DUO Magazine April 2017

Townsville + Region | Issue 131 | April 2017 | YOUR FREE COPY

THE H E A LT H Y LIVING ISSUE www.duomagazine.com.au

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8 8 D E N H A M S T R E E T, T O W N S V I L L E . P H O N E 0 7 4 7 7 2 3 6 2 2 G E M M O L O G I S T S • Q U A L I F I E D D I A M O N D G R A D E R S • R E G I S T E R E D VA L U E R S

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THE GREAT TOWNSVILLE APARTMENT SELL-OFF!

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Islington k A limited selection of Islington 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available for sale at ‘I must inspect’ price points.

Ideally positioned at the entry to Townsville’s CBD, many apartments in Islington at Central boast tranquil waterfront, city or elevated and coastal/hinterland views, and are an easy walk to the best that this great city has to offer.

ISLINGTON

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The Townsville Stadium and CQU University expansion are now reality and will play a major role in the continued beautification and the desirability to live or invest in quality, lifestyle CBD properties.

Boundary indicative only.

PART2

FOR SALE: ITARA RIVERFRONT APARTMENTS Lifestyle property with great river views for excellent prices.

ISLINGTON APARTMENTS 4 APLIN STREET TOWNSVILLE CITY Inspection by appointment.

For more information contact

Andrew Forster on 07 4750 3030 andrew.forster@au.knightfrank.com

A great opportunity for you to acquire a luxury lifestyle apartment at price levels not seen in this development before. Close proximity to major employment hubs like JCU, Townsville Hospital and the Lavarack army barracks. Within easy walking distance of all the major facilities in the area which include: cafés, restaurants and entertainment, Willows shopping centre, Riverway Arts complex, swimming pools and sporting grounds. Only a limited number of apartments are available. 2 bedroom 2 bathroom + Study and secure under cover carparking.

ITARA RIVERFRONT APARTMENTS 1–15 SPORTING DRIVE THURINGOWA CENTRAL Inspection by appointment.

For more information contact Andrew Forster on 07 4750 3030 andrew.forster@au.knightfrank.com

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A once in a lifetime opportunity exists to own absolute oceanfront property in Townsville.

For more information call Andrew Forster on (07) 47 50 30 30 projects.nq@au.knightfrank.com

DUOContents

129 A P R I L 2 0 17 I S S U E 13 1

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THE HEALTHY LIVING ISSUE Premium Features

DUOStyle

DUOBusiness

088 Inspirational Leaders In Health+Fitness 100 T ownsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

60 Lilya’s AW17 Collection ‘Muse’ 67 Woman Yeojin Bae, TOME, Tony Bianco,

120 Business News 121 T rent Yesberg

Feature Stories 22 Where Are They Now? 24 20 Positive Things That Are Happening In Townsville 28 Health Comes First 38 Trash To Treasure 50 Kokoda Track 54 King+Queen Of The Hill 56 Shannon Noll Is Surprise Guest at SongMakers Workshop 114 Army Joins Forces with Community 116 Who Are The Reservists?

Regulars 14 Publishers Welcome 16 Horoscopes 18 W hat’s Going On Theatre, sport and more

160 Five Minutes With…

Four amazing locals tell all

163 Last Word Paula Swanson

DUOHome+Travel 41 Profile People Oriented Design 44 Home Products 46 M att Leacy’s Top Tips for Autumn and Winter Landscaping Success 52 Travel Products

Dinosaur Designs, Louis Vuitton

70 Man Mercedes-Benz, Tarocash, Puma, Oakley, Diesel, Funky Trunks

72 My Bag Amy McCrystal 74 My Style Monica Scowcroft 76 Beauty Smooth Operator

DUOMagazine April 2017

Northern Tax & Financial Services

DUOHealth

DUOSeen

78 Profile MYTOOTHDOCTOR 80 Dr Paul Hanrahan

132 Seen Women of Achievement: In Her

Townsville Orthodontic Specialists

81 Donna Larcom Pure Core Nourishment 82 Grant Collins Clarity Hearing Solutions 83 Paul Parker SportsMed NQ 84 Health News 85 Lydia Rigano Fulham Consulting 86 Profile Dr Jason McDarra Orthopaedic Surgeon

DUOCommunity 90 M arco Della Valle International Psychic Medium

91 Courtney Frank DUOMagazine 92 The Good Shepherd Home Room With A View

94 T ownsville Hospital Foundation Do It For The Kids

96 Cannon Family Shoot for Success 97 Teal Wings of Hope Mary Holmes 98 JCU Conference: Safeguarding Mental Health

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Regional Business Services

122 Profile Gerard Byrne 124 Warwick Powell Sister City Partners 126 Townsville Enterprise Limited 128 K aren Quagliata

Shoes Luncheon

133 Seen Zonta Townsville Metro – International Women’s Day Cocktail Party

134 Seen Sky Foundation ‘Be Bold for Change’ International Women’s Day Luncheon

135 Seen KordaMentha Accelerate Townsville Launch

136 Seen Jobtrain’s Grand Opening 137 Seen 2017 Norh Queensland Events Calendar Launch

DUOFood+Drink 129 Profile Jorge Solano Solano Syrups 138 Directory 144 R eaders Request Recipe Otto’s Fresh Food Market

148 Readers Request Recipe Michels’ Craig Smith

156 Recipes Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

DUOPublisher’sLetter

Hello Debbie!

I always seem to leave writing this column until the very last. Right now all the other pages have been sent to the printer and they’re just waiting for this one. After writing so many, I’m running out of stories (but not opinions) to tell you. I leave it to the last because it takes all month for me to decide on the topic. The difference this time is Cyclone Debbie is heading for the coast which made me remember what happened when Cyclone Yasi came by.

We were living in our Mariners Peninsula apartment on the Strand which was an end unit so it went the full width of the building. We had really nice views of the boats in the Breakwater marina (looking East) from the back bedrooms and from the balcony and lounge (looking West) we saw Tobruk pool, Strand beach, and Maggie Island. On a (usually) perfect day you could see up to the Palm Island group.

So you can imagine we were feeling a bit exposed to a cyclone heading our way. We got out the gaffer tape and taped up the windows, bought a Baby Weber and gas bottle (which I’ve still never used), transistor radio and the biggest industrial torch I could find.

We took down all the pictures and stacked them and the ornaments into the main bathroom. The two of us (Stacey and I) shifted the lounge chairs, dining table and chairs, credenza and beds away from the windows and against the central wall in the middle of the unit.

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We left our bed where it was in the main bedroom because it was on the other side from where I thought Yasi would be coming from. And it was too big for us to move anyway.

I’ve always understood that (after the bathroom) the laundry is one of the safest places to be in a cyclone so we decided to set up a bed on the floor with some blankets and pillows. Don’t know how big your laundry is but ours was never designed to be a guest bedroom.

We wedged ourselves between the washing machine and the broom cupboard but with out enough room to fully stretch out our legs. It was cramped but that wasn’t the worst bit.

If you were here at the time you’ll remember we had some pretty strong winds howling through. The winds knocked down trees and turned the plants and gardens in Anzac Park and along the Strand into coleslaw.

What I hadn’t realised when we chose the laundry was that the exhaust vent (that gets the hot air out of the room) actually vented out on the marina side of the building. This was the East side which was facing where the wind was coming from. The noise was incredible. We could barely hear the radio. In fact, after about half an hour of screaming winds keeping us awake we decided to risk life and limb and climbed into our bed.

This time around I hope it misses everyone and it fills every dam in the region.

This month’s issue is again packed with local people and their stories so enjoy your reading and stay well.

Scott Morrison Publisher

THE DUO MAGAZINE TEAM PUBLISHER EDITORIAL ADVERTISING

PRODUCTION

Scott Morrison Stacey Morrison Marco Della Valle Courtney Frank Rachel Dean Joan Fanning Frantz Salvador Al Rio Jenni Contreras

FOR ALL EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES

editor@duomagazine.com.au FOR ALL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

advertise@duomagazine.com.au EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Kylie Davis, Rachel Licciardello, Courtney Frank, Warwick Powell, Marco Della Valle, Lucy Abbott, Lori Napier PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Josephine Carter, Matthew Gianoulis, Megan MacKinnon, Paul Freeman, Budd Photography TELEPHONE 07 4771 2933 READ DUO ONLINE AT

www.duomagazine.com.au DUOMagazine is published monthly by Intrepid (NQ) Pty Ltd ACN 107 308 538 113 Boundary Street Townsville PO Box 1928 Townsville Qld 4810 Telephone 07 4771 2933 Email duo@duomagazine.com.au COPYRIGHT Contents of DUOMagazine are subject to copyright.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences including any loss or damage arising from reliance on information in this publication. Expressed or implied authors’ and advertisers’ opinions are not necessarily those of the editor and/or publisher.

All of us at DUO Magazine are proud to support our local community with sponsorship and editorial contributions whenever we can. It’s our privilege to be able to give back to our community by helping to promote the positive development of our city.

We’re proud to support these worthy organisations: Townsville Hospital Foundation Major Sponsor Townsville Enterprise Gold Partner Townsville City Council Together Townsville City Partner Townsville Picnic Bay Surf Life Saving Club Major Sponsor

DUOMagazine

Horo scope

STAR OF THE MONTH

Aries 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL

If you can keep your head together through months of renovations, negotiations and frantic spurts of industry, you’ll step into one of the most productive years of your life. Financial matters also come to the fore. Just don’t place too much faith in colleagues and friends, no matter what they promise.

Be confident that you can go it alone – but only until early spring, when solos find new suitors.

Astrologer Tanya Obreza reveals what’s in the stars for you this month…

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

21 APRIL – 20 MAY

21 MAY – 21 JUNE

22 JUNE – 22 JULY

23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

It’s a bit of a mixed bag for you this month, but only because your usual routine is disrupted. The trick is to go with the flow, and stay within your capabilities. You won’t be given more than you can cope with – so forget those niggling doubts.

Even so, losses may seem painful in early weeks but soon after, you emerge emotionally recharged.

A fabulous month, with the planets giving the go-ahead in practically everything you want to do. Any financial pressure is off, so there should be more cash to play with. You’ll be drawn towards risk and adventure. Aside from any love tangles, there’s a renewed openness with sibling and ex-partners. It’s a welcome turning point.

This is more like it – a month drenched in possibilities. If single, advertise your availability. For some, new love simply happens; for others, a chance encounter tempts you to rekindle an old flame. Long lasting friendships may also be forged during this hectic, but happy, month. Health, wealth and career also get the planetary thumbs up.

Gather your talents and prepare for greater career commitments.

Whether it’s finding a new job or starting a business, you’re now more than capable of handling whatever comes your way. The harder you work, the more you can spend. Just remember to occasionally slow down the pace.

Thankfully, you’ll also have extra time to play.

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

22 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER

Calm your mind and take a few gentle breaths. This is a time to follow your instincts and true spirit.

Stay in a rut, and you could miss out on extraordinary opportunities.

Admittedly, your intuition won’t always be on target. Some moves may even take you along a risky path, though they’ll add to that treasure of experience we call ‘life’.

Delve deep into your heart and question your priorities. The drastic changes taking place now may drain both confidence and finances.

But if you follow your instincts then no matter which direction you choose to travel, you’ll be back on top form before you know it.

Be ready to carve an exciting new niche.

Don’t let it get to you, Scorpio.

If early May runs more like a comedy of errors, try to laugh with every turn. Sometimes things just run amuck, and whatever you’ve had planned just doesn’t happen.

See where you end up. It needn’t be a disaster, even if it is unscheduled.

If still pushed for a sense of direction, perhaps you should become more socially involved.

It’s hard to ignore someone who’s acting in a hurtful or destructive way. But there’s no need to stay silent. Don’t become defensive or make a scene – simply state your case. If the individual in question refuses to cooperate, call in a third party. Friends will offer you unconditional support, even if family don’t.

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

You’ve stretched yourself to the limit and you now desperately need a rest. Overwork could lead to exhaustion. Better news: romance improves considerably, especially if you’re willing to mix business with pleasure. What’s more, a promising relationship could quickly accelerate into something more permanent.

With so much energy being expended on relationships, you may wonder if work even gets a look-in this month. Thankfully, yes. Just don’t overdo it. Plan responsibly and be equally certain that you’re working at something that satisfies both mind and soul.

Even better news? The planets also lend an uncanny financial instinct.

Earning power soars.

There’s enough information overload and confrontation in each day to drive every one of us crazy, so we all need a chance to get away from the grind. April encourages you to do just that. For now, too, finances look sharp – so the time seems right for a little extravagance.

You may also find that help comes from unexpected corners.

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Like to have your own personal profile?

If you’re interested in an in-depth astrology profile prepared by our favourite astrologer Tanya Obreza, visit www.tanyaobreza.com

What’s Going On?

DUOMagazine

22 to 23 April Otto’s Fresh Food Market www.townsvilletickets.com.au Enjoy live music and street food by Otto’s Smokin’ Rocket and Warrina Arcade’s food traders in Otto’s Alley from 5pm–7pm followed by Flicker Fest under the stars! This programme is a specially curated selection of highlights from Flickerfest’s 7 Australian Academy Award® accredited competition programmes in Bondi 2017.

Constellations 26 April Riverway Arts Centre www.ticketshop.com.au 4727 9797 Lovers often say fate brought them together, and fate doesn’t get much credit after that. But in Constellations, every moment Roland and Marianne share is at the mercy of the infinite and unknowable universe.

Lucas Stibbard (Boy Girl Wall) and Jessica Tovey (Wonderland, Home and Away) play a lovestruck beekeeper and a quantum physicist. The odds of them getting together are astronomical. But when their worlds do collide, all the possibilities of their life together – good, bad and ugly – flicker across the stage in a series of snapshots, from first date to farewell in this Queensland Theatre production.

Circus Oz Model Citizens 20 to 21 April Townsville Civic Theatre www.ticketshop.com.au 4727 9797 Set in a beautiful yet chaotic model kit world, Model Citizens explores acrobatic circus with pumping live music and imaginative lighting.

Breaking conventions of scale, oversized everyday objects become an intriguing world of possibilities.

Groovin the Moo 30 April Murray Sports Complex www.gtm.net.au Groovin the Moo is thrilled to be marching back to Townsville in 2017, bringing a stellar line-up of international and national acts as well as some amazing Queensland-bred musicians.

Otto’s Street Food & Flicker Fest Tour

TVVHMC Easter Hub Rally Show ’n’ Shine 15 April Spotlight Car Park, Duckworth Street, Garbutt www.tvvhmc.com.au Cars as old as 109 and as new as 1980s, and everything in between, will be on display at this rally. Come along and enjoy a sausage sizzle and vote for your favourite car.

Melbourne International Comedy Roadshow – Townsville 29 to 30 April Townsville Civic Theatre www.ticketshop.com.au 4727 9797 Featuring everything from stand-up to sketch and slapstick to song, each individual line-up presents the best of the Festival in one hilarious show.

DUO Magazine ads work for more than a month.

We’re a magazine, not a newspaper.

For more information and advertising rates call 4771 2933 or email advertise@duomagazine.com.au

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DUOMagazine

Raw Until 25 April The Drill Hall Studio www.thedrillhallstudio.com.au RAW is an exploration into the effects that war has on soldiers. In this poignant and powerful portrait exhibition, resident artist Kathy Cornwall has captured the emotion and vulnerability, as well as the strength and dignity of military personnel over multiple wars, experiences and injuries.

Anzac Day Dawn Services 25 April The Strand and Thuringowa www.townsville.qld.gov.au Dawn Services will be held at Anzac Park and Thuringowa Central as well as parades in both locations with veterans, local schools, community groups, service organisations and the armed forces taking part.

Townsville MTB Festival 29 April to 5 May Townsville locations www.mtbafestival.com.au Watch Australia’s leading marathon riders tackle the Townsville terrain for the 2017 Cross Country Marathon National Championships, while the Discover Townsville Adventure Ride showcases the town’s very best features on two wheels. This inaugural festival is set to impress.

TheatreiNQ’s Frankenstein

Fantasea Destination Adventure Clint Robinson Paddling Retreat 20 to 23 April Peppers Blue on Blue, Magnetic Island www.destinationadventure.com.au Spend three days on Magnetic Island learning from Olympic Gold medal champion Clint Robinson in this small group paddling retreat. Accommodation at Peppers Blue on Blue and all meals are included.

19 April to 7 May Old Townsville West State School 29 Ingham Road, West End www.theatreinq.com Celebrating 200 years since Mary Shelley first penned her gothic masterpiece, TheatreiNQ presents an original interpretation of this much-loved classic.

With the support of the Griffin Group, Frankenstein will be presented in the historic Old Townsville West State School building on Ingham Road. Audiences will be taken on a nightmarish journey through the halls and rooms of the Heritage-listed building.

DUOMagazine April 2017

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Festival Of One-Act Plays Celebrates 25 Year Milestone Short plays will take centre stage as the North Queensland Festival of One-Act Plays makes its return to Riverway Arts Centre on 5–7 May 2017.

The Festival is competitive, with the unenviable task of choosing the winners this year going to a special guest adjudicator, Michael Futcher, Co-Artistic Director of the acclaimed Brisbane theatre, The Matrix. After completing his schooling and university study in Townsville, Michael has worked on more than 100 professional stage performances over the past 25 years in various capacities and has enjoyed close associations with all of Queensland’s leading arts organisations as director, writer and actor.

The annual festival is open to groups from across the region from Cairns and the Atherton

A LONG-TERM partnership between Townsville City Council and the Friends of the Theatre, the annual festival is celebrating 25 years in Townsville this year. The festival gives both groups and individual amateur thespians the opportunity to perform on stage and be critiqued on their work by an industry professional.

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Tablelands, right down to Rockhampton and west to Mount Isa. Community and Culture Committee chair Cr Colleen Doyle said the festival played a great role in the development of theatrical talent in the region and was growing in popularity each year.

“We had an overwhelming number of entries in the past few years and this year will hopefully be no exception as the entries are coming in thick and fast at the moment and we may even have a waitlist for the first time ever!” Cr Doyle said.

“After the success of last year’s high number of unpublished plays and the exposure given to some unknown local writers, this year we have seen an increase again in local writers, which is also very exciting.

“There have been hundreds of plays presented from right across the region since the festival began 25 years ago, providing us with a great weekend of theatrical entertainment.”

Festival goers can take the opportunity to enjoy a whole weekend of the festival for just $36 or choose a session from Friday to Sunday for $18 each.

Tickets are available from www. ticketshop.com.au or by phoning the box office on 4727 9797.

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ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS Tuesday 25 April, from 5.30am townsville city and thuringowa central cenotaph

townsville city 5.30am

dawn service at anzac park cenotaph

9am

parade steps off from strand park Parade will make its way along the Strand to Anzac Park Cenotaph

thuringowa central 5.40am

dawn service at thuringowa cenotaph

8.50am

parade steps off from willows carpark Parade will make its way along Thuringowa Drive to Thuringowa Cenotaph

9.35am

morning service at thuringowa cenotaph

for the full list of service times and road closure information, visit www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 878 001

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Fun FAMILY EVENT

ART & CRAFT, WORKSHOPS, GAMES, LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & LOTS MORE TO DISCOVER

SATURDAY 20 MAY @ TYTO PARKLANDS HINCHINBROOK

Discover fun in May Enjoy a day of adventure and discovery of art, culture, nature and knowledge with Tasman Turtle and his friends at our annual family Picnic Day. The day will be filled with activities, workshops, games, food and entertainment for you and your family.

