TOGETHER by AVID - A Lifestyle Magazine - Edition 3

TOGETHER, BY AVID PROPERTY GROUP

Welcome to Edition 03 of Together.

Since the second edition, our communities have continued to do what they do best: bring together people and share their stories.

Across these pages, we profile newlyweds, generations of families, and people who have moved across state borders for the chance to call an AVID community home. Life in our neighbourhoods is about more than just the home you live in; discover residentfavourite parks, local gardens, and fitness programs in AVID backyards across the country.

In this edition, you will hear from industry leading interior designers and home organisers for insider advice on how you can create a space that you truly feel you belong in. From storage tips to pet grooming, gardening to baking, join us on this journey as we show you how to make the very best of every part of your home.

New neighbours, new builds, new partnerships, and an exciting new business venture; we are elated for Together to capture this snapshot in time for this edition.

DISCLAIMER

While we have taken care to ensure the accuracy of information within this publication, AVID Property Group gives no warranty and makes no representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph, illustration, or statement contained within this publication and accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies upon the information presented. AVID, its officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability (except for any liability which by law cannot be excluded), for any error, inaccuracy in, or omission from the information contained in this publication or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.

This publication contains general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or investment advice and should not be relied on as such. Before making any commitment of a legal or financial nature you should seek out independent, professional advice on your personal circumstances, particular investment objectives and financial situation before making any financial decisions.

Except for any liability that cannot be excluded by law, AVID Property Group (including its officers, employees, and agents) will not be liable or responsible for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any person who relies on the information provided within this publication.

All information provided is subject to change without notice.

Bringing people together is more than a gathering; it’s a tapestry of diverse stories and shared experiences. It’s about forging connections, fostering understanding, and creating a sense of belonging. Together, we build stronger communities, where every voice is heard and every contribution valued.

TOGETHER, AGAIN

Homes are places of comfort, love, and belonging. They anchor us in a fast-paced world, shaping our memories and nurturing our dreams.

TOGETHER, AGAIN

Welcome back to Together magazine, an exhibition of stories from our thriving neighbourhoods across the country.

For years we have created connected communities; neighbourhoods where more than 75,000 Australians have been able to lay down roots for their families. While we’re exceptionally proud of this, we’re not done yet. We’re still striving for more opportunities to create communities that reflect the ever-changing needs of our existing purchasers, and future buyers.

This edition is the first since the launch of our Vantage communities. These resort-style, land lease communities offer a new way of living for over 55s, so that our motto – ‘We bring people together’ – rings true for Australians at all stages of life. These new communities are a natural extension of our existing AVID neighbourhoods, creating truly intergenerational addresses where everyone can belong.

Together is an opportunity for the entire AVID ecosystem – residents, contractors, builders, and staff – to take a moment of proud reflection on the community connections that they have worked so hard to create.

So please, join us in reading more on the community, industry insights, and team efforts that we are so proud of since the last edition.

Cameron Holt CEO AVID Property Group

A SENSE OF BELONGING

People are at the core of our communities and sharing the individual stories from neighbourhoods across our AVID network not only brings joy, but also highlights the commonality of our experiences.

Some people are moving closer to family, some embarking on married life, and others are breaking out of routine and finding their new normal. With all our differences, a desire for home, friendship, and community always rings true.

A SENSE OF BELONGING

WHEN OPPORTUNITY

KNOCKS

When the opportunity to work remotely came knocking, former Sydneysider Nicole Horan wasted no time chasing the Queensland sunshine for a new life in AVID’s Ormeau community, Amara.

While living with her brother on the Gold Coast when she first arrived, Nicole fully embraced the local atmosphere and coastal way of life before finding her permanent address at Amara in late 2023.

Nicole’s move was an exciting time for the community, having just celebrated its one-year since launching to market and establishing itself as an up-and-coming community that people from all over flock to.

“I knew I wanted to live on the Gold Coast, and Amara was perfect as it offered a location halfway between friends on the Gold Coast and Brisbane, where I might be needed in the office for work. Amenities are also important to me, so it was nice knowing I had the convenience of Ormeau Village down the road, with its selection of cafes and shops– not to mention the delicious food at the marina in Calypso Bay,” Nicole said.

“Growing up in Queensland made this new chapter all the more special, as I got to reconnect with friends and live close to my brother, who is only a short drive away in Jacobs Well. Interestingly, he introduced me to Amara, having bought a house by Villaworld Homes in Seabright, six years ago for himself.”

What distinguishes Amara from anywhere else is its exclusive boutique feel, with the neighbourhood limited to just 180 homes all built and designed by AVID’s award-winning building arm Villaworld Homes.

Nicole said there are many misconceptions around buying a house that can make it feel like an intimidating step, but the sales team at Amara guide you through every process and detail.

“I was terrified of the whole buying process, but as a first home buyer the journey at Amara was so easy and simple with one price, and I just had to sign the contract and move in.”

Relocating has turned out to be a game-changer for Nicole, whose fellow neighbours have become more like second family – with wine and cheese nights a regular outing in the neighbourhood.

“It was great to find a community where I felt like I really belonged, even with the sales team who were there every step of the way – from the initial consult to friendly encounters in the community.

“Everyone here is so welcoming and I have made some great friendships which sets this place apart from anywhere else I’ve lived before. We regularly enjoy wine time and talk about how to keep our lawns green. It’s a great community feel and a quiet neighbourhood.

“While my address feels like a private sanctuary, the comfort extends to knowing that I have my brother and friends close by who I can rely on.”

Fostering places where residents can truly belong is what has turned Amara into a thriving, connected address. From singles, to downsizers, and those in between – Amara is the perfect representation of close–knit community living, nestled in bushland surrounds and just moments away from Calypso Bay Marina, shops, services, and cafes.

To find out more about Amara, please visit www.amara.avid.com.au

LOVE AT FIRST ‘SITE’

Newlyweds Michael and Ashley Bishop had multiple reasons to smile after a chance to achieve homeownership and officially say “I do”, all in the space of three months.

AVID’s growing Covella community – crafted in collaboration with Greenfields Development Company – in Greenbank, proved to be love at first site for the couple when, after only one tour of the block and surrounding community, they quickly realised this would be the place to build their dream home.

Coming from Brisbane and the Redland Regions, Michael and Ash were drawn to Covella’s balanced lifestyle where the natural green setting and familyfriendly community added to its appeal.

“We had been loosely looking at the market when we came across an ad for our block of land. We made the drive out to Covella and were instantly sold – it was the perfect area for our first home,” Michael said.

Covella recently celebrated its 1000th settlement earlier in the year, and with first-home buyers continuing to call this place home, is a true testament to the growing demand for affordable new residential communities with green space.

As young buyers, taking the leap to purchase a home had been an exciting albeit daunting dream for Micheal and Ashley, but one they were willing to take.

“For many young Aussies like us, homeownership is a marker of adult independence and the key to economic security,” said Michael.

“We found the price of buying a block and the building process more affordable compared to buying an existing home. Through the assistance of the Queensland First Home Owner Grant and first home guarantee scheme, we were finally able to live out our property dreams.”

After a beautiful wedding in October last year, the couple were soon able to move into their four-bedroom home in April of 2024 and since then have loved being a part of the still expanding address.

“There is something quite special about moving into a new home within a growing community. We get to watch Covella evolve and meet so many new people along the way.”

One third of Covella is dedicated to greenspace including the Heartland Central Community Park which is positioned just a stone’s throw from the Bishop’s new home. These areas are truly where residents can come together with neighbours to enjoy and explore.

“The community is filled with life and boasts a familyfriendly atmosphere. We always find people walking their dogs or kids riding their bikes, it makes you instantly feel welcome and at home.“

“We are finally creating memories in the home we have always dreamed of owning. The feeling is still so surreal. We can’t help but sing Covella’s praises to our family and friends.”

While they’re still relishing in newlywedded, home-owning bliss, the couple are already excited for what’s to come.

To find out more about Covella, please visit www.covella.avid.com.au

“We look forward to building our future at Covella and enjoying the surrounding parks and local shops.”

FEAST WITH

As the saying goes, good things come in threes, and AVID’s signature Long Table Dinner is a perfect example. This calendar highlight for residents across our Queensland communities, brings people together through shared plates, live entertainment, and, last but certainly not least, community bonding.

Staying true to its “Hi Neighbour!” tagline, AVID’s Greenbank community Covella – which has been a collaborative project with Greenfields Development Company – hosted its annual Long Table Dinner on Saturday 16 March. Over 250 residents gathered for this special night filled with lively conversation and the start of many lasting friendships.

In recent years, the event has been held on Relationship Australia’s annual Neighbour Day and has been heavily inspired by old school Australian neighbourhood parties, where everyone brings a plate, the little ones run free, and the community enjoy conversations and camaraderie.

“We look forward to seeing our community come together, especially in honour of Neighbour Day, to celebrate the most fundamental part of our community – each other,” said AVID Queensland Community Development Officer Sarah Tebbutt.

NEIGHBOURS

“It’s important residents connect with their neighbours and prioritise social connections and I’m proud the Covella community continue to do just that by showing up and engaging at these annual Long Table Dinners.”

Covella resident, Linda Sturges, reflects on the most recent Long Table Dinner, where she enjoyed a free family style food buffet and live music, whilst her kids enjoyed the henna art, face painting, balloon twisting, and dance party.

“It was a lovely evening with great food, even better company, and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. My family and I look forward to attending next year’s event!” Linda said.

A special highlight from this year’s Long Table event came in the form of a beautiful poem delivered by regular emcee Nick Grivis. Nick’s unwavering dedication to fostering community connection as the emcee for both Covella and Harmony’s Long Table Dinners, has helped these events make a name for themselves.

