Style Magazine Toowoomba June 2021

TOOWOOMBA JUNE 2021

Festival time From food and wine to opera under the stars, it’s time to hit the road

Your guide to the perfect family winter getaway Look great and feel great with this new equestrian range

SANKEY FRASER

. YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

Ruthven Street, Toowoomba | www.sankeyfraser.com.au

Contents

Welcome

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Happy Winter, Stylers! And welcome to our June edition.

I dont know about you, but for me, winter is all about weekend road trips, sunny bush walks, amazing food (washed down with a good red) and a crackling fire.

And this month we have that completely covered.

I was lucky enough to attend the High Country Harvest Lunch last week and believe me, you don’t have to go far for incredible local produce and fresh country air. Read all about it on page 6.

If you’re looking to go a little further, there are some outstanding artists, including Kate Miller-Heidke, touring out west as part of the Queensland Music Trails. Find the details on page 8.

On page 18, we feature the latest equestrian wear from local designer Hitchley & Harrow.

And we showcase an absolutely stunning wedding at Gabbinbar Homestead on page 26.

Happy reading!

On the cover

Kate Miller-Heidke is set to perform in Charleville as part of the Queensland Music Trails

08 COVER STORY Bush party 06 FOOD High and mighty

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8

10

TRAVEL Ten years of delicious

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TRAVEL Winter holiday adventures

18

FASHION Giddy up with Hitchley & Harrow

20 BEAUTY Winter skin savers 26 STYLE WEDDING Homestead elegance 28 FOOD Classic beef and red wine stew 33 HOME AND LIVING Revamping old furniture

TOOWOOMBA JUNE 2021

42 ARTS Murray’s goes local

Festival time From food and wine to opera under the stars, it’s time to hit the road

44 ENTERTAINMENT What’s on in Toowoomba

Your guide to the perfect family winter getaway Look great and feel great with this new equestrian range

@stylemagazinestoowoomba

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46 SOCIALS High Country Harvest

EDITOR Josie Adams, josie.adams@news.com.au 4690 9354 JOURNALISTS Alyssa Welke, Jessica Kramer, Darren Burton SUB EDITOR Jessica Kramer DESIGN Paul Hunter, Justine Costello ADVERTISING MANAGER Brooke Gardner, brooke.gardener@news.com.au 4690 9309 STYLE MAGAZINE TOOWOOMBA CONTACT DETAILS toowoombaads@news.com.au 109 Neil Street, Toowoomba City PO BOX 40, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350 Style magazine is published by News Corp Australia. Those who make advertising placement and/ or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Style magazine undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulation or statutes. Further to the abovementioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgments.

STYLE

5

Tourism

HIGH

and mighty

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n exquisite farm tour and long lunch catered by award-winning chef Amanda Hinds showcased the high country north of Toowoomba and heralded the beginning of inaugural Hearth Wind and Fire Festival – a season-long series of events that celebrates the best things about the high country: fires, food, wine, and relaxation.

Organised in partnership by the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce and Hampton Irrigators,, and sponsored by Enterprise Legal, the High Country Harvest Lunch with distillery and farm tours was an all-day event.

The unique microclimate of the high country, which includes Ravensbourne through to Hampton, Crows Nest, and the outlying areas north of Toowoomba, and its special agricultural and environmental qualities were showcased at the lunch at Bunnyconnellen on Friday, May 14.

As well as being a delectable journey through the region’s produce, Mrs Hinds said, the event highlighted the area as a destination for tourists from south east Queensland.

“We’re in one of those premium positions at the moment for travel – it’s an hour and a half from Brisbane and it’s one of those quick, cheap getaways, although we do have some really exclusive accommodation as well,” Mrs Hinds said.

“There’s beautiful escarpment and country, national parks, and it’s one of those things where you could be up here in an hour and a half and be enjoying.

“If you come up through Ravensbourne, it’s a beautiful drive. Wind your windows down as you’re coming up because the smell is incredible.

“Leave the smog behind and breathe some real country air.”

Toowoomba Chamber Food and Agri

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The Hearth Wind and Fire Festival celebrates the best things to savour and enjoy in our high country

Network’s Peta Gray said the lunch was designed to facilitate the development of stronger linkages and engagement across the ‘foodie and agri’ space ; encouraging networking, connections, education and the promotion of local supply chain opportunities.

The event began at 8.30 in the morning with tours of Sunnyspot Farms, Hampton Blue and the Pechey Distilling Co. Then lunch kicked off at Bunnyconnellen and featured incredible combinations of local produce over the course of three hours.

Pre-lunch drinks included a High-Country Cocktail of Pechey Homestead Gin, Twin Pine limes, Tingoora rosella cordial, fresh mint and soda.

Lunch included locally sourced brisket and Condabilla Murray cod with Kumbia capers,

Hearth Wind and Fire Festival. Photos: Kat Lynn

Leave the smog behind and breathe some real country air.

cherry tomatoes and Twin Pine limes. Dessert was spectacular with syrup cake, Metiisto chocolate cream and poached Palmtree Farm persimmons.

Major sponsor of the day Enterprise Legal’s director Sharne Lategan said their firm couldn’t resist getting involved in the initiative.

“Combining local business, local produce and a fun day out where everyone could appreciate all that our local region has to offer.

“An event like the High Country Harvest Lunch is important for the business community because it allows local businesses to showcase all that it has to offer, which is produce, facilities and the ability to event manage like nobody’s business.

“Often, the community assumes that great experiences like the High Country Harvest Lunch is only available in other cities or countries, and it was wonderful to be part of breaking that stigma and being part of first-class quality on our doorstep.

“The sense of community on the day was astonishing, and it was fantastic being part of such a noteworthy event!”

Tourism

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Cover story

Bush party It’s like music festival meets road trip kinda thing, and it’s happenin’ in Qld this winter, writes Josie Adams

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t should be pretty good.

Whether you’re scoffing down a sausage roll at a country bakery or hoeing into a fresh Yatala pie; crackin’ a tinny at a pub in woop woop or nodding your head in approval as you gaze out across one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, you’ve gotta ask yourself – is there anything better than an Aussie road trip?

Well, yeah. Maybe. But what if you chucked in some live music along the way? That’d be nice! It would!

So, in 2021, Queensland Music Festival (QMF) is shaking things up a bit.

They’re saying see-ya-later to traffic jams, hooroo to boujee cafe lines on weekends and offering up a fresh alternative to doom scrolling your way

through to 2022.

This winter, the very first Queensland Music Trail gets Aussies out of the Big Smoke, and into that great big beautiful backyard we all call the Queensland outback.

They’re totally reimagining the Aussie road trip, turning the festival format on its head and putting on a bunch of unique events in some damn fine locations. The best bit - they’re inviting everyone along for the ride.

It’s kicking off in June and July this year with The Outback Trail, a road trip through the Western Downs, into the heart of the Australian outback and towards the red desert, jam packed with weird and wonderful events along the way.

From discovering bands at the most regional music festival on earth, to experiencing music

Get ready for a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, under skies full of stars. Photos: Contributed

under the stars with a glass of bubbles, The Outback Trail will marry the best of Queensland’s southern outback across small towns, big cities and natural wonders with ripper live music.

“With international borders closed, everyone in Australia is looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in their own backyard,” QMF CEO Joel Edmondson said.

“The events along the first ever Outback Music Trail are a new way to get to know the diverse people and places of Outback Queensland.

Nothing makes memories like seeing something totally amazing in a place you would never expect.

To me, that’s the definition of adventure.”

“The Outback Music Trail is the perfect opportunity to experience amazing home-grown

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Cover story

Here’s just a few beaut highlights recognised Dreamtime opera diva Aunty Delmae Barton.

● The Outback Trail officially gets going on Friday, June 25, to Sunday, June 27, when an evolved version of the iconic ‘Opera at Jimbour’ event welcomes travellers to the famed estate for a series of intimate opera and chamber music performances. It’s twoand-a-half days of wine, cheese and world class opera taking place within the grounds (and house) of the historic Jimbour House. Bit fancy! With just enough time to admire the Bunya Mountains, a quick pit stop to grab a photo in front of the World’s Biggest Watermelon slice and a look in at a secret World War II base, it’s on to the Cosmos Centre in Charleville. music and explore the wonders of our state at the same time,” Queensland Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said.

“Following the impact of the global pandemic there’s never been a better time to explore our own backyard.

“There’s something so magical and timeless about the outback.

“It has a way of somehow making our ordinary problems seem insignificant.”

QMF Ambassador Kate Miller-Heidke said.

“As a setting for live music bursting back to life after a tough year, it will be truly unforgettable.

“Get ready for a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, under skies full of stars.”