Cost: Free entry. Entertainment and games are free of charge. Some activities and workshops will incur a small fee. Food and beverages available for purchase.

Entry: The event in the TYTO Parklands is accessible from entrances off the Bruce Highway at Cooper St and Macrossan Ave and 73-75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.

Parking: Car parking is available at Cooper St, Macrossan Ave and 73-75 McIlwraith St, Ingham, and on street parking.

Wet Weather: In the event of inclement weather the event will be postponed to the following Saturday 27 May.

'AWESOME FAMILY FUN!' www.tyto.com.au

visitTYTO

DUOMagazine

Where Are They Now? ALFIE GLEDHILL Actor / Presenter What’s your link to Townsville? I grew up in Belgian Gardens, so many childhood adventures were spent exploring the Townsville Old Common and biking down to The Strand in the afternoons for a swim.

Where are you now? I live in the innerwest of Sydney. After leaving Townsville, I focused on getting involved in the industry here – taking acting classes, doing plays and offering my time behind the scenes on Indie projects. Landing my first professional gig as a host of ABC3’s Studio3 opened up a few other doors so I’ve been quite lucky to be able to work on screen, stage and in TV presenting.

What does your work involve now? I’ve just finished filming for a fun new children’s series, which is set to air later this year, so at the moment I’m back to my other job – making coffee and I’ve just bought myself a new skateboard, so I’m pretty excited to put it to good use. I’ve got another gig lined up for next month, so until then I’m making the most of my downtime.

How did your time in Townsville set you up for success? I have a big family who are full of love and are very supportive of my chosen career path. I was also lucky to

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So much talent, so little space to feature them all… that’s why we’re continuing our series on what former Townsville stars-in-the-making are up to now. Make sure you give us a call at DUO if you know someone we should be catching up with.

have a lot of support from the local theatre community in Townsville, in particular Karen Vane, who was the Head of the Arts Department during my time at Pimlico State High School.

Do you still come back to Townsville to visit? The distance and my work schedule only permits me to travel back for the big occasions like Christmas and family or friends’ life events. Nothing beats a weekend of creek-hopping and backyard football with the family.

KIRI-MOANA PROCTOR Fashion Designer What’s your link to Townville? My previous partner and father to my children played for The Cowboys and, at 25, I moved from the Gold Coast to live in Townsville for a couple of years. When leaving Townsville, I remember it being very emotional as I was leaving so many amazing friends Where are you now? My boys and I live on the Gold Coast close to my mum and sister but I do spend quite a lot of time in Sydney as my partner is based there. I kind of have two homes.

What does your work involve? I have a children’s fashion label called Duke of

London and we stock to over 50 stores in four different countries. We’re currently dressing the likes of the Kardashian kids, Stefani boys, Wiz Khalifa’s son and many sports stars’ babies within Australia and the US. It all began after having my first baby boy, London. I’m in a very happy place right now and I feel like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. I have an amazing partner, two beautiful children, a couple of dogs and am surrounded by the most wonderful people and a beautiful family. My business is booming and everything is falling into place.

How did your time in Townsville set you up for success? When living in Townsville I worked for myself for the very first time.

It was in the beauty industry and was a perfect introduction to being selfemployed. I’ve been self-employed ever since and now I get to be creative and live my dream in boys’ fashion Do you still come back to Townsville to visit? I still visit Townsville regularly with my boys. I’m still very close with the football girls and my childhood best friend, who has now moved up there. We also now stock Duke of London to La Petite Boudoir so I visit for work as well.

DUOMagazine

Clinical Researcher

spanning Australia, Canada, USA, Ireland and the UK to achieve these research goals.

What’s your link to Townsville? I moved to Townsville to attend James Cook University and was part of the first graduating cohort of physiotherapists.

What’s happening with your life outside of work? In the summer it involves hiking mountains and cycling the coastline of British Columbia, while in winter I ski and snow shoe on the weekends.

K ATE HAY WARD

Where are you now? After graduating I moved to Brisbane to start my physiotherapy career. Working with people after they had suffered a stroke – seeing their struggles and the incredible amount of recovery achieved by some – made me realise I wanted to commit my career to researching how to improve outcomes for all people with stroke.

I completed my PhD at The University of Queensland and am now completing my Postdoctoral Fellowship at The University of British Columbia in Vancouver Canada. It’s a beautiful west coast city where mountains provide the perfect backdrop.

How did your time in Townsville set you up for success? Working with the physiotherapy staff at JCU and The Townsville Hospital Rehab Department was instrumental in guiding me to take the research path. I found my passion for working with stroke survivors, honed my physiotherapy skills and completed my first research project in Townsville.

What does your work involve? I’m working to understand how an individual recovers arm and hand function again after a stroke.

Out of every 10 stroke survivors, three to four can’t use their arm or hand – a devastating personal experience. My research looks at how the brain changes after stroke, use of arm and hand adapts, and therapy approaches that can be used to optimise recovery. I’m fortunate to work with a group of researchers

NICOLA FILSELL

Do you still come back to Townsville to visit? About once a year I come back to visit colleagues and current students undertaking postgraduate studies through JCU.

Stage Manager What’s your link to Townsville? I was born and raised in Townsville and completed a degree in Technical Theatre at James Cook University.

few years ago and enjoy sharing our garden with our chooks, rabbits and birds. Living in stunning wine country is worth the daily commute to Adelaide.

What does your work involve? I’m a freelance Stage Manager, primarily working in opera for the State Opera of South Australia and theatre for the State Theatre Company of South Australia (STCSA), as well as for the Adelaide Festival of Arts and the Adelaide Cabaret Festival. I’ve just finished heading up the Australian Stage Management Team on Handel’s Saul for the Adelaide Festival and I’m heading off on a national tour this year with STCSA Stage Managing a production of George Orwell’s 1984. My husband and I also own a video production and event management company called Pepper Tree Productions. We provide live images to big screens for major concerts in Adelaide.

How did your time in Townsville set you up for success? I was blessed to be surrounded by very supportive family, friends, teachers and mentors who encouraged me in all that I did. I had lots of opportunities that I wouldn’t have had in a big city.

Do you still come back to Townsville to visit? I haven’t had the chance for a few years but I’m hoping to visit within the next year.

Where are you now? My husband Nicholas and I bought a house in the Barossa Valley a

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20 POSITIVE THINGS THAT ARE HAPPENING IN TOWNSVILLE

While we have certainly experienced some challenging times, there is still a lot to be positive about in the place we call home.

Here’s a refresher:

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DUOMagazine | Townsville Enterprise Limited

1. A new destination marketing campaign has put Townsville on the map The key objective of a new destination marketing campaign is to position Townsville North Queensland as the home of regional Australia’s best live events. This is all about driving visitation to our region through the tagline – Experience world-class events and spectacular locations. The Townsville Enterprise led campaign incorporated the release of the 2017 Townsville North Queensland Events Calendar, Insider’s Guide and a new television and digital commercial promoting the destination. The commercial is shot in a cinematic style, showcasing the region’s events in some of the best natural settings 2.Increased flight connections The Townsville Airport has recently secured a new international flight connection with Air Niugini between Townsville and Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and acquired more direct flights from Melbourne through Tigerair. Aviation attraction is a significant priority for city and business leaders, and is an area that is only on the way up (see what we did there?). Connections with Singapore, Auckland and greater domestic routes remain high on the agenda.

3. A burgeoning cruise ship industry Did you know that over 10,000 people have visited Townsville in the past three months on eight cruise ships? Visiting passengers and crew spend money all over the region in our local cafes, retailers, taxis, restaurants and tourism attractions. The cruise ship industry is a valuable asset to our local economy and one that will continue to grow as we work towards establishing Townsville as a Home Port for one of these ships.

4. We are officially ‘The Best’ The votes are in; Townsville officially has the best Port, best breakfast and one of the best views and beaches in Australia. The Port of Townsville was crowned, for the second consecutive year, the Best Port or Terminal in Australia. Jam’s Asian chicken omelette also reigns supreme for Australia’s Best Breakfast, according to the Australian Savour Awards. The Strand claimed ninth position in TripAdvisor’s ‘Australia’s Best Beaches’ poll, and Castle Hill was voted in the ‘Top 20 Views in Australia’ by a reader poll on Australian and New Zealand tour website, Experience OZ + NZ. And of course we all know that the Cowboys are the best NRL team!

5. A world-leading university James Cook University (JCU) is globally recognised as the world leader in tropical marine studies – an achievement no other Australian university has accomplished. JCU has also ranked in the top 2% of universities in the global rankings system for the sixth year in a row in 2016. The university is a leader in teaching and research addressing the critical challenges facing the Tropics, worldwide. The Australian Research Council Centre for Excellence for Coral Reef Studies is headquartered at JCU’s Townsville campus and has the largest concentration of coral reef scientists in the world.

6. Major events choosing Townsville Townsville is firmly positioning itself as the home of regional Australia’s best events, after the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and 2018 Commonwealth Games chose the city to host their pool matches. From 28 October to 5 November 2017, Townsville will host three rugby league games between Fiji and the USA, Fiji and Wales and Italy and the USA. In 2018, preliminary rounds of the Commonwealth Games men’s and women’s basketball competition will be held at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

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7. Affordable energy recognised as a high priority The price of energy in North Queensland is finally at the forefront of the State and Federal Government’s agenda.

Between solar and coal-fired power options, local media is dominated by discussions centred upon identifying an efficient energy solution for the north. The community voice is also being heard loud and clear. The ball has certainly begun to roll and now is the time for action from our political leaders.

8. Magnetic Island: The place to be this Easter Accommodation providers on Magnetic Island have reported strong bookings for Easter, with most nearing full capacity.

An island break is not just for out of town visitors, but a popular option for Townsville locals to make the 20 minute trip for a hassle free, cost effective, short holiday at home. If you’ve left your run a little late for accommodation, you can always make it a day trip. Complete the historic Forts Walk, spot koalas, and take in some of the most breathtaking views across the Coral Sea. Dine beachside at one of the many cafes, restaurants, and pubs, or pack your own picnic to secret island gem, Radical Bay. There is never a shortage of activities on our little slice of island heaven.

9. Defence Many might not realise, but Townsville is home to the largest military base in Australia. Lavarack Barracks is home-base for the 3rd Brigade and includes the Operational Deployment Force and facilities to undertake mission rehearsal exercises prior to deployment. Existing personnel and extended families represent approximately 16% of the city’s population. We should feel honoured to be a garrison city and proud of the fact that many soldiers protecting our country currently or have previously called Townsville home.

10. Who runs the world? Girls!

Ok, well they’re at least running Townsville. Our city is brimming with inspiring female leaders, breaking down barriers in industries previously dominated by males. A small portion of said women include, Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill, Townsville City Council CEO Adele Young, Townsville Enterprise CEO Patricia O’Callaghan, Port of Townsville CEO Ranee Crosby, JCU Vice Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding and Lieutenant Colonel Gabrielle Follett (the first female to command a unit within an Australian Army Combat Brigade).

Let’s hope we get to a stage where this isn’t classed as a milestone or an achievement anymore, but just the norm to have strong female leaders across our city.

11. Significant investment potential Townsville is widely recognised as the central hub for business and investment. With easy access to domestic and international markets, our unique location provides businesses and investors with diverse opportunities.

Townsville continues to strengthen by industry growth and prosperity in sectors such as agriculture, finance, education and wholesale trade. Land availability for business, transport links to Asia-Pacific and Papua New Guinea, fast communication technology and a superb tropical lifestyle mean that Townsville offers investment potential like no other.

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DUOMagazine | Townsville Enterprise Limited

12. A historic deal to transform our city Last year, Townsville was chosen by the Federal and State Governments to receive a landmark City Deal, the first of its kind in Australia. Under the15 year deal all three levels of Government will work together to develop and strengthen Townsville’s economy. The deal will be structured around six key initiatives that will focus on improving the lives of Townsville residents through job creation, economic growth, investment in local infrastructure, a revitalised urban centre, and a more vibrant and liveable city. Water security has been highlighted as a key priority.

13. The North Queensland Stadium is real Considerable wheels are in motion to see the North Queensland Stadium completed by the beginning of the NRL’s 2020 season.

This project is all about local job creation and participation. It is anticipated that during the design and construction periods, the project will generate approximately 750 jobs. The objective of the stadium project is to not only deliver a long-standing piece of infrastructure to better service a growing region, but more importantly, it’s about stimulating the local economy, maximising local outcomes and providing much needed jobs at a time the region needs them most.

14. Our sporting heroes Townsville’s professional sports stars continue to be recognised as some of the best in their field. Townsville Fire Captain, WNBL Premiership winner and Australian Women’s Basketball Olympic medallist, Suzy Batkovic has recently earnt her fifth WNBL MVP Award, making her the most decorated female basketball player in WNBL history. Another recent milestone for our city that bleeds blue and grey is none other than NRL Premiership winning captain (and winner of pretty much everything in the rugby league world), Johnathan Thurston, who has just slotted his 2,000th NRL point.

15. Research Centre to deliver real-world outcomes for the North The Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) is a $75M project that will bring industry, research organisations and international partners together over 10 years to develop commercialised research and development outcomes for the agriculture, food and tropical health sectors. Regional stakeholders strongly advocated for the CRC to be headquartered in Townsville to ensure that the infrastructure, economic development and investment decisions that will shape Northern Australia can occur in the region’s largest and most prosperous city. This is an exciting project that presents opportunities to commercialise research and development and establish new industries in a number of industry sectors.

17. Adani Headquarters secured in Townsville Not only has the Adani Mine, Rail and Port Project received the necessary Government approvals to ensure the project turns the first sod in 2017, but after years of lobbying, Townsville was announced as the Regional Headquarters for the project. The project will bring Townsville jobs, apprenticeships and traineeships at a time when our region needs it the most. Approximately 10,000 direct and indirect jobs are expected to be generated over the project’s 25 year life, with opportunities across construction, engineering, accounting, legal, management and administration.

18. Housing affordability It’s never been cheaper to buy a house in Townsville. The annual median house price in the city continues to drop – sitting at $335,000 as of December 2016, according to Queensland Market Monitor. That is a 4.3% drop from June 2016, and nearly a 10% drop over the past five years.

Housing in Townsville is of good quality, at prices you won’t see again and with all the services on offer in a capital city.

If you’ve been considering entering the market or extending your investment portfolio, now is the time to act.

19. The return of FIFO Thanks to the rejuvenation of mining prices, Townsville is poised to make its long awaited return to the FIFO game.

Recently, BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) put the call out to Townsville to supply over 200 workers to their Peak Downs and Suraji Mines. Townsville is also in contention with Rockhampton to secure the FIFO Hub for Adani’s Carmichael Mine, Rail & Port Project. The services may be spread between the two regional centres, which will still be a win for Townsville and regional Queensland’s economy.

20. A burgeoning foodie culture Townsville’s dining scene has certainly come alive, with laneway restaurants, raw breakfast bars, locally inspired menus, paddock-to-plate meal concepts and award winning chefs and cocktail mixologists. No longer do you need to fly to capital cities to experience something a little out of the ordinary, whether it’s a six course degustation, a traditional German pretzel or a cocktail topped with fairy floss, Townsville has something on offer for even the most discerning foodie. www.townsvilleenterprise.com.au

16. Local schools score high in OP ranks It was recently revealed that two schools in Townsville rated in the top 50 schools in the state for 2016 OP results. Of all OP eligible students at Townsville Grammar School, 32% received an OP1-5, while a whopping 41% of OP eligible students at Annandale Christian College received scores between 1–5. We certainly have some extremely talented local youth emerging in our region. We must do everything we can to retain this youth, and harness the potential of Townsville’s best and brightest to strengthen the future of Townsville.

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DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

H E A L T H C O M E S F I R S T People have their own preferred ways of making healthy lifestyle choices – for some it’s eating plant-based foods while others turn to yoga or group fitness. Whichever pathway you choose, you only have to do two things – begin and persist!

Words Kylie Davis Photography Josephine Carter

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DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

“YOU WOULDN’T PUT OIL IN YOUR CAR’S PETROL TANK AND EXPECT IT TO RUN WELL – EVERY MEAL WE SHOULD ALSO THINK ABOUT WHAT THE BEST FUEL IS FOR OUR BODY.”

vegans

Rosemary Schmid & Alan O’Neill Believers of the old saying that ‘you are what you eat’, Rosie Schmid (53) and Alan O’Neill (62) advocate getting all the nutrients your body needs from healthy eating.

“We’ve both been interested in eating natural healthier foods since our teens,” Rosie says.

“Most of our adult lives we’ve been vegetarians but for the last six years or so we’ve been vegans/ whole food plant-based.”

A vegan diet means Rosie and Al eat foods with the highest nutrient density in unprocessed form. They prefer organic and locally sourced where possible.

“You wouldn’t put oil in your car’s petrol tank and expect it to run well – every meal we should also think about what the best fuel is for our body,” Rosie says. “On a practical level, we enjoy preparing

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our food and making things like our own wholegrain, oil-free bread, or granola, nut milks and fermented foods using plant-based foods that taste fantastic and are also nourishing.”

Rosie and Al’s meals are largely made up of vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, nuts and seeds.

They use a lot of spices and herbs for flavour and additional health benefits.

Rosie also uses fresh coconuts to make yoghurt and ice-cream.

“The foods we eat change the expression of our genes, positively or

negatively. Just because we have inherited weaknesses in our gene pool doesn’t mean we have to be victims of those genes, or age or die the same way our parents or grandparents did,” Rosie says.

“In our family it’s auto-immune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes, MS, thyroid issues and Celiacs disease, whereas Alan’s family has a history of heart disease. We’ve both chosen a vegan diet in an attempt to avoid our inherited genes reaching their negative potential. “We can reduce that risk significantly, even potentially eliminate it, if we’re willing to eat the foods we should, and exercise as we should, every day.”

Rosie and Al say their way of living isn’t that hard once you know what to do, though it helps that Rosemary is a qualified raw food chef with diplomas in natural therapies and nutrition, while Al has a PhD in the sociology of change and qualifications in nutrition and permaculture.

“For those interested in finding out more about how to transition to a more science-based, natural and healthier way of living we’re happy to help,” Al says. “Rosemary conducts cooking classes from home.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/artisanvegan

DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

“I started dancing socially and within months I started to feel better but I knew I needed something more. In August 2010, a friend started teaching local Zumba classes and I was hooked immediately. Three months later I completed my instructor training course and have never looked back.”

Over 18 months Danika dropped over 20 kilograms just by sweating it out on the dance floor. Better still, Zumba eased her Supraventricular Tachycardia, a condition she’d had since childhood.

“About six months before I found Zumba I’d had discussions with my cardiologists about ablation surgery. I was getting debilitating heart palpitations roughly every six weeks with my highest heart rate recorded at a staggering 238 beats per minute,” Danika says. “Once I started Zumba classes, increased my cardio health and dropped the excess weight, I was relieved to find I only had palpitations every 12 to 18 months and each episode was brief and mild.”

Danika openly admits she had a short attention span when it came to fitness and needed a form of exercise that could hold her interest.

“From the very first class I never felt like I was exercising because I was so immersed in the music and movement,” Danika says.

“I was just an average mother of two who found myself spiralling in a direction that I didn’t want to go in and Zumba changed all that for me.”

Once she became an instructor Danika was overwhelmed to see that same positivity flow through to the women in her classes.

“These were people from all walks of life with varying abilities and fitness levels but each of them were glowing with sweat and smiling from ear to ear,” Danika says.

