Style magazine Toowoomba - April 2023

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Meatstock taking barbecue by storm

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Welcome to April, Stylers! This is possibly my favourite month of the year - the mornings are crisp and cool, the days not quite frigid yet, the trees starting to properly loose their leaves, and there’s a few exciting events and festivals on in our Garden City.

What better way to showcase all this month has to offer than an edition of Style magazine? We’ve got some incredible stories for you, including local worthy causes just in time for some Easter generosity (p8) and the winners of this year’s Bread Show (p10). We’re also featuring sell-out sensation Meatstock, which will be on later this month - tickets are already almost gone, so get in quick!

Style is also bringing back our food reviews, kicking off the page with a visit to Buncha Hanoi. This authentic Vietnamese take-away restaurant is sure to be a hit with Toowoomba - don’t forget to try their incredible Bahn Mi!

Finally, we have a special advertising feature on all things Home and Living. Get your autumn redecorating fix from page 33. Enjoy this edition of Style, and we’ll see you next month!

The Style team xx

Adam Eckersley and Brooke McClymont are ready for Meatstock in Toowoomba.

JOURNALISTS Jessica Kramer, Megan Masters, Melanie Collins, Alyssa Welke, Alexandra Feiam, Savaira Ratukula, Kate Calacouras, Kirrily Schwarz, Kate Salemme SUB EDITOR Cam Ward DESIGN Paul Hunter, Justine Costello GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw

TOOWOOMBA CONTACT DETAILS style@news.com.au Level 1/5 Keefe Street, Toowoomba City PO BOX 40, Toowoomba QLD 4350

Barbecue is the flavour of the month, with Meatstock back in Toowoomba from April 14-15

Meat and greet

Barbecue is the flavour of the moment at Meatstock, writes Megan Masters

When Jay Beaumont travelled to the US about 15 years ago and tried “low and slow” barbecue for the first time, it was love at first bite.

Cooking on “pits” is something of an art form in America, particularly in the south, where you can travel around trying barbecue in all its forms and enjoy flavours as rich as the history of this unique style of cooking.

He returned home, eyed off his four-burner Australian barbecue and figured there had to be a better way to recreate that smoky, tender, full-flavoured meat. But at that point smokers and charcoal pits were all-but unheard of for the average Aussie.

Thanks to a fairly amazing exchange rate at the time, however, more and more Australians were travelling to America and returning just as enamoured with the food scene as Mr Beaumont.

Within five years he saw all signs pointing towards a boom in the Australian low and slow market.

He took a gamble and set to work organising a festival that showcased this delicious food and the tools required to make it, as well as providing entertainment so people could tap their feet while tucking into mouth-watering brisket, ribs and pork shoulder.

He saw huge potential in the first event, held in Port Macquarie, and soon set to work on the inaugural Meatstock festival, held in Sydney in 2015.

It didn’t come without its difficulties in a country where just finding cuts like beef brisket or baby back ribs could prove challenging.

“When we first got into it you couldn’t just go to the butcher and buy a brisket, and if you tried they would sell you a rolled roast,” Mr Beaumont said.

“That whole culture didn’t exist, so we had to create our own and there was a passion for it,” he said.

The passion largely drew from how addictive low and slow cooking could be, with debate all across the American south –and now Australia – about how it should best be done.

Communities of enthusiasts began to pop up across Australia ready to debate all the burning barbecue questions: Should the meat be wrapped or unwrapped for cooking? Should it be wrapped in foil or paper? What is the best rub for each cut? Should it be served with sauce? What wood brings the best flavour to the smoke?

“When you get into it, it can be quite addicting,” Mr Beaumont said.

“For me, the big difference is that the smoke imparts so much flavour into the meat.

“A lamb shoulder roasted in the oven can be quite tender and delicious, but barbecue just has a different dimension.”

He said barbecue could be a slippery slope for some enthusiasts, starting out with a little smoker from the hardware store and a beef brisket, but ending with a $25,000 barbecue trailer and a new career as a pitmaster.

As the popularity of pit cooking surged

across the country, Mr Beaumont was soon fielding plenty of demand from Queenslanders keen to get their own bite of the brisket. But finding the right location proved more difficult than expected.

“For the longest time we looked at Brisbane but we could never make it work,” he said.

“Then we found Toowoomba and the showgrounds and thought, ‘This is the right venue, and we could make it big’, and we got 13,000 people at the first Toowoomba festival last year.”

Some of the country’s most dedicated barbecue addicts are now integral to the Meatstock festival, with a neat dozen of the country’s best pitmasters bound for Toowoomba for the second annual instalment of the event on April 14-15.

Mr Beaumont said the event would run

over Friday and Saturday, with Saturday’s event already sold out thanks to the booming popularity of barbecue, coupled with a musical line-up that includes a host of Australia’s most lauded country musicians including Brad Cox, Kasey Chambers, Casey Barnes and The McClymonts.

Tickets are still available for the Friday event, but Mr Beaumont warned barbecue lovers to get in quick.

More than 50 vendors will be displaying their wares and chatting with festival-goers about the best set-up for their needs, including everything from the charcoal pit to the spice rub that will boost the flavour of your future creations.

“If you’re just getting into it and want to talk to the vendors or the competitors, they’re always happy to chat,” he said.

“If you’re there to learn barbecue, you could really cut your learning curve and this is the way to do it.”

Along with the tunes and the delicious food, patrons can also enjoy a huge range of other entertainment.

Competitive Eating Australia has officially sanctioned Meatstock to run a burger eating contest, with professional eaters flying in from around the country.

There will also be officially sanctioned heats for Australia’s Strongest Man and Woman in addition to AMIST Butcher Wars, sanctioned by the World Butchers Alliance, and Steak Wars, sanctioned by the Australasian Barbecue Alliance.

Finally, Professional Bullriders Australia (PBR) will be bringing the PBR Monster Energy Tour to the event.

Tickets for the Friday event are $58 and must be pre-purchased as none will be available at the gate if it’s sold out. For more information visit meatstock.com.au.

TheMeatstockfestivalreturnsto Toowoombaforthesecondtimethismonth andthousandsofbarbecueloverswillagain descendontheshowgrounds,drawnby morethan50vendors,competitionsanda stellarcountrymusicline-up.

cover story

FOOD FOR THE SOUL

With the inexorable rise of the cost of living Toowoomba’s charitable organisations have never been busier, and never in greater need of support.

While many of our region’s residents are fortunate enough to live in an area known for its ability to thrive even in the toughest of economic conditions, there will always be those facing some of their toughest times through illness, job loss or simply finding that the weekly pay packet no longer stretches far enough.

Our city is home to incredible organisations that deal daily with some of our most vulnerable – no matter how large the personal toll to those who run them, and no matter how much effort must go into keeping the doors open.

Style Magazine took a peek into three of our amazing local charities to see how they were going and give readers the opportunity to show their support through donations, appreciation or volunteering.

Toowoomba Hospice

Caring for people through the last weeks of their lives is a heart-wrenching prospect, but every day the incredible staff at the Toowoomba Hospice turn up with smiles on their faces and plenty of love and care to give to terminal patients and their families.

Toowoomba Hospice administration and events assistant Amy Goldsmid said the sixbed facility was often at capacity and had annual running costs of $2.2m, 40 per cent of which came directly from the community.

This year the organisation is set to

celebrate 20 years of service to the community with a mid-year gala dinner aimed at celebrating the important donors and staff who keep the wheels turning every day of the year.

Amy said the hospice had a huge focus on supporting the community that supported them, so the reciprocal relationship meant that most of the procurement that could be done locally, was.

“We really think Toowoomba is a special place and even though we are a small facility, we keep our heart in it,” she said.

“It works well for us to be a small facility because it means we can make things very personal.

“We really make everything about the person and their family and offer support with things like providing pastoral care for the family for up to 12 months after their loved one has passed.”

To find out more about Toowoomba Hospice, buy tickets to the 20th Anniversary Gala or donate to this heartfelt service, visit toowoombahospice.org.au.

Tony’sCommunity Kitchen

Tony Hurle has long been a fixture on the local volunteering scene, but he has never been busier than he is right now.

For years he has run the Wilsonton Community Carols and selflessly given his time and resources to provide food to people living rough in the city, but at the beginning of the pandemic he bit the bullet and started up Tony’s Community Kitchen.

In that short time since, the organisation has grown to more than 150 volunteers who

provide food to those in need rain, hail or shine, 365 days of the year.

Every day they turn up, organise donations, pick up and deliver food, and cook nutritious meals and serve them.

Since its inception, Tony’s Community Kitchen has already provided more than 62,000 nutritious, cooked meals, 478 showers and 490 loads of laundry, providing a lifeline and dignity to those doing it the toughest.

The charity even recently added a monthly GP visit for those struggling to access this care.

The organisation now has its own op-shop to help fund the service, while also providing quality second-hand goods to people and is in the process of moving to 232 North St, the former Searcher’s End shed.

The move has Tony and his team of volunteers working overtime, but will be worth all the hard work.

The site has plenty of parking, a fully wheelchair-accessible lower level, and provides goods at the lowest possible prices to help those struggling.

The service is always in need of financial assistance, volunteers and donations of goods.

To find out more about Tony’s Community Kitchen or donate to this important cause, visit tonyscommunity.com.au.

ToowoombaFood Assist

Holly Allsop knows exactly what it is like to be in the depths of depression, out of a job and struggling to make ends meet.

To help pull herself out of despair she started volunteering for Toowoomba Food Assist, which provides grocery hampers at below-cost prices to those doing it tough as well as providing assistance to those struggling the worst.

Since then, she turned her life around and now works as warehouse manager for the organisation, which is run under the auspices of ActsCare Group.

“I have a great passion for this place,” Holly said.

“I used the service for 10 years because my family and I have struggled, so I can relate to my customers and that’s why I’m so passionate.

“We put our hearts in and base ourselves on the idea that everybody deserves to eat and nothing goes to waste.”

Holly said the charity had struggled since the onset of Covid in 2020 to keep the wheels turning. A combination of transport cost increases, shortages of fresh produce, price increases and the growth in demand for the service meant it was more difficult than ever to service the outlying towns across the service’s footprint.

She said support for Food Assist could be made in a range of ways, including volunteering, donations, and pre-purchasing hampers for customers who couldn’t afford them.

The organisation is a fully self-funded not-for-profit and among the entries on the Food Assist wishlist is a small delivery truck to enable team members to travel to places like Warwick, Pittsworth and Clifton to provide the same service that Toowoomba customers receive.

In 2021 the service moved from Vanity St into its new premises in Campbell St, which allowed it to open a small shopfront so those wanting individual items rather than hampers could access the service.

The best thing about supporting this charity is that even the simple act of buying yourself a hamper filled with below-cost basics for $25 helps the Toowoomba Food Assist to provide help to others through greater buying power and its razor-thin margins.

Additionally, you can donate money, volunteer your time or donate goods, though generally because of the style of service provided, much of what they require has to be in bulk.

To help out or find out more, you can visit foodassist.com.au and click the donate tab or call Toowoomba Food Assist on 4634 1157.

Main:Tony'sCommunityKitchenfounderTonyHurle.Picture:Kevin Farmer; Above:ToowoombaHospice’s volunteerLynNoyeswithstaff membersMaxineStacey,BernieUpton,EugenieCorbett,Amy Goldsmid,SueThonell;and ToowoombaFoodAssistwarehouse managerHollyAllsop(right)withvolunteerFrank.

Help for those who are struggling can come in many ways, writes Megan Masters. She looks at three organisations helping make a difference

Rising stars

Taking time to mentor his young staff members has paid dividends for one of Toowoomba’s most successful bakers, writes Megan Masters

EVERYONEKNEADS ABAKINGMENTOR

Antony Blackey is one of Toowoomba’s most lauded bakers after 10 years of entering the Heritage Bank Toowoomba Royal Bread Show. But this year he set aside his thirst for victory to make some room for the next generation.

The former King of the Bakers recipient is the proud owner of Antony’s Bakery and has a strong relationship with a number of Toowoomba high schools, which not only gives him a reasonable pool of potential workers but also allows him to give back to an industry that has been his main source of passion and success.

This year he spent much of the time he would normally devote to perfecting his own entries to mentoring his young charges through the competition, among the most prestigious bread shows in the country.

The hard work paid off, with apprentices Sarah Lindenmayer, Chris McCarty and Holly Tickner taking the top three places in the cake section, and Chris taking out the Apprentice of the Year award, pipping Sarah at the post by a single point.

Overall, the bakery won four major awards and 16 category awards and Mr Blackey said putting the haul on display might require a clean out of the already full trophy cabinet.

Mr Blackey himself got his start in baking as a starry-eyed 17-year-old and knows the importance of having good mentors and a supportive environment in which to learn –things he is determined to see his own young charges benefit from.

“It’s a lot of work [entering the competition] and proves you as a baker and pastry chef, and it’s a great way to encourage the young apprentices to make a better product,” he said.

“This year I went in mainly to put the three apprentices against each other and against the other apprentices that enter, even though it did affect my own entries.”

He said it was all worth it, however, in a climate where finding quality apprentices is

one of the biggest challenges facing the industry.

With supermarkets now doing much of their baking off-site or with minimal on-site work, Mr Blackey said it was almost entirely up to independent bakeries to train up the next generation of skilled bakers and pastry chefs.

His other big reason for going the extra mile on entries is the huge respect he has for the bread show and its primary organiser, RASQ chief executive Damon Phillips.

“The bread show has been around for, I think, 54 years, and if we don’t support it, it won’t be there any more,” he said.

“Everyone says they’re really busy, but I’m in the same boat and I just think it’s important to show our support.”

