Style Magazine Toowoomba February 2020

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NOTE W

elcome back to Style magazine, and welcome to the month of love – February.

True to theme, this month we’ve had a chat to some locals about their worst Valentine’s Day dates (p14), as well as including a few ideas for your gorgeous date-ready outfit (p17).

For this edition, we also spoke with a local wildlife carer about the repercussions of the bushfires on our country’s critters.

You can read about Judi Gray and her furry friends on page 6.

The Empire Theatre is ramping up for this year’s big production, Mamma Mia! the Musical, so Style magazine sat down with a few of the main cast members.

Meet the people playing Sophie, Donna and Sky on p8 and get their thoughts about the musical, performing and theatre life.

Last year, the film industry saw reboot-madness, and 2020 seems to be continuing this trend; check out the remakes coming your way on the big screen this year on page 44.

You’ve heard of grey nomads, now meet the (younger) couple taking on Australia in their caravan on page 48 – with him a FIFO worker, she’s been in some interesting situations on the road by herself.

Finally, check out who made it to Tom Curtain’s tour at the Toowoomba Showgrounds (p60).

Have a wonderful February and, regardless of if you’re single or in a relationship, don’t forget to spoil yourself in the month of love!

Our best, The Style team

CONNECT WITH US stylemagazinestoowoomba @stylemagazinestoowoomba

INSIDE STYLE Meet the wildlife carer looking after our furry friends post-bushfire...........06 Local actors chat about performing in Mamma Mia! the musical......................08 Discover how to best dress your curvy hourglass body shape...............................12 Have a laugh at these locals’ worst Valentine’s dates........................................14 Our new Style beauty specialist gives the know-how on eye makeup...........20 These twins are smashing competition in the orienteering world.......................25 Long distance relationships can be hard, so here’s some helpful tips........33

A reno doesn’t have to mean pulling the house apart with these ideas.......36 Meet the woman behind the artwork: Brydie Perkins-Brakels..........................39 Get your car squeaky clean for a Valentine’s date or just because................40 Local Wade Fiechtner is changing the music scene in Toowoomba................42 Don’t get food poisoning this summer with this useful guide...............................47 Sellena and Matt Peters share their beautiful wedding day.............................53 Discover what’s on in the Garden City this month with these events..............58

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COVER EXPLAINED Wildlife rescuer and carer Judi Gray holds orphan koala joey Henry.

Henry is just one of many koalas Judi and her family care for; and after the recent bushfires the numbers have increased dramatically.

Find the story on page 6.

CONTACT THE TEAM JOURNALISTS Darren Burton, Jessica Kramer, Katherine Sampson ADVERTISING MANAGER Marg Alexander Email advertising@thechronicle.com.au Phone 4690 9422 EDITORIAL INQUIRIES Phone 4690 9319 Email darren.burton@thechronicle.com.au Mail PO Box 40, Toowoomba QLD 4350.

Street 109 Neil St, Toowoomba.

Style magazine is published by News Regional Media. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Style magazine undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the trade practices act or other laws, regulation or statutes. Further to the abovementioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements.

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The most unlikely survivors KATHERINE SAMPSON

Bushfires bring death and destruction; but from the smoke emerge the stories of the victims who could only cling to one another until the danger had passed.

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hen a devastating bushfire swept through Ravensbourne and its surrounding areas the wildlife who called this bushland their home had little hope of survival.

It was almost two weeks before wildlife rescuers Judi and Brendon Gray and other wildlife rescuers could enter the ash-filled forest in search of survivors.

“I must admit the first few days we didn’t find anything alive,” Judi said Once the first living creature, a koala, was found hopes were lifted, but it didn’t last long.

“The first koala they rescued was exciting, but he had to be put down,” says Judi.

In their search they were unable to find any living possums, gliders or macropods, such as kangaroos and wallabies.

Judi was most concerned for the endangered brush tailed rock wallabies.

“They only have a small territory that they live in here,” she said.

FROM LEFT: PENNY BEFORE HER RESCUE AFTER PECHEY HAMPTON FIRES (PHOTO

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“I haven’t talked to the rangers since, but hopefully they’ve seen some, and that they’ve survived.

“I must admit we did really hope that we might have found some of them.

“They have rock caves which are there but in the hills and where all those caves are was totally burnt up.”

Judi described these days as depressing, until finally the RSPCA had good news.

“We had a couple that we had rescued, and the RSPCA said yes we can treat these, it was a bit of a morale booster, and we all got excited again.”

On their own, the Gray’s rescued a total of 19 koalas, but their injuries were just too much with a mere five surviving.

Out of the five, a mother and her joey were found on a private property and a second female was found only a short distance away.

“That day we rescued six koalas, it was massive day and we couldn’t have done it without the Toowoomba Regional Council cherry picker driver.

“His name was Kevin and that’s who I named the baby after,” says Judi.

Mother Mia and her joey Kevin Jnr were found cuddling, but to the untrained eye it simply looked like one koala.

The other female, Penny, was found near the Cresbrook section of the fire-ravaged bushland.

“When we saw her, she was in an extraordinarily burnt location, “She was all singed and I burst into tears when I saw her up at the top of the tree because I thought she was completely burnt because of how black she was,” says Judi.

It wasn’t until the RSPCA had checked over Penny that she was in a better condition than initially thought.

“She is singed but that black charcoal colour is her natural colouring,” the vet said.

Penny wasn’t just amazing for her colour, she also had a twoday-old joey in her pouch.

“This means she gave birth after the fires when she was starving, at the top of that burnt tree.

“That little baby has somehow managed to climb up into the pouch with all Penny’s singed fur,” says Judi.

Judi has found the koala to have survived more than any other animal from the fires.

“They went to the very top of the trees and a lot of the trees are enormous.

“They were then singed or burnt and then starving.

When it came to the actual rescue, a method of flagging the koalas down, which involves a stick with something noisy at the top is held above the animal and they climb down on their own, was useless.

JUDI GRAY “It wouldn’t work, they were just so scared,” Judi says.

“It normally works for most rescues, but they were so scared, and they were crying.”

Those that remain in the bush, or more correctly the charred remains, haven’t been forgotten.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: MIA AND KEVIN JNR LOOKING HEALTHY AND HAPPY, MIA AND KEVIN JNR DURING CHERRY PICKER RESCUE (PHOTO BY JUDI GRAY), JUDI GRAY & ORPHAN JOEY HENRY. “With some of the properties that we’ve gone to check on the wildlife, there has been a large number of different species of macropods coming to drink from the water troughs,” says Judi.

“A lot of properties we’ve been able to get donations of macropod pellets and grain to put out so they can feed them.”

The need for wildlife carers is far from over as bushfires continue to burn across the country in the longest and most severe fire season in recorded history.

Scientists anticipate this deadly season to continue and become more severe under climate change.

Judi Gray advises if you find an injured, sick or burnt creature, the first thing is to ensuree its safety and pick it up and put it in a towel.

Then, or alternatively, call the RSPCA’s emergency hotline on 1300 ANIMAL to be directed to appropriate carers.

“I burst into tears when I saw her up at the top of the tree because I thought she was completely burnt”

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JESSICA KRAMER

Here we go again

Pictured clockwise from top left: Sophie Volp is playing Sophie, Diana Holt is playing Donna, and James Taylor is playing Sky

Style magazine sat down for a chat with some of the cast members for the Empire Theatre’s main production for 2020: Mamma Mia! the musical

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hough the musical premiered back in 1999 in London, Mamma Mia! shot back up to popularity in 2008 with the movie adaptation, and then again in 2018 with the film sequel.

And each time, ABBA’s tunes have reached the music charts – but let’s be honest, is there ever a time when ABBA is forgotten?

This year, it’s Toowoomba’s turn to enjoy the live experience of the musical created originally by Catherine Johnson and the band’s own Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, as the Empire Theatre brings Mamma Mia! to stage from March 5 to 15.

We had a chat with Diana Holt (Donna Sheridan), Sophie Volp (Sophie Sheridan), and James Taylor (Sky) about the musical, stage life, and performing in general.

DIANA HOLT (DONNA SHERIDAN) Where did you learn most of your acting skills? What about your singing skills?

I have done short courses in acting and singing, however, most of my training has been ‘on the job’. I have had singing training with various teachers with different styles over the years which always broadens your knowledge and skills.

What would be your favourite character role to date?

I have two: Sally Bowles in Cabaret and the Queen of Hearts in Alice In Wonderland.

What does the musical Mamma Mia mean to you? How would you describe it?

It’s a story of redemption for me. What was seemingly lost becomes found. The past mistakes that brought hurt and dreams lost actually springs forth a new beginning and future better than expected.

What attracted you to the role you’re playing in Mamma Mia? Donna is a strong independent woman who has a big heart. She is also relaxed and carefree but has lost a part of herself which I feel she gets back in the end. This is what makes her journey so joyous,

fulfilling and extremely relatable.

Did you have much familiarity with ABBA and their music before auditioning for this production?

Yes, I love ABBA songs and have become very familiar with them over many years. They are very technical and clever songs and they cause you to feel uplifted even though at times there is a sadness. I will be visiting the ABBA museum in Stockholm when I visit there this year.

What’s your favourite ABBA song?

The Winner Takes It All. What do you enjoy most about performing in musicals?

I thoroughly enjoy exploring the roles that I play, thinking about how the character thinks, feels, expresses themselves. I love the camaraderie of being in a cast and I love the level of passion in performance that only musicals can allow me to express.

SOPHIE VOLP (SOPHIE SHERIDAN) Where did you learn most of your acting skills? What about your singing skills?

I grew up in a musical family, so I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember, but my voice has developed the most over the years with the help of the Toowoomba Choral Society Youth Choir. I have learnt so much about technique and musicality from our director, and it’s through her holiday productions that I honed my acting skills as well. Along with the help of a variety of workshops and lessons, I’ve turned my passion for performing into skills, and I’m still developing and growing as an actress daily.

What would be your favourite character role to date?

I had the opportunity to play The White Witch in the Toowoomba Choral Society Junior’s production of Narnia, and she has to be my favourite.

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She was so much more than just evil, she had so many layers and her emotions were never one dimensional. Playing Queen Jadis was a huge challenge, and I truly feel that I grew so much as a performer portraying her character.

What does the musical Mamma Mia mean to you? How would you describe it?

Mamma Mia is so beautiful because, at its core, it’s just real people with real life problems, and there is someone for everyone to relate to. You can’t watch Mamma Mia and not feel a sense of joy, and that is why it’s such a beloved story.

What attracted you to the role you’re playing in Mamma Mia? I love Sophie because she goes on this huge journey of selfdiscovery and you can literally see her grow during the show. She has no walls and her vulnerability really opens her up to a lot of intense emotions, but she remains so unapologetically herself throughout all her struggles, and that’s so refreshing in such a young character.

Did you have much familiarity with ABBA and their music before auditioning for this production?

Mamma Mia, the 2008 movie, was actually my first real introduction to ABBA music, but I’ve loved it ever since. ABBA music has such an infectious energy that I can’t help falling in love with.

What’s your favourite ABBA song?

There’s something about Super Trouper that just gets me in the feels.

What do you enjoy most about performing in musicals?

I love everything about performing in musicals, but if I had to pick a favourite part it would probably be the connectivity between the cast and the audience. There is nothing else like live theatre, and when the audience gives you energy, you bounce off that and give it right back. No performance ever feels exactly the same, because with every new audience there is a new energy to play with.

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JAMES TAYLOR (SKY) Where did you learn most of your acting skills? What about your singing skills?

