Style magazine Toowoomba - November 2023

TOOWOOMBA NOVEMBER 2023

MAGAZINE

Driving Dreams Forward: AITC nurtures

Plus Fresh spring produce recipes to delight

talent in heavy vehicle industry

p28

Your guide to rocking sequins p12

Foster a good head-space with soft hiking p26

FA SH I O N

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S H OP P I N G

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H E A LT H

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BE A UT Y

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HO ME

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T R AV E L

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FOOD

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EVEN TS

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ARTS

Welcome to November Style magazine!

We’ve got a fantastic edition lined up for you this month, preparing for the silly season and summer as this balmy spring winds to a close.

Resident food editor Mariam Digges shares the ultimate fresh spring recipes that promise to brighten up your table and tastebuds (p28), while lifestyle editor Melanie Collins brings you a one-stop guide to rocking sequins (p12).

Did you know this sparkly fashion is no longer relegated to only parties and evening wear?

We’ve also got the low-down on building the ultimate facial skincare routine, just in time for that summer shiny skin (p18), and some tips on keeping your cool inwardly as well (p20).

Speaking of which, have you taken some time for yourself recently? We discovered the latest wellness trend of ‘soft hiking’ this month (p26), and it’s genius. A little similar to the trend of ‘earthing’ a few years ago, soft hiking encourages you to get out in nature and take your time while there. This is no striding down trails with a time limit to beat - it’s all about slowing down, walking at your own pace, and stopping to soak in the surroundings. Sounds heavenly, right? We’re definitely keen to give it a go.

Have a great November, Stylers, and we’ll see you again for our festive edition next month!

The Style team xx

Australian Industry Trade College Year 11 student Katelyn at Western Truck Group. Photo by Matt Ryan Photograpy.

@stylemagazinestoowoomba

14

Get your definitive shoe guide for the new season with both practical and fashion-forward styles

THE TEAM Lifestyle Editor: Melanie Collins; Entertainment Editor: Jessica Kramer; Food Editor: Mariam Digges; Home & Living Editor: Jenna Martin; Sport & Technology Editor: Kate Salemme; Journalists: Savaira Ratukula, Alyssa Welke, Katrina Sichlau SUB EDITORS Sandra Killen, Lisa Toia DESIGN Paul Hunter, Justine Costello ADVERTISING MANAGER Erika Brayshaw STYLE MAGAZINE TOOWOOMBA CONTACT DETAILS style@news.com.au PO BOX 40, Toowoomba QLD 4350

STYLE 4

30

Cook up a storm with these fresh and bright spring recipes

34

Create your own beautiful and chemical-free insect repellents

08

FEATURE Another path to parenthood

18

BEAUTY Build the ultimate skincare routine

28

FOOD Spring fling

42

TRAVEL A corker of a day in every sense

10

WEDDING Abby and Trent tie the knot

20

WELLNESS Stay calm & cool this summer

34

HOME & LIVING DIY mozzie repellents

44

SPORT Raising the bar

12

FASHION Summer sequins

22

WELLNESS Celebrating staff

36

HOME & LIVING Purr-fect pets

47

ENTERTAINMENT The latest in books and film

14

FASHION Your definitive summer shoe guide

26

WELLNESS Let your feet do the healing

40

TRAVEL Five amazing weekend road trips

48

EVENTS Check out what’s on this month

5 STYLE

KEEPING THE WHEELS OF INDUSTRY TURNING IN TOOWOOMBA The Australian Industry Trade College (AITC) is shaping the next generation thanks to its industry-driven education and valuable partnerships with local businesses such as Western Truck Group (WTG), which provides AITC students with invaluable opportunities

T

wo remarkable and hardworking students, Caleb and Katelyn, are shining examples of students who have found their purpose and passion at the AITC. Caleb, a year 12 student at the AITC, has embarked on a journey in the world of heavy commercial vehicle mechanical technology through a schoolbased apprenticeship.

“The AITC allows me to complete senior school while gaining hands-on experience,” Caleb says.

“I go out to work for half of the term and attend high school at the AITC for the other half.

“It means I can undertake an apprenticeship while completing my Queensland Certificate of Education.”

Caleb’s choice to follow his passion for heavy commercial vehicles not only speaks to his dedication but also highlights the diverse range of opportunities available to students at the AITC. Katelyn, a year 11 student, is another shining star at the Toowoomba school. She is pursuing a school-based apprenticeship in automotive electrical technology.

STYLE 6

“I was always drawn to the trucking industry, especially with my dad being a truck driver,” she says.

“It was an easy choice for me as it is an industry I really love.”

Western Truck Group, a prominent organisation in the region’s truck and

automotive industry, has played a crucial role in Caleb and Katelyn’s journey towards becoming industry professionals.

“By offering young people the chance to gain hands-on experience and school-based apprenticeships, WTG is an invaluable employer partner to the AITC Toowoomba school,” says industry consultant Chris McEwan.

Western Truck Group understands the importance of investing in the future workforce and “recognises that AITC students come prepared and ready to work hard in the workplace”.

“These young individuals are not just apprentices; they are the future of the industry. By providing opportunities for students like Caleb and Katelyn, WTG is contributing to the development of skilled

workers who will drive the industry forward,” says WTG dealer principal Joe White.

Caleb and Katelyn’s stories are inspirational examples of how the AITC and its partners are working together to create a pipeline of skilled talent for Toowoomba’s industrial sector.

“These students are gaining valuable technical skills and developing a strong work ethic, problem-solving abilities and a commitment to excellence,” AITC principal Peter Hodge says.

“They are not only contributing to the workforce but also shaping the future of the industry in Toowoomba.”

The success of Caleb and Katelyn is just the beginning of what AITC Toowoomba students can achieve when given the right opportunities and mentoring.

advertising feature

Australian Industry Trade College year 11 student Katelyn and year 12 student Caleb hard at work; and the students with Chris McEwan and Damian McCarthy.

Australian Industry Trade College for Style magazine, November 2023.

At the AITC, “subjects are contextualised to industry and aim to consistently challenge and enhance employability skills in our young people,” says Chris.

“My role is to coach and mentor young people throughout their senior school years.

“What truly sets us apart is our dedication to facilitating a symbiotic relationship between industry and exceptional young people.”

With dedicated educators, supportive businesses such as the Western Truck Group, and motivated students, Toowoomba’s industrial engine is set to thrive for years to come.

To learn more about the AITC, visit deliberatelydifferent.com.au and explore the pathways available to students in years 10-12.

They are not only contributing to the workforce but also shaping the future of the industry in Toowoomba

7 STYLE

feature

Another path to

PARENTHOOD It’s every child’s right to have a safe and nurturing home for life – and you could be the person to give it to them, writes Alice Williams

S

ome people are just made to be parents. Parenting has always been part of their future plans, the career they build, the home they make.

But life, as the saying goes, often has other plans.

Thea and her husband Mick grew up with foster brothers and sisters, in totally different towns, under completely different circumstances.

She explains, “It was something we considered when we got together but we tried to be people who made children as well. After ten years of trying and ten IVF cycles of it not happening, we contacted community services.”

The couple were made aware they couldn’t begin the foster care process while doing fertility treatment, for many different reasons.

“We did all our training during the start of the process and in 2010, I quit my job to become a full-time mum. I’d been waiting my whole life for this.”

Hannah’s story was guided by a little more fate and chance.

“I became aware of a child in need from a lady at church. Her grandson was with her, this gorgeous little 10-year-old, and she was upset because he was about to go into foster care and she was worried she wouldn’t see him again.”

“My husband and I had an 11-year and a 12year-old and so we asked them, ‘What do you think about giving that little boy from church somewhere to live?’ My younger son said, ‘As long as nothing changes’. And I laughed and said, ‘Well no, everything’s going to change, son’. Because it was.”

Katherine started foster caring when her two children were young and began with part-time care. She is now the guardian of two siblings.

“I just wanted to have a house full of kids,” she says.

“A brother and sister came into my care as infants as a short-term placement but ended up staying long-term.

“Now at 26 and 27 years old, they are very much part of my family.”

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TO HAVE WHAT IT TAKES Leanne Williams, a children’s contact worker, says that in her experience the best foster carers have one thing in common.

“They’re people committed to creating a stable and nurturing environment for children. I think they mainly need to demonstrate honesty, reliability and consistency – which helps develop the trust and security kids need.”

Before starting the journey she advises, “Caregivers should also be aware of the absolute need for scheduling in their own self-care. Information is available regarding self-care strategies and practices which promote wellbeing and resilience.”

Hannah agrees. “It’s a big investment, but it’s kids’ lives, you know? I’ve also just got a really strong optimism bias. I really don’t sweat the small stuff.

“If you can give kids love, structure and a predictable home life then I would

recommend starting with respite and crisis care and go from there – there’s a lot of support,” she goes on.

Since adopting three siblings and opening up their home for foster care, Thea says one lesson has been acceptance.

“My husband and I went into this with the commitment that we would never speak poorly of our children’s birth parents. We believe a non-judgmental mindset lets us just focus on the kids. Our business is the children in our care and how beautiful they are.

“Our three adopted children’s birth parents are extraordinary. They openly recognise the reasons why the kids are in care. They see that through Mick and I, the kids have the chance to break the generational cycles that occurred in both of their families.”

TO SEE THE IMPACT “The positive impacts I’ve observed in children who have received permanent care,

like guardianship or open adoption, are profound. These kids and young people have primarily come from environments where they’re vulnerable and at risk of harm.

Finding an environment that’s secure and long-term can let them truly thrive,” says Leanne, of her work in the area.

“It’s also not unusual for children placed in secure homes to massively improve in areas where they may have been previously challenged, like their learning and social environments.

“With support, encouragement and understanding, they learn to develop trust and respect for themselves but also others.”

Thea also speaks to this, “For our kids, who were in foster care, to be able to understand that they’re not just kids who are in care, they’re kids who can give care. They learn to be people who can care for themselves and care for others.”

“I think when they start talking about the future, it shows that they’re settled,” says Hannah. “I remember when our son – that beautiful little 10-year-old we met at church – had been in our care for about six months and came home from a counselling session and said, “I’m only going to be with you until I’m 18’.

“I said, ‘you don’t have to move out then.

Don’t you want to go to uni or something?’ and you should have seen his eyes light up. It was a really defining moment, he became a lot more settled after that because he was now able to plan for his future.

“He’s actually at uni now, he’s got two parttime jobs and a girlfriend. And he’s just a really beautiful kid. Well, 21-year-old.”

Around the time Hannah and her family began exploring adoption for Sam, his baby sister came to live with them too, at just six days old.

“We adopted her when she was five. It was quite funny because while she knew this meant she was going to stay with her older brother, she also knew it was an official ceremony in the court. There was a magistrate and lawyers. And at the end of it she turned around excitedly and said, ‘Did I just marry my brother?!’.

“I said, no darling, we’ve just adopted you.”

Take the reins on your education Learn more

Equine Academy Year 10 & 11 students - Join us in 2024

deliberatelydifferent.com.au

STYLE 10

weddings

The details Bride’s name: Abby Myhill Brown Groom’s name: Trent Thomas Masters Venue: Gabbinbar Homestead Dress: Romanova Atelier Hair: Sarah Neill Hair Make-up: Taylor Kimler Flowers: Savannah DickensKilpadi Entertainment: Luke de Gee Photographer: Mitch Birchall Videographer: Mitch Birchall Celebrant: Luke de Gee Caterer: Gabbinbar Homestead Cake: Cake House by Katrina Allan

Abby &Trent Gabbinbar Homestead was the location for a perfect day for Abby Brown and Trent Masters

What was the date of your wedding? Any particular reason why you chose that date?

March 23. Trent proposed on the 11.01.21, so we thought it would be romantic to match it with the day, month and year for our wedding date. Not only was it easy to remember, but it was also visually pleasing to the eye. And, without being cliche … it happened to be our favourite numbers, 20 and 3.

Where was the ceremony and reception?

Why did you choose that space?

We chose the Governor’s Lawn for our ceremony and the Conservatory for our reception, both at Gabbinbar Homestead.

Living in Toowoomba, I never really considered having my wedding here too. We had been looking at wedding venues throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast for a few months before we came across Gabbinbar, and it was by chance we booked a visit to the venue. The moment we entered the grounds, it no longer felt like we were in Toowoomba. The space was so beautiful and warm, with such a variety of moods. From the woodlands to the stables and the gardens, it was very special. For a couple who were unsure of the theme we wanted to pursue, the space was perfect.

How many guests did you have?

63. We only had close friends and family.

not to do it over dinner”. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

How did you meet your husband?

We technically first met in high school, after I moved to Toowoomba from Brisbane. Even though we had the same group of friends, we never really spoke. It wasn’t until four years after graduation, when Trent had returned from Canada that we swiped right and landed ourselves our first date.

