Luxury STYLE - May 2010

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welcome

What is going on in Australia? ll of a sudden everyone has become a food critic or master chef. It seems that the proliferation

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of television cooking shows is having a huge impact on the dining public. There doesn't seem

Kaylene Murray - Editor

to be anyone who doesn't have an opinion on the dish that they are eating. Whether they're at

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home or dining out.

RSVP - Openings, Launches & Social Events

Phrases such as "the seasoning needs adjusting", "the flavours are too complicated" or "the presentation just doesn't cut it" - even one recently quoted by a nine-year-old to a very taken-aback

Cover: Grant Torrens International Marine Boat show & fashion parade www.granttorrens marine.com.au Cover Brisbane Style: Moda Restaurant (formerly Giannis) Edward Street Brisbane. Photo: Adam Finch Le Cordon Bleu World Food Media Awards presentation at Intercontinental Hotel, Adelaide

chef " it needed a garnish!" - seem to be emanating from every table. I've heard of a few husbands gaining the ire of their spouses whilst offering their 'constructive

10 Moo Moo expands Autumn & Steve Adams a motivated couple in the restaurant business.

criticism'. The flow-on effect is just as interesting. Local farmers markets have been popular for many years, but are now filled to overflowing with eager cooks looking for the freshest and most unusual produce with which to impress their family and guests. And, it isn't unusual to see young couples with their printed recipe list wandering purposefully around the supermarket aisles, as they search for the ingredients they need to produce their own 'professional' dining experience.

14 Fashion... what’s happening This season’s finest offerings 22 Face 2 Face with Alex Perry We speak to one of Australia’s greatest fashion designers about what inspires him.

Don't get me wrong - I am as guilty as everyone else of carefully taking in every tip I am given by the celebrity chefs on the television set - in full living colour. Although I do tend to talk back to the show's chefs and contestants and argue with the television about some of the things I see.

36 Food & wine Food and wine events around Brisbane & the Gold Coast

Believe it or not - chefs in reality - study for years to learn the basics, then more years to hone the skills they need to achieve great dishes for the dining public. You don't really learn knife skills by watching a few minutes on telly in between the commercial breaks. That's why hands-on cooking schools and masterclasses are such a fabulous part of our society. Recently I have been discussing this conundrum with several chefs we know. I've asked them how they feel about the public's misconception that they can easily learn the intricacies of complicated dishes by watching television, when in reality it takes a lifetime of experience

54 Profile Jan Power The queen of the farmers markets reveals all. 62 Design & Property Renovation the answer to a shortage of soace

for a professional to achieve those skills. Most are bemused. Everyone can't be a celebrity chef. And everyone can't cook to perfection. Reality strikes. Luckily this issue offers a spectacular array of cooking and dining options to fulfill your thirst for culinary pursuits. We also bring you all your favourite features, fabulous new

70 Books/Movies/Theatre We take a look at what’s new and entertaining 76 Artists and Artisans The latest works on display

season fashion, accessories and beauty; interesting people and events; stellar motoring; latest titles and movies; interior design options, renovation and new home trends - and excellent food and wine. Please read and enjoy.

72 Travel Port Lincoln a little treasure & Cruising the West Australian top end in style 78 Style Motoring XF Jaguar the car of the future .

QUEENSLAND

LUXURY

style

published by Style Living Magazines PO Box 1003 Paradise Point 4216 P: 07 5577 2886 F: 07 5577 3354

publisher Tom Murray tom@stylemagazines.net

e-mail: info@stylemagazines.net www.stylemagazines.net

noosa editor Helen Flanagan helen@stylemagazines.net

enquiries Ph (07) 5577 2886 fax (07) 5577 3354

fashion Rachel Syers rachel@stylemagazines.net

group editor Kaylene Murray kaylene@stylemagazines.net

production Joshua Murray art@stylemagazines.net sales Di Baxter di@stylemagazines.net mob: 0437 739 916

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.stylemagazines.net 2

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RSVP

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1. Lavender for Leukemia The soothing scent and shades of lavender will be available all month for the annual appeal Please dig deep and buy a teddy or one of the many gifts available. The Leukemia Foundation is hoping to raise $150,000.00 this year to fund further research.

Gallery One Auction 1. The Olivia Newton John Charity Art Auction at Gallery One, Brickworks was a huge success raising much needed funds for her Cancer and Wellness Centre appeal.

Jaguar & Fairline Launch 2. Glass Dining and Lounge Bar Marina Mirage played host to the Out of the Blue cocktail party in partnership with motor yacht specialists and brokers from the Marina Mirage precinct, Gold Coast Helitours and Sunshine Jaguar. Over 300 guests attended the posh party, and each received a lucky ticket on

4. Quay West Launch Noosa

Alfresco on Elston

3. Noosa's newest 5-star property the Quay West Resort launched this month to rave reviews. The stars made a special appearance in what was a wet week, and guests were enticed with fabulous food and wonderful Bay of Fires wines and signature cocktails. Guests Gail Palethorpe and Kaylene Murray were suitably impressed as was General Manager Simon Brown.

7. Alfresco on Elston adds a little more Italian style to Surfers... thanks to the Velardo family. who were eager to show off their bright and shiny new restaurant just across the road from the original

Princess Yasmin Launch 4/5/6/ The grand opening of prestigious boutique Princess Yasmin was a sparkling, starstudded event with guests 'dressed to impress'. Guest of Honour, renowned designer Alex Perry was fashionably late - and arrived with

Hyatt Black Tie 8. Mulpha Sanctuary Cove's executive general manager Alison Quinn (centre) with her husband Rob Quinn (left), and Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove general manager Patrick Hardy (right) Guests were made to feel every bit the VIP at the Barefoot & Black Tie Dinner and Weekend Escape to Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove.

7. arrival which gave them the opportunity to win an Ultimate Lifestyle Package consisting of 2 days private use of the award-winning Jaguar XF 5.0L V8; and a 3 hour cruise for up to 10 people on a brand new Fairline Motor Yacht, with lunch catered for by Glass Dining and Lounge Bar - Prize value $5000 Winner Janae Leonard was all smiles.

trademark sunglasses atop his polished head. As waitstaff wandered amongst the eager crowd offering copious quantities of MoĂŠt et Chandon, cosmopolitans and delectable canapes, the night was a glittering success. Pamela Read and Lorraine Dickinson were all smiles.

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8. Grant Torrens Gala Boat Launch 9. Maureen and Grant Torrens were extremely happy when the rain held off for their Gala Boat Show Cocktail Party on Sovereign Island. The party included Zumba dancers and catwalk models on the boardwalks below millions of dollars worth of spectacular boats.

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whats on

'The Gold Coast… a shining example of all that is glamorous'

Get Ready to feel the heat... A

three-day

entertainment

SuperCarnivale

Friday 22nd October

of –

Sunday 24th October, The Armor All Gold Coast 600, the V8 Supercar Championship Series component as part of the SuperCarnivale which will take in the 18 international drivers and 16 Artists that will play across three big nights at Broadwater Parklands, as well as massively reduced ticket prices compared to last year. Major artists performing each night include Empire of the Sun, London DJ Ian

the very best on offer in fashion, fine wining and dining, real estate, the arts, music and entertainment, cultural pursuits, leisure, pampering and relaxation, education, and the list goes on and on. In fact, choosing to holiday or live within the city limits has untold advantages – just ask anyone soaking up the sunshine on

ith the phenomenal population growth – the Gold

a morning walk - or indeed a moonlight evening stroll - along the

Coast is the sixth largest city in Australia and

almost-endless stretch of walkways through parks with

considered the nation's fastest growing large city –

beachfront views, or sophisticated cityscape stretching out into

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the personality of the Gold Coast has expanded as well. There is certainly the good life to be found here, if you are seeking it.

Carey from the Ministry of Sound, Kid Kenobe

For both tourists and residents, each day and every evening

and MC Shureshock, Richard Clapton, Hook N

offers endless experiences, indulgences, opportunities and

Sling, the Baby Animals, Sneaky Sound

adventures – depending on what takes your fancy.

the suburbs. Just take a look at Millionaires Row as locals call it, otherwise famously known as Hedges Avenue at Mermaid Beach, with every few metres dishing out a new mansion creating some of the boldest and most exclusive real estate imagery in the country. Stunning architecture is found throughout the Gold Coast,

System, Funkoars, Static Revenger featuring

The beachside holiday suburb 50 years ago now boasts a Gross

where there are choices of beachfront, canal front, valley acreage

Luciana, James Reyne, Mondo Rock, The

Regional Product of more than $15.6 billion, and almost half a

and spectacular panoramic views … not only from the hinterland

Angels, The Potbelleez, Noiseworks and The

million residents share the region's abundant beauty with almost

ranges and hilltop suburbs, but from the magnificent high rises

Only. They will perform Friday, Saturday and

10 million visitors each year.

sprouting up to create the world-famous coastal skyline.

Sunday nights in a massive line-up of

And there's a fair bit to cover - an area of 1400 square

There's the globally famous Q1 – the world's highest

Australian and international artists just 600m

kilometres, the city's boundaries extend from just south of

residential building at 80 floors - towering over all other buildings

from the circuit precinct.

Beenleigh to Coolangatta, taking in South Stradbroke Island and

that comprise the popular 'glitter strip', bringing with its height a

part of Moreton Bay and extending west to the hinterland of

character of superiority in luxury apartment living, and boasting a

Mount Tamborine and the Lamington and Darlington Ranges.

viewing deck 230 metres into the sky.

People can access the entire weekend including the racing, on-track entertainment

It's difficult to not want more when you see a sample of the

Or closer to the ground there are world-class hotels such as

The emphasis on families has meant a total

100,000 hectares of nature reserves, 890km of constructed

Palazzo Versace, which offers hotel stays and condo living for the

redesign of the circuit, cheaper and more

residential waterfront, the 600 kilometres of canals, around 500

rich, famous and successful, or the uber-chic accommodation of

grandstand seat options, with most covered,

restaurants, 57 kilometres of coastline, 40 golf courses and six

the likes of the Sheraton Mirage with absolute beachfront, and the

the clearing out of Macintosh Island Park for

major theme parks.

Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort with its own tropical fish-filled

and every concert for as little as $136.

all new family and alcohol free zones, new

These statistics translate into a real life wonderland, which

general admission areas and easier access

means a sustainable luxury market is prevalent, stretching across

around the circuit.

all elements of business and pleasure.

Tickets for the Armor All Gold Coast 600 can be purchased from Ticketek.com.au.

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The past decade of the new millennium has seen the Gold Coast evolve into a multifaceted luxury destination.

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Thanks to a diversification in the region's foundation of economic prosperity, there's no need to travel to a capital city for

swimming and snorkelling lagoon. Such a vibrant infrastructure brings with it all the freedoms of a culture bathed in the notion to enjoy life to its fullest, and soak up the style whilst doing so


Tamborine Mountain Distillery

Brisbane The key thing to do is relax... aze in the lush riverside gardens of South Bank, then browse the markets and swim in its lagoon. Bike ride in the City Botanic Gardens and abseil the cliffs of Kangaroo Point. Glide down the river on a majestic paddlesteamer or take a high-speed ferry to vibrant inner-city villages like Bulimba and New Farm. Glide down the river and relax in the gardens Bike ride beneath macadamia trees and mangroves in the City Botanic Gardens or roller blade over a floating walkway. Then cruise down the river in a wooden paddlesteamer, spotting pelicans and eastern water dragons. Laze or picnic under the palms on South Bank’s 17 hectares of

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riverside gardens. Some of the highlights of things to do in Brisbane..... Soak up culture and architecture See the skeleton of a Queensland dinosaur in the Queensland Museum and the work of famous Australian artists in the Queensland Art Gallery. Both sit in the sprawling Queensland Cultural Centre on South Bank. At night, visit the dress circle of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre or catch a show by the Queensland Ballet, Opera or Orchestra. Embrace adventure Abseil or rock climb the Kangaroo Point Cliffs at sunrise or at night when the city is dancing with lights. Climb the Story Bridge for

spectacular 360 degree views. Free fall on a tandem sky dive or float over the city in a hot air balloon. Eat, drink and enjoy the urban villages Listen to live music, shop along the lively outdoor mall and feast on Chinatown dumplings in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane’s cultural core. Next door in New Farm, you can people watch from trendy cafes, buy gourmet delights from the famous deli and picnic in the riverside parklands. Dine in warehouse converted restaurants and explore the transformed industrial space of the Powerhouse, now a buzzing centre for the live arts.

Hatsu Hana Sea World Resort

Grant Torren’s Boat Show Canoeing on the Brisbane River

Moda Restaurant

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people in style

THEY’RE YOUNG, SAVVY AND HAVE THE DETERMINATION, AS HELEN FLANAGAN FOUND OUT, TO BE ENTREPRENEURS. he magnet for Steven and Autumn Adams’ move to Queensland in 2001 from England was weather and quality of life. The reason was simple enough but the processes were long and involved. Leaving flourishing careers and especially families was traumatic. “It was exciting yet scary, getting on the plane, not knowing what was ahead,” recalls Steven who was 27 and worked for British Aerospace as an airline engineer, later switching to finance, while Autumn 22, was fast-tracking a career path with Pizza Hut in South Hampton. “It was the biggest adventure we’d ever undertaken - even bigger than getting married in 1998. Autumn had already teed up a job with Pizza Hut in Brisbane but that was it. I had no idea what I was going to do. “Dropping everything and starting afresh was a big gamble but we

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At

Recognizing that quality and provenance is paramount, Steven learnt everything he could about beef, from behind the scenes at the abattoirs, the variables that affect quality to dealing directly with the producers and choosing the grades that appear on the menu. After a new look and winning multiple awards, the creation of a superior quality beef restaurant experience had been achieved. Never satisfied with sitting on their laurels, Steven and Autumn began researching for a location for a second restaurant, when out of the blue came calls from both Stamford and Starwood Hotel executives inviting them to take over the former Siggi’s at the Stamford Plaza in Brisbane, which had been there for 22 years and the Steakhouse Bar + Grill at the Westin Resort & Spa on Fiji’s Denarau Island, a fixture for more than 36 years. Stunned and flattered they found out that it was the silverware on the mantle piece – the many awards, plus of course the successful owners that had attracted the main interest. The Moo Moo brand was considered a perfect fit with the hotels’ images plus Steven and Autumn are young, dynamic and totally passionate.

Moo-ving towards a were both young, had passion and a drive to do something different. If you don’t take chances, life will be boring.” Living in Brisbane they thought long and hard. Steven’s aunts and uncles owned pubs and restaurants in the UK, he had fond memories as a teen of watching the chefs and often pondered becoming a restaurateur. Autumn had a thorough understanding of how food franchises ran, they had dreams about opening a restaurant but needed capital so they purchased Subway franchises: “Subway was an affordable entree into the hospitality industry and it was also a brand going places. “After opening Moo Moo at Broadbeach in 2005, we sold our Subway franchises and bought Pizza Hut franchises. Success is all about purchasing the franchise, building the restaurant from ground up and then selling. Today, except for one Pizza Hut, we are dedicated solely to Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill. “I’m very passionate about red wine and steak and liked the idea of opening a steak restaurant with a twist. Not a regular steakhouse, a fine dining restaurant showcasing the best beef that’s available.”

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“Opening our first restaurant on the Gold Coast was a huge feat but opening the restaurant in Brisbane in a couple of weeks is the biggest thing we’ve ever done,” say the thrilled couple who play a dual role in all elements of the business. Steven however focuses more on the financial, design, marketing and growth of the business and Autumn works closely with the managers and 150 staff, which they acknowledge are all terrific. Steven also plays a pivotal role in the development of menus working closely with Philip Edwards executive chef of the Gold Coast and Fiji, and with Philip Foote in the multi million dollar refurbed Brisbane Moo Moo. The Mermaid Beach couple relish time away from their never-a-dullmoment restaurant life, often joining Steven’s parents and brother who moved to Australia several years ago and Autumn’s dad when he visits every year. They cherish their four-footed 'kids' although sadly they recently lost the love of their life Basil, who came out with them from the UK with Lucy who went to the big kennel in the sky in 2006. Lucy two, another beautiful cream Labrador then joined the family and baby Basil, a bouncy Rottweiler pup is the latest addition. “We want Brisbane to take off and be as successful as our Broadbeach restaurant and we’d love both restaurants to be recognised as two of the top restaurants in Queensland and Australia,” says a proud Steven. “And in ten year’s time hopefully we’ll be in Sydney or Melbourne running a boutique restaurant group. Autumn and I would remain hands-on overseeing everything so as to maintain quality and consistency. We’ll continue to enjoy good times in Fiji and who knows, there may be other Starwood hotels where Moo Moo fits the bill.”


a culinary empire

Stunned and flattered they found out that it was the silverware on the mantle piece – the many awards, plus of course the successful owners that had attracted the main interest Basil the Rottweiler, Autumn, Steve and Lucy the Labrador

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Living waterfalls EXQUISITE INDOOR AND OUTDOOR WATER FEATURES

BE LIMITED ONLY BY YOUR IMAGINATION! Living Water Designs on the Gold Coast has set a new benchmark in Water Feature Design. New and exciting materials coupled with experience and modern technologies, Living Water Designs is able to create any type of Water Feature to match your taste, whether it be: classic or modern, indoor or outdoor, subtle or bold. Ask Living Water Designs about their huge range of water feature options: Waterwalls, Raincurtains, IAquas, Fountains, Water Tables, Bubble Bars, Bubble Panels, Spillways, Sheer Descents, Lamina Jets, and Outdoor Fountains. Contact Living Water Designs by website, phone or email to start the conceptual design process with one of their qualified designers who will help you determine which best fits your needs.

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• DYNAMIC • EXCITING • EYE-CATCHING • ATTRACTIVE • COMFORTING • SOOTHING AND RELAXING • TRANQUIL

FURNITURE SUPPLIED BY DUNE

2/9 Fremantle Street, Burleigh Heads. Phone: (07) 5593 7070 website www.livingwaterdesigns.com.au


shopping

Catwalk chic... Flirty frills Miss Unkon - Multi-frill Hello Cupcake off-theshoulder dress in peachy, worn with Sportsgirl shoes. Photo: Nelson, Nellypro Photography.

here's always a few surprises in store on the Rosemount Australian Fashion Week catwalk, reports fashion editor Rachel Syers, who takes Style readers to the front row at Sydney's Circular Quay for a taste of trends on their way this coming Spring/Summer.

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Aside from the obligatory airkissing, towering heeled boots, celebrity spotting and the excitement in the eyes of the glamour pusses that almost outsparkled their VIP champagne

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flutes, all attention was on the runways at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week for its 15th anniversary. From the fierce futuristic resort pieces of fashion week veteran Zimmermann, to the fun and frivolity of fresh emerging labels such as Miss Unkon, the feast of designer diversity never fails to astound. It's the week where some daring creations can fail to secure any retail interest, whereas other fresh ideas are picked up as key looks set to appear in stores in the coming months ready to ignite a new trend for stylistas to cherish and clamber after. Here's a selection of some hot new looks on their way to us for the coming Spring/Summer season ...