● From Tuesday, June 29 until Wednesday, June 30, the small town of Charleville, once the secret home of more than 3000 US troops during the war, will come to life as pop icon Kate-Miller Heidke and acclaimed Kalkadunga artist William Barton deliver ‘Music For Stargazing’, a concert inspired by astrological arrangements, aboriginal navigation and traditional stories of Charleville. The bespoke chamber concert – produced exclusively for the Queensland Music Trails - will feature the world-premiere of the new commission by William Barton, with help from Kate Miller Heidke, Véronique Serret, Vanessa Tomlinson, Jess Hitchcock, Keir Nuttall, Sam Pankhurst and widely

● After a small jaunt west through the red sandy plains of the Mariala National Park, its over to the remote town of Quilpie, for ‘Echoes In the Dust’ on Thursday, July 1 and Friday, July 2. Here the magnificent boulders of the Baldy Top lookout provide the backdrop to an immersive musical experience. Musical soundscapes from Topology and large-scale prehistoric puppets from Dead Puppet Society will transport visitors to ancient times in this one-of-a-kind performance that fuses together stories, music and other-worldly artistic interpretation in one of the most beautiful natural environments in the world. ● Saturday, July 3, and Sunday, July 4, welcome a series of outback performances from Karl S Williams, Emily Wurramara and Hussy Hicksin Windorah park, giving weary travellers time to kick-back and enjoy the afternoon with a schooner of the states finest brew in hand. ● After a relaxing Sunday in the outback, the final week of the very first Queensland Music Trail comes to a dramatic conclusion, with Paul Kelly, Ian Moss, Tim Finn, Shannon Noll and countless others taking to the stage over three days at the iconic Big Red Bash. www.qldmusictrails.com Kate Miller Heidke

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Food

Cheers to a decade of delicious

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his year the Scenic Rim Eat Local Week will feature the biggest program in the event’s history with more than 125 events across 48 locations – all a short car trip away from Toowoomba.

Featuring events from Canungra to The Lost World, Beaudesert to Boonah, Tamborine Mountain to Kalbar, Scenic Rim Eat Local Week 2021 is the ultimate backstage pass to the farms, wineries and food stories of this extraordinary region.

Over the past 10 years, Eat Local Week has grown to become one of Australia’s most authentic food festivals and this year will be attended by an army of eat local champions who heed the call from across the road, and across the country.

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The program features festivals, farm-gate events and culinary experiences for foodies of all ages, from Jamming with the Lambs at Towri Sheep Cheeses, Breakfast with the Jersey Girls at Tommerup’s Dairy Farm and Beer & Banter at the Scenic Rim Brewery, to long lunches and degustations under the stars, to the Kalbar-BQ, Kalfresh Carrot Day and the Winter Harvest Festival, to wine tastings, cocktail masterclasses and sunset experiences.

Eat Local Week started in 2011 when a group of local producers, farmers and tourism operators planted the idea as a way to shine the light on the flavours and faces of the region; an event to encourage people to look to their backyard for seasonal food and pay tribute to the people that produce it.

That year 10 events were staged. This year,

there will be 125. In 2015, acclaimed chef Josue Lopez was invited be the first Regional Food Ambassador. He has since been joined by an extraordinary line-up of flavour-makers who now showcase Scenic Rim ingredients on their menus.

Each year the event has grown in size and prominence. A testament to this is the award for Most Outstanding Region in the prestigious

Food

FOR THE KIDS

Harvey Norman delicious. 2019 Produce Awards, selected by a voting panel featuring Maggie Beer, Matt Moran, Neil Perry and Guillaume Brahimi.

Importantly, Eat Local Week has been the catalyst for growth and diversification and the inspiration for exciting collaborations between producers. Think Carrot Beer, Milk Stout featuring local sheep and cow milk, beef and vegetable sausages, beetroot and carrot bread,

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and camel milk vodka, just to name a few!

Eat Local Week is set against the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim, a region of more than 4200sq km of rich volcanic soil surrounded by ancient mountains and home to thousands of farmers and food creators.

Winter Harvest Festival - one of the best regional celebrations in Australia For dates and times go to eatlocalweek.com.au

Put down that digital device and step away from the screen … week one of school holidays just went tech free!

Carrot day: Saturday, June 26, is the Kalfresh Carrot Day! Kids can walk through carrot paddocks, pull carrots straight from the earth and taste all sorts of carrot cuisine. Carrot couture optional.

Go nutty: Visit Greenlee Farm for the tour and tasting and see what goes into producing Australia’s tastiest macadamias. Don’t forget to try the honey macadamia brittle.

Bee time: Count bees and walk an alpaca at Picnic in the Petals with Pretty Produce & the Mountview Alpaca Farm.

Tommerup’s Dairy Farm: The Back Stage Pass and Breakfast with the Jersey Girls are two unique events on this sixth generation working dairy farm.

Bush tucker: Book the Kids Bush Tucker Tracker at Mt Barney Lodge; they even get to find their own tucker.

Summer Land Camels: The Little Farmer Humpty Day is brilliant for the little ones.

Cheese please: Don’t miss the Kids Cheese Making Workshop at Towri Sheep Cheeses.

Picnic fun: Grab a packed picnic at Picnic Real Food Bar and take in spectacular scenery.

Bug it up: Jasmine Urban Farm at Running Creek Beef, a hands-on workshop all about butterflies, bees and bugs.

Chef Ben Ungermann (above), The Scenic Rim Eat Local Week.

Photos Contributed

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Tourism

Get reeled in Hervey Bay’s fruitful waters attract fishos from all over Australia. Boats follow the whiting shoals visible from the esplanade. Here’s how to cash in on the action in Hervey Bay Whiting

The Whiting shoals are one of the winter highlights of Hervey Bay. Bait up with live squid or yabbies.

Locals are always trying to find a novel way to get their bait to stand out with many putting a piece of red tubing above their hook, using the bright colours to lure in the fish.

Bream

Bream can get big in the winter months, with some reaching 60cm.

Fish the channels with soft plastics but don’t be surprised if you pin one of the other local species, including Grunter and Snapper.

Snapper

Trolling for Snapper is great fun. Use a stronger line because you might generate some interest from Longtail Tuna and it will be worth having something that can handle them.

Salmon and barramundi

Salmon and barramundi can be found in the rivers, but they are elusive in the winter months, and getting them to bite isn’t easy.

Spend some time examining what they are feeding on in each area and try to match it as best you can. Then, when you get a sunny day and the water temperature starts to rise, hit the water for the best possible of catching one of these.

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Escape

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n recent years the Sunshine Coast’s craft beer scene has grown exponentially. From Moffat Beach Brewing Co to the newly opened Terella Brewing at North Arm, the entire region can be showcased in a glass.

When it comes to choosing a holiday destination, good food and wine ranks in the top five most important factors for high value travellers.

And while the Sunshine Coast’s sub-tropical climate and rich volcanic soils are perfect for growing produce, growing grapes provides a bit more of a challenge.

With our craft beer scene subsequently brought to a head, local brewers have married their love of beer with local produce.

Take Maleny’s Brouhaha Brewery for example.

Founder and head brewer Matt Jancauskas uses local ingredients in his beer to create flavours that are unique to the Sunshine Coast.

The focus on local continues in their menu. Ingredients are sourced from local producers such as The Falls Farm in Mapleton and Maleny Wagyu, with Brouhaha implementing a nose to tail philosophy so nothing goes to waste.

Honing their craft This year Visit Sunshine Coast is excited to partner with Matt as a Sunshine Coast Ambassador to showcase the region as one of Australia’s premier culinary destinations.

The inaugural Curated Plate culinary festival held in August

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provided a fantastic opportunity to put the Sunshine Coast on the foodie map and showcase the region.

Brouhaha took part with their own event The Art of Beer and Food – a title which could apply to the whole region.

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Tourism

A quiet beachside escape Free yourself from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist-filled beaches and have your next holiday in Pottsville instead

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quiet coastal town in the Tweed region of northern NSW, this beautiful place boasts excellent beaches and cute cafes, and is known as a perfect spot for returning families.

It was originally called Potts Point, after the man who owned the first house in the area around 1930, but later was changed to Pottsville to avoid confusion with a Sydney area of the same name.

Originally the town was built at the mouth of a creek along the coast, but in years past it has grown to encompass both coastal and rural scenery.

These days you’ll find creeks and estuaries great for canoeing, fishing and swimming with kids, as well as the ideal surf for swimming, fishing or surfing and the Botanical Gardens for a relaxed afternoon walk through natural bushland.

There’s also the opportunity to take a boat out with ramps at Pottsville and Hastings Point, or regular produce and craft markets on the first and third Sunday of each month if you’ve had enough of being in the water. You can even take a day to explore Mount Warning and Nightcap National Parks, which are only 40km away.

For accommodation, you’ll have the option of caravan parks, cabins, holiday flats and motels, while there

A couple enjoying a visit to Husk Distillers, while others dine out at Pipit Restaurant.

is a local small shopping centre with takeaway food, award-winning eateries such as Pipit Restaurant, supermarket and surf and fishing supplies for convenience.

If it’s a day of shopping you have in mind, Pottsville is located only 20 minutes from Byron Bay, 45 minutes from Surfers Paradise, and 10 minutes from Kingscliff – or pop in to visit the cellar door at Husk Distillers, only 20 minutes away.

