidden dimension and see the real nakedness resulting in sensitive and sometimes sensual paintings and drawings”, says Glenis.

Mocco writes about her life experiences - either real or imagined. Mocco was born in Germany and writes in several languages. Arriving in Australia as a young bride with no English she started expressing her emotions and feelings in poems which were later published in several books. In these two new books about love and sensualities her words are evocative and sometimes 'tantalising and titillating' and yet easily understood. The poems have been described as 'gently erotic' - meaning you can interpret the meaning depending on your own life experiences... so readers can read into the words what they like!!!

By describing the poems as 'accessible' it means most people can understand and interpret as they wish!

“This is an unusual collaboration of two artistic forms - the artist and the author - (different to illustrating words or writing to interpret images) and I feel gives these books a unique appeal” said Glenis.

“Between us - both being married for 40 and 50 years! - we have a lot of years of experience in the subject of love and sensualities. This is a celebration of two mature age women depicting age is no barrier to loving and sexuality.”

For info contact: Glenise Clelland 0413 016979

The creative process...

Zygmunt Libucha speaks about sculpture

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ost art lovers consider sculpture as the 'Queen' of the arts. The great sculptors Michelangelo, Bernini and Rodin are names associated with the finest creativity and most-loved works, timeless in their appeal across centuries and cultures. The medium of sculpture provides unique joys for the artist and collector alike.

Certainly one must be sure of the design before starting. The stone is unforgiving, so it does not leave much room for changes or mistakes. The fact that there is no second chance reins in one's haste. It is better sometimes to stop for a while, go away from the stone, look up at the sky and come back with a cooler mind.

Carving marble requires more than physical strength and fury. The polishing process is a tranquil time for reflection. I personally love to carve the most intricate, crisp and meandering lines, so polishing must be done by hand. The diamond polishing pads are time consuming but make the work relatively easy. Even though it may take weeks, the joy of seeing the finished shiny sculpture is worth all the time taken.

Of course, the fact that a piece of my soul is locked inside, or rather infused in each piece gives more meaning to my creations. This hands-on approach is needed in creating sculpture and ensures it is a more intimate and personal art form than painting.

Sculpture's tactile aspects, where the audience can caress the piece, gives it an extra dimension and pleasure compared with other media.

Whilst carving marble is my first love, I like the feeling of expectation just before breaking the mould of the cast bronze to see the finished work for the first time. The bronze medium also has the advantage of allowing me to create limited editions of particular sculptures.

Although at first glance each piece in the edition might appear to be the same, they differ slightly from each other, as they are ompleted by hand. The technique I use is similar to repoussé.

Zygmunt Libucha Pure Art Sculpture 61 Waterworks Road, Red Hill, Brisbane zlibucha@yahoo.com.au Ph: 07 3369 6984 www.pureartsculpture.com

Artist Profile is sponsored by

THE AUSTRALIAN ARTIST & TALENT REGISTER

Email info@atalent.com.au or Phone 07 38684066 www.atalent.com.au

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D.I.Y. 34 CHEV

Hot rods have long been symbolized with speed, unique looks, and the Rock n’ Roll era. In the beginning it was about speed and showing off and looking cool.

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alifornia is considered to be the birthplace of the hot rod. With Ford successfully bringing mass production to the automobile industry, millions of Model T automobiles were on the road by the mid 1920’s. These early Model T’s only produced around 20 horsepower, and the adrenaline lovers wanted more! Racing became a big hit on the salt flats to the East of the California cities, and racers quickly learned how to speed up their cars. The first steps were to remove any unnecessary pieces of the car, including fenders, running boards, ornaments, headlights, and hoods. This is why the “engine outside the car” look is so prevalent on hot rods today.

The next steps were to add larger tyres in the rear for higher gear ratios and speed, while the lower front tyres helped lower the front for aerodynamics. The panels around the engine were removed completely. Some extreme hot rod designers even removed the windshield. Hot rod racing was only a small niche before the Model A was introduced in 1927.

Today, hot rodding is popular again thanks to nostalgia and popular TV shows showing auto restorations, hot rod building, and racing. Many hot rodders from the 1950’s and 1960’s also are back into it,now that they are older and have more time and money on their hands. They can build that dream hot rod they could never afford to build before.

Gold Coast home builder Eric Gropp is someone who is obviously pretty good with his hands and with a passion for cars decided it was time to build his own ‘rod, (in fact this is his third), after all if he can build a house this should be a piece of cake!.