I had always been a bit of a performer – my parents labelled me a ‘drama queen’ from a very early age. However, it wasn’t until I auditioned for a school musical that I discovered I could actually sing as well. A shock to everyone around me, I decided to develop my new found passion, and within a few years I was performing on the Empire stage in Wicked! I owe everything to my high school drama and music teachers.

What would be your favourite character role to date?

My favourite role to date is Freddy Eynsford Hill, in My Fair Lady. I have always loved that show and getting to play that role was a great privilege.

What does the musical Mamma Mia mean to you? How would you describe it?

To me, Mamma Mia is about having fun, no matter who you are.

You laugh, you cry, you dance – it’s just an awesome show.

What attracted you to the role you’re playing in Mamma Mia? Among other things, I respect Sky’s passion. He had it made with a job on the London Stock Exchange, but chose to leave it all behind after meeting Sophie. I think that’s really something special.

Did you have much familiarity with ABBA and their music before auditioning for this production?

I have been an ABBA fan my entire life. My parents used to play their albums when I was a kid and they just stuck with me. ABBA is appropriate for any occasion in my eyes.

What’s your favourite ABBA song?

Super Trouper.

What do you enjoy most about performing in musicals?

I just love performing for people – always have.

As an actor you can bring audiences so many different emotions, and knowing that you are inspiring something within these people is very rewarding.

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SANKEY FRASER

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fashion

Possibly the best-known body shape, the hourglass can also be described as ‘curvy’ THIS MONTH: THE HOURGLASS

W

omen with this figure have bust and hips roughly the same width, while the waist is well-defined or narrow.

Chances are, you’ll also have a full bust, hips and thighs.

Oddly enough, in the past women would wear tight corsets to force their body into having the narrow waist of the hourglass shape

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Rocking the hourglass

because it was so envied (and a true hourglass is relatively rare as well).

Fortunately for us, these days society recognises all body shapes as equally beautiful.

Dressing this figure can be as simple or as complicated as you wish, when it comes down to it.

If you’re more self-conscious about your womanly curves, an A-line or shift dress looks amazing.

Many shift-style dresses come with a tie or thin belt for around the waist, so you can choose whether or not to wear it on any particular day.

Speaking of which, belts are a girls’ best friend when you have curves like this.

For the hourglass, the waist is often the most defined feature, so a belt worn around the middle will draw attention to it.

This is one of the reasons a fit-and-flare dress can work well; or any dress with a defined waist and flowing skirt, for that matter.

These dresses will bring attention to your bust and waist where the cloth is fitted, and accentuate your hips with the flowy skirt.

A similar principle goes for pants, particularly jeans: the higher waisted, the better.

Pair with a form-fitting shirt, or tuck a flowy shirt into the waistband for the best look.

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fashion

Skinny jeans will also look fantastic on you.

Regarding necklines, anything that accentuated the bust is a go; the only necklines you should avoid are turtleneck and (according to some) the classic crew.

As with dresses, anything form-fitting up top usually works, and wrap styles is where it’s at for the hourglass.

If you’re thinking the theme here is to bring attention to your waist and highlight your bust and hips, you’d be correct.

For this figure, you want to avoid dresses that are super flowy and shapeless (unless you’re going to add a great belt), boxy jackets and blazers or those that have no structure, pants that have a lot of chunky detailing around the hips, and tops with big sleeves that fall around the bust.

Another perk of an hourglass shape is that, even if you are petite in stature, you have fantastic legs.

This is where the skinny jean works wonders, yet again, by elongating and slenderising them.

The same goes for leggings – just ensure they’re full-length and not crop for the best effect.

For dress hemlines, anything from mini to just past the knee looks amazing on you.

Avoiding a maxi dress or skirt is probably best, as they are generally shapeless and hide your curves and legs.

Whatever your outfit, pair with a set of heels or wedges and you’re ready to own it.

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community

®

NEW YEAR

Reality Check: Chit Chat ANONYMOUS OPINIONS AND STORIES ABOUT NOT SO PERFECT VALENTINES DATES

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y partner took me on a picnic, but wouldn’t eat the food I packed, he had to stop and get Maccas. He made me carry everything all the way down to the waterfall then decided it was too hot, we walked all the way back, ate on the ground next to our parked car and he fell asleep on the blanket immediately after eating. We’re still together seven years later. Funnily enough, not my worst present though. He got me a 24-carrot necklace one year…

As in24 actual carrots on a rope.

F

ive years ago, my ex-boyfriend and I went into South Bank in Brisbane and he told me that the whole night was taken care of, he had put down deposits for everything. I thought “Oh awesome, that’s one less thing for me to worry about.”

Once we’d finished our meal at the restaurant, they brought the bill over and showed us the total which came to $100 or something. He then looked at me and said “alright where’s your card? … He was saying that the only reason why everything was taken care of was because I was coming along and because I work.

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t was our first Valentine’s Day together and still in our honeymoon phase of dating, so everything felt perfect. I came home from the shops and my boyfriend had bought me flowers and was waiting at the door to greet me. We had decided to go to a favourite pub of ours in the city and so caught public transport. We had a bottle of Moet I had been saving for a day like this too. When we got to the pub it was completely booked out to other couples for Valentine’s Day. Instead, we got some hot chips and sat at the park, poured some Moet for ourselves and then discovered neither of us like Champagne. It was still the best Valentine’s Day and I’ll remember it forever.

Shop 12/12 Prescott Street, Toowoomba Call Jamie 4632 2255 / 0419 025 652

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hings hadn’t been working out with my girlfriend for a while. Whether it was poor communication or something else I don’t know, but it came to the day where it was silly pretending to be in a romantic relationship.

I invited her out to lunch at a cafe and explained to her that it wasn’t working. I told her I hoped we could stay friends and like clockwork the barrister arrived with our coffees which has hearts drawn in the foam and they wished us happy Valentine’s Day. My ex-girlfriend then broke down and I realised I’d broken up with her on Valentine’s Day. TCHE01Z01ST - V1

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health

Valentine’s Day done differently

BY GINA HORN – DIETITIAN

goals?

Like Christmas and Easter, Valentine’s Day is often used as an excuse to binge eat or overdo it on sweet desserts, chocolate and champagne.

It can be tempting to treat yourself to a fancy three-course meal, with wine and other alcoholic drinks flowing.

But to save yourself some cash and really know what’s going into your food, why not try something different and cook your own threecourse meal, or whip up some easy treats to take on a picnic?

Studies have consistently linked people who cook more regularly at home with better health than those who eat out more often.

Even if you’re not a whiz in the kitchen, there are plenty of simple recipes sure to impress.

My picks include: 1. Chocolate covered strawberries – melt your own chocolate and dip strawberries in 2. Red velvet cupcakes – no judgment on packet mix 3. Homemade pizza – add lots of fresh vegetables and have a go at making your own base 4. Simple salads – include a variety of coloured fruit and vegetables

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5. Gourmet sandwiches – there are plenty of great vegetarian and vegan options 6. Filo pies – choose your protein and the flavour possibilities are endless 7. White wine spritzer – add soda water or lemon lime to white wine to make a refreshing, lower-alcohol cocktail You don’t have to go all out to spoil your Valentine and might find they will be more impressed with a home-cooked meal.

Have your date in the kitchen together and see what you can create as a team.

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beauty

Summer time Lovin’

BY BRITTANY MONTEITH - MAKEUP ARTIST

I

t’s summer time! Bright colours are a must have this time of the year.

Steer clear of those dark winter shades and make room for more vibrant colours! Bold eye looks are the best way to liven up your makeup in summer. A bold eye look with a nude lip, sounds simple - but is very effective. This look is ideal for any event, day or night.

Step 1

Step 4

Start with prepping your eyelids. You must always do your eye makeup before the rest of your face as you may find that some eyeshadows are very loose and can create fall out under the eyes. To prep your eye lids, place down a concealer and set with a translucent powder. If you are wanting your colour to really pop, place an eyeshadow primer down and apply the colour directly on top - this is effective, yet can make the blending process a bit lengthy.

With your fluffy blending brush, continue to blend from the crease of the eye into the transition shade! Be sure to use a colour that complements your skin tone and eye colour. You will notice that the bright colour you have placed on the lid, will start to diffuse which means your blending correctly and successfully. You may find that you must continue to pack the colour on and blend a few times before achieving the completed look.

Step 2

With a fluffy blending brush, start placing a neutral tone into the crease of the eye for a transition shade. Placing a transition shade down before adding such a heavy colour, will help the colour look less harsh as well as help with the blending process.

Blending is such a vital step of any makeup look.

This can take some time. When blending, be sure to move your brush in windscreen wiper motion until your bright colour is diffused into the transition shade completely.

Step 5

Step 6 Step 3

Grab a flat eyeshadow brush and pack on any vibrant colour of your choice onto the eyelid.

With a smaller, denser brush, place some highlight in the inner corner of the eye. Doing this will add more dimension to the eye.

Finish by adding your favourite mascara! And voila, your look is complete.

ADDITIONAL STEP: By adding a winged eye liner and false eyelashes, this will really make your eyes pop and bring the eye look together.

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health and beauty

Salon vs at home: getting the perfect hair

F

or some, it’s not even a question; for others it’s a constant query – should you get your hair dyed at the salon professionally or do it at home yourself?

Style magazine weighs up the positives and negatives for each option.

AT A SALON True, getting your hair done at a salon can be pricey, but there’s so much more flexibility in colour and style, and less... mess.

Speaking of mess, getting it done professionally also means you can get fancy highlights and ombre looks without destroying your bathroom and making a laughing stock out of your mane (take it from someone who tried to do their own highlights at home).

That being said, is it worth the cost of the hairdressers to visit simply to dye regrowth?

For some, it certainly is – often for women, a hairdresser appointment is valuable, rare metime and down time.

There’s something simply luxurious about

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AT HOME For many, the at-home argument lies strictly in the realms of cost and time.

And yes, they are quite valid points – a haircut alone can cost $60 to $90; a dye job much more.

Fixing up outgrown roots is easy in your own bathroom: there’s less margin for error, less mess, and you can do it whenever you have time rather than making an appointment.

And the same can be argued for going a whole new colour, provided you’re happy with the more limited selection that grocery stores and pharmacies provide, and can ensure you don’t miss a spot on the back of your own head.

However, using cheap purchased dyes can be risky for your hair and you may not always get the colour you thought you bought.

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Give your child the learning edge W

e all know the importance of a good breakfast to give our young ones the perfect start to the day, but savvy parents also know that, as the day draws on, children’s energy and concentration levels inevitably drop.

A quality lunch can easily prevent this cerebral slowdown and keep young minds focused and on track.

It’s scientifically proven that when children are well-nourished, they are better behaved and their learning and cognitive skills are enhanced.

That can be as simple as watching what you give them for lunch (and especially what you allow them to eat when it comes to snacks).

With your children now back at school (and you possibly returning to work), the morning scramble to get out the door is at its most hectic, so it’s vitally important that you pre-plan school lunches to help reduce lastminute panic. Preparation is key – so be sure to shop ahead so you have all the basics available.

Here’s some great advice on packing a school lunch box that’s both nutritious and appealing for the young ones.

1. The ideal lunch should contain an item from all of the food groups – this includes fresh fruit and vegetables and yoghurt and milk products (kids love cheese sticks and slices); as well as low-fat rice crackers and bread (ideally wholegrain for more fibre). Try to include a protein like a lean meat, fish or chicken; and boiled eggs

and baked beans will always prove a favourite staple.