“Our classes have become my fitness family and we each lift each other up and celebrate our wins together, whether it’s dropping a dress size, having the balance to reach the upper cupboards in the kitchen or the strength to pick up a grandchild. Sometimes it’s the smallest wins that make the biggest impact on our day-to-day lives.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/ ShakeWiggleGiggle

zumba instructor

Danika Leahy Most new mothers will agree that it’s all too easy to neglect your health and fitness with an adorable new baby to distract you and this was certainly the case with Danika Leahy. As a stay-at-home mum of two, she found little time to exercise (and many excuses!) and eventually became very unhappy with her body image.

“My self-esteem and confidence were taking a massive hit and I decided I had to do something about it,” Danika says.

“I WAS JUST AN AVERAGE MOTHER OF TWO WHO FOUND MYSELF SPIRALLING IN A DIRECTION THAT I DIDN’T WANT TO GO IN AND ZUMBA CHANGED ALL THAT FOR ME.”

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DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

“HAVING SOMEONE TO TRAIN WITH MAKES YOU GET UP AND GET GOING AND YOU PUSH EACH OTHER ALL THE WAY.”

bike riding enthusiast

Allison McKay Riding with like-minded people is a great motivation to look after yourself. When the people around you are training and keeping fit, it’s only natural to want to keep up. Just ask Allison McKay, who is a member of several Townsville biking groups.

“The biking community in Townsville is huge,” Allison says.

“There are large groups and then little groups formed from the large groups when people find things in common. Often it can be different start times (not everyone loves getting up at 4am), training for different events, girls only groups, boys only groups, mixed groups, triathletes, seriously fast roadies… the list goes on.”

Allison says She Spoke, where she started out, is a great grounding group for female cyclists but she also really enjoys

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riding in mixed bunches as the banter is fun and the speed pushes you to go a bit harder.

“The boys get out the front of the bunch when the dreaded headwind comes along, which is handy,” Allison says. “Chivalry is definitely not dead with the male cyclists in Townsville always ready to help change a tyre.”

If the lights are on past 9.30pm in the McKay household it’s very unusual. Allison and her husband Bob and son Connor all ride and run and her daughter Eliza is a dancer. “Our children are watching us and copying what we do. We have an obligation to give them the best start in this world we can,” Allison says. “A healthy lifestyle is so important for just getting through the busy-ness of life in general. Often when we get busy the first thing to drop is exercise and I’m no different. I use the excuse of having a late night not to get up and then spend the rest of

the day regretting that decision.

“Regular bike riding makes you fit fast. You notice immediately when you’ve been putting in the kilometres because you can keep up with the speedy people and the afternoon nap isn’t quite as long! The kudos you get from your mates is also seriously satisfying.”

In Allison’s group there are many accomplished cyclists, mountain bikers, runners, swimmers and triathletes, so there’s always someone to train with. “Having someone to train with makes you get up and get going and you push each other all the way,” Allison says. “There’s a lot of talk about ‘What are we doing tomorrow?, Who wants to go for a trail run on Sunday?, Are you coming to yoga?’. All of this activity with people you love spending time with makes healthy living more of a side-effect than a strategy for me.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/ groups/736846356381720 www.facebook.com/ groups/284189138301582

DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

apple, moringa and some edible plants like bethal leaf, sweet leaf, sambung and many more. We also have a covered area made from an old trampoline frame and shade cloth, and a worm farm made using an old bathtub.

“Eventually we’d like to display many different types of permaculture gardening, such as different ways of composting and mulching and various types of garden beds and growing styles.”

Permaculture Townsville meets on the first Sunday of the month from 2 to 4pm at the Townsville Community Garden in Railway Estate (Robertson Street via Pascoe Street). All who want to find out more about permaculture are welcome to come along as a visitor for the first two meetings before being asked to become a member.

“I feel if we eat well we are on the path for longevity,” David says.

“Whether you live in an apartment or on acreage you can grow some edible plants, such as herbs, leafy greens, tomatoes, capsicums and carrots, which will all grow in pots.”

David has two small businesses

that interlink with permaculture –s Dave’s Organic Garden Products and Dry Tropics Edible Gardens.

His organic garden products include compost worms, silica and potash, potting mix, slowrelease fertiliser and many more, while his other business provides design and construction of edible gardens for the dry tropics.

“What excites me about permaculture is that there’s always something new to learn,” David says. “When I eat food I’ve grown, I feel a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment because I’ve grown something that’s fresh and chemical-free. It’s also satisfying to think that things like building materials and organic matter are being recycled instead of dumped.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/groups/ permaculturetownsville www.facebook.com/ DavesOrganicGardenProducts www.facebook.com/ DryTropicsEdibleGardens

permaculture advocate

David Bullimore Care of the earth, care of people and fare share – these are the ethics permaculture is founded on and what attracted President of Permaculture Townsville David Bullimore to this way of healthy living.

“Following permaculture principles, I’m educated about organic gardening and sustainable living. Growing your own food without harmful chemicals results in fewer burdens on your body and the environment,” David says.

“The Permaculture Townsville garden plot at the community garden in Railway Estate is a work in progress. We have some well-established trees, like star

“GROWING YOUR OWN FOOD WITHOUT HARMFUL CHEMICALS RESULTS IN FEWER BURDENS ON YOUR BODY AND THE ENVIRONMENT.”

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DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

“LEADING THE ACTIVE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE WE DO, IT’S EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO MY FAMILY AND I THAT WE MAKE SUN SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY.”

sun-safe clothing designer

Lauren Hannay

The Hannay family leads an active outdoor lifestyle. Little things like walking the dogs on the beach are incorporated into every day life and mum of three Lauren enjoys participating in local events like trail runs, the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim and triathlons.

“As a family we’re extremely active. We like to ride to school at least once a week and the girls all play team sports and participate in surf lifesaving,” Lauren says.

“Leading the active outdoor lifestyle we do, it’s extremely important to my family and I that we make sun safety a top priority.

I want my kids to be educated and mindful of the harmful effects of the sun in the tropics, while not feeling restricted.

“It’s about respecting themselves and respecting the sun. It’s also about understanding the times that they must cover up and wear sunscreen and the times that they can be exposed to small amounts of sun for Vitamin D levels.”

Lauren is so serious about sun safety she’s created her own brand – SML Lifestyle. You’ll find sun-safe activewear and swimwear, designed by Lauren herself, on her website.

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“I started my brand because I got so sick of my kids wearing swim shirts that didn’t fit,” Lauren says. “My swim shirts and full body suits, which are made of 100 per cent nylon, are sun-safe and quite fitted so they don’t drag. I’ve also designed light cotton cover-up dresses for after swimming at the pool or beach.”

Lauren started out her career as a naturopath and after having her children became very passionate about nutrition.

“Instead of telling my children what to eat I try to educate them about healthy choices,” Lauren says. “It’s easy to make changes to your family life. Start small by adding an extra serving of vegetables to the daily diet.”

CONNECT NOW www.smllifestyle.com

DUOMagazine | Healthy Living

“YOGA AFFORDS US A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR OUR SILENCE, FEEL OUR BREATH, ATTUNE OUR LISTENING, DISCOVER OUR RHYTHM AND APPRECIATE THE WHOLENESS OF LIFE.”

yoga practitioner

Meredith Starck Meredith Starck took up yoga in her teenage years and has now practiced and taught yoga for over 35 years.

“Yoga has been my gateway to healthy living,” Meredith says.

“Bringing yoga practice into your life allows you to explore a broad range of feelings. I can only share from my own experience and I can tell you that waking very early every day to practice and teach in an open space on The Strand headland has been an elixir to wellbeing.”

Pleased to see that yoga is becoming increasingly popular, Meredith says practicing yoga provides so much more than just a flexible body.

“It affords us a rare opportunity to hear our silence, feel our breath, attune our listening, discover our rhythm and appreciate the wholeness of life,” Meredith says.

“Many of my core group have been practicing with me for 15 years and I’ve seen remarkable growth in their ability to recover more quickly from injury. Collectively our

yoga and mediation practice has also facilitated a broader sharing of our lives. We’ve become a tribe.”

As well as teaching at The Strand, Meredith has a base on Magnetic Island – Belama House. Her house is surrounded by flowering trees with the yoga space opening out to the garden and a tatami floor for added support, allowing more freedom of movement.”

“It’s very serene and a wonderful place to call home.

I’m so happy to have been able to work with what I love and am extremely grateful to have found amazing female teachers who never cease to inspire me,” Meredith says. “Yoga has allowed me to discover so much more. You start by listening to your internal self and gradually become more fully conscious.”

CONNECT NOW www.goldendolphin.com

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DUOAvertorial

Up+At ’Em! With over 300 days of sunshine a year and an abundance of walkways, bikeways and outdoor facilities – Townsville is the perfect place to get out and Get Active!

Townsville City Council’s 30 Ways in 30 Days online events calendar allows you to search for free and low cost fitness activities across the city. From Yoga and Tai Chi to Kendo martial arts and Zumba Gold… there’s something for everyone to try.

The Get Active 30 ways in 30 days program classes are low cost and suit a wide range of ages and fitness levels. There are classes suitable for everyone and specialised classes for pregnant and new mums, youth and seniors.

There are also a range of events to participate in during 30 Ways in 30 Days including:

Ride to Riverway Sunday 2 April, 8–10.30am Raintree Grove, Riverway Grab your bike and head to Riverway for the inaugural Ride to Riverway event. Start your ride from home, jump on your bike at a closer starting point or simply come straight to the final event location at Riverway, it’s the perfect way to start the day. Enjoy your ride and arrive at Raintree Grove at Riverway between 8am and 10.30am and take advantage of the Bling your bike Station, Queensland Police bike engraving, Bike Safety Checks, Bicycle Maintenance Station and more.

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C and K Nature Play

Get Outdoors and Get Active

Saturday 29 April, 9–11am Soroptimist Park Rowes Bay We’ve gone from being a generation of kids who used to spend most of their weekends outdoors playing with their mates, to raising a generation whose favourite pastime is sitting in front of the Xbox or YouTube in the family living room.

While there are valid reasons for the transition – child safety, stranger danger and traffic – there are ways of getting out and active in nature and having some good free fun. Join us for C and K Nature Play and get back to the great outdoors!

Activities on the day include: • Leaf kebabs – cooking nature • Ribbon weaving and tree decorating • Dot painting on bark • Mahogany pod painting

Take the path less travelled…and venture to one of Townsville’s amazing outdoor locations! Council offers a range of outdoor walking tracks and paths including: • Riverway Circuit • Rowes Bay to Pallarenda • Ross River Parkway Alpins Circuit • Wetlands Circuit • Anderson Botanic Garden Circuit • Castle Hill • Queens Gardens • Palmetum Botanic Gardens • Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens • Magnetic Island • Townsville CBD Heritage and Cemetery Tracks • Jezzine Barracks Port to Pallarenda Track

Heart Walk for Heart Week Sunday 30 April, 7– 8am The Rockpool, The Strand Celebrate Heart Week by joining with other members of the community at The Rockpool for the National Heart Walk.

Walking makes regular physical activity enjoyable and easy. With more than one in four Australian adults (5.76 million people) doing very little or no exercise at all, Heart Foundation Walking is a great way to help people increase their physical activity. And what better spot than Townsville’s beautiful Strand! Why not make it a regular activity and join one of the many local walking groups? Visit walking.heartfoundation.org. au to find a group near you.

Outdoor Gyms Did you know we have outdoor fitness equipment available around town? Have a go on your own or get a group together – perfect for all ages and fitness levels. You’ll find outdoor gyms at these locations: • Western Lions Park, Cranbrook • Soroptimist Park, Pallarenda • Sherriff Park, Mundingburra • The Strand • Riverside Green Park, Douglas • Kiewarra Park, Douglas • Charles Moroney Park, Kelso • Kalynda Chase Fitness Track, Bohle Plains • Bremer Park, Bohle Plains • Broadmeadows Park, Deeragun • Sanctum Park, Mount Low

Explore an Oasis in the City

Want to keep up to date with the latest in maintaining an Active and Healthy lifestyle?

Anderson Gardens, The Palmetum and Queens Gardens provide the perfect setting to participate in a walk, run, jog or ride. Admire the hot pink lipstick palm avenue at the Palmetum, the World Cycad Garden at Anderson Gardens and the Buddha Bamboo at Queens Gardens, and much more.

Council’s Active and Healthy Update e-newsletter is a great way to keep up-to-date with the latest news in the field of sport, fitness and recreation in our city.

Sign up for Active Update on council’s website and receive all the latest fitness advice, events, recipes and more directly to your inbox each month.

It’s time to Get Active Townsville!

30 ways in 30 days is about trying something active every day for the month of April.

Free Classes and activities for the entire month!

sunday 2 april

tuesday 4 april

Ride to Riverway 8am – 10:30am

Tai Chi for Health 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Raintree Grove, Riverway Cycle to Riverway, first 100 riders receive a prize pack, bike safety checks and much more family fun.

Riverside Gardens Community Centre, 55 Riverside Blvd (Tai Chi for Busy People) Reinvigorate yourself with a free Tai Chi session.

friday 7 april

saturday 8 april

wednesday 19 april

friday 21 april

Kendo Martial Arts 7pm – 9pm

Riverway Park Run 7am

Yoga Express 5:15pm – 6pm

Group Fitness Session 6:15am – 7:15am

Upper Ross PCYC, 43 Allambie Lane, Rassmussen Traditional Martial Arts class suitable for the whole family.

Tony Ireland Stadium, Riverway Register online and bring a copy of your barcode. parkrun.com.au

Garabarra Lawn, Jezzine Barracks (NQ Power Yoga) Move, breathe and connect with yoga by the sea.

Oonoonba Park, Cnr Abbott and Shannon Street Oonoonba All fitness levels welcome!

(Asset Health and Fitness)

monday 24 april

thursday 27 april

saturday 29 april

sunday 30 april

Zumba Gold 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Wheelchair Basketball 6pm – 8pm

29 C and K Nature Play 9am – 11am

Wulguru Community Centre, Edison Street, Wulguru Lisa Albiez

Townsville Basketball, Murray Lyons Cres (Sporting Wheelies) All welcome.

Soroptimist Park, Rowes Bay Get back to nature and learn how easy it can be.

Heart Walk Celebrate Heart Week 7am – 8am

Visit townsville.qld.gov.au to grab a copy of your free calendar or check out whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au

The Rockpool, The Strand Community walk for heart health. All welcome.

DUOProfile

Trash to Treasure Vintage bicycle group Rusty Riders are dedicated to getting old classics out of the shed and back on the road.

Words Kylie Davis Photography Josephine Carter

PRE-LOVED bicycle group Rusty Riders meets once a month for a ride to the Rock Pool where they have a barbecue and talk all things vintage.

The group was started in 2015 by James Fotheringham when, after buying a rusty old bike at a local market for his partner to use as a garden decoration, he grew curious about the bike’s history.

“I realised this old bike must have quite a few stories considering its age and thought it deserved much better,” James says.

“After researching its serial number I discovered it was made in the 1920s and I decided to bring it back to its former glory. I undid every bolt and screw until I had it stripped bare, then began the long but enjoyable task of cleaning all the old parts that could be salvaged and sourcing the parts I needed.”

After James finished bringing ‘Lucile’ back to life, the old girl got so much attention every time he and his partner Lia took her out for a spin that James wanted to know more about vintage bikes… and he wanted his own, too.

So James opened a Facebook page to see if anyone else in Townsville had knowledge of restoring old bicycles and, to his delight, four people put their hands up. Now the group has over 40 members locally and 500 worldwide and, together, they have breathed new life into about 30 old bikes.

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DUOProfile

Every month the Townsville-based members of the group meet up to show off their latest projects and go for a ride along The Strand. One of the projects James is most proud of is the restoration of a 1940s Healing, which was donated to Rusty Riders by an 84-year-old lady from Melbourne.

“She told me she saved her chore money for a year to buy it when she was 14,” James says.

“All she asked for in return for donating it was for us to bring it back to a riding state and enjoy it as much as she had.”

Another stand-out project for James was transforming two 1953 Malverns that he got from a couple in Tasmania who received them as wedding presents.

“They were just happy there was a group like ours who could restore them and enjoy them again,” James says.

“When I started this group I decided I didn’t care how old the bikes were – just that every bike must be ridden.”

James now has over 30 vintage bicycles, from a 1917 English Humber to a 1972 Malvern Star Skidstar and every one of them gets its turn to pedal him to his local coffee shop in the morning, where passers-by admire the workmanship of the past.

“As a group, Rusty Riders love nothing more than showing people the beauty in the bicycles of old when they were fashioned by master bike builders,” James says, adding that the group has a bike on display at the coffee drivethrough on the corner of Meehan Street and Ingham Road.

“We regularly get around 15 vintage bicycles to our rides and we always

Above, left to right: Julia Bohne, James Fotheringham, Lia Johnson

“I REALISED THIS OLD BIKE MUST HAVE QUITE A FEW STORIES CONSIDERING ITS AGE AND THOUGHT IT DESERVED MUCH BETTER.” JAMES FOTHERINGHAM

put them where anyone walking past can come and look at them. Our members are of all different ages and

walks of life, from teenagers and students to labourers, truck drivers and businessmen and women. We’re a fun, relaxed group and you don’t have to have a vintage bike to join us.

“We can help you pick one up for the next ride. You can buy them very cheaply and, after a bit of elbow grease and a lot of love, you’ll be proudly riding around on a much-admired piece of history.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/ groups/1635866726669584

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOHome+Travel

Simpler living with less possessions and clutter reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint.

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DUOHome+Travel

The house is two-storey to free up as much of the ground plane as possible for gardening and outdoor areas.

Embodying the ‘Least House Necessary’ philosophy, The Big Small House designed

by People Oriented Design (POD) in Cairns embraces client/architect collaboration and presents a new model for sustainable tropical living.

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DUOHome+Travel

S

earching for a design that connected the interior spaces to their garden and the rainforest beyond, Stewart and Mahar Gorospe-Lockie wanted to keep the majority of their modest suburban block open to encourage people to socialise, minimise energy use and capitalise on views to the mountains and forest canopy.

“We also wanted to use materials honestly, leaving concrete and steel exposed for example, rather than covering everything with plasterboard,” Stewart says.

“And it was important for us to give a nod to vernacular Queensland architecture.”

Older Queenslanders generally had large roofs providing deep shade, high ceilings to keep radiant heat away from the body, good cross-ventilation and undercrofts that were weatherproof and cool.

The Big Small House uses all of these ideas in a contemporary fashion. It also features casement windows, which are common in Queenslanders because they allow 100 per cent of airflow but are less expensive than louvres.

“Together with People Oriented Design (POD) we spent a lot of time thinking about how much space we really needed for different activities, and where we might have opportunities to combine activities in the one space,” Stewart says.

“It’s not a big house but it feels like there’s plenty of space – not because the rooms are large but because there’s space between them, connections to the garden and views to the distance.”

Large stackable sliding doors allow for immediate connection between the inside of the house and the garden.

The void over the dining room and kitchen make the house feel large.

Dr Shaneen Fantin, together with POD business partner Belinda Allwood, say the key elements that make the house feel large include the void over the dining room and kitchen, the clear separation of the master bedroom from children’s bedrooms, and the open circulation on the first floor that can double as social or work space.

“At POD we try to minimise circulation space and make every part of a house simple and beautiful,” Shaneen says.

“If a space can have multiple uses then it’s succeeding in being efficient, useful and interesting for the family.”