“Nick has helped facilitate many of our Long Table events, and this year his poem was a beautiful tribute to the community of Covella, capturing the importance of home, the Australian dream, and what a neighbourhood can truly mean,” Sarah explained. Turn to page 14 to read Nick’s touching tribute.

For AVID, getting to know your neighbours is just as important as building your new home, and that’s why it’s events like these hosted at Covella, and in AVID’s Sunshine Coast community, Harmony, that reinforce the importance of connections with those that live closest to you.

We look forward to sharing more resident stories from the Long Table Dinners across Queensland in our upcoming Together magazine editions.

Looking for food ideas to take to your next neighbourly gathering? Look no further than page 49, where you’ll find a selection of tasty share plate ideas to inspire you!

A poem by

NICK GRIVIS

Here at Covella, we are reminded when community come together, we can all stand strong and face even the wildest of weather.

And this is why we all gather here this eve to share stories, share laughter, share joy, over a wine, beer, and a scrumptiously good feed.

It doesn’t matter what culture, ethnic background, or religious belief you follow, if we recognise, we are more alike than different, we create peace in a world of a children’s tomorrow.

When I look around at all your faces, I feel a sense of hope for the human race. There is so much green space, parks, and bushlands to roam, it’s an oasis and utopia if you will.

Oh, how lucky you are to call this place home.

Now I know it’s not all easy, sweet peaches, strawberries and cream, but just remember your hard work has bought into a reality your own version of the great Australian dream.

So, eat, be merry, and enjoy this magical life. After all, we are the lucky ones, in a lucky country.

So, let’s all count our lucky stars we are here together on this delightfully magical night.

Nick Grivis joined our Covella community at the Long Table Dinner as emcee. Here we share his words on the importance of coming together in your community.

THE VILLAGE THAT KEEPS DEBORAH AND HER FAMILY TOGETHER

There’s a famous saying, “it takes a village to raise a child”, but for AVID’s beautiful Waterford community in NSW's Lower Hunter there’s a new saying in town: “It’s the village that keeps families together.”

With at least twenty purchasers in Waterford already having close family ties in the community, the notion of neighbours becoming family has been taken to a whole new level.

Deborah Fisher and her husband Les were looking for their next chapter when they sold their large five-acre property in the Port Stephens area in search of a lower maintenance lifestyle.

They found exactly that in Waterford’s Harvest neighbourhood.

“A residential community was an easy choice because we were able to downsize on land but maintain a large family home. We could have a ‘retired lifestyle’ without being in a retirement village or losing our independence,” Deborah explained.

The other big draw card for Les and Deborah was the convenience of living close to their adult son and daughter, who had already found their respective family homes in the open spaced Chisholm address.

“The reality has been wonderful though. If we need them or they need us, we can be there to support each other with everything from school drop off to looking after the little ones over the school holidays.”

“Our son was the first to move into the community, followed a few years later by our daughter, and then we finished our home build in 2018,” Deborah said.

While they are a tight knit family, Deborah knew her children mightn’t be entirely excited to have their parents living just metres away.

“When we told our kids we'd bought into the Harvest neighbourhood within Waterford, and were only going to be two minutes away, there was certainly a concern we’d be around every five minutes checking up on them.

For Deborah, the connected feel goes far beyond getting to be close to her family, she loves being able to connect with neighbours of all ages and backgrounds.

“One of the nice things about the neighbourhood is that AVID is really doing everything they can to create a community. Even before we moved in, we were invited to an evening where we could meet our neighbours who are just terrific people who we still love to gather with and be around. It’s just nice to know that there is a community around you that have your back.”

For now, Deborah is focused on the future, which is sure to include time spent with her precious three grandchildren.

“It’s really amazing, we’ve come from our previous home which we lived in for 25 years but honestly, now that we’re here, we’ve never looked back.”

To find out more about Waterford, please visit waterford.avid.com.au

The Mehta’s took the leap from sleepy Hobart to metropolitan Melbourne and, at first, were struck by the lack of greenspaces and nature, until they found their perfect fit in Melbourne’s West.

After moving to Melbourne for more opportunities and schooling possibilities for their young daughter, Maitri and Abhishek Mehta began the search for their ideal first home.

“We were in the Caroline Springs area for an event for one of our daughter’s friends and when we saw the Carolina community and the natural surrounds we thought, ‘this feels nice, this feels like our home’,” Maitri said.

The area had the small town feel they’d grown to love about Hobart, while still allowing them to be 24km’s from Melbourne’s CBD and mere moments from retail hubs including Watergardens Shopping Centre, a selection of primary and secondary schools and greenspaces.

“ The location, schooling, and amenities were important to us when choosing our first home. We got all of them ticked in outer Melbourne, so we thought, ‘let’s make the move’.”

GOING THE DISTANCE, MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

As for her favourite element of the home, Maitri loved that the townhome design still had the same natural light you’d expect from a stand-alone dwelling.

The couple settled on a three-bedroom townhome in AVID’s Carolina community, putting down their deposit in just three days. The choice proved to be a cost-effective one, particularly in comparison to their experiences with homes in Hobart.

“To fit our budget in Hobart we would have to buy a home at least half-an-hour outside the city, where the nearest supermarket would be 15 minutes away; whereas in Deanside and Caroline Springs everything you need is within a five-minute drive,” Maitri said.

“We really fell in love with the community feel of Caroline Springs and Deanside, so a townhome was an affordable choice within that area that checked all the boxes for our small family.”

“We loved the large windows which bring so much sunlight into the home as well as the dual storey layout. It’s a good size but still easy to maintain. We live busy lives, especially having a young daughter, so we let the upstairs bedroom level be a bit messy while the living areas downstairs stay neat and tidy for entertaining,” Ms Mehta said.

While Maitri has travelled a long way to find her family’s ideal address, she insists that it’s important to avoid an endless search for perfection in your home.

“We believe if you find something you like you should go for it, rather than hunting for this perfect place, the trick is you make it perfect.”

To find out more about Carolina, please visit carolina.avid.com.au

ACHIEVING FULL BLOOM

The Bloomdale community in the charming Diggers Rest neighbourhood of outer Melbourne, has long had the motto, ‘life in full bloom’. Now, with the completion of all five of its community greenspaces and home to close to 4,000 residents residents, the established neighbourhood has truly reached full bloom.

As for how he uses the parks, Maurizio admits he’s played a few games of soccer with his grandkids.

“The grandkids love it, they’ll often just head to the parks to hang out with friends in the afternoons after school or work.”

While he dabbles in soccer, his favourite element of Bloomdale is the walking trails, which are in abundance, spanning over 40 kilometres.

“The walking trails are definitely my favourite, it’s just nice to head out for an evening stroll after work or on the weekends to go for a walk with my wife. Life is just more interesting with greenspaces.”

Maurizio and his family first moved to Bloomdale due to its small-town feeling.

For long-term Bloomdale resident, Maurizio Rizzo, who first purchased his family home back in 2018, the community’s network of parks have played an unassuming yet important role in his time in the community.

Now, six years on, Maurizio and his wife are downsizing to a slightly smaller block still within Bloomdale and just across the street from the community’s most recently completed greenspace, Gecko Park.

“We like having plenty of space, but the kids have moved out now, so we wanted to build something more suitable.”

Although he’s downsizing, the Rizzo family have certainly established themselves in the Bloomdale community with his daughter moving into a home of her own within the neighbourhood two years ago, which she lives in with her teenage children.

“My daughter lives in one of the Nostra designed townhomes which are facing Flore Park, so we definitely like being close to those greener areas.”

“We had been living in the much larger Taylor’s Hill suburb nearby and it was just getting a bit chaotic, we wanted a bigger home at a better price, and we found that at Bloomdale. It was also still close to the freeway; it really made my work commute a lot easier each day.”

Beyond the convenient location, the people within the neighbourhood has been a major draw-card, leading Maurizio to become a return purchaser.

“There’s a really nice community feel, it’s just beautiful, why would you want to go anywhere else?”

In his free time, Maurizio is a keen cyclist and appreciates the convenience of cycling tracks beyond those within the residential community.

“I’m a cyclist and within the Diggers Rest suburb there are lots of biking tracks, so it just makes things easier, I don’t have to travel far to still enjoy a more scenic ride.”

To learn more about Bloomdale, please visit bloomdale.avid.com.au/

CONNECTING AT EVERY STAGE

Homeownership is more than just a transaction; it’s a journey. Behind every home purchase, there’s a unique story, a story AVID joins in on and supports, every step of the way.

Customer Service Manager, River Marie shares how everyone who steps into an AVID community for the first time, shapes the ‘why’ and ‘how’ AVID connects with its customers.

For seven years, River has been dedicated to supporting and evolving the customer-focused programs with the Customer Experience Team at AVID and has been actively involved in service support across the various AVID communities. Along the way, he has seen the business take shape and likewise, the customer focus evolve.

“At the heart of our decision making lie our customers, who inform our team to gain insights and solutions to remove the unknown and maximise the ease and comfort of their journey – whether they are purchasing their first block or embracing their new community lifestyle,” River said.

“It’s important for us to recognise no road to homeownership is linear but rather a multifaceted process, with multiple touchpoints and channels of communication throughout.”

With the goal of continuously improving the customer experience, AVID Connect was refreshed in 2019 as a purpose-built communication and service platform. This strategic move allowed AVID to expand its reach and offer a greater depth to both digital and in-person support.

“We have implemented a range of industry-leading new initiatives over the past four years to streamline and personalise our interactions with customers at every point of their journey,” River explained.

“After contracts have been executed, every customer is introduced to a dedicated Customer Ambassador at their ‘Next Steps’ meeting. This is an opportunity to further understand the customer’s motivations and provide guidance on how to access and utilise our AVIDConnect Customer Portal.

