Style magazine Toowoomba - July 2022

TOOWOOMBA JULY 2022

MAGAZINE

INSIDE: FIND YOUR DREAM CAREER!

i u q c a J r e k l a W Meet

FA SH I O N

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SHOPPING

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H E A LT H

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B E A UT Y

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HO M E

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T R AV E L

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F OOD

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EVENTS

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A RT S

SANKEY FRASER | Your One Stop Shop for the last 100 Years Ruthven Street, Toowoomba | www.sankeyfraser.com.au

Welcome to midwinter, Stylers!

Hasn’t it been cold lately? This edition should warm you up nicely, with a look into all fashion red on page 12, an adorable love story (p8) and a trip to Italy following the tour trail on page 49.

Our gorgeous editor is currently enjoying some well-deserved beachside time in Fiji for her honeymoon.

From all the team at Style, congratulations to Josie on her wedding and the beginning of this new chapter.

We’re sure you’ll read all about Fiji and Josie’s wedding in the coming months!

In this issue of Style, we’ve also got a delicious food review of Monty Brewing Co (p35) and discover how world number 2 real estate agent Jacqui Walker got to where she is today.

There’s also a full feature from page 23 that will tell you all you need to know about careers and jobs in our region.

Enjoy!

The Style team

The gorgeous Jacqui Walker of RE/Max Success is photographed by Kevin Farmer at Rowes Furniture, Toowoomba.

@stylemagazinestoowoomba

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From 15-year-old dry-cleaner to world number two, meet award-winning real estate agent Jacqui Walker as she looks back on her stellar career

EDITOR Josie Adams, josie.adams@news.com.au 4690 9354 JOURNALISTS Melanie Collins, Kate Calacouras, Hayley Hinze, Alyssa Welke, Jessica Kramer SUB EDITORS Alyssa Welke, Jessica Kramer DESIGN Paul Hunter, Justine Costello ADVERTISING MANAGER Erika Brayshaw STYLE MAGAZINE TOOWOOMBA CONTACT DETAILS mytoow.ads@news.com.au Level 1/5 Keefe Street, Toowoomba City PO BOX 40, Toowoomba QLD 4350

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Seeing red: harness the energy of this season’s hottest colour

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Break out of winter routine with this delish breakfast platter

06 FEATURE Agent of success

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FASHION White-hot adventure

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HOME & LIVING Feng Shui your workspace

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ARTS Toowoomba’s art scene for July

08 WEDDING Karina and Mitch

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BEAUTY The good oil on winter skin

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HOME & LIVING Create home office style

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EVENTS Where competition blooms

10 FEATURE Generosity changes lives

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ADVERTISING FEATURE All things careers in the region

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EXPLORE A grand Italian tour

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EVENTS What’s on during July

12 FASHION Red alert

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FOOD Enjoy a winter brunch platter

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POETRY Discover Helen Wangmann’s poems

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SOCIALS Who’s who at Legends at their Game

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cover story

AGENT of success From 15-year-old dry-cleaner to world No. 2, meet award-winning real estate agent Jacqui Walker as she looks back on her stellar career

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ulti-award-winning Jacqui Walker might be considered one of the most influential real estate agents in Toowoomba. The business she’s created within RE/MAX ranks No.2 in the world across the global brand’s network for small teams.

On her tenth year in the industry, Jacqui reflects on her incredibly successful career.

“In 2012 I had Ian Knight from RE/MAX Success out to my home for a price update.

Change was in the air. Just like him, I was born to sell. He knew that. He said “When are you coming to sell houses with me?

“It’s been an extraordinary decade.”

Jacqui grew up in Warragul, Victoria with four older siblings. A returned World War II soldier, her Dad was the local bus driver and mail contractor.

‘It was a happy childhood.

Hospitality was at the centre of my being. Before I even started school I’d be at the front gate, outside the family home, saying to strangers ‘Hello I’m Jacqui Sherwood, come in and have a cup of tea’.

“It’s been said my mother didn’t know who I’d bring inside next!”

Sunday lunches were well known for the family squeezing around a table in a small, eat-in kitchen. On the menu, her father’s famous roast, complete with vegetables from the garden and topped with mum’s famous gravy blended with pan STYLE 6

juices. And dessert? Jacqui’s mum’s unbeatable golden syrup dumplings.

“Sunday lunches are remembered as upbeat and talkative, everyone talking and everyone listening all at once.”

When Jacqui was 15, she decided to leave school.

“Dad said I had to get a job first. So, it’s a job I got, and fast, at the Warragul Dry Cleaner where I learned the dry cleaning trade and had the chance to put my people skills to work.

But by 17, I was sure I’d spend the rest of my life as a dairy farmer.

At 16, Jacqui met her husband of 43 years.

“I was with some friends, and a local church youth group leader dropped in, Brian, my husband of 43 years. He was 20 then, a dairy farmer. And so began our precious bond. Our friendship blossomed into dating, and one weekend while eating lunch in the park, Brian said, ‘So, when are we getting married?’ to which I said ‘Dad wouldn’t let me get engaged ‘til I was at least 17!’”

“But Dad loved Brian. He said for anyone else the answer was no, but for Briany-boy…of course.”

The couple married in 1979 and after a honeymoon in New Zealand, went home to put their heart and soul into Brian’s farm.

“We had the best-kept farm in the area, and hard work came naturally to both of us.

We were fixing fences between milking 600

Multi-award winning real estate Jacqui Walker, and top right, Jacqui with her team.

head of Friesian cows day and night. Holidays?

What holidays? That milk truck twice-a-day wasn’t built to wait.

“Forgive the pun, but looking back, those nonstop seven-day weeks and dairy contracts were ‘udderly’ compatible with what I’m doing now! It’s true that if a property is going to sell, sale contracts will terminate if the agent takes their eye off the ball, so it really was the very best training.”

After a stint farming peanuts in Yarraman, the family moved to Kingsthorpe in 1987, where Jacqui started a home day-care business.

In the early 90s, the couple opened a gift shop in the all-new Village Fair Shopping Centre.

“What classic days! I’ll never forget the centre’s grand opening when countless balloons fell from the gallery level. Business was great for years, we

cover story

had wonderful customers, and we loved sourcing perfect gifts and presenting them in our beautiful shop.

After a while, Jacqui was keen to diversify again, and became area manager of Bras ‘n Things. Of the 150 stores nationwide, two were ranked lowest in the country - Grand Central and Clifford Gardens.

“But I was born to sell, and I love creating great teams, so within a few months, I had secured both stores to enviable positions ... in fact, the Grand Central store was number one in Australia at Christmas, so they sent Brian and I on an allexpenses paid USA trip. You name it in California, we did it!”

In early 2000, Jacqui was helping plan her daughter’s wedding when she discovered a business opportunity.

“Locally here in Toowoomba, I noticed a gaping hole in the market for a premium bridal store experience. A showroom where gowns aren’t stuffed in protector bags, where appointments aren’t required and where staff deeply engage with brides-to-be. And so my showroom, A Touch Of Romance Bridal & Formal was born. “ The store was a hit with evening catwalk events and celebrity designer days throughout the year.

“By 2006 I had three showrooms across Queensland with 23 staff and an import business too. Today my son runs it 100% online. He’s based in South-East Asia, the perfect base to balance quality control with best-prices.”

Looking back on her real estate career though offers some of her biggest career highs.

“Regularly ranking number one on the monthly list of Top 20 RE/MAX agents in Australia and

It’s all about the homeowners.

It’s been an extraordinary decade.

ranking number two in the World for small teams globally is a highlight,” Jacqui said.

“Being trusted once is an honour. Being trusted again and again by repeat clients is extra special.

They come back because they feel valued.

Everything my team of four and I do is to bring our sellers a wonderful, profitable result.”

Jacqui said she loves living in Toowoomba with her husband, and two dogs Pearlie and RubyJules.

“The shopping’s great, the cafes are great, people are great, it’s my family home, it’s my town.

It’s a great place to live, a great place to work, a great place to invest and a fabulous place to raise families.”

“I’m a multiple landlord in Darling Heights, Middle Ridge and South Toowoomba, and an owner on the majestic Kara View Court in Rangeville. This winter, we’ll cut the dirt on our dream home, recently approved by the council.

“Brian and I love to have our home full with family and friends for dinner.

“We have three amazing adult children whom we love so dearly. One daughter lives locally with her family, while one daughter and one son live overseas with their families. My very favourite role is being Mum. “My favourite name to be called is Grandma.

Our seven grandchildren make our lives rich and bring a smile to my heart every hour of every day.”

Jacqui also supports the local community.

“I support Civic Care - they run Toowoomba’s Winter Warmth appeal and walk the CBD streets three nights a week giving out water and red frogs.

I also support For The One, headed by our daughter and her family who are Missionaries in Vanuatu. They assist the community on Santo Island. I also support Make-A-Wish foundation.

“I’m a Christian, and I’m a friend to the LGBTIQ+ community exactly as they are ... I regularly speak with parents about loving their LGBTIQ+ children well.

“I’m on the Board of Voice Radio 92.9FM, a radio station bringing hope across the airways - we all need hope.”

Looking to the future of real estate, Jacqui says the industry should never be about the agent.

“It’s all about the homeowners. I tell them to look for an agent who can speak their home up and who will get them the best possible price.

“Because it’s their home. They’ve worked hard for it; it has to achieve the very best possible price,” Jacqui says.

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weddings

Karina & Mitch What was the date of your wedding?

April 22 (Mitchell’s birthday).

little bubble and then got to celebrate and surprise everyone in person that afternoon.

Where was the ceremony and reception? Why did you choose that space?

The Refinery at Newstead in Brisbane. We instantly loved the venue as soon as we viewed it.

We had looked at two other venues and didn’t ‘get the feeling’! The team there, the food and the style of the venue was just unreal - it made planning and the day so easy!

When organising your wedding, what were some of the most personal and important aspects to get right on the day?

Our family is so important to us so we really wanted to bring them all into it as much as we could. Our little nieces were flowergirls, our beautiful Grandma’s were our witnesses, our sisters presented our wedding bands, my cousins did a reception entrance and my cousin Lauren was our MC. After the long 14-year wait everyone had to do, we really just wanted our wedding to be a big celebration and party for everyone to enjoy.

How many guests did you have?

80.

Where did you get your dress from? Your Bridesmaid dresses?

My dress was made for me by my Mum, I’m so lucky to have her!! Bridesmaids dresses were from Shona Joy. Men’s suits from Peter Jackson.

How did you meet your husband?

We’ve been together for 14 years. We first met through mutual friends when we were still at school.

How did he propose?

Mitch proposed on his birthday weekend; the morning of us having everyone over to celebrate his birthday. We had just woken up and he came in with our fur baby Denzel and said ‘Bud... look what Denz found outside’. I was preparing myself for what on earth the dog was about to bring in... to my surprise it was my dream engagement ring!

It was perfect - we got to spend the morning in our

Did you have a distinct wedding theme? How does this relate to both of your personalities and family history?

Definitely not, we are just happy everything we picked came together on the day!

What were some of your favourite parts of the day?

Honestly as cliché as it sounds, we loved it all. It was the best day of our lives. We didn’t feel like it flew past too quickly. It’s always lovely to hear speeches that parents and friends have put together for you so that was a really nice moment in the day. Our vows were a surprise for one another so that was amazing. But from getting ready with our bridal parties and families in the morning, to dancing with everyone at the ceremony ... honestly I don’t think we could pick a favourite moment.