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

One of the most important, and hardest things for me, was keeping my dress a surprise from everyone. Picking the dress by myself made the reveal emotional for everyone, not just Trent. It was important to us that our family and friends felt both involved and relaxed on the day. So, we made sure there were moments they could join in, like our first dance. We wanted to feel comfortable with those we were going to be sharing our intimate moments with, so picking our photographer, videographer and celebrant was a top priority. Overall, the most important part for us was making sure we were enjoying ourselves, with a few moments for just the two of us.

How did he propose?

We were on a road trip to Cairns. One of the activities we had planned was to visit Fitzroy Island for a morning hike and afternoon snorkel. I had actually, by joke, patted his pockets down the day of. Expecting the walk to be short, he hadn’t packed sunscreen or water. Two hours in, while he set up the camera for a photo, I cooled off from the sunburn under the lookout deck. Trent wanted a photo on the boulder just past the ledge though I am terrified of heights. So, while shaking in fear, he gets down on one knee and asks me to marry him. After a shock pause (and possibly a shock slap) I said yes. Laughing about the experience on the way back down, he said, “you told me

What were some of your favourite parts of the day?

For me, the moment my mum first saw me in my dress, was incredibly emotional. We both sobbed, and she looked so beautiful, it is a memory I will cherish forever. For Trent it

was seeing me walk down the aisle. The ceremony as a whole was super important and is a big favourite for both. The food was phenomenal, we still talk about it with our families and have joked about when the next wedding will be to eat it all over again. We’re not one for the spotlight, so having our photos taken together was a really intimate moment between the two of us. The dancing was great, and those who shared the floor with us for our first dance and to end the night, will eventually be framed on the wall of our home. Leaving the venue together that night, as husband and wife, knowing we’d had the dream day we’d spent the past two years building, was unbeatable though.

Who supplied your flowers, table settings etc?

I had one of my best friends (Savannah), who was also a bridesmaid, create my flowers. All other decor for the wedding – signage, stands, table settings etc – I made myself. With the exception of the candles. I had everything pre photographed with how it would be set out, and I was incredibly grateful to Gabbinbar for bringing it all together. The tears just kept rolling when we entered the reception for our first look.

11 STYLE

fashion style tip

Dressed to kill

Nothing says party more than a sparkling sequined dress.

You can’t go wrong with a midi or short style in a block colour. Clockwise, from left: H&M dress, $449; Atmos & Here, $119; Rotate Birger Christensen, $540

Summer

sequins Turn any event – day or night –into a party with these totally glorious and on-trend sequinned outfits Melanie Collins Lifestyle Editor

F

rom the most gorgeous, glamorous sequin dress, bold sequin blazer and barely there minis, right through to a daytime shirt, sequin clutch and sweet ballet flats – this festive season, make it all about the sparkles.

No longer reserved for red carpets and ultra-glam events, sequins are making a huge splash this summer – and we couldn’t be happier. For any occasion, there’s a sequin that suits, and we’ve found all of them.

style tip

Matchy-matchy For an all-out sequined look, go head-to-toe glamour in a coord. The trick to nailing this two-piece is keeping everything else to a minimum – simple make-up, tonal shoes and low-key accessories (save your sequin bag for another night).

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From left: Seed top, $149.95 and skirt, $189.95; Zara bomber jacket, $185 and skirt, $119; H&M blouse, $49.99 and pants, $69.99

get the look

Daytime is shine time Dress down a sequined top, skirt or trouser by pairing it with a ribbed tank, boxy white tee or silk button-down shirt. Who said sequins are for after hours only?

Clockwise from top: Marcs tee, $119.95, and Levi’s, $160; Target tank, $15, and Zara trousers, $149

get the look

Bags of fun style tip

Make a statement at any occassion – day or night – with this must-have accessory of the season.

Clockwise from left: Seed bag, $79.95; Nina bag, $119.95; H&M bag, $49.99

Just a touch Incorporate sequins into your wardrobe in a more subtle way with just a touch of sparkle – an embellished blazer makes a bold statement, as does a discoinspired skirt or upgraded pair of flats.

From top: Witchery blazer, $399.95; Marcs skirt, $149.95; Zara flats, $69.95 13 STYLE

fashion

Your definitive summer shoe guide Step into summer in style with one of these on-trend, wear-with-everything styles. And no, they’re not all sandals Melanie Collins Lifestyle Editor

I

n the mood to dig your heels into a new pair of shoes for summer? You’ve come to the right place. This season’s shoe offerings include an exciting assortment of both practical and fashion-forward options – everything from metallic

Mary Janes First it was flappers of the 1920s, then it was Twiggy in the 1960s, and Jane Brirkin in the 1970s. Next, it was Alexa Chung and her band of It girls that put Mary Janes on centre stage in the 2000s. Thanks to fashion’s ongoing obsession with reimagining the past, the teacher’s pet style is back – but with a twist. While the good-girl vibes are strong, this season’s style sees a more edgy take: think patent, pointy or heeled. For the classic Mary-Jane look, pop them on with some white ankle socks – or nothing at all for the hot summer months – to add an instant update to any outfit.

Clockwise, from main: Aere, $140; Wittner, $200; Spurr, $59.99; Betts, $79.99

mules to elegant flats to strappy heels to practical flatforms. If you’re shopping for work, evening or weekend wear, there’s a fun style that’s sure to please.

Let our summer footwear report be your guide while you shop for a new shoe to put a spring in your step.

Your search for the perfect warmweather shoe begins and ends here.

Walk this way …

Bright and bold Demand attention whatever the occasion with a pair of bright and brazen shoes. The trend has been described by fashion commentators as colours in retina-searing shades – so the rule here is the brighter the better. There’s nothing like a pair of tangerine mules to instantly add fun to any outfit. Paired with neutrals or a tonal floral print, this style is all about embracing summer fun.

Clockwise, from main: H&M, $27.99 (pink); Tommy Hilfiger, $229; Dune London, $249.95; Midas, $179.95; H&M, $29.99 (multi)

Turn to Page 16 for more fabulous summer shoe trends

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fashion Ballet flats Whether you like it or not, the epic return of ballet flats is here and it’s not going away. While some would prefer this style be left behind, ballerina flats are, in fact, according to those in the know, set to be the biggest trend of the season.

Blame it on the fashion world’s insatiable love for all things balletcore, or just a simple turn towards practicality, ballet flats are worth considering for summer. Sweet and simple, they’re the ideal style for the office thanks to their all-day wearability. Classic nude or ballet pink will never go out of style, or try a bold colour or intricate detailing for added interest.

From top: Dazie, $59.99; H&M, $24.99; Country Road, $129

Strappy sandals A statement strap – whether it’s gladiator-style flats or diamond-encrusted heels – is dominating fashion runways and magazine pages. Kitten heeled or full-on stiletto, either are fine when it comes to a strappy sandal, and both say summer is here and I couldn’t be happier.

Clockwise from main: Wittner, $200; Alias Mae, $219.95; Call It Spring, $99.95; Zara, $69.95

Platforms and flatforms The not-so-humble platform is having a moment – and we’re here for it, both platform and flatform edits. No matter how you want to raise your stature – a wedge, a bulky heel, even a bubblegum slide – they’re satisfyingly chunky and super wearable. If the minimalist aesthetic of the strappy heel or understated ballerina flat isn’t your vibe, a bold pair of platforms might be just what you need. Exaggerate your height with a bold style, or go for a low-key look with leather in black or white.

Clockwise, from top: Dazie, $69.99 (beige); Novo, $59.95; Billini, $89.95; Edward Meller, $319; Dazie, $69.99 (pink) STYLE 16

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beauty

How to build the ultimate day-to-night skincare routine

W

hen it comes to skincare, most people admit to having a bathroom cabinet overflowing with half-used, mostly expired product they don’t know what to do with.

But the fact is, skincare is actually simple – and you need way less than you think.

So whether you’re looking to spring-clean your bathroom cabinet down to the bare essentials or start a new routine from scratch, we’ve got you covered.

MAKE MORNINGS MAGIC Morning skincare is all about facing the day. It’s about protecting, hydrating and getting your face glowy. Product-wise, start with the thinnest product first and work STYLE 18

Step 3: Add a bit of sunshine Jenna Martin

your way up, finishing off with a thick layer of SPF.

Step 1: A fresh start Wipe those pillow creases away with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities that may have settled on your skin overnight.

Step 2: Balance things out “Do I really need a toner?” many people ask … and the truth is, yes. A toner helps balance your skin’s pH, preparing it for other products you use on top.

After you’ve cleansed and toned, apply a vitamin C serum. It’s like sunshine in a bottle, offering antioxidant protection and making your skin glow.

Step 4: Hydrate, baby Hyaluronic acid is a hydration hero, perfect to apply after vitamin C. Not only does it give your skin a much-needed drink, it also locks in moisture, keeping it plump and dewy all day long.

Step 5: Add moisture It’s now time to moisturise. Whether you have dry, dull, oily, acne-prone, ageing or combination skin, there are specific moisturisers targeted to different concerns.

Step 6: Skin defence

If you live on planet earth – especially in Australia – do not leave the house without SPF. Sunscreen is your shield against early ageing, skin damage and skin cancer. Go for SPF 30 or higher and reapply as necessary throughout the day.

GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP A night-time routine is all about repair, rejuvenation and preparing your skin for a fresh start the next morning.

Step 1: The grime vanisher Do not, I repeat: do not go to bed without washing your face. From clogged pores to bad breakouts and even premature ageing and skin infections, hitting the pillow with a face

The key to skincare success lies in consistency, but once you get going – and know what products to use and how to use them – it’s easy to get into a rhythm

full of gunk is a big no-no. For a total clean, start with a cleansing oil to remove any makeup and follow up with a foamy cleansing gel to get deep down into your pores.

Step 2: A skin detox You don’t need to exfoliate every night, but exfoliating with an AHA or a BHA a couple of times a week is a great idea. AHAs, like glycolic acid or lactic acid often appear in chemical exfoliants, and are great for removing dead cells from the surface of your skin. BHAs, on the other hand, include things like salicylic acid and work wonders on acne-prone skin.

Step 3: Revival It’s time to bring back your old friend, the toner. Use a toner at night after cleansing and exfoliating, once again rebalancing your skin’s pH and priming it for the next steps.

Step 4: Hydrate and perfect Grab your hyaluronic acid again and apply it after toning to lock in moisture while you sleep, then add a dash of niacinamide serum. Niacinamide is a multi-tasking gem that can be applied day or night to improve the appearance of enlarged pores, even out skintone and repair fine lines.

Step 5: Treatment serum Retinol is like an anti-ageing elixir and you must only ever use it at night. The ultimate “beauty sleep”, retinol works its magic while you dream, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and promoting cell turnover. Retinol is quite powerful stuff (and shouldn’t be used while pregnant or breastfeeding) so if you’ve never used it, start with a lower concentration once a week and gradually increase, to avoid irritation.

Step 6: Sleepy balm When you moisturise as the last step in your evening skincare routine, you’re basically tucking your skin in for the night. While you can use the same moisturiser you do for daytime, a good night cream will provide a more targeted result, supporting your skin’s natural repair processes while you sleep.

SO LET’S RECAP While this might seem like a lot, the truth is, we’re only talking about ten products: Cleanser, toner, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, moisturiser, SPF, exfoliator, niacinamide, retinol and night cream. The key to skincare success lies in consistency, but once you get going – and know what products to use and how to use them – it’s easy to get into a rhythm. In fact, it almost becomes a wonderful meditative ritual, a perfect way to start – or wrap up – your day.

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Contact your GP for a referral or call 07 5348 9460 Suite 110 Medici Medical Centre, 15 Scott Street, East Toowoomba 4350 Maroochydore | Noosa | Gympie | Toowoomba

19 STYLE

wellness

How to stay calm and cool through the silly season Make self-care a priority this silly season to avoid crashing and burning, writes Savaira Ratukula

Say bye-bye to burnout

W

e’ve all been there. Feeling like you’re limping towards the finish line, stressing over your seemingly never-ending to-do list, holding out for the summer holidays.

End-of-year burnout is real – in fact, according to the World Health Organisation, burnout is recognised as an occupational phenomenon resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been successfully managed.

But the good news is it’s totally avoidable.

Yes, November and December can be busy – workloads, social events and family commitments on the increase – but you don’t have to burn out. In fact, with some planning, commitment and these practical tips, you might just sail through to January and start the new year off right.

RECOGNISE THE SIGNS Feeling overwhelmed, excessively tired, constantly negative? These are all signs of burnout. And while everyone has experienced these from time to time, burnout occurs when these feelings have lingered over weeks, months or even years.

