CairnsLife Magazine June 2012

JUNE CONTENTS COVER STORY 7

MAN MADE: MEN IN BUSINESS

NEW 41 COVER

Photographed by Romy Photography Location Sebel Cainrs

CONTRIBUTORS Amanda Cranston Amanda Macor Claire-Tamsin Davies Danny Betros Joe Vella Julietta Henderson Kate Van Eck DISPLAY SALES Jacqui Nolan Elli Vukasovic Tracy Crook Jessie Jattke GRAPHIC DESIGN Rachelle Shipley PHOTOGRAPHY Romy Seigmann Claire-Tamsin Davies

90 65

CRUISE: BOATING, CYCLING & DRIVING SECTION KIDSLIFE CONFERENCE & EVENTS

7 MEN IN BUSINESS

65 CONFERENCE & EVENTS

FASHION 74

'COUNTRY FEVER'

PORTLIFE 101

65 RENOVATING SPECIALISTS

56 WINE & CUISINE

PORT DOUGLAS WEDDINGS

HOMELIFE 111 114

RENOVATING & HIRE SPECIALISTS CAIRNS HARWARE: ONE-STOP RENOVATING SHOP

EVERY MONTH 34 56 82 93

WHATS ON CALENDAR WINE & CUISINE BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS BUSINESS

3 CairnsLife June 2012

101 PORT DOUGLAS WEDDINGS

70 COUNTRY FEVER

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

I

often used to think how quickly the weeks fly by, but since joining the crazy world of publishing, now the time goes by even quicker, and in c hunks of entire months! Can y ou believe we are heading into the second half of the year?

Right now, at deadline time, my head is spinning - but I wouldn't have it any other way. I've realised I haven't even gotten started on my New Year's resolutions yet! Oh well, there's always next year...

This month we are happy and proud to present our "Man Made" feature. Having met with all the g reat men we have profiled, I must say it has been nice to see a noticeable shift in local people's confidence. No pressure Bob Manning - we know you can drive our town back to the boom times! But he can't do it alone , so come on everybody, let's spread the confidence like our fabulous "Man Made" men and get Cairns smiling in 2012.

Until July when we get to do it all again...keep smiling and have a great month.

Jacqui x

EXPO is fast approaching and bookings are limited. To secure you space contact our office today.

This is the ideal opportunity to showacse your business and products to a large number of local and interstate visitors.

CairnsLife magazine published by CairnsLife Pty Ltd. Shops 7 & 8 The Walk. 84 Lake Street. Cairns. 4870 • T: 4041 6981 www.cairnslifemag.com.au

THIS MONTH CAIRNSLIFE T AKES A CLOSER LOOK INTO THE LIVES OF SOME OF OUR VER Y OWN BUSINESSMEN. THEIR UPS AND DOWNS, THEIR UNWAVERING COMMITMENT AND PASSION FOR THE VER Y THINGS THEY DO. CAIRNSLIFE REPORTERS AMANDA CRANSTON AND KATE VAN ECK HAVE TRULY MET SOME INSPIRA TIONAL CHARACTERS AS THEY PRESENT A CLOSER LOOK INTO THE ENTREPRENEURIAL WORLD OF THE CAIRNS BUSINESSMAN.

7 CairnsLife June 2012

MAN MADE FEATURE

BOB MANNING MAYOR OF CAIRNS When it comes to pr ominent businessmen they don’t come m uch bigger than the man in c harge of running our city.

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resh from a landside victory with 55% of the mayoral vote, Bob Manning is certainly the man of the moment, with many Cairns residents entrusting him with the task of turning our economy around. But with expectations comes responsibility, and in Bob’s case it’s certainly not a position he takes lightly.

As far as resumes go, there isn’t much this local born and bred man hasn’t done. A respected business leader who’s been CEO of the Cairns Port Authority and General Manger of NQEA Australia, Bob is also a V ietnam Veteran who served three years in the Australian Army as a 2nd lieutenant. His commitment to community service has seen him recognised with a n umber of accolades including the Order of Australia in 2004 f or service to the community of the Cairns region.

But at the end of the day, this down- to-earth man is f ocussed on the task a t hand “I definitely have an affinity with the city and I’m prepared to work as hard as I have to, to make a difference,” he says.

The key is to work hard. If you’ve done your best, you can walk away and hold your head high. If you haven’t you’ll always regret it.”

The catalyst for Bob’s decision to run was when local ship building company NQEA, lost a $450 million contract in 2009. “That was the day I w ent home and said w e have to do something,” Bob says. “We had a history as a strong ship building town and that’s gone now.

I only hope w e can lear n from these lost opportunities to ensur e they never happen again.” Bob sees his new r ole as crucial in establishing relationships with other government bodies. “I’ve spoken to Pr emier Campbell Newman several times,” Bob says.

“He’s got a g reat team including our local members and I look f orward to working with them.”

Bob’s recent appointment as Ma yor has seen his career come full cir cle after taking a traineeship with the council at the start of his career. “I started a t the council straight after school and pr obably thought I’ d always be involved on some le vel with local government,” he says. As Mayor, his vision is to establish economic div ersification and accountability for capital e xpenditure while generating activity and r estoring faith in the region. “I just met with Adv ance Cairns this week and it was very encouraging. They have some great ideas about the direction we should be taking.”

One thing Bob pr obably wasn’t prepared for was his loss of anonymity. It seems he can ’t even do his shopping these days without being approached by a member of the public – a situation he’s quite willing to take in his stride.

“We were out the other da y having a quiet coffee not expecting to be noticed when a lady about 20 metr es away shouted out Mr Manning – good on y a!” Bob laughs. “The support I’ve received is inspiring. It motivates me to do the best job I possibly can.”

With the whole city’s eyes upon him, Bob is committed to giving his all. “The key is to work hard. If you’ve done your best, you can walk away and hold your head high. If you haven’t you’ll always regret it.” But as with an y high

8 CairnsLife June 2012

power positions, Bob still belie ves it’s important to have a balance. “Claire and I spoke about this at the beginning because it’s as much of a sacrifice for her as it is f or me,” he says. “We made a decision that we have to take time out for ourselves. “Even it it’s just two days off every six week, just to get a way and recharge.”

MAN MADE FEATURE

JOHN LYNCH & GUS FERNANDEZ THE JACK HOTEL The Union Jack Hotel is one of the hottest venues in town with live entertainment, great facilities and an even greater atmosphere. Managers John Lynch and Gus Fernandez have certainly raised the bar when it comes to pubs, attracting high calibre musicians and the odd celebrity.

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oth musicians themselves - John was a singer and Gus was a session drummer, this dynamic duo ha ve known each other for over 10 years and worked together for the last two. John has spent 6 years managing venues here and abroad, while Gus has worked as an Entertainment Manager f or eight years following a 12 y ear stint tra velling with his band. “I met John initially through my younger brother, but over the years we have become great mates and often talked about taking on a project together,” Gus sa ys. “When Shenannigans went into receivership and the building was bought b y Ken Harris, he approached John and I about r enovating and re-branding the hotel.”T hey accepted the challenge, aware the b usiness had a bad perception in the mar ket and despera tely needed some major r epairs. They agreed to come onboard and w orked with K en overseeing the rebuilding of the venue from the ground up. “It was a slo w process but we wanted to raise the bar within the pub culture in Cairns,” John says.

“We wanted to create more than just your normal pub and we’ve achieved that with a magnificent all - weather beer garden, a new performance stage and sound system, three new huge projector screens for sports, and refurbished bars, just to name a few.”

Both Gus and J ohn say the idea behind the name The Union J ack Hotel, alr eady affectionately known as The Jack, came from wanting a Hard Rock Cafe style with a British rock and roll theme, while also encompassing the laidback Aussie feel. “Our goal has always been to pr ovide an e xcellent venue, with a great atmosphere, awesome entertainment, great service and good ole’ w holesome pub food at pub prices,” John says. Already Gus has been approached by major bands and agents and has had the likes of Busby Marou, Funkoars, Frank Turner and Parachute Youth play at the venue, as well as Pink’s guitarist, Justin Dericco. He added that the pub tends to attract a lot of Australian and Inter national artist. “We have some v ery interesting and diverse acts in the ne xt two months including Aussie Hip Hop legends Def Wish Cast and Nicky Bomba, Session Drummer for the John Butler Trio, with his band Bustament, with a lot more to come”.

John Lynch (left) & Gus Fernandez

As well as having three huge screens in the beer garden, The Jack also has 10 other scr eens in and around the establishment showing live local, national, and international sporting events. “We have all of the Fox Sports channels, as well as Setanta so if your game is on and it’s not being shown then ask one of our staff and we will put it on for you.” The Jack also shows a variety of Pay Per View sports events like the UFC free of charge so keep an eye out for special events.

The Jack is also a fantastic v enue for functions and is family-friendly with g reat kid’s meals on offer in the r estaurant. Head Chef Shane Treloar has previously worked at Verdis and The Lakes Resort and places g reat importance on buying fresh, local produce. With an abundance of room, The Jack can also double as a private or semi private venue available for parties or functions. “We pride ourselves on being able to create the perfect function and being ab le to cater to whatever needs the customer has,” John said. “We realise that if someone books their function or wants to celebra te a party a t our venue then it is our ob ligation to ensure that person’s every need is ca tered to w herever possible.”With three separate areas of the outside beer garden available, as well as inside undercover areas, functions can ca ter to large groups of up to 400 people or smaller , more intimate events with free venue hire and well priced food packages available.

9 CairnsLife June 2012

“Although we know we have a long way to go we are extremely happy with the direction The Jack is headed in, and we thank everyone who has so far made this all possible,” Gus enthuses.

“But in sa ying that we are always trying to better ourselves and push to pr ovide Cairns with the best all r ound experience possible,” John added.

And somehow, after speaking with these guys, it is easy to belie ve that this once g reat venue can return to its glory days.

The Jack Hotel Cnr Sheridan & Spence St Open 7 days a week 10am – 2am Restaurant Open for lunch & dinner Free Venue Hire. General Enquiries: Ph: 4051 2490 or ww.thejack.com.au

MAN MADE FEATURE

WAYNE LEONARD WAYNE LEONARD MOTORCYCLES When it comes to Wayne Leonard, the saying ‘do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life’ couldn’t be more apt.

Wayne pictured with wife and business partner Rhonda Leonard

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ayne is one of the f ortunate few who’s made a living out of his hobby in an opera tion that’s stood the test of time. Not many businesses can claim they’ve traded for 29 years from the same site, which is why Wayne Leonard Motorcycles, or ‘the toyshop’ as he af fectionately refers to it, has grown to become the Cairns landmark we know today.

While working as a paymaster for a company in Townsville, Wayne developed a lo ve for motocross which saw him radically change his career path. Much to his Dad’s shock, he left a stable career to take on a role a in a motorcycle dealership where he soon discovered he had a natural flair for selling. With the support of wife Rhonda w ho’s also a motor cycle enthusiast, Wayne soon saw an opportunity to go into business for himself.

“It’s about longevity and straight-up dealing ” Wayne says. “It all leads to repeat business.”

Originally run from a tin shed, the business has grown into a substantial opera tion that currently employs a staf f of 18 people , including Rhonda and their tw o sons. With new and used bikes , including the Har ley Davidson division, a sho wroom full of

accessories and onsite workshop, the business is proof of what the combination of passion and teamwork can ac hieve. “I couldn ’t do it without her,” Wayne says. “I’m the salesman but Rhonda does everything else.”

Much of the success of Wayne Leonard Motorcycles can be attributed to the integrity of the b usiness. “It’s about longe vity and straight-up dealing ” Wayne says. “It all leads to repeat business.” He also cr edits the commitment of long-term staff, some of which have been with the compan y for most of its operation. “Generally all the staf f stay a long time because we know the value of looking after them.” Wayne says.

Along with a thriving b usiness, Wayne is also well known for his contrib ution to the community through Wayne Leonard’s Motorcycle Muster. When asked to sponsor the inaugural event 11 y ears ago, Wayne and Rhonda were quick to support a cause that was close to their hearts. “When my oldest boy was born he was v ery premature and spent tw o weeks in intensive care.” Wayne says. “When we were approached we were totally onboard to back up the hospital that saved our boy.”

The annual event is run over two days with the biggest drawcard being the raffle of a Harley Davidson Sportster. What started with 17 riders has grown substantially over the years raising close to half a million dollars. “It’s not just Rhonda and I, it’ s the whole motorcycle 10 CairnsLife June 2012

fraternity and all the people that buy the raffle tickets.” Wayne says. He also points out tha t every dollar raised goes dir ectly to improving the hospital. “All the people tha t work there, their wages, vehicles and petr ol are totally covered by the parking station and the café. So every cent that we raise goes in the tin.”

It should come as no surprise that during their time off Wayne and Rhonda enjo y nothing better that hitting the bitumen or dirt tracks on two wheels. After just returning from a trip to Brisbane for a Harley Davidson conference, they’re already planning their next adventure to Lake Eyre. “We still love our motorcycles and we’re passionate about it.” Wayne says. It’s a great way to see the countryside and we love nothing better than to go and enjo y the same thing our customers do.”

Wayne Leonard Motorcycles 32-34 Water Street Cairns QLD 4870 sales@wayneleonard.com.au (07) 4051 2741

MAN MADE FEATURE

JASON SALECICH CAZALYS Cazalys has just w on the 2012 Club of the Year at the Inter national Gaming Technology and Clubs Queensland Awards, and they continue to grow with a planned multi-million dollar renovation about to begin.

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eneral Manager Jason Salecich says his team are really proud of the a ward which is judged on financial performance, community involvement, the venue and its facilities, staff, service and secret visits by the judging panel. “Our comm unity involvement was bigger than any other club in Queensland which supports our belief that getting behind your local community is vital,” Jason says. Cazalys Comm unity Grant of $50,000 each year is only a small portion of the close to $1 million dollar s Cazalys provides in sponsorship and donations to local AFL and a miriade of other comm unity organisations throughout the year. The club also gets involved with different causes such as Relay for Life, Sea FM’s Give Me Five For Kids, donating blood and a host of others. Jason says the staff play a major role in the success of Cazalys.

“Finding and maintaining good people is a true gauge of the culture of any business. I rate my relationships with staff as the most important of all successful management tools.”

Cazalys is no w in the ear ly stages of an expansion, which will see them takeo ver the adjacent site . Work has already begun and once completed, the venue will boast a new state-ofthe-art kid’s entertainment ar ea with a huge playground visible from all seating areas, big screens, an interactiv e room, arts and crafts , school holiday activities and facilities to ca ter from toddlers to teens. The expansion will also include a new cafe, a new entertainment ar ea with a bigger stage and a r efurbished gaming lounge. “At the moment we have almost 28,000 members across a massive catchment, We cater for a broad demographic,” Jason says.

Cazalys currently has a sports bar , a g aming lounge with 28 0 poker mac hines, three corporate function r ooms and kid’s facilities.

“The refurbishment will position us well for the future, catering for the demands of our customers now as w ell as our customer s five years down the track.” J ason says once renovations are complete they will greatly assist the clubs ability to ca ter to lar ger events especially when working with AFL Cair ns to bring larger events to Cazalys Stadium.” T he organisation has a wonderful asset there for the Cairns community and the club will be better equipped to handle the needs of larger numbers associated with hosting lar ge events at the stadium.” Cazalys will also contin ue to ensure they meet comm unity needs and pr ovide a quality experience that represents good value.

“We have always been a big club with a small

BEST FOOTBALL CLUB 2012 | BEST CLUB FNQ 2012 | QLD’S CLUB OF THE YEAR 2012

club feeling and that will stay the same,” he says.

Jason has been General Manager of Cazalys for almost four years. His proven background in hospitality and a deg ree in business meant he was the perfect man f or the job . “I actually started out picking up g lasses at the age of 15 and worked my way up,” he laughs. Since then he has w orked as security in nightclubs , run Pubs and Hotels in Sydney, managed numerous clubs including Mareeba Leagues Club , Cairns Golf Club and managed and car ried out a major renovation to the Moranbah W orkers club prior to returning to Cairns in 2008 and the position at Cazalys “I also worked as a high school teacher in Sydney for a while but it wasn’t for me,” he says. “Hospitality is a great industry and can lead to a lot of exciting opportunities.”

While Jason was born and bred in Sydney, he says his family holida yed in Cairns every year and eventually moved here. Jason has lived in Cairns on and off for almost 15 years and ended up buying a few acres here in 1997. He and his wife Donna and their two daughters Keely and Emilee love the Cairns lifestyle and what it has to offer..

What does he do w hen he isn’t at work and managing the Cazalys group of clubs?

“I am involved in many local sporting g roups through my family, especially swimming as both my girls are keen swimmers,” he says. “In fact it’s become a new passion of mine too. The 11 CairnsLife June 2012

need to have an outlet from work and to kee p your body healthy is important especially as you get older,” he laughs. “To share that time with my kids is very important to me as I ha ve big work demands but work hard to keep a family balance in my life.”

Jason is cur rently planning to complete the Green Island swim and the swim leg of the Cairns Ironman in ear ly June..” Apart from that, Jason’s focus is on making Cazalys big ger and better than it already is. But with the 2012 Club of the Year award under his belt, he seems to be doing a good job.

NB: Applications for Cazalys Comm unity Grants close on 6 July, 2012. Check website for more details.

Cazalys Cairns 344 Mulgrave Road Westcourt QLD 4870 PO Box 1033, Cairns, QLD 4870 P. (07) 4054 1464 F. (07) 4033 2038 E. marketing@cazalys.com.au W. www.cazalys.com.au

MAN MADE FEATURE

RHYS CARMADY STATUS SIGNS Status Signs have grown from a two-man operation to a team of 20, servicing not only Cairns but also customers as far north as Thursday Island and Papua New Guinea as well as all over Queensland.

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eneral Manager Rhys Carmady says he and his dad took on the b usiness back in 1997 and did most things b y hand when they first started out. “Things were hand-painted and stencilled using sing le or multi-cut lettering, whereas today technology has completely c hanged the wa y we do business,” he says. Now they use an HP Scitex flat bed printer which can print directly on to sign panels, glass, acrylic, corflute, billboards, canvas, internal wall prints and a host of other mediums. “Digital printing r eally took off in the late 90s and the constant adv ances in technology means speed and tur naround has improved which is definitely mor e cost effective,” he sa ys. “The industry is also changing gradually to incor porate more sustainable methods, processes and products all the time.”

“Our graphic designers come up with great creative concepts and with the latest 3D signage software we are able to give clients a realistic view of signage and concepts before they sign off on the job,” Rhys explains that as the b usiness has grown they have invested in mor e advanced technology, including a CNC routing machine and laser cutter, fully equipped with a two-pack spray booth, as w ell as in-house metal fabrication facilities f or all structural signs .

They also invested in more staff and Rhys says they have eight different trades under the ones roof. “We have a team of graphic designers, sales staff, print operators, boilermakers, spray painters, vinyl applicators, apprentices and office staff.” Sign writing has become a m uch more in-depth industry and Rh ys says they need to be ab le to service all a client’ s needs under the one roof, rather than outsource each component of the job. He says the majority of their clients tend to be in the r etail industry, property development, building and construction, tourism, hotels, marketing clients and real estate agents.

Rhys says he loves the satisfaction of seeing the transformation of a business through signage and some of his most memorab le jobs have been the Cair ns Domestic Air port Redevelopment, Cairns Square and installing light boxes on tower cranes for some of the big developers. “We basically help people market their business through signage and printing and we produce large freestanding pylon signs, posters, billboards, light boxes, bus and vehicle wraps and a whole host of other signage,” he

says. Status Signs has w on multiple national signage and g raphics awards which is testament to the g reat work they do. “Our graphic designers come up with great creative concepts and with the la test 3D signage software we are able to give clients a r ealistic view of signage and concepts before they sign off on the job,” he says.

As the General Manager, Rhys oversees the day-to-day running of the business, working closely with the sales and pr oduction teams, doing tendering and quoting and can vassing for new and upcoming pr ojects. He is a fully qualified sign writer by trade, but started out working in the family business Tint-a-Car after school, before buying Status Signs. In 2010 Rhys and his wife Ca therine, who is the Business Development Manager, took o ver ownership of the company, and in 2011 the y welcomed their first child.

Last year Rhys and his wife decided to expand the business and diversify, launching another arm to the b usiness called Instant ID . They saw a real need for locally made pointof-sale signage, retractable signs, marquees and f lags, so the y manufacture these on the premises and Rhys says this side of the business has 12 CairnsLife June 2012

really taken of f. He also adds tha t because Status Signs is so w ell supported b y local businesses, he feels it is important to give back to the community so Status Signs sponsor the Taipans and Norther n Pride and support various community events. And to service the community as best as the y can, Rhys says he and his team constantly a ttend trade sho ws and update their skills so they can offer clients the best service possib le. “It really is a g reat industry as e very day and e very job is different.”

Status Signs 58 Comport Street, Cairns QLD 4870 PO Box 764, Bungalow QLD 4870 P. 07 4035 5120 F. 07 4035 2678 E.info@statussigns.com.au W. www.statussigns.com.au/

MAN MADE FEATURE

NICK BRIND CAIRNS HARDWARE

Robbie Douglas, Rocco Tatti, Nick Brind (marketing manager), Peter Way (general manager), Rod Watkins, Alan Robson

Encompassing the true heart and soul of north Queensland, Cairns Hardware is a real local business, made by locals, for locals. It is all about hardware.

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ick Brind, the Sales and Mar keting Manager at Cairns Hardware, says customers constantly tell him they love that the store has never lost its traditional roots as a true hardware store. “People say that when they come into our stor es it reminds them of visiting the hardware store with their own father when they were young. They also love that they can come in for one bolt or one washer without having to buy an entire box of bolts and that we have older and mor e experienced staff who really know hardware,” he says.

