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PUBLISHER’S NOTE My beautiful Mum always tells me to look my best and smile. "I'm still trying" Mum. Yes, as they say 'first impressions count' and this month we profile some of Cairns' greatest image experts in our feature 'Image Makers'. Our stylish cover girl and my close friend, Louise Struber is the face of fashion and our glamorous cover girl. You will enjoy Louise's story. Another of our wonderful and my favourite 'Image Makers' is CairnsLife's very own Riyani Martorejo, Riyani is our Fashion and Beauty Editor. She oozes style and I'm proud to have her on our team and call her my friend. Please meet Riyani and have a wonderful month. Happy reading,
Jacqui x
meet Riyani I couldn’t think of a more perfect personality than Louise Struber to grace the cover of our Image Makers issue. Wether you know her name or have seen her gorgeous face around town she has left a mark in your mind. The focus on image, be it your business or your personal image is critical these days. Our five featured Image Makers give an insight into how presenting the right image can determine the success of your business. I had the pleasure of working with Image Makers, Adam and Eva hair salon and Tea Lily boutique this month after they won the Total Style Quest competition. You will find the stunning photos in the double page spread. I also attended The Boutique collection held at The Attic, which was another great event that all fashionistas need to support. Enjoy!
Riyani
ON THE COVER Louise Struber Photographed by Romy Photography Styled by Amanda Macor Hair by Stephanie Macor Reds Salon and Spa Louise wears Cue (Myer Cairns) Contributors Amanda Cranston Julietta Henderson Danny Betros Andrew Griffiths Vlasta Eriksson Leanne Peard Pip Miller Craig Squire Brett Claxton Stephen Borzi Display Sales Jacqui Nolan Business Lifestyle Riyani Martorejo Fashion Beauty Eat Play Drink Photography Romy Seigmann Brad Newton Daniel Blake Chris Baker Paul Dymond
CairnsLife magazine published by CairnsLife Pty Ltd. Shops 7 & 8 The Walk. 84 Lake Street. Cairns. 4870 • T: 4041 6981 F: 4041 6889 www.cairnslifemag.com.au
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READER’S PICKS: THE IMAGE MAKERS
IMAGE
Makers
THIS MONTHS SPECIAL PEOPLE FEATURE...
DANNI BISSETT
6
26/10/11
Loving Cairns Life: Here’s what Danni Bissett is loving about Cairns right now. Food: Bento-An - the best Japanese takeaway in Cairns. Toscas – awesome coffee. Nightlife: I don’t do nightclubs, doing Bodyjam and Sh’Bam at Genesis Fitness is my dance fix! Hair/beauty: Me! If I weren’t in the fitness industry I would be a make-up artist. I am often seen with funky coloured eye shadow! Fashion: Anything from Target to Veronika Maine – if I like it, it doesn’t matter where it’s from. Relaxing: Travel – anywhere! When I’m on holiday is when I feel truly relaxed. Events: I have such a social job I don’t tend to go to any proper events – but to me, spending time with my family and friends is always my favourite event.
It’s har d to kee p up with the enthusiasm of Danni Bissett, but its clear to see that what puts the smile on her face is her gen uine delight in making a difference in the lives of her clients. As Group Fitness Manager and Personal Trainer at Genesis Fitness, Danni oversees 23 instructor s and over 8 0 g roup fitness classes a w eek, acr oss f our gyms. As w ell as jug gling r ostering, sc heduling, recruiting, training and admin, Danni is a constant force on the g ym f loor, leading mor e classes in a week than most of us could kee p up with in a month. “As a manager I am on call 24/7,” sa ys Danni. “My group fitness instructors really have to be performers in order to motivate the clients. I have to stay in tune and be sympa thetic to their needs .” With classes sc heduled ar ound the clock, fr om 6.05am to 6.30 pm, it’s just as well Danni takes a good dose of her own fitness advice to keep up! “It’s hard work, but I love it,” she laughs. The group fitness classes at Genesis utilise the Les Mills system. Developed in New Zealand 30 years ago, the f ormula is no w licensed f or use in 120 countries and instructor s m ust be fully qualified before they are allowed to present. “Group fitness motivates you as a team,” says Danni. “Les Mills uses music as its driving f orce. It works to a set choreography f or e very song , and eac h ‘r elease’ (there’s a new one every three months) has a mixture of music genres.” The movements in the programs
are passed by medical experts and designed to create fitness peaks and r ecovery phases thr oughout the routines. Danni r ecently travelled to A uckland to participate in the filming of a new Les Mills release – an experience she describes as “inspiring”. “Group fitness is more than just results – it’s a feeling. You just don’t get that from individual fitness.” She would know. When she first walked through the doors of Genesis , Danni was an o verweight teenager. Not only did she achieve a 25-kilo weight loss, Danni was offered a job and now, nine years later, she is trained in mor e than 10 Gr oup Fitness disciplines. So what motivates the motivator? “Two things,” says Danni fir mly. “I only ha ve one bod y and I w ont abuse it, I want to sta y health y as possib le; and secondly, the members. When I’m doing a class, I look out into the crowd and see the cross section: the single parent, the divorcee, the ones that hate their bodies, whoever. Group fitness is their only time out; the music and the movements take them away and allow them to be something else for a while.” “My all time wish is that people would just try group fitness! Don ’t be intimida ted or think y ou’re too uncoordinated – there’s a class for everyone, whether it’s Bodycombat or Bodybalance. In fact, come in and mention this stor y and tr y a fr ee class!” Gr eat offer Danni - er, does writing the stor y count? See you there! www.genesisfitness.com.au
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READER’S PICKS: THE IMAGE MAKERS
Loving Cairns Life: Here’s what Todd Hinschen from Index Media is loving about Cairns right now. Food: Ever After Cafe in Lake St. The food and service are great and the staff are very friendly. Nightlife: Home. I must admit I’m a hermit. Fashion: I don’t do fashion, but I’m working on it! Shopping: My partner Kerrie is obsessed with the soap shop in Kuranda and I’m heading the way of obsession myself ! Relaxing: At home in Kuranda. Absolutely. This morning I had breakfast with a cockatoo, a scrub turkey and two paddy melons! I love it. Events: Being new to Cairns I don’t have a favourite yet – but I’m open to suggestions.
Graphic designer Todd Hinschen’s passion for the Cairns region stands him in good stead to ac hieve his vision for the future of his business, Index Media. Although a relatively new local, Todd is no stranger to the north. Gr owing up in T ownsville, he established his first graphic design business there, inspired and encouraged b y his w ork experience mentor at a local design company. After building a solid reputation for creative excellence, he sold up - exchanging small business for the big world. After a number of years travelling, a ‘fill in’ job turned into a long-term tenure with a prestigious European print company counting Sony and Coke as clients. Through har d work and talent, Todd ended up overseeing the firm’s design department before the lure of the Aussie sun coaxed him home. Rather than return to the city w here he made his name in graphic design, Todd and partner Kerrie have fulfilled a long held dream to make Cairns their home, buying their dream acr eage in Kuranda. “I’ve always loved Cairns and it has such a great future - I’ve heard all the negatives, but I don’t buy into it. I see Cairns going forward and I want to be a part of that.” (Take that, Townsville!) Index Media, sa ys Todd, is all about giving the clients what they want. “I don’t just want to do a job, I want to do the best job; and I don’t just want my clients to be happy, I want them to be wowed!”
TODD HINSCHEN
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With an eye on the future, Todd has firm goals for growing Index Media. “I am looking at a long term prospect here in Cairns, and whether it’s a business card or an entire rebranding concept, I want my clients to always be smiling at the end of the day.” While Inde x Media ma y be y oung, Todd’s ric h international experience brings a sophistica tion to Cairns. “I want to show that it’s not necessary to go outside Cairns to get top quality, innovative design.” With a wealth of experience in design, print media, packaging, logos , pr oject management, and corporate identity and branding , Index Media is able to take a brief from concept to completion including websites and shop fit-outs . T his broad experience enab les T odd to of fer a holistic approach to his clients , pr oviding a tailor made solution to their design and branding requirements. “It doesn’t matter whether it is a large corporate client or a small local business, I am focussed on giving the best service to e veryone across Cair ns and the Tablelands region.” Determined to play his part in the Far Northern community, since arriving in town three months ago, as well as establishing Index Media Todd has found time to join the RSPCA, the SES and the auxiliary fir e fighter s. Looks like he’ s alr eady branded himself a local… www.indexmedia.com.au
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READER’S PICKS: THE IMAGE MAKERS
WOMAN ON DECK
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The ability to spot a growth market and the courage to follow that instinct through has seen Jane Koch take a r etail b usiness and b uild it into a local institution. From the original Man Overboard, which Jane and husband R ob opened in 198 9, the b usiness has grown to encompass four stores and become a wellloved part of the Cair ns and P ort Doug las r etail landscape. With three Man Overboard outlets (The Pier, Port Douglas, DFO) and the newest addition, Soled, Jane and Rob have expanded from dressing men to dressing women and feet too. Soled, a shoe stor e sporting r enowned brands Merrell, Lacoste, Birkenstock and Crocs, has been an outstanding success. “We carried a small selection of shoes in Man Ov erboard and realised that there was a huge demand. We had a vision and we haven’t deviated. It’s clearly what people want - good quality, international brands.” Similarly, at the DFO outlet, Jane identified a niche and took the plunge into ladies wear. “Moving into women’s has been a huge learning curve, but I have wonderful staff who help me stay on top of things.” If there is a secr et to Jane and Rob’s longevity in a precarious industry it could be this: “We are always evolving and open to new ideas. We may have been around a long time, but we’re not old!” Indeed, their own menswear brand, Yourself, came off the back of an inability to sour ce shirts made fr om high
quality, natural fibres suited to our tr opical climate. “We w ere geog raphically f orced to b uy fr om southern w holesalers and w e needed to find a product tha t would carry us through the winter months.” Jane and Rob now travel to Hong Kong to choose fabrics and oversee the manufacture of the range. Being so in touc h with their mar ket allows them to create a product tailored specifically to their customers’ needs, and it’s obviously a winner. “Our clientele are not only Cairns locals; we also have our other ‘locals’ from interstate and New Zealand tha t have been coming back for 20 years.” Jane continues, “We also buy our international brands in Hong Kong because we get to see the entire ranges not just what Australian wholesalers have picked out. It means we can buy exactly what our customer wants.” Jane and Rob manage to blend business with their two other passions - hor se racing and tra vel - often combining buying trips with pleasure by taking a group of friends to a ttend prestigious events on the Hong Kong racing calendar. Closer to home they are breeders and part owners of racehorses, with up to 50 different partners in their groups. “One of our two y ear olds just w on her fir st-ever race , T he Palleranda in Townsville,” says Jane. “That was such an amazing feeling.” In truth, it is J ane’s positive attitude that is her best business asset. “In the hard times, you need to work harder and be smarter. Improve your offering and come out of it better . Wha t else ar e y ou going to do?” she laughs . “Give up? Not likely!” facebook.com/manoverboardcairns
Loving Cairns Life: Here’s what Jane Koch from Man Overboard is loving about Cairns right now. Food: One of my passions is cooking, so we eat in a lot. But if I'm in need of a night off we head to one of our favourites - Limmy's or Thai Coins Nightlife: People watching on The Esplanade. Keeping an eye on our customer from the Rattle and Hum Bar. Hair/beauty: As a hairdresser it’s very much “do it yourself ”. Fashion: Man Overboard DFO of course! I love the latest looks but I’m careful to wear what suits my individual style. Relaxing: Horse racing Events: More horse racing
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GAIL ROGERS
A Vocal Challenge
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READER’S PICKS: THE IMAGE MAKERS
While one in seven people in Australia faces
individual attention within the group.”
a c hallenge comm unicating ef fectively,
“Previously, we were teaching the basics in
speech and
language pathologist Gail
our own fields, separately. We thought, why
Rogers is not among them. She has no
not bring it all together in an intense boot
problem speaking her truth and, in Cair ns,
camp and enable people to leave with all the
she is doing her bit to tur
n tha t figur e
skills from just one session?” says Gail. “We
around with her inno vative V ocal Boot
are two professionals passionate about voice,
Camp.
with two different sets of skills.”