Pottsville also holds an annual Raft Race Day, with competitions for everyone – including toddlers – or you can take off on your own to Hastings

Point for some relaxed canoeing in the wetlands area.

Finish the day with a picnic on the waterfront at Pottsville Beach Bicentennial Environment Park, or

enjoy a spot of tennis or golf at one of the many facilities nearby.

Book your stay today at Pottsville, and look forward to your peaceful next holiday.

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For bookings call (02) 6676 1107 or go online at www.pottsvillebeachmotel.com 30 Tweed Coast Road, Pottsville, NSW 2489

Escape

Sea’s the day The Quiver lets surfers rent their boards in Airbnb-like service across the globe

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is the sea, son! Hauling your surfboard from beach to beach is a thing of the past thanks to The Quiver, a new platform that lets surfers rent out their boards to anyone in 20 countries and growing. The Airbnb-like service connects board owners to everyday surfers throughout the world, creating an online community and marketplace that monetizes board sharing in a unique peer-to-peer model. With a few clicks on the site, riders can browse through hundreds of boards to rent and reserve their perfect stick in a matter of minutes.

The Quiver also allows anyone to list their own boards.

Among the thousands of boards listed you’ll find well-known board brands and local surfboard shapers alike. Some of the surfboard brands include Album, Campbell Brothers, Channel Islands, Lost, and Pyzel among others. The site also includes links to some of the most popular surfing destinations where boards are readily available.

“We’re a two-sided marketplace connecting surfers with surfboards on demand,” says The Quiver CEO Joe Wilson, a life-long surfer who has ridden waves for more than 20 years.

“Using The Quiver, everyday surfers can make money renting out their boards to others. The Quiver marketplace puts the available and inactive surfboard supply back to work allowing anyone with boards to

start making money renting them out. Our mission is to make surfboards more accessible and to bring people together.”

The Quiver’s easy navigation and communal atmosphere is a virtual community for surfers, who can also meet fellow riders and share tips and recommendations. In a COVID world, surfing has gained new popularity for its singular experience, allowing people to enjoy the waves by themselves or with small groups of friends.

“In times of uncertainty and change, being out in the ocean is beneficial in so many ways,” says Wilson.

“Surfing has always been a socially distant sport. In fact, when you find waves without anyone else in the water, it can be the most memorable and best sessions. The beauty of surfing is that all you need is a board.”

The inspiration behind The Quiver is an experience every surfer has faced: traveling with cumbersome boards that are often damaged in transport. Additionally, it has become increasingly expensive to fly with excessive airline baggage fees.

“I’ve arrived at a destination with a bag of broken boards, which cost more to transport than the price of my own seat,” says Wilson. “I always thought this process was flawed.”

Wilson and co-founder Rob Bonvetti saw an opportunity and began creating a community of surfers eager to catch a new wave: a chance to make money off their boards, which are accumulated over the years and many go unused. The Quiver also allows riders to demo new boards, testing different shapes, constructions and fin setups among other features.

“We have thousands of boards listed with an even larger community

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of others that are renting them.

“Like other sharing economy marketplaces, we’ve heard stories of like-minded surfers connecting all over the globe and friendships starting with a Quiver rental. This is what really gets us excited and motivates us to build the best and

most trusted online community for surfboards. We plan to grow thoughtfully by sticking to this mission and our core values. We also plan to bring even more value to the community by including more local surfboard shapers and surf shops on the marketplace too.”

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Escape

Gold Coast adventures Get your adrenaline pumping with these fun-filled options

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he lure of the theme parks is strong for families. The kids are drawn to the film and TV characters or the adventure rides at Movie World, or they’re keen on learning about sea creatures and racing down the water slides at Wet ‘n’ Wild. But the Gold Coast has outdoor adventures in abundance for kids, teens and adults.

When you’re ready for some fun, you want to get the adrenaline pumping, and it’s time to play again, don’t miss these adventurous options:

Jet boat rides

Blow the cobwebs out and the winter blues away, the glasses off your face and the dust from your hair. There’s one thing for sure on a jet boat adventure you won’t come home dry.

When the driver grins and starts to wind his arm around in the air, grip tight. You know you’re about to get whipped from side to side and around in circles till you think you’ll end up dunked in the water. It’s a balance of white knuckled thrills and tall tales of wealth and grandeur as you speed up the length of the Broadwater to the homes of the rich and the very rich who live on the Gold Coast waterfront. Bob around their watery front yards learning about the five story yacht that belongs to the richest man in Scotland and pull up alongside the Black Pearl, the pirate ship used in the Johnny Depp Pirates of the Caribbean films, as part of the tour. You’ll hear stories of politicians and celebrities as part of the experience.

Helicopter tours

The moment your chopper lifts effortlessly up from the purpose-built floating helipad and you start to observe the region from above, your whole perspective of the Gold Coast changes. You’ll discover how the hinterland on the outskirts of town offers a green antidote to the glittering towers along the shoreline and the ordered arrangement of huge waterfront homes. Your pilot will point out all the golf courses (there are lots!), fine schools and even finer sports grounds, and locations of note as you tour around the coastal town.

Don’t forget your aviator sunnies if you want to look the part. Gold Coast heli tours has been incident-free since the business opened over 30 years 16

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ago so you know you’re in good hands.

If you want a super special adventure, one of the chopper pilots is a Michelin trained chef who will land at a secret picnic spot on one of the islands, and cook you a fabulous lunch!

Discover the Gold Coast from the air with Gold Coast heli tours.

Flyboarding extreme

Gold Coast Watersports is the only place on the Gold Coast that you can strap on your jetpack and have a go at this extreme activity. Once you get the knack of it, you can propel the flyboard up to 15 metres in the air.

When you’ve learnt how to fly, you can attempt to dive down over two metres under the water, giving you a roller coaster of an experience that you’ll never forget.

Tandem skydive

If skydiving has been on your to-do list, then the Gold Coast is the place to do it. Appreciate stunning views as you fall from 12,000 feet onto Kirra Beach, one of the picturesque white sand beaches that the Gold Coast is famous for. This is the ultimate activity which will get any adrenaline junkie’s heart racing. The instructors are world class, super experienced and ready to give you the thrill of a lifetime.

Ziplining at TreeTop Challenge

Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast hinterland offers more than 120 treetop challenges at Australia’s largest high ropes adventure park.

Across nine acres of lush rainforest there are ten ziplines, as well as a multitude of ropes courses and challenges to test the resolve of every member of your group. See if you can conquer your fear of heights on this magnificent day out.

SkyPoint climb

If you like to stick to climbing solid buildings, check out the view from the top of Q1, above the Gold Coast Observation Deck. At 270 metres above sea level this is the country’s highest external building climb.

Those knees might wobble a little but the views are definitely worth it.

Segway tours

While not physically challenging, this is an outdoor adventure that will have you laughing and screeching as you barrel down bush tracks, across creeks and around the base of waterfalls. For those who love the transformative power of nature but can’t manage hikes due to injury or illness, the segway is a brilliant solution. As long as you can stand up, you can segway.

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Escape

Eat, drink and be merry Get ready to tuck in the Noosa Eat & Drink festival is back

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he Noosa Eat & Drink Festival long weekend will return to Noosa from Thursday, June 10 – Sunday, June 13, and you’ll want to pack your appetite, because there’s plenty of eating to be done.

Everyone’s favourite beachside bacchanal will feature signature beachside events on Noosa Main Beach, alongside a series of long lunches in various locations and bespoke restaurant events with visiting superstar chefs, wineries and beverage producers.

It all kicks off with an epic opening party under the stars on Noosa Main Beach, which will be hosted this year

by Colin Fassnidge.

Another festival regular, Matt Moran, will also return, hosting the finale dinner on Sunday evening at

Locale Noosa.

“Noosa has always been one of Australia’s most loved food festivals and I am looking forward to heading back to Noosa and celebrating,” he said.

Delicious. editorial director, Kerrie McCallum, said the team was thrilled

to be back on board as a partner of the Noosa Eat & Drink Festival.

“At delicious. we love a festival, and this is one of the most fun and therefore one of our favourites! I can’t wait to get there and catch up with all the familiar faces and new attendees to celebrate being back together.”

“We have a great line-up of guest chefs coming to Noosa and some really lovely events planned for some of our signature Noosa restaurants, distilleries, breweries and venues,” said Festival director Lee Huber.

“The iconic Noosa Main Beach events are always very popular and there will be different events and themes taking place across the weekend.”

“The Noosa Eat & Drink Festival has been popular over its previous iterations and I have no doubt this year will be no different,” said Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe.

“Events such as the Noosa Eat & Drink Festival play an important role in our economic recovery.”

“An important part of rebuilding traveller confidence is having COVIDSafe plans in place, and the Noosa Eat & Drink organisers have spent significant time considering the best ways to stage their event to ensure everybody’s safety.”

For the full program go to www.noosaeatdrink.com.au

The dining choices are endless at this year’s Noosa Eat & Drink Festival.

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Fashion

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Fashion

Giddy up!

3

Local brand Hitchley & Harrow has just dropped their new equestrian range… and we’re keen for the ride!