Exhaustion can manifest into physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches and palpitations, or it could be more subtle – you might notice that sluggish feeling lingering longer than usual, making it harder to get out of bed in the mornings.

There are not just physical warning signs to look out for, though. Emotional

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exhaustion – and the silly season can be an emotional time – can manifest through mental health concerns, such as feelings of anxiety and depression.

Looking for an achievable and realistic way to manage your stress effectively is the best way to avoid burnout. But remember, if you’re struggling, reach out to your GP or health professional for advice.

TAKE POSITIVE ACTION Planning leave from work can be a great step towards managing stress. Having several leave days in the bank to schedule throughout the last six months of the year can feel like mini vacays that break up your work timetable, and give yourself periods to rest and recover.

If it’s stress at home or with family that’s contributing to you feeling overwhelmed – or annual leave isn’t an option – finding positive, small coping mechanisms is

another idea. Add mini breaks throughout the day that get you away from your desk or outside. Try some breathing exercises, take a walk around the block, practise some meditation or take a time-out for 15 minutes while the kids watch TV.

MOVE YOUR BODY It’s no surprise that including regular exercise in your routine is great for your mental health and wellbeing. Physical exercise can help with stress relief through the release of endorphins – you could hit the gym, go for a daily walk, join a local sporting team, break out some dance moves in your living room or give gardening a go.

Being conscious of which areas of your life are causing you stress is also a good place to start on the road to avoiding burnout. If it’s work, maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be challenging but is important to overall health. Overworking has increased

Here are some practical ways to prioritise your self-care during the busy months ahead. ● Getting routine sleep has many benefits for your body including reducing stress, improving your mood, lowering your risk for serious health problems and clearer thinking. ● Moving your body through exercise can act as your body’s natural antidepressant with the release of the feel-good neurotransmitters endorphins. ● Staying connected and talking with a friend or family member is beneficial as the act of talking out loud helps to organise what is going on in your mind. ● Practising mindfulness by staying in the moment can help regulate your emotions, focus your attention and reduce stress, anxiety and depression. ● Making good food choices by maintaining a balanced and varied diet directly impacts your overall wellbeing. ● Prioritising alone time to do the things you enjoy, whether that’s listening to music, reading a book, baking or visiting your favourite place.

over the last several years, so setting boundaries between work and non-work activities, managing your workload, taking regular breaks, building strong relationships with colleagues and prioritising self-care are several ways to help get that balance back.

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The perfect team for you My Midwives are committed to making a difference

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t My Midwives we have a value of “team” which means looking out for each other every step of the way.

The Toowoomba team is made up of an amazing bunch of midwives who have come to midwifery at different stages of life and who have worked in a variety of settings across their broad experience.

The focus of My Midwives is making sure every woman feels central to her decisions during pregnancy, labour and birth with every family having a different idea about what they need. The beauty of a large team of midwives means that women can choose a midwife whose personality and values align with theirs – with the concept of partnership being pivotal for midwifery philosophy.

A woman and midwife working together is a partnership – the woman is an expert in herself and her baby while the midwife brings skills and experience in pregnancy, birth and the post-birth period. Working in partnership is critical to the outcomes that we see in midwifery continuity of care.

It’s the value of knowing the woman really well that makes the difference.

Our Toowoomba team are committed to women being at the centre of care and about working in partnership with whoever needs to be involved in that journey. It is about enabling women to be the decision makers.

It is also about being committed to each other! The Toowoomba team includes the youngest endorsed midwife in Australia and one of the oldest. We have a group of midwives and admin staff who are committed to their work and care for each other every day.

This is a shout out to our beautiful Toowoomba team to celebrate their commitment to values and what they do for the community in Toowoomba.

If you are pregnant and would like to meet any of our midwives to discuss your pregnancy and options, please call us on 1300 982 951 or email toowoomba@mymidwives.com.au

Midwifery Continuity of Care for pregnancy, birth and 6 weeks postnatal Meeting the maternity needs of women and their families across the Darling Downs!

29 Hill Street, Toowoomba | 07 4642 2977 | admin@mymidwives.com.au | www.mymidwives.com.au 21 STYLE

wellness

Work on celebrating staff Our resident psychologist says work relationships can sometimes be tricky

… most of us will spend a third of our lives at work

Dr Clive Williams Relationships Expert

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taff is just another name for a group of people with a common focus (similar to the Matildas but without the uniforms and the sports skills).

This coming together for a common focus requires effective relationships but remember, you don’t have to like someone for a relationship to be effective (just ask a politician).

As most of us will spend a third of our lives at work, ideally, it’s best if the work situation is as good as it can be. But work relations can be tricky. Why? Firstly, there is a myth that we leave our private lives at the door when we enter a

workspace. False. People may know very little about you but what happens outside of work affects us physically, emotionally, psychologically. We might tell ourselves that we never take private stuff to work (“How unprofessional”) but the reality is we do.

Where we are in family life has a huge

impact on us, our energy, mood and attitude.

Young children are great but this might be the most stressful period of life. As they grow, increased independence is good though some of their choices may leave us agog (did I pick up the wrong baby at the hospital?). And then when they finally step into adulthood,

donate here

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in the current climate, it may feel like they are never going to leave.

All of this goes to work with you.

Then there is the little issue of change. It’s almost a truism now that Work = Change.

Procedures, practices, products, services, people coming, going, always something in flux. It’s a lot.

So how do you approach work? Is it a living hell? An escape? A challenge? A bore? The best thing since sliced bread? A party?

Probably every job has at least some of these aspects at any one time but it’s the overall tally that leaves us with either more pros than cons or vice versa.

Two questions. One. What’s your tally?

Two. Do you ever celebrate?

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New Intensive Care Unit S t Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba will be opening their newly built Clive Berghofer Intensive Care Unit in late 2023.

Situated above the Emergency Department and Queensland X-ray, the new ICU will expand bed capacity and include negative pressure beds to support patients in need.

This state-of-the-art ICU reflects the hospital’s contemporary service delivery and standards of safe patient care. The unit will support St Vincent’s strategic growth trajectory, strengthening the hospital as an acute care facility.

This amazing unit will also prove

beneficial for medical and nursing training.

On Saturday, November 25, the community will be offered a once-only opportunity to see behind the scenes of the new ICU. Guided tours will be running from 9am, and free coffees will be available onsite.

Each guided tour group is limited to a maximum of 10 people, and bookings are essential. Please book via Trybooking using the QR code on this page to secure your spot.

We wish to thank Clive Berghofer, Hutchinson Builders and Specialised Property Consulting for their generosity and assistance with this project.

Scan the QR code to book a tour of the Clive Berghofer Intensive Care Unit

The largest acute private hospital on the Darling Downs Services include: • medical • surgical • maternity

• paediatric • emergency • cardiac

• rehabilitation • orthopaedics • urology

• vascular • gynaecology • ENT

Supported by comprehensive allied health services and advanced medical and diagnostic services.

Pathology, radiology and pharmacy are available on-site.

24/7 Emergency Department, with new Intensive Care Unit currently under construction.

07 4690 4000 | svpht.org.au 23 STYLE

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Thank you Ladies Auxiliary T he St Andrew’s Ladies Auxiliary have had another successful and eventful year, working tirelessly to support St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital as they continue to care for the Toowoomba and Darling Downs community.

Several fundraisers throughout 2023 have contributed thousands of dollars to the Auxiliary, leading to purchases for the hospital including specialised recliner chairs for pre-surgery and medical patients, televisions for post-surgery patients, and trolleys for the hospital’s dedicated nursing team.

Our valued patients and teams will benefit greatly from these purchases made possible thanks to the Ladies Auxiliary. St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital thanks our dedicated group of Auxiliary volunteers for their amazing contributions.

These purchases could not have been possible without the Ladies Auxiliary’s fundraising efforts throughout the year, including three Bunnings BBQs, delicious cake stalls, Repertory Theatre Night, raffles, cabinet sales and a first in 2023, Mother’s Day Morning Tea.

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Our mission

St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital’s mission to our patients, families and community is to provide excellence in care and service through embodying our values: respect, dignity, empathy, courtesy, fairness and honesty.

As a registered not-for-profit hospital, St Andrew’s Toowoomba relies on strong community support including donations and volunteering to further strengthen our vital service offering.

Visit sath.org.au to learn more, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

The St Andrew's Ladies Auxiliary 2023, who have worked hard throughout the year.

We would like to say a very big thank you to the St Andrew’s Ladies Auxiliary for their invaluable support this year. We wish all members of the Auxiliary a very happy and safe Festive Season and a happy New Year.

We would also like to extend our thanks to all our wonderful volunteers including Flower Ladies, Buggy Drivers, and SATH-

NAV’s (greeters and navigators). Your support of our hospital is greatly appreciated.

Interested in volunteering at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital in 2024? Please contact the executive office today on (07) 4646 3101 or email volunteers@sath.org.au

HOW YOU CAN HELP US BECOME A FUNDRAISER SUPPORT OUR EVENTS VOLUNTEER WITH US

DONATE TODAY

PURCHASE FROM OUR CAFE

www.toowoombahospitalfoundation.org.au Proudly supported by

Let your feet do the healing Refresh your mind and soul with the latest phenomenon of soft hiking, writes Kate Salemme

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oft hiking is the latest trend to hit social media, and it might just be the one we should all give our attention to for its mental health benefits.

While many associate hiking with long trails that require you to be very physically fit, this is different.

Soft hiking is more about improving your mental wellbeing than physical fitness, as it encourages you to walk at your own pace and regularly stop to take in your surroundings, or smell the roses – literally.

Numerous studies, including one completed by Deakin University and Beyond Blue, have found that spending time in nature not only improves mental health, but can also have positive impacts in other areas.

“Studies show that being in nature improves your sense of wellbeing, improves your mood, and decreases stress and anxiety,” clinical psychologist Dr Lillian Nejad says.

“It has other benefits too, including improved thinking, better focus and attention, more energy,

better interactions with others due to enhanced co-operativeness and kindness.

“Being in nature encourages individuals to be more present and mindful of their surroundings which can divert attention away from stressors and promote a sense of calm.

“Nature also has significant cognitive benefits and can reduce mental fatigue, which can help us manage stress better.”

So, how long do we need to be in nature to see these benefits?

“Spending 120 minutes or more per week in natural environments is associated with good health and wellbeing. This can be in one session or in several sessions over the week,” Lillian says.

Taking time to immerse yourself in nature through soft hiking can also help to improve sleep quality.

“It’s our anxious thoughts that are often keeping us up at night,” Lillian says.

“Nature helps us reduce our overall levels of stress and anxiety, which can reduce your vulnerability to worries disturbing your sleep.

Redwood Park on the Toowoomba Range has bush walking tracks and a rainforest.

RAVENSBOURNE NATIONAL PARK

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“Also, exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm leading to better sleep.”

With our screen time and use of technology at an all-time high, whether it’s our phones, computers or streaming movies and TV shows, soft hiking can play an integral role in reducing the negative impacts these can have on our mental health.

“In this technological age, people are burdened by multi-tasking, competing agendas and time pressures,” psychologist and member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Dave Clarke says.

“All of that takes a back seat when you’re soft hiking, when you’re strolling through the national park or along that beach, especially if you can turn your devices off and de-complexify your day, even just for an hour or two.

“When we’re on social media, the more rational and problem-solving areas of the brain like the cerebral cortex are activated, and often in unhelpful ways. There’s apprehension, fear of social judgment and social judgment of others, benchmarking and negative self-appraisal.

“So, when we have a digital detox and step away from that … instead of stress hormones like cortisol being released by watching social behaviours of other people, when we switch that off the soothing serotonin and dopamine releases of being in nature are released.”

The benefits can be felt almost instantly.

“Being in nature soothes the stress response and releases those feel-good hormones,” Dave says.

“All of those natural sounds, such as bird sounds, sounds of waves, have been imprinted on us through generations, and they signify that all is right in the world.

“The concept of gratitude is something I hear daily from people that rarely drink from the gratitude cup, that getting out into the national parks and beaches (helps).

“What we find is people’s heart rate is generally lower, unless they’re running through the national park, their blood pressure is lower, breathing rate is lower, and their expectations of self and critical self talk is much kinder when they’re connected to the natural environment.”

Nature has significant cognitive benefits and can reduce mental fatigue, which can help us manage stress better

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CROWS NEST NATIONAL PARK

THE BEST SOFT HIKING LOCATIONS IN TOOWOOMBA RAVENSBOURNE NATIONAL PARK

Toowoomba), but you won’t be disappointed. Featuring creeks, a waterfall, eucalypt forest, and a range of wildlife including platypus, wallabies and echidnas, there’s lots to see. There are even natural pools to take a dip in.

Trees, streams and bird life, there is no shortage of beautiful scenery in Ravensbourne National Park (left), providing you with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in your surroundings. There are at least 110 species of birds in the area, including the rare black-breasted buttonquail.