Shaneen established POD as a sole trader in Cairns in 2009 and Belinda joined POD as a partner in 2014. Before creating POD, Belinda

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“ONE OF MY FAVOURITE FEATURES OF THE HOUSE IS THE SUSPENDED WALKWAY TO THE MASTER BEDROOM.”

and Shaneen worked for more than 15 years each as senior architects, associates, project managers and researchers for firms including Arup (Cairns), Troppo Architects (Darwin), Peddle Thorp Architects (Cairns) and the Aboriginal Environments Research Centre (Brisbane).

While POD hasn’t been involved in private residential projects in Townsville to date, they were involved in the NRL Cowboys House – a new facility designed to help young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders from remote areas in Queensland complete their secondary education and access school-aged apprenticeships.

Shaneen is a specialist in Indigenous engagement and architecture and has worked on a number of projects in Townsville and Palm

STEWART LOCKIE

Island with Government and the Indigenous community. She and Belinda have also been working with JCU on various projects including the Tropical Sustainable Case Studies Project (2013).

The single skin polycarbonate sheeting with expressed timber frame is a reference back to single skin Queenslanders and Japanese residential construction.

Sustainability-informed design decisions from siting and climatic performance to material selection are signatures of The Big Small House.

Materials used included locally sourced plantation timbers, low VOC paints, raw blockwork finishes and E0 cabinetwork. There’s also a rainwater tank and connectivity for a future photovoltaic system. The 238m² dwelling sits easily on the 612m²

suburban lot, leaving more than 70 per cent of the site for landscape and pool.

“One of my favourite features of the house is the suspended walkway to the master bedroom,” Stewart says.

“It feels like you’re way up in the air and you can pretty much see everything, inside and out. The house does everything we need it to. The spaces are flexible and we all have somewhere we can retreat for a bit of privacy.”

Words Kylie Davis Photography Nic Granleese

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DUOHome+Travel DUOHome+Travel | Book Extract from Living Design by Jamie Durie

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04 02

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Make your home office a productive (and stylish) space with a new addition or two‌

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office call 11

01 Ricardo Marcal London Bookcase $1995 www.mattblatt.com.au

05 Replica De Lucchi and Fassina Tolomeo Wall Lamp Flat $125 www.mattblatt.com.au

09 Amelia Executive Office Chair $159 www.zanui.com.au

02 Foxed Mirror Paper Tray $79 www.westelm.com.au

06 ISM Objects Studio 6 Floor Wall & Table Lamp from $1023 www.ismobjects.com.au

10 Harker White Swivel Office Desk $229.95 www.zanui.com.au

03 Studio 3 Drawer Open Office Desk $149.95 www.zanui.com.au

07 De Sede DS-51 Swivel Chair from $7495 www.domo.com.au

11 Nadia Soares Multi Desk With Trestles $895 www.mattblatt.com.au

04 Cantilever Interiors Wanda Studio Wide from $980 www.cantileverinteriors.com

08 Replica John Brauer and Hans Falleboe Bin $52 www.mattblatt.com.au

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This year, why not reinvent your outdoor living areas with Crimsafe security screens?

Make the most of outdoor living Crimsafe is famous for being an incredibility strong security product against intruders, but did you also know that Crimsafe:

• Reduces solar heat gain by up to 53% • Filters up to 62% of UV radiation • Allows light, airflow and great visibility • Keeps out bugs and insects Crimsafe lets you enjoy outdoor living and entertaining in comfort, style and safety.

Shadeview Blinds and Awnings custom-make Crimsafe security screens right here in our Townsville factory and employ our own highly trained installers.

Call us today to request a free measure and quote.

Unit 2/298 Bayswater Road, Garbutt sales@shadeviewblinds.com.au 4725 2527 www.shadeviewblinds.com.au

DUOHome+Travel

MATT LEACY’S TOP TIPS FOR AUTUMN AND WINTER LANDSCAPING SUCCESS

T

here are plenty of cost-effective options for property owners wanting to get their landscapes looking great for autumn and winter – some are garden-focused while others have more to do with construction features. But it all starts with knowing what steps you can take to ensure your outdoor space is seasonally durable. With this in mind, Matt Leacy, founder and creative director of Landart Landscapes and president of the LNA Master Landscapes Association, shares his top tips for getting your outdoor space ready for the chilly seasons.

IN THE GARDEN Aerate and water your lawns “As the seasons cool, the need for lawn-mowing decreases, which can make many green-thumbs happy,” Matt says. “The need for maintenance doesn’t disappear, however – it just changes,” he explains.

“As lawns become less active they can lose their lush greenness. But you can take steps to avoid this by supplementing their natural loss of air, water and light,” Matt says. “Aeration of the turf zone, in particular, is key.

This will help to open up the soil and increase its capacity to accept water, nutrients and oxygen.

“To achieve this, you can hire a motorised aerator for larger areas, or for smaller areas, a garden fork or even a pair of spiked aerator shoes can work really well.

“If you go with a garden fork, try poking it half way into the lawn and give it a little wobble, approximately every 150 – 200mm. And if you are really keen, you can do it more than that as it won’t do the soil any harm. But ensure there are no irrigation lines running underground before you start spiking the lawn” “The next important step is to fertilise,” Matt says.

“Where possible, try to use organic compost and slow release fertiliser as these will increase nutritional value.

This is best done in March.”

“Just keep in mind that fertilising will make the pH levels of the soil more acidic, so it’s always good to monitor the pH levels with a test kit every other season,” Matt adds.

“If the soil becomes too acidic, try adding some dolomite lime as this will help to get the soil back to a more neutral pH reading.”

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With cooler weeks and months fast approaching, now is the perfect time to get outside and start preparing your outdoor space for autumn and winter.

Remove weeds, thatch and leaves, and then mulch, mulch, mulch!

“Thatch is the buildup of dead grass leaves and all lawns create this,” Matt says. “The problem with thatch is that it reduces the ability of air and water to get through to the soil’s root zone.

“To remove thatch, get a good catcher on your mower, or a stiff plastic rake to scratch it out of the spongy soil areas.”

“It’s also critical to remove weeds,” Matt adds. “If they’re at the flowering or seeding stage, ensure that you put them all in a garbage bin and keep them out of your compost bin or the vegetation recycle bin to stop them growing and spreading further.

DUOHome+Travel

“Mulching is the next key step,” says Matt. “Think of mulch as the blanket that keeps your garden warm over autumn and winter.

“It’s an important tool for helping the soil retain warmth, moisture and nutrients – and it can reduce the need for watering by 60 percent.

“Mulching will also help suppress weed growth, which means less weed removal!”

Mow higher to increase light “When mowing in the cooler months, I recommend raising the blades a little higher to keep the grass slightly higher,” Matt says. “With the days getting shorter, the grass naturally gets less sunlight; but if you keep the grass a little longer, you’ll get more photosynthesis.

“It’s also worth keeping an eye on overhanging tree branches that may be blocking sunlight. Trim these back if they’re creating too much shade,” Matt says.

Pruning is key “Pruning is a really important step for trees and plants, especially in the cooler seasons,” says Matt. “Pruning helps to remove dead or diseased wood which can stifle growth, and it also helps to maintain the architecture of a tree, which leads to a more attractive and shapely plant.

“In addition, pruning decreases the likelihood of branches falling and creating damage during wind and storms,” says Matt. “If you’re not quite sure how much you should be pruning, err on the side of caution and don’t cut off more than a third.”

ABOUT MATT LEACY Co-founder of the award-winning Landart Landscapes, Matt Leacy, has 20 years’ experience in design, construction and maintenance services across landscaping and pool installation for both residential and commercial properties.

Matt is a qualified horticulturalist and the current President of the LNA Master Landscapers Association (the equivalent of the Master Builders Association for the landscaping industry).

Matt has also worked with City of Sydney in recent years, spearheading their Living Colour installations to bring life and colour to inner-city streets.

Matt is a regular media commentator, writing weekly and monthly columns for newspapers and magazines, and did three seasons of Domestic Blitz, as well as more recently co-hosting Channel Nine’s Garden Gurus.

A selection of Matt’s work can be found at www.landart.com.au

All projects by Landart Landscapes – supplied by Landart Landscapes.

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DUOProfile

Never Give Up Outgunned and facing an undefeated enemy, 4000 Australian diggers and 9000 Papuan allies stood fast against 24,500 Japanese soldiers… and beat the odds.

Now, with 2017 marking the 75th anniversary of the epic 1942 World War II battle, we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Lest we forget.

A single-file foot thoroughfare that runs 96 kilometres overland through the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea, the Kokoda Track is formidable.

“When you look at the history, we shouldn’t have been able to do what we did,” says ex-soldier Glenn Azar.

“We were totally outnumbered and the Japanese were undefeated on land at that time. The Japanese were so confident, they actually gave themselves 10 days to complete the battle (which lasted six months).

“The number one take-away message for me is that, no matter what, never give up. The fighting happened right on our doorstep (2.5 hours from Brisbane) and our soldiers knew their families were at risk.”

Glenn, who joined the Army at 17, has walked the track an amazing 58 times. He and his daughter Alyssa co-founded Adventure Professionals in 2010 and have taken thousands of people on the journey.

“People want to do it for different reasons – some want to learn about the military history, others are seeking a physical challenge, and some are a bit lost in life and looking to test themselves,” Glenn says. “We also run post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) programs for the RSL and Mates 4 Mates. I’ve got a soldier in the PTSD program who says walking the Kokoda Track has helped him leave his demons behind. Something

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changed in him up on that mountain and his life has been so much better since.”

Glenn says people who aspire to walk the track should start training at least 12 weeks in advance. He recommends a minimum of three hill training sessions a week including one long session between two and four hours.

“It’s tough. It’s eight days up and down some of the roughest jungle terrain you can possibly walk,” he says. “You have to back up day after day after day. It pays to be prepared so you can enjoy the experience and not be looking down at your feet the whole time, wondering how you’re going to get through it.”

Glenn’s daughter Alyssa, who was born in Townsville when Glenn was serving with the Army here in 95 through 2000, is the youngest person to have completed the Kokoda Track – she was only eight years old at the time. Alyssa is now 20 and last year was the youngest Australian to summit Mt Everest (on her third attempt).

“We both go on every Kokoda trip we book (about seven or eight a year) and we believe in giving back to the Papua New Guinea people, who are the most amazing, caring humans,” Glenn says. “We spend thousands of dollars each time we go over on medical supplies, school books, clothing, mosquito nets and solar hot

water and lighting for villages.”

But, ultimately, Glenn says walking the Kokoda Track is about honouring the soldiers who never returned home.

“I know quite a few old diggers who fought in Kokoda but those numbers are dwindling fast and we need to ensure their story lives on,” Glenn says. “I asked three of them what they think of the commercialisation of people walking the track and they all said the same thing – that they’re happy they’ve

DUOProfile

lived long enough to be remembered.

“A lot of their mates died forgotten. For 50 years a lot of them didn’t talk about the war and it wasn’t in the media much back then.

“I think walking the Kokoda Track is something that all Australians should have on their bucket list.”

CONNECT NOW www.adventureprofessionals.com.au Words Kylie Davis

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WIFI ON THE FLY Qantas customers on Wi-Fi enabled domestic flights are now able to watch their favourite shows and live sport, as well as listen to almost any song they like, with Foxtel, Netflix and Spotify recently coming on board. The faster connection speeds, which enable streaming, are made possible through the nbn Sky Muster™ satellite service.

LUXE LAPTOP BAG New from X NIHILO, the ‘Julie’ laptop bag ($634) is made from grain-textured leather. Fully padded to secure your precious techs, it’s also fitted with multiple card slots.

Carry it by the top handle, or attach the optional strap to carry it over your shoulder. www.xnihilo.com.au

DESTINATION: W HOTEL MALDIVES A private island in a wonderland of white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs, W Maldives boasts 78 private escapes, each with its own plunge pool and sundeck. Oh and did we mention there are six gourmet eateries and the Maldives’ only underground nightclub? Adventure awaits. www.whotels.com

TUNE OUT Iconic audio brand, The House of Marley, have released a new set of headphones capable of eight hours of playtime. Perfect for long-haul flights, the Smile Jamaica BT In-Ear Headphones ($79.99) are wireless where it counts so you can say goodbye to cables snagging on your shirt or bag. Available from JB HI-FI.

EVENT: MELBOURNE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL Visit the inaugural House of Food and Wine, tucked down a Melbourne laneway, and see the banks of the Yarra transformed into a foodie playground at River Graze as part of the internationally acclaimed Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (till 9 April). www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au

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DUOEvents

King + Queen Of The Hill

Safety checks complete, helmet and goggles secured, adrenalin pumping, 10 seconds to countdown and BANG! The starting gun shatters the air and the race is on.

THE Townsville Mountain Bike Festival, featuring the XCM National Bike Championship, will be held from 29 April to 5 May. This week long festival will attract visitors and viewers both nationally and internationally and showcase all tropical Townsville has to offer.

The festival will be a combination of downhill thrills and spills for the elite and novice rider which will include the 2017 Cross Country Marathon National Championships, Castle Hill DHI eliminator and family friendly event the Explore Townsville Adventure Rides showcasing various trails and locations around Townsville.

Over the seven days of the festival destination Townsville will be transformed into a mountain biking mecca. Mountain bike enthusiasts from near and far will put their endurance and durability to the test during the Castle Hill DHI eliminator event. Townsville’s iconic, giant red rock Castle Hill will feature in this event set amongst a stunning foreground of palm lined beaches and spectacular views to Magnetic Island.

“To have the launch event staged on Castle Hill will see images of our destination showcased across social media and in magazines across the country and this is a great opportunity to put the region on show for the hundreds of visitors in the region who will tell their family and friends about their experience and potentially attract additional visitation,” Townsville Enterprise Chair Kevin Gill said.

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The Cross Country Marathon will be held over two days of the festival and have competitors riding along nail biting cliff edges at the beachside suburb of Townsville’s Pallarenda.

Trying to defend their 2016 titles are last year’s champions elite man Brendan Johnston and elite woman Peta Mullens.

“Townsville was chosen to host the national event due to its diverse landscape and experiences on offer for visitors,” said Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) Chief Executive Officer Shane Coppin.

With mountain biking being one of the fastest growing sports in the world you will not be disappointed with this extreme, fast paced spectator sport. You will see talented riders put their physical and mental strength to the test as they navigate their way at high speeds down a maze of tight, winding trails, get impressive air on multiple jumps and carve up the obstacle laden trail on their way.

Townsville is home to the second largest mountain biking club in Australia with over 500 members and growing each day, the Rockwheelers and local biking community are excited to have such an event staged in their home town.

“The thrill of mountain biking is second to none. The excitement you feel sitting on top of a trail before you head down is unreal! We have some great existing tracks here in Townsville, and I’m really looking forward to riding the Castle Hill trail once it’s completed,” mountain bike enthusiast Chris Olsen said.

Townsville is delighted to host this unique event and add to its already jam-packed event season. Mayor Jenny Hill said “Hosting the national event will help to cement Townsville’s reputation as the events capital of regional Australia. Townsville City Council has also committed $50k to support Mountain Bike Track development in Townsville as part of this event initiative so this project is a win-win situation for visitors and locals alike. We look forward to working with the expertise in the Townsville Rockwheelers to ensure investment is made into the right tracks and areas.”

With a diverse range of attractions for all ages Townsville is the perfect holiday location for families and supporters of competitors. The waterfront Strand esplanade is a great place to relax under the shade of a palm tree and admire the stunning scenery, kids can frolic and play at the Strand waterpark or cool down in the rock pool at the western end of the Strand.

Townsville is home to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium Reef HQ and you can step back in time at The Museum of Tropical Queensland, both located in the heart of the city. Other attractions include the award winning Jezzine Barracks, lush botanical gardens, shopping precincts to satisfy the savvy shopper, dining and culinary precincts to delight everyone’s tastebuds. Seventeen kilometres south of Townsville you can get hands on at wildlife park Billabong Sanctuary, it won’t disappoint.

Local charity the Townsville Hospital Foundation will be the charity of choice throughout this event, where proceeds from registrations will be donated. Keep an eye out for their sunshine volunteers in bright yellow shirts that will be helping with collection of race daypacks, marshalling and walking around with donation tins.

“We are thrilled to be part of this exhilarating event and our volunteers will be on hand to help out where needed over the seven days. All money raised will stay 100% local in Townsville and benefit the North Queensland community,” said Judy Higgins, General Manager of the Townsville Hospital Foundation.

If this is the moment you’ve been waiting for, registrations are now open online for the XCM National Mountain Bike Championships at www.mtba.asn.au. If you dare put your bike handling skills to the test!

To register and participate in this event, riders must hold a valid MTBA Membership at the time of the event.

Words Andrea McLeod

DUO Magazine ads work for more than a month.

We’re a magazine, not a newspaper

For more information and advertising rates Call 4771 2933 or email advertise@duomagazine.com.au

DUOEvents

SHANNON NOLL IS SURPRISE GUEST AT SONGMAKERS WORKSHOP Award-winning artist with an ARIA No1 album, Postcards from the Shellhouse, Tom Busby (Busby Marou) and international writer/producer Robert Conley, inspired students to write and record four original compositions in just two days at the TCTC. HEATLEY Secondary College and the Townsville Creative Technologies College(TCTC) was once again chosen to take part in a national program about contemporary music. Sixteen of the combined College’s senior students collaborated with two of Australia’s most successful musicians and producers, as part of SongMakers – a national mentoring program run by APRA AMCOS with support from The Australian Government.

The program is offered to a select 50 Australian schools each year.

The Townsville Creative Technologies College was transformed into a creative

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hothouse for the budding songwriters and producers. They worked over two intensive days – 20th and 21st March – with Awardwinning mentors: songwriter and producer, Robert Conley (Kiss, Beyonce, Ricky Martin, Santana); and artist/writer Tom Busby (Busby Marou) to create and record four new songs.

It is a credit to the strength of the music program at the college that we have selected it for a repeat visit this year,” said Dean Ormston, APRA AMCOS Head of Member Services Group.

“The great thing about the SongMakers program is that it brings the real world into the classroom. Students get to collaborate with

and learn from some of the biggest names in music. And because it’s so hands-on, it really fast-tracks students’ understanding of today’s contemporary music world and the steps needed for success.”

A big surprise was in store when Shannon Noll and the Head of A&R with Warner Music, Heath Bardby, arrived to add their point of view regarding the value of a good song to an artist. Shannon and Heath spent an hour with the students talking through the creative work process and reassuring them that, “the challenges of finding a great melody with the right lyric is exactly what every songwriter is confronted with every time you start working

DUOEvents

on a new collaboration hoping it turns into an amazing song.”

Shannon: I usually find that it gets really really tough a couple of hours in when everything’s been going smoothly but then you hit a block and no one knows which way to go but you have to push through that and 99% of the time that’s when the great bit of work is done that completes the song.

Tom: Yeah, you just persevere because you have to trust that it’s going to happen.

Shannon: A great song is everything to an artist. It’s going to be a part of your live shows for most of your career and has to feel good to sing night after night.

At the end of the second day, Robert called all students into the studio to listen back to each other’s completed songs. Everyone was completely amazed and in awe at what they had achieved over the two days working with their industry mentors Robert Conley and Tom Busby.

Asked how he enjoyed working with the students, Robert said, “They’re really talented!

They worked so hard and produced great songs all under a lot of pressure, and the facilities, instruments and the music technology that’s available at the TCTC is the best out of all the workshops I’ve been a part of.”