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Health & Beauty

Say bye-bye to cracked lips, scaly skin and painfully dry hands, writes Josie Adams

I

f you’re anything like me, winter is spent in a heated office all week with weekends battling the elements while watching kids sport (hello south-westerlies at Nell E Robinson Park).

Without a little extra TLC, my skin is not at its best. But here are some wonderful (and inexpensive) products that I have found keep my winter skin happy.

Winter skin savers 1.

1. A dry body brush

Sometimes it can be hard in midwinter to forgo the quick dash from bed to a hot shower and spend a couple of minutes dry brushing your skin – but if you commit to it, its worth it. Dry brushing not only gets rid of all your dry, flaky skin, it also boots circulation.

2. Jojoba oil

2.

3.

This is my personal fave. Slather as much as you can on before bed and reap the rewards of soft, dewy skin the next day. The great thing about Jojoba oil is that it absorbs well- so there’s no staining your pj’s or sheets 4. and you can wear it under makeup during the day if you wish. That’s because it’s not actually an oil. It’s the only plant to store liquid wax in its seeds. Sharing the same molecular structure as the natural wax esters found in healthy human skin, making it more receptive to receive vital sunburnt at a netball tournament in nutrients and antioxidants, and the afternoon. Welcome to restoring balance.

Queensland, where you need a good everyday sunscreen no matter the 3. A good sunscreen season.

I’ve been to an early-morning footy My mum recommends La Rochematch in 4 degrees, and then got Posay® Anthelios XL Ultra-light

Spray SPF 50+. It is a lightweight sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection for even the most sensitive skin types. Suitable for your face and body, it works well under make-up and can be used by everyone in the family.

4. A gradual tanner

Sometimes it’s just nice to feel slightly more glowy than your natural coldermonth’s skin. I like Eco Tan Organic Winter Skin because it is gradual and subtle. It also contains hydrators, so it helps with skin dryness as well.

Address: 100 Russell St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350 Phone Number: (07) 4659 5692 Email: toowoomba@citycave.com.au 20

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Beauty

Lip service Is it time to put down the tube and slowly walk away, asks Eliza Cracknell

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here is one on your desk, a handful in your handbag and countless in your bathroom. For many, lip balm is a metaphorical third arm, applied frequently and with gusto for a consistently smooth, hydrated smile. But can too much waxy bliss actually be detrimental?

According to the experts, the insatiable quest for a moisture-filled pout can lead to further dependence.

In short, the more you use, the more you need it.

Emma Hobson, education manager at the International Dermal Institute and Dermalogica, explains: “You normally use a lip balm because your lips are dry, you apply the balm and they instantly feel better. Some lip

balms work brilliantly, some have little staying power and others can actually be drying.”

The latter, Hobson says, are the lip balms you need to avoid as they can contain moisture-sucking ingredients such as menthol or phenol. She adds certain balms could also “contain unbalanced amount of humectants, whereby the lip balms don’t contain sufficient proportions of moisture for the humectant to hold onto, instead they grab the extra moisture from the lips themselves. This can result in a perpetual cycle; dry lips, instant relief with the balm, dry lips, balm, dry lips, balm and so on.”

Lips don’t contain lipid (oil) glands, which is why they dry out in airconditioning and cold conditions.

Lip balms are the perfect solution as they offer that much needed dose of hydration. They can also provide sun protection and help relieve cold sores.

But if you find yourself reaching for the tube a little too much, Hobson suggests going cold turkey.

“Stop using it for a while and see if

the lips improve in texture. If they do, consider a brand that doesn’t dry the lips out and contains SPF to protect the lips from UV damage. Avoid balms with artificial colours or fragrance as these can irritate.”

According to Hobson, a good lip balm works by adding moisture and hydration as well as providing a surface “coating” to protect the lips from moisture evaporation.

“Look for high-emollient balms rich with essential fatty acids. Look for oils such as avocado and wheat germ as well as ingredients such as

shea butter, cacao seed butter and hyaluronic acid. You can get some fantastic lip complexes that renew and restore the tissue and work on minimising contour lines and help prevent ageing lips. They do this by containing age-fighting peptides such as arginine/lysine polypeptide and palmitoyl oligopeptide.”

So how much should you apply?

Hobson recommends applying a lip balm first thing in the morning and suggests re-applying after every meal.

“You can then apply your last application just before bed.”

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Wellness

Support at all hours St Andrew’s Rapid Access Heart Centre offers 24/7 care

T

he St Andrew’s Rapid Access Heart Centre provides the Darling Downs, Granite Belt, Lockyer Valley, and parts of Eastern and Northern NSW and surrounds with urgent and emergency cardiac care 24/7, along with access to both a state-of-the-art cardiac catheter as well as a hybrid special

theatre. Patients who are experiencing chest pain, chest tightness, palpitations, pressure, or shortness of breath can present to the Rapid Access Heart Centre via Queensland Ambulance Service or as a walk-in with or without a referral.

The Rapid Access Heart Centre provides life-saving emergency cardiac services including fast diagnostic procedures, stents for blocked arteries and insertion of cardiac devices and is supported by St Andrew’s intensive care unit, cardiac medical unit and dedicated cardiac catheter laboratory.

The service is delivered in partnership with a team of onsite medical officers and interventional cardiologists, with general medical and surgical resources also available if required.

“Our people do amazing things”

WHAT TO DO: If you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort, ring 000 immediately and request the Ambulance to bring you to St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital

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280 North Street, Toowoomba (PO Box 263) Phone (07) 4646 3000 To find out more about the services available, visit: www.sath.org.au 22

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Wellness

Waking through the night?

Body & Soul sleep expert, Olivia Arezzolo shares her fool-proof plan for drifting back off

A

nother night laying in bed, 3am, tossing, turning, thoughts on an endless loop. Sound familiar?

If you had a boozy night, it’s likely: Evidence indicates 75% of alcohol drinkers wake too early. If you fell asleep watching MAFS, it’s also probable: a recent study found out of all tech forms, those watching were the most likely to report such night-time disturbances.

But even if you did my signature bedtime routine, omitted screens and alcohol, another thing may have impaired your sleep: anxiety.

Today, I’m sharing my four step plan for returning to sleep with ease - so you wake up feeling fresh and firing, ready to take on the world - exactly as you should.

Step 1: No lights, no phone

Tempted to reach out for your phone as soon

L I V E

A N

I N S P I R E D

as you wake? Don’t. Light is our primary zeitgeber - factor to control our circadian rhythm. Above all other elements - alcohol, anxiety, stress - light has the most significant impact upon your circadian rhythm, and ultimately, sleep quality.

Light, especially blue light, is a major sleep saboteur: research shows it suppresses sleepiness hormone melatonin levels by 23% after a short exposure.

Even using night mode on your phone - melatonin is still suppressed by 19%, meaning that the switch only makes a marginal difference.

Melatonin is our sleepiness hormone, facilitating deep, restful sleep. Conversely, melatonin suppression creates a physiological resistance to sleep: we aren’t receiving the neurochemical signals to do so.

Step 2: Apply lavender

Lavender - my go-to sleep oil. Physiologically, it calms the body - so much so that a clinical

trial found lavender reduced anxiety by 59%.

As a result, the researchers also noted sleep quality improved by 45%.

And although you may not feel anxious upon waking, appreciating that mental rumination, feeling wired and your thoughts on an endless loop all signify anxiety is important.

And because of this, if these are your symptoms when you abruptly wake in the evening, applying lavender is key.

Side note - if you’re pregnant or breast feeding, omit lavender and opt for sweet orange oil - it produces a similar effect.

Step 3: Practice mediation

Especially for those waking around 3am, meditation is ideal: evidence shows post meditation, cortisol declines - the stress hormone which usually is the root cause of such nighttime wakings.

Another reason meditation is king for nighttime wakings is because it lowers stress

reactivity - another possible driver behind nocturnal arousals.

Specifically, clinical research indicates meditation induces neuroplasticity - changes of the brain - in the amygdala - the cortical region to control stress.

As a result of meditation, when triggered by stress (be it psychological, like a problem at work) or physiological (like a loud noise), you’re less likely to react (read: wake up).

Further to that, research also indicates 60% of meditators will experience less anxiety - which as mentioned, is another key reason you’re rousing in the first place.

Step 4: Tire yourself out

If you’re still awake after 20 minutes, get up and sit in the lounge, repeat the above and only return to bed when you’re tired enough to sleep.

This works for two reasons: first, it ensures your bed remains for sleep and sleep only; and second, the energy required to get up can sometimes be just the amount you needed to drain to fall asleep.

Win for you returning to sleep, win for your mornings and a win for your daytime performance.

L I F E

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

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Wellness

Andrea’s wake-up call The results of a sleep study revealed a serious underlying health condition for one local woman

● Snoring ● Daytime tiredness ● Choking or gasping during sleep ● Restless sleep ● Increased frequency of urination during the night

T

oowoomba mum Andrea Hieronymus had no idea she would stop breathing for up to 83 seconds while

she slept.