Colour and length Lisa Ho - Blue Gravity print silk jersey long gown Stocked at Lisa Ho, Wintergarden

Feminine tailoring Little Joe Woman 'Rockafella' cotton blazer in gardenia, 'Marrakech' beaded kaftan tunic in gardenia, 'Union Square' pant in gardenia, 'Chingy' coin belt in caviar with Jimmy Choo Zoom heel Stocked at Little Joe, Marina Mirage

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swim in style

swimwear stunners

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Summer brights Anna & Boy – Bandeau with frills in citrus worn with long Spotty utility shirt dress Stockists include David Jones QueensPlaza, Josephine's Shop at Noosaville and Port Douglas, and from July, Sunburn at Marina Mirage


Casual cool Anna & Boy - Mid-shorts in khaki stripes Stockists include David Jones QueensPlaza

Graphic prints Zimmermann – Bandeau bikini with sheer panelled high-waisted briefs Stocked at Zimmermann, Marina Mirage and QueensPlaza

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essential indulgences

looking good... inding time to get gorgeous skin can be a challenge for any woman; somehow it has to fit in between the family, work and the million tasks you have to do every day. Surprisingly, getting the skin you want doesn’t require down time or surgery. Treating your face right can be easy and means less make up and less time getting ready each day. Feel confident and beautiful with the range of non-surgical rejuvenation services available at Creare Clinic. Renew and

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refresh your skin with microdermabrasion treatments or chemical peels or try some of our luxurious and affordable skin care range. As for those stubborn lines and wrinkles, BotoxÂŽ and Dermal Filler treatments can erase that tired weary look, and rejuvenate your face so you look as young as you feel. At Creare Clinic, we will revive your skin and enhance your natural elegance. For appointments (07) 3353 7088. Gift Vouchers available.

Vani-T KRUSH MINERALS are made from 100% minerals in their purest form, giving you a flawless airbrushed finish, unlike anything you've experienced in conventional makeup. Available at Amarante, Hope Island Central


G2 by George Gross Charlie Brown Moss & Spy Nicolangela Studibaker Sacha Drake Mr Rose Resort Report Carlopik The Clothing Company Nat-Sui Shoes

•elegant day-wear •exclusive evening-wear •jewellery •shawls •cashmere knitwear and lifestyle

FRANCOISE ESTERHAZY ART & COUTURE Shop 8, Santa Cruz Village 60 Santa Cruz Blvd, Clear Island Waters

Shop 19, 24-26 Queensland Ave. Broadbeach QLD 4218 Phone 07 5538 3311 • info@elegansfashion.com.au

www.elegansfashion.com.au

Telephone: 07 557 26222 Wholesale Inquiries: 07 5575 3338

www.francoiseesterhazy.com.au Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

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hair care

A change in season can be a challenge to keep your hair healthy. ut with so many hair care advances, Autumn/Winter can be your time to shine. Don't be shy in taking advantage of expert knowledge available from respected hair stylists and colourists, who not only know what's good for your hair, but can help you with colour choices and styles to bring all the elements together and have you turning heads. International Hair Society Award winner and Schwarzkopf Professional colour technician, Meg Eddy, says trusted products such as the Essensity range from Schwarzkopf really give the hair a dose of nutrients. “Because it's an all-natural product we believe it's so much kinder on the hair so we use it every day on clients because we are really into organic products here,” says Meg, who has joined the team at Coupe salon, Nobby Beach. As for trends this Autumn/Winter, Meg says texture is the key, 'whether it be a softly textured updo or movement within the hair'. “Muddling is also big – that involves muddling colours no more than half a shade outside of their natural tone or making their colours blend between a shade and half a shade, so as to enhance what you have rather than changing it.”

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Keep your style cool and colour rich – hair by Meg Eddy, of Coupe salon.

RACHEL SYERS

*The Essensity Care Collection by Schwarzkopf Professional strikes a balance between environmental responsibility and modern technology, with specialised natural ingredients such as Goji berry, Argan oil and aloe vera. A balanced blend of gentle cleansers, conditioners and treatments promote the natural performance of hair, resulting in a revitalised, brilliant finish, and are all free from ammonia, fragrance, silicones, paraffin, mineral oils, parabens and formaldehyde-derivates. Stockists include Coupe salon at Nobby Beach. Priced from $29.95. *The opulent new hair oil, Orofluido, is the latest beauty sensation to sweep Europe. Designed for all hair types, it contains a mixture of natural Argan, Cyperus and Linseed oils sourced from some of the world’s most exotic locations to leave the hair soft and silky, healthy and residue free. Priced at $49.95 from leading salons. For stockists call 1800 104 204. *Used to create the glamorous Academy Award red carpet looks for the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Charlize Theron and Maggie Gyllenhaal, the Moroccanoil range of hair care and styling products uses an Argan oil-infused blend for lightweight natural-looking results. The range includes Dry Oil Treatment, $49.95, protecting against UV and environmental damage, and Restorative Hair Mask, $49.50, a rich cream treatment with proteins to help repair damaged hair and provide an intense moisture boost by penetrating the hair shaft. Stocked in salons or visit www.moroccanoil.com *Hairdressers Formula's new range includes Dry Hair Shampoo, for in-between washes without using water. The easily applied spray contains highly absorbent agents to draw away and absorb impurities, plus nourishing rice milk helps to add body, moisture, strength and shine. Priced at $9.99. While the Hair Nutrition in capsules contains 19 vitamins, minerals and bio-marine extracts for the hair and scalp, $27.95. From pharmacies or for stockists, call 1800 791 381.

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luxuryindulgences

Red Miu Miu bag

Bella Moda shoes Bella Moda shoes Your stylish, new travel companion... Whether it’s hiking with your mates through Nepal, exploring ancient ruins in Greece with your partner, or soaking up the sun with the family in Spain, vibrant Switch Sticks can assist. A walking stick or hiking pole allows you to travel the world with confidence. Switch Sticks can offer the extra support and reassurance you need – you don’t have to take a back seat and watch others

have all the fun on holidays - or look like a patient. Switch Sticks walking sticks collapse down to the size of a magazine, making them easy to carry around while travelling. Available from selected quality retailers nationally. RRPs start from $79.95. For more information visit: www.switchsticks.com.au

Must have shoes and accessories.... Available from Shoes on Chevron - Thomas Drive

Handbag size Swiss Army Knife for girls... Whether it’s an urgent nail emergency, a browfurrowing stray brow hair, or a pesky after-sushiseaweed-in-teeth catastrophe, Wenger has the sharp and snappy answer all-in-one. Stylish and petite enough to fit in a clutch at under 7cm, the new, Wenger Nail Clip 580, is the ideal expanding ‘survival’ tool you can pull out of your handbag in one fell swoop. Available in a selection of

candy colours as well as their signature red, this mini manicure tool bears the distinctive Wenger signature and the guarantees of ingenuity, functionality, reliability as well as value for money. RRP from $49.95. For stockist enquiries, please contact Wenger Australia on: 02 9699 9922 or www.wenger.net.au

The opulent new hair oil, Orofluido, is the latest beauty sensation to sweep Europe

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face 2 face with

alex perry ON THE GOLD COAST TO OPEN THE NEW PRINCESS YASMIN DESIGNER SHOE & BAG BOUTIQUE AT MARINA MIRAGE, FASHION'S GOLDEN BOY AND ONE OF THE COUNTRY'S MOST POPULAR TELEVISION JUDGES, ALEX PERRY, SPOKE EXCLUSIVELY TO RACHEL SYERS ABOUT HIS WORK, HIS WIFE, AND HIS WISH FOR MORE PEOPLE TO HELP CHARITIES HELP OTHERS. We hear you've been nominated for your first ASTRA award for Favourite Personality? “I've got a four billion-to-one chance of winning because I'm up against 'Saint Sarah Murdoch', the pride of Australia, and the legendary Bill Collins and Jimmy Barnes and Ruby Rose (as well as Brendan Moar, Andrew Winter and Danny Clayton) so ... actually make that seven billion-to-one. It's' really nice, a bit of fun – it's not my day job so it's really lovely to know that I'm even considered in that company.” How do you balance your television commitments and other pursuits, on top of your design work? ’There's an old saying – 'if you want to get something done, give it to a busy person'. There's a certain momentum that you generate, so it's just scheduling – certain days of the week I work on ready to wear, certain days on couture, a couple of days I have to put aside for other things. We work around the shooting schedule – sometimes we're lucky enough to shoot on weekends so it doesn't impact on what I do during the week.” You're not stale with your role as a judge on Australia's Next Top Model yet? “No, it's fun a new batch of girls, a new batch of acidic comments to be thrown out – its always off the cuff but Charlotte (Alex's fellow judge and former model, Charlotte Dawson) is the queen of the one-liners. My favourite part of the whole show is waiting to hear what Charlotte's going to dish out. We've all been friends for ages and everybody has a really solid background in the industry and we have bit of fun so, while people might think we are acidic or nasty, it's not meant that way.” Do you manage to find enough time to spend with your wife, Mary, these days? “I do, we have dinner at home five or so nights a week and look, she's the best cook in the whole world … an incredible cook – she does this fantastic roast chicken and her traditional Greek cuisine is second to none. On the weekend I'll cook or we'll go out or get take-out but we've always been quite regimented like that and always make sure we eat good food and there's always something really yummy when I get home, usually about eight.” Does it ground you to have that stable home life? “Yeah, Mary grounds me and my brothers ground me. I'm in the fashion industry but I'm not 'in it' in it. Like, I don't hang out there. I know it and I'm there all the time and go to all the functions when I need to, but I go home to a really stable family and really loving environment. I think people perceive me differently because I do all this and the TV stuff, but I literally go home and in my mind, I'm the same person I was when I was 16 and my family keep me that way.” You've survived the fashion industry for 18 years, but how do you feel when you see some of your long-term designer colleagues either drop out or are forced out? “I know how hard it is to establish a business and a brand and to make something of it and it always - for whatever reason - I always feel really sorry for them because it's not nice

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seeing anybody fall by the wayside, or taking their eye off the ball and maybe not making the right decisions. But there are casualties in business, it could happen to everybody – you may not foresee what's going to happen in the future, have a few bad seasons, and it's crippling.” At the 15th anniversary for Rosemount Australian Fashion Week this year, you had your biggest parade ever with 1000 guests – why? “I was just Mr Fancy Pants this year. I'm a bit driven like that. Yeah, it was huge, sparkly, glamorous, everybody turned up. But it was fun - the people just got a sense of joy in that. You know, I'm not ground breaking - I never have been the one that's gonna come up with the quirky new jacket – it's not my thing. I just want it to look gorgeous and so this year, when (marie claire editor) Jackie Frank said 'the glamour metre went off the Richter Scale', I thought that was perfect and it was my favourite comment.” Do you think part of your secret to success has been not over expanding? Yeah, you've got to understand where we live, how many people are in Australia, how small it has become and how people travel all the time – I've got clients that come down to Sydney from the Gold Coast and Queensland and Perth, but there's a whole heap of costs and extra burdens associated with having flagship stores all over the country. It's not like I do tops and jeans – if I did you could crank out 20 stores nationally. But I don't - I make sparkly evening dresses and cocktail dresses – there's only so many that I ever sell in a year, you know? So it would be more of an ego trip to do that, and I'm not into the ego trip. Regardless of what people think, I actually am really grounded - I've got a very strong sense of self … I don't need to see my name up everywhere. How important is your support of charities, such as the annual Alex Perry Charity Gala in Brisbane for the AEIOU Foundation for children with autism? “I'm really passionate about a lot of charities and that one in particular just pulls at my heart strings. We are trying to open up an AEIOU school in Sydney now. When I come up to Brisbane I visit the kids their parents and families, and they've got such incredible spirit with a smile on their face and they are enthusiastic and that school changes their lives … makes those kids self-sufficient ultimately. I do another one in Sydney called Pearls which raises money for research for women who have got toxic placenta and high blood pressure - it kills a jumbo jet full of babies every year worldwide. All charities are worthy, but I especially try to help those little ones that fly under the radar and they don't get government funding. There are so many stories that make you just go 'Oh my God!' ... it makes you feel so fortunate and makes you think, you know what, I have a spare Saturday I can go and help and do something for these people because they can't do everything. Do it if you can - put $5 in somebody's tin, dig out the spare change on the floor of your car. You may think it's like no big deal but if you think, as a collective, it is a big deal and it does add up.


“

“...I was just Mr Fancy Pants this year. I'm a bit driven like that. Yeah, it was huge, sparkly, glamorous, everybody turned up. But it was fun...

Scene stealer: Alex Perry - The Glitter Dress, priced at $2500, is the epitome of glamour for this coming Spring Summer, leaving no doubt as to who will be stealing the spotlight at any event she attends. Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

23


indulge

Exclusively you… 1. hermés - voyage d’hermés Thierry Hermés founded his harness and saddle-making workshop in Paris in 1837. Now Hermés presents a fragrance designed for both men and women, embedded in one of its founding themes: travel. Designed for “carry-on,” the 35ml bottle is also refillable, making it not just a travelling companion but a sustainable object to house this new woody, fresh, musky fragrance. 2. paco rabanne - black xs collector A fragrant, seductive scent blending energy, charm and virility. It will appeal to new men, bad boys with hearts of gold, can be fiery or sexy or rock n roll. Black XS for Her is well suited for a 'Rebel Princess'. She is a sensual, impertinent, and unexpected woman of today. This modern woody based fragrance starts of with pink peppercorn, tamarind blossom and cranberry that will surely bring up the heat. This is followed by hellebore rose, black violet and cocoa blossom with the base notes of patchouli, Massoia wood and vanilla.

5. laura mercier - limited edition club couture Laura Mercier Lip Glacé is a high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips. Any skin tone is virtually enhanced by creating a subtle contrast in texture. Offering 3 Limited Edition colour Pink Diamond, Meringue and Discrete.

7. acqua di parma - magnolia nobile Created with the purest essences, Magnolia Nobile reveals the most noble and elegant aspects of the magnolia. Crystalline tones of bergamot, lemon and citron, blend with vibrant magnolia, refined notes of rose, jasmine and tuberose, and a rich and elegant base of sandalwood, patchouli, vetiver & vanilla.

6. clarins - organic gentle beauty soap Certified organic, Clarins first soap for the face and body contains 99.9% natural ingredients. Organic shea butter, hazelnut oil and natural citrus essential oils gently cleanse while preserving skin’s natural moisture balance.

3. azzaro - limited edition twin love Twin Love Edition Women with notes of wild rose, almond flower, white peach, blackcurrant sorbet and creamy musk, matches Twin Love Edition Men, with bergamot, black pepper, patchouli heart, mandarin and nutmeg.

2. 5.

4. annick goutal - mandragore pourpre Illustrating a dark and mysterious facet of the mandrake, known for its therapeutic and alleged aphrodisiac properties since the Middle Ages, unisex Mandragore Pourpre fuses aromatic and cyprus scents.

6. 3.

1. 7.

4.

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving


LIZ CLIFT

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

B O U T I Q U E

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.

Affordable Extravagance Benowa Gardens Ashmore Road Benowa Phone 5597 0000 Open 7 days


in stores

baby luxe naturally

Necessity literally was the mother of invention for a Good Coast aromatherapist.

“Babies under three months should have a very simple skincare routine and shouldn’t use products containing essential oils. I created Nature Within because I wanted products that used only natural organic ingredients, were fragrance-free and didn’t contain essential oils. I also wanted products that listed all the

adine Hall’s two children suffered with eczema and baby products

ingredients, not just a few - not just a long list of confusing, hard to pronounce

designed for sensitive delicate skin often contained essential oils or

names that made me question what was actually going into or onto my children’s

synthetic fragrances

bodies”.

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which caused irritation and therefore totally

unsuitable

Paediatric research has confirmed that a new born baby’s skin is five times

As a qualified aromatherapist and certified infant massage instructor, she

thinner than that of an adult, so the skin is not fully developed and able to absorb

decided to develop an organic skincare brand using only pure, simplified

potential irritants easily, thus prone to dryness and irritation which can lead to

ingredients. After three years of extensive research, product development and

eczema or other skin conditions. One in five children suffers from eczema, and the

working with a cosmetic chemist, Nature Within, a range of unscented, natural,

occurrence of babies with sensitive skin is growing with many believing it’s due to

organic skin care, specifically for a baby’s sensitive skin, was born.

the levels of chemical ingredients and synthetic products used in everyday

The products contain skin nurturing oils such as avocado, evening primrose,

households.

calendula and shea butter. The ph-balanced formulations are hypo-allergenic and

The Nature Within range includes a Baby Body & Hair Cleanser, Baby Moisturiser,

rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to soften, soothe and protect.

Baby Bottom & Barrier Balm, Baby Massage & Bath & Blend, as well a gift pack of all

They are unscented because as Nadine says:“the only fragrance a mother and baby

the products.

need is each other.

Call 1300 229 488 for stockists or visit: www.naturewithin.com.au


in stores now...

timeless designs •Designer jewellers specialising in remodelling your old jewellery pieces into spectacular new modern creations. • Jewellery & Watch repairs • Watch batteries • Silver plating • Valuations & Insurance quotes

Jewellery, handbags, shoes, fashion... available from Helen Grant - Tedder Ave Main Beach

Chevron Jewellery Custom designed jewellery and remodelling your old pieces into modern classics... Available from Chevron Jewellery Thomas Drive Chevron Island

Susan Duncan Qualified Gemmologist & Jewellery Designer Shop 9/ 49 Thomas Drive Chevron Island T: 0429 476 666 F: 07 55 922 524 E. chevronjewellery@bigpond.com Open Mon to Fri 9 to 5pm Sat 9 to 3pm


boots to die for... Francoise Esterhazy art & couture Shop 8, Santa Cruz Village 60 Santa Cruz Blvd, Clear Island Waters

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

Always a statement in fashion.... available from Elegรกns Fashion Queensland Ave Broadbeach


VERGE available from Bella Bella Boutique Chevron Island

now

VERY CHIC FASHION LEO GUY - available from Liz Clift International Boutique Benowa Gardens Benowa

2/49 Thomas Drv. Chevron Island • VERGE Specialist • VSSP •GABRIELLA FRATTINI

07 5538 4641

• BOO RADLEY • DIDIER • SHOUQ

• DAVID POND • CARLOPIK


profile

Home is where the heart is … Renee Blackwell seems to have found the perfect balance in her life as jet-setter, treasure hunter, jewellery designer and eco-advocate, as Rachel Syers reports he has enjoyed a global lifestyle for many years, but for jewellery designer Renee Blackwell, a lush parcel of land tucked away in the Sunshine Coast hinterland is now the centre of her universe. Just as Renee takes delight in designing her unique one-off jewellery pieces such as French drop earrings and cocktail rings from antique buttons, so too has she paid attention to every detail of her home life 'off the grid', resulting in an eco-lifestyler's dream come true. Situated outside Maleny, Renee’s charming rural property ‘Hazelwild Retreat’ is self-sufficient in terms of energy and water, and proudly constructed from eco-friendly materials. Not to mention an organic garden that supplies her own kitchen, and of course, chooks in the yard. “Our dream was to establish an organic retreat,” says Renee, 51, adding that her shipwright husband, Chris, built the house himself, using resources from the undeveloped 50-acre site and local suppliers. Given the pristine wilderness setting, the couple took particular care not to use timber from old growth forests and to avoid toxic materials. “Now, 11 years down the path and lots of hard work later, all of our domestic power requirements including computers, refrigeration and my Renee Blackwell Design Studio, ‘Harmony House’, run off our extensive solar system.” It’s a natural extension to Renee's personal approach to design, which