Follow these links to hear the songs written and recorded by the students over the two day workshop:

Is This What They Call Love? youtu.be/5Wvi-yNxsv0 Too Far Gone youtu.be/0hdckaKnwyw Better youtu.be/m8qjhUbPzUk Goodbye Farewell youtu.be/gamHwvRwyZo

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LILYA’S NEW ‘MUSE’ COLLECTION FOR AW17 LEAVES LITTLE TO BE DESIRED. THE STUNNING MAYA STEPPER, WHO FRONTS THE CAMPAIGN, OOZES THE LILYA AESTHETIC WITH HER EFFORTLESSLY MODERN WHIMSY AND RELAXED, GLOBETROTTING SPIRIT. PLUSH VELVETS, FRINGED SUEDE AND RICH SHEARLING MAKE FOR SPECTACULAR STANDOUT PIECES, WHILE PERFECTLY CUT T-SHIRTS, FEMININE DRESSES AND COZY KNITS MAINTAIN THE SIGNATURE LAID-BACK LILYA LOOK. WWW.ILOVELILYA.COM @ILOVELILYA

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THERESE DRESS GREY STRIPE $249

GISELLE DRESS $469 HELANE SUEDE JACKET $489

ELSON PAISLEY TOP NAVY $179 MOSS SHORT NAVY $149

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HUTTON SHIRT, $149, WHITE MARA SUEDE SKIRT NATURAL $289

Photography Amberly Valentine Model Maya Stepper Make-up Aura A Hair Little Leeyah Stylist Angie Angorro

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOStyle | ShoppingGuide

Book in for an all over colour, ¼ head of foils and cut in the month of April.

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George & Matilda Eyecare is Australian-owned and committed to local service, as well as premium eye care. We may look different, but the things you love about us aren’t changing.

Come in and say hello to the team!

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DUOStyle | Woman

PERFECTLY ENGINEERED Australian women’s wear fashion designer Yeojin Bae has earned a reputation for sultry tailoring and her new AW17 collection, Engineered, doesn’t disappoint. A succession of sharp silhouettes that flatter the feminine form, each piece utilises Bae’s signature double-bonded Italian crepe. Styles play with the concept of the bodice and embroidered netting feels graphic and sexy. Textural Cornelli lace in blood red channels Fellini’s La Dolce Vita fashioned into playful frilled sheaths or seductive frilled hem shifts. www.shop.yeojinbae.com

FLOWER POWER New from Louis Vuitton, the Color Blossom BB jewellery line shines light on the famous quatrefoil flower of the LV monogram. This emblematic motif opens out in three dimensions on the pendants, bracelets and earrings from the collection, each boasting delicate craftsmanship in mother-of-pearl and ornamental stones. au.louisvuitton.com

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL SIGNATURE CLUTCH The Daily Edited have collaborated with TOME on a range of leather accessories that were shown at TOME’s New York Fashion Week show. Their pouch with asymmetric pocket ($129.95) is our collection highlight. www.thedailyedited.com

NEUTRAL GEAR Tony Bianco’s new West Nude closed-toe flat ($169.95) has a high scalloped sole and neutral shine that will make it a regular wardrobe go-to. The adjustable buckle is a funky addition and the style is also available in black and silver. www.tonybianco.com

Dinosaur Design’s latest collection, Sand, explores the natural beauty and textures of fine rock and mineral particles.

The palette is earthy (with a matt finish) and new patterns have been developed that allow sand to be mixed into the resin, drawing on forms found in sandstone. www.dinosaurdesigns.com.au

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOStyle | Directory

HANKS OPTOMETRISTS BY GEORGE & MATILDA (FORMERLY EYECARE PLUS) Hanks Optometrists specialise in comprehensive eye examinations, prescription sunglasses and spectacles, contact lenses and eye health. They offer Cataract & Glaucoma Testing, Macular and Retinal Scans, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Scan, Colour Vision Tests, Prescription Dispensing, Children’s Vision and finding any Diabetic Eye changes. Healthfund rebates and Medicare bulk-billing.

Open Monday–Friday 8.30am–5pm 246 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale 4779 7433

DONOHUES As the biggest city and country outfitters in the North, Donohues offers quality products to suit all needs from the business person to men and women on the land. Donohues are jeans specialists with styles to suit everybody and are local stockists of R.M Williams, Akubra, Ariat, Levi and Wrangler.

Monday–Wednesday, Friday 8.30am–5.30pm Thursday 8.30am–8pm Saturday 8.30am–3pm 230 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park www.donohues.com.au 4775 5144

SILVER SHOP

BEAUTY BAYSIDE

PANDORA TOWNSVILLE

Browse our wide collection of contemporary brands including Najo, Palas, Kirstin Ash, Swarovski, Fossil Watches and more. Whether you’re searching for the perfect piece for someone special, wishing to commemorate a special occasion, or simply spoiling yourself, our friendly staff can help you choose that perfect piece.

Open Monday–Wednesday & Friday 9am–5.30pm, Thursday 9am–9pm, Saturday 9am–4.30pm, Sunday 11am–4pm Stockland Townsville www.silvershop.com.au 4775 6077

Beauty bayside is located in Belgian Gardens and provides a range of Skin and Body treatments to get the best result in your skin no matter what your age. Our therapists aim to strengthen the structural integrity of the skin thus creating great skin and revising almost any skin condition.

Book in for a consultation to see how we can help you and your skin.

Shop 4/34 Primrose Street Bayside Shopping Centre Belgian Gardens beautybayside.com.au 4771 2122 |

Combine, Create and Discover the magic of PANDORA. Select from our extensive range of more than 600 charms, bracelets, earrings and necklaces in sterling silver, 14 carat gold and twotone to express your personal style and create a collection as individual as you.

Open Monday-Wednesday and Friday 9am–5.30pm, Thursday 9am–9pm, Saturday 9am–4.30pm, Sunday 11am–4pm PANDORA Townsville Shop 217 Stockland Townsville 4725 4755

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NOW AVAILABLE

Aitkenvale Townsville QLD Shop 130, Stockland Shopping Centre Phone: 4775 6077 Email: townsville@silvershop.com.au

SILVERSHOP.COM.AU

DUOStyle | Man

UTE BEAUTY Start saving, Mercedes-Benz are bringing their wild X-Class Concept to Australia in 2018. Early details have already been confirmed about the X-Class Concept including the monstrous 22-inch wheels and the fact the one-tonne pick-up will seat up to five people, positioning it as a family vehicle. Drivers will also be able to connect with their ute by smartphone, tablet or PC at any time from anywhere.

BOMBS AWAY

SOLE MATCH

Tarocash have expanded its offering to include more casual-wear including bomber jackets, which are the go-to silhouette jacket for the AW17 season. Choose from cotton options for the transeasonal months to faux leather and wool blends for high winter. www.tarocash.com.au

Puma’s high-tech Ignite 3 Evoknit ($180) runners feature a TPU piece and a support strap to stabilise the heel. www.puma.com.au

SHADY CHARACTER Oakley’s new multi-sport sunglass, EVZero Pitch ($219.95), offer the brand’s lightest performance frame with a rimless architecture for an unobstructed view. au.oakley.com

BAD TO THE BONE Diesel BAD is the first scent combining accords of tobacco and caviar. The game of seduction starts with a rush of citrus notes and cold spices followed by cardamom and the sexy saltiness of caviar notes. $99 for 75ml.

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POOL COOL Melbourne brand Funky Trunks has just launched its latest collection of beachwear. They’re made from quick-drying polyester and have a coin pocket to keep your cash and keys handy. www.funkytrunks.com

DUOStyle | ShoppingGuide

©DUOMagazine 2016

Flower Girl & Page Boy

• holy communion • christening • character clothing • formal wear for little princesses & little princes Stockland Townsville (Kmart) Cnr Ross River Road & Nathan Street Aitkenvale 0417 033 611 and 0439 546 910 Find us on Facebook

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230 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park | P 4775 5144 | shop online at donohues.com.au

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOStyle | MyBag

Amy McCrystal About Me: My parents immigrated from the UK when I was young. I have fond memories of growing up on a farm in Queensland with my two younger siblings.

Once I completed school, I moved to Brisbane to complete my Nursing Degree, I met my husband Terry and we re-located to Townsville in 2008 with his engineering work. After a few moves back and forth along the east coast of Queensland we have settled in Townsville with our three small children, Charlie (5), Harper (4) and Finn (2). Apart from being a Mum and Nurse, I love to upcycle furniture and teach furniture painting classes at my workshop ‘Beloved Upcycle’. We love living in Townsville as it’s a great lifestyle for our family, there’s so much to explore and do.

MY BAG A Stockholm Tote bag from Collette. It is known in our family as the Mary Poppins bag as I carry so much in it! With three small kids you always have to be prepared! DRAWER HANDLES This is very random but my 2 year old is obsessed with playing with drawer handles in my workshop – he loves the colours and lining them up. I find them in all sorts of places around the house.

GOLD NECKLACE AND EARRINGS Gifts from my husband and are so special to me! He has very good taste in jewellery! BROOCH A present from a dear friend. It came with the quote: ‘Truly Great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave and impossible to forget.’ BABY WIPES Can I hear an ‘oh yeah’ from all the mums out there?

So useful for sticky fingers!

WITCHERY CARD PURSE Christmas gift from a close friend. It’s both functional and stylish. WATCH After the lead up to the opening of my workshop last year, I treated myself to a watch. COFFEE MUG My all time favourite.

I bought it from an op shop for 50c during Uni days. PRADO KEYS we recently upgraded our car so it comfortably fits our family of five. MAGAZINES I love reading magazines to stay current with trends and get inspiration for my furniture pieces! I’m constantly cutting pictures out of these magazines and creating mood boards.

KIDS ARTWORK I‘ll often have one or two pieces of artwork in my bag that my kids have brought home from kindy. The latest is my pasta necklace my daughter insists I wear!

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FAMILY PHOTO Mum is a photographer so I’m very fortunate to have lovely photos taken of our family every time she visits. NOVEL I’m an avid reader and love novels. My husband shares a similar interest and he recently gave me The Spy for my birthday.

CROCHET Another hobby of mine is to crochet a rag rug. A work friend taught me how and I’ve been hooked ever since. I made a rag-rug for my daughter’s room out of second-hand sheets from the OP shop and I’m currently in the process of making a tote bag. BALI TRAVEL BOOK We’re going to Bali in June with three other families so I’m researching fun things we can do while we’re there! I can’t wait to take my kids to another country, experience a different culture and most of all have fun exploring. NURSING BADGE I’ve been a Nurse for over 10 years and I work at the Townsville Hospital. I really enjoy my job and love helping others. SUNGLASSES I only ever buy sunglasses from Quay eyewear online. These rose coloured gold aviators are my all time favourite. DRINK BOTTLE I need to remind myself to drink more water so I might as well have a funky drink bottle! LORNA JANE HAT I love fitness and often walk up Castle Hill or go for runs. My goal this year is to do six trail runs. I’ve completed one 9km one and my next one is 12km next month. I’m working my way up in klm’s. Trail running is a great way to explore nature and see unique places around Townsville, which I love.

DUOStyle | Directory

RENEGADE HANDMADE

NORTHERN SKIN Northern Skin Studio sets a new benchmark for a holistic facility. A medispa operating under the supervision of Dr Monique Flores with skin therapists and registered nurses. Services offered are advanced cosmetic injectables, laser, skin cancer management, medical grade peels, Sculpsure (permanent fat reduction laser) with traditional spa & beauty treatments. Complete customised packages to meet your needs, medically and holistically, so you achieve the ultimate in skin rejuvenation and health. www.northernskinstudio.com.au 4771 5898

Renegade Handmade began in 2013 and includes a curated collection of locally made fashion, jewellery, gifts and homewares. The market is held on the second Sunday of each month at the Marian School, from 8am to 1pm. The Renegade Handmade Gift Shop features 70% locally made and now includes ‘Hello Handmade’ with a collection of Australian independent artists and designers. Open Monday to Friday 10am–5pm Saturday and Sunday 9am–3pm Warrina Arcade, Illuka Street, Gulliver 0477 900 222

BLUEBELL TRADING

UP TOWN KIDS

AVIDA HAIR DESIGN

Venture into Bluebell Trading, stockist of clothing, jewellery, homewares, linen, sleepwear, baby giftware. We cater for a large range of tastes and ages. Our brands include; Boom Shankar, Lazybones clothing, Crabtree & Evelyn, Glasshouse Fragrances, Robert Gordon Pottery, Anna Chandler Designs, Annabel Trends and much more.

Open 7 Days Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm Saturday 9am – 3pm, Sunday 8am – 1.30pm.

280 Flinders Street in the heart of Townsville City.

4772 5366

Established in 2005, is a locally owned, family business specialising in children’s clothing & accessories. Planning a wedding? They have a large range of children’s clothing; exquisite flower girl dresses, communion dresses, page-boy suits, christening gowns, shoes and accessories! Stockists of character clothing, umbrellas, jewellery and gifts for your little ones. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9am–5:30pm Thursday 9am– 9pm, Saturday 9am–4pm. Stockland Townsville (Kmart), Corner Ross River Road & Nathan Street, Aitkenvale. Like us on Facebook. 0417 033 611

At Avida we take the time to listen to your needs and ensure you receive the hairstyle and colour you deserve. While this process is happening sit back and enjoy a delicious cuppa and a home baked goody. Call in and see the amazing team at Avida Hair Design.

Open Tuesday & Wednesday 9am–5pm.

Thursday 9am–7pm. Friday 9am–5pm.

Saturday 8am–2pm.

Shop 3/127 Eyre Street, North Ward 4420 3577

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DUOStyle | MyStyle

Monica Scowcroft Tell us about yourself? I’m 21 years old, half Filipino believe it or not, and moved to Townsville from Brisbane when I was just four years old. My two biggest loves are my partner, Jason, who I’ve been with for nearly five years now as well as our Labrador Georgie. Jason and I are always planning new adventures, as we love travel with America our next big trip. I currently work full time and I’m a big believer in ‘do what you love’. I try my best to make the most of everything I do, as you never know what is around the corner. Describe your style? It definitely depends on what mood I’m in. Usually I wear something relaxed and comfortable and tend to dress it up (I can’t help myself). If I’m not dressed up you’ll find me in my exercising gear.

Most treasured item? The ring my partner got me in Florence when we were travelling Europe as well as anything my partners Dad (Gary) makes for me. How lucky am I that he’s a Jeweller! Labels you like? Cue, Misha Collection, Bardot, Witchery, Alice McCall, Camilla and there are so many boutiques that I love! The list goes on! Best shopping trip? I can’t go past the Boxing Day sales in London but shopping in Rome and Paris were absolutely incredible! Your style guru? I don’t really have one. I tend to just get all my ideas from Instagram and then pick and choose things I like. You’d never be caught in wearing? Socks and sandals Wardrobe item you can’t bring yourself to part with and why? My Misha Collection dresses. They are so unique and special to me. I wish I could buy everything from that shop! Shoes or dress first? Dress – you can build an outfit from a dress but it’s hard vice versa. Meaningful last words? Wear what you feel beautiful in… you feeling good about yourself can make your whole outfit!

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DUOStyle | MyStyle

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DUOStyle | Beauty

EFFORTLESS STYLE CAN BE YOURS WITH NEW PRODUCT RELEASES FROM ELEVEN AUSTRALIA, MARY KAY AND MORE.

SMOOTH

OPERATOR

MARY KAY Available in pretty shades such as Juicy Guava and Ripe Watermelon, Mary Kay’s Cheek Colour Duos ($24) contain a matte blush plus a pearlised highlighting shade. www.beautydirect.marykay.com.au

ESTÉE LAUDER Fatigue-fighting eye treatment Global AntiAging Power Eye Gelée ($88) reduces the look of lines, wrinkles and puffiness, and brightens dark circles. www.esteelauder.com.au

ELEVEN The ultimate multi-tasker, ELEVEN Australia’s Medium Hold Styling Cream ($26.95) works on all hair types and textures. Packed with Carnauba Wax, it’ll leave your hair looking naturally shiny with a hold that lasts from dawn till dusk. www.elevenaustralia.com Hair: Joey Scandizzo Photography: Andrew O’Toole

NERIUM Age-Defying Day Cream Optimera ($140) and AgeDefying Night Cream Optimera ($160) are both clinically proven to fight fine lines, wrinkles and discolouration. www.neriumaus. com.au

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Masks ($126 per 4 pack) will smoothe, brighten, lift and hydrate your skin where it needs it most.

Available at Myer. www.charlottetilbury.com/au

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Willows Shopping Centre 4773 4446 intouchwillows@bigpond.com Find us on Facebook www.intouchboutique.com.au

DUOCommunity DUOAdvertorial

Back row, left to right: Lesley MacManus, Michelle Keys, Heather Holden, Dr Joel Abraham, Dr Duane Perera Front row, left to right: Bria Rose Cusack, Carley Mauger, Rosalind Kennedy, Mary Ann Robles, Nathaniel Layug, Dr Garret Robles

A Different Sense Of Adventure Inspired by a passion for rural and remote dentistry, a shared sense of adventure and the use of top-notch equipment, dentist Dr Garret Robles and his wife Mary Ann Robles have built two unique, complimentary dental practices to keep their sense of adventure alive.

FEW dentists could list “the beauty of the outback skyline and sunsets” as one of the best parts of their job, but for Dr Garret Robles, travelling the outback is part of his 9-5.

Dr Garret and his wife Dr Mary Ann Palma-Robles, a senior visiting academic from the University of Wollongong and James Cook University, established Project Outback Dental (POD) almost two years ago, followed by paediatric and special care dental practice MYTOOTHDOCTOR six months later.

POD is North Queensland’s only private mobile dental surgery servicing

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rural and remote north and central west Queensland. The agile, off-road dental van is professionally fitted with complete dental equipment available in city surgeries. POD also has a state of the art self-contained mobile dental chair able to be deployed in any remote location; and a portable digital dental unit to treat patients with special needs at home, in hospital wards, and aged care facilities.

It was whilst teaching at JCU two years ago that Dr Garret was inspired by the university’s focus in rural and remote dentistry and envisioned having his own private dental van – providing affordable, quality and consistent services in the outback.

“We travel Queensland’s Overlanders Way regularly from Townsville to Julia Creek, and to Outreach Service locations of the Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service (TAIHS),” says Dr Garret. “The farthest north we’ve taken our ‘pod’ or ‘tooth shuttle’ as kids call it, was in Normanton, responding to an invitation by North West Remote Health; and the furthest west is at a cattle station.”

“MYTOOTHDOCTOR was initially established so that POD clients

DUOAdvertorial

“THE PATIENT CAN BE COMFORTABLY TREATED IN HIS OR HER OWN WHEELCHAIR, WITH THE PLATFORM ALLOWING US TO TILT THE PATIENT SAFELY TO AN OPTIMUM ERGONOMIC POSITION FOR SIT-DOWN FOUR-HANDED DENTISTRY.” dr garret robles in the Outback would have their own dental home in Townsville,” explains Dr Garret. “Now we have invested heavily in special care equipment, and MYTOOTHDOCTOR is the first and only private practice in Australia with its own bariatric and wheelchair tilt platform,” he says. “This equipment enables us to carry out procedures on wheelchair-bound patients without having to transfer them to a dental chair.

The patient can be comfortably treated in his or her own wheelchair, with the platform allowing us to tilt the patient safely to an optimum ergonomic position for sit-down four-handed dentistry.”