REDWOOD FOREST WALK

HELL HOLE FALLS Don’t let the name deter you, because if you’re looking for a scenic route that includes a waterfall, then you’ve found the spot. Head here in the days after a bit of rain, as there will likely be more water running at the falls, but be careful along

the track if it’s wet. Bring plenty of water as there are a couple of steep spots.

CROWS NEST NATIONAL PARK This one is a bit of a drive (60km north of

This one will get the heart and legs pumping as there are some steep areas and slopes but when you get to the top the views won’t disappoint. Your other option is to just walk around Redwood Park and enjoy trees like Moreton Bay fig, broomstick wattle and river oak. Keep your eyes peeled for goannas and birds.

KATE SALEMME

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food

SPRING FLING The change in weather also signals the arrival of the new season’s fruits and vegetables Mariam Digges Food Editor

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s new colours begin to fill the garden, it’s time to swap those hearty root vegies for lighter, crisper spring produce – from garden peas to bright green zucchini and asparagus. Then of course, there’s new season

apples, berries and melons bursting on to the scene. But there are also plenty of underrated, totally delicious spring ingredients you should pop in your basket this season – here are a few of our favourites and how to use them.

WATERCRESS

RADISH

GRAPEFRUIT

This cousin of the mustard plant is a delicate green known for its tangy peppery flavour. It’s milder than rocket, adding a subtle bite to salads or sandwiches (we love them in a prawn or lobster roll), or in place of cracked pepper when sprinkled over savoury tarts, pastas or grilled seafood. Use it in place of other herbs throughout spring for a final flavour flex.

With its striking crimson skin, bright white flesh and peppery taste, radishes lift everything they cross paths with. They’ll add a crunchy, zingy burst to salads and slaws, or a peppery bite to yoghurts and dips. There’s no faster way to brighten a spring table.

This smooth-skinned citrus fruit is often overlooked because it is tarter than its cousins (except of course, the sweeter ruby red variety), but we love them segmented and tossed through bright spring salads. They also make a terrific cocktail or granita base, adding a different flavour dimension than your regular squeeze of lemon or lime.

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FENNEL The distinctly sweet licorice flavour of fennel makes it a flavourful side or salad hero but, just like the black jelly bean, it can be polarising for some. Eaten raw, it adds a deliciously mild aniseed flavour to slaws and salads, but it really comes alive when roasted, fried or grilled, when all of its natural sugars are concentrated and caramelised. For a lighter twist, swap sliced potatoes for fennel in your next cheesy gratin, throw it in the pan with a roast (it works particularly well with fish or pork) or use it to add a new dimension to your next stuffing mix.

Fennel also happens to be one of those versatile vegies you can eat top to bottom; while the bulb is great baked or raw, the leaves (or fronds) can be used like a herb and scattered over salads or in dressings. The stalks can also be cooked, and add a great flavour to stocks and marinades.

GLOBE ARTICHOKES Technically the bud of a flowering plant from the thistle family rather than a vegetable, globe artichokes are packed full of fibre. You might be most familiar with them in canned or brined form, but fresh artichokes have a delicate tangy flavour that mellows when roasted. The artichoke heart is the most tender and commonly eaten part of the bud, found beneath the “choke”. Try parboiling the hearts before roasting, grilling or barbecuing them to enjoy in salads, pastas or alongside barbecued meats. They’re also great stuffed and baked like you would tomatoes, eggplants or peppers.

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Sticky carrot and zucchini salad with chargrilled steak SERVES 4. PREP 20 MINS. COOK 25 MINS. INGREDIENTS ● 1 bunch baby carrots, trimmed, peeled ● 1 tbsp maple syrup ● 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil ● 2 zucchini, thinly sliced diagonally ● 50g beef rump steak ● 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon thyme leaves ● 2 tbsp lemon juice ● 3 tsp Dijon mustard

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● 250g green round beans, trimmed ● 100g mixed baby salad leaves ● 400g can cannellini beans, rinsed, drained ● ½ red onion, thinly sliced METHOD 1 Preheat oven to 220C. Place carrots on a lined baking tray. Drizzle over maple syrup and 1 tablespoon oil. Season. Roast, for 15-20 minutes, adding zucchini in last 10 minutes.

2 Meanwhile, sprinkle steak with 1 tbsp lemon thyme.

Preheat a barbecue grill or chargrill on high. Cook steak, turning, for 5-7 minutes for medium or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to a plate. Set aside for 5 minutes to rest. Whisk the lemon juice, mustard and remaining oil and lemon thyme in a jug.

3 Cook the green beans in a saucepan of salted boiling water for 5 minutes or until tender-crisp. Drain.

Thinly slice the steak. Arrange salad leaves on a platter. Top with carrots, zucchini, green beans, cannellini beans, onion and steak. Drizzle over dressing.

food

SERVES 4. PREP 15 MINS. COOK 20 MINS.

Chilli con queso corn husk dip

INGREDIENTS ● 2 corn cobs, husks intact ● 125g cream cheese, chopped, at room temperature ● 65g (¼ cup) sour cream ● 2 green shallots, thinly sliced ● 1 tbsp pickled jalapeño chillies, chopped ● 1 long fresh red chilli, deseeded, finely chopped ● Chopped fresh coriander leaves, to serve ● Plain corn chips, to serve METHOD 1 Preheat a barbecue grill or chargrill pan on high. Carefully remove husks from the corn and reserve. Grill cobs, turning occasionally, for 12-15 minutes or until lightly charred. Set aside to cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut down the length of 1 corn cob, close to the core, to remove the kernels. Repeat with remaining corn cob.

2 Combine the cream cheese, sour cream, shallot and jalapeño in a bowl. Add two-thirds of the corn kernels. Stir until well combined.

3 Stack 3 husks. Place one-quarter of the cream cheese mixture into the centre of the stack. Cover with 2 more husks. Tear thin strips of husk and tie each end. Repeat with remaining husks and corn mixture to make 3 more.

4 Grill the filled husks, turning once, for 5 minutes or until melted and warm. Open the husks and top with chilli, coriander, remaining corn kernels and corn chips.

One-pan spring vegetable gnocchi SERVES 4. COOK 17 MINS. INGREDIENTS ● 500g pkt gnocchi ● 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra to drizzle ● 2 tbsp butter ● 250g cherry tomatoes, halved ● 2 garlic cloves, crushed ● 145g (1 cup) frozen shelled edamame ● 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed, sliced ● 30g piece parmesan, finely grated ● Fresh basil leaves, to serve METHOD 1 Cook the gnocchi in a large saucepan of salted boiling water following packet directions, until tender. Drain. Transfer to a bowl and keep warm.

2 Melt the oil and butter in the same saucepan over medium-high heat until foaming and just light brown. Add the tomato. Cook, stirring, for 23 minutes or until the skins begin to blister. Add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds or until aromatic.

Add edamame and asparagus. Cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes or until tender-crisp.

3 Add the gnocchi to the pan and stir to coat.

Season well. Add half the parmesan and stir to coat. Divide among serving bowls. Sprinkle with the remaining parmesan. Season with pepper.

Drizzle with extra oil and top with basil leaves.

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food

Golden syrup apple turnover tarts MAKES 6. PREP 5 MINS. COOK 15 MINS. INGREDIENTS ● 1 sheet frozen butter puff pastry, just thawed ● 6 tsp golden syrup ● 6 small fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs ● 1 small granny smith apple, halved, cored, cut into 2mm-thick wedges ● 1 egg yolk, whisked, sieved ● Creme fraiche, to serve METHOD 1 Preheat oven to 240C/220C fan forced.

Line a large baking tray with baking paper.

2 Place teaspoonfuls of golden syrup on to the prepared tray, leaving large gaps between each spoonful. Top the golden syrup with a rosemary or thyme sprig.

Arrange 4 apple slices, slightly overlapping, over each dollop of golden syrup.

3 Cut the pastry sheet in half crossways, then cut each piece crossways into 3 rectangles so you have 6 rectangles in total. Place a pastry rectangle on top of each apple stack. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastry on to the tray. Brush the top of the pastry with egg.

4 Bake for 12 mins or until caramelised and golden. Top with creme fraiche to serve.

Freekeh with pickled spring vegetables SERVES 4. PREP 30 MINS. COOK 40 MINS INGREDIENTS ● 1 zucchini, very thinly sliced ● 1 yellow patty pan squash, very thinly sliced ● 2 tbsp lemon juice ● 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to drizzle ● Pinch dried chilli flakes ● 1 cup freekeh, rinsed ● 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed ● 2 radishes, trimmed, very thinly sliced ● 1 cup watercress sprigs ● ½ cup smooth ricotta ● Lemon zest, to serve METHOD 1 Place zucchini and squash in a bowl. Add lemon juice, oil and chilli. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Stand at room temperature until required.

2 Meanwhile, place freekeh and 3 cups water in a saucepan over high heat. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 35 to 40 minutes, adding asparagus for last 2 minutes of cooking time, or until tender and liquid is absorbed. Stand, covered, for 5 minutes.

3 Spoon freekeh and asparagus on to a large serving platter. Top with pickled vegetables, radish and watercress. Spoon over any remaining pickling mixture. Dollop with ricotta. Drizzle with extra oil. Sprinkle with zest. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve.

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home & living

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Transforming your home & outdoor area for Christmas A s the holiday season approaches, it’s time to infuse your living spaces with the warmth and charm of Christmas. While traditional decor has its timeless appeal, contemporary styling offers a fresh and chic approach to celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.

Whether you’re hosting indoors or looking to create a striking outdoor display, Freedom has everything you need to entertain in style this summer.

Our professional interior decorators have compiled some stylish suggestions to help you create a festive wonderland within your living space.

MINIMALISTIC ELEGANCE Embrace the beauty of simplicity by opting for a minimalistic Christmas decor theme.

The contemporary style emphasises clean lines, neutral colour palettes, and a clutterfree environment.

Start with a neutral colour scheme using whites, greys, and muted tones as the backdrop. These colours create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.

Illuminate your space with the warm glow of the White Forest Light Up Tree. This chic but simplistic Christmas tree adds a touch of modern elegance and enchanted ambience to any holiday decor.

Decorate sparingly throughout your home, with metallic or monochromatic ornaments for a sleek look. Incorporate geometric shapes in your decor. Geometric wreaths, ornaments, candles, and candleholders can add a touch of modernity to your space.

The fragrances that accompany these candles are equally important, filling the air with comforting scents that evoke memories of joyful gatherings and create a sense of nostalgia that makes the holiday season truly special.

Opt for energy-efficient lights to create a contemporary, soft glow throughout your home. Consider using Freedom’s Lucia string lights. These charming decorations emit a steady warm white glow, adding a cosy ambience to any space for an added visual appeal.

Set a chic table with minimalist dinnerware, crystal glassware, and geometric napkin rings. Add a few sprigs of greenery as a centrepiece.

OUTDOOR OASIS Bring the contemporary Christmas spirit outdoors, creating an inviting space for gatherings and celebrations.

Invest in contemporary outdoor furniture with clean lines and a modern aesthetic.

Think minimalist dining sets and comfortable seating. Keep the colour scheme

Pictures: Nathan Hendry.

Stylist: Adam Powell

simple with a monochromatic outdoor decor.

Whites, blacks, and greys can create a sophisticated and cohesive look.

Illuminate your outdoor area with contemporary outdoor lighting fixtures.

Pendant lights, wall sconces, and candles can add a touch of elegance.

Use contemporary planters with minimalist designs to showcase seasonal foliage. Consider potted evergreens or succulents for a modern touch. Add warmth and comfort with outdoor rugs, cushions,

and throws in neutral colours. These elements not only provide cosiness but also elevate the space’s style.

Set a contemporary outdoor table with sleek, weather-resistant tableware and centrepieces.

Consider minimalist table runners, glass hurricanes paired with pillar candles, or explore Freedom’s latest collection of Uyuni flameless candles designed for both indoor and outdoor use.

By combining contemporary styling with

your unique taste, you can transform your home and outdoor area into a chic and inviting space for a modern Christmas celebration. The key is to balance simplicity with personalisation, creating an atmosphere where the spirit of the season can truly shine.

For the complete experience of Freedom’s Christmas product range, visit your local store in the Bernoth Centre, 663-665 Ruthven St, Toowoomba.

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BUZZ OFF Sick of bloodsucking mozzies ruining your summer vibe? These four chemical-free DIY repellents to make at home may be the answer you’re looking for, writes Katrina Sichlau

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Citrus, rosemary and lavender centrepiece

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here’s nothing better than sitting outside on a balmy summer’s evening, kicking back with an ice cold beverage in hand and some good company. Relaxing, right?