THE DETAILS Flowers: Esme Fleur Photographer: Tessa Shannon Videographer & Band: The White Tree Hair: Melanie Halpin Make-up: Sheridan Meyers Plants: The Planted Co Celebrant: Katie @ Sonder Celebrations Cake: Mum made the cake

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feature

Generosity changes lives Toowoomba mum and breast cancer survivor Carmel Charles shared her story at the annual Colour of Change Luncheon which continues to raise vital funding for Breastscreen

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n May 27, Fitzy’s Toowoomba was tickled pink to host the annual MJH Finance Colour of Change Luncheon in support of raising funds for the BreastScreen Queensland Toowoomba Service via Toowoomba Hospital Foundation.

Now in its 12th year, the event has helped to raise more than $450,000 for local women using the services of BreastScreen Toowoomba and fund vital equipment for early detection.

More than 150 guests gathered to hear the inspiring story of local Toowoomba mum and breast cancer survivor Carmel Charles, who shared her advice for those diagnosed with breast cancer and their family and friends who support them.

Diagnosed in March 2012, Carmel underwent treatment in Toowoomba helped by her husband Shane and their three children Lucy, Laura and Tom. And in 2022, Carmel shared her story publicly for the first time at this year’s Fitzy’s Colour of Change Luncheon inspiring the crowd with lessons she learned during her diagnosis and treatment.

Guests dug deep and helped to raise $62,105 on the day to go towards the purchase of equipment and resources for BreastScreen Queensland Toowoomba Service in aid of supporting local women like Carmel.

Fitzy’s Toowoomba director Anita Armanasco said the team was still on a high from the incredible result. “We are absolutely thrilled and humble by our local community for raising over $60,000 in support of breast cancer awareness and treatment,” she said.

“For us, the MJH Finance Colour of Change has become a labour of love and results like these make all the hard work worth it. This event is not only one of our flagship events but also one we hold dear.

“This luncheon has grown significantly over time to become a Fitzy’s institution. Giving back STYLE 10

For us, the Colour of Change has become a labour of love and one we hold dear

Attending the MJH Finanace Colour Of Change Luncheon are (from left) Sarah Conroy, Kiralie Harris, Philippa Garmany, Janelle Prior; below Fitzy’s Toowoomba director Anita Armanasco. Opposite: Carmel Charles shares her story.

to our community via the beautiful people at Toowoomba Hospital Foundation is so important to Fitzy’s and the Fitzgibbons family.

“We adore working with the THF team – their support over the years has been tremendous. To give where we live is a privilege and our Colour of Change tradition is one that’s here to stay.”

In recent years, the MJH Finance Colour of Change Luncheon has helped to purchase stateof-the-art ultrasound and mammography equipment, fund fitness programs for breast cancer patients post-treatment, and provide numerous resources to assist staff with their screening program.

Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy said the Foundation was incredibly grateful for the support and generosity of the community.

“Events like the MJH Finance Colour of Change Luncheon are so important in helping us raise funds and make real differences in people’s lives, as we know that early detection is vital when it comes to treatment options and outcomes,” she said.

“The team at the Toowoomba Clinic do absolutely amazing work, so it’s wonderful to know that the donations from our community and Colour of Change goes towards equipment and little extras to support local women through what can be a pretty tough time.”

For more information on Toowoomba Hospital Foundation, upcoming events or to donate visit: toowoombahospitalfoundation.org.au

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Red alert It’s bold, it’s bright, and it’s in stores everywhere. Harness the energy of this season’s hottest colour

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ed might as well be the new black. This year, it’s been all over runways, red carpets and our social feeds – fashion is having a moment with the fiery hue, and we’re here for it. The statement-making colour is no stranger to the spotlight. It’s fitting that 2022 has seen a powerful revival of all things ’90s, and the colour red fits right in.

Who could forget Julia Roberts as free-spirited prostitute Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman throwing her head back and laughing her iconic laugh in an off-the-shoulder gown, complete with sweetheart neckline? In keeping with the return of the ’90s, Cindy Crawford at the 1991 Academy Awards rocked a bright red, full-length gown with plunging neckline.

Then there was Alicia Silverston as teen queen Cher in Clueless, standing on her white marble staircase, black phone the size of an ipad in her hand, in a red body-hugging mini dress (and red shoes, of course) – what could be more ’90s-era than that? “This is an Alaïa!”

Seeing red Decades later, and red was big news at this year’s Academy Awards, the show-stopping colour on A-listers like Jennifer Garner, Sophie Turner and Kaitlyn Dever. It was across the runways of Versace, Max Mara and Botega Venetta, and fashion commentators around the globe can’t stop raving about it. Inevitably, the colour of passion has now exploded into the mainstream and every store in town.

“There is no other colour that is so fundamental, so fused to our primal, human itches,” says fashion writer Charlotte Sinclair in a Vogue essay on the topic.

“Red takes no prisoners. It is emphasis itself, the double underline, the stop sign, the alert, the roadblock, the alarm, the danger, the oomph… It’s the colour of kings and queens, war and empire, theatre and power. Red is adrenaline, fireworks, the break with convention.”

Wardrobe wear The best part about this colour trend is that it’s easy to make an impact. Add just a pop of colour with one bright piece by integrating a hero item into your existing wardrobe.

Pair a bright chunky knit, or longline cardigan, with neutral staples and you’re good to go.

Or be brave and go for a tonal look in head-to-toe red – think a fashion-forward structured pantsuit, complete with tailored single-buttoned blazer. Another option is to integrate this ontrend hue into your beauty routine with a red-hot nail polish or a bright and bold lip.

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fashion

Bright buys Jump on the trend with these red pieces that command attention in the chicest way possible.

Clockwise from far left: Running Bare Legacy Hoodie, $129.99.

David Lawrence Windbreaker Jacket, $259.

Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Rock The Runway, $17.99.

Mossman The Nomad Blazer, $249.95 NARS Audacious Lipstick in Lana, $50.

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fashion

White-hot adventure

An epic ski season calls for a new winter wardrobe

We are looking to hire 100+ locals

Looking to present a little more style to your customers

Career Opportunities *General Labourers Skilled/Unskilled *Packing Staff *Skilled Staff *Knife hands *Warehousing *HR/WHS

*Butchers *Electricians *Renderers *Quality *Accounts

Main image: 37 Degrees South Women’s Simba Snow Jacket in musk print, $99.99.

Above: Liive Snow Powder goggles in black, $49.95 Right: Roxy Womens Ritual Snow Jacket in stone blue, $329.99

In print? Online?

*Maintenance Fitters *Livestock Handlers *Forklift Drivers *Skin Shed Labourers *General Admin

Looking to grow your business online in an ever-changing digital age while still

Contact: Recruitment.Tamworth@thomasfoods.com or (02) 6764 9900 to speak to a member of our recruitment team.

developing your traditional local customer base? Let’s create winning PRINT and DIGITAL solutions to generate real sales traction from a much greater target audience...

Contact your local, Toowoomba-based Multi-Media Experts t. +61 6764 9900

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e. reception-tamworth@thomasfoods.com w. thomasfoods.com

ABN 82 089 140 634

Mary-Ann Zammit

07 4690 9370 / 0436 028 319 / mary-ann.zammit@news.com.au

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travelling to study, keep your belongings safe and the style factor high with a bag that works with your wardrobe and gets the job done. A big-and-bold tote, designer backpack or super-useful laptop bag: whatever you choose there’s an option for any and every situation.

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The hobo Unlike its name, the design of this bag is stylish and on trend. Roomy enough for all your essentials, and chic enough to be worn with almost any outfit and on any occasion, the hobo is a wardrobe staple that will stick with you through this season and the next. Elevate your outfit with a classic style in soft, textured leather, or go for a budget-friendly style in faux leather or canvas in a neutral tone.

Country Road Willow Hobo Bag, $279

Work it

Backpack style

Prove you mean business with a polished and practical carry-all

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hether you’re returning to office life or heading back to study in person, chances are you’ve got your hands full. As we transition into a more social way of

life, being a mobile working station is more important than ever. And these ready-foranything bags are a great start.

When commuting to your workplace or

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Making a bold return directly from the ’90s is the perfectly practical backpack. While there’s a great deal of fuss about the oh-so cute smaller styles, it’s the medium to large sizes that pack the most punch. With all the appeal of living a hands-free life, a backpack is the perfect option to house a laptop, keys, phone, lunch and pretty much anything else.

Take a step back in time with a brightly coloured style that exudes confidence and adventure.

Sportsgirl Rewind Lilac Backpack, $39.95

Lovely laptop With many of us working from home and in the office, lugging a laptop back and forth is a new daily issue. Luckily, there are plenty of well-designed laptop bags in chic finishes and sophisticated colours to choose from. For a classic look, go for one with delicate detailing in a neutral tone.

Louenhide Rhodes Recycled Laptop Bag, $139.95

100 Years of Quality Eye Care in Toowoomba Buy 1 Pair and get 50% OFF your 2nd Pair!

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455 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba Ph (07) 4632 3166 15 STYLE

beauty

Try these ● Vanessa Megan Harvest 100% Natural Perfume, ● Váhy Isle of Blanc Perfume ● Mukti Organics Botanique Parfum No.1 ● LaVanila Perfume The Healthy Fragrance Vanilla Coconut

It’s only natural These sophisticated ‘clean’ scents will keep your hormones happy, writes Alison Izzo

● Leahlani Bless Aromatherapy Essence ● Wyalba Rockpool Perfume ● Ayu Scented Oil ● One Seed Seeker EDP, ● Floral Street Wonderland Peony EDP ● By Rosie Jane Lake EDP ● Salt + Glow Elixir Oil Restored ● Recreation Bondi Beach This Love Of Mine EDP ● Ellis Brooklyn Salt EDP ● Lumira Perfume Oil Persian Rose ● Bon Parfumeur EDP 601: Vétiver, Cèdre, Bergamote ● Earths Purities Pure For Her No. 1 EDP ● Peggy Sue Dawn Perfume ● Lush Pansy Perfume

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he ‘clean’ or chemical-free fragrance category is enjoying a boom, with plenty of sophisticated perfumes and oils offering a more natural way to smell good – and they look good on your dressing table.

When it comes to ‘clean beauty’, myths and misconceptions abound – from greenwashing and eco-shaming to plain ol’ fearmongering, politicising the choices we make around personal care has never been more pungent.

Fragrance is one category that’s particularly tricky to navigate due to the fact that choosing how we want to smell is often driven by sentimental factors – such as memories and feelings – instead of intellectual factors like sustainability, brand transparency or hormonal health. But perhaps it’s time we started using our heads as much as our hearts?

While traditional perfumes may conjure special memories, they often contain synthetic copies of natural scents, and these are typically made from a group of chemicals called phthalates.

“Phthalates are known to be hormone disruptors, and can be involved in a host of hormone-driven issues such as infertility, diabetes, metabolic disease, breast cancer, obesity, testicular cancer, early onset puberty,” says naturopath and registered nurse, Madeline Calfas.

Calfas points to two 2016 studies from Harvard University that showed the link between phthalates and an increased risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes, as well as the multiple other studies that have revealed phthalates act as an endocrine disruptor and “can cause reproductive and developmental concerns”.

Avoiding phthalates in perfume is STYLE 16

particularly hard, which is what Nedahl Stelio, the founder of cleanfragrance brand Recreation Bondi Beach, discovered when she was trying to detox her beauty cabinet.

“There are currently 3000 chemicals that can be used to create ‘parfum’,” she explains.