Along with business partner, singing teacher
While the participants in the V ocal Boot
and m usic therapist K aterini Manola tos,
Camp come fr om a div erse spectrum –
Gail is putting her skills to use teac
hing
teachers, b usiness people , teens , g ym
people to use their v oice more effectively –
instructors – the sessions can be tailored to
improving communication and, ultimately,
suit a particular group and follow varying
confidence.
formats. T he Mind Bod
“The beauty of the Vocal Boot Camp is that
workshop, for example, covers alter native
people can leave after the intensive session
vocal techniques incorporating yoga. “Yoga
and utilise the skills immediately,” says Gail.
is breathing based and so is v oice - it is the
The thr ee-hour boot camp includes
perfect complement,” says Gail.
learning v oice pr ojection, v ocal ana tomy
Gail runs Vocal Boot Camp alongside her
and ph ysiology, postur e, r esonance,
private practice , SSS (Specialised Speec h
intonation, vocal health and breathing skills.
Services). “Speec h pa thologists ar e a
“Breathing is the power behind the voice –
relatively rare breed in Cairns. I am the only
it’s not about straining or y elling, it’s about
one w orking fulltime with teenager s and
learning pr oper diaphragma tic br eathing
adults in private practice.” Her motivation
techniques.”
goes a long wa
Proper br eathing leads to mor e ef fective
dedication: “It’s about helping people –
communication leads to greater confidence:
simple. I’m passionate about seeing people
the equation, according to Gail, is simple.
grow thr ough enab ling them to ha ve a
“If y ou sound mor e confident y ou will
better quality of life, more opportunities,
become mor e confident – it’ s a positiv e
more options and better skills.”
cycle. I remember when I was a child I was
“Communication is 7% verbal and the rest
told, ‘be confident’. Ho w can y ou just be
is other factor s like e ye contact and bod y
confident? But if y ou train y ourself to
language,” sa ys Gail. “But it is the most
concentrate on y our br eathing y ou will
important 7%. P eople r emember w ords
produce a confident voice.”
from years ago – positive or negative. Words
Vocal Boot Camp co
vers theor
y
y to e
y and V oice
xplaining her
stick.”
components in order to make participants
It seems if you’re serious about improving
more a ware of their v oice, as w ell as the
your comm unication skills , the w ord to
practical application of techniques. “T he
remember is this – breathe…
skills that Katerini and I have complement
The ne xt Vocal Boot Camp is “Enjo ying
each other and enab le us to take tur ns
Your Voice” on November 27th)
facilitating the w orkshop, but also to giv e
www.vocalbootcamp.com.au
Loving Cairns Life: Here’s what Gail Rogers from Vocal Boot Camp is loving about Cairns right now. Food: Fusion Café in Grafton Street for their carrot cake and amazing organic coffee. Hair/beauty: I cannot lie Just Cuts! Fashion: I love the Op shops, and the garage sales up here are great! Relaxing: Yoga at Kewarra Beach Resort with Dagmar on a Tuesday evening at the hut on the beach - amazing. Events: I love the “Women in Song” event every year, and I am really looking forward to “Greek Odyssey” at Whitfield House in November – starring Katerini Manolatos! Nightlife: My favourite nightlife is having a glass of wine with some friends on my balcony overlooking the cane fields.
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READER’S PICKS: THE IMAGE MAKERS
BLISS HAIR BOUTIQUE
14
A good hairstyle makes a great impression and can make someone look and feel fabulous. That i s w hy i t i s o ften b est t o chat with a pr ofessional before changing your look to avoid disappointment. At Bliss Hair Boutique, fantastic new computer generated ipads giv e you a preview of what you will look like with a range of different hair cuts and colour s before you take the leap. Owner of Bliss Hair Boutique, Damian Lamaro, says he doesn’t know of an y other salon in Cairns using these ipads and since he has installed them in the boutique the y ha ve been incredibly popular. “They are very easy to use, we take a photo of our clients with their hair tied back and after a few minutes the ipads giv e them an image of what the y will look like with their requested hair colour and style of choice,” he says. “There are over 1,000 different varieties to c hoose fr om, although the program only of fers w omen’s hairstyles a t the moment.” Damian sa ys tha t he and his
staff also take into account body shape, face shape and e ye colour w hen helping clients choose a hair style and colour most suited to them. Damian points out tha t generally the most popular hair styles tend to be those of American celebrities, and f or this r eason he and his staff do their training in America each year. “We have actually set up a work exchange training program with a salon in Las V egas and in Malibu and this year we have been over five times to keep abreast of trends and styles,” he sa ys. “While man y of our tr ends ar e
influenced by the UK, it is actually images of celebrities in America that most of our clients want to replicate when it comes to their hair.” Damian sa ys the hot colour this season is golden blonde, but for most people wanting to make a good impression or tidy up their look, then a good cut is a must. He also adds that regrowth and frizz are definitely out. After 16 years in the industry which began in Melbourne, Damian opened Bliss Hair Boutique in Cairns almost five years ago in the Novotel and has ne ver looked back. He has styled the hair of many celebrities including Jess from The Veronicas at Fashion Week, won many awards and now enjoys the creativity of running his own salon. “I love being able to make someone look the best they can and feel fabulous about themselv es. It is incr edibly rewarding,” he says. Bliss certainly lives up to its name as clients not only get their hair looked after, but as the salon is licensed they can sip on a champagne, wine, beer or cocktail courtesy of Bliss, as well as having the option to order from a full room service al carte menu from the Novotel. Damian says everyone can look incredible with the right haircut, colour and style as well as the right advice . He sa ys to an yone wanting to improve their image and put their best f oot forward, the y need to not be afraid and embrace change. “Change can be good,” he says.
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READER’S PICKS: THE IMAGE MAKERS
VIRTUAL HR REALITY
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Mats and Vlasta Eriksson ar e stepping up their services a t local r ecruitment and consultancy service, Signature Staff, with the launc h of an online ‘virtual HR department’– with a f ocus on small and medium businesses.
and no systems in place .” With HR being suc h a complex minefield, Ma ts and Vlasta sa y man y businesses can unwittingly leave themselves exposed to comple x issues , disputes , fines and e
ven
prosecution. “Our passion is to make life easier for the small business owner,” says Mats. “This service is a way of ensuring that as your business grows you
The beauty, says Vlasta, is in the simplicity of their
stay compliant and protect your employees and
product, HR on Demand (HR
yourself.”
oD). “ As small
business o wners our selves, w e under stand the
HRoD is available on the relaunched Signature Staff
challenges, so we have designed our services to be
website and pr
both af fordable and user -friendly. It allo ws the
manuals, WHS and OHS systems and induction
business owner to access the appropriate resources
programs, to do wnloadable templa tes f or job
that they need at that time, and pay for just what they
descriptions, recruiting forms, performance reviews,
need.”
reference forms and even how to write an effective
“The employment landscape is constantly changing
job advertisement. While being an exceptionally easy
and it can be a huge challenge for small businesses to
to use real-time solution, HR on Demand is certainly
maintain compliance ,” adds Ma ts. “Our service
not a one-siz e fits all equa tion. P ackages can be
ovides e verything fr om policy
,
tailor-made to individual requirements, and for more
allowing operators to focus on their core business,
specific and in-de pth queries and issues Signa ture
whilst maintaining compliance and exceptional HR
Staff can pr ovide the answ ers thr ough their
performance.”
affiliations with specialised industry professionals.
So what is HRoD? In a nutshell it is a one-stop HR
“In boom times, people tend to job-hop,” says Vlasta.
shop for small to medium-sized businesses, providing
“But in down times they respect a safe and secure
all the benefits of
a dedica ted HR de partment
employer. W e s trive t o a ssist b usinesses b ecome
without the prohibitive costs of employing a full-time
employers of choice, and it’s nice to know we play a
expert. Users can browse the site, then select and pay
part when people say ‘my staff really like working for
for the pr oducts the y want via the shopping cart
me.’ Safety and structur e are the cor nerstones of a
facility, or book an appointment with a consultant.
successful business.”
“When people open a small b usiness, HR is not
The new website is itself a wealth of information and
always something tha t they plan f or,” says Vlasta.
resources, with features such as a free e-book, tips for
“Often they start as a one person set-up, then they
employers, and car eer help f or job-seekers via the
get busy and employ one staff member, then another,
blog and other social media pla
and then suddenly they could have a small workforce
www.signaturestaff.com.au
provides essential r esources, tools and advice
tforms.
“Loving Cairns Life” Here’s what Mats and Vlasta from Signature Staff are loving about Cairns right now. Food and drink: Mats is a fantastic cook so we do a lot of entertainment at home (says Vlasta) but for top quality and service it’s hard to beat Ochre Restaurant or Zinc in Port Douglas. For drinks, who could resist a nice bottle of Rockford’s Basket Press Shiraz Nightlife: Due to small children it’s a rare occasion, but drinks at Salthouse go well; pizza at La Porchetta followed by a movie; or a meal at ‘our local’ the Red Beret are all good options. Fashion: Vlasta: It’s all about shoes, shoes and more shoes. I can often be spotted at Shoetopia or Tea Lily. Mats: You mean fishing not fashion… right? Shopping: Cairns Central and DFO Relaxing: Spending time with the kids in the valley or on the beach. Events/entertainment: A Taipans Game or a good comedy show to break the norm.
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SOCIAL EVENTS: CAIRNS CREATIVE CRAWL & WorkLink Luncheon
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What’sOn What: Thundamentals with DNA, Solem Prophets & Boom Bap'n'Bass DJ's When: Saturday 12 November 2011 (opening 8pm) Where: The Heritage Nightclub (Cnr Spence & Lake Street, Cairns) Tickets: www.oztix.com.au / this is an 18+ event Sleek, sweaty, banging and pro; when it comes to their live show, Blue Mountains, come Newtown hip hop 3 piece Thundamentals are a band in demand. With the release of their album 'Foreverlution' debuting Nationally at #3 on the Air Charts, support gigs with hip-hop favourites such as Big Boi and Drapht, the band are back on the road ready to heat up the dance floors with their own National tour.