Majorawards

RASQKingoftheBakers: Uncle Bob’s Bakery

MostSuccessfulCake: Antony’s Bakery

MostSuccessfulBread: Uncle Bob’s Bakery

1stand2ndYearApprentice: Chris McCarty/Antony’s Bakery

3rdand4thYearApprentice: Christine Walker/Uncle Bob’s Bakery

BestSpecialityBread: Mr Sourdough

ChampionLoaf: Uncle Bob’s Bakery

CommercialBread: Bakery Cakery

ToowoombaCup: Uncle Bob’s Bakery

FeatureProduct: Uncle Bob’s Bakery

Regionalawards

RegionalShield: Antony’s Bakery

RegionalBread: Theo’s Bakery

RegionalCake: Antony’s Bakery

NOSLEEPLEADSTO SHOWSTOPPERS

It’s no small feat for any bakery business to hold the fort while trying to prepare entries for the Heritage Bank Toowoomba Royal Bread Show, but it was certainly a wild ride for Trent and Elizabeth Challenger of St George Bakery this year.

The team managed seven trophies, but between the bread show and the Dirranbandi Show they were awake for 48 hours straight, had served countless meals, mopped up a cake disaster, avoided a bushfire and travelled bumpy highways for hundreds of kilometres.

Mr Challenger said simply getting the entries in for the show has turned into something of a running joke after having to take the long way last year due to floods, and this year because of fires.

“Next year it’s going to be famine or plagues,” he joked.

“Seven trophies is nothing to cry about, but I did have a cry when I arrived.

“I usually go via the Moonie Highway but there were fires at Cecil Plains, so I had to take a much longer, bumpier Gore Highway.

“I was stopping constantly to check the cake in the trailer and it was fine the whole way, but when I arrived at Toowoomba I discovered the top layer had come off.”

Not one to be deterred, Mr Challenger said he has “the trophy bug” now and loves the challenge of entering one of the country’s premier baking competitions as a way of honing his craft and enjoying a challenge.

He said the vast majority of their show entries were things they sold in the bakery, a mainstay in their small town. Mrs Challenger and the other bakery employees make a formidable judging panel to get the right products to enter in the show.

While it’s always a challenge getting the

JudgingfortheToowoombaRoyalBread ShowwasbarelyunderwaybeforeLizand TrentChallengerheadedforDirranbandito caterfortheannualshow(above); someof theofferingsmadebytheteamattheSt GeorgeBakeryforthebreadshow(top).

Thedetails

Venue: Jimbour Station

Dress: Wedding World Toowoomba

Hair: Pure Styling

Make-up: Pure Styling

Flowers: Western Downs Weddings

Entertainment: DJ 3MC – Mitch Harris

Photographer: Megan Henry

Photography

Videographer: Gerkies

Celebrant: Lee Dallman

Caterer: Pips ‘n’ Cherries

Cake: Buttercream & Pearls

LibbyandCurtSendall’swedding.

Pictures:MeganHenryPhotography

ElizabethandCurtis

Country touches added charm and comfort to the Sendalls’ heartfelt ceremony

Whatwasthedateofyourwedding?

Saturday, February 25, 2023

Wherewastheceremonyandreception?Whydid youchoosethatspace?

We chose the space because of its rich heritage. Jimbour House is over 150 years old and is absolutely magnificent. The gardens and giant trees provide the most stunning backdrop for wedding photos.

The ceremony was held under the Grand Fig Tree and the reception was held in the Hangar

Howmanyguestsdidyouhave?

54 adults and children

Howdidyoumeetyourhusband?

A mutual friend introduced me to Curtis at my 16th birthday party. We really hit it off and we haven’t stopped talking since.

Howdidhepropose?Wherewastheproposal?

Curtis proposed on the same Brisbane CityCat we went on one of our first dates. In front of a lot of people, right in front of the Story Bridge which was all lit up, he got down on one knee and told me he loved me and asked me to marry him. Even though I had chosen my

ring that morning, it was still a huge surprise. He later told me he had it all planned out long before.

Whenorganisingyourwedding,whatweresomeof themostpersonalandimportantaspectstogetright ontheday?

It was really important for both of us to feel comfortable on the day. Curtis wore an Akubra hat and I wore western boots because I wasn’t going to risk wearing heels. We also agreed it was important to have a lot of greenery and flowers to complement our beautiful garden surroundings. We chose to limit our guest list to close family and friends only and we wrote our own vows.

Whatweresomeofyourfavouritepartsoftheday?

We had such a great day, it’s really hard to choose. I’d have to say seeing Curtis at the end of the aisle for the first time would be a definite favourite for me. I know we both really enjoyed reading our vows to each other because they meant so much to us. I also really enjoyed getting ready in the house with my best friend, sisters, Curt’s sister and my mother. Another special moment for us was when my bridesmaids performed the most amazing song at our reception for us, written by my maid of honour. Our wedding day florals were stunning

and so was our reception styling. Our DJ had everyone up and dancing throughout the night.

Wheredidyougetyourdressfrom?Your bridesmaiddresses?

I bought my dress from Wedding World Toowoomba and the bridesmaids’ dresses from Ferrari Formal Wear Toowoomba. Curt’s suit was from Peter Jackson.

Whosuppliedyourflowers,tablesettingsetc?

Our wedding planner, Western Downs Weddings, supplied everything for our ceremony and reception, they also did the set up and styling for us.

Didyouhaveadistinctweddingtheme?Howdoes thisrelatetoyourpersonalitiesandfamilyhistory?

I would say our wedding theme was country elegance. We wanted a bit of country charm on our wedding day because Curtis and I both grew up in small country towns (Kogan and Brigalow) in the Western Downs. We deliberately chose the Hangar for our reception and opted for timber trestle tables for our guest seating. We also love the finer things in life, and wanted our wedding day to feel very elegant, hence the styling with classic white florals and gold accents.

Top Fashion Week trends

Try some of the hottest new looks from around the world, writes Alexandra Feiam

From February to March, designers showcased the hottest trends they’re predicting for the FW23 season, and we’re just in time to test them out. This year’s runways were dominated by both minimal and pared-back fashion of the ’90s and maximalism reminiscent of the early ’00s.

Whether you love bold clothing choices or something laid back, there is a perfect new trend for you to try.

COLOURCOATED

Saint Laurent has ushered in a new era of fine elegance and beautiful tailoring. If you want to recreate its clean lines and classic silhouette, it’s time to invest in a longline coat. This will instantly elevate your outfit no matter what – yes, even if you’re in jeans, workout leggings or a pair of tracksuit pants. Stick to neutral colours like brown, black or grey if you want to build a basic wardrobe, but if you want something a bit edgy, there’s nothing better than green or red.

NEUTRALNINETIES

It’s no secret that the ’90s have come back in a big way, so it’s time to re-evaluate the era. Dubbed “quiet luxury” by the fashion greats, it’s now about creating a sophisticated and put-together outfit without going overboard. Supermodels and style icons of the late ’90s such as Kate Moss spearheaded the return of clean and minimal style. Think black and white basics, tank tops, long skirts, tailored trousers, square heels and blazers. The simpler the design, the better!

SEEINGRED

If you’re sick of wearing dark colours during cold months, you’re not alone. We’ve

seen a lot of green, pink and blue in the past few years, but now we can expect seas of red. It is undoubtedly a bold look, but it’s the ultimate shade to try if you want to experiment this winter. On the runway we saw plenty of monochrome outfits, combining the same shade in skirts and shirts, long layers and suiting. Of course, this

isn’t for everyone, so if you want something more subtle, you could consider a long ruby coat, scarlet shoes or a crimson jumper. These can be worn with your other pieces effortlessly.

TAKEITTOTHEMAXI

On and off the runway, one of the biggest

Shop the look

H&Msatinskirt–$59.99 CottonOn boyfriend cardiganblack–$32 CUEscarletwool coat–$850

IT’SA BOOT-IFULLIFE

It’s time to put away your ankle boots, because leather knee boots are taking over. Don’t stress about the heel height – whatever is the comfiest for you, the better. We recommend colours that match the rest of your outfits.

style secrets designers are loving is the maxi skirt. Form fitting and flattering, they are the perfect alternative to office trousers or jeans, and will add a feminine accent to any look. Dark shades and patterns such as pinstripes will work with most other styles. If you like thinking outside the box, bold colours like green, blue or cream will help you stand out.

✓ Specialist Orthodontists

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✓ Trust the experts with your smile

Look great and enjoy comfort while investing in quality, natural fibres with these breathable fabrics, writes Savaira Ratukula

Style and comfort

Australia’s weather can fluctuate wildly on any given day, even during the cooler months of the year. So it’s important that your clothes are breathable and comfortable whatever the weather – and, incredibly, achieving this without sacrificing style and sustainability is possible.

The fashion industry is making a move towards more sustainable and eco-friendly choices that leave less of a carbon footprint. It was found that the industry and its supply chain is the world’s third-largest polluter, according to the World Economic Forum.

This move has seen naturally and organically sourced fabrics popping up as more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to non-biodegradable, synthetics. Here are some sustainable fabrics to keep you comfortable.

Organiclinen

A popular fabric that does well in many climates is linen. Flax-based and naturally lightweight, it’s breathable and loosely woven to allow heat to escape and help maintain a stable body temperature. Given its natural fibres and unique structure, the fabric has heat reflection properties to aid in keeping you cooler for those oddly warm autumn days. It is a renewable resource and produced without the need for fertilisers or pesticides that can damage the environment. Linen dresses, shirts, shorts and pants are popular choices no matter the occasion, activity, or season of the year.

Organiccotton

With its breathable and lightweight properties, cotton offers work attire staples

fashion

during the months where temperature fluctuates wildly. With current cotton production methods using chemicals like pesticides, fertilisers and GMOs, opting for workwear sourced from organic cotton production is a more sustainable choice. The natural fibre ensures airflow, absorbs moisture, and is a good choice for those with sensitive skin and allergies. Be mindful that cotton does crease easily and may show sweat patches with lighter colours.

Bamboo

With thermoregulatory properties to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, bamboo has a few more impressive characteristics up its sleeve. The breathable and moisture-wicking material offers ventilation through microscopic holes to keep you feeling fresher for longer. It is also antibacterial, which can help to fight odours, filters around 97 per cent of UV radiation, is hypo-allergenic and a soft, light fabric. Athleisure and lounge wear brands are developing pieces with this textile.

Merinowool

Despite wool having a winter-only vibe, merino wool is a surprisingly lightweight and breathable fabric – making it perfect for autumn. Its antibacterial properties absorb odour molecules, making it naturally odour resistant. It also absorbs up to 30 per cent of moisture, making it sweat resistant and helps protect skin from UV rays with a natural UPF of around 50. The natural fibre grown by merino sheep that is thinner and softer than regular wool. It offers an environmentally friendly, timeless option for your wardrobe.

Organichemp

A product of the cannabis sativa plant bred for various purposes, the hemp fibre is one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable textiles. Clothing ranges from shirts to dresses and pants to shoes because of the fabric’s breathability and durability that becomes softer with each wash without losing its robustness.

Due to its rough texture, manufacturers can blend synthetics with it, making it less than pure hemp, so always check the label when looking for pure fabrics. It is also hypoallergenic and offers UV protection, with organic fibre completely biodegradable.

Ready, set, glow

Unlock the power of these three proven ingredients, writes Melanie Collins

When it comes to skincare, it seems the list of must-have ingredients gets longer and longer by the day. But, like in fashion, it’s not always a good idea to follow trends. Instead, researching and learning about products that have proven results is the way to go.

Instead of jumping on the next skincare trend (especially important for those with sensitive skin), we’ve rounded up a list of three ingredients you can trust. Create a permanent spot for each of these on your bathroom shelf and you’ll be on your way to healthier, happier skin.

HyaluronicAcid

Undoubtedly one of the most well-known skincare ingredients, this is one product that has grown in popularity in the past few years and is now found in loads of products.

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that occurs naturally in the skin and works to help maintain hydration. Its main use and benefit is keeping the skin moist and lubricated. When used in skincare products, it can boost the skin’s moisture levels, plump up fine lines and improve the skin’s overall appearance and texture.

Unlike some super ingredients, it absorbs quickly into the skin, and is non-irritating, meaning it’s safe for all skin types.

VitaminC

Often referred to as ascorbic acid, which is the form of vitamin C found naturally in food, this ingredient can be found in everything from hair serum to toothpaste.

In the beauty world, it’s an essential part of skincare routines thanks to its ability to

even out skin tone. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to brighten the skin, fade dark spots and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. It also helps to protect the skin against environmental damage, such as pollution and UV rays.

Retinol

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that helps

to boost collagen production, improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Far beyond being an effective anti-ager, retinol also targets breakouts for an overall clearer complexion.

It has exfoliating properties, as well, and can improve skin elasticity – it really is a multi-tasker.

There’s one thing to remember when

starting out with this powerhouse ingredient, though – less is more. It’s important to use it sparingly and gradually build up tolerance. If you’re using a serum, start with a pea-sized amount mixed with your moisturiser every few nights. Gradually reduce the amount of moisturiser-to-retinol ratio, until you’re applying the serum directly to your skin, and following with your regular moisturiser.

$48

Paula’s ChoiceC15 Super Booster,$72

LaRochePosayRetinol B3Serum, $71.95

Caring for women through all stages of their life’s journey.

Heading into the cooler months, this generally means the market cools as well. At Helen Austin Property, we are still seeing amazing results, whether you are thinking about selling or wanting an idea of where your property sits in today’s market, please give us a call today. We would love to have a chat about how we can help you and how Helen Austin Property can get the best results for you.

Helen and Hannah were brilliant the whole way through selling our house from start to fnish, nothing was too hard - it really took the stress out of the selling process. They know business and if I had any questions small or big, they were just a phone call away. If you need to sell your house, these ladies will get it done.

Seller – Mount Lofty

We chose Helen Austin Property to sell our home. Helen and Hannah were always approachable, knowledgeable and a very professional team. Throughout the process of selling, they communicated well, helpful and responded to our queries without delay. They made us feel comfortable and well supported.

Seller – Mount Lofty

Letting go of the past

Moving forward can require looking behind, writes relationship expert Dr Clive Williams

The hardest thing about being a psychologist is seeing people unintentionally shoot themselves and their relationship in the foot.