“And because the formulas are considered proprietary, companies don’t have to disclose what’s in [them].”

As Calfas explains, the list of ingredients may just include parfum or fragrance.

“And this is sufficient to meet labelling requirements [as] phthalates are allowed to be included as part of the fragrance, and don’t need to be listed individually.”

Recalling her struggle to make the switch to clean beauty, Stelio says: “The only thing I couldn’t swap out was luxury fragrance because there was nothing on the market at the time that was in great packaging and didn’t feel like a ‘healthy compromise’.”

Stelio ended up starting her own company to fill that void, but the market for chic natural scents has since blossomed.

So you can now spritz with abandon, safe in the knowledge that these phthalate-free fragrances will do nothing other than make you smell good.

How to be sure?

“Look for a ‘phthalate-free’ or ‘fragrancefree’ label on your fragrance, or one that only has natural ingredients,” Calfas says.

“Any product with ‘fragrance’ on it will more than likely contain phthalates.”

If you’re still committed to your ‘traditional’ signature scent, Calfas suggests you reduce your exposure to other sources of phthalates by using glass containers instead of plastics, and ensure other products you use don’t have ‘fragrance’ listed. You can also find biomonitoring tests to measure your toxic exposure.

beauty

The good oil on winter skin Harness the power of vitamin C to combat the drying effects of the season

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itamin C moved from fruit-bowl essential to beauty must-have long ago. So why is this reliable ingredient enjoying a surge in popularity? It’s all about the results.

When it comes to beauty products, there’s always a lot of hype around new ingredients. New recipes with buzzy additives and hyped-up promises boasting a miracle cure seem to hit store shelves and appear in our feeds on the regular. But rarely do fad, trendy ingredients stick around long enough to deliver on their guarantees. More often than not, the most reliable products are not the shiny newcomers but the ones that have proven their worth and efficacy. Enter vitamin C. The nutrient synonymous with orange juice and aiding cold symptoms that’s one of the most hardworking, widely used ingredients found in skincare.

Brighten up There’s good reason dermatologists have been singing the praises of vitamin C for years. Commonly found in serums and moisturisers, the benefits of this powerhouse ingredient are plenty. Firstly, it has unrivalled brightening capabilities.

According to dermatologists, vitamin C is the gold standard of ingredients when it comes to brightening a dull complexion and

erasing sunspots. A potent antioxidant, it neutralises damage caused by free radicals and protects the skin against sun and other environmental harm.

Get the glow While it’s best known for its brightening and tone-evening benefits, it’s also a hero when it comes to anti-aging. According to Dr Ginni Mansberg, GP and founder of Australian brand Evidence Skincare, there’s research showing vitamin C reduces pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps promote and

The Toowoomba Multi Service Centre operates from a beautiful, Queenslander-style cottage in Harristown offering secure, cottage-based respite, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our centre is suitable for people living with dementia, and those aged over 65 seeking opportunities for social and community engagement. Our clients participate in social and meaningful activities, small group outings, community functions and local clubs, all tailored to meeting the individual’s interests.

produce collagen and elastin, further boosting skin radiance.

According to dermatologist Dr Dennis Gross, the genius behind the namesake skincare brand with legions of fans all over the world, vitamin C boasts a powerful duality thanks to its brightening and firming properties.

“Not only does it help to lighten and break up pigmentation you might already have, it also prevents dark spots or sunspots from forming in the future,” he says.

“Vitamin C, in all its brilliance, also increases your skin’s natural production of collagen, giving skin

radiance and vitality.”

FIVE TO TRY

Play it safe As with all active ingredients, to keep skin happy take a gradual approach when adding it to your beauty regimen. As far as complementary ingredients go, vitamin C works best in combination with vitamin E, ferulic acid, vitamin B and hyaluronic acid.

To ensure your power ingredient stays fresh and effective, keep it stabilised in an airtight container in a dark, cool place. And if it becomes dark or cloudy, it’s oxidised, so stop using it.

We offer centre-based and in-home respite care, which gives carers and families a well- earned break to recharge and attend to daily life, safe in the knowledge their loved one is being well looked after.

We are currently accepting My Aged Care referrals for the following services we provide under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme: • Centre-based respite • Social Support (Individual) • Social Support (Small Group)

• • • • • •

● Dr Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten & Firm Vitamin C Serum, $78 ● ESK Evidence Skincare C Serum Lite, $90 ● SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum, $233 ● Medik8 C-Tetra Lipid Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum, $82 ● The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20%, $29

Overnight and Emergency Respite In home Respite and Personal Care Domestic Assistance (cleaning) Home Maintenance Allied Health Specialised Support Services

Please contact us to organise a tour of the centre or discuss our services Alzheimer’s Queensland Toowoomba Multi Service Centre 8 Buckland Street, Harristown Qld 4350 (07) 4635 2966 twbadmin@alzqld.org.au 17 STYLE

health

In good hands Local Breast Clinic continues to provide comprehensive care for women

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he St Andrew’s Diagnostic Breast Clinic has been providing comprehensive and compassionate breast care services for more than 23 years, and currently reviews nearly 100 patients per week.

Breast cancer sadly is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia, with approximately 55 Australians diagnosed each day. The disease is treatable and positive outcomes are achievable if detected early.

The clinic is located on-site at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, and no referral is required to access.

Realising this can sometimes be a very anxious process for women, the clinic is supported by warm reception staff and nurses highly trained in the

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management of breast conditions.

You can rest assured that the Diagnostic Breast Clinic uses the most up-to-date technology including 3D digital tomosynthesis mammography, ultrasound technology and employs the triple test approach to ensure the accuracy of detection.

Realising too that many patients travel long distances to access this service, results can be provided on the same day as your appointment. The clinic’s physicians and nurses will also closely communicate with your GP and support your continued care where necessary.

Our Blush Breast Care Nurses provide support and information for patients with breast cancer and their families.

Locally, Blush Breast Care Nurses cared for 145 newly diagnosed patients in 2021 and provided more than 4000 episodes of care. They are a vital link in a patient’s journey and are renowned for their support and compassion.

St Andrew’s Diagnostic Breast Clinic features ● Comprehensive and local service ● Uses up-to-date technology ● Aligned with surgeons

recognised by BreastSurg ANZ and supported by multidisciplinary team ● Specialist Blush Breast Care Nurses on site

Dr Sharyn Donaldson, Claire Connell, Blush Breast Care Nurse Gaye Foot at St Andrew's Hospital.

wellbeing

Mental health matters for our workforce Small businesses to tackle employee wellbeing with federally funded program

F

rom this month, local mental health and wellbeing organisation Momentum Mental Health will be hitting the road to deliver Wellbeing in the Workplace training sessions to 50 small businesses in theToowoomba and Warwick regions.

The project will generate awareness around everyday practices to promote positive mental health and wellbeing in the Darling Downs, and align with the evidence based health literacy program 5 Ways to Wellbeing. Participants will learn about fostering connection, social awareness, helping others, facilitating constant learning and keeping active.

All key behaviours to help people stay emotionally, socially, spiritually and psychologically healthy. The workshops will also address themes around personal boundary setting and building confidence to have difficult conversations with people within our social networks.

These themes are key factors particularly to build resilience, and fight against the Darling Down’s very high rates of social isolation and incidence of suicide; many of these are attributed to men, with elevated numbers in the 35-54 years age bracket, living regionally.

Momentum Mental Health CEO Debbie Bailey has been a vocal supporter of the need for mental health and wellbeing activity to increase in the prevention space.

“These are important steps forward in supporting vulnerable members of our community, before they find themselves needing clinical assistance,” she said. “Targeting small businesses with this training is an effective way of encouraging collaboration and starting to address community wellbeing.”

Tapping into our connected and active small business communities

will allow for touch points with hundreds of people, and the project has strong support from both Toowoomba and Warwick Chambers of Commerce.

“We are very pleased to collaborate with Momentum Mental Health in this ambitious and exciting project. A collaboration such as this reinforces our commitment to supporting our business community to thrive professionally and personally,” said Todd Rohl, CEO Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce.

“Greater awareness around practices to promote positive mental

health and wellbeing are an important step towards supporting vulnerable members of our community,” said Julia Keogh, President Warwick Chamber of Commerce.

“This funding to support a number of small businesses to receive focused training will aid our larger goal to build social networks of trust, mutual support and understanding in our regional community for individuals, families and businesses who have been adversely affected by the regional drought and flood conditions.”

Holistic continuative care in all areas of Women’s Health including Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Physiotherapy.

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

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P: (07) 4688 5533 www.evolvewomenshealth.com.au | St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Toowoomba 19 STYLE

wellness

Leaders in local health St Vincent’s offer diverse career opportunities

T

he health sector is the largest employer in the Toowoomba region. St Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba employs more than 700 staff in nursing, allied health, support services, administration, engineering and quality roles.

There are opportunities to change roles or progress your career at St Vincent’s Toowoomba. Anita Waite and Malcolm Casey are two long-serving employees who have had interesting careers at the hospital.

Anita was inspired to become a nurse after she ended up in hospital with a knee injury. Nursing had just become a university course after previously being undertaken as hospital training. Anita studied a Bachelor of Science (PreRegistration Nursing) at the University of Southern Queensland and completed her final clinical placement at St Vincent’s Toowoomba in the surgical ward. She was delighted to be offered a job, and was the first university trained nurse to be employed at St Vincent’s.

Anita went on to complete post-graduate training through Central Queensland University, and worked on medical, surgical, coronary care and intensive care wards at St Vincent’s. After sustaining a shoulder injury, she assisted with chart reviews for the Quality and Risk department. Having a keen eye and strong clinical knowledge meant Anita was offered a position completing chart reviews, audits, quality improvements and indicators.

Anita then undertook Clinical Governance roles for various divisions.

These included the St Vincent’s Health

Generations of Care

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Australia QLD division, which saw her support all sites with incident management. She also covered 20 aged care facilities.

In late 2020 Anita accepted her current role as the Quality and Risk Manager. Her favourite part of her job is working with all the hospital departments.

“There is so much variety in this role, which means no two days are the same. St Vincent’s Toowoomba is lucky to have a progressive executive team that are always thinking about how we can ensure St Vincent’s is the best it can be.”

Malcolm has been the Director of Clinical Services for the last five years. He began his career at St Vincent’s Toowoomba as a 19year-old Assistant in Nursing, while studying a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Southern Queensland.

Malcolm completed post graduate study and worked as a Registered Nurse for two years, before working as a Clinical Nurse in the orthopaedics ward and emergency department. At the age of 25, he took on the role of Nurse Unit Manager in Orthopaedics where he worked for 10 years.

He began an executive leadership course while working as a NUM and completed a Bachelor of Clinical Honours through the University of Tasmania. When the Director of Clinical Services role became available five years ago, Malcolm thought it would be an amazing opportunity.

“I enjoy working with hospital finance and the models of care within nursing. I work closely with the Nurse Unit Managers to make sure the wards are running smoothly.”

St Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba advertises available roles on its website. As the largest acute private hospital on the Darling Downs, they employ both clinical and non-clinical staff.

Anita Waite and Malcolm Casey.

wellbeing

Support vital for new mums R eal mums are in fashion on social media with the trend being to demonstrate the realities of new parenting.

Women are speaking out about the challenges of newborn life and the impact of baby on their lives like never before.

This honest analysis is important, being a mum is hard, especially for the first time, but it is also important to consider what part our expectations, our preparations and our actions have on this adjustment and to, in particular, make sure you have a range of different options available to support this transitional time.