The Grates exhale on their summer’s Breath Tour Sunday 20th November 2011 As Winter begins to wane and Spring starts to blossom on the horizon, The Grates have their sights firmly on the hot winds blowing Summer our way as they hit the hot bitumen again in late October/November for their biggest national tour yet. Having ignited the main stage as the sun set over Splendour in the Grass, The Grates are at the peak of their game. Helmed by the enigmatic, sassy front woman Patience Hodgson, their sophisticated live show has as many twists and turns as the singer’s dance moves, unparalleled by any band in the country right now. From her stage diving antics to provocative banter, you just never know what you’re going to get up close and personal. Supported by The Medics. Venue: Brothers World of Entertainment Cost: $27 Adult $24 Student/Concession Time: Doors Open 7.30pm, Show Starts 8.00pm Info: http://www.ticketscairns.com.au
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What: DIG (Directions in Groove) When: Saturday 19th November - 6:30pm doors/bar opens 7:30pm show starts Where: The Tanks Arts Centre - Tank 5 Cost: $40 / $35 (CONC) (PG) Tickets: www.ticketlink.com.au or phone 1300 855 835 Dig (Directions in Groove) celebrate their 20th anniversary by recording their first studio album in over a decade and hitting the road again. Steeped in Sydney’s music history, Dig were a flag bearer during the 90s acid jazz craze, playing a two year residency at Kinselas (Taylor Square) and some classic gigs at the Basement. After ‘taking a break’, Dig headed back to the studio, mixing it up with Mike Burnham at his ' Tardis'. There’s eight new tracks and this multi-award winning band are heading north on their national
What: Pecha Kucha Night (Cairns Vol. 3) When: Wednesday 9th November - 6:30pm doors/bar opens 7:30pm show starts Where: The Tanks Arts Centre - Tank 5 Cost: $5 Tickets sold on the door only Info: www.pecha-kucha.org/night/cairns/ The Pecha Kucha phenomena continues with the final chapter for 2011 sure to deliver plenty of laughs, insights and thought provoking tales. Pecha Kucha Night was devised in Tokyo as an event for creative individuals to meet, network, and show their work in public. It has since spread to over 400 cities, inspiring communities worldwide. Pecha Kucha Nights are based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds, keeping presentations moving at a rapid pace. This is Cairns’ third Pecha Kucha Night, with audience and presenter numbers growing each time. If you want to be inspired, intrigued and even humoured, we’ll see you here for an evening with real people, real communication, real beer and real creative fun!
tour, playing one night only at Tanks. Don’t miss them. "Dig are the future of Australian music. They know what to do and how to do it". Rolling Stone Magazine
What: Dancescapes JV Crew presents TOYS When: Saturday 12th November Time: Matinee show at 2pm or evening show at 7:30pm (Show duration 2hrs 20mins) Where: Cairns Civic Theatre, Cnr Sheridan & Florence Streets Cost: Adult $32, School Student 3-17 yrs $23, Senior card holders $28 Tickets: www.ticketlink.com.au or phone 1300 855 835 Over 200 dancers come together to celebrate 'Sparklerazz'. Santa's magical place full of toys of all shapes and sizes. With Spectacular costumes, foot tapping numbers and toys that are full of charm, Dancescapes Production of 'Toys' has something to bring out the 'Child' in you.
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What’sOn What: Cairns Little Theatre Presents Ben Elton's POPCORN When: 11th - 19th November Time: Show commences at 8pm (18/11 show commences at 8:30pm) Where: Rondo Theatre, Greenslopes Street, Edge Hill Cost: All tix Monday & Tuesday nights $18 / Wednesday - Sunday $22 / Concession - Aged Pensioners & School Students only - $18 Tickets: www.ticketlink.com.au or phone 1300 855 835 RATED: MA15+ - violence, coarse language and adult themes A masterfully crafted black satire by king of comedy Ben Elton. Comedian, author, playwright & TV Director Elton headed the alternative comedy movement of the 1980's with what are now classics, "The Young Ones" and "Blackadder". While academy award winning film director Bruce Delamitri basks in the golden glow and 'celebrates' with starlet hopeful Brooke in his Hollywood mansion, desperate criminals Wayne and Scout break in and hold them hostage. The law closes in, helicopters circle, the media wolves salivate on the doorstep as the audience ride the pendulum from shock to hilarity as the play explores the effect of violence as 'art' in films on society. "This is Ben Elton at his gruesome, satirical best" - Daily Mail. Winner of the 1998 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.
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Shopping at Fashion, health and lifestyle The Pier Shopping Centre is the perfect place to shop. From accessories and footwear, beautiful lingerie and swimwear to men’s and ladies fashions. Strap in and blast off with the out-of-this-world range of Funky Trunks and Funkita swimwear! As two of Australia’s leading chlorine resistant swimwear labels, there is something f or everyone with bold and unique prints styled to suit different shapes and sizes. Constructed from the exclusive C-Infinity fabric, Funky Trunks and Funkita swimwear provide superior comfort and durability for prolonged use in the pool and under the sun. Funky Trunks are available in Mens sizes XS-XL, and Boys 1-14. Funkita caters for Womens sizes 8-22 and Girls1-14, and is a vailable now at Splish Splash Swimwear at The Pier. www.splishsplashswimwear.com.au
If you’re looking for that unique gift, try one of our speciality stores. Workout at the gym, enjoy a relaxing massage or indulge in an array beauty treatments. Or just relax and take in the views from one of the 3 waterfront bars or enjoy fresh seafood, Italian cuisine, a mouth-watering steak or a refined Asian style meal from one of the Pier’s waterfront restaurants.
There is something for everyone at the Pier! 2 hours FREE undercover parking, everyday! www.facebook.com/splishsplashswimwear The Pier at the Marina (07) 4041 5544
Splish Splash Swimw ear at The Pier on the Marina is the la test Splish Splash outlet in Cairns. We took the opportunity to open an outlet here as we believe the picturesque waterfront backdrop and relaxed shopping atmosphere makes T he Pier a fab ulous place to shop. Two hours of free undercover parking is too good to resist. As well as stocking all the brands our customers know and love. The Pier store has a large range of aussieBum, Jets and Isola by Megan Gale. This is the month to check out new arrivals. www.splishsplashswimwear.com.au
A wonderful visual tapestry of gorgeous gifts and beautiful art. Gallery INC houses a unique collection of work that showcases the talents of many of Queensland's leading artists and artisans. Inspiring works by Hayley Gillespie, Angie Denahy, Ed Koumans, Adrian Wolf and Tim Ellis, to name a few, are intermingled with quirky gifts, quality toys, wall sticker art and vintage prints. Utopian Dream will be openning on the 11th of No vember a t 7pm and will run f or a month.
The Pier at the Marina (07) 4041 5544 Mon-Sat 9am - 7pm Sun 9am - 6pm
Please visit us @ The Pier at the Marina PH: (07) 40412843 or @ www.galleryincairns.com
Open Tuesday until Sunday, It is a m ust see for locals and visitors alike.
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the PIER
Bella Forma (meaning beautiful figure) is the unique home of beautifully fitting bras, feminine underwear and sexy cup sized swimwear in sizes 6 to 30 and cup sizes D to K. The only specialty shop specializing in pretty and supportive cup sizes in Far North Queensland, Bella F orma is an in-stor e and online retailer with a wide range of big bras in gorgeous colours sourced from leading manufacturers including Cake Lingerie, Curvy Kate, Elomi, Enell Sports Bra, Fantasie, Fayreform, Freya, HOTmilk Maternity, Le Mystere, Masquerade, Panache, Triumph, Nancy Ganz, Royce & Spanx Shapewear.
Family Markets at the Pier Sunday 9th November, 8.30am to 2pm. Unique local handcrafts with over 25 stalls
Bella Forma offers complimentary bra fittings and will al ways make certain you find the perfect bra to make the most of your assets. Also stocking a range of Masectomy and Maternity Bras and Bra Sized Swimwear
Shop G3 The Pier T: (07) 4041 7308
Man Overboard is an integral part of quality men’s fashion in Cairns and Port Douglas. Established over 20 y ears ago, Man Overboard keeps evolving but still offers the same quality men ’s fashion labels and the knowledge and service that only comes with experience. Choose from well known labels such as Ben Sherman, Replay, Saville Row, Lacoste., Soul Edge and Yourself. Accessorise with Cushe and Sanuk footwear. Man Overboard, T he Pier, also incor porates a Ben Sher man concept store. Come in ……… you’ll be impressed
Bright eyes is one of three locally owned and operated stores. The other locations are Stockand and Smithfield. We are home to the largest range of Polarised sunglasses including leading Polarised Brands such as Mako, Maui Jim, Serengetti, Bolle, RayBan, Oakley, Dirty Dogs, and Mangrove Jack. At bright eyes you can find a pair of sunglasses priced to Suit every budget. So next time you are in need of a pair of sunglasses pop down to the pier and see one of our staff members who are all professionally trained in all aspects of pr oduct kno wlege and fitting of sunglasses.
Open 7 days The Pier, Cairns PH: (07) 4031 1196 • Macrossan St, Port Douglas
The Pier at the Marina PH: (07) 4031 5506
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HAIRDRESSER OF THE MONTH
Darna-Lee Neal (19) JEWEL on Grafton How long have you been hairdressing for and where did you do your training? Being so keen to start my Hairdressing Journey I was thrilled to gain an apprenticeship at Jewel pretty much right after my 16th Birthday, three and a half years on and I'm a Jewel senior Stylist. What made you want to be a hair stylist? I've always been creative and experimental with my hair "some would say weird and crazy but Julie tells me it's Eclectic" so hairdressing just ticked all the box's for me. I'm able to incorporate make-up with my Hairstyling so I guess I just like making people look and feel good. How do you keep up with current trends and techniques? Trends are always changing and therefore technique will change with it. We train in the salon on a regular basis, attend seminars, always reading hair/ fashion mags and watching education dvd's, and go to the Hair Expo in Sydney. Rudy and the F.A.C.E committee run competitions and shows for the Hairdressers in Cairns so its always good to see what others are doing with their skills. If you could work in any other country where would you like to go..why?
London! London! London! the class, the fashion, the fun, it all starts there. What part of hair dressing to do you enjoy the most? Upstyling would have to be the most fun. The shapes and texture throughout an upstyle can completley transform a person, give them a different persona. I find there are no limits to what can be created, but in saying that I do really enjoy shaping and colour. Where do you shop for your clothes? I don't shop at one particular place, whatever catches my eye and that I can work with other peices in my wardrobe. I'm a self confessed 'accessories freak' I love belts to make an outfit pop. What are your tips for for anyone wanting to change their look? Firstly go see a professional. Have a consultation about what you think you might want, what you can achieve with your hair, and tips to manage your new look yourself. Change can be so exciting so go for it.