These people with bloody feet are often bright, capable, highly successful. Like many of us, when it comes to our relationships, we operate from long-held behaviours that we think are good, normal, effective. This couldn’t be furtherer from the truth.

Sid* is a cattleman with several properties across the Downs. It’s not an easy career and like a lot of other cattle people, he would say he was born into it.

Sid comes from a family where his mother ruled the roost. Her rule was comprised of daily telling people in the family what they were doing wrong. Any pushback against this was meet with more information about their failings and how they were being selfish.

Sid’s dad, a quiet man, allowed his wife her daily assessments of everyone but mostly kept to himself. As Sid grew, he spent as little time in the house as he could and followed

his quiet father in and around their properties.

In Sid’s marriage, he is mostly quiet. He doesn’t tell his wife a thing about his internal life, if he is angry, disappointed, or worried. His “normal” is that it’s pointless to tell anyone anything as you will be shot down and then ridiculed. His wife’s feels overwhelmingly lonely.

Sid thinks psychologists are wankers who charge too much, who don’t know a thing about his life and are a waste of time. He believes there is no point talking about his

past or the family he grew up in. He has too much to do. He has to focus on the present. Sid is a good man but has no idea that he repeats in his marriage the same life skills he learned as a small boy, as a teenager. His “normal” is to shut down, and stay a safe distance from other people. In a very real sense, Sid learned to survive his family and these same survival skills is how he lives his life, 40 years later.

Sid has no idea that closeness can feel safe. In our first session, he sat scowling, making minimal comments about his wife

and her talk of leaving. I asked if he was scared. His response was abusive. Stupid ### therapist.

I asked if he was sad. He had been diagnosed with depression and was having trouble getting out of bed. There was a small, but visible change in his body, his face. He had been caught off guard. Forty plus years of holding in every emotion he’d ever had, somehow, slipped out, just a little.

In that session, Sid let his wife briefly see his distress. She for the first time in a long time had seen that this silent, angry man she loved deeply cared about the possibility of losing her. Sid had his first experience of how a feeling, without words, could bring him and his wife a little closer.

It would take awhile for Sid to stop shooting himself and his relationship in the foot but Sid had had his first lesson in a new life skill. He promised not swear in the next session.

And there in that moment, a new way of living had just become a possibility. * not his real name

Ask the relationship expert

Qresponsible for the relationship? Was that last week or last year or longer? What did you do back then?

I’ma28-year-oldwomanwhoismiserable inmymarriage.IfeellikeI’mholdingall theresponsibilitytomakeourrelationship workandamaloneineverything.How doItellmyhusbandthatIwantadivorce?

Sorry to hear you’re in an unhappy and lonely place. The answer to your question is pretty simple: four little words. “I need a divorce”.

The more interesting question, however, is, “How did I get to this place in my relationship?” When you first felt overly

I have worked with hundreds of couples. Invariably, despite good intentions, they do things that actually sabotage a relationship, not help it. When unhappy, they criticise each other, tell each other where they are failing, doing something wrong.

ATypically, when someone is on the receiving end of criticism, being told they are wrong or failing, they then go into defence mode. They explain and justify why they did what they did. The first partner thinks, “They’re just not getting it” so they repeat their criticisms, louder, longer, harder. The second partner feels more attacked, more misunderstood and becomes more defensive. Around and around they go in an exhausting cycle. They each begin to resent

the other, they become more distant, drift apart, give up, surrender to the stalemate. Couples therapy teaches people how to communicate what they need, not what is going wrong. It sounds so simple but most of us have not learnt this. When we first hear this simple message – “Tell them what you need not what they are doing wrong” – it sounds too good to be true. When I first learnt this I thought, “What a load of …”

But it works, not to stop arguments but to help people feel heard in an argument. That is half the battle.

So if you have been in criticism mode, then switch to telling them what you need from them. One last point. I’ve seen people leave one unhappy marriage, not learn this simple skill and guess what? The same thing happens in the next. Stop repeating stuff that doesn’t work. Learn to voice what you need.

Acriticism is involved, on average people only listen for 17 seconds.

RecentlyIhadanaccidentinvolvingthe dogandchickensinthegarden,andbroke mylegandankle.I’mnowbedriddenand recoveryisexpectedtotakesixmonths. Mypartneroftwoyearshasn’tbeenmuch help:heplaysgameswithhisheadphones onalldayandcan’thearmeifIcallfor help,andtherehavebeendayswherehe won’tprepareanyfooduntillate afternoon.I’m38yearsoldbutit’sgotten tothepointwhereI’vehadtoaskmymum toflydowntolookaftermeuntilI’mmore mobile.WhatshouldIdoaboutmy partner?Ifeellikethiscouldbeabreaking pointinourrelationshipifhecan’tstepup.

QThat’s a bugger about your leg and ankle. Six months is a long time to be incapacitated.

I guess my first thoughts are about what you have said to your partner about needing help. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve had couples or families in a session and one person says “I’ve been asking for years” and the other person says “I’ve never heard that before”. How can this be?

Turns out that how we deliver the message is key. If we deliver it in a critical manner, people shut down, literally. There is research that our hearing is less when messages are delivered in a critical manner. Other research says that if a

Messages for help need to be delivered in terms of feelings and needs. For example “I’m in pain. I need you to make me some food” rather than “Can’t you see that I can’t walk? Don’t you think I might be hungry?”

I guess I’m also wondering when your partner is missing in action, what have you done? What I hear is that you found your own solution; your mother. But what does that teach your partner? I wonder if it teaches him that, yes, you might complain or state your needs but if he ignores you long enough, you will find a solution? Being a couple is about collaborating on solutions. Anything that affects the relationship, needs to have both of you involved in any resolution.

Dr Clive Williams is a local psychologist with more than 30 years’ experience, and specialises in professional counsellingfor couple’s relationships, family issues, mental health, grief and more. Here he answers your relationship questions

Behind the scenes at St Andrew’s

Toowoomba‘s business community was treated to a peak behind the theatre curtains at the latest Chamber of Commerce event

Close to 200 members of the Toowoomba business community gained a behindthe-scenes insight into one of the city’s major health institutions in March when St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital hosted the city’s premier networking event, Business @ Dusk.

Those in attendance – including local councillors and members of parliament –undertook tours through some of the usually unseen areas of St Andrew’s, including one of its seven state-of-the art operating theatres and a first-hand look at the Davinci Xi robot, valued at $3.8m.

Guests then enjoyed delicious canapes prepared and served by the hospital’s wonderful catering team, while St Andrew’s chief executive Wally Bourdelov spoke of the hospital’s rich and proud history of providing world-class medical services to the Toowoomba and Darling Downs region, and the significant investments that have been made by the hospital throughout its nearly 60 years of operation.

Business @ Dusk is a monthly event organised by Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce, of which St Andrew’s is a silver partner.

Business@DuskatSt Andrew'sHospitalin Toowoomba.

Climbing for mental health

A group of dedicated Aussies are trekking to Mt Everest base camp to raise funds, writes

Jessica Kramer

To say this local service is doing things differently would be an understatement. In May this year, roughly 20 people will trek to Mt Everest’s base camp to raise money for Momentum Mental Health.

Momentum Mental Health is a wellbeing and mental health service that focuses on prevention and getting people to consider their wellbeing before damage is done.

“We are determined to flip the way that we look at mental health and wellbeing as a community,” communications and partnerships manager Wendy Green says.

“The best part is that we don’t charge for our service. The Primary Health Network funds us to welcome people who have a diagnosis and who are ready to work on themselves, and then our own fundraising covers any other person who wants to come,” Wendy says.

“People take part in group and one-on-one programs and coaching and work towards personal goals to improve their mental health.”

As part of this mission, the team do regular events and fundraising – which is where Everest comes in, led by Momentum Mental

Health chairman Chris Black.

“Everest has always been on my bucket list and it’s a way to prove to myself and my children that anything is possible,” Chris says.

“Life is short and can be futile, so I didn’t want to put off this dream.”

Each trekker is paying their own way for the trip, as well as raising $5500 – a dollar per metre hiked – for Momentum Mental Health.

“After announcing my intention to a few people, there seemed to be enough interest to open it up to the broader community and partner with Momentum Mental Health as our charity partner,” Chris explains.

“I wanted to challenge myself and bring people on a life-changing journey, and I’m really proud that our trek now has a higher purpose and meaning.”

In addition to Chris, who is passionate about mental health after experiencing a lifealtering accident in 2021, the trekking team

includes local personalities like councillor Megan O’Hara Sullivan, people passionate about giving back to the community, and even a father-and-son duo.

The group will be returning to Toowoomba in mid-May, so keep an eye out for June Style magazine as we catch up with the participants about their journey, the challenges, and the wins.

Todonatetothisworthycause,visit everest-base-camp-challenge2023.raisely.com/donate

ChrisBlack,chairmanofMomentumMentalHealth,atopTasmania’sCradleMountaininJanuarythisyear and,left,on MountKosciuszkoin2022.

Helena’s all for happy feet

Helena Dunbar is passionate about footcare. And the fully qualifed nail technician urges seniors in particular to make sure their feet get a little TLC.

Helena welcomes clients to her home, ofering personalised, oneonone pedicures and manicures. She also ofers a mobile service for clients with mobility issues.

“I really want people to start looking afer their feet, because they get you from A to B in life,” she said. “When you get older it can be a little hard to maintain your nails and feet.

“I’m able to ofer a clean , cut and fle service,” she said, adding that many of her senior clients take advantage of at home services.

Basic to deluxe services are on ofer for both men and women using quality products.

“A basic pedicure includes a soak and pedi-paddle for heels to smooth skin as well as a trim, fle and message with a polish, if you wish, at the end.

“My deluxe pedicure includes a pedi paddle to heels and dry areas, a cut and fle of toenails, then exfoliation to the lower legs and feet, followed by a massage and a soak in parrafn wax to hydrate feet. If skin is in poor condition extra attention is made with sofening creams prior to wax soak for a wonderful fnish. A back massage is included in the chair for an added beneft in the at-home deluxe service.”

Parrifn is great for arthritis in the feet and is amazing for hydrating your skin. And the great thing is a deluxe is only needed once a month. Check out the Facebook Page for details.

Helena provides pedicure services from home or straight to your door ( will incur extra charge for pedicure)

Changing lives in Kenya

In February, St Vincent’s Toowoomba quality and risk manager Anita Waite was lucky enough to travel to Kenya, Africa for two weeks.

The awareness trip was organised by notfor-profit group Go Beyond All Borders (GBAB), which supports children and families in need through grassroots projects in Kenya, Uganda, Thailand and Australia.

St Vincent’s Health Australia was proud to sponsor Anita’s flights through its staff mission program, which assists with funding expenses for staff volunteering for outreach work or programs.

The GBAB volunteer team was from all walks of life and consisted of two nurses, pharmacist, pastor, builder, retired counsellor, early childhood educator and administrator.

GBAB supports Huruma Children’s Home in Ngong, a town near the capital Nairobi, which cares for 150 orphaned children and a further 100 children in need from the slums of Ngong.

The home also runs the Ngong Huruma primary and secondary schools, which cater for children as young as babies to high school. The students have been busy learning English, French and sign language at school, as well as maths and sciences.

Anita volunteered in the Ngong Huruma health clinic, assisting with health screening for the students. She also assisted with putting 220 hampers together for families living in the slum, parents of students, and staff and volunteers at the school.

These hampers were funded by donations made by GBAB supporters in Australia, and consisted of essentials like flour, rice, beans, sugar, milk, soap and cooking oil. These hampers were worth two weeks of wages for the locals in need.

Anita and the team visited a Masai village suffering from drought. Items purchased from the woman at the village funded access to clean water and schooling for their children.

She also visited one of the largest slums in

Kenya. GBAB funds water filters for the local school through the Project H20 initiative. These containers filter dirty unsafe water and provide clean water for a community of 100 for more than a year.

“I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity to learn about life in Kenya, and assist the communities there,” Anita said.

“St Vincent’s places huge importance on caring for and helping people, and I am very grateful to have been a staff member for over 25 years.”

FormoreinformationaboutGoBeyondAll Bordersandhowyoucangetinvolved, visitgobeyondallborders.org

If you or your family have any medical concerns, see your

health advertising feature

Choices help ease the way

There is a range of options including private and public but often families are not completely aware of every single option that is available until it is too late. For example, My Midwives Toowoomba often find that women are unaware of the option to birth within their Cottage or even the option to have early labour in the Cottage before transferring to hospital for birth.

“For out-of-town families, this is a great option”, managing director Liz Wilkes states.

“Evidence demonstrates that in the case of spontaneous onset of labour, it is better to wait until labour is well established before moving to hospital. This allows for the hormones responsible for labour to act most efficiently.

“Having the Cottage available means that women can be closer to hospital without being admitted and they have a midwife with them supporting them along that part of the journey.”

In labour, the hormone adrenaline –produced from anxiety and fear – can slow down the natural hormones of labour including oxytocin, meaning that labour can be impacted if a woman is feeling scared or frightened.

“We are mammals and while we don’t like to think of ourselves in that way, of course we have brains that also impact us,” Liz said.

“We do respond similarly to other mammals. If you think of a cat, they won’t labour well if a dog appears, anything that makes them frightened sends things haywire.

“We are a little the same. So getting well and truly established in labour helps the process for women before they move into a hospital setting which is, for many, an adrenaline-provoking activity.”

“Not everyone feels worried about moving into hospital, and for some women they have little adrenaline associated with hospitals.

“However, for a number of women it is a really big deal and we need to focus on

ensuring that we minimise the stress of this at this critical time.”

My Midwives offers full care to women from early in pregnancy, through labour and birth until their baby is six weeks old. Choices that women make are taken into consideration with each women’s own individual circumstances, and what ensures the safety for mum and baby.

“We have a collaborative admitting process with the Toowoomba Hospital, which

enables women to also see obstetricians and other health professionals during pregnancy as needed,” Liz says. “This means the best of all worlds, with minimal intervention where that is appropriate combined with the ability to escalate if it is needed.”