That is, until you hear the high-pitched buzz of an uninvited mosquito crashing your party.

With more than 300 species of mosquito found in Australia alone, it’s no surprise that not all mozzies are created equally. Different mozzies are attracted to different scents and hosts. Some are drawn to the carbon dioxide we emit, and others are suckers (literally) for our sweat, bacteria and other smells.

While some mosquito bites simply cause harmless-but-annoying itchy lumps in the skin, others can transmit serious diseases. In Australia, these include dengue fever, Ross River virus and zika virus. The best way to reduce your chance of getting sick is to avoid being bitten in the first place.

Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to keep those pesky mozzies and their bloodsucking ways at bay, from using repellent and mozzie coils to covering up with loose clothing and installing protective netting and screening in your home.

Many of the commercial topical repellents on the market include a chemical called diethyltoluamide, or DEET for short. Studies have shown that products including DEET are safe and effective, and they are highly recommended for areas where the risk of mosquito-borne diseases are high.

But if you’re in an area where the risk is low and you’d prefer to use a more natural deterrent, there are plenty of nature-based ingredients to choose from.

Like garlic to a vampire, there are a selection of essential oils that have been found to be effective in repelling mozzies. Some of the most commonly used are citronella oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, lavender oil, thyme oil and tea tree oil.

And speaking of garlic, while an old wives’ tale suggests mozzies will leave you alone if you eat the pungent vegetable, unfortunately, you’re more likely to repel your friends than the mozzies. So avoid the smelly breath, and stick to using the more appealing essential oils instead.

Remember, different mozzies are attracted to different aromas, so you may need to experiment a little to work out which oils work best against your local mozzie gang. ● Opposite are four natural mozzie repellents you can make yourself that are not only effective, but smell great too.

home & living

CITRUS, ROSEMARY AND LAVENDER CENTREPIECE ● 1 lemon, sliced ● 1 lime, sliced ● 3 sprigs of rosemary ● 3 sprigs of lavender ● Water ● 10-15 drops of lemon eucalyptus oil ● Floating candle Looking for a cute table centrepiece that doubles as a mozzie repellent? We’ve got you covered. In a mason jar, throw in slices of lemon and lime, followed by the rosemary and lavender sprigs. Fill jar with water, and add in lemon eucalyptus oil. Finish with a floating candle. For larger areas, you may wish to make multiple jars and scatter them around the space.

LAVENDER AND VANILLA REPELLENT SPRAY ● 10-15 drops lavender oil ● 3-4 tbsp vanilla extract ● 3-4 tbsp lemon juice ● 100ml vodka or witch hazel ● Water In a 500ml spray bottle, combine lavender oil, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Add vodka or witch hazel, and fill the remainder of the bottle with water. Shake to combine. While we find the aroma of lavender and vanilla pleasant, mozzies disagree, so it’s win-win!

LEMON EUCALYPTUS REPELLENT SPRAY ● 10ml lemon eucalyptus oil ● 90ml any carrier oil (e.g. coconut or olive oil) ● 100ml vodka or witch hazel ● Water Add lemon eucalyptus oil and your preferred carrier oil (we like coconut oil) to a 500ml spray bottle. Top up the bottle with vodka and water, and shake to combine. Please note, lemon eucalyptus oil should not be used on children under three years old.

ORANGE CANDLE Cut an orange in half and carefully remove the fruit, being careful to keep the peel and the centre pith intact. If the peel tears a little, simply stack the two halves on top of one another.

Place the orange halves in a glass or jar, and pour a little olive oil into the dome of the peel.

Light the pith, and voilà! You have a natural mosquito-repellent candle.

HELPFUL HEALTHY HINTS ● Never put essential oils directly on to the skin – always dilute them in a “carrier” oil such as coconut oil, olive oil or argan oil. ● Spot test the repellent on a small area of your skin first to make sure you don’t have a negative reaction. ● Avoid spraying mosquito repellent in or near your eyes. ● When applying to your face, spray a little in your hands before spreading on to your forehead and cheeks using your fingers. ● Reapply topical repellent regularly, especially after swimming, exercising or sweating.

Utopia Homewares Handmade for you

Locally made handcrafted products Camphor Laurel Chopping Boards Bath Salts * Soap * Utensils Soy Wax Candles * Earrings Eco-Friendly Products

Find us online or contact us www.utopiahomewares.com.au

utopiahomewaresau 35 STYLE

home & living

Purr-fect pets Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, but owning a dog doesn’t come cheap.

Here’s some tips on how to save money

T

o say we Aussies love our pets is an understatement. Smells, judgy feline stares, slobbers and nibbled shoes – roughly 70 per cent of the Australian population gladly accept these trade-offs for the unconditional love of a four-legged friend.

But how often do we think about the costs?

The question is akin to whether kids are worth it (after all, our pets are classified as fur babies now, right?). Still, pets cost more than many people estimate. According to Animal Medicines Australia, that devotion translates into an eye-watering $30b spent in Australia every year caring for them.

It’s not just leather dog beds, bejewelled collars, and gourmet dog treats (guilty, guilty, guilty) – an unexpected trip to the vet can run into thousands of dollars. As the economy continues to tumble and inflation starts to bite, pet owners are looking at ways to reduce

STYLE 36

the amount of money they spend on their fur babies.

Here are areas you can scrimp on and the other things you should always stretch the budget for.

DO: Keep your flea, tick and worm treatment up to date Preventive flea, tick, intestinal worm or heartworm medications can be costly but skipping them comes with high risk, potentially leaving your pet fighting for its life. Always budget for those, as they prevent disease and costly trips to the vet.

baking them at around 120C to make them into little chips. These are not only cheaper, but often healthier for your pet as well.

Another thing about food is that as much as you love indulging them, it’s important not to overfeed your pets. Overweight animals can suffer from pain and heat stress and can endure permanent joint issues.

DON’T: Buy expensive treats, make your own

DO: Invest in pet insurance

Training treats are handy, but the costs can quickly add up. You can make your own by buying cheap cuts of meat, cutting them into tiny bits about the size of your nail, and

Routine check-ups and shots administered by the vet can be costly. But then there are unexpected costs: An upset stomach, kennel cough or collision at the park can quickly

drain the budget. Insurance is optional, but it can save you money to cover those more significant expenses down the track.

DON’T: Leave the grooming and maintenance to the professionals Keeping long-haired dogs and cats groomed can cost more money than we spend on our own haircuts, but with a bit of time and careful research, you can master grooming skills at home. And brushing your pet’s teeth (ideally a few times a week) can prevent dental disease later down the track. Brushing is also cheaper than buying dental treats.

home & living

advertising feature

What to do if you find a snake

By Ros Burton Principal – The Real Estate People

preventing future snake intrusions. Apart from safety concerns, professional snake removers are trained to handle snakes in a way that causes minimal stress to the animal.

They understand the snake’s behaviour and needs, ensuring that the removal process is as humane as possible.

I

grew up on a property outside of Chinchilla, so I’ve seen my share of snakes over the years, but I’m yet to come across one here in Toowoomba (and I don’t want to).

Since I now live near bushland, it’s a very real probability that one day I’ll encounter a slithering little friend – so I wanted to share with you some of my research of what to do when you see one.

FIRSTLY … DON’T PANIC That’s easier said than done of course, but remember that (in most cases), snakes enter homes purely in search of food, warmth, or shelter.

While the sight of these creatures may be alarming, it’s important to remember that most snakes are not dangerous to humans.

Nevertheless, it’s never a good idea to try and handle the snake yourself, especially if you’re

WHY DID IT COME INTO MY HOUSE/ YARD TO BEGIN WITH?

uncertain about its species or venomous status – we DO have some nasty ones here in Australia.

Keep a safe distance from the snake and try to confine it to one area by closing nearby doors if possible.

GET A PROFESSIONAL SNAKE REMOVER While it’s tempting to deal with a snake in your home yourself, it’s highly recommended

to enlist the help of a professional. Many snake species are protected by law, and killing them can result in hefty fines.

Moreover, attempting to handle or kill a snake can put you at risk of a snake bite.

Professionals are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to safely remove snakes, as they can identify the species of snake, assess the risk level, and use the appropriate method to remove it.

They can also provide advice on

If your home or yard has plenty of rodents or insects, it might attract snakes.

Moreover, certain landscaping features like rock piles, wood stacks, or thick foliage can provide ideal hiding spots for snakes.

They may also be attracted to warm, dark spaces in your home, such as crawl spaces, garages or cupboards.

I hope that gives you a few ideas of what to do if you encounter a snake this summer; and if you need a hand, here are some local contacts: ● Snappy Snake Catcher: 0426 963 373 ● Darling Downs Snake Catchers: 0429 613 324 ● Southern Downs Snake Catchers: 0478 047 457

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 37 STYLE

The best hampers and gift boxes from your area What to give those people who are impossible to buy presents for, writes Alice Williams

I

n this contrary world there is one universal and abiding truth: everybody loves a hamper.

At any time, for any or no reason. Especially around Christmas time, hampers and gift boxes are the always-welcome care packages

that let people know you’re thinking about them.

Style has scoured the region for the highest quality hampers, and creative gift boxes, bursting with produce from small businesses and suppliers.

EVER AND MAPLE SMARTLY PICKED Owned and operated on the Darling Downs this is another family business all about supporting other small businesses. Smartly Picked offers a fine selection of products that have been tried, tested and loved by their team, with free delivery in the Toowoomba region. Every gift is hand packed by the team but picked by you.

Our pick: Local Delivery Gift Basket: Your choice of beautiful goods.

How to order: Online at smartlypicked.com.au

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This well loved Toowoomba florist is known for stocking a wide range of locally plundered flowers, plants, and homewares but the pretty little florist store also packs beautiful gift boxes full of well known brands, perfect for gifting. Suppliers include Loco Love, Frankie Gusti, Bopo Women and Al.ive plus, and they give gifters the option to create their own care package. You can visit the bricks and mortar shop at 261 Margaret St, or browse online and place your order from the comfort of home.

Our pick: Sip and Paint: Whether you’re wanting to spoil yourself or someone else this gift provides the ultimate night in.

How to order: Online at everandmaple.com.au or by phone 4564 8373

home & living

MAGNOLIA TOOWOOMBA Another Toowoomba favourite, Magnolia is a well-known destination for exquisite homewares, clothing, jewellery and gifts. From cooking to stationery, candles to cards, clothes to jewellery, Magnolia has a resplendent array of gifts, and their thoughtful gift boxes exemplify the store’s excellent taste. Magnolia began in Inverell by Christen Holzl’s mum, then her sister and aunt carried on the name in Sydney, and now Christen has her own in Toowoomba.

Our pick: New Baby Hamper: The new bub will be the talk of the maternity ward with this gorgeous collection of accessories. Suitable for all genders, this hamper is the perfect way to say “Welcome to Parenthood” for all those November/December babies.

How to order: Online at magnoliatoowoomba.com.au or by phone 4613 1767

THE GRAZIERS DAUGHTER A Darling Downs family business led by Wendy Cook, these decadent and luxury hampers boast only the best in locally sourced produce. Wendy is passionate about promoting businesses, artisans and food producers in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, ensuring that each gift is not only unique but also supports the local community.

The Graziers Daughter’s mission is to be more than just a hamper store, but a way to connect people with the local community.

Our pick: Welcome Toowoomba: A beautiful assortment of fine gourmet products, available in both sweet and savoury.

How to order: Online at graziersdaughter.com.au or by phone 0401 953 595

METTLE GIFTS While not technically local, Mettle Women Inc. (Mettle) is an incredible gifting service that reaches Toowoomba and has incredibly important backing. Mettle is a non-profit social enterprise that employs, trains and financially empowers those experiencing homelessness as a result of domestic and family violence.

Our pick: Picnic Box: Includes the very chic Fegg silicone tumbler set seen in Vogue Living, and a Pelli cheese board set that includes a board and two cheese knives.

How to order: Online at mettlegifts.com

RUBY LANE FLOWER CO. Offering same day delivery within Toowoomba, Ruby Lane Flower co’s owner Emily Richardson’s tasteful, hand-selected gift boxes are a collection of her own favourite items. Brighten someone’s day with a special Christmas or anniversary present, or the perfect, “Oh no I forgot mum’s birthday” gift. All beautifully presented with hand-torn silk ribbon and frothy tissue paper.

Our pick: Gentle Reflections: A thoughtful gift box for all those friends who need to slow down.

How to order: Online at rubylaneflowerco.com or by phone 4632 6123

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FIVE

amazing weekend

Our region is a pretty great place to call home.

But this wonderful city becomes even better when you realise the amazing places just beyond its borders, perfect for a quick escape, writes Jenna Martin

F

rom sandy shores to lush rainforests, desert roads to funky towns, here are five great escapes you can make for a weekend – or slightly longer.

