Classic Lifestyle - The Legacy Edition by Classic Lifestyle Magazine

LIFESTYLE

THE LEGACY EDITION ISSUE 28 2 0 2 4

LIFESTYLE

THE LEGACY EDITION

THE COVER I HAVE BEEN TRAVELLING FOR THE BEST PART OF 40 YEARS GLOBALLY AND I NEVER TAKE WHERE I SIT FOR GRANTED - OR THE FACT THAT I FEEL BLESSED THAT I CAN EXPERIENCE TRAVEL. I HAVE LEFT SYDNEY ON THE FIRST FLIGHT TO LONDON, ARRIVED AT 5AM, HAD SIX MEETINGS, A WORKOUT, LUNCH AND RETURNED HOME ON THE SAME PLANE 52 HOURS DOOR-TO-DOOR MORE TIMES THAN I CAN REMEMBER. CRAZY YOU MIGHT SAY, BUT I GET THE JOB DONE. WHAT I HAVE LEARNT FROM TRAVEL IS UNDENIABLE. LIKE ALL GREAT TRAVELLERS, I HAVE SEEN MORE THAN I REMEMBER, AND REMEMBER MORE THAN I HAVE SEEN. ONE’S DESTINATION IS NEVER A PLACE, BUT A NEW WAY OF SEEING THINGS.

DOHA BANGKOK NORMANDY TAIN AUSCHWITZ BOTTLE TREE DOWNS ARDBEG CHAMPAGNE GOLD COAST MUSCAT JUKKASJÄRVI SOUTH MALE ATOLL ULURU JAIPUR MIAMI PARIS WOLGAN VALLEY MYKONOS HAMILTON ISLAND GREAT BARRIER REEF MARGARET RIVER PHUKET GIANTS CAUSEWAY HYDERABAD LES ANDELYS DUBAI LIVERPOOL GALLE FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK BERLIN MELBOURNE BOUDDI PENINSULA NEW YORK TEHRAN HAVANA KOKOMO ISLAND

CREATED BY PHIL HARTE PHOTOGRAPHER - PETRINA TINSLAY

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Contents

44 THE GR AND FINALE

T R AV E L TO O U R FAVO U R I T E D E S T I N AT I O N S

126

N E W YO R K

V I K I N G O DY S S E Y

LE GEORGE

AT T H E V E RY H E A R T O F I T A L L

T H E M AG N I F I C E N C E O F T H E A R C T I C

H O M E O F A C U L I N A RY R O C K S TA R

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SWISS MODERN WOOD

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Contents

180 QUA LI A

A B E S P O K E G R E AT B A R R I E R R E E F EXPERIENCE

200 L ANGHAM

T H E R E F I N E D G O L D COA S T B E AC H E S C A P E

138 HOTEL DU LOUVRE

A LU X U R I O U S H AV E N I N T H E C I T Y O F L I G H T S

212 MODO MIO

M A X A L F I E R I ' S L AT E S T C U L I N A RY I N S P I R AT I O N

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Contents

238 TH E C L A S S IC G A LLE RY

OUR MOST MEMORABLE JOURNEYS

286

338

346

EM POW E R ING

L' E R M I TA G E

T H E O N E W O R L D WAY

O U R FA M I LY O F TRAILBLAZING WOMEN

WA R M T H O F C A L I F O R N I A N C H A R M I N B E V E R LY H I L L S

E L E VAT I N G YO U R G LO B A L T R AV E L E X P E R I E N C E

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c a t e

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I T ’ S 5 .1 5 A M , J U S T A F T E R W I TC H I N G H O U R - P R A C T I C A L LY THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT - AND MY ALARM IS GOING O F F. I S T R U G G L E TO WA R D S CO N S C I O U S N E S S A S I F I WA S S U R FA C I N G F R O M A G R E AT D E P T H .

low at first, the weight of sleep pressing on me, gradually gaining speed and momentum until I come crashing through the surface, taking great gulps of air and opening my eyes. It’s dark, the edges of the sky are hinting at the impending dawn and a few birds are mumbling a sleepy good morning. I ache all over. There is not one part of me that is not protesting vigorously at the rude awakening; it is screaming at me to roll over, turn off my alarm and sink once more into peaceful, blissful oblivion. “You don’t have to do this,” a treacherous voice whispers in my head. “You have nothing left to prove; you’ve achieved almost everything you ever wanted, and a lot more than you ever imagined,” it croons. It’s the word ‘almost’ which stops me from heeding that quiet tantalising call. I sigh and briefly close my stinging, gritty eyes. Then, just like I have done six days a week for the past 20 years, I push back the covers and, with a muffled groan, place my feet on the floor and get out of bed. I cannot fully articulate why I decided to come back and try to qualify for my fifth Olympic Games. Why, after more than 18,600,000 strokes, 576,000 laps and 28,000 kilometres swum, could I not be satisfied with four Olympic Games, eight Olympic medals - four of them gold - and enjoy a life with dry hair and luscious eyebrows? Why did I decided to go back to the early mornings, the relentless monotony of training and the continual fog of fatigue it brings? Why, after all that I have achieved - less than some, but more than others and a lot more than I ever dreamed – did I not just walk away? There is one reason which gets brought up by journalists every four years when an Olympics rolls around. The one gap in my

trophy cabinet, an accolade I have not yet attained. The highly coveted and, yet for me, seemingly elusive individual Olympic gold medal. It is the pinnacle of my sport, the Mount Everest, the piece de resistance. I have come close a few times, come within a breath of it, almost had it within my grasp. Almost. Trying for one last chance at that Olympic gold medal is the simplistic, obvious answer to my reckless tilt at a fifth Olympics. It is also the wrong one. I have made peace with the fact that I may never become Olympic champion and hear Advance Australia Fair ring out through the stadium. I may never achieve that specific metric of success, but I can forge my own version of victory, create my own Mount Everest to summit. After the Tokyo Olympic Games, I took 18 months away from swimming. For 18 months I did not swim one stroke in a swimming pool, lift a single weight in a gym or do any form of prescribed exercise. For ‘lifer’ athletes like me, often our biggest fear is what will happen to us when we stop our sport. Who will we become? What will we do? What can we do? It is a fear which often keeps athletes trapped in their sport until the resentment they feel towards the demands of training outweighs the fear of retirement. During my time out of the pool, I alleviated that fear. I discovered who I was, what I enjoyed and developed new skills. I travelled around Europe for six months, slept in late, spent time with friends and family and embraced a level of freedom I had never experienced. I caught a glimpse of what life could look like without wet hair, aching muscles and early morning alarms. And I was tempted. I almost said goodbye to the sport I started as a nineyear-old. Almost began the next stage of my life. Almost started forging a new career, with new goals and challenges. Almost.

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B EC AUSE I WANT TO C R E AT E M Y O W N DEFINITION OF SUCCESS AND REMAIN T R U E TO M Y S E L F.

I decided to come back to try and qualify for my fifth Olympic Games because it was the most challenging option available to me. Because training for an Olympic Games is the most demanding, heartbreaking, rewarding, exhausting, exhilarating thing I have ever done. Because I feel like I have a little more juice to squeeze out of myself. Because I don’t believe I have really found my limits. Because I want to create my own definition of success and remain true to myself. I want to leave the sport knowing I have given it everything. But that everything I sacrificed was out of love, not fear. We often remember the first time we do something. The first time we ride a bike,

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arms akimbo, legs pedalling furiously; our first kiss, breathless and clumsy. But we often aren’t aware of the last time we do something. The last time we will visit a certain place or see a loved one. Looking forward towards Paris 2024, I have this deep, profound sense of ‘knowing’. This is the last time I will be preparing for an Olympic Games. If I qualify, it will be the last time I pull on that green and gold tracksuit and represent my country – which has been the greatest honour of my life. This sprinter is approaching the end of her marathon. The finish line is nearing. It’s so close I can almost see it, almost touch it, almost stop. Almost. But not yet.

Travel Within Your Destination with Quest. DAVID MANSFIELD

FOREWORD

It is my privilege to share how Quest Apartment Hotels thinks about the profound impact local experiences have in shaping the world of travel. At our core, we have always believed we represent more than just a place to stay — we are a gateway to a unique guest journey, ambassadors of the locales we represent, and a platform for fostering genuine human connections.

how we engage with our stakeholders. Through our unwavering dedication to ESG, we aim to ensure that each guest stay enriches one’s lived experience and leaves a positive, lasting impact on the world we all share.

In today’s fast-paced world, the allure of travel remains as vibrant as ever, albeit with a subtle shift in perspective. The modern traveller seeks more than just a destination; they yearn for a deeper, more meaningful connection with the places they visit. And this is where “local” takes centre stage.

From this standpoint, we form the basis to open ourselves to the most treasured aspects of travel — wholesome human-to-human connections. When you return home, it’s the pride of the local craftsmanship, the conversations over a shared meal, the stories exchanged by community ambassadors, and the warm welcome of a host simply wanting to share a bit of themselves that stays with you. These connections transcend borders, cultures, and languages, reminding us of our shared humanity and what it feels like to feel welcome, like a local.

Why local, you might ask? Well, it’s because the essence of going local brings us closer to the very nature of a destination. It’s about immersing oneself in the culture, savouring the flavours, and understanding the stories of a place once foreign. It’s the secret to unlocking the true purpose of travel because when we can connect with a place on a local level we can transcend the role of a visitor and become a welcomed member of the places and communities we visit. The best part of it all — locality doesn’t just leave impact on the traveller, it holds wider implications to the world at large. There’s a powerful bond that forms when we consider ourselves part of something local. An undeniable synergy develops between the places we visit and the principles of conservation, stewardship, equality, and responsibility — more commonly called Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG). By engaging with local communities, we are not only developing a sense of connection, appreciation, and respect for the customs and traditions of the local people and their way of life, but we are also contributing to preserving their way of life and economic stability. Through these connections, we discover the true magic of our journeys as guests and the power we as hosts hold to the future of travel. Embracing locality is not merely brand choice at Quest; it’s a commitment to preserving the environments we call home, fostering social inclusivity and accessibility in the communities we encounter, and upholding the highest standards of governance and ethical conduct in

At Quest, we don’t just want you to feel like you stayed with us; we want you to feel like you shared in something bigger, deeper, and more meaningful — we want you to feel like you had a lived experience. We want you to feel like you experienced what it meant to be a part of the wonderful locale — the people, the food, the attractions and the culture. We invite you to be one of us, as local as you like, and explore the hidden gems that make each destination we represent unique. Our team is here not just to serve but to share, not just to accommodate but to connect. In the following pages, you will find a few stories of the individuals who make some of our destinations unique, the artisans who craft its identity, and the traditions that breathe life into its spirit. You will also find inspiration on how to travel with a mindful approach, enriching your journeys with a profound sense of purpose. As you embark on your travels, I implore you to go beyond the destination and seek those moments of connection and purpose. Allow the locale to shape your experience into a transformative journey full of memories, meaningful conversations, and rich cultural exploration. Thank you for choosing Quest as your partner on this journey of exploration, connection, purpose, and shared experiences. I invite you to explore what it means to travel beyond your destination and into the realm of meaning.

ARTICLE

Discovering Local Authenticity with Quest Apartment Hotels. In the world of travel, where the essence of locality takes centre stage, Quest Apartment Hotels shines as a beacon of authenticity and immersion. Let us take you on a brief journey to explore four remarkable Quest locations, each with its unique character and charm, promising an unforgettable stay that transcends the ordinary.

QUEST NORTH SYDNEY: WHERE WORK MEETS ESCAPE

QUEST PRESTON: UNCOVERING HIDDEN LOCAL GEMS

Tucked away in the bustling heart of North Sydney, this Quest property embodies the perfect blend of work and leisure. North Sydney, evergrowing and bustling, is alive with busy corporate activity during the week just steps from Syndey’s most active business districts. But what truly sets Quest North Sydney apart is its proximity to nature. Within moments, you can exchange the hardened concrete streets for a rainforest’s soft, damp soil and recharge your spirit amidst a symphony of wildlife.

Nestled in the heart of Preston, Quest Preston is more than just an accommodation choice; it’s an invitation to explore the hidden treasures of this vibrant neighbourhood. When you enter Preston, you enter a world where the locals know each other by name, where the community thrives, and where the cafes are more than just places to grab a coffee – they’re hubs of conversation and connection.

Clear your head with a refreshing walk on nearby trails and allow the serenity of a rainforest to clear your head — all without leaving the city. Quest North Sydney invites you to surround yourself with the calming influence of nature, providing an escape from the urban hustle and bustle. It’s more than a hotel; it’s a sanctuary where you can find the perfect balance between productivity and relaxation.

What truly sets Preston apart is the sense of community. In this tight-knit neighbourhood, it won’t be long before you’re greeted by name and welcomed like a long-lost friend. Quest Preston encourages you to explore these local gems, engage with the locals, and immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of this community. As you wander through the streets of Preston and discover its hidden gems, you’ll realize that this Quest property is not just a place to stay but a gateway to an enriching, local experience.

QUEST ORANGE: AN ESCAPE TO TABLELANDS TREASURES Nestled in the picturesque Tablelands region of New South Wales, Quest Orange welcomes you to a realm of natural beauty and cultural richness that transcends ordinary travel experiences. Here, every corner unveils a unique surprise, and your journey is guided by the knowledgeable team members of Quest Orange. When visiting Orange, be sure to check in with Indigenous Cultural Adventures to learn a bit of the history of Wiradjuri Country with Gerald Powers. This is a great way to connect to the area’s rich history. If you need a little caffeine to start your day, head over to Groundstone Cafe, where you can’t go wrong with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, all ingredients sourced from local suppliers. And if the hotcakes are on the menu, don’t hesitate.

QUEST BALLARAT STATION: AN UNEXPECTED GEM FOR CONNOISSEURS In the centre of it all, a unique and unexpected gem awaits discerning travellers to Ballarat – Quest Ballarat Station. Beyond the convenience of its location, this property holds a delightful secret that never ceases to surprise and thrill its guests. For those with a taste for the finer things in life, Ballarat Station boasts bespoke wine bars and artisanal gin distillery bars that rival the best in the region. It’s here that the quest for exceptional libations becomes an unforgettable journey. One that has surprised many travellers as they experience the wonders of artisan passions deep in regional Victoria.

For those with an eye for style and aesthetics, Jumbled, a boutique full of fashion, homewares, beauty and art, beckons with its curated collection of unique offerings. It’s not just a store; it’s an immersion into the creative spirit of Orange. One of the region’s crown jewels is its world-class food and wine scene, a delightful playground for culinary enthusiasts. Union Bank stands as the perfect destination for day or night dining. They offer a plethora of shared options, so be sure to bring a friend and your appetite. And the croquettes – another must-order. Any trip to Orange would not be complete without a visit to one of the many wineries that call this region home. Printhie Wine sits atop a hillside and offers the perfect place to wind down the afternoon over a chilled glass of cuvée.

As a guest at Quest Ballarat Station, you’ll not only enjoy the comfort and convenience of your stay but also the excitement of experiencing a local culture distilled by bespoke, artisan creations.

As you wrap up your day, there’s no better place to unwind than on the rooftop of Quest Orange, under a blanket of stars. Here, you can reflect on the day’s adventures, savouring the flavours, experiences, and memories that make Orange and Quest Orange a destination that transcends the ordinary.

Quest Ballarat Station invites you to discover the richness of regional hospitality, where every sip is a surprise and every visit an adventure.

Quest Orange invites you into the soul of the New South Whales Tablelands on an exploration of culture, taste, and natural beauty.

ARTICLE

Quest Apartment Hotels: Purpose-led, Brand Inspired. In the dynamic world of corporate responsibility, where values and purpose translate to actions, Quest Apartment Hotels is committed to looking within and finding relevance in the purpose and inspiration of the very communities it serves. For Quest, commitment goes beyond words and intent; it manifests as tangible, life-changing partnerships and initiatives that leave a lasting impression.

CARING BEYOND THE COMFORT OF STAY

Supporting the ‘You Can Stay’ Program: A Home Away from Home

In the spirit of community support, Quest prides itself on the profound and positive contributions made by our business owners and the broader Quest network, both at the local and national levels. It’s a testament to the fact that we are not merely in the business of accommodation; we are in the business of making a difference.

One of our proudest endeavours is our partnership with the Sony Foundation’s “You Can Stay” program, providing ‘at cost’ accommodation to families facing the challenges of cancer treatment. In the past 12 months, we provided 3,945 room nights at a value of $600,292 AUD across 342 stays.

Our ethos at Quest reflects a purpose-led organization, built by individuals passionate about caring for others. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain steadfast in preserving our core values and staying true to our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ethos, which revolves around giving back to the people, organizations, causes, and communities that support us. Over the past 12 months, Quest has made significant strides through our ESG initiatives to simply do better. Let’s delve into some of our most notable achievements:

Quest for a Cause: Nurturing Brighter Communities Our “Quest for a Cause” program empowers our network of over 120 properties nationwide to collaborate with local charities and community groups, forging stronger and brighter communities. Over the last year, we logged a remarkable 440 Quest for a Cause initiatives, marking a 51% increase from the previous year. This surge in support underscores our commitment to nurturing vibrant and thriving localities.

This partnership is particularly significant as it addresses a critical need—patients living more than 200km from their treatment centres face a 30% reduction in survival rates. Quest’s spacious, well-equipped properties, often located close to major hospitals, substantially reduce logistical, emotional, and financial burdens for families during the challenging months of treatment. Beyond accommodation, our business owners often become friends with repeat ‘You Can Stay’ guests, providing a comforting and supportive environment for recovery.

Inclusivity: Beyond Compliance Quest takes immense pride in being the first multi-site accommodation operator to collaborate with Accessible Accommodation. Recognizing the need to improve accessibility standards, we engaged in a long-term partnership to upskill property teams across the network through inclusion training. This ensures that our accessible rooms exceed basic legislative standards, catering to the actual needs of the accessible community. As a result of this partnership, a significant number of our properties are now listed on

“Our business owners often become friends with repeat ‘You Can Stay’ guests, providing a comforting and supportive environment for recovery”

Accessible Accommodation, a website and resource dedicated to serving the accommodation needs of the accessible community. This commitment reflects our unwavering dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that every guest feels at home, regardless of their mobility.