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Fashion is Nigel’s Passion Wayne Cooper. Lisa Ho. Alex Perry. Nigel Vogler. Not familiar with Nigel Vogler’s designs yet? You will be. Nigel’s friend, Jaydee Paino won over $100,000 worth of prizes at 2010 Fashion on the Field events, in an $18 steeplechase print dress he reconstructed. They purchased the dress online and Nigel completely reworked the dress to suit Jaydee. She went on to win the Open Ladies Racew ear ca tegory a t the Cair ns Amateurs, the My er Fashions on the Field a t Eag le Farm and then beat 1000 contestants to win Oaks Da y Fashions on the Field in Melbourne. Nigel said the $18 dress was “like a baggy sack that went down to Jaydee’s ankles” when he first laid eyes on it. Nigel, a 21-year-old from Mareeba, graduated in 2010 from T ropical North Queensland T AFE with a Certificate IV in A pplied F ashion Design and Technology. While he was at TAFE he won a swag of local and sta te training a wards. He is cur rently competing in the Australian Training Awards. In last year’s TNQ TAFE Graduation Fashion Parade, Nigel wowed the audience with his creations. This year’s Fashion P arade is a t the Hilton Cair ns hotel on November 24. It’ s al ways a sell-out and is not to be missed! Nigel has certainly put his TAFE training to good use and he believes it has opened door s for him. The dress he reconstructed for Jaydee has propelled him onto the national stage. Now he’s ready to follow his dream. And he dreams big. When describing his future clothing line, Nigel says: “It’s going to be mor e than clothing; it will be a high-end product that is both stylish, has a sense of exclusivity and is completely unique.” Nigel already has a loyal following of clients, men and women, who are enamoured with the crisp, clean lines of his bespoke creations. Recently, he created a stunning pink duchess satin evening gown for the Breast Cancer Foundation’s Hi Tea auction. Nigel is not afraid of volunteering fashion tips. “In fashion it is best to add something pla yful to an y polished, coordinated look,” he advises. “Attractive, classy, and chic alone results in something dull. T he man with a r eal sense of style will al ways combine a highly polished look with something a little less refined.” Fashion may be an essential part of every aspect of Nigel’s life, but he’s always ready to share and teach his trade to friends. Nigel said that he taught a friend to sew a button onto his shirt; in turn his friend taught him how to change the oil in his car. Nigel plans to continue his studies and has applied for scholarships both nationally and overseas. “I feel safe in saying, that my future holds great things. I will continue working till 1am to get that formal gown or couture top finished. I will contin ue putting in the highest efforts to bring my vision to life.” Tickets to the 2011 T AFE Graduation Fashion Parade cost $26 from Ticketlink Visit www.ticketlink.com.au or call 1300 855 835
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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A
COSMETIC SURGEON D R . B Y
Australians are spending around one billion dollar s a y ear on cosmetic surgery with no signs of slo wing down, as mor e people c hoose surgical and non-surgical procedures to enhance their self-esteem and selfimage. Cairns Life Mag azine caught up with renowned cosmetic surgeon Dr Robert Goldman this month to find out what a typical day is like in his shoes, w hat the most popular cosmetic pr ocedures ar e and w hy the industry continues to boom. He is c harismatic, c harming and v ery easy to talk to, and sitting opposite him over a drink after a full da y of back-to-back consultations he is apologetic at having to schedule our interview so la te. After all, Dr Goldman only spends three days a month in Cairns at the moment for consultations and sur gery, sharing his time betw een Cair ns, Brisbane and Perth. “Before the Queensland floods I spent two weeks each month in Cairns, but following the floods, Cyclone Y asi, the Christc hurch earthquakes and the tsunami in Japan, the industry has been a little quieter in Queensland as man y people feel too self-indulgent getting cosmetic surgery at times like this ,” he says. Born and raised in South Africa, Dr Goldman lear ned ear ly tec hnical medical training in Africa working in third w orld hospitals with diseases and all sorts of medical conditions, giving him a good skill base to take
R O B E RT A M A N D A
away with him. After mo ving to Australia he continued his medical training and in 1997 w ent into private practice as a specialist general sur geon. In 2003 he apprenticed himself to another cosmetic surgeon to learn on the job before becoming a qualified cosmetic surgeon in 2005. “I never planned to be a cosmetic surgeon, I just sort of fell into it,” he says.”But I love not being on call seven days a
G O L D M A N C R A N S T O N week like I was as a general surgeon and I actually have a life again as the hours ar e a lot better .” T he watchdog CHOICE sa ys the cosmetic surgery industry is far less regulated than other ar eas of medicine, and Dr Goldman agrees with this. “There is no true specialty called ‘cosmetic surgeon’ and there are man y cosmetic GPs and physicians tha t ar e not specialist surgeons but that perform cosmetic surgery anyway,” he says. He would like to see tighter regulations so only fully qualified specialist surgeons can perform these sur geries, pr oviding less risk to patients. Dr Goldman specialises in br east augmentation, breast enlargements, reductions and lifts , liposculptur e, labiaplasty and non-sur gical facial procedures. He says by far the most requested pr ocedure is br east augmentation (implants), f ollowed closely by abdominal liposculpt and then other pr ocedures like labiaplasty, ‘ba t wings’, c haffing between the thighs and ‘saddle bags’. H owever, Dr Goldman says there has been an incr ease in demand for labiaplasty of late with many 18 to 24 y ear olds r equesting the surgery. “I think the contributing factors ar e the popularity of Brazilian bikini waxes, easy access to ‘adult’ w ebsites so w omen can compare their bodies with others, and the increase in media co verage of this topic.” When asked if he would ever decline
to operate on a client, Dr Goldman says yes there are many reasons he would say no. “Firstly, if a client has a medical condition like diabetes , kidney or heart problems that would put them in danger , or if they are pregnant I won’t operate on them. That is w hy I consult with clients first and during this time I e valuate medical risks and make sur e the client fully under stands the procedure and is doing it f or the right reasons,” he says. Dr Goldman says surgery times v ary de pending on the pr ocedure, b ut br east augmentation nor mally takes around one to two hours with a two hour r ecovery in hospital, and liposculpture can take an ywhere from one to eight hour s, with an overnight hospital sta y recommended if the pr ocedure takes more than four hours. On most consulting da ys Dr Goldman is in the office between 89am although some da ys he can work 7.30am thr ough til 10pm depending on ho w busy he is , and on surgery days he is at the hospital by 7.15am and works all the way through until finished no matter how long that takes. With a n umber of companies now offering credit cards specifically for cosmetic procedures so people can buy now and pay later, the industr y sho ws no sign of slowing down.
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SUMMER beauty product reviews
philosophy Feeling confident and sexy without compromising personal style is the qabaTM way. With passion for the smallest detail, thoughtful attention and a love of perfection. Creating a uniquely different hair product. qabaTM – it’s all about you!
Benefits of using qaba • Extreme shine and lustre for healthier hair • Stimulates blood circulation • Encourages hair growth • Nourishes hair and scalp • Tames fly-away hair • Balances oily hair and scalp • Coarse hair becomes more manageable • Infuses hair with pure essential oils • Oils can positively enhance and enrich your daily life qaba™ is available exclusively from Jewel on GraftoBen Hair Boutique
RAD cream Great protection with RAD UVA and UVB Antioxidant Moisturiser. Using a combination of sun reflectants and absorbents RAD antioxidant Moisturiser helps protect skin from the harmful effects of the sun and pollution. Daily protection from UV rays can never be over estimated. A tan is the skin’s reaction to the damaging UV rays. We need to stay out of the sun as much as possible and when we are exposed, use effective protection and replace the destroyed vitamins. Available at The Skin Care Centre of Cairns Traveltown Lake st. 4051 3087
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COM P E T IN G WI TH TH E B ES T...
Louise Struber.. BY AMANDA CRANSTO N
Well it seems Cair ns can compete with the best of them w hen it comes to fashion, rivalling both Melbournians and Sydneysiders with their fashion f lair. Local girl-about-town Louise Struber r ecently won fir st place a t the Gold Coast My er Fashions on the Field, placing her as Queensland’s representative in the national final at the Melbourne Cup Carnival this month. Louise also won the Open Ladies’ Race Wear ca tegory a t this y ear’s Cair ns Amateurs Carnival, wearing the same outfit she will wear in the Melbourne final. Her success follows that of another Cairns local, Jaidee Paino who took out the top title at the Cair ns Ama teurs last y ear and then went on to win a t the Melbour ne Cup Carnival in an $18 horse-pattern dress. Louise says her winning outfit a t the Gold Coast leg of Myer Fashions on the Field was inspired by the 1940s and incorporates key trends f or the season including spring colours, florals, lace, mid-length skirt and statement j ewellery. “ I d ecided a t t he beginning of the year to enter Fashions on the Field in a yellow or apricot coloured outfit. Wearing y ellow can sometimes be tricky, but it’s one of the brightest colours
of spring and summer and m y favourite at the moment,” she sa ys. “ And w hile fascinators have become v ery popular of late, I decided on a pillbox inspired hat to compliment the elegance of the outfit.” The apricot v elvet ha t fea turing bold y ellow spring f lowers was made b y friend and milliner Amanda Macor. Louise feels honoured to be able to compete in such a prestigious event and represent her state after beating 77 other hopeful entrants in the Gold Coast final. While Fashions on the Field was launc hed in 1962 as an incentive to woo more women to the races, the introduction of a national competition represented by one winner from each state wasn’t launched until 2005. T he Victorian Racing Car nival intr oduced the na tional competition to bring the excitement of the Melbourne Cup Car nival to the r est of Australia, culminating with the f our state winners taking on the Victorian winner in the Na tional Final on Oaks Da y. Today Myer Fashions on the Field a t Flemington remains A ustralia's lar gest and most prestigious outdoor fashion event and the ‘pinnacle fashion e vent of the Spring Racing Carnival’. Each year the Women’s Racewear category attracts more than 1000
entrants from Victoria and around Australia, with celebrity judges adding extra glamour and sponsor s pr oviding o ver $100,000 worth of prizes including a Lexus IS 250C Sports Convertible this year. As the Queensland finalist in Myer Fashions on the Field, Louise won a nine-day luxury trip f or tw o to Melbour ne so she can compete on Oaks Da y. She alr eady has a full sc hedule of media opportunities planned including a Sunrise telecast, and she will be attending events and race days including Derby Day, Melbourne Cup and Oaks Day. “I’m really excited about the trip as I have never been to the Melbourne Cup and am thrilled to ha ve entr y in to the 'Birdcage', the pr emium mar quee a t Flemington Racecour se,” she sa ys. T he Birdcage is the pr eferred mar quee of celebrities and the w ho’s w ho of most industries. Taking some time a way from her r ole as Promotions Manager of Cair ns Central, Louise is looking f orward to an e xciting couple of weeks of racing before heading off to the south of France for a few months with her bo yfriend to e xperience the country’s amazing culture. “It seems there is a lot of exciting things to look forward to!”
Louise dressed by Sass and Bide Myer Cairns Central Bangles by Lovisa
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E V E RYT HI N G TO H E L P YOU ON YOU R S PECI AL DAY...
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Foot wear by Sass i Shoe Bouti que
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GROUP FITNESS
by Danni Bissett Genesis Fitness Club
WHY WOULD PEOPLE DO IT?