“By requesting feedback from our customers at each milestone rather than just after settlement, it allows us to navigate any potential pain points together and make the necessary changes to ensure a positive experience overall.”

AVID’s customer service team covers over 8000 cases annually, but River can point to one particular customer whose unique case provided him with complete reassurance that all the new processes were making a positive difference to the many buyers they support.

“We had a customer who purchased a new home in our Queensland community of Chambers Ridge who was preparing to move from interstate, right before COVID lockdowns commenced. There was obvious uncertainty during this time, and the customer was not able to visit the community to see their new home progressing,” River explained.

“The Next Steps Meeting, arranged via FaceTime, was a turning point for their journey as our Customer Ambassador was able to provide them with access to the AVIDConnect Customer Portal showing the live construction progress and updated photos of their new home.”

To put it simply, the team have focused on improving the digital experience for customers so that each of their journeys can be personalised to them.

“Without the people, systems, and processes in place, this would not have been possible and something we are proud to deliver day in and day out,” River said.

MEET CUSTOMER

AMBASSADOR GEORGIA WARD

With a remarkable seven-year tenure as an AVID Customer Ambassador, Georgia Ward finds the most fulfilling aspect of her role lies in sharing the remarkable journeys of the customers.

“We meet people from all walks of life, and taking into consideration their personal desires, needs, and financial situation is a rewarding experience – it’s truly special to connect with so many different stories and guide them through one of the most important purchases in their life,” Georgia explained.

“Ensuring our customers’ peace of mind is of utmost importance throughout their journey, our role as dedicated Customer Ambassadors is to embody this principle and ensure their needs, wants and why’s are fully satisfied.

“What makes us stand out from other developers is our commitment to being there from contract to settlement, providing on-the-ground updates from our development teams, Site Managers, and Civil Contractors straight to the palm of our customers – it’s a full circle approach and one I’m proud to be a part of.

“My friends have also become part of an AVID community, and it’s truly heartwarming to witness their seamless integration and connection amongst their neighbours and surrounding community.”

HOW AVID KEEPS CUSTOMERS IN THE KNOW

Receive a series of emails and text messages at important milestones in your purchasing journey. You will also receive monthly email updates until we have started construction at which time progress is viewable directly on the AVIDConnect Customer Portal.

A dedicated Customer Ambassador to help with questions and guidance from the moment you sign the contract through to post settlement.

The Customer Portal provides 24/7 service to customers giving them the ability to access up to date information on their home’s construction, key documents and plans at their convenience. Customers can keep in touch with their Customer Ambassador and create and track the status of their enquiries

Join in on a ‘Next Steps’ meeting, which will take you through the journey and what you need to know.

HOW TO BUILD

Artist Impression

While building a home can seem like a dream project we all would love to experience at some point in our life, once it gets underway the reality can be daunting and overwhelming – where should you buy, who do you build with, what do you want the floorplan to look like? It can all start to pile up quickly.

AVID’s Queensland State Sales Manager Kara Brook knows all about the pressures and stresses that can come with creating your dream home having helped so many make their dream a reality. Kara emphasises the process can be simple if you know the right steps to keep you and your home on track. Explore her top tips right here.

HOME BUILDING TIPS WITH PROPERTY SALES EXPERT KARA BROOK

1

Define your needs and preferences

Before you can dive into home design, it’s important to think about your lifestyle, family size, and future plans. Ensure you’re considering the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces that will suit your needs.

2

Research and choose the right builder

Look for builders with a stellar reputation and experience in delivering quality homes and also make sure it’s someone that suits you and your tastes as you’ll be working alongside them throughout the process. AVID works with a range of trusted builders to deliver vibrant masterplanned communities, including their own award winning building arm in Queensland, Villaworld Homes by AVID. An added benefit of building with Villaworld Homes? Buyers can enter a fixed-price contract, making it easier, and more budget-friendly for renters.

3

Be budget-wise

Make sure to set a realistic budget for the construction of your home and, most importantly, stick to it! Being realistic about construction costs helps to avoid unwanted setbacks later in the process. Fixed-price contractors like Villaworld Homes can be a great choice as they help to avoid hidden costs and expenses.

6

Choose a suitable location

You’ve heard the famous phrase –location, location, location! Look for areas that offer amenities, accessibility to schools, shopping centres, and transportation options that align with your lifestyle and needs. AVID’s masterplanned communities are all designed with these features, and more, in mind.

9

Plan for the future

Of course, choose what you love, but remember to consider your long-term plans when choosing a home design. Think about factors like potential expansion, resale value, and energy efficiency to ensure your home meets your needs for years to come.

4

Explore your design options

Take your time exploring the various home designs and floorplans available. Consider factors such as layout, functionality and flexibility to ensure your home meets all your current and future needs. To get started, discover a wide range of home designs available in AVID communities on the AVID and community-specific websites.

7

Personalise your home

Now that you’re getting the process underway, work with your builder to personalise your home design. Consider options for customisation, such as choosing finishes, fixtures, and additional features that reflect your style and preferences.

10

Enjoy the process

Building a home can be a daunting process, but with the right builder like Villaworld Homes and with these simple steps to consider before you begin, you can have peace of mind and embrace the journey while envisioning the joy of living in your dream home.

5

Visit display homes

Once you’ve shortlisted layouts and floorplans for your future home online, check out the many AVID display villages and worlds across New South Wales and Queensland. In-person visits can be a great way to really visualise what you do and don’t like and make an informed purchase decision.

8

Stay informed throughout the construction process

The construction process is such an exciting phase, so make sure you stay in the loop! Communicate regularly with your builder to stay up to date on the progress of your home. At Villaworld Homes, they take care of everything with regular status updates on your home, allowing you to relax and trust that your home is being built to your specifications.

Take a look at our range of residential communities at www.avid.com.au/communities/ residential-communities

BRINGING MORE TO LIFE

Just this year, AVID launched an exciting new venture which aims to bring more to life by creating resort style, land lease communities for empty nesters! While communities of this nature are not new to the market, AVID’s approach is one rooted in its unique long-term mission of bringing people together.

In this story, we dive into Vantage by AVID and what this new chapter offers for our existing and future residents.

As AVID’s General Manager of Land Lease Communities Manuel Lang describes it, Vantage was a natural extension of AVID’s existing brands and communities, offering more diverse options for those purchasers looking to jump into their next chapter.

“At AVID, we always say that: ‘what matters most to our customers matters most to us’ and what we’ve been finding is a growing desire for more diversity in housing options, especially as the baby boomer generation discover they have a lot more time to do the things they enjoy.

“Vantage provides this in a way that offers not just new housing options, but also luxurious amenities to support a life well lived. We are also hoping to foster a strong sense of community among Vantage residents, something we are well known for in our existing residential communities,” Manuel explained.

The Vantage communities – all located along the Eastern seaboard – may include a range of exciting community facilities and amenities from swimming pools, theatres, shared dining and entertaining spaces to bowling greens, gyms, care services, and community centres.

““Within each community, all homeowners have access to the same extensive community facilities, amenities, and services paying the same simple monthly fee – no matter the size of the home they own,”

– Manuel Lang, General Manager

“We’ve taken our time creating Vantage by AVID because we wanted to ensure everything had been considered, including bringing in a dedicated community management team who work in the community to support residents, maintaining the neighbourhood and keeping each neighbourhood secure and full of vibrancy.

One of the most exciting elements has been the opportunity to create truly inter-generational addresses, with many of the new Vantage communities located beside existing AVID residential communities.

“Our flagship communities in Victoria – Bloomdale – and Queensland – Harmony –, will be the first to welcome Vantage neighbourhoods next door and we are beyond excited about merging these two communities,” Manuel said.

“We know that, historically, less than ten per cent of residents in our masterplanned communities are over 50 years of age, and we wanted to provide a solution that would capture the attention of this group and add value to our established communities, and the people who live there.

“We see Vantage appealing to the parents or even grandparents of some of our existing AVID customers. These people may not be wanting a typical freestanding home anymore and want to avoid the building process. Through our new Vantage communities, we offer them a brand new, fully complete home solution in a secure environment close to those that mean the most to them.

“Our teams are already excitedly planning events to bring these two resident groups together.”

To learn more about how you can bring more to life with Vantage by AVID, visit Vantage.com.au or call 1800 826 843.

CONNECT

Connection can come in many forms.

Whether it be a sea of fans flocking to support their favourite netball team, an aspiring actor taking the leap into a local performing arts club, or a group of friends challenging themselves, and each other, at a fitness challenge.

No matter the form, bringing people together through shared interests, passions, and achievements is powerful and is at the heart of AVID’s Sponsorship and Grants activities.

TOGETHER THEY STRIKE

They say lightning doesn’t strike the same place twice, but for AVID and the Sunshine Coast Lightning, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

2024 marks the eighth consecutive year for AVID as Premium Partners of the powerhouse Netball team; a partnership that has united a community through a love of sport, neighbourly spirit, and a sense of pride.

Since the team’s inception back in 2016, AVID recognised an opportunity to bring women’s sport to the forefront—not only within its neighbouring flagship Queensland community of Harmony—but also throughout its network of communities, and in turn, the property industry as a whole.

“AVID’s eight-year partnership with the Lighting is a testament to our ongoing commitment to the region and support of women’s sport – we are proud to be associated with a program that is all about empowering women and women’s sport in Australia,” said AVID Queensland’s Community Development Officer Sarah Tebbutt.

“Being with these women since day one has allowed us to watch on as they claimed two-premiership titles, at the same time Harmony was evolving from a brand-new development to being named Australia’s Best Master Planned community.” Sarah added.