The first thing to consider is the birth. OK, we cannot plan all aspects of birth and of course, some of the best laid plans can go astray but it is also important not to completely ignore the evidence and the potential things you can plan for.

The first thing is whether you would like a physiological birth or some other type of vaginal birth or whether you are preparing for a caesarean section. When considering this, think about what happens in the weeks after birth. The decision to have a caesarean section as a planned alternative also needs to factor in recovery time – you will have major surgery – and recovering from surgery along with caring for a new baby will require additional support at home.

Support at home, particularly after a surgical birth such as a caesarean, is best from people who you are really comfortable with – your partner, your own mum, sometimes sisters, mother-in-law or even very close friends.

Liz Wilkes, managing director of My Midwives, recommends that

partners in particular have a bare minimum of two weeks and preferably four weeks off work.

“Women need a lot of rest and recovery time. Partners are best placed usually to provide this, after all, mostly, it is their baby too,” she says.

“Around the two-week mark is when the maximum tiredness usually hits so if it is possible to have longer off work, then that is the best option.

Where that can’t happen having a trusted “other” to fill the space is really important.”

Other considerations around this period and beyond include how well baby is feeding sleeping and settling.

“Education about what to do, what is normal and what steps can be taken when things take a detour is the best

strategy to reduce anxiety.” Liz adds.

“The addition of online education programs, such as our online education modules and virtual classes, enable women from a variety of geographical locations to gain a deeper understanding of newborn behavior, how to respond and what to do if mum or bub are not doing well.

Mum’s need specific support if they are not coping and it is super important that they have a range of strategies to get that support.”

Ms Wilkes suggests all mums develop, before birth, a list of options around where they can get support.

“In the immediate period you may have lots of helpers, family, a home visiting midwife, perhaps you are referred to child health services.

“But it is important to consider

‘what next’ if that does not work. Do you have a mental health specialist?

Have you reviewed who you could link in with if things are challenging?

Do you know what services are available in your local area?

“Often a good GP is a great place to start, but if you have a local midwifery service such as My Midwives, they may also be able to point you in the right direction. Having postnatal education classes or midwifery care in the first six weeks may also set you up well for a great start to parenting”.

For further information email admin@mymidwives.com.au or phone 07 4642 2977 to book an initial consultation with My Midwives. You can also access online education classes at classes.mymidwives.com.au

Women need a lot of rest and recovery time. Partners are best placed usually to provide this, after all, mostly, it is their baby too

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wellbeing

Caring for our carers T here are 2.65 million carers in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which equates to roughly every one in 11 people.

So chances are, if you are not looking after someone who needs help with day-to-day living yourself, you know someone who is.

To say carers are special is surely an understatement – the selflessness and care these people exhibit on a daily basis is to be admired. However, it can take its toll.

As defined by Carers Australia, these people provide unpaid care and support to family members or friends who need it – whether that be because of disability, mental illness, age, alcohol or drug abuse, a chronic condition or terminal illness.

In a 2018 survey, the Australian Bureau of Statistics discovered: ● 1 in 3 carers are the primary carer, meaning they are the main person

providing care to that individual ● 1 in 3 primary carers are looking after their partner, while 1 in 4 care for their child. 1 in 4 are caring for a parent ● Women aged between 55 and 64 years are most likely to have a caring role, and women are more likely to be a carer than men in general ● At least 1 in 10 carers are aged 25 years or younger ● 43% are not in paid employment or looking for work, and 1 in 3 carers receive a Centrelink payment as their main source of income In addition, the more hours of care the person provides, the less likely they are to participate in social activities away from home.

Between this and the emotional load of caring for a loved one, it is of utmost importance that a carer takes some time out for themselves every once in a while: becoming a carer of themselves, if you will.

It can be difficult to arrange time away from your loved one, but it is in both of your best interests to do so. If you look after yourself mentally and emotionally as well as physically, you will have a “full cup” from which to pour into your role as carer.

If you are not a carer yourself and know someone who is, encourage them to take some time for themselves – whether you offer to look after their loved one while they go out for a cuppa by themselves or whether you simply suggest they book in some “me time” out of the house.

Self-care doesn’t have to be complex or expensive, so here we’ve compiled some suggestions to get you started: ● Make time for some exercise each day, or book in a weekly aerobics class with friends ● Eat a balanced diet ● Ensure you get enough sleep

● Keep in touch with friends, even if it’s a weekly text exchange ● Participate in Couch Choir or another virtual group activity ● Grab a takeaway coffee and spend 20 minutes in a park or garden ● Do something silly, watch a comedy, or make time to see a friend who always makes you laugh ● Start keeping a journal ● Listen to an inspirational podcast The friendly team at Hooper Centre Pharmacy can help you with your self-care and requirements in your role as carer, from prescription medication and health to a pamper item or beauty session.

They understand your experience and appreciate your care for your loved one. Mention HCPCARE during the month of July when you shop to receive 10% off (exclusions apply).

Visit the team in the Hooper Centre, 187 Hume St, Toowoomba City, or call on 07 4638 2210.

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CAREERS Find and thrive in your new career.

Page 24-33

23 STYLE

wellness

Yukana team providing a place that residents are proud to call ‘home’.

Thank you for caring for our elderly

F

or older people, the Australian dream is to stay in your own home for as long as possible.

“I’ll be carried out in a box,” is commonly said with a wry smile.

It makes sense, and it’s what most of us would want for ourselves.

The trouble is, life has a way of continuing long after the body or mind starts to break down.

Sometimes it is swift, but more often, it is years.

We might not want care as we age, but most of us will need it.

In an ideal world, Australians would each have enough funds to pay for private carers to be in their own home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The average Aussie doesn’t have anywhere

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near close to enough money for that.

Enter retirement villages and aged care, like Yukana.

More importantly, enter the people that work there.

The work of providing a safe environment for older people is wide and varied.

On good days, there’s plenty to smile about.

On hard days, there can be grief from the loss of a resident, challenging words and actions from residents, aching muscles from a long day on the floor.

What kind of person volunteers to roll their sleeves up and do the things that others can’t or won’t?

“Aged care is a specialist area of nursing,” says June Shum, Yukana’s Care Manager.

“People who work in this field require specific training and compassion for ageing

people.

“They give up sleep to work night shifts, and get up in the dark to work early shifts.

“They willingly organise school drop-offs and pick-ups so they can be available at the busy times, when residents need breakfast, showers and help to get dressed.

“They find a deep sense of purpose in caring for others.

“They would rather have meaningful work that makes a difference in the lives of people, even if it means sacrificing easier work and sometimes better-paying work.”

Whether someone’s role is providing medical attention, preparing meals, keeping the village clean and tidy, making cups of tea, trimming garden hedges or helping a resident fill out a form, each team member in the village is vital.

“Each person brings their unique skills and life experiences to make someone’s day better,” June said.

“What they bring to our residents, and provide for our community as a whole, is invaluable.”

Interested in working at Yukana?

Visit yukana.org.au to express your interest: Carer (Aged Care) Registered Nurse Cook Catering Assistant Cleaner Lifestyle Assistant Groundsperson Maintenance Team Reception

aitc.qld.edu.au

Not all schools are the same.

At the AITC, we’re deliberately different.

Start in Year 10 this July

careers

Future pathways A t St Mary’s College Toowoomba, we are in the business of forming young men for the 21st century through faith, integrity, action and excellence.

These qualities have gained new importance and meaning within the challenges of our modern times and sit within the College’s vision of striving for excellence, to reach one’s full potential, making a difference to our world.

St Mary’s is a Catholic School in the Edmund Rice tradition, where we strive to offer a liberating education based on a gospel spirituality within an inclusive community committed to justice and solidarity.

Our core business of education isn’t just focused on what happens in the classroom or on the sporting field; we are committed to providing opportunities to our boys which will serve them through their schooling and their lives beyond the gates of St Mary’s College.

We recognise that each student is an individual, with unique skills, attributes, ambitions, hopes and dreams. For us, this means that a cookie-cutter approach to educational pathways will not facilitate the best possible individual outcomes.

The St Mary’s College Careers

Department led by Mr Kris Glass is instrumental in providing students with the opportunities and connections they seek to find themselves the right career path.

Offering opportunities in emerging and growing industries such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics enables students to

understand potential jobs of the future.

The College is committed to getting students into school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, to offer a headstart at a career after school.

Through our strong connections with the network of College Old Boys, our students are fortunate to have the chance to visit industries, institution and businesses to experience real world working life and prospects.

Here at St Mary’s, we have more than 120 years experience in educating boys. We know boys, and we know how to teach them.

Our Latin motto, Conanti Corona, is at the heart of what it means to be a St Mary’s man. It translates as, “a crown to the one who strives”.

That means we are completely dedicated to supporting our boys find the best pathway for their own success – academically, vocationally, spiritually and socially.

Forming Young Men for the 21st Century BOYS EDUCATION FOR YEARS 5 TO 12 27 STYLE

29 STYLE

careers

Our regional jobs update Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South West Inc have been working closely with our community and council in the jobs situation

L

ast month, the Local Jobs Program team of RDA DDSW were busy preparing for the Toowoomba Jobs Fair.

There were more than 40 employers recruiting for more than 650 jobs, and roughly 400 jobseekers attended the fair — making the most of the time by engaging with employers, getting their resumes reviewed, and attending workshop sessions.

June saw Gatton, St George, and Roma also holding Careers and Job Expos.

If you’re interested in attending a future fair, contact our Local Jobs Program Employment Facilitator, Trudi Bartlett on 0488 11 22 98 or email facilitator@ddlocaljobs.com.au The end of June will see a transition from the JobActive program to the new Workforce Australia program.

Our Local Jobs Program team have met with all three new employment services providers — The BUSY Group, Sarina Rosso and AimBig. If you are a business looking to fill jobs and would like the contact details of one of the Darling Downs region’s new providers, please get in contact

with Trudi or Darren and they will happily broker an introduction.

RDA DDSW is also undertaking the task of collecting evidence of longterm advertised positions that have not been able to be filled by our domestic workforce.

This evidence will be used to support a business case for a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) to expand the occupation list to fill the workforce needs of our region.

If you have been struggling to fill jobs, please go to www.rdaddsw.org.au/dama/ and complete the details required for each of the roles you have been unable to fill.

The team will then be in contact with you to discuss further.

Finally, a forum held in May, entitled The Future of Jobs — Right Here, Right Now, brought together many people from the Toowoomba

region who influence other people’s career choices.

The audience, including our local educational institutions, training providers, and employment service providers heard presentations from the aged care, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing industries, all of which are having challenges filling job vacancies now.

They spoke about the variety of roles available, the importance of attitude and aptitude in job seekers, and the need for an improved standard of basic literacy and numeracy skills. The presenters shared what they are doing to “grow their own” workforce which is so important with the current strained housing situation.

There was also a presentation from the arts industry discussing the importance of maintaining this industry and its relationship to the

continued “liveability” of our region.

Videos are being produced of each of the presentations and RDA DDSW will share when available for those who were unable to make the forum in person.

The Toowoomba Regional Jobs Committee, supported and funded by the Queensland Government, would like to thank all that attended and supported this event, and our presenters from McLean Farms, JRS Manufacturing, TSBE, Jobs Queensland, Hutchinson Builders, Southern Cross Care, Local Jobs Program, Kim Cahill Social Media Strategies, Construction Skills Queensland, Shiny Happy Art, Toowoomba Regional Council.