Have you ever stood outside the door of a Gr oup Fitness r oom and watched as people left the class? I can guarantee you a few things. Their clothes will be wet; they have worked hard. They will have a big smile, be buzzing with energy, saying how great the workout was and when they’ll be in ne xt… that’s because a g roup fitness class takes y ou on a workout experience. It leaves you wanting more and you feel like you have been taken a way from your hectic life and ha ve entered another world for a window of time. For that class you are no longer the stay at home mother of 3, you are a powerful boxer that punches and kicks like a hard core fighter. You are not just a guy working to pay the bills; you are a fit cyclist riding up a hill alongside Lance Armstrong. You are not a university student cramming for exams; you are a dancer performing to a crowd. With Group Fitness you come as you are. Whether you are unfit, never exercised before or you are an athlete, your instructor will coach and motivate you every step of the way. Group Fitness is the way of the future because: • Results are guaranteed if you put a little effort in; • Classes are on at a set time. When you book it into your busy schedule you are more likely to get there regularly; • An inspirational coach is there to motivate you; • There is popular music to drive you through to the end; • You let go of your day, unleash the stress and feel great; • Statistics show those who do group fitness stick to an e xercise regime for longer; • It’s an opportunity to let go and f ocus on doing something good f or you!
Image makers
Whatever your goal…exercising in a group is safe, fun and motivating. Trust me no one is watching. Everyone is contending with their own issues to worry about yours!
b y G e o r g i n a Tw o m e y Pharmacist Good Price Pharmacy
It can be hard, but is essential, to maintain a healthy skin regime in order to keep yourself looking radiant while living a busy life in business. It is easy to start a great morning and night skin routine as long as you have the right tips and tools. Here is an easy step-by-step skin regime to get you started: • Always, always, always wear a sunscreen. You can put it on under your make-up every day or even get a g reat moisturizing day cream containing sunscreen agents. This will be your greatest asset in fighting the signs of pr emature ageing . Y ou will ne ver r egret using y our sunscreen. Make it a daily habit. • Cleanse your face in the morning before putting moisturizers/make up on and at night before bed. There are many different types of cleansers available, pick one that suits your regime and skin type. • Use a toner to cleanse the impurities from inside those deep pores each evening after removing make-up. This will prevent spots and blemishes from disrupting your perfect skin • Moisturize your skin and the morning using a product that goes well under make up and contains a sunscr een. In the e vening, use a night cream full of anti-oxidants to help your skin recover from a hectic day • Drink plenty of water to keep your skin plump and hydrated. This is even more important with summer on the way Feel fr ee to appr oach our friendly , trained staf f a t Good Price Pharmacy Warehouse to help you select the best products for your skin.
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RE S TAUR A N T R E V I EW by Amanda Cranston
MEAT IS DEFINITEL Y ON THE MENU A T B USHFIRE FLAME GRILL, WITH THE CHURRASCO EXPERIENCE ORIGIN ATING FR OM BRAZILIAN COWBOYS WHO WOULD SIT AROUND AN OPEN CAMPFIRE AND BARBECUE THEIR MEAT ON SKEWERS OVER THE FIRE. After eating out at a similar Brazilian restaurant in London as well as the Bluefire Grill in Melbourne, I was definitely looking forward to dining at the Bushfir e F lame Grill on the Esplanade and was certainly not disappointed. As the rain bucketed down outside we were seated at a table by the window, and instantly felt warm and cosy thanks to the decor, dim lighting and cool subdued tunes playing in the background. Our waiter for the evening was Justin and he was fabulous. He explained the menu and the origins of all the produce, made sure we were constantly looked after and had the opportunity to e xperience e verything the restaurant had to offer. We started off with a wine and beer, sparkling mineral water and crispy pork crackling before the entree was brought out. Kno wn as T he Salumi Experience , our entr ee was a pla tter of gourmet sliced meats (predominantly prosciutto from Spain, Italy and Australia), freshly baked bread, antipasto delights such as stuffed peppers, artichokes and olives, and delicious pra wns cooked in a smoke y flavour. Justin also brought out two small bowls of french fries for the kids much to their delight. Restaurant manager Tim wheeled over the cocktail drinks table and made us the Bushfir e’s most popular cocktail called the Caiprinhia, w hich combines rum (made with sug arcane), sug ar and fr esh lime juice , a refreshing and light cocktail that went down very easily. The kids were lucky enough to try the mocktail of the week which was a combination of watermelon, cranberry, lime and mint. T he cocktails and mocktails ar e available on weekends and are incredibly popular. Our main meal was a selection of skewers of meat all slow roasted on the triple decker open f lame Churrasco grill. Beef rump, pork leg, pork rib, lamb, piri piri c hicken, chorizo sausage (mild and hot and spicy) and Mareeba gold pineapple seasoned in cinnamon sugar were all cooked to perfection and served by carvers who visited each table with the various meats on large skewers and sliced meat as requested. It was hard to choose a favourite as all the meats were well marinated and incredibly succulent, and Bushfire’s own BBQ sauce and Argentinean herb pesto ‘Chimichurri’ went perfectly with the meat. We also sampled a selection of side dishes which complimented the meats nicely, including vegetable mornay, baked cocktail potatoes, the Brazilian bean stew ‘black bean feijoada’ served with steamed Jasmine rice, and a ripened tomato, capsicum and palm heart salad. The roasted pineapple was a fantastic way to finish the main meal as the sweetness of the pineapple was a contrast of flavour following the meats. As we looked around the tables it was evident the desserts were too hard to resist and everyone had ordered dessert of some kind. We decided to order a small selection of everything so we had the exquisite dessert platter incorporating a small sample of each cake, slice and a selection of donuts. We especially loved the popular Spanish Churros which were served with warm Ecuadorian chilli chocolate, something we will definitely be going back for. While the Bushfire Flame Grill is renowned as a fine dining restaurant it is popular with families and happily caters for children. From November the restaurant will launch a new wine list which the manager says will rival tha t of ‘Salsa’ in P ort Doug las, and Bushfir e is alr eady taking bookings f or Christmas Da y w hen the y will be open f or a special Christmas lunch. To book for Christmas call 4044-1887.
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SOCIAL EVENTS: Total Style Quest p h o t o s b y C h r i s B a k e r f r o m t h e B a k e r y.
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T hro w in g a good
Christmas function It’s that time of year again! Here is our quick guide to your responsibilities as a manager organising a staff Christmas party.
Just because you’re not at work, it doesn’t mean you’re not at work! Any function organised by you and attended by your employees is work related and the same rules that apply in the workplace apply to your party. There are certain steps you can take to ensure risks are minimised and everyone has a good time.
Before the event
Make sure you have implemented policies covering occupational health and safety, harassment, bullying and discrimination. Remind staff that these policies also apply to w ork social functions. Let them kno w that unacceptable behaviour could result in disciplinary action. You can be liable for sexual harassment, bullying and unsafe behaviour engaged in by employees or agents at the Christmas party unless you can show that you took all r easonable ste ps to pr event the unla wful behaviour. Plan the event to take into account the age range of your staff and their access to transport. For example, you may have employees who are under 18. Serving them alcohol is against the law. If you have staff with f ood allergies or pr eferences, these need to be considered in planning your catering. Also, be a ware of the food poisoning risks with buffet-style food service and take steps to avoid them. Employees who are injured at the Christmas party or on their jour ney home may lodge workers compensation claims or common la w claims for personal injury.
During the event
Provide the option of low alcohol and plenty of alcohol fr ee drinks, accompanied b y substantial f ood. Don ’t r ely on v enue staf f f or responsible service of alcohol. Managers also need to keep an eye on drinkers and take action if needed. T his ma y include sending an intoxicated employee home in a taxi. As a manager, you can model appropriate behaviour. A work Christmas party that you have organised is probably not the best situation for you to really let your hair down! It sounds trivial, but avoid having mistletoe. That ‘innocent’ kiss could bring problems later.
After the event
Ensure staff have appropriate travel arrangements in place to get home safely. Consider ar ranging a mini-bus or cabcharge vouchers for your staff, particularly those who have been drinking. In the event that a staff member has had too much to drink, or too late a night, and needs to drive or operate machinery the next day, give them time off or alternative work until they are fit to resume their normal tasks. And a good time was had by all! Follow these guidelines for a work Christmas party that’s memorable for the right reasons.
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Christmas functions SHAKE YOUR BON-BON THIS CHRISTMAS AT RYDGES ESPLANADE Christmas in Cairns is always an event to remember when spent at Rydges Esplanade Resort. From its beautiful waterfront location, the festive spirit is destined to delight Christmas revellers of all ages with a bountiful combination of great food, live entertainment and attentive service. Starting with work dos and ‘get togethers’ with family and friends can be catered with ease in the waterfront resort’s awardwinning CHB Restaurant & Bar. Celebration packages start at $49 per person including a full buffet of salads, antipasto, festive carvery and vegetable dishes as well as the obligatory trimmings of Christmas pudding and brandy sauce, mince pies, cheese, fruit and other desserts. For $69 per person, guests will enjoy a true tropical indulgence with all of the former as well as local prawns, oysters, mussels, crabs, Moreton Bay bus and smoked salmon. Rydges Esplanade Resort’s General Manager, Steven Oakley said the proof is in the pudding when it comes to demand for festive fun. “In recent years, our lunch celebration has been a sell-out and we are predicting a similar response in 2011 with the release of our all-inclusive Christmas Day menu.” Served in CHB Restaurant & Bar between 12 noon and 3pm, lunch is presented as an allinclusive dining package from $120 per adult and $40 per child (4-9 years), $59 (10-13 years) and $79 (14-17 years). All children under four, eat free. For this, party goers receive a complete Christmas Day
experience that includes a sumptuous seafood and Christmas carvery buffet, three hour standard beverage package and Christmas themed decorations. The team at Rydges Esplanade Resort say food is paramount on Christmas Day and have carefully created a menu that will exceed expectation. “From fussy eaters to those with dietary requirements, there is something for everyone. No one will go hungry on Christmas Day with a menu antipasto from the deli, seafood from the reef, salads from the leaf to hot carvery, roasted vegetables and large choice of desserts,” says Steven. Along with a delicious selection of freshly caught cold seafood spanning oysters, locally caught prawns, crabs, Moreton Bay bugs, smoked salmon and mussels there are some seven different salads and an extensive choice of hot vegetable, pasta and fish and meat dishes and desserts. Of course, traditionalists are not forgotten with honey and ginger glazed ham with a port wine jus, moist oven roasted turkey with cranberry relish as well as steamed Christmas pudding with brandy sauce and mince pies. Feel like making an entire day and night of it, Rydges Esplanade Resort has an excellent range of accommodation rates and packages available on request. Don’t delay, book today. Book by email: functions_esplanadecairns@ryd ges.com or phone 4044 9024.