The partnership with AVID is one that makes sense to Storm Group Chief Executive Officer Justin Rodski.

“It’s great to see AVID’s investment in the Sunshine Coast region extend to support for our team over the past eight years and counting,” Justin said.

“As one of our longest-standing partnerships, we are so grateful to AVID for their continued support of the club as we strive to achieve the best year on year.”

Off the court, the relationship has united the Harmony community, bringing avid fans and new followers together in support of local, homegrown talent.

“The Sunshine Coast Lightning partnership has shown us how a team can foster the spirit of a community and bring families together, an important pillar for both AVID and the Club that really underpins the natural alignment of this partnership,” Sarah explained.

“Not only does this partnership create a core community of supporters for the Lightning, it also demonstrates healthy and active lifestyles, and provides a great opportunity to inspire a new generation of sporty kids at Harmony who have real life examples of talented athletes to aspire towards.”

AVID’s ongoing relationship with the team has even led to some wonderful additions to the Harmony community, with five players now calling the lush address home.

“Some of our youngest residents get a bit of a kick seeing some of the girls head out for training or walking around in their Lightning kits,” Sarah added.

Thanks to the partnership, Harmony residents have enjoyed fortnightly ticket giveaway competitions to

“Supporting these athletes since day one has allowed us to watch on as they claimed twopremiership titles at the same time we were evolving Harmony from a brand-new development to Australia’s Best Master Planned community,”

AVID Queensland Community Development Officer

Sarah Tebbutt. home games, and community Watch Parties in the park for the away games, where the greenspace becomes a sea of yellow and blue (the team’s official colours).

The relationship isn’t all about the games, with Lightning players door knocking along Harmony’s aptly named Lightning Street handing out tickets to a home game of residents choice, sharing their healthy recipes with the broader AVID network through the AVIDEngage series, and even bringing their furry friends down to Harmony’s annual Paws in the Park event.

A highlight from last year was an International Women’s Day morning tea hosted by AVID for Harmony residents where Captain of the Lightning, Steph Fretwell, facilitated a Q&A session alongside Sarah.

“It’s fantastic to have a longstanding partnership with an organisation that values the Sunshine Coast community as much as we do,” Sunshine Coast Lightning Captain Steph said.

“AVID has been part of our Club for eight seasons now, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the team at Harmony and the opportunities it’s provided me to get involved in the local community, like attending Harmony’s International Women’s Day morning tea last year.”

“It’s also been great to see Harmony’s relationship with Lightning extend beyond the court where players have visited our community events and activations to connect with residents,” Sarah said.

AVID is proud to support organisations big and small through its sponsorship and grants program. Turn the page for a look at some of AVID’s other grant recipients in 2023.

FOSTERING COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

When you initially enter a town or suburb as a developer, building new facilities and attracting new residents is a given, but connecting with the community and the charities, clubs, and organisations that form the backbone of those neighbourhoods is what truly brings the new and the existing together.

Every year AVID proudly gives back to the communities it joins by providing grants through our Community Sponsorship and Grants Program. We caught up with a few of the 2023 beneficiaries to share what they do and how they have invested the grants for the benefit of their club, and the community as a whole.

“The Covella partnership has been a great way to shine a light on Scouts Queensland”

Belinda Anderson, Greenbank Scout Group Assistant Leader

GREENBANK SCOUT GROUP –COVELLA 2023 RECIPIENT

Background

Underpinned by the Scouts Australia Movement, the Greenbank Scout Group is recognised as one of Queensland’s largest scout groups, comprising 184 adult and youth members. Its focus is building a community of self-fulfilled individuals who strive to play a constructive role in society, a goal that resonated with the AVID team.

AVID partnership

Assistant Group Leader Belinda Anderson said the AVID sponsorship included providing fundraising opportunities, promotional activities, supporting their annual report presentation, and their exciting 40th anniversary celebrations.

“The Covella partnership has been a great way to shine a light on Scouts Queensland, creating opportunities for personal and community growth,” Belinda said.

“The support from Covella through their grants program has not only allowed us to purchase a brand-new barbeque and esky for our fundraising needs, but also fund a flagpole for our second site at North Maclean which is available for community hire.

“A flagpole is a symbolic connection to scouting used in every meeting for the opening and closing ceremony, so it’s fantastic our group can now utilise this space with a safe flagpole that will support a group of our size.

As for what’s next, Belinda shared they are focused on growth, with redevelopments of their North Maclean site in the pipeline and new promotional items in the works to make the community more aware of the wonderful world of scouting.

“As we celebrate 40 years of Greenbank Scouts, we anticipate our group will be viable for years to come through public donations and local business support like that of Covella’s. We can’t wait to continue to grow and welcome more scout members.”

MELTON PERFORMING ARTS –CAROLINA 2023 RECIPIENT

Background

Receiving a grant from AVID’s Carolina community in outer Melbourne, Melton Performing Arts is a new club to the bustling region, founded in 2022. Working as a not for profit organisation, their goal is to bring drama, music, dance, and all forms of performance art to the City of Melton, providing members a safe and welcoming environment to grow their skills.

AVID partnership

Melton Performing Arts President Dom Wolfram said AVID’s funding would help create a skills workshop for local actors.

“Melton is a booming area for property development and it’s great to see a company like AVID taking a holistic approach to developing the area, by supporting the wider local community,” Dom said.

“We started Melton Performing Arts in 2022, and so far community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with people eager to see the new arts projects and what they might mean for the future of arts in Melton.

Flash forward to 2024, Melton Performing Arts has hit the stage running with 40 financial members and counting, as well as a new committee elected to keep activities tracking throughout the year.

“We have been very busy developing and rehearsing our debut stage play, ‘She Kills Monsters’ which we are expecting will lead to even more new members signing on.

“Behind the scenes we’ve also been preparing for our skills workshops in the first half of the year and are putting together an ongoing singing group, which will get us set up for ad-hoc performances in the community as they arise.

“We’re really just excited to bring more performances and workshops out into the community and share our love for performance with our neighbours, including the residents in Carolina.”

RIP CITY BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION –HARMONY 2023 RECIPIENT

Background

University of Sunshine Coast’s Rip City Basketball Association is on a mission to develop player’s skills and character beyond hoops, guiding participants from beginner to national and international competitions. Harmony’s sponsorship of the association in 2023 helped to bolster its training programs for all age groups.

AVID partnership

Director of Coaching at the not-for-profit group, Warwick Wilson, said AVID’s grant played a central role in developing player opportunities and training.

“We are thrilled to be recognised and supported by Harmony’s grants program, it’s really a match made in heaven with AVID already having longstanding involvement in youth and professional sports on the Sunshine Coast,” Warwick said.

“The grant helped fund our popular pop-up programs throughout the year, allowing us to take our coaching into communities – just like Harmony – where our coaches got to work with members of the public on community courts.”

Warwick emphasised the popularity of the Harmony program saying they are hoping to expand this year.

“Our Harmony program was very popular and with the community growing weekly, we expect our programs to grow in tandem with the neighbourhood. Our sessions were so popular we have now engaged with the local school and are introducing weekly games, training, and events.

“Our next step is to further enhance the communitybased approach started last year. This includes more programs in different neighbourhoods to increase the awareness of, and engagement with, our organisation. We’ve already seen interest from various community leaders and organisations around launching programs in their areas, so we are eager to get started.”

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

Each day across Australia thousands of people unite and bond through exercise – whether they’re out walking their dog, participating in a boot camp, or going to a fitness class at the local gym.

At AVID communities – which focus on healthy, active living by their very design and location – residents have access to open spaces, parks, playgrounds and walk trails on their doorstep, giving ample opportunity to get the endorphins pumping.

Beyond just a fitness-inducing design, many of AVID’s communities have embraced organised group fitness initiatives, allowing residents to find a sense of belonging and form connections with their fellow neighbours who share similar, active interests.

In the Covella community, nestled in the leafy green suburbs of Greenbank near Brisbane, AVID has partnered with ‘Fit Studio 42’ to offer free weekly exercise sessions to residents.

Owner and fitness instructor, Haaije Pijl—who has an impressive 30 year’s experience in the fitness industry under his belt—said the sessions attract over 20 residents each week.

“I’ve been leading these sessions at Covella for five years now and the support and interest from the community is still as strong as ever,” Haaije said.

“We always start the year with our New Year’s Challenge where we usually get a great turn out of motivated individuals eager to achieve their fitness goals.”

“Residents enjoy the variety of sessions, which are held three times a week at various times, and we always provide a nutrition plan if requested.”

Haaije explained one of his favourite elements about the sessions is the comradery among neighbours.

“The sessions bring like-minded people together and are a great way to meet new friends – it’s fulfilling knowing you are positively influencing people’s lives whether that’s through weight loss, increased fitness, strength, or simply getting back into a healthy routine.”

Over on the Sunshine Coast, another AVID community, Harmony, partnered with ‘Full Body Fitness’ coaches Julie Dunford, Joanne Donohue, and Ashleigh Allen to run weekly bootcamps for residents, as well as several fitness challenges throughout the year.

“We have done two to three bootcamp challenges each year at Harmony, and the feedback has been incredible, with participants saying they have loved the extra

activities, knowledge, and support provided during the challenges, and the results they achieve,” said owner Julie.

“It’s been so great to watch friendships form between residents and see them doing life together outside of bootcamp.”

Both Julie and Haaije have growth plans for their businesses in the next few years.

Julie hopes to expand the Full Body Fitness business to other locations, helping more people on a path to health and wellness. For Haaije, he has recently transformed his business under the mantle of ‘Fit Studio 42’, offering indoor small group training and hopes to become the go-to gym location for Covella residents and Greenbank locals.