Supporting Minority Communities: A Call to “Do Better” Quest believes in “doing better” and has undertaken various brand partnerships and initiatives to support minority communities within our traveller community. These initiatives include: • Partnering with Moxie to

provide free-of-charge period care products in every property across our network, ensuring that guests with periods never have a “period horror story” while staying at a Quest. • Collaborating with ACON to

promote LGBTQIA+ diversity, inclusion, and supportive community practices throughout our corporate office and network.

• Supporting the Undercover

documentary film to shed light on the hidden faces of Australia’s homeless epidemic, focusing on females over 50. • Joining forces with Australian

four-time Olympian Cate Campbell to promote women’s empowerment, strength, and female leadership. • Updating our Gender Equality

Policy, which includes 24 weeks of parental leave, 10 days of leave for pregnancy loss support, 6 days for fertility treatment leave, and 6 days for menopause and menstrual leave. Additionally, we developed a podcast series highlighting women in leadership.

Championing a First Nations Voice to Parliament Quest publicly declared its support for a First Nations Voice to Parliament, recognizing and celebrating the First Nations community through Acknowledgement of Country or Welcome to Country at every Quest event. This is a testament to our

commitment to elevating the voices and rights of First Nations people in Australia.

Housing All Australians: Addressing Housing Affordability Quest is a proud sponsor and partner of Housing All Australians (HAA), a not-for-profit organization committed to engaging private sector resources to assist the government in addressing Australia’s housing affordability crisis. Through HAA Founder Robert Pradolin, we sponsored the screening of the Undercover documentary, a film that follows the struggle of Australia’s most at risk population for homelessness — women over 50 years old.

A Purpose Drive Legacy Quest’s journey is a testament to the transformative influence that the accommodation industry can wield, both at the local and national levels. While our corporate office sets the foundation, the true impact is realized through the daily actions of our dedicated Quest business owners.

Each contribution they make signifies a moment of significance, whether it’s supporting charitable causes, adapting rooms for guests with disabilities, extending a compassionate hand to families undergoing challenging cancer treatments, or initiating conversations within their networks about pressing social issues like homelessness and equality. For over three and a half decades, we have steadfastly pursued these endeavours, and the cumulative effect of thousands of such moments has had a profound and farreaching impact within the communities we serve. Quest Apartment Hotels is a shining example of how ESG principles, when embraced wholeheartedly and woven into the fabric of an organization’s culture, can elevate a company beyond the realm of business into the realm of meaningful, purpose-driven action. We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey as we continue to create brighter places to live, work, and stay, one community at a time.

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Y o l a n d a

S a i z

CEO OF THE ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY NSW

E V E RYO N E I N O U R CO M M U N I T Y S H O U L D H AV E ACC E S S TO T H E E S S E N T I A L S T H AT T H E Y N E E D TO L I V E W I T H D I G N I T Y.

ven when things go wrong, people should have a roof over their heads and food on the table, be able to pay their bills and maintain their health. As a community, we have the resources available to ensure that people who are experiencing disadvantage have companionship and support. The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW seeks to offer that support to people who, for whatever reason, are struggling. The power of community shines through in everything the Society does. Our core purpose is to provide care and assistance to people who are doing it tough in our community. We deal with people experiencing poverty and disadvantage, people facing cost-of-living pressures, and people experiencing homelessness. Our model of care is very relational; we’re focused on wanting to make a difference in the lives of the people we assist. I came to work at the Society because it closely aligns with my own personal values. I feel the value of community very deeply. I’m a first-generation Australian; my parents migrated here in 1960 from Spain. Very early on in life, I saw how important it is to have a community around you, particularly if you’re going through something difficult, in tough times or even if you’re just experiencing isolation. My parents certainly were when they arrived – they didn’t speak the language

and didn’t have any family here. They raised four children without family around, so that sense of community was really important to their flourishing and participation in community. I was proud to become CEO of the Society in April this year. I have been in the CEO role for six months but with the Society for over 10 years, working across many parts of the organisation including communications, fundraising, retail and commercial operations. I am energised to lead the organisation as we contribute to the transformation of the lives of those most in need in communities throughout NSW. One of the Society’s strengths is our ability to renew and adapt to our changing world, providing support for those most in need. The people who seek our assistance are now facing more acute and visible forms of hardship and homelessness. I’m really honoured to be leading the Society at this time as we extend our impact and make a difference in hardto-reach and marginalised communities. We’re aspiring to stretch ourselves to be part of a greater solution to a growing community need. We have an opportunity to build new initiatives, models of care and programs to reach these communities. When I ref lect on the difference I want to make to the Society, the value of collaboration, accompaniment and community speak deeply to me. I want to support expanding these values across

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our areas of impact in the community. It is imperative that I always remain authentic and that I’m not doing anything that sits outside my value set. What is really important to me is that the people we assist are at the centre of all the decisions we make. While I grow as a leader and work to expand the organisation’s impact, I think it’s important to never lose sight of the individuals we assist. Every decision I make and all the work that we do has an end purpose of helping people experiencing poverty and disadvantage, and that’s a real privilege. What inspires me is hearing stories of human resilience every day. It is an opportunity to listen and learn. One that has stayed with me is of Laura who we assisted after a lifetime of feeling alone and afraid. Laura’s story is one of transformation.

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JOHN ROCA CHIEF EXECUTIVE, LEXUS AU S T R A L I A , P H I L H A RT E , EN ZO A L E S S I GENER AL MANAGER , SYDNEY CIT Y LEXUS G L E B E & WAT E R L O O A N D A L L A N D A B B A G H G R O U P G E N E R A L M A N A G E R TOYOTA LENDING A HELPING HAND.

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Being in and out of homelessness since she was 10 years of age, Laura often had to choose between a life of violence or being isolated and alone. Going from one temporary solution to the next and often being left on her own to survive, Laura was having to constantly start over again and again. Imagine being 20 and all you’ve ever wanted is to be loved. Homelessness shapes who you are and touches all aspects of your life. After being put in contact with the Society, Laura was offered the hand up she desperately deserved. A permanent roof over her head and someone to provide support was all she needed to feel comfortable and safe. These simple things gave Laura structure and routine, allowing her to concentrate on her studies. Many years down the track, Laura is now employed and has a young family of her own. I believe in people like Laura and the inspiring transformations that can take place when people are empowered by support and generosity from the community. It is a privilege to be part of an organisation that makes such a difference in the lives of people often left at the margins of society.

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J o s e p h i n e

eing a dedicated member of the Vinnies Vans for 17 years as my calling, I have the privilege of bringing a human touch to the lives of those in our community who are facing hardship. My mission is to convey to them that they are cherished, supported and valued, thereby instilling hope in them to confront the challenges of tomorrow. My involvement in working and volunteering for Vinnies enables me to address the needs of those who are at risk or experiencing homelessness. Through my efforts, I endeavour to ensure that individuals are treated with respect and dignity, offering practical solutions and amplifying their voices.

C h a r b e l By tending to the wellbeing of families and individuals within our community, I am presented with the opportunity to listen to their stories, build connections and foster a holistic sense of fulfillment in their minds, bodies and spirits. I am a person of unwavering enthusiasm who consistently endeavours to put my faith into action. I remain committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion and draw motivation from Gospel values. My goal is to prevent worsening situations and cultivate a profound sense of belonging within our community. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 37

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Publisher Phil Harte Sub Editor Nick Nichols Operations Director Steven Fitzroy Creative Direction and Design Martha Clegg: @mac_des1gn Contributing Photographers The Sydney Studio: thesydneystudio.com Dominika Ferenz: dominikaferenz.com Charlie Kershaw Petrina Tinslay Social Media Editor Tayla Harte: tayla_harte@icloud.com Feature Writers Phil Harte, Roger Seamark, Cate Campbell

t’s been three decades since my first Classic was released, and little did I know back in the days of the manic Qantas Global Classic that the ‘Classic’ brand would grow to have a spectacular life of its own. Being a self-proclaimed peripatetic, I have spent the past 30 years travelling, feeding my first edition of 16 pages with copious amounts of images and copy, all to ensure that my end goal was achieved - the Classic legacy. And in 2022, it was awarded Book of the Year. The Classic has now morphed into a 400page market-leading luxury coffee table publication becoming the envy of its competitors, continuing to add multiple pages to its production year-on-year while its ability to extract significant advertising support in a declining market has been extraordinary. The Classic in its third decade will celebrate its favourite global and domestic experiences, including only the best in class, showcasing remarkable destinations, experiences and the ways to fill that much talked about ‘bucket list’. From the famed Orient Express to the world’s leading hotels and cruises to the

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Outback of Australia, and from many memorable degustation menus to racks of lamb in country Wagga Wagga, all the while the Classic has raised millions in muchneeded support of charities and, of late, championing the homeless problems that affect us all. There has been overwhelming celebrity support, including from actress Cate Blanchett, singer-song writer Delta Goodrem and even the lofty heights of politics with Australia’s remarkable former Governor General Dame Quentin Bryce, as well as Olympian Cate Campbell who always continue to support the Classic. Without the ultimate mentor, it would not be as polished a publication as it is thanks to the contributions of media great Sandra Sully, a much-loved friend of the Classic. As part of this year’s edition, I will be including a spectacular Classic Gallery of my favourite shots over 30 years, along with an extended restaurant feature that will be showcasing the history of that high tea favourite, the scone.

-Phil Harte

Thank you Yolanda Saiz and Josie Charbel St Vincent De Paul Society All the staff and residents of Matthew Talbot All the homeless that allowed me to tell their stories and feature their images. You are not forgotten.

Classic Lifestyle Magazine is published by Harte Inter national Consultancy Dubai UAE. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE use due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine but are not responsible for any mistakes, misprints, omissions or typographical errors. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE print advertisements provided to the publisher but give no warranty and make no representation as to the truth, accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE accept no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly, or in part, upon any description, photograph or statement contained herein. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE reserve the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. ©Copyright – no part of Classic Lifestyle Magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher. No spam. Email addresses are published for professional communications only and do not constitute an invitation to send unsolicited emails.

j e a n

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t’s taken me until the last possible moment of my deadline to craft a fitting tribute to the most influential person in my life. As many of you will know, articulating a meaningful and controlled eulogy is arguably the greatest challenge of all. With overwhelming emotion taking over, as you become awash with tears and words fail without warning, you try to pull together the words and the feelings that you have for your mother. Mum arrived in Australia in 1956, a beautiful and excited 22-year-old in search of a new life with her family - mum and dad, two brothers and her life friend and sister Edna. Mum became a cook on a sheep farm in Coonabarabran and some three years later I arrived. From those humble beginnings, she ensured that I would succeed in whatever it was I set out to do.

The belief and discipline that mum instilled in me gave me the foundation to become who I am today. Mum’s love for cooking translated seamlessly to me at age 11 and from there she passed down her ongoing wisdom as well as her love of scones! The simplest of dishes but the most representative of this country. This amazing home cook inspired me to become a chef and the man I am today, hence the several scone tributes throughout this year’s edition. Only those of you who have lost someone so close will understand the loss of someone so dear to them. Mum passed on Thursday February 9 this year in my hands, allowing me to spend the last moments together with the women that gave life to me. Mum, I will always spread the jam first! C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 41

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FINALE I N M Y 3 0 - D AY W H I R L W I N D ‘ F I N A L E ’ , I W O U L D T R AV E L A S U S U A L AT A R E L E N T L E S S PA C E TO V I S I T T H E FAV O U R I T E S .

hecking in at Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport, it would be a 15-hour flight to Doha enjoying the Qatar Airways A350 Q Suite. The real bonus was to take advantage of the Qantas First Lounge, being an Emerald Oneworld member.

As always, my journeys usually commence from the Qantas First Lounge with a ‘salt and pepper’ calamari and my regular shot of Vittoria coffee three hours before my flight departs, giving me time to settle emails, make calls and recheck what is shaping up as a true adventure.

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D O H a

eading out to Doha, I was scheduled to review Qatar’s number-one luxury hotel, the Mandarin Oriental.

On arrival, immigration is seamless with a designated first and business lounge, no waiting, no queues, and out in five minutes of disembarking with a hotel car kerbside. Check-in was straight to the suite, my regular 607 complete with only the best in finishes including a marble spa bath, acres of towels, separate lounge and study, walk-in wardrobes, separate butler’s closet and, of course, a personalised signature selection of chocolates, dates, fruit and a dozen bottles of water. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 47

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Night one was straight to Qatar’s number-one Cantonese, Liang, which translated means beaming light reflected by the moon, for some dumplings and stir-fry. This restaurant is without doubt the best Cantonese in the Middle East with true Cantonese chefs at the helm, and as you slip out from the hotel you cannot miss the hotel’s gelato creamery.

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Day two was taken up with back-to-back meetings. However, there is always time for the pool deck and spa treatment, morning workouts in the Technogym-equipped gym, finishing with my daily steam. Poolside at 48 degrees was your typical Arabian summer. It was the cabanas with complementary fresh juices at the ready and buckets of ice water that saved the day. Being the home of Qatar Airways, Doha is showing off its amazing efforts from hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup with spectacular stadiums and monuments, and now preparing for the many global events programs for 2024-25.

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P O O L S I D E AT 4 8 D E G R E E S WA S YO U R T Y P I C A L A R A B I A N S U M M E R . I T WA S

THE

C A B A N A S W I T H C O M P L E M E N TA R Y F R E S H J U I C E S AT T H E R E A DY A N D B U C K E T S O F I C E W AT E R T H AT S AV E D T H E D AY.

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With the hotel’s traditional English black cab, it was a short drive as I headed out to the airport ready for an eight-movie flight to Los Angeles over 16 hours. I thanked my lucky stars it was with Qatar Airways Qsuites. Qatar, for the most part, has been seen as a transit hub, but how it has stepped up to entice the discerning traveller. Doha is much more than a simple hub with its world-class experiences, kite surfing and exquisite restaurants - not to mention the exceptional accommodation at the Mandarin Oriental. I’m a fan! 54 | C L A S S I C L I F E S T Y L E

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SYDNEY-SYDNEY 30 DAYS -THE FINALE

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MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART, DOHA

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SPECTRA 3.0

LET INNOVATION TAKE YOU FURTHER Expand your horizons and let life take ﬂight: with an ingenious and sustainable design for effortless travel.

FROM THE MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE™ ESTABLISHED 1884

Beverly Wilshire A

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F o u r

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SINCE OPENING IN 1928, OUR LEGENDARY PROPERT Y HA S BEEN THE P R E F E R R E D A D D R E S S F O R C E L E B R I T I E S , R OYA LT Y A N D T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L E L I T E — A N D I T ’ S E A S Y TO S E E W H Y. L O C AT E D AT T H E I N T E R S E C T I O N O F W I L S H I R E B O U L E VA R D A N D R O D E O D R I V E , W E P U T YO U I N T H E E N V I A B L E H E A R T O F B E V E R LY H I L L S , W I T H D E S I G N E R S H O P P I N G , F I N E D I N I N G A N D P O S TC A R D - W O R T H Y V I E W S AT O U R D O O R S T E P.

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ouching down at Los Angeles was, as expected, chaos. One of the world’s busiest airports and freeways that would challenge the calmest of us - six lanes bumper to bumper searching for the Wilshire Boulevard exit. Navigating our way towards the famed Beverly Wilshire, it’s difficult not to reminisce about that famous Hollywood movie Pretty Woman and, as I write, I too am awaiting on a pretty woman, the PR director Kirsten Dunn, looking forward to breakfast overlooking that famed boulevard. Checking in to my king suite, these beautifully appointed suites have all the tech needed with a 70-inch screen, and marble throughout the bathrooms with the finest of towels and linen. But it’s the spectacularly comfy super king-size bed that leaves you never wanting to leave.

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THE PENTHOUSE SUITE IS THE L ARGEST SUITE IN LOS ANGELES S PA N N I N G 5 ,0 0 0 S Q UA R E F E E T.

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Having steamed, showered and changed, it was breakfast time with Chef Dameon’s signature truffled scrambled eggs and, yes, the truffles came from Manjimup in Western Australia.

EXECUTIVE PASTRY CHEF YOON

Over the next few days at the Beverly Wilshire, the experiences, food and the service were world class, as expected, and to make the culinary experience complete I teamed up with Executive Pastry Chef Yoon, a brilliant young Korean patissiere who jumped at the scone challenge and whipped up her signature blueberry triangles with a blueberry coulis and Chantilly crème. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 71

T H E C R Y S TA L C H A N D E L I E R I N T H E W I L S H I R E WING LOB BY IS FROM THE CZECH REPUB LIC AND WEIGHS MORE THAN 720 POUNDS AND IS WORTH OVER $US35,000. M ADE OF SWAROVSKI C R Y S TA L , T H E C H A N D E L I E R I S C O M P R I S E D O F 2 6 6 C R Y S TA L B A L L S , 3 4 0 C R Y S TA L R O D S A N D 9 2 2 C R Y S TA L O C TA G O N S .