“Experience and integrity is what we have, trade is what we do, this is our new mission statement and I think it really sums up what we are about.”

Upon meeting Nick, his passion f or the business is evident and his kno wledge of the industry is amazing . He joined Cair ns Hardware 19 months ago after many years in the hardware and paint industry. He loves the fact that Cairns Hardware is so f ocused on being a team and belie ves that internally it’s important for the long ter m success of the business. “It is important to f ocus on being a complete unit and de veloping relationships between our staff and our customers, to ensure that long term we are here for many years to come,” he says.

“In the last 19 months Cair ns Hardware has really focused on brand identity, revamped their television advertising and got mor e involved in comm unity sponsorship. It has been an exciting time.” Nick says their core business is trade and they have strong customer loyalty. “Last year we put on a big Trade Expo solely for our trade clients and it was a huge success. We had suppliers come up from down south and w e offered latest industry information and great prices on the night f or our customers, as well as giving away a $60,000 Ute,” he says. “Another Trade Show is planned for later this year, as well as many other exciting projects for the business.

Nick says a new interactive Cairns Hardware website will be launc hed this month and will be one of the best in the har dware industry.

“Basically you will feel like you are in the store when in fact y ou are online,” he says. “The website will be easy to na vigate, trade customers will be able to access their accounts online, and w e will pr ofile our staf f and customers regularly who are the heart and soul of our business.” Nick says other projects in the pipeline include upskilling all the sales and trade reps who are the face of the business, getting more involved within the community through sponsorship and community projects, and building on current relationships in rural and r emote communities.

When asked about the soon-to-belaunched new Master s Superstore,

13 CairnsLife June 2012

Nick says they welcome the new store as Cairns needs more competition and v ariety. He says the point of difference for Cairns Hardware is as a local hardware store they also manufacture a lot of their own products including roofing, timber trusses, doors, door frames and windows. “We don’t want to become a big box hardware store, we want to r etain our traditional feel and continue to service our core business. We have different trade stor es dedicated solely to paint, others to bathrooms, to kitchens, to windows, to tools and so on. Our staff in these stor es live and br eathe the products they sell so our customers know they are getting the best advice from someone with real experience,” he says.

Cairns Hardware has stores in Cairns, North Cairns, Edmonton, Innisfail, Mossman, Atherton, Mareeba and Cooktown.

Cairns Hardware Corner Lyons St and Scott St, Cairns Tel: 07 4040-2200 www.cairnshardware.com.au International Phone: +61 7 40402200 Email: enquiries@cairnshardware.com.au www.cairnshardware.com.au/Contact.aspx

MAN MADE FEATURE

VICTOR MELLICK VICTOR MELLICK MENS FASHIONS Victor Mellick is a man who needs no introduction. Born and bred in Cairns he’s been selling upmarket men’s clothing for 49 years, much of that time from his current premises on Abbott St. But what many may not know is that Victor is much more than just a r etailer, this charming entrepreneur is also a globe-trotting buyer and manufacturer of his own self-titled clothing label.

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ith men’s clothing in his genes , Victor became in volved in the family business by learning the trade from the ground up like his father before him.

As owner of Victor Mellick Men’s Fashions, his personal service and meticulous a ttention to detail provides customers with a unique shopping experience. “These days in my game not many people know the industry,” Victor says. “The labels I carry and the quality of the stock is usually associa ted with a stor e you’d find in a capital city.”

After recently completing a shop refit, Victor is preparing for his next overseas trip where he’ll be doing all his buying for the upcoming year.

“With my background and e xperience and contacts overseas I’m invited to the top fashion labels all over the world,” he says. Using his own instinct rather than waiting for a customer request, he is e xtremely selective about the items he sells . “I’m v ery particular and protective of my clothing. I don’t deal with reps I deal with the brands directly.”

“I can look at a person and tell them what they should wear and how they should wear it,” With the store home to exclusive labels such as Hugo Boss, Armani, Lagerfeld and P aul Smith, Victor has cornered a niche market for men’s clothing in Cair ns. “I always had the inspiration that as Cair ns grew I wanted to have the best I could possib ly have,” he says.

“My clientele comes from all over Australia.

I’ve got as man y customers living outside Cairns as I do locally.” And with his hands-on approach he still chooses to work on the floor himself with man y customers surprised to discover they’re bring served by the man whose name is on the door.

Unlike many high-end boutiques , Victor Mellick Men’s Fashions offers everything from casual to evening wear including accessories, enabling him to dress a customer from top to toe. “I can look at a person and tell them what they should wear and how they should wear it,” he sa ys. Victor has also branc hed into manufacturing with the Victor Mellick label sitting proudly amongst the w ell known overseas brands on the racks . “I’ve had the opportunity to sour ce the best fabrics fr om around the w orld and I use tw o Australian shirt makers, one in Sy dney and one in Melbourne,” he says Victor attributes his success and longevity with sticking to what he knows, and despite difficult economic times he has no intention of

Victor Mellick and his daughter Kylie

deserting his lo yal clientele. “People have suggested that I move into something cheaper but my trade is the top end,” he sa ys. He compares the feeling of trying on a good quality shirt to getting behind the w heel of a luxury car. “You can buy a car for $30,000 and it might be a beautiful car b ut if you buy one for $80,000 it’s got to be nicer, but until you drive that car you don’t know.”

After nearly fifty years in the industr y, Victor shows no signs of slowing down and to this day still serves his customers face-to-face, six days a week. When he’s not at work or on assignment overseas, he enjo ys nothing more than spending time with friends and family and relaxing at his home by the beach.

15 CairnsLife June 2012

Victor Mellick Mens Fashions A: 105 Abbott Street, Cairns, QLD 4870 P: (07) 4051 2114 F: (07) 4031 3192 E: shop@victormellick.com.au W: www.victormellick.com.au

MAN MADE FEATURE

ROD WEIR ALL LENDING & FINANCE With so many people striving to get ahead these days, Rod Weir’s ambition in life is simple - to provide a comfortable and rewarding life for his family.

Rod with his children (left to right) Daney, Christopher & Courtney

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s founder of All Lending and Finance, this single father of three has man y hats to wear, but still manages to juggle work and family life with a positive attitude and an infectious sense of humour.

After entering the banking and finance industry ‘by accident’ at the age of 16, Rod worked his way up to senior management level at one of the countr y’s leading financial institutions. With the demands of his job taking him to Maryborough, Thursday Island, Mt Isa and just about everywhere in between, Rod became deter mined to find a solution more suitable for his family. “My daughter had started grade one and I just didn ’t want to move anymore,” he says.

By taking a r edundancy from the bank, Rod was forced to contemplate his future.

“I spent 18 months o wner-building a house and trying to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up.” he laughs. Then in 2004 he came up with the idea to use his financial background to set up All Lending and Finance, providing both private and corporate clients with a full range of finance solutions. “We’ve leant on everything from paint on walls for an office fit-out, through to multi-million dollar developments,” Rod says.Due to the volume of business they generate for the lenders, Rod and his team often have the bargaining power to negotiate a better interest rate and fee structure at no cost to the client. “T hey’re actually

getting a better deal because in a lot of situations we can sour ce or access a better product.” Rod says. “If you walk into a bank they’re only going to sell you what they’ve got.

When you come to us we’ve got a choice of 35 different lenders and all of their products.”

Rod attributes the success of the business to its strong focus on customer service. “It’s a simple philosophy of people before profit,” he says.

“You do the right thing by the people and it all comes back.” In fact 95% of the business that they receive is a direct result of word of mouth and repeat business.

“I’ve got 12 different clients from one family.” Rod says.

“We’ve got br others, sisters, in-laws right through to a cousin down in Melbourne where it was all done over the phone.”

While many in the industry have either downsized or closed their door s in recent years, Rod’s operation has continued to thrive. “All the growth has come in the last three years through the worst of the econom y,” he sa ys. But that’s not to sa y the r esult has come easily, with Rod determined to run his 16 CairnsLife June 2012

business around his family. “I’ll come in most days about four or five o’clock in the morning with no interruptions, then leave about seven to get the kids ready for school.”

Rod’s main f ocus now is f or the b usiness to support both his family and those of his employees. “I want it to contin ue to grow and thrive so w e can all pr ovide for our families .

What do you want any extra for?” he laughs.

When he’s not in the of fice, he is committed to spending time with his kids, happily working his own schedule around theirs. “We only have them for a short time. We’ve got a lend of them for 1617 years then they’re flying off on their own.”

All Lending & Finance Shop 3, 127 Benjamina St Mount Sheridan Ph 07 40361711 Fx 07 40364320 M 0418790149 E rod@alllending.com.au W www.alllending.com.au

MAN MADE FEATURE

ROSS FINLAYSON ROSS FINLAYSON MARLIN CHARTERS Ross Finlayson caught his first fish at the age of five and from that moment on he was hooked.

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oss says he knew from a young age he wanted to be a mar lin fisherman and was completely obsessed by it. “I grew up in Shepparton in Victoria and read all the fishing magazines, and the y always talked about the big mar lin caught in Cair ns,” he says. As soon as R oss was old enough he headed to Queensland with a few ma tes in search of a deckhand job, starting in the Gold Coast. “It took me two months to get a job on a boat. I was working two jobs, at Sizzler and at a plant n ursery, and I w ould ride my bike everyday down to the marina and pester them every day for a job,” he laughs. One of the boat crews decided to give Ross a chance and he cleaned the boat for free for the opportunity to go fishing with them. “I actually got seasick to start with but I persevered because that’s all I wanted to do. It actually took me six months to conquer my sea sickness.” Then one of the Gold Coast boa ts Backlash br ought him to Cairns and he got work as a second deckhand.

After two years with Backlash he spent a y ear on Pipedream, then got to w ork for Laurie Woodbridge, the big gest legend in mar lin fishing. “As a kid I w ould always read about Laurie and w hen I was 16 I rang him and asked him for a job. He told me to finish school and get an educa tion first,” Ross says. “I eventually got to work for him on his boat Sea Baby IV and spent 15 years as one of his crew before taking over the running of the boat after Laurie retired in 98.”

“Many Cairns residents wouldn’t be aware of the significance of our marlin fishery, initially putting Cairns on the map as an International tourist destination.

With many of the famous dive sites such as the Cod Hole and Pixies Pinnacle, discovered and made popular by the Cairns marlin fleet.”

As one of Australia’s leading marlin and sports fishing captains with 23 years experience, Ross now runs mar lin charters on T op Shot, a world-class 43 foot game boat which is fully equipped with the la test electronic and navigational equipment. Se ptember to December is big marlin season and the busiest time of year for Ross. The rest of the year he runs daily light tackle c harters. “In the of fseason we normally catch Spanish mackerel, juvenile black marlin, sailfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, cobia and tuna, and we take out six to eight people per c harter,” he says. In marlin season Ross is nor mally heavily booked,

charters run for four to five days at a time and clients come from all over the world to catch the big marlin. “I’m the captain, the cook and most other r oles during peak season, as w e normally work about 80 da ys straight doing back-to-back charters.” Ross’s wife and business partner, Donna, manages the business-side of things from Cairns while Ross is out on the boat, taking bookings, organising flights and accommodation and ordering food and supplies for the boat.

Like all charter fishermen on the r eef, Ross would like to see support f or the recreational charter fleet from the Gr eat Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority with no mor e damaging Green Zones added to the alr eady large areas of No Fishing Zones cur rently in place. The Cairns marlin fishing fleet has been at the forefront of “catch and release” of the big marlin worldwide with a priority to caretake the fishery. “We have been tagging and releasing marlin here for 40 years and now with the latest satellite tags available we are learning even more about the habits of the mysterious black marlin,” he says. Thanks to the efforts of the Cair ns Professional Game Fishing Association and the conservation ethics shown by the Cairns charter fleet, the fishery is in as good a condition no w as it has been f or 17 CairnsLife June 2012

over 40 y ears. “Man y Cairns residents wouldn’t be aware of the significance of our marlin fishery initially putting Cair ns on the map as an Inter national tourist destina tion.

With many of the famous dive sites such as the Cod Hole and Pixies Pinnacle, discovered and made popular by the Cairns marlin fleet.”

Ross says it is w ell known that a bad da ys fishing in Cair ns is better than a good da ys fishing anywhere else in the world, so he feels lucky to be doing a job he loves. “It doesn’t feel like a job at all” he says.

To find out more about Ross Finlayson’s game fishing charters contact him on 0418 183 565 or 0427 552 490 or visit www.australiangamefishing.com

MAN MADE FEATURE

CLINT WHITCROFT BODY MATRIX For those in the kno w about health and fitness supplements , a trip to Bod y Matrix is like stepping into a candy store.

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ith shelves stacked to full capacity housing a v ast range of products, this small store on Sheridan Street is literally bursting with options. But what’s most interesting about this business is the service it provides. Its owner Clint Whitcroft, a Cairns local, has used his hands-on approach together with his youthful ambition and driv e, to take this enterprise to the next level.

While completing a car pentry apprenticeship in his ear ly twenties, Clint became activ ely involved in w eight training, which initially sparked his inter est in supplements . It was during this time he was first introduced to Body Matrix as a customer and benefitted fr om the advice of the previous owner. “I spent a lot of my afternoons in her e chatting about the products, how they work, why they work,” Clint says. So when the opportunity to buy the business presented itself two years ago, Clint was more than ready to take it on.

Servicing both a male and female clientele , Body Matrix offers a wide range of products including protein powders, multi vitamins and weight-loss supplements. Since taking o ver, Clint has been active in increasing the amount of stock while also taking the business in a new direction. “I’ve added another 10 - 15 brands to the e xisting range, plus a full shop r efit, clothing line, marketing and facebook site .”

And with a new website also near completion, a large majority of that stock will be available online, enabling him to source new customers from around the country. “We’ve got a range and diversity that even some of the shops in Brisbane and Sydney don’t have,” he says.

“Everyone can sell supplements but they don’t all offer the advice that I do,” he says. “It’s the satisfaction of people coming back and saying, that worked for me.”

Despite being hands-on in the pr emises six days a week, Clint is already looking for ways to expand. Together with a b usiness partner based in Sydney, he has secur ed the rights to All The Way Distribution, a man ufacturing company in the US, allowing him to sell their brand Australia wide. The two also plan to launch a number of stores in Sydney with the first due to open in the coming weeks. Closer to home, Clint aims to increase his presence in the Cairns market and has pinpointed a new location on the south side of Cairns where he plans to expand the Body Matrix brand.

While he ma y be in competition with other specialty stores and phar macies in the

marketplace, what sets Body Matrix apart is the relationship Clint has with his customer s.

“Everyone can sell supplements but they don’t all offer the advice that I do,” he says. “It’s the satisfaction of people coming back and saying, that worked for me.” And b y offering free samples, Clint also giv es customers the opportunity to try before they buy. “Nobody wants to spend mone y on something to find they don’t like it and are stuck with it for weeks or months. But here I can sample, I can give the best advice and I can bea t any price.” He says.

In his spar e time, Clint’s interests are fairly diverse. Apart from working out in the gym he likes computer games, racing cars and golf on a Sunday. He also enjo ys travel, including a much anticipated trip to T hailand at the end of the year, as well as spending time with his girlfriend and the ‘kids’ - his tw o long-haired Chihuahuas.

18 CairnsLife June 2012

Body Matrix 221 Sheridan Street Cairns QLD 4870 (07) 4051 5366 info@bodymatrixcairns.com.au Facebook - BMS Carins

MAN MADE FEATURE

DAMIEN SWAIN ALPHA CARGO SOLUTIONS As owner of Alpha Cargo Solutions, Damien Swain operates from the convenience of his own home, where he single-handedly runs his business while still finding time for the important things in life.

Damien with his children Isabelle & Bryn

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ith his father also a customs broker, it is fair to say that he was born into the industry. But unlike the business in days gone by, Damien enjoys the advantages of much lower overheads and greater flexibility thanks to the transition to web based business.

After growing up in the small comm unity of Butcher’s Creek on the Atherton Tablelands, Damien studied Commerce at the University of Queensland. He gained acceptance into the inaugural intake of ITALC students (Int’ l Trade and Logistics College) w here he obtained his Customs br okers license. After almost a decade of holding positions in other firms, he soon saw the need to take control of his own destiny. “

A few years ago on my daughter’s 3rd birthday I was called into work on a Sunday and that was when I made the decision that I needed to work for myself,” he says.

The decision to go out on his own still hinged on a moral dilemma. Alpha Car go would inevitably operate in direct competition with previous employers and friends and Damien had no intention of burning his bridges in a town as close knit as Cairns.

To his r elief, the r esponse he got was v ery encouraging, with the majority supportiv e of his endeavour. “They were really decent about

it after consulta tion,” Damien sa ys. “Many offered letters of recommendation to support my application for a Cor porate Brokers Licence.”

As a customs brokerage, Alpha Cargo provides a link betw een private business and the Australian government, providing a full range of industry advice and services, including how to legally minimise import duty and tax.

“Essentially what we offer is trade facilitation, anyone who imports or e xports will need to come through someone like us .” And w hile many similar businesses are departmentalised, Damien aims to of fer a mor e personalised service. “I saw the opportunity to do it myself and really service client needs from factory all the way through to consumer.”

Fortunately for Alpha Car go, the ability to communicate securely with both customs and clients online elimina tes the need f or commercial premises. “Unless y ou require warehousing and storage capabilities it’ s not really necessary,” Damien says. This not only removes the need for overheads but also gives him the f lexibility to opera te from virtually anywhere. “I’ve been at my in-laws house at Christmas time near Brisbane and facilita ted clearances in Sydney, Hobart and Adelaide…it doesn’t matter where you are, it can all be done electronically now.”

Although the key concept of his business is his hands-on approach, Damien still sees the opportunity for expansion in the futur e. “We want to pick and c hoose potential employees and train them fr om a y oung age to of fer 19 CairnsLife June 2012

personal service whilst exposing them to the full logistics and supply c hain spectrum,” he says. With the business system he has in place, Damien believes he can contin ue to provide the one-on-one service he striv es for. “We’re trying to set ourselves apart in the way that we operate.”

Apart from the advantages of being his o wn boss, the f lexibility of working from home means that Damien can be more available for his children, often ferrying them to and fr om school and co-cur ricular activities. An a vid rugby union fan w ho’s both pla yed and coached locally, he now volunteers his time to coach his son’s junior soccer team. “It’s takes a bit of patience but it’s very rewarding,” Damien laughs.

Alpha Cargo Solutions Pty Ltd Mansfield St, PO BOX 5175 Cairns QLD 4870 Tel: +61-7-40335535 Fax: +61-7-40335593 Mob: 0415-099-355 Web: www.alphacargo.com.au Skype: alphacargo

MAN MADE FEATURE

KARL MAXA MAXA CONSTRUCTIONS After just 12 years of operating under his own name, Karl Maxa is proof that a strong work ethic and belief in your product can take you a long way in a short amount of time.

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ounder of Maxa Constructions , this passionate and driv en family man has managed the difficult feat of earning the respect of his clients and peers while achieving a wonderful work/life balance.

Originally from Melbourne, Karl trained as a cabinetmaker and completed a n umber of building projects down south bef ore making Cairns his home in 1999. With the town suffering a slow economy and job opportunities scarce, he and wife Felicity made the decision to go into business for themselves. “You don’t drop everything one day and decide to start your own business,” Karl says. “It just evolves.” And in their case it certainly has.

Now operating from a stylish sho wroom in Collins Ave, Edge Hill, Maxa Constructions has become a r espected name in the industr y.

Surrounded by a team of knowledgeable professionals who pride themselves on attention to detail, Karl strives to deliver on time and on budget, with minimal inconvenience to the client.

“We are passionate about every project we take on,” Karl says.

“Seeing a client with a smile on their face at the end is what makes it worthwhile.”

He is also quick to praise his wife f or her immeasurable contribution. “I may be the face of the business but Felicity is the backbone.”

Specialising in en vironmental designs and solutions, Maxa Construction is HIA Greensmart Accredited and was r ecently recognised in the Master Builders State Awards for Excellence in Sustainability. “It’s definitely the wa y forward.”

Karl says. Whether he’s working on a residential or commercial project Karl is passionate about building and takes the responsibility placed in his hands very seriously. “It’s usually the lar gest financial decision someone makes in life ,” Karl says. “I consider it a privilege when people choose to put their faith in us.”

Despite the success and accolades , Karl and Felicity haven’t been without their c hallenges.

When son Ben was diagnosed with autism a t an early age they were faced with a situation outside their control. “With my work commitments, Felicity carried much of the r esponsibility for working out what was best f or Ben,” Karl says.

“And I had an element of guilt that I hadn’t done more for autism as a cause .” So w hen the opportunity arose to upg rade the A utism Learning Centre in Edmonton, K arl was determined to do everything he could to help the facility that had become instrumental to their family.

The “Cairns Help Kids with Autism Campaign” was born in 2009, and with the dedica tion of a

Winner - 2011 State Award for Excellence in Sustainable Living – Master Builders Winner - 2011 Far North Queensland Award for Excellence in Sustainable Living – Master Builders Winner - 2011 North Qld Award for Renovation/Addition Project of the Year – HIA

large group of businesses and individuals a whole new facility was built on the existing site over an 8-week period. Although the driving force behind the project, Karl prefers to r ecognise the contribution of the tradesmen, supplier s and community in general. “It wasn ’t just me and Felicity, I made 100 phone calls and 100 people said yes,” Karl says. “A total of $300,000 was raised, opening the door s for an e xtra 12 children.”