Save the date for the next Future of Jobs event on Friday, September 2, where we will focus on major projects in the region and the workforce and skills that will be required.

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careers

What is VET and how does it benefit you?

I

n a rapidly changing employment environment, the speed, value and skills VET provides helps people take a faster, more cost-effective route to completing a qualification and entering the workforce.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) refers to education and training that provides the practical skills and knowledge you need to join the workforce for the first time, re-join the workforce, gain an apprenticeship or traineeship, enter tertiary study, or advance your professional development, says the Queensland Government.

As a result, VET graduates enter employment with confidence and first-hand experience.

VET is offered by a variety of training providers both publicly (TAFE) and privately operated. According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, VET Student Outcomes 2018 publication, 79.8% of VET graduates who undertook their training as part of an apprenticeship or traineeship were employed after training.

VET courses generally take less time to complete than a general bachelor degree (three years) or typical professional degree (four years or more).

VET courses vary in length and are much more dynamic: Certificates I–IV range from six months to two years. Diploma courses typically take one or two years. Advanced diplomas usually take between 18 months to two years, a graduate certificate typically takes six months to one year and a graduate diploma usually takes between one and two years.

Benefits of VET VET qualifications help graduates stand in good stead to take on their chosen career as they focus on the occupational skills and competencies the graduates need.

VET courses broaden skills in a specialised

training, sports science, lifestyle coaching and nutrition.

Childcare A VET qualification in early childhood education and care provides students with the skills required to design and implement curriculums for early childhood education and care services. They work to implement an approved learning framework within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard.

Finance and accounting A VET qualification in finance or accounting offers students a chance to work on their leadership skills and learn how to apply theoretical and specialist knowledge and skills to work in a finance setting. Jobs may include accountant, accounting clerk, bookkeeper, financial broker or a financial investments advisor.

Design area and give students the practical experience they’ll need for the workplace.

It will train students to design, plan and execute the practical and technical aspects of their field within an industry context.

There are many professions that are delivered through VET that may surprise you, and ones with strong job prospects. ● Nursing ● Health workers ● Childcare ● Finance and accounting ● Design ● Management ● Agriculture VET courses provide myriad job opportunities and opens doors to both traditional and surprising career opportunities and no matter what a student’s

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interests or skill set, there’s a job and VET course to suit.

Where can VET take you?

Nursing

A VET Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Nursing provides students with the skills and knowledge required to provide nursing care for people across the health sector. Enrolled nurses integrate and adapt specialised, technical and theoretical knowledge to address a diverse range of clinical situations and challenges in their area of specialisation.

Health workers A VET qualification in health can set students up for a career in a range of occupations, such as dental hygiene, optometry, pharmacy, disability services, mental health and aged-care, to fitness

A VET qualification in the design field offers students a wide range of industries in which they can learn to apply their technical skills, from construction and the built environment to IT/multimedia to fashion.

Management A VET qualification in the management arena offers students a chance to work on their leadership skills and learn how to apply theoretical and specialist knowledge and skills in a business setting. Jobs include management positions in retail, restaurants, call centres, distribution centres and large businesses.

Agriculture A VET qualification in agricultural offers students a chance to engage in outdoor work such as cultivating land, growing plants, soil testing or raising stock. Jobs may include livestock farm worker, or farm owner/ operator.

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careers

How to nail a job interview

HIRING NOW!

Make a great first impressional on video interview

N

ow more than ever, employers are turning to video calls as a remote and convenient way to scope potential employees. In a practice where candidates are left to make their best impressions through the screen, a few extra preparations can give you the best shot at success.

General Manager at HB Recruitment, Anne Selman, says the key to nailing a video call interview is maintaining professionalism, even if you’ve just shifted from your couch to your desk. “Unfortunately, distractions at home can create interruptions, which potentially creates a less professional impression,” she says.

So while it may seem obvious, close your windows, lock the door and set yourself up in the right setting. Not only for the employer to learn about you, Ms Selman says the interview is a time for candidates to be observant of the workplace.

“It is usually more difficult for the

candidate to undertake a video interview as they don’t get the opportunity to observe the office, meet potential colleagues, or evaluate the energy and culture of the work environment,” she says.

A big part of this is the pre- and post-interview small talk. While it’s still possible to chat about the weather and weekend plans over a video call, technology can make things a bit stagnant. “(Over video call), the usual small talk is sometimes limited which can create a more stifled meeting,” Ms Selman says.

However, this surface level chat shouldn’t be overlooked as it reveals character. “Small talk is the ‘icebreaker’ and is imperative in determining the candidate’s personality and subsequent cultural fit to the team,” Ms Selman says.

Job interviews are a two-way street, so it’s also crucial for the candidate to ask questions back.

“Make sure that you have some questions to ask at the end of the interview,” Ms Selman says, “as no questions can reflect no interest in the role.

“A good question is always to ask expected recruitment timeframes.”

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Workday lunch lessons I t’s no secret that workday lunches are a chore. From deciding what to pack to finding time for meal prep, it makes that takeaway lunch seem all the more appealing. In a habit that’s well worth the effort, close the desk snack drawer and fuel your workday with a nutritious lunch your body and mind will thank you for.

Whether you’re an over-snacker or are prone to skipping lunch altogether, nutritionist from The Balanced Nutritionist, Katie King, says lunch is a great opportunity to get in your macronutrients.

“Lunch is a great opportunity to pack in some veggies. If you’re going to hit five serves a day, you’ve got to get some in during the day, whether that’s in a salad or vegetables,” she says.

“The biggest macronutrient that I find people miss is protein. So instead of having a big steak for dinner but no protein at breakfast or lunch, include a smaller portion of protein throughout the day.”

For some, a busy day at work makes it easy to skip lunch altogether. While Katie says sitting at a desk doesn’t particularly warrant a mammoth tradie-style lunch, a lack of food can leave you mentally flat and prone to the afternoon binge.

“Be careful skipping food all day, because sometimes you may not feel like it when you’re distracted by work.

“But if you’re coming home and bingeing on whatever is in the fridge, you probably did need to eat something during the day,” she says.

As with anything diet, eating habits and food intake is subjective. So while a certain occupation or lifestyle may suit multiple, small meals throughout the workday, Katie says it’s generally

easier to stick to the typical three meals.

“Often people don’t have the time to create lots of small, healthy meals,” she says.

“So in my opinion you’re better off actually just concentrating on a healthy breakfast, a healthy lunch and a healthy dinner.”

Not only to fill your stomach, Katie says certain foods can boost your brain health and function.

“Go for anything that’s got a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids, so oily fish like salmon, trout and sardines.

Raw nuts are also great,” she says.

Especially for those who are active outside of the office, a good snack can never go astray. So long as it’s got a balance of macronutrients to satisfy and energise, snacks can keep you going between meals.

“If you genuinely need the snack, make it worthwhile,” Katie says.

“I don’t generally recommend snacking for people sitting at a desk all day, but if you’re burning energy at the gym or exercising, you may need it.

“A snack should have a bit of protein and healthy fat with it otherwise it’s not going to fill you up.

“Go for a bit of natural yoghurt and some fresh fruit, some plain nuts or even a slice of dense toast with some cottage cheese or avocado.”

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food

Brunch platter Start the day with an easy-to-prepare brunch or breakfast board topped with harissa-spiced chickpeas, Spanish baked eggs, ham-wrapped haloumi and more!

Serves 4, Prep time 40 mins, Cook time 1 hr 10 mins INGREDIENTS ● Sliced Turkish bread, grilled ● Harissa-spiced chickpeas ● 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained ● 2 tsp olive oil ● 2 tsp harissa paste Spanish baked eggs ● 2 tsp olive oil ● 250g chorizo ● ½ red onion, finely chopped ● 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped ● 400g can diced tomatoes ● 1 tsp smoked paprika

● 125g can four-bean mix, rinsed and drained ● 50g baby spinach ● 4 eggs Ham-wrapped haloumi ●200g haloumi, sliced ● 100g Serrano ham or prosciutto METHOD 1 For the Harissa-spiced chickpeas, preheat oven to 200C/180C fan forced. Grease a baking tray and line with baking paper. Dry chickpeas on paper towel. Place in a large bowl with olive oil, harissa and a good pinch of sea salt. Toss to coat well.

2 Spread in a single layer on the prepared tray. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until crunchy.

The Ridge Shoppingworld

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Set aside to cool. Make up to 1 day ahead.

3 For the Spanish baked eggs, heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Finely slice half the chorizo and cook for 5 minutes or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a serving platter.

4 Finely chop remaining chorizo. Add the onion to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the tomatoes and smoked paprika and cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened. Stir in beans, spinach and remaining chorizo. Cover and cook for 2 minutes or until spinach wilts. Season.

5 Divide the tomato mixture between 2 small ovenproof pans or dishes. Make 2 indents in

the mixture in each pan and crack an egg into each indent. Place on a baking tray and cook for 7-10 minutes or until the whites are set but the yolk is still runny.

6 For the ham-wrapped haloumi, Wrap ham or prosciutto around the haloumi. Spray a frying pan with oil and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes each side or until golden.

NOTES Serve with roasted cherry tomatoes, hash browns, potato gems, chargrilled asparagus, green Spanish olives, mango cheeks, chicken chipolatas, avocados, bacon skewers, hummus, rocket leaves and fresh herbs.

food

Elevated bar fare Warm up with Monty Brewing Company in Highfields

T

he popular brewery offers an outstanding menu of locally-sourced, handcrafted food.

Sun-drenched and wonderfully cosy, even on the coldest of range-side days, Monty Brewing Company in Highfields makes for an incredible day or night out. Offering beautiful views over the valley and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, both the brews and the food are outstanding.

The brewery features a range of tasty beers made on-site, complemented by guest craft beers over 15 taps. The wine list features a carefully curated selection of locally sourced wines and there is a selection of boutique spirits and locally produced soft drinks on offer.

And if that’s not a good enough reason to settle in for a long afternoon, Monty Brewing Company’s food offering certainly is.

There are two menus to choose from, both of which heavily feature local, seasonal produce.

“It was important for us to include as much local produce as we could,” says owner and head brewer, Nathan Semmens. “We’ve used rhubarb and blueberries from Highfields and Hampton previously and we try to incorporate our local chocolate maker Metiisto in our desserts.

“It’s not the cheapest way to source ingredients, but the quality is high and we are supporting local producers.”

For more casual fare to share with friends, the bar menu includes

grazing and cheese boards, a baked brie with truffle honey and a selection of tasty handmade breads, buffalo chicken wings and a range of handcrafted sourdough pizzas.

The sophisticated main menu offers much more than your standard brewery fare and reflects the seasons beautifully. Winter menu highlights include the locally sourced Mort & Co Phoenix Wagyu Sirloin and the

Hearty Pappardelle Pasta.

The pasta is handmade by Head Chef, Adam Hamilton, who is keen to keep as much of the production inhouse as possible.

“Making everything from scratch makes the food all the more special.

We already make our own flatbreads and will start making our own sourdough breads soon.”

Monty’s own beers are also

incorporated into the food menu with stouts a favourite in winter months.

The menu also caters for vegetarians and vegans with some delicious options including a delicious pumpkin hummus with charred onions and sesame and garlic flatbread.

“The swiss flat mushroom burger is incredible,” Nathan says. “It’s so full of flavour.”

Monty Brewing Company in Highfields offers a baked brie with truffle honey.

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Highfields 35 STYLE

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Success

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It’s a great time to sell your property.

The Jacqui Walker Sells Team will get you the highest possible price.