YoucanfindMyMidwivesatHillSt Toowoomba,byphoning46422977or findusonoursocials:

facebook.com/mymidwivestoowoomba instagram.com/mymidwives

The idea of choice in maternity care and birth is nothing new and within the Toowoomba area we are spoiled for choice

MyMidwivesToowoombaPracticeandteamofmidwives.

LED light therapy

Therapy lights the way for healing and optimising skin health, writes Savaira Ratukula

From experiments developed by NASA to grow plants in space to stimulating overall skin health, light emitting diode (LED) technology has lit the way for many industrial uses –including beauty.

LED light therapy is a pain-free and non-invasive technique that dermatologists and aestheticians use for the overall skin health of their patients.

NASA’s research not only revealed the ability of red LED wavelengths to help plants grow quicker, but that it also helped heal skin sores of the scientists. Using varying low-level wavelengths of light, patients can rejuvenate their skin on a cellular level to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process for acne, reducing inflammation and promoting anti-ageing effects. The varying wavelengths of light penetrate the skin to different depths, and offer different treatments depending on the skin concern the patient is wanting to treat.

According to the Darling Downs Skin Cancer Centre website, yellow light is suited to treating skin concerns such as wound healing, pain relief, blood circulation and muscle spasm; red light is for skin rejuvenation, rosacea, pigmentation and sun damage; and blue light targets active acne, congestion and inflammation.

Unlike other types of light therapy it does not use ultraviolet rays, making it a safe and relatively risk-free treatment. Short-term side effects like rashes, skin redness, inflammation and tenderness are very rare.

At-home devices have come on the market but results may not be as dramatic as an in-office treatment. Done right, the benefits offer patients promising results with faster recovery from surgery, reduced inflammation, natural pain relief, less scarring, boosted skin regeneration and enhanced overall skin health.

A few things to keep in mind are it is pricey and results aren’t guaranteed as every individual’s skin and skin concern is different.

Attending a consultation before beginning will help to assess the best course of treatment for your skin concern and the number of treatments.

It is also advised to not proceed while taking certain medications and to speak with your dermatologist if you have an existing skin condition.

This is: Italian cuisine

Italy is a country known for its gastronomic delights, but what many people don’t realise is how diverse the country, climate and its cuisine are; with 20 regions, each one is known for its own distinct specialties. And what better way to explore a country from afar than through its delicious regional dishes?

We’ve compiled a handy guide to bring some of the authentic flavours of Italy into your home – and to make it even better, we’ve got some of the recipes for you on the following pages.

Lombardy

Capitalcity: Milan

Famousfoods: Risotto, osso bucco

Lombardy is the northern most region of Italy, situated just below Swithzerland. While Italy is known for its delicious pasta dishes, this alpine region is famous for its rice and polenta-forward flavours. Think big bold flavours and hearty meat-forward dishes. And for cheese lovers, Lombardy is heaven with the famous gran padano, blue-veined gorgonzola, taleggio, provolone, and creamy robiola all originating in the region.

Emilia-Romagna

Capitalcity: Bologna

Famousfoods: Parmigiano reggiano, tortellini, bolognese sauce, balsamic vinegar of Modena

Belying its wealthy heritage, the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna cuisine is rich in meat and robust eggy pastas. Cured meats are also commonplace, with the ever-popular prosciutto di parma being created in the region, along with parmigiano reggiano.

Tuscany

Capitalcity: Florence

Famousfoods: Pecorino cheese, steak alla fiorentina, chianti wine

As the ancestral home of the wealthy and powerful Medici family, Tuscany produces some of the finest foods in Italy, from olive oils to sheep’s milk cheeses, and meat dishes. Amazingly delicious breads rule this region, with it incorporated into many dishes like ribollita (vegetable soup) and panzanella, a salad composed of crumbled bread, tomatoes, onions, and

Risotto

Lazio

Capitalcity: Rome

Famousfoods: Bruschetta, spaghetti alla carbonara, artichokes alla Roman

Located on the west coast of central Italy, Lazio is best known for fresh and dried pastas, artichokes and zucchini, and melt-in-your-mouth porchetta (whole roast pig). Some of the delicacies include artichokes cooked in garlic and herb oil, bucatini all amatriciana (hollow spaghetti with tomato, onions, and bacon) or spaghetti carbonara (a creamy pasta dish with egg, cheese, and black peppercorns).

Campania

Capitalcity: Naples

Famousfoods: Pizza, buffalo mozzarella, calzone, limoncello liqueur

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Bolognese sauce Pizza

Campania is regarded for its fertile volcanic soil, which produces luscious crops like San Marzano tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, salad greens, figs, and lemons. Naples is famously known as the birthplace of pizza. When fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and a bread-loving culture combine, one delicious pie follows.

Sicily

Palermo

Caponata, veal marsala

Sicily, which is located just off the “toe” of the boot of mainland Italy, is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The rich volcanic soils (thanks to Mt Etna), produce delicious citrus like lemons and blood oranges, as well as almonds, olives, and other fruit. Lamb, pork, veal and rabbit are all common in central Sicily, which is hailed as the birthplace of the meatball, called polpetti; with pasta usually topped with heady, spicy tomato sauce.

Carciofi alla romana

Serves 4. Prep time 25mins. Cook time 40mins

INGREDIENTS

● 4 globe artichokes

● ⅓ cup chopped fresh continental parsley leaves

● 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves

● 2 finely chopped garlic cloves

● 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

● 125ml (½ cup) white wine

● 185ml (¾ cup) extra virgin olive oil, extra

● Baby herbs, to serve

METHOD

1 Fill a bowl with water. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon. Starting at the base, moving the artichoke around in your hands, snap off the thick green leaves, down to the white bit, rubbing cut bits with the remaining lemon (continue rubbing cut bits with lemon through preparing the artichoke).

Risotto alla milanese

Creamy with butter and spiked with parmesan, this saffron-gilded risotto is a culinary classic

INGREDIENTS

● 1L (4 cups) chicken style liquid stock

● ½ tsp saffron threads

● 1 tbsp olive oil

● 40g butter

● 1 brown onion, finely chopped

● 2 garlic cloves, crushed

● 330g (1 ½ cups) arborio rice

● 125ml (½ cup) dry white wine

● 60g (¾ cup) shredded parmesan

● Grated parmesan, to serve

METHOD

1 Bring the stock and saffron just to the boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat and hold at a gentle simmer

2 Heat oil and half the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft and translucent.

3 Add the rice and cook, stirring, for 2-3

minutes or until the grains appear slightly glassy. Toasting the grains ensures the rice cooks evenly.

4 Add wine and cook, stirring, until liquid is absorbed. Add 1 ladleful (about ½ cup) of stock and stir until liquid is absorbed.

5 Add stock, 1 ladleful at a time. Stir until liquid is absorbed before adding the next. Continue for 20 minutes or until rice is tender yet firm to the bite.

6 Remove from heat. Stir in shredded parmesan and remaining butter. Season. Divide between serving bowls. Top with grated parmesan.

2 Use a sharp knife to cut about 3cm (about one-third, depending how big the artichoke is) from the top of the artichoke to reveal a circle of purple-coloured leaves. Use a paring knife to cut around these leaves to reveal the choke (the choke is a cluster of silky thin purple and white “hairs”). Use a spoon to scrape out all of the fuzzy choke.

3 Trim the artichoke stalks to about 5cm long and pat dry. Combine the parsley, mint and garlic in a bowl. Season. Stir in the oil.

4 Loosen the leaves of the artichokes and stuff with the parsley mixture. Place the artichokes, stem-side up, in a saucepan. Pour in the wine, extra oil and enough water so that the liquid comes one-third of the way up the sides of the artichoke leaves (not the stem). Cover with 2 layers of baking paper and a lid. Simmer for 40 minutes or until tender. Serve drizzled with some of the cooking liquid and sprinkled with baby herbs.

Steak florentina and panzanella

Serves 6. Prep time 5mins. Cook time 10mins

INGREDIENTS

● 6 (about 350g each) beef T-bone steaks

● 1 tbsp olive oil

● Salt and pepper

METHOD

1 Preheat a barbecue flat plate on high. Season the steaks with salt and pepper. Rub with the oil. Cook on barbecue for 4-5 minutes each side for medium-rare or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to a baking

tray. Cover with foil. Set aside for 5 minutes to rest.

2 Divide the steaks among serving plates. Top each with a slice of garlic & chive butter. Serve with panzanella salad.

PANZANELLA

Serves 10. Prep time 10mins

INGREDIENTS

● 4 slices day-old Italian-style bread, torn into 2cm pieces

● 4 Lebanese cucumbers, halved lengthways, thinly sliced diagonally

Pizza margherita

Makes 2 pizzas. Prep time 1hour 25mins.

Cook time 10mins

INGREDIENTS

● 100ml Mutti Tomato Passata

● 2 tbsp chopped basil leaves, plus small leaves to garnish

● 1 garlic clove, finely chopped

● 4 bocconcini, sliced 1cm thick

● 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan

● 8 cherry tomatoes, halved

● Extra virgin olive oil, to drizzle

Pizzabases

● 2 cups (300g) strong (baker’s) flour, plus

Bolognese

Serves 4. Prep time 20mins. Cook time 35mins

INGREDIENTS

1 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 carrot, finely diced

1 stick celery, finely diced

50g gluten free pancetta, diced

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary

500g pork & veal mince

60ml (¼ cup) tomato paste

125ml (½ cup) dry white wine

400g tin Italian diced tomatoes

340g dried spaghetti

Grated parmesan cheese, to serve

METHOD

● 4 ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped

● 1 red onion, cut into thin wedges

● ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, coarsely torn

● 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

● 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

METHOD

1 Combine bread, cucumber, tomato, onion and basil in a serving bowl. Drizzle over oil and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper and toss to combine. Serve.

RECIPENOTES

Note: Start this 15 minutes before serving.

1 Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Cook onion, carrot, celery and pancetta, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add garlic and rosemary, cook for 1 minute more or until aromatic. Add pork and veal mince, cook over a high heat, breaking mince up with a spoon for 5 minutes, or until browned.

2 Add tomato paste, cook stirring for 1 minute, then add wine, simmer until reduced by half. Add tomatoes and 125ml (½ cup) water, bring to the boil then reduce heat and simmer gently for 30 minutes, or until thick. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

3 Cook the pasta in a large saucepan of lightly salted boiling water according to packet instructions, or until al dente. Drain well. Serve spaghetti topped with the bolognese and grated parmesan cheese.

extra to dust

● 7g sachet dry active yeast

● 1 tsp caster sugar

● 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra to grease

METHOD

1 For the pizza bases, sift flour into a large bowl. Stir in yeast, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt. Make a well in the centre and add 200ml warm water with the oil.

2 Bring together with a wooden spoon or your hands, then turn out dough on to a floured surface. Knead for 5 minutes by hand (or in an

electric mixer with a dough hook) until the dough is smooth.

3 Lightly grease the cleaned bowl with a little oil, then add dough and cover with a tea towel. Set aside in a warm place to prove for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4 Preheat oven to 240C. Knock back the dough by punching it to remove air and divide into 2 balls. Roll dough out on a floured

surface until you have 2 very thin, 25cmdiameter pizza bases. Carefully transfer to 2 lightly floured baking sheets.

5 Combine passata or sugo with basil and garlic, then spread over pizza bases, leaving a 2cm border. Divide the bocconcini between bases, then scatter with parmesan and cherry tomatoes (cutside up). Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese has melted and the pizza bases are crisp and lightly golden around the edges.

6 Drizzle pizzas with a little more olive oil, garnish with small basil leaves then serve.

Authentic Vietnamese street food

FOOD REVIEW

BUNCHA HANOI

The first eatery in Toowoomba to offer bun cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish, Buncha Hanoi brings authentic street food that is cooked with passion to the Garden City.

While mainly catering for takeaway, the shop front includes a few high tables and bar stools for customers to eat in and is decorated with framed art of delicious Vietnamese food.

Presented with a panache not often seen in Toowoomba’s street food scene, the dishes are delicious, fresh and affordable.

Authenticbuncha

Vietnamese bun cha is a fresh and fun dish that consists of succulent charcoalgrilled pork (cha) and meatballs in a dipping sauce, with a large serve of rice noodles (bun) and salad vegetables. To eat, you pick up some noodles and salad with your chopsticks and dip in the flavourful sauce, trying to get some of the meat in there too.

Bun cha is the perfect meal for a warm summer’s day, as it’s served cold but also fresh and light while being chock-full of flavour and surprisingly filling.

Hanoibeefpho

This traditional Vietnamese soup is arguably one of the cuisine’s most wellknown dishes in western culture, and for good reason. The beef broth base packs a punch with rich spices, savoury depth and understated sweet notes, while the slices of beef are perfectly tender and complemented by al dante flat rice noodles, tangy onion and fresh bean sprouts and coriander.

Buncha Hanoi brings a new twist on the dish for our city, with authentic Hanoi flavours: the hot broth is light and has no fat, while the noodles used are old-style.

Unique favor o

VIETNAMESE CUISINE

FROM HANOI

Vietspringrolls

These are not your average takeaway spring rolls: With a thin, crispy exterior and meaty filling, you know the ingredients are fresh and authentic. Where other restaurants skimp on the filling by using rice noodles to bump up the contents, Buncha Hanoi uses other, tastier ingredients. Perfect alone or

dipped in the tangy sauce, these spring rolls are the ideal meal accompaniment or snack.

Beefstirfrybanhmi

If you’re not already a banh mi convert, you will be after trying this delectable version. Juicy strips of stir-fried beef are nestled within a fresh bread roll spread with

Here are the foods that we will give you a perfect introduction to best street eats in Vietnam:

• Bun Cha (Vietnamese Grilled Meat Vermicelli),

• Pho (Rice Noodle Soup)

• Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)

• Nem Ran or Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls)

• Viet iced/hot cofee

• Viet iced/hot jasmine tea

• Viet steamed rice

• Viet stir fried rice noodles with veggies and your choice of protein.

house-made pate and complemented by a creamy homemade sauce with crunchy pickled carrot, cucumber and salad leaves, and finished with coriander.