Despite a thriving b usiness and str ong commitment to the comm unity, Karl’s biggest passion in life is clear ly his family, which is why he’s made it company policy to shut the doors on a Friday afternoon. “Everyone needs their time off, including the people who work for us.” Karl says. We live in an awesome part of the world and we and love fishing, diving and snor kelling with the kids. As long as we’re together, that’s all that really matters.”

21 CairnsLife June 2012

Maxa Constructions 10/120 Collins Avenue EDGE HILL CAIRNS QLD 4870 P: 07 4053 3717 F: 07 4053 3684 M: 0417 479 747 E: info@maxa.com.au www.maxaconstructions.com.au Follow us on facebook

MAN MADE FEATURE

STEVEN ENGLAND CAIRNS CITY DENTAL

Dr Michael Slatcher (left) & Dr Steven England (right)

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hile the w orking conditions a t Cairns City Dental ar e certainly sterile, the atmosphere is anything but. With a bright, moder n waiting r oom featuring a play area for children, the surgery aims to put pa tients at ease b y providing a relaxed and welcoming environment. In fact, part owner of the practice Ste ven England, prides himself on dispelling the m yths commonly associated with dentists by making the experience as friendly and painless as possible.

“Due to a lack of oral surgeons in the area, we’ve both done a lot of courses and developed a surgical base. I do my own orthodontics and Michael’s done a post grad in implants” Originally from the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Steve completed his training a t Melbourne University, before making Cairns his home in 1991. After buying his boss’s share of the practice where he worked, he pursued other business opportunities in his field before establishing Cairns City Dental in partnership with fellow dentist Michael Slatcher. With a shared vision, the tw o have spent the last six years providing an e xtensive, cutting-edge service to their patients. “There’s not much in dentistry we can’t tackle here,” Steve says.

Operating 5 days a week from the McLeod St premises, Cairns City Dental is home to a

team of friendly staff who strive to make their patients feel at home during their visit. “Y ou don’t want to be seen as unprofessional, but a lot of people confuse pr ofessionalism with being sterile” Steve says. In fact, in order to be less intimidating to children he chooses not to wear a uniform, opting for a bright polo shirt instead. “When they walk through the door and see me it just looks like dad sitting there,” he says.

And being a dad is something Ste ve certainly knows a lot about. As fa ther of six children ranging from prep to university age, he can certainly relate to most of his clientele . “I really like treating the kids and the families which is generally our cor e base.” Steve says.

“We’ve got a general anaesthetic facility her e so we get a lot of children referred from other dentists.” And it seems some of his prospective patients aren’t afraid to use their c hildren as guinea pigs when it comes to e valuating the surgery. “A lot of parents send their kids in to test us out fir st and if the kids like it the y’ll come in themselves.” Steve laughs.

Both Steve and Mic hael are committed to keeping up-to-date with the la test developments in dentistry. Along with general dentistry, the highly skilled team of four dentists and two hygienists are also trained in cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics and wisdom teeth.

“Due to a lack of oral surgeons in the ar ea, we’ve both done a lot of courses and developed a sur gical base. I do m y own orthodontics and Michael’s done a post g rad in implants” Steve says.

22 CairnsLife June 2012

“We’re very much an in-house practice.” The pair also ha ve a r eadymade staff in the pipeline, with Mic hael’s wife cur rently completing her degree in dentistry and three of Steve’s children considering following in his footsteps.

In his spare time, Steve’s priority is his family.

He and his wife divide their time betw een St Augustines and Mother of Good Counsel schools, as w ell as sporting pur suits such as rugby union, league, futsal and tennis . “My wife and I ar e starting to miss eac h other because we’re both running ar ound in different directions chasing children.” He laughs. The family are also keen sailor s and are looking forward to entering the Clipper Cup in Port Douglas. “I gave up sailing when my first son was bor n so I could f ocus on the family, but now that they’re all older and can participate, we’ve gone full cir cle and we’re back into it again.”

Cairns City Dental 69 McLeod Street, Cairns QLD 4870 P: 07 4051 2500 | F: 07 4031 2363

MAN MADE FEATURE

WARREN JONSSON JONSSON’S FARM MARKET With 2012 being the A ustralian Year of the Farmer, Warren Jonsson is a w onderful example of the determined nature of our primary producers.

Warren with his wife Gail and their staff

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rmed with the a ttitude ‘if you can’t beat them, join them’, this thir d generation farmer from the Tablelands has made the bra ve decision to cut out the middlemen and deliver his produce direct to the consumer. Now twelve months on fr om opening their stor e on 31 J ohnston St. Stratford, Jonsson’s Farm Market is proud to offer customers a fresh, local alternative to the two major grocery chains.

Warren’s decision to enter r etail was driv en partly by the unstable nature of farming, with the family enduring a cyclone, hailstorm, flood and bush fire all in the last 12 months . “I realised we had to either diversify and set up a succession plan for the family or stop what we do,” Warren says. “I could see more future in diversifying than in buying another farm where the returns are not real flash,” he laughs. Along with unstable climatic conditions g lobally, Warren is also concer ned about government policy on carbon emissions . “It could ha ve more effect on business than climate change itself,” he says.

Another motivating factor for Warren was the control that Coles and Woolworths have on the supply chain. “It’s short ter m gain for the consumer, for long term pain,” he says. “I don’t care what market you’re in, if you manage to squeeze out the competition, the price will go up.” Warren also believes that by sourcing so many products from southern markets and overseas, the Atherton T ablelands remains underutilised.

“There are 380,000 varieties of plants that can be grown in the world and 85% of them can be grown in North QLD,” he says.

With the slogan ‘Paddock to Plate”, Jonsson’s Farm Market prides itself on sourcing as much local produce as possib le. “With our o wn Angus cross MSA accr edited meat we guarantee consistent quality for the consumer,” Warren says. Chicken, por k, fruit and v eg, dairy products, coffee, tea and a wide v ariety

of other local products are all available under one roof.” And although encouraged b y the response from customers, Warren is still wary of being competitive. “We’ve got a really good team here and we focus on service and quality and price. If you haven’t got all those thr ee, they won’t come.”

Now the retail arm is under contr ol, Warren plans to expand Jonsson’s Farm Market into wholesale. “I’m passiona te about helping remote areas,” he says. “Being a farmer I know what a lot of people in r emote areas have to put up with both quality and pricewise so we’re targeting all the r oadhouses from here to Bamaga and plan to mo ve up into New Guinea in the futur e.” He also belie ves in encouraging more children to ea t fruit and vegetables and soon hopes to pla y an active part in helping educate the next generation.

Warren attributes much of his success to the support of his wife and three sons. With Dean managing the cattle station, Bradley handling the farming interest and Luke helping to build the complex where they trade, Warren and wife Gail have been free to focus on the new business. “There’s an old sa ying that behind every successful man there’s a good woman but in this case Gail’s not behind me she’ s beside me and a lot of times out in fr ont. It can be hard sometimes w hen you’re working and 23 CairnsLife June 2012

living together, you need to find a balance which is why I’m going fishing for a week next Friday,” he laughs.

To find out more about the Australian Year of the Farmer visit: www.yearofthefarmer.com.au Jonsson's Farm Market 31 Johnston Street, Stratford Qld 4870 P: (07) 4058 9000 F: (07) 4058 2777 E : enquiries@jonssonsfarmmarket.com.au facebook.com/JonssonsFarmMarket Open: 7 days Monday to Friday 8am to 6.30pm Saturday 8am to 6pm Sunday 8am to 5pm www.jonssonsfarmmarket.com.au

MAN MADE FEATURE

SHAUN KILFOY KILFOY CABINETS Stemming from humble beginnings, Kilfoy Cabinets is now a successful and reputable family business.

HIA Winner: Best New Kitchen up to $20,000 2011 Best Renovated Kitchen over $20,000 2010 Kitchen of the Year 2010

“M

y wife and I beg an our business under our old Queensland in Aeroglen in 2003,” Shaun sa ys.

“At the time I was w orking full time and then coming home and doing another 40 hour s throughout the week at night. When we believed we could run the b usiness full-time, we took out our first lease a t the same pr emises we are currently operating from on Hartle y St in Portsmith.” The business now employs a total of nine staff, including Shaun and his wife Emma who manages the books and mar keting, a sales person, a foreman, four cabinet makers and an apprentice.

While the name of the business changed six years ago from Shaun Kilfoy Cabinets and Joinery, to Kilfoy Cabinets, as the pr evious name was too much of a mouthful, Shaun is still very hands-on and passionate about cabinet making. He oversees the entire operation from sales and pr oject management through to man ufacturing, installation, staff management and customer liaison. “I al ways wanted to be either a professional sailor or a cabinet maker. I have sailed the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race twice now and I get to do cabinet making every day so I have the best of both worlds. I was a ttracted to cabinet making because I wanted to build and I build with total accuracy, right down to the millimetre,” he says. “I know what will and won’t work in reality, so I’m ab le to design conce pts that fulfil m y customer’s needs and wants but are also functional and dynamic looking too .” He sa ys he dra ws inspiration from customers, kitchen magazines and visiting other cities and showrooms.

Kilfoy Cabinets specialise in new b uilds and renovations of kitchens, bathrooms, wardrobes and workspaces with customers ranging from first-home buyers and in vestors through to empty-nesters and renovators. He says each cabinet or b uild is custom-made to suit a customer’s lifestyle and needs . For example kitchens are designed with bench height, bench space, must-haves and child-friendly options in mind. Wardrobes are custom-made taking in to account the needs of the customer like how many pairs of shoes the y own, how much hanging space they need, how many drawers they want and so on. “Cabinet making is so much more than a basic drawing these days. In the past five years I’ve researched and invested heavily in the right mac hinery and software which has paid of ten-fold,” he says.

“I’m now able to fully design and draw a kitchen, have it priced and send it straight out to our CNC machine all with the click of a button.”

He says his advice to those looking f or a cabinet maker is to get compara tive quotes from comparative businesses and r esearch options in regards to finishes and har dware.

“There is no point spending your time getting different quotes w hen each one is quoting different finishes and har dware, you need to compare apples with apples.” Shaun says it is 26 CairnsLife June 2012

also important to find a cabinet maker y ou trust and can deliv er on time and within budget.

Shaun says he feels lucky that he has been able to create a family b usiness around something he loves. While his and Emma’s sons are only four and seven years old at the moment, the boys have grown up ar ound the b usiness.

“We’ve been talking to them about how much fun they are going to have when they are old enough to sw eep the f loors in the sc hool holidays for some e xtra money,” he laughs .

“Until then, it’s business as usual.”

Kilfoy Cabinets P: 07 4035 5849 F: 07 4035 5847 W: www.kilfoycabinets.com Showroom: 5, 205 Hartley Street Portsmith, Q, 4870 P: PO Box 735, Bungalow, Q, 4870 E: info@kilfoycabinets.com

MAN MADE FEATURE

KINGSLEY SCARFE QUEST REALTY Kingsley Scarfe is full of life, full of stories and full of fun. Whilst he now operates a very successful real estate agency, he was once an Apiarist, (bee keeper), owned many other small businesses and even worked for the Government at Government House in Darwin.

“I

was actually an Apiarist for 25 years.

I was the last of three generations in the industry, but I was r eady for a change.” Kingsley says over the years he has also supervised up to 400 w orkers in a fruit drying operation in the Riv erland of South Australia, owned a small business called Rural Party Hire and worked at Government House in Darwin as a jack-of-all-trades . “Lady Di” visited Darwin and sta yed at Government House, and I often slept in the same bed while working late nights and ear ly mornings, he laughs. He says it was w hile at Government House that one of the staf f saw an advertisement for a Real Estate Sales Person position and suggested that it would really suit his personality and energy. He applied with about 400 other s and was acce pted for the position and the rest is history.

“Out of all adversity comes opportunities and we bought another three agencies during this time. It is easy to grow something when it’s your passion. I’m a great believer of being a creator and the power of thought and positive affirmations.”

Starting out in real estate in the 90s, Kingsley was an exceptionally high performer. He is a firm believer in working hard and has a motto “If you want to Earn you have to Learn”. He left the real estate industry and took time out to travel around Australia with his then-wife, as their five children were grown and independent. He worked for several months in Perth, but although a beautiful city it wasn’t the right energy for him at the time. While the sun sets in the west and that’s where the day ends, he wanted to be w here the sun rises to a new day and new beginnings, so he left and ended up in Cairns. “It is the most beautiful place I’ve ever lived, the location, the lifestyle and the people,” he says.

After arriving in Cairns on the 1st of July 2002, Kingsley soon f ound a position w orking for developers selling land and took to it like a duck to water. After a few good years the land was nearly all sold and the mar ket slowed down, so he decided to branch out on his own and opened Quest Realty. “I started operating from home with just m y computer and m y mobile phone and toda y I manage nine staf f including a Sales de partment and a Pr operty Management department of 500 properties,” he says. Even with the GFC, Kingsley was able to continue growing the business. “Out of all adversity comes opportunities and w e bought

another three agencies during this time . It is easy to grow something when it’s your passion.

I’m a great believer of being a creator and the power of thought and positiv e affirmations.”

Upon meeting Kingsle y you immediately notice how positive and content he is. He has positive affirmations on the wall of his office, which he admits he c hanges regularly. At the moment he has ‘Leave the Past Behind, Deal with the Present, Create your Future’ up on the wall, and says affirmations are a great way to help affirm what you want to achieve. He also believes that he is the Luckiest and Happiest Man in the World, as he has a great wife, high energy entrepreneurial adult children and the best staff to work with.

“I’ve built up a g reat team and I belie ve you can always train people if they are passionate about what they are doing. I also think if you want to be successful you need to follow in the footsteps of successful people and sur round yourself with successful people . ”Kingsley enjoys helping people understand the basics of investing in real estate and has written a little booklet called, “IF ONLY I knew then what I know now about Investing in Real Estate for Wealth Creation”. It can be do wnloaded for free from the Quest Realty web site. He says real estate is a g reat investment for the future but must be understood so education is the key.

‘Quest Realty is all about helping people on their own real estate journey,” he says.

Kingsley has achieved great things with Quest Realty. He sa ys he started out b uilding the business with a P A, then a sales per son, a property manager, new programs and office staff. His b usiness has the most adv anced technology in the industr y and the staf f have ongoing training and coac hing. Last year he focused on the pr operty management side of the business and this y ear his f ocus is on building the sales team. “Now I don’t work IN the business, I work ON the business,” he says.

Quest Realty Suite 1 / 345 Sheridan St, Cairns North Tel: 4042-7888, www.questrealty.com.au

27 CairnsLife June 2012

MAN MADE FEATURE

ALLAN WILLMOT WILLMOT SMASH REPAIR SPECIALISTS “By becoming more sustainable it’s actually saved us money in the long run and boosted our efficiency,” Allan says.

frames). Ninety-five percent of their business is insurance companies, as WSRS is a selected r epairer for RACQ , SUNCORP, AAMI and LEXUS . Allan says they also do benchmarking with other similar size repair shops nationally. “This is a great tool as it helps us compar e and learn where we need to impr ove and where we are excelling,” he says.

H

e explains that a Green Stamp accreditation is a signed agreement with the A ustralian Government providing ongoing monitoring of their en vironmental impact. Four management staf f from Willmot Smash R epair Specialists (WSRS) have completed the En vironmental Sustainability through Brisbane’s Open Learning TAFE, and the business has made many changes including switc hing to PPG Envirobase waterborne paint, lowering volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), reducing paint particle emissions through a unit which collects escaping particles fr om the spra y booth exhaust, investing in a new dir ect drive compressor, switching to the wa terless car wash system and installing skylights. And they recycle as many car parts and waste pr oducts as they can.

Streamlining the way they do business to be more efficient, WSRS installed tw o drivethrough booths so cars are driven into a prep and rub down area, through to a masking bay, then spray painted and lastly buffed. “We are about half the size of the other major smash repair shops in the region but turn over more cars because of our production set up. And we can fix any make and model including Coaster Buses to Light Rigid.”

WSRS has 14 staf f including admin, panel technicians, paint tec hnicians, a detailer, apprentices and trades assistants.

Allan’s daughter Helena is the general manager and his son Sean is the paintshop and quality control manager. “When you have good staff you need to look after them as they are our biggest asset,” he says.

Willmot Smash Repair Specialists 160 Newell Street, Bungalow Tel: 4054-3233 www.willmotsmashrepairs.com.au

They also constantly r einvest in new equipment and staff training, through the time they save with efficiencies ( a system they use as an incentive to get the job done in quicker time

GRAEME CHIBNALL CHIBNALL JEWELLERS It was a passion for drawing, model making and creating things with his hands that led to a career as a jewellery-maker for Graeme Chibnall.

G

raeme says it was a summer job in a jewellery manufacturers back in 1965 that inspired him to design and make jewellery. “I fell in love with the smell of melting gold and the oil from the presses. It was like the smell of 1923,” Graeme laughs. “I can’t explain the smell, it was just intoxicating and I knew right away that’s what I wanted to do.” He says back in those da ys you started a t the bottom and learned the trade on the job.

His work was bending rings and sizing them and after the summer the jew ellery shop offered him an apprenticeship. “I left school in y ear 10 and started m y apprenticeship at the age of 15,” he says.

“Then in 1979 I opened m y own shop, Chibnall Jewellers, and I’m proud to say my son Orion has no w joined the business as a jewellery designer too.”

Graeme says the jewellery industry has changed a lot since he started. He e xplains the overall manufacturing processes have declined as designing is mainly done on computer s now.

“The use of rubber moulds, casting and polishing is not cost effective anymore and designs now go directly to the wax printer s which make perfect 3D wax casting,” he says.

Graeme and his team make custommade jewellery including diamond engagement and wedding rings, and a range of other rings and jewellery made from Australian gemstones and metals.

His advice to those looking f or the perfect piece of jewellery is to tr y on anything that catches their eye to make sure it suits them, check that gemstones are securely held and b uy from a reputable source. “Impulse b uying always makes people feel good a t the time, but the quality of a good piece of jewellery last longer than the initial satisfaction from an impulse b uy,” he says.

“At Chibnall Jewellers we have the flexibility to use past and present technology to produce a more holistic piece of jewellery.

We make everything here on the premises in our shop and source our materials locally.”

28 CairnsLife June 2012

Chibnall Jewellers 5/34 The Esplanade, Cairns (under the Hilton Hotel, opposite the Casino) Tel: 4031-0844 www.chibnallsjewellers.com.au

MAN MADE FEATURE

DR NEIL GORDON CAIRNS UROLOGY Dr Neil Gordon of Cairns Urology is incredibly passionate about what he does, so much so that he purchased expensive medical machines to treat kidney stones and prostate cancer out of his own pocket.

He is also the only urology centre in Australia with Prostate Cryotherapy treatment available.

D

r Gordon says he was always interested in medicine and not as a r esult of both his parents being doctors (his father was a surgeon and later a urologist and his mother was a radiologist). “I just al ways wanted to be a surgeon even at school,” he says. Ironically, now three of Dr Gordon’s own children have followed a career in medicine , while another w orks at Cairns Urology, along with his wife w ho is a registered nurse.

Dr Gordon treats patients for a range of medical problems including kidney stones, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, prostate enlargements, cancer of the penis, vasectomies and reversals, impotence, incontinence and urinary infections. “Basically anything that starts at the kidneys and ends at the bottom,” he says.

“Many men feel uncomfortable about having a prostate check so I normally tell them that their partners have probably had at least 20 pap smears, so they should just get over it,” he laughs.

Dr Gordon says it is important to always keep abreast of medical advances and treatments.

“When I first came to Cairns in 1997, patients who had painful kidne y stones had to be transferred to Brisbane or have them surgically removed with up to 10 da ys in hospital and four to six w eeks recovery,” Dr Gordon says.

To avoid invasive surgery and long r ecovery times for his pa tients, he bought an Extracorporeal Shock W ave Lithotripter machine which creates soundwaves through an x-ray machine. The soundwaves cause the stones to break up into tiny fragments that can then be passed na turally. “I’ve treated more than 500 patients at Cairns Day Surgery with this machine, it is non-in vasive and patients can go home the same da y,” he sa ys. Dr Gordon was also the fir st clinic in r egional Queensland to pur chase a Lithotripter machine for treating kidney stones. He says he is surprised by the amount of patients he has treated this y ear alone f or kidney stones.

“Because of the hot clima te in the tr opics, dehydration can sometimes cause kidne y stones so people r eally need to kee p up their fluid uptake, especially men as kidne y stones are more common in males than females.”

Cairns Urology is also a t the f orefront of treating prostate cancer thr ough Prostate Cryotherapy. Dr Gordon says that while he has been using this treatment in Cairns for the last five years, it is still not a vailable elsewhere in Australia because of the enormous cost to buy the machines. However, it is commonly

available overseas in New Zealand, Britain, Europe and America. “The treatment involves a patient undergoing day surgery, receiving anaesthesia so fine needles can be placed into the prostate gland with ultrasound guidance, and the af fected areas of the pr ostate are frozen to kill the cancer ,” he e xplains.

“Prostate cancer is actually the most common tumour found in men and usually one of the slowest growing tumours.”

regularly for lumps, and says doing it in the shower while the water is warm is the best time to check. “Many men feel uncomf ortable about having a prostate check so I nor mally tell them that their partners have probably had at least 20 pap smears, so they should just get over it,” he laughs. “But in seriousness, getting checked for the disease means ca tching it early.” He sa ys that at the end of the da y, treatment should ne ver be w orse that the disease, and tha t’s what people should remember.