2. The planet is already drowning under a mountain of plastics and packaging, so try not to add to the problem. Wherever possible, place sandwiches, vegie sticks and snacks in reusable containers and rest easy knowing that you’re doing your bit to help protect our fragile environment.

3. While many water bottles are insulated anyway, a simple way to keep the contents at a nice cool level is to freeze a portion of the water overnight and then top it up come the morning. It guarantees a cold, refreshing drink no matter what time of the day. Where possible, discourage your children from craving soft drinks or fruit juices high in sugar or artificial sweeteners. They not only contribute to child obesity, they can also have a negative impact on developing teeth.

4. It’s no secret that lunch boxes (and school bags) can be left in all manner of places during the school day. Even when indoors, they may still be sitting in direct sunlight for many hours, so keep your child’s food perfectly chilled by including an ice brick or two.

5. Most importantly, allow your children to help prepare and pack THEIR lunch box (preferably the night before). That way they will take ownership of its contents and will look forward to lunchtime and the food on offer.

Is your child experiencing any of one the following?

• Hearing Problems?

• Ear Infections or Pain?

• Snoring?

Ear, Nose & t h r o at S e r v i c e s

Children can struggle at school when conditions go undiagnosed. See your GP and ask for a referral to a St Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba ENT Surgeon.

• A Blocked Nose?

• Tonsillitis?

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We’re there for you

L

ife is hard.

Work demands, family issues, financial concerns and the pressures of living day to day can be overwhelming.

But you don’t have to face it alone.

The Nedley Depression and Anxiety Recovery Program is tailor-made to help you understand, process and ultimately conquer the problems that the world can throw you.

It’s helped thousands of people from all walks of life and it’s ready to help you.

Here’s how it changed Ted’s life (not his real name): I was recently retired and became an alcoholic to mask the pain from years of watching trauma in the police force. I’m currently divorced and the next relationship is in a bad place.

I had made up my mind to end my life. That day, I was contacted by one of the DARP course leaders and they immediately saw my need. In the program I found the ABCDE technique of turning my negative thinking around to be one of the most useful tools. After about 20 weeks - with my doctor’s advice - I was free from depression medication. I would have never done it on my own, but with the support of the group I had the encouragement to try all of the techniques. I have now gone on to overcome my dependence on alcohol and its control of my life as well.

HOPE.

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R

unning is great for fitness, and sometimes running in pairs is fun too; but it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.

There is always the issue of my fitness level versus your fitness

level.

Running with a buddy has an essence of partnered motivation, you run, I run; faster, better and to the best of your ability.

However, there is the inevitable fact that someone is faster than the other and endurance and speed are obstructive variables.

I would like to introduce you to a technique that allows you and your friend or partner to run at the same time without anything interfering with their ability to exercise.

All you need is a circuit of some sort, whether that be your housing estate, block or even a park route is up to you, there just needs to be a starting point which you will end up at once again and be able to loop.

Now you’re ready to run.

If you set off in one direction and your friend in the other you can still race, or jog at your own pace without pushing yourself, or slowing down to allow them to keep up.

By running in a reversed lap, you will inevitably meet at half way, where you can either continue at your own speed or pick up the pace if you’ve met sooner than half way.

At the end of the day, you’ll both have completed the same exercise but at your own level, and what more could you ask for.

Delivering Quality Support Respite Facility “ BOB”

• Located in Toowoomba • 24/7 Support • You don’t need to be a Breakaway client to stay at the Respite House • Emergency Short Term Accommodation • Individual Flexible Tailored Care • Catering for High Needs – Physical/Behavioural/Spinal • Healthy Home Cooked Meals • Adventures and activities with experienced and energetic staff • A Private unit hire is available with all high care equipment using your support services • Managed by Registered Nurse

ATTEND A FREE INFORMATION SESSION!

We provide:

Date: Tuesday 3rd March 2020 Time: 7:00pm Location: Laurel St Centre, Cnr. Hume & Laurel Sts, Toowoomba.

Contact Info: Jenny on 0447 166 072 or Rosie after 4:00pm on 0419 774 168

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pLan management

inhome Respite

Respite

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HEAD OFFICE 27 Mort Street, Toowoomba | P: (07) 4639 5100 E: info@breakawaytmba.org | www.breakawaytmba.org Open: Mon to Fri 8.30am to 5.00pm

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YOU ARE NOT ALONE THERE IS

Running in pairs

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Summer sun safety with makeup Getting to know...

Jamie Wann What do you do at St Andrew’s?

My role as Director of Nursing sits within the executive team at St Andrew’s and functions to provide leadership to the 450 clinical staff within the hospital. My role also works toward ensuring the hospital is compliant with relevant standards and legislation, ensuring our clinical care is contemporary and evidence-based while working with our CFO and CEO to ensure our clinical processes and practices are efficient and effective.

S

ay goodbye to the days of having to decide over sunscreen or makeup in summer, because now you can have both.

Fortunately for us Aussies, many brands have introduced SPF into their ranges, from primer and foundation to lipstick and now, even eyeshadow.

Even if you would rather not purchase a full new kit for your face, you can get away with one or two items.

Your main base or finisher should be the must-have item for sun safety – setting powder, foundation or primer – as it has the largest coverage area and these products often have the highest SPF out of other makeup.

Gurus also recommend investing in an eyeshadow with SPF to protect the delicate skin of the eyelids.

What is your favourite thing about your job?

I thoroughly enjoy working with the dedicated, motivated and committed staff within St Andrew’s. Our staff ‘go above and beyond’ to support patients and their families in what are often their most difficult times. My favourite aspect of the DON role is receiving feedback from patients and families with regards to their very positive experiences.

Why is St Andrew’s such a great place to work?

The culture within St Andrew’s is engaging, friendly and positive which makes turning up to work each day a very rewarding experience.

“Our people do amazing things” Specialist Medical & Surgical Services…

Services Supported By… • • • • • • • • • • •

7 Operating Theatres Robotic Surgery Rapid Access Heart Centre Cardiac Catheter Vascular Laboratory Radiotherapy Services Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardiac Medicine Unit Intensive Care Unit Palliative Care Renal Dialysis Unit Diabetes Clinic

Diagnostic Services Available Onsite • Radiology • PET/CT, MRI & Nuclear Medicine • Diagnostic Breast Clinic • Pathology Services • Sleep Studies Unit

One less pain. More than 680 FREE car parking spaces.

280 North Street, Toowoomba (PO Box 263) www.sath.org.au Phone (07) 4646 3000

We offer true holistic continuative care in all areas of obstetrics, gynaecology and women’s health.

Women’s Health Physio and Dietician services now available.

Pregnant or planning pregnancy?

Talk to us about your birthing options.

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

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Dr Matthew Stinson

WELCOMING PATIENTS Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook or call our office for an appointment.

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

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• MEDICAL Cardiology, Rheumatology, Medical Oncology, Respiratory Medicine, Clinical Haematology, Internal Medicine, General Practice, Psychiatry, Renal, Palliative Care, Neurology • SURGICAL Orthopaedic, Plastic & Reconstruction, Vascular, Gynaecology, Endoscopy/Gastroenterology, Urology, General Surgery, Dental Oral & Maxillofacial, Ophthalmology, Neurosurgery, ENT Surgery, Paediatric Surgery

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fitness

ORIENTEERING GANNON GIRLS

I

f you ever thought athletes were all brawn, no brain then you’ll have to hold your tongue.

Julia and Nina Gannon twins who compete at an international level in orienteering, a sport which requires the competitors to navigate a course locating checkpoints in order and eventually reach a finish point.

The girls were introduced to the sport when their older sister participated with her school.

“Mum and Dad used to do it at university when they were younger, and when our older sister did it at school for HPE, they encouraged the whole family to get back into it,” Julia Gannon says.

It’s not as easy as long-distance running, and the girls say it requires the integration of mental and physical strength.

“Learning to think while running and navigate at speed was definitely one of the hardest things to learn,” Nina Gannon says.

With the added difficulty of various distance, an orienteering course can range from short, to middle and long.

Julia’s preference is the middle distance and even relay events when it comes to course length.

“I like middle and relay events as they are long enough that physical endurance is tested,

but short enough to ensure accuracy must be maintained,” she says.

In last year’s Oceania event held at Charles Stuart University in Wagga Wagga Nina was even lucky enough to come away with a first place in the Women’s U18 sprint event.

Although already competing at an international level, the Gannon girls know their ultimate goal is JWOC (Junior World Orienteering Championships).

“JWOC is the ultimate dream, however, it requires an immense amount of commitment and hard work,” Julia says.

When asked if they had any good tips for those wanting to give the sport a go, they didn’t hold back.

“Never lose contact with the map, even if you have to run slower, it is better to know where you are than to make errors that will cost you time later on,” Julia says.

“Remember to look up as it’s extremely easy to lose yourself when your head is focused in the map and you are not paying attention to what is going on around you.”

SCOOP JULIA GANNON

NINA GANNON

Toowoomba Multi-Service Centre “Your home away from home” Located at: 4-8 Buckland Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350, open 24hours/7days, encourages wellbeing of both the client and the carer, with expertise in dementia care.

Our wellness and reablement philosophy is applied through every day familiar activities to give meaning and enjoyment to those we support.

Services offered through our specifically chosen Queenslanders include: • Home Maintenance • Domestic Assistance • Personal Care • Social Support • Carer Support Groups • 24 hour Dementia Advice 1800 639 331

For further information please call 1800 639 331 or 07 4635 2966 or visit www.alzheimersonline.org.

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• Specialised Dementia Care • 24 hour Respite • Home Care Packages for over 65 • Under 65 services through NDIS • Occupational Therapy

INTRODUCING OUR BRAND-NEW

Signature Range

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We think you deserve the best of the best at a price you can afford. That’s why we’ve created our fantastic new Signature Range.

Our beautiful new country-chic home designs boast a list of extra special luxury inclusions such as coffered ceilings, timber wall panelling, bespoke flooring, statement light fittings, feature wallpaper and an upgraded kitchen plus so much more – all for no extra cost!

Where “WOW” is a standard inclusion, our Signature Range starts from an incredibly low $399,000. This amazing price buys you a brandnew luxury home PLUS access to award-winning recreational facilities.

We make dreams possible because we make them affordable!

WE’RE OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK, BUT YOU CAN REACH OUT TO US 24/7!

Monday to Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm Saturday 9:00am – 3:00pm 500 South Street, Toowoomba Call 1800 954 330 or visit livinggems.com.au/sr

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community

STOP SNORING + SLEEP APNEA

Earth Day arrives at 50th

W

hile it will not be held until April, Earth Day 2020 preparations are well under way thanks to the big 50th anniversary.

The theme this year is The Demand for Climate Action, which means the community can start movement now.

Here are some of the ways you can get involved:

VOTE EARTH The time has never been better to use your power as a voting citizen to select the candidates who will take action to protect the planet.

Vote Earth calls on citizens to examine the climate and environmental platforms of their candidates before voting.

THE GREAT GLOBAL CLEAN-UP In collaboration with partners around the globe, Earth Day Network (the organisation behind Earth Day) is building Earth’s largest clean-up crew.

The Great Global Clean-up is a worldwide campaign to remove billions of pieces of rubbish from neighbourhoods, beaches, rivers, lakes, trails, and parks — thus reducing waste and plastic pollution, improving habitats, and preventing harm to wildlife and humans.

ARTISTS FOR THE EARTH Artists for the Earth is a global campaign to raise awareness and understanding of climate change and the environment by seizing the power of art to inform, provoke, and inspire action and instil hope for the future.