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As is mandatory, all the great hotels boast of their extraordinary spa and gym programs and the Beverly Wilshire certainly stepped up with its award-winning spa retreat, coupled with a unique 40-minute LightStim - an infrared light treatment offering remarkable rejuvenating qualities. This would be followed by a 60-minute deep-tissue massage and a soothing 20-minute eucalyptus steam. Over the past 95 years, the Beverly Wilshire has been home to the rich and truly famous with Steve McQueen regularly driving his Triumph through the lobby and taking out residency of the entire 10th floor alongside The King himself, Elvis Presley, creating chaos with a steady stream of women climbing fire stairs, floating balloons to his floor and keeping security on high alert 24/7. Then there was Sophia Loren regularly lounging in the cabanas poolside ensuring that the Beverly Wilshire was the only place to be in Hollywood. As decades pass, we remember Julia Roberts and Richard Gere frequenting the penthouse in Pretty Woman, and Eddie Murphy stuffing bananas into the exhaust pipes in Beverly Hills Cop. The Beverly Wilshire is proudly managed by Four Seasons and coupled with meticulous service standards the hotel could not have a more prestigious address - Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

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FOUNDER & CEO OF GLASSHOUSE FRAGRANCES

NICOLE ECKELS Glasshouse Fragrances was founded in 2005 by Nicole Eckels, a New York firebrand far from home. Having ventured to Sydney in search of adventure, Nicole found the native scents of Australia to be exotic and enchanting. The products that brought them to life? Not so much. So she created Glasshouse Fragrances as much to fill the fragrant void in the market, as the one in her own living space. She started with a focus on candles, and she made the first versions in her kitchen. Curating ingredients, folding them in layers until the notes became a song, she felt moved to places and times and feelings that weren’t in front of her before. She knew then she had unlocked a power she wanted to share with the world. Today, Glasshouse Fragrances is the leading fragrance brand in Australia. Creating a multitude of fine fragrances that take every form, each of which is designed to electrify you through your sense of smell. Nicole still creates each new fragrance, invents new formats and double-checks her products every day. She just keeps odd hours now. Because, after nearly two decades of living down under, she is back in New York City- happy to be home and has proudly introduced the brand to America.

help remind you of home. So when I had finished one of my favourite candles I wanted to find a replacement. Something that would capture the spirit of my new home and old. I went to David Jones (a major department store in Australia) and was looking for the perfect fragrance, and what I found was a selection of fragrances that were either super expensive and out of my budget, or incredibly cheap and of a terrible quality. It sparked an idea, to create a candle that offered the best possible fragrance without the huge price tag. It seems so obvious now, but at the time I had people telling me no one would ever buy a candle like this. What makes Glasshouse Fragrances so unique? Our triple scented fragrances is what I believe sets us apart from the other candles in the category. It was my goal when creating the brand that people would immediately know if the fragrance, they were smelling was from Glasshouse Fragrances. What should people think about when choosing fragrances for themselves and their homes?

Can you share a little back story about what inspired you to start Glasshouse Fragrances?

My biggest piece of advice is to not feel like you can only have one fragrance in your home. Just like you have a personal fragrance wardrobe, you can have a home fragrance wardrobe based on the mood of different rooms. And of course, there is nothing wrong with having multiple fragrances for when guests are over, depending on the time and the mood of the event.

It was over 18 years ago now….I had recently relocated to Sydney from New York with my young son. Moving across the other side of the world can be a daunting task, and fragrance can

Discover the transportive power of fragrance at glasshousefragrances.com

We sat down with Nicole in her New York office to hear more about how the now international fragrance brand was born.

TIMES SQAURE, NEW YORK CITY

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The

Very Heart OF IT N E W

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Y O R K

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n early start was the only way to beat that LA traffic, so I opted for the 7am American Airline’s flight to JFK, New York.

What made things so easy was that Oneworld experience. Having a businessclass ticket, I was able to get that firstclass treatment as I held Emerald status with BA, so I pulled up kerbside and the American Airlines Flagship red carpet was rolled out, breezed through check-in and straight up to the First Class Lounge for breakfast. On board it was flat beds, duvets and blankets all the way with a fresh brewed coffee and home-made oatmeal cookies at 39,000 feet.

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HOBOKEN TERMINAL, NEW JERSEY

T H E C O M P L I M E N TA R Y F I R S T- C L A S S D I N I N G E X P E R I E N C E I S AVA I L A B L E INSIDE SELECT FL AGSHIP ® LOUNGES IT INCLUDES DELICIOUS MENUS AND DRINKS FROM L O C A L C H E F S AT E A C H L O C AT I O N .

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Landing in New York City is a completely different but unique experience; it’s like you have reached the top of the travel tree. It is a town steeped in history, plagued with misery, the ultimate target for the dramatic, be it a terrorist act, a movie director, a fashion range, or a ball dropping into the famed Times Square on New Year’s Eve.

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New York City is where you put on your ‘big boy pants’ and head out to Broadway, the Empire State, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Centre and you will no doubt run into a movie set in the making or a game or concert at Madison Square Garden. This town never sleeps. Being one of the most expensive cities in the world, New York will eat you up if you come in unprepared, so as I land I feel good that I’ve got my plan in place. Landing at JFK airport and looking out over Manhattan and Central Park, it will be the Mandarin Oriental NY that I will call home for the next three nights. Located at arguably the most prestigious location in New York, the MO sits perched on Columbus Circle with 246 magnificent suites boasting only the most sophisticated of finishes and furnishings. As I write, I’m enjoying the beauty of the iconic Central Park in all its glory.

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L O C AT E D AT A R G U A B LY THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS L O C AT I O N I N N E W YO R K , T H E M O SITS PERCHED ON COLUMBUS CIRCLE W I T H 24 6 M AG N I FI CEN T SUITES BOA STING O N LY T H E M O S T S O P H I S T I C AT E D OF FINISHES AND FURNISHINGS.

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ÕRA KING SALMON, ASPARAGUS, SEASONAL VEGETABLES, CHARRED ONION BROTH MANDARIN ORANGE TEA MOUSSE, FRESH MANDARIN, GINGER CHOCOLATE STREUSEL

With only three nights, I was spoilt by Executive Chef Toni Robertson and her crack team savouring Toni’s signature Burmese crab curry and a perfectly cooked New York-cut sirloin with a trio of amazing desserts just to remind me I was in the Big Apple.

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ASIAN COCONUT SOUP PEEKYTOE CRAB, CRISPY NOODLES, CILANTRO AND THE LOBSTER ROLL: LOBSTER, CELERY, FINES HERBES, YUZU

My highlight was the collaboration with Toni as I challenged her and the team to join my scone feature and to create a hero to include in their traditional high tea - and it was to be an apple, champagne and gold-leaf scone with an apple butter cream. Our final day was spent at the hands of their award-winning spa team with a final workout, deep-tissue massage and steam, all in readiness for our adventure on the new Viking Neptune setting sail for Greenland, then onto Iceland.

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Premium, elevated The American Airlines Flagship® experience is one tailored to you. With an expansive lounge, chef-inspired dining, fully lie-flat with direct-aisle access seats, priority privileges and personalized service, we’re elevating your premium experience on the ground and in the air.

AS WE BOARDED THE MAGNIFICENT VIKING NEPTUNE DOCKED IN PIER 90 AT THE MANHATTAN CRUISE TERMINAL I COULDN’T WAIT FOR THAT SIGNATURE DEPARTURE, ALLOWING ME TO CAPTURE MY FINAL HERO IMAGE OF LIBERTY AND THE MAGICAL NY SKYLINE AS WE MADE OUR WAY OUT OF NEW YORK HARBOUR.

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n e w

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ICE & SNOW

I T ’ S TA K E N M E A L I F E T I M E O F T R AV E L TO F I N A L LY R E A C H T H E A R C T I C A N D , THAN K S TO TH E VI KI NG N EPTU N E, I A M SIT TI NG ON TH E AF T DECK PEN N I NG W H AT I S U N F O L D I N G A S A L I F E - C H A N G I N G M O M E N T.

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ith three stops in Greenland and five stops in Iceland, I would experience the magnificence of nature with not only a plethora of glaciers and massive icebergs, but also meet locals who call minus-25 degrees home and where fishing daily to stock the freezers with whale meat, salmon and monk fish becomes standard shopping. A life in Greenland isn’t for the faint-hearted with the harshest of climates being the norm. But what had become blatantly clear was the effects of climate change and the undeniable scarring from its wrath, with dramatically receding glaciers and waterfalls once streaming now all but dried up. Maybe someone needs to drag the politicians up for a closer look.

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From New York Harbour we would navigate the eastern seaboard north to Canada, with the temperature dropping by the hour. Our route would take us to Halifax and Newfoundland in Canada before sailing the Labrador Sea directly into Paamiut in Greenland, then onto Qaqortoq and through to Prince Christian Sound. Sailing the sound was where all the magic happened with a landscape filled with mountainous icebergs, whales, glaciers and storybook-like fishing villages all lining the foreshore as we made our way to the Atlantic Ocean for a two-day crossing to Iceland. The Viking cruise ships are quite unique from competitors with a ‘no kids’ policy. You get a real sense of calm and the overall theme of a Nordic wellness culture gets you in the right frame of mind to relax and take advantage of the mythical Viking culture.

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Rooms on the Viking Neptune have been designed by worldrenowned hotel designer Richard Riveire of Los Angeles and certainly reflects a five-star feel throughout the ship, not only in the suites but also throughout the lounge and restaurants. With generous suites boasting queen-size beds, lounge and desk area with an open balcony and a very spacious bathroom, all meticulously appointed with stone and timber finishes, this is as good as a five-star hotel executive suite. Food on board has been carefully curated with The Chef ’s Table, the signature Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, the Pool Grill, the World Cafe and The Restaurant, you are truly spoilt for choice.

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As the Neptune arrives at select ports, the chef and his team head to the local markets to top up on freshly caught seafood and produce allowing the menus to change daily. The trick to dining on board is to set up a very disciplined strategy. If not, you will need a regular visit to their spectacular Technogym, LivNordic Spa and their even more impressive steam and ice room. The Nordic experience allows for a one-hour bathing ritual per day, after my one-hour gym session, finishing with a final soak in the Arctic plunge pool that is not for the faint-hearted.

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It has been a long-awaited trip for me to the Arctic region, dropping into Greenland then spending a day cruising the Atlantic, finally reaching Iceland with five stops as we circled this totally volcanic mass renowned for its frequent seismic eruptions. As we navigated the coastline and its many fjords, the grandeur of the glaciers and the splendour of the mountainous icebergs meandering down the icy rivers on the journey to the Arctic Ocean were quite awesome to see up close and personal.

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Waking at 6am each morning was like opening a new chapter to a storybook, not knowing what was to be seen from my window. I would simply reserve a table on the aft deck, camera at the ready, enjoying a basket of croissants waiting for whatever nature would throw my way - sleepy fishing villages, a herd of minke whales or any one of the hundreds of waterfalls that Iceland is famous for.

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FLORIDA COUPLE, ALAN AND JOYCE

Day 13 gave us the unique opportunity to spend an hour soaking in a geothermal natural spring sitting atop a 10,000-year-old extinct volcano. As we made our way back to the Viking Neptune, we stopped by the magnificent Gullfoss Falls, willing us down to the riverbed snapping away in a frenzy trying to execute that final hero image. This 15-day adventure opened with the hero departure from New York Harbour and that magnificent vista of the Big Apple’s skyline and a final wave from Liberty herself leaving you with the thrill of anticipation, waiting to see what unfolds as we make our way north to the edge of the Arctic circle. Finally docking at Reykjavik, our last night was catching up with Joyce and Alan, a beautiful couple from Florida who in their retirement years are already planning their next adventure.

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WHAT IMAGE DO YOU WANT

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T ME TO REPLACE THIS WITH?

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THE MUSÉE DU LOUVRE CONTAINS MORE THAN 380,000 OBJECTS AND DISPLAYS 35,000 WORKS OF ART IN EIGHT CURATORIAL DEPARTMENTS WITH MORE THAN 60,600 SQUARE METRES DEDICATED TO THE PERMANENT COLLECTION. THE LOUVRE EXHIBITS SCULPTURES, OBJETS D'ART, PAINTINGS, DRAWINGS, AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS. AT ANY GIVEN POINT IN TIME, APPROXIMATELY 38,000 OBJECTS FROM PREHISTORY TO THE 21ST CENTURY ARE BEING EXHIBITED. WITH OVER 7.8 MILLION VISITORS IN 2022, THE LOUVRE IS THE WORLD'S MOST-VISITED MUSEUM.

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p a r i s

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CHRIS HARMAT PARKOUR ATHLETE

JOURNEY 1884

NATURALLY ATHLETIC, AUTOMATICALLY AESTHETIC For life in the urban jungle, an automatic timepiece that brings style and accuracy to all encounters. Make every second count. FROM THE MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE™ ESTABLISHED 1884

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LA TOUR p a r i s

T H E R E I S N O D O U B T T H AT W H O E V E R YO U A S K , PA R I S W I L L A L W AY S C O M E U P A S A TO P - F I V E D E S T I N AT I O N .

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H y a t t

P a r i s

M a d e l e i n e

anding at Charles de Gaulle Airport, I had an hour to think about past visits to the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and a day at the French Open before shooting a sunrise under the Eiffel Tower sipping an espresso on the river Seine.

This visit has us enjoying the boutique Hyatt Paris Madeleine and the Hyatt Hotel du Louvre. The Madeleine is a quaint 200-room, five-star property with all the history and style that is Paris and, as the name suggests, my favourite madeleines accompany each coffee, fresh from the oven, and they are magnificent. Our suite was beautifully appointed with a king-size bed, steeped in pillows and cushions and huge duvets, with a champagne bucket of Moët and a jar of homemade nougat and madeleines. With the afternoon sun beaming in through the ornate windows, the room took on a real storybook appeal as I looked over the sandstone and leadlined rooftops scoping out just what was to be my next Paris adventure.

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Relaxing in the lobby lounge, you can’t help but admire the magnificent skylight that is the talking point of the hotel with the iron framework suspended some five meters above. In fact, these are leftover pieces from the Eiffel Tower, a gift from Gustave Eiffel himself. Having a single restaurant, the Madeleine manages to create three very different eating experiences with the smell of freshly made croissants and coffee from 7am to a truffled linguine and a steak tartare at lunch and then to a sophisticated aroma of lavender as the candles flicker and the bottles of red wine are corked and the cocktails are shaken in the evening. The fragrances waft across the loungeroom for the eager dinners, all while the garlic-infused escargot Bourguignon hide in their shells and the chateaubriand is meticulously carved table-side with lashings of sauce bearnaise.

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LOVE LOCKS , RIVER SEINE, PARIS

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A R R I V I N G AT L E G E O R G E , CH EF SIMON E WA S FRONT AND CENTRE JUST AS I HAD REMEMBERED HIM - A TRUE C U L I N A R Y R O C K S TA R , I N AL L B L ACK AN D PU M PED TO O P E N H I S S I G N AT U R E E AT E R Y, L E G EORG E, FOR ANOTH ER C L A S S I C A L D AY.

Having worked out, the clock strikes 7am and I secured a bike ready to beat the morning workforce and head down to the river Siene in readiness for the cafes to unleash the world’s most reviewed pastry, the French croissant. It’s nearly worth the price of an airfare. As the day rolls by and the throngs of tourists and pedestrians grow exponentially, I make my way to my favourite restaurant in Paris. This being my 25th trip to the city of love, it’s hard for me not to have a soft spot for its restaurants and gastronomic history. Being brought up in a French kitchen, it tends to draw me back

whenever the opportunity arises and this trip has me reuniting with master chef Simone Zanoni at George V Hotel and his famed Michelin-star gem, Le George. Some five years earlier, I spent the day in his private vegetable garden at Versailles and then in his kitchen tasting several spectacular dishes on what has to be regarded as one of the world’s most celebrated eateries. Arriving at Le George, Chef Simone was front and centre just as I had remembered him - a true culinary rock star, in all black and pumped to open his signature eatery, Le George, for another classical day.

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Being a very proud Italian, Chef Simone is the pride of Paris as he continues to not only create spectacular dishes but Simone’s vision is truly groundbreaking as his new and innovative Versailles gardens kitchen leads the way for sustainable dining with a restaurant and kitchen with no electricity, town water, gas or traditional services. Everything is totally sympathetic to the environment, even with guests picking their own vegetables directly from the gardens and preparing them for the dinner table themselves and, of course, under the guidance of the star of the show himself, Chef Simone.

LE GEORGE CHEF, SIMONE ZANONI

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W E A R R I V E D AT T H E S E AMAZING GARDENS T H AT W O U L D Y I E L D A P R I VAT E V E G G I E PATC H O F P OTATO E S , G O U J O N S , 10 VA R I E T I E S O F B A S I L , S AG E , R O S E M A RY, T H Y M E , S W E E T P OTATO , AND SEVEN TYPES OF TO M ATO E S

CHEF’S CARBONARA TORTELLINI BLUE LOBSTER SALAD, TOMATOES, TRUFFLE SAUCE DRESSING. CHESTNUT MONTE BIANCO, YOGURT ICE CREAM, BLACKCURRANT

Over my three decades on the road experiencing any and everything worth reviewing, Le George is the culinary benchmark that keeps me coming back, inspiring me to appreciate just why I became a chef some 50 years ago. Today’s wonder spread was to be an amuse-bouche, a trio of gardenpicked tomatoes and cucumber in a spectacular vinaigrette, an entree of blue lobster salad, tomatoes and truffle sauce dressing, O’Sole Mio tomatoes, parmesan cream and horseradish, then a chef ’s carbonara tortellini and an octopus caramelle with red wine sauce. As dessert-time approached, it was a simple but deliciously light chestnut Monte Bianco, yoghurt ice-cream and blackcurrant. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 133

My final challenge for the great Chef Simone was to join my scone pilgrimage and deliver his take on the traditional scone. Never one to disappoint, it was as if he would wield his magic wand and, ‘voila’, scones carbonara with shaved pecorino cheese, diced pancetta, fresh organic eggs, crushed pepper and a carbonara sauce to complement this generous contribution to my international scone menu.