Dr Gordon says it is very important for men to have regular check-ups. Testicular cancer tends to be more common in younger men between the ages of 15 to 45, w hile prostate cancer tends to af fect Cairns Urology older men. He sug gests all men 98 Spence Street, Cairns have a prostate check and blood (cnr Bunda & Spence St) test with their local GP a t the Tel: 4041-0700 age of 40, and then once a year www.cairns-urology.com.au from the age of 50. He also suggests they check their testicles 29 CairnsLife June 2012

MAN MADE FEATURE

LUCKBIR SINGH MACDONNELLS LAW MacDonnells Law Partner Luckbir Singh r epresents the changing of the guard in law and says the profession is in the midst of a rapidly evolving environment.

“I

love working in the fast paced commercial side of law to ac hieve positive client outcomes and wins , helping people grow their businesses and being a trusted advisor as the y fulfil their b usiness dreams,” he says. “The tangible benefits are that you are part of your clients’ jour ney as they do well and grow.” Luckbir specialises in commercial and cor porate law including a focus on the new ar ea of carbon tax cr edit laws..

While born and br ed in Cair ns, Luckbir studied law at UQ in Brisbane before returning to Cairns at the beginning of the new millennium and taking up a position a t MacDonnells Law. He has worked his way up to Partner, and is now also the Practice Group Leader of the MacDonnells Law commercial team in Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane. This additional role is to oversee the team of close to 50 and their overall performance, ensure they deliver on their goals , assist with stra tegy development and deal with an y people, financial and client issues. Luckbir travels to Townsville and Brisbane on a r egular basis to work with his team.

“I love working in the fast paced commercial side of law to achieve positive client outcomes and wins, helping people grow their businesses and being a trusted advisor as they fulfil their business dreams,” While no industry stays the same, Luckbir says there have been some major c hanges in the law. As you would expect technology has had a major impact. “Ev eryone expects responses immediately thanks to facetime, smart phones and email,” he sa ys. “But per sonal client relationships will al ways be important and technology will never completely replace this.”

Luckbir says he has also noticed mor e standardisation of law both locally and nationally together with globalisation of many law practices. There has also been underway a changing of the guard as the large generation of senior practioners move into retirement and a young crop of enthusiastic, motivated and dynamic lawyers emerge. More than e ver locals from the region and females have come to dominate the law which was once perceived as very much a male profession.

MacDonnells Law with its 128 y ear plus history is an example of how evolution and a trustee mindset f or future generations can endure into longe vity of a local b usiness.

Luckbir is proud of the firm’s commitment in

staying focused on the long term by investing in new and upcoming la wyers, despite the challenging economic times of the last 4 years.

Over many years MacDonnells La w has continued with its leg al trainee and summer clerk programs which have allowed them to create a team of experts across many niche and new areas of practice such as carbon tax credit laws and per sonal property securities. “We have a g reat mix of lawyers of all ages a t MacDonnells Law with a combination of older experience and younger energy,” he says. “I really enjoy the w ork environment and the team of lawyers I w ork with, the client interaction and the stra tegy involved in the work I do.”

transactions including mer gers and acquisitions and cor porate advisory to directors, shareholders and members. Luckbir has recently been appointed to the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Advisory Board Cairns, and just finished as Chair of the Cair ns Young Chamber of Commerce.

Luckbir’s passion for the legal industry has not gone unnoticed and his har d work and dedication has paid off over the last few years with him winning the 2008 Queensland La w Society Outstanding Achievement Award by a Young Lawyer. Then in 2009 he was the recipient of the Young Manager f or Cairns Award at the A ustralian Institute of Management Excellence Awards. He sa ys despite the awardshe gets most jo y from the relationships he has formed with his clients and colleagues. He provides practical commercial legal advice in commer cial law, business

Luckbir Singh | Partner MacDonnells Law Cnr Shields & Grafton Streets, Cairns T: +61 7 4030 0651 | F: +61 7 4030 0699 M: 0438 028 826 W: www.macdonnells.com.au

30 CairnsLife June 2012

Luckbir says when not w orking he enjo ys spending time with his family as he has tw o daughters, one which has recently shown an interest in law. He also loves living and working in such a relaxed yet vibrant city and being part of progressive law firm which provides a challenging career.

MAN MADE FEATURE

CARLO AMERIO CA ARCHITECTS

Architect Carlo Amerio has been involved in the creation of some of the iconic buildings in the Cairns region and each one has been completely unique.

O

ne of Carlo’s biggest projects to date has been the design of the Cair ns Entertainment Precinct. “The Cairns Entertainment Precinct was to be built with a majority of federal funds w hich would stimulate our economy, replace the tired Civic Centre and provide much-needed public space and community facilities. It can be frustrating when pundits mislead others with information which focuses on other issues and not the purpose of the pr oject ” Car lo, who is the Director of CA Architects, says.

Ishmael Road Apartments, Grove House offices, Tinaroo Studio, Conics (no w RPS) Building, McClintock eco-friendly house in Kuranda and Savannah Lifestyle Resort are some of the pr ojects CA Ar chitects have designed. CA Architects have also worked in partnership with Brisbane-based Cox Rayner Architects on projects such as the Reef Fleet Terminal, William McCormack buildings 1 & 2; and Marina P oint (Salt House). “W illiam McCormack 1 was the fir st building in the tropics to r eceive a 4 ½ star ener gy rating, while William McCormack 2 received 6 stars.

We also designed our premises, Grove House, as a showcase for the commercial market to illustrate that quality design thr ough good planning can be ac hieved at no additional cost,” he said.

Carlo loves designing for the tropics, having been born and bred in Mareeba. He studied in Townsville and spent 15 y ears practicing architecture in Brisbane specialising in r esort design. “I worked on Hyatt Regency Coolum and many other r esorts throughout Queensland. After w orking on a r esort in Cairns, I decided to mo ve back her e and started my own practice in 1992,” he said. In 1994 he took on a b usiness partner but they parted after four years.

“When I started the business, my goal was to improve people’s lifestyle through design.

Architecture is more than just designing a building envelope, it is about incorporating many different elements,” he says.

Carlo explains that buildings need to pr ovide appropriate spaces w hich reflect individual requirements, interact w ell between other internal and e xternal spaces; and inspir e people to spend time in. He sa ys that sustainability is a major component of design today. At the moment, Carlo and his team are busy working on a shopping centre complex in Cairns, the Daintree Research Centre for JCU

students and g raduates, a b uilding for Red Cross and a few projects in Townsville. “Due to the GFC, the ratio of the type of work we do has changed in the past 5 y ears from 8 0% commercial to 8 0% go vernment work. We have a br oad clientele base incor porating government, commercial and r esidential projects.”

Carlo says he has always been passionate about design and is lucky to have a team that are just as passionate as he is and bring a lot of inspiration to each project. “I love the process of design and being ab le to create something new from a blank piece of paper. My team feel the same way.”

31 CairnsLife June 2012

CA Architects Phone 07 4031 6367 Fax 07 4031 1105 10 Grove Street, North Cairns QLD Email reception@caarchitects.com.au www.caarchitects.com.au ABN 54 061 521 190

MAN MADE FEATURE

SELWYN KREPP INN CAIRNS BOUTIQUE APARTMENTS

Upon meeting Selwyn Krepp it’s hard not to like him instantly. He is vivacious, happy and welcoming, the perfect combination for anyone managing a city boutique hotel.

Selwyn, along with his son J onathan, his nephew “We constantly receive Eric and his br other Hilton, all manage the Inn Cairns which is right in the centr e of Cairns. complimentary messages on our Located on Lake Street directly opposite the bus service. It’s all about going the terminal, the Inn Cair ns boasts 38 fully selfcontained, self-catering apartments all with extra mile” balconies or patio, onsite secure parking, a pool, barbecue area and conference facilities. “We have two larger apartments that double as conference rooms, meeting or interview rooms with a spacious outdoor area,” Selwyn says. For groups staying at Inn Cairns and needing larger conference facilities, the Inn Cairns has a relationship with The Boland Centre and can offer special rates for use of their conference facilities.

Selwyn says hotel guests are a mix of corporate, tourists and locals. “We are very well supported by people from the Tablelands (Tolga, Atherton and Mareeba) who come into Cairns for events and stay overnight,” he says. “We have many regulars who stay here on a Saturday night and we are happy to relax check out times for our repeat clients.” Also our fluency in Melanesian “Tok Pisin” - the native language of Papua New Guinea is a real bonus for visitors from PNG. Selwyn says following Cyclone Yasi there was a big

drop in corporate clients and many tourists coming to Cairns with people shying away from the region.

“They saw the media co verage of the f loods in Brisbane and T oowoomba and just assumed everywhere in Queensland was the same.” Selwyn says many Reps in the rag-trade , footwear and clothing, also avoided Cairns but are now starting to come back. “We cater for a lot of sales reps here and many send their stock up prior to ar rival, we store it until they get here and then set it up in their room for them to showcase to their clients, and save them time,” he says. Selwyn explains that a lot of their clients are repeat customers thanks to their location, facilities and service. They also welcome families to stay.

While Selwyn is the perfect host and has been managing Inn Cairns since 2006, he actually started his career in finance as a commercial and merchant banker in Melbourne and then later Papua New Guinea. “I spent 20 years living in PNG working in banking, management services and v arious retail enterprises,” he says. “I started managing Inn Cairns in 2006 as part of a partnership and I took o ver completely in 2008 with my son Jonathan. I feel very passionate about what I do.”

Inn Cairns Boutique Apartments 71 Lake Street, Cairns Tel: 4041-2350, www.inncairns.com.au

MICHAEL GANLEY EVERYTHING AUTOMOTIVE

A love of all things mec hanical and a passion f or cars led Mic hael Ganly to lea ve the family watchmaking and jewellery business to pursue a career as an automotive mechanic. to the b usiness. He has also upg raded equipment for transmission flushes and carbon cleans, which clean the injectors and actually de-carbon the upper cylinder head of the engine, increasing performance and fuel economy. Everything Automotive also specialise in 4WDs. “We personally own and do a lot of ‘off the beaten track’ four-wheel driving so we understand the mechanics of the cars and ho w to ensur e they are in peak performance,” he says. They service a lot of 4WDs pre- camping trips, driving holidays or rough-roading, as well as upon return. “We are on the highwa y as y ou drive in and out of town, so a lot of people drop in.”

"I am actually a third generation watchmaker," Michael says. "My great-grandfather started the family business Hepworth Jewellers in 1948 and when I left school at 16 my grandfather taught me the watchmaking trade." Michael continued to work in the family b usiness with his parents for 5 years after leaving school before deciding to start a mechanical apprenticeship. “I loved cars, I would come home from the jewellery shop and work until midnight on m y own drag car or a mate’s car,” he sa ys. Michael explains his grandfather used to r estore old Eng lish motorbikes and is sure his own love of all things mechanical (whether it be clocks, watches, bikes or cars) came from his grandfather.

“We pride ourselves on good workmanship. My grandfather always taught me there are no shortcuts and you always do the job properly.”

After completing his mec hanical apprenticeship, Michael decided to start up his own business which he initially did just on weekends while working elsewhere, but then

grew to become a full time job . Everything Automotive does mechanical repairs, vehicle diagnostics and servicing v ehicles from twoyear old BMWs thr ough to 40 y ear-old Falcons, four wheel drives, light commercial vehicles and diesel cars.

Michael has in vested in a lot of the la test equipment, streamlining the way they work.

He has new diagnostic equipment with the latest scan tools and fuel system analysers, and four hoists which has made a huge dif ference 32 CairnsLife June 2012

Now three years on from when he started in an old tin shed, Mic hael has now expanded the premises, added an office and put on more staff.

Everything Automotive 620 Bruce Hwy, Woree (opposite the racecourse) Tel: 07 4054 6661

MAN MADE FEATURE

THOMAS JANUSZ T J MICRO SYSTEMS Thomas Janusz first fell in love with computers and technology at the age of 9 when he received his very first computer, today he runs TJ Microsystems, a successful IT company.

“It was a TRS8 0, f or those w ho are into computers, and it was bef ore the days when most people had computers at home,” Thomas says. “My parents had a catering business and had me writing computer pr ograms for the business.” Thomas grew up in South Australia and says he moved to Cairns just in time for a cyclone (Cyclone Joy in 1990). His dad had moved to Cairns when Thomas was 14 and as soon as Thomas was old enough he f ollowed suit. He started working as a broker for Jardine Insurance looking after business clients, but an encounter with an IT consultant resulted in a change of career. “An IT guy came in to install some computers at the company but I actually knew more than he did about computer s and it made me r ealise I should get into IT as a career,” he says. “So I started up TJ Micr o as a mobile b usiness in the mid 90’ s to start servicing small b usinesses and started to develop a client base .” Thomas says most companies in those days operated from a single office premise so he had an advantage of being flexible and mobile as he could tra vel to a client’s work place. Not long after starting the business Thomas’s wife R enee joined the business.

TJ Micro now has nine staff with himself and his wife who is the Opera tions Manager, six engineers/technicians, and in the last 12 months they have invested over $200,000 on the latest specialist software, quality assurance systems and state of the art network operations centre (NOC) so they can deliver a world class service.

“We don’t want to be just another IT company, our reputation is our sales tool and so we need to make sure we advance with technology, training and service,” he says.

TJ Micro looks after small to large size business networks from Cairns up to the Tablelands and throughout Cape York, all the wa y down to Innisfail with clients as far as Macka y and Gladstone. They service computer s, laptops and servers and pr ovide a 24/7 helpdesk service for all their clients . “I’m proud to say we have become a serious IT f orce in F ar North Queensland.”

When asked how the industry has changed and advanced since he started TJ Micr o 17 Years ago, Thomas says technology is no w much more accessible to businesses and the average person through the use of laptops and most recently smart phones and slate devices. “And being able to access systems remotely over the internet is pr obably one of the big gest

advancements.” TJ Micro also partner with other experts to assist clients w hen needed in areas such as printing tec hnology, IP Telephony and closed cir cuit television (CCTV). To give back to comm unity they often repair used computer s and then r edonate them to not-f or-profit sporting clubs and community groups.

With two young children and a thir d on the way, Thomas says it is amazing how competent kids are on computers today. ‘My kids are three and four and already they know how to log on and access educational games,” he says. “But that could be because we have more computers than people in our house, but we do run an IT company.” Thomas says he would like to see more kids in Cair ns inspired to join the IT industry so they often take on work experience kids from schools at TJ Micr o. “It’s funny people rarely ring the IT guy just to say ‘Hi I’m having a great day’, they only ring when they 33 CairnsLife June 2012

have a problem and are stressed because they can’t get their computer to w ork. But it’ s actually a g reat industry to be part of and Cairns is a g reat place to run a b usiness and raise a family.”

TJ Microsystems Shop 5 / 200 Mulgrave Road Cairns, QLD 4870 Phone: 07 4041 2183 Fax: 07 4041 2083 Emergency Support: 0418 456 613

ENTERTAINMENT

What’s O

Cairns Relay For Life

Cairns cancer survivors and their car ers are invited to attend the Cairns Relay for Life on the weekend of June 16 and 17 at Barlow Park. Relay For Life is an inter national event, involving teams of 10 to 15 people walking around a track o vernight for 18 hours, to celebrate cancer survival and fundraise to fight back against cancer.

All funds raised fr om Relay For Life ar e invested in Cancer Council Queensland’s research, patient support services and education programs.

When: Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th June Where: Barlow Park, Scott St Parramatta Park Time: 3:30 - 4:30pm For more info on how to get involved: www.relayforlife.org.au or call (07) 4047 5500

Tim Rogers one night only at the Tanks.

Tim Rogers is an instantly recognisable name and has earned critical acclaim for his unique A ustralian songwriting. Having been a t the f orefront of Australian rock since 1993, well known as front man of Australian band You Am I and taking tur ns in various other ensembles throughout the years.

Rogers’ tunes oscillate from The most distinguished of troubadours, Rogers has a witty stage banter paired with honest performance and lyrics. Last at Tanks in 2008, Rogers set an intima te mood and one thing is certain, he never fails to entertain. Another great night in Tank 5.

Venue: Tanks Arts Centre When: Friday 15th June Music Starts: 7:30pm Cost: $35 / $30 (Conc) Bookings & Info: www.tanksartscentre.com

Experience the iconic J ohn Williamson at Brothers Leagues Club A modern day poet firmly cemented in the nation’s musical culture, John Williamson’s impressive career spans more than forty years. He has survived and soared in the often cut-throat entertainment industry. His unof ficial anthems, tributes to legends and unsung heroes and tender ballads have captured the spirit of the nation in song unlike any other.

Unveiling his new songs from his forthcoming album release. This is your chance to hear them performed live!

Venue: Brothers Leagues Club When: Friday 29th June (Doors open 8:00pm) Cost: Ticket prices start at $33 Bookings & Info: www.brotherscairns.com.au/johnwilliamson/ Reserved Seating, Cabaret Style = club dress regulations apply

Polytoxic Invites You To The Rat Trap The Rat Trap spins a melodramatic tale around five decadently seedy characters who drink, fight, seduce and despair in the bowels of a bawdy tiki bar with a unique mix of dance, circus, aerials and technicolour theatricality.

Spend a night in the Rat Trap with the rats and drink in an epic potion of death, sibling rivalry, physical tension and freak show fantasy.

When: Thursday 28th June to Saturday 30th June Venue: The Theatre, Centre of Contemporary Arts, 96 Abbott Street Time: 7.30pm Price: $24 to $29 (cabaret style seating) Tickets: 4050 9400

34 CairnsLife June 2012

On

Ash Grunwald brings his tunes to Tanks His new album, due for release in May, traverses many a tale and is considered his most internal album to da te. ‘It’s some of my most per sonal songwriting,’ Ash confesses. Trouble’s Door found its life in the fiery breath of injustice; showing Ash’s frustration of severe political and environmental mismanagement.

The music traverses many a tale as well; the blues propelled by driving dancefloor rhythms, buoyed by hip hop beats and slammed by the dubstep crunch. It’s been a massive 10 years since the release of his first blues record, with countless shows and awards since then. Support b y Moondogs Gypsy Blues Band.

Venue: Tank 5 (Collins Ave, Edge Hill) When: Saturday 30th June Music Starts: 7:30pm Cost: $30 / $25 (Conc) Bookings & Info: www.tanksartscentre.com

2012 Cairns Ukulele Festival 5th - 8th July The Cairns Ukulele Festival is back and it's bigger than ever this year! The four-day festival is packed with performances, workshops and exhibitions that will definitely strike a chord with music lovers of all ages.

On Saturday 7th July head to Fogarty Park on the Esplanade for a full day of free entertainment for the whole family and a chance for you to take part in a world record attempt! From 12pm onwards, there will be performances by ukulele clubs, schools and other artists . This is a da y full of ukulele excitement, with the famous world record attempt ‘largest ukulele ensemble’ around 5pm, followed by a performance by Lanikai endorsed USA artist Jumpingflea and others.

There will be mar ket stalls, free kids and adult’s ukulele workshops, kid’s activities and more! Bring a blanket and have a picnic with the family.

For the full festival guide visit www.cairnsukulelefestival.net

Runway Twenty Twelve Cachelle Model Management host Cair ns’ first elite fashion show. Special guest presenters included former Miss Universe Jesinta Campbell and Gold Logie A ward Winner, Karl Stefanovic. The fashion show will showcase a mix of high-end fashion, Australian culture and our luscious tropics.

Venue: Tjapukai Cultural Park When: 9th June Show Starts: 7:30pm Cost: $70 Bookings & Info: www.events.ticketbooth.com.au/event/RUNWAYtwentytwelve

Ruby Ball The inaugural Ruby Ball presents a gala night out of fine dining sensational entertainment and good times all round. The Ruby ball is an opportunity to sho w your support to those less fortunate, by digging deep to raise much needed funds for the local Salvation Army.

Venue: Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal When: 2nd June Time: 6:30 – 10:30pm Tickets & Info: shelley@uniquepeople.com.au

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37 CairnsLife June 2012

SPOILING your man While we all know that women adore being spoilt - with flowers, chocolates, jewellery and pampering - we shouldn’t forget that, underneath all that macho bravado, most men are also partial to a little token of appreciation too! Don’t wait until his birthday, or Father’s Day; why not surprise the man in your life with a “just because” gift to put a smile on his face?

As attested to by this month’s “Man Made” feature, there are a lot of guys out there working so hard on their businesses there’s not much time left for themselves. We don’t just mean nodding off on Friday night in front of the TV with a half-empty can of beer on his lap, or an extra 30-minute snooze in bed on a Sunday morning before the kids’ footy training – it’s time to get creative and get cracking on a spoil-him-strategy to make him sit up and take notice!

THE GIFT OF INK There’s barely a man alive who hasn’t harbored a secret desire for a tattoo. No longer a brand of the criminal or biker, many men [and women] are dipping their toes in the creative world of the tattoo. Why not surprise him with a book of inspirational tattoo designs and a voucher to get his very own? It doesn’t have to be an eagle with a wing span from one shoulder to the other, many of today’s designs are highly personal symbols of an individual’s journey through life. And hey, if he chooses to profess his undying love for you on his body in ink [“4 ever”]– then all the better!

MAN MADE FEATURE

Give a gift with a difference.

Fly a helicopter under instruction over the Barron Falls and the Beaches. p 4034 9000 e info@helicharters.com.au www.helicharters.com.au

APPEAL TO HIS TASTEBUDS The old saying about the best way to a man’s heart being through his chest may well be true, but you can be guaranteed that other old saying about it being via his stomach will bring much happier results! Chocolates are always a winner, but so are surprise lunches, dinners or breakfasts. At the very least, even just a few of his favourite foodie treats in the weekly shop [brought out after the kids are in bed] will go a long way on the journey to his heart.