Artists for the Earth will engage thousands of museums, orchestras, theatres, performers, authors and artists from all walks of life and from every continent to change our global culture ‘through culture’.

You can make a difference – whether it be through lifestyle changes that cut emissions, action on plastics pollution, species protection, university and school teach-ins, tree plantings, local and global clean-ups, switching to a more plant-based diet, or voting with your wallet and your ballot.

To learn more about Earth Day, visit earthday.org V1 - TCHE01Z01ST

TOOWOOMBA CONSULTATIONS: 1800SNOREX www.snorex.com.au

advice

Records were kept of these banns and many survive.

During the 1850s in Australia, civil registration became compulsory and marriage certificates were issued.

It is an index of these that we find online, but there is so much more information than is found in an index.

By purchasing a copy, you will be sure you have the right couple and you will be able to go back another generation.

What you will find on the marriage certificate: place and date of marriage, full name, age, occupation and birthplace of the bride and groom, names of both parents, occupation of fathers.

Do not forget to investigate the witnesses – they may be family members.

But, do remember that people sometime gave false information. A step- parent’s name could be given instead of a birth parent. An illegitimate child could record a false name for a father or one marriage partner could adjust his or her age to become closer in age to the other.

Full age meant over 21 years and under that age meant the marriage could take place only if a parent or guardian gave consent.

Of course, that meant another adjustment in age if that consent was not possible.

At TDDFHS we have access to birth, death and marriage records for all Australian states as well as church records for many local churches.

Some of these church registers have been indexed, not only for the bride and groom, but also for the parents and witnesses.

Here comes the bride (and groom)

BY JAN WARD – TOOWOOMBA AND DARLING DOWNS FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY

T

here is no way that you can ever find out if your ancestors married for love, but you can discover the details of the marriage itself. The newspapers will give us the engagement and wedding notice with their social columns maybe providing a write-up of an engagement or pre-wedding party and a description of the wedding and the gifts, but it is the marriage record that provides us with the most family history information.

Most people married in a church and most couples married by banns. This meant that an announcement of the coming marriage was read out in church for three consecutive weeks.

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PROPERTY AGENTS

New Year

•

New Agency

Helen Austin

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“

New Synergy

J Just reflecting, and I genuinely want to thank you for making what could be a tough, long,drawn out process so quick and smooth sailing with a great result!

— sellers of 21 Godfrey Street

”

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new de facto partner or married and, for the unfortunate few, in a situation of separation once more.

If you are one of the many who fit into the previously separated category (for want of a better phrase), it is important, for your wellbeing and that of your children, that you consider how your new love is going to impact on both your personal family situation; as well as your ongoing financial security.

For those of us who see people at one of the most difficult points in their lives, we don’t want to see the new love dimmed by dispute when it can be very easily sorted out (if the worst was to happen later) at any early date.

Things such as mutual debts, tenants in common (instead of joint tenancy) when purchasing property, and wills and estates should all be considered, along with beneficiaries for superannuation and life insurances.

At the end of the day, there are very few of us who would not wish for our children and other family members to be appropriately protected if the worst was to happen.

Such discussions can be hard to start but, in the majority of times, can be undertaken in a friendly and amicable basis.

After all, what everyone is doing is protecting themselves, their families, and their new romance. At the end of the day, who doesn’t want to stop a dispute if they can?

While the romance continues, and the flowers bloom, ensure you seek the advice you need.

Another shot at love

BY BEST WILSON BUCKLEY FAMILY LAW

I

7014669an

t’s the time of year again for love, with the romance of Valentine’s Day just around the corner.

The excitement and joy of the new beginnings (or older stability) of romance and love should not bring concern for the future, although for those of us who have previously had relationships that have ended, there can be.

“Never again” are often the parting words from a client at the end of their matter.

However, I often see those same people some time later with a

A relationship you can count on Voted a leading family law firm in Toowoomba, Darling Downs and Western Queensland for five consecutive years, the team at Best Wilson Buckley Family Law are your local family law team.

Remote service Four Accredited Family Law Specialist Property settlements, experience in rural property mattters Parenting matters and child support

Collaborative practice and mediation Separation and divorce issues De facto relationships Planning financial agreements including Pre-Nups 135 Margaret Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350 07 4639 0000 info@bwbfl.com.au bwbfamilylaw.com.au TCHE01Z01ST - V1

advice

INFORMATION SUPPLIED BY GREENCROSS VETS

D

id you know that at the ripe age of seven, dogs and cats are classified as senior pets?

A recent study found that one in four pet owners weren’t aware their pet had transitioned into a senior but, just like humans, pets also experience the effects of ageing.

This can include greying hair, sore joints, changes to eyesight, lumps and bumps as well as behavioural issues just to name a few, and all can have an impact on their health.

Here are the common health conditions for senior pets and how to help them: 1. Arthritis – You may notice your furry loved ones start to slow down and decline physically, which can be a sign of arthritis.

If your dog or cat is limping or having difficulty getting up, consult your local vet to have them assessed.

Also, keep an eye out for irritability and tiredness.

If your dog or cat does have arthritis, you’ll be given a plan to help manage symptoms and be advised of the treatments available.

2. Nutrition – As pets age, they experience changes in their metabolism.

Switch to dog and cat foods that specifically cater to seniors to make sure they’re getting the correct nutrients for their life stage.

Make sure you keep your pet’s energy levels in mind so that their meal portions and exercise regimen are a good match.

3. Behaviour – Dogs and cats can experience mood changes as they get older, so monitor how they interact with others.

It’s important to identify any shifts in behaviour and deal with these changes before they become an issue.

Sometimes changes in behaviour can be linked to health issues, such as arthritis or tooth pain for example, so be sure to check in with your vet if you see any changes in your fur baby.

The transition from adult to senior dog is nothing to worry about if you know what to watch out for. If you have any conerns or want more information you can contact your local vet clinic.

We bring dreams to life by delivering the world’s best and most loved client experiences.

Contact your local pool building expert today Kerry Colette 0438 434 469 narellanpools.com.au V1 - TCHE01Z01ST

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Helping your pets age gracefully

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Are you maximising your rental return?

BY ROS BURTON – THE REAL ESTATE PEOPLE

A

sk any landlord if they’d like an extra $10, $20 or even $50 a week in rent for their property and I’m pretty sure I know what the answer would be.

A very big “yes please”.

But arbitrarily putting rents up, just for the sake of it, is incredibly unfair on tenants.

Ideally, you want a rent rise to be justified and, where possible, the tenant should benefit as well.

You want it to be a win/win situation.

One guaranteed way to increase your rent (and add value to your investment property) is to do some renovations between tenancies.

A lick of paint or new carpets can make all the difference.

I fully understand most landlords don’t have a bottomless well of cash to dip into, but it’s vitally important they listen to what the market is saying about their property.

Like buyers going through open houses on a weekend, potential renters are inspecting any number of properties looking for the ‘right fit’ and their opinions and feedback are invaluable.

Are they looking for a furnished property? Is the kitchen dated? Does the loungeroom need an air-conditioner or the bedrooms require fans?

Spending those few extra dollars can secure a quality tenant and a higher rental

income.

For a small outlay, you can greatly improve the presentation and value of your property (with all the tax benefits that apply), you are guaranteed more rent will be coming your way, you most probably will have your pick of tenants and the one you select will feel at home in your property and will be happy to pay a premium or even commit to a long-term lease.

That’s a win/win/win/win result in my book.

At The Real Estate People, we consider our word is our bond and we understand how clear communication and following through on promises is an integral part of good customer service.

So, whether you’re buying, renting or selling, call us today or visit our Herries Street office and discover how we can help you sleep easy at night.

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

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

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advice

W

hen it comes to a long-distance relationship, being apart is the worst part.

You can’t hug or kiss and do the couple stuff all the time but, as the saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder.

Whether you live in separate houses, cities or even countries, the same relationship virtues and values apply.

Be caring, compromising, committed and communicative.

You will eventually be able to see each other in person, but being able to interact at a distance is important in keeping a strong bond.

A few things you might want to consider doing together, no matter how many miles apart, is to play online games together, watch movies or documentaries at the same time or even shop online together – there really is no limit.

There is an application for your smart phone called RAVE. This apple app allows you and anyone across the globe to easily simultaniously watch films together on platforms like YouTube and Netflix.

You’ll be able to text and talk while you watch and feel as if your best friend was sitting directly in front of you.

Ultimately, make sure you both have the same goal long term.

Long-distance relations aren’t great for brief relationships. They can be expensive, mentally exhausting and worrisome.

But if you have someone you want to eventually be with for the rest of your life, then hold on to them and work as a team to make your goal come true.

Six months might seem like a long time, but the 60 years that follow will be totally worth it.

Making long-distance work

Aged care you can trust... in your home or ours.

Fully Concessional Residents pay only 85% of Aged pension and no lump sum accommodation payments

We take great pride in providing quality Residential Aged Care to anyone who needs it - whether that be a pensioner with minimal assets or a self-funded retiree.

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Historic Boondooma Homestead 8262 Mundubera-Durong Road, Boondooma QLD 4613

6 DAYS of Entertainment from 21 to 26 April 2020 ANZAC Service, Saturday 25 April, 9.00am entertainment to follow

also featuring …

Lindsay Waddington

• 24 hour accredited & subsidised care • Range of room types, all with own ensuites • Comfortable, homely environment • Coffee shop, Wi-Fi, hairdresser, beautician • All meals cooked on-site • Regular leisure activities and social outings Residential Care, Home Care, Retirement Village For more information, please contact us: 13 Goggs Street, Toowoomba

riginal ‘Spirit of the Bus h’ TRADITIONAL Balladeers & Heritage Muster 2020 The o

Gary Fogarty

Anita Ree

Clarrie Weller

Brian Letton

Kalesti Butler

Chris Callaghan

Rosanna Ruddick

Celebrates

20

years

Entertainers – Tony Wagner, Jeff Brown, Col Edmonds, Amanda Faulkner, Laura Downing, Charmaine Pout, Greg Bain, Ashley Cook, Dean Perrett, Jack Viljoen Poets – Brenda Joy, Paul Fleming, Suzanne Honour, Brian Weier, John Bidgood Band – Kev Groves, Alan Blowers, Ian Wilson Poetry & Ballads – 7.30am until late on 22 April to 24 April; 10.00am until late on 25 April; 7.30am to 3.00pm on 26 April.

Plus the Homestead Balladeers and Poetry Competitions. Walkup artists are welcome onstage.

Chord sheets must be organised for their set.

ALL materials must be of Australian content.

Licensed Bar – BBQ – Stalls – Chips/Drinks (stall holders welcome, must have own insurance) Camp oven meals by Boondooma’s Camp Oven Cooking Team ADMISSION $110 per person for the full festival.

Includes camping from Tuesday 21 April to Monday 27 April 2020. Day rates and Bush Camping are also available. SORRY NO EFTPOS. Bring your own mug and get FREE tea and coffee ALL weekend CONTACTS General information Pattie Brown (07) 4168 0173, 0408 070 769 pattie_mitsi@westnet.com.au Caretakers on (07) 4168 0159 info@boondoomahomestead.org.au Website boondoomahomestead.org.au

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BRODRIBB HOME

RAVE - Watch Together Videos with Friends

home

Your perfect home office

As Individual As You Are

N E P O W O N

Rustic Barn Doors | Painted Barn Doors | Installation Service DIY Installation Kit — Showroom — 13-21 Cambooya St, Drayton 0421 275 513 www.bespokebarndoors.co

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A

ccording to Global Workplace Analytics, almost 25 per cent of Australians work at home at least one day a week.