To learn all about the Covella and Harmony fitness initiatives, scan the QR codes here.

Looking to get physical? Try these workouts from the fitness gurus themselves to boost your active and healthy lifestyle!

UP THE LADDER, DOWN THE LADDER BY HAAIJE

– 5 Close Grip Push-ups

– 10 Mountain Climbers

– 15 Reverse Crunches

– 20 Bicycles

– 25 Toe Touches

– 30 Squats

– 35 fake jump ropes

– 40 alternating forward lunges with hands behind head (20 each side) then go in reverse back to 35,30,25 etc.

Don’t forget to rest for 90 seconds when you have gone up and down the ladder, then repeat one more time!

15 MINUTE BODYWEIGHT WORKOUT BY FULL BODY FITNESS

– Push-ups

– Lunges (alternating)

– Mountain Climbers

– Tricep Dips (using a chair/bench)

– Squat Jumps

Work for 45 seconds and take 15 seconds rest before starting the next exercise! Repeat for 3 rounds. Remember to warm up and stretch. Enjoy!

CREATIVITY ON MANY LEVELS

Creativity isn’t always a pretty painting, or a beautiful poem, sometimes it can be as simple as reorganising and decluttering your home or giving your side hustle a little more love.

In the following pages we explore everything from delicious recipes, home design ideas to worm farming tips and tricks and more.

COMPOSTING AND WORM FARMING 101

Compost bin or worm farm? If you’re looking to take your outdoor spaces to the next level and want to reduce your waste, composting and worm farming are great solutions.

While both are often seen as smelly, difficult activities conducted exclusively by hard-core gardeners, with a few easy tips it is actually quite the opposite.

Read on for our beginner’s guide to these waste solutions and make a difference!

Using a composting bin alone can be a slow process and is most effective for households that produce more waste, or smaller families looking for an environmentally conscious way to dispose of their scraps.

It’s important to consider the amount of outdoor space you have when choosing between compost bins and worm farms. Worm farms are more adaptable and can even go on balconies, while compost bins must be kept exposed to outdoor soil.

If you’re a smaller family, couple, or live alone, a worm farm is a great choice as these tiny creatures can do the work for you and dramatically speed up the decomposition process, leaving you with a constant stream of rich nutrients for your garden. Worm farms can also be housed in garages and on balconies and can vary much more in size, making them an easy choice for smaller households.

1. To get started, you can either buy a purpose-built bin, build your own, make use of an old bathtub, or use a polystyrene tub to house your compost. The options are endless so consider your space and what might work best for you.

COMPOSTING WORM FARMING Guide Guide

2. Once set up, it’s time to layer your waste. Start with an initial layer of potting mix, mulch or twigs then add your compostable waste. From here, you will then top with leaves and wet paper and finish with a layer of soil before repeating.

3. Be sure to add a small amount of water after each layer to keep the pile moist and reduce odour.

4. Once your compost is dark brown and crumbly, it’s ready to be used. Use your new compost by mixing it with potting soil as a mulch replacement, or by sprinkling it over your garden. It can take a few weeks or months to reach this texture and colour so remember to trust the process.

]ngredients

○ Bin or pit

○ Potting mix and mulch

○ Paper and cardboard

○ Fruit and veggie scraps

○ Rotten fruits and vegetables

○ Plant clippings

○ Coffee grounds

○ Lawn trimmings

○ Eggshells

○ Hair

○ Woodchips

1. Head to your nearest hardware store to pick up a purpose-built worm farm as these make the process far more straight forward. Most hardware stores will also sell the red or tiger worms you’ll need, so buy just a few to begin with and add more if you start composting higher quantities.

2. While worm farms can vary in shape, typically there are two key layers and a container at the base to capture the worm’s juices.

3. Start with a few sheets of wet paper and ‘bedding materials’, like cow manure or storebought compost, in the ‘home layer’ where the worms will live.

4. After letting the worms settle in for a week, add the ‘working layer’ above the home level. This is where you can add your food waste.

5. Once all the worms have migrated to this working layer (they can typically eat up to 4kg of organic waste in just a week), take out the home layer and make use of this in your garden before repeating the process.

6. You can use the liquid the worms produce as a fertiliser. You can also make use of their solids by adding some water. When added to your garden, this simple recipe can actually improve your plants drought tolerance

]ngredients

○ Worm farm

○ Red or tiger worms

○ Paper and cardboard

○ Hessian material

○ Fruit and veggie scraps

○ Rotten fruits and vegetables

○ Eggshells

○ Coffee grounds

Regardless of whether you have a large backyard, a smaller outdoor space, or a townhome courtyard, composting and worm farming are simple, clean, and impactful ways you and your family can make good use of your food scraps, have a positive difference on the environment, and bring new life to your gardens

Tips and tricks:

KEEPING HOUSE

When you’re trying to balance work commitments, extra-curricular activities, social outings, relaxation time, and school pickups and drop offs keeping the home neat and tidy can sometimes feel like an impossible task at the very bottom of your to-do list.

But, according to mum and home organisation guru Pip Renfrew, there are so many simple steps families can take to de-clutter and re-organise their home.

We sat down with Pip who shared her best tips and some bonus hacks for creating an organised, stressfree haven you and your family will love

PIP RENFREW’S

biggest tips

Figure out what matters most to your family

In Pip’s home, a tidy kitchen before going to bed is nonnegotiable. This might not be as important to you, and that’s ok! Figure out what is most important to help you feel more organised, then make a note of it and implement it in your daily routine. This can be anything from ensuring all the kid’s toys are put away or the cushions and blankets in the lounge room are neat and tidy.

Create a family calendar

This calendar can be physical or digital, whatever suits your family best but make sure it’s kept in a place where everyone can see it. Colour coding the calendar for each family member makes it much easier to track everyone’s busy schedule and roles in the home.

Establish a routine

Creating daily routines for school days, meals, and bedtime helps create structure in your family’s lives. For example, on school or day care days, everyone might need to have breakfast, teeth brushed, dressed, bag packed before they can watch tv or play with devices. Simple routines like this, once established, can make a major difference.

Pick a ‘drop zone’ and ‘command centre’

Keeping track of everyone’s important documents and school notes can be hard in a busy household. Pick a central area in the home to hang a whiteboard or corkboard where your family members can place these. This also doubles as a great spot for the family calendar!

It’s also a good idea to set up a ‘drop zone’, where each family member can have a designated place to put their school or work bag, shoes, lunchboxes and hats. This helps to keep mess and lost items to a minimum and might even lessen the chance of the dog eating the little one’s homework!

Meal Plan

If you’re a busy working family you know the struggles when it’s been a long day at work, the kids have after school activities, you get home at 6pm and there’s no dinner. Meal planning for the week ahead keeps you organised by knowing what meals are going to be cooked each night. Have a theme night at least one to two times a week like Taco Tuesday or Schnitty night to make the decision process easier. Take note of the nights you do get home late so you make a double batch dinner the night before and eat leftovers.

Don’t be too hard on yourself

Keeping your family and home organised can be a fulltime job in itself. Start with one task at a time and add these gradually into your daily routine. The more you do a task, the easier it becomes, making it less of a chore and instead just a normal part of your day.

BONUS HACKS FOR YOUNG FAMILIES

1. Declutter regularly: Regularly go through your belongings to see what you and your family no longer need or use and identify pieces that could be donated to charity or thrown away.

2. Label everything: Add labels to tubs, baskets, drawers to help identify where items go. This makes it easier for family members to find items and helps maintain organisation over time.

3. Rotate toys and clothes: If you are limited with space in your home, create a toy rotation. This also keeps your kids more engaged with their toys when they are swapped out regularly. You can also store out of season clothes in storage tubs or vacuum sealed bags, freeing up space in your wardrobe for the current season clothes.

About Pip Renfrew

Pip Renfrew is the owner of The Tidy Sidekick, a professional home organisation business hailing from Maitland in NSW. Pip previously shared her knowledge and expertise with residents from AVID’s Waterford community at the Waterford Home Show earlier this year. Pip delivers in-person consultations and also offers her services via online and virtual sessions.

To find out more about Pip visit: thetidysidekick.com.au

TURNING PASSION INTO A PAWS-ITIVE BUSINESS

“A main driving force behind starting Canine’s Tale was to assist animal rescues in need of financial support for crucial surgeries.”

For many, turning a passion into an exciting business venture is a lifelong dream, but for one couple in AVID’s Greenbank community of Covella, this dream became a reality with the help of a few furry companions along the way.

A passion for pet-inspired creativity led husband and wife duo Nina and Robin to start their own business, Canine’s Tale. This unique venture sells a range of boutique pet accessories and pet photography services, earning them a loyal following on Instagram and a whole new career outside of their day jobs.

“When I’m not in the classroom teaching my primary school students and Robin isn’t cooking up his next culinary dish, we are brainstorming new designs for upcoming collections or capturing the beauty of our four-legged clients through photography - we truly get to live the best of both worlds,” Nina said.

“Before I met Robin, I had always dreamed of owning my own furry companion and eventually starting a business centred around dog accessories.”

“When Robin surprised me with a Pomeranian in 2020, I was determined to transform my passion into a business that not only brought me joy, but also brought in an extra income stream for Robin and me.”

Canine’s Tale is inspired by the tales and adventures of Nina and Robin’s very own dogs – Saki the Japanese Spitz, and Coffee the Pomeranian.

“I used to dedicate my weekends to browsing the racks for quality and stylish products for my beloved dogs, but it wasn’t long before I realised, I needed to pursue my passion and invest in designing my own.”

“We take pride in providing a wide range of dog walking essentials. From adjustable air mesh harnesses and padded collars to leashes, bow ties, and even bandanas, not to mention our latest additions: dog toys!”