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LE GEORGE PASTRY CHEF DANIEL AND PHIL HARTE

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O U R F O U R N I G H T S I N ‘ G AY PA R I S ’ W E N T B Y I N A C U L I N A R Y M I N U T E W I T H M E M O R I E S F L O O D I N G B ACK FRO M T H E M A N Y V I SI TS OV ER T H E PA S T 30 Y E A R S . T H I S T R A D I T I O N A L H O M E O F FR EN CH CU L I NARY ARTS , FROM TH E ‘ KI NG OF CH EFS , CH EF O F KI NG S’ AUG US TE E SCO FFI ER TO TH E ‘CH EF O F T H E C E N T U R Y ’ PA U L B O C U S E A N D TO D AY ’ S M A S T E R C H E F S I M O N E Z A N O N I , I W A S I N M Y E L E M E N T H O P I N G T H AT T H E S E H E R O E S O F T H E K I TC H E N W O U L D L I V E O N !

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H O T E

D U

L O U V R E Staying a few nights in Paris never gets old as the official 'city of lights' just keeps on giving - and Hotel De Louvre was no exception. Ideally located between the Louvre and the Opéra Garnier, Hôtel du Louvre allowed me to discover the City of Lights like a true Parisian. My address, steeped in history, encourages the art of rambling for what was to be a memorable stay. Spacious and bathed in sunlight, the rooms and suites at Hôtel du Louvre are a real haven overlooking the Louvre Museum, the Comédie Française and the Opéra Garnier, which light up as if by magic at nightfall.

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My incredible 50sqm (540 square foot) suite, having just enjoyed a complete refurbishment, featured a cosy bedroom, a living room and a bathroom with a tub and shower along with amazing soft furnishings, an abundance of pillows, duvets, huge towels and a plate of freshly baked madeleines and a traditional bottle of Moët. My daily ritual in the gym had me perched over the entrance to the Louvre, gazing at the thousands of tourists lined up to tick off their bucket-list gallery.

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SALMON TARTAR SERVED WITH GRANNY SMITH APPLES, CUCUMBER, LEMON AND FRESH HERBS, ARUGULA SALAD AND FRENCH FRIES BELLE-MEUNIÈRE SOLE WITH FINE BUTTER, PREPARED AT YOUR TABLE, PARSLEY STEAMED POTATOES.

Waking to an early morning downpour, I swooped on the chance to shoot this magnificent hotel from the intersection on sunrise with no traffic. So, as I sat at the intersection, the sun rose and the rain subsided, leaving the hero image required. As 6am came around, the smell of fresh croissants came wafting from the classic Paul Bocuse Brasserie, the Hôtel du Louvre’s signature eatery. So, from the street to restaurant I spent the next hour pinching myself, realising just how lucky I was.

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GRAND MARNIER SUZETTE CREPES

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THE RACKS - DOM PÉRIGNON

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A S I W R I T E TO YO U , I A M B A R R E L L I N G A C R O S S F R A N C E I N M Y F I R S T E U R O S TA R H E A D I N G F O R C A L A I S A N D T H E T U N N E L C R O S S I N G TO K I N G S C R O S S S T PA N C R A S T U B E S TAT I O N , A S H O R T C A B R I D E TO T H E Q U A I N T A N D U N A S S U M I N G M O N TA N A H OT E L AT G L O U C E S T E R ROAD I N KENSI NGTON .

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can’t count the number of trips I have had to London and over decades I have fallen in love with this quaint boutique hotel, a mere stroll from the High Street, Harrods and Buckingham Palace. With the tube across the road and my favourite cafe Paul’s next door, I call the Montana home when I’m in London.

Arriving at Heathrow you can jump onto the Heathrow Express, 15 minutes to Paddington and then a short black cab ride to a big English breakfast.

Over the past 15 years of travelling through the UK I have reviewed over 50 hotels and resorts along with the odd B&B, but when I’m not on the review trail and need a little peace and normality, I always head to Kensington and the Montana Hotel.

With only 50-something rooms, you never feel like it’s busy. There’s always a smiling face at the front desk, a sneaky lobby bar for a pre-dinner drink and a world-class Indian restaurant, Light of India, with some of the best Indian food in London.

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The Montana Hotel is one of those boutique hotels that makes you feel at home - minimal frills but with loads of character and goodwill.

W I T H O N LY 50-SOMETHING ROOMS, YO U N E V ER FEEL L I K E IT ’ S B U S Y. T H E R E ’ S A L W AY S A S M I L I N G FA C E AT T H E FRONT DESK, A SNEAKY LOB BY BAR FOR A PREDINNER DRINK AND A WORLD-CLASS INDIAN R E S TA U R A N T, L I G H T O F INDIA, WITH SOME OF THE BEST INDIAN FOOD IN LONDON .

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Run by owners Raj and his family, I hang out for a prawn masala, fresh garlic naans and saffron rice whenever I’m in town.

seasonings, in-house freshly ground spices, marinades, and complex tastes.

Montana Hotel London is the perfect blend of Victorian architecture, traditional English ambience and contemporary touches in one of the world’s most exclusive and fashionable neighbourhoods.

From the elegant shopping neighbourhoods of Kensington to the bustling West End, the expansive parks and romantic waterways, the capital is brimming with diversity that offers a new experience with each visit.

Montana Hotel London makes you feel at home, providing you an efficient four-star service and an exceptional travel experience.

So here is the travel tip. Go to www.Montanahotel.co.uk and book directly. Ask for Raj and tell them I said breakfast is included; it’s one of my all-time favourites.

The key to selecting a hotel in London is all about location and the Montana is three minutes from the High Street, a sevenminute walk to Harrods, across the road from the tube, post office and laundromat, and the Royal Albert Hall is minutes around the corner. As is well known, the best Indian food anywhere is in London and the UK ‘s number one food is a curry. I can confirm that the Light of India is world class. The Light of India restaurant is an elegant Indian restaurant established in 1984. Their culinary philosophy is deceptively simple, celebrating the very best of Indian food. Their cuisine is an extraordinary combination of flavours, delicate

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Today I’ll be meeting with up-and-coming photographer Charlie Kershaw whom I have invited to contribute a hero image in this edition and have him take me on a walk to his favourite locations. Charlie is 17 and studying photography and film, so this is a big deal being his first showcase in a publication. Throughout London you will come across a plethora of traditional hotels that are steeped in history, none more so than the Mandarin Oriental at Knightsbridge, opposite the famed Harrods department store. Apart from having the late Queen Elizabeth learn how to dance and Mahatma Gandhi arrive with his herd of goats, this remarkably restored heritage building is the true benchmark in five-star luxury accommodation.

Classic English Teapot For use with the Price & Kensington® stainless steel filter.

Non-drip spout for easy pouring.

Can be used without the filter. Handle designed for comfortable grip.

THE PALACE OF WESTMINSTER SERVES AS THE MEETING PLACE FOR BOTH THE HOUSE OF COMMONS AND THE HOUSE OF LORDS, THE TWO HOUSES OF THE PARLIAMENT OF THE UNITED KINGDOM. INFORMALLY KNOWN AS THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT, THE PALACE LIES ON THE NORTH BANK OF THE RIVER THAMES IN THE CITY OF WESTMINSTER, IN CENTRAL LONDON.

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L O N D O N

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BLACK a n d

w h i t e

WORDS: CHARLIE KERSHAW

’ve always been creative. My love for art stems back to my earliest years, where I began with traditional practices such as drawing, painting, and sculpting, to name a few. Nowadays, I have moved on from tradition and find that my interests align with that of the new age, digital art forms, photography included. My journey with photography began in 2020 when I needed a camera for my GCSE media projects. My phone wasn’t cutting it anymore, the Sony a6000 seemed like a good step up, and for some time it was. While videography was my intended focus for the a6000, I found myself more drawn to image creation as a whole and started bringing the camera with me everywhere. Around this time, I grew tired of the more traditional art forms and thought I’d try something new. I’ve always been in awe of the level of beauty that great photographers can draw out with a camera. Since owning an actual camera, as opposed to a phone, I’ve learnt more about and improved this newfound passion to a point where I can comfortably say I’m producing some decent shots, although I still have some ways to go. Fortunately, my school offers photography as an A-level option, an opportunity that I was eager to take up, even though by then I believe I had already taught myself most of the course through online resources. Since the beginning of this academic year, I’ve been able to thrive and improve my abilities at a rate far quicker than before. By mid-December, I funded a new camera body by working my Saturday job. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 159

The a6000 is an incredible piece of kit for the price. However, if I was going to take both photo and video seriously, the a7IV was the way to go. The a6000 was a perfect learning curve. This new machine allows me to put my skills to the test with almost zero limitations. I wouldn’t say that I’m defined by any genre of photography. If I had to pick a preferred style or genre, I would say that staged and composed imagery appeals to me the most, anything where I have full creative control. However, during my most recent half-term break, I was able to hang out with the Classic lifestyle publisher Phil Harte and photographer Danielle Harte and create a personal body of work in my own back yard, the streets of London where I abandoned preference and

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enjoyed taking as many photos as I could fit into my SD cards (twice over). In terms of photography, London exploded my passion and opened my mind to new ideas and concepts I’m now desperate to try - a fresh outlook on the art. I’m not sure what the future holds for me. While I love photography, I feel that my calling is in filmmaking, similar to photography in many senses but truly worlds apart. Whilst I don’t see one as better than the other, I personally feel as though the stories that I want to tell would generally fit better with video. However, that’s not to say I won’t tell stories through photography. I intend on putting out many pieces utilising both art forms.

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HOME o r i e n t a l

rriving at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 has now become even better with the smart gate option for several countries Australia being one. It took five minutes once I was off the plane. No queues. No paperwork. Danielle and I arrived back in London with a little excitement knowing that our next three nights would be not only staying at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, but reviewing for the first time the Heston Blumenthal eatery and relaxing in the MO Spa, one of the industry benchmarks for wellness. Located between glorious Royal Parkland and the buzz of central Knightsbridge, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is reimagined and reinvented, offering the essence of timeless heritage coupled with

contemporary flair and impeccable service. The MO is something quite special. When we arrived at 66 Knightsbridge, the doormen were on queue. We entered the lobby to the amazing scent of lavender seducing us. We checked in, and then found morning tea was awaiting us in the rose garden. Perfect timing, because as we were seated the King’s Guard was enroute to Buckingham Palace setting a scene for what was to come. Knowing it was arguably London’s busiest month, we were fortunate to even score a room, and score we did. Our concierge escorted us to room 220 - and it was like winning the lottery as the brass plaque on the door read Presidential Suite. When the double doors opened as if in slow motion, I heard a gasp from Danielle.

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M O H A S C E R TA I N LY D O N E T H AT, R E TA I N I N G I T S R E M A R K A B L E H E R I TA G E WHILST SHOWCASING ITS A M A Z I N G S O P H I S T I C AT I O N , S Y M PAT H E T I C TO T H E C L A S SI C A L PA S T A N D S T Y L E RECOGNISING THE NEED FOR CUT TING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY T H R O U G H O U T.

There are very few rooms that stun the senses; the masterful transition of the MO has certainly done that, retaining its remarkable heritage whilst showcasing its amazing sophistication, sympathetic to the classical past and style, and recognising the need for cutting-edge technology throughout. We took a stroll through the hotel and came upon a Hall of Fame, so to speak, that allowed me to be taken back some 100 years, imagining seeing Queen Elizabeth learning to dance in the Grand Ballroom. With three outstanding restaurants, two Michelin stars, and one magnificent cocktail bar, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is undeniably one of the city’s finest culinary destinations.

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W I T H D É C O R I N S P I R E D B Y H Y D E PA R K , T H E S E S U I T E S F E AT U R E B E S P O K E F R O M E N TA L WA L L PA P ER , H A N D - G I L D ED M I R RO R A RT WO R K A N D C U S TO M - D E SI G N ED F U R N I SH I N G S I N C L U D I N G L E AT H E R -T O P P E D D E S K S A N D A N ‘A C O R N S ’ C H A N D E L I E R .

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C L A S S I C T R AV E L L E R | LO N D O N

The suites are named after historical figures with botanical links to Hyde Park. Each suite offers a large bedroom with generous wardrobe space with a seating area, and an adjoining salon. With décor inspired by Hyde Park, these suites feature bespoke Fromental wallpaper, hand-gilded mirror artwork and customdesigned furnishings including leather-topped desks and an ‘acorns’ chandelier. Ceilings display gloss-painted carriage paths on the ceiling. Some salons have a fireplace or a balcony, whilst all have a full-height library curated by Heywood Hill. Marble bathrooms feature a stone frieze and a freestanding oval bath.

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WITH THREE O U T S TA N D I N G R E S TA U R A N T S , T W O M I C H E L I N S TA R S , A N D ONE MAGNIFICENT C O C K TA I L B A R , T H E M A N D A R I N O R I E N TA L H Y D E PA R K , LO N D O N I S U N D E N I A B LY ONE OF THE CITY’S FINEST CULINARY D E S T I N AT I O N S .

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During our stay we will discover the many skills of celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal. Breakfast each morning was storybook-like - a garden table overlooking Hyde Park with a regular morning parade of the King’s Guard heading down on horseback to Buckingham Palace. The breakfast garden was the original entrance to the Mandarin Oriental but now has become a hidden gem. After breakfast our day collided with an afternoon of wellness, health and fitness at an oasis of calm at the extensively restored and enlarged Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London. This was a place to enjoy peace and serenity and to restore mind, body and soul, all of which were much needed. Situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, The Spa offered a diverse

range of treatments from traditional Chinese medicine, Bastien Gonzalez’s renowned manicures and pedicures and anti-ageing Nescens facials. Alongside the 13 luxurious treatment rooms, we found the Oriental Suite, featuring two massage beds and a Rasul water temple – its health-enhancing heat, steam and mud were the ultimate in conditioning treatments. We were looking forward to the couple’s treatment. In their custom-designed Pilates PT studio, the MO offered results-led training programs devised by award-winning trainer, Hollie Grant. Arriving 45 minutes before our appointment, we took full advantage of the steam and completed 20 minutes of stretching, giving us a head start on the 90-minute deep-tissue rub to follow. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 171

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TH E DE SSERT WA S WITHOUT DOU BT THIS YE AR ’ S FAV O U R I T E , A N D I W R OT E T H I S I N J U LY ! T H E TIPSY CAKE WITH ROA STED PINEAPPLE - DOESN ’ T S O U N D F L A S H B U T L E T M E S AY T H AT I T W A S WORTH TH E TRI P TO LON DON .

HESTON BLUMENTHAL

Dinner that night was at the famed eatery Dinner By Heston Blumenthal. I must admit I’m not a fan of Heston’s portrayal of a culinary experience. I am a little more classical in my expectations and a lot less of the theatrical. However, that said, the chef completely turned me around with a sublime four-course master class because I left the menu choice up to him. Entrees were magnificent; what appeared to be mandarin, was in fact a spectacular pate maison in disguise. Mains were roasted sea bass with braised chicory, parsley, pepper, onion and eucalyptus supported by an Iberico pork chop with peas, pudding, blood pudding, pickled onions and mint oil. The dessert was without doubt this year’s favourite, and I wrote this in July! The tipsy cake with roasted pineapple - doesn’t sound flash but let me say that it was worth the trip to London. After baking the brioches for 15 minutes, the heavily alcoholic blend of sugar, sauternes, vanilla and brandy with cream is added to give the ‘tipsy’ element. It was good stuff that tasted like brandy cream we have on Christmas pudding - exceptional. And as if that wasn’t enough, when I thought I had escaped the liquid nitro show, a 25-yearold kid appears insisting on impressing us with an ice-cream cone full of homemade a la minute gelato at the table - and what a fabulous job he did, sending the restaurant into a frenzy. It was the finale I hoped wouldn’t happen, but was so glad it did. Dinner at Heston Blumenthal’s boasts 150 staff in a restaurant that seats 140. It must be one of the go-to restaurant experiences when next in London. Then it was time to head across the Channel, for 48 hours in the city of love. Before we left, Danielle and I had our final gym session and steam, then we packed and enjoyed a final morning in the tea garden, breakfasting in anticipation of the King’s Guard on horseback.

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WESTMINSTER BRIDGE, LONDON

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rriving at 5.30pm in Doha, I enjoyed an early breakfast at the award-winning Qatar Airways lounge checking in for a shower and a change of clothes ready for the Dubai connection. The Park Hyatt Dubai located at the Dubai Creek Resort has been my favourite hotel in the UAE and it was three nights of Thai Kitchen and amazing seafood at The Boardwalk café, all this while enjoying the award-winning Amara Spa and a few days by the tranquillity pool, not forgetting an early morning nine holes of golf.

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What makes this the ultimate resort of choice is that golf clubs and shoes are ready and waiting at the first tee. There’s no bringing your own from home, and the clubhouse has a separate gym and spa, along with a fabulous restaurant overlooking the Dubai Creek.

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I M M ER SE YO U R SEL F I N T H E B U D D I N G S T R EE TS O F T H A I L A N D, T H RO U G H T H E SI G H TS AND AROMAS OF A FIRED WOK, STEAMING BAMBOO BASKETS, AND STREET GRILLING, F O R T H E M O S T A U T H E N T I C T H A I E X P E R I E N C E AT T H E AWA R D - W I N N I N G T H A I R E S TA U R A N T T H E T H A I K I TC H E N .

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L I V I N G I N Q U E E N S L A N D , W E H AV E B E E N S P O I LT F O R C H O I C E W I T H S O M E O F T H E MOS T REM ARK AB L E B E ACH E S I N TH E WO RL D, AL L E TCH ED WITH B RI L L IANT WH ITE S A N D A N D T U R Q U O I S E WAT E R , S O C L E A R YO U C A N ’ T B E L I E V E I T ’ S R E A L . I T I S A U S T R A L I A’ S C O N T R I B U T I O N TO A W O R L D P E P P E R E D W I T H L U X U R Y D E S T I N AT I O N S .

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ualia is an outstanding example of bespoke design, situated on the secluded northernmost tip of Hamilton Island and surrounded by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, where time simply stands still.