The baguette-style bread is a feat of bakery magic with a thin crispy exterior and soft airy interior, while the fillings combine to create a deliciously moist mouthful.

Onthemenu

BunchaHanoiToowoomba islocatedatShop3,85PerthSt, Rangeville.

Open:TuesdaytoSundayforlunch (11.30am-2.30pm)anddinner(5-8pm)

Tina Ngo/Shop 3/85 Perth St, Rangeville, Toowoomba, 4350 | 0432 425 328 | bunchahanoi4350@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/profle.php?id=100086058181717

Phoandauthentic buncha.

Home & Living Home & Living

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Picking your perfect couch

with a petite arm profile. A smaller couch can be made to look longer and sleeker by using one or two seat cushions as opposed to three, and often these are changes you can request free of charge.

Getcomfortable

Couches are the piece of furniture most used for relaxing at the end of the day, so you want to ensure yours is as comfortable as possible.

Take into consideration who will be using it and their preferences. How soft or hard should the sofa be? Will faux leather be easier to clean while the kids are still at home, or does the stickiness on hot days outweigh that for you? How many people will be sitting on it? Will it need to double as a bed on occasions? D you sit upright, recline or completely lie down?

Spend some time pondering these questions and any other requirements you have for your new sofa. You may like to compile a list to take with you when shopping as well.

Sizematters

If a sofa and lounge suite fit the living space allocated, it’s hardly noticed; if it’s completely wrong for the space, it is very obvious and even uncomfortable.

Make sure that the size of the couch is right for the room. It shouldn’t overpower the room or stop the flow of traffic. Scale and

proportion are both important. You might love that large sectional, but will it fit the room? Likewise, a tiny chair might be wrong in a large space.

Take into consideration how the sofa will look from different angles around the room as well.

If your space is small, consider a couch

If you have the luxury of space and want two couches, don’t jump straight into ordering a pair. Consider a modular and combine it with alternative seating – such as a feature armchair or ottoman – or two different types of couches that work sympathetically with each other, such as a deeper one and a slimmer one.

Makeitlast

The average sofa is in a home for around seven years, so it’s important that it be of quality enough to keep up with extended use. When shopping, check what the couch is made of. Is the frame sturdy? Is the suspension system within strong and decent? What’s the cushioning like? Will the upholstery fade, wear or rip easily?

Many cheaper couches tend to be about comfort and have little regard for style or proportions, but it is possible to have both style and comfort and at a good price point.

Ready for anything

As we all become increasingly reliant on technology, finding a reliable, eco-friendly source of power has never been more important.

EcoFlow portable power stations are an innovative, reliable and versatile solution for anyone wanting to live, dream and explore without limitations.

Compact, powerful and cost-effective, there’s an EcoFlow to suit every situation and any lifestyle – from powering up your mobile on the road, to running your entire household’s power supply. EcoFlow is a leader in portable power – in fact, EcoFlow has the fastest charging technology available, going from 0-80 per cent in just one hour. No fumes, no fuel, no maintenance, just an eco-conscious solution to powering you up anywhere, anytime.

Whether you’re planning an outdoor adventure this weekend, or simply want the peace of mind of a home back-up power supply, there’s an EcoFlow to suit your needs.

River 2 Series

A favourite of tradies thanks to its fast and reliable recharging capabilities on the worksite, the EcoFlow River 2 Series of portable power stations is also designed for camping, road trips and off-grid living. Forget working from home – pack up your laptop and work remotely from absolutely

anywhere with these clever, compact devices.

With EcoFlow River 2 Series, you won’t have to compromise on comfort when you’re on the road. Plug in up to nine devices at once and, thanks to its 256Wh capacity, you’ll have enough juice to charge your phone, laptop, action camera, printer, DSLR camera,

portable eftpos machine, some of your LED lighting and even your TV.

Designed with mobility in mind, the EcoFlow River 2 Series is lightweight and easy to carry – slightly larger than a toaster it’s perfect for those on the go.

Plug it into any standard wall outlet while you’re home to charge or let it power up while you drive with the handy car adaptor. Harness the power of the sun by linking either a 110w or 160w solar panel. The max solar input for the River Series is 200w solar input – it could fully recharge in under two hours with optimal solar conditions.

Also available in the River 2 Series is the River 2 Max with 512Wh, and the River 2 Pro with 768Wh, which is the largest and most powerful. With one switch you’ll activate EcoFlow’s game-changing X-Boost technology to power high-wattage appliances up to 1600W – that’s enough to power a small hairdryer or portable vacuum cleaner.

Delta Series

From the smallest in range, the Delta, right

up to the top-of-the-line Delta Pro, you know you’re in safe hands with EcoFlow Delta Power Station Series. With the ability to power just about anything, the sky’s the limit.

Delta Pro leads the industry when it comes to AC output, which means you can power just about anything, including heavy-duty appliances.

Unlike petrol generators, they don’t produce fumes and can be used both indoors and outdoors. EcoFlow is smarter, delivers less energy loss, charges faster and is more efficient than a traditional petrol generator. It’s versatile, too. Delta Pro is the world’s fastest charging portable power station, with the ability to charge at record-breaking speeds. Thanks to EcoFlow’s Multicharge technology, the powerful battery can charge through six methods, including an EV station.

Whether you’re planning to power a marquee at a festival or large-scale event, or you just want to watch a movie under the stars in your backyard, there’s an EcoFlow product that allows you to stay connected. Don’t compromise, choose an EcoFlow to power your next adventure.

NotsurewhichEcoFlowisrightforyou? You’reinluck.WalkintoHarveyNorman Toowoombaforexpertadviceandsuperior serviceonthecompleterangeofEcoFlow. Visitharveynorman.com.au

Explore without limits with an EcoFlow portable power station, available and ready for anything at Harvey Norman Toowoomba

Hi

May the Tabletop in your home be covered with joy & chocolate this Easter!

The Owners of 10 Carnation Court in Middle Ridge worked hard for their home, so my Team & I Sold it for the highest possible price! In the marketing, we rated it ‘ M M M ’ For Magnifcent, Majestic And Many. Many what?? Many fabulous updates throughout, including new bathrooms. Floorplan facts: 5/3/2 on 759 Sq Mtr allotment.

Adorned by dream views - with immaculate, up-sized spaces inside - 80 Lawrence Road in Highfelds has now Sold for a premium market price! Quick facts: 4/2/4 ... 9 ft. ceilings ... Spotted gum timber foors ... 19 Acres of bliss ... North-facing deck with east advantage ... Pool ... Solar system. The owners miss the peace and quiet ... total privacy ... and the majestic outlook, never to be built-out!

Check 412+ Verifed Reviews to RateMyAgent about me at www.jacquiwalker.reviews

How much for your place?

Jacqui Walker Sells Team 0419 648 026

Garden like a pro

Get stuck in during April for your competition garden with these tips from Mike Wells, The Chronicle Garden Competition Liaison

1Incoolerregions,Aprilisagreattimetoplantafewbulbssuchasbabiana,freesia,muscari, anemone,ranunculus,leucojumandsparaxis.Don’tforgettoenrichthegeneralplanting sitewithqualitycompost,butdon’theavilyfertiliseyourbulbsuntilafterflowering.

Got a project you want to discuss with an expert local builder?

Kev Morris and his team are an award winning Builders with over 40 years of building experience, creating stunning architectural, custom built and new family homes across the Toowoomba and Darling Downs region.

From the Independent Builders range explore our range of vibrant and beautifully designed homes, in our virtual display village.

As a member of the Independent Builders Network, we offer you a range of home designs with stylish facade options – all at a competitive price.

Building an Independent Builder home design on your existing block gives you the benefts of contemporary design, quality fnishes and the luxury of a foor-plan that perfectly fts your lifestyle.

We know that no two families share the same needs, which is why our homes offer a range of incredible options to help you fnd exactly what you’re looking for, and we can work with you to further customise and personalise your home to suit you and your family’s wishes.

Come visit our display home at 97 Cronin Road, Highfelds Qld 4350.

0417 641 383 www.kevmorrisbuilder.com.au DO IT ONCE, DO IT RIGHT

Benefts Of Building An Adaptable Living Home

Homes will be designed with comfort, safety and ease of access as core design features. These features make it easier for parents to manoeuvre prams, easier to carry the shopping into the house, easier for people with a disability or temporary injury to move around and create a more spacious environment for the ageing.

These features will allow key living spaces to be more easily and cost effectively adapted to meet the changing needs and abilities of home occupants such as ageing baby boomers and people who have or acquire disability.

A few design aspects that best explain this:

Easy to enter

Easy to navigate in and around

Capable of easy and cost-effective adaptation

Responsive to the changing needs of home occupants

2LateAprilis alsoidealfor planting floweringannuals andbiennials, particularlywhere wintersarecoolto cold.Theseinclude delphiniums, hollyhocks,English daisies, snapdragons, petunias,phlox, andIceland poppies.

3Fertiliseyourlawn withahigh potassium formulation,asthis willhelptostrengthen yourturfforthedrier, coolerweatherthatisa typicalwinterinour region.Andstarttomow atleastonenotchhigher aswell.

4Asthesoilisstillwarmfromthelatesummerheat,it’san idealtimetoplantyourevergreenperennials,shrubsand trees.Thewarmsoilwillstimulategoodrootdevelopment, andthecoolerairtemperatureswillhelptominimiseanynew, frosttendershootsfromappearing.

5WiththeclimateforecastsuggestinganElNino pattern,it’stimetolookatinstallingawaterefficientdripirrigationsystemandmulchingall partsofthegarden.

THE WONDER OF THERMAL MASS

Sustainable House Day was a great success with many people exploring the two inspiring homes that were open for the day. It was wonderful to see so many people from different walks of life genuinely interested in building and living sustainably.

One of the key factors in the efficiencies of the home that Geoff Gibson Homes had open on SHD was the integration of strategically placed thermal mass in the design to help achieve an 8.9 Star energy rating.

We are always trying to improve the environmental outcome of all our constructions, whether that be a bespoke urban cottage or a large commercial building. We are designing and building towards the reduction of the embodied energy of the build and reducing the ongoing operational energy of the individual projects.

To that end the placement of additional thermal mass in many different forms works well in both reducing the initial embodied energy of our construction and the ongoing operational energy of the building.

Materials with a high thermal mass give that substance the ability to absorb, store and release heat

Examples of materials with high thermal mass we can use in our buildings are: rammed earth, concrete, brick, block, stone, Phase Change Materials, and even water.

To get these substances to work correctly, the layout of the design needs to place the thermal mass so it has sun exposure in winter but summer shading. Another important factor is to make sure the material being used for thermal energy storage is thermally isolated from the external temperature changes.

Rammed Earth Walls are constructed by ramming a mixture of selected aggregates, including gravel, sand, silt, clay, and a small amount of cement, into place between flat panels of formwork. Rammed Earth at a density of 2000kg/m3 behaves as heavyweight masonry with a high thermal mass. All other things being equal, a high mass

building material such as rammed earth remains close to the 24-hour average temperature, so reducing the temperature fluctuations.

Concrete, with a density of 2240 kg/m3 and usually part of most constructions, can be used very efficiently when correctly shaded and exposed. When the concrete is linked directly to other thermal mass materials you end up with a very large thermal storage working to make your home more comfortable yearround.

Brick with a density of 1700 kg/m3 can be used in a reverse veneer situation within the building, placed on the inside of the insulated external frames throughout the building or as independent feature walls. Geoff Gibson Homes used this method extensively in our 9 Star energy rated “Satori” that was constructed in 2016 on Hume Street in Toowoomba. This particular home was awarded Queensland’s most energy efficient at the 2016 HIA Housing Awards. Phase Change Materials are a recent inclusion in a building designers tool kit. PCMs use the power of phase change to actively absorb and release heat. These ‘phase changes’ help maintain constant, comfortable building temperatures. PCMs shift the warmth of the day into the night and the

cool of the night into the day, all the while passively keeping a near constant room temperature. A great advantage of PCMs is their light weight and slim profile.

In an area like the Darling Downs where we have a great diurnal temperature range, a well-located high thermal mass wall or floor can supply a battery of useful thermal storage to make your home more comfortable, without you lifting a finger, or costing you a cent.

If you would like to know more, simply arrange a time to visit me at my Design Centre at 20 Stradbroke Street Toowoomba.

— Geoff Gibson

What happens when a tenant stops paying rent?

The Real Estate people principal Ros Burton looks at a serious issue

Like it or not, we all face bills in our lives – and they won’t magically disappear if we simply ignore them.

It’s the same with rent.

As property managers, we have a very important job looking after an owner’s investments – their hard-earned investments – but we also deal with where people live.

The balancing act is very important.

We need to make sure the tenants not only look after the property but also pay the rent to enable them to keep living there.

A strict office policy helps set our guidelines and keeps everything on track.

We currently have an arrears rate (where

money is owed by a tenant) of less than 1 per cent. This has been the case for a number of years now; and highlights why we sit as a leading agency in the industry.

I am always targeting zero, but when you’re working with tenants and owners for the best outcome, payment plans are inevitable. You’ll never hit zero no matter what conditions you put in place.

Thanks to consistency and constant communication in our office, we continue to maintain this level and will text, call and breach every day if needed.

This is one of the key areas of property management, because things can (and do) get out of hand very quickly if you aren’t on it every day. It’s not just rental arrears either; water invoices and tenant damage repayments also need to be collected.

We all face hardships in life (financial, emotional), so, as an agency, we’re always wanting to be fair to tenants who are “doing it

tough” – especially in this current rental market.

But that doesn’t mean they can just shirk their responsibilities either. It’s not how life works. Our tenants have entered an agreement with us (and their landlord) that they will meet their rental obligations – and we expect them to honour that partnership.

But, if there is a hiccup along the way, we work out a plan with them and always include the owner in that decision.

Then, if the tenant sticks to that plan, we congratulate them and keep working with them to move forward – so nobody (tenant or landlord) is disadvantaged.