While it was a big move to step into the world of small business ownership, it felt right to the couple.

“I think when you find something that you’re passionate about, it makes it much easier to turn it into a business. You have to back yourself and know that others will recognise that passion and want to invest in your work.”

Canine’s Tale has also committed to giving back to charities and rescue organisations.

“A main driving force behind starting Canine’s Tale was to assist animal rescues in need of financial support for crucial surgeries,” Nina explained.

“Our realisation of the costs associated with surgeries, first came about with Coffee, who required knee surgery back in 2021. As a recent university graduate, we were shocked by the financial burden it posed.

“This experience really motivated us to make sure this ‘side hustle’ also provided a helping hand to other pet-owners and pets in need.”

“In our commitment to supporting animal rescues, we recently welcomed Ichigo, a domestic cat, into our family. He’s become more like a brother to Saki and Coffee.”

Nina and Robin are excited to grow their business in their new Covella home, helping to create a community of fashionable, well-photographed pooches.

To learn more and shop Canine’s Tale, visit www.canines-tale.com.au

Instagram: caninestale

with Cherie Barber TRANSFORMING A HOUSE INTO A HOME

Cherie Barber, widely known as ‘Australia’s Reno Queen’, is no stranger to turning a room from bland to beautiful. With her ongoing co-host role on Channel 9’s beloved Space Invaders TV show, Cherie has successfully revamped over 175 properties, harnessing a wealth of knowledge that has undoubtedly contributed to her star power.

For Cherie, turning a house into a home all comes down to finding your own personal style, your favourite colours, décor, cherished mementos and then creating spaces with those that reflect your personality.

Whether you’ve bought a brand-new house, are looking to sell, or just want a room-makeover, we’re excited to share her insider secrets with you, our AVID readers!

SEEK INSPIRATION

Designing a new home or space can be overwhelming, that’s why seeking inspiration first, through websites like Pinterest, Houzz, and interior design magazines, is a great starting point.

MOOD BOARDS

A good way to capture your vision is by creating a mood board, done simply with free online mood boards. The images on your board should represent your ‘inspiration’ of how you want your whole home, and each individual room, to look and feel. Create your mood board by cutting and pasting images of design styles, furniture, colours, and textures that appeal to you, helping narrow down what style you’re aiming to achieve.

CHOOSE A COLOUR SCHEME

Colour

Careful thought needs to be given to your paint colours as they can influence your emotions, your ability to focus and relax, right down to your overall moods. For your whole house colour palette, choose 3-5 colours as a base, going with neutral for larger areas, a complimentary colour for balance, then one or two accent colours.

Tip

Follow the interior designer colour rule of thumb - 60% (dominant colour), 30% (secondary) and 10% (accent).

Focal walls

Key focal walls can add visual interest, depth and personality to a room and are deliberately designed to stand out from other walls using colour, material or artwork. Using products like VJ panelling for your feature walls instantly adds architectural interest and a designer look to any room on a relatively modest budget.

ONE ROOM AT A TIME

While it’s important to masterplan the whole look of your home first, if you’re new to the world of interior design and styling, it may be best to tackle the rollout of your vision one room at a time, versus your whole house at once. This will be less stressful and generally more manageable.

SELECT KEY PIECES OF FURNITURE

Identify your focal wall first that stabilises your design. Depending on the room you’re furnishing, it can be a great location for key décor or furniture. Start with your essentials (big pieces first) ensuring your furniture matches the size of your room. Scale all your smaller pieces and accessories down from there.

Tip

“The key to having a home that looks like it’s been styled by interior design professionals is understanding a few design fundamental principles first before you start

Avoid pushing all your furniture right up against the walls. You’ll find your room will instantly feel bigger.

ADD LIGHTING

Layer your lighting with a mix of overhead, task and accent lighting to provide functionality and ambience. Remember, lighting can be a decorative element also so choose lights that blend harmoniously with the style you’re creating.

INCORPORATE TEXTILES AND TEXTURES

Select soft furnishings such as rugs, curtains, cushions, and throws to add colour, warmth, and comfort. Combine different materials like wood, metal, glass, and fabric to add depth and visual interest.

ACCESSORISE

Add artwork, photos, plants, and decorative elements that tie in with your desired style. Adding photos to fill blank walls, is an inexpensive way to make your home more personal. Don’t forget to leave some breathing room to avoid your space feeling cluttered.

SOUL-SOOTHING DISHES TO SHARE

By AV1D’s own home chefs

The AVID food gurus have come to the table with their go-to entertaining share plates for a neighbourly get-together. We’ve rounded up their favourite food ideas from aromatic appetisers to hearty shared dinners and everything in between.

When you’re asked to bring a plate, the Together magazine has you covered for your next gathering!

Recommended by Sanjay National Digital Marketing Manager

SANJAY’S BAKED QUICHE

Ingredients

○ 1 sheet puff pastry

○ 300g frozen spinach

○ 250g fresh Ricotta

○ 200g goats milk cheese (fetta)

○ 4 stems of shallots

○ 3-4 slices ham/or vegetarian ham

○ 4 eggs

○ Olive oil

“This simple yet hearty dish is a guest favourite and tastes better with Siracha sauce drizzled on top to add a spice kick and depth of flavour”

Feeds

Approx. 5-6 people

Cook Time

Approx. 20 minutes

Method

1. Mix the eggs in a bowl one at a time with all the ricotta cheese

2. Add all the spinach to the bowl and mix thoroughly

3. Cut up the shallots in 0.5mm pieces and add to the mixture

4. Break ¾ of the feta cheese and add to the mixture, continuing to mix thoroughly as each new ingredient is added.

5. Cut up a few ham pieces into little cubes and add to the mixture

6. Get a baking tray and spray/brush sides with olive oil

7. Lay the puff pastry in the baking tray and then coat all the sides with olive oil

8. Pour the mixture evenly over the puff pastry

9. Lay 1 or 2 ham slices on the top of the poured mixture and sprinkle the remaining broken up feta cheese

10. Bake in the oven at 200 degrees for about 20 minutes

11. Let cool before slicing and serving with your choice of sauce

NATHAN’S CHICKEN ADOBO TACOS

Recommended by Nathan Acquisitions Analyst

Serves

4-6

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

45 minutes

Method

1. Add the 2tsp adobo sauce to the bowl and crush chilies if necessary

2. Add the crushed garlic, seasoning, brown sugar, oil and mix to form a paste

3. Add chicken, toss to coat

4. Set aside the chicken to marinate, ideally overnight but cooking immediately will be fine

5. To start cooking, put a layer of foil on a baking tray and add chicken in thin layers

6. Grill on medium to high heat for approx. 30 minutes or until charred and chicken is cooked through

7. Serve with your favourite taco sides

Nathan’s top tip: Feel free to make your own spice mix with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, sugar, oregano, bay leaves and chili or improvise with other Mexican inspired spices.

“These spicy chicken tacos are the perfect Mexican fix and are always a crowd pleaser in my house– they have even made a special appearance in our friend’s cookbook!”

Ingredients

○ 1kg chicken thighs

○ 2x 35g pouches of Mission taco seasoning

○ 2 heaped teaspoons of La Costena adobo sauce chipotle peppers

○ 2 heaped teaspoons of crushed garlic

○ 2 level teaspoons of brown sugar

○ 2 tablespoons of oil

A SAVOURY HOME-TOWN FAVOURITE

Recommended by Helen General Manager Business Operations

“Growing up in a Greek family meant always having the most delicious Greek treats, at home and when my extended family all got together.

My all-time favourite is spanakopita – the perfect finger food for large settings!

HELEN’S SPANAKOPITA

Ingredients

○ 1 bunch spring onions

○ 1 leek

○ 1 bunch dill

○ 1 bunch parsley

○ 2 eggs

○ Approximately 5 large bags of baby spinach

○ Approximately 2 blocks of feta cheese

○ 18 sheets of filo pastry (take out of the fridge ahead of the time so the filo sheets are easy to separate)

○ 120g salted butter, melted

Makes

Approx. 15

Cook Time

Approx. 30 minutes

Method

1. Cook onions and leek in a frying pan with a little bit of olive oil

2. Add the dill and parsley and cook a bit (this step smells so yummy!)

3. Steam down the spinach and put in a colander to drain excess liquid (dry and get as much water out of it)

4. In a large bowl add in the spinach, onions, leek, salt, pepper, feta, eggs and mix well

5. If you want to make the triangles, YouTube is a great starting point for a tutorial. Cut the filo into 3 strips and wrap them like a flag. Or you can make it like a pie by lining a pan with a few layers of filo, then add in the spinach mix and then a few layers of filo on top (don’t forget to dot each sheet with a bit of butter). You can also use readymade pastry dough if you like instead of filo.

6. Bake in oven at 180 degrees for approximately 30 minutes until the pastry fluffs up

Helen’s top tip: It’s best to make it fresh but if you’re making it the day before, ensure you have a damp towel on the Spanakopita to prevent the filo from drying out.

DISCOVER

Discover a country of endless possibilities for exploration, where spectacular natural environments, striking crystal-clear waters, and rich, locally sourced flavours meet.

Embark on your next adventure and leave with unforgettable memories to look back on for a lifetime.

IDYLLIC FRASER COAST GETAWAY

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, jetting off for the school holidays, or planning a much-awaited escape with friends, meet your match with the Fraser Coast, only a three-hour drive from Brisbane.

Within just a few days you can visit World Heritage sights, experience tastes from the sea, glide through clear blue waters, bask in endless sunshine, and cheers to gorgeous sunsets.

Discover our Fraser Coast top picks here.

FRASER COAST

Our recommendations for your next coastal getaway, from feeds to fun and all in between.