Apart from children and special care patients, MYTOOTHDOCTOR also treats families and elderly patients with traumatic dental experiences. The team employs a full range of nonpharmacologic behaviour management techniques and for more complex work, dental rehabilitation is performed under

general anaesthetic at the Mater Hospital.

To meet an increasing demand for their unique dental services, POD and MYTOOTHDOCTOR have expanded their team with two dentists and six support staff. The company prides itself for having staff who understand the dynamic nature of its business and are willing to take on the challenges of rural and remote dentistry.

Dr Duane Perera completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Melbourne and has a special interest in minor oral surgery and endodontics, while Dr Joel Abraham is a Townsville local who completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery from JCU where he had broad clinical experience in indigenous oral health and dental public health.

Both dentists have strong foundations in conservative and preventative dentistry.

Dr Duane and Dr Joel described their first Outback experiences as delivering a much-needed service that is both eyeopening and rewarding.

“When people ask why we decided to become Outback Dentists despite its many difficulties, I always keep in mind one of Robert Frost’s most misinterpreted poems,” shares Dr Garret. “We did not choose to be an Outback tooth doctor because it is a road less travelled. It is the road we have taken to respond to our different sense of adventure – one that demonstrates a distinctive purpose and passion.”

Townsville and Northern Beaches Family, Paediatric, and Special Care Dentistry Aitkenvale Family Health Centre 295 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale 4775 5754 Bushland Beach Medical Centre 367 Mount Low Pkwy, Bushland Beach 4788 9444 www.mytoothdoctor.com.au

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DUOHealth

leads to relapse or re-occurrence of the original problems. So-called ‘quick’ or partial treatments have virtually no hope of stability.

Orthodontic treatment re-models the bone and ligaments around the teeth. Teeth ligaments (i.e. periodontal ligaments) stretch during orthodontic treatment and act like rubber bands.

A previously crooked tooth has elastic ‘memory’ of its original position. This ‘memory’ and stretch of the ligament is a significant cause of relapse if retainers are not worn.

Orthodontist

Dr Paul Hanrahan Townsville Orthodontic Specialists

Shift Happens!

Discussing the reasons for unwanted tooth movement and how to keep your beautiful smile for life

TEETH will always move throughout life.

From when teeth first form in the bone, they can travel up to 60 millimetres as they erupt into the mouth. They continue to move during the transition from baby to adult teeth and their positions change as the facial bones change. All of the following factors are important: tongue, cheeks, lips, breathing patterns, chewing, swallowing and habits.

Failure to understand and correct the factors responsible for crooked teeth undoubtedly

Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are often blamed for crowding in young adults because both occur at the same time. This is true for only 14% of cases.

Wisdom tooth removal does not guarantee that your teeth will stay straight! Up to 25% of people are missing their wisdom teeth from birth and these patients still develop crowding!

The main factor involved in late crowding is late growth of the lower jaw. The upper jaw usually stops growing at 15 years of age, however, the lower jaw can grow significantly until 18-20 years of age. This growth pushes the upper front teeth forward (causing movement of the upper teeth) and the lower teeth can become restrained by the upper teeth (resulting in crooked lower teeth).

Long-term studies clearly show that facial bones never stop changing with age. Everything changes with time! (i.e. bones, skin and teeth etc!) Gum disease is a leading cause of unwanted tooth movement. Maintaining a healthy mouth is crucial for keeping straight teeth!

bonded wire behind your teeth and/or a clear removable retainer). Retainers will not work unless they are worn or if they are broken.

Retainer wear and care are the responsibility of the patient. Fifty percent of patients stop wearing their removable retainers within 2 years and many don’t keep their fixed retainer wires beyond 8 years (often following breakage of the wire). Relapse causes much frustration for parents who have invested a lot of money in their child’s mouth, only to see things move due to poor compliance with retainers.

The second key to successful retention is its duration. There is no recognised end-point to retention. Consider your retainers as pyjamas for your teeth!

Final Advice 1. Seek your treatment from a fully qualified Specialist Orthodontist (Weekend courses will never be a substitute for 3 years of full-time university training). If your practitioner needs to ask someone else for advice, they shouldn’t be treating you!

2. High quality outcomes take time. Quick fixes don’t work.

3. Please follow all instructions! People with beautiful teeth always do this.

4. Contact your Orthodontist at the first sign of poor fit and as soon as possible if you lose or break them.

5. Retainers are like diamonds. That is, forever!

Retainer Responsibility Custom-fit retainers are always provided by your Orthodontist to prevent relapse.

There are several types of these retainers (e.g.

6. Smile everyday because you know it takes so little to keep your teeth straight for life.

Did you know?

Townsville Orthodontic Specialists

For the Smile of Your Life

Retainers are essential to avoid needing repeat treatment Introducing Our Specialist Orthodontists

Whether for cosmetic or functional reasons, our professional, qualified Orthodontists and team of trained and dedicated dental assistants, technicians and administration staff will be able to assist you in any area. Call us today to find out how.

17 Martinez Avenue | The Lakes | Townsville | 4775 4433 admin@tsvortho.com.au www.tsvortho.com.au

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Dr Paul Hanrahan Dr Geoff Stanton Dr Linda Ton Dr Desmond Ong

DUOHealth

Practitioner

Donna Larcom Pure Core Nourishment

Mindful Eating For Healthy Living Mindful eating is about enriching your life by nourishing yourself from the inside out with real food. It is about being in the moment, appreciating the great flavours of our food.

MINDFUL eating involves real food choices to nourish our body and avoiding processed and packaged foods.

It is about choosing organic, spray free foods to help minimise the toxins we bring into our bodies.

It is also thinking about the meat we consume and the diet of that animal. Was it raised on a natural diet or was it fed a processed food diet? It is important to understand what healthy food is; whole foods as nature created them. It is really the opposite of gulping down half chewed food on the run because we don’t have time.

Too often foods of convenience have become the modern day normal, skipping meals, eating on the run, at the desk, or in the car have become common because we have the perception that we just don’t have time to prepare real food and take the time to eat it slowly.

Every meal is a new opportunity to change bad food habits that have slowly crept in. We can create and maintain a healthy balance.

Baking and steaming are great ways to prepare nutritious meals in a short time frame. Batch cooking one day a week and freezing meals in advance is another way to ensure you have great meals that can be reheated quickly when you are busy.

You can always make a little extra each time you cook a meal and either have it for breakfast the next day or freeze it for later.

Eating well should be important to us, we want to nourish our body and give it the best we can. Sharing meals is a great way to connect to each other, with family and friends, to talk and laugh and feel relaxed.

Food can really bring people together, and has done traditionally, forever. We should never feel that we don’t have the time to eat. When we allow ourselves to be distracted, that is when digestive disorders can start to emerge. We want to be in tune with our body, smelling, chewing and properly tasting our food. We want to be connected and listening to what it is saying to us, noticing when we feel full and satiated. Notice also, how you feel after eating, do you feel tired, bloated, or looking for something sweet? These are also signs of digestive dysfunction.

If digestion is not working correctly then this has a flow on effect to all of our body as we are not able to properly use the nutrients from our food to fuel our body. Have you ever really thought about digestion? Like so many things in our body, it is a super smart set of processes that sequentially lead one to the next, in a totally sealed off section, designed to protect the rest of the body from the highly acidic environment required to break down our food into smaller particles that can be absorbed and used to create energy.

In order for digestion to work properly we need to be in a parasympathetic state, a relaxed state, we cannot digest if we are stressed.

Mindful eating is about choices we can make, by taking the time to eat in a relaxed manner, and in doing so, allow digestion take place. You have the choice to change the way you eat, allow the time to be back in control of your eating habits, choose slow food, not fast food!

It Begins in the Gut The REAL Story of IBS

A Community Talk

by Pure Core Nourishment Sunday 2nd April 10am –11am $10pp includes Morning Tea

The Tea House Echlin Street West End Limited numbers Please RSVP 0408 722 353 DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOHealth

Audiologist

Grant Collins Clarity Hearing Solutions

Warning Signs of Hearing Loss Hearing loss is an invisible health issue that many tend to ignore.

“I’m always trying to figure out what’s really going on. Always having to fill in the gaps, but never getting all the details. It’s like trying to do a jigsaw when I don’t even know what the picture is, and I’m missing one of the vital middle pieces.”

The above quote is from Melbourne author Chrissie Perry’s award-winning book Whisper.

I think it captures so vividly the distress we

find many of our patients feel when they come to us with hearing loss.

We usually get checked and prodded for visible disorders quickly. Your sight’s not as good as it used to be, we go to the optometrist. That blemish looking slightly different, off to the skin clinic. That pain in your lower back, off to the physio. But hearing we tend to ignore for as long as we can – usually until our family intervenes and insists we get our hearing checked.

But what have we missed in the meantime and what could we have done to prevent the disorder getting worse?

More and more research supports early intervention for hearing loss, for adults and children as well.

In adults, hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression and there’s potentially a link to dementia as well. As hearing diminishes people tend to start to withdraw from conversations and social activity as it becomes too difficult to keep pace with conversations. This affects not only the sufferer of hearing loss but their friends and family who become frustrated with the inability of the person to hear, participate and respond appropriately.

It’s not just the health effects we need to be concerned about. The financial costs affect individuals and communities as well.

The World Health Organisation has found that people with untreated hearing loss earn, on average, less than people with normal hearing.

Undiagnosed and untreated hearing loss in children can lead to delays in speech development and ongoing learning disorders potentially affecting them for the rest of their lives.

Adults If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may have a hearing loss, and a hearing evaluation with a registered and fully qualified audiologist is recommended: • Difficulty hearing in background noise • Difficulty understanding women’s and children’s voices • “I hear fine, but it sounds like people mumble!”

• Speech sounds are muffled • Turning the TV or radio louder than others • Asking people to repeat; saying “huh” or “what” often • Tinnitus or ringing in the ears • Ears feel stopped-up Children • Doesn’t respond to name being called • Doesn’t turn to locate sounds after 6 months of age • Doesn’t respond when back is turned or from across the room • Speech and language is delayed If you are diagnosed with hearing loss, it’s great to know that there are now many options in treatment and in hearing devices to assist. We carry a full range of devices from all manufacturers including invisible, extended wear Lyric hearing aids right through to cochlear implants for those who are profoundly deaf.

Missing a piece in a jigsaw puzzle is frustrating. Missing pieces of life and activities around you is devastating. If you suspect hearing loss, don’t delay talking to someone about your options.

Hearing aid advice you can rely on...

Concerned about your hearing health treatment? At Clarity Hearing Solutions we have always based our treatment on five simple, yet hard to come by principles. ccurate diagnosis: We 1 Aemploy the best Masters qualified and registered Audiologists and we take the time to accurately diagnose your hearing loss.

Call Clarity Hearing Solutions on

treatment: 2 Evidence-based We only prescribe hearing aids and features where there’s medical evidence it will help you and suit your lifestyle.

3 are the same across our

Ethical pricing: Our margins entire range of hearing aids to ensure there is no incentive to prescribe technology other than

1300 CLARITY or 4779 1566 DUOMagazine April 2017

or targets: 4 NWeo commissions don’t compensate our team for selling hearing aids or have targets or sales quotas.

We employ and pay them with the sole purpose to treat your hearing loss.

Independence: Being 5 independent we can provide hearing aids and implants from all manufacturers to ensure you get the right solution for your hearing needs. We will offer you a choice of options at different price points that will treat your hearing loss and we will take the time to explain the benefits and features of each option.

For Queensland’s largest range of hearing solutions and expert advice, talk the team at Clarity for your first or second opinion.

Hermit Park 266 Charters Towers Rd | Condon 60 N Beck Dr

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what is needed. We earn our income from our clinical time— our expertise—not from selling hearing aids.

Clinics Queensland-wide | www.clarityhearingsolutions.com.au

DUOHealth

Physiotherapist + Director

Paul Parker

SportsMed NQ

Health Coaching Explained An empowering process to becoming a better version of yourself.

WE are all aware that a balanced diet, regular exercise and good quality sleep form the basis for a healthy lifestyle. It’s possible that there has been some point in your life where you really felt like you were ticking all those boxes, you were nailing life! However, at present that seems a lifetime ago. It was long before the kids came along, you began running your own business, taking on extra commitments, joining committees etc. To try and fit the extra time in your week required to achieve the recommended exercise and produce healthy meals on a regular basis is simply unattainable. The reality is there is a massive pile of roadblocks in the way, that if you inspect too closely it all becomes too overwhelming.

So how do you dig yourself out of that hole and climb over that mountain of tasks? How do you get back to that younger more energetic version of yourself?

Take a step back, breathe, (maybe now is a good time for that last Easter egg).

This is where a Health/Wellness Coach or Life Coach can step in and help you sort through all that rubble that is cluttering up your brain and set you on your jolly way with a bounce back in your step.

So what is a Health/Wellness Coach?

A Health Coach is your personal cheerleader. They support you in working out what you want, why you want it and what is stopping you from achieving it.

This may be reducing stress, increasing exercise, improving sleep, improving diet etc. Action plans are put in place to work towards achieving your personal goals and barriers are identified.

Wellness is often about behaviours: what we do regularly. We often need to change our lifestyles to create lasting change.

Coaching can help by: • Handing over responsibility • Planning ahead for obstacles • Working through resistance • Becoming aware of beliefs and concerns • Identifying strengths and possible areas for change • Reframing negative outlooks and increasing hope and optimism This is an empowering process, you simply choose the path you want your life to take, and together you and your coach devise a plan. Your initial discussions include identifying which area of your health/personal life is of the biggest priority right now.

Health Coaching can be an essential tool to becoming the best version of yourself.

How often do we boldly set ourselves goals without considering accountability? No follow up, nobody to discuss your progress, or otherwise with. It is a second set of ears, someone who will not judge, will not make suggestions, you ultimately make the decisions about which direction your life takes, and you will get there.

As I said, it is a process. Goals change, you will grow. You will learn a lot about yourself along the journey, enjoy the ride…

It may just change your life!

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www.sportsmednq.net.au

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AVOCADO POWER Have you ever tried avocado oil? Studies have found using avocado oil helps to prevent diabetes and high cholesterol. And the awesome thing about avocado oil is that you can use it for cooking as well as in items like salads and dips.

READY FOR YOGA The new collection of seasonal yoga wear from 213 Apparel is inspired by 90’s fashion, particularly ditsy florals and blooms. The fabrics are soft and breathable and the cuts flattering for bodies of every shape and size. www.213apparel.com.au

HEALTHY AND WHOLESOME Magdalena Roze’s debut cookbook is all about enjoying food… the natural way. Magdalena and her chef partner Darren Robertson (Three Blue Ducks, The Farm at Byron Bay) recently moved to Byron for a sea change.

Magdalena’s book, Happy & Whole ($39.99), was inspired by the move and features her favourite wholefood recipes and ideas to nourish the body and soul. www.panmacmillan.com.au

‘MEGGINGS’ FOR MEN Longer in length and wider in width (in all the right places), Kapow Meggings ($45-$57) are perfect for hitting the gym, running a marathon or doing yoga. Constructed from a high-stretch polyester/elastane material they’re built for comfort and durability. www.kapowmeggings.com

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ALL NATURAL ANTI-ODOURANT Made right here in Australia, No Pong ($5.95) is 100 per cent natural so it’s free from aluminium, parabens and hidden nasties. It’s fragranced with a blend of citrus, floral notes and a hint of vanilla and has been tested in tropical heat. www.nopong.com

DUOHealth

Life Balance is better considered as a daily practice, rather than a destination.

If life has been feeling a bit off kilter, then getting perspective on what matters to you will keep you moving forward in a meaningful way.

Clinical Psychologist

Lydia Rigano Fulham Consulting

Balance By Design It’s not just about balance, it’s about designing a workhome-family life that makes you feel good. j. fisch

So what does a balanced life look like?

Living life in a balanced way leaves you feeling more in control. Your needs are met more often across various domains of life. You don’t feel that your heart or mind are being pulled too hard in any direction. You are more likely to feel calm, grounded, clear-headed and motivated.

We can all design and build our way to a well-balanced life, that is satisfying and continually evolving – a life filled with the constant possibility of what could be better.

Where to start To get your life in balance, begin with a clear idea of which areas of your life are getting adequate attention and which are missing out.

A balanced life isn’t allocating equal slices of time or energy to each domain of your life.

WE’VE all heard the message that a healthy life balance is essential for happiness and wellbeing. The big question is…

To meet your personal needs, each area of your life needs what you feel to be sufficient time and energy – there’s not a simple recipe for everyone.

Are your needs being met in these 10 essential life domains? You may wish to pick up your journal or piece of paper to record your responses and begin drawing up a plan for your balanced life.

What does life balance actually mean?

Most importantly, how do we maintain it in the midst of our busy schedules? The pressure to attain balance can feel like just another demand on an already too long ‘to do’ list.

1. Health: Your physical health including what you consume; body weight, exercise and rest.

2. Family: Time together for emotional connection, play and the fulfilment of responsibilities.

Sometimes, life feels like it could swallow you whole.

Our psychiatrists and clinical psychologists can help.

3. Friendships: Having mutually fulfilling and dependable relationships.

4. Romantic love: Marriage or committed partnerships.

5. Fun: Recreation, travel, sports and anything else you enjoy.

6. Spirituality: Prayer, meditation, or time in nature.

7. Work and Study: A sense of meaning, satisfaction and purpose through work.

8. Money: Adequate income to give a sense of financial security.

9. Home: Peace, comfort and security in your living situation.

10. Service: Social contribution for the greater good of others.

This list is a good starter kit to identify the areas of life that need your time and energy in order to experience well-being. When you recognise the areas of your life that are not currently so satisfying, you can then take steps to change what isn’t working.

Don’t feel under pressure to change too much at once, but make small adjustments and find what works for you – remember, small things often.

If life balance is something you crave but it seems elusive due to too many competing demands or you’re just feeling stuck, you needn’t give up!

Working with a clinical psychologist can equip you to create a life that is meaningful to you and move you toward your equilibrium.

Afterall, life is too short to live anything less, than your Best Life.

Friendly. Private. Mental Health Hub. For tools to live your best life, visit our website and subscribe for resources to your inbox.

Twitter @Fulham4bestlife #bestlife www.fulhamconsulting.com.au 5 Fulham Road Pimlico Townsville | Phone 4728 5209

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“...IT WAS INEVITABLE I WOULD STUDY MEDICINE. I GUESS IT WAS IN MY BLOOD.” DR JASON MCDARRA

Inspirational Leaders In Health + Fitness

Dr Jason McDarra Orthopaedic Surgeon

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“I love working with my hands,” explains Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Jason McDarra, who, as a surgeon, fixes, remodels and reworks our lower limbs – a demanding job that requires precision and meticulous attention to detail. “Surgery is not broad brushes. It’s the minutiae that is important to deliver good patient outcomes.”

Before relocating North with his wife Danielle [who was born in Townsville] and their three children, Dr McDarra was the Director of Orthopaedics at Ipswich Hospital, in addition to his private practice at Greenslopes and his post as Senior Lecturer at the University of Queensland.

Today, he runs his private practice in North Ward and operates at The Mater

Hospital. Dr McDarra has a keen interest in providing specialist Orthopaedic care to regional communities and has been instrumental in establishing an outreach clinic which sees him visit Ayr monthly. He is also a Senior Consultant at the Townsville Hospital.