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HEALTHY HOME? HOW CLEAN IS THE AIR YOU NOW BREATHE?

O

ver the last few months we have investigated design objectives to achieve a more sustainable home in our local climate zones.

This month we will look at a few simple and costeffective alternatives that are available through selective material choices and specific design strategies that will improve the health of the indoor environment of your home.

Most of us spend a significant percentage of our lives indoors, so it is worth thinking about the air quality in our homes (especially in light of easily transmissible airborne diseases).

People often talk fondly of the ‘new home smell’ (like new cars), but those odours actually come from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), present in many glues and household products, and in a wide range of construction materials, new furnishings and the like.

VOCs are not good for your health long term. They are chemicals containing carbon that evaporate into the atmosphere at room temperature. Formaldehyde is one of the most common VOCs. As the first simple step in a ‘clean air strategy’ when building a new family home, we chose Low VOC building materials, like naturally termite resistant Cypress timber

for all our framing. To further reduce the need for toxic chemicals, we also only use Termimesh, a specially designed, non-toxic, long lasting physical termite barrier, to reduce the need for extensive, expensive and repeated chemical treatments. Not only much safer for you, but also preferable from a wider environmental perspective.

Inside your home, we further carefully chose all Low VOC products, laminates and floorcoverings, like Dulux's Wash&Wear Low Sheen Acrylic interior paint, which has both low odour and low VOCs. All manufacturers of these materials list the VOCs contained in their products.

With winter now here, another obvious source of indoor air pollutants is smoke and combustion products. To maintain good air quality when you have a ‘crackling good fire in the hearth’, firstly you need adequate fresh outdoor air coming into the room, to vent the pollutants to the outdoors, and keep flues and chimneys clean.

Mould is also a rising worry with all the recent prolonged wet weather, and if, as many predict, we face more uncertain weather patterns in the future, it could be an ongoing problem, if a clear strategy to combat it is not built into your home from the outset.

Therefore, strategies to prevent mould getting started

include adequately venting sources of moisture (from bathrooms, laundries and kitchens) externally to reduce condensation. Importantly, this also means installing bulk insulation and sisalation correctly in the first place, to reduce the build-up of condensation.

Another amazingly simple step to keep your home’s air clean is to properly seal the internal garage door to minimise exhaust pollutants from the vehicles in the garage — and reduce the running time of vehicle engines in the garages connected to the home.

In short, ensure your home is well designed from the start, that allows for controllable ventilation and that can be well sealed when required, to avoid outside pollutants entering your home and compromising your health.

Next time we will look at simple and cost-effective design criteria that you can employ now to make your home more easily accessible, especially as you age.

If you would like to know more about the clean air design issues raised in this article, please arrange a time to visit me at our Design Centre at 20 Stradbroke Street, Toowoomba.

— Geoff Gibson

Smart Design... Smarter Living.

Geoff Gibson 0407 965 261

facebook.com/geoffgibsonhomes

geoffgibsonhomes

DESIGN CENTRE: 20 Stradbroke St, Toowoomba (Off North St) | Office phone: 07 4634 4550 QBCC 100 5734 | www.geoffgibsonhomes.com.au | geoff@geoffgibsonhomes.com.au

home

When you can’t agree on price writes Ros Burton, principal The Real Estate People

B

ringing buyers and sellers together is an integral part of the real estate industry and, as with any negotiation process, sometimes the two parties aren’t always singing off the same hymn sheet.

Quite understandably, the seller wants “top dollar” for their property and the buyer doesn’t want to pay a cent more than they think is fair.

On the rarest of occasions, both sides hit on a similar figure and eagerly put pen to paper — which is perfect when everyone walks away with a perceived win.

It CAN happen, so here are some things to consider when you’re looking to find that middle ground: Know the neighbourhood. As those TV meerkats continually tell us: “You

have to compare the market”.

You need to look at houses/units that have sold recently in your chosen area that are similar to your property and see what they went for.

Compare bedroom numbers, bathrooms, kitchen layouts and land size.

Has a competitor’s property been renovated while yours is still stuck in the ‘70s. Price accordingly.

Also monitor comparable homes

that were withdrawn from the market because they didn’t find a buyer.

Were they overpriced or required too much work to modernise? How long were they listed (and did the price drop from the original advertisement)?

These observations will give you a great start to establishing a price that is fair to you and will still be attractive to potential buyers.

What’s the market doing?

Is it going through the roof or in a

slump?

Even in a seller’s market, a poorly priced home will be shunned by buyers. They know they’re being gouged.

And, in a buyer’s market, you’ll possibly be competing with a larger number of available properties.

Will your price and presentation even get them to an inspection?

Also, keep an eye on interest rates and where unemployment levels currently sit — it all feeds into the economy and can directly influence property prices.

These are just a handful of things you need to be across when buying or selling; and that’s why you’re always better off with an experienced agent in your corner.

We’ve got some pretty good ones here at The Real Estate People who’d love to help you on your next property journey.

So, feel free to call us anytime or pop into our Herries Street office (just up from the Glennie School).

Landlords… does your property manager offer: 9 Detailed routine inspection reports every 3 months 9 Tenants paying water consumption 9 One on one communication 9 Market appraisal at every lease renewal 9 Flexibility with chosen trades

If not, then it’s time for you to get a new property manager.

Looking after your investment shouldn’t be ‘set and forget’.

What is important to you is important to us, so call us today and see how easy it is to make the change.

289 Herries St, Toowoomba 07 4633 8899 (just up from Glennie School)

www.therealestatepeople.com.au 41 STYLE

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home

Feng Shui your workspace F rom cluttered dining room tables to scattered couch set ups, your home workspace can decide your productivity.

Enter Feng Shui — grounded in multiple elements of space, time and chi (best translated to ‘energy’ in English), these ancient Chinese principles are about more than just the colour of your pot plant.

Wendy Grant from Feng Shui Ism in Sydney says it’s multi-layered and when done correctly, can create a workspace of creativity and productivity.

“It’s so multi-layered that there’s no generic answer,” she says. “But if you can get the basics right by making your space feel good, inviting, aesthetic and uncluttered, you place yourself in a position of power and support when applying yourself to study or business.”

The art of Feng Shui uses the elements of fire, wood, earth, water and metal to set the right environment for your intention. So

not only concerning placement, Wendy says it’s the literal placement of your house, where your office space is within your house, and even when and where you place yourself within your workspace.

With all these layers, Wendy says Feng Shui is often generalised into broad tips and tricks when really, her job as a consultant sees her tailoring recommendations for each space, person and purpose.

“It doesn’t involve a certain design style or generic zen interior,” she says.

“It can be applied to a big or small space, right down to your desk at a micro level. It’s not an aesthetic decor preference but instead applies to anyone’s aesthetic or decor, choices or preferences.”

The first step is finding your space — while it’s not possible for everyone to have a designated work or study room, even a study nook or desk can do the trick.

“We can divide a home into sectors, and each sector relates to an aspect of

life,” Wendy says. “So if you were studying, we’d be looking for that academia zone where you are going to enhance knowledge and experience.

“If you were in business, we’d be looking to position you more in that abundance sector, where you go to enhance your financial position for business success.”

Once set in your dedicated sector

and workspace, Wendy recommends choosing colours that match your personal preferences.

“You can stick to something neutral if you’re unsure, but you might find you’re drawn to a wood environment, or a metal environment and that could be tapping into those personal preferences and associated colours,” she says.

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home

Concept a national winner F rom a local family-owned joinery in the heart of Toowoomba to national winners.

Brett, Paula and the team flew to Cairns in April for the National Excellence in Building & Constructions Awards where they were awarded National Specialist Contractor of the Year - Residential.

Up against the best contractors in Australia, Concept Kitchens were honoured to take home the top award for their exceptional craftsmanship on the Range Home Project in Toowoomba.

The incredible transformation

featured bespoke joinery, using unique materials throughout.

Breaking the conventional concept of surfaces, the team used 12mm Italian porcelain with mitred fronts throughout the kitchen, pantry, alfresco barbeque area and bar.

The alfresco barbeque area and inside bar are integrated around a centralised cold room.

Other key features include a backlit Marblo fascia to the kitchen island bench surrounded by integrated shadow lines and 2pac painted Aventos electronic doors, which not only add to the class of this space but its functionality as well.

The team then used an exquisite European toughened glass panel finishing system to the doors and drawer fronts under-bench.

The matte finished glass is specially treated to create a nonreflective, smooth and fingerprintfree surface.

Brett liaised with the owner to design a secret pool cue cupboard behind a pivoting door to the entertaining area and the cellar of their dreams.

Other key pieces of joinery include detailed wall and ceiling panelling constructed from book-matched polished timber veneer and a

“National Specialist Contractor of the Year” 2021 National Excellence in Building & Constructions Awards

BRETT DALLINGER 138 Jellicoe Street, Toowoomba Ph: 07 4632 5953 STYLE 44

Web: www.concept-kitchens.com Email: design@concept-kitchens.com

luxurious powder room.

Concept Kitchens is celebrating 20 years in business this year, having designed and manufactured high quality, custom-built kitchens and joinery since June 2002.

Owner Brett Dallinger offers more than 38 years experience in the cabinet-making industry and can work within any budget to turn dream ideas into reality.

The latest national recognition is a testament to the highest quality of work on offer by the Concept Kitchens team.

Concept Kitchens were awarded Specialist Contractor of the Year for their outstanding workmanship on the Range Home Project in Toowoomba.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE S E L L I N G WI T H B E N I TA PROFESSIONAL. FRIENDLY. EXPERIENCED. 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

Benita McMahon

YOU DESERVE THE ‘EXTRA MILE’ WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME

0427 306 970 benita@wireproperty.com.au

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.

REAL ESTATE AGENT

(07) 4698 7111 admin@wireproperty.com.au 2 Highfields Rd, Highfields QLD 4352 wireproperty.com.au

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.

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home

Create home office style A productive home office is much more than a good zoom background, writes Kate Calacouras

W

e’re in a new work-life phase where we’re comfortable with Zoom, and it’s clear many of us will earn our long-term living from home - at least part of the time.

Betty-Jo Eleakley is a Toowoombabased interior designer and said people were now realising they needed to create a flexible and productive space for multiple people working or studying at home.

“We’re in a kind of transitional period. We’re gone from jumping into our (home) office and making do with lockdowns,” she said.

“But now it’s becoming a permanent thing, (people are asking)

‘Do I invest in making this space into its full potential?’”

A big believer in creating a functional yet inviting work space, Ms Eleakley said a cluttered or disorganised office could affect how you worked. “If everything has its own space, you are more likely to

relax. That affects productivity.”

Ms Eleakley said for those people sharing a workspace with others in their household, investing in joinery that provided enough storage for everyone to put things away at the end of the day was crucial.

Continued next page >>

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home From previous page >>

Personal touches

Ms Eleakley also said a welldesigned office would ensure things like power boards and modems were kept away from the main desk area.

“It comes back to joinery design.

Some people can have a custom desk, some people can buy something off the shelf. It’s about the proportion in the room,” she said.

“If it’s too cluttered and you can’t walk around the space, that won’t work. But if it’s too small you’ll have piles of things on the floor.”

Often working from home herself, Ms Eleakley said once you had built a functional workspace, it was important to use it well, especially if you were sharing with other people.

She suggested organising your work area the night before, “so when you come to work, everything is right to go”.

“Sometimes we get distracted (when we arrive at work). If we are not feeling creative we look for distractions. But if we are in tune with our work, our energy is ready - I want to get to the office and get started,” Ms Eleakley said.