STAY

Kingfisher Bay Resort

Soak up the salt air as you indulge in a perfect island retreat at Kingfisher Bay Resort on K’Gari (Fraser Island). Nestled amongst tree-covered dunes, this resort offers a range of options from luxurious waterfront houses to spacious, fully equipped holiday villas, all providing an ideal setting to recuperate before a day of sun, sand, and sea.

kingfisherbay.com

Mantra Hervey Bay

If you’re searching for direct access to the Great Sandy Strait, Mantra Hervey Bay is top of the list for waterfront resort accommodation. Kick back and unwind by the lagoon pool with a drink in hand as you overlook the picturesque scenes of the seaside town. Taste your way through Hervey Bay’s strip of restaurants, bars and bistros beside the Mantra, offering endless choice and entertainment options.

mantraherveybay.com.au

Torquay Caravan Park

Experience the excitement of setting up your caravan site along the water’s edge, at the Torquay Beachfront Caravan Park. Whether you’re choosing a glamping tent or family caravan, this is the ideal homebase for relaxed leisure seekers looking to lose themselves in a captivating novel, or thrill-seekers eager to set sail on a tour, discovering the hidden gems of the Fraser Coast.

beachfronttouristparks.com.au/our-parks/ torquay-tourist-park

EAT

Dune Restaurant

Embark on a culinary journey that will be a feast for your senses at the Dune Restaurant and Rainforest located in K’gari. Enjoy sophisticated Asian fusion dishes from Peking duck spring rolls to spicy Kung Pao Chicken paired with island-inspired cocktails, and world-class wines. kingfisherbay.com/food-and-wine/dune-restaurant

Enzo’s on the Beach

Take in uninterrupted panoramic views of the sea and palm trees whilst indulging in a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner menu at Enzo’s on the Beach. Enjoy live music on your bean bag as you relish in the varied tastes of a croissant benedict, Moreton Bay bug slider, or selection of pizza classics. If you're in the mood for something light, you simply can't resist pairing a cheese board with a crisp sauvignon blanc.

enzosonthebeach.com.au

Beach House Hotel

An elevated and much-loved pub-style venue, Beach House Hotel offers Aussie classics from Chicken Parmi’s to reef and beef. This award-winning seaside gem in Hervey Bay, is a perfect family-friendly option to unwind whilst enjoying live entertainment, making it a definitive crowd favourite.

beachhousehotel.com.au

Aquavue Beachfront Bar and Eatery

A family business for over 20 years, Aquavue is the ultimate spot for a morning pick me up with their iconic scones and cabinet of homemade cakes. Wash the sweetness down with a Seven Miles Gusto coffee, featuring a signature blend of rich caramel and notes of spice and cocoa.

aquavue.com.au

Enzo’s on the Beach

DO

Fraser Island Tours

Set out on a half-day tour to K’gari for swimming, kayaking, snorkelling and relaxing at this postcard–perfect slice of paradise. Take in the clear turquoise waters that surround you while keeping an eye out for turtles and vibrant fish. As you make your way back to the marina, enjoy a tasty Aussie barbeque to wrap up the trip.

herveybayecomarinetours.rezdy.com/ 39050/k-gari-half-day-beach-bbq-cruise

Hiking & Walking Trails

Start the day tying up your laces and set off traversing through the Mary2Bay Rail Trail, winding through the 20-kilometre urban charm of Hervey Bay. As you zigzag through the trail, embrace the scenic forest areas that stretch from Nikenbah and Maryborough.

visitfrasercoast.com/m2brt

Whale Watching

No Fraser Coast getaway is complete without a visit to the official Whale Heritage Site where your family are guaranteed a spectacular show. During the cooler months, watch on from the surrounding islands or mainland as the entire Fraser Coast becomes a rare haven for humpbacks. For a surreal experience, you can find yourself face to face with these majestic mammals during an exclusive whale swimming tour.

visitfrasercoast.com/whale-watching

Fish the Fraser Coast

Renowned for having the most diverse fishery in Australia, the Mary and Susan River form two expansive estuary systems that make for a unique fishing experience. From barramundi to coral trout, these waters are teeming with exceptional catches.

visitfrasercoast.com/fishing-on-the-fraser-coast/ fishing-guide

K’gari Shipwrecks

A marvel in and of itself, the world’s largest sand island, K’gari, is home to many shipwrecks. The most famous of these, The Maheno, was washed ashore during a cyclone in 1935 en route to Japan. Take the kids for a day exploring the Maheno, as well as many more fascinating wrecks scattered along the coastline of the island.

fraserisland.net/fraser-island-history/ fraser-island-shipwrecks

The Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum

The Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum is a haven for history buffs. This non-profit initiative showcases an impressive collection of over 10,000 military and colonial artifacts, providing a glimpse into the war efforts that took place on the Fraser Coast Region and Queensland.

maryboroughmuseum.org

The Story Bank

Step back in time to embrace the magic of Mary Poppins whose author, PL Travers, was born in the tiny town of Maryborough. Enjoy a family fun day out visiting her heritage-listed birthplace that has been transformed into The Story Bank – a world of tales, memories, and stories from Maryborough and beyond.

visitfrasercoast.com/product/the-story-bank

K’gari Shipwrecks

Whale Watching and swimming tour

A FOODIE’S GUIDE TO SYDNEY

Sydney is the nation’s mecca for many things, but its foodie scene is certainly one to marvel.

With a mix of stunning locations, fabulous feasts, and diverse cuisines, there is something to suit every tastebud and mood. The plethora of options can often feel overwhelming, especially on your first visit, so to make things simpler, we’ve rounded up some of the best choices.

Whether you‘re planning a date with your special someone, want to bring the whole family together over fabulous food, or are craving a hang out with friends, it’s all covered here.

Bill’s, Darlinghurst

Jane, Surry Hills

DISCOVER:

NSW SYDNEY EATS

BRING THE KIDS

The Grounds of Alexandria

Broken into three dining areas, The Grounds of Alexandria has something for everyone, including plenty of room to roam for the little ones. For casual eats, visit the Café section, where kids under 12 can dig into The Grounds’ signature mini rainbow pancakes, adding a colourful spin on a sweet classic, or munch on some toasted cheese and sweetcorn quesadillas if you’re visiting for lunch.

thegrounds.com.au/alexandria-cafe-reservation

St George Sailing Club

There’s not much that beats a day by the water with family, unless of course it’s complemented by woodfired pizzas, burgers, and fresh seafood to dig in to. St George Sailing Club is a perfect choice for the whole family, just sit back and watch sailors glide through Botany Bay in this spacious, recently refurbished venue. While there is a designated kid’s menu, there are plenty of familiar favourites on the ‘grown-ups’ menu that the little ones will still love. stgeorgesailingclub.com.au

Coogee Pavilion

Coogee Pavilion is well-known as a great venue for families, and we understand why. The three-storey pub is located right next to Coogee Beach, and the downstairs level is a haven of kid-friendly fun with giant Scrabble boards and a play area. They also have warming woodfired pizzas (which come in both kids and regular sizes) and a full kids menu including refreshing smoothies, perfect for a post-beach trip energy boost.

merivale.com/venues/coogeepavilion

St George Sailing Club

FANCY DATE SPOTS

Fred’s

Stepping into Fred’s certainly isn’t a typical dining experience. The rustic design is reminiscent of an old farmhouse and the menu, which is proudly locally sourced and seasonally updated, certainly complements the warm setting. Choose from a range of elevated favourites including sage and spinach barbajuan, and oven baked chicken accompanied by grapes, almonds, tarragon, and aioli. Their menu changes all the time, but a delicious evening out is practically a guarantee.

merivale.com/venues/freds

Totti’s

If you prefer a date-lunch over a date-night you can’t go past a visit to Totti’s in Bondi. Their lunch options include flavourful pastas, refreshing salads, and a jampacked antipasto menu, but make sure to save space for dessert. Totti’s Neapolitan Ice Cream Sandwich is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser not to be missed.

merivale.com/venues/tottis

Pearl

A visit to Pearl is a memorable occasion with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, acclaimed Cantonese cuisine, and a carefully curated wine list to boot. It’s impossible to visit without enjoying their Dim Sum range which includes Pan Fried Wagyu dumplings. The team also have a strong seafood focus so make sure to select a few prawn dishes and set your tastebuds on a culinary adventure.

pearldining.com.au

CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS

Jane

This boutique retro bar and restaurant in Surry Hills is the perfect spot for an early evening catch up with friends, made better by its unbeatable happy hour from 5pm to 6pm on weeknights and 4pm to 6pm on weekends. Drinks start from $6 to $12 during this time and includes their namesake Jane Martini made with Gin, and wild rose vermouth.

janesurryhills.com

Bills

Breakfast with friends is always a good choice but, breakfast with your pals over the best scrambled eggs in town, is an unbeatable combination. Bills, which has multiple venues across Sydney, has become a famous breakfast spot for locals with everything from sweet corn fritters and ricotta hotcakes, to a ‘full aussie’ breakie and chilli fried egg and bacon.

bills.com.au

Johnny Gio’s

Catching up with friends doesn’t always mean dining in. Johnny Gio’s serves up delicious Italian eats perfect for sharing. Pick up the Vego lover pizza, garlic and mozzarella bread, veal meatballs and head off for a mouth-watering picnic at Bondi.

johnnygiospizza.com.au

Shadow Baking

Brought to you by a few of Gelato Messina’s best chef’s, this new bakery has been selling out every day since opening its doors. Featuring a range of creative pastries (think, lamington brioche, choc hazelnut and caramel croissants, or fennel sausage focaccia) this moreish destination is open Thursday to Sunday and opens from 8am. There isn’t much seating so either head to a local park or back to your home or hotel and dig in.

nomnie.com/shadowbaking

Fred's, Paddington

The Grounds of Alexandria (Image credit: Destination NSW)

St George Sailing Club, Sans Souci

A FAMILY DAY WELL SPENT IN MELTON

Take in all that beautiful Victoria has to offer in the charming region of Melton, the perfect blend between the bustling city and quiet, peaceful countryside – all only 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, 30 minutes from Melbourne Airport, and just moments from the city’s growing North-Western fringes.