A sleep study in late 2019 revealed the alarming symptom and lead to a diagnosis of severe obstructive sleep apnoea.

Mrs Hieronymus said nurses had noted she stopped breathing while in recovery after surgery for an unrelated condition, prompting a referral to a local sleep clinic.

“I had a sleep study done and it made a lot of things make sense,” she said. “My family would complain about my snoring and I would wake up feeling really tired and rundown.

“I also had high blood pressure and medication wasn’t working.

“After the sleep study, I was fitted with a CPAP machine and I couldn’t believe the positive difference it made straight away.

“I now sleep really well as I can breathe properly.

“Before I was setup on my CPAP machine I was concerned about the myth that you have a Darth Vader-like mask that would be uncomfortable and that the CPAP machine would be so noisy I wouldn’t be able to hear my kids during the night.

“However, I am delighted that wearing my mask isn’t obtrusive, once you get used to it of course, and the machine itself is pretty quiet.

“My one regret is that I didn’t get one years earlier as I now wake up

Top 10 symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea

Andrea Hieronymus (left) shows the lightweight mask like what she uses with a CPAP machine to achieve a good night’s sleep while Sleep Clinician Paula Moore shows a full mask that is now outdated and no longer used. well rested and I no longer have high blood pressure.”

GenesisCare Sleep Clinician at St Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba Paula Moore explained the effects of sleep apnoea.

“Obstructive sleep apnoea happens when the soft tissues at the back of the throat temporarily block the airway which affects breathing and disrupts normal sleep patterns,” Miss Moore said.

“There is a more severe condition called central sleep apnoea which happens when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing and can lead to a build-up of carbon dioxide in the brain. “Both can have serious health effects and some of the health conditions associated with sleep

apnoea include obesity, stroke, high blood pressure, the heart not beating normally or heart failure and an increased risk of motor vehicle incidents.”

She said a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine was often used as a therapy to help regulate breathing while sleeping.

“The CPAP machine pushes air into the mouth and/or nasal passages at a pressure high enough to overcome obstructions in the airway and stimulate normal breathing.

“There is a wide range of masks, nasal prongs and machines to suit each individual and their circumstances.

“CPAP is a very safe and effective therapy and 98 per cent of my patients report they feel so much

better and many of their previous symptoms are greatly improved or resolved.

“Some of them even look younger as they have spent years not getting enough or a quality rest.”

Miss Moore said the first step to be diagnosed was to chat to your GP who may refer you to a specialist sleep clinic.

“We do portable sleep studies where patients are wired up and can sleep in the comfort of their own bed while equipment monitors things like oxygen levels, heart rate, restless legs and cramps, CO2 levels and brainwaves.

“There are other diagnostic options available to help us get to the bottom of any sleep concerns.”

● Poor memory or concentration ● Dry mouth upon waking ● Irritability ● Depression/anxiety ● Morning headaches

Patient Ross Burton is wired up for a portable sleep study.

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• early initiation of treatment and access to state-of-the-art interventional laboratory for all your cardiac needs.

Call “000” immediately and request transfer to St Vincent’s Emergency department for urgent specialist assessment.

07 4690 4000 | www.svpht.org.au 24

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Wellness

It’s time to put down the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, says Maz Dela Cerna

S

ometimes you’re just not feeling yourself, but if that continues for an extended period of time what should you do? We chat to renowned selfdevelopment coach Maz Dela Cerna on her tips to get out of a rut.

As COVID has taught us, life can get tough.

We can lose people, circumstances change and relationships end. Sometimes we can go through periods where we feel empty and lost yet have no idea where the feeling stemmed from.

Other times, we know exactly what triggered our anxious thoughts and broken hearts. While we cannot control circumstances around us, nor can we control other people’s actions or behaviours, the one thing we do have control over is ourselves.

If you have found yourself in a rut, read on for some useful tips to pick yourself up.

ways to get out of a rut

Power of perspective

Our minds are extremely powerful. If we change our perspective on any difficult situation, it can affect our reactions, behaviours, the way we respond, and it can ultimately help ease a difficult situation.

Everything has good and bad. If we can switch our perspective from being the victim of our circumstances, we can instead empower ourselves when we look for the lessons and see that setbacks, mistakes and failures are really opportunities for us to grow. Next time life throws a curveball, instead of asking “Why is this happening to me?” change the question and ask yourself, “What is this trying to teach me?”

Power of focus

They say what we focus on grows and I couldn’t agree more. When we focus on the negatives, it’s easy to make mountains out of molehills, destroy or damage relationships and say and do things we regret.

Yet if we focus on the positives, it can be so powerful that it can override a bad situation.

Focusing on the good things can heal

relationships, ease a difficult situation and cause us to respond in a healthy and constructive manner rather than just react with anger, frustration or hate.

Power of your soul

Mind, body, and soul, it’s all connected. It can be easy to fall back into bad habits and turn to alcohol, drugs, overeating, or any other addictive behaviour that bring us comfort.

Turning to destructive patterns only leads us to guilt, resentment, and more sorrow in the aftermath.

Instead, take care of your soul, do things that make you feel good. Eat good food, surround yourself with those you love, and get moving, even if it’s just a walk with your dog,

Power of support

There is a reason for the quote, “A weight shared is a problem halved”. We can sometimes feel that we burden others by sharing our problems but asking for help and support is a sign of strength. It takes more courage to speak up than to pretend that everything is fine. You don’t have to carry all the burden; you may even be surprised to find how much your loved ones care and are willing to support you. There is also a vast amount of professional help that is at hand whether it be a paid service or a free helpline such as lifeline.org.

Power of gratitude

When stuck in a rut, it can be easy to forget

the good things we still have in our lives. It’s easy to be consumed with whatever it is we have going on.

Waking up in the morning and thinking of things you are grateful for can help shift your mood.

It can have a powerful affect on how you start your day and how you choose to feel.

Even if you can only think of three things, write a list, and spend a couple of minutes feeling thankful for those things.

Do you have a bed to sleep in? Have you got food on the table? Do you have someone in your life that loves you?

When we are grateful for what we have in our lives, we tend to attract and find more things we can be grateful for.

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Photography: Feather and Finch Videography: Wallflower Weddings 26

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Wedding

The thought of not being with Harry was the hardest one to contemplate

Homestead celebrations

W

Harry and Jane’s large wedding was the ultimate in elegance hen Harry and Jane were married on March 26 this year, with 160 guests, it was the largest wedding Gabbinbar Homestead had hosted since COVID -19 hit. It was also absolutely stunning.

“Given I work in the events industry, I planned and organised my wedding from start to finish,” Jane said.

The wedding curated by Jane’s events company, Farr and Co Events, included suppliers

sourced locally and throughout Queensland to deliver the ultimate in elegance. Flowers were supplied by Fontana Floral and the cake by Impressions on Scott. The bride’s stunning gown was a custom-made Ella Moda, with the bridesmaid dresses by Aje. Harry’s wedding ring was designed by local jeweller, Hogans.

The happy couple met in Sydney before moving to Toowoomba.

“I was working in fashion marketing and PR, and my now-husband worked in the racing industry. We are the epitome of opposites attract!”

After a few very happy years together, Harry announced that he needed to move home to the family farm in Toowoomba, Queensland.

“I was overwhelmed, I had an amazing job, I was travelling around the world for fashion shows and events, but the thought of not being with Harry was the hardest one to contemplate and his need and passion to help his family was extremely admirable.

“So, after a few months of planning – we both made the move to Queensland and have been very happy ever since!”

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Food

Classic beef & red wine stew with cheesy dumplings Serves 6. Prep time 30 mins. Cooking time 2 hours, 50 mins. Capable cooks.

INGREDIENTS ● 1kg beef chuck steak, trimmed, cut into 4cm pieces ● 2 tablespoons plain flour ● ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil ● 2 carrots, chopped ● 2 celery stalks, chopped ● 1 large brown onion, chopped ● 2 dried bay leaves ● 2 garlic cloves, crushed ● 1 cup red wine ● 400g can tomato puree ● 1 cup Massel beef stock ● 3 sprigs fresh thyme ● Fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped, to serve CHEESY DUMPLINGS ● 1 ¼ cups self-raising flour ● ¾ cup polenta ● 2 teaspoons baking powder ● 100g butter, melted, cooled ● 1 cup milk ● 1/3 cup grated tasty cheese METHOD 1. Coat beef in flour, shaking off excess. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large heavy based flameproof casserole dish over medium-high heat.

Add 1/2 the beef. Cook for five minutes or until browned all over. Transfer to a bowl. Repeat with one tablespoon oil and remaining beef.

2. Heat remaining oil in same dish over high heat.

Add carrot, celery, onion and bay leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, for five minutes or until onion softens. Add garlic. Cook for one minute or until fragrant. Add wine. Simmer for two minutes. Add tomato puree, stock and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Return beef to pan.

Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover with lid.

Simmer, stirring occasionally, for two hours or until beef is very tender.

3. Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan-forced.