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LOCAL FOODIES FOOD & WINE
WINE
GROSSET 2011 SPRINGVALE RIESLING
I recently completed a road trip to Lake Eyre, traversing deserts and some rather harsh country and paused to think tha t whilst South Australia is our driest state, it is also our country’s major producer of wine. Despite being the source of almost half of Australia’s wine, most of South Australia has no vineyards at all. The vast majority of the vineyards are tucked into the bottom right hand corner south, north and east of Adelaide. This month I’ve been asked to identify a South A ustralian Riesling and frankly what a task it is to identify just one. Because it’s a Riesling the editors wanted, I figur ed it is usually a safe bet to f ocus one’s attention on either the Clare Valley or Eden Valley. This month I’ve gone with the Clar e, one of the few wine r egions of the w orld in which the great German grape Riesling comes into its own. Every mile you travel north of Adelaide is a mile closer to the red hot desert heart of Australia. The Clare Valley is somewhat of an oasis on that journey north. The Clare Valley is around 130 kilometres from Adelaide but well worth the journey if Riesling is your want. The term valley is probably not an accurate description where in fact there are three valley systems that stretch south and north with a watershed plateau in the middle. Incorporated into this are five subregions with differing soils, heights above sea level and mesoclimates. The sub-r egion of W atervale boasts the hilltop-sited Springv ale vineyard from which the fruit derives to produce Grosset Springvale Riesling. The 2011 vintage has only r ecently been released and on all accounts has been favourably received by wine critics around the world. The 2011 Grosset Springvale Riesling is described as highly aromatic, floral and zesting with lemon, lime juice flavours and a dry, lingering finish. T his is without question a magnificent Riesling , among the very best pr oduced in the wider r egion and a classic Clar e style . T he wine can usually be purchased at the larger retailing outlets for around $36 per bottle. Those of you who are familiar with the Grosset wines are likely aware that the winery produces several highly regarded premium wines not least of which is the Grosset Polish Hill Riesling. It is a little mor e e xpensive and pr operly r egarded in Langtons Classifica tion of A ustralian W ine as exceptional. Those wines in the exceptional list comprise the most highly sought after and prized first-growth type A ustralian wine on the mar ket. That said, get yourself off to the markets, get the ingredients for Stevo’s recipe, get cooking and crack open a Grosset Riesling. Happy sampling.
Stephen O'Reilly Criminal Lawyer / Wine Aficionado
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We want you...
CairnsLife
COOKBOOK CairnsLife magazine is seeking to publish a CairnsLife cookbook, dedicated to all you home chefs out there. Get your recipes out and send us your very best signature dish. Each issue of Cairns Life we will publish someone’s piece de resistance. At the beginning of next year, we will collate all your recipes, and with photos of your dishes publish "CairnsLife on a Plate"‌ your very own cookbook for the Tropics. So get emailing. Send to steve@cairnslifemag.com.au
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Salmon with sesame greens & ginger-soy dressing
Method Heat a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. Spray both sides of the salmon with olive oil spray. Add salmon to the pan, skin-side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crisp. Turn and cook for a further 1-2 minutes for medium or until cooked to your liking. Meanwhile, combine the soy sauce, sugar, ginger and half the sesame oil in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Cook the gai lan in a saucepan of boiling water for 30 seconds or until bright green and tender crisp. Drain. Divide the gai lan and rice among serving dishes. Drizzle over the remaining sesame oil and sprinkle with half the sesame seeds. Top with the salmon. Drizzle over the soy sauce mixture and sprinkle with the remaining sesame seeds to serve.
This flavourful salmon dish is the perfect midweek meal - it's quick, healthy and budget-friendly. Cooking Time 30 minutes Ingredients (serves 4) 4 (125g each) skin-on salmon fillets Olive oil spray 60ml (1/4 cup) salt-reduced soy sauce 2 tsp brown sugar 2 tsp grated fresh ginger 3 tsp sesame oil 1 bunch gai lan (Chinese broccoli) Steamed jasmine rice, to serve 1 tbs sesame seeds, toasted
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FOOD
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For this months recipe I was lucky enough to spend a couple of weeks up at Murray (Mer) Island, one of the three eastern islands of the Torres Strait. It's a truly beautiful place with pristine beaches, incredible reefs with crystal clear waters and an abundance of seafood. I decided upon a spaghetti marinara, as everyone loves a great seafood pasta. It's still quite light for our hotter months of the year and the seafood sits perfectly with Steve's choice of Riesling. I was spoilt with my marinara using freshly caught painted cray's caught with a couple of the locals and coral trout straight from the sea, but the recipe below is one I cook at home when I'm not so lucky... enjoy!
Spaghetti Marinara Ingredients 500g medium green prawns, peeled, deveined 500g firm fish fillets, cut into 3cm pieces (any reef fish is fine) 200g scallops 2-3 Calamari tubes, cleaned & cut into rings (I like using baby octopus when available) 300g mussels in shells, cleaned, beards removed Olive oil 2-3 fillets of anchovies (optional) Small red chilli, sliced (optional or to taste) 3-4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 2 x 410g cans chopped Italian tomatoes 1 cup (250ml) passata (tomato cooking sauce) 1/2 cup dry white wine Couple of fresh basil leaves Cracked black pepper Salt 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped 500g spaghetti
Method Stephen Borzi Artist / Designer / Amateur Cook
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Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic, anchovies & chilli (optional). Cook for 3 minutes, or until the ancovies have dissolved, be careful not to burn the garlic. Add tomatoes, passata, wine, basil, salt and pepper. Stir and bring sauce to the boil. Reduce heat to medium. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water, following packet directions, until just tender and then drain. While pasta is cooking, add prawns and fish to the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Add scallops and mussels. Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until mussels open (discard any unopened mussels). Lastly add the calamari to the sauce for the last couple of minutes, to keep tender. Combine the marinara sauce to the pasta and mix well before serving. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. I don't grate cheese on my seafood pasta's, but the choice is yours, otherwise serve with crusty bread and a simple garden salad... Buon Apettito.
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JUTE Theatre & Suellen Maunder
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JUTE Theatre is gearing up to celebrate their 20 year anniversary and no-one could be prouder than JUTE Artistic Director and CEO, Suellen Maunder. “For a small not-f or-profit b usiness in a r egional
artists so it is a lot of behind the scenes work that
and was incredibly successful, taking 11 applicants
centre to be f lourishing after 20 y ears is a g reat
people don’t necessarily see,” Suellen says. “We live
in which two of them ha ve gone on to dir ect the
achievement,” Suellen says. Previously known as the’
in a culturally vibrant community and we need to be
short plays in Studio Shorts. Suellen would like to see
Just Us Theatre Ensemble’, JUTE was the brainchild
more than just a tourism destina tion. As a town we
this program extended and with funding be ab le to
of Suellen, K athryn Ash and Susan Prince after
need to diversify and create opportunities for people
run it annually. The cultural leadership program was
these thr ee creative women met through mutual
in the arts within our region.” She would like to see
also a new program only launched this year, and was
friends. “We were all working in theatre in different
more entrepreneurial opportunities for those in
the first one of its kind in Australia. JUTE initiated
capacities and
acting, dir ecting, pr oducing, writing and stage
the pr ogram to support leader s within the arts
combination of skills between us and decided to start
management.
community, applied for the funding g rant and then
up our own theatre company. Over the years we have
Suellen proudly explains that the Enter Stage Write
collaborated with other r egional ar eas to run the
helped develop artists in the region so they can stay
Script Development Program is an annual program
same pr ogram as part of the g rant, liaising with
and grow here professionally rather than having to
that
Townsville, Mackay, Darwin, Bundaberg, Canberra
move to a bigger city for work or for better creative
‘dramaturgical’ w
opportunities,” Suellen says. The JUTE Theatre has
mentoring with a professional ‘script doctor’ known
Now preparing for 2012, Suellen says there will be
also developed an avid audience-base over the years
as a dramaturg. The objective of the program is to
plenty to celebra te. “We will make a few toasts to
so the main theatre seats 248 people, while a second
develop quality writing skills and come up with work
acknowledge the past and then turn our attention to
rehearsal studio kno wn as ‘T he Space’ can house
that can be produced and performed at JUTE. Some
the future, the next 20 years,” she says. “We already
another 100 people.
graduates of the program include Angela Murphy,
have three great shows lined up for next year, and
JUTE produces three major performances each year
Roz Pappalardo, Kathryn Ash, Sue Hayes and
one of them is a romantic comedy with guts by Tony
and runs a script writing and script de velopment
Gavin King (currently doing the program), but with
Robertsson w ho has come thr
program, as well as this year introducing two new
limited places in this y
development program. So watch this space.”
programs including a dir
understandably popular and hard to get in to.
For more information on JUTE T heatre Company
ship pr ogram.
This year JUTE offered a director development
and upcoming perf
“Seventy per cent of our w ork her e is de veloping
program for the first time which ran for two months
www.jute.com.au
had similar ideas and a great
ector’s de velopment
program and a cultural leader
takes
16
people
per
year,
offering
orkshops and one-on-one
ear-long pr ogram it is
and Launceston.
ough our script
ormances log on to
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Hey Dad! by Murray Jones O ’ R e il l y St e v e n s B o v e y L a wyers
In family law it’s the children’s best interest that is the primary consideration. In simple terms, it’s the children who have rights - the right to ha ve a meaningful relationship with both parents. Since the amendments to the Family Law Act in 2006 there is a common misconception that kids will spend 50% of their time with dad and 50% of their time with mum. It is true that the courts must consider ‘equal time’, b ut ther e is no expectation 50/50 will be the outcome. It is not the default position. Particularly with younger children, it has been sho wn that it is usually in the children’s best interest to primarily live with one parent and spend time with the other . As children get older equal time arrangements can work. But par ents ha ve to r ealise tha t unless there is a good ‘co-parenting’ relationship between them equal time can be a disaster for some kids . Ho w w ould y ou like living in one household one w eek then in a completely different one the next? So dads, and mums for
that matter, if you are embroiled in a separation that involves children, don’t fall for the old myth that 50/50 is the default position. Y ou will be disappointed, and, worst of all, it’s the kids that may suffer as well. While we’ve got your attention dads, can we also give y ou some advice about r epresenting yourself in family law proceedings. Some dads do OK when they do it themselves, but we often see s ituations w here f athers t hink t hat a n aggressive appr oach is the wa y to go . An aggressive approach may work in some areas of law, but w hen it comes to family law matters involving c hildren, an ag gressive appr oach is usually associated with an aggressive parent. The courts are not likely to conclude tha t it is in the children’s best interest to be spending significant time with an aggressive parent. A balanced, objective and child focussed approach wins out every time. Some fa thers get in volved with men ’s groups to assist them through a difficult period. Y ou can certainly get good support and guidance fr om other men who have been through the same thing, but be careful that there’s not too much focus on neg ativity, fuelled b y misinformation. A trained F amily La w
professional can help y ou strike a balance between support and mis-information. And lastly, children should not be the meat in the sandwich w hen it comes to w orking out parenting arrangements. Don’t talk about y our problems with their mum in front of them, and do your best to shield them fr om the animosity that inevitably arises after separation. Kids usually love both their parents the same amount, so dragging them into adult pr oblems just causes more friction for everyone. They’re not children f or long , so make sur e tha t their c hildhood is as happ y and carefree as possible. Keep these things in mind and, chances are, they will always see you as the best dad on earth.
LAW
When it comes to spending time with their kids after separation, we often hear frustrated fathers say “Fathers have no rights”. T hey’re right. But, in fact, mothers have no rights either.