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

includes crafting jewellery from Australian gemstones, Swarovski crystals and exquisite found objects such as vintage French glass buttons. And if you think those types of treasures are hard to come by, you're correct. “I travel a lot for both necessity and pleasure, but it's always for business, looking for stones and antique pieces to buy” explains Renee, whose jewellery collections sell throughout Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, the UK and US. “The antique buttons are very difficult to source – last month I was in Paris looking for antique pieces, and I'm about to go to New York in a few weeks for more searching.” Renee and her husband travel overseas around seven times each year – this year's postcards will be from Hong Kong, Bali, Java, Paris, New York and other parts of the US, Mexico, and 'quite a few trips around Australia too' to source gemstones and make appearances in-store at many of the 80 jewellery stores who keep Renee Blackwell Design pieces. “It is a lot of travel, although we always have plenty of fun – don't tell anybody, but we tend to have more fun than we should,” she laughs. Hailing from Olympia, Washington, in the United States, Renee began designing jewellery in 1987 amongst other pursuits – including living on a sail boat in Mexico for five years with Chris – before moving to Australia in 1999 to lead a more sustainable lifestyle. “Chris is Australian so it was easy to move here, and being on the boat, you learn to live as alternatively as you want off the smell of an oily rag,” says Renee, reminiscing over how one of the biggest lessons she learned from her sailing days was water conservation, sometimes relying on just a cup of water a day to wash with. Times aren't so tough now though, with the enormous solar system they installed meaning Renee can proudly announce she hasn't received an electricity bill in 11 years. “We're not martyrs or flag-waving greenies, whatever that means, but on the other hand we have worked very hard to be selfsustainable and I'd encourage anyone to try it, to whatever extent their lifestyle or budget affords. “It doesn't have to be all or nothing, even if it just means growing your own herbs on the verandah to being with. “It was just an evolution for us – an unspoken innate sense of what feels right.” That 'at ease' feeling within her environs has also meant Renee can create to her heart's content in her on-site studio, ‘Harmony House’, a setting Renee describes as the 'most perfect and inspirational environment in which to work'. There she finds her inspiration from her treasure hunting trips, bringing back pieces like vintage metal, china, bone, brass and bronze buttons dating back to the 1800s, to set in sterling silver rings and pendants. “My signature, my trademark that everybody really loves, is that every piece is individual.” Just as unique as their creator, so it would seem.


styles in store now

New & Exciting Look for Mela Purdie In Store Now

NYDJ Tummy Tuck Jeans. Available at Calypso Resort, Sanctuary Cove

• Mela Purdie • Gabriella Frattini • Walking Art • Joseph Ribkoff • Ravel • Juo • David Pond • Marco Polo • Gitane • Sequel • Vers • Philosophy Meegs Boutique - Level 1 Oasis Shopping Centre Broadbeach

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


BIJOUX By Helen Grant

Italian Fashion

Paula Ryan Specialist Tuzzi

Germany

/ Bandolera Italy / Isabel D’Pedro Spain / Cylk

Fashion Now in Store shop 2, 29 tedder avenue main beach phone 5532 0123

Australia

/ Kondo Australia


at it’s Best…

Accessories and Jewellery

BIJOUX

shop 3, 29 tedder avenue main beach phone 5532 5758

By Helen Grant


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

styles in store now

Shop 40, Quay St. Sanctuary Cove

•Gabriella Frattini •Ravel •Rarity •Sacha Drake •Hot Clothing also most popular swimwear labels

Have you admired the style of Carrie Bradshaw from Sex & the City? Now you can walk in the labels that made the series! With the most luscious collection of shoes and handbags to have ever been sold together, this store is a sight to be seen and tried on by all shoe lovers. Princess Yasmin is one of the most luxurious new boutiques to have arrived to Marina Mirage, Main Beach on the Gold Coast. Housing carefully selected pieces from around the world. Step into the art deco boutique and you will enter a world of grandeur and intrigue. With some of the world's most famous brands on offer including: Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Prada, Chanel, Givenchy, Chloe, Roberto Cavalli, D & G and more! When purchasing at Princess Yasmin you will always feel special, as our handbags and shoes are offered as one of a kind in size and availability. Ensuring that first in will be the best dressed. www.princessyasmin.com.au

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

Shop 41E, Quay St. Sanctuary Cove

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


The highest standards of treatment‌

Specialising in Lomasi disposable pedicure systems, Young Nails Acrylic & Gel enhancements and Dermalogica skin care treatments. We customise our treatments and services to your specific needs. Taking pride in the most hygienic methods such as disposable pedicure systems and sanding bands which are replaced after each client. We have also introduced new disposable waxing cartridges for less mess and sticky residue. The equipment and products used at Amarante for all our services are what we consider the best available.

Shop 6a, Hope Island Central Hope Island Road, Hope Island P: 07 5510 9565 www.amarante.com.au Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

35


news

asters of the Kitchen is an exciting new culinary event

M

for food lovers, chefs and home cooks. On Saturday 26th June, 2010 at the RACV Royal Pines Resort.

The Masters of the Kitchen Bite Size event will give food lovers, chefs and home cooks the opportunity to taste what is in store for 2011. The Bite Size event will include a full day workshop followed by a gala dinner. Great Australian chefs such as Cheong Liew who Christian Maier

has been listed as "one of the 10 hottest chefs alive" and is best known for his years as executive chef of The Grange Restaurant at the Hilton in Adelaide, and Daniel Ridgeway will be conducting classes together with Brazilian chef Paulo Siqueira. The RACV City Club's own Sommelier, Christian Maier, whose two decades of hospitality and wine service in France, Britain and Australia will serve him well, as he works alongside awardwinning chef Daniel Ridgeway to educate the audience on wine appreciation. They will also introduce Sicilian food blogger and author, Marisa Raniolo Wilkins to the Gold Coast.

Paulo Siqueira

Price:

$185 per person Full Day Workshop

Come and Explore Hope Island Central YOUR PERSONAL ONESTOP SHOPPING DESTINATION AWAY FROM CROWDED CARPARKS AND FRENZIED SHOPPING CENTRES. HOPE ISLAND CENTRAL HAS IT ALL.

$150 per person Gala Dinner $300 per person Full Day Workshop & Gala Dinner Time:

8.30am – 4.30pm, Full Day Workshop

Dress:

Black Tie

Venue:

RACV Royal Pines Resort.

7pm – late, Gala Dinner

Bookings Please visit the website; www.mastersofthekitchen.com.au or phone 07 5533 2744. Cheong Liew

GOLD BOX CHALLENGE... he annual ACF Gold Box Challenge is renowned as being

T

the most challenging culinary event in the State, consisting of teams comprising an Executive Chef, Sous

Chef, Apprentice and Maitre d. ’Teams are given a mystery “gold box” of ingredients in the late hours of Sunday afternoon and Marisa Raniolo Wilkins

under extreme scrutiny from the panel of industry professional judges, the teams must devise a menu in 1/1/2 hours and then use every ingredient from the mystery box to create a four course menu. The following night, they will recreate those menus in portable kitchens placed around the ballroom, in front of more than 400 eager guests. Then it's time to serve the courses with perfectly matched wines. All aspects of the dinner are judged from preparation to service. Who will win this year and break the two-year hold on the top spot by Sofitel Broadbeach's Room81?

ith cafes and coffee shop, real estate office, jewellery, boutiques and most importantly great restaurants, the centre is fast becoming a welcome change for locals. The wide range of restaurants located in the centre ensure diners wonderful choices. Each night can be a new dining experience. With easy access from all the neighbouring suburbs, Hope Island, Sanctuary Cove, Helensvale, Paradise Point, Runaway Bay, Sovereign and Ephraim Islands, Coomera, Oxenford, lower Tamborine and beyond and now with direct buggy access from Hope Island Estate residents don’t need to get into the car anymore. For the ladies there is Amarante Beauty and Nail salon who specialise in Lomasi, also a must visit is De Vos Jewellery for a superb new piece of jewellery. Disposable pedicure systems Young Nails Acrylic and gel enhancements and Dermalogica Skin care treatments. Another new and welcome tenant is Forrest Computers for new sales of Apple and PC computers and repairs. With new businesses relocating to the centre regularly the centre is now establishing itself has a true ‘local’ centre. With ample village style off-street, as well as undercover parking - and for Hope Island residents, enjoying easy golf buggy access your shopping adventures will be a pleasure at all times - rain or shine.

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HOPE ISLAND

Make sure to book early for the dinner on Mon 28th June at the RACV Royal Pines Resort.

340 HOPE ISLAND ROAD HOPE ISLAND 36

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving


shop. dine. relax. Have you experienced Hope Island Central?

Food, beauty, fashion, jewellery, laundry, fitness, printing, real estate and more …

Anytime Fitness Centre

Chic Hair & Beauty

Randhawa’s Indian Restaurant

Haute Fashion Boutique

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE CONVENIENT CENTRE… EASY CENTRAL PARKING + UNDERCOVER PARKING Hope Island Central Shopping Centre is full of surprises… Grab a coffee and snack, work it off in the gym, get your hair done, have a massage or manicure, get acquainted with local real estate agents, browse the fashion and jewellery boutiques, meet up with a design or computer specialist, drop off your laundry and then indulge in a delectable lunch or dinner. It’s where it’s all at!!!

Tenants include: • Anytime Fitness Centre • Amarante - Beauty and Nail Lounge

• • • •

Chic Hair & Beauty DeVos Jewellers Forrest Computers Hannah’s Place

• • • •

Haute Fashion Boutique Island Printing JMS Laundry LJ Hooker Real Estate

• MP John Crandon • Randhawa’s Indian Restaurant • Sawadee Thai Restaurant

• Sushi • Zarraffas Coffee

340 HOPE ISLAND ROAD (opp Seven Eleven Service Station) DIRECT BUGGY ACCESS AVAILABLE

Leasing Opportunities. Major Incentives Available!!! Looking for fashion retailers, seafood, mediterranean, chinese, japanese or similar restaurants, newsagency, golf shop, pool shop, record/book shop, video store, juice bar, deli, fruit shop & more… Dominique Bell 0422 172 609 / Twaanie Caine 0411 611 888

The Surfers Paradise Group


foodie events & news

Sea food and meet at Bayside playground

pumpkin, goat’s fetta, green beans; and grilled West

culture. It produces an

Australian lobster either mornay or with lemon garlic

aroma that promotes

butter. Add tempting side dishes, desserts and artisan

instant hunger.

he best seat in the house at the Woody

T

cheese, all matched by a well chosen, eclectic wine

Point Seafood Grill? That’s every one when

list, and even the most discerning palates will exude

freshest local produce

you’re propped on the deck just metres

excitement.

is crucial to Moda’s

the Belvedere Hotel which was established in 1893.

Contemporary cosmopolitan

most mornings before daylight to select ingredients

arcelona-born Javier Codina, captures the

B

$35. Choose from three mains and two desserts plus

essence of Catalan, French and Italian

of course, a glass of wine. Moda’s excellent side dishes,

from the water at the Woody Point Seafood Grill, in The elegant open design complements the stunning view south over Bramble Bay, coastal parks, the renovated Woody Point Jetty and of course the freshest locally caught seafood such as oysters, crabs and prawns. Landlubbers are not forgotten.

the

Moda’s Javier Codina

commitment to quality, so Javier visits the markets to fuel his daily inspiration for the lunchtime Moda Market Menu which has a choice of two courses for

cultures, and gilds

Executive chef Steve Bestwick ex Chill Bar & Grill in

them with expertise gained in

Bulimba and Mancini's in South Yarra and head chef

some of the world’s great

Glenn Bowman, ex Noosa’s famed Season and his

restaurants including the former

own Alegria, lead the kitchen brigade. The restaurant

Gianni’s,

manager Aaron Tapper, is also well known from his

relaunched as Moda.

time at berardo’s, Ecco, and Il Centro.

which

he

has

He leads the kitchen brigade,

The impressively innovative menu lists the

has maintained an elegant

provenance of the premium seafood and changes

informality to Brisbane dining,

daily. Share a chef’s selection entree plate and options

and

could include grilled Mooloolaba chilli prawns,

restaurant

tomato and basil oil; roast quail, nut rice and

offers

imaginative

quality

external

catering for events of all kinds. There’s contemporary cuisine

yoghurt;

in a peaceful atmosphere, a

Hervey Bay scallops,

cosmopolitan meeting place set

cauliflower

puree,

around a verdant courtyard, an

creamed leeks with

intimate oasis in the heart of the

panko

crumb; and

city and the ever changing

deep fried zucchini

menu focuses on fresh seafood

flower stuffed with

plus premium cuts of meats, in-

crab,

season game and free range

minted

spinach

and

goats curd

poultry.

Delight in mains

There’s also adobo cooking. By

such as hand picked

baking in fresh clay it seals in

mud crab, chilli, lemon

flavour and moisture, resulting in

and rocket spaghettini;

the most tender and aromatic

tempura summer whiting with a Thai-style salad,

meat, currently a rack of lamb to

peach, peanuts, coriander and fried shallots; pan-fried

share. Paella aficionados will

Barramundi with a macadamia nut crust, roast

need to diarise Friday lunch

Glenn Bowman & Stephen Bestwick

Sourcing

when Javier will ensure it’s perfect.

Queenslands best muddies.... Woody Point Seafood Grill

He and his team bake ciabatta style bread

Moda’s touch of style.

fresh every day, from scratch with their own

yeast

cheese and drinks are also available to tempt those who wish to extend their experience. Great value set menus where seasonal produce take centre stage, are a mainstay of European dining just like Moda in Edward Street. It’s open for lunch from Tuesday to Friday; and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday.

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving


Hilton Masterclass... Brisbane style Michelin-starred chefs shine

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he Hilton Brisbane Masterclass Weekend began in 1995 and is renowned for bringing world famous chefs to Australia for the first time including Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Nancy Silverton and

Gordon Ramsay. Also included on the program have been many great Australian chefs as well as winemakers from around the world. The year it will be held on 24 and 25 July and the calibre of presenters are as per usual - exceptional. Leading the overseas chefs are UK’s Michael Caines MBE, who has two Michelin stars for his restaurant Gidleigh Park in Devon; Susur Lee from Toronto, named as one of the top ten chefs of the Millennium alongside Pierre Gagnaire and Ferran Adria; and well known master baker and author Peter Reinhart from the USA who will share his knowledge about the intricacies of sourdough.

Michael Caines

Susur Lee

Adriano Zumbo, creator of the pastry challenges for contestants in the 2009

The Hilton Brisbane will be a hive of activity and excitement with presentations including Queensland seafood, cocktails, chocolate and pastry and the blending

Masterchef series, will have fans begging for more of his delicious cakes and pastries and have goody bags for attendees to take home.

of spices; Nino Zoccali from Pendolino Restaurant in Sydney

Thomas Schnetzler was such a hit in 2008, he returns to

will show the many and varied uses of pork in the

show off his wizardry with Lindt chocolates offering

Italian kitchen; and whether your preference

an amazing selection of petit fours plus a take

is for Thai, Chinese, Indian or Vietnamese

home gift bag.

cuisine, there will be no shortage of

Spanish wine has risen in popularity and

choices. Learn, taste and sip your way

Christopher Cannan will present a tasting

through six hours each day in the

of the Emilio Lustau range of sherries. Scott

company of the best chefs and winemakers

Wasley, a major importer of Spanish wine will

and leave with a heightened awareness of the

offer an extensive tasting of many varietals and

finer things in life.

explain what tapas to eat with which wines.

The wine sessions this year have some outstanding presenters including a trio

Hilton Hotels hosts a room where each of the lead presenters is from a Hilton

of women who are well recognised for their talent. Louisa Rose from Yalumba,

property in the Asia Pacific region including Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Cairns, Sydney

Helen Masters from Ata Rangi and Clare Halloran from Tarra Warra Estate are

and Auckland.

certain to confirm their status at the top with a not-to-be-missed tasting. Also included in the Vintage Room will be Michael Dhillon from Bindi Wines and Iain Riggs from Brokenwood with a retrospective tasting of Graveyard Shiraz.

Bernadette O’Shea and Peter Bourne will present nine champagnes with matching canapés prepared by PJ McMillan

Bookings are essential for the Masterclass Weekend and Hilton Brisbane has special accommodation packages available at hilton.com/brisbaneoffers. All sessions at the Masterclass Weekend include morning and afternoon tea

Champagne is always a popular topic. Bernadette O’Shea and Peter Bourne will present nine champagnes with matching canapés prepared by PJ McMillan.

and lunch, session tastings, a Masterclass Weekend bag and book. For full program details visit: www.qldmasterclass.com

Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill at The Port Office

and experience, and was very pleased to be able to have him on board. “Philip not only joins us as a qualified and well

fter months spent searching for the perfect person to be the Executive Chef at their new Brisbane restaurant, Steven & Autumn Adams from Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill are pleased to announce that they have appointed Philip Foote to this role.

A

respected Executive Chef, he is also a fully qualified butcher who has been trained by a German master in the art of Charcuterie. “His thorough knowledge and understanding of the preparation of beef, and the process for dry-aging and preserving meats is definitely an asset to Moo Moo,”

Philip who was the Executive Chef at Siggi’s Restaurant prior to

said Steven.

the restaurant closing in February, will remain in familiar surrounds to head up the Moo Moo kitchen.

Bernadette O’Shea

“We look forward to working with Philip to expand

Autumn & Steven Adams

Philip joins Moo Moo with over fifteen years of experience in all aspects of cooking. He has worked in and consulted to a number of well known restaurants around South-east Queensland including Tables of Toowong, Horizons at Sheraton Mirage on the Gold Coast, Ellmos Restaurant on the Sunshine Coast and Joseph Alexander’s in Brisbane. On appointing Philip, Steven said he was extremely impressed by Philip’s talent

the Moo Moo brand into Brisbane and are pleased to be

giving diners in Brisbane the opportunity to continue enjoying his fabulous food,” he said. A multi-million dollar refurbishment of the site is currently taking place and Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill at The Port Office will be open early June. For more information on Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill visit www.moomoorestaurant.com.

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

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luxurydining dining precincts For a sweet taste of the sea - a new Coffin Bay Oyster - harvested at only 6 months old

Take the time to visit another fun and excitement our sun and residents, The once quiet setting is The Gold Coast is full of suburb. Some of the best surf culture. With restaurants and now bordered by multi-million dining possibilities. restaurants are hidden away in he Gold Coast is better known for its attractions both natural and manmade - than its varied dining options. Our many fine restaurants are often overlooked by national food writers, who seem to think that a predominantly tourist based area couldn't possibly offer fine dining commensurate with the southern States. How wrong they are. Our award-winning chefs and restaurants are among the best in Australia. It's just that we don't have the time to garner the recognition of others. Our chefs are too busy creating culinary masterpieces. Make the time to venture out of your comfort zone. Don't just dine in the same area - same restaurant - every time you want to enjoy lunch or dinner. It is wonderful to support your favourite restaurant or cafĂŠ - but you can also be adventurous - try somewhere new.