We’ve collated our top family-friendly picks from the area, covering everything from sprawling gardens to historical farmyards and homesteads, as well as our favourite cafes and markets to refuel your adventurous spirit for more exploring. Whether you’re just passing through or making a weekend of it, there’s plenty to see and do, in and around Melton.

Melton Botanic Gardens

Animal Land Children’s Farm

DISCOVER: VIC MELTON SEE

Melton Botanic Gardens

With over 27 hectares of gardens to explore, Melton Botanic Gardens is a picturesque spot to enjoy quality family time in the great outdoors. Find Indigenous paintings, gardens inspired by different world regions, and a nationally registered Dryland Eucalyptus Arboretum, all right in the heart of Melton town.

melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About

Public Art

Playing its own small part in upholding Victoria’s reputation as Australia’s art capital, the Melton region is home to a number of art installations by local artists and community groups. Follow the trail of painted power boxes through Melton town, or visit one of the many painted murals, sculptures or installations. We recommend heading to Station Road for one of the largest and newest street art pieces.

melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About

The Willows Historical Park

Located in the heart of the Melton township, The Willows Historical Park tells the story of the region from its settlement in the 1830’s to present day. Take a tour through the over 170-year-old homestead or bask in the fresh air and wander along their stunning historic walking trails and native gardens.

melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About

DO

Animal Land Children’s Farm

With over 30 years of farming success under its belt, Animal Land Children’s Farm is a fun destination to learn about farming, produce, and most importantly cuddle up to precious baby animals. This working farm is open to visitors on Monday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and offers little guests the opportunity to spot, feed and even hold over 150 different farm animals.

animalland.com.au/

Eynesbury Market

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the Melton region on the fourth Sunday of the month, head to the beautiful Eynesbury area and take in its namesake Markets. With a variety of exciting craft stalls, fresh produce, and delicious food to be found, this is a Sunday activity that the whole family can enjoy.

urbanmarkets.com.au/eynesbury

Rally School Melbourne

If you and your family feel the need for speed, look no further than Rally School Melbourne in Avalon. Get behind the wheel or in the passenger seat of a competition-grade rally car and enjoy an unforgettable lap with a pro driver.

rallyschool.com.au/

Dingo Sanctuary and Research Centre

One of only three dingo sanctuaries in the world, the Australian Dingo Foundation’s Sanctuary and Research Centre facilitates groundbreaking research projects and offers educational tours and appointment-only encounters for visitors. If you want to get up close and personal and educate yourself on these iconic Australian animals, this is the spot to be.

dingofoundation.org/sanctuary/

Animal Land Children’s Farm

REFUEL

Baby Black Espresso Bar

Needing a pick me up from the best breakfast and coffee spot in Melton? Baby Black Espresso Bar is a local favourite, serving up delicious morning bites and brews – taste them for yourself daily from 7am.

babyblackespressobar.com/

Priya Indian Cuisines

Award-winning and oh-so delicious, Priya Indian Cuisines is dishing up authentic Indian food in Caroline Springs. Open for lunch and dinner, this local hidden gem is guaranteed to refuel you after a long day of exploring.

priyaindiancuisine.com.au

Houdini’s Café e Cucina

While its location in Digger’s Rest may be thousands of kilometres away from Sicily, Houdini’s Café e Cucina is serving authentic Italian family recipes to the Melton region. Experience the best pizza, pasta, and antipasto in the area, with options available for gluten free, vegetarian and vegan patrons.

houdinis.com.au

Caroline

Thai

Caroline Thai offers an authentic Thai dining experience, with fresh food and vegetables and Thai spices and herbs. This is a fantastic option for larger groups and families, with an extensive menu (think pad thai, satay skewers, and stir fry galore), and budget-friendly banquet options.

carolinethai.com.au

Melton Botanic Gardens

Melton Botanic Gardens

INSPIRE

INSPIRING CREATIVITY AND PROMOTING RELAXATION

Experimenting with the latest trends can ignite your creative spirit, and listening to the wisdom of others can transform your perspective. Be inspired by our favourite books, the latest in interior trends, and popular podcasts.

THE PERKS OF PICKING A WALLPAPER

When it comes to decorating, we often reach for funky art pieces, cool couches, or statement lighting, often bypassing an essential of every home - the walls.

Why not bring some character to this key element of your house, showcasing your creativity and personal style? If wallpapered walls could talk, they’d surely say something fun!

Hailed by design leaders like Architectural Digest and Vogue Living as an easy, affordable way to elevate and add sophistication to your interiors, wallpaper has never been more in style.

With an option for every home, taste, and design sense, explore the best tips in wallpaper right here, in Together.

Subtle statements

Making a statement doesn’t need to be complicated or overbearing. Rather than coating your whole living room with a patterned wallpaper, opt for strategic wallpaper placement by creating a single feature wall in your room. Not only does this reduce costs, it can also add significant character to your space without being overwhelming.

Keep it cohesive

Wallpaper is a fantastic feature to bring into any room, but it’s important to keep it cohesive with the rest of the interior design. Since the scary stripes and loud prints of decades gone by, wallpaper has evolved to suit a wide variety of interior design aesthetics. If you’ve chosen a modern, sleek home design, consider complementary wallpapers with singular colours or geometric designs. If you’re a fan of more traditional home designs, think classic wallpaper styles such as floral, geometric motifs or subtle stripes. Also think about the orientation of your furniture. If you’re using a feature wallpaper wall, add layering to that section of the room like a display cabinet or angle your table and chairs in a way that the feature wall becomes the focal point.

Commitment free

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, struggle to make long term commitments when it comes to design, or are renting, you can still bring some vibrancy to your home through removable wallpaper.

Suppliers like Serena and Lily, children’s wall design specialist Jack Harry and Ollie, and even eBay and Etsy offer easy to apply and remove options. You might think you’d be sacrificing on quality but just like traditional wallpaper, peel-and-stick options are available in a wide range of price points, patterns, and materials.

Consider the setting

It’s important to remember that not all walls were created equal when it comes to being a canvas for wallpaper. Wallpaper thrives in dry environments, so rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms are less suitable for a feature wall (or four). It’s also best to avoid placing wallpaper in direct sunlight, as this can cause beautiful bright colours and prints to fade and lose their lustre. Some wallpaper materials are more durable than others, so factor in the type of fabric or paper you’ve chosen for high traffic areas to ensure you get a long life out of it.

Ignite the senses

Now that the wallpaper is creating a visual statement for you and your guests, why not ignite all the senses with a few subtle design choices. Many wallpapers also include interesting textured details and finishes adding to their aesthetic appeal. There’s everything from delicate silks to wooden panel options so browse Pinterest and don’t limit yourself to the two dimensional.

Another fun way to bring personality to the wallpaper is by considering the smells in each wallpapered room. Add a different scented candle or diffuser to rooms with different wallpapers and enjoy the excitement of stepping into a new sensory overload in each space.

THE AVID READER

If you’re in need of some downtime to let your mind wander, we’ve enlisted the help of our AVID staff members from all corners of the country to curate a collection of book and podcast recommendations, and why they love them. These suggestions will serve as the ideal inspiration for your next weekend read or go-to audio for your daily commute.

The Lost Man

Jane

Harper

Recommended by Danni, Harmony

Marketing Manager

Atomic Habits

James Clear

Recommended by Sourabh, Finance

Manager

This book will show you how to overcome a lack of motivation, change your environment to encourage motivation, and make time for productive habits and routines.

A story that captures the isolation and remoteness of the Queensland Outback where two brothers meet at the border of their vast cattle farm. This book is filled with nuance and secrets that slowly unfold, leading to a startling conclusion.

AND LISTENER

Hamish & Andy

Hamish Blake and Andy Lee

Recommended by Tim, VIC Acquisitions Manager

Weekly podcast episodes are hosted by Australian comedy duo Hamish & Andy, delivering comedy, news, interviews with celebrities and a whole lot of humour and fun.

Stolen Focus

Johann Hari

Parental as Anything Maggie

Dent

Recommended by Adam, Program Manager

In this ABC podcast, Maggie offers great advice and hands-on recommendations for parents facing daily challenges. The episodes are a great choice for parents with kids of all ages and are relatively short - perfect for time-poor listeners!

The

Money Café Alan Kohler

Recommended by Marcus, Development Manager

The Money Café with Alan Kohler is an easy to understand conversation about the week’s news, and events with a particular focus on money markets.

The Huberman Lab Dr Andrew Huberman

Recommended by Helen, General Manager & Business Operations

Dr Andrew is a neuroscientist who has a great ability to break down biology, science, self-improvement, and knowledge into simple and practical terms whilst providing emerging tools to understand how our nervous system works.

Recommended by Colette General Manager People & Culture

With a combination of Johann’s personal experience, technology industry experts, and a myriad of scientific research, Stolen Focus uncovers the forces at work to distract us every day. Each chapter brings a new perspective to understanding what’s going on around us and the steps to reclaim our attention amidst today’s digital age.

The Bronze Horseman Paullina Simons

Recommended by Jana, NSW Marketing Manager

A story of the power of young love between Alexander and Tatiana in war torn Russia. A beautiful read filled with love, heartbreak, betrayal, and tears.