However, to successfully work from your home it makes sense to create an inspirational and stylish home office.

A well-designed home office space could be as small as a

cupboard or it could take over a whole room, and its design is important.

Keep in mind that privacy, or lack of it, can make or break the success of your work or completed to-do list, so try to choose a room that’s away from high traffic areas to minimise distractions wherever possible.

Proper lighting is also essential – both ambient and task lighting, as the more visually demanding a task the more lighting you will need.

Measure your space and draw a scale sketch on a piece of graph paper, including the electrical outlets, doors and windows.

Lay out the room until it’s the way you want it, then check your layout for access to cupboards and equipment.

Finally, the office essentials would at minimum include a desk, a chair and storage.

But that does not mean these pieces have to have a dreary corporate look.

For your desk, you could go the traditional route with a timber desk, you could repurpose a dining table, or choose a funky trestle or Perspex table.

Your next must-have is a chair: whether you choose an ergonomic executive chair or a beautiful antique chair, ensure it is supremely comfortable.

The next element is storage. There is an abundance of choice, from retro to repurposed pieces to classical filing cabinets.

For decorative items, choose inspirational pieces such as a vision board, framed photos, an uplifting candle, art and lots of lush plants.

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New chapter in pool business

A

ndrea and Jim Campbell have proudly owned and operated Toowoomba’s Leisure Pools franchise since December 2008, and now are excited for a new chapter in their life: the ownership of Lange Pool & Spa. “Over the past 11 years, we have installed over 500 swimming pools in the Darling Downs and wider region,” Jim says.

However, the couple realised they wanted to be able to provide their valued customers with a complete service.

“Now owning Lange Pool & Spa, we will be there the whole step of the way,” Jim says.

“The two businesses complement each other.”

While Leisure Pools focuses on mainly pools and the sales and installation side of the process, Lange Pool & Spa is a “high-profile pool and spa supplies business”, Jim explains.

“We can now offer professional advice from when a customer first decides on their pool or spa purchase, to assistance during the installation process, and then many years of expert advice and customer service in order to maintain their pool or spa,” he adds.

“We are providing Toowoomba with a one-stop-shop for inground and aboveground swimming pools and spas, and all swimming pool needs,” Andrea says.

“The wealth of knowledge and the customer service each business has to offer with regards to pools, spas, pumps, filtration, chemicals and pool servicing, is truly amazing.”

The newly-acquired business offers a fantastic range of above-ground spas and swimming pools, so customers have even more range to realise their backyard dreams.

Added to all these perks, there’s even a lack of disruption to normal trading – so customers can remain familiar with both businesses, their location and operating hours.

“There will not be any changes to the operation of either business, except to say that the Lange Pool & Spa showroom located at 42 Water Street, Toowoomba, will now also be showcasing the Leisure Pools products,” Andrea says.

“The two businesses will remain separate entities, however, Jim and the staff from each business will work alongside each other from start to finish with each customer,” she adds.

So, what are you waiting for? Start realising your dream of a backyard pool or spa by calling Leisure Pools on 1300 775 274 or Lange Pool & Spa on 4632 4411.

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home

Minor changes add up in reno You don’t have to tear your entire house apart to create your dream home here’s no disputing that renovations can be expensive, but they don’t have to be.

Provided you don’t want to completely gut the house, your home can get a fresh new look for only a few hundred dollars.

T

home, but laying down new carpet can be pricey.

An alternative is to use vinyl flooring – there are many on the market now that imitate wood or tiles flawlessly – or with any luck, you’ll find hardwood floors under the carpet that just need a sand and polish.

Also, if you’re looking to retile, you can save time and money by laying the new tiles over the top of the old ones.

PAINT, PAINT, PAINT

HANDLES, LIGHTS, AND OTHER FITTINGS

Most house and building magazines will tell you “just repaint the interior walls’’ but there are many other applications for a fresh coat. For the bathroom, there is specialised paint available to give your bathtub, vanity, or toilet an update, as well as another type for revamping the driveway or garage floor.

In the kitchen, instead of ripping out the old wood fixtures and detailing, simply paint an ageless colour over the top.

Possibly the easiest and cheapest way to revamp your home is by updating fittings.

There are so many unique and funky door handles available now that you can add some of your own individual personality to your home.

Adding new light fittings to your home can be as expensive or inexpensive as you wish, and really add personality to a room.

There are also light switch casings in myriad shapes and colours.

Finally, giving your windows a new look is almost essential, and can be done relatively easily with new blinds or curtains.

REFLOORING Ripping up dead carpet often makes a world of difference to a

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COST CUTTING...

...or COST SAVING? I

t’s never easy accurately predicting the future, but two things are sure.

Demand for quality never wanes, and quality can always demand a premium.

That’s because good quality is better than, and outlasts, poor quality.

Those intent on having a new home built generally fall into two broad groups.

First, there’s the ‘cost-cutters’ who understandably want as much house as they can get for their budget but therefore choose the cheapest of everything. Then there’s the ‘cost-savers’ who strategically plan their new home to be the best it can be within their budget.

No-one has an unlimited pile of cash, so budget will always be a limiting factor.

The cost-cutters, in my view, tend to be the short-sighted group, fearing their limited budget automatically means limited options, therefore limited house. I say short-sighted because cheapness has its own built-in, hidden add-on costs.

The second group, the cost-savers, are more far-sighted. They also still have to work within their budget, but go for products and overall home designs they know will actually save them money in the future.

The funny thing is, while the real initial cost difference can be very minor, the ongoing running cost can be huge. Generally, the more consideration put into energy-saving design at the beginning, the bigger the cost savings later. In

simple terms, the cheapest initial build option may well turn out to be the most expensive in the long run.

There is a two-fold trap for the unwary cost-cutters. First, a cheaply built home requires expensive add-ons to make it habitable. Not just expensive to buy, but costly to run. This is where you may find your home is actually fighting against you all the way. If your new home was cheap to build but poorly designed, your add-on aircon – regardless of how ‘efficient’ it is – is busting itself every day, working hard to overcome the natural elements.

The second point is that a home, strategically designed to work well with the landscape and environment, will not only be much more liveable naturally, but is more likely to command a price premium at sale time. Therefore, not only is it a Look for this column cheaper home to run than a cheaply built in next month’s Style... house, it will pay you back handsomely we will continue digging later. Many home buyers today are much deeper into what more savvy these days, and will simply ‘sustainability’ means for spurn cheaply and poorly built homes.

— Geoff Gibson

BUILDER OF QUEENSLAND’S MOST ENERGY EFFICIENT IENT HOME QUEENSLAND GREENSMART ENERGY EFFICIENCY HOME OF THE YEAR

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your home.

Feature

Artist

Jenie Fawckner chats to Style

Tell us a little about yourself Originally from Central Queensland, I am now based on a little farm close to Hampton, north of Toowoomba. We purpose built my current Art studio when we moved here three years ago. It is my dream workspace and creative sanctuary. I am a full-time artist and I work on my art practice 9am to 5pm, five days per week.

Describe your style?

Probably close to a form of modern impressionism. It definitely “comes together” to form my subject matter the further away you view it from. I very much aim to capture the “feel and atmosphere” of the landscape with my personal interpretation rather than a definitive detailed representation.

What inspires you?

Everything around me, particularly nature.

Rather than searching for outstandingly beautiful things and places to paint, I think I have taught myself to look deep into my subject matter and find the beauty in everything. Often the landscapes I find are pretty ordinary scenes to the eye, but I have learnt to see them in a different way and get super excited about exposing their hidden composition and perspective, or colours and shapes.

When did you start painting?

I had a very creative childhood, so I have drawn and painted for as long as I can remember. Art was my favourite subject at school, then I went on to train for three years after school. I have been a

screen-printing and painting artist parttime ever since I left school, then became full-time about six years ago. I have slowly let my painting evolve into a larger part of my work output. I still screen print for diversity, and I have a printmaking studio.

How has your art evolved?

My painting style has evolved into a much looser, more confident mark making approach.

Why do you enjoy painting?

The emotional high of completing a successful painting and then spending time with it, dissecting and wondering how you actually painted it. I paint for the feeling of immense pleasure that I get from seeing someone so joyous and excited to own the artwork.

For your calendar..

GRAMMAR Jenie Fawckner 2020 Feature Artist

Art Show 28-29 March 2020

A diverse & beautiful range of art ... brought together for you

Jenie Fawckner

Jenie Fawckner

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Jenie Fawckner

art

Framed with: BRYDIE PERKINS BRAKELS WHAT'S YOUR MEDIUM? I create bright, bold and happy pieces for groovy people! My palette is one of mixed media, I like to experiment and get excited when there’s a new product to experiment with!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PAINTING? I honestly can’t remember a time when I haven’t been painting and creating. It’s part of who I am, not just what I do.

WHERE DID YOU LEARN TO PAINT? Art runs through my veins! I have grown and developed my own individual style artistically with the aid of a bright palette.

Surrounded by it my whole life and mentoring from Mum. IF YOU COULD PREPARE A PAINTING FOR ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE? I’ve always had a love for Noel Fielding and would love to create a piece for him. I think my palette would allow me to make a magical and psychedelic piece for him.

WHY HAVE YOU FOCUSED ON FLORAL PIECES? I have always loved flowers, flowers make me happy! I’ve found that many of the people I know just don’t have the space or time for gardens anymore and I love that I can bring nature into people’s homes and apartments in a different way.

IS THERE AN ARTIST YOU ARE INSPIRED BY? Del Kathryn Barton, I could look at her whimsical pieces forever and ever.

WHAT’S HARD ABOUT BEING AN ARTIST? The toughest part would have to be that some people see it purely as a hobby and not a business or career path.

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motoring

I

’ll be honest, there aren’t too many drive-in cinemas remaining.

This doesn’t mean you won’t have to pick your date up in your car and have them witness the horror of a mess first-hand.

Cleaning your car inside and out can be tedious, and if you’re anything but human I’m sure a few vehicle cleaning tips won’t hurt.

CLEAN AND ORGANISE This step is straight forward, remove anything that shouldn’t be in your car, and move useful items like an umbrella or torch to the boot.

Receipts, rubbish and food goes can go in the bin; and books and bags you want to keep should migrate into your dwelling, we don’t need to be moving something off the seat when your date gets to your car.

INTERNAL CLEANSE As for this step, you might need to collect a few cleaning things.

Gather what you can of car cleaner, microfibre towels, Q-tips, old toothbrushes, glass cleaner and a vacuum cleaner.

Begin by cleaning all the glass inside the car, both windows, mirror and windscreen – spray the glass cleaner directly onto the microfibre cloth to avoid spillage.

Now all the hard surfaces can be cleaned.

Wipe the dash, console and doors using a cloth and cleaner (Be careful with leather as some cleaners might harm them).

Dont go too crazy with a spray or deodoriser, but you do want the car to smell fresh - not too sterile but not like Mcdonalds either.

SEATS AND FLOOR Remove floor mats and take off the seat covers if they need a machine wash.

Vacuum up any larger crumbs and then attach an upholstery nozzle to your vacuum and get in between the seatbelts and crevasses.

If there are any tricky stains, use a tooth brush to loosen and then go over with the vacuum.

Finish up by vacuuming the floor and returning the cleaned floor mats and seat covers to the car.

EXTERNAL WASH Make sure all, the windows are wound up for this part, because you don’t want a drive-around pool at the end of this.