And by starting this process early, it means we aren’t dealing with an amount that is insurmountable.

If it seems like we’re being pedantic about payments, it’s because we are. We can’t ignore when payments are missed.

The aim is that tenants always know where they stand and there is no grey area (and that protects the owner of the property).

We act swiftly to mitigate potential losses for the landlord and to ensure the tenant doesn’t get a black mark against their name –because that can severely tarnish their ability to rent in the future.

Keeping the owners informed also helps them rest easy, ensuring there are no nasty surprises along the way.

It’s what good property managers do.

To remove or not to remove

There’s a lot to think about before you take out a wall, writes Kirrily Schwarz

There’s a lot to like about open-plan living. Light effortlessly fills the space, heating and cooling flow through the entire area, and your family can enjoy quality time together.

Removing a wall can instantly bring your home into the 21st century. However, there are several factors to consider before you make the decision to swing the hammer.

“Often, we’re looking at removing the wall between the kitchen room and the living room, that’s usually a pretty good value-add to your property,” says Bernadette Janson from The School of Renovating, a former nurse who quit her job to start a renovation

means it’s part of the structure of your house, as opposed to a simple partition between rooms. The cost of removing the former is significantly higher than the latter. You’ll need to speak to an engineer or a builder to get this assessed before you can go ahead and start demolition.

“If it’s load bearing, that’s not a reason not to do it, it just means you need drawings from an engineer and sometimes council approval,” Bernadette says. “It’s a lengthy process, but the benefits usually outweigh those concerns. You’ll need someone who knows what they’re doing.”

According to hipages, Australia’s largest online trades marketplace, builders typically charge $1500 per square metre to remove a wall in a brick home and $1350 per square

metre to remove a wall in a timber-frame home. That figure increases if you’re working with masonry and if your home was built prior to 1980 there’s a real chance it may also include asbestos.

“There’s quite a lot of asbestos in southeast Queensland,” says Jackon Yin, an engineer at

amateur renovators – it needs to be professionally removed. You also need to consider whether there’s wiring in the wall, or plumbing. But if the wall is clear, then DIY is very possible.”

Once the wall is out, you’ll also need to do a bit of tidying up to ensure the cornices match and the flooring flows through the space. But after that, it will feel like a whole new house.

Ways to add autumn warmth

Colour and texture add cosiness as the mercury drops, writes Kirrily Schwarz

There’s a lot to like about Toowoomba in autumn, especially when the leaves change. The days are warm, the nights are cool, and the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows are stunning.

Interior design plays a huge role when it comes to adding warmth into your home at this time of year. There are lots of options available to suit all budgets and cocoon you in cosiness.

A great place to start is with homewares and soft furnishings.

Dominique Koronui, interior designer at Feather and Lawry Design in Toowoomba, says earth tones can make all the difference. She suggests bringing in elements such as wood, stone, rattan, and linen, as well as warming natural scents. Mixing up your textures can also add warmth on a budget –for example, adding chunky knits, woven rugs and baskets, velvet, and wool. Items with heavier material weight will add extra snugness as the weather cools.

The next step is to add a warm glow throughout your house.

“You might not immediately consider the power of changing your lighting,” says Lisa Alward, principal interior designer at Bella Vie Interiors in Brisbane.

“Using warm lighting in your home is a great way to bring in that lovely feeling of hygge. Better yet, it can improve your own mood and create a calming effect to keep your home feeling bright and cheerful.”

Lisa suggests changing all of your lights to warm white bulbs and going for a layered lighting effect to tailor the mood in each space. The easiest way to do this is by adding table and floor lamps with different shades and colours. You can even light some candles.

“They’re so portable and easy to move around so you can get that warm shimmer and intimate ambience anywhere,” she says.

“Light candles before visitors drop by. The gorgeous fragrance of scented candles helps to make your home smell great, too.”

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also look at some minor renovations. Current trends include adding some brass fittings –which look incredible in the winter sunshine

Picture:GraficoWallpapers

– to your decor, or thinking outside the box when it comes to graphics, particularly on wallpaper.

Damian Corney is the creative director at Grafico. He’s based in Melbourne, but he has lots of clients in Queensland and has also been featured on The Block.

He says classic patterns are making a big comeback, especially checks, gingham, houndstooth, and stripes.

“These sorts of patterns are really popular and you’ll see them not just in wallpapers, but in textiles and homewares,” Damian says.

“They create a country style that works in a wide range of homes – it’s not just limited to period homes, although it does suit them really well.”

Lot of his clients are wrapping whole rooms in wallpaper, instead of just opting for one or two feature walls. He says in this way, the wallpaper becomes a type of art – since it’s such a feature, you can structure the

Picture: Bella Vie Interiors

From the 11th of April Concept Kitchens & Detail Joinery will be operating from 1 Newington Street, North Toowoomba (just around the corner!)

We are very excited to be moving to larger premises which will feature a brand new

showroom just in time to celebrate 21 years in Business.

Brett, Paula and the team wish to thank all their loyal builders and clients for their continued support.

Picture: Grafico Wallpapers

whole room around it to ensure you get the full effect.

“Colour-wise, we’re seeing all the subtle sage greens, blush pinks, some steel blues, those are very popular,” he says. “Lots of nude colours are also in demand at the moment.” And finally, don’t forget to bring in some plants. Exposure to nature is associated with lots of positive feelings, such as calmness, creativity, and concentration. Tending to a couple of indoor plants can have huge benefits for your mental health, especially on cold days when all you want to do is sit on the couch with a blanket, some snacks, and a fresh pot of tea.

Using warm lighting in your home is a great way to bring in that lovely feeling of hygge

Secret to painting crisp edges

ant to know the biggest problem with painting tape? I recently decided to update my living room with a lick of fresh paint. I opted for a crisp white on two walls and a rich modern green on the other two.

I’m new to the world of renovating, so I dutifully watched a YouTube tutorial first. It looked so easy, all I had to do was use tape.

As it turns out, that was a big mistake.

I picked a beautiful weekend to paint – the weather just over 30C – and the white went on flawlessly. I added the tape, started the green, and realised I had a problem. It was so warm the glue was actively failing as I began cutting in the green edges.

The results were sub-par, to say the least. My lacklustre technique caused muddied mixes of green and white in some places and uneven gap-filled messes in others.

Seasoned painters, including a number of my family members, will say I should’ve skipped the tape and just done the edges carefully with an angled paint brush.

Considering how flawlessly their homes

are painted, I’m inclined to agree. Is it tedious? Yes. Laborious? Absolutely. Risky? Definitely. But do they get results?

Their edges speak for themselves.

But if you’re new to this renovation caper, or looking for a relatively cheap and easy way to update your home, here are some lessons I learnt during my living room fiasco.

First, paint the light colour before the dark colour. It’s much easier to cover errors with darker paint than the other way around.

Second, practise fine brushstrokes somewhere safe, like the middle of a wall you’re going to paint, before tackling tricky edges.

Third, if you do use tape, apply it to your edges, paint over it with the lighter colour, then paint over it with the darker colour. This is a critical step that will ensure you get full coverage in the corners while preventing the darker colour from bleeding underneath.

On the upside, I was able to fix it, and I’m really pleased with the finished product.

But next time, I’m definitely going to go freehand.

WAdding colour is an affordable way to transform your home, writes Kirrily Schwarz Kitchen

Find your perfect mattress at Forty Winks Toowoomba

Forty Winks is the leading specialist bedding franchisee business, with a network of family-owned and operated stores.

As Australia’s most iconic specialty bedding brand, Forty Winks is proud to offer a wide range of premium mattresses, beds, bedroom furniture, and top-of-bed accessories from both leading Australian and international brands.

One such brand that Forty Winks is proud to offer is Tempur, a name synonymous with luxury and quality in the bedding industry.

Recently, Tempur launched its new Rhapsody Pro range, which offers a 20 per

cent increase in pressure relief and comes with a 10-year guarantee.

This latest addition to the Tempur range is exclusive to Forty Winks, making it an exciting opportunity for those looking to upgrade their sleep experience.

At Forty Winks, we understand that a good mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep. That is why we are dedicated to providing our customers with the most advanced and luxurious mattresses.

If you are in the market for a new mattress, head to Forty Winks Toowoomba to experience the Rhapsody Pro range from Tempur. Forty Winks. Serious about sleep.

ThestaffatFortyWinksToowoomba.

Spring into autumn

ability of the body to produce the energy it needs to sustain life. The Mito Foundation drives research to find a cure and to support this worthy cause, a percentage of sales at The Springs Garden World from April 22-25 will go directly to the foundation. No matter what you shop for during Autumn Fest, you’ll be helping raise funds and awareness.

the kids to explore while parents enjoy a fine dining experience in a beautiful garden setting.

This year, The Springs Garden World celebrates 25 years of loyal service to the Toowoomba community. Since 1998, local gardeners have made The Springs their favourite destination for quality plant stock, garden mixes, decorative pots and more.

Autumn is the ideal time to drop into The Springs and to start planting for your spring garden. To mark the change in season, from April 22-25 Toowoomba’s favourite garden centre is celebrating with Autumn Fest, and raising awareness and funds for the Mito Foundation.

Shopforacause

Mitochondrial disease is a rare, debilitating and potentially fatal disease that reduces the

Homegrown

Locally owned and operated, The Springs is a family business through and through. Set on two hectares, the Spring St centre is the labour of love for owners Ashley and Marie McEwan.

The McEwan family spent 30 years farming in Pittsworth before deciding to follow a dream. A passion for gardening and family shaped the decision to open Toowoomba’s premier garden centre.

Eat,drink,relax

During its 25 years, The Springs has continued to add to the customer experience, with major renovations and the addition of a playground located in the Kingfisher Cafe for

If you’re looking for the finest breakfast or lunch, be sure to drop into Kingfishers Cafe, which has become Toowoomba’s premier garden cafe.

Open from 8am, seven days a week, Kingfishers boasts a modern dining experience in a lush garden location – so why not plan your next function or event there?

Decorspecialists

Accredited as one of Queensland’s Garden Centres of Excellence, The Springs incorporates four retail departments.

The Springs’ garden centre nursery includes Toowoomba’s largest and most diverse range of indoor and outdoor plants, pots and water features.

There are giftware and home decor ideas for every budget in the Waterlily on Springs gift shop, stocked full of delectable decorator

pieces, beautiful wall art, candles, home fragrances and gift ideas and cards for any occasion. Toowoomba’s outdoor furniture specialist, managed by Ashley and Marie’s youngest son Cameron, is a must-see for customers looking for inspiration in creating their outdoor sanctuary, with more than 70 settings on display.

Ashley, Marie and the whole Springs team would love to see you during autumn and to help celebrate Autumn Fest. Come in and get the inspiration to help create your own garden oasis. The expert staff on-hand will answer any questions you may have.

TheSpringsGardenWorld,333SpringSt, Toowoomba.Visitthesprings.net.au.

The Springs Garden World is the perfect place to shop for plants and homewares, or relax with a coffee

TheSpringsGardenWorldownersMarieandAshley McEwanwithsonCameron.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE SELLING WITH BENITA

First and foremost, I felt Benita was working for me and not just trying to make a sale. She listened to what I wanted and acted upon it with integrity and honesty. The advertising costs were very reasonable. I thoroughly recommend her as an agent. I will be calling on her expertise in the future.

SELLER, HIGHFIELDS

YOU DESERVE THE ‘EXTRA MILE’ WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME

Choosing the right agent to sell your home is an important decision, and at WIRE Property Agents, going the extra mile is part of who we are. As a small boutique real estate agency, when you work with Benita McMahon, you’re dealing directly with one of the agency owners, who has a reputation for offering a friendly, stress-free approach to selling your property.

Clients enjoy the support that Benita offers from the initial phone call, right through to settlement. Together with the WIRE Property Agents team, Benita will go the extra mile for you when getting your property ready for sale. This includes organising trades, cleaners, property styling and anything that is required to ensure that your property is looking in the best possible condition when it hits the market. And the best part? WIRE Property Agents provide their ‘Extra Mile Service’ all-inclusive as part of their commission. There are no hidden fees.

With competitive pricing, 110% customer service and an honest, friendly, professional and caring approach, contact Benita McMahon on 0427 306 970 today to arrange a free appraisal of your property.

Enjoy a hunt for fossils

Become an amateur palaeontologist on a fun family expedition as you follow Outback Queensland’s Dinosaur Trail, writes Narelle Bouveng

Our date with dinosaurs begins in Winton, 1230km northwest of Toowoomba, in central west Queensland. Regarded as Australia’s capital of dinosaurs and considered by scientists as Australia’s most important area for collecting fossils, it was here in 1999 that grazier David Elliott found part of a giant fossilised femur on his property. It belonged to a Cretaceous sauropod and heralded a dinosaur rush of sorts.

Fossils unearthed across multiple bush backyards included the world’s only evidence of a dinosaur stampede at Lark Quarry Conservation Park, 110km from Winton, which went on to inspire a scene in Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park.

We learn this and more at Australian Age of Dinosaurs, a museum pioneered by David who, alongside a team of passionate palaeontologists and volunteer dinosaur enthusiasts, has collected some of Australia’s largest fossils. Our own adventure begins in the Fossil Preparation

Laboratory where technicians etch millions of years of dirt from bones to piece together Australia’s prehistoric puzzle.

Later, in the Collection Room, we meet Banjo, a theropod and the most complete carnivorous dinosaur skeleton found in Australia, and Matilda, the best-preserved sauropod. But it’s two full-sized replica sauropods towering beside the most recent exhibit, a preserved sauropod track called The March of the Titanosaurs, that leaves us feeling dwarfed and bewitched to think these giants once roamed our backyard.

More evidence is uncovered as we step further into Queensland’s land before time while driving the easy 215km to Hughenden.

At the Flinders Discovery Centre we learn that the region sat on the shoreline of a series of ancient inland seas. It’s here we meet Hughie, a handsome 7m-long and almost 4m-tall muttaburrasaurus found in 1963 by grazier Doug Langdon in nearby Muttaburra.