After studying Medicine at the University of Queensland, Dr McDarra completed his FRACS in Orthopaedic Surgery followed by a prestigious fellowship in lower limb arthroplasty with leading Australian surgeons Dr Ray Randle and Dr David Liu at the Gold Coast’s John Flynn Hospital. “Like most Fellows, I was mentored by international surgeons but here, in my own backyard, I really fine tuned my surgical skills.”

“We’re bone carpenters – that’s really what we do,” laughs Jason, who prior to medicine completed an Economics Degree. He then travelled the world before commencing a trade in carpentry. “As a young bloke I wanted to travel and find my own way but with both my parents being doctors it was inevitable I would study medicine. I guess it was in my blood.

“I genuinely enjoy medicine,” he admits, “and I quite literally grew up in the surgery in a bassinet under Mum’s desk. I then worked for Mum and Dad in their practices from the age of 10. I even went on house calls and nursing home visits with them back in the day.”

“I love the technology of Orthopaedics, and the practical aspect to the field. I enjoy

the variety of my job – from the private elective surgery to emergency trauma cases.

It’s certainly never dull. I’m grateful everyday that I get these opportunities to have such a positive impact on peoples’ lives.

“One of the best things about North Queensland apart from the fantastic lifestyle is the warmth extended to my family and me by my patients. They have shared delicious Italian cuisine, Burdekin mud crabs – the biggest I have ever seen – and some of the best home brew imaginable. Now, I also know Gladdy, an outstanding home-baker of Christmas cakes.”

Dr McDarra pauses. “I didn’t get the opportunity to develop relationships like this in Brisbane. As a family, these kinds of gestures make us feel connected to life here in the North.

“Orthopaedics is one of those great specialties where there are good operations to solve bad problems. Yesterday I operated on a patient who was wheelchair bound. Following surgical intervention he’ll be able to walk out of the hospital; it’s humbling to be able to give a patient back their mobility after this type of major joint surgery.”

Perhaps though, it’s the future of Orthopaedics that is most promising. “A passionate interest of mine is the incredible advances in technology in patient specific implants and prostheses. We’re already operating with computer navigation during surgery and the next step for Townsville is robot assisted surgery – it’s a remarkable technological age to be a part of.”

“It’s very exciting where Orthopaedic surgery is heading.”

Dr Jason McDarra Orthopaedic Surgeon Level 5, Stanton Centre 31 Leichardt Street, North Ward 4401 5696 reception@drjasonmcdarra.com.au www.drjasonmcdarra.com.au

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Inspirational Leaders In Health + Fitness

Dr Aman Ahuja, Director, Pain Specialist and Anaesthetist, Dr Khaldoon Alsaee Director, Pain Specialist and Psychiatrist, Craig Sullivan Director, Occupational Therapist

Dr Khaldoon Alsaee LiveWell Healthcare Group

H E A LT H C A R E G R O U P Park Haven Medical Centre 5–7 Bayswater Road, Hyde Park Townsville Private Clinic 136 Wills Street, Townsville City 4724 2592 www.livewellhealthcare.com.au

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It’s a big leap from Dublin to Townsville, but for Psychiatrist, Pain Specialist and Director at LiveWell Healthcare Group, Dr Khaldoon Alsaee ‘300 days of sunshine for 300 days of rain’ was a good trade.

Dr Alsaee joined LiveWell, Townsville’s only private multidisciplinary pain clinic, in June 2016.

“I trained in Psychiatry because I felt people with mental health issues weren’t treated the best,” says Dr Alsaee, who manages a variety of pain conditions along with mental health disorders.

“I specialised further in Pain Medicine because I saw the overlap with mental health issues and addiction with many patients. How psychological and social stress is managed can have an impact on the severity of pain,” adds Dr Alsaee. “Having all the skills to manage these issues is useful to me as a practitioner, and effective and convenient for my patients.”

LiveWell Healthcare Group, formerly LiveWell Pain Management Centre, offers a long list of services; occupational health, injury treatment, multi-disciplinary pain management, basic and advanced pain interventions/injections, Psychiatry, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Occupational Therapy, Upper Limb Rehabilitation, Guided Hydrotherapy and Lymphedema Therapy.

“We are the only private practice to provide all these services under one roof where all clinicians

share one information system and communicate together,” Dr Alsaee explains. “We are no longer just a pain clinic; we offer a comprehensive list of services that complement each other.”

Recognising the complexities of treating pain, LiveWell Healthcare Group is preparing the introduction of Pain Group Programs and Return To Work programs.

The Pain Group Programs will be formulated to suit people – defence and ex-defence force members, and work cover and third party insured individuals to start off with – who experience chronic pain following an injury, and the programs will vary in intensity depending on the needs of the patient.

“These programs will be unique to North Queensland and will assist employers in having one entity to communicate with, and assist patients in getting the best outcomes under one roof,” says Dr Alsaee, who is also a Consulting Psychiatrist at the Townsville Private Clinic and supervises Pain Medicine and Psychiatry trainees throughout North Queensland.

“The relationship between Doctors and Allied Health is key to good patient outcomes. I strongly believe in a collaborative rather than just a biomedical approach. At LiveWell we have gone into business to build relationships, and achieve the best outcomes for our patients, their families and employers.”

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Inspirational Leaders In Health + Fitness

Matt Paul Quality Bodies

QUALiTY Bodies Quality Bodies Genesis Fitness Club Carthew Street, Willows 0427 706 069 qbpt@live.com.au www.facebook.com/QualityBodies-135801449823706/ www.genesistrainer.com.au/mpaul

If your body is a temple then the most important aspect of that temple, as with any building, is the foundation – and according to Quality Bodies owner and fitness therapist Matt Paul, knowledge is the strongest foundation.

“Good health really is about getting the basics right first,” says Matt, “which is why I’m passionate about helping individuals achieve not just physical results, but a better mind frame through education, physical training, coaching and motivational techniques.”

Personal training and therapy business Quality Bodies operates out of Genesis Fitness Club, and has done for the past seven years. As a fitness therapist, Matt has completed his Diploma, as well as 100 hours of clinical work with a physiotherapist. “This has allowed me a much higher understanding of the biomechanics of the human body and its requirements,” explains Matt. “It helps me deliver prescribed exercises for individuals’ goals, conditions – such as cardiorespiratory, metabolic, musculoskeletal and chronic conditions – and lifestyle programming.

Matt is now preparing to launch a new program mid-2017 that he believes will flip today’s quick-fix programs on their heads.

“Over 60 per cent of Townsville adults are overweight or obese,” says Matt. “This is alarmingly high considering there are more than 60 gyms here.

“This program, the Bow Tie Affect, is targeted at people who are unmotivated, deconditioned, overweight or obese, not confident, new to the industry, or who want to learn the fundamentals of working out in a gym environment,” reveals Matt.

The Bow Tie Affect is a 10-week educational course. Each week includes one seminar, two sessions with a professional and one ghost session (the details of which Matt is keeping a surprise).

The course also includes three nutritional seminars.

“This is different to other programs available – there are no competitions, prizes, challenges or even weigh-ins. It’s based around getting people educated, involved and aware. It’s designed to increase the expectation of the longevity of training and lifestyle changes; and hopefully, expunge those outdated ‘get results real fast’ schemes. This is about fun, learning and no judgment.

“People need something new – something for them.”

Through Quality Bodies, Matt has worked with clients aged 12 to 70. “We’ve mentored and trained clients through weight loss, muscle gain, lifestyle, mental illness, cancer, post surgery and cosmetic surgeries, the list goes on,” says Matt. “A big shout out to our past and present clients – Quality Bodies wouldn’t be here if you guys weren’t!” [Fist pump.]

To find out more about the Bow Tie Affect, contact Matt or follow Quality Bodies on Facebook.

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International Psychic Medium

Can You Love Again After The Death Of A Partner?

“Til death do us part,” is a common verse in traditional marriage ceremonies, but do our vows and our relationships really end at death?

AND do we really ‘part’ from those we love the most, or are they still around us? I can understand that our faithful monogamous obligation may come to a completion at death, but in some cases, moving on with someone else may seem impossible, or even inappropriate by our friends, family and our in-laws.

If you ask someone who just lost their spouse if they are still married, often times they will say yes. This may be the case for years after the death of their partner, and then the decision to take one’s wedding ring off, is not without intense emotion and consideration.

I recently did a reading for a 30-something year old man who had been been mourning the passing of his late wife. David* and his wife Laura* were high school sweethearts before she had passed away in a sudden accident three years prior to his reading.

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With much excitement, and to his surprise, David confirmed that earlier that week, he and his girlfriend were advised they were expecting their first child. This baby, a new life, was totally unplanned and something that they were both shocked, but pleasantly surprised about.

David struggled with confusion on whether he should feel sad that this experience was not going to be with his late wife, or if he should allow himself to be happy for the new joy that was coming his way. Laura again confirmed that not only did he have her blessings, but that she helped orchestrate this positive direction for him.

So that begs the question, is it really ’til death do us part’, because if you ask me, it would appear that our loved ones in spirit are still loving and looking after us long after their ‘physical’ departure. *Names have been changed for privacy.

Marco Della Valle International Psychic Medium The Beauty Hub on Flinders 209 Flinders Street, Townsville City 0428 753 689 www.marcodellavalle.com

Gorynvd/ Shutterstock.com

Marco Della Valle

Grief had consumed him and it was his desire to communicate with his late love for some resolve. She soon made her presence known and was able to provide several pieces of evidence to prove to David that she was there, in spirit, without question. Laura told him that she remembered him being in the car with her and that he tried to revive her after impact, and thanked him for his help, although unfortunately, there was nothing he could do.

She started talking about some memories they shared together and advised that like most couples, they were planning on buying a house and wanted to start a family. David agreed.

Laura wanted him to know that it was her wish for him to continue to fulfil this desire so that he may move forward and live his life in full.

She further advised that she knew that David had just started dating a new lady that had unexpectedly come into his life. David confirmed that he had indeed just started seeing somebody new within the past 6 months and revealed his guilt as he felt as though he was cheating on his wife in spirit. She then showed me how he met his new love and that the circumstances around it were completely by chance and totally unexpected. She went on to say that it was herself, that set up this ‘chance’ meeting and that she had placed the new love in his path.

At first he struggled with this concept until his late wife said that she didn’t want him to feel any guilt about his new girlfriend and that she wanted him to know that she was so excited that they will soon be having a child together.

Generation Spokesperson

Courtney Frank DUOMagazine

Why Don’t Kids ‘Go Outside And Play’ Anymore?

The Millennial Generation is evolving faster than ever before.

There’s a constant need to keep up and move with the times; fail to keep learning and you’ll get left behind. But there’s one important past-time that’s been forgotten and we desperately need to get it back.

THERE’S one thing that the latter part of this generation has left behind. And not in a good way. And that’s the ability to go outside and actually PLAY. To run around, get dirty, explore and create adventures. Studies have shown that the youth of today are more inclined to stay inside, watch television, play video games and computer games and even do their homework, rather than go outside and play! If you grew up in the 1970’s, 80’s or the very early 90’s, you would have enjoyed more than two hours playing outside every single day and a further nine hours over the course of the weekend. Today’s kids now only spend about an hour outside each weekday and approximately four hours over the course of the whole weekend. How the times have

Veja / shutterstock.com

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changed. It’s certainly a far cry from my younger days when my parents had to force me inside every single day!

I have so many fond memories of my childhood. I remember hours spent riding around the street on bicycles, rollerblades, scooters and skateboards. I have special memories of my Dad teaching me how to catch, carry and kick a footy in the park after school, until the streetlights came on and it was so dark that you couldn’t see anymore. I remember weekends spent playing cricket on the driveway, taking it in turns to bat, bowl and field, always careful not to hit the ball into parked cars, over fences or through the neighbours window. When we’d had enough of cricket, we’d take the bucket of jumbo coloured chalk pieces and draw hopscotch on the bitumen, and play until the soles of our feet were red raw from jumping on the hot, rough ground. There were long days spent in the swimming pool, doing backflips off the rocks and seeing how many laps we could do without coming up for air. I remember finding secret hiding spots in the park and pretending it was a whole other world where no one could ever find me. I could go on and on, but I’m sure you get the picture.

If you’re over the age of 20, I’m sure you have similar stories about your childhood.

And certainly if you belong to Generation X or the Baby Boomer Generation, your childhood stories would have been remembered and told to your children and grandchildren countless times over. You’ll remember what it was like to make your own fun, to create games out of seemingly useless and boring items. You weren’t scared of your neighbourhood, you didn’t need technology to create your fun – you were a dreamer and you could make fun out of anything. I’m sure you remember not having a care in the world, the

only thing you had to worry about was going home when the streetlights came on. Those were the good days right?

So what happened? Crime and violence increased and naturally, parents became more aware, cautious and protective over their children. Technology advanced and we became addicted to video games, touch screens and all things digital. And just like that, it seems like everything changed in the blink of an eye.

Some of the best moments of my childhood were spent outside. And I feel sad that the children of the future, my children, may never get to experience that. They may never be in touch with nature the same way that we were.

They’ll probably never know what it’s like to live without trepidation, to not be scared of every stranger, or what it feels like to be carefree, untroubled and unafraid.

It’s hard for me to say that I would never give my child an iPad. I don’t have any kids yet, so I can’t possibly begin to imagine how much of a saving grace an iPad or video game could be in certain situations. But I do think there’s a time and place for it and that the line might get a little blurry sometimes. I know plenty of people who have children that sit inside all day, sometimes never even getting out of their pyjamas. And I’d be lying if I didn’t think that was a crying shame.

So I encourage every child to go outside and just PLAY. Going outside never hurt us! We played in the rain and didn’t get a cold; we had cuts and bruises that we wore proudly as battle scars. We ate sand, dirt and bugs and didn’t die. We made friends with the kids down the street. Our immune systems were strong and so was our thirst for adventure! We survived! And I like to think we turned out alright.

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Lorna Tunny, Nadine Fearnley (Director of Nursing), Dorothea Fleming

Rooms With A View Perched on the grassy green banks of the Ross River in Annandale and nestled against the vibrant gardens of the Palmetum, The Good Shepherd Home is an enviable location.

OFFERING quality aged care accommodation and support services for the past 45 years, as well as a day therapy program, The Good Shepherd Home recently completed Stage 1 of its Pinnacles House development, a modern new building with 90 beds over three levels.

The $16 million Stage 1’s completion

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delivered the top floor of Pinnacles House, known as the Premium Rooms. A further $5 million will be spent on Stage 2, with an additional three wings to be completed within Pinnacles House come September.

The Premium Rooms offer magnificent views on one side to Mount Stuart on the other, tranquil vistas across Ross River.

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Bill Glasheen, John Loncar

Each room is air-conditioned, includes bar fridge, flat-screen TV, individual spacious ensuites and wifi capability. The wing also includes spacious living spaces for the enjoyment of our residents, families and their guests.

Whilst this is ‘premium’, it is still affordable with flexible options of payments available. The home is a Charitable Trust, so is willing to look after any person regardless of their needs or financial situation.

Of course, the benefits you would expect of a quality aged care home are there too – all residents have access to allied health services including

Dorothea Fleming, Catherine Bakker (Diversional Therapist)

THE GOOD SHEPHERD HOME RECENTLY COMPLETED STAGE 1 OF ITS PINNACLES HOUSE DEVELOPMENT, A MODERN NEW BUILDING WITH 90 BEDS OVER THREE LEVELS. physiotherapy, podiatry, speech therapy and occupational therapy, regular outings are scheduled, there is an on-site gym, a listening ear in the Home’s Chaplain and a variety of interesting activities. Specialist dementia care is also available.

The Good Shepherd Home staff understand that the decision to enter into residential care can be a distressing time

for both a resident and their loved ones, and emphasise that they are available to assist with the transition.

Of course, it’s not uncommon for people to feel a sense of loss; sometimes it can be separation from loved ones, familiar surrounds, and community, or the realisation that they are no longer independent. Families too, often have very real feelings of sadness and grief.

According to The Good Shepherd team, many of the residents’ families are pleasantly surprised at how quickly their loved one starts referring to The Good Shepherd as ‘home’.

Tours of Pinnacle House’s Premium Rooms and The Good Shepherd Home are available by appointment.

The Good Shepherd Home 565 University Road, Annandale 4772 9900 admin@tgsh.org.au www.tgsh.org.au Dorothea Fleming, Dorothy Lawrence, Monica Keown

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Left photo (left to right): Dr Daniel Carroll, Dr Bhanu Mariyappa Rathnamma and Dr Harry Stalewski are passionate about developing the burns unit so children can be treated closer to home.

Do It For The Kids Putting smiles on the faces of sick children is much easier thanks to everyone who donates to the Townsville Hospital Foundation.

BEING in hospital can be tough for anyone, let alone for a child who is far from home. Take 10-year-old Monty from Mt Isa, for example. When Monty, who was suffering from 60 per cent burns to his body, came to The Townsville Hospital for treatment, little things like the bush animal murals in his hospital room were a big comfort.

“Monty was initially stabilised here, then transferred to Brisbane for further treatment before returning to Townsville for his rehabilitation,” says senior occupational therapist Rebecca Watson-Brown.

“His family have moved to Townsville to meet his ongoing medical needs. The burns unit treats children from all over North Queensland (south to Mackay, west to the border and including the Torres Strait).”

The burns unit has applied to the Townsville Hospital Foundation to fund more murals to keep children’s spirits up. These would be a comfort to all who require treatment in the unit.

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“Local artist Jenny Finn has drawn some lovely sketches for us that we’d love to have translated into painted murals,” Rebecca says.

“We’re picturing Townsville-themed murals, featuring the Cowboys, V8s and a Magnetic Island-style underwater world.”

Director of Paediatric Surgery Dr Daniel Carroll says having access to funds from the Townsville Hospital Foundation, who are supported by the community, complements the care provided at The Townsville Hospital.

“With doctors and nurses focused on clinical care it’s great we can receive support to provide the extra things that improve the patient experience such as murals and artworks,” Dr Carroll says.

“The Townsville Hospital Foundation does a great job of rallying the local community to raise charitable funds, which can go a long way in bringing a sense of comfort and a smile to the faces of young patients and their families.

Above photo (left to right): Ten-year-old burns patient Monty with family, The Good Guys Townsville staff and Townsville Hospital Foundation General Manager Judy Higgins.

“Obviously Townsville is a much smaller community than communities in the southern cities such as Brisbane but it’s wonderful to see donations from the public help children in North Queensland.”

Local businesses also play a vital role in improving the patient experience by donating items like movie tickets, bowling passes and other opportunities for family outings. In Monty’s case, The Good Guys Townsville donated air conditioners for his family home (pictured) as patients with large burns can’t regulate their skin temperature in the same way as patients without burns.

If you or your business would like to help children like Monty recover from a traumatic event, contact the Townsville Hospital Foundation on 4433 1337.

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CANNON FAMILY SHOOT FOR SUCCESS CLAIRE completed her Bachelor of Nursing Science and Danielle has a dual degree in Nursing and Midwifery from James Cook University.

“Prior to starting my degree I was a teacher aide. I found myself with an opportunity to go back and study so I decided to go to university,” Claire said.

“In England I worked in the mental health sector so I knew I wanted to get back into health; nursing seemed like an interesting choice.

“It’s exciting to be going into this career together.”Danielle and Claire said while the two had very different learning styles, there were alot of advantages to studying the same degree.“Because we started studying in different years we only had a few subjects together but it was good to bounce ideas off each other and debrief,” Danielle said.“It was good to have an understanding of what the other was going through,” Claire said.