First step in building a hot rod is generally to be very nice to your wife, after all we know who eventually has to approve where the dollars are coming from or more importantly not going to ie: that new kitchen, the extension, the holiday.... in Erics case he’s a single man so that elimates most of those ongoing problems.

Pressing on Eric sourced a specialty fabricator Warren Burggraatt in Rockhampton.

“Warren helped make it a lot easier” says Eric “he built the chassis and supplied most of the parts plus did all the inspections and approvals for registration”. “The car has to be built then stripped down for the approvals and then rebuilt and then painted, so it’s a task that takes a lot of patience and time.” Eric said it took him around 18 months to complete his in between renovatng his own home.

With Warren and mate Rick Smith who helped do a bit of everything including fitting the panels, the Californian gold metallic ‘34 Chev came to life. Beautifully crafted in fiberglass and gleaming with the motor sporting acres of chrome. Eric sourced the power plant a 383 small block Chev from Speedtech on the Gold Coast then added a few more horsepower for good measurem and mated to a Turbo 400 transmission and 9” diff. All the brakes and suspension are either new

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or reconditioned so the car is virtually brand new and complies with main roads department regulations.

Eric says “it’s a great experience creating such a individual piece, the long hours and the deep pockets for the extra dollars to chrome this piece or that is all forgotten when you take to the road and hear the fantastic sound from the exhaust.” “The smiles and admiration from onlookers makes you proud of what you have achieved, every time I drive to the local shops someone allways wants to have a chat about the car and tell me about what they used to have”.

And the next project? “that’ll be a coupe with power steering and back seat for the kids when I find a wife” he says.

luxurystyle

Jaguar C-X75 The supercar that pushes the boundaries of both design and sustainability. he C-X75 stays true to the long-held Jaguar design philosophy of natural, flowing lines and simple, elegant forms. What’s more, it proves that Jaguar’s brand values of performance, beauty, and luxury can be upheld while offering innovative, zero tail-pipe emissions motoring and range-extending technologies.

The Jaguar approach to product development has and always will be design-led. Therefore, it is no surprise that when creating the C-X75, an even more emotive design language arose combining contemporary styling with world-class research and engineering.

In this new concept car, Jaguar enthusiasts will identify elements of the great cars of the past. The CX75’s designers found inspiration in the innovative engineering and functional design elements of cars like the 1950s C-Type and D-Type racers and unique 1966 XJ13 Le Mans prototype. However, the intention was not to dwell on the past, but to embrace these influences and project them onto the future.Electric motor:

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Specifications: Power: Four 145kW (195bhp) traction motors (580kW/780bhp total) Range extender power: 2 x 70kW (94bhp) gas micro-turbines (140kW/188bhp total) Acceleration: 0-100kph 3.4sec Top speed 330kph Batteries: Lithium - ion Transmission: Single-speed EV range: 110klm Extended range: 900 klm

Rear window is reminiscent of the classic E Type Jaguar Ejector seat and front wing-mounted machine guns and extending overriders... perfect solution for road ragers....

007’s famous Aston Martin sells at auction...

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head of the auction of the only remaining James Bond DB5 that featured in both Goldfinger (1964) and Thunderball (1965) which sold in Britain recently for just under £3 million, two iconic Aston Martins have been captured together for the first time. The DB9, now celebrated as the most successful Aston Martin of all time, echoes the passion for design, engineering and craftsmanship which characterised the secret agent’s company car.

Held in private ownership for some 40 years, ‘the most famous car in the world’ was one of two DB5s which appeared on screen in both films. The car originally used in Goldfinger for driving scenes, was retrofitted with the famous gadgets including passenger ejector seat and front wing-mounted machine guns by Aston Martin in preparation for its second on-screen appearance in Thunderball.

The DB9, now in its seventh year of production, remains a design icon and is regarded by many as the most beautiful sports grand tourer on sale today. Just like

the DB5 – the luxury zeitgeist of the 1960s, the DB9 is hand-tailored to customer specification and uses the latest technology.

To date, since its introduction in 2003, 15,000 DB9s have been built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, surpassing the DB7 as the most successful Aston Martin of all time.

These unique images show the revised DB9 new for 2011, in the aptly named Quantum Silver paint finish together with the actual car from the 1964 film. The optional paint is the same colour as the DBS that featured in the film Quantum of Solace in 2008.

The DB5 with the revolving registration plate ‘FMP 7B’ was sold for £2,912,000 (A$4,745,433) in October to an American bidder who plans to display it at his private collection in Ohio.