1. RAINBOW BEACH Distance from Toowoomba: About 4 hours Look beyond the obvious draw of Noosa and head further north to the pristine shores of Rainbow Beach. Famous for its coloured sands (hence the name) this place is paradise for beachgoers and adventure-seekers alike.

Things to do: ● Join a dolphin or whale-watching tour for a chance to spot these magnificent marine creatures up close. ● Traverse lunar-like landscape of Carlo Sand Blow, with breathtaking views over K’gari. ● Visit Great Sandy National Park for spectacular hiking and birdwatching Where to stay: Pitch a tent or park your caravan at the Big 4 Holiday Park, or stay beachside at the luxury Plantation Resort.

2. SPRING BLUFF AND

RAVENSBOURNE

Distance from Toowoomba: About 1 hour For a nature-filled adventure a little closer to home, you can’t go past Springs Bluff and the Ravensbourne National Park region. Wander through the vines and elkhorns in the lush rainforest and keep an eye out for swamp wallabies and other native animals that call the forest home.

Things to do: ● Explore the walking trails and waterfalls. ● Visit Crows Nest National Park for birdwatching and picnicking. ● Take a trip to heritage-listed Spring Bluff railway station.

Where to stay: You could easily do Ravensbourne on a day trip, but if you want to make the vacay last longer, Ravensbourne Escape offers cozy STYLE 40

1 2

travel

road trips from Toowoomba 3

4

5

cabins nestled in the rainforest, while Crows Nest Tourist Park offers a great option for families, with comfortable cabins and a pool.

3. NIMBIN/YAMBA Distance from Toowoomba: About 3½ hours Take a road trip across the border into NSW and visit Nimbin, aka the “hippie capital” of Australia, known for its alternative culture and vibrant, friendly community. Explore local arts and crafts, visit a hemp shop or simply lie back and relax. If you have a bit more time on your hands, head further south to the coastal gem of Yamba, known for its stunning beaches and amazing seafood.

Things to do: ● Stroll through Nimbin’s colourful streets and visit quirky shops and art galleries or join a guided tour to learn about the town’s counterculture history. ● Hit the beaches of Yamba for swimming, surfing and sunbathing, visit Angourie Blue Pool for a refreshing dip, or take a cruise

along the Clarence River at sunset.

Places to stay: ● For comfortable rooms and pub grub you can’t beat the Nimbin Hotel in the centre of town. ● In Yamba, check out The Blue Dolphin resort for family friendly drives, or relax in one of the recently refurbished rooms at the boutique The Surf motel.

4. TENTERFIELD Distance from Toowoomba: About 3 hours For a journey back in time and a taste of Australia’s colonial history, Tenterfield, just over the NSW border, is a great weekend road trip option. Cruise through the wineries of the scenic rim en route to this charming town, famous for being the birthplace of entertainer

Peter Allen, and the site of the Tenterfield Oration by the “Father of Federation”, Sir Henry Parkes.

Things to do: ● Visit the Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts, a museum dedicated to the town’s colonial history. ● Take a stroll through the Tenterfield Railway Museum. ● Explore Bald Rock National Park and hike to the largest exposed granite rock in Australia.

Where to stay: For comfortable, budget accommodation, the town has an abundance of motels and motor inns. For a more boutique, luxury offering, check in to the Commercial Boutique Hotel.

5. ROMA Distance from Toowoomba: About 4 hours

Roma is often called the “Gateway to the Outback” and is a hub of history, culture and industry just four hours west of Toowoomba.

Take a glimpse at Queensland’s pioneering past, visit ancient Indigenous sites and explore the Roma Saleyards, the largest in the southern hemisphere.

Things to do: ● The Saleyards are famous for good reason.

Visit on a Tuesday to watch up to 12,000 head of cattle go up for auction on a single day. ● Visit the Big Rig Oil and Gas Interpretive Centre or the night show sunset experience for a fascinating look into the region’s energy industry history. ● Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s heritage-listed streets and admire the federation-style architecture.

Where to stay: Roma has some excellent motels – like the Roma Inland Motor Inn and the Roma Explorer’s Inn. Both offer free wi-fi, a swimming pool and a range of rooms to suit all travellers and budgets.

41 STYLE

A corker of a day in every sense The gifted bottles flowed as quickly as the runs when we visited Lord’s

‘S

ame old Aus-sies, always cheat-ing.”

It was an all-too-familiar chant during the latest Ashes cricket series – and one my wife Ros and I got to hear long and loud on our recent trip to England – because we were sitting right there among it.

Despite the non-stop sledging, it was still great fun though (as the ballot had rolled our way and we were lucky enough to secure tickets to the Lord’s test match); fulfilling a childhood dream to attend the “home of cricket”.

Darren Burton Travel Columnist All this was before Jonny Bairstow went a-wandering (and the world had a meltdown), but rest assured there was still plenty of abuse coming our way from the English supporters sitting nearby.

The comments were generally good natured, and we gave as good as we got to our new Pommy

Old Trafford in Manchester and its temporary stand.

mates Phil, Chris and Darren (no relation) who seemed to have been on the lunatic soup since mid-January; which had Phil asking: “Why aren’t you drinking?”

And there’s the issue.

We had planned a tea-totaller’s day – but that quickly changed as the lads had won a substantial amount betting on the game as it was progressing (a substantial amount).

As such, they came back to our seats with bottles of champagne that I had earlier seen were £90 a bottle (that’s $180-plus in our disappointing AUDs).

“Here, have a drink,” Phil offered.

“No thanks, we’re good.”

“Bloody hell, where’s your flipping glass,” he insisted. Point of interest – he did not say ‘bloody hell’ or ‘flipping’; prompting me to cover Ros’s delicate ears in horror.

Then came another bottle and another – and then came magnums … are you ready … at 400 quid each (that’s $800 a bottle).

“They’re plying us with alcohol,” Ros whispered. “What if they’re trying to take advantage of me?”

“For free bubbly that’s a risk I’m prepared to take,” I replied, handing my glass over.

The more the Australian cricket side struggled; the more bottles came our way. Talk about testing team loyalties.

I wasn’t keeping count, but we imbibed a small

As Burton luck dictates, our seats were at the very top of this ginormous temporary metal grandstand where you needed a sherpa and a steamer trunk of granola bars to make it to your designated row STYLE 42

travel

Watching the Ashes Test at Lord’s, the home of cricket.

French vineyard from our generous adversaries – so much so, I apologised for the rowdiness to a gent named Brett sitting in front of us.

We had never met Brett before, but he grew up in a small town called Toowoomba, his folks still live here (100m around the corner from us) and he and his kids loved Super Rooster. Who doesn’t?

Ros and I could have done with a banana fritter ourselves because, like the Aussie side, we ended the day a little shaky and had to nurdle our way home to prevent a total collapse.

Lord’s wasn’t the only game we got to though; we spent a week in Leeds and also saw two days of the Old Trafford test in Manchester.

That was the match that featured the ginormous temporary metal grandstand that stretched into the heavens.

As Burton luck dictates, our seats were at the very top of this ginormous temporary metal grandstand where you needed a sherpa and a steamer trunk of granola bars to make it to your designated row (photo included).

In the gloomy weather, I was worried about being struck by lightning, but noticed the clouds actually sat below us.

A Pommy sitting behind us (in even worse seats) summed it up perfectly when he said to his mate: “I’ve always wanted to watch cricket from the moon.”

Still, the series was an absolute highlight for we cricket lovers, and we had a ball before heading on to Liverpool – which, of course, is home to The Beatles.

I’ll let you know what we got up to in the next edition of Style.

Watching the game in Manchester; and, left, the cricket nets at Old Trafford.

43 STYLE

sport

Sophie Daley won a silver medal in the 64kg class at the Oceania Championships in Samoa.

Pictures: Moments by Bilbo

Raising the bar Sophie Daley is putting weightlifting on the radar, writes Kate Salemme Kate Salemme Sport & Technology Editor

S

ophie Daley usually feels sick before competing, but not this time.

This time she felt something different – she was emotional, but not overawed by the occasion.

Strange, considering this was the biggest competition of her career to date.

Daley, a 16-year-old weightlifter from Toowoomba, was about to compete in the 2023 Oceania Championships in Samoa.

On some level she must have known she was about to have the biggest moment of her life so far.

“It was very exciting because it was my first international comp and I didn’t know what to expect going in there,” she says.

“Normally I feel sick, nervous sort of sick when I’m going out (to compete). But this time I was more the emotional sort of nervous – it didn’t feel like it was a big comp, it just felt like a state championship, which was good.”

Daley was competing against 10 others in the Women’s 64kg category, facing competitors from a range of countries including Samoa, Fiji and Tahiti.

Incredibly, she won the silver medal with STYLE 44

an impressive 66kg snatch, an equal personal best, and 79kg clean and jerk.

“I was pretty excited that’s for sure,” she says.

“I didn’t have any expectations going in there and I knew that I probably wouldn’t have got first, I was just going there for experience. I was happy to get second.”

Daley’s mum, Karen, was there to witness her daughter’s big moment, alongside Daley’s grandmother, known affectionately as Ma. “It was very exciting,” Karen says.

“I was full of all sorts of emotions. I think it was a bit of ‘overwhelment’, and a bit of like ‘wow, it’s actually done and it’s happened’. She’s achieved so much and pushed herself.

“It was so nice to see her being recognised for her hard work, commitment and dedication to the sport. She trains hard, even on days when she doesn’t want to train she’s still there training, and no matter what Soph just turns up.

“She’s so humble with everything she does as well, so it was just really, really special to be there and witness it.”

Daley was part of a group of more

than 30 Aussies to head over to Samoa to compete at the championships. “I knew a few of them before from other comps and teams I’ve made, but a lot of them I hadn’t met before and became good friends with them,” she says.

Karen adds: “They were a really good team, they were there for everyone’s session and really cheered each other on. They were really encouraging for every single lifter.”

While the silver medal was the biggest achievement of her career to date, Sophie is no stranger to podium finishes.

She’s had a big 2023, making the pathway and youth squads that go to the AIS, won the Queensland All-Schools, came second at the under-20 Australian championships and under-20 Queensland championships, and was third at the under-23 Australian championships.

Her success when competing above her age category has given her confidence for what could come next.

“It’s good to know, and reassurance that I have potential in the future,” she says.

It’s been a sharp rise.

Originally going down the gymnastics path, Daley then thought about doing CrossFit before

discovering she was a natural at weightlifting.

“I left gymnastics because I was done with that part of my life and I wanted to do something to keep my fitness and strength up, and that was CrossFit,” she explains.

“But I wanted to learn the main lifts of CrossFit, so that’s how I moved to weightlifting. I actually haven’t done any CrossFit.” Training at Toowoomba Weightlifting Association under coach Greg Hobl, she’s fallen in love with the sport and all that comes with it.

“It’s the environment, everyone is so much more welcoming than in gymnastics, it’s a good place to be,” she says.

“After lifting and doing a PB (personal best), it’s the adrenalin and wanting to lift more every time.”

Daley hopes to one day represent Australia at the Olympics, and with weightlifting events now back on the schedule after initially not being part of the International Olympic Committee’s list of inclusions for the 2028 Games, that could be on the cards.

She hopes weightlifting will continue to make a comeback and help to inspire other women and girls.

“It should be in the Olympics, it does inspire a lot of young people to stay fit and healthy and be strong,” she says.

art

advertising feature

A fresh take on art The journey these local artists have been on has prompted a unique exhibition of works It’s for reasons such as this that Sue will often encourage her students to not feel pressured to show their family their art; to keep it private, until they’re ready.

Now, however, the class is showcasing its art at an exhibition until November 12 at Crows Nest Gallery – and it was shared anxieties such as the question “am I good enough?” that prompted the name Give it a Go, Its Mother will Never Know.

The class has carefully selected pieces from its workshops over the past year and the artworks show a journey of progress and growing confidence as the artists discover their unique styles and strengths.

“I think that’s what I like about this exhibition … that it shows the journey, it shows some of the things that we screwed up,” Sue says.

“I know for myself that I love going to those exhibitions of artists where you can see their sketchbooks, you know, you can see their mock-ups before they do it and then the finished work,” Claire adds.

While to some it may seem a unique concept to have a group exhibition, and one that shows the progress of students instead of all “master artist” polished pieces, to Claire it seemed natural.

“I’m a teacher, so pin boards are my thing – like displays in a primary school that the teacher displays in classrooms. So I’ve heard (it’s quite a unique exhibition a couple of times from different people, but to me, it was just the way to do it,” Claire says.

You can see the journey the artists have gone on for yourself at Crows Nest Gallery, on the corner of New England Highway and William St in Crows Nest, until November 12.