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RACV Royal Pines Resort fantastic desserts

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local suburbs. Ask your friends and acquaintances to tell you about their favourite restaurant. It's all about destination dining. There are so many wonderful possibilities out there. So many luscious surprises to find. So many new tastes to enjoy and share with friends and relatives. The Gold Coast is full of exciting dining possibilities tailored to all budgets. Why not be a little more adventurous in 2010. Marina Mirage With its close proximity to international hotels, apartment buildings, the newly refurbished Marina Mirage shopping centre, in Sea World Drive Main Beach is a perfect shopping and dining precinct as well as several top class restaurants - including Omeros Bros, Ristorante Fellini, Glass, Saks and chocolate heaven - Max Brenner, Marina Mirage is a must visit destination. Next door you'll find the 6-star Palazzo Versace with its fine dining options; across the road the Sheraton Mirage smorgasbord is known worldwide, and just down the road is the popular Sea World Resort. All three offering fine restaurants and exciting dinning options for the holidaymaker or local. Tedder Avenue Often referred to as the Hastings Street of the Gold Coast, Tedder Avenue in Main Beach is a mecca for those wishing to dine and be seen. With an impressive range of dining options to suit every budget - from friendly casual cafes, bakery, delicatessen, fruit shop. Recommended dining, Chill & Bahia for starters then eat your way down the street. Surfers Paradise The heart of the Gold Coast tourist region, where tourists love to congregate and experience all the

cafes featuring almost every ethnic background, whether you're searching for Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Turkish, Italian, Greek, a good Aussie steak or Thai noodles, Surfers Paradise has the restaurant for you. At night the town comes alive with a myriad of nightclubs beckoning the young and energetic. Broadbeach In the heart of the prime tourist region of the Gold Coast, Broadbeach boasts an impressive array of dining options and late night entertainment. Popular with families on a budget, many of the cafes and pizza parlours etc offer early-bird dining specials. The Oasis Shopping Centre offers a veritable Aladdin's cave of shopping options for all tastes. Try Moo Moo for a fantastic steak or Lauxes for a true dining experience. Sanctuary Cove/Hope Island The marine village atmosphere of Sanctuary Cove beckons those looking for quality food in a picturesque waterfront surrounding. Restaurants such as Georges Paragon draw diners from far afield. The village also offers a vast array of boutiques, jewellery, antiques and art galleries to tantalise those wishing to while away the hours in pursuit of earthly desires. In May the village is home to the annual Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, where those with desires a little more nautical can gain their fill of luxury craft. Paradise Point One of the Gold Coast's most intrinsic areas. Once a sleepy suburb with an older demographic, offering Broadwater views, calm water swimming area and foreshore parks; the area now abounds with busy cafes, varied shopping opportunities and new

dollar island homes, but still exudes the perfect feel for lazy day dreams and long, long lunches. Robina Town Centre In the centre of one of the Gold Coast's largest suburbs sits one of the region's largest shopping complexes, with its lakeside dining precinct featuring restaurants offering wonderful al fresco dining facilities. You will need a day to take in all the shops and decide on which restaurant to choose. Burleigh Heads An area renowned for its fantastic surf breaks and uninterrupted beach views. Lots of shopping and dining options available for those wishing to picnic in the park beside the exotic breaking waves. For those looking for a fine dining options well there are plenty, check out Oscars on the Beach for fabulous seafood and the best view in Australia.

Tamborine Mountain Perched high above the Gold Coast, Tamborine Mountain lures visitors away from the beaches to experience the 'Green behind the Gold'. The tiny townships is home to a myriad of fine art galleries, studios, wineries and cafes. The newly opened Witches Chase at the end of Long Road is a must visit, with award-winning chef Laurence Griffen tantalising diners with his talents in the Liquid Amber restaurant.

International Hotels The Gold Coast is home to a traveller's smorgasbord of prestige hotels and apartment buildings, most offering fine dining choices and signature restaurants. With names that are recognised all over the world, Marriott, Sheraton, Versace, Holiday Inn, the newly branded RACV Royal Pines Resort and not to forget Conrad Jupiters Casino at Broadbeach for a multitude of dining options.


Culinary adventures... Dine In / Takeaway / Home Delivery*

“Experience our Night Buffet and treat your senses to the authentic taste of India� Licenced. Byo Wine Only. Open 7 days a week, 365 days

All you can eat* Buffet - Hope Island Central

Wednesday Night (5-9pm) = $29.95 pp / Sunday Lunch = $19.99 pp

All you can eat* Buffet - Emerald Lakes

Tuesday Night (5-9pm) = $29.95 pp / Sunday Lunch = $19.99 pp

Hope Island Central

Tel: 07 5530 8111 Shop 4/340 Hope Island Rd. Hope Island

Emerald Lakes Town Centre

Tel: 07 5594 5050 Shop 6/3027 The Boulevard, Carrara

*all you can eat applies to buffet only.

Showcase your restaurant to our exclusive readers... With Luxury Style now distributed to even more 4, 5 & 6 star hotels and accommodation outlets, plus all our regular outlets, there will more hungry diners willing to experience your cuisine than ever before. Give us a call a we can discuss dining reviews and other ways to promote your food. Sirocco - Gympie Terrace Noosaville

Catering & Cooking Classes Cooking classes consist of a mix of both hands on and demonstration. There are recipe booklets and an opportunity to taste everything that is cooked. Learn which spices and flavors accompany foods, where to buy fresh produce in season and how to make your meals simple and easy. So whether a beginner or experienced cook, come along and enjoy an informal evening that is fun, social and will tantalize those taste buds as you embark on the journey to distant lands rich in exotic tastes.

Mediterranean & Middle East Cuisine Classes

Design n Dine Classes held monthly - check our website www.designndine.com.au - Phone 0416 263 103 C O R P O R AT E & H O M E C AT E R I N G

Warm al fresco dining at Randhawas... Forget the chill in the air, it is the perfect time to visit Talwinder and Nina Randhawa's - Randhawa's Indian Cuisine at Hope Island Central, to savour Indian and Asian delights, while enjoying inside or balcony dining under the warming heat of the reflective gas heaters. The large, modern L-shaped restaurant easily seats 150 diners, and has become a favourite dining destination for groups, families and parties. And, the introduction of their Wednesday Night Buffet has been extremely popular with diners.

The huge menu offers a wide, selection of classic north Indian dishes, as well as many Asian favourites, vegetarian and Halal options. Most diners choose to share their dishes so that they can try an assortment of varied tastes, textures and spices. All the favourites appear, butter chicken, beef vindaloo, beef Madras, tandoor cooked breads, saffron rice, accompaniments and much, much more. The friendly staff are eager to assist with menu suggestions, and offer diners the choice of mild, medium or hot for curries. Their home delivery and take away services are also popular in the local upmarket estates for those in a hurry.

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foodie events & news

SUBTLE SPICE AND LINGERING FLAVOUR veryone loves the rich and complex flavours of true Indian cuisine with its wild aromatic nuances and subtle spicy overtones. A new restaurant in Main Beach, GOA Indian Fusion, is now adding a new twist to an old favourite by adding a modern fusion element to Indian food. Max Singh, son of local restaurateur and food identity Pushpinder Singh and his wife Karla from multi-award-winning Oberoi Taj Restaurant in Broadbeach, has opened the family's new restaurant in the heart of Main Beach. GOA offers mouthwatering, home-style Indian taste sensations for lovers of fine Indian cuisine, something missing from the Main Beach area for far too long. Max and his wife Lena have created a modern, stylish venue that is breaking the misconception that all Indian meals end with the tongue on fire and eyes full of tears. Their extensive menu's dishes offer a contemporary edge - showcasing the presentation as much as the flavours. Their menu will change frequently, to include some well-known and popular Indian favourites, but their primary emphasis is on introducing some rare, unique recipes and blends, that are chosen from the Royal households of India and not widely known to the western world. Menu stand-outs when we dined were the whole glazed snapper with Indian spices - cardamom, coriander and fennel seeds; chef's platter for one; glazed

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tandoori chicken with cream, ginger, cardamom, crushed almonds & green chili served with spiced potato wedges; Goat Patiala sauteed with ginger, onion and garlic in a Punjabi masala sauce. The restaurant also offers banquet options for all occasions, vegetarian and vegan options; gluten-free and Halal cuisine is also available. GOA Indian Fusion also offers an upper level private dining area for weddings, anniversaries, corporate functions or get togethers. This venue offers several seating or cocktail party facilities. Think Bollywood weddings and themed dining for your next function.


White wine poached Williams’ Pears & baked Ricotta

Preparation time: 15 minutes; Pre heat oven to 180C or 160C fan forced Cooking time: 60 minutes Serves 4 Ingredients 400g Williams’ pears, trimmed, cored and peeled 120g Australian floral or Yellow Box honey (approximately 3 tablespoons) 2 cups water ? cup dry white wine 1 good pinch saffron threads (around 20) 5 Cardamom pods 8 cloves 1 cinnamon quill (approximately 10cms long) 2 X 250g low-fat Ricotta (I used Perfect Italiano Ricotta Smooth light) Method: Slice the pears into wedges. Put the honey, water, wine, saffron, cardamom, cloves and cinnamon into a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes.

Add the pear wedges to the cooking liquid and simmer for 20 minutes or until the pears are soft but not mushy. Strain the pears and return the cooking liquid to the saucepan and reduce in volume (by simmering) to 3/4 cup.Cool. Meanwhile, tip the ricotta onto a baking paper lined tray and cook for 60 minutes when finished cooking (the ricotta will be set and only lightly browned), remove and cool. To serve: cut baked Ricotta into quarters or spoon into desired shapes – place in the middle of individual plates and equally divide the pear wedges over or around them. Spoon over the reduced cooking liquid. N.B. To get the ricotta to slip out of the tub easily, simply put a small slash into the bottom of the tub – this lets the air out and stops the suction which inhibits the cheese slipping out.

Italian Food Safari ood explorer Maeve O’Meara is joined by legendary Melbourne chef Guy

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Grossi from Grossi Florentino and Mirka at Tolarno, in SBS’s next 13 part Food Safari series, aptly called Italian Food Safari. It’s a celebration of the incredible breadth and hard work of the Italians who settled in Australia over a generation ago and have maintained their food ethnicity. Mercifully, they’ve shared their culture and food and Australians have totally embraced everything from classic dishes to the most rustic home-style food. Spend time with Australia’s top Italian chefs and producers from concrete backyards full of abundant tomato and basil plants, cosy home kitchens where masterpieces are whipped up, elegant restaurants filled with delicious cooking aromas, specialist providores,

extensive delis, bakeries, cheese-makers and pasticcerias. Share in the traditions of making tomato sauces and sausages, olive curing, cheese-making, revered recipes and kitchen wisdom from Armando Percuocco, Lucio Galletto, Stefano Manfredi, Robert Castellani, Stefano Di Pieri, Maurizio Esposito, rising stars Nino Zoccali and Eugenio Maiale, Giovanni Pilu, Pietro Porcu, Vanessa Martin, Alessandro Pavoni, Patrizia Simone, Rosa Matto, Rosa Mitchell and of course Guy Grossi’s family’s favourites. Producers include butcher Vince Garreffa, winemaker and olive oil blender Joe Grilli, baker Daniel Chirico and fishermen from around the coast. Italian Food Safari on Thursdays at 7.30pm on SBSONE.

Maeve O’Meara and Guy Grossi

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beer, cheese and superb

Mount Tamborine Brewery - savour the tastes of pure gold....

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Head chef Lawrence Griffen

elcome to MT Brewery, the perfect place for unwinding and catching up with friends and family, while sampling the nationally-acclaimed quality beers this crafty brewery has on offer. The unique beer tasting experience consists of a tray of four freshly brewed beers for just $10 per tray – representing crisp value and showcasing four different beers from the multi-award winning menu. Diverse samples include MT Breweryʼs flagship 0909 Cuvee Belgian Blonde, St Bridget a Dubbel style Belgian Beauty at 7.2 per cent , the 3.3 per cent full hopped Moderation Pale Ale and Mountain Bitter which carries light caramel flavours and a firm and quenching bitterness. Mt Brewery is quickly becoming one of Mount Tamborineʼs hottest spots to unwind, with awardwinning ambers hitting the taste buds and quenching the thirst of hundreds of beer connoisseurs on the weekend and daily trips up the mountain. A visit to the brewery ensures a complete sensory experience as you relax and gaze out across picturesque views while exploring the tastes of top quality craft beer, while listening to live bands perform in the beer garden outside. Directions: From Brisbane Take the South Beenleigh exit and follow the signs to Beaudesert bypassing Beenleigh CBD. Follow the road - a scenic 20 minutes drive - and look for the Mount Tamborine sign at the bottom of the hill. The sign also shows the Bearded Dragon. Drive up the Tamborine Mountain Road passing Thunderbird Park continuing along until a left hand turn will put you onto Eagle Heights Rd.

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Witches Chase Cheese Company announce CHEESE MAKING WORKSHOP

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magine nurturing a talent where you could become the ultimate host by making your own array of tasty cheeses. The multi-award winning cheese making factory is hosting its next cheese making workshop at the popular MT Brewery on July 2425. The Mount Tamborine cheese company is quickly becoming one of the top gourmet experiences on the Gold Coast, with specialty handmade cheeses drawing expanding crowds each week. Customers will have the unique opportunity to learn trade secrets from experienced cheese maker and educator Carol Wilson. The cheese specialist has made the journey from the dairy rich pastures of Victoria, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge, skill and experience. “This is a chance for people to come and experience the joy of producing regional cheeses and the satisfaction that comes with knowing you have made something truly unique,” said Ms Wilson. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL call 5545 2032 to book your friends in for a wonderful day.

Follow Eagle Heights road until you reach a roundabout look right and you can’t miss us. From the Gold Coast Take Exit 57 Oxenford - Mount Tamborine from the main highway (Motorway 1).Follow the road to the top of the mountain and turn right at the roundabout (Gallery Walk). Follow this road (Gallery Walk) until you reach the end. Look for the red wood building on the hill. You can’t miss us.


food... the chase is over!

Liquid Amber Restaurant serving up a feast for the senses ith its relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking views across Mt Tamborine, Liquid Amber Bistro & Grill is attracting food connoisseurs looking for a unique dining experience at one of the most picturesque locations on the Gold Coast hinterland. A modern eco-friendly bistro offering a menu designed as a feast for the senses, Liquid Amber caters to a diverse market from experienced foodies to local families and tourists. Using fresh local produce and ingredients, the delectable menu reflects the passion, knowledge and fine food experience by head chef Laurence Griffen. Chef Griffen’s specialties include decadent starter dishes such as Zucchini flowers filled with goats curd from Witches Chase Cheese Co, served upon a bed of roasted pumpkin, pine nuts and spinach. From the grill, sample mouth watering steak such as the 350g Rib Eye, or for the seafood enthusiast, fresh local Moreton Bay bugs and Tiger Prawns from Stradbroke Island. Delicious desserts include dishes such as Goat Cheese Cheesecake. “It is the enjoyment of producing top quality, fresh food that is my true passion,” said Laurence. Liquid Amber is the brainchild of husband and wife team Andre and Meredith Morris. “We believe that true passion, quality ingredients and a sophisticated ambience are what has turned

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our bistro into such a popular sensory experience,” says Andre. “Liquid Amber is a bistro enjoyed by all walks of life complemented by the MT Brewery beer garden and the Witches Chase cheese-making factory also on the premises.” Patrons can enjoy a cheese tasting at Witches Chase Cheese Co or sample an assortment of multi-award winning quality craft beer, brewed on premise before enjoying a relaxing and delicious lunch or dinner. “With its relaxing ambience the mountain has a lot to offer our locals and visitors. It's a chance for people to see how we do things here. At the Liquid Amber Bistro and Grill we are passionate about our food, and our diners are too. The Bistro offers a relaxed dining experience perfect for families and foodies alike” A unique combination of nature, exquisite food and pure indulgence. Open seven days, 10am until 5pm and late on Friday’s and Saturday’s. To make a reservation please call (07) 5545 2032 or visit www.mtbeer.com.

Enquiries & bookings phone (07) 5545 2032 165-185 Long Road, North Tamborine Qld, Australia 4272 sales@witcheschasecheese.com.au www.witcheschasecheese.com.au Open 10am-4pm Seven Days a week. (at the old Fuchsia flower farm at the southern end of Gallery Walk). weddings - corporate events - large landscaped grounds - cooking & cheese making classes Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

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foodie events & news

Plate Smash exposes calorie overload...

“If parents and teens know their calorie limits, this could help prevent and manage rising obesity in young people,” she said. “Latest research shows the best way to lose weight is to eat what you want and get into the habit of limiting your portion sizes.”

We are so used to eating ever-increasing quantities of food that we haven’t noticed how many extra calories we are overloading on our plates, according to dietitian and author of Portion Perfection - A visual weight control plan by Amanda Clark.

“Reduced-calorie diets result in meaningful weight loss if you stick with them, regardless of whether they are low-fat, low-carb or high-protein.” “If you focus on eating the perfect portions, you can eat the foods you like, including the occasional treats. This means you won’t feel deprived and can stick to a healthy way of eating for life,” said Mrs Clark. Amanda’s book Portion Perfection features hundreds of photographs of

The number of calories per serving in classic recipes cooked at home has increased by nearly 40 percent in the past 70 years. This is the finding of a recent study that reveals the trend of growing portion sizes in numerous cookbooks. “A calorie increase of 40 percent per serving is sizeable, because a rise of just 10 percent is enough to result in weight gain,” said Australian dietitian Amanda Clark. The

author

has

developed

a

HYPERLINK

"http://www.portionperfection.com.au/platesmash/"new e-game called Plate Smash as a visual tool to show adults and teenagers how much is right to eat for lunch. The game features an animated angel, who helps you choose the foods and drinks you want, but if you go into calorie overload based on your age, gender and weight loss goals, your plate smashes. “I believe most people would like to eat the right amount, if only they knew what that was. The Plate Smash game makes you stop and think about how many calories you are putting on your plate for one meal,” said Mrs Clark. The game was also designed for parents, who want to learn the right quantities of various foods their active or inactive teenagers devour for lunch, including pizza, sushi, sandwiches, meat pies, French fries and chicken nuggets.

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popular foods and drinks to graphically show how much is right to eat for adults, teens and children.


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stylish recipes

Fresh in South Australia, to the Sunraysia district in Victoria and the Riverina region in NSW have been alive with

Almond date panaforte

activity as growers harvest this year’s

Ingredients:

crop which is set to be a significant

200g of good quality couverture (dark)

improvement on last year.

chocolate finely chopped

The harvest occurs when the kernel

200g honey

is at an acceptable moisture level,

200g packet (2 cups) natural almonds,

ideally lower than six per cent. The

chopped roughly

kernel of the fruit splits its green outer

1 cup pitted dates, roughly chopped

coating to reveal the brown husk

50g sultanas, chopped

within.

50g dried apricots, chopped

The orchard floors are cleared of

8 red glace cherries, roughly chopped

large weeds and swept of all foreign

1 ½ cups plain flour

material. Shakers are used to vibrate

½ cup cocoa

the tree trunk, so that the husks, shells

Icing sugar to sprinkle over the top

and nuts inside fall to the orchard floor.

Method:

After drying, they are swept into rows

Preheat oven 180 degrees Celsius.

and picked up ready for storage. They

Gently heat chocolate in bowl over

will be in-store by April.

pan of barely simmering water until

Almonds go with trout, chicken,

melted. Simmer for another 2 minutes

stone fruit, quinces, dried fruit, honey,

stirring gently. Slowly add the honey,

chocolate and vanilla.

combine and stir well. Remove, set aside.

Sweet as an almond

Almond, fennel and orange salad

cherries and combine well. Pour the chocolate and honey over the dry

Ingredients:

ingredients. Mix quickly until well

flour for cakes and biscuits for those on

½ cup whole almonds

combined.

The delicately flavoured and versatile

low-carbohydrate diets or suffer

2 tbs white balsamic vinegar

Using wet hands, press mixture into

almond, available throughout the year,

diabetes. It is a popular ingredient in

4 tbs olive oil

greased and lined 18 x 28 x 2.5cm

makes a healthy and tasty addition to

place of wheat flour for gluten-

1 tsp Dijon mustard

deep slice pan. Bake on middle shelf

sweet and savoury dishes.

sensitive people.

1 cup of flat leaf parsley

for 15 minutes (fan-forced) 20 minutes

2 fennel bulbs, sliced extra thinly

containing 24 mg per 100 grams and

2

the tomb of Tutankhamen (c. 1325 BC).

are also rich in monounsaturated fat,

segmented

Cool thoroughly in pan, preferably

The middle sized tree is native to the

one of the two ‘good’ fats responsible

salt and pepper to taste

overnight. Sprinkle well with sifted

Middle East and bears fragrant pink

for lowering LDL cholesterol. Claimed health benefits include

oranges, peeled

and

firms on cooling.