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Chargrilled cornfed chicken breast with chorizo, braised white beans, baby spinach and minted labne ·

and side dish of Roasted pumpkin tabouleh’ at Sirocco Restaurant

Sirocco Restaurant at Noosaville

Cecilia Young and Philip Badger’s regulars at Sirocco Restaurant

Relaxed vibe, enticing Once a sleepy riverside village, Noosaville has been transformed into a thriving holiday strip.

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Sandcrab & black linguine with fresh summer micro herbs and foam... a fresh selection of dishes changing weekly at River Cottage Restaurant Noosaville

ith its kaleidoscope of shopping, dining and leisure options, down by the riverside is a real crowd pleaser, and only a five-minute drive from the cosmopolitan heart of Hastings Street.

The tranquil broad stretch of the Noosa River is edged with green space and dotted with plentiful barbecues, shaded gazebos, picnic tables and benches, playgrounds, boat sheds for hiring a kayak, the gondola, chartering a barbecue pontoon, hailing the ferry, booking a Jazz cruise or a trip to the Everglades, plus joggers, walkers with pooches, families

It’s all happening in Noosa Festival of Surfing The 20th festival in 2011 promises to be the biggest yet, with huge contingents of surfers coming from all over Australia and the world from Sunday 13 March for nine days of pure stoke, including several new events such as the Classic Malibu Clubs Invitational and the Seaglass Project Finless Pro plus the usual frantic nightlife agenda.

After two years as an exhibition event at Noosa, the finless gets serious in ’11, with Tom Wegener’s Seaglass Project sponsoring an anything-goes clash between the best fin-free surfers in the world, sliding on their weapons of choice. The only stipulation is “no fin”. Beyond that the surfers can ride anything from a 16 foot toothpick to a four foot alaia.

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playing cricket and swimmers enjoying the cool briny. On the other side of the esplanade called Gympie Terrace and around each corner are side-by-side boutiques, book shops, cafes, gelaterias and art galleries.

Cecilia Young and Philip Badger, have been the on-site managers for the very popular yet quiet Rimini by the River apartment complex for four years and are effusive fans of Noosaville.

“Water, greenery, fresh air and no traffic lights are a far cry from the former hectic corporate world in Auckland,” explains Cecelia whose family calls it Pleasantville. “You just cannot help slow down and appreciate the beauty on offer. It really is a bubble, an abundance of wildlife, beautiful walks and waterways, lovely people and a relaxed vibe that’s hard to beat.

Where else can you find such an eclectic mix of food, fun, art, things to do and places to see with nature as your back drop? Watching the sun set with fish and chips, a glass of vino or cool ale is simply the best. Check out the pelican as it glides in like a light plane ready

The expanded Laguna Bay Longboards stand up paddle division, will feature pro and amateur events for all ages and skill levels, and will start on opening day with a five kilometre loop race on Laguna Bay, with competitors paddling five circuits of a course just off the beach.

Daytime action will be on the sand at First Point, with a Surf Expo adjacent to the main contest site, and Duke’s Bar at Sails offering sunset refreshments. Noosa Woods Park will host a range of great all-weather entertainment, including a retro movie and music night, the surfboards and memorabilia auction, a surf market and the Zinc 96.1 Night in the Woods, featuring red hot rock and surf bands including Dallas Frasca, Marshall & The Fro and the Band of Frequencies.

For more info: www.noosafestivalofsurfing.com

noosastyle

RIMINI by the River Your Ticket to Relaxation

Noosaville....

Relax with a walk or bottle of wine at sunset by the Noosa River

food, chic fashion... to swoop on the fishermen cleaning up their catch of the day or the bush turkeys charging around.

“The walking track takes you from the Noosa end of Gympie Terrace to the Yacht and Rowing Club and if like us the walking bug gets to you, continue to the Marina at Tewantin or go the other way to the Noosa National Park.”

All tastes and budgets are catered for especially in the food stakes. For breakfast Cecelia recommends Sirocco’s layered muesli with fresh banana and pear; bacon and eggs at Take Five on Gympie Terrace; and the Beach Blue Bakery for its great selection of fresh breads, baked goodies and gluten free options.