THE GIFT OF FASHION Behind every well-dressed man is usually a fashion-savvy woman ensuring that they steer away from cheap shoes, mullets and same-colour ties and shirts! Treat your fella to a new wardrobe [or even just a new shirt] or, if he likes to choose his own fashion, a voucher from his favourite store.

NOT JUST FOR GIRLS We’re living in modern times and nowadays it’s perfectly acceptable to send the object of your affection a bunch of flowers to make his day. Granted, it may cause some goodnatured teasing if he works on a building site, but you can guarantee all the others will be secretly jealous! If flowers really aren’t your man’s style, how about a cactus or bonsai?

ENTERTAIN HIM For most men, there’s no better way to wind down and switch off after a hard week at work than by going to the movies, seeing a band, going go-karting, or generally undertaking any childish or semi-dangerous pursuit that gets the adrenaline flowing and nurtures their inner-juvenile! If you’re not sure when the urge will strike him [or he will find time] get him a selection of vouchers he can pull put when the urge takes him.

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Information proudly supplied by Ian Fisher, UltraTune Cairns

CRUISE

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Great.

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SOCIALS

AUDI LAUNCH

50 CairnsLife June 2012

SOCIALS

TAS MUSICAL GREASE

51 CairnsLife May 2012

PROFILE ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Mathew Currie OBSESSION INK

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? I’m originally from Albury Wadonga on the NSW/Vic border, I’ve been in Cairns for 12 years.

AT WHAT AGE DID YOU BEGIN TATTOOING? I began tattooing at 17 straight out of school.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED? Its an extremely hard industry to get into unless you have a solid portfolio, I was lucky to have made a few friends in the industry through hanging out in tattoo shops both here and in Brisbane.

WHO ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS? There are so many good artists all over the world that I couldn't exactly pinpoint just one but if I had to choose it would be Nikko Hurtado.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST ADVICE TO AN UPCOMING TATTOOIST? Practice practice practice…drawing that is….not tattooing on your mates.

WHAT STYLE BEST DESCIBES YOUR WORK? I love realism.

IF YOU WEREN’T A TATTOO ARTIST, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING? I honestly couldn’t say as its been my dream forever.

WHAT ELSE CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOU IN THE FUTURE? As an artist your always growing and learning, I’ve got no idea where I will be as long as I keep getting better I’ll be happy.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU CAN GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING OF GETTING A TATTOO? Ask around, people with good tattoos will always boast about their artist, if you can’t do that, ask to see the artists portfolio, if they don't have one, walk away. An artist should always be happy to

Major Events

show you their work.

TOP FIVE HIGHLIGHTS

Liner 1. CIAF at Cairns Cruise Terminal ade 2. The Village on Esplan eworks 3. Opening Parade & Fir e ad lan Esp s on Cairn 4 Tropical Pride Festival Tanks Arts Centre

For the past decade and several prior, Cairns Festival has signalled the start of spring with an action-packed, all-ages show for its community and visitors.

After celebrating its golden anniversary in 2011, this years program is destined to be another landmark season in the citys cultural history.

In just a few months from now, Cairns Festival will roll out 17 days of events spanning arts, entertainment, music, dance and collaborations between Friday 17 August and Sunday 2 September.

While there are many highlights gracing the program, namely Cairns Indigenous Art Fair CIAF, Opening Parade and Fireworks, Esplanart, Tropical Pride Festival, Reggaetown and Carnival on Collins to name a few, the one newcomer that is bound to get people moving, grooving and enjoying Festival life is a quirky, vaudevillean sideshow romp that is, The Village on Esplanade.

Cairns Regional Council Mayor Bob Manning said the Festival team was excited to bring this concept to Tropical North Queensland audiences.

Cairns Festival continues to grow and inspire, Mr Manning said.

It will be one of many highlights of the 2012 Cairns Festival, which showcases and celebrates our region.

Councils Creative Cairns Manager Leslie Sparkes said The Village added a touch of fantasy to Cairns Festival, thanks to the hard working team at Creative Partnerships.

Think a gilded, steam-powered carnival of delights with its toes cooling in the lagoon under a palm tree. Be amazed and be intrigued!

Situated on the western events lawn of Cairns Esplanade, The Village on Esplanades line-up will include an energetic, eclectic mix of entertainment - individual performances, musical acts, comedians, singers, dancers, acrobats, artists and roving performers, as well as a solid workshop program featuring the Childrens Village and A Big Print for the kids by Inkmasters.

kai 5.Reggaetown at Tjapu rk Pa ral Aboriginal Cultu

THE CASTELLO!

Fri 24 Aug Sat 1 Sept, $5 entry, 7 shows per night The little castle is a mini theatre tent packed with quirky, ridiculous and sometimes just plain silly comedy acts.

LUSH presents: The Clown Fish Salon

Friday 17th August and Saturday 18th August, 9pm Decadent, provocative and joyful, LUSH Cabaret is a troupe which brings sass, pizzazz, and, above all, fun to the stage. Acrobats, dancers, finely tuned jazz musicians, contortionists, marine creatures and divas will all have their moment at The Clown Fish Salon.

THE SKA B QUE!

Sunday 19th August 1 6 pm Four bands playing their latest originals to some classic old school Ska and a healthy mix of Barbie action. Eat, listen and dance to Ska music enjoy!

THE KURANDA COOTS PRESENTS

Thursday 30 and 31st August 6.30 pm A vibrant and unique physical theatre troupe from the hills of far north Queensland. Their eclectic mix of music, poetry, circus and sideshow gently and irrevocably alters audiences forever.

CAIRNS PAN STARS PUBLIC STEEL PAN WORKSHOPS

Sunday 26th August, 12.30 2.30 pm / 3 5 pm, $10 You are invited to learn to make the same beautiful island music. Be guided by Violet Stannard, founder of the group, and master player, Lennox Jordan, who built the pans and trained the original members of the Pan Stars.

at Cairns Civic • Comedy Gala ent sid Re t ian ill Br Theatre • Jonathan l Gardens Artist at Botanica Series Frank • COCA Music Visitor Centre Yamma ca at Botanic ni ta Bo ic us M • - Grace Knight • Jazz Up North Gardens ntre Ce at Tanks Arts n Do ts lle Ba n • Australia Spring Feast at s Civic Theatre • Secret of Spice irn Ca at te ixo Qu n Cairns Hanuman, Hilto at y Ha lin with Co • An Evening Collins • Carnival on Tanks Arts Centre 53 CairnsLife May 2012

MAIN EVENTS

Major Events

at

ABOUT CAIRNS FESTIVAL Cairns Festival is supported and presented by Cairns Regional Council with generous support from event partners and sponsors. For more information, www.cairnsfest.com.au Like us on Facebook to keep up-to-date on all the fun in The Village! www.facebook.com/creativepartnerships

Q&A

by Andrew Masterson

ENTERTAINMENT

Pretty much whatever way you look at it, Cairns is a long way from California.

Renowned jazz musician Steve Clisby began his musical journey on the west coast of America. After long stints in Europe and, these days, a permanent home in Sydney, he is very happy to be making his second trip to FNQ to perform at Tanks Arts Centre as part of the 2012 Jazz Up North series.

“Honestly, I love that part of the country and my last show at Tanks in 2010 was the first opportunity I had to spend time there,” he told Cairns Life.

“I’m a bit of a nature freak and I was really looking forward to playing in a real rainforest. The venue itself has a great vibe and a very appreciative audience.

We are very much looking forward to coming back again.”

A multi-instrumentalist and singer, Clisby first tasted commercial success in the early 70s with the jazz-funk band American Gypsy – a group of US players who, true to their name, uprooted and spent long periods in Spain and Holland.

“I’m a bit of a nature freak and I was really looking forward to playing in a real rainforest. The venue itself has a great vibe and a very appreciative audience. We are very much looking forward to coming back again.”

The band released a couple of albums and a dozen singles, all of which charted strongly in Europe. Clisby suddenly found himself sharing stages with the likes of Tina Turner, Chaka Khan, Kool and the Gang, Frank Zappa and Santana.

“There wasn’t much of a funk scene when we got to Europe,” he said. “That’s why we went. We wanted to deliver that to the people. Jazz artists had done it before us, so we thought it was fertile ground. It was.”

Excited by the creative processes embodied in American Gypsy, Steve branched out into producing and songwriting. Very soon he found himself working with luminaries such as Narada Michael Walden – legendary hit producer for Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin – and Hot Chocolate’s Errol Brown.

Meanwhile, other musicians were attracted to his earlier recorded works.

Celebrated rapper Neneh Cherry adapted Clisby’s ‘Golden Ring’ on her album Man, and UK electro hit-makers Groove Armada covered his ‘Inside Out’, renaming it ‘Whatever Whenever’ (and sampling the American Gypsy original), for their multi-platinum album, Vertigo.

All of which was very exciting to Clisby, who is fascinated by the processes of adapting and recording music.

“Rather than working with big name musicians, for me it’s more about working with a great producer,” he said.

“I would really like to record with someone like [English producer] Trevor Horn.

I love all his work with Seal, and still think Grace Jones’s Slave To The Rhythm sounds great.”

Settling in Sydney a decade ago, Clisby began the slow process of seeking out musical kindred spirits to form a band. The result is an ensemble comprising his good friend Bill Risby (who has recorded with Kasey Chambers, Wicked Beat Sound System, Dale Barlow and many others), Kere Buchanan (Tina Arena, Wendy Matthews, Marcia Hines), Alex Hewetson (Dale Barlow, Don Burrows, Vince Jones), Jonathan Pease (The Necks), and woodwind wunderkind Adrian Cunningham.

The whole band will be heading to Tanks Arts Centre for the Jazz Up North show, and Clisby, for one, can hardly wait.

“The band is the same band I’ve been playing with for eight years – except this time I’m also going to play keys,” he said. “There are quite a few new songs, a little more blues and several more originals. We’ll also be playing songs from all my live albums, and the Golden Ring album that Bill and I did last year.”

And after the show?

“I’m writing a new album, although it’s slow. It’s taking its time to come out, but I don’t think it’s something you can force. The concept is acoustic, so there will be some surprises.”

Steve Clisby and band perform at Tanks Arts Centre as part of the Jazz Up North series on Friday, June 22. More details: www.tanksartscentre.com

aged wines

Are worth all the hard work and patience needed?

Having seen the end result of both beautifully aged wines and poorly aged wines, I can categorically say absolutely.

Cellaring wine is a g amble and as such it brings with it all the anxiety , trepidation and outright fear one gets from laying a large bet on the Melbourne Cup. There are, however, few hor se races as exhilarating as opening an old bottle of wine. The heart Steven Powell races, the bottle slips in a Fine Wine Specialist, Qld sweaty palm, the b utterflies Dan Murphy’s flutter within and the ja w hurts from smiling so much.

So much can go wr ong. Was it cellar ed correctly, did the cork do its job, was it kept too long and e ven, has this wine been opened prematurely? It’s all too much!

But when it’s right, oh my!, it touches your soul and gives you countless hours of bragging rights for the rest of your life. The sheer seamless, silkiness of the way it moves down your palate.

The softening of tannins and the emergence of previously hidden aromas and flavours and now

the debut of newly formed aromas and flavours changes this bottle from just a bottle of wine into something magical; it has e volved and is the only one of its kind, anywhere. Only those with whom you are sharing this bottle will have the experience, the privilege of drinking this magic potion, and nobod y else. You have created an experience that only you will share, and that is surreal. If you had opened it when it had just been r eleased, your drinking experience would have been shar ed by countless others and although enjoyable it could never be a sur real experience and not y ours alone to have.

The company that I work for, Dan Murphy’s, has a Cellar Release programme unrivalled in this country. Thousands of wines are laid down in perfect conditions, patiently waiting for their chance to shine. Currently we are focussing on the 2006 vintage and ha ve some stellar wines for you to explore. Look for wines from South Australia and Victoria and have your very own experience and discovery that is yours alone.

No need for a cellar at home if you’ve not the room or like me, not the patience; drop in any day and buy something aged and unique.

57 CairnsLife June 2012

WINE & CUISINE

WINE & CUISINE

CHEF’S CHOICE SEAFOODS

Some of Australia’s best seafood is available right here in Cairns and Chefs Choice Seafoods is passionate about their products sourced directly from local boats.

When it comes to selling fresh seafood, it’s obvious that Tim Gent and Fay FalcoMammone are serious about their product.

“There’s nothing fishy about this business”, they say with a smile. “It’s all about freshness, quality and supporting the local fishing industry”.

When Tim and Fay met almost 3 years ago, they both knew their passion for seafood would grow into a business dedicated to showcasing Queensland’s best produce. Fay recalls, “Our first date was at a local seafood restaurant and we spent the whole night discussing each menu item, types of seafood, how it was prepared, and which wine would best suit. It was destiny!”

PHOTOS Courtesy of Kay Davis Photography The fish are all from Tim’s own catch

With his 20 year background in North Queensland’s commercial fishing industry, Tim has a personal connection to his home fishing grounds and goes out as much as possible, so you’ll often see his catch in the display. Tim also wholesales fresh fish and prawns to local and southern buyers. “One of our specialties is wild caught, cooked at sea prawns from North Queensland.” Tim explains, “The prawns are cooked at sea then snap frozen on board, and that’s the best way to lock in the freshness and goodness. Cooking them in their own sea water acts as a natural preservative, so there’s no need to add anything artificial.”

Fresh reef fish are wild caught by line, with the most popular varieties being Coral Trout,

58 CairnsLife June 2012

Red Emperor, Red Throat Emperor, Nannygai, and Spanish Mackerel. Estuary fish like Barramundi and King Salmon mainly come from the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Seasonality plays a large part, for example Spanish Mackerel are mostly caught from June to September, so this is when you’ll see more of it sold as fresh whole or fillets, otherwise frozen fillets are available all year round,” says Tim. Fay loves sharing recipes with customers and emphasises, “Peak seasons are the best time for cooking different varieties. The cooler weather at the moment calls for a warming fish curry, seafood mornay or baked whole fish.” Enjoy!

You can find all the latest news, fishy factsheets, and recipes on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/chefschoiceseafoods

127 Scott Street, Bungalow P:(07) 40 517707 F: (07) 40 517704 E:tim@chefschoiceseafoods.com.au Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am – 6:00pm, Sat 9:00am – 2:00pm Also at: Lot 51 Mourilyan Harbour Road, Mourilyan Phone: (07) 40 632 322 Opening hours: 7 days, 6:00am – 6:00pm

WINE & CUISINE

59 CairnsLife June 2012

WINE & CUISINE

Tha Fi s

REVIEW

Tha Fish Restaurant not only offers beautiful views over the marina, but it also has an impressive menu with many unusual and wow-factor dishes.

enjoy the view & food at

boardwalk cafe breakfast, lunch or dinner at Cairns’ favourite cafe on the waterfront

SPECIAL DAILY $15 LUNCHTIME

Chris was our waiter for the evening and he explained the menu with enthusiasm and a good knowledge of the dishes. Our first dish was beautifully presented and unlike any other I’ve tasted. A selection of natural oysters lined a platter with a side dish offering lemon and vodka granita, spicy tomato pearls and black pepper. The granita was really refreshing and had a wonderful zing to it when you combined it with the oyster.. It tasted amazing and while unusual, the flavours worked really well together. Likewise was the combination of the textured tomato pearls and black pepper with the oyster, creating a Bloody Mary flavour which was really palatable. In fact this was one of my favourite dishes of the night. We also tried the crab bruschetta which was lovely and the tuna carpaccio with balsamic glaze, beetroot sorbet and crispy capers.

The beetroot sorbet once again was unusual but it worked well and gave an added depth to the dish.

For mains we sampled more seafood but also a few other signature dishes. We had coconut and macadamia crusted wild barramundi on wilted spinach

licensed cafe/restaurant

The Pier at the Marina | 40315496 60 CairnsLife June 2012

WINE & CUISINE

i sh Lonely Planet awarded “Top Choice” “Palm Cove’s most inspired dining” “Best black pepper prawns’ ben odonohue celebrity chef

MODERN ASIAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Finalist 2010 best new restaurant TTNQ r & C association Finalist 2011 best Asian restaurant TTNQ r & C association

At Beach almond we love the food we create focusing PO UFYUVSFT BOE nBWPVST GSPN 4PVUI &BTU "TJB BOE sensational Far North Queensland produce with the emphasis on harmony and balance.

From the kitchen with passion to the shared table with pride.

To serve you is our reward.

145 Williams Espalande Beachfront Palm Cove 4059 1908 facebook

with crispy kipflers, and a beautiful spicy pear and ginger chutney which added real bite to the meal. We absolutely loved the twice cooled pork belly which was served with an apple, crab and herb salad and topped with a chive and ginger dressing. The pork was so succulent and was complemented by a divine crispy crackling on top. Our third shared dish was pan seared duck breast with scallop, prosciutto, orange and asparagus salad with hazelnut dressing. The combination of red onion and orange really added a lovely flavour to the dish. For dessert we shared a very light and fluffy chocolate and Pedro Ximenez delice with salted caramel sauce and a roasted hazelnut crack on the side, which was a lovely way to finish the meal.

ƙɃɂȶȳȼɂȷȱΎơȼȲȷȯȼΎƛɃȷɁȷȼȳ ̷̱̯̐ΎƫȶȳɀȷȲȯȼΎƫɂΎƛȯȷɀȼɁ ƨȶΎ̳̯̳̰Ύ̰̯​̯​̯ ɅɅɅ˷ȻȽɂȶȳɀȷȼȲȷȯȱȯȷɀȼɁ˷ȱȽȻ˷ȯɃ

ƯȳΎȵɃȯɀȯȼɂȳȳΎȴɀȷȳȼȲȺɇΎɁȳɀɄȷȱȳΎȯȼȲΎȯΎɂȯɁɂȳΎɁȳȼɁȯɂȷȽȼ ƬȯȹȳΎȯɅȯɇ˴ΎȵȷȴɂΎɄȽɃȱȶȳɀɁΎȯȼȲΎơȼΎȶȽɃɁȳΎȱȯɂȳɀȷȼȵΎȴȽɀΎȯȺȺΎȾȯɀɂȷȳɁΎȯɄȯȷȺȯȰȺȳ

Carolyn Dumbrell, who owns and manages The Fish with her partner and head chef Sheldon Wearne, says it’s important for their chefs to be able to experiment with new ideas and flavours because it keeps their skills up-to-date. She also says the one good thing to come out of the Global Financial Crisis is that all restaurants have had to lift their game because tourists eat in big cities and expect good food and good service. And Tha Fish certainly has amazing food and excellent service.

Pier Point Road, Cairns QLD 4870 For reservations please call 07 4041 5350

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WINE & CUISINE

Ciao Italia REVIEW

We’ve got a lot on our pla te in Cair ns: beautiful beaches, spectacular rainforests, fabulous climate and an enviable lifestyle. As if we needed another g reat reason to liv e here, Ciao Italia adds to the list b y dishing up some of the best authentic Italian cuisine this side of the Mediterranean.

The word “institution” may be overused, but it’s actually the perfect adjective to describe one of Cairns’ favourite restaurants. While some ma y still call it b y its old name , Donnini’s, since 1993 countless b usiness deals have been signed o ver their famous lunches, and many a romance has been sealed under a candle lit glow at Ciao Italia [and a lot of them are probably still coming now with their kids!].

When it came to doing a review, having dined here many times over the years I knew I wasn’t in for a mediocre meal, but I was determined to remain unbiased! Even with a slight nip in the air it was too tempting not to sit on the deck [it is completely under cover and protected] to take advantage of the waterfront location. Part owner Geoff Hewson is definitely part of Ciao Italia’s appeal and is r enowned for his friendly banter and wonderful hospitality. He went through the menu with us in detail, even explaining many of the cooking methods. There are weekly specials as well as the regular menu and fresh seafood abounds, but the highlight is undoubtedly the r estaurant’s handmade pasta – “fatta a mano”.

In the interests of sampling as much as possible we decided to “graze” - which proved to be a lot more filling than we thought! [Although we asked for small portions I think we grazed enough for the entire herd by the end!] We started with the Piadina Ciao Italia, a wonderful barbequed flatbread enclosing roast baby veal, tuna mayonnaise and rocket. We both enjoyed this as an alternative to garlic or herb bread and sneakily decided we were going to adopt it as a lunchtime special at home! We accompanied it with the Grilled Local Calamari Salad [w hich Geoff had made sound so ir resistible in his description]. The calamari was melt-in your-mouth tender [and lots of it], with lettuce, warm black olives and a satisfyingly bitey chilli sauce.

Next, Geoff served us up a taster of his personal favourite – fresh Gnocchi with Pear and Gorgonzola. This was hands-down the best gnocchi I have ever tasted. While the sauce of pear, walnuts and Gorgonzola was extremely rich, it had a delicate flavour and the gnocchi was light enough to keep you wanting more. And more…

We then moved on to the Prawn Salad, which comprised some massive tiger prawns, very lightly battered and deep-fried, on a lime vinaigrette with avocado, cherry tomato and red onion salsa. I had a vague impulse to impersonate Crocodile Dundee and say “Now THAT’s a prawn”, when I saw the size of them – but at that moment some more food arrived…

Our next temptation was the handmade tortelli [filled with braised duck, ricotta, chives and Parmigiano with a shallot sauce], and the ravioli [filled with prawns and leek, with freshly diced tomato and a bisque sauce]. Ciao Italia’ s reputation for their superb signature fresh pasta is well deserved. It was faultless: perfect texture, perfectly cooked and the fillings were sublime.