Method:

icing sugar. Cut into approx 30, about

To make dressing, place vinegar, oil

3cm x 5cm oblong squares. Store in

peach, cherry and apricot, the almond

improved

improved

and mustard in a mixing jar and shake

airtight container between layers of

tree bears fruits with stone-like seeds

movement of food through the colon

to combine. Toss fennel, orange

baking paper.

(or pits) within. The seed of the almond

and prevention of cancer. Recent

segments, parsley and almonds in a

Cut into squares this classic naughty

fruit is what is referred to as the

research associates the inclusion of

large mixing bowl. Drizzle dressing

but nice slice, makes 30 squares.

almond nut.

almonds in the diet with elevating the

over combined ingredients and add

blood

salt and pepper to taste. Serve

The fruit of the almond is not a true

complexion,

sweet

(conventional) ONLY. The Panaforte

Desiccated almonds were found in

and white flowers. Like its cousins, the

levels

of

high

density

nut, but a drupe, which consists of an

lipoproteins and of lowering the levels

outer hull and a hard shell with the

of low density lipoproteins.

seed (nut) inside. Almonds contain about 26 per cent

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

almonds, all the dried fruit and the

carbohydrates and may be made into

They are a rich source of vitamin E,

48

Combine flour and cocoa in large bowl and mix together. Add the

Almond orchards across Australia from McLaren Vale and the Riverland

immediately.

Shakers are used to vibrate the tree trunk, so that the husks, shells and nuts inside fall to the orchard floor.


turn up the heat.... The pleasure and pain from eating chilli appeals to many, others ere on the side of caution but for most, Capsicum Frutescens, remains much maligned and grossly misunderstood.

hillies are believed to have been around since 6000 BC and were brought to the rest of the world by Christopher Columbus. He set off from Spain for India to bring spices such as pepper back to his country and not only mistook America for India, but also mistook chilli as black pepper. Back in Spain it became an indispensable spice and spread like wildfire throughout Europe. Seeds were subsequently taken to North America for cultivation and in 1906 cross breeding produced a new variety called Anaheim, which is blunt-nosed, long, moderately hot and green or reddish. There are more than 400 different varieties of chillies in the genus of flowering plants of the nightshade family and the world’s hottest is Naga Jolokia, cultivated in the hilly terrain of Assam a small town in India, where it was first brought by Vasco-da-Gama. It also found its way into Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system with properties such as stimulating good digestion and endorphins - a natural pain killer. Aji from South America and one of the hottest, is bright yellow, red, orange, or purple. Bell peppers, named because of their shape are green, red, orange, yellow, purple, brown or black and vary in taste. Bolita are dark red, oval shaped and very hot; Cayenne is long, slender, a dark green colour which matures to bright red and is extremely pungent. Red Cayennes

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are used to make chilli powder. Habanero in Spanish means ‘the one from Havana’ although strangely enough it is not used in Havana but was common in Mexico and Yucatan. Fruit is yellow, red, or white in colour. The pods of red Savina Habanero chilli are considered so hot they cause tongue blistering. Jalapenos are oval shaped with a thick green flesh which turns red when ripe. Smoked and dried they’re called ‘chipotle’. Spanish paprika is also called pimento chilli or cherry pepper. The fruit is large and heart-shaped and has sweet, aromatic and succulent fruit. Pimentos are extremely mild in pungency and are stuffed in green olives. Poblanos originated in Mexico’s Pueblo. They are heart-shaped, green when unripe, turn red or brown when ripe and pungency ranges from mild to moderate. Closely related to the Jamaican hot chilli and the Habanero, Scotch Bonnet has an irregular shape in yellow, orange, or red and is so hot it too can cause blisters, plus dizziness, and severe heartburn. Serrano is small, round with a slight pointed at the end, is smooth dark green when unripe and turns scarlet red, brown, orange, and then yellow as it ripens and becomes highly pungent. In 1912, Wilbur L Scoville, a pharmacist found a new method to measure the pungency of the chilli. It was known as Scoville

Organoleptic test, and unlike other methods, it was subjective and accurate. Pungency depends on where chillies are grown, the genetic structure and the capsaicin - the chemical compound found in the placental tissue or white pith which holds the seeds. Contrary to popular belief, the seeds themselves do not produce any capsaicin. On the Scoville scale, the measurement of spicy heat according to the capsaicin content, the bell pepper has zero; Serrano 4,000; Jalapeno 25,000; Thai - 60,000; Red Savina Habanero - 580,000; Naga Jolokia - 855,000; and pure capsaicin fire power is a death-defying16,000,000. Drinking water will not relieve mouth burn because capsaicin is insoluble in water. Dairy products such as yoghurt and milk are often a relief, however a spoon of honey is the secret weapon to putting out the fire. Thanks to immigration Australia’s love affair with chillies has no bounds and perfect matches can be made with chicken, beef; shellfish, noodles, pasta, avocadoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, lime, ginger, garlic, and coconuts plus chocoholics will find an ambrosial moment when chilli is added to truffles, such as in the easy recipe from Just Add Spice by Lyndey Milan and Ian Hemphill, published by Lantern, $49.95.

Chilli cardamom chocolate truffles

and bubbly and the liquid has reduced by half. Remove from the heat and strain, then mix with the chocolate and liqueur or coffee. Stir until the chocolate has

The combination of chilli

melted.

and chocolate is an absolute

Cool in the refrigerator,

winner. Here we offer a very

stirring occasionally, until the

simple way of making your

mixture is thick enough to

own chocolates.

pipe or roll. Place in a piping

Ingredients:

bag with a star nozzle, then

2 small red chillies

squeeze into tiny patty cases

1 cup (250 ml) pouring

and

cream

sprinkle

with

1

tablespoon cinnamon sugar

½ tsp ground cardamom seeds

or cocoa powder. Alternatively, spread

300g good-quality dark

3

tablespoons cinnamon sugar

couverture chocolate,

or cocoa powder on a plate

chopped or grated (or use

and drop teaspoons of the

buttons)

chocolate mixture on top.

2 tbs coffee liqueur, such as

Toss to coat then quickly roll

Tia Maria, or espresso coffee

into balls between your

1–3 tbs cinnamon sugar or cocoa powder

palms.

Return

to

the

refrigerator to chill before

Method:

serving.

Bruise the chillies by

Makes about 24.

crushing them with a rolling

Note: You could replace

pin or the back of a knife, but

the fresh chillies with ¼

don’t cut them. Combine the

teaspoon chilli powder and

cream,

then you would not need to

cardamom

chillies

and

in

small

a

strain the mixture.

saucepan and set aside to

To drink: Good coffee is

infuse for 15–20 minutes.

great here, or with this

Place over medium heat and

intensity of flavour you could

bring to the boil. Reduce the

go for a liqueur muscat,

heat and simmer until thick

tokay, or even a port.

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just for fun! Themed cupcakes the new Voila! in party decorating...

Nuts with flair Australian designer, Gillian Christie was commissioned by the Almond Board of Australia to design an eye-catching dress for the promotion of new season almonds. The result was a stunning, sexy dress, hand sewn with 3,000 almonds, worn by model Rebecca Caulfield and paraded through city streets. The unveiling of the almond dress stirred a real buzz as not only was the dress a spectacle in itself, but it is also a great way to engage and inform the general public of the unique taste of Australian almonds fresh from the trees and now available in stores around the country. Rebecca Caulfield

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

Pick a theme, wrap and top your cupcakes, and Voila! instant party! Boutique greeting and giftware company, Spirit Publishing, has made it easy and even more fun than usual to theme your cupcakes for any occasion - birthday, house warming, wedding, baby shower or tiki party. By Meri Meri exclusively distributed through Sydney based company, Spirit, you have a choice of 24 cupcake sets from fairies, mermaids and pirates to Hawaiian dancers, bride and groom and fast cars. Cupcake sets RRP for $24.95 and are now available from selected department stores, high end newsagencies and speciality gift stores. Visit www.spiritpublishing.biz to see the complete range and find out where you can find these cool cupcake sets.


Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving


add a little french romance to your shopping... Forget plastic bags, forget green bags, French market baskets have hit our shores and they’re making shopping a little romantic again! magine you are in Paris strolling down the Rue Montorgueil shopping at your

I

favourite food stores. You load up your French market basket with your favourite

Australians

cheese, a freshly baked baguette, organic strawberries, a lovely These baskets are

were using and

not only seriously gorgeous, they are extremely functional and practical and

decided to share

environmentally beneficial too.

her beloved baskets

The Market Basket Company baskets are made to an extremely high quality. Each one is hand-made using traditional methods, so no two are exactly alike. They are made from strips of woven palm leaves. These strips are sewn together and the

with her fellow Australians. Extremely versatile, your

basket built up in ‘rounds’ into the traditional triangle shape. Genuine Moroccan

Market Basket Company

leather is used to make the handles, which are firmly fixed to the basket. They are

baskets can be used to carry

available in both elbow length straps or longer shoulder length straps.

your picnic, your beach gear or

“Customers tell me they become very attached to these baskets,” importer Lindy McLeod, explains, “they buy one, fall in love with it and its many uses, and end up buying a few more. They’ve even become the gift of choice for many converts!” Lindy first fell in love with these baskets when she was living in Europe ten years ago. She admired the Parisian women heading home with their fruit, bread, meats and cheeses brimming from their seriously chic shopping baskets. After buying a

evey your gym gear. New mums will be able to load all sorts of baby necessities in these baskets. Prices range from $25 - $57 depending on the size and finish of the basket. Available online from www.themarketbasketco.com.au or email info@themarketbasketco.com.au to find a retailer near you. Order yours today. Although they can’t promise a tall, handsome man named

few herself, Lindy realised that as well as looking great, they were extremely hard

Pierre or Jacques will whisk you away, they are sure you’ll feel a little more French

wearing and very strong. After returning home she saw how many plastic bags

none the less!

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

53


people in style

the real

POWER house

behind the markets...

THE FLAMBOYANT, TREACLY-VOICED JAN POWER.

…taking the great advantages she was given growing up and turning them into adventure with “cuppa tea, hex and a good lie down” as the family motto 54

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving


Between scorching wit and an ability to lampoon anything, Helen Flanagan attempts to lift the lid on Australia’s most outrageous foodie - the flamboyant, treacly-voiced Jan Power.

She moved to Brisbane, started the catering company Loaves and Fishes organising themed occasions with a twist of wit, tantalizing tongues with sushi and other ‘new’ Asian-style party food, thus giving the flick forever to 70’s vol-auvents and cream cheese canapés. Jan sold the company, opened The Breadline Café in the converted loading

he eaterati, artistic and chattering communities who cannot live

T

dock behind Her Majesty’s Theatre in Elizabeth Street. Her Majesty’s Backside, as

without farmers’ markets, would be nowhere today without the

it was called was intended as a canteen for the theatre workers, but it grew in

enigmatic and energetic Jan Power. Her latest accolade, taking the

popularity serving simple food fresh from the markets in antique hot boxes and

22nd spot out of the 100-strong list of Australia’s greatest gourmet travel

huge tubs of iced-up salads. On Monday nights ‘battered wives’ as domestic

experiences was her Farmers Market - a well-deserved accolade and testimony

violence victims were then called, ate for free.

to Jan’s contribution to Queensland society and food tourism. Compiled by a

Her taste for irreverence and eccentricity kept her in demand as a speaker

panel of experts, including Matt Moran, Maggie Beer, Jacques Reymond and

especially her food themed presentations labelled Food Circus plus edgy street

Simon Johnson, their brief on behalf of Australian Gourmet Traveller magazine

theatre in shopping centres called Smartalex. The gifted madcap orator’s

was “to decide how great an experience was, on the basis of their own opinion

interpretation of why people open a restaurant because they host good dinner

or, how strongly they would advise a close friend to seek out the experience”.

parties, had everyone in stitches and was legendary. She reinvented herself as a

Jan’s market was beaten in the list only by Australian luminaries such as

full time writer and broadcaster with food and the theatrical arts the main

restaurants Berowra Waters, Tetsuyas, and Vue de Monde and other similarly

topics, thus merging of two of Jan’s passions. “After the Catholic Church banned

premium producers, providers, experiences and anything remotely connected

the Latin Mass, theatrical types like me were forced to the opera for drama and

to food were ranked lower. An astonishing feat, given Jan’s understanding of

excitement,” says Jan, who’s also collector of nice china, kitchen paraphernalia,

taste buds when she was growing up was zero.

old frocks, detective novels and crime thrillers which have all outgrown her

Jan was born in Stanthorpe’s Granite Belt, was brought up on a sheep farm

home and are stored in a shed. “Throw out nothing just add on [a shed].”

near Glen Innes and boarded at the Stuartholme Covent in Brisbane. The food

The Taurian perfectionist, grandmother of three and cat owner of one, did

was “institutionalized” and her mother was an “appalling cook who couldn’t

thorough research locally to establish the correct demographic and scoured

even make jelly”.

overseas markets for fresh ideas, before opening the Farmers’ Markets with

Jan’s father John Bergen was her greatest inspiration:“He used to say ‘Never be

Alison Alexander in 2000. “Having such a hugely developed interest in food,

a gonna. Never tell people what you're going to do until you've really got into

writing about it, cooking it, selling it, and doing everything with it - everywhere

doing it.’ He just went out, did it and then said, ‘This is what I've done.’"

I went after that, I’d always look for the food angle,” recalls Jan who started with

Hopes of being a vet were abandoned with the chance to accompany her

25 producers in a car park in Teneriffe, outgrew that and other sites and now

parents to India and Kasmir for six months. A nursing career at St Vincent’s

runs Australia’s biggest and most successful farmers’ market with over150 stall

Hospital in Sydney followed.

holders who sell their produce to 7000 people each week at the Powerhouse.

“My father was very determined that every one of his four children would

“The markets are about superior freshness of food and turning the ordinary

have some certificate, and so I went to do nursing, not that I liked the idea of it,”

into something extraordinary. It’s like a huge cocktail party – an enormous social

recalls Jan. My mother and father both agreed that it was a great way to lock

gathering without the grog; where customers meet their makers; for city

girls up with the nuns and then they'd come out with that piece of paper that

dwellers to buy food that was in the ground the previous day; and for the

enabled them to go and do something practical.”

producers to be able to control their own distribution and prices. Recently I saw

She steered her path towards becoming an emergency theatre sister – well almost, instead marrying the surgeon-in-charge who whisked her away to London for his post graduate studies. She never lifted a band-aid again. With children Samantha and Astrid, living in the middle of London and no knowledge of food except for making Russian toffee with condensed milk, Jan saw an ad for debutantes and young ladies to join the three year Cordon Bleu night-time school.

cooking

Trawling

the

the French ballet buying their baguettes and Dr Patel choose his bananas.” The judges of the greatest gourmet travel experiences said:“The markets have reached critical mass, where a weekly grocery shop can be achieved in the one market location. The added joy of being able to talk directly to the producers and feel connected to the place of origin of your food is a bonus many relish. “The local food artisans are all in residence, with Gympie Goats Cheeses mixing it with sweet treats

from

the

markets soaking up the

Cupcake Parlour and

village atmosphere and

slightly more travelled

chit-chat of producers,

Li-Sun

and

from

satisfying

an

insatiable thirst for books

mushrooms the

NSW

Southern Highlands.”

on Medieval, Bacchanalian

When it comes to

and Dionysian pleasures,

Jan’s recipe for life she

everything suddenly went

admits she constantly

from back and white to

retrained

exciting full colour. Her

reinvented

love affair with food and her search for adventure and the bizarre had begun.

taking

and the

herself, great

advantages she was given growing up and turning them into adventure with

Eventually Jan left the marriage with "two daughters, a very large dog,

“cuppa tea, hex and a good lie down” as the family motto: “Life is uncertain; eat

Christmas decorations and an ironing board, to seek fame fortune and a

dessert first,” advises Jan who’s considering writing a book on lists called Listless.

kitchen."

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

55


Cheers... Wine by Brad Cabernet Merlot 2008

winemaking philosophy to craft high quality wines from the world’s best wine regions, The Nosey Parker

Just as the wine’s 60s-esque pop art label portrays a

2008 Barossa Shiraz has all the hallmarks of this classic

sense of both history and youthful humour, so has Brad

Australian variety – dark berry fruits and spice on the

created a wine that captures the traditions of a high-

nose with supple, ripe tannins on the palate. Fruit for

quality,

the wine was hand-picked, crushed then fermented in

classic

WA

blend,

whilst

displaying

contemporary attitude and flair. The Wine by Brad range was started in Margaret River in 2003, when winemaker Brad Wehr decided to

open top fermenters and plunged by hand throughout. It was then aged for 17 months in oak barriques, the majority of which were old French oak.

leave behind the large corporate wine companies and

The resultant wine is an unabashed Barossa shiraz –

create quality wines, without the hefty price tag, which

full of black and blue fruit aromas with a hint of pepper

deliver both flavour and personality.

and spice; rich and robust on the palate, with chewy,

The make-up for the 2008 Wine by Brad Cabernet Merlot includes a little more Merlot (45%) than usual to add some plummy and red-berried character to the dark chocolatey blackcurrant of the Cabernet (50%) and the remaining 5% a blend of Petit Verdot and Malbec. Mostly a mix of 1 and 2 year old French Oak was used, with the wine spending just over 15 months in wood. Having now spent six months in bottle this wine is very approachable, but will also be a keeper for years to come - if you can wait. RRP $17.00

Ant Moore KiKi Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc 2009... A sexy looking sparkling with some seriously good wine inside – Kiki is the fun new kid on the

mouth filling tannins. It’s the kind of wine that is best matched to barbecues, roasts and a table of mates. The Nosey Parker 2008 Barossa Shiraz RRP $14.99 stunning value!

Sirromet Love Wines... Love Classic White The blending of Verdelho, Colombard, Semillon and

from where the original cuttings came to the Hunter in

Chardonnay create an uncomplicated white blend

the 1930s. The low yielding but early ripening grapes

offering a lovely balanced fruit sweetness.

are harvested by hand when the flavour is optimal, and

Love Sparkling Rosé The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes offer a pretty strawberry pink wine that offers a deliciously floral palate.

Love Light Sweet Red The Chambourcin grapes offering a floral nose with

the fruit is sourced from well-established vines planted on a hillside with rich limestone soil just down the road from the Estate. Once picked, the fruit is cold soaked for five days to maximise fruit and colour extraction, which is followed by temperature controlled fermentation. The wine is

hints of sweet berry.

racked into French barrels to complete fermentation

Australian winemaker Ant Moore.

Tintilla Estate Four Marys Pinot Noir 2007

and aged for about a year prior to bottling.

tropical and floral characteristics of traditional

The new release of the Four Marys Pinot Noir times well with the upcoming winter celebrations at Tintilla’s

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Kiki is offset with the

Although Pinot Noir is not typically known as a

exuberance of a sparkling wine. This exciting

Hunter Valley wine variety, Tintilla are committed to

Marlborough sparkling sauvignon blanc takes a

crafting full bodied Pinot Noir in the region and believe

popular and well loved wine variety from one of the

its appeal lies in the fact that it has a varietal profile

world’s foremost wine growing regions and twists it on

similar to the regional style that the Hunter Valley

its head.

delivers so well with Shiraz.

cellar door during Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month in June. www.winecountry.com.au) RRP $30.00

TAHBILK 2006 Shiraz Matthew Jukes has named Tahbilk’s 2006 Shiraz in

Kiki is made with sauvignon blanc fruit from the

Owner and co-winemaker, Bob Lusby says, “We

pristine Ant’s Nest, Pear Tree, Duck and Pheasant Estate

wanted to create a Pinot Noir with a long, silky finish

“This inexpensive, everyday Shiraz wears a very

vineyards in Marlborough, New Zealand. Ant keeps a

that reflects the natural relationship between the

important name – Tahbilk. I was worried that, given the

careful watch over every step of the winemaking

limestone soils, the climate and vineyard aspect along

price, it might fall short of the standard set by the

process when making Kiki - with the result being an

with uncompromising winemaking and minimal

his 100 Best Australian Wines 2010.

extraordinary portfolio at this historic estate. Well it

elegant and powerful, intense and balanced

doesn’t. The Victorian

sparkling wine designed for fun times and

tones suit this grape so

every celebration you can think of. RRP $19.95

well and the floral, red

The Nosey Parker 2008 Barossa Shiraz Following the resounding success of the

cheers!