“Raw Energy serves the meanest, freshest salad with chicken, turkey or salmon and for man-size hungers try their burger with tuna. At dinner try Sirocco’s scorched cuttlefish, delicious pizzas especially our favourite of barbecue lamb fillet, roasted pumpkin, haloumi cheese and caramelised onions and at Vanilla Café you can’t go past the dessert of semi-freddo with raspberries and chocolate - seriously guilty free if you take your time and share.” And let’s not forget River Cottage, Madissons, Blue Angel, Noosa Waterfront and the best burgers ever at The Burger Bar,

Shop ‘til you drop aficionados need to spend plenty of time at Spoilt, the White House, Getset Footwear, Classy Lady and the On Surfari photography Gallery When it comes wildlife, it’s not noisy tourists but the lorikeets, cockatoos, rosellas and their showy crests and curved-billed mates, says Cecelia. “Coming from New Zealand we’re used to wildlife but not like this.

It’s part of everyday living and we constantly stop and giggle at some of the antics of the birds along the river, circling the trees crashing into one another at sunset. We do a double take seeing the majestic pelicans in full flight and to top it all off, the booming sounds of kookaburras in unison, echoing loud and proud almost takes our breathe away.”

“WE CONSTANTLY STOP AND GIGGLE AT SOME OF THE ANTICS OF THE BIRDS ALONG THE RIVER, CIRCLING THE TREES CRASHING INTO ONE ANOTHER AT SUNSET”

Ginger Flower & Food Festival With obesity one of the major culprits leading to Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, the 2011 festival, from January 20 to 23, will be the place to be for expert advice and motivational pep talks from two of Australia’s top authorities in heart health and diet.

Cardiologist and Associate Professor Dr David Colquhoun will host two free presentations for visitors on healthy heart foods and cholesterol busting fats, while also explaining how foods impact on heart health in an entertaining yet no-holds-barred approach.

Author Annette Sym of the acclaimed Symply Too Good recipe book series who will share her story about how she managed to

lose 35 kilos and how she has kept off the weight for over 17 years.

Also the Festival’s regular line-up of gardening, lifestyle and cooking personalities including gardening greats, Colin Campbell, Annette McFarlane and curator of Brisbane’s Botanical Gardens, Ross McKinnon AM, who starts every day with a refreshing cup of ginger tea.

For the serious foodies, there will be a raft of free cooking demonstrations together with exclusive master classes plus a culinary super star yet to be revealed! All at the Ginger Factory at Yandina.

For more info: www.gingerfactory.com.au

Only 50 metres from the picturesque Noosa river wine and dine precinct Stylish, clean, well appointed self contained 1 & 2 bedroom holiday apartments.

Very Central Location set in a quite side street back from the traffic and noise Call us today for your quality family getaway or romantic couples escape.

Rimini By The River 7- 15 Edward Street, Noosaville P: +61 (0)7 5473 0000 Email: bookings@rimini.com.au

www.rimini.com.au LuxuryStyleLiving

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travel

African waterways...

travel

Some of the finest safari experiences are found in Botswana, a magical landscape with pristine ecosystems and a thrilling diversity of game.

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egin your tour in the Okavango Delta, one of the world’s great wilderness areas and home to extraordinary wildlife, including the elusive wild dog, buffalo, elephant, giraffe, lion, leopard and cheetah. Then Game Drive through the grassy plains, or take to the waterways for the solitude of the Delta by mokoro (seasonal) as your safari guide gently poles you through the channels.

Next stop is Chief's Island in the exclusive Mombo Concession of the Moremi Game Reserve. Regarded as the predator capital of Africa, guests enjoy exceptional opportunities here to see wild dog, lion, cheetah and leopard in their natural habitat, and since the reintroduction of white rhino, it is the only place in Botswana where these magnificent animals can be seen roaming free.

Finish the safari adventure in Chobe National Park, Botswana’s largest. Your lodge sits high above the Chobe River and commands unparalleled views across the islands and floodplains.

Take a boat safari downstream, where at sunset herds of elephants converge on the river to drink and bathe. Few adventures today are more exciting than an African safari, and with over 40 years experience outfitting the finest, Abercrombie & Kent offers the ultimate experience of wild Africa.

The 9 day journey includes 2 nights at Sanctuary Stanley’s or Baines' Camp, 3 nights at Sanctuary Chief's and 2 nights at Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero. Whilst in Botswana all your meals, selected drinks and domestic flights are included.