TheEromangaNatural HistoryMuseum,and bottom,marinepredatorsat theKronosaurusKorner.

Pictures:TourismandEvents

Queensland

With marine fossils aplenty turning up all over Hughenden, we try our luck along the banks of Flinders River, finding bullet-like belemnites that we later discover were a relative of the squid and a favourite food for monstrous marine creatures, which thrills my dinophile daughter.

On learning one of the fiercest of all marine predators was found less than two hours away in Richmond, we make our way to the third town sitting within Queensland’s Dinosaur Triangle, where a replica pliosaur guards the entrance of Kronosaurus Korner. But it’s not until we watch an animated film on the museum’s self-guided tour that we see just how spine-chillingly fearsome these 20-tonne kronosaurus with 30cm teeth truly were.

My daughter immediately develops ambitions to find one after touring the other marine exhibits, so with fossil permit and digging tools in hand, we fossick across two public dig sites. It’s dusty, dirty work (the kind kids adore) and while we didn’t turn up a kronosaurus, the centre’s palaeontologist dates the small fossils we collect as from the same era, which is almost as thrilling as learning we can take home our multimillionyear-old-fossil finds. Coolest souvenirs ever, surely.

Whenyougo

FollowAustralia’sDinosaurTrailfrom WintontoHughendenbeforelinkingwith theFlindersHighwaytoRichmond.Toadd Eromangatoyourdinosaurdrive,from RichmondreturntoWintonandtravelvia LongreachtoCharleville,wheretheNatural SciencesLoopwilltakeyoutoEromanga.

While our search could have ended here, the holiday has now morphed into an expedition, so we return to Winton before continuing southwest via Charleville to Eromanga, where we discover Queensland’s dinosaur graveyard has revealed its biggest secret so far.

Australia’s furthest town from the sea was

thrust onto the global stage in 2004 when 14-yearold Sandy Mackenzie discovered a titanosaur fossil more than 90 million years old. Scientists estimate that Cooper, the largest dinosaur found in Australia so far, was 30m long and as tall as a two-storey building, winning Australia a place in the top-10 most colossal fossils finds in the world.

We meet the famous sauropod (in parts) on the Australian Dinosaur Giants Tour at Eromanga Natural History Museum. Alongside some dino mates, Cooper is awaiting technicians to undertake more of the painstaking work required to remove sediment that has entombed him for almost 100 million years. When they finish, a two-storey gallery will be built in his honour.

For now we can only measure how diminutive we are against a replica of his humungous humerus bone. But we are invited to gently pat the real thing too, a rare prehistoric privilege that accelerates my daughter’s palaeontological aspirations from in bud to flourishing.

Who knew ancient history could be so fun?

The Eromanga Natural History Museum.

Emily and Glen continue their loop around Australia

Along the WA coastline, there are long stretches of red desert and mining between destinations.

The upside of that though are the incredible stars that lighten the sky and more often than not you’re the only ones around.

Western Australia is home to some of the nicest national parks we’ve seen. Once we left Broome, we spent the next month slowly making our way south.

Karijini National Park provided great hikes with a gorge at the end to dunk yourself in. Kalbarri National Park offered great views of the valleys.

Gregory Pink Lake was extremely impressive with its bubblegum pink water stretching for many kilometres. Glen swam in the lake and due to the high volume of salt, his body was floating at the top.

Our favourite part of the whole of WA was Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef.

The Ningaloo is accessible just off the coastline and provides great snorkelling, spear fishing and the opportunity to swim with whale sharks as they migrate through. We were lucky enough to swim with three different whale sharks.

They really are incredible creatures. We could’ve spent months camping along the Ningaloo with our friends, however the wind started to pick up and settle in so that meant it was time to continue moving south.

1SproutsReadingClinic

After her own child was diagnosed with dyslexia, former schoolteacher Amy Deane, began researching ways to help her son Luke, tailor-made to his style of learning.

Witnessing first-hand the benefits of the Multisensory Structured Language curriculum, Ms Deane has now opened her own private practice Sprouts Reading Clinic, to help families in the same boat.

Using a holistic approach, the owner of the new reading clinic said she hopes to incorporate mental health strategies to assist with anxiety and low self-esteem too.

2SettlementDayByBoxed

Nothing brings Amie Storey more joy than spoiling others with presents on special occasions.

When the 20-year-old began brainstorming new business concepts with her boyfriend, who works as a real estate agent, the couple found a way for Ms Storey to combine work and pleasure.

Launching her business Settlement Day By Boxed earlier this year, Ms Storey packages gift hampers for real estate agents to gift clients when purchasing a home.

Filled with cocktails, lollies, chocolate, garnishes, condiments and more, the most popular box is The Taste of Toowoomba, which features locally-made items.

3SowandNurtured

Proud of her indigenous heritage, Tiffany Gesler offers a unique and holistic education

model which focuses on outdoor play. Working with children since she was 17, the qualified midwife and early education specialist started Sow and Nurtured – a venture to support families with natural resources and outdoor learning.

The proud Gunggari woman offers a variety of workshops with an holistic learning approach to assist families and children who may be experiencing anxiety or behavioural issues.

4ThePALApp

When Bess and Andrew O’Connor welcomed their son Eddison into the world, it was a frightening time for the parents when he was born prematurely. The fight only continued when he was diagnosed with Motor Dysgraphia, a rare condition that impacts the child’s fine motor and writing skills.

Determined to assist her child and others, Ms O’Connor began researching and working with developers to invent a multipurpose app. The primary accessible learning (PAL) app is subscription-based and will help teachers to monitor, mark and check schoolwork remotely, while parents will be able to access progress reports for specialists.

5TheSmartGardener James Feez has always loved to garden and looks back fondly on the moments spent working on his grandparents’ farm in the Burnett region.

While he was a uni student, the green thumb started an online blog, offering tips to gardeners and going under the pseudonym of The Smart Gardener, but as his following grew, loved ones began to guess his identity. After years of experience, the horticulturist started his own business last October,

offering landscaping and traditional gardening maintenance or advice to customers.

6TheSoapyandLippyMonkeys

Tyler Craze began his business The Soapy Monkey after receiving a Make Your Own Soap kit from his grandmother.

At just 11 years old, Tyler makes and sells his own unique soaps, including specifically designed soap pieces ideal for one-day use.

Tyler has dreams of going to NASA and has been saving the money made from his business. After seeing the success of her brother, Mia Craze, 8, decided to create her own business, however instead of soaps, Mia has created her own lipbalm.

All orchestrated through the Soapy Monkey website, Mia’s Lippy business has taken off, like her brother’s, and she has already begun to make a name for herself.

Class act

Written by Kate Calacouras

The idea is simple, but effective: let others experience what it is like to live with a disability. It’s an idea Dr Sharon Boyce struck upon when her own disability altered her original dream of working in a hands-on role in early childhood.

After an early career in lecturing and teaching in education at UniSQ, Sharon understood that young children learnt best when they could experience something for themselves; she respected the directness of children, and their curiosity of what life was like in a wheelchair. This experience gave her the spark to increase disability education in her community.

She created the Discovering DisAbility & Diversity education program that gave children and teachers a hands-on opportunity to experience what it might be

like to live with a disability. This includes visible disabilities, like the one she lives with, as well as invisible disabilities such as autism and dyslexia.

“I have an activity that is a simulation of autism,” Sharon said, explaining how the program works.

“It is to help children understand why their friend (with autism) behaved the way he did. They had to listen to a soundtrack from a regular classroom with headphones until their auditory system was overloaded. They had to wear gloves so they couldn’t feel things normally. They wear coloured glasses. They had to crowd around a small space. All of their senses were overloaded.”

She said by using the materials designed to overload the senses, neurotypical children soon realised that was what their autistic friend experienced every day.

“The friends were asking ‘Is that why you get mad at us and chuck things at us?’ And

that’s just one day with those kids that created that change,” she recalled.

“The more that I went into schools working with kids, the more I realised it was also teachers who had many questions too.”

“(They asked) ‘Could we have this for a pupil free day? Could we have this for the kids and us?’”

Sharon said her program included materials such as wheelchairs and blindfolds so able-bodied people could experience physical disabilities; sensory activities to teach about autism; and books published to represent what it was like to live with dyslexia and physical disability.

“I have a real passion for everyone having equal access to learning,” she said, discussing how a disability could sometimes limit the long-term potential of a child taught by teachers who did not understand. However, with the correct supports in place the sky is the limit.

Sharon said one condition that needed more attention was dyslexia, as its effects were misunderstood.

“Kids and adults having problems with dyslexia and not being able to read and write properly can stop you from being part of the community,” she said.

Her work has helped thousands of people further understand disability.

“The barriers are broken down. As adults

we (are taught) we had better not say anything, we had better pretend we are not looking at the wheelchair. So the learning never happens,” she said.

“If you don’t ask questions you don’t move forward (as a society).”

Sharon’s success with Discovering DisAbility & Diversity has been recognised. She is Chair of the Queensland Disability Advisory Council and also advises for the National Disability Advisory Agency.

“It’s just all linked into what I developed all those years ago,” she said.

While she has adjusted the way she works since Covid, such as hosting lessons over Zoom, Sharon is as committed as ever to creating a more equitable society. She believes it is up to everybody to “create a community that values everyone and allows

access – both emotional and physical access.

“Those are big things. People’s attitudes can create a major barrier,” she said.

“If people have closed minds, they think someone can’t be a part of a community. We can really change that attitude, so they can be a part of it, and people’s lives can be changed.”

It is to help children understand why their friend (with autism) behaved the way he did

Tall in the saddle again

She didn’t waste any time. While her life now looked different and her career as a horse racing jockey was over, Kristy wasn’t giving up.

It started out like any other race. It was New Year’s Eve 2011 and Kristy Banks, a veteran jockey of 15 years, took her position in an outside barrier in the first race at Toowoomba with her mount, August Bishop.

When the gates opened, she was looking to settle in her spot in the race. But 300m in, everything changed.

“I was trying to pick up a position and I clipped heels on the horse in front of me and fell,” Kristy recalls.

“You wouldn’t say it was an overly bad fall. Sometimes you see a fall and you think ‘Oh that’s not good’, but then they get up and walk fine.”

What appeared to be an “average” fall, however, was anything but.

Paramedics were quick to attend to Banks as she lay on the track, and tried to comfort her.

“I was fully conscious and I just couldn’t move my legs and I couldn’t get up. It wasn’t a good feeling,” she says.

“By the time I got to the hospital and they did scans, imaging and all that sort of stuff, the doctors said I won’t walk again. They put it pretty bluntly.”

Kristy had broken her T11 and T12 vertebrae, which had totally compressed and cut off her spinal cord. She also suffered a collapsed lung and broken ribs.

“I told my family and my husband (Dale) as soon as I knew and they were devastated. It was a traumatic night,” she says.

“I was in the ICU for the first few days and then they moved me to the spinal unit.”

It was while recovering in the spinal unit

that the reality of her injury began to sink in.

Kristy, who was about to turn 31, was a paraplegic.

“I was just taking it day by day but they moved me into the acute ward – that’s where the quadriplegics and high-care patients are and that was pretty confronting,” the now 42year-old says.

“I didn’t get any sleep at all and I didn’t know how to feel because I could use my arms, but these people had no movement at all. I was kind of telling myself, ‘I’m lucky because it could have been worse’.”

Kristy spent six weeks in hospital recovering and learning all she needed to

about her new life, including how to insert a catheter, before being transferred to a motel for two weeks and then finally, going home.

“You’re paralysed from the waist down so you’ve got no bladder or bowel function. You have to make that work for yourself,” she explains.

“I thought when you’re paralysed you’re just in a wheelchair, but there’s so much more (to it). The nurses would tell me I’ve got to be cautious of my skin because pressure sores can kill you.

“My life was flipped around, so I really had no choice but to try and deal with it and try and live my new life the best I could and try not to dwell on what was.”

She went to Riding for the Disabled when she’d just out of hospital, tried to get on a horse – and actually did it.

“It wasn’t the greatest experience – I had a person either side of me and my balance wasn’t great, I was kind of just sitting there with no control at all,” she remembers.

“Then someone told me about a girl in America barrel racing with a seatbelt who was paralysed and when I watched her you wouldn’t have even known she was paralysed. I was amazed by it.”

That video was all she needed. Just six months after her accident Kristy was ready to jump back into competitive racing, albeit in a different sport – barrel racing.

Complete with her seatbelt, which is sewed into the back of the saddle and secured across her waist, Banks and her horse race in a cloverleaf pattern around drums for the fastest time.

Kristy races in events and is the only competitor with a disability. Remarkably, she has already won three championships.

“I loved being back on (horses), it was the most normal thing I had back in my life … and the fact I could do that was very good for my mind,” she says.

Away from racing, Kristy’s life has changed dramatically – not only because of her accident but her family circumstances, too.

In September 2013 Kristy and Dale, who has been a constant source of support since the accident, welcomed their first child, Nash, into the world. In May last year they welcomed their second child, Nova.

“(Nash) loves horses and rides mini bulls for fun. He’s a bit of an adrenaline junkie like his mum,.” Kristy says.

Injury may have changed Kristy Banks’ life but it hasn't slowed her down, writes Kate Salemme

KristyBanksisridinghighasacompetitor,wifeandmum.

AriesMar20–Apr18

Don’t let those April showers bring you down, it is simply a time to reflect on how far you have managed to climb to get to the top.

With the right people meeting in the right circles it will be the ideal platform to put forward new ideas, seeing where they take you. It could be straight to the top. There is a fantastic view from the top of the pecking order so make sure your wardrobe meets your new portfolio.

Get the champagne bottles ready and glasses full to the brim, you are a superstar.

TaurusApr19–May20

Taurus need to get to get ahead of the game, start playing the right way and you are going places. Simply sitting back and letting others take credit for your great ideas will be like a red rag to a bull.

Thinking big will see your bonuses increase and rightly so. You will be happy to be able to spend all that extra cash on doing something you love fine dining with a bottle of the finest wine.