Use a hose to wet the outside of the car, this will help highlight the dirt and debris which has barnicled onto your vehicle.

Now some elbow grease, using a sponge and car cleaner work on sections of your car at a time, remember to rinse the suds and loosened particles off every panel and window as you go starting with the roof.

The most stubborn spots will be the grill bumper and bar absorber at the front, under the doors and on the wheel guards.

Lastly, give those hubs a good clean, especially if you have a chrome finish - it will make a world of difference.

Let it dry, and your car is now date night ready and perfect for Valentines Day.

Preparing the car for date night

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Spacious, sporty, savy.

The all-new Audi A1 Sportback.

Bigger in size, striking in design, connected and intuitive, the all-new Audi A1 Sportback is all grown up.

From the outside, the all-new Audi A1 Sportback speaks a new design language. The combination of distinctive daytime running lights, pronounced wheel arches, shorter overhangs and 18” alloy wheels result in an edgy and sporty road presence.

Whether the road leads around town or on a weekend excursion, the powerful engines in the all-new Audi A1 Sportback make diving so much fun.

There is a choice of efficient turbocharged, direct-injection petrol engines with outputs ranging from 85 kW to 147 kW.

Boasting the sportiest interior in the compact class, the all-new Audi A1 Sportback will make life much more comfortable for the driver and passengers. Despite the compact exterior dimensions and the sporty roofline of the new Audi A1 Sportback, adults in the rear seats enjoy much more head, shoulder and elbow room.

The driver-oriented cockpit aims to please with its emotive, customizable design. Standard with an all-digital instrument cluster with a high-resolution, 10.25-inch display and a multifunction steering wheel, the Audi A1 Sportback is fit for the digital future.

Wireless Apple Carplay, MMI 8.8” touch screen and Android Auto are just some of the many standard features

ensuring you’re always connected and up to date.

The new driver assistance systems available in the all-new Audi A1 Sportback include technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and Audi pre-sense front which can help recognise critical situations involving other vehicles, crossing pedestrians or cyclists ahead of the vehicle.

Experience the all-new Audi A1 Sportback for yourself at Audi Centre Toowoomba.

Above photography by Joshua at Developed Creative, joshua@developedcreative.com.au.

Audi Vorsprung durch Technik

The all-new Audi A1 Sportback.

The all-new Audi A1 Sportback redefines the compact sector. Taking inspiration from the iconic Ur-quattro and Sport quattro, the A1 Sportback puts the driver at the heart of everything. Surrounded with the latest in driver assistance and infotainment, you enjoy an exhilarating, poised ride thanks to its turbocharged, direct-injection petrol engine producing outputs of up to 147kW. Experience wisdom.

Young is the new wise.

The all-new Audi A1 Sportback.

TheAudi all-newVorsprung Audi A1 Sportback redefines the compact sector. Taking inspiration from the iconic Ur-quattro durch Technik and Sport quattro, the A1 Sportback puts the driver at the heart of everything. Surrounded with the latest in driver assistance and infotainment, you enjoy an exhilarating, poised ride thanks to its turbocharged, direct-injection Contact Centre to bookwisdom. your test drive. petrol engines Audi producing outputsToowoomba of up to 147kW. Experience

Clifford and Herries Street, Toowoomba | Tel. 07 4631 9944 | audicentretoowoomba.com.au

Contact Audi Centre Toowoomba to book your test drive.

Overseas model shown.

1005013.

Clifford and Herries Street, Toowoomba | Tel. 07 4631 9944 | audicentretoowoomba.com.au Overseas model shown. 1005013.

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entertainment

COMMON TIME WITH: WADE FEICHTNER

A

7126519ad

s a bartender in Jindabyne, Wade Fiechtner saw a disc jockey playing and started up a conversation. Soon after, he got his own equipment.

It was a rough start for the teenager who was a self-proclaimed train wreck in the beginning.

With lots and lots of practice, Wade found himself performing where it all started and delivered his first gig at the Jindabyne Station Resort.

And so, the creation of DJ Thrump began, although the name didn’t last and he evolved from that alias to his actual name, Wade Feichtner.

“The name DJ Thrump was a little cringe, so I just felt that the change to my real name was a good move.”

Wade performs at nightclubs around Toowoomba and has even travelled to the Gold Coast for some notable events.

“My biggest would be playing the Schoolies 2019 Beach Stage ... it was such a vibe,” he says.

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entertainment WHAT SONG SEEMS TO ALWAYS WORK THE CROWD UP? It’s always different, sometimes curtain songs work one weekend and the next weekend it doesn’t work as well. Throwback remix/ mashups work quite well.

WHAT DOES THE OPPOSITE? Hardcore type music, that may clear the place, but you never know?

FUNNIEST MOMENTS ON THE JOB? Seeing people slip up and try pretending it didn’t happen, and sometimes you’ll see the odd person asleep in the club.

WHICH DJ DO YOU ASPIRE TO BE LIKE? I Aspire to be like Nick Skitz, Jauz, Ghastly, What So Not, Skrillex, Timmy Trumpet, but I don’t really aspire to be like them I aspire to be Wade Fiechtner.

WHAT’S HARD ABOUT BEING A DJ? Keeping a good sleeping pattern, that’s hard.

WHAT ANNOYS YOU THE MOST? I don’t really get to annoyed but a little when people come up and say, “Oh play this song it’s a banger, it’ll go off, the crowd will love it,” and infact, I know it won’t. It’ll clear the place.

Collaborating with local DJs, Wade has made mixes with Jaymouth, Hoodlvm, and some mashup packs with Troy Elliott and Will Mind.

We had a chat to Wade to find out what it’s really like being a DJ.

DO YOU HAVE A LIMIT TO THE TYPE OF FUNCTION YOU WOULD DO? Yeah, I’m not into doing wedding gigs.

DREAM GIG? My Dream would be to play EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival) or Tomorrowland.

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entertainment

Remakes galore

BY JESSICA KRAMER

I

f you’ve enjoyed the recent remakes of classics like Disney’s Aladdin, or remake spin-offs like The Hustle (a modern parody of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels), then 2020 could very well be your year in a film sense.

From classics to children’s movies, this year brings a plethora of remakes.

LITTLE WOMEN Kicking off the season on January 1, this film was based on the book of the same name by Louisa May Alcott – which, in turn, has spurred many a movie, TV show and theatre production, including the arguably best-known 1994 film version.

Director Greta Gerwig’s remake has set a standard of excellence for this year’s movies to come.

DOLITTLE Remember those fun movies with Eddie Murphy and his cacophony of talking animals? Well, forget them because this reboot wasn’t of those: it’s of the 1967 version Doctor Dolittle – which admittedly stayed more true to the source material of 1922 hit novel, The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle.

Robert Downey Jr starred as the main role in this January release, with many other well-known stars as animal voices and other characters.

EMMA Jane Austen’s novels seem to endear themselves to film and TV adaptations, and no few of them either.

This February 11 release will feature Anya Taylor-Joy in the titular role, with Johnny Flynn as Mr Knightley, Mia Goth as

Harriet Smith, and Amber Anderson as Jane Fairfax; among others.

THE INVISIBLE MAN It’s been a while since this science fiction psychological horror got an adaptation, but it’s a reboot nonetheless.

Loosely based on H.G. Wells’ book and a 1933 film of the same name, The Invisible Man (out February) follows Cecilia Kass as she escapes a violent and controlling relationship with a scientist, only for him to commit suicide and leave her his fortune.

However, Cecilia believes his death was a trick and that she’s being hunted by someone nobody can see.

MULAN Disney is at it again with yet another live-action recreation, this time of their 1998 classic Mulan.

Releasing in Australia on March 26, fans are expecting a more culturally-accurate yet feminist version this time around.

2020s Mulan seems to be departing somewhat from the original, but we’ve still yet to see if it will be a musical, or if dragon sidekick Mushu will be appearing.

THE SECRET GARDEN The wistful tones of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 book and the 1993 film are being remade into a more lush version, arriving on Australia’s big screens mid-April.

Based on the teaser trailer, the fantasy element of the famous garden will play a bigger part in this version of the classic, and rumours also suggest a time frame change from the turn of the 20th century to 1947 – a clever way to deal with the more colonialist aspects of the original novel.

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entertainment

The Secret Garden Cookbook

by Amy Cotler Food (yes, including the porridge), a Taste of India, and Garden Picnics.

Many of the recipes simply ooze authenticity and make you feel as though you’re running around the Secret Garden with Mary, Colin, and Dickon themselves.

There’s also dishes that ring true for other childhood favourite stories: jam roly-poly, currant buns, and pease porriage, to name a few.

The reader/baker can envision themselves alongside the characters of Enid Blyton books as well, with a recipe list like that.

Any reader will spend many a happy hour in the kitchen with this book.

BY JESSICA KRAMER

Y

es, you read that title right: this is a cookbook dedicated to the cuisine of the times and book content of The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Beautifully illustrated and with informative sections as to the cuisine of the day, there are many recipes to choose from.

The author has divided the book into sections according to meals and places in the original classic book: Yorkshire Breakfasts, the Manor Lunch, From the Kitchen Garden, Dickon’s Cottage

The Secret Garden Cookbook by Amy Cotler is published by Harvard Common Press. RRP $24.99. Available from February 4, 2020.

Little People, Big Dreams: David Attenborough

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

BY JESSICA KRAMER

L

et’s be honest here: yes, this is a children’s picture book.

But this beautiful tome can be thoroughly enjoyed by adults as well.

The name David Attenborough is synonymous with wildlife and our natural world, for most people, and it is intriguing to discover where Sir Attenborough’s passion was born and how he made it in the world of media and television.

The latest in a series of picture books that celebrate well-known personalities in the world, past and present (such as Frida Kahlo, Jane Austen, Martin Luther King Jr and Stephen Hawking), this tome is illustrated so beautifully that it is worth the ‘read’ for the pictures alone.

And truthfully, childhood David is simply adorable.

The text is simple enough for children to understand and early readers to have a go reading themselves, while still interesting enough for the adult reader – making it an all-round great next instalment for the Little People, Big Dreams series.

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Little People, Big Dreams: David Attenborough by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara is published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books. RRP $19.99. Available from February 4, 2020.

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cuisine

The perfect side RECIPE ADAPTED FROM TASTE.COM.AU

Drain and let them cool, then peel and chop into chunks.

A

traditional Aussie summer equals our favourite seasonal meats with a plethora of salads.

Most families have their particular recipes that come out of “storage’’ each year, plus maybe a new salad to try, but one common denominator seems to be a classic potato salad.

Here’s a version of the beloved side to add to your table this season.

STEP 2 Meanwhile, heat a large non-stick frying pan over high heat.

Add brown onion and cook for two to three minutes or until onion has softened.

Transfer to a large bowl, and add potato, egg and ham.

STEP 3 Combine mayonnaise and vinegar in a bowl and add to potato mixture.

Season with salt and pepper.

Toss to combine.

Serve topped with gherkins and green onion.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • 600g unpeeled Nicola potatoes • 2 slices of cold ham, chopped • 1 medium brown onion, chopped finely • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped • 1/2 cup whole-egg mayonnaise • 1 tbsp cider vinegar • 2 gherkins, finely chopped • 3 spring onions, thinly sliced

DID YOU KNOW?

STEP 1 Cook potatoes in a large saucepan of boiling, salted water for 15 minutes, or until tender.

Widely believed to have originated in Germany, from where it spread widely throughout Europe and later to European colonies, potato salad contains an average of 143 calories per 100 grams and is a good source of vitamin C (16 per cent per 100 grams).