Day 1 Arrive Johannesburg Enjoy a personal A&K welcome to the safari gateway of Southern Africa, and assistance to your airport hotel. Airport Sun Inter-Continental Day 2 Johannesburg – Maun Early this morning, return independently to the international terminal. Your flight* takes you to the Maun in the northern regions of Botswana, where you will connect to your light aircraft flight into the heart of the Okavango Delta, with its network of lagoons, channels, palm islands and floodplains. Take some time to settle into your luxurious surrounds before embarking on your first afternoon adventure (B,L,D). Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp or Sanctuary Baines’ Camp Day 3 Okavango Delta The day is yours to discover the pristine beauty of the Okavango Delta and its extraordinary wildlife. You may take a morning or afternoon game drive on the grassy plains to observe buffalo, elephant, giraffe or perhaps lion, leopard or cheetah; glide along the waterways by mokoro (seasonal), experiencing the solitude of the Delta as your safari guide gently poles you through the channels; or take a guided safari walk to discover the significance of the area’s natural wonders.

Day 4 Okavango Delta Fly across the Delta to Sanctuary Chief’s Camp with its luxury bush pavilions, situated in the world-renowned Mombo Concession, Africa’s “predator capital” (B,L,D). Sanctuary Chief’s Camp Days 5 – 6 Okavango Delta Take two days to further explore the spectacular Okavango Delta. Each day brings a choice of: morning or afternoon game drives with your expert safari guide providing exciting photographic opportunities; or, during the flood season, a gentle mokoro ride through the waterways. Wildlife here is exceptional, with opportunities of seeing rhino, leopard, giraffe, elephant, buffalo, zebra, antelope - and for the keen birder, a wonderful variety of avian species. Your stay at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp includes a private presentation on the unique eco-system of the Okavango Delta (B,L,D). Sanctuary Chief’s Camp Day 7 Okavango Delta – Chobe National Park Leave the fascinating wetlands and fly into the semi-arid Chobe National Park, famous for its massive herds of elephant and buffalo (B,L,D). Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero Day 8 Design Your Day Chobe National Park This is the second largest park in Botswana, with much territory to explore. Choose two of the following activities: a half-day 4WD game drive traversing the park’s diverse landscapes; a visit to the local AKP-supported Plateau Primary School where you can mingle with members of the local community; the highlyrecommended afternoon boat safari on the Chobe River, watching the elephants come down to the river to drink and bathe as the sun sets; or a pampering spa treatment at Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero’s world class Spa (additional cost) (B,L,D). Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero Day 9 Chobe National Park – Kasane or Victoria Falls Bid a reluctant farewell to Botswana as your safari ends with a transfer to Kasane airport and a flight to Livingstone, Zambia (B).

Al the details: NB: *flight not included in price Valid for travel: 1 January – 31 March 2011. Twin/ Double: from $8,310 per person (includes saving of $840) Single: from $8,975 per person (includes saving of $675) http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxurytravel/africa/09-botswana-african-waterways.cfm

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the last word

The King of Gypsy Violin Roby Lakatos

THE KING OF GYPSY VIOLIN RETURNS TO QPAC... THE HYPER-KINETIC HUNGARIAN GYPSY RAVE THAT WILL HAVE YOU DANCING IN THE AISLES!

passion that embodies the Gypsy spirit.

Lakatos’ repertoire is vast and diverse. His music shifts effortlessly from gypsy dances to tangos, whilst blending classical and jazz idioms. Interpretations of works by Liszt and Brahms sit along side Chick Chorea, Django Reinhardt, Piazzola and Fats Waller, and ixing classical and jazz idioms with the magic masterpieces from such films as; Schindler’s List, of the Hungarian-gypsy vitality, violinist Roby Fiddler on the Roof and The God Father.

Lakatos is a global phenomenon, whose First seen in Australia at the 2000 Brisbane Festival, mastery and musicianship has earned him the title, Lakatos is once again joined by his formidable 5 piece ‘The Devils Fiddler’. From Carnegie Hall to The Royal ensemble, a contemporised version of a Hungarian Albert Hall, Lakatos’ live concerts are renowned the tzigane gypsy band. The band includes Jeno Lisztes, world over for their mesmerizing virtuosity, fire and who is regarded as "the best cimbalom player in the

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world," (European hammered dulcimer). Seated and hammering away at his instrument like a crazed blacksmith, Lisztes frenzied solo’s often prompt theatre-wide spontaneous standing ovations.

Blending the fiery rhythms of their gypsy roots with finger-blurring virtuosity and jazz improvisation, Lakatos and his ensemble aims to stir up the wandering spirit. Expect to leave with your blood pumping.

At QPAC for two performances only - 18 & 19 December. To book go to www.qpac.com.au or phone 136246.