The winemaking team of Bob and his son James approach Pinot Noir to reflect its origins in Burgundy,

Marlborough Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc block from Cheeky and positively brimming with the lively

56

manipulation.”

fruit and herb notes are sensational. Wines that

express

postcodes

their always

first vintage of The Nosey Parker, Chaffey

appeal to me and the

Bros. are excited to release the second

2002 1860 Vines Shiraz,

vintage of their Barossa shiraz. The first

of which this property

release of The Nosey Parker walked off

is justly proud, does

the shelves, leaving fans thirsty for more

this better than any

of this wine that offers exceptional

site in the country. But

quality for the price.

Tahbilk’s

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

True to their

featured


Shiraz is just as worthy a creation because it takes this name to

Australia basks in Gold medal success as the Oscars of the wine world...

a much wider audience and gives it a chance to taste something other than South Australian fruit and also point the finger at a region which they won’t have heard of, but will inevitably remember and follow.” Matthew says of this year’s list, “This year’s 100 Best will be used as the vanguard of my continued push to celebrate and educate the world about fine Australian wine. They reflect what is exciting, engaging, passionate and essential about Australian wine and they have all gained a place in the very highest echelons of the world of wine.” Matthew is wine correspondent of the UK’s Daily Mail and produces best-selling wine guides for both Australia and the UK. He is well-respected internationally as a wine judge and has won the International Wine and Spirit Competitions Trophy

THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS AND INFLUENTIAL INDEPENDENT WINE COMPETITION – THE INTERNATIONAL WINE CHALLENGE (IWC) - HAS UNVEILED THE RESULTS OF ITS 27TH ANNUAL BLIND TASTING AT THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL WINE FAIR (LIWF).

I

t may be winter down under but Australia is basking in Gold medal success scooping 65 –

a 51% Gold medal increase from 2009 and ranking second on the nation scoreboard. Australia gained a total of 602 medals overall, with 238 Silver and 299 Bronze.

Australian and international wine-making legend Peter Lehmann lived up to his title of

Lifetime Achievement Award winner by winning two Gold, two Silver and five Bronze medals

for Communicator of the Year. This outstanding accolade comes as Tahbilk celebrates its milestone achievement of 150 years in the Australian wine

in this year’s competition. With a record number of 46 countries entering the competition in

industry and participates at the London International Wine Fair

2010, the IWC posted a 15% increase in the number of wines

2010 with tastings, trade events and consumer events.

judged. The quality of the entries was higher than ever. Of the 7,726 medals awarded there were 326 Golds (up 14%) 1,445

Tahbilk 2006 Shiraz RRP $22.95

Silvers (up 14 %) and 2,255 Bronzes (up 9%). Other nation results included France retaining its number one

Hennessy Paradis Horus Rare Cognac

nation status with 75 Golds and an impressive 947 medals in total. The top three Gold medal-winning countries were the same as in 2009, with Australia second (65) and Portugal third (35). The overall medal count also mirrored the previous year’s results with Australia achieving 602 and Italy 394.

Developed from a masterly

English wines impressed the judges again, taking two Gold

assemblage of hundreds of

medals. Camel Valley winery won for the second year running,

rare eaux-de-vie, perfectly

this time for its 2008 Pinot Noir Rosé Brut, while Nyetimber

aged for 25 to 130 years,

triumphed with its 2001 Blanc de Blancs.

Paradis is truly an exceptional

The Japanese Sake category showed continued growth and

cognac. The fruit of a noble

success in this year’s Challenge with a 13% increase in entries and

alliance between man, land

128 medals.

and the heavens. A sensual

Chris Ashton, IWC Event Director, says: “The competition’s unique judging

harmony of flavours, colours

format and the quality and experience of its judges undoubtedly makes the IWC

and textures. Its balance and

the most credible competition of its kind. This is reflected in the competition’s

character are derived from

continued expansion and growing interest from other countries and markets.”

many years careful aging. It is

The winning wines were each tasted by panels drawn from almost 400

the supreme expression of

experienced judges including many Masters of Wine. The Co-Chairmen - Tim Atkin

Hennessy

MW, Sam Harrop MW, Charles Metcalfe and Derek Smedley MW were joined by

talent

and

expertise, handed down from

global wine expert and TV personality Oz Clarke, making it a formidable judging

generation to generation,

team. This year’s International Guest Co-Chairman was Victor de la Serna, Deputy

honing their art to create a

Editor of Spanish national newspaper El Mundo and that

true masterpiece. The most flamboyant of all cognacs. A divine name for divine perfection. Its name is derived from the mythological god representing the sun. For this exquisite elixir, the Italian architect, Ferruccio Laviani, crafted a luminous decanter sheathed in gold to glorify this

country’s leading wine commentator. The 2010 medal winners will also be featured on the second version of the IWC’s iPhone App, released shortly. This recently launched App is the first of its kind to provide consumers with access to information on competition winners at the touch of a screen.

one-of-a-kind ambrosia. As eternal as the gods themselves, as

Wine enthusiasts can download a free trial version of the IWC Wine App focusing on the

dazzling as the sun, gold symbolizes power and the divine.

IWC’s 2009 Australian winners, while the full App is available for £4.99. (Check if it works in

Sacred and noble, gleaming with mineral light, gold represents

Australia)

perfection. It evokes a sense of mystery, generating energy and conveying the remarkable quality of Paradis Horus. A definite must for the serious imbiber. Available from Moét Hennessy Australia RRP $2,200.00

The IWC’s trophy winners, selected from the 326 Gold medal-winning wines, will be announced in June.

For details about the Challenge and a full list of winners visit the IWC’s website www.internationalwinechallenge.com for more information

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

57


property

luxury renovations

feature property... for sale

How to increase the liveability and increase the value of your current home. "Our project required vision as we were seeking to convert a dated 10 year old Hope Island home into a modern functional contemporary residence to suit a growing family” says Ben Rolfe of BR Design & Construction. The property situated in a prime waterfront location was an ideal candidate for the renovation. The owners wanted to change the ‘ordinary’ estate look for one of a modern trendy bespoke style that won’t date as quickly as the previous style. The home design was to include pool with a large patio area, additional family room to incorporate the indoor/ outdoor living the Queensland lifestyle is famous for." Along with pool, decking and landscaping down to the canal were the icing on the cake. Obviously first impressions are what attracts the buyer if the home is to increase in value. Ben and business partner Steve Saunders both qualified and registered builders have the eye for great design and how to turn the mundane into the spectacular. With this property a new porte cochere was added with rock feature supports, stained timber ceiling complimenting the double stained timber and glass entry doors certainly gave the desired new look. New windows gave way to the dated arched windows on the street front and an additional golf buggy garage was added and new tiled drive. To complete the makeover a new colour scheme creates a look of sophistication and style. Instrumental in creating a great outcome is the owners faith in working with a builder to create and realise their vision. “We spend a lot of time with the owners to establish exactly what their vision, expectations and requirements are before we agree to any project, it’s more than just a construction job for us” says Ben,“we love what we do and take pride in achieving the best look and result for all our jobs, that’s why our clients have all become great friends and the best recommendations of our workmanship” he says. There are many practical aspects to consider, which as a novice property developer you would not appreciate, therefore it is hugely beneficial to have both a builder and project manager who knows the local laws and restrictions and is able to keep pushing your project through to completion. Local knowledge and contacts are essential..." Once the building permits are approved, we offer to co-ordinate and project manage, which is especially useful for clients based elsewhere. continues over...

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

Before


specialising in large custom renovations & additions It’s easier than you think to create a total new look to your home without having to move. From a kitchen reno to a complete home renovation. “We have a team of recommended contractors including masons, plumbers, electricians, specialist pool-builders, metal workers and suppliers, all of whom offer good reliable service. All our key subcontractors are supervised by ourselves to ensure a smooth and ontime running of the project. We maintain regular updates via email, accompanied by photos to enable our clients to follow their projects from afar. Our aim is to provide a genuinely personal, handson service from concept to completion” says Steve.

• Kitchen & bathrooms • Apartment refurbishments • Decks & patios • Shop fitouts

Before

Ask for our list of our happy customers for complete peace of mind.

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION FULLY LICENSED & INSURED

BR Design & Construction Pty Ltd ABN. 69135286270 BSA. 1145953 “One always enters the building contracts with great trepidation - we've heard all the horror stories - but I can honestly say I was surprised at how smoothly the whole thing went. I was impressed not only with the quality and reliability of the tradesmen, but also the day-to-day supervision, right through to the very end. You have my recommendation" - Glen Campbell - Hope Island

For a consultation please call: Ben Rolfe: 0413 622 567 Steve Saunders: 0413 235 277 e: bartben@onthenet.com.au Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

59


cruising

around oz in a riviera Pictured above veteran sailor Ian Reynolds Riviera 54 ‘Investigator 1V

With a graceful turn to starboard, Ian Reynolds fulfilled a dream to circumnavigate Australia. At the age of 80 years young, he and his Riviera 56, Investigator IV, entered the Gold Coast Seaway after a year exploring the sometimes exotic, sometimes fierce and always awesome coast in a 9,000 nautical mile adventure. an’s voyage ended as had begun, under a giant Riviera flag hovering over the

I

fleet. The flag, measuring 12 metres by 12 metres, was used to salute his departure from the Gold Coast Seaway on November 1, 2007. Now – 380 days later - it

welcomed him home. A fleet of boats of all sizes waited as helicopters hovered overhead. Then the boat appeared from behind the headland and the fleet surged forward to greet him,

The new 43 Open Flybridgee VETERAN SAILOR IAN REYNOLDS UNVEILED THE LATEST IN FLYBRIDGE DESIGN WITH THE WORLD RELEASE OF THE NEW 43 OPEN FLYBRIDGE TODAY AT THE SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW. rom the moment you step on board this opulent cruiser, the combination of great function and style is apparent.The large cockpit features an optional electric barbecue centre complete with sink, storage and rubbish bin giving boat owners a gourmet alfresco galley at the rear of the boat. The cockpit also includes a mezzanine seat and drinks fridge located below the floating stairs that lead up to the open flybridge. The open flybridge features an optional two-pac dash to match the hull and the new structural hard top provides 360 degree vision with minimal interruption. Swivel companion and helm chairs allow finger tip console control, a large L-shape lounge in front of the helm provides seating for four around a

F

sounding their horns. Crowds on the breakwater applauded. Ian Reynolds and Investigator IV made their way through the gathered boats that quickly formed a line astern, heading north on the calm Gold Coast Broadwater toward McLaren’s Landing for a celebration party, a time to talk of the voyage and finally to relax. Asked at the beginning of his epic voyage why he would undertake such an arduous venture at his age, Ian Reynolds responded: “People think I am mad undertaking an adventure such as this at my age. But my theory is that, if you want to do something badly enough, you should find some way - any way - of achieving that dream. Never die wondering. It has long been a passion of mine to do this trip, and see this magnificent country from the water – and now I have the boat to do it in.” Reynolds’ Investigator IV is a standard Riviera 56 Enclosed Flybridge, fitted for the voyage only with the addition of an extra 713-litre fuel tank, a watermaker, extra anchor chain and sophisticated electronic navigation aids. The adventure included a brief diversion to take the helm of the 70-metre long square-rigged sailing vessel James Craig, diving with great white sharks off Port Lincoln in South Australia and losing his starboard propeller in the aptly-named Whirlpool Pass in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Throughout the voyage, Ian Reynolds sought locations to remember Matthew Flinders, the first person to circumnavigate Australia and, in doing so, to give this continent its name. Ian has owned five Rivieras over the past 12 years – all except the first called Investigator after Flinders’ ship. A true blue-water sailor, he began his voyaging aboard a Riviera 35, venturing from Melbourne across Bass Strait to the entire northern Tasmanian coast and return. He navigated Investigator II, a Riviera 48, from Port Douglas to Hobart, inspiring him to plan his first circumnavigation – around Tasmania. That task was completed in 2006 aboard Investigator III and plans began immediately for the continental voyage.

Asked his plans for the next voyage, Ian responded: “I think I will spend some time behaving like a normal person. I will have some family time but then, yes, I am already planning another voyage of adventure and discovery. Stay tuned!”

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

weather proof table, while a wet bar with settee is opposite on the port side. A large sliding door opens the saloon into the cockpit, bringing the outdoors in and creating an alfresco dining experience. The large U-shaped lounge to starboard around a generous sized, timber folding table is perfect for relaxing in front of the optional retractable TV. To port is a two-seater leather lounge that can be brought forward to the saloon table as two separate dining chairs and then stowed neatly between the bar and open plan galley on the port side when not in use. The galley has plenty of storage and features solid surface bench tops and quality appliances. The proven Volvo Penta Inboard Performance System (IPS) has allowed Riviera designers to create a fresh accommodation layout on the new 43 Open Flybridge. With all major engineering positioned well aft, enormous gains are made with beam-width space amidships. The cockpit floor has a hydraulic lift, which lifts up to give access to the two Volvo Penta IPS engines The new 43 has optimum handling in close-quarters via the use of the integrated joystick control. With a cruising speed of 28 knots and a top speed


LuxuryStyleliving

“

a luxury entertainer on water....

The 43 Open Flybridge with Volvo Penta IPS is a luxury vessel built for entertaining and long-term cruising.

around 31 knots, the 43 Open Flybridge has a range of 340 nautical miles from its 1800 litre tanks. Sleeping accommodation for up to six in two large cabins offers a range of sleeping options in the aft cabin including a sliding double bed and single, two sliding single beds which can slide together to form a double plus one fixed single bed or four bunks. The forward stateroom includes a two metre long king-size island bed, wardrobe and ensuite with solid surface benchtops, raised porcelain sink and separate shower stall. Technology from CZONE provides access to all electronics with digital switching, allowing you to control everything from tank monitors, data and gauges to lighting. The CZone uses the same data language as the Volvo Penta IPS system, so all your engine parameters are metered through the same monitoring system. The new style air-conditioning vents are discreet with a glossy grain finish to match the timber work, giving the impression of a feature in the timber rather than an air-conditioning vent.

Veteran sailor Ian Reynolds unveiled the latest in flybridge design

Riviera Marine (Int) Pty Ltd 07 5502 5415 www.riviera.com.au

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

61


inspired design... Italian attitude The Methven company, founded as an iron and brass foundry by George Methven in New Zealand in1886, has built its award-winning success through breakthrough designs and product development, outstanding aesthetics and environmental-mindedness. The latest very vogue Methven Minimalist tap-ware range has a distinctive Italian design and includes the Minimalist Spring Pull Down Mixer with twin action spray, a 40mm ceramic disc cartridge, a fully flexible stainless steel pull-down hose for longevity, a pin lever handle and a spout fitted with a combination twin action aerator of rain spray and aerated flow, plus the Minimalist Sink Mixer with twin handles. It has a 40mm ceramic disc cartridge, adjustable temperature and flow control settings to prevent scalding and splashing, twin pin lever handles, and a swivel spout fitted with ASD aerator. Both are suitable for mains pressure installation. Stockists include Swish Bathroom Solutions at Underwood and Virginia and all Plumbing Plus Stores.

Stylefiles

Flipside adds new dimension to showering

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Remember the last time you had an amazing shower? Not just hot water under suitable pressure, but a shower that changed moods, elevated sprits and heightened the feeling of relaxation and well being. Traditionally, multi–function hand-showers have featured spray options on a single spray-face. Not with the revolutionary Flipside hand-shower. With its innovative Flipstream™ technology, the spray-face simply rotates on its axis, with each side dedicated to one of four spray options. Kohler’s fundamental reconfiguration of the spray-face creates four experiences in one hand-shower: Koverage, an everyday shower spray with maximum water coverage and superb performance is ideal for the morning shower routine; Kotton’s streams of dense, soft, enveloping downpour, caresses the skin; Komotion’s drenching spray delivers an exhilarating, circular motion that refreshes the senses; and Kurrent, provides a targeted and invigorating massage spray to ease the aches, and pains of tired muscles. Flip changing between each of the four spray modes is effortless even with soapy hands and those with limited hand mobility; each spray mode offers a range of movement so the user can easily angle the water stream to suit differing height requirements; and the smart, fun design is an affordable way for homeowners to instantly upgrade their homes and add a spa experience with a product that’s extremely easy to install. Available through Tradelink stores nationally.


Floored by fashion The fussiest interior designer or DYI expert is completely at home with Academy Tiles, where there are over 4,000 products in its 800 square showroom. From stones and ceramics to porcelain, in multiple sizes and shapes, a vast array of colours and finishes and even liquid floor tiles. These use two non-toxic coloured liquids and with applied pressure appear to ooze beneath you creating an optical illusion with every step. A non-slip, scratch-resistant glass surface has been put on the tiles giving high bending strength. They’re been designed primarily for commercial use, can be personalised with say corporate logos, and are available in 13 different colour schemes plus a range of different sizes. Check them out on: www.academytiles.com.au. One of Academy’s latest releases at this year’s designEX exhibition is the Bond Collection, designed by Harri Koskinen. It is a unique wall series that combines concave and convex tiles, subtly reflecting light and shadow. It is also available in a flat-surfaced version. Each tile is 19.5 x 22cm and is available in ten colours.

Edifier Esiena iF360 – A complete home audio solution Delivering uncompromised sound quality from almost every audio application imaginable, the new Edifier Esiena iF360 is an elegant, all-inone home audio solution. Equipped with an iPod and iPhone dock, video out, CD, CD MP3, CD WMA, SD and USB card readers, FM radio and digital clock with alarm function, the Edifier Esiena iF360 is truly functional in any room of the house. Staying true to their reputation for superior sound quality, the Edifier Esiena iF360 is equipped with ‘nautilus’ speaker enclosure, which enhances the bass frequency response and improves the overall audio quality and listening experience. Complete with a black lacquer finish and touch sensitive controls, the Edifier Esiena iF360 also comes with a remote control that provides full function for iPod and iPhone navigation, making every audio experience effortless and enjoyable. Its simple and elegant design also allows the Edifier Esiena iF360 to fit in with any décor. RRP $599 Available at Harvey Norman, Domayne and Joyce Mayne

M900 phone in a pod

Pod phone Australian-owned Oricom International’s latest collection of design driven cordless phones, are as vivid in colour as they are vibrant in technology. Employing interference-free DECT 1.8GHz technology the M900 collection offers long range clarity with maximum voice security. Available in fire red, black pearl and blazing blue their slim form and gently curved European styling, reminiscent of a Lotus car…not flower, parked comfortably in individual communication pods. With integrated digital answering, handsfree speaker-phone, secure clarity of over a quarter kilometre, elegant blue backlit display and myriad other intuitive features, M900 is the perfect melding of European design and technology for the Australian home.