Crows Nest Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10.30am-3.30pm

The Advanced Drawing group meets regularly at Murray's Art & Framing and are having an exhibition at Crows Nest Gallery; and, inset, Morning Tea as Still Life by Sue McMaster.

GOOMBUNGEE Nature Coloured Vicki Buttrose

15 November - 10 December Nature Coloured takes us on an immersive journey to the roots of the sea: the mangroves. The interplay of colour and texture, movement and reflections convey a deep connection to nature through mixed media paintings, ceramics and film.

Image: Vicki BUTTROSE I Light touched 2023 I acrylic, oil pastel and paint marker on canvas I 122 x 90cm I © Vicki Buttrose

Join us for an Artist Talk event on Saturday 18 November at 11am for the exhibition Nature Coloured.

Free event | All welcome | No bookings required.

CROWS NEST Enduring Structures and Forms John Archibald

15 November – 10 December Transformed by time and the elements, these paintings celebrate relics of the past and sculptural forms in the landscape.

Image: John ARCHIBALD I Structure #9 Reckitts Blue (large study) 2017 oil on canvas I 53.5 x 42.5cm I © John Archibald

Join us for an Artist Talk event on Sunday 19 November at 11am for the exhibition Enduring Structures and Forms.

Free event | All welcome | No bookings required.

Rosalie Gallery 89 Mocatta St, Goombungee QLD 4354 Crows Nest Gallery New England Highway, Crows Nest QLD 4355 Follow us on Instagram @trartgalleries I www.tr.qld.gov.au/galleries

TRC_SEC_1123_TC_arts

“A

m I good enough?”

It’s a question art teacher Sue McMaster often hears or sees acted out by budding artists, and an anxiety that Claire Howden – one of Sue’s Advanced Drawing class students at Murray’s Art and Framing – was also plagued by before she enrolled in a watercolour class a few years ago.

“I think a lot of people are like this, because I hear it from so many people now – everybody says ‘I don’t have a creative bone in my body’, or ‘I can’t draw’, ‘I can’t –’ and I think that comes from our tendency to be perfectionist,” Claire says.

“I didn’t take the drawing class until I’d been painting for probably two or three years, I think. And part of that was because of (the thought) I can’t draw – and it turns out, I can.

“And so I think it’s that idea of what they really mean: it’s not comfortable enough; I can’t draw yet.”

Claire enrolled in a watercolour class a few years ago after being diagnosed with breast cancer, as a way to reclaim some peace – but there were thoughts to overcome in this as well. “(My creative process) was never really just for me, and this was just for me – it was for my head as well as for my body and soul,” she says.

“This has been something that I’ve struggled with since I’ve started drawing now as an adult – in my family, it was something you did as an aside, like it was something you did in your free time.

“So to actually make something that was purely for me was quite … it just felt uncomfortable for me to start with. You know, I used to make cross stitches and give them to people; if I painted, I’d paint coasters and give them away.”

45 STYLE

stars SCORPIO

Aries

Hey, Aries, is it time yet to celebrate? I mean you have been so quiet about a major announcement it is time to let the cat out of the bag so to speak. We all know there is a secret admirer out there but has the relationship moved to a new level? The universe is telling you to trust your instincts when it comes to romance so if you feel this person is right for you then go for it.

Just remember to listen to what your heart is telling you, it is time you had a special someone in your life.

Well, well, who would have thought that the year is almost over. While here you are already planning for next year. That will not surprise anyone who knows the true you.

Scorpios are the organisers of the zodiac right down to the very minute detail. I feel that this month is going to be major, it could be the end of an era if you are coming up to a major age birthday. So grab the keys and test drive a convertible, let the scarf fly into the air, yelling at the top of your lungs I am fabulous.

Taurus

Sagittarius

November is all go. It is the best time for you to start shopping for those fantastic bargains. When it comes to retail therapy, there is no one better to take on the challenge other than Sagittarius. You have saved all year to take advantage of some major ticket items, and no one is going to let them slip through your fingers. So, whether you are looking for the latest in fashion, a new look for your home or indeed a well-deserved family holiday, it is now or never so go for it.

Capricorn

Are you ready for the ride of your life, taking on a new role could be challenging but you have got this. It may have been a little bit tough over the past 12 months dealing with family members who may be suffering at present, but your strong support has helped in every way to make life comfortable for your family and those around you. Remember you do have your own guidelines when it comes to being able to separate home and work life. Hang in there when times get you down, primal screaming is good for the soul.

Aquarius

Never get between an Aquarian and their next major obsession, they will

throw you overboard without any remorse. You are due for a new adrenaline rush. Is there anything you have not set your mind to as yet?

Perhaps skydiving could be the new rush you have been waiting for or taking on a new project such as learning to surf, mountaineering, or training for a marathon. You are the original Energiser Bunny so off you hop to your next exciting adventure. Every day is a new day to shine, so shine on brightly.

Pisces

Pisces it is now time to look at where you would see yourself in the future. You cannot stay in a claustrophobic environment just because you feel secure. November will see you starting to look into your future in regard to relationships, career and, of course, your inner self. It may take a while before you feel that you are headed in the right direction, but this needs to be done for your own mental health. Don't stay where you feel restricted, you are brilliantly gifted in all aspects of your life. Make a decision that best suits your needs for now and the future.

Hairy does the Job A Chartered Accountant with a sense of humour STYLE 46

Stubborn is as stubborn does. You cannot make Taurus jump to any orders except their own. Defiance is your middle name. November has brought forth new challenges in regard to career prospects. A move to a different area of employment will fulfil your needs for now. Will you be secure knowing that you are striving towards a major milestone.

Promotions are set to follow this move so be prepared to step up the ladder to success.

Gemini

Summer is coming, are you prepared? Of course, you are – let’s see the checklist.

Drinks by the spa, getting out and about to all of the latest hot destinations such as romantic holidays away with your special someone. Now is the time to let go of work constrictions and say hello to a brand-new work ethic. Be forceful, as you know you can then really relax with a glass of wine or whatever takes your fancy. Life has never been sweeter so enjoy the ride.

Cancer

Now is the time to get your health in order. Make time to feel good about yourself by joining a gym, taking steps to give energy to life’s struggles. You need to take a step back and look at the bigger

picture. Positive vibes are around you at present in regard to the hard work you have put in over the past 12 months that will see you finally in the career you have craved. Just don’t throw it away with poor life decisions.

Leo

What’s new pussycat? If there are problems in your life now is the time to make a statement about them. Change is a great healer mentally so ensure that your peace of mind is front and foremost in any decisions you make. November brings the warmer weather so ensure you are meeting life head on by living your life to your own rules. Take up yoga or join a drumming class and get rid of any anxiety by taking time out to free yourself from obstructions in your life.

Now is the time to get healthy and enjoy your life.

Virgo

Virgo, all the pieces of your life puzzle are now in place. Your adept skill at being totally organised has taken your relationship to new levels – so much so that it will come as no surprise when you receive a wondrous gift from your loved one. November will be a month to celebrate as time moves into a profitable time in your life. If thinking of purchasing real estate now would be the perfect time to put those plans in order, I mean you do like to have somewhere to call home in the perfect area that suits your family’s needs.

Libra

Wow Libra what are you going to do with so many balls in the air and you juggling then with ease. Fantastic to see that you are able to manage multi-tasking if any sign of the zodiac can achieve this talent it is Libra. Scales of Justice is the key to balance so remember the path chosen to take you here today. It takes a village to support you in your career goals so make sure you acknowledge the help along the way. All I see is glitter and gold as the prize you have been seeking comes to fruition.

Luna

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

arts

What’s new in entertainment READ…

READ …

Quantum Radio

by A. G. Riddle Reviewed by Jessica Kramer

Sleepless In Stringybark Bay

by Susan Duncan Reviewed by Debbie Phillips

A.G. Riddle has been making waves in the online genre book community for a couple of years now, and as it turns out, this is for good reason.

His latest novel, Quantum Radio, is a sci-fi quasi-thriller somewhat reminiscent of John Scalzi and Michael Crichton.

Quantum physicist Dr Tyson Klein has just made a life-changing discovery that could impact the whole world… but his findings are more dangerous than he could have ever thought. In the data generated by the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, Ty finds a pattern that looks like a specific data stream, as though it’s a message from a different universe… or the future, or something else entirely.

Summarising any more of the plot than this is a challenge, as it would give away much of the discovery and delight in the twists and turns of the story. That being said, Quantum Radio is more character-led than plot-led, and the paced out joy of peeling back layers of the four main characters is the true strength of this novel and Riddle’s writing.

Quantum Radio is published by Head of Zeus, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing, and is available now

Kate Jackson has given up living the high life to purchase a property in Stringybark Bay, and a glorious view from her cafe draws people from far and wide. Kate is perplexed when she hears that five couples have purchased premium property; it does not seem that bizarre except the property can only be accessed by boat. And not only are there rumours abounding about the couples, it is evident that nobody knows how to sail and indeed one of the new residents is wheelchair bound.

When one of the new residents is found floating face down, his death deemed accidental, Kate is curious to delve into the mystery a little more. Could it be just a coincidence or has he been murdered?

Set in a beautiful location with a fantastic storyline, this book is the go-to read for summer, exploring the fragility of life, and relationships across a broad expanse of time. A wonderful novel that will keep you enthralled right up to the very end.

WATCH… Killers of the Flower Moon Reviewed by Jessica Kramer It’s a movie where everyone talks about the runtime, and customer service prewarn clientele that they’re in for almost three-anda-half hours of film without breaks when they arrive at the counter to buy tickets. There’s a certain level of solidarity with other viewers in a film of this length, too, as you get about twoand-a-half hours in and hear the subtle movements and soft sighs of others trying to ease numb limbs. And so, it is a testament to the director and actors that everyone remains in the theatre until the final moment.

Director Martin Scorsese seems to have remained mostly true to the widely-available history in this look back at the time of the Osage murders in the 1910s-20s, though the film focuses less on the birth of the FBI than the book on which it’s based, and more on Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio).

It may seem obvious to state, but Killers of the Flower Moon is a film that takes its time –

Jessica Kramer Entertainment Editor panning wide shots of empty plains linger on the screen, camera work spends extra seconds on actors’ faces in emotional moments, dialogue meanders through trueto-life conversations. It’s a film you watch on a rainy Sunday afternoon when you want to soak in an art piece, rather than the swift and punchy movie you spend 90 minutes with to purely be entertained after work on a weekday evening.

DiCaprio’s portrayal is incredible, to say the least, and it’s easy to forget it’s him and not the true Burkhart on the screen throughout the film. It’s here, and with the lingering shots of Lily Gladstone’s emotive face (who portrays Mollie Burkhart) as well as DiCaprio’s, that Killers of the Flower Moon is elevated from overlong film to artistic masterpiece. 7.5/10

Sleepless in Stringybark Bay is published by Allen & Unwin and is available now

Killers of the Flower Moon is showing now at Event Cinemas Grand Central.

47 STYLE

events

NOVEMBER GOOMBUNGEE’S JACARANDA DAY

bargains to be had here, daily artisan raffles with beautiful handmade gifts, a daily fashion parade at noon, a clairvoyant, and head, shoulder and feet massages by our resident beauty therapist. There will also be a Table of Hope where artisans cook and donate non-perishable Christmas fare, with all sales going to the charity Hope Horizons. Opening times are: 9am-5pm Friday and Saturday, and 9am-3pm Sunday. Entry by gold coin donation.

Saturday, November 4, from 8am WHERE: Mocatta St, Goombungee WHAT: On Saturday, November 4, celebrate the history of Goombungee and its magnificent jacaranda trees. The festival features a historic vehicle parade, an outdoor public chalk art exhibition, steam engines and machinery display from Steaming on the Downs, face-painting, market and food stalls, self-guided tours and so much more. return. Cost $69.90 (a transaction fee of $5 applies per transaction for phone and internet bookings).

HONKY TONK ANGELS

Saturday, November 11, from 7.30pm

STORIES IN SONG AT PERSEVERANCE HALL

Saturday, November 4, 6.30-9.30pm WHERE: Perseverance Hall, Perseverance Hall Rd, Ravensbourne WHAT: Stories in Song is a concert series featuring three talented local performers – Randall Machejefski, Pepper Jane, The Hobsons – showcasing their songwriting abilities across various music genres, with the aim to create an unforgettable concert experience. It is held in the community-owned country hall that has been a vibrant hub and meeting place for residents and visitors since its construction in 1936. Dinner available from 5-6.30pm – dinner can be pre-purchased or purchased on the night. Food service finishes at 6.30pm. Music starts at 6.30pm, tickets must be prepurchased. Licensed bar. Tickets – concert only $20; concert and dinner $35. More information perseverancehall.com.au

BOY & BEAR

Saturday, November 11, doors open at 7.30pm WHERE: The Empire Theatre, 54-56 Neil St, Toowoomba WHAT: In support of their new album announcement and release, Boy & Bear have announced a run of Australian regional dates for the first regional tour they have done in years. Australian music has never been more ready for Boy & Bear; there hasn’t been a more perfect time for their charismatic and uniquely warm and enveloping presence to STYLE 48

WHERE: The Armitage Centre, 54-56 Neil St, Toowoomba WHAT: Starring Brooke McMullen, this show is a love letter of songs through the decades, celebrating the women of country music.