4. Meanwhile, make cheesy dumplings: Combine flour, polenta and baking powder in a bowl.

Season with salt and pepper. Make a well in the centre. Add butter and milk. Mix well to combine.

GRAYS

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5. Remove and discard bay leaves and thyme from stew. Place spoonfuls of dumpling mixture over stew. Cover with lid. Bake for 15 minutes.

Remove lid. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, for a further 10 to 15 minutes or until dumplings are golden and cheese is melted. Stand for five minutes. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

Food

Cauliflower wings Serves 4. Prep time 1 hour.

INGREDIENTS ● 1 head of cauliflower ● ¾ cup plain flour ● ¾ cup soy milk ● ¼ cup water ● 1 tsp paprika ● 2 tsp garlic powder ● Salt and pepper, to taste ● ¾ cup breadcrumbs (panko is our fave!) ● 1 cup BBQ sauce ● 1 tsp sriracha (optional) ● 1 spring onion, finely chopped

METHOD 1. Preheat your oven to 180C and line a tray with baking paper.

2. Chop your cauliflower up into bite sized pieces.

In a bowl, combine the flour, milk, water, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper to form a batter when well combined.

3. Dip cauli bites into batter, ensuring they’re well coated but not too thickly coated. Dip them into the breadcrumbs before transferring to the baking tray, spreading them out evenly. Bake for around 25 mins.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and sriracha if using. Remove the wings from the oven and glaze them with the BBQ mix.

5. Put wings back in the oven and cook for another 20 mins until golden.

6. Serve topped with the chopped spring onion and your favourite dipping sauces.

Recipe courtesy of www.abetterchoice.com.au

S T ER OR M PP AR SUAL F C

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P: (07) 4564 9421 Wyalla Plaza, 4/238 Taylor St, Newtown QLD 4350 STYLE

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Food

Passionfruit, lemon and poppy seed cake Serves 10. Prep time 1 hour, 20 mins.

Cooking time 30 mins. Advanced cooks INGREDIENTS ● 165g butter ● 140g (2/3 cup) caster sugar ● 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ● 4 eggs ● 200g (1 1/3 cups) self-raising flour, sifted ● 70g (1/2 cup) cornflour, sifted ● 125ml (1/2 cup) milk ● 2 tablespoons poppy seeds ● 1 tablespoon lemon curd ● Pulp from 2 passionfruit, sieved, seeds discarded ● Pulp from 1 passionfruit, extra, to drizzle FILLING ● 2 egg whites ● 70g (1/3 cup) caster sugar ● 250g butter, at room temperature, cut into 12 pieces ● 165g (1/2 cup) lemon curd ● Pulp from 2 passionfruit, sieved, seeds discarded EQUIPMENT Two 17.5cm (base) round cake pans, electric beaters METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan forced. Grease cake pans and line with baking paper.

2. Beat the butter, sugar and vanilla until pale and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Add the flours and milk, in alternating batches, using a large metal spoon to fold until just combined.

Gently stir through the poppy seeds. Divide mixture between the prepared pans and smooth the surface.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Turn the cakes onto a wire rack to cool completely.

4. For the filling, combine egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl. Place over a saucepan of simmering water (don’t let the bowl touch the water). Stir with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves (do not overcook). Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Use electric beaters to beat the egg white mixture for two to three minutes on medium until soft peaks form.

Add the butter, one piece at a time, beating well after each addition, until smooth and creamy. Beat in the lemon curd and passionfruit pulp until smooth.

5. Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cakes and cut each in half horizontally. Place one cake base on a plate. Spread with 1/3-1/2 cup of the filling. Repeat layering with cake and filling, finishing with cake.

Spread the top and side of cake with remaining filling.

6. Combine the lemon curd and pulp in a heatproof bowl. Microwave on High for 1 minute or until bubbling.

Stir until smooth. Set aside to cool. Drizzle over the cake and spoon over extra pulp.

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30

STYLE

Food Prep time 45 mins. Cooking time 4 hours.

Capable cooks.

INGREDIENTS ● ¾ medium sized butternut pumpkin, skin and seeds removed, chopped ● 2 medium potatoes, chopped ● 1 onion, chopped ● 1-1 ½ tsp mild curry powder ● salt and cracked black pepper ● 2 ½ cups Massel vegetable liquid stock ● 1 cup full cream ● chilli powder to taste, if desired METHOD 1. Place pumpkin, potatoes, onion, curry powder and stock in a large slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for several hours until vegetables are tender.

2. Turn off the heat and allow to cool. Using a food processor or stick blender, process until smooth.

3. Stir through the cream and chilli powder (if desired).

Warm the soup through again, season to taste and serve.

Pumpkin soup with a twist

RECIPE NOTES Evaporated milk can be used rather than cream for lower fat. This soup was cooked in a 6-litre slow cooker. You may need to adjust recipe slightly to suit your cooker.

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Brand New Homes Ready to Occupy Now Seachange Toowoomba combines award-winning homes that allow you to age in place, careful planning that saves you money and the very best recreational facilities like our feature-packed Country Club and Summer House.

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Home & Living

Freshen up

Give furniture a new lease on life with these tips, writes Robyn Willis

I

am a bit of a magnet for old furniture. Roadside council clean ups, an old desk stashed at the back of the op shop – you name it, I’ve dragged it home.

Once, I spotted an Art Deco lounge on the roadside, strapped it to my roof racks and went on my way. The problem was I had no idea what to do with it next so I went to a professional for advice. This is what I discovered.

1 Is it worth recovering?

The short answer is, it depends. In my case, I found a local upholsterer willing to work with my slightly smelly Art Deco lounge. It had a beautiful shape and he could see it was a hardwood frame. He rebuilt it from the frame up and, 20 years later, it’s still my favourite seat in the house.

Alberto Molina, from Molina Upholstery Decor, has been upholstering furniture for more than 35 years and says whether a piece of furniture is worth recovering depends on how well it was made in the first place.

Hardwood frames are ideal, while furniture made from MDF or chipboard is generally beyond help.

Solid timber needs to be free of damage from woodboring beetles, better known as borers, whose larvae feed on wood, causing damage.

“A lot of people pick up an old piece and if it has borers it is very hard to save because it weakens the frame,” he says.

Alberto says a good upholsterer can also alter the comfort level of seating, depending on the cushioning..

2 What are your options?

Some businesses run workshops on everything from simple furniture fixes to completely repurposing old furniture. Also, check online for courses in your area. Your neighbourhood TAFE is a great place

to start and many second-hand furniture stores and antique centres offer short restoration courses, too.

If you have no pieces at home to work on, sites such as Gumtree or your neighbourhood Facebook groups are a great place to source unwanted, preloved pieces.

If you look closely, you’re likely to find beautiful items to restore at low or (even better) no cost. Opt for items that have good bones and steer clear of any pieces made of particle board.

3 How much will it cost?

For many, the decision whether or not to reupholster a chair or lounge comes down to cost. A lounge chair with bare timber arms can easily set you back

$700 for full reupholstery, but it may be less, depending on the fabric.

In recent years, Alberto has seen increasing interest from furniture lovers wanting to restore well-made, but tired, furniture. He puts this down to two things – a desire to save items from landfill and an appreciation of quality materials and workmanship.

He says the tide is definitely turning towards a ‘make do and mend’ approach, particularly now that old-fashioned skills such as hand-stitching and polishing are coming back into vogue.

“A lot of people are moving away from the false economy of spending and throwing away. I am all for it,” says Alberto.

Sometimes a lick of paint will give furniture a new lease on life.

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Staycation The leisure tourism and staycation trend driving a rebound in Australia’s accommodation sector is supporting property values and revenue across the industry. With the increase in Australians’ willingness to explore their backyard and book beautiful luxury Staycations the regional areas are definitely the winners. As this popularity increases, so does the demand increase for investment opportunities with returns offering up to 6% or more.

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Home & Living

Keys to decluttering

Q But what about all our furniture?

A. Depending on the style and size of your new place, your existing furniture may not be the right fit.

Apart from sites such as Gumtree, there are plenty of neighbourhood groups on social media where you can sell off your old furniture if you’re not too fussy about price. If you have designer pieces, there are a number of

dealers who may be interested.

More often than not, though, the dining suite you have cherished for 30 years is not going to be valued in the same way by someone else. Be prepared to let it go to charity or possibly even council clean up.

Q We have a large kitchen packed with stuff, how do we sort through it all?

A. The kitchen tends to be a sticking point for many. Professional organisers often talk about tackling duplication in the kitchen. You may be surprised to discover how many vegetable peelers and tongs you own.

It’s an easy fix to whittle it down to just one or two of each. Be realistic too about whether you’ll want to entertain more than a couple of friends at your new place. That 12place dinner set may no longer be necessary, especially if you have dining out options nearby.

Q The sentimental stuff, it’s so hard to let go.

A. Perhaps the best way to detach yourself from the kids’ old primary school reports, old clothes and photos of people you’re no longer in touch with is to play museum curator of your own life. “With memorabilia, the question you should ask is ‘what tells your story?’,” says Lissanne. “You might have kept your school books but school may have been an awful experience for you, or just pedestrian.