You might think that we would have no room for dessert, and we didn’t, but after seeing what was on of fer we made space! My companion had the A pple and Rhubarb Crumble, served with fresh cream and pecan caramel ice cream, and I chose the Pavlova with mascarpone cream and v odka poached strawberries, with a raspber ry white chocolate ice cream. Both were impeccable and a fitting end to a truly wonderful meal.

We were completely spoilt by the wonderful service of Geoff and his team, and the fabulous food of Italian chef Alberto Torcia [who took the time to come and meet us].

A native of Napoli, Alberto now calls Cairns home – and their loss is definitely our gain.

Ciao Italia brings the true taste and essence of Italy to one of Cairns’ most spectacular waterfront positions – and not a red-checked tablecloth in sight.

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WINE & CUISINE

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Conferences & Events Choosing Your Location

Creating a Memorable Experience

However large or small your confer ence is, location is key. The environment and its surrounding will help you set an ideal mood and ambiance for your confer ence to take place. Wher e you decide to host your confer ence is one of the most impor tant decisions you will make in your planning pr ocess. Think about choosing a comfortable, yet stimulating working environment that will engage your attendees. Each destination exudes a cultur e and feel of its own. Make sure you research the facilities, as well as the destination and consider the demographic of who is attending. By ensuring the venue is easily accessible by car, bus or train, you can easily influence just how many people attend.

Many of us have conferences that we are obligated to attend, but unfortunately most of them just ar en’t fun. Sadly we can’ t just hire Beyoncé or Lady Gaga, but we can incorporate something just as fun into your confer ence. Musicians and other talented people can help make and event mor e memorable and fun. If your budget doesn’t cover the costs of a performer, why not incorporate your attendees in your ver y own “Australia’s Got Talent”. After hours activities ar e also a great idea, however you need to make sur e they are group orientated to ensure you are encouraging teamwork.

Consider costs, and the budget your company has allocated.

Weigh up the cost with the value your potential venue of fers.

What value do they have that can impr ove the conference and experience for your guests? Be sur e you explore their facilities to ensure they offer what you need. At the end of the day you want to get the most out of your confer ence and you want the venue to help you do that. Be wise and take the time to choose carefully.

Engaging Your Audience The Secret to engaging your audience is to pr ovide them with a variety of activities that they are able to actively participate in. Here are some helpful tips: •

Provide your attendees with agenda points in advance; This will ensure that your audience is alr eady participating before the conference has even begun.

•

Generate hype in your workplace in the weeks leading up to the conference. Releasing small hints and sneak peaks ever yday can do this.

•

A memorable opening; by star ting your confer ence with something that will immediately catch your audiences attention, you will intrigue and excite them.

•

Studies have shown that people ar e most alert when the room temperature is at 23 degrees. If possible keep your room at this cool temperature to ensur e maximum engagement.

•

Avoid catering heavy foods that are going to make people sluggish. Instead opt for a light, yet still satisfying option during morning and afternoon tea.

Concluding the confer ence with a bang is the most impor tant aspect in cr eating a memorable experience. Why not host a gala dinner or a themed dinner party, which will give your attendees something to look forward to. Be cr eative and have fun!

Incorporating Social Media Using social media to enhance events might seem like a nobrainer, but many conferences fail to take full advantage of all the perks that social media has to of fer. It can become a platform for communication between attendees, to br oaden their participation, share information and most importantly, have fun.

Sharing photos, tweets and locations pr ovides a no cost marketing opportunity to expand par ticipation beyond the confines of your chosen location. A great wealth of information can be harvested by using such media platfor ms. Attendees can share what they think, post pictures and easily locate other attendees. As an organizer you ar e able to use social media platforms to quickly address any concer ns, enhance the hype of the conference and successfully manage the overall event. The most popular and useful Social media platforms include: 1.

Facebook and T witter – for the sharing of photos and general thoughts.

2.

Foursquare – Checking into locations and sharing tips and strategies

3.

Blogworld – Allows attendees to socially pick confer ence sessions to conduct personal timetables. As well as invite and tell other people that about the confer ence they are attending.

CONFERENCE FEATURE

A venue with a difference Add an impressive backdrop to your next function or conference Tinaroo Lake Resort and The Lodge, Function Centre is an ideal venue for your next conference, corporate function, strategic planning workshop or staf f training session.

The Lodge, Function Centr e is the centr e piece of Tinaroo Lake Resort located on the shores of the very beautiful Lake Tinaroo. The Lodge is a truly magnificent function venue, including a full audio/visual pr esentation system, conference seating for 70 delegates or theatre style seating for up to 140 guests.

This magnificent building has to be seen to be believed, with cathedral ceilings, timber floors, a stone fire place and marble fixture & furniture. Your clients will be very impressed!

Smaller meeting rooms are also available for up to 30 delegates. Packages ar e available for 1, 2 & 3 day confer ences/workshops including meals, accommodation and use of all facilities.

Tinaroo Lake Resort consist of 2 & 3 bedroom apartments with accommodation costs as low as $84/person/night (assumes 3 delegates in a 3 bedroom apartment for 2 nights).

Tinaroo Lake Resort and The Lodge offers 4.5 star accommodation and superb confer ence facilities in the one grand location. It’s an ideal

venue for your next strategic planning workshop or board retreat. Your management team can escape the pr essures of your regular work environment and focus on the future of your business.

Tinaroo Lake Resort and The Lodge Function Centre is a pr emium venue for corporate functions and offers a unique oppor tunity for Cairns based businesses to escape with your management team, staff or clients.

66 CairnsLife June 2012

For more information visit www.tinarooresort.com.au or call (07) 4095 8912 info@tinarooresort.com.au www.tinarooresort.com.au

weddings corporate private functions off premises license

platters cocktail parties dinner parties buffets “you can rely on us for all your catering needs� anytime, anywhere, any place

CONFERENCE FEATURE

Cairns Hottest New Event Space is NOW OPEN Planning a conference, event or even a wedding? Why not consider Cair ns’ hottest new event space – the Pacific Conference and Events Centre.

Now offering eight versatile spaces, the new multi-million dollar centre features high quality furnishings and contemporary décor to create a venue indicative of this r egion while still appealing to a wide audience.

Accommodating up to 180 banquet style and 315 people theatr e style is the hotel’ s ballroom, which is suitable for larger -scale corporate and social events, on top of the six conference rooms ideal for br eak-out sessions, meetings and seminars. The hotel’s poolside terrace, which offers views over the Cairns Esplanade parkland, can cater for up to 100 people and is ideal for pr e-function cocktail parties. It features a contemporar y design and of fers a gr eat indoor/outdoor option for delegates utilising the adjacent conference rooms.

Pacific International Hotel executive dir ector Paul Kamsler Jnr said five of the spaces were on the same level and could be combined to create a ‘’super space’’ for conferences and events that require greater flexibility and the need for breakouts. “We believe it is the most versatile space available in Cair ns – a floor area that can be compact yet flexible, stylish and very impressive.”

Services include wireless internet connection in the lobby area as well as all the conference and event r ooms, video confer encing capability and high definition pr ojection, which are essential to a first-class event venue.

The new Pacific Event and Conference Centre complements the hotel’ s existing facilities, which have also seen a r efurbishment including the r enowned restaurant Bushfire Flame Grill, as well as the 176 AAA 4.5 star rated rooms.

70 CairnsLife June 2012

If you are looking to deal with a locally owned independent hotel, with a proven reputation for its attention to detail, value for money and more personal service, then contact the team today on 4044 1887 or email sales@pacifichotelcairns.com.

Hair Design

Colour Specialist

Make-Up Artistry

Wedding Specialist

Art Gallery

Ensuring that every detail in the design truly does turn out...

* Ê{äxnÊäx££ÊUÊ- «ÊxÉ Ê > iÀÕ }>Ê,`]Ê-ÌÀ>Ìv À`ÊUÊÜÜÜ°>ÃÞ Õ i Ì°V °>Õ iÊÕÃÊ Ê >ViL

While you can take your pick of funky cafes along the popular Grafton St precinct, there’s only one that can pick up your taste buds and transport them to Paris in one delicious, melt-in-your-mouth bite: say “bonjour” to Macaron.

In just over a year of trading, Macaron café and patisserie has garnered a loyal following amongst locals looking for a tasty breakfast or lunc h [with all quic hes, croissants and cakes baked fresh on premises daily], or a sneaky F rench sweet for morning and afternoon tea. But this war m and cosy little café is also making wa ves in Cair ns’ wedding industry. For French chef Laurent Thos and partner Natalie Hyde the reason is simple: the café’s namesake, the delicious and delectable sweet treat known as a macaron.

While the ing redients of a macaron may be simple [eg g white, almond meal, sugar and colouring] this delicate sweet comes alive with a variety of fillings, which, says Laurent, is what makes them so special. But while the taste is undeniably more-ish, the good news for brides searching for a wedding cake with “w ow” is tha t the humb le macaron can be transformed into something far more spectacular – the show stopping Macaron Tower.

Laurent has exclusively imported the specialised equipment needed to make the to wers from Europe, and he and his team of French pastry chefs can create the centrepiece of any bride’s dream with a m uch shorter lead-time than a traditional wedding cake. While looking fab ulous and tasting sublime, a unique aspect of the Macaron Tower is

For a unique

D E Z I S E T I B BRIDAL BLISS by Julietta Henderson

that it can be entir ely bespoke - in not only design and theme, but size as well. Depending on budget and numbers, the tower can comprise as many [or as few] macarons as you like. Costing is calcula ted on a per macar on basis [$2.20 each] so it can be tailor ed to any size wedding. Although macarons are the most popular, a tower can consist of any mini cake you like and, in fact, Laurent says anything goes.

“Whatever a client wants , they can have!” he laughs. The fillings of the macarons are only limited by your imagination and Laurent has even been asked for a Vegemite one!

As well as running the busy café seven days a week, Laurent’s talents are in demand all over town. Macaron provide their signature macarons to the Hilton and Sheraton to put in the guest rooms for weddings, and can also ca ter for functions and events with not just sweets, but finger food such as mini pizzas, savouries and mini puff pastries. Sounds perfect for a cocktail wedding reception!

Laurent and Natalie’s busy lives are about to get even busier with the delivery of Macaron’s much anticipated bread oven.

As well as supplying their own café with fresh French bread and baguettes, Macaron will be selling “the most a wesome bread in town” to other local restaurants and cafes.

If you haven’t already discovered Macaron for yourself, come on down for a great breakfast, lunch or coffee at the “Paris end” of Grafton St. If you’re planning your wedding, have a c hat with Na talie or Laur ent about cr eating a Macaron Tower for your special da y, or w hile away an afternoon and work your way through your own little tower of sweet delights – just for one!

Macaron: 62 Grafton St, open seven days a week.

Ph: 40 283414

Wedding

say it with Macarons...

62 Grafton Street, Cairns Qld 4870

Ph 07 4028 3414 lnmacoron@hotmail.com

FASHION

Country Fever

2 Fashion models are Miss Showgirl 201 Winner Bianca McMahon, Runnerup l Sarah Bremmer and finalist Tahlia Hal

Photography by Romy Photography Hair by Stephanie Macor Reds Salon and Spa Makeup and Fashion Styling by Amanda Macor Shot on location at Mt Uncle Distillery 1819 Chewko Rd Walkamin.

North Queensland, Australia Phone: (07) 4086 8008 Email: info@mtuncle.com

74 CairnsLife June 2012

FASHION

Bianca (far left) wears shirt, hat and accessories by Tea Lily.

Leather shorts by BitchnHound. Shoes by Sassi Shoes

Sarah (centre) wears dress by The Eye. Hat, belt & accessories by Tea Lily. Shoes by Sassi Shoes

Tahlia (left) wears shirt, shorts by The Eye. Hat, belt, accessories

by Tea Lily.Feather necklace by The Eye. Shoes by Sassi Shoes

Bianca (right)wears BitchnHound poncho & skirt.

Accessories by Tea Lily

FASHION

FASHION

Sarah (left) wears shirt, jeans and accessories by Tea Lily, shoes by Sassi Shoes

Bianca (top) wears dress by BitchnHound. sccessories by Tea Lily, gloves by Amanda Macor.

Tahlia (above) wears shirt and accessories by Tea Lily, jeans

by BitchnHound, cowboy boots - www.horsetraining.org

Sarah (right) wears shirt by Viva Boutique, shorts by BitchnHound, hat by Tea Lily, necklace by The Eye, gloves by Amanda Macor, shoes by Sassi Shoes.

FASHION

SPOIL YOUR MAN At Man Overboard

80 CairnsLife June 2012

FASHION

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beauty trends

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

ASAP Pure Mineral Make-up combines natural ingredients derived from the earth, with the latest advances in skin technology.

The range has been developed to assist women to look their best while treating the visible signs of ageing. ASAP Pure consists of one mineral base, a variety of shades of mineral make-up, lip colour, bronzer, mascara, lip pencils, eye pencils & shadows.

"ASAP works hard to make beautiful skin easy" Treat the multiple triggers behind inflammation for lasting relief from sensitivity flare-ups. When skin demands serious relief, trust new UltraCalming™ from the skin health experts at Dermalogica.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

HA I RDRE S S E R O F T H E M O N T H : S t e p h a n ie Ma c o r, R e d s S a l o n & S p a

How long have you been hairdressing for and where did your training start?

Started my apprenticeship at Reds Salon and Spa nearly 3 years ago. I am lucky to have the best of educators in Heather Cohen and Christine Archer Why did you decide to become a hairdresser?

Through my family, I have been surrounded by some of the best hairdressers and artists all my life. I have always loved being a girl and dressing up.

How do you keep up with the current trends and techniques?

Last year I attended Sharon Blain's bootcamp for long hair styling, Hair Expo Sydney with my team from Reds and this year attended Salon Melbourne where I attended seminars with Joey Scandizzo, Frank Apostolopoulos and Sharon Blain If you could work anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Melbourne to immerse myself in big city culture, see a different perspective and expand my skills and experience.

What is the best part being a hair stylist?

Being able to make anyone and everyone look their best and feel beautiful.

Where do you shop for your wardrobe?

I am a fashion bargain hunter and am always shopping locally and online, not too mention raiding my mum's shoe cupboard.

What are your tips for anyone wanting to change their look?

Look through hair magazines to get some ideas to show your stylist, then listen to their advice on what suits your face, lifestyle and fashion mantra.

Stephanie Macor Reds Salon and Spa 2 Greenslopes St, Edgehill

Who is your inspiration and why?

Ross Stokes was such a larger than life presence while I was growing up, always doing shows, giving me my first grownup cut and colour. He was always trying new things - the good, the bad and the ugly while never being afraid of what other people thought, it was just another challenge to swing them into his way thinking.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

V Pharmacy Smithfield Be bea beautiful beautif auti uttiffu ful ul inside an and nndd out ut

With Amanda Gale Wellbeing lbeing Services For many years the core of our business usinesss was Physiotherapy, own to o combine a mixture but over time we have grown of carefully selected wellbeing ng services se ervice to help clients ervices achieve optimal health alth & beauty beauty inside & out.

W

hile V Pharmacy in the Smithfield Shopping Centre is certainly no secret [having been the go-to pharmacy for loyal local customers for many years], if you’re not a Northern Beaches resident, their range of products and wealth of expertise may come as a pleasant surprise.

V Pharmacy is without doubt the beauty and wellness hub of the Northern Beaches and o wner Nick Loukas and his team ha ve created a w elcoming in-store experience complemented b y impeccable service, an e xtensive range of well-known brands, competitive pricing and a clinically-focussed level of expert health care. “Our ethos is to help people feel well,” says Nick. “Either by making them better w hen they are sick or b y helping them to maintain their health.”

Skin & Beauty Therapy Waxing, tin tinting, nting, tanning tanning,, holistic skin & beauty treatments t Naturopathy & Wellbeing Raw food foo od & health education education workshops, weight e w weigh ht loss programs

BEAUTY HUB

phone 4041 7717

With the Northern Beaches’ largest range of cosmetics, fragrance and skin care products, V Pharmacy can definitely mix it with the big guns when it comes to b uying power and beauty advice. As well as Estee Lauder , V stocks big name brands Clinique , Napoleon, Revlon, Maybelline and Dr Lewinn’s. The beauty team [comprising five highly trained girls] at the V beauty counter are proud to offer their own style of personalised local service. “We take the time to get it right,” says Yvonne Benson. “Our goal is to make every woman look and feel beautiful, and w e go the e xtra mile to ensure that.” With over 80% of women wearing the wrong shade of makeup, Yvonne says V Pharmacy’s foundation matching is just one of the extra services they offer.

st, Cairns address 17 Anderson A

www.amandagalephysio.com.au www.amanda galephysio.com.au

With the beauty and fragrance side of the business growing all the time, the team stay abreast of the industry with regular training in Brisbane. All professional make-up and skin car e therapists, the team is committed to the V Phar macy ethos and, sa ys Yvonne, they all go be yond the r ealms of superficial service - of fering makeovers, formal makeups and beauty advice . In ter ms of

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Mention this advertt to receive

1 15 511hour hou h ur

% off an any nyy massage treatm treatment ment

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Beauty & Wellness hub of the Northern Beaches fragrance, stocking everything from mid-market to prestige, V’s buying power means they are able to guarantee the integ rity of their products while staying competitively priced [often times better than duty free].

HEALTH HUB As a clinically oriented phar macy, V balances an e xpertise in traditional medicine with a wide range of complementary natural products. With around 70-80% of Australians taking some form of vitamins, manager and phar macist David Benson sa ys that V Pharmacy is catering to the mar ket with its wide pr oduct range that includes all the big names such as Blackmores, Swisse, Bioglan, Nature’s Own and Ethical Nutrients . Even more important though, says David, is the level of knowledge and service provided by the staff. “We are totally customer and patient focussed here,” he says. “We have a highly e xperienced team and it’ s about encouraging people to be proactive and responsible for their own health.”

This commitment to patient wellness extends to free blood pressure tests; a script filing and SMS reminder service [meaning no waiting and improved compliance]; and a home medication review service.

This last service is government funded and, David says, very under utilised. Working in consultation with local GPs, he is one of only a handful of Accredited Consultant Phar macists in Cair ns authorised to review a patient’s medication in their home.

ONLINE HUB If you can’t make it in to the phar macy don’t worry: V has a full range of products and advice online a t www.vpharmacy.com.au.

You can join the V Club , check out the ca talogue and even get health and beauty advice - all without ha ving to move from your lounge chair!

Ph 40 4080 080 1888 or 0402 119 119 793 Org Organic ganic Body T Treatment rreatment Truly T ruly Unique Relaxing Experience www.naturalpalm.com.au ww w.naturalpalm.com.au

NOVOTEL NOVOTE L CAIRNS CAIR RNS OASIS RESORT RESORT 122 2 LAKE STREET

KIDSLIFE

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KIDSLIFE

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PETLIFE

BUSINESS & TRAINING

Budget Changes A Budget Update has been r eleased and as of July 1st 2012, work based training funding will no longer be available with up to $4000 worth of Employer incentives.

If you are currently working either full or part time contact us immedia tely so w e can pr ovide you maximum funding and cash incentives.

We have a team of experienced staff ready to assist you and will have your funding approval completed within 48 hours.

Get your $4000 from the Government before the 30th of June!

100% FUNDED Online Training Options for your Employees

At Accredited Online Training, we provide facilitated online courses that enable staff to g ain formal qualifications without leaving the workplace.

There are numerous benefits to training, but the most important one is that the company you work for can receive $1500 and $5500 of funding per employee and you receive a qualification at no cost.

EMPLOYER BENEFITS. The training w e provide enable staff to ha ve the assessments related to their o wn work environment, this enable them to act on the training and be empowered to suggest and implement a v ariety of advantageous processes, procedures and ideas into your company.

With Accredited Online Training you can r eceive a company bonus payment per employee of $750 - $1250!

93 CairnsLife June 2012

INCREASED PROFITS Getting the right skills in place cuts waste and boosts profitability. A typical 50 emplo yee company could save up to $250,000.00 annually by filling the gaps in its employees’ skills.

A COMPETITIVE BUSINESS Whether you’re improving your customer service or boosting your internal efficiency, training keeps staff skills up to date and makes sure you stay ahead of the competition.

EFFICIENT, MOTIVATED STAFF Training provides staff with the skills and a wareness to do their jobs ef fectively, and the initia tive and ambition to help drive the business forward.

Our qualifications have been independently evaluated

by Government and industr y representatives to guarantee that they meet the highest standar d of course excellence.

Accredited Online Training - Your Government Funding Experts!

Luella Kay Sales and Marketing Manager Accredited Online Training 1300 72 66 34 funding@aot.edu.au

BUSINESS

TAXTIME

It’s nearly that painful time of year again, tax time. Its time consuming, difficult and frustrating, but it has to be done. There are a few ways that you can make tax time a little less painful, including:

1 2 3

Make sure you find and file your receipts. Get into the habit of filing your receipts in one location that works best for you. This could be a shoebox, a folder or a file on your computer. Getting into good habits such as this means you won’t lose money and will make tax time less stressful and a lot less time consuming.

Know and under stand what you can claim. Some e xpenses are claimable for everyone, while other expenses may only be claimable for the industry you work in. Do your research, the web is a good start, and get an idea of what you are and are not able to claim.

Get professional advice. We are all busy people who don’t have the time to spend countless hours thinking about our tax, so ho w about paying someone to do it f or us. If you can not justify the cost of advice, then why not make full use of the tax office’s inquiry line on 13 72 26.

94 CairnsLife June 2012

BUSINESS

Welcome to Commercial Vision “I have two jobs in life; one is in Commercial Property and the other is as a part time “pain in the arse” for my family.