“If you feel good about your space you’ll do that.”

Ms Eleakley steers clear of cold minimalism, saying it was important to bring warmth to a space so you feel like being in there.

But she cautioned any personal touches should be genuine, saying anything done purely for a background in Zoom can be distracting. “I like personal touches, to kind of show what you’re about energy-wise,” she explained.

“I do see sometimes that some people can over-stage. Don’t overdo it.

“You want it to look natural and effortless, you want people to relate and connect to your energy. If it’s very staged it will take a bit to get through that.”

Ms Eleakley said it was important to be smart when thinking about how to incorporate personality into your space.

Think about what needs to be functional, and what can be more decorative. “Your office chair is more about comfort and support, and if there are multiple people using it, it needs to be adjustable. Other things in the space can be more decorative,” she said.

“The lamp can be a focal point - get a comfy chair!”

Light me up Proper lighting has always been important in improving your energy and productivity, but Ms Eleakley said now that we’re inviting clients and colleagues into our space via Zoom, lighting was more important than ever.

“Our home office is now a reflection of how we do business. It’s good to have lighting above the desk. If lighting is in the centre of the room that can cause a shadow,” she said.

If you can’t position your desk

Spend your money

AT HOME!

underneath overhead lighting, a desk lamp is a good alternative. Natural light is even more important, as a well-lit room can improve the way you work and a window that allows in fresh air is also beneficial.

“Sunlight is the best source of natural energy. It can motivate and energise us. People feel better in a space if there is natural light,” Ms Eleakley said.

“You don’t want stagnant energy in a space. It’s important to have that fresh air flow.”

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travel

A grand Italian tour Missing the Giro D’Italia? Relive the scenery with six Italian travel routes inspired by the race - part one!

I

nspired by the striking scenery and dreamy destinations you’ve seen on screen throughout the stages of this year’s Giro d’Italia? Not sure what to do now it’s over? To help plan your own tour to take in Italy’s iconic art, history, food, and natural beauty - whether you want to hike, bike, wander or drive – the Italian National Tourist Board has created detailed itineraries to follow every fascinating stage, including local recipes to recreate at home. Here are some highlights to add to your next Italian itinerary.

Emanuele Attanasio, spokesperson from the Italian National Tourist Board, a key sponsor of the event, said: “We were delighted to see an Australian, Jay Hindley, win this year’s prestigious Giro d’Italia cycling race, and we would like to congratulate him for his outstanding effort.

“Italy is the number one destination in Europe for Australian travellers right now, and we are sure Jay appreciated the support of Australian fans cheering him on from home whilst planning their longawaited trips back to Italy.”

Stages 4 & 5: Sicily From golden sandy beaches along the Ionian coast to the biodiverse Etna Park surrounding Europe’s highest

1

active volcano, the Giro’s fourth and fifth stages in Sicily roamed from picturesque coastline to rural hinterland to rugged mountain landscapes. Highlights included the coastal town of Avola, home to worldfamous almonds and Sicilian wine Nero d’Avola, and the extravagant architecture of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ‘Late Baroque Cities of the Val di Noto’, including Palazzolo Acreide, home of the magnificent Basilica of San Sebastiano, and Catania, with its impressive old town, ‘lucky’ Elephant Foundation and impressive Ursino Castle which houses the Civic Museum.

Imposing Mt Etna is one of the must-sees for visitors to Sicily. The ‘moonscape’ towards the mountain is in complete contrast to the pictureperfect coastline below and attractions to explore include the Astrophysical Observatory and the historic Rifugio Sapienza, a historic alpine hotel, bar and restaurant where visitors can enjoy rustic dishes including caponata, parmigiana, mushroom and pistachio dishes.

Winding back down from Etna’s

barren volcanic vistas, visitors can keep an eye out for vultures, eagles, black pigs and Sanfratellani horses in the Nebrodi ranges.

Charming villages to explore in the area include medieval gem Novara di Sicilia with its alleyways, churches and sandstone buildings; seaside Ganzirri and Messina, the finish line for stage five known for its worldfamous gelato, granita and cannoli, the astronomical clock in Piazza Duomo and an array of photogenic fountains.

Stage 7: Calabria & Basilicata This seventh stage of the Giro is all about unique towns from the seaside to the mountains. Highlights include Diamante in Calabria, a favourite with sun-lovers and snorkellers famed for its September Chilli Festival; coastal Maratea, characterised by romantic whitewashed houses and a staggering 44 churches; and the winding narrow streets and balconies overflowing with blooming geraniums in Trecchina.

Moving from villages to the city,

Potenza, the capital of Basilicata, is divided into two distinctive parts, the hilltop old town with intimate alleys and compact squares, and the modern city down below. Don’t miss the museum and gallery inside Palazzo Loffredo, followed by a tasty local dinner of pasta with cruschi peppers – simple but so satisfying.

2

Stage 11: Emilia Romagna

3

The eleventh stage of the Giro is all about history, but in good news for amateur cyclists, it’s also one of the flattest stretches, making it an ideal part of the country to explore on two wheels at your own pace. Also known for its food and wine heritage, there will be no shortage of places to stop to refuel with local cured meats and cheeses along the way.

Literature lovers should stop in Cesena to explore the oldest civil library in the world, the Malatesta Library, while the historic centre of Forlimpopoli has numerous historic icons to discover, including the remarkable 14th century Rocca Albornoziana. Looking for dinner options on the road? The local tagliatelle and meatloaf with a glass of Sangiovese is a regional delicacy.

In the regional capital Bologna, discover an incredible 28 kilometres of porticos throughout the historic centre. Feast on traditional tortellini ragù and mortadella in the central Piazza Maggiore – a quintessential visitor experience – marvel at the world’s largest sundial inside the Basilica of San Petronio, then climb to the top of Torre degli Asinelli for a panoramic view over the city.

4

1. The medieval town of Scilla in Calabria.

2. The Matterhorn reflected on Lago Blu near BreuilCervinia, Aosta Valley.

3. A mountain village In Basilicata.

4. View of La Morra in Cuneo, Piedmont.

5. Aerial view of Bologna old town.

5

Get your guide to Stages 13, 15, and 16 in the next edition of Style magazine, out on Friday, August 5.

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art

A passion for poetry B ush poet Helen Wangmann was born in Mungindi, which straddles the NSW/ Queensland border, on February 12, 1947 and was a Year 2 graduate of the School of the Air, meaning she had some “readin’, writin’ and ‘rithmetic” catching up to do, as all the kids did in those days.

She “married” Jim in 1967 and her daughter Kate, now of Goondiwindi, describes the occasion as “not formal, but rather unofficial in the company of their closest friends and with the blessing of the local minister.”

In time Helen and Jim welcomed four girls into their family – Kate, Nikki, Emily and Ali and two boys - Luke and Jack.

One would have thought looking after six children would have been too exhausting to consider many other activities, but Helen surrendered to a secret love - poetry!

To quote Kate again, “With no formal education, Mum would spend hours buried in a dictionary to find the perfect word to use in her poetry. She would often ask Dad, a word wizard, or one of her children for words that might work”.

“Sometimes we couldn’t find the word she wanted and for the most part it was the lack of the perfect word that gave Mum’s poetry such depth.

“Her words were sincere… it’s the feeling she evokes with her words that resonates, rather than the perfect word itself.”

Helen’s poems are many and varied from “The Drover and The Judge” to “The Truth About Growing Old” and it is likely they number in their hundreds.

Sadly, Helen died on March 28 last year. Her funeral was held at her Chinchilla home under her beloved Jacaranda tree, which was no doubt the subject of many poems.

Hairy does the Job A Chartered Accountant with a sense of humour

THE TRUTH ABOUT GROWING OLD

by Helen Wangmann

The truth about growing old There ain’t nothing grand about growing old, except that you didn’t die young.

And the goal at the top of the ladder of life, is replaced by a worn broken rung.

It drops you down flat on your backside and reminds you at least you’re not dead.

So you’ll go dream your dreams of tomorrow, tonight when you lay down your head.

Tomorrow will be so much brighter.

And those hills and mountains you’ll climb.

You will wake up much fitter and younger, You’ll do great things, all in your own time.

You awake to a house full of no one but you, and the weight of it makes you so tired.

The fitness and youth has escaped you, gone is the spark you desired.

The raindrops and roses and whiskers on kittens, have turned into dark pouring rain.

Just the shadows of memories surround you, of a person you won’t be again.

In aloneness you don’t see a future, for your story is on its last page.

And you don’t believe the old adage, that things get better with age.

Age is but a number, they tell you.

You’re as old as you feel, they all say.

Oh so wildly we grasp at these sayings But I don’t believe them today.

Oh, I will find my rose coloured glasses, to view futures bright repertoire.

But for now I will wallow in my muddled mind, and see things the way that they are.

Jeff Hannaford is a Community Chartered Accountant and Trouble Shooter who has been in business since 1978 when he opened up his first office in Inglewood. His business has now grown with another 2 offices in Texas and Millmerran.

Don’t delay, contact and enjoy the experience of good old fashioned service.

For a free insight into what changes you could make to your business, call Jeff on 0429 894 937

Jeff Hannaford Pty Ltd Office Contacts: Millmerran 07 4695 1477 | Inglewood 07 4652 1106 Texas 07 4653 1155 51 STYLE

arts

toowoomba RESPONSE TO THE BUNYAS ROSALIE GALLERY WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29 TO SUNDAY, JULY 24

Response to the Bunyas is a touring exhibition from the Western Downs Regional Council, featuring works by 24 regional artists who explore the depth and beauty of the Bunya Mountains - Booburrgan Ngmmunge.

Rosalie Gallery at 89 Mocatta St, Goombungee, is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Sharlene SMITH / Bunya mountain 2020 / acrylic on canvas / 60 x 76cm / © Sharlene Smith

IMPRESSIONS BY JUDI NEUMANN CROWS NEST GALLERY WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, TO SUNDAY, JULY 24

IMPRESSIONS explores the photographic processes of Judi Neumann and her fascination with the visual interpretation of the world.

Through the manipulation of her digital camera, she encourages the viewer to see differently, focusing on light, movement, form and essence of each scene.

On Sunday, July 10 at 11am meet Judi Neumann and learn more about her artistic practice. This is a free event, with no bookings required.

Crows Nest Gallery, at the corner of the New England Highway and William Street is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm Wednesday to Sunday. It is closed on Monday, Tuesday and public holidays.

Judi NEUMANN / Enraged 2022 / digital print on archival metallic paper mounted on acrylic / 30 x 45cm / © Judi Neumann

Scan for information on Multuggerah and Meewah.

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0487988247 2b Taylor Street Toowoomba City Queensland 4350

Nominations are now

! n e p O

Applications are open for The Chronicle Garden Competition this year, as a feature event during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

Look for your entry in The Chronicle every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Applications Close: 2pm on 12 August 2022.

gardening

Where competition blooms The Chron­i­cle Gar­den Com­pe­ti­tion is back and promises a fabulous year with a few changes in store, writes Rhylea Millar and Jessica Kramer

F

or 73 years now, The Chronicle Garden Competition has been bringing joy to the community – locals and visitors alike.

This year promises to be no different in that regard, with the official launch held on June 11 at Cobb+Co Museum.

However, the organisers had a few changes up their sleeves, including new sponsors Toowoomba Council and the University of Southern Queensland.

At the launch, the judges for the 2022 event were also revealed, as well as three new categories for the region’s avid gardeners to enter.