Typically Queensland, with its sun-drenched beaches, it provides an idyllic location to simply soak up each day’s beauty and immerse yourself in a plethora of spectacular experiences qualia throws at you. The choices are endless. There are 60 private individual pavilions, many of which have a plunge pool and natural touches such as outdoor showers. Guests may indulge and unwind at the spectacular spa retreat with only the most authentic Australian spa experiences. With two serene pools, a fitness centre, a library, private dining room, two bars and restaurants, you will be left with nothing but time to reflect on what may be in store next.

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Q UA L I A WI L L SP O I L YO U FOR CHOICE AND, AS E A C H D AY A R R I V E S A N D YO U A R E EN J OY I N G A B R E A K FA S T S AT U R AT E D W I T H S P E C TA C U L A R V I S TA S O F T H E W H I T S U N D AY S , YO U R O N LY C H A L L E N G E I S W H AT T H E D AY WI L L SERV E U P FO R YO U .

HAMILTON ISLAND AIR OFFERS HELICOPTER, SEAPLANE AND AEROPLANE TOURS THROUGHOUT THE WHITSUNDAYS, GREAT BARRIER REEF AND HAMILTON ISLAND AREA.

From the moment you arrive at the tranquil Long Pavilion, fanned by the languid Whitsunday breezes, every second at qualia is one of deep sensory satisfaction. There’s an outstanding attention to detail and design throughout from the exceptional Spa qualia to the pavilions and guest lounges. Qualia will spoil you for choice and, as each day arrives and you are enjoying a breakfast saturated with spectacular vistas of the Whitsundays, your only challenge is what the day will serve up for you. For those with an adventurous spirit, the Great Barrier Reef is the perfect place to make some unexpected discoveries. Head off on a diving or snorkelling adventure, or marvel at the wondrous diversity of underwater life on a reef tour. Journey to the Heart: in a world-first, qualia guests can now experience unprecedented access to the iconic Heart Reef lagoon in the Great Barrier Reef.

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The journey to Heart Island involves a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach. On arrival, guests board a futuristic glass-bottom boat, specially designed and customised for Heart Island, before making the short journey to the Heart Reef. Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel around the coral in the neighbouring lagoons before returning to Heart Island for refreshments and a swim off the pontoon. Hamilton Island Golf Club guests are invited to tee off at the only golf course on its own island in Australia. The 18-hole Peter Thomson-designed championship course, located on neighbouring Dent Island, includes a practice aquatic driving range, putting and chipping greens, golf tuition, pro shop and a stunning clubhouse, offering fine food and wine with amazing views. Qualia is a rare and precious place that immerses guests in an environment that must be visited to be fully appreciated.

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THE CLUBHOUSE MENU IS VARIED, AND FEATURES PLENTY OF LOCAL, SEASONAL PRODUCE.

WITH STUNNING VIEWS OF PASSAGE PEAK AND THE CORAL SEA, THE STYLISH CLUBHOUSE IS THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR A LAID-BACK LUNCH, OR LIGHT REFRESHMENTS AFTER A GAME OF GOLF.

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A SHORT BUGGY RIDE FROM QUALIA IS BEACH CLUB, AN A D U LT S - O N LY O A S I S A N D B O U T I Q U E R E S O R T T H AT S I T S R I G H T O N C AT S E Y E B E A C H O V E R L O O K I N G T H E C O R A L S E A .

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ith its spectacular beachfront location, private restaurant and lounge, childfree ambience and personalised service, the Beach Club Hamilton Island is the ultimate couples’ getaway. The two-storey boutique hotel boasts 57 luxurious and beautifully furnished rooms, with ground or top-floor rooms. Each comes with its own ensuite bathroom, choice of king or twin-single beds, and private terrace or balcony. Beach Club offers the private Beach Club restaurant and lounge - for secluded beachside dining. You’ll also enjoy a complimentary à la carte breakfast every morning. Take a dip in the infinity-edge pool and enjoy direct access to Catseye Beach. Enjoy complimentary access to all (nonmotorised) sports equipment, including catamarans, paddle boards, kayak hire, windsurfers and snorkelling equipment, and use of the island’s gym, spa, sauna and tennis court hire. If you’re hungry for a contemporary Australian menu, which showcases fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce, hop on your buggy and head to Bommie. Located at the Hamilton Island Yacht Club, it is named from the Aboriginal word ‘bombora’ which refers to the shallow, isolated and colourful reef patches found in the waters surrounding Hamilton Island.

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For something more informal, head to Coca Chu. With a fresh menu inspired by the hawker-style street food of South-East Asia, Coca Chu offers a relaxed vibe and overlooks beautiful Catseye Beach. The innovative and inviting menu fuses bold Asian flavours with a relaxed Australian style to create a sharing menu which is perfect for groups. Standout dishes include cured snapper with yuzu, red chilli, green papaya, cucumber, coriander and shiso, and crispy whole baby barramundi with three-flavour caramel, red nahm jim, green apple and mint, as well as our favourite rum-based cocktail, Zombie on a Tuk Tuk. For an early evening cocktail, head to One Tree Hill, Hamilton Island’s renowned hilltop lookout. From early evening onwards, enjoy the afternoon destination to share some wine and cheese. Marvel at the dramatic orange and yellow hues in the evening sky - with a drink in hand - as the sun sets over the Whitsunday Islands. Stop by the lookout after a day exploring the island - with the sand still between your toes - on your way out for the evening. Anyone and everyone can make their way to One Tree Hill to share a truly unforgettable experience.

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COOKWARE, REDEFINED Meet the demands of your busy kitchen with HaptIQ. It pairs durable, commercial grade nonstick with a five-ply stainless-steel body.

Scanpan HaptIQ • 4.8L Chef Pan scanpan.com.au

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Gold Coast 9 2 0 Y E A R S O F I N N O VAT I O N – OV E R T H E PA S T C E N T U RY, MODERN AUSTRALIA HAS BEEN B U I LT O N A F O U N D AT I O N O F H A R D WO R K A N D PA S SI O N , AN D ITS PEOPL E, DU E TO TH EI R G E O G R A P H I C A L D I S TA N C E , H AV E D E V E LO P E D A N I N N O VAT I V E S P I R I T.

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DEAN MULDOON NEW DEVELOPMENTS MANAGING DIRECTOR

he LJ Hooker brand with over 600 offices supports its franchises and agents to be the leading real estate brand in Australia that offers great real estate advice to buy, sell, rent and manage property in Australia.

LJ HOOKER BROADBEACH NEW DEVELOPMENTS TEAM

LJ Hooker Broadbeach prides itself on being driven to achieve success, but we’re also a company of genuine, committed individuals who work together as one team to help you achieve your real estate dreams. Maintaining honesty, integrity and professionalism, we provide a level of service that is unmatched within the highly-competitive real estate marketplace. We specialise in “connecting people with property”. Our unique blend of experience, energy, sound business ethics, innovative sales and marketing techniques and extensive professional network allows us to consistently be the agent of choice for successful property transactions and property service needs. Our directors combine over 25 years experience individually in the industry here on the Gold Coast and internationally, specialising in the new projects market. Backed by an amazing, collaborative team in management, sales, property management, holiday let, admin and marketing we take pride in a complete approach to servicing our clients for the long term.

LAANI Exceptional beach precinct living awaits at laani in the heart of prized Mermaid Beach. The beauty of this beachside haven is captured in a collection of premium residences. A stunning ensemble of two and three-bedroom residences and exclusive sky-homes the light-filled residence evokes a palpable sense of opulence and sophistication. It is moments away from golden sands, glistening blue waters and-enviable amenity. Exuding refinement and prestige, amenity has been carefully considered to treat residents with a resort-style experience. The private dining room designed with convenience, luxury and entertainment in mind. Two and three-bedroom beach precinct residences are now selling from $1.15 million.

Our sales office is located in the retail precinct and restaurant strip of Broadbeach on the beautiful Gold Coast for the past 16 years, showcasing your property to thousands of visitors and locals each week. We have a consistent flow of buyers walking in to our office daily. Broadbeach is widely seen as the jewel in the crown for the Gold Coast, our team at LJ Hooker Broadbeach are excited to be a part of this dynamic community, surrounded by multiple new development and investment opportunities in the area and surrounding suburbs.

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OF LUXURY AND EXCLUSIVE ISLAND HOLIDAY HOMES.

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c o l l e c t i o n Whether you’re looking for simple self-catering convenience, or full-service bespoke experience, you’re sure to find the perfect island getaway with Laguna Pacific. Our private holiday homes are some of the most striking and sought-after island holiday homes, ideal for relaxing in comfort and creating precious memories in paradise. All our homes offer unforgettable views, stylish interiors, and are fully equipped to help make entertaining a breeze. Book your perfect home away from home today with Laguna Pacific.

HORIZONS -HAMILTON ISLAND Breathtaking modern home ideal for groups and large families. With uninterrupted water views, this impeccably-designed luxury home has a private plunge pool, two buggies and sleeps 12 guests.

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ESCAPADO Explore the Whitsundays and Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef in pure barefoot luxury on board Escapado. The Ocean Alexander 88 Sky Lounge motor yacht delights in pure indulgence across multiple entertaining zones. With its interiors providing an abundance of light, space and luxury, the supersized windows allow you to enjoy the panoramic views wherever you go. There is ample room for guests to roam while being entertained or to retreat to the en-suited bedrooms for the ultimate in relaxation. Escapado can sleep eight guests for live -aboard charters and accommodates 36 guests on a day cruises. Based in the pristine world-class Whitsundays, located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Escapado is the perfect yacht to experience the lifestyle of the Whitsundays and discover the area’s beauty with its sandy islands scattered across the Great Barrier Reef, the stunning Whitehaven Beach and the crystal-clear waters and marine life. Boasting a plethora of secluded coves and inlets, gleaming white beaches and rugged scenery, this is an area best discovered from the water. We offer a personalised charter service created to meet your individual needs whether you want to cruise the stunning waters of the Whitsundays in luxury, snorkel the picturesque waters discovering the vast marine life the area has to offer, watch the sunset over the water or travel to Whitehaven Beach we have you covered. Check out our packages and book an unforgettable experience with us today.

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CASA ROTUNDA One of Hamilton Island’s most iconic homes has been transformed into the ultimate luxury holiday home experience. Casa Rotunda is inspired by both Queensland’s coastal aesthetic and a love of the Mediterranean. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 197

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HONOURING DAILY RITUALS

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A REFINED BEACH ESCAPE ON THE GOLD COA S T. O F F E R I N G U N I N T E R R U P T E D V I E WS O F T H E PACI FI C O CE A N O R T H E H I N T E R L A N D , I D E A L LY P O S I T I O N E D O N A B S O L U T E B E AC H F R O N T.

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oliday time in Australia has become a real challenge, in a very good way, with literally hundreds of world-class options at our doorstep.

Traditionally, Australians are well known for their passion to travel and it’s well documented that Sydney is 26 hours from Europe, 15 hours from the Americas and seven hours from Asia. What we all seem to overlook is that everything we need to enjoy an amazing vacation, be it over a weekend or for a few weeks, is right here. And the flagship destination is Queensland’s Gold Coast with its brilliant golden beaches and crystal-clear waters - and to ensure the kids are happy, every theme park in Australia is at your fingertips. Our decision this year was to head north and to experience the latest five-star addition to the glitter strip, The Langham, Gold Coast.

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Although it was a long weekend, we enjoyed everything on the experience menu with a spectacular ocean-view suite, daily gym workouts, sunrise ocean swims and evening cocktails followed by remarkable dinners at world-class restaurants. Situated between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, The Langham, Gold Coast and Jewel Residences, managed by Langham, is positioned along the city’s iconic beachfront. Add to this setting remarkably appointed rooms, superb restaurants and a wellness hub, we kicked ourselves that we only stayed for the weekend. Bringing much-needed sophistication to the Coast, The Langham, Gold Coast is the first new beachfront luxury hotel to arrive in Australia’s holiday capital in more than 30 years.

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WITH 169 HOTEL ROOMS AN D 170 RE SIDENCE S , TH E L ANG HA M , GOL D COA S T OFFERS A PLETHOR A OF ROOMS AND SUITES, EACH BOA STING STUNNING V I E WS O F T H E PACI FI C O CE A N A N D H I N T ER L A N D.

With 169 hotel rooms and 170 residences, The Langham, Gold Coast offers a plethora of rooms and suites, each boasting stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the hinterland. The Langham, Gold Coast’s culinary concepts are created to satisfy virtually every guest and we had no need to venture outside. It simply became our own private sanctuary. Having visited numerous Langham properties, I was familiar with the flagship T’ang Court in Hong Kong, a unique and tantalising Cantonese fine-dining experience. T’ang Court embraces the essence of the southern Chinese region, always sourcing the finest local produce.

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A UNIQUE AND TANTALISING CANTONESE FINE-DINING AFFAIR. T’ANG COURT EMBRACES THE ESSENCE OF THE SOUTHERN CHINESE REGION AND ADORNS YOUR PLATE WITH THE FINEST LOCAL PRODUCE.

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A KOYA P R E S E N T S S O M E O F A U S T R A L I A’ S F I N E S T M E AT, F I S H , A N D P O U LT R Y, A S W E L L A S H A N D C R A F T E D C O C K T A I L S , F O R A R E F I N E D - C A S U A L A L L- D A Y D I N I N G E X P E R I E N C E .

Akoya presents some of Australia’s finest meat, fish and poultry, as well as handcrafted cocktails, and we took advantage of all of it. The Langham Afternoon Tea in the stunning Palm Court was, as expected, fabulous with endless delectable savouries and pastries created by the hotel’s inhouse pastry chefs, all whilst taking in the spectacular views and hypnotic Gold Coast beach life. The Lobby Bar is the ultimate magnet, accentuated by voluminous ceilings and relaxed, stylish interiors inspired by hues of the ocean and hinterland. Once you’re in, its near impossible to get out.

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Lobby Bar offers seasonally driven menus that focus on fresh local produce and presents an extensive selection of bubbly, rare wines and Australia's finest spirits. From the outset, we focused in on the Pool Bar and went straight into relaxation mode, already looking to book in at the spa. Overlooking the beachfront, the Pool Bar was non-stop cocktails, spritz and rosé as we took advantage of the sun-drenched lagoon pool. As our time was fast disappearing, the Langham’s signature Chuan Spa was within our grasp. This renowned holistic spa experience is something to behold inspiring and enriching. The outcome was simply life changing. So, it’s safe to say that thanks to the Langham, Gold Coast, Aussies now have a destination that offers a genuine sense of sophistication and class in a truly five-star holiday retreat.

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CAPTAINS CLASSIC Step up to the crease and experience the electrifying spirit of the game with Captain’s Classic Lager. Like a perfectly timed cover drive, this beer strikes the right balance between crisp refreshment and a thrilling burst of flavor. It’s the ultimate boundary breaker, embracing the edginess of the cricket field in every sip. Captains Classic Lager is your power play to elevate your cricket experience - a bold choice for those who live for the excitement of the game, both on and off the pitch.

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T O O P E N A N E AT E R Y P O S T- C O V I D I S N O T F O R T H E FA I N T- H E A R T E D , IRRESPECTIVE OF WHO, WHERE OR W H AT K I N D O F C U I S I N E .

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H AV I N G H A D T H E P L E A S U R E O F E AT I N G AT A L L S I X O F M A X ’ S E AT E R I E S , THERE IS NO DOUBT MODO MIO IS THE ICING ON THE TIRAMISU.

he market tells us that the vast majority of newly opened cafes and restaurants will fail or have a very limited life span.

The exception to the rule is enjoyed by a select few of true restaurateurs and there is no one better than Napoli-born Aussie chef extraordinaire Max Alfieri. Modo Mio (My Way) is Max’s sixth success story over two decades, so it’s safe to say that despite the Global Financial Crisis of 2008 and the global pandemic of COVID in 2019, Max doesn’t scare easily. In fact, he sees opportunity when mere mortals are running for cover. Having had the pleasure of eating at all six of Max’s eateries, there is no doubt Modo Mio is the icing on the tiramisu. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 215

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At Modo Mio, the culinary journey is fuelled by a deep-rooted love for food, stemming from Max’s Italian heritage, hailing from Napoli. Max has taken immense pride in crafting every dish with meticulous care, staying true to the essence of traditional Italian recipes while infusing them with his own unique Modo Mio modern twist. This uniquely family-owned gastronomic phenomenon has Max spearheading the kitchen, wife Amanda and daughter Gabby seating the throngs, with son Fabio running the front of house. History tells us that family businesses are fraught with danger, but not the Alfieri clan. Modo Mio epitomises a well-oiled machine and you will find them on deck from 6am to 10pm oiling and tweaking the cogs.

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Sticking to the classics - my favourites are spaghetti Bolognese, lamb shanks, veal Milanese, zucchini flowers, freshly baked pizza bread and desserts of chocolate mouse and tiramisu - there is a simple style and method to Max’s success and it’s ‘just be simple and fresh’. There is no need to bastardise the classics as many restaurant-goers are getting fed up with the nondescript degustation imposters and the insanely overpriced Michelinstarred wannabes. The Alfieri family is dedicated to upholding the authenticity and modernity of Italian cuisine, which is why they carefully select talented chefs with a deep understanding and extensive knowledge of Italian food. This commitment ensures that every dish served at Modo Mio embodies the true essence of Italian culinary excellence while incorporating innovative elements that elevate the dining experience for its clients. So, when you’re next on the Gold Coast, head down to Pacific Fair and there will be the family front and centre, creating that very special Italian fare with Max doing it ‘his way’!