“Research has determined many consumers are tired of drab looking overcomplicated home phones”, says Oricom managing director Kevin McDonnell. “They want something that has some life to it, yet makes life easier. “We continue to unify our expertise across communication segments including domestic, recreational, baby and aged care, in order to develop products that are technically exact, robust, instinctive to use, well supported and design orientated. The M900 collection being a perfect example.” Available as a twin pack, expandable for up to five handsets, M900 is available from major retailers and retails for around $99. More details on: www.oricom.com.au.

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style file Inviting nature indoors Gardening guru Jamie Durie’s successful collaboration with the Rug Collection company has branched out even further. It follows the popularity of his outdoor concept and successfully transposes it indoors. The Garden Room indoor rug collection features a new range of six distinctive designs: Blossom, Flannel Flowers, Leaf Canopy, Orchid, Dew Web and Summer Beauty. Each combines a sense of the outdoors with the colours of nature. They were inspired by Jamie’s images taken by him on his travels. Bold uses of colour, whimsical design exploration and a modern edge work in harmony to bring life to the contemporary collection. “There is nothing more inspiring to me than the beauty that’s found in nature,” says Jamie. “The tranquil elements bring a sense of simplicity and freshness to indoor spaces.” Hand-tufted in a New Zealand wool blend, they are 160 x 230cm (RRP $1095 ) and 200 x 290cm (RRP $1695) or they can be custom sized and coloured on request. The Rug Collection is available nationally through leading stockists or visit www.therugcollection.com.au for more information.

Stylefiles

Italian Glass Masters.

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Italian Glass masters Riflessi have created the perfect antidote to plain bathrooms everywhere with a kaleidoscope of wondrously colourful craftsmanship. Distributed by Paco Jaanson, your private sanctuary has never been more vibrant and dynamic, thanks to this contemporary collection of washbasins, and bathroom accessories. This dazzling bathroomware crafted from the island of Murano (Venice) celebrates the ancient, skillful mastery of glasswork. Each is a unique piece on its own; blown, strained and designed to exude a texture created through an innovative glass fusion process. Produced is either a cool, subtle colour dispersal or the formation of dramatic bold lines. It’s the perfect way to incorporate a little continental chic into an otherwise neutral decor. Exclusive to Paco Jaanson, these statement pieces are available in a colour palette which gives enduring appeal, brightness and sophistication to any bathroom scheme. This is truly a collection of striking handmade pieces which will give maximum impact to any bathroom. Riflessi is the collection for those who appreciate form and substance, beauty, fascination and soul. Dedicated to those who love to be surrounded by objects of exclusivity, representing more than half a century of passion for glass. A fascinatingly colourful, Italian bathroom is what you will achieve with Riflessi. Riflessi Soffio washbasin RRP: $2750 Riflessi Laguna washbasin RRP: $2750

Riflessi Glass Vanity Cup RRP: from $220 Riflessi Glass Toothbrush Holder RRP: from $220


DESIGN

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Stylefiles

style file

Lights on – everyone’s home The who’s who of the design world were at the 2010 Milan Design Week with what’s hot in design, living and innovation such as ingenious lighting. Top of the trend list is home automation where incorporating the latest lighting

Signature style

designs and electronic technology into everyday living is de rigueur

Signature Interior Design currently stocks an eclectic range of designer pieces from the beautiful cowhide tub chair to the stainless steel trunk style drawers. Ph: 07 5538 8755 Oasis Shopping Centre Broadbeach

multi-million dollar commercial developments including the Queensland State

Apart from residential properties, Auztech Industries has also been involved in Tennis Centre, Watpac’s head office and the waterfront sales office for the soonto-be-released luxury Mirvac apartments. Winner of the Best Integrated Home Installation in 2008 in the under $150,000 category, and highly-commended for the Best Media Room and Best Dressed System in 2009, Auztech is located at Loganholme. Details on: http://www.auztech.com.au/ or phone (07) 3806 3133.

Furniture Packages Soft Furnishings Giftware Custom Furniture Upholstery Window Treatments Accessories

Shop 29, level 1 (beach end) The Oasis Shopping Centre Broadbeach QLD

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P: 07 5538 8755 F: 07 5538 8433 E: Jen@signatureinteriors.com.au W: www.signatureinteriors.com.au


Make Poverty History... Brenden Huntly from Village Live Inspired at Bundall, has become an ambassador for Making Poverty History on their 2010 Road-trip, an informative, non-profit cause run by The Oaktree Organisation in Australia. Along with a select group of Australian youth, all under 25 years-old, Brenden will join this important bus trip to spread the word to as many Australians as possible about World poverty and the devastating consequences that shroud many people in a number of underprivileged countries. Many suffering from a lack of the basic essentials of life - food, clean water, shelter, medical and health support. As they head to Parliament House in Canberra, on their week-long trip, several buses will be making stops along the way with educational workshops, designed to share information with thousands of young school children and teens across the country. For more information on Brenden's journey visit: www.villagestores.com.au

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profile

Nailing Nessun Dorma With his “God-given” voice, gentle giant James Smith is, according to Helen Flanagan, shooting for the stars, especially the one marked Pavarotti. wo years ago construction worker James Smith aka James Corona, who lives in Corona Street Ashgrove, was given his first operatic CD. The neighbours immediately flung open their doors and windows, hoping to catch more of James’ powerful voice ‘accompanied’ by the mellifluous sounds of Mario Lanza and Pavarotti. “I left Brisbane’s Marist Brothers in year 10, always wanted to be an actor in say The Wizard of Oz, and began labouring on construction sites,” explains James, aged 24, the second youngest of six children. “It was my grandmother now aged 92, a piano teacher in her earlier life, who was the major influence in my love for opera and classical music as a young boy.” When opera singer Jason BarrySmith who is also James’ teacher at the Conservatorium of Music, heard him sing Puccini’s Nessun Dorma at his first lesson, he said his natural ability was at a comparable level to someone who had been singing opera for many years: “It was amazing and knocked my socks off”. That was 18 months ago. And what made it even more remarkable was that James has never had language lessons, only learning everything by ear His first singing engagement was at a wedding. “One of the guests was the president of the Irish Club, who asked me to sing at the St Patrick's Day dinner at the Irish Club - my first

T

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official function. I so overwhelmed and honoured to sing in front of the Irish ambassador as well as Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Campbell Newman. Topping that for excitement was last year when I appeared on Australia's Got Talent and reached the semi-finals.” In the heats, James received a standing ovation and judge Tom Burlinson said: “You have a Godgiven voice. You blew me away.” James’ mates, all non opera followers were suddenly interested and engrossed in his music and needless to say his mother Carmel and siblings are besotted by his voice. He swims laps regularly at the local pool, hikes up to Mt Coot-tha, body surfs at Coolangatta and Noosa when the swell is up, plus trains at the local gym. “I pretend I’m Schwarzenegger and lift the biggest weights I can get my hands around,” says a smiling James who also admits to having a penchant for Indian food and a good bottle of Merlot. Laying bricks however is such hard, sweaty work there’s no singing on the job. The Tall Tenor as he’s affectionately known, is 208 centimetres tall or 6’ 10 inches in the old money. He is easy to spot in a crowd although has difficulty navigating many doorways and adjusting to airline seats. His devotees concur his height certainly matches his voice. He has broadened his repertoire for functions to include country music favourites from Johnny Cash and pop artists including David Bowie and the Righteous Brothers. “I also love Phantom of the Opera, would love to play the Phantom, sing at the Sydney Opera House, in Las Vegas and on Broadway but my biggest dream is to perform and record arias and recitals with an orchestra.” His inspiration and hero-worship however remain unyielding: “Pavarotti is the best tenor ever and one day I hope to have a tattoo of him on my shoulder”.


LuxuryStyleliving

“I pretend I’m Schwarzenegger and lift the biggest weights I can get my hands around”

Tall Tenor James Corona

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books

Really Wild Tea Cosies by Loani Prior. Murdoch $29.95

Australian Style by Melissa Penfold & Jenny Tabakoff. Lantern $39.95

In the entertaining, inspiring and easy-to-follow book of 20 even wilder knitted tea cosies, Loani turns this functional, homely item into a creative knitted sculpture full of vibrant colour and humour. Easy enough for knitters of the most basic skill level to make and assemble, there are also instructions for ten knitted and crocheted decorations, such as flowers, leaves, cupcakes and fruit, which can also be used to embellish a tea cosy, lapel, scarf or homewares. There’s an illuminating techniques section, with the new method of knitting in the round on two circular needles. The Queen of Tea Cosies is all about having a Knit Change and although her woolly obsessions and object d’art still border on becoming a disorder, they’ve even found a place in art galleries.

Style is better than beauty, brains, breeding and billions in the bank. It cannot be bought, sold or bartered, but it can be acquired, so long as you know where to look. The style writers and watchers reveal the secrets of the seriously stylish and show you how to be fabulous at everything you do, from getting your clothes right to throwing the perfect dinner party. Discover how style and great manners work their magic everywhere, from the boardroom to the bedroom. Learn the secrets that will help you make a great first impression, pull a house together - even on a shoestring, find the perfect present, get the job or the man of your dreams – and dump bores at parties without them even noticing.

Cooking Dirty: Life, Love and Death in the Kitchen by Jason Sheehan. Allen & Unwin $35 A mindblowing account of life at the adrenalin-fuelled kitchen frontline from Sheehan’s first job scraping pizza trays to all kinds of restaurants across America, from Buffalo to Tampa to Albuquerque: at a French colonial and an all-night diner, at a crab shack and a fusion restaurant in a former hair salon. It’s the story of one man's addiction to the urgency, stress, and minimumwage kitchen work. His universe becomes 'a small, steel box filled with knives and meat and fire', where the kitchen is a fraternity with its own rites and initiations: cigarettes in the walk-in freezer, sex in the basement, drugs everywhere. From the first perfectly done mussel to the satisfaction of surgically sliced foie gras, it reveals the hell and glory of restaurant life, as told by a survivor.

Holiday in Queensland by Explore $29.95 Following the release of Explore Australia 2010, is the latest range of state guides including the complete guides to Victoria and Queensland. Holiday in Queensland features everything you need to know from a state-wide road atlas; travelling times and distance chart; a complete guide to touring Queensland; details on 122 towns and 13 touring regions; what to see and do in Brisbane, the Great Barrier Reef and tropical islands; national park highlights, wildlife-watching and not-to-be-missed attractions, festivals, markets and wildlife experiences; to local history; plus a complete index. A 16-page section at the front of the book highlights the best of the state, from adventure activities, fishing and golf courses, to food and accommodation reviews and where to eat, stay and play.

movies

Shrek Forever After Directed by Mike Mitchell and Starring the voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Julie Andrews, John Cleese. After challenging an evil dragon, rescuing a beautiful princess and saving your in-laws’ kingdom, what’s an ogre to do? Well, if you’re Shrek, you suddenly wind up a domesticated family man. Instead of scaring villagers away like he used to, a reluctant Shrek now agrees to autograph pitch forks. What’s happened to this ogre’s roar? Longing for the days when he felt like a “real ogre,” Shrek is duped into signing a pact with the smooth-talking dealmaker, Rumpelstiltskin. Shrek suddenly finds himself in a twisted, alternate version of Far Far Away, where ogres are hunted, Rumpelstiltskin is king and Shrek and Fiona have never met. Now, it’s up to Shrek to undo all he’s done in the hopes of saving his friends, restoring his world and reclaiming his one True Love. In cinemas mid-June

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The A-Team Directed by Joe Carnahan and Starring Bradley Cooper, Liam Neeson, Jessica Biel, Sharlto Copley, Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson. Like the original series, the story follows the adventures of four U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers-turned-mercenaries, three of whom were arrested for a crime they did not commit and are now branded war criminals. After managing to escape from military prison, the three join forces with Captain H.M. Murdock, their reconnaissance pilot, as soldiers of fortune. In cinemas mid-June


movies/dvds dvds movies/

High Tea at the Victoria Room by Jill Jones-Evans & Joe Gambacorta, New Holland $29.95 A beautifully photographed book with recipes from cupcakes, sandwiches and cakes, to pastries, cheese flans and tarts. Jill Jones-Evans and Joe Cambacorta show you how to make the best strawberry jam and Italian style orange marmalade to go with that perfect scone. And if it is all too much, pour yourself a Pimms or a whiskey flip and put your feet up. From it-girl gatherings and generational get-togethers, to hen’s parties and birthdays, ladies of all ages (and many a fine gentleman, too) can enjoy the company of dear friends in this wonderful revival of a great tradition.

Maze

The Cookbook & Gourmet Food on a Budget by Jason Atherton, Hardie Grant $34.95 Gordon Ramsay’s Maze restaurant has opened in Melbourne and Jason Atherton is the prodigiously talented Michelin-starred head chef of London’s

multi award-winning Maze. With a focus on quality ingredients, imaginative flavour combinations and simple presentation, Jason, who has worked under many famous chefs, including Pierre Koffman, Nico Ladenis and Marco Pierre White reveals the core ingredients, flavourings and techniques of such dishes as marinated beetroot with goat’s cheese, chard and beetroot dressing; butter roasted cod with silky mash and spiced lentils; and mango parfait with orange anise jelly - all the inspiration you need for tapas or a three course stunner. El Bulli’s Ferran Adria describes Jason as "a magnificent cook". Need we say more?' So, if you’re fed up with the credit crunch, doing everything on the cheap and are longing for a great meal out but can't afford it, Gourmet Food on a Budget will brighten up your evenings and give you some of the delicious food you've been missing, and all at an affordable cost. Jason prepares seasonal ingredients in their prime; the recipes are enticing, fun to make and delectable to eat; and are perfect for entertaining friends and family or for a glamorous night in. Based on the idea of a twocourse meal of one savoury and one sweet, there are more than 80 recipes to choose from.

Light of Lucia

Rockpool

by Luciana Sampogna, Murdoch Books $69.95

by Neil Perry

Energetic and passionate Luciana Sampogna, maestra of popular cooking school Cucina Italiana, shares the rites of passage of the Italian woman from childhood to motherhood, mapped by Italian tradition, superstition and celebration through food. Discover why flour is ‘god’ and be swept away by the romance of eating pizza on the back of a Vespa with your bello. This is Italian cooking from the heart. With 120 proven recipes from the best fresh pasta recipe this side of Italy, fried prawns with salsa verde, and simply irresistible ricotta fritters, Luciana caters for all tastes and levels of cooking experience. Italian food and culture is brought to life with a stunning mix of recipes, photography, illustrations, nostalgic black and white family portraits and inspiring words.

Since its inception, Neil Perry’s awardwinning restaurant, Rockpool, has redefined how Australians view asianinfluenced Australian cuisine. Perry’s mastery of the culinary arts and his clever use of the freshest Australian and world’s finest produce, combined with his technical and innate sense of complementary flavours and tastes have produced a cooking style that is uniquely HIS . With an unwavering philosophy that has driven Rockpool for more than 20 years, Neil Perry has become a phenomenon on the culinary scene. First printed in 1997, this beautiful coffee table book now returns with a new design and updated material that will help you create a little bit of the magic that is the Rockpool dining experience in your own home. Published by New Holland Publishers RRP $50.00

Cooking the books

The Karate Kid Directed by Harald Zwart and Starring Jaden Smith, Jackie Chan, Taraji P. Henson, Tess Liu. 12-year-old Dre Parker could've been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother's latest career move has landed him in China. Dre immediately falls for his classmate Mei Ying - and the feeling is mutual - but cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, Dre's feelings make an enemy of the class bully, Cheng. In the land of kung fu, Dre knows only a little karate, and Cheng puts "the karate kid" on the floor with ease. With no friends in a strange land, Dre has nowhere to turn but maintenance man Mr. Han, who is secretly a master of kung fu. As Han teaches Dre that kung fu is not about punches and parries, but maturity and calm, Dre realizes that facing down the bullies will be the fight of his life. In cinemas early-July

Knight and Day Directed by James Mangold and Starring Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, Peter Sarsgaard, Viola Davis, Olivier Martinez, Paul Dano, Maggie Grace. Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz star in the action—comedy KNIGHT AND DAY. During their glamorous and sometimes deadly adventure, nothing and no one – even the now fugitive couple – are what they seem. Amid shifting alliances and unexpected betrayals, they race across the globe, with their survival ultimately hinging on the battle of truth vs. trust. KNIGHT AND DAY is now shooting in Massachusetts, and will also film on other locations around the world including, Spain, Austria, and the tropics. In cinemas mid-July. Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

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travel

Personalised Travel… Katrina Casey - Senior Consultant

Mobile Travel Agents of Australia is a select group of

Aboriginal culture and galleries of ancient artwork. Towards

trained travel professionals with over 200 mobile

the west, in the historic pearling town of Broome, the

consultants Australia wide.

colours of nature are vibrant and intense: rich red earth,

Gold Coast based Senior consultant, Katrina Casey

azure blue seas and brilliant white sand beaches. North of

explains that being mobile enables her to meet prospective

Broome lies the ragged Kimberley coast, a place you can

clients at a time and place convenient to them. In their

only comprehend from the sea. Rugged gorges, inlets,

home, office or local coffee shop.

waterfalls plunging 100 metres all combine for an awe-

Katrina is passionate about travel and has many years of both corporate and leisure travel experience. After working

Orion’s Expedition Team will lead your exploration of

accounting offices, and the world’s biggest banks, she

secluded beaches and river inlets – waters famous for an

knows how to deliver top service to the most demanding

abundance of wildlife. From spectacular waterfalls and awe

clientele. In London, she was also selected to work on the

inspiring gorges, to ancient cultural history and indigenous

American Express Travel 24 hour emergency service and

rock art, the only way you can access the best of the

can easily help a client out in the most difficult and urgent

Kimberley is from the sea onboard Orion. MTA is also one of

of situations. Something that luckily very rarely happens

only eight handpicked and accredited Virgin Galactic Space

when dealing with professionals.

Agencies in Australia.

When not looking after corporate clients, Katrina loves to

On 7th December 2009 history was made in California’s

spend time with leisure clients, planning honeymoons,

Mojave Desert as Virgin Galactic revealed the world’s first

overseas weddings, family holidays, round-the-world tickets

commercial passenger spaceship, VSS Enterprise - Space

or that trip of a lifetime. She strives to seek out the best

tourism is a reality.

value and experience for her clients, with personal touches

VSS Enterprise will launch passengers on an

all the way, whilst assuring them she is only a phone call

unforgettable journey, where they will experience

away (24/7) in the unlikely event that you need to contact

weightlessness, the silence of space and views of the earth

her. Just try calling the airlines, or a 9am-5pm travel agent

below, enjoyed by fewer than 500 people to date. A Virgin

after hours when you have a problem.