Comes with being a grumpy old man (turning 50 soon not happy).” by Danny Bertros

O

ne of the things tha t really gets me going nowadays is TV. Ever had a crap day and just want to sit do wn after dinner at night, chill and watch something half intelligent to help you relax? Well a night in front of the telly is no longer about relaxing ... it has become a str essful experience. I’ve become one of those smart-arse fathers that sits and watches some crap with the family, only to pick on everything from how bad the stories are to some of the crap acting in A ustralian dramas.

It all starts with the TV guide . Completely useless and a waste of paper. Instead of a TV Guide it should be called a TV appr oximate.

Ours goes into the shredder and into the chook house for them to shit on, which is all it is good for. I would love to meet the TV programmers in person. They would have to be twisted, hyper, narcistic nerd-heads that are pumped up on sugar or drugs. It is their mission in life to stuff you around; change the times of your favourite shows, throw in a r epeat every now and again to anno y you, skip a w eek for no reason and then insert endless pr omos for stupid shows that rate poorly. I call them the

Basil Faulty’s of the TV industr y - the y just don’t give a crap about the customer or, in this case, the viewer.

legs, clothes - e veryone is b loody stunning.

That’s not real!! Have a walk ar ound Cairns Central!

Next it’s the fact that nothing starts on time and it’s all because you have to sit through more and more commercials than ever before and special sneak previews that are repeated every ad break. A typical 60 min ute show now goes for 70 minutes. I go of f about it all night and m y family tell me to shut up ... and what about the volume in the ad br eaks? It's enough to wake you out of a short snoo ze during the crap shows.

Where’s the fuller figures, the pimples, cellulite, balding men, flabby, less than perfect teeth and how come no one burps, scratches their crutch, farts, picks their teeth or nose and w ears old clothes. Now that’s reality.

Everything is big and loud in our house. Big TV with big speaker s, a family tha t’s 50 per cent Italian and 50 percent Lebanese so we all talk loud. What’s normal in one house is a jet engine in ours. We’ve planted a 10-metr e wide landscape buffer zone around our boundaries to try and absorb the noise.

Next on my moaning list are the people in the shows. My God, e veryone is so stunning and perfect. Have you seen 'Revenge'? I mean ar e there any ugly people in the Hampton’s where it is set? Perfect faces, teeth, skin, arses, boobs, 95 CairnsLife June 2012

I’ve taken the ultima te GOM way out to save my stress and started r ecording everything on my new whiz-bang DVD which does everything except get me a cold beer. You can now watch 2 shows in the same time in normally takes for one.

Only trouble is, I need the kids around to help me figure it out and when I try they yell at me – loudly of course.

danny.betros@cbre.com.au

BUSINESS

PHONE 07 4036 8111 PO Box 110E, Earlville Queensland 4870 email tas@tas.qld.edu.au | fax 07 4036 8222 TAS White Rock, Progress Road

TAS White Rock Kindy to Year 12 TAS Kewarra Beach Prep to Year 7

THEY GROW UP SO FAST.

A TAS EDUCATION KEEPS UP. Enrolments are now being accepted for TAS White Rock and TAS Kewarra Beach including enrolments in advance for children not yet of school age. Applications for students need to be made as soon as possible to secure a place, as there are waiting lists at certain year levels.

Since its foundation in 1983, TAS has built a reputation for academic excellence, service to the community and leadership in technology, the arts and sport. By choosing TAS you are ensuring your child has every opportunity to reach their potential.

Visit www.tas.qld.edu.au for more information or make an appointment with our Admissions OfďŹ cer by emailing your contact details to admissions@tas.qld.edu.au

96 CairnsLife June 2012

LAW

It can be a Man's World

by Murray Jones Solicitor

Imagine this. Just like many of the men featured in this edition, you are successful at your job, work in a male dominated workplace and love spending time with your mates. You know how to get your way when closing a deal and you are comfortable being one of the boys...

....Now picture this. You’ve separated from the mother of your two young daughters and find yourself in court trying to sort out parenting orders. You enter the Court R oom and see a female judge , a female solicitor and a female barrister acting for your former partner. You may even have a female solicitor or barrister yourself. Chances are, you are feeling uncomfortable and think that there is no way you're going to make any headway amongst all of these women.

presentation in court can either support or destroy the case which your solicitor puts forward. A calm and considered approach will always assist you to satisfy the Judge that you are focussed on the children's best interests. It is also worth noting that acknowledging your former partner’s strengths as a parent and recognising that you both have a lot to offer your children is another sign of a balanced and c hild focussed approach.

Family Law is an ar ea of law where there is a lar ge number of female practitioners. To add to this perceived female domination, there is a perception that a degree of sexual discrimination exists against father's in Family Law. I've even had a client complain that the whole system was against him because he didn't ha ve breasts. About six years ago, the Howard Government made changes to the Family Law Act that were broadly aimed to addr ess a public perception that there was an imbalance ag ainst fathers in the family law arena. To some, that perception has not gone away.

Don't get confused about the 'best interest’ approach. The Court must take this approach in relation to the children, not to the par ents. Just because y our proposal may be convenient to you, it does not mean tha t it is in the best interest of the c hildren. The Court is only r equired to consider the practicability of proposals, not whether it is convenient to one or other of the par ents. In fact, b y persisting with a “convenient to you” argument may very well satisfy the Court that it is in the best inter ests of the children to adopt the other parent’s proposal.

Back to the stor y. When faced with wall to wall w omen, some men adopt a stra tegy of being defensiv e and aggressive. Bullying tactics and a loud ang ry voice is often part of the appr oach. It ma y be a tactic tha t is used successfully in business when things get tough, but it's likely to do more harm than good in a Family Law arena.

The family law arena is not about a gender bias . You can assist your case by showing that you have the flexibility and maturity, as a parent, to prioritise the best inter ests of the children ahead of your own interests. The court is not interested that you can negotiate hard-nosed business deals but it will be interested that you are flexible and receptive to your child's needs.

I have never been concerned that a judge in our system has made a decision based on w hether you are a male or a female. Judges have to be objective and focussed on the best interest of the children. The Judge is not concerned about the lawyers’ genders, only the cases they present on behalf of their r espective clients. Having said tha t, your

I've personally seen fa thers, who take an ag gressive approach in court, when in reality, they are just big 'softies' with their kids. Striking a balance between these extremes is likely to convince a court that it is in the c hildren's best interest that they spend at least substantial and significant time with their father.

97 CairnsLife June 2012

Joe Vella Managing Director Joe Vella Insurance Brokers

WHY SHOULD I USE A BROKER? I CAN DO IT MYSELF…CANʼT I? Why going direct to an Insurer may not necessarily be the right course of action for you!

With the way premiums are rising, you may be considering bypassing your Broker to try and get a better deal direct with one of the Insurers yourself. But is going direct always a better deal for you? There are a number of things to consider when taking this course of action.

In a nutshell, the role of a Broker is to source and present the best possible insurance solution for their client…YOU. They represent you, NOT the insurance company, and act on YOUR behalf. Brokers have industry training and qualifications to help you understand more about your insurance and can ensure that your policy caters specifically to any special circumstances you or your business may have. It is a tailor made program suitable to you, not an off the shelf product that may not be entirely suitable.

Still not convinced? What if something goes wrong, who will be there to help? Your Broker will. If it’s a claim, they are there for you from start to finish. They will negotiate with the Insurer on your behalf and are able to decipher policy wordings into simple, plain English terms. You can call your Broker at any time

and know you will have that personal service – not a random call centre operator who knows nothing about you or your claim.

Anytime you have questions, they are there for you – now that is reassuring and provides peace of mind.

So how is going direct any different? Well, going direct to the Insurer can be restrictive as they can only sell you their products. In other words, there is no advice given, you ‘take it or leave it’. With a Broker it is our obligation to source a product through the host of Insurance companies available, allowing more opportunity to provide a policy that suits YOUR individual policy needs and requirements.

Please do not be mislead, within our profession we work alongside the Insurance companies and after all, it is the Insurer who takes on the risk and pays the claims and without them we wouldn’t have a product to sell or promote. The simple fact is that relationships are very important and whichever way you decide to go, you need to ensure you are comfortable and well informed with your decision.

TRAVEL

Agent V’s Internet

by Paul Egan

I have lost count of the number of times I have been asked over the years “does the internet affect your business”? My answer is always the same, I love the Internet and it has made my job much easier. In many situations it actually drives business through our doors.

Airlines have created confusion in the market place, with all their additional fees and add ons. This is actually good for us.

Hiring a professional to do something you could do yourself can be a good idea or a bad one.

It comes down to the value you receive. And so it is with Travel Agents. Contrary to popular belief using a Travel Agent will often cost you the same as booking it yourself, but you save a lot of time and could get great advice that makes your trip more enjoyable.

In that case you get better value for your money. In my mind there a four major things you need to consider:-

COST: It should not cost you more to book with a Travel Agent; hopefully it should cost y ou less. Agents ha ve relationships with vendors and can sometimes secure better deals on price or added extras, such as free nights, breakfast included, on board credits etc. Search engines are limited by the information they are given and cannot think outside the square. The human mind can always outwit them. A client of mine was in the other day to book domestic flights which she had seen on the internet. During our conversation she also mentioned that she was going to book a r ental car as well with her preferred company. Immediately I suggested that we look at doing her a package. By combining both of her needs I was able to access wholesale airfares which were considerably cheaper, so much so that the savings paid for the car hire with change to spare.

Websites won’t look at all the options. They may list only airlines that they have a particular agreement with, or they may consider nearby airports that could be significantly cheaper to arrive / depart from. Travel Agents have access to much more complex data bases, such as Galileo and Sabre.

TIME: Research for a simple trip can consume hour s so you need to consider the v alue of your time. Part of what you are paying for with a Travel Agent, assuming you are paying any extra at all, is for someone else to do the research and present you with options.

ADVICE: This is where Travel Agents come into their own. Counseling you on what you should do and w hich services to choose based on personal experience, or that of a colleague and importantly, other clients feedback could ensure you have a much better experience. Stay at hotel A, but avoid B; do this tour, but that one is lame! Websites will show you the best, if not the most accurate pictures.

Besides counseling you on bookings a T ravel Agent can advise you on such issues as:- e xchange rates, insurance,

crowds, weather, competency of tours, areas of town to avoid, visas, restrictions, cancellation penalties, packing lists etc. There is nothing like walking into an agency and talking to someone who has been there.

PEACE OF MIND The AFTA (Australian Federation of Travel Agents) slogan says it all, “without an agent you are on are own”. I am sure we have all heard horror stories of when things go pear shaped. Will it turn out to be a time of trial and tribulation that tests your will and patience to the limits, or will it be a simple phone call to your agent, leaving it with them and giving them the opportunity to shine.

Licensed Travel Agents in A ustralia are members of the Travel Compensation Fund so your money is secure should an operator fail to provide the service paid f or. Can that foreign based website offer the same security? Most agents will utilize the services of large wholesale companies that have professionals hired to vet and continue to vet product.

Agents can v oid bookings w hich is v ery difficult on the internet. Agents will doub le check dates are correct and ensure you have all of the necessary documents.

Even with there expertise, Travel Agents might not get you the same rock bottom prices tha t ultra frugal consumers might get if they are willing to spend the time and assume the risk of blindly booking with unknown suppliers, and if that is the case then let them know. Many suppliers who are based in Australia in a bricks and mortar loca tion will do their best to price match. Do your research, we love clients who know what they want, but we can do it a lot faster and without the frustration and risk The trend is changing; Internet bookings are on the decline.

Roy Morgan Research figures show that the majority of Australians book with an agent. So come to T ravel Associates, “Our experience counts”!

Where ever you choose to travel this year have fun!

Magical Mauritius...

It really doesn’t get much more exotic than Mauritius. Located off the coast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, the island nation is home to more than just dazzling beaches. Beyond the glistening water’s edge, Mauritius is brimming with a diverse mix of cultures and landscapes.

Egan & Turner Travel Associates invites you to discover the magic of Mauritius on your next special getaway.

Sugar Beach Resort from $2705

Located on the west (sunset) coast, this delightful 5-star property is located on 12 hectares of property and 500 metres of beach frontage. A firm favourite for couples & families offering an excellent range of services and facilities. t Return Economy Class Airfares

from Brisbane t Private car transfers and associated

airport charges & levies t 6 nights accommodation at 5-star

Sugar Beach in a Standard Room t Breakfast & dinner daily t Selected water/land sports

& activities programmes t BONUS discount on room rates

Our experience counts. coounts.

Le Touessrok *

Egan & TTurner Egan urner TTravel ravel Associates SShop hop 3, 116 Collins AAvenue, vvenue, Edge H Hill ill

from $3135*

This unique resort is located on the east coast offering discerning luxury for those seeking a quiet escape.

The resort offers a stunning 18-hole “Bernard Langer” designed golf course located on Ile aux Cerfs island with green fees included daily. t Return Economy Class Airfares from Brisbane t Private car transfers and associated airport charges & levies t 6 nights accommodation at 5-star Le Touessrok in a Deluxe Room t Breakfast & dinner daily t Selected water/land sports & activities programmes t BONUS discount on room rates

Call 11800 800 889 87 8755

www.travel-associates.com.au/egan www .travel-aassociates.com.au/egan

*Travel rrestrictions and conditions *Travel estrictions and conditions aapply. pply. PPlease lease aask sk uuss ffor or ffurther urther ddetails. etails. PPrices and taxes rices and taxes aare re ccorrect orrect aass aatt 4 M May ay 112 and 2 and aare re ssubject ubject ttoo cchange hange w without ithout nnotice. Prices otice. Prices qquoted uoted aare re oonn ssale ale uuntil ntil 3300 JJun un 1122 uunless nless ootherwise therwise sstated tated oorr ssold old oout ut pprior. rior. PPrices rices aare re pper er pperson and erson and aare re ssubject ubject ttoo aavailability. Valid vailability. Valid ffor or ttravel ravel ffrom rom 1166 JJul ul – 3300 SSep ep 112.

2. AAccommodation ccommodation iiss bbased ased on on ttwin win sshare. Seasonal hare. Seasonal surcharges and surcharges and bblackout lackout ddates ates m ay aapply pply ddepending epending oonn ddate ate ooff ttravel. Prices ravel. Prices shown shown are are ffully ully iinclusive nclusive oof taxes, f taxes, levies, levies, government government ccharges and other harges and other aapplicable pplicable ffees. ees. PPrices rices ssubject ubject ttoo cchange hange ddue ue ttoo ccurrency urrency may ffluctuation. Airfares luctuation. Airfares aare re bbased ased oonn AAirir M auritius ““Q” Q” cclass lass eeconomy conomy ffrom rom Perth Perth aand nd VVirgin irgin AAustralia ustralia ffrom rom BNE BNE to to PPER. ER. AAirfare irfare ttaxes axes aare re ssubject ubject ttoo cchange hange until until air air tickets tickets are are issued. issued. Flight Flight Centre Centre Limited Limited (ABN (ABN 25 25 003 003 377 377 188) 188) trading trading as as Travel Travel Associates.

Associates. LLic ic N o. Q LD TTAG262.

AG262. TTAADV50932 A A DV 5 0 9 3 2 Mauritius No. QLD

99 CairnsLife June 2012

PortLife Weddimgs FE ATU R E

Port Douglas for your dream wedding‌

Cover photo and photos within this feature are from the wedding of Susan and Warren Randall.

All photographs are taken by Port Douglas Weddings.

“... a place with no traffic lights, no parking meters and air so pure...”

Welcome to PortLife. This month’s feature not only showcases the spectacular r egion we all live within, it also highlights one of the biggest reasons people come to holiday in Port Douglas – to get a bit of romance.

While the r egion enjoys around 500 w eddings throughout the year, any time is great for a romantic weekend or e xtended getaway with a lo ved one.

With Port Douglas and the Daintr ee only a short drive away, you will feel a million miles further from the hustle and b ustle of daily life a t a secluded luxury lodge or B&B. The natural beauty of the surrounding environment and the relaxed atmosphere of the village creates an irresistible combination for love being in the air .

Couples walking hand in hand or huddled o ver a private table at one of the region's best restaurants are regular sights. A popular activity is to take a picnic blanket, a bucket of prawns and a cold drink to the edge of Rex Smeal Park in the after noon to watch the sunset over the Daintree Rainforest, while the boats return from a wonderful day on the reef.

Tourism Port Douglas & Daintree's Tara Bennett, Chelsea Mee and Jess Coleman at the Sheraton Mirage Longest Lunch.

It's not surprising so many proposals happen whilst couples are on holiday! I have heard many quirky ways the question has been popped in Port Douglas, from on bended knee a t the lookout, underwa ter whilst diving the reef, to sky high in a helicopter.

June in Port Douglas signals the start of the wedding season and w hy wouldn’t you get mar ried in paradise? You’ve got a range of locations to suit all tastes and budgets. There's the entire length of Four Mile Beach, plus a few local wa terfront spots of Little Cove, Oak and Pretty Beach. Then you have the Daintree Rainforest right on our door step, Mowbray Valley behind us and not to mention Mossman Gorge and Daintree Village. Or the iconic chapel, St. Mary’s by the Sea, the historic St. David’s Church in Mossman, the famous Sugar Wharf and our even more famous r estaurants and outdoor event locations… I could go on forever!

So whether it’s a casual, bare footed elopement on Four Mile Beach, a weekend getaway or even a day trip with a special lunc h for two, there is a tropical romance waiting here for you.

Yours in Port,

Doug EO Tourism Port Douglas Daintree

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+61 412 772 182 www.horsesinport.com.au

Weddings Sunset Champagne Tours Family Joy Rides All Occasions

SUSAN & WARREN RANDALL'S PORT DOUGLAS WEDDING - 6TH OCTOBER 2011

Susan & Warren escaped to Port Douglas for their tropical wedding, and were joined by family & friends from around Australia & overseas to celebrate their day.

They held their ceremony in the historic St Mary's by the Sea chapel, where Susan arrived in a horse drawn carriage complete with white parasol. Following the ceremony they had a few family & group photo's with their guests before going to several popular locations with their bridal party for the photo tour.

They then retired to a private holiday house for their reception where catering included not 1 or 2, but 3 wedding cakes! A fun night was had by all with plenty of dancing and they topped it all off with handmade ice-creams for everyone to finish a great night.

PORTLIFE

The Secrets to a

Dream Wedding

Boutique Wedding Planners | Port Douglas Specialising in customised destination weddings from concept to completion.

Wedding Divas, Boutique Wedding Planners – essential for the “modern survival� of today’s wedding couples.

Deb – 0422 428 826 | Gail – 0413 386 766 diva@weddingdivas.com.au

www.weddingdivas.com.au

Award Winning Wedding & Events Specialists

The region’s most intriguing new hotel has landed in Port Douglas. It’s Manhattan meets the beach, stunning decor, relaxed, yet quirky. Just as stunning is our special ‘2 night stand’ opening offer.

Find out more - QTportdouglas.com.au

6GN

*Conditions apply: Offer is subject to availability, cannot be combined with any other offer and is only applied to new bookings. Two night minimum stay applies. Offer available for bookings between 18 May and 16 June 2012.

YYY RQTVFQWINCUECVGTKPI EQO CW

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PORTLIFE

CHOOSE from the greatest exotic locations of beaches, mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, lookouts, secluded waterholes, isolated sand cays for amazing photo opportunities.

SELECT from over 100 local wedding professionals to plan every aspect of your event and create unforgettable memories of this special day in paradise.

IMAGINE exchanging your vows in an ocean view chapel, or on luxury boat, beneath a secluded rainforest canopy or even underwater in a coral lagoon!

CATER impeccably with options perfectly suited to receptions from 2 to 2000.

GO from barefoot to Bentleys - your transfer options are wide open and highly personalised.

ENJOY a sensational warm wedding day with average annual temperature of 26 degrees.

SELECT the place where your wedding and honeymoon destination are one in the same!

DREAMS come true here in Port Douglas – the international celebrity mecca where you never know who you’ll see.

BE the envy of all your friends getting married in Australia’s No.1 tropical wedding destination.

An Amazing Port Douglas Wedding Venue

Unique outdoor dining venue featuring beautiful rainforest gardens, towering coconut palms, exquisite cuisine, professional attentive service.

Private dining options for 15-150 guests with 3 unique dining areas Tree-top pre-diner Cocktail Lounge Walking distance from St Mary’s by the Sea Chapel & stinger park Tailored diner & canapé packages

www.portdouglasweddingvenue.com email info@nautilus-restaurant.com.au Phone 07 4099 5330

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PORTLIFE

Gosh sorry, we don’t use grapes!

We make wine from Tropical Fruit and no its not sweet and sticky.

Try us - you’ll love it Shannonvale Tropical Fruit Winery 417 Shannonvale Road, Mossman ph 40984000 | ttwoodall@gmail.com Just north of Port Douglas.

Follow the signs at the Mt Molloy Rd turnoff just before Mossman

The perfect touch at all weddings...

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PORTLIFE

PORTLIFE

SNAPSHOT PORT DOUGLAS CARNIVALE

ELLI’S NOTE As usual, the Port Douglas Carnivale did not disappoint!

It was so good seeing so many people from all over Australia and overseas enjoying the events.

The program, spanning two weeks had something for everyone and reviews from anyone approached were amazing.

My personal favourite was the Food and Wine Festival and not because we were a media sponsor. Winning my vote was the overall exciting atmosphere complete with a sea of smiling faces, terrific live music and mesmerising 70ʼs costumes that had the younger ones incredulous and the older guests reveling in the nostalgia. Not wanting the night to end, most guests moved onto the local night spots for more colourful entertainment.