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Congratulations to our award–winning customers Oncore by Clare Smyth, Barangaroo

A'Mare, Barangaroo Bentley Restaurant + Bar, Sydney Berowra Waters Inn, Berowra Waters Bert’s Bar & Brasserie, Newport Cirrus, Sydney Flower Drum, Melbourne Fred’s, Paddington Icebergs Dining Room & Bar, Bondi Mimi’s, Coogee Monopole, Sydney Mr. Wong, Sydney Muse Restaurant, Pokolbin Porteño, Surry Hills Shell House Dining Room & Terrace, Sydney Stefano’s, Mildura Yellow, Potts Point Yoshii's Omakase, Barangaroo

Bar Totti's, Sydney Bistecca, Sydney Bistro George, Sydney Catalina, Rose Bay Civico 47, Paddington China Doll, Woolloomooloo Da Orazio, Bondi Gowings, Sydney Hotel Centennial, Woollahra Maha, Melbourne Morks, Kingston Ms. G’s, Potts Point MuMu, Sydney Philippe, Melbourne Queen Chow, Enmore Queen Chow, Narooma Sala, Pyrmont Sokyo, Pyrmont Sushi e, Sydney The Dining Room by James Viles, The Rocks Totti’s, Lorne Uccello, Sydney Una Más, Coogee Woodcut, Barangaroo

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SUNRISE KURRAWA BEACH, GOLD COAST

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Goldy CARAVANS

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N E S T L E D A M O N G T H E VA S T E X PA N S E O F T H E AU S T R A L I A N L A N D S C A P E , A B R A N D H A S E M E R G E D T H AT I S R E D E F I N I N G T H E C O N C E P T O F T R AV E L A N D L U X U R Y.

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oldy Caravans, a name now synonymous with style, innovation and nostalgia, started as a dream to encapsulate the charm of the 60s and 70s caravanning experience into modern, high-quality RVs.

The founder of Goldy Caravans had an epiphany rooted in profound nostalgia. As he penned the eulogy for his father, memories of childhood camping trips flooded back. Those days, soaked in simplicity yet rich in joy, became the cornerstone of Goldy Caravans' vision. "Our aim," he reflects, "is to craft sexy, stylish, and happy spaces where today's families can create tomorrow's memories." But the road to realising this vision was not without its bumps. The modern Australian caravan market, for the most part, has become saturated with boxy, monochromatic designs. Goldy's challenge was to reintroduce the vibrancy, curves and individuality of a bygone era, making it appeal to today's discerning traveller. With tenacity and an unwavering commitment to their vision, Goldy Caravans broke the mould. Their caravans, designed both aesthetically and with function in mind, reintroduced the spirit of the classic caravanning era to a modern audience. Goldy Caravans resonates with a diverse clientele. From two intrepid single ladies, exploring the vastness of Australia in their individual caravans, to young families carving out moments of togetherness during school holidays, each caravan becomes a backdrop for unique stories. Whether it's couples looking for a weekend escape or adventurous souls venturing off-grid, a Goldy Caravan invariably becomes a cherished companion. While currently an Australian icon, Goldy Caravans has global aspirations. With expansion plans into the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand and the vast terrains of the USA on the horizon, the brand is poised to introduce its unique blend of nostalgia and luxury to a wider audience. As you sit back in your chair, perhaps dreaming of your next adventure, let Goldy Caravans inspire a different kind of journey - one where the travel is as much an experience as the destination, and every mile is a memory in the making. In the world of Goldy Caravans, the journey isn't just about reaching a destination, but cherishing every moment along the way. What if the journey itself could be an integral part of that dream? That's precisely where Goldy Caravans steps in, a mobile haven that isn't just a mode of travel, but an experience in itself. G O L DYC A R AVA N S .CO M

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n late 2000, a brown Kraft envelope arrived in the post at my Surry Hills photographic studio from Murdoch Books, by way of New York City.

In it was a thin square box which held the greatly coveted James Beard Foundation Award medallion, a large metallic disc with James Beard's impression etched on it. Not only did I not know that I’d been nominated that year for my photography in Donna Hay’s cookbook New Food Fast, but I also did not know that I’d won in the category for Best Food Photographer until that moment. The NYC-based awards are described on their website as ‘among the nation’s most prestigious honours recognising leaders in the culinary and food media industries’.

I was thrilled beyond measure. This was a far cry from the days of disposable cameras, which I first used in my early teens to document family holidays in Melbourne. Later weekends were spent trying to grasp an understanding of depth of field, with my father patiently setting up objects at distances apart in our garden. They were photographed at different f-stops using his trusty Olympus OM-2 camera, as he explained the technical principles involved. By the last year of school, I was doing photography as part of my HSC and was lucky to have a new photography teacher who captured my imagination for the medium on excursions to photograph around Chippendale, and various other urban locales.

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This soon led me to study photography as part of a Bachelor of Arts degree at Sydney College of the Arts, and then onto life as a freelance photographic assistant to a number of commercial and editorial photographers, eventually working full time for acclaimed photographer Geoff Lung. Fast forward and my first freelance client as a photographer was Conde Nast Publications, including Vogue Australia, Vogue Living and Vogue Entertaining Magazine. It was like a wonderful apprenticeship where I was shooting everything on the fly from food photos, restaurant and home interiors, portraits of chefs and fashion designers, to fashion shoots, cosmetic still lives and much, much more. The ensuing years saw me travelling extensively around the world shooting cookbooks, travel stories and wonderful creative commissions. Amongst this, I had the joy of photographing around 50 or so cookbooks for chefs and cooks such as Nigella Lawson, Bill Granger, Donna Hay, Neil Perry and Delia Smith across almost 30 years. Getting to work with a small but talented team across a week or two, telling the author’s food story through their recipes, is such a wonderful creative journey to be a part of. I’ve been so lucky to have had this work recognised internationally, including winning The Julia Child Award for Best Photography, Best Cookbook in the Glenfiddich Food & Drinks Awards, winner of the Best Photography Book at the Paris Book Festival and winner in the Best Food Photography category at the IACP Cookbook Awards. If I was to choose one thing that best aligns my taste buds to my lens, it would without a doubt be desserts. Sweet things can be photographed in a far more fun and dramatic way that can capture the imagination. 232 | C L A S S I C L I F E S T Y L E

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he restaurant business at the best of times is not for the faint-hearted. Being a chef and having 30 years’ experience in the events business, I still get asked why I haven’t opened my own eatery. To be honest it’s one of those businesses that require a 24/7 commitment and a serious amount of cash. From 2008 to 2022, the hospitality industry was ravaged by the Global Financial Crisis, recession and a global pandemic collectively decimating the restaurant industry and where only the incredibly strong and resilient have survived. Restaurant Toppi and Bar M are two eateries that have both of these attributes in spades. Led by owner Paola Toppi, both businesses today are market leaders that are thriving in a very tough environment as the hospitality industry drags itself from the commercial rubble. The f lagship eatery, Toppi, creates a wonderful menu of Italian classics and a contemporary twist on the classics via a magnificently prepared array of homemade pastas that complement any and every Italian favourite, particularly the linguini Bolognese. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 237

Desserts are on another level and if you are undecided, don’t hesitate to order the cannoli. Bar M (Rushcutters Bay) presents as a spectacular event space, in fact one of the best I’ve seen in Australia, and Toppi restaurant (Martin Place) is without doubt one of Sydney’s leading Italian eateries. Bar M plays host to only the more sophisticated events and the most extravagant weddings; it’s at Bar M that you create memories.

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OYSTER FIELDS, NAROOMA NEW SOUTH WALES

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gallery OUR CL A SSIC GALLERY SERIES BECAME A REALIT Y FOUR YEARS AGO G I V I N G M E G R E AT P L E A S U R E I N S H A R I N G M Y M A N Y J O U R N E Y S O V E R T H E PA S T T H R EE D EC A D E S - P L E A SE EN J OY A SEL EC T I O N O F M Y M OS T M E M O R A B L E . T H E Y E A R ' S Q ATA R A I R W AY S G A L L E R Y W I L L B E O N D I S P L AY D U R I N G O U R 2 024 L E G AC Y E D I T I O N R E L E A S E . P R I N T S A R E AVA I L A B L E F O R PU RCHA SE WITH AL L PROCEEDS GOI NG TO SU PP ORTI NG TH E HOM EL E SS .

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TAXI STAND, HAVANA

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AMALFI COAST

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SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

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NEW YORK CITY

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HAPPY HOUR, PARIS

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PORTOFINO, ITALY

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RIVER SEINE, NORMANDY

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DOM PÉRIGNON CELLAR

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GLENMORANGIE DISTILLERY, SCOTLAND

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LES BRAVES MEMORIAL MONUMENT, OMAHA BEACH, NORMANDY

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LUNCHTIME AT GLENMORANGIE, SCOTLAND

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THE CELLARS, AVIGNON

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MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM AUSCHWITZ-BIRKENAU, OŚWIĘCIM

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END OF THE LINE, AUSCHWITZ-BIRKENAU, OŚWIĘCIM

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STREET MARKETS, BANGKOK

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SUNSET BEACH, PHUKET

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MIAMI VICE, MIAMI BEACH FLORIDA

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GAME OF THRONES, THE GIANT'S CAUSEWAY

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THE WINDMILLS, MYKONOS

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WINTER TIME, TEHRAN

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SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE, MUSCAT

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THE FIELDS OF LAVENDER, DUBBO

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KOKOMO SUNSET, FIJI

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ULURU-KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK

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ELLYSE PERRY

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E M P O W E R I N G W O M E n

O V E R T H E T H R E E D E C A D E S T H AT I H AV E P U B L I S H E D T H E C L A S S I C L I F E S T Y L E B O O K , I T WA S I M P E R AT I V E T H AT T H E R E W O U L D A L W AY S B E A PHILANTHROPIC ELEMENT - BE IT BEAR C OT TA G E , C A R E F L I G H T, C U R E O U R K I D S O R T H E P L AYG R O U N D . I N FA C T, I F E LT A N O B L I G AT I O N TO S U P P O R T MANY OF THE CHILDREN’S CHARITIES WHEREVER I COULD.

t wasn’t until 2017 that my good friend Sandra Sully and I collaborated on a somewhat provocative program creating a benchmark event, taking on all International Women’s Day events that came before us, and this year we would throw our support behind Women’s Legal Services and the fight against domestic violence. Partnering with the Hyatt Regency Sydney, I created the first truly long lunch with 100 seats sold out in minutes. We then enlisted the support of 25 empowering Australian women and gambled on a new book, Agenda, shot in black and white and headlining only our most inspirational women. Rounding them up from far and wide, these women are the crème de la crème and here are just a few of the trailblazers that made this all possible. It’s safe to say that now in its fifth year, Agenda is a roaring success - thanks to editor Sandra Sully, photographer Danielle Harte and the host of inspirational ladies that allowed us to tell their stories.

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CATE BLANCHETT

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THE HONOURABLE DAME QUENTIN BRYCE AD CVO

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PROPERTY OWNER, MEI LIM

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SANDRA SULLY

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LAUREN PARKER

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SHAHROUK SISTERS

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DELTA GOODREM

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The distinct patterned exterior and rim of the bowl is designed to help bakers grip and tip the bowl and has become synonymous with the brand and baking ever since. The wide, shallow shape also allows for kneading within the bowl if required.

www.masoncash.com.au

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ho would have thought that with all the celebrated days across the year that the most opulent was denied its own international day of celebrations.

Sandwiched between May 21 (International Tea Day) and May 30 (International Scone Day), I declared that May 27 would stand as International High Tea Day - and what a day it was. Enlisting the support of Executive Chef Sven Ullrich and his team from the Hyatt Regency Sydney, we proceeded to collaborate on what has now become the benchmark for high tea events.

HYATT REGENCY SYDNEY EXECUTIVE CHEF SVEN ULLRICH AND A COPY OF MUM'S COOKBOOK

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With tickets on sale at $250 per head, this day had to outclass all before it, leaving competitors ‘gobsmacked’ by ensuring that the offerings were truly worthy of the title as The World’s Most Opulent and Most Expensive. An experience fit for a king was to be created. Scones were made with vintage Dom Perignon, Manjimup truff les, pecorino, parmesan finished with gold leaf and my signature champagne sauce rising above all ingredients. This champagne sauce was to be three days in the making and, as a partner offering, I whipped up a second scone featuring Coffs Harbour prawns, Port Augusta blue swimmer crabs and Coral Coast rock lobsters from Western Australia. These scones were to be paired with a bisque featuring Manjimup truffle, roasted cherry tomato and garlic, finished off with a vintage Veuve Clicquot. To secure the title, the signature scones were to sell for a record $1,750. Registered buyer, Anthony and Sandra McVicker.

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d o m i n i k a

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I GREW UP IN COMMUNIST POL AND SURROUNDED BY ARTISTS, T H E AT R E D I R E C TO R S , A C TO R S A N D A L L T Y P E S O F C R E AT I V E S .

y father is a sculptor and glass designer, and I enjoyed a childhood filled with constant artistic activity, playing in the woods while my father sculpted with other artists. When I was six, we escaped from Poland as life was getting dangerous for anyone opposing the communist regime. We were accepted by Australia as political refugees, after waiting in transit in Austria for nine months. My father taught me how to be curious about life and how to observe things around me. He would always talk to me about colour, different art techniques and the qualities of light, so it is no surprise that I grew up immersed in creating art, painting and drawing whenever I could. It never occurred to me to have a career outside of art, so when I went to university, I chose to study mass communications with a focus on filmmaking and photography. Initially, I was planning to focus on writing but when I got my hands on a camera, I realised that there was nothing that I loved more than making images. Soon after I graduated, I started a production company with my husband, focusing on directing and producing films. When I became a mother, I was unable to continue working in film as I had before, so I turned to my other passion - photography. I would steal moments away from home when the girls were asleep or at preschool or, more often than not, I would take photos of them,

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finding inspiration in the everyday moments of motherhood. I was inspired by photographers such as Sally Mann who elevated ordinary shots of her children to art and I felt this to be fertile creative ground for myself as well. I started a blog and committed to posting a photo a day just to keep my creative juices flowing and not to disappear under my never-ending domestic responsibilities. Now, as my daughters are older (and sadly rarely want to be photographed) and I have more time for work, my focus has shifted once again. I am passionate about women’s stories and themes based on identity and transformation (influenced by my own experience of needing to recreate my identity in a new country as a refugee). Over the last couple of years, I have been developing a documentary about the different stages of womanhood. I would like to complement the film with a photography exhibition of each woman interviewed. I have been photographing girls as young as seven, and women up to 80 years old. I am deeply interested in how a woman’s identity shifts over time from girlhood, through the teenage years to womanhood and then menopause, and I am passionate about telling these stories. I think that my own experiences as a refugee have made me more sensitive and aware of other people’s struggles. What I’ve learnt is that art can be created from anything; you just need to be observant enough to see it and shed light on it.

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ELLA MY NAME IS ELL A NOAH B A N C R O F T. I A M A P R O U D B U NDJALU NG WOMAN W H O S E M AT E R N A L B LOODLINE CONNEC TS M E TO TH E NORTH ERN NSW REGION. I GREW UP ON BOTH GADIGAL L AN DS AND B U NDJALU NG L ANDS , SPENDING MY CHILDHOOD BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES.

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returned to the Bundjalung nation many years ago and started a charity called The Returning Indigenous Corporation, where we invite and support mothers and mob in returning home to the country to connect, heal and create. Our charity has five programs that we deliver throughout the year to provide support to our community. The year 2022 was both the most traumatic of my life and the most heartfelt. I felt the deep innate custodianship and care that comes when systems fail and disaster strikes. I felt immense hope knowing that when everything crumbles in years to come, I’ll have my community and my community will have me. On February 28, 2022, the Northern Rivers region was hit with torrential rainfall resulting in the biggest floods ever recorded in colonial history for our region. After the rain subsided and the floodwater receded in Mullumbimby, we - Kirilly Dawn, our entire community and I - went to work. Firstly, we cleaned and resourced Mullumbimby. On March 2, Wilsons River receded to below major levels and so I reached out to the Koori Mail, located in Lismore, which had experienced a 14.4-metre flood. I contacted them via Instagram on March 3 to see what support they needed. Koori Mail is and always has been iconic for our community, not only for our Rainbow Region but for all of our nation. It has been the voice of black media and has always lifted our voices and stories up. Amarina Toby was on socials and things moved quickly. We met with Amarina and delivered supplies to cut-off towns, while fire trucks were idled by the flood water not allowed to cross flood water, putting civilians at risk. The next day we joined forces at Koori Mail and helped set up the Koori Mail flood hub. Naomi Moran, the manager of Koori Mail, is our warrior sister, a true leader and shining light for our community.

Together with many, we set up and operated the largest crisis response centre in the region - coordinating and supplying food, clothing, medicine, bedding, machinery, wellbeing teams, holistic health care, and so much more. I have many relations in the region - Indigenous and non-Indigenous - and this was the time to call them all in. Kirilly Dawn was operating helicopter drops to our regional communities that were cut off. I was organising the volunteer registration, enlisting volunteer team cleaners to assist in the clean-up of Lismore and beyond. I was the matchmaker with the little red book. Jobs went in and jobs went out. It was a simple system. A need was given and then I found someone to meet it. We had builders, electricians, psychologists, massage therapists, plumbers and so many more people volunteer their time. The operation lasted for months and this whole set-up was done completely unfunded and through the goodwill of our community. In the months when people were either rehomed or moved back home, I acquired a warehouse, got a big furniture company to donate truckloads of furniture, and set up and co-ordinated a volunteer furniture delivery team all over the Northern Rivers to get people set back up in their home. There is so much more to be said, so many people to be thanked, but I would need this whole magazine to recognise the complete array of heroic stories that deserve a mention. I was just a bee in a hive, with many bees making light work. This whole period of time from February until July was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life - that in times of need, in times of disaster, it will not be the system that saves you, but it will be the community around you. I have never felt more inspired by the generosity of human beings and I have never been more doubtful of the system and its failures.

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PHOTOGRAPHER - SANET LINDEQUE

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T h e y

s a i d

T h e

n e x t

w a s -

K y l i e .

M Y J O U R N E Y I N T H E M U SI C I N D U S T RY SPA N S T H R EE I N CR ED I B L E DECADES, AND IT'S BEEN A ROLLERCOA STER OF EXPERIENCES. I' VE W O R N M A N Y H AT S – F R O M A R T I S T TO S O N G W R I T E R A N D N O W A N A R T I S T M E N TO R . M Y L I F E ' S TA P E S T R Y I S W O V E N W I T H T H R E A D S O F PA S SI O N , A M B I T I O N A N D H A R D - E A R N ED W I SD O M .