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READER’S PICK
EDUCATION
SANDRA
HARDING
V I C E CHANCELLOR
OF JCU James Cook University is gearing up to celebrate 25 years in Cairns next year and no-one could be prouder than the Vice Chancellor of JCU, Sandra Harding. Overseeing all JCU campuses in Cair ns, T ownsville and no w Singapore, Professor Harding says this university of the tropics is well on its way to becoming one of the best universities in the world after celebra ting 40 y ears as a univ ersity last y ear. “W e ha ve recruited world class leaders in research from all over the world and nine out of 11 of our r ecent tropical leader appointments ha ve chosen to be based in Cairns,” she says. “Our main goal here is to provide educa tional opportunities f or students in Norther n Queensland and to undertake r esearch on the tr opics and the people of the tropics and I feel we are definitely achieving this.” JCU boasts not just the university campuses for students to learn but also a v et clinic in Malanda, a stud y centre in Macka y and Thursday Island, a ca ttle pr operty near Charter s Towers, the Daintree Rainforest Observatory research station and the Orpheus Island research station with wet and dry labs. Students come from all over Australia and the w orld to stud y at JCU, and Pr ofessor Harding says the majority of overseas students come from America. “We offer world-class courses in marine and tropical biology, earth and environmental science, medicine and health-related courses, arts, humanities, social sciences and the traditional cour ses like education, business, law and the creative arts,” she says. “We have between 11,000 and 12,000 students a t our Townsville campus, 4,000 in Cairns and 3,000 in Singapore and our goal is to reach 10,000 students in Cair ns.” Next year looks to be a big y ear in Cairns, not only because the campus celebra tes 25 y ears b ut because Cairns will see the completion of the Cairns Institute and the JCU campus will boast a new entrance. Professor Harding has worked hard to continue building on the solid reputation of JCU since taking on the position of Vice Chancellor
in 2007. She says running a university is like being the CEO of any big organisation. “We'll have income of around $350 million dollars this year and an asset base of around three quarters of a billion dollars, and while education is not a business as such we need to manage multi-million dollar budgets and fit in with the needs of the market, be sustainable and work closely with the community to advance the institution,” she sa ys. “We ar e not just a b usiness wanting to generate profit, we are here to service the community and continue with research development.” A strong advocate of research, Professor Harding started out doing honours in science a t the A ustralian Na tional Univ ersity in Canberra straight from school, studying parasites in sheep. It was a long way from her dreams of being an air hostess she had while growing up, a career she thought would be impossibly glamorous. But she enjoyed science and bef ore signing up to do her PhD she decided to work for the Government, before changing careers to be an academic. She travelled to North Carolina with her husband and two small children where she and her husband completed PhD’s before returning to Australia, and Professor Harding then spent the next 14 years in executive positions within A ustralian universities. “At 40 I became the Dean of F aculty of Business with 7,000 students and after six y ears I took on the r ole of De puty Vice Chancellor,” she says. “When the Vice Chancellor position came up at JCU I knew I was ready for the challenge and thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to work with the terrific JCU community to make a real difference in a very important part of the world Already in the top 400 Univ ersities, Pr ofessor Har ding feels comfortable knowing that JCU will one day be one of the great Universities in the world and undisputed leader in tropical research.
by Amanda Cranston
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AN DRE W GR I FFI T H S Recently I had an accountant w ho introduced me to an idea that I believe has merit for many other types of businesses. He e xplained tha t due to a general tightening up by the taxation department, a pr oportion of his clients w ere audited every year. It wasn ’t anything out of the ordinary, it was just the wa y things w ere going. It was fair to assume that if you were in business you would be audited at some time in the future. When a client is audited there are lots of expenses, especially the bill fr om their
Leanne Peard Social Media Plus
accountant who has to spend a lot of time sorting out records and answering the questions raised by the taxation de partment. So on top of the fine they may receive, the client also r eceives a bill f or se veral thousand dollar s fr om their accountant. All in all it is a v ery unpleasant e xperience f or all involved. This accountant introduced ‘audit insurance’. What this basically means is that as a client you can pay a couple of hundr ed dollar s per y ear and if you ar e audited all of y our accounting bills will be co vered b y him. Due to the increased possibility of being audited, this appear s to me to be excellent value. The accountant funds this insurance himself. All of the money raised from the policies goes into a pool. If he has a lot of clients audited he ma y lose out, but if he only has a few he tends to make a few dollar s. In r eality everyone wins. As a client, I have the peace of mind of knowing that when I am audited I don ’t have to w orry about being hit with a lar ge accounting bill a t the end of the process. I also belie ve tha t this is a great service being offered and if the accountant makes a few dollars, well, good on him for having the initiative to put the plan in place. Perhaps there are ideas like this tha t
BETTER BUSINESS
CAN YOU GENERATE MORE INCOME FOR YOUR BUSINESS WITH SOME CREATIVE THINKING? your b usiness could put into place that could not only genera te extra income f or your business b ut also offer a degree of peace of mind for your customers? The key here is that you are taking some of the risk away from your customers and taking that responsibility on yourself—for a fee. I went on a whale watching trip out of Boston in the USA se veral years ago. T he compan y made a bold statement. If you don’t see any whales they will refund half of your money. This seemed like a fair deal and as none of their competitors made the same offer I went with them and w e saw about thirty w hales. I was told they see whales every trip without fail, making this a fairly safe offer on their behalf. They were by far the busiest whale watching company in Boston – for a reason. I sa w a similar insurance idea in Borneo w here y ou could go on a fishing trip for about $100. You could then pay an extra $10 insurance and if you didn’t catch any fish you got all of your money back. They had selfinsured themselves. I got to know the owner during the da y and I asked him how many people had claimed the insurance. He said fiv e people in ten y ears had claimed the r efund (‘they couldn’t catch fish in a barrel with a baz ooka’), yet almost 90 per cent of all his passenger s paid the
extra $10 f or the insurance . T his smart entrepreneur had increased his revenue by 10 per cent for a very minimal outlay. This doesn’t take into consideration those people that went fishing with him simply because he offered the novel insurance. On another nautical theme , I r emember going diving in V anuatu once w here you could take out clear water insurance cover. If the wa ter visibility dr opped belo w 20 metres you dived for free. This premium cost about $20 per day, but as a mad keen diver how could I refuse this offer? Once again the owner said that occasionally bad weather made them giv e away some fr ee dives, but overall they won out hands down as the visibility was normally well in excess of 50 metr es. T hey had incr eased their revenue by almost 25 per cent simply b y introducing this insurance policy. Make your offer clear. Remember that if you are taking money from people they will be e xpecting something in r eturn. Be certain to give it to them. On the bright side , perhaps y ou could increase your business considerably simply by offering a new service or a type of insurance that really wouldn’t cost you a lot in time or money. Creative thinking is the greatest tool for any business o wner these da ys. Times ar e changing, conditions are challenging and we need to think differently.
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RECORD MONTH SIGNALS BRIGHTER FORECAST FOR BLUEWATER Cairns, North Queensland. 19 October, 2011. Cairns leading residential community development, Bluewater, Trinity Beach reported its best sales period in 12 months with September fielding higher than normal levels of enquiry. The heightened activity adds weight to Herron Todd White’s August report signalling renewed interest in Cairns’ property market. Bluewater sales and enquiry overview as follows: • June – July 2011 showed a 62.2 per cent increase in enquiry level with August 2011 – September 2011 showing a further increase to 73.2 per cent. • August – September 2011 recorded 81 enquiries against 75 for same period in 2010. • From October 2010 results showed a steady decline with February – March 2011 recording lowest enquiry levels in 12 months.
• Exchanged six contracts in period August-September 2011 with an additional allotment on hold pending finalisation of contract. Brookfield Residential Properties’ National Director, Phil Leahy said last month’s builders’ boost campaign contributed to the upturn. “The incentive was timely with local investors and home buyers seizing the opportunity to purchase
land that promised a significant saving on building costs. Another catalyst was the opening of David McCoy’s new display home in our premium sub-division, Elysian attracting pleasing numbers of visitors each weekend.” The campaign, that was introduced in August offered investors $10,000 off the land price coupled with an equal saving of $10,000 off the cost of building a house. Add to this the
State Government’s $10,000 building boost and $7,000 first home buyer’s grant, the total saving amounted to $37,000. Bluewater ran this campaign in partnership with three participating builders, CPC Constructions, Better Homes Queensland and David McCoy Homes. “After what has been a relatively slow period in sales, we are feeling optimistic September’s results are a turning point and with the number of enquiries we are currently servicing, the trend looks set to continue. “From a national perspective, Bluewater’s September result is up there with figures achieved by the master-planned communities in Australia’s capital cities. With property prices set to rise steadily in the future, now is most definitely a great time to look at buying into Bluewater and its idyllic, tropical lifestyle,” said Mr Leahy.
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INTERIOR STYLE PROFILE
Interviewed by Amanda Cranston
FURNITURE SALES UP... While many businesses are feeling the pinch and still trying to attract customers back in store following tough economic times, furniture retailer Early Settler in Anderson Street, Manunda, says they are busier than ever. Store Manager Mishka Gamble says while their business was certainly affected by Cyclone Yasi, predominantly in the three months following the cyclone as they had to wait for stock to arrive and there were lots of problems with the transport of goods up north, they are doing better than they expected. “I think part of the reason is that people don’t want to wait for furniture, they don’t want to find out the dining suite they want isn’t in stock and they have to wait weeks for it to arrive, they want to take it home today,” she says. “We have a container load delivered every week and have plenty of stock available and I think that helps because people know they can take home their purchases.” Stocking bedr oom, dining, lounge , office, outdoor and occasional furniture, Early Settler certainly has a wide range of designs for customers to choose from, but even with many other large furniture retailers in Cairns to compete with, Early Settler is doing okay considering they don’t offer interest-free finance. When you think we have Freedom Furniture, Eureka Street, Samsara, Harvey Norman, Super Amart, Homemaker s, Forty Winks, Haven and Space and CCA second hand furniture, just to name a few, we are spoilt for choice. Yet Cairns has a very transient population with many sea changers moving to the area for a lifestyle change and wanting to furnish their home with furniture that suits their new home, while others move away for work and sell a lot of their belongings for a fresh start somewhere else. Mishka says she also thinks that with many people unable to afford their own home or unable to afford to upgrade their home in today’s economic climate, they are spending their money instead on refurbishing and buying new furniture to create a fresh feel. “There is a lot of impulse buying, and believe it or not a lot of our biggest sellers are occasional furniture and accessories like bookcases and hall tables,” she says. “But it is hard to pinpoint the most popular items a t the moment because we sell dining packages, bedroom suites and all sorts. I guess it all comes down to what people are looking for.”
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STORE MANAGER MISHKA GAMBLE
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Moments that make life easy. Start by looking at drawers. It’s an interesting fact that when most people start to renovate, the average age of their kitchen is 15.3 years*. Imagine how life changes in that time. If you’re now in your thirties you may have your own kids or be expecting, or your parents may have moved in due to age. You may love to entertain with feasts and family cook-ups, or be making quick dinners when you get home from work. Fast forward 15 years and think how your life may have changed. If you’re planning to stay in your renovated home, the kitchen you design will need to be enjoyed for at least that amount of time. Stages in life have important implications for how your custom kitchen is designed. While your focus may already be on colours and finishes, one of the big decisions you will make involves drawers. Now I know you’re probably thinking “why drawers, you don’t even see them”? But while they may not sound like a critical element, the drawers that you choose and their physical location will determine how your kitchen actually works. Take Blum Tandembox for example. A
Blum Tandembox drawer is an automated system with easy touch open and a softclose mechanism. The drawers come with or without handles and are made in a variety of materials so if you like clean lines and ease of use, Blum Tandembox is the system for you. The other main choice you have is Blum Metabox, a steel drawer system that is more economical and traditional in design. These pull-system drawers are operated with handles and the steel can be coloured to suit your taste. Regardless of the type, when combined with full extension arms, base cabinet drawers are a much safer option than reaching for the back of shelves. Drawers can be customised to fit your pantry, your utilities (such as cutlery), corner spaces and under the sink. But the reason they should be your focus at the start? The type that you choose and their location in your cabinets will impact the design of every element in your kitchen. So make life easy for the next 15 years, start by looking at drawers.