Galactic reservation includes a three day experience at

Katrina is thrilled to announce MTA Travel have been

Spaceport America in New Mexico, USA, where Future

invited into the exclusive Virtuoso network. So exclusive in

Astronauts will undertake training with their fellow

fact, only 1% of all travel agencies are invited to join. The

passengers and flight crew in preparation for a truly out of

Virtuoso name carries a lot of sway around the world,

this world experience. Deposits start from US$20,000 to join

opening doors and access to behind-the-scenes sites and

the unique club of Virgin Galactic Future Astronauts, each

events not normally available to the general public.

individually making this project possible and becoming pioneers of a brand new and vitally important industry.

fabulous adventure in the top end of Australia. Their

To make the most of your next journey, whether

Kimberley and Arnhem Land Expedition cruise offers the

corporate or leisure, domestic, international or sub orbital,

dramatic contrasts of Australia’s north-west, rich in

contact Katrina, your local Mobile Travel Consultant

the very best of India to a select group of twenty people. Accommodation and travel will be 5-star and the experience will be life altering. Departing on the 24th October 2010, the Taste of India tour will take the traveller on a culinary and visionary journey that will give you a lifetime of memories. And of course, you will be personally escorted by Push himself. It will be wonderful to have an expert on-hand to answer all your questions and give you an insight into the history and people of India. In addition to the iconic photographic images of India (Taj Mahal, Lake Pichola, Elephanta Caves etc) Push’s Taste of India tour will give the traveller access to some of India’s more unique cultural sensations. as well as some of the most unique food

A TASTE of INDIA A tantalising sampling of culinary tourism blended with the sensory delights of iconic sights and sounds… Most people know local restaurant identity Pushpinder Oberoi from his busy Broadbeach restaurant, Oberoi's Taj. But over the past six months he has been focussing on an exciting new venture - designing one of the most unique and special Indian tour itineraries ever offered to the market for a small select group. In association with Travel Masters, one of the Gold Coast’s leading travel agencies, Push has put a lot of effort into designing a trip that will showcase

Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

overland.

in London, with some of the world’s top law and

Orion Expedition Cruises is one such company offering a

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inspiring experience you simply can't have by travelling

and gourmet experiences possible. From the resort beaches of Goa, where you will indulge in a stunning seafood barbecue, to dining in a local traditional farm house; from attending a genuine Indian wedding feast and ceremony, where your taste buds will be exposed to the most amazing flavours ever, to a Bollywood Film Studio, where you will meet the cast and crew and have a snack in the studio canteen - hopefully with some of the actors. As a special treat, Push has also arranged for a visit to the set of India’s top rated Celebrity Chef, Sanjeer Kapoor to watch the taping of his show… and then dine at his top-rating Yellow Chili restaurant in Mumbai that night. In Delhi, the group will be part of the stunning Diwali festivities with its amazing festival of lights, and enjoy an endless range of taste sensations. Information call Travel Masters: 07 5554 2766


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travel

Wilderness, oysters, 5 star luxury hotel, tuna, w Sunrise over Port Lincoln with grain terminal

port lincoln ith a climate often referred to as Mediterranean, and picture-postcardperfect, natural beauty everywhere you look, from the limestone coastline and vast blue sea to the ancient granite outcrops of the Gawler Ranges, Eyre Peninsula is a region of wonders and Port Lincoln the jewel in the crown.

W

It’is one of those places that when you find it, you wonder how you never knew that it existed before. With a population of only 15,000, maybe it’s a conspiracy to keep it all for themselves. Just a short 45 minute flight from Adelaide, or if you are driving along the winding coastline it will probably take you about 8 hours to reach the ‘Seafood Capital of Australia’. Gracing the lower Eyre Peninsula of South Australia, this region of diverse natural beauty is home to some

Tuna & Kingfish sasumi a speciality at Port

A huge commercial fishing port of the finest seafood available anywhere in the world. Port Lincoln is the perfect destination for those wanting to experience eco-tourism with all the 21st century trimmings. Great restaurants and cafes, eclectic shopping; accommodation to suit any budget from caravan parks and quiet B & Bs to hotels and luxury eco lodges. Boasting pristine blue waters, imposing limestone cliffs, and imposing coastline; fabulous food, friendly locals and fine wines;what more could anyone want? With the addition of exciting, adventure tours that can see you walking the coastline; traversing the natural bushland; diving with the Great White sharks; swimming with playful seals; hand-feeding huge shiny, metallic-looking tuna - even picking your own

Feed the wild Tuna

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oysters from the oyster leases; there is an experience waiting to be had by everyone. The region is also home to the Southern Right Whales who will be heading into the waters in the coming months with their calves. New companions for the local dolphins.A definite reason to visit. Aquaculture is the mainstay of Port Lincoln producing exceptional Southern Bluefin Tuna, Pacific oysters, Hiramasa Yellowtail Kingfish, abalone, mussels, King George whiting, Wild King prawns, Snapper, Mulloway and Southern Rock lobsters. Local families have fished these waters for generations and the local school even offers the facility for apprenticeships within its curriculum. With so much seafood on offer, diners can indulge in a veritable smorgasbord of saltwater delights for breakfast, luncheon and dinner - 24/7. We found the township and its surrounding regions

Port Lincoln Hotel - 5 star luxury, built in 2008 to be a haven of sensory and photographic delights and are already planning our next visit. Port Lincoln MUST DO LIST: Take a 4-wheel drive tour and guided walk through the natural bushland with Wilderness Wanders along the magnificent coastline of the Port Lincoln. If you’re lucky, owner Phil Porter, a 5th generation Port Lincoln local,will have an extra passenger to keep you company on the ride. Phil has a license to care for orphaned kangaroos - and on my trip I had the good fortune to play ‘mother’ to Kevin an 8 month-old orphaned Red Kangaroo. Kevin and I became firm friends and I am looking forward to receiving progress reports as he grows to


wine, kingfish, more wine, abalone, wine, lobster... get the idea? Luxury accommodation with spectacular mountain views

Words: Kaylene Murray

Photos: Tom & Kaylene Murray

adulthood and is released back into the bush. Contact details: Ph 08 86845001 or visit www.wildernesswanders.com.au Adventure Day Charters offer the opportunity to ‘get up close & personal’ with tuna and sea lions. Here is a new way to experience seafood and the natural wonders of the sea. Ph 048842 8862 or visit www.adventurebaycharters.com.au

broadband; the staff extremely friendly, and executive chef David Pedro has designed a menu for their signature restaurant Sarins that showcases the region’s bounty of fabulous seafood, meats, fruits and vegetables, as well as presenting a great wine list. The hotel also includes and intimate bar and open fireplace, gaming facilities, convention rooms and wedding facilities. Contact details: Ph 1300 766100, Port Lincoln www.portlincolnhotel.com.au

MFV Tacoma tuna fishing boat Check out the historic 1950’s MFV Tacoma tuna fishing boat. This grand old lady is available for private cruises and specialised hands-on tuna fishing adventures for small groups. It probably gives potential tuna fisherman the same buzz as hunting lions on the Serengeti. Full training is

Tanonga Luxury Eco Lodges Two luxury eco-friendly lodges are situated on a 200 hectare property, offering panoramicviews, total privacy in a natural setting and a constantly changing snapshot of local wildlife. Designed to reduce their carbon footprint on the surrounding bushland whilst still offering every

Coffin Bay Oysters fresh out of the water

Kangaroos abound

given before these adventures. How to get there: Rex Regional Air Express A short 45 minute flight from Adelaide Airport. I love the smaller airlines in South Australia, where you are offered fruit juice and water, tea and coffee, sweet or savoury snacks - and a mint before you land. All inclusive on your flight. Just like in the ‘good old days’. Contact details: www.rex.com.au Where to stay: Port Lincoln Hotel A new 4.5 star hotel overlooking Boston Bay. The 111 contemporary rooms are spacious and offer plasma tv &

conceivable luxury. Contact details: Ph 08 8684 5066 or visit www.tanonga.com.au Where to eat: Del Giorno’s Café & Restaurant Overlooking Boston Bay Del Giorno’s features an Italian inspired menu specialising in local seafood, local lamb, beef, pork, breads and

condiments. Executive chef Kris Bunder excels at showcasing the region’s finest offerings. Also featuring local wines on their extensive wine list. Ph 08 86830577 or visit www.delgiornos.com.au Sarins Bar & Restaurant Executive chef David Pedro delivers fine modern Australian cuisine with an Asian twist at the Port Lincoln Hotel. See above. Ph 08 8621 2000 Must try local wine: Lincoln Estate Wines; Boston Bay Wines;Delacolline Estate Wines; Anna’s Vineyard. For more local information: Tourism Eyre Peninsula Ph 1800 067739 and visit www.seafoodandbeyond.com

Historic Port Lincoln

Chef Kris Bunder from Del Giorno’s Cafe Restaurant

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artist profile

web site promotes the arts Brisbane ‘patron of the arts’ has created an artists website to help nurture the art industry and expose local art to the world...... he Australian Artist & Talent Register was the idea of Robert James of Ascot in Brisbane. “it started modestly and has grown like topsy with new features and links being constantly added” he said. Proud to be a “patron or the arts” it was his ambition to design and build a comprehensive web site database that would allow accomplished artists and artistes to showcase their talent and in Self portrait - Debbie Robinson this way help them to gain local, national and international exposure. Featuring original works by major modern contemporary and traditional visual artists, the uniqueness of the web-site allows a Artist to link their profiles to an exhibiting Gallery and visa versa. Robert says ”For instance an Art Gallery may add as many as ten of their exhibiting Artists to their Ancestors - Debbie Robinson Gallery listing allowing browsing on line before, during and after their exhibition”. With a free or premium listing a artist can decide on what level of involvement suits their requirements. Browsers can view the Premium listings via the Artist Showroom direct from the sites home page or browse the many free listings by category, city or state. “Social Pics” are another unique feature with option of adding up to 16 images with captions, allowing users and browsers to capture and share that special feeling of the night. “All these fabulous features, together with our National "Observer Newsletter" will ensure added exposure for the exhibiting Artist and marketing opportunities for participating Galleries” says Mr James. All listings be they Artist or Nude by - Pennelope Gilbert-Ng Gallery are fully editable on line at

artist profile

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all times with a secure personal password, no other web-site comes near our versatility. The Australian Artist & Talent Register is a major resource for the Arts and Entertainment Industry and allows the talent to be seen 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from anywhere in the world. Whether you're seeking to make a name in the world of visual arts, secure a record deal, or awaiting discovery by the film and television industry the Australian Artist & Talent Register should become your first step on the road to discovery and success. A quick browse through the other categories, Actors, Dancers, Musicians, Models & Designers shows what a comprehensive site and valuable resource it really is. “The site is ever evolving with new categories being added including a Designer Market for market sellers to also promote their unique wares outside of the market, this has created a lot of interest and feed back “ says Robert. Checkout the sites at: The Australian Artist & Talent Register: www.atalent.com.au Designer Markets: www.designermarkets.com.au Art4Life an Online Art competition site: www.art4life.com.au Rent the Site - available for industry sponsorship, charity or to combine with a current exhibition for public participation. Phone 07 3868 4066 or Email for more information: Robert@atalent.com.au *The Australian Artist & Talent Register does not act as an agent or take commissions and always recommends that you seek a reputable Art Gallery or Agent to represent your interests.

Artist Profile is sponsored by

THE AUSTRALIAN ARTIST & TALENT REGISTER

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


live theatre

power of 10

Who are Australian, good looking, sing like the heavens have opened and are Australia’s longest running export? It’s The Ten Tenors, and they’re coming home with a brand new show called The Power of Ten. hit overseas with sold-out shows in Europe, acclaimed by the critics and hailed as their best yet, this show punches it up with renditions of rock songs like you’ve never heard them before, including Meatloaf’s I Would Do Anything For Love and the famed Ike and Tina Turner rhythmic rocker, River Deep, Mountain High. They tip their hat to fellow Aussies, AC/DC, opening The Power Of Ten with the might of a ten-muscled-voice-de-force, performing Thunderstruck in what is probably its craziest incarnation. “Ten voices, in full thundering flight, fill every corner of the room,” says musical director, Graham Foote, who is also one of the classically-trained, twenty or thirtysomething, handsome, personable Tenors.“This show is new, different and powerful. “But it’s not all heart-thumping, chest-pounding boldness. It’s a two hour ebb and flow of rock’s greatest hits alongside classical favourites, making for a fluid, dramatic

A

Prestigious chamber music event

and tender concert experience.” Their beautiful arrangement of the Seal hit Kiss From A Rose, through to the sungin-Spanish, passionate, suave and powerful En Aranjuez con tu Amore – a famous melody that is deliberately “tenorial”; as well as their tribute to Pavarotti, the operatic song with soaring high notes, Rondine al nido; to the famous operative aria and the boys’ hallmark, Vesti la Giubba (perhaps the most famous after Nessun Dorma); to Queen’s The Show Must Go On, Paul McCartney’s Live and Let Die and Sarah McLachlan’s Angel, to any of the other incredible moments that fill this stunning show. In Queensland, The Ten Tenors, renowned for their on-stage larrikinism, will be encouraging audiences to cheer, whistle, clap and shout and make as much noise as they possibly can at: Townsville’s Civic Theatre on May 30 (4727 9797); the Mackay Entertainment Centre - June 1 (www.mackaytix.com.au); Rockhampton’s Pilbeam Theatre - June 2 (www.pilbeamtheatre.com.au); Maryborough’s Brolga Theatre - June 4 (www.brolgatheatre.org); Brisbane’s Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s Concert Hall - June 6 (www.qpac.com.au); and Toowoomba’s Empire Theatre - June 7 (www.empiretheatre.com.au). Emerging from their tenth professional year, The Ten Tenors have released eight albums; sold more than 1.3 million; gone multi-platinum; released four live concert DVDs; will release another one later this year from Spain; performed more than 1,700 international concerts in 21 countries on six continents; and sold in excess of 3.3 million concert tickets.

At the launch event renowned Australian

he Australian Festival of Chamber Music, recognised as the most prestigious

T

pianist

international chamber music event in the Southern Hemisphere, launched its most

artistic director Piers

diverse and exciting season to date with a special 20th anniversary performance in

Lane, gave an intimate

The program will feature a mix of contemporary chamber music artists such as Synergy

by Frederic Chopin

Brisbane.

and

event

performance of works

Percussion and renowned didgeridoo artist and composer William Barton, with not-to-be-

and

missed performances from long-time favourites, including the Australian String Quartet, the

Schumann

Robert

Goldner String Quartet and local Brisbane-born violinist James Cuddeford.

invited classical music

and

“An exquisite location, paired with friendly people and outstanding performances by

lovers to join him in

national and international musicians is what draws people back to Townsville year after year.

Townsville: “With an

To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we have pulled together an innovative and diverse

enviable

program to inspire arts and chamber music lovers of all ages,” says event general manager,

reputation for the

Yvette Braithwaite Bragg.

quality

global of

its

The Festival also attracts some of the finest chamber musicians from around the world,

distinguished artists, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music has become a happy meeting

and this year will host high calibre artists including bassoonist Matthew Wilkie from

place for Australian and overseas visitors who enjoy the opportunity to hear and meet

Germany, cellists Louise Hopkins from the UK and Young Chan Cho from Seoul, German

international musicians in a wonderfully inviting and unsurpassed tropical winter setting.”

guitarist Karin Schaupp and Canadian pianist Bernadene Blaha.

Details of the 30 July to 7 August event are on: www.afcm.com.au

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motoring

Jaguar This is the most important new Jaguar for years... he XF is undoubtedly a make-or-break car for Jaguar, and will challenge the Audi A6 and BMW 5-Series in a way the S-Type never managed. What’s more, it shows how the next generation of models from the Coventry firm will be styled: rather than look to the past, the XF is every inch a modern machine. Inside, the cabin takes an even bigger leap forward, with a new lowset dash and moody blue lighting. There is more space and, thanks to the taller roof, extra rear headroom as well. Starting the car is a real occasion. Press the ‘power’ button, which pulses red like a heartbeat, and the cylindrical JaguarDrive gearshift rises gracefully, while the air vents slide open. Other neat features inside include proximity-sensitive lights – a wave of a hand is all that’s needed to illuminate them – and a touchscreen for the sat-nav and stereo system. But it is how the XF behaves on the road that we’re really interested in. Even around town the XF impresses, cosseting occupants exactly as a Jaguar should and soaking up bumps with ease. It’s great on the motorway too, where the stability-enhancing aerodynamic undertray and taut body control really come into their own. “We wanted a car you could drive for 1,000km and arrive still feeling fresh,” explains Jaguars’ test driver Schuhbauer. “But it also had to offer best-in-class agility and steering. We looked at our competitors, yet our target was the XK; we wanted the XF to drive like a saloon version.” With a stiffer body than the S-Type, a wider track and XK suspension, the XF relishes twisty roads. The SV8 gets 20-inch alloy wheels with CATS adaptive dampers, too, so it barely rolls in corners, even at high speed. It’s not only the ride and handling balance that impress. With 560Nm of torque, the supercharged V8 delivers incredible pace. Clever tuning means the exhaust’s off-beat rumble – set against the supercharger whine – enters the cabin only under hard acceleration, and the car is a highly refined cruiser. The six-speed auto is fabulous, too, giving super-smooth shifts and an even snappier Sport mode. Steering wheel-mounted paddles, which blip the engine on the downchange, complete the powertrain highlights. Even from the passenger seat, it’s clear Jaguar is on to a winner with the XF. It finally shrugs off the past – and ensures the British marque can look forward to a bright future. Choice of engines and performance The MY11 XF Diesel S now comes with an XFR-derived interior as standard, while the Adaptive Dynamics system, currently featured on the XFR and XK range, is available as an option on the highperformance diesel. The XF Luxury model includes many premium features as standard: Bond Grain leather seats; Phosphor Blue halo illumination and interior mood lighting; seven-inch full colour touch-screen display; six-speed automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM and Jaguar Sense and Jaguar Smart Key SystemTM with Keyless Start. The Luxury

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a rare blend of art and performance, science and beauty... model comes in a selection of 13 colours and has five different alloy wheel designs to choose from. Geoff Cousins, Managing Director, Jaguar UK said: "While our class-leading diesel engine is by far the most popular engine in the range, we would like to appeal to low mileage drivers who do not necessarily want or need to drive a diesel. By reducing the entry price for the XF range, we have made our fourdoor saloon even better value for money."

Choice of engines include: 3.0 litre v6 Petrol - 175kw & 293Nm of torque 3.0 Litre V6 Diesel - 202Kw and 600Nm of torque - 0-100kph in 6.4 seconds 5.0 Litre Naturally Aspirated V8 petrol - 283Kw - 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds 5.0 Litre Supercharged V8 Petrol - XFR - 375Kw - 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds AJ-V8 Gen III petrol engines and AJ-V6D Gen III diesel engines deliver more power and more performance with comparable or better fuel economy and emissions than the engines they superseded.


LuxuryStyleliving

the XF collection Jaguar presents Stephanie Rice as brand ambassador Sunshine Jaguar announced the newly appointed Jaguar ambassador is Stephanie Rice. Olympic gold medalist Stephanie Rice was chosen by Jaguar for the same reason... they both continue to push the boundaries with outstanding performance, sporting style and sophistication. Sunshine Jaguar, 179 Nerang Road Southport Tel:07) 5509 7109 www.sunshinejaguar.com.au Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving

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lifestyle

Rimini by the River Your Ticket to Relaxation

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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 quiet side street back from the traffic and noise Call us today for your quality family getaway or romantic couples escape.

www.rimini.com.au

Prestigious, Glamorous, Luxury at it's Best!!! From our reservation specialists to our certified chauffeurs, your comfort, safety and satisfaction are always guaranteed with Vogue Limousines

Our services include, however are not limited to: Weddings - Formals - Airport Transfers - Corporate Transfers - Sight Seeing Tours - Dinner Transfers Anniversary Transfers - Theme Park Transfers Bucks and Hens Nights - Funerals - Sporting Events.

T: 1300 799 255 or 0449 600 019 E: bookings@voguelimousines.com.au

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Queensland LuxuryStyleLiving


Retreat from the world... into your own backyard

Direct importers of quality stone products

• Unique range of natural pebbles • Hand crafted pavers in volcanic & sandstone • Stackwall & stone rockwall features • Statues pots & water features

To view our full range of products visit

www.oceanicimports.com.au

OCEANIC IMPORTS Open 7 days, 791 Eumundi-Noosa Rd Doonan. Ph 07 5449 1049 Mob 0419 148 499 email: info@oceanicimports.com.au

DISPLAY CENTRE WITHIN ‘THE YARD LANDSCAPE & NURSERY SUPPLIES’


c o l i n h e a n e y. c o m


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