WORDS: BEC CARUANA

t the tender age of 16, I found myself in the spotlight, courtesy of Star Search, one of the original TV reality talent shows. But it didn't take long for me to realise just how daunting that spotlight could be. I transformed from a confident kid to a self-conscious teenager. Seeing myself on TV was uncomfortable, and I was my harshest critic. Looking back, I can see how naive I was. I possessed the looks and talent, yet I thought I lacked that elusive 'X factor’, that magnetic charisma, and, truth be told, a touch of self-obsession that often accompanies stardom. The show did boost my confidence, but I remained surprisingly humble, almost to my detriment. I let go of golden opportunities at the age of 17 – interest from major labels like EMI and collaborations with renowned producers. They tried to mould me into various personas, from a sex kitten to a ‘sweet 16’ angel. The reality was, I hadn't even figured out who I truly was. Still, I persisted in my music career, finding solace in developing my skills as a pop songwriter and live performer. Fate smiled on me, and I found myself in the right place at the right time, surrounded by incredible people who believed in me. At 20, I had the privilege of working with Ashley Cadell, a legendary producer. It felt like destiny, and I couldn't help but wonder if I was genuinely gifted or merely lucky. Then came a pivotal moment at 25 when I wrote a song for Marcia Hines, and she decided to record it. However, it was an unexpected question from a Warmer Music A&R executive that changed everything. “Who is the girl that wrote and sang this demo?” he asked. That moment was a music industry miracle – I secured a record deal based on my songwriting prowess, not my appearance. A rarity in the pop world, and to this day, I take pride in it. I ended up releasing the song Dance All Night instead

of it being on Marcia’s Diva album. But then came the world of pop machinery – be this, wear that, change your hair, talk to this person, avoid that person, don't smoke, don't drink, don't be seen here – a suffocating world that constrained my true self. Nonetheless, I savoured the ride as best as I could, even though those hotel rooms often felt lonely. I yearned for a band by my side. If you had asked me about my favourite pastime in my 20s, it would have been singing, writing and recording in the studio, where I could be myself away from prying eyes. I went on to earn an APRA nomination for one of the most-played dance works on Australian radio in 2002. My debut single Dance All Night made history as the first dance track added to Australian commercial radio, playing multiple times a day. One music magazine even crowned me 'The Next Kylie’. The early 2000s marked a dark period for the music industry. Physical CDs faded into obscurity, and illegal file sharing became the norm. Artists were dropped from their record labels left and right, myself included. I found myself spiralling, transitioning from a pop star to a nobody in the blink of an eye. It was never part of the plan. After a few years lost in the depths of empty glasses, I realised that my hunger for fame had waned. What I truly cherished was the art of creating. Thus, I birthed Platinum Artist Development, where I rallied my award-winning songwriter and producer friends to collaborate with emerging artists. From songwriting to conception, styling to branding, photography to music videos, animation to design – we aimed to nurture the artist's unique vision. My role was that of a guide, fostering confidence in their own decisions. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 309

My journey led me to a need – to promote incredible pop songs by relatively unknown artists. This urge led to my foray into remixes, and my record label Booshu Records became an unexpected hero in the world of house music for independent artists yearning for recognition. I've played a pivotal role in the ascent of some of Australia's boldest talents – Greg Gould, Penelope, Dylan, Beks, JD Smith, to name a few. I’ve had wonderful success as a songwriter with number one hits in Japan and Europe. I’ve had my music featured on films from Disney and Universal Studios. There is something beautiful about being an incognito artist and writer. And now, I wear another hat as an A&R consultant, supporting well-established artists without major label support in establishing their independent labels. Tania Doko from pop duo Bachelor Girl is one of my clients. I advocate for artists and their budgets, recognising the fierce competition in a world where nearly 100,000 songs are released daily. Having walked the path of an artist and consultant, I've developed an unwavering passion for hardworking and talented singers and songwriters. My mission is to help them navigate this challenging landscape, to promote themselves authentically and sustainably, and to build momentum. I am a facilitator, a connector through music. I’ve been called ‘The King Maker’. Haven’t quite done that yet, but I’m on my way! In addition to my roles in artist development, running an independent record label and consulting, I still yearn to perform live. It's not just something I do; it's an integral part of who I am. From French cabaret to disco, house and now Running in the Shadows, Australia's beloved Fleetwood Mac tribute show, I continue to find joy in the spotlight. I release house records with renowned DJs, often without my name on the forefront, content with the opportunity to lend my voice. I'm fortunate to do what I love, even though the spotlight doesn't always shine on me. But those moments on regional Australian stages, where the spotlight does, are beautiful, and the next day I can wander into a supermarket wearing my undies on my head, and no one bats an eye. I continue to release music, driven purely by my love for art. Finally, I'm staying true to myself, releasing music that resonates with my heart – whether it's a soul-stirring ballad or a heartpounding house track. My journey has been one of evolution and self-discovery, and I embrace it all.

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NEW TECHNOGYM RUN. The training experience that paves the way to a healthier future.

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N ATA L I E A N N E S TA N D S A S A F O R M I D A B L E F I G U R E I N T H E R E A L M O F H A I R A R T I S T R Y, C E L E B R AT E D N OT O N LY F O R H E R E XC E P T I O N A L S K I L L S B U T A L S O F O R H E R D E D I C AT I O N TO E M P O W E R I N G W O M E N A N D CHALLENGING CONVENTIONS. A S THE LEADING HAIR A R T I S T, E X P E R T A N D S O C I A L M E D I A E D U C ATO R I N A U S T R A L I A , N ATA L I E A N N E H A S L E F T A N I N C R E D I B L E M A R K O N T H E B E AU T Y I N D U S T RY.

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atalie Anne's journey commenced with humble beginnings, as she began working in her family's business at the young age of 12. She hustled her way through school, balancing part-time jobs and weekends at a hairdressing salon to fuel her passion for hairstyling. Remarkably, at just 14, she left school in Year 9 to commence her apprenticeship, earning a modest $223.23 a week. Despite the hurdles, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of knowledge, growth and reputation-building within the industry. Her pioneering use of social media, video content creation and her dedication to teaching women and hairdressers how to style their hair at home led to unexpected international recognition and a surge in bookings. Her schedule quickly filled, necessitating the hiring of additional staff, even including some family members, to meet the rising demand. Natalie Anne's unwavering commitment to her craft culminated in the establishment of a 280sqm salon housing 15 exceptionally skilled staff and 24 chairs. In time, she earned widespread acclaim as a preeminent Australian hair artist, expert and social media educator. Concurrently, she collaborated with celebrities, models, music artists and social media influencers, consulted with major haircare brands, and successfully launched her own line of hair care products, now available in over 200 salons across Australia. Beyond her salon and entrepreneurial endeavours, Natalie Anne harnessed

her platform for social good. She was crowned International Hair Influencer of the Year in both 2019 and 2020, earning recognition for her digital influence and her advocacy for positive change. On International Women's Day in 2021, she was honoured for her tireless advocacy in promoting diversity, women's rights and equal opportunities. With a staggering 1.5 million social media followers, Natalie Anne utilised her voice to support small businesses during lockdowns, providing guidance and encouragement through various media channels. Her commitment to making a difference was further underscored during the devastating 2020 bushfires in Australia. Recognising the urgency of the situation, she leveraged her digital platforms to mobilise her followers. This collective effort resulted in the filling of nine semi-trailers with over 20 tonnes of bottled water, canned food, baby supplies, first-aid kits, pet food, and more. This crucial aid was swiftly delivered to families who had lost their homes on the NSW South Coast. In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Natalie Anne expanded her brand collaborations and introduced her own line of hair care products, with a mission to bridge the gap between luxury and doit-yourself hair care, catering to both salon professionals and everyday users. She also shows her support for the National Breast Cancer Foundation by creating a limited-edition Pink Ribbon collectible item, donating 8 per cent of its proceeds to breast cancer research.

In 2023, Natalie Anne embarked on a remarkable partnership with the St Vincent de Paul Society, aptly named Run a Van with Natalie Anne. This initiative, launched in December by Natalie Anne and led by her dear friend Joise Charbel in 2022, carries a profound objective: to raise awareness about the increasing rate of homelessness and displaced families across Australia. Yet, it goes beyond awareness, involving the provision of essential supplies such as food, sanitary items and mental health support to those in need, both on the streets and within community shelters. The ambitious goal of this initiative is to raise $250,000 to fund the operation of additional vans dedicated to feeding between 200 to 500 people each night. What sets this endeavour apart is the personal involvement of Joise Charbel, Natalie Anne and her husband Arthur, who actively participate in these initiatives. They are joined by a dedicated team of volunteers, including their own staff, brand ambassadors, stockists and influencers. Through her platform, Natalie Anne continues to educate and inspire her audience. Her journey from humble beginnings to a leading figure in the industry showcases her determination, creativity and commitment to giving back to her community and the world. Today, she stands as an Australian voice, using her influence to drive positive change and make a lasting impact.

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TAYLA H A R T E

MY LIFE HAS BEEN ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY – I' VE BEEN E XC E P T I O N A L LY F O R T U N AT E , A N D I W E A R T H AT P R I V I L E G E W I T H G R AT I T U D E F O R T H E S I N G U L A R J O U R N E Y T H AT H A S F O R G E D M E .

t a mere 13 years old, I made a daring leap from Australia to Dubai, diving headfirst into the whirlwind of an expat community. This was no ordinary coming-of-age story; it was a defining chapter that sculpted my character and set me apart. Confronting the crucible of fitting in and settling down in this all-encompassing environment, I quickly learned the art of adaptation while enduring the judgments of being the new kid on the block. Anxiety became a constant companion as I battled to find my place, a struggle many teens share. But it wasn't until I unearthed my passion for cooking that my confidence roared to life. My creative odyssey commenced in high school, not with the mundane world of pastries, but with an unwavering obsession for cupcakes. From mastering the art of icing to conjuring spellbinding flavors, I discovered my sanctuary in the kitchen. Crafting the extraordinary from scratch became an unexpected life passion. I seized the opportunity during my high school years, dedicating my final-year Fridays and weekends to kickstart my chef 's apprenticeship.

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At a tender age of 19, I proudly earned my chef 's credentials, and by the audacious age of 21, I boldly shrugged off my chef 's jacket to dive heart and soul into the electrifying realms of branding, marketing and graphic design. My aspiration is as clear as it is provocative: to establish the boldest and most colossal agency, not only in Sydney but on a global stage. The desire to be the best is a common dream, but I understand it demands monumental sacrifice and relentless labour. I juggled three jobs to stack the deck in DARTE's favour, all while surrounding myself with kindred spirits who share my unwavering drive and audacious ambitions. In this tumultuous and unpredictable world, I am simultaneously terrified and exhilarated by what lies ahead. If I don't seize the moment now, when will the time ever be right? Stay vigilant, for DARTE Agency, the next generation, has unapologetically arrived. A heartfelt thanks to Max Alfieri for sparking my culinary journey, and to my father's sage counsel: “Always surround yourself with remarkable individuals – the environment is the key!”

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he tranquil and serene atmosphere of Amaroo Valley Springs creates a sense of calm and relaxation. It's an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. The luxury accommodation comprises three villas, Birds Nest, Grandview and Highcliff, which are situated on a 65ha farm, 10km from Kangaroo Valley village. My mate and I had the pleasure of staying in Birds Nest for two nights around a recent birthday, joined on the second night by another couple of friends to share in the celebrations (and commiserations). The farm has plenty of cows and the owners’ horse to watch or interact with, along with the many varieties of bird and animal life that you can’t help but encounter during your stay. Each villa has a large dining and living space complete with everything you could possibly need. The kitchen is so well equipped that the only item that appeared to be missing was a champagne stopper. The complimentary bottle of Veuve Clicquot was enjoyed on the second night by the four of us, so it was superfluous anyway. The king-size bedrooms with ensuites are located at either side of the living space providing privacy for each couple, which is also important when you want to take advantage of the outside baths with views across the valley. The full-service aspect of Amaroo Valley Springs is a major plus. The freshly made bread is a delightful touch, adding a homely and comforting element to your stay. Additionally, the provision of more supplies than you can consume shows a genuine desire to cater to guests' needs. It's commendable that they encourage guests not to take more than necessary, as it helps maintain the abundance for everyone. The cantilevered hardwood decks add a further entertaining space and provide a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Whether you want to have your morning coffee, cook on the hooded gas barbecue, or unwind with a glass of wine in the evening, the decks offer a comfortable and inviting space to do so. Did I mention the view? Picture postcard and absolutely stunning. A full vista of the beauty of the Kangaroo Valley is right there in front of your eyes – don’t forget to keep looking out, and pinching yourself that you are surrounded by natural beauty. Amaroo Valley Springs is a fantastic vacation destination. It offers privacy, tranquillity and a serene environment surrounded by beautiful established farmland and gardens. The property is well-maintained, and the well-appointed villas and their hardwood decks provide a perfect place to relax and soak in the scenery. The full-service aspect is a wonderful touch as was the opportunity to meet the owners who clearly take pride in providing a unique experience for every one of their guests.

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he rich aroma of fresh coffee has become a quintessential part of Australian culture, and at the heart of this caffeinated revolution lies the captivating tale of Vittoria Coffee. Established in 1947 by two enterprising Italian brothers, this family-owned business has evolved into an iconic symbol of quality coffee in Australia.

A TASTE OF ITALY DOWN UNDER

VITTORIA'S COMMITMENT TO QUALITY

The company was founded in 1947 by Orazio and Carmelo Cantarella, who migrated to Australia with their families from Catania, Sicily. They began importing products from their homeland to their new home, Australia. The Cantarella brothers brought in Italian products such as parmesan cheese, pasta and brands such as San Pellegrino mineral water, providing post-war Italian migrants access to products from home.

The company has always had a long-term vision for roasting the finest quality beans in all its blends. Vittoria began locally roasting premium 100 per cent Arabica beans here in Australia, back in 1958, long before the wider market understood this measure of quality.

However, it was their recognition of the importance of fresh coffee that set the stage for their success. In 1958, the brothers delved into the art of roasting 100 per cent Arabica coffee beans, supplying small batches to Sydney's first Italian cafés and delis. They named their coffee 'Vittoria Coffee' and introduced it to the city's burgeoning Italian café and deli scene.

ESPRESSO WITH AN ITALIAN FLAIR In the early days, espresso-based coffees were regarded as too robust for Australian palates. Yet, Vittoria Coffee persisted, carving out a niche among those who craved a genuine Italian coffee experience. While the coffee initially thrived in the foodservice sector, the 1980s brought a turning point. Les Schirato, the current CEO, embarked on a mission to bring Vittoria Coffee to Australian supermarket shelves. Facing initial resistance due to the perceived strength of Italian espresso, Schirato's clever strategy was to position Vittoria Coffee within the fruit and vegetable section, branding it as an 'ethnic' delicacy. As sales began to climb, retailers began to take notice, ultimately placing it alongside other coffee options.

This commitment to quality extends to today from its selection of the highest-quality green beans, to how they’re picked and washed. The company runs one of the most technologically advanced roasting facilities in the southern hemisphere with control over every stage of the process. This meticulous process guarantees unmatched consistency and the ability to replicate the desired flavor profile with precision. Today, Vittoria roasts the equivalent of over 2.5 million cups of coffee every day. The product is sold in over 5,000 foodservice outlets. Vittoria is the Australian market leader in pure coffee in Australia and is exported to more than 15 countries around the world.

THE PRODUCTS Vittoria uses only 100 per cent Arabica beans in all its blends. Vittoria’s ambition is to provide Australians with the finest coffee in any format they choose, including beans, capsules, instant coffee and coffee bags.

A FAMILY LEGACY Throughout its remarkable 70-year journey, Vittoria Coffee remains a family-owned and operated business, now in its third generation. Its coffee expertise and commitment to excellence has passed from one generation to the next.

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A STAR-STUDDED AFFAIR Vittoria Coffee's story is not just about coffee; it's about culture, creativity, and collaboration. In 2010, the legendary Al Pacino graced Vittoria's print and television advertising campaign, marking the first product endorsement of his illustrious career. The campaign, filmed in Caffe Dante in Manhattan, NYC, was directed by the Oscar-winning maestro Barry Levinson, known for hits such as Rain Man and Wag the Dog. The Pacino ads put both Vittoria and Australia on the map in a global coffee sense. People didn’t appreciate the sophisticated coffee culture that existed in Australia. Pacino changed all that.

SUPPORTING AUSTRALIAN FASHION In recent years, Vittoria has extended its influence beyond the coffee cup, actively supporting the Australian fashion industry. The company collaborates with well-known Australian designers including providing support programs for up-and-coming designers. Vittoria turns its coffee cups over to Australian designers with new limited-edition artwork rolled out on all its cups each year showcasing the vibrant creativity of Australian talent.

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VITTORIA’S LEGACY From its humble beginnings rooted in Italian heritage to its current status as an Australian coffee icon, Vittoria Coffee's journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and the enduring love affair between Australians and their flat whites and cappuccinos. As the legacy continues to grow, one thing remains certain, Vittoria Coffee is sure to remain at the forefront of delivering exceptional coffee experiences to discerning palates worldwide.