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cuisine

Summer food health T

here’s nothing worse than a bout of food poisoning in the sticky summer heat.

When you’re entertaining, the last thing you want is to discover your guests were bedridden for the next week (let alone yourself or your household).

Fortunately, there’s some simple rules-of-thumb to follow that will ensure nobody gets food poisoning.

SEPARATE, SEPARATE, SEPARATE It’s tempting to just rinse the chopping board you used for meat and keep using it for vegies, but it’s really not worth the risk.

A separate board should be used for raw meat, vegetables and

fruit, and cooked meat; the same goes for packing food for a picnic – keep raw foods together and cooked foods together.

Keep raw meat on the bottom shelf of the fridge (so the juices have nowhere to drip down to).

Also, ensure they’re seperated from fruit and vegies.

KEEP THE TIME LIMIT It’s natural during warmer weather to have meals outside, or even just having a cheese and dip platter out during entertaining.

This is fine, as long as food isn’t out too long and gets thrown away once it reaches that time span.

The Australian Institute of Food Safety recommends two hours as the upper limit, but if the day is extremely hot, this time should be reduced.

BETTER STORAGE It’s also recommended not to leave hot food to cool completely before you put it in the fridge.

The food should be placed in the fridge or freezer as soon as steam stops rising from it, to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria.

It’s also important to not overfill your fridge, as this will reduce its cooling capacity.

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travel

An unconventional trip around Australia

T

devastating New South Wales fires hit last year.

“The first time Jerry left me to go back to work, I was parked up at Halliday’s Point, this is where the New South Wales fires affected just recently.

“I had to hook the van up and move three times to get away from fire dangers.

“It was scary, and I had never hooked and unhooked the van before by myself or driven it without him coaching me in the passenger seat, but I had no choice,” she said.

“I have always been okay with Jerry working away, but him leaving me in an unfamiliar place has been the biggest change for me but I’m getting used to it.”

The expense of a caravan park hasn’t been too much of a burden on the duo either.

While Jerry returns to work, Melissa organises a World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) for two weeks.

“When Jerry leaves me, I will try and arrange a WWOOFer host and pull up on their property for the two weeks he’s away.

“Essentially, saving a lot of money on caravan park fees and they also include food, so saving money on food is awesome too,” Melissa says.

7100351aa

ravelling around Australia takes a significant amount of planning and time, but Melissa Dean and her partner Jerry Paii didn’t do either.

In June last year, they rented their house out to some friends who also fostered their dog, purchased a caravan and set off on the trip of a life time.

“I had to pack our whole life into a tiny caravan.

“Trying to make sure we had what we needed for day-to-day activities as well as the necessities was a challenge,” says Melissa.

It didn’t take long for things to go south, and the couple’s caravan broke down shortly after departure.

Returning to Toowoomba, Melissa and Jerry purchased a new caravan and by October they had returned to the vast open road and re-commenced their journey.

Their trip isn’t as normal as you might think, with Jerry employed in a fly in/fly out (FIFO) position Melissa finds herself going solo often.

“We technically don’t have to be based in one place for him to get to work, we just need to make sure he is close to an airport for the start of his hitch,” she said.

This also meant that Melissa found herself alone when the

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travel

Australia, devoting a whole year to Western Australia and the Northern Territory and then wherever the road takes them.

The two are excited to see where their travels will take them, but the rest of world isn’t off the table.

“I would love to do South America, explore the culture and their rural areas,” she said.

Asked if she ever regretted the decision to travel Australia Melissa’s answer was quite the opposite.

“My only regret is not doing it sooner.”

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Melissa says she likes to be organised and make plans, but has had to put down the organiser because they kept straying from their itinerary too frequently.

“I’ve already learnt you’re never going to stick to it (an itinerary),” she said “We wake up and decide if we are moving on or staying.”

Melissa and Jerry have already made quite a mark on the map and travelled up north to Darwin and Edith Falls and down the east coast to Kangaroo Valley.

“Darwin and Edith Falls was so beautiful, Peaceful, serene and a great cool down on a hot day.

“In Kangaroo Valley, we were up close and personal with wombats, they were pretty cool to be around in the wild,” Melissa says.

“Our usual day to day activities always seem to end in us finding something awesome, we love exploring rock pools where you find some unusual sea life and weird rock formations.

“Bushwalks and finding the unexpected waterholes that you have all to yourselves, we love just getting lost in nature and finding the more undiscovered areas.”

Melissa says that they want to try to see every corner of

travel

Diver safety: how to avoid the bends

F

or those who are fascinated with life below the waves, it rarely gets better than a scuba diving trip.

From the relaxation of a shallow reef dive to the thrill of wreck diving and the wonder of getting close to marine life, few water activities compare to going under.

Although scuba diving is a safe sport and an activity almost anyone can do, there are some things you should never do immediately after completing a dive, all of which relate to altitude and blood flow.

The reason for this is that gases (mainly nitrogen) dissolve into your muscles during a dive (due to the increased pressure as you descend) and need time to slowly decompress again as you finish your dive.

Failing to safely decompress may lead to divers getting “the bends’’, or decompression sickness (DCS).

If divers resurface too quickly, all the built-up nitrogen rapidly escapes as bubbles – exactly like the bubbles that form when you open a bottle of carbonated water.

These bubbles can block blood flow and tear

or stretch blood vessels and nerves.

Not a fun experience when all you wanted was a diving holiday.

Most commonly, symptoms of the bends include pain in and around major joints and excessive fatigue (more than you would expect from diving), but can also include more severe neurological and lymphatic issues.

Assuming you’ve done your safety stops and reached dry ground without incident, there are further safety steps that divers have to take.

For best post-diving results, avoid: • Flying – at a minimum, you should not fly within 12 hours after scuba diving, but this surface interval increases with each dive you complete (most divers err on the side of caution and plan a 24-hour surface exploration).

• Mountains – ascending a mountain has the same effect as flying in an airplane, so limit your exploring to sea level.

• Hot tubs – as the heat from the water improves your circulation, the risk of bubble formation also increases.

• Deep-tissue massages – as with hot tubs, the issue here is increased blood flow.

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travel

Reduce packing stress No-one likes leaving the house feeling like they’ve forgotten to pack something before a big holiday, so here are some tips for a relaxed experience

T

here’s little worse than getting to your destination and discovering you’ve left something behind.

While if you’re in a country you’re comfortable with, it’s simple enough to get to a store and replace the item, but if not it can be daunting.

Here are some tips for making your big holiday less stressful, so you can relish all the excitement and sights.

MAKE A LIST. It seems obvious, and you probably do it already, but a list can make all the difference. Starting a few weeks out rather than a few days is essential, as you’ll have more time to think and you’ll feel less rushed – meaning there’s less chance of forgetting something.

GET SOMEONE TO BE A MUM. Whether they be a friend, family member, or your actual mother,

ask this person to be that person that asks ‘have you packed your toothbrush?’ the day before you fly out.

DON’T EVER THROW OUT THE LIST. It’s tempting once you’ve gotten on the plane, but you’ll need your list so you don’t leave anything behind when packing to come home.

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wedding

Alternative gifts for guests to give on your special day There are many options for gift giving nowadays, so you can choose the right one for you

T

raditionally, as a way to pass on their best wishes to the bride and groom, guests give a gift to the couple at the reception.

Letting guests chose a gift themselves adds a more intimate touch that many couples enjoy, but there is that risk of doubling up on items.

A gift registry can alleviate this issue, but if you don’t want the hassle of transporting gifts then a wishing well is a great idea.

Get creative in making the “well’’ and ask guests to place their wedding cards with cash inside it.

There are many registry services available through department stores, services such as Amazon Wish List and more.

No matter what you decide, just make sure it is clear on your invitation.

Trending items in gift registries include:

CHARITABLE DONATIONS These days, many couples have already set up their home by the time they tie the knot.

More and more couples are asking guests to donate to charity rather than buy gifts.

EXPERIENCES Couples are placing more value on experiences than on products, so ask guests to buy a memory, like bungee jumping or cage diving.

HONEYMOON FUNDS From Airbnb vouchers to money in the bank, you can ask guests to help you pay for the honeymoon instead of buying you a slow cooker.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIRK WILCOX

The dog had the rings

S

ellena Armanno and Matt Peters met at a party six years ago and new instantly that there was potential.

“We knew it was love after a couple of weeks when we realised how alike we are and how much we clicked,” Sellena says.

It wasn’t until their fifth anniversary when Sellena and Matt visited Airlie Beach that a proposal would take place Sellena say’s she had an inkling that a proposal was being planned, but quickly lost hope when Matt asked her what she wanted to do that day.

“We drove to Airlie and he wanted to go look at the beach, we went to a secluded beach and then he got down on one knee to propose.

“It was beautiful because I never wanted to be one of those people that had a crowd watching, I wanted it to be private,” Sellena says.

In November 2019, Sellena and Matt tied the knot at Preston Peak Winery.

Blessed with a crystal-clear sky, in a month of bushfires, the wedding was perfect.

“We were both a bit nervous leading up to the day, but as soon as we saw each other at the ceremony our nerves quickly went away.” says Sellena.

It wasn’t just the two love birds making their way down the aisle, the pair planned to have their fur-child Wilbur in the ceremony as well.

Wilbur took the role as the ring bearer on the day and stayed for family photos.

“We were worried that he was going to wee while coming down the aisle or he was going to run off,” Sellena laughed.

“But he came straight down the aisle to us and did well during photos.”

When it came to write their vows, Sellena and Matt found it challenging to express their emotions and say how they really felt in front of a crowd, a moment during the ceremony which was particularly emotional.

Matt even had to hold onto Sellena’s hand while she spoke as she couldn’t stop shaking her palm cards.

Yet to have their official honeymoon, Matt and Sellena Peters had their first Christmas with their “son” Wilbur.

“We want to have kids, do some more travelling, buy another house and probably adopt 50 more dogs.”

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Protecting your future

BY ELIZABETH ADAMS, ASSOCIATE – KENNEDY SPANNER LAWYERS

N

ew relationships can make us feel “all loved up” and while the excitement of that feeling is one to soak up, there are a few practical things to consider to make things smoother for those you love (should there be some bumps in the road).

Brian is divorced and in his 60s and was lucky enough to meet the next love of his life June, a widow in her 50s. Both Brian and

June have adult children from their previous relationships and have their own homes, significant cash savings and share portfolios.

Brian and June wish to preserve their independent financial positions should this not be their next forever relationship.

They agree they will each retain what they brought into the relationship and then divide equally anything they acquire together. Brian and June can enter in a Financial Agreement that will give effect to their wishes. As circumstances change over years, both Brian and June should review their agreement so it still reflects their wishes.

While Brian and June trust each other, they wish to ensure that their children are provided for and participate in managing their individual affairs should they lose capacity or pass away.

Both Brian and June could consider making Enduring Powers of Attorney that appoint each other and their children to make decisions about their financial, personal and health matters.

This power could be exercised jointly. Brian and June could also consider entering into a contract for Mutual Wills, where they promise to not change their Wills in the future. The Mutual Wills could then follow the same terms as the Financial Agreement, leaving the property they owned at the start of the relationship to their own children, then sharing between all children the jointly owned property once both Brian and June pass away.

If Brian and June have not yet accessed their superannuation entitlements, they may consider making a binding nomination for their children to receive their interests, independent of their Wills.