So why are you keeping it?”

This doesn’t mean you have to dump everything. “School reports can be funny,” says Lissanne.

“I have a couple of reports that say ‘she could be more organised’.”

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oving house is stressful at the best of times, but when you’re looking to downsize as well, the pressure is really on.

For many, it’s a process of saying goodbye to one stage of life as a family, and moving onto another as a couple. Depending on where you’re at, this can be a time of grieving or celebration.

Professional organiser Lissanne Oliver from SORTED! has moved four times in the past two years and says downsizing is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home – and your life.

The key is to start early to avoid taking a whole lot of unwanted stuff with you by default or, worse still, putting it into costly storage. If you are considering putting some things into storage, Lissanne suggests you think long and hard before you commit.

“What goes into storage first is often what is of least value to you,” she says. “The stuff you pick last is generally of less value to you. Look hard at what you have in deep storage.”

Do this as early in the process as possible, so that you have time to get rid of things before your big move.

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Home & Living

Style made easy at Freedom The affordable design service transforming local homes

I

t’s often the small details that make a house a home, and at Freedom Furniture Toowoomba, the team can help you with interior design to freshen up and make the most of your space – all within your budget.

With experience in decorating local homes, as well as the recently completed Inspire South Central Apartments, Nadine Zimmerle has spent more than four years heading

up the Freedom Furniture Toowoomba’s interior design (ID) team.

The team will meet you at our own home to discuss your needs and get to know your style as well as to understand existing décor and colour schemes to work with.

The ID team then go back to the store and create design recommendations of potential design solutions. Then they’ll show you the products that will work in your home.

At just $150 for an in-home consultation, which is fully redeemable with any $3000 spent on furniture in-store, it’s affordable expert advice.

Back: Ashleigh Parker & Stuart McLeod Front: Bradley Perkins, Nadine Zimmerle & Kylie Noonan

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STYLE

Business

Just chill … we’ve got you writes Ros Burton, Principal - The Real Estate People

T

raffic was bumper to bumper and I was going nowhere.

Someone was honking their horn (which surprisingly didn’t seem to fix the situation) and you could tell tensions were rising.

Up ahead, cars were jostling for position in the hope of snagging parking spots that just didn’t exist.

One was trying to pull into a space before the other car had left, another had slapped on their indicator to claim a park on the strength of someone merely opening their boot.

A motorbike was trying to sneak past all of it.

Everyone was desperate and laserfocused on grabbing a spot at any cost.

I can’t pass judgement, I was there with them.

I don’t know what I was thinking to head into the Toowoomba CBD at lunchtime expecting to get a park.

“I’ll duck in and out, quickly do some shopping and be on my way,” I foolishly thought.

It was a rookie mistake and incredibly frustrating. It got me thinking (and I had plenty of time to do that as I sat there in the traffic jam around me) — I don’t EVER have this problem getting to our Real Estate People office (or finding a park) at any time of the day.

There’s a heap onsite and plenty more parking out on the street...without a meter man in sight.

I know it’s something our customers really appreciate, as they can come in to discuss their real estate needs without having to find a fortune in change to feed a meter.

Best of all, they can relax and take their time while we plan the best outcomes for their situation.

If you’re out and about, you’ve probably driven past our office yourself and seen our distinctive redand-black signage - we’re pretty hard to miss up the top of Herries Street near the gorgeous Glennie School.

We love it here, close to everything, but without the traffic snarls.

Sharing my thoughts on a bland subject like parking might not be the best use of the column this month, but I look at it like this: Great parking is a lot like great customer service you’ll never know how good it is until you finally find it.

At The Real Estate People, I can guarantee you’ll get both.

We say what we do… and we do what we say

at we do… d we do what we say

At The Real Estate People, we consider our word is our bond and we understand how clear communication and following through on promises is an integral part of good customer service. So, whether you’re buying, renting or selling, call us today or visit our Herries Street office and discover how we can help you sleep easy at night.

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

7167353ab

ur word is our bond and we understand how clear communication and ral part of good customer service. ing, call us today or visit our Herries Street office and discover how we

www.therealestatepeople.com.au

STYLE

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FIRST-EVER MAZDA MX-30

WELCOME TO THE DAWN OF A NEW ERA

Future-forward with fresh thinking from the ground-up, First-Ever Mazda MX-30 represents a new era for Mazda and a more sustainable, inspiring future for all who experience it. Contemporary design meets effortless style, with a spacious, premium interior. s Featuring the latest in Mild Hybrid technology, First-Ever Mazda MX-30 is the SUV coupe designed to take you wherever the future leads. s

One of the most unique and exciting features of First-Ever Mazda MX-30 are the freestyle doors. A remarkable feat of engineering, these doors offer easy access to both rows and provide an individual touch that few other vehicles deliver. s Inside, the cabin has been imbued with a sense of calm and simplicity. The use of high-quality materials including cork, recycled plastic bottles and threads add an extra element of sustainable style. s

The M Hybrid system builds on the exciting driving performance of the Skyactiv-G engine, featuring an integrated starter generator (ISG) and a 24V lithium-ion battery, improving efficiency and resulting in a smoother driving experience. s Experience the unique Mazda MX-30 for yourself and feel the future in your hands.

Book your test drive at Wippells Mazda.

H E R R I E S ST, TO O WO O M BA PH 4631 9990 | WIPPELLSMAZDA.COM.AU

Sport

Team Door Stop

Team Door Stop

Team Door Stop Team Playing Cards Laidley golfer Judy Logan hit a hole in one on the 14th hole. Picture: Ali Kuchel

Team Air Fresheners

Team Freezer Mugs Team Jumbo Cups

Team Boxed Coaster Sets

Team Stein Glasses Team Pens

Team Garden Gnomes Team Plush Toys

Team Stubby Holders

Come grab your FOOTY MERCH!

Hole lotta love for Judy on 14th Local lady hits big on golf course in Laidley, writes Ali Kuchel

T

here’s something about the 14th hole that’s lucky for golfer Judy Logan. The Laidley golfer has hit her third hole-in-one on the hole that also doubles as the second at the Laidley Golf Club.

While many might have a chuckle that Judy used a driver for the 147m-long shot, it’s Judy who has the last laugh following her perfect play.

Judy was playing the monthly medal stroke round earlier this month when she, along with three other ladies, thought the ball landed behind the flag.

“It went nicely over the ridge, onto the green and up the hill,” Judy said.

“I said to one of the ladies the ball disappeared, but she said, ‘it’s behind the

flag Judy’,”. Sure enough, when the ladies made their way to the green, it was in the hole.

“It was a great shot. It’s something you can brag about,” she said.

Judy, 71, began playing golf in 1984 after friends “coerced” her to attend a beginner’s golf day.

“It’s the only sport I knew where someone doesn’t throw something back, or hit something back, so I wasn’t overly interested,” Judy said.

“I came along to a beginner’s day and got hooked.”

Judy today is on the Golf Queensland board, and has a position on the Laidley ladies subcommittee.

In the 1990s, she was inducted to Laidley Golf Club as a life member.

For Judy, golf is about the friendships and camaraderie. “I just enjoy going around visiting other clubs and the camaraderie that’s part of it,” she said.

– Gatton, Lockyer and Brisbane Valley Star

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Style Artist chats to

Nerida Woolley

A little bit about myself: We live on a macadamia farm just outside Alstonville in Northern NSW. I am a mum to three young boys and three elder stepchildren.

Joyous chaos. Art has always been a passion though I digressed into agribusiness and communications, only returning to painting in the last few years.

Describe your style: Evolving – mostly landscapes in oil somewhere midway between semi-abstract and real.

What inspires you?

Everything inspires me from past and present artists to my environment. I love rural landscapes. My kids hate driving with me as I am forever pulling up when I see a beautiful vista to take a photo that I might like to one-day paint.

When did you start painting?

I remember always painting or drawing as a young girl. Art was my favourite subject at school, but in senior years however it clashed with economics. I took the more ‘sensible’ route and over the next 25 odd years I rarely picked up brushes. I made the decision to follow my passion when my youngest started school and in 2019 I completed a two-year Diploma of Visual Arts at Lismore TAFE. I haven’t stopped painting since.

Why do you enjoy painting?

I find it cathartic, challenging and addictive. I love the feeling of getting into that flow state and can often get lost painting for hours on end.

It can also be extremely frustrating when things aren’t going as I’d like. I liken it to playing golf (not that I do) - one good connection with the ball keeps you going back for more.

Some of the highlights of your artistic life?

Being selected as a finalist in the Ravenswood Art Prize, participating in the Grammar Art Show, exhibiting a body of work at the Walcha Gallery of Art, and being named a semi-finalist in the BAM Art Prize (Byron Arts Magazine).

What do you like about Toowoomba?

I love the cold weather, the beautiful old buildings and parks – they have the best parks for kids. Mine will attest to that.

For your calendar..