Garden liaison Mike Wells announced George Hoad as this year’s residential garden judge, while Rusell Campbell would cover the commercial, not-for-profit and school entries. ”It’s not an easy task to choose judges for this competition,” Mike said.

“We need to find people who are good

STYLE 54

horticulturists and know how to judge gardens …

I’m very pleased to announce our judges for 2022.”

Mr Hoad has spent years travelling across Australia to visit all kinds of gardens, is a life member of the Garden Club of Australia and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) last year for significant service to the residential horticulture industry.

Meanwhile, Mr Campbell is well-known for working as curator for the University of Southern Queensland (USQ)’s Japanese Garden for many years.

He now owns his own business and has helped design and establish several Garden Competition prize-winning gardens across the region.

Three new categories were also revealed for this year’s competition, including Rural Residential, Under 45s, and 70-Plus Gardeners.

In addition to Mike Wells, The Chronicle’s general manager Erika Brayshaw, Councillor

Grand champions Glen and Ida Kendrick (above) from Septebmer 2004; and country garden entrant (below), 24 Stark Drive, Toowoomba, from 2010.

James O’Shea and Deputy Mayor Geoff McDonald spoke at the event.

“We’re hoping to see a lot of entrants this year – who knows, there may even be gardeners entering for the first time,” Mr Wells said. “(I spoke) about the judging criteria and how they will be scoring and giving some hints and tips about how gardeners can prepare from now and up until the big week.”

Applications are open now until 2pm on August 12, with judging to take place from August 9 to September 2.

So now that the launch is over, it’s time for gardeners to whip out the hedge clippers, trowels and tough-love gloves.

And while the excitement is starting to grow, it won’t be easy for our Toowoomba gardeners this year who have already battled less than ideal weather conditions.

The competition’s 2021 grand champions Leisa and Serge Rossignol sadly suffered a fair amount of damage to their French cottage-styled garden during the January hailstorm.

“Flowers I had planted for summer were badly damaged, which meant they got cut back and bloomed in autumn,” Ms Rossignol said.

“Then we went on a month-long holiday and we only got back three weeks ago (before the Competition Launch) – our garden was just summer everywhere.”

Despite being slightly behind schedule, the couple’s fingers are crossed for rain, sunny days and a warm winter.

And spectators certainly won’t be disappointed, with crowds expected to see lots of colour in the form of Iceland poppies, pansies, violas and anemones.

Garden competition liaison Mike Wells advised entrants to continue normal preparations and not try to predict the weather conditions ahead of time.

Over seven decades, Toowoomba has watched this com­pe­ti­tion bloom into the world – renowned event it is to­day.

Held along­side the Car­ni­val of Flow­ers each spring, vis­i­tors come from far and wide to en­joy a kalei­do­scope of colour and ex­cite­ment, with en­trants open­ing their gar­dens to the pub­lic during set times over the Carnival month.

The first The Chron­i­cle Gar­den Com­pe­ti­tion was held in 1949, in an at­tempt to brighten the ap­pear­ance of the town and lift post-war spir­its.

It was such a suc­cess it drew more than 50 en­trants in 1950, in­spired the cre­ation of the Carni­val of Flow­ers and helped earn Toowoomba the ti­tle of ‘Gar­den City’.

The win­ner of the first in­au­gu­ral Chron­i­cle Gar­den Com­pe­ti­tion was Mrs Ruby O’Brien of 269 West Street.

Since then, names like Beh, Swen­son, Lloyd, Con­quest, Hult­gren, and many oth­ers have be­-

gardening

Chronicle garden competition gardener Leisa Rossignol works in her garden in preparation for the competition.

Picture: Kevin Farmer

come syn­ony­mous with the com­pe­ti­tion and its de­vel­op­ment.

The gar­den­ers of The Chron­i­cle Gar­den Com­pe­ti­tion are a ded­i­cated group of peo­ple, with some hav­ing en­tered the com­pe­ti­tion for more than 30 years in a row.

Meanwhile, the com­pe­ti­tion judges are well known to en­trants and gar­den­ing en­thu­si­asts, being chosen from celebrities of the gardening world.

It is con­sid­ered a great honour to be in­vited to judge this renowned com­pe­ti­tion, and their sched­ules even used to be pub­lished in The Chron­i­cle un­til the 1980s.

The first judge, D.A Her­bert, was a pro­fes­sor of botany at the Univer­sity of Queens­land and was as­sisted by his wife, with both of them con­tin­u­ing their judg­ing roles well into the 1960s.

Fol­low­ing in their shoes have been a mul­ti­tude of other judges with im­pres­sive cre­den­tials, like land­scape ar­chi­tects Arne Fink and Lawrie Smith, the cu­ra­tors of the Bris­bane Botanic Gar­dens and Mount Coot-Tha Gar­dens Harold Caulfield and Ross McKin­non, as well as Syd­ney-based hor­ti­cul­tur­ist Stan Peck, Mr and Mrs Stan Roberts, and Colin Camp­bell.

Year upon year, the com­pe­ti­tion has grown and

Far left: Entering for the first time in 2021 is Kellie Gersekowski from Crow’s Nest.

Left: Country gardens in 2010 at 339 Fysh Rd .

Below: Sandra Norris sits in her garden during judging in 2021.

adapted — in its for­ma­tive years, the com­pe­ti­tion had just three cat­e­gories — Open Class (for all gar­dens in Toowoomba), In­ter­me­di­ate Class (for gar­dens which had never be­fore won a prize), and Home Builders’ Gar­den (for post-war gar­dens of homes built af­ter 1945).

Since then, cat­e­gories like home­stead gar­dens, small space gar­dens, and pre­dom­i­nantly Aus­tralian na­tive gar­dens have steadily been added and adapted ac­cord­ing to trends and chang­ing cir­cum­stances in the city and sur­round­ing area.

Quirky cat­e­gories, like ‘best dis­play of sweet peas’ and ‘good neigh­bour’, have been cut from the com­pe­ti­tion or amal­ga­mated with other cat­e­gories for a more stream­lined com­pe­ti­tion.

To­day, 73 years later, there are several cat­e­gories both in the city gar­dens sec­tion and in the regional gar­dens sec­tion, with cat­e­gories for sus­tain­able and pro­duc­tive gar­dens, re­flec­tive of the need to save wa­ter and a de­sire to live more selfsuf­fi­cient lives by grow­ing our own fruits and veg­eta­bles.

With the prize pool hav­ing grown from £50 in 1950 to more than $55,000 to­day, it’s clear this com­pe­ti­tion’s spon­sors de­serve a round of ap­plause.

Full credit goes to this year’s spon­sors, Toowoomba Coun­cil and the Univer­sity of South­ern Queens­land, with­out whom the com­pe­ti­tion would not en­joy as much suc­cess.

55 STYLE

events

toowoomba

MAD FOOD SCIENCE SATURDAY, JULY 9, 1PM-4PM

BLACKSMITHING BASICS WORKSHOP

WHERE: Toowoomba City Library Multipurpose room, Level 3 155 Herries Street Toowoomba.

WHAT: Get the kids into healthy eating over the school holidays with this fun program.

Together you’ll discover why the food rainbow is so important, what to do about fussy eaters, which foods help concentration, behaviour and academic performance, avoid lunch box stress and understand food labels COST: $5 per person per session. Numbers are limited so bookings essential, contact Victoria via phone 0457 184 513 or email Victoria.Byrnes@TheRootCause.com.au

WHERE: Cobb + Co Museum, 27 Lindsay St, Toowoomba WHAT: Join Australian Champion Blacksmith Terry Drennan for a lesson in the custom built blacksmithing shop. Learn techniques such as drawing, upsetting, squaring, rounding, forge welding and riveting, barley twisting. Create your own set of blacksmithing tools in this twoday workshop.

COST: $420 (inc GST) includes expert instruction, all materials, and meals Age: 16 years and over

Buy direct from the farmers, makers or bakers.

EVERY SATURDAY, 7AM TO 12NOON

Under the Windmills at Cobb & Co, Cnr Lindsay & Campbell St, Toowoomba STYLE 56

SATURDAY, JULY 16 TO SUNDAY, JULY 17, 2022, 8AM-4PM BOTH DAYS

events

See what’s happening out and about in your area

Requirements: Please wear closed in boots (or steel capped), long trousers and long sleeves BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: Cost includes tuition, materials and meals. Some workshops have prerequisites, check website for details. cobb.qm.qld.gov.au/Events+and+Exhibitions/ Events+and+Activities/Hands+On +Workshops

LUKE KIDGELL - CHEERS TO THAT SUNDAY, JULY 24, 8.30PM

WHERE: Armitage Centre - Empire Theatre, Neil St, Toowoomba WHAT: Australia’s most loved comedian (not a fact, just a personal opinion of Luke’s) Luke Kidgell is back on tour with his brand new show ‘Cheers To that’. After a big year in 2021 dodging lockdowns and attending almost every pub in the country, Luke has some tales to tell. With four national tours under his belt Luke Kidgell has amassed more than 1 million fans online, has two of the most popular comedy podcasts in the country and a comedy special on Amazon Prime, and now

he is bringing his brand new stand up show Cheers To That to the country. Featuring fellow comedian and Tik Tok bad boy Blake Pavey, this is not one you want to miss.

COST: $45 (a transaction fee of $5 applies per transaction for phone and internet bookings).

QUEENSLAND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EXPO PLUS HUNTING FRIDAY, JULY 29 TO SUNDAY, JULY 31, 8.30AM-4PM (FRIDAY); 8.30AM-5PM (SATURDAY); 8.30AM-4PM (SUNDAY)

WHERE: Toowoomba Showgrounds, Glenvale Road, Toowoomba WHEN: The Queensland Outdoor Adventure Expo is the region’s largest event of its kind, featuring more than 140 companies. You will find a massive display of caravans and camper trailers, hybrids, vehicle and 4×4 accessories, holiday and tourism providers, tools, gadgets, camping gear and more.

There’s plenty to see and do, with great entertainment for the whole family and great prizes to win.

COST: $15 adults, $12 concession, kids free.

HOW YOU CAN HELP US BECOME A FUNDRAISER

DONATE TODAY

SUPPORT OUR EVENTS VOLUNTEER WITH US PURCHASE FROM OUR CAFE Proudly supported by

57 STYLE

social

event Legends at their Game Luncheon Hosted by the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation on May 13, the Tilly’s Legends at their Game Luncheon featured Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott as guest speaker.

Guests were treated to Alcott’s inspirational storytelling at the event at Rumours International which was raising money to support the Darling Downs Health Emergency Department.

BUY NOW ... BLOOMING LOVELY IN SPRING. STYLE 58

social

event Colour of Change Luncheon On May 27, Fitzy’s Toowoomba was tickled pink for their annual MJH Finance Colour of Change Luncheon in support of raising funds for the BreastScreen Queensland Toowoomba Service. More than 150 guests gathered to hear the inspiring story of local Toowoomba mum and breast cancer survivor Carmel Charles, who shared her advice for those diagnosed with breast cancer and their family and friends who support them. The generosity of guests helped to raise $62,105 to go towards the purchase of equipment and resources for local women diagnosed with breast cancer.

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enquiries@clubbcoolum.com.au | www.clubbcoolum.com.au 59 STYLE

Write this chapter the way you want.

Live independently with security and support.

For retirement living designed for your 80s and 90s, visit yukana.org.au or talk with our team.

Retirement Living and Aged Care

07 4631 5678 | 258 Spring Street, Toowoomba