For first time guests to Port Douglas, the local cafes and shopping outlets added to the experience of the Carnivale.

“I found Port Douglas to be far more sophisticated than I imagined. Such a beautiful place with well kept gardens and exciting shops! I found items I had been searching for across Australia and the shop attendants were very trendy and extremely helpful! Thank you Port Douglas!”

And “I was amazed at the beauty of Port Douglas and the surrounding country. Cane farms, mountains, rain forests, palms and beaches – such a visual extravaganza! The boutique shops and cafes are charming and having a champagne breakfast with the sea just across the road was euphoric. I will be back!”

Elli PLEASE SEND US YOUR SOCIAL PICTURES

For all advertising and feature story enquires for Julyʼs PortLife and following issues, please contact Elli Vukasovic, Advertising Executive on 0450 901 773 or elli@cairnslifemag.com.au

HomeLife

SPECIAL FEATURE

ROAD TO RENOVATING CAIRNS HARDWARE is the perfect one-stop renovation shop!

GreenBuild.com.au is a tropical eco-building & living resource and co-operative online marketing platform for the suppliers of sustainable building products and construction services in North Queensland. It is packed with goodies and lots of contacts and information.

GreenBuild.com.au supports the Tropical Green Building Network (TGBN) a group that develops and supports leadership in sustainable tropical building design, construction, products and services and urban planning, and encourages collaboration between individuals and organisations in the industry. The TGBN identifies and actions projects that will have a measurable impact and engages with the broader community.

News & Events Presentation: What is sustainable building design for the tropics? By Edi Piagno and Belinda Allwood (Total Project Group Architects) and Gisela Jung (CA Architects) Wednesday 13th June 2012 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm Cairns Library, cnr Abbott & Florence sts Cairns.

FREE EVENT, ALL WELCOME. Part of the Build Design Expo in Brisbane: 10th May 2012 where tickets sold out. Projects from a Commercial Office & Educational Facility, and Industrial Trade training Facility and Residential Housing projects will be showcased.

Advancing Tropical Green Build: Connecting Tropical North Queensland Capability to Market. A business directory profiling 112 of Nth Qld’s top businesses delivering tropical green building expertise is now released.

The economic growth forecast for the tropical zone will lead to demand for innovative, climate resilient, energy efficient tropical green build solutions.

To download the Business Directory and for more information about products & services shown visit:

www.GreenBuild.com.au & www.tgbn.org.au

GreenPainterrs is a nationGreenPainters national not-for-profit not-ffo or-profit o or organisaganisation pr promoting omoting sustainable products products t and trade trade practices pr actices in the t pain painting ting industr industryy and training training g pain painting ting ccontractors. ontractors. Gr GreenPainters eenP Painters also pr provides ovides educa education, tiion, tr training, aining, rresources esources and inf information for o mation ffor o or ar architects, chitects, builders builders,, and cconsumers. onsumers. A Accredited ccredited G GreenPainters reenPainters per perform fo orm all the normal normaal services services expected expected from from a painter, painterr, with one important important diff difference ffe e ence - they er understand and applyy the best ec eco-friendly o-friendly solutions solutio ons to to ensure ensure you you reduce reduce energy enerrgy use, use, proprottect ect the health of the occupants occupants and protect protect the environment. environment. To To find Accredited Accredited GreenPaintGreenPainters in based in Nor North th Q Queensland ueensland visit www.greenbuild.com.au/listing.view.268 www.greenb build.com.au/listing.view.268

ecolour is an Australian ecolour Australian manufac manufacturer turer of premium premium quality, quality, climate climate friendly friendly synthetic synth hetic paint. paint. It It performs per p fo orms like any any other oth her premium p premium quality q quality paint, paint, can p n be tinted tinted tto o almost an anyy ccolour olo our fr from om any any paintt char pain chart, t, is scrubb scrubbable, bable, and is ccertified ertified Carbon Carbon Neutral.

Neutr N al. Traditional Traditional household d paints paints concontain toxic toxic chemicals that tha t t are are released released into into the air for for o years years after affter application, application, called caalled Volatile Volatile Organic Or ganic Compounds Compounds (VOCs). ( VOCs). All All our paints paints ar are e water water e based based,, and kkind ind tto o yyour our healt health th with ZER ZERO O VOCs.. Our VOCs Our unique Australian Ausstralian invention invention uses rre-cycled e-cycle ed rre-refined e-refined w waste aste eng engine ine oil tto o make our water w ater based pain paint. t. TThe h oil ac he acts ts as a pr preservative, eservative, pr providing oviding dur durability ability and smooth h applica application tion qualities to to the paint. paint. TThe he ec ecolour olour rrange ange includes in interior nterior and eexterior xterior paints paints as w well ell as timber finishes.. It finishes It is suitable for for o residential, residential, ccommercial ommercial and d retail retail applications. applications.

Ur ban Fresh Fresh is a dynamic dynaamic and professional proffe essional painting paintin ng ccompany ompany specialising in do omestic and Urban domestic ccommercial ommercial pain ting. Based in C airns w e ser vice ar e fr eas om IInnisfail nnisfail thr ough tto oP ort D ouglas painting.

Cairns we service areas from through Port Douglas and sur rounds offering off ffe erin ng a full-service full-service for fo or any any project’s project’s interior interior or exterior exterior paint paint w orrks. We We pride pride surrounds works. ourselv es on outstan nding ser vice pr ovided in a rreliable, e eliable , rresponsible, esponsible, efficien e ourselves outstanding service provided efficientt manner manner.. W We ar e Accredited Accredited GreenPainters GreenPainters and w ell-trained cr aftsmen and car eer pr offessiona e als. O ur tteam eam are well-trained craftsmen career professionals.

Our members have have several several a yyears ears eexperience xperience with Ur ban Fresh.

Fresh. We We train train in best practice practic t e pain ting Urban painting pr ocedures to to ensure ensure the best paint paint job possible by by attending attending regular regular training training sessions sesssions where where procedures ideas are are shared, shared, and we we stay stay updated updated on the most innovative innovative pr oducts and techniques. techniques. products Abelia provides cleaning services Abelia Cleaning pr ovides a wide w rrange ange of ccommercial ommercial clean ning ser vices to and budgets.. W We to suit ALL requirements requirements an nd budgets e can assist with with a “one “one off” off ” clean or a tailor made service servicce that that is provided provided on a regular regulaar scheduled basis. providing basis. Abelia Abelia Cleaning is dedicated ded dicated tto o pr oviding the finestt quality quality serservice staff.

Abelia vice using well well maintained maintained equipment equipmen e t and highly trained trained d staff ff.. A belia Cleaning is ecoCLEAN ecoCLEAN certified certified and use a selection selection of non synthetic synthetic bibiodegradable products odegradable cleaning pr odu ucts wherever wherever possible made from fr f om natural natural substances. substances.

Other O ther lo local cal leading leadiing suppliers of ‘green’ ‘gr g een n’ building pr products oducts an and nd ser services vices ffound o ound on G GreenBuild.com. reenBuild.com.au

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HOME

Recreating your home & furnishings with Bertie

by Vanessa Girling

S

picing up your life can often be one of those things that comprises of many daunting elements, how you’re going to do it, what is it going to involve and most importantly where to start.

Where do you start? Whether its determining which area of the house you want to begin with or what colours to chose, Total Interiors can help you organise and colour co-ordinate a décor scheme which suites you. We offer a non-obligation free measure and quote service to help you understand all aspects of the design process. Now you might be wondering, “how am I going to do it?” Well as we all know home is a place of freedom and relaxation where comfort and security come hand in hand with the beginning of memories that will last a life time, so why not begin by reinvigorating your home décor scheme. You can start small by simply adding a few decorative cushions with a funky array of fabric colours or go big and create and entirely new colour scheme for the entire house.

Total Interiors have the largest range of fabrics in the Far North to suite any budget. The array of colours, styles and patterns is never ending, with such a large variety there is sure to be something to suite your lifestyle. What does it all involve? Depending on the extent of the redecoration, designing and coordinating a colour and style scheme to suite you can be a lot less intimidating than you realise. By simply choosing a range fabrics in your desired colours and styles the team from Total Interiors can provide you with their expert knowledge on the latest decorating trends to create an aspect that you desire. So why hold off any longer, call the team at Total Interiors and begin the process of redecorating and get the spice in your life you have been looking for.

07 4035 3899 sales@totalinteriors.com.au Opening Hours - Mon - Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am - 12pm

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VARIETY When you hir e equipment you have a wider variety to choose fr om and the oppor tunity to hire the most recent products on the market, as well as being able to upgrade when better , more efficient products or equipment become available.

Hiring equipment can sometimes be a better option than buying when it comes to business or even when renovating around the home.

There are many benefits of hiring and it is important to consider this option befor e you purchase big ticket-items or expensive equipment.

COST EFFECTIVE One of the biggest reasons to hire is it can save you money. For businesses, hiring equipment can free up other capital to use elsewher e in the business, hir ed equipment does not appear as a liability on a balance sheet, many office products and equipment can depreciate very quickly, buying expensive equipment you only use occasionally is a waste of money and by hiring you may be able to obtain a better quality product that may have been too expensive to buy outright. For those DIY renovators, builders or landscapers, hiring large equipment makes sense as you may only need the equipment once or twice and have no need to purchase such items.

MAINTENANCE When you hir e equipment you ar e not responsible for the maintenance of it when it breaks down, saving you time and money in repairs.

STORAGE If you only hir e equipment when needed, it saves on finding storage solutions to house the equipment. Businesses with small pr emises, people who work fr om home and DIY renovators may not have the space for equipment long term so hiring may be the best option.

For many businesses, hiring can mean greater efficiency, working mor e cost-effectively, the ability to use the latest pr oducts and receive ongoing professional advice. At the end of the day, hiring may not suit everyone, but for others hiring may be the perfect solution.

ADVENTURE Adventure Equipment

ON LOAN

Specialising in the r etail sale of tr ekking, travelling, paddling, climbing and abseiling equipment and clothing, they stock just about everything the outdoor enthusiast would ever need. Some of the items available include backpacks, lightweight tents, sleeping bags and sleeping mats, lightweight stoves and other cooking equipment, boots and sandals, r ock climbing and abseiling equipment, clothing for all climates and, of course, kayaking and canoeing gear.

A growing part of Adventure Equipment’s business is the hiring out of a large range of watercraft. Whether you prefer ocean or white water, there are many r ecreational options right thr ough to the traditional Canadian Canoe. All safety equipment is pr ovided and craft can be hired from just a day up to as many days as you wish.

Whether you are planning a one-day paddle down one of our great rivers in the far nor th, a weekend camping trip by the water somewhere, or even a week-long sea kayak trip, Adventur e Equipment has the boat for you.

There are many benefits of hiring watercraft. Firstly you don’t have the big outlay of pur chasing and, impor tantly, you don’t have to store and maintain the craft. You can just collect the gear when you need it, return it afterwards and forget about it! It is also a gr eat way to try gear before you buy it. You may be interested in getting into kayaking but are not sure which you would like. T rying a few kayaks first will help you decide.

Adventure Equipment has just launched a new website www.adventurequip.com.au . It has an ever -expanding product range, along with all the hir e equipment and pricing to be added shortly.

h A large range of water craft for hire, from Ocean to White Water h All safety equipment is provided h Crafts can be hired from 1 day for as many days as you wish.

Whether you are planning a 1 day paddle down one of our great rivers in the far north; or maybe a weekend camping trip to by the water somewhere; or even a week long sea kayak trip, Adventure Equipment has the boat for you.

We at Adventure Equipment Cairns are an adventurous bunch who love the outdoors and love outfitting people who share the same passion!

Adventure Equipment Cairns, situated at 133 Grafton Street across the road from the Cairns 5 cinemas, are “the” Travel and Adventure specialists.

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133 Grafton St Cairns QLD 4870 (07) 4031 2669 www.adventurequip.com.au

HOME

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY Abacus Fitness

THE BENEFITS OF HIRING GYM EQUIPMENT

$800 for a gym membership and never quite get the time to get to the gym!!

Purchased a piece of equipment with good intentions and after a few months’ clothes begin to look great on it? Abacus Fitness Can Help!!!

We help you to avoid r egret; Abacus Fitness gives you the oppor tunity to exercise in the comfort and safety of your own home, on treadmills, rowers, exercise bikes, cr oss trainers and more.

Hiring exercise equipment is the smar t cost effective alternative to purchasing on a whim.

A 3month hire gives you enough time to see if it is the right piece of equipment for you and if it is going to be used consistently.

Monthly rentals start from as little as $35 a month with the options after 3 months to change machine or buy, and your 3 months rental comes OFF THE PURCHASE PRICE!!!

At Abacus Fitness, we have an extensive range of home equipment to choose fr om; exercise bikes, r ecumbent bikes, r owing machines, treadmills, X-trainers/ellipticals and more.

We offer FREE deliver from Palm Cove to Gordonvale as well as servicing the Tablelands, Port Douglas and as far south as Mission Beach.

We deliver the right piece of equipment for you, set up your equipment with full instructions and follow up service with your hire or purchase. Certainly beats having to do all the hard work yourself!

This will allow you to de-stress stay ďŹ t and feel good without taking too much time out of your day or keep you away fr om your responsibilities.

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Abacus Fitness is dedicated to helping you achieve a happier, healthier lifestyle and ar e offering you a 10% discount on all equipment hired with the mention of Cairns Life Contact Abacus Fitness on 405753875 or email us at info@abacusfitness.com.au to arrange your delivery.

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WELCOME TO Kennards Hire

KENNARDS HIRE

Kennards Hire is a familyowned business that has grown into one of Australia’s leading hire companies.

We operate more than 120 hire centres nationally. With a heritage of more than 60 years in the hir e industry, we’re proud of our enviable r eputation for quality, reliability, value for money and service.

We offer a large and diverse range of tools, equipment and vehicles in our hire centres. Our extensive range and ability to quickly mobilise equipment means we can suppor t large construction and mining pr ojects anywhere in Australia.

Kennards is gear ed to meet your needs whether they’r e a one-of f or long term hire. We offer great value packages on commonly used equipment. If what you need is not available from one of our hire centres, we’ll source it, and if we don’ t carry what you need, we’ll get it for you. Put us to the test.

Whether it’s our extensive range of equipment, the cleanliness of our hire centres, our standar d of customer service or our gr owing range of specialist businesses, Kennards Hire is committed to continuous improvement and delivering excellence in everything we do.

KENNARDS’ CUSTOMERS BENEFIT FROM:

Easy access to mor e than 1200 convenient locations

Pick Up / Delivery to site

Expert knowledge and advice

Dedicated, personal assistance from highly trained staff

Reliable, readily available equipment

After hours help and pr solving

A service ethic that is second to none

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STORAGE PROBLEMS?

SOLVE THEM WITH SHIPPING CONTAINERS

Royal Wolf

So you found a new way of doing something and it’s really good.

What now?

Creativity is about “thinking outside the box”, innovation is about bringing ideas to life in a business context.

Australia has experienced a noticeable increase in the use of modified shipping containers for innovative storage solutions, as demand for safe and secure storage intensifies. Royal W olf has been providing cost ef fective, quality and practical, long life container solutions for over 16 years.

Shipping containers are providing a flexible and viable alternative for storage, as people choose to have their storage solution under their own control and on their own site. People today want goods and services to come to them. Ther e is no reason why storage should be any different.

Royal Wolf portable storage containers ar e available in a range of sizes and offer the perfect solution to many storage pr oblems. Flexible rental options and the ease with which containers can be deliver ed to either home or work site, ar e driving the curr ent demand.

Wether it is for household fur niture, farming equipment, community gr oups, schools or

sporting associations, Royal W olf’s generalpurpose containers are inexpensive, safe, secure and ideal for that extra storage space.

Royal Wolf containers can be specified to meet general purpose, r efrigerated or hazar dous goods requirements. In addition to solving storage solutions, we regularly modify shipping containers by adding doors, inter nal walls, windows, electricity and water supply , built-in

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cupboards and floor coverings. This can transform a shipping container into a construction site of fice, temporary accommodation unit or a home office,” With 26 facilities Australasia wide Royal Wolf has the solution to all your container storage needs.

To find out more call 1300 651 700 or visit www.royalwolf.com.au

Drop Anchor at Bluewater and you’ll never want to leave If you love water, or just the thought of it, you will love Bluewater Marina, Trinity Beach.

As an investment or a place to live the life, Bluewater abounds in opportunity.

For those looking for a water front residence or valuable land buy , Bluewater has only a handful of prime, water front allotments available. Idyllic in the extr eme, these home sites overlook the shimmery waters and white boats of the marina as well as nearby rainforest covered mountains. The remaining five lots are from 600 square metres and start from $399,000. These ‘lifestyle’ blocks are rare and represent the region’s last waterfront land development.

Bluewater has just released a new offer for anyone purchasing these remaining few by pledging to make up to $39,000 in inter est rate payments.

If you are fortunate in owning a boat, Bluewater’s world class, 108 berth marina provides a high security and quality mooring. Even if you don’t own a boat, a ber th at Bluewater Marina is a prime investment worth considering – offering excellent year round returns underscored by five star management and maintenance. While Bluewater Marina is Cair ns only freehold marina. That in itself is unique. In fact, nothing compar es to this state-of-the-ar t facility with deepwater ocean access, Cairns’ only cyclone-rating and the peace of mind that comes with a fully secure and managed marina.

These attributes were well proven in Cyclone Yasi last year.

The 108 single and multi-hulled marina ber ths are 10m, 12m and 15m berths to suit boats between 40 and 60 feet and come complete with 240 volt, two phase power . Three phase power is available on 18 foot berths.

Bluewater’s marina berths are highly regarded and in hot demand especially given Australia curr ently experiencing a shor tage of marina berths. In December last year, Bluewater Marina recorded 100 per cent occupancy , testament to its popularity and this nationwide trend.

Increasingly, Bluewater’s boat owners ar e changing the way they live their life on the water by venturing less and choosing to stay moored at Bluewater. Why you may ask. It’s all about the lifestyle – quietude and serenity in this picturesque location.

Bluewater Marina has just r eleased a new investment oppor tunity for the first six berths sold that provides a $30,000 saving as well as payment of levies for the first thr ee years. This r epresents an enormous saving that can be used in conjunction with Bluewater’s very attractive and af fordable 99 year lease that is available fr om $99,000.

In the future, Bluewater’s marina precinct will, when developed, encompass luxury waterfront homes and a lifestyle pr ecinct comprising retail, food and beverage outlets, villa homes and apartments, all overlooking the marina. With timber boar dwalks connecting all facilities within the pr ecinct, this hub will become a home away from home for residents and visitors to the region who want to truly experience the beauty of tropical living.

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FOCUS ON INNOVATION

by Amanda Spelta Placid Pools

BRINGING YOUR CREATIVE IDEAS TO LIFE So you found a new way of doing something and it’s really good.

What now?

Creativity is about “thinking outside the box”, innovation is about bringing ideas to life in a business context.

To transform your idea into a commercial product you eventually have to complement your problem solving creativity with some for m of process to evaluate, manage and sell your innovation.

Now is the time to start a whole different process of formal investigation into the merits of commercialisingyour innovation. Y ou’ll need additional skills that have nothing to do with you being an expert in your field to bring your idea to market - and thus transfor m a smart idea into a commercial product or service.

We know first-hand how daunting this phase can be: when Placid Pools thought of a 100% natural way to organically purify swimming pool water we were thrilled (and fairly exhausted) just to have finally nailed an innovative solution with a ver y large potential market. Who wouldn’ t want to avoid putting chemicals into their swimming pool if they could?

economy and business community by r egularly sharing ideas, encouragement and assistance across all industries.

I really encourage all inventors out ther e to take advantage of the T ropical Innovation A wards.

Regardless of whether you win or not, the experience will be eye opening and you will learn a huge amount. Most impor tantly of all, your innovation will be much closer to commercialisation and financial success by the timethe awards come around.

Whilst we ar e experts in our field, we wer e amateurs in bringing a new invention to market.

Where our team did not have the necessar y information or skills to evaluate its commercialisation, we found a wealth of guidance through the Australian Institute of Commercialisation (AIC) and other Gover nment Departments.

The more we investigated, the more resources we found and we continue to find. All we had to do was have the courage to r ecognise that there is no shame in not knowing it all yourself, but a huge opportunity to be missed in not looking for outside support.

Eventually we enter ed our invention into the inaugural Tropical Innovation Awards in 2010. To our surprise we won the major category. Winning the TIA in 2010 helped kick-star t our EcoSplash product launch through massive exposure to a great market audience as well as to business advisors and professional networking contacts more opportunities to collaborate and learn about commercialisation.

Now in its third year, the Tropical Innovation Awards have firmly established Tropical North Queensland as an innovation hot spot – indeed, the centr e for tropical expertise, innovation and sustainable development in Australia. Prestigious events such as this give our r egional inventors a voice and access to a wealth of information and contacts.

Networking and collaboration ar e still key elements in helping us learn how to fill the gaps.

In the absence of a one-stop-shop local resource hub for innovators we have cr eated our own networking platform, the “T ropical Innovators Forum (TIF)”, meeting every 6 weeks and open to all innovative creators in the region.

We are working very closely with our Regional Council as a way of giving back to the local

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Innovation changes the world. Don’t think for one second that just because you live in a r egional part of Australia that your ideas ar e any less valuable or commercial on the world market. In fact the exact opposite is true. T ake your great idea and do something with it, don’t let it get dusty in the shed out back or at the bottom of a draw.

Applications for the Tropical Innovation Awards are now open. To find out more visit www.tropicalinnovationawards.com.