Featuring hits from the ’50s to ’90s, Honky Tonk Angels is sure to get you reminiscing and strolling down memory lane. An unforgettable night of hits including Jolene, Stand by Your Man, Crazy, Coal Miner’s Daughter and Man I Feel Like A Woman. Featuring the fantastic backing band The Smokin Crawdads whose members have performed with the likes of Lee Kernaghan, Adam Harvey, Graeme Connors, Slim Dusty, Normie Rowe, Wendy Mathews, James Blundell, Trisha Yearwood and Joe Camilleri. Cost – adult $59.90; concession $54.90; child U18 $54.90; group 10+

$54.90. A transaction fee of $5 applies per transaction for phone and internet bookings.

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS MARKET

From Friday, November 17, to Sunday, November 19 WHERE: Toowoomba Showgrounds, Glenvale Rd, Toowoomba WHAT: Enjoy three days of music, food and ho ho ho’s with tinsel again at the Glenvale room at the Toowoomba Showground. There will be more than 50 artisans and their handmade Christmas-inspired gifts. Fun events at the show will be a live musical concert on Saturday at 2pm, craft destash with all

MINIATURE TRAIN & VINTAGE BUS RIDE AT HIGHFIELDS PIONEER VILLAGE

Sunday, November 26, 10am-4pm WHERE: Highfields Pioneer Village, 73 Wirraglen Rd, Highfields WHAT: The Miniature Steam Loco Myrtle May’s total length is 11.6m, she runs on 10¼” track and has three passenger carriages and a water and coal tender, and can carry more than 12 adults or 18 children at any time.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children.

Henry the Model T Ford Bus also gives rides and was manufactured in 1924 and originally used as a school bus for the Kilcoy State School from 1924 to 1940. Henry the Model T Ford bus can carry 12 people at once and is the perfect opportunity for those people who wish to have a sneak preview of the village without purchasing a full entry ticket. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Children under 5 years are required to have an adult accompany them. The Toowoomba Fire Brigade Historical Museum at the Highfields Pioneer Village complex will be open, with children in attendance receiving a free Snakes and Ladders game plus a blazer bear sticker. They can get their photo taken in a historic fire truck with a volunteer present daily between 11.30am to 3pm. Billy tea and damper is available every day. You are also welcome to bring a picnic lunch or purchase a sausage sizzle. Optional entry to the village is $12 for an adult, $10 concession, $6 for a child and $30 for a family of two adults and four children. Children under five years are free.

markets Yarraman markets Every Saturday, 7am-noon Corner D’Aguilar and New England highways (Toomey and Margaret streets), Yarraman

Toowoomba Farmers’ Market Every Saturday, 7am-noon The windmills (next to Cobb+Co Museum), 27 Lindsay St, East Toowoomba Toowoomba PCYC market Every Sunday, 7am-12.30pm PCYC Toowoomba, 219 James St, Toowoomba The Makers Markets Oakey Saturday, November 11, 3-8pm Oakey Cultural Centre, 62 Campbell St, Oakey The Makers Markets Sunday, November 12, 8am-1pm The Goods Shed, Victoria St, Toowoomba The Makers Markets Highfields Friday, November 17, 4-8pm Highfields Cultural Centre, Sean McCarthy Way, Highfields Queens Park Markets Sunday, November 19, 8am-1pm Queens Park, Hume St (Frogs Hollow), Toowoomba Cabarlah Country Markets Sunday, November 26, 7.30am-12.30pm Cabarlah Sports Grounds, 9856 New England Highway, Cabarlah

events

Ryan and Cassie Hudson.

Alistair Green and Todd Rohl.

Rebecca Westman, Maddi Miller, Abraham Miller, Natalie Fogarty and Jemay Nelder.

scene Jessica and Tom Haydock.

Cara Stawan and Annie White.

Business Excellence Awards 2023 finalists function Members of Toowoomba’s business community gathered in anticipation at UniSQ on Wednesday, October 4, to network and discover who the finalists were for the 2023 Focus HR Business Excellence Awards, presented by the Toowoomba Chamber.

Chris Black, Tom Hansen and Gurdeep Saroa.

Sam Wright and David Curless.

49 STYLE

events

Lidewij Koene and Stephen Dummett.

Tracey Dalamaras, Rachel Phillips and Dr Meg Hooper.

Katie Williams and Devin Miller.

scene Mark Middlemiss, Justin Heaven and Mark Mason.

Andrea Lamont-Mills, Elizabeth Cardell and Craig Paterson.

Claire Torkington, Melissa Wellard and Katie Matthews

Jessica Ramos and Marleen Markey.

TSBE networking Evening Toowoomba Surat Basin Enterprise members and people from our community gathered at the Armitage Centre at 56 Neil St for an evening of networking and learning about the new $1.3bn Toowoomba Hospital project.

STYLE 50

Jumbo crossword

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Fit the words into the grid to create a finished crossword. We have given one to get you started.

TWO WAR 4 LETTERS ARMY BATE BATH BEDS BEST CHUM COOK EARN EASY EATS EMIR ERRS GENE IRIS LEAF LIES MATS MOON NEWS NOTE ODES

OKAY POMP PRIM RIOT SITE SKIT SLAB SOAR SOUR STEW THEN TWIT UGLY VAMP VIOL WEEK WERE WHAT WOOD WOOF WOOL WORD WRAP

5 LETTERS ABUSE ADORE AGILE APRIL ARGUE BELLS BIDED CEDED DODGE DOSED EIDER ELUDE GAUGE HEEDS IDIOT IMAGE ISLET KUKRI LURID MATTE MOULD OKAPI ORATE ROOST

SHOAL SNEER TIDAL TITHE TRAMP UMBER

I L L

6 LETTERS BLEACH DELUDE MALTED TENDED 7 LETTERS EMERALD STAYING STEPSON STEWARD

WordFit solution

Jumbo solution

B I D E D M A T S S L A B A D O R E O R A T E G A U G E T I D A L U M B E R A P R I L H O G U G L Y W R A P I L L T E N D E D E A S Y O D E S E E L W A R E L K S T E W WO R D E A T S I R I S M O O N S T A Y I N G T A D V I O L WO O F T E E E M E R A L D C H U M T H E N P R I M S O A R W E R E O P T T O T O B I S K I T W E E K M A L T E D H U M P O M P B A T E L O B O K A P I I S L E T A B U S E

HARD

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7 95 4 7 13 6 8 2 5 1 6 22 7 1 8 5 9 3 94 3 5 8 2 4 9 7 6 1 7 2 5 4 9 6 1 8 2 7 3 2 88 3 9 77 4 5 1 6 1 2 7 6 1 5 2 35 4 8 9 4 16 2 3 9 7 685 8 2 8 3 6 4 5 2 1 9 7 9 7 5 78 6 11 3 4 2

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Sudoku solutions

9 5 2 1

7

4 2 3 7 6 4 8 9 7

2 3 7 6 4 8 9 7

3 LETTERS AYE BEE EEL ELK ERA GAP GEL HOG HUM ILL LOB LOO MIL OAT OBI OPT PIE PUS SAP TAB TAD TEE TOM TOT

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B I D E D M A T S S L A B A D O R E O R A T E G A U G E T I D A L U M B E R A P R I L H O G U G L Y W R A P I L L T E N D E D E A S Y O D E S E E L W A R E L K S T E W WO R D E A T S I R I S M O O N S T A Y I N G T A D V I O L WO O F T E E E M E R A L D C H U M T H E N P R I M S O A R W E R E O P T T O T O B I S K I T W E E K M A L T E D H U M P O M P B A T E L O B O K A P I I S L E T A B U S E A R G U E R O O S T C E D E D L I E S N O T E H E E D S

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WordFit

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Across: 1. Speak, 4. Crucible, 9. Divide, 14. Drawn, 15. Snakes and ladders, 17. Erase, 18. Con, 19. Outwear, 20. Violation, 21. Stitch, 24. Soldier on, 25. Skewer, 26. Coarse, 29. Bronchitis, 31. Urn, 32. Stolen, 33. Over, 35. Dot, 37. Vain, 39.

Nostalgia, 40. Cock-a-hoop, 41. Elude, 42. Stampede, 47. Incision, 51. Moors, 55.

Peninsula, 56. Tradition, 58. Anti, 59. Nor, 60. Yoyo, 61. Allege, 62. Act, 63. Elementary, 66. Sudden, 67. Nausea, 69. Reproduce, 72. Cornea, 73. Competent, 75. Wistful, 77.

Cur, 80. Cease, 81. Bone of contention, 82. Lanky, 83. Teeter, 84. Crevasse, 85. Leash.

Down: 2. PIN number, 3. Askew, 5. Rink, 6. Collier, 7. Body language, 8. Erect, 9.

Dispose, 10. Veer, 11. Dearth, 12. Match, 13. Ensnare, 14. Destroy, 16. Small change, 22. Hiatus, 23. Rejoice, 24. Synonym, 25. Sundae, 27. Ravioli, 28. Beacon, 30.

Sear, 32. Strut, 34. Ripen, 36. Sari, 38. Apt, 42. Soppy, 43. Annoyed, 44. Pond, 45.

Double, 46. Borne, 48. Consecutive, 49. Startle, 50. Opt, 51. Make hay, 52. Strata, 53. Masterstroke, 54. Dine, 57. Icebox, 64. Rapturous, 65. Secrecy, 66. Shackle, 68.

Slobber, 70. Panacea, 71. Decade, 72. Crane, 74. Panic, 76. Tithe, 78. Beat, 79. Onus.

Sudoku

32. Swagger (5) 34. Mature (5) 36. Indian dress (4) 38. Appropriate (3) 42. Sentimental (5) 43. Irritated (7) 44. Small pool (4) 45. Increase twofold (6) 46. Carried (5) 48. One after the other (11) 49. Surprise (7) 50. Choose (3) 51. Seize the opportunity (4,3) 52. Layers of rock (6) 53. Brilliant move (12) 54. Eat (4) 57. Refrigerator (US) (6) 64. Joyful (9) 65. Stealth (7) 66. Chain (7) 68. Drool (7) 70. Cure for all ills (7) 71. Ten years (6) 72. Lifting machine (5) 74. Uncontrollable fear (5) 76. Levy of one tenth (5) 78. Overcome (4) 79. Responsibility (4)

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2 75 5 1 42 9 6 1 7 2 7 23 8 7 1 5 6 5 8 6 8 2 4 9 8 7 1 5 2 8 3 4 1 7 8 5

Across 67. Sickness (6) 1. Talk (5) 69. Procreate (9) 4. Melting pot (8) 72. Part of the eye (6) 9. Split (6) 73. Capable (9) 14. Haggard (5) 75. Thoughtful, sad (7) 15. Children’s board game (6,3,7) 77. Mongrel (3) 17. Wipe away (5) 80. Stop (5) 18. Point against (3) 81. Subject under dispute (4,2,10) 19. Last longer than others (7) 20. Breach, infringement (9) 82. Gangling (5) 21. Sew (6) 83. Wobble (6) 24. Keep going, regardless (7,2) 84. Fissure (8) 25. Metal pin (6) 85. Dog restraint (5) 26. Rough (6) 29. Respiratory illness (10) Down 2. Security identification code 31. Large vase (3) (3,6) 32. Taken illegally (6) 33. Finished (4) 3. Twisted or squint (5) 35. Speck (3) 5. Skating arena (4) 37. Conceited (4) 6. Coal miner (7) 39. A longing for something past 7. Visual signals (4,8) (9) 8. Upright (5) 40. Boastfully triumphant (4-1-4) 9. Get rid of (7) 41. Evade (5) 10. Swerve (4) 42. Run wildly (8) 11. Scarcity (6) 47. Surgical cut (8) 12. Equal (5) 51. Docks (5) 13. Trap (7) 55. Land projecting into the sea 14. Demolish (7) (9) 16. Trivial sum of money (5,6) 56. Custom (9) 22. Pause (6) 58. Against (4) 23. Celebrate (7) 59. Neither (3) 24. Word meaning same as another (7) 60. Children’s toy (4) 61. Claim (6) 25. Ice cream dish (6) 62. Make a decision (3) 27. Type of pasta (7) 63. Simple (10) 28. Signal fire (6) 66. Unexpected (6) 30. Scorch (4)

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