GeminiMay21–Jun20

Battle stations! This is not a drill. When a Gemini says jump, the answer is usually followed by their steely glare so be on your best behaviour or you will feel the wrath.

Wait … no, they are lovely nice people who don't have a vicious bone in their body. They may well imagine roasting you slowly over an open fire but would they really do it? Gemini is a little like what you see is what you get but if going into battle have a Gemini by your side to slay the opposition.

CancerJun21–Jul21

Everybody rock your body! Cancer enjoys partying with good friends and are often see in the wee small hours of the morning dancing it out, then regretting the decision the next day. Boy do they have fun though.

ARIES

Every day is another adventure and if you are brave enough to go out, expect to be led astray as they wander from nightclub to nightclub. You will really hit your stride this month, Cancer, and go bravely forward into uncharted territory.

LeoJul22–Aug22

It is getting cooler in the jungle and lions are looking for some time out, so start looking for somewhere nice and cosy by the fireplace to cuddle up with someone special.

As usual it may take some time to get organised though. Despite our reputation for being perfectly content in a spotless surroundings, with some Leos this can be so far removed it is laughable.

We love the comfort of having a cosy den where we can usually be found enjoying the delicious food that is surrounding us. I mean a girl has to eat.

VirgoAug23–Sep23

Virgos can expect to be surrounded by fame and fortune this month. Even if it is in your dreams take notice of where the money comes from and act accordingly.

does the Job

Career stars are very good for Virgo, with unexpected job offers coming at you left, right and centre. So think wisely about which direction you would like to take your career as you dare not to dream. It is all coming true for you.

Remember it's a long way to go on the rungs of success.

LibraSep23–Oct22

Take a step back Libra, you might need to check yourself before you wreck yourself.

If you are feeling a little under the weather then it makes good sense to take some time out. Libra has been so busy keeping all of the balls in the air juggling so many jobs you are bound to drop one eventually. Just make sure there is someone to catch you if you fall. Not everything has to be perfect, there are times for a little imperfection. Work out what is important to you and those you hold dear.

ScorpioOct23–Nov21

Sexy Scorpio you are one of the hottest signs of the zodiac, which is why you are always looking your best. People envy you as your unbridled joy and passion for life surrounds you in a giant halo that glows from within. Never one to shy away from any commitment, this month you will not have to look far to find out who or what is pulling your strings. Get those scissors out and cut ties with anyone standing in your way. Scorpio is doing it for themself.

SagittariusNov22–Dec21

April brings out the child in you, which is a sight to behold. As with any celebration you go all out, so if it’s playing the fool and getting into childlike behaviour tackle it head on. Sagittarians love to have fun, from sliding down the biggest slide in the park or dive bombing into a swimming pool yelling Geronimo.

So hire that jumping castle, buy that ball pit, ride that seesaw – it is all about the party and who better to get a party started than Sagittarius?

CapricornDec22–Jan20

It is time to be serious this month. It may appear that times are looking tough but in reality it is just a minor hiccup. Pay attention to your inner gut and aim for the best possible outcome, an answer will come in the most unexpected way giving you peace of mind.

Family is important but so is your need to have some time to yourself. You can’t hold up the world on your shoulders, nor should you have to, so breathe deep and march forward with determination. Things can only get better

AquariusJan21–Feb18

Adrenaline junkie Aquarius, have you managed to reach for the stars yet? If not why not? Stars are looking great for you this month by giving extra energy, and when you feel happy the world is open to you in so many ways.

It will be hard to resist the temptation to go 100 per cent into all endeavours, but remember you are not going to win any prizes if you cannot dedicate your focus on one interest. If thinking of adding to the family at this time then go out and buy that bird or perhaps a fish as you are probably too busy to take care of a pet of the four-legged kind.

PiscesFeb19–Mar19

Always the dreamer, Pisces can get lost just taking in the scenery. Your mind strays to places that can only be described as fantasy, which is not a bad area to go; a few problems are rearing up and disrupting your world.

Take some time out to live your dream; if you would like to travel but can’t afford to then think about perhaps taking a job overseas or study. That way you are increasing your knowledge as well as staying in your comfort zone.

You can only fit so many people invading your fish bowl so empty the water and refill.

ToowoombaRegionalArtGallery

ThreeEchoes–Western DesertArt

Until May7

“Intheearly1970s,myfatheroncetoldme ofhow,whenhewasachildinBandjalung country,peoplecomingalongtheriveror throughthewoodswould‘Coo-ee’to announcetheirpresenceatcertainplaces wheretheirvoicewouldechorepeatedly, reverberatingintothedistance;towhichthe receiverwould,‘chant-like’,respond.”

– Curator Djon Mundine OAM FAHA.

ThreeEchoes–WesternDesertArt is a stunning exhibition exploring the poetic notion of echoes – how metaphorically and metaphonically we can echo a thought, a sentiment or a consciousness.

In the 1970s, Australian Aboriginal people from the desert began talking to the world through art, transferring their creation stories of the land and people to canvas. In the 2020s, this foundational echo is going back and forth. No longer a one-sided, outward

Toowoomba

RosalieGallery

Locale–RosalieandSurrounds

Until April30

This exhibition showcases works from the Rosalie Collection, Crows Nest Collection and the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery — Toowoomba City Collection that have local connections with the Rosalie area.

Rosalie Gallery at 89 Mocatta St, Goombungee is open Wednesday to Sunday 10.30am3.30pm.

calling, it reverberates multi-dimensionally in wider Australian and global communities.

ThreeEchoes–WesternDesertArt showcases 81 paintings, prints and batiks by 57 acclaimed artists heralding from Ikuntji (Haasts Bluff), Papunya and Utopia Aboriginal communities in the western desert regions of the Northern Territory. While works in this exhibition are drawn from the early 1970s to early 2000s, ThreeEchoes–WesternDesert Art celebrates the world’s oldest continuous living culture and traditions that span tens of thousands of years.

Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery at 531 Ruthven Stis open Wednesday to Sunday 10.30am – 3.30pm.

CrowsNestGallery

TheMetalFocus MakenzieTowson

April5–April30

The Metal Focus brings the adventures, life and colour of the metal and heavy rock music community to fine art using photography as the vessel.

Toowoomba-based photographer Makenzie Towson travels the region forming

bonds with other metalhead devotees, sharing their love of music.

These are their pixelated stories.

Join Makenzie for an artist talk on Sunday, April 23 at 11am. This is a free event, with no bookings required.

Crows Nest Gallery is located at the corner of the New England Hwy and William St, and is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm Wednesday to Sunday.

Entry is free at the three galleries.

IMAGE:MakenzieTOWSON/Itrytodisappear2022/digitalprintonglosspaper/42.0x 29.7cm/©MakenzieTowson

IMAGE:BernardARMSTRONG/MeringandanViewc.2000RosalieShire–ArtAcquisitive Winner2000|acryliconcanvasboard/38.1cmx76.2cm/©BernardArmstrong

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CrowsNestbyNikkiMottram

ReviewedbyJessicaKramer

This debut novel by a local author is taking the region by storm. It follows child protection worker Dana Gibson, who leaves Sydney for Toowoomba for work and to flee marriage problems. Her first house call for her new job is to assess the children of Sandra Kirby in Crows Nest, but results in Dana getting her new boss and a local detective offside. Then, Kirby and her best friend are found murdered, and Dana finds herself drawn into an investigation where she’ll discover how far the locals will go to keep the truth from being uncovered. While the plot takes a while to get going, the novel is ultimately a strong crime debut with the added novelty of being set locally. It will be interesting to discover how the rest of the Dana Gibson Mystery series progresses.

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For an industry where more installments usually mean less quality, John Wick: Chapter 4 has turned that expectation on its head. In this rare feat, the fourth film is not only excellent, but also manages to surprise and excite the viewer. Chapter 4 picks up where its predecessor left off, with Wick recovered from the fall from the roof of The Continental in the safety of The Bowery King’s underground, and Winston dealing with the wrath of the High Table’s high-ranking Marquis Vincent de Gramont.

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SeeJohnWick:Chapter4foryourselfat EventCinemas

The booksellers are back, and this time the stakes are even higher. Following on a couple of months after the close of the first book, The LeftHanded Booksellers of London, this tale is again set in an alternate 1980s London. The discovery of a mysterious map and subsequent investigation by the booksellers in Bath, including right-handed bookseller Vivian, leads to lefthanded bookseller Merlin being trapped and in great danger. It’s up to art student Susan – who is still coming to terms with her own unexpected Old World heritage – to save Merlin.

But this is only the start, as their interactions with the map kick off a set of events that will threaten both mortal world and Old World alike. Much like its predecessor, The Sinister Booksellers of Bath has a unique premise that is executed very well. The plot has less layers to it than The LeftHanded Booksellers of London, but the characters are once again well fleshedout, quirky, and loveable. While technically aimed at a teen audience, this novel is a fun ride for all ages.

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April

MeatstockToowoomba

Friday,April14,toSaturday,April15

WHERE: Toowoomba Showgrounds, Glenvale Rd, Glenvale

WHAT: Meatstock is the premier music and barbecue festival with live music, barbecue food trucks, expo stalls and live demonstrations. Open on Friday, from noon to 10pm and Saturday, 11am to 10pm, Meatstock is a great way to enjoy music, American-style barbecue and a whole load of fun. Tickets cost from $58.50. For more details, visit www.meatstock.com.au/toowoomba/

SnowQueen

Friday,April14,at6.30pm;Saturday, April15,at1.30pmand6.30pm

WHERE: Empire Theatre, 54-56 Neil Street, Toowoomba

WHAT: Toowoomba Ballet Theatre presents The Snow Queen like it has never been told before. Inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, which in turn inspired the Frozen sensation, TBT’s Snow Queen will

enthral and delight audiences young and old. The production features elite dancers from all around southeast Queensland who unite to create a spectacle of ballet, contemporary and acrobatics. Tickets cost $34.95 for Empire cardholders, $39.95 adults, and $34.95 concession. Visit the Empire Theatre website to purchase tickets, or pop into the box office at 54-56 Neil Street, Toowoomba. A transaction fee of $5 applies per transaction for phone and internet bookings.

RedHotSummerTour2023

Saturday,April15,from1pm

WHERE: Queens Park, Toowoomba

WHAT: Get down to Queens Park for the 2023 Red Hot Summer Tour featuring Paul Kelly, Bernard Fanning, Missy Higgins, Mark Seymour, Vika & Linda, Ian Moss, and Troy Cassar-Daley. This magnificent site is open air, and patrons are encouraged to bring a camp chair or small picnic rug to the event. All areas of the venue have a view of the stage. Tickets are from $139.90 for general

admission. Go to www.ticketmaster.com.au/ event/13005D13F7805A75 for all ticket options and booking.

Flickerfest2023

Saturday,April22,from5.30pm

WHERE: Armitage Centre (Empire Theatre), 54-56 Neil Street, Toowoomba

WHAT: Celebrating its 32nd year, Flickerfest, Australia’s only Academy® Award and BAFTA qualifying short film festival, and the country’s largest Australian and International short film competition, screens the best of shorts from Australia and the world. The exhibited shorts are selected from 3200 entries, ensuring the presentation of A-list short film programs recognised among the best in the world. Flickerfest returns with this annual one-off chance to see the Best of Australian Shorts officially selected for Flickerfest National Tour program, before they continue their journey around the world. International Shorts screen from 5.30pm, and Australian Shorts screen from 8pm. Tickets are $10 per screening for Empire cardholders, and $20 general admission for one screening; $30 for both screenings. A transaction fee of $5 applies per transaction for phone and internet bookings. Best of International Shorts runs from 5.30pm to 7.20pm; then there will be entertainment in the foyer until 8pm, before Best of Australian Shorts from 8pm to 9.50pm.

Lucas Wegener (Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce) and Lauren Russell (RDA-DDSW).

Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce members and business people gathered at St Andrew’s Hospital on Wednesday, March 8, for valuable networking and tours of the hospital’s operating theatre wing.

Dene Creegan, Trevor Watts MP, Sharon Baldwin and Kirstie Jesshope.

Christine James.

Wally Bourdelov, St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital CEO.

Michael Wells, Melissa Wells and Jamie Mason.

Chris Black and Clayton Menyweather.

Sonia Brown and Zoe Locke.

ZONTA CLUB International Women’s Day LUNCH

On Friday, March 3, inspiring women from across the Toowoomba region gathered at Picnic Point for the Zonta Club of Toowoomba’s International Women’s Day luncheon. The event raised funds for charity, highlighted important issues for women, and celebrated 2023 Woman of the Year, Gay Hold-Carpenter, founder of Project Formal.

Pictures:Picture:KevinFarmer

Wendy Coombes, Kate Venables, Kathryn Galea and Kate Ruijter.

Wendy Williams with Glennie students Sophie Fleming (left) and Holly Campbell.

Jason Whitmore, Linda Reynolds, Tisha Boughen, Trina Koch, club President Libby Gleeson, Anne-Maree Bowen and Trudy George. Susie Jeude and Meryl Etwell.

Jenny Foxton, Roz Brownlie and Ros Cameron.

Libby Gleeson congratulates 2023 Women of the Year Gay Hold-Carpenter.

People from across Queensland descended upon the regional town of Chinchilla from February 16-19 for the first Chinchilla Melon Fest in four years, including the Chinchilla Melon Rodeo, melon skiing, and more.

Shani Watson and Emerson Weir.

Pictures: PetaMcEachern

Chinchilla Melon FesT

Melon Fest iron man competitors Tom Ross and Harrison Weld.

Thelma Brain, Poppy Ritchie and Grace Ritchie.

Kerryn and Akiera Matrin.

Walter and Kayron Hood.

Karen Brain, Jacob Bishop, Poppy Ritchie, Kelly Brain, Bree Ritchie, Grace Ritchie, Thelma Brain, Sidney Brain and Teddy Brain (Sid and Ted in the pram).

Jennifer, Jett, Geoff, and Adalyn Maitland. Grace Caberos and Alysandra and Marc DiCuccio.