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L O D G E S T H AT L I G H T- U P SOUL AND SPIRIT WITH A WILDERNESS H E A R T, I N T H E L A P O F LUXURY

his summer, the heart and soul Karina and Brian Barr y pour into their signature portfolio of laid-back luxury escapes is set to redefine nature stays. Four extraordinary new coastal, luxury lodges will bring the wilderness heart of their Pretty Beach House to the impeccably curated resort experience of Bells at Killcare. The Lodges at Bells at Killcare are architecturally crafted to be unobtrusive within the lush, coastal Angophora canopy of Bouddi National Park on the NSW Central Coast. Meaning ‘heart’, Bouddi is a deeply sacred place where five waterways converge, creating an atmosphere so clear that this tri-level lodge experience naturally elevates body, soul and spirit. It’s a place for when the heart craves a spur-of-the-moment escape to your own private oasis, where there’s room to breathe and cocoon in good company - or if you’re planning on gathering for a wedding, special occasion or multi-gen getaway. A unique retreat, where returning to nature for an ‘eco’ experience need not mean compromising your expectations of comfort. “The beauty of bringing high-end wilderness lodges to Bells at Killcare is that you can feel worlds away, within a pleasant 90-minute drive north from Sydney,” Karina says.

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INTO THE WILD . . . Before you open your eyes each morning you’ll be harmonised with nature, waking to cheerful birdsongs and salty sea air. On the ground level of each lodge are two wonderfully inviting bedrooms, each with king bed which can be converted to twin, opening to your own private enclosed terrace. Ensuite bathrooms are beautifully integrated with the bushland surrounds in serene foliage tones and stone detail, and feature underfloor heating, a skin-tingling indoor rain-shower and free-standing bath for blissful relaxation. Step through to your own private pool which is warmed year-round to a heavenly 24 degrees. Vanish into a good read on your double day bed and refresh in your outdoor rain room. Poolside barbecue facilities and alfresco dining setting complete a seamless connection with the natural bushland setting. Upstairs, level one of your luxury lodge is well appointed for entertaining or relaxing. A fully equipped contemporary kitchen flows through to spacious open-plan dining and living areas, with largescreen television, lavishly stocked bar and fireplace for intimate, evening ambience. This level opens out to a wrap-around terrace where your spirit will soar watching powerful, white-breasted sea eagles. You’ll soon feel so at home in the wild that close encounters with blue-crested superb fairywrens and cheeky rainbow lorikeets are to be expected. Head on up to the third level, the Sunset Deck to see the sun set over the national park with sweeping views back to Broken Bay, Palm Beach and the city you left behind. Nourish body and soul with a celebratory glass of sparkling tea and give yourself over to forest bathing on this heavenly Mediterranean-style upper sundeck. In this wild environment, the night skies come alive with a blanket of stars and the shining eyes of curious sugar gliders.

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IN THE LAP OF LUXURY. . . The seclusion you seek is made all the more effortless by having five-star resort facilities and concierge service readily at hand. Your lodge experience is fully inclusive of generous provision for meals of your choosing from the Bells at Killcare resort facilities. Forage the on-site artisan Bells Bakery & Larder for lunch options, freshly baked breads, decadent pastries, locally roasted coffee and the owners’ own selection of Buds & Beads loose-leaf teas, charcuterie and fine cheeses for grazing, or something to satisfy any craving from an extensive gourmet selection. Wander over to Bells’ onsite restaurant, The Wild Flower Bar and Dining, for the flavours of freshly caught seafood from the local ocean shelf or tantalising a la carte menu. And linger over a wine selection beautifully put together by a pair of passionate foodies with more than 40 years’ wine industry experience. Wildflowers such as native fuchsia, gum blossom and flannel flowers are in abundance along low-impact wilderness walks from your lodge, through towering eucalypt forests and ancient rock formations to hiddenaway Maitland Bay and the golden sands of Putty Beach. From here, you’ll see the Sydney skyline, seeming not so far away at all.

THE WILD FLOWER BAR & DINING IS INSPIRED BY THE FOOD OF THE SUN, FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN TO MOROCCO.

For the soul in need of soothing, the restorative effects of native flora are experienced at the Bells Day Spa on your doorstep. Rituals like a Flannel Flower Sanctuary with deeply hydrating botanical souffle, or headto-toe Indigenous Clay Earth and Ocean Dreaming Ritual, unleash inner joy and a radiant glow. In every moment at this unique place, you’ll connect with nature’s untamed heart, enfolded in utter luxury and complete comfort, and leave with your spirit lifted.

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ON A TH U N DEROUS MORNING SOM E 6 4 YE AR S AGO, I WA S USH ERED I N TO T H E W O R L D O N A S H E E P S TAT I O N A F E W K I L O M E T R E S O U T O F COONABAR ABR AN , THE ABORIGINAL TERM FOR AN ‘ INQUISITIVE PERSON’ - NEVER A TRUER WORD SPOKEN.

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oday I find myself enjoying the eclectic Wagga Wagga, meaning ‘the place of many crows’, and a few kilometres out of town I was a guest on Kyeamba sheep station, the property of Phil and Lyn Clarke. Along with their own tribe, they were all awaiting my luncheon that was to hero freshly slaughtered lamb, crown racks, lamb Wellington, roasted veg and a salad of pomegranate, pear, cherry tomato drenched in a sticky balsamic and Manjimup truffle. Cooking on a country property is always an exciting thing with their huge kitchens, timber floors and a couple of lambs hanging in the walk-in cool room. I arrived bright and early just as the family was up and about, kids running amok as Ben and mum Maddy nervously kept everyone out of the kitchen. So, it was full throttle prepping the Wellingtons and crowning the racks, all whilst snapping shots when the moments arose.

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LUNCH ON KYEAMBA SHEEP STATION WITH: BEN, MADDY, WILL, OLIVIA AND HUDSON PHIL AND LYN CLARKE MATT AND KELLY CLARKE

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As service time crept up, son number two Matt arrived with mum, Kelly and their tribe, the table was getting laid, roasts and Wellingtons were out, reduction was bubbling and the veggies crisping; it was now 12 and ready to serve. The guest list was quite discerning as lamb was the Clarke family’s go-to protein. The kids all lined up for the full menu, while grandsons Will and Hudson, along with the granddaughters Olivia, Pippa, Augusta and Charlie, all tucked in. I had run into the Clarkes down at the Sydney Fish Markets some months earlier and one thing led to another and the next thing I knew, I was to become their own personal chef for a day. What was I thinking?

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Not wanting to waste a visit to the bush, I called PR superstar Georgie Robertson of The Regional PR Co. Together, we set up visits to The Press, restaurant Pastorale, Mates Gully and Jake out at the Riverina Gin Distillery.

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Having booked a couple of nights at the Quest Wagga Wagga, it was non-stop, enjoying everything from Richard’s ‘orgy of mushroom’ pasta (Pastorale), Rachel’s truffled scrambled eggs (The Press), Harry’s sourdough lamb and veggie pizza and pumpkin soup (Mates Gully) and, finally, on the way out of town I whipped up a batch of orange, blueberry and Riviera Gin scones at Jake’s distillery. So, if you have a spare weekend, head west to the Place of Many Crows!

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L'ERMITAGE B E V E R L Y

H I L L S

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aving lived in LA for some 10 years back in the 80s, I was always aware of L’Ermitage but never had the opportunity to spend a weekend there.

Located on the palm-lined boulevard of Burton Way, a stone’s throw from Rodeo Drive, it was to become the heartbeat of Beverly Hills. Initially built as residences, the vision to develop the property into something more was adventurous to say the least. Knowing the surrounding options, it was to become the premier exclusive five-star hideaway that feels just like home. Transforming the collection of private luxury residences into what would be an all-suite hotel focusing on exceptional service and world-class hospitality has clearly paid off. As I arrived coming off Wilshire Boulevard, I only had to follow the signature palm trees up Burton Way and onto the tree-lined drive up to the concierge.

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L’Ermitage is void of the pomp and ceremony of resort-style hotels with its subtle balconies reminding me of luxury European villas. Checking into my spacious suites with flawless ease gave me a real sense of luxury and confidence that the next three nights would be something quite special. My signature suite was appointed in the most elegant finishes with all the lavish touches a discerning guest might desire. It was clear how L’Ermitage became known for its unparalleled attention to detail and the privacy that its large rooms and discreet location afforded. It’s no surprise that L’Ermitage soon became the gold standard for the global elite and celebrity-set alike. Since 2000, L’Ermitage has earned the prestigious Five-Star Hotel Award by Forbes Travel Guide and has become the longest-tenured allsuite hotel with a Forbes Five-Star rating in the world. The focus is clearly to play the ultimate host - gracious, personal and unfailingly efficacious priding themselves on delivering exceptional service with warmhearted California charm. The Classic Suite is L’Ermitage’s signature suite, where timeless design meets contemporary luxury. Each Classic Suite features an open floor plan and quintessential Beverly Hills elegance with views to match. My suite comprised a spacious sitting area, dedicated dressing room, writer’s desk, onyx marbleclad bathroom with soaking tub, and French balconies that brought in fresh air and California sunshine. Appointed in a sophisticated palette of calming neutral tones, the gracious interiors offered all the comforts I would expect of a private luxury residence. All suites are readied for guests with a stocked bar, refrigerator and Nespresso machine. 342 | C L A S S I C L I F E S T Y L E

L’ E R M I TA G E I S V O I D O F T H E P O M P A N D C E R E M O N Y O F T H E R E S O R T- S T Y L E H O T E L S WITH ITS SUBTLE BALCONIES REMINDING ME OF LUXURY EUROPEAN VILL AS.

Breakfast in LA is always one of my favourite times and, after a ride and steam, I was spoilt with fresh fruits, croissants, yoghurt and local honey, and litres of garden-fresh juice. Lunch was taken in the Writer’s Bar with me spending a few hours penning these notes and enjoying a plate of marinated prawns and a fabulous chicken schnitzel sandwich. L’ Restaurant highlights only signature dishes, so you don’t get these overblown complicated menus that rarely deliver. So, it was a dozen fresh oysters and a classic rack of lamb leaving enough room for my favourite fruit crumble.

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SO IF IT’S SECLUSION AND SOME R E A L Q U A L I T Y S E L F -T I M E T H AT YO U WA N T I N A C I T Y T H AT I S R EL EN T L E S S , SP O I L YO U R SEL F AT L’ E R M I TA G E B E V E R LY H I L L S .

As is my standard, a great gym and steam is a must, but when you add to it Ricari, which translates to ‘recharge’ in Italian, the wellness studio offers relaxing, technology-forward ICOONE® treatments for the body and face. Their unique method blends manual and mechanical stimulation to boost circulation, facilitate lymphatic drainage, tone lax skin, calm the nervous system, and sculpt physical features through gentle yet powerful cellular stimulation. After 14 hours from Sydney, didn’t I need all of this. So, if it’s seclusion and some real quality self-time that you want in a city that is relentless, spoil yourself at L’Ermitage Beverly Hills. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 345

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e W O R L D

ravelling any where today requires significant and, in some cases, life-changing air travel.

There is no longer that stressless excitement that once flooded our senses with expectations of storybook adventures. Now it’s all about security, baggage checks and getting patted down, all whist we navigate our way through the airport terminals, dreading that whole checkin process. If there is one sure way to create short-cuts, it’s by aligning yourself with the best loyalty program that creates a somewhat guardianangel effect across your itinerary. The last thing the average holidaymaker does is properly prepare to travel and, for that matter, even the naive business traveller is guilty of not getting ready for that chaos that awaits him or her as they enter the airport terminal. My latest adventure took me across nine countries, five lounges and five airlines, so you can imagine there was a little planning needed. My journey would see me depart Sydney on AA72 to Los Angeles, New York, London, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Paris, Dubai and Doha before heading home. So, to ensure I was on top of it all, the most important rule is do not check on any luggage - carry-on only, one backpack and one roll-on. Now for those of you that are still sceptical, there is a sure way to make this happen and it’s by booking a business class or a premium economy seat. By doing this, you get to check in at the business line and, if you are an Emerald/Gold frequent flyer, you can use the first-class line.

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It all starts at check-in. Being a BA Emerald frequent flyer, I was eligible to use the Qantas First Lounge and check in to the American Airlines first-class counter, even though I held a businessclass ticket. In the event I was holding a premium economy ticket, I still would have been able to access all the first-class benefits including priority boarding, with no lines to join. Having to go through to New York via LA, I decided that the quickest and most stressless way was to fly on American Airlines, as they land at the Tom Bradley terminal at 6am, virtually the first aircraft in, and there is a direct access to the American Airlines domestic departure concourse right next door and their fabulous Flagship Lounge right next to Gate 41. From landing to the lounge, it was 15 minutes, with no bags to claim or recheck and with my New York boarding pass in hand from Sydney, there was no need to recheck. The Flagship Lounge is excellent, and after a shower Chef Mary whipped me up a ham and cheese omelette. One other trick, with only having checkon, if your flight is cancelled or you have missed your connection with a late arrival, you can change or jump straight onto the next flight as you haven’t checked any bags on, leaving all the other passengers scrambling to sort out their bags.

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I know that flights have become a lot more expensive of late, but if you resist travelling in school holidays or the peak periods, you can find great deals, less congestion and if it’s the kids that dictate when you travel, pull them out of school early to take advantage of the cheaper option. Travel is the best way to educate kids anyway and, remember, you pay the fees! As I’m writing this story, I’ve just had 14 hours from Sydney and managed eight hours sleep in a fabulous six-foot-plus flatbed, a movie, steak dinner and a hot fudge sundae. I’m now connecting to my American Airlines LA-to-NY enjoying a warm bagel and smoked salmon, green tea and another movie before landing at JFK and heading to the Flagship Lounge for a shower while awaiting my connection to London. The Lounge at JFK is really convenient. Getting off my AA flight in Terminal 8, the British Airways Lounge is part of the American Airlines Lounge, so I was spoilt for choice. Terminal 8 is where all the Oneworld carriers meet up, allowing me plenty of time to visit and check in to the BA first-class lounge, even though I was on a premium economy ticket to London. Remember, I arrived on an American Airlines business-class ticket that gave me dual access. After a hot shower, another NY cut steak and a cranberry juice, it was back on board

where I was to get what we call the ‘hand of God’ - a touch on the shoulder with a pleasant: “Excuse me sir, we have up graded you to business class.” Departing JFK at 6.40pm, I had been flying now for 21 hours and a trifle tired, so the private cabins on board with the flatbeds were a godsend. So, it was earplugs in, duvet on and a much-needed five-hour sleep. I would land at Heathrow at 6.40am, deplaning first and passing through customs, through the priority lane, out in under 15 minutes - again no bags - and down to the Heathrow Express into Paddington station and straight the Montana Hotel.

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Flights from Sydney to London via Asia-Middle East are 26 hours. Choosing the US route, it’s only two hours longer, but will give you plenty of cool stopover options with American Airlines. Las Vegas is one of my favourites and a popular route for AA, only a 45 minutes’ flight from LAX. My ride home is a no brainer - Qatar Airways and those spectacular Qsuites, huge TV screens, duvets and dine whenever you like. Out of Terminal 4, it was an 8pm flight landing in Doha at 5am and, with access to the business-class customs lounge, I was one of only eight travellers using the service and I was out into the Mandarin Oriental car waiting kerbside. Now here is another little option. Go online now and sign up free to become a Fan of MO on the Mandarin Oriental site. Being a fan will give you a treasuretrove of value. MO is the only place I stay in Doha. After two nights in Doha and a spectacular dinner at Liang restaurant, a day in the gym and a few hours by the pool, it was back to Hamad International Airport and onto QR 908 to Sydney. After a few movies, a little onboard emailing and eight hours sleep, I arrived home in pretty good shape at 5.10pm, just in time to watch the grand final. 350 | C L A S S I C L I F E S T Y L E

Travelling like I do is not for the faint-hearted, but for everyone else it’s only as hard as you choose to make it. You simply need to plan every part of what is to hopefully be a real adventure and, fingers crossed, you will have positioned yourself in the Oneworld program and convinced yourself that carry-on is the only option. Meanwhile, in great news on the sustainability front, British Airways has a new uniform for its cabin crew, pilots and airport colleagues created by British-Ghanaian fashion designer Ozwald Boateng alongside 1,500 colleagues in Britain and across the globe who were involved in the end-to-end process. Much of British Airways’ former uniform, designed by Julien McDonald, will be repurposed as part of a sustainability initiative. To celebrate the launch, British Airways has partnered with fellow iconic British brands GHD and ELEMIS to set up ‘Treat Yourself ’ bars across various airports, to help colleagues look and feel their best.

The female wardrobe for cabin crew and airport colleagues offers the option of a dress, skirt, trouser suit, or in an airline first, a stylish jumpsuit. A sleek three-piece tailored suit with the option of slim or regular fit trousers is available as part of the male wardrobe. The airline’s uniform features bespoke fabrics and patterns that weave throughout the entire collection. The suits, a fundamental element of the customerfacing uniform, are made with a jacquard fabric that features a subtle nod to the airline’s heritage with a pattern indicative of the airline’s iconic speed marque. Sustainability has played an important role in the development of British Airways’ new uniform, as well as in plans to repurpose its current uniform as part of its BA Better World commitments. More than 90 per cent of the garments are produced using sustainable fabric from blends of recycled polyester, and the new uniform’s cotton has been sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative.

Combining style with functionality, 96 individual garments feature in Boateng’s collection - the largest choice of garments the airline has ever offered its people. C L A S S I C A U S T R A L I A T H E L E G A C Y E D I T I O N 2 0 2 3 | 351

THE 20TH ANNUAL NATIONAL ACQUISITIVE, $30,000 PADDINGTON ART PRIZE WINNING ARTWORK. 2023. MUGEEDAH (BODY PAINT) BY GOOMPI UGERABAH. "REPRESENTING AREAS ON MY HOMELANDS, WHERE I GATHER OCHRE TO USE AS BODY PAINT FOR TRIBAL DANCING OR CEREMONY". THE PRESTIGIOUS PADDINGTON ART PRIZE WAS FOUNDED AND PRINCIPALLY SPONSORED BY MARLENE ANTICO AND CO-SPONSORED BY CHRIS ANTICO. THE ART PRIZE HELD ANNUALLY FOR 20 YEARS, SELECTING ARTWORKS THAT ARE INSPIRED BY THE AUSTRALIAN LANDSCAPE.

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