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weird and wonderful

Utter chaos The English language is filled to the brim with irregularities and oddities

I

nnumerable twists, turns, pitfalls and traps permeate the English language, ready to snare any unsuspecting explorer.

The Chaos, a poem written by Dutch teacher Gerard Nolst Trenité and first published in 1920, includes about 800 examples of English spelling irregularities.

The esteemed Mr Trenité finds that “stranger’’ does not rhyme with “anger’’, and nor does “devour’’ rhyme with “clangour”.

He points out homophones (words spelled the same, but pronounced differently) like “tier’’ for someone who ties things, but “tier’’ for a set of structural levels.

To drive his point home, Trenité remarks how Thomas, thyme, Theresa and Thames are pronounced without the H in TH. The poet finishes with some advice for those who wish to learn English: Finally, which rhymes with ‘enough’; though, through, plough, bough, cough, hough, sough, or tough?

Hiccough has the sound of ‘cup’ …

My advice is – just give up!

Letters “-ough’’ can be pronounced in eight different ways and are all used in this sentence (which does not appear in the poem) to illustrate: A rough-coated, dough-faced ploughman strode through the streets of Scarborough, coughing and hiccoughing thoughtfully.

English is rife with paradoxes – there is no egg in eggplant and no ham in hamburger, neither are English muffins English nor French fries French.

Sweetmeats are candies and sweetbreads are meat (and not sweet at all).

As Richard Lederer asked in his book Crazy English, how is it that your nose can run and your feet can smell?

The word “ghoti’’ was constructed to perfectly illustrate the confusing spelling rules of English (the third most commonly spoken language on earth).

In this word, the “gh’’ is pronounced the same as in “tough’’, the “o’’ is pronounced the same as in “women’’ and the “ti’’ as in”‘nation’’.

All this ends with “ghoti’’ being pronounced as “fish’’.

No wonder even the British have trouble speaking true English.

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finance

New budget, new lifestyle

A

budget refresh can make all the difference to your life – especially your stress levels – so what better time to do a finance overhaul than right now?

First things first: in order to do a budget overhaul, you will need an actual budget in the first place.

If you don’t already have one, go through your banking records for the past month and make a list of what gets spent on what, and when.

This is especially important for all those bills, as knowing exactly when their due date falls can make all the difference to a household budget.

Knowing how much fuel, groceries, and other everyday expenses cost in each pay period is also essential.

Once you have a complete list, sit down and allocate each expense amount within your pay period – fortnightly is most common, but you may also get paid weekly or monthly.

Regardless of whether you’re setting up your

budget formally for the first time or doing an overhaul, you can make a monthly rotating budget for bills that fall each four weeks, or have one concrete budget where a portion of the overall bill is put aside each period (this method works well for quarterly or annual bills as well).

Allocating small portions to set aside each pay period for large bills can make a great difference.

Not only will you have the financial security of knowing how much surplus money you have each budget, but you’ll find yourself less stressed when the bills arrive.

Having a close look at your budget can also reveal areas where you can cut expenditure, or remove unnecessary costs entirely – like a streaming subscription that you no longer use, or a gym membership that allows for double the classes you actually need.

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events

WHAT’S ON Discover events that are on, in and around the Garden City this February

15 MS TOOWOOMBA SWIMATHON

GINA JEFFREYS BEAUTIFUL TANGLE TOUR

DRAG QUEEN BINGO EXTRAVAGANZA

WHEN: Saturday, February 15, from 6am to 6pm WHERE: Highfields Fitness & Recreation Centre, 9 Community Ct, Highfields WHAT: Fight MS by making a splash with this annual event. The MS Swimathon encourages people to form teams of at least six and participate in a 12-hour relay. The Swimathon is for anyone and everyone whether they swim freestyle, breaststroke, sidestroke, or even doggy paddle. It is all about getting involved, having fun and raising funds and awareness for people living with MS. This funding supports access to services including service coordination, physiotherapy, counselling and mindfulness. Entry costs from $20 to $75 and you can sign up at msswimathon.com.au

WHEN: Saturday, February 15, from 8pm WHERE: Empire Theatre, 56 Neil Street, Toowoomba City WHAT: After taking a 12 year break from recording and touring, Gina Jeffreys returns to centre stage with a stunning new album ‘Beautiful Tangle’ – a beautifully sung collection of exquisite songs, all co-written by Gina, all pages of her life. Gina will showcase many of her new songs as she explores a rollercoaster of emotions that will immediately connect with her legion of fans. But she will still dip into the past and perform her old fan favourites.

Gina will be joined by special guests Rod McCormack and Max Jackson. Book your ticket online or at the box office for $59 adults, $55 concession, and $25 for children under 16 years.

WHEN: Saturday, February 15, from 8pm to 10pm WHERE: City Golf Club, 254 South St, South Toowoomba WHAT: The Toowoomba Hospital Foundation is raising funds for Triple M Darling Downs Give Me 5 For Kids appeal in a fun way this year. Enjoy some incredible bingo while being entertained by your fierce host, drag queen Dylicious Sweets. Give Me 5 for Kids supports and raises funds for local children’s hospital wards across regional Australia, with events held each June by local radio and TV networks. Tickets include a drink on arrival, cheese platter to share with your table, prizes, lucky draws and live bingo with the fabulous Dylicious Sweets. Book your ticket for $45 online at toowoombahospital foundation.org.au/event

Enjoy the country atmosphere at the

Cabarlah Markets

Last Sunday of every month* 7.30am to 12.30pm

9856 New England Highway, Cabarlah *December market is on the second Sunday www.cabarlah-markets.org.au

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TCHE01Z01ST - V1

events

TOOWOOMBA WEDDING EXPO

15

WHEN: Sunday, February 16, 10am to 3pm WHERE: Clive Berghofer Recreation Centre, 20 Baker St, Darling Heights WHAT: At Toowoomba’s newest wedding expo, you can meet a variety of top bridal experts, gather wedding event ideas, look at the latest trends and talk to as many exhibitors as possible. Find the perfect venue, celebrant, dress, photographer, florist, cake specialist and any other wedding industry professional you require, then watch fashion parades that showcase the latest in bridalwear.

Tickets to this event are free, and there will even be some great competitions.

29

STANTHORPE APPLE AND GRAPE HARVEST FESTIVAL WHEN: Friday, February 28, to Sunday, March 8 WHERE: Various locations around Stanthorpe WHAT: Celebrate the Granite Belt’s harvest and discover local food and wine, see the grand parade, cheer on the celebrity grape crushing championship, enjoy Apple Day or Grape Day, or relax at the Italian Long Lunch. For more information, visit appleandgrape.org

THE BEATLES’ ABBEY ROAD LIVE WHEN: Sunday, February 16, from 6.30pm WHERE: Empire Theatre, 56 Neil Street, Toowoomba City WHAT: Returning after sellout shows, this performance celebrates the 50th anniversary of Abbey Road with Australian musicians Kram, Mark Wilson, Davey Lane, Darren Middleton, and some special guests. Tickets cost from $61.90 to $142.20 and can be purchased from empiretheatre.com.au

16

BOHO STONE EARRINGS WORKSHOP

28

WHEN: Friday, February 28, from 6pm to 7.30pm WHERE: Angie’s Coffee & Cake, 1/255 Herries St, Newtown WHAT: Learn how to make lovely earrings with jewellery maker Narelle.

Tickets are $49 with all materials supplied, from website veritysoaps.store

Fun for the Whole Family!

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socials

SCENE 01 01 Dressed in the spirit of the Outback, people gathered at the Toowoomba Showgrounds in January to enjoy Tom Curtain’s performance 02 02

04 04

05 05

OR

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TAB and KENO TCHE01Z01ST - V1

socials

01:: Jacob Winter, Kristy Walters and Caitlin Agius.

02:: Jordan Fox (left) and Holly Schoff.

03:: Emmett, Tannyth, Trevor and Tayha Shackell.

04:: Bronte Gannon, Annabel Thompson, Molly Steedman and Jessica Lees.

05:: Denise Gothe and Ellie Natalier.

06:: Alice Purcell and Matthew Brockhurst.

07:: Natalie Kruger getting her hat signed by Tom Curtain.

03

06

07

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horoscopes

SAGITTARIUS

IT’S IN THE STARS

Nov 23rd - Dec 21st Love might keep you hanging on the telephone, but they are so worth it. Think tall, tanned and gorgeous with impeccable taste and panache; a swagger in their step that even Hollywood heart-throbs would dream of. Maybe it is time you settled down, beginning a new chapter in your life. Celebrate with a romantic dinner for two.

CAPRICORN

CANCER

June 23rd - July 23rd Romantic little Pisces, you do love to attract the arty types who are dreamers exactly like you. This is great as you’ll be able to have fun together dreaming up grand plans for your future. February is a brilliant month for achieving fantasies so aim high; you will be sure to achieve greatness.

LEO

July 24th - Aug 23rd You do like the bad boys., but maybe it is time you looked at potential new partners with a clear mind and not a muddled heart.

Aries are fiery, so look for someone who gets your blood pressure racing, then sparks will fly. Just make sure they are on the same wavelength when it comes to commitment.

Dec 22nd - Jan 20th You love to love. If buying a Valentine’s Day present for a Leo, think sparkly and silver ‒ they are attracted to shiny things like a cat to a bauble on a Christmas tree. The art is in the chase; don’t be too forward as they like to do some of the chasing themselves.

AQUARIUS

Jan 21st - Feb 19th New relationships in your life are now starting to make sense and will bring you closer to finding true love. Business is the topic where you need your smarts. If working in a demanding job, then go for personal gain as it will bring promotion and great rapport with people in your workplace. Enjoy all this month has to offer.

PISCES

Feb 20th - Mar 20th

ALibran’s analytical mind can work out what is happening in their

VIRGO

world quicker than lightning. Sharp focus will be needed this month as you begin another year in the spotlight. Don’t worry though: the right people are watching, and it could bring forth a great new career ‒ boosting your profile to places you never dreamed of.

Bulls love to indulge in all things including food, love and drink.

ARIES

This is the time to ensure that your partner knows your favourite meals so they can spoil you rotten for the entire month. Cupid has his eye on you, so if you are attached it may be time to rekindle that flame by taking more notice of how your partner feels.

Mar 21st - Apr 20th

If you feel that love has finally found you out, then you would be

LIBRA

right. Life is gorgeous at present with so much contentment that you are starting to resemble a certain Cheshire cat. You may have to try to work out a new schedule when it comes to shopping for that special night out. Go for loads of diamonds and sheer class.

Relationship issues during February are tricky ‒ some people never

TAURUS

Sept 25th - Oct 23d see the real you: a gorgeous, soft soul that likes nothing more than snuggling up to her partner. Professionally, this is the time when you need to put your big-girl panties on and make a statement that will shock some people. Work will require you to be diplomatic.

SCORPIO

Oct 24th - Nov 22nd

Fitness is your goal now. New lifestyle choices are bringing positive changes in your psyche; you can feel the difference with more energy and passion. Embrace the new you who is positively glowing with health. It is all about paying it forward this month; one good deed deserves another. This will bring good karma into your life.

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Apr 21st - May 21st

It is a battle royale in your love life at present. Should you change tactics and launch into a romantic liaison? Or should you wait and see what happens if you bide your time and save your energy for hedonistic pleasures? It is your choice; choose wisely.

GEMINI

May 22nd - June 22nd What a complicated love life you have, Gemini. You have two loves: one is family, the other is your secret desire which you share with no one ‒ your job. However, you will be a hero at home if you do something romantic during February.

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

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Aug 24th - Sept 24th

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