By Ste phen Foster CCW Cabinet Works
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READER’S PICKS
Tal ki ng a b o ut . . .
CAIRNS
STYLE
M M P A RC H I T E C T S O N W H E T H E R C A I R N S H A S S T Y L E . . .
P A RT I I I IT W OULD SEEM THE CONSENSUS AMONG L OCAL ARCHITECTS IS THAT THE MAJORITY OF HOMES IN C A I R N S A R E N O T B E I N G B U I LT T O R E F L E C T T H E T RO P I C A L C L I M A T E . M M P A R C H I T E C T S S H A R E THEIR VIEWS ON OU R HOU SI NG DESI GN D ILE MM A A N D W H E T H E R O R N OT C A I R N S C A N B E S T Y L I S H A ND SUSTA INABL E. by Amanda Cranston MMP Architect, Peter Pierce, says housing design today is all about low upfront costs rather than long term savings for the homeowner, and a lack of consideration for the climatic environment. “Most standard housing design is intended to achieve maximum floor area for minimum cost and this is not a good formula for good design. Hence the ‘b lock box’ suburbia resulting from the ‘tick the boxes’ approach from most developers and pr oject builders,” he sa ys. “Also our energy efficiency rating tools tend to encourage less windows and well insulated buildings to increase the efficiency of air conditioning rather than encouraging design which does not use air conditioning suc h as lar ge windows, tall spaces and good cr oss f low v entilation.” He sa ys lots of g lass and daylight can eliminate the need for artificial lighting during the day and there are many energy efficient devices out there which comply with current legislation. Peter says there are many design elements that should be incorporated into homes built in the tropics, which he thinks
are logical and common sense. “There is an old saying that ‘a building in the tropics should wear a hat’ and basically this means they should have large roof overhangs all round to shade walls and verandas and protect openings from rain. Combine this with good orienta tion to minimise impact of morning and after noon sun, good cr oss f low v entilation, extensive wall and r oof insula tion and some serious consideration of privacy and it’s pretty hard to go wrong,” Peter says. When questioned on suburb design and layout, Peter says he would love to see the ban of “horrible ‘small lot subdivisions’ and r eplace this with a combina tion of lar ger lots interspersed with well designed medium density multi unit developments”. He believes with good design this would help suburbs avoid the ‘ghetto’ feel that many areas of designated units have. Peter also thinks it would be useful for architects to ha ve some deg ree of input a t the time of council subdivision approval, as he believes this would help in the
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Peter P ierce
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C a i r n s S t y l e c o n t i n u e d ...
long term with ener gy efficiency and sustainab le living ideals. “The most significant change I would recommend would be the orientation of housing blocks because if most houses could be designed to face north and south without looking into the neighbour’s house , then the goals of ener gy ef ficiency and privacy are much easier to achieve,” he says. Peter says in a perfect world he would love to see all homes built from 2012 onwards incorporating genuine sustainable and ecofriendly elements, but says the reality is that true sustainability is not broadly understood and it will be a long time before a significant n umber of our b uildings ar e truly sustainab le. “Sustainability is not as simple as water tanks and solar panels. A major factor which is often ignored is the energy required to maintain a building over its life. This can tip the scales towards materials and construction methods w hich ma y ha ve mor e embodied ener gy a t the time of construction, suc h as aluminium and concr ete, b ut w hich can last the life of the building with little or no maintenance,” he explains. If Peter could influence housing design in Cairns he says he would like to see a more modern, simple and elegant design incorporating both sustainable and eco-friendly design elements where internal living spaces flow seamlessly to outside living spaces and the landscape , and w here every room and space within the home is a joy to occupy. He just hopes future building developments in Cair ns will take mor e consideration of the climate and design accordingly.
Typical house in Cairns 30 years ago
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Architectual Style
by Jo Gomizel from The Marble and Granite Fitters Cairns
NSF… Hygiene and peace of mind for you and your family What do Quantum Quartz, Caesar Stone, Essa Stone, Smart Stone and Stone Italiana all have in common? They are all accredited by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Certifying that the stone bench top surfaces are qualified for unrestricted use in labs, healthcare facilities, commercial and residential projects; ensuring that the working surfaces are safe for use in all food preparation environments. Compliant with the Health and Safety Foundation sanitary standard it’s hygiene and peace of mind for you and your family. Feel Free to ask the friendly and informative staff at “The Marble and Granite Fitters Cairns” for a copy of the 10 year warranty prior to purchase.
Quality That’s Set in Stone! Pictured: Quantum Quartz “Luna Grey” Bench top with pears, watermelon & lettuces on display
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BUYING, BUILDING
RENOVATING Attention to detail with Ashley Balderson: Status Plus
Induction vs. Gas Cooktops - What's the Difference? The first question to ask is what's the difference between induction and traditional gas cooktops? There are, in fact, quite a few major differences with the biggest being time. With traditional gas cooktops you are dealing with a flame on which you place your pan to heat. Unlike ceramic cooktops, where heat is created beneath the glass surface and then transferred to the cookware, induction works by creating heat directly in the pot. That means the surface of the of an induction cooktop does not retain
the same amount of heat. What does this all mean? Well, for example, instead of the usual 9-10 minutes it would take to boil a 3 litre pot of water on gas, on an induction cooktop it takes just 2.5 minutes! So you’ll need to check all your current cookware is suitable for induction cooking, and buy new cookware if not. Induction requires cookware to have a ferrous bottom so the heat can be conducted rapidly. Take a magnet with you when buying cookware, or look for the induction suitable label. Copper, glass, Pyrex or aluminum cookware is
generally unsuitable for an induction cooktop. The other major difference is safety. On a gas cooker, flames = fire which can not only be dangerous but very, very hot leading to all sorts of mishaps around the kitchen. With an induction stovetop, you can literally place both hands either side of your saucepan as it boils and feel no heat what-so-ever. True story! In fact, you could slide a paper towel between the cooktop and the pan and it wouldn't burn, let alone leave a scorch mark. A few other quick factors to consider include: • Spills: Induction cooking allows you to easily wipe up any mess while you cook without interruption or burning yourself. With many cooktops having 17 different levels of power, you can adjust the temperature to suit. • Cleaning: Forget the tiresome and time-consuming hassle of trying to clean in-between the grooves of your stovetop, with an induction cooktop you wipe a sponge across the top during or after you've finished cooking. To sum up, induction cooktops are the future in household appliances. They boast the three "E's" - efficiency, are energy-saving and easy-to-use.
Acrylic vs/ Pressed Steel baths – what do I choose? Bathtubs are traditional the biggest item that you will have in your bathroom and therefore, tend to be the biggest investment. Walk around any showroom and you will see that there are a wealth of different styles and finishes in inset baths or freestanding. So what is better for you? The case of Acrylic: Good quality acrylic is mad of a sanitary grade and is reinforced with fibreglass and steel rods which give the bath a delightful lustre. Bad acrylic can scratch easier and will have a lustre at install but it will fade overtime and possibly discolour. Because of the material, it is easily moulded which means you can get more fashionable shapes. Expect to pay between $450 and $950 for a good acrylic inset bath and $1500 to $3000 for a quality freestanding acrylic
Ashley Balderson
Stix Eco Smart Fire. Your outdoor area will dazzle with the new EcoSmart Stainless Steel Stix fireplace. $2095 RRP
The case of Pressed Steel: The best pressed steel baths are made out of 3.5mm grade steel and coated with a porcelain enamel. These baths are incredibly durable and will normally only chip if you decide to throw a cast iron pot onto the surface. Because of the enamel coating, the lustre will not wear off. Have a tap of the steel bath, if it sounds ‘tinny’ then it does not come with sound deadening pads and will therefore exho slightly. Quality German brands like Bette and Kaldewei will have the best quality and 30 year warranties. They tend to be a more traditional shape but will keep the heat better than an acrylic. Expect to pay between $900 and $3200 for a 3.5mm steel and $4500 to $9000 for a 3.5mm freestanding steel bath So which is better for you? It should be based on your budget and how often it will be used. Go into your local showroom and talk to a consultant about which would suit for you!
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Nespresso Lattissima+ This new innovative “one-touch” milk carafe and frothing system enables you to obtain real cappuccino and latte macchiato straight in your cup. Available in four colours – Silky White, Ice Silver, Passion Red and Midnight Blue. $599 RRP
Integrated Fridges
Integrated refrigeration is part of a growing trend to incorporate a fully-integrated kitchen into the design of a home. What does integrated mean? Well, it's a kitchen in which everything including the cabinetry and appliances matches. One of the options for appliances in a fully integrated kitchen is the integrated fridge. With the front of the fridge blending into the rest of the kitchen, no longer is it a standalone object which for many is unsightly. In fact, even if you have bought all the latest in stainless steel appliances, they can still break the continuity in the rest of your kitchen. So, what's the solution to this? An integrated fridge that allows you to choose the type of door to be fitted to the front of the door. Often made from wood, the door can then be painted, stained or glossed to your liking. Routing, trim-work, and handles can also be added to make it look just like a regular cabinet door. Integrated fridges can be placed
anywhere due to their unique design and ventilation systems. Their superior insulation also means they can be situated right next to your oven if you so wish. There is a wide variety of styles to choose from, such as a standard fridge, drawer freezer, combination fridge/freezer, top and bottom fridge/freezer and side-by-side fridge/freezer. Since they are priced on the higher end of the scale, you may be wondering if an integrated fridge is really worth the investment. Besides their appealing look, and great flexibility in terms of use, they are also extremely energy efficient, which can save you money in the long-term. Most models also come with electronic controls which regulate the temperature for each zone to ensure different foods stay fresh and increase storage life another money-saver! Some of the brands that offer integrated refrigeration solutions include, Miele, Siemens and Liebherr.
Pura Vida 150mm head 900mm rail shower set The latest release from Germany - Experience the lightness white and chrome bring to your bathroom! Hansgrohe: $743 RRP
Neff Vario Steam Oven Neff has released its new full sized 60cm steam-assisted oven with new technology that allows you to change the intensity of the steam inside the oven. The oven injects moisture as steam into the oven at various intervals and intensities, whether it’s the crispy pizza base, a fluffy cake or a tender roast, the combination of hot air and steam delivers optimum results. $3799 RRP
Grohe BauLoop Basin Mixer Stylish and budget friendly? Yes please! $199 RRP
Brodware Michelangelo Shower Mixer Renaissance meets modern world in this sleek new range of tapware. $498 RRP
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