GRAMMAR

We are pleased to have Nerida Woolley exhibiting again in 2022

Art Show

Elise Judd

Nerida Woolley

26-27 March 2022 GrammarARTshow.com A diverse & beautiful range of art ... brought together for you

Lucy Shorter

Art

TOOWOOMBA Here in the Toowoomba region, the arts scene is flourishing. From galleries and theatres, to schools and various community groups, Style’s guide – brought to you proudly by Clifford Gouldson Lawyers – gives you the information you need to enjoy the region’s creative endeavours

ARTISTIC VISIONS: A JOURNEY IN WATERCOLOUR BY BRUCE GRIFFITHS

SATURDAY, JUNE 5 TO SUNDAY, JULY 4 WHERE: Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery WHAT: Artistic Visions: A journey in watercolour features works by local watercolour artist Bruce Griffiths. Painting only from locale or memories of places previously visited, Griffiths’ works reveal the natural beauty of Australia.

To learn more about Bruce’s artistic practice and work, attend his ‘Meet the Artist’ event at Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery on Sunday, June 6 starting at 1.30pm.

Bookings are essential for capacity numbers, email info@tr.qld.gov.au or phone 131 872 to book your place.

Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery at 531 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba is open Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am to 3.30pm and Sundays 1 to 4pm.

A TOOWOOMBA LOVE AFFAIR BY JENNY HARTLEY

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 TO SATURDAY, JULY 3 WHERE: Rosalie Gallery, Goombungee WHAT: The beautiful city of Toowoomba, filled with parks, flowers and delightful historic

homes with latticed gates and shaded verandas, challenges local artist Jenny Hartley to explore and capture the light and shadows in her work.

Jenny will host a ‘Meet the Artist’ day on Saturday, June 12 at Rosalie Gallery. She will be in attendance from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Come along to meet Jenny for a chance to learn more about her artistic practice and work. No bookings are required, but physical distancing provisions will be in place.

Rosalie Gallery at 89 Mocatta Street, Goombungee is open Thursday to Saturday 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Above: BruceGriffiths_StepsOfTime: Bruce GRIFFITHS / Steps of time 2 2020 / watercolour on paper / 68 x 50cm / © Bruce Griffiths Left: Midday shadows 2021 acrylic on canvas 50x40: Jenny HARTLEY / Midday shadows 2021 / acrylic on canvas / 52 x 40cm © Jenny Hartley

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Arts

Local art brands Murray’s is making art supplies an Aussie affair

M

urray’s Art and Framing is home to a colourful variety of art materials.

While we do stock many well known international brands including Winsor & Newton, Arches, Daniel Smith and Faber Castell, we have an ever growing range of Australian -owned and -made brands.

42 STYLE

Art Spectrum is one of the key brands that we stock and they have something in almost every medium and tool. This is an Aussie brand, based in Melbourne.

They mostly manufacture locally with raw materials and paper imported from further abroad.

Chroma is another one of our Australian brands.

They may be better known by their acrylic product names Atelier, Jo Sonja, A2 and Chromacryl.

These acrylic paints and mediums are extremely popular and perfect for any skill level or budget. High schools,

mural artists and fine artists alike have all found something within this Aussie brand’s range.

Whether you are keen on the best and most popular brands in the field or looking to support Aussie owned businesses, Murray’s Art and Framing has something for you.

Events

JUNE

BRISBANE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL FESTIVAL OF CYCLING SATURDAY, JUNE 5 FROM 5AM TO 5PM

WHERE: Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – from Wulkuraka, Toogoolawah or Linville to Yarraman WHAT: Bicycle Queensland and Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users Association have teamed up to create this Festival of Cycling, with three ride options starting from Wulkuraka, Toogoolawah and Linville at 44km, 75km and 161km. All rides will finish at Yarraman, where there will be a Finish Line Festival – a fun family day out for anyone looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city for the day, and also to cheer home the riders.

COST: $50 for 44km, $85 for 75km, and $130 for 161km

MAKING SOAP FROM SCRATCH

SATURDAY, JUNE 5 FROM 10AM TO 1PM WHERE: De Molay House, 90 Margaret St, Toowoomba

44

STYLE

WHAT: Join Verity Rose in this beginners’ class to make soap from scratch. Rose is an experienced soap maker and instructor, and will lead the small class in making a full batch of the best natural soaps and a laundry butter.

The workshop charge includes a mold, all ingredients and recipe for this hands-on session. Attendees are requested to bring a five-litre pot or bucket, stick blender, two large one-litre glass jars with a wide mouth, measuring jug, scales, old towel, mask and safety glasses, and a box to take items home in.

COST: $230

MEN’S YOGA

FORTNIGHTLY EACH SATURDAY UNTIL JUNE 26 WHERE: Mayhem Dance Academy, 4 Foundry St, Toowoomba WHAT: Yoga is a fantastic way to unwind and destress, helping improve health and wellbeing in a safe space. These men-specific classes will run every second Saturday from April 17 until June 26, from 12pm – but if participation numbers are high the classes may continue past this date. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mat and towel,

Events

Get out and see the region this month

WHERE: Level 3, Toowoomba City Library, 155 Herries St, Toowoomba WHAT: Enjoy a break from the rush with beginner-friendly tai chi classes each Tuesday from May 18 to June 15. The moves can be done sitting or standing, making it perfect for those looking for a gentle introduction or recovering from an injury or illness.

COST: $5

TOOWOOMBA HOSPITAL FOUNDATION HEALTH SERVICE GALA BALL 2021 SATURDAY, JUNE 12, FROM 6PM

and bookings are essential by contacting Greg on 0435 755 033 or cawleygreg@hotmail.com COST: $5

REST, REFLECT AND RENEW AT REFLECTIONS SUNDAY, JUNE 6 FROM 8.30AM TO 4.30PM

WHERE: Reflections Lake Cooby, 239 Loveday Rd, Geham WHAT: Enjoy a peaceful day of women’s wellness sessions to reflect, renew and simply rest. There are three sessions with a choice of activities for each, as well as group tai chi to begin the day and yin meditation to conclude. Choose from skin care, essential oils, candle making, drumming, gentle hatha, wellbeing classes, vision/values board creation, and art classes.

COST: $150

FARMFEST

TUESDAY, JUNE 8, TO THURSDAY, JUNE 10 WHERE: Kingsthorpe Park, Warrego Highway, Kingsthorpe WHAT: FarmFest is Queensland’s premier primary industry field days, showcasing more than 2000 companies and attracting more than 60,000 visitors from across the nation and overseas. Celebrating its 45th anniversary, FarmFest is one of the fastestgrowing, safe and successful hybrid field days in Australia. The event is organised and promoted by ACM Rural Events, the organisers of major events in Australia, including the giant AgQuip Field Days in Gunnedah, New South Wales.

COST: $5 with entry for children under 12 free

WHERE: Rumours, 323 Ruthven St, Toowoomba WHAT: Celebrate 30 years of Toowoomba Hospital Foundation supporting Darling Downs Health.

Enjoy a night out with your colleagues, friends, and family, with fabulous food, delicious drinks, major prizes and auctions to be won and special guest speaker, Sam Bloom, sharing her story of resilience and help THF mark three decades of fundraising. Tickets include a three-course

meal and four-hour beverage package. Dress code is black tie.

COST: $170

MUMS & BUBS EXPO

SUNDAY, JUNE 20, FROM 9AM TO 1PM WHERE: The Mills Precinct, 291 Ruthven St, Toowoomba WHAT: The Mums & Bubs Expo by The Makers Market Toowoomba has it all, from pregnancy to birth and beyond. Come and spend the morning browsing the amazing makers with their handmade baby products, and chat with businesses that can help support your through your journey in to be coming a mother.

COST: Free LAMPSHADE WORKSHOP FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 6PM TO 8PM WHERE: De Molay House, 90 Margaret St, Toowoomba WHAT: Enjoy learning how to cover your own soft lampshade in fabric and finishing with decorative trim with expert Lynne. There will be several colours to choose from for a 12-inch lampshade, but the class is limited so reserve your place online at veritysoaps.store COST: $75 - $45 deposit with $30 payable on the night

TAI CHI

TUESDAYS UNTIL JUNE 15, 9.30-10.15AM

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

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 STYLE

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The team at Enterprise Legal enjoying the sunshine at Bunnyconnellen. From left: Peta Gray, Emma Bowdler, Aime Mish-Wells, Mick Linnan, Brooke Linnan and Sharne Lategan

A GREAT DAY OUT

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HIGH COUNTRY HARVEST LUNCH It was perfect weather for a morning stroll through the advocdo trees, then off to organic berry farm Hampton Blue to sample some artisan jams and sauces. The last stop before lunch was the Pechey Distilling Co to sample their vodka and gins. Bunnyconnellen hosted the incredible three-course lunch by renowned Chef Amanda Hinds, with local produce the real star of the show.

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Ally Martell and Jendi Butler

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Adrianna Wiliamson, Anna Fanelli, Jonathan Althaus, James Hart and Georgia Lindie-Jenkins

Jessica Pasfield, Alisa Panzram and Wendy O’Grady

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