“There’d be times when Danielle would say ‘I can’t do this’ and I’d tell her ‘If I can do it, you can do it’.”

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Mother/daughter duo Claire and Danielle Cannon’s lifetime of memories has been bolstered by sharing their latest milestone together; the pair are part of the 117 graduate nurses who will complete their graduate year at The Townsville Hospital in 2017.

The pair said they were incredibly proud of each other. “I got a little bit emotional when I watched mum graduate,” Danielle said. “She has a great work ethic and I am so proud of what she has achieved.”

“Danielle has made us so proud; she is very clever and I feel like I have a lot of live up to as a nurse,” Claire said. “I know that she will really go places in her career.”

Townsville Hospital and Health Board Chair Tony Mooney said the 2017 graduates would be an asset to the Townsville Hospital and Health Service’s nursing workforce.

“Nurses play a vital role throughout a person’s life; from the moment we are born through to aged care, nurses are there for us at all stages of our life,” he said. “I’d like to wish the nurses all the best as they embark on their new careers and have no doubt that each and every one of them will make a real difference to those we care for, upholding the exceptional standard of nurses at the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.”

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Sami Lukis

Mary Holmes

Beauty And The Beast Townsville’s own Mary Holmes is on a mission to raise awareness of ovarian cancer in her role as Miss Progress International Australia 2017.

“THE OVERALL FIVE YEAR SURVIVAL RATE FOR WOMEN DIAGNOSED WITH OVARIAN CANCER IS 44 PER CENT.” EVERY year in Australia 1400 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Known as ‘the silent killer’, there is no test for the beastly disease, which is why knowing the symptoms of ovarian cancer is so important.

“This is why we push our awareness campaigns so much,” says Mary Holmes, who last year travelled to New South Wales to compete in the MAQuest National Finals.

“While I was there, I was lucky enough to take out the title of Miss Progress International Australia and, as part of my journey, I’m fundraising for the charity Teal Wings of Hope.”

Teal Wings of Hope collaborates with the

MAQuest to create a pageant with a cause and bring on new ambassadors to assist with awareness campaigns and fundraising for people who have suffered from ovarian cancer.

“As ‘Teal Ambassadors’ we all host various events around the country and I hope Townsville locals will support my Ladies Afternoon Teal on Saturday 29 April at Rydges Southbank Townsville.

“The event will include a free glass of bubbly on arrival, afternoon tea, fashion shows, raffles and merchandise stalls. We’ve also been lucky enough to have Sami Lukis agree to host our event.”

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased through www.townsvilletickets.com.au, with all funds raised donated to Teal Wings of Hope.

“I joined the MAQuest because it’s a pageant with a cause. Before joining, I (like a lot of people) wasn’t aware of just how deadly ovarian cancer is,” Mary says. “The overall five year survival rate for women diagnosed

with ovarian cancer is 44 per cent, so it’s vital women know the warning sings and seek treatment straight away.

“Tell every amazing lady you know that the signs of ovarian cancer include bloating, abdominal pain and trouble with urinary frequency. It may just save their life” Throughout her fundraising journey, Mary has met many women affected by ovarian cancer and says this has made her want to continue to raise awareness in the hope of saving more lives.

Later on in the year she will be travelling to Italy to represent Australia at the international finals of Miss Progress International.

“The lady who wins will have their project supported through further funding and worldwide exposure,” Mary says.

“I would love for the community to come and enjoy my Ladies Afternoon Teal event and support this cause. I’m sill taking donations for raffle prizes, so if anyone is interested in donating a prize, please don’t hesitate to contact me.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/maryholmesmodel www.tealwingsofhope.com.au

Words Kylie Davis Mary’s Photo Rosana Kersh

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Safeguarding Mental Health An inaugural conference to be held at James Cook University this June/July will look at how best to support students experiencing mental health issues.

The countdown is on for the Inaugural Australasian Mental Health and Higher Education Conference, to be held at James Cook University’s Townsville campus on Friday June 30 and Saturday July 1.

“In Australia, there are approximately 800,000 university students aged between 18 and 25 and it is estimated that at least one in four will have experienced some mental health issues in the last year,” says Dr Margaret-Anne Carter, a senior lecturer in Education at James Cook University and one of the conference founders.

“This figure is a wake-up call, creating both challenges and

opportunities for universities, the mental health sector and the wider community.

We all need to be on the same page in advocating and supporting the mental wellbeing of Australian university students and staff.

“In convening this conference we will be informed by the most recent research, exploring innovative, integrated and sustainable mental health interventions led by universalities in collaboration with researchers, mental health bodies and the broader community. Members of the public, mental health practitioners, students, academics, educators, researchers, consumers and carers are all welcome to attend.”

pet heaven nq townsville’s pet crematorium & cemetEry

(Left to right) Dr Beryl Buckby, Dr Margaret Carter and Associate Professor Abraham Francis.

Keynote speakers will include Dr Benjamin Veness, Dr Jan Orman and Professor Pat Dudgeon.

“We have many more speakers (local, regional, national and international) presenting at the conference and are thankful to our sponsors including BUPA, The Black Dog Institute and Centacare North Queensland for supporting this inaugural event,” Dr Margaret Carter says.

To register for the conference, or enquire about sponsorship, please visit jcu.edu.au/iamhhec.

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Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above: Kari Arbouin Associate Vice-Chancellor Townsville and North West Queensland Region

A UNIVERSITY OF THE TIMES As our world becomes smaller thanks to the whims of technology, our need for virtuality increases. This is why it’s never been more important for all tiers of education to be attainable and accessible for all sections of society.

CQUniversity Townsville 6 Finsbury Place, Townsville City 13 27 86 www.cqu.edu.au

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CQUniversity prides itself on being Australia’s most inclusive university; wanting to ensure that everyone has the option to study no matter what their personal situation. With many of their courses offered via distance education, studying with CQUniversity is possible from almost anywhere in Australia, which is great news for Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families.

CQUniversity Townsville and North West Queensland Associate Vice-Chancellor, Ms Kari Arbouin is proud of the institution’s relationship with the Defence community and their endeavours to support its members and help nurture their careers.

“We can offer Defence members and their families flexible, supported study options in courses ranging from VET certificates to bachelor degrees and postgraduate courses,” Ms Arbouin explained.

“Students can complete the courses in whichever community they end up being posted to, which is the beauty of studying with Australia’s only university that has a physical presence in every mainland state.”

CQUniversity’s two-year Bachelor of Logistics is available exclusively to ADF members, while those looking to study a Diploma of Logistics may be eligible to receive recognition for prior learning for all, or part of the course.

Ms Arbouin said both the bachelor degree and diploma are great opportunities for those working in the military to upskill and come out with Australian industry-standard knowledge.

“Our logistics courses will build their existing skills and training into a nationallyaccredited qualification, recognised in both Defence and civilian workforces,” she said.

“Both courses are offered via distance education so for personnel who end up being posted, it should be one less thing that they need to worry about when it comes to the big move.

“I encourage any of our Townsvillebased ADF distance students to pop into our campus. We would love to show you around and introduce you to some of our wonderful, friendly staff.”

Explore your CQUniversity study options today.

BE IN COMMAND OF YOUR CAREER GAIN SKILL RECOGNITION WITH A QUALIFICATION IN LOGISTICS As a member of the Australian Defence Force, take advantage of our nationally accredited Diploma and Bachelor of logistics, available to study at CQUniversity Australia. You may be eligible to receive recognition of prior learning (RPL) for all or part of the Diploma of Logistics.

For more information or to apply, contact the CQUniversity Business Development team on 07 4940 3387 or email ADF@cqu.edu.au.

ENJOY A WEALTH OF CHOICE Whether you’re thinking of changing careers or want to up skill, CQUniversity’s comprehensive range of TAFE and university qualifications – as well as seamless pathways between the two – can help you get there.

CQUniversity offers more than 300 courses across a wide range of study options. Here in Townsville you can study a number of courses including nursing, business, psychology paramedical science, education and allied health on campus, as well as a huge range of others by distance education.

Find out more at cqu.edu.au, call 13 27 86 or visit us in person at CQUniversity’s new Townsville campus at Central Village, Flinders Street West.

CRICOS Code: 00219C | RTO Code: 40939

J_AD_170101

Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

MFinance Consultant Deb Box

Above (left to right): Donna Bosgra Peter Edwards Deb Box Jess Whaites

MLAND: THE MASTER PLAN FOR DEFENCE FAMILIES One website, three master planned residential communities and a multitude of house and land solutions to suit all lifestyles and budgets…

Peter Edwards Sales Consultant 0428 882 874 Donna Bosgra Sales Consultant 0458 932 850 Deb Box Finance Consultant 0467 773 172

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MLand, Maidment Development Group’s catchy pseudonym for their one-stop online shop of all things new and exciting in Townsville property, makes the search for buying a new home, well, simple!

“Our centralised online portal – MLand. com.au – enables all prospective buyers to take control of their own property-purchasing experience, one step at a time and wherever or whenever it suits them,” MLand Sales Consultant Peter Edwards explained.

“We want your experience to be simple and stress free, especially for Defence families new to town who are either looking to settle down here or invest in the Townsville property market.”

MLand’s trio of residential developments offer block sizes ranging from 300 to 3300 square metres. Sanctum at Mount Low, the big-block residential community of Eden Park in the Northern Beaches and the recently established community of Harris Crossing at Bohle Plains, all offer easy access to Townsville’s arterial roads, major shopping centres and life’s essential services.

Sales Consultant for Sanctum and Eden Park, Donna Bosgra said MLand takes all the guess work out of buying a new home.

“Half the battle is knowing where you want to live, but for Defence families unfamiliar with the area we’re here to reassure them that the lifestyle our residential communities offer is exactly what they’re looking for,” Donna said.

“And for those wanting to upskill their property market nous, MLand gives buyers the autonomy to be able to come to us with the perfect house and land package that suits their family and financial situation.”

Which brings us to Deb Box, MLand’s Finance Consultant and Defence Entitlement Specialist, who knows all about the finer financial aspects of purchasing property for Defence members.

“I spent many years as a Defence lending specialist for one the big four banks, so I’m well-versed in the property buying process and what ADF members are entitled to,” Deb said.

“It’s extremely rewarding being able to help people in our Defence community realise their dream of owning their own home. Talk about job satisfaction!”

For more information about MLand go to www.mland.com.au

9 2 7 , 7 $34

HOUSE & LAND

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3 MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITIES LAND from 300m² - 3300m² FINANCE AVAILABLE* SEARCH...

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BELLERIVE– 242m2

FULHAM – 190m2

Lot 677 Blackthorn St, Sanctum

Lot 128 Merivale St, Eden Park

Lot 679 Blackthorn St, Sanctum

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BARKLY 202m2

Lot 109 Swanlea Circuit, Harris Crossing

Lot 135 Merivale St, Eden Park

Lot 30 Swanlea Circuit, Harris Crossing

$415,500

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* TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. + Repayment calculations are based on a minimum of a 5% deposit, which includes the QLD Government First Homeowners Grant & Defence HPAS entitlement. Defence entitlements are subject to approval.

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Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Carly Dukes Endorsed Enrolled Nurse Kaylie Adams Assistant in Nursing

Dr Jane Hay Director of Medical Services

Patrick McGurrin CEO

Above (left to right): Patrick McGurrin CEO Amanda Heaton Executive Assistant Ian Dalton Allied Health Manager Ange Koliskin Nurse Unit Manager Toni Law Private Practice Manager

Townsville Private Clinic 136 Wills Street, Townsville City 4431 1600 1800 884 767 townsville@healthecare.com.au www.townsvilleprivateclinic.com.au

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A LOCAL STATE OF MIND Since opening its doors to the community almost two years ago, Healthe Care Australia’s Townsville Private Clinic has already had a positive impact on our local health care landscape.

CEO Patrick McGurrin has overseen all aspects of the clinic’s development, including the admission of its first patient in 2015.

“Our presence has helped reduce demand on public services and we have provided local GP practices a simple pathway to escalate the care of patients who present to them with mental health issues.”

As the city’s first private inpatient acute mental health service, its benefits to Townsville’s Defence community have been significant. “Access is quick and easy for serving and ex-serving Defence members and minimises the impact on individuals who would have previously had to travel to Brisbane or Cairns for treatment,” Patrick continued.

“This means they are not separated from their family, carers and their community during treatment, which is a key component in their recovery pathway.”

The clinic has also been active in supporting local community forums and committees advising on health service delivery to both serving and ex-service personnel.

Dr Jane Hay is the clinic’s Director of Medical Services. Townsville born and raised, her extensive resume has seen her work overseas as well as remote and rural areas of North

Queensland. Since returning to Townsville in 2008, Dr Hay has worked extensively as a Consultant Psychiatrist in the public system, but now her focus is on the range of programs offered at the Townsville Private Clinic, specifically for the Defence community.

“During an inpatient admission, patients participate in a program specific to their diagnosis and attend regular consultations with their treating psychiatrist,” Dr Hay explained. “There is also personalised ongoing support throughout the recovery process with our day programs to minimise impact of the treatment on the patient and their loved ones.”

Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) approved programs include Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder Treatment, the Young at Heart Program designed for older people with depression or anxiety, and the Trauma Recovery Program for people diagnosed with PTSD. “In addition to inpatient services, the Clinic’s Day Programs and easy access to outpatient services provide valuable mental health care for the North Queensland community”, said Dr Anna Lazzari, Chair Person of the clinic’s Medical Advisory Committee.

Enrolments open now for 2017-2018

Kindergarten to Year 12 OP RESULTS: 4 OP1 | 41% OP1–5 Welcoming and Supporting ADF families Defence Transition Mentor

Located close to Lavarack Barracks Celebrating 35 Years of Success

www.acc.qld.edu.au www.facebook.com/AnnandaleChristianCollege

Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above: Kelly Ball Defence Transition Mentor

GIVE YOUR CHILD THE RIGHT START TO A BRIGHT FUTURE Starting a new school can be a minefield to navigate even for the most organised of people; paperwork, book lists, new uniforms, new teachers, new friends; and that’s just for the parents!

Calvary Christian College 569 Bayswater Road, Mount Louisa 4722 9201 enrolments@calvary.qld.edu.au www.calvary.qld.edu.au

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For children, it can be even more daunting; swimming in a sea of fresh faces as they discover a new course in their scholastic life.

As one of Townsville’s leading co-educational institutions, the staff at Calvary Christian College understand all too well the nature of our great Garrison city and the challenges faced by families affected by the unpredictable nature of the Defence Force lifestyle.

With more than 70 students from Defence families currently enrolled, College Principal Stephen Downes believes forming solid relationships with the families of his students and partnering with parents is integral to seeing children reach their full potential.

“We recognise that what goes on at home has a direct correlation with a child’s ability to engage and learn at school, and for this reason we go to great lengths to make sure children of Defence families are well supported,” Stephen explained.

“As such, we have a Defence Transition Mentor in place at the college to engage with

students of these families which may have a parent away or they’re new to town.”

Kelly Ball is Calvary’s resident Defence Transition Mentor. With a Bachelor of Teaching, a fiancé in the Army and two primary school children, Kelly certainly has the credentials and the empathy to be able to deal with the everyday hurdles of her students.

“The services we offer are primarily organised through Kelly and include weekly Defence Club gatherings, in-class support, one-on-one sessions with the students and term parties,” Stephen said.

“Also, our strong link to the Defence Community Organisation means we have our finger on the pulse when it comes to local Defence matters that affect Townsville’s ADF families.”

Other outstanding facilities at Calvary include an Early Learning Centre, Agricultural Centre, 150 seat lecture theatre, multimillion-dollar library and sports centre (currently under construction) and state of the art Industrial Technology Centre.

Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above (clockwise from top left): Boost Juice, Colour It, Tarocash, Big Al’s Local First Fruit & Vege, Jamaica Blue, Optical Superstore

RETAILERS RALLY IN ANZAC SPIRIT When CastleTown’s Marketing Manager Lorraine Marshall was charged with organising an event for Anzac Day this year, her enthusiasm cup overflow-eth!

CastleTown Cnr Woolcock Street & Kings Road Hyde Park 4772 1699 www.castletown.com.au

“Is it any wonder that we’d like to show our appreciation for both the Defence Force Members and their families so close to Anzac Day?” And without pause, planning began for this major Townsville shopping hub to host an array of family-oriented events and special offers for the community’s Defence members and their families in recognition of the impact that they have on the greater Townsville community.

“We are extraordinarily lucky to be a Garrison town and have a local group of people who are dedicated to defending this great land of ours and the people who live here,” Lorraine stated.

“That’s why we’ve decided on not just one event, but a whole week of events!

To make sure everyone can get down to CastleTown and enjoy what we’ve got on offer to commemorate not only Anzac Day, but also the people involved in the day-today operations of the Defence Force.”

Defence Force Recognition Week at CastleTown kicks off on Tuesday 18 April and runs through until Monday 24 April.

Lorraine ensures there will be plenty of fun, food, fashion and frivolity on offer, with a variety of retailers extending their gratitude by way of some great discounts on their wares and services.

“Many of our wonderful retailers are on board for Defence Force Recognition Week and all of their fabulous offers have been culminated into a booklet which will be available online from Tuesday 18 April; with hard copies distributed in the Centre throughout the week,” Lorraine explained.

“On Saturday 22 April we’ll be holding a special free morning tea for Defence personnel and their families with some great food, door prizes and entertainment.

“We really want to show our local ADF personnel how much we appreciate their presence in Townsville and everything they give up to be here.”

CastleTown Shoppingworld will be closed for Anzac Day, 25 April.

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Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above (left to right): Dr Reuben Scott Dr Sarah Willard, Felicity Norris Receptionist Colleen Flitton Receptionist

Bamford Medical 28 Bamford Lane, Thuringowa 4773 2888 reception1@bamfordmedical.com.au www.bamfordmedical.com.au

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WEALTH OF HEALTH FOR ADF FAMILIES If the groundwork of all happiness is good health then Dr Reuben Scott and the team at Bamford Medical are the cheer leaders!

After 40 years of nurturing the community’s health and wellbeing, this local medical stalwart stands out as a major supporter of Townsville’s current and former ADF service men and women.

“At Bamford Medical we believe it’s important to provide Defence families with a high level of care that can support them in meeting the challenges they face,” Dr Scott said.

“They sacrifice so much for the greater good of the community and we like to be able to help make the transition to their new home easily by organising all of their health care needs with the best health providers.”

A time-honoured Queenslander, Dr Scott graduated from medicine at James Cook University and underwent his GP training in the Townsville region, including Charters Towers and Ayr. “Raising a family while working and training has given me firsthand experience with the challenges of family life, so I can really empathise with Defence members and their families and the unique encounters

they come across,” Dr Scott explained.

“As a husband and father of three young children myself, I particularly enjoy supporting families as they grow, ensuring that parents have access to the care and information they need for them and their kids.”

The rest of the team at Bamford Medical, made up of Dr Sarah Willard, Dr Alan Nelson, Dr Shahead Chowdhury and Dr Paco Munoz, all place a strong emphasis on caring for our Defence community and their families.

“It’s our priority to make everyone feel comfortable and take the time to explain everything when caring for your child, adolescent or yourself,” Dr Scott said.

“We perform all vaccinations and child health checks and we accept the ADF Family Health Card which means we can reimburse you at the time of your consultation.”

Patients are able to book same day appointments at either Bamford Medical or at their associated Rosslea Medical Centre.

Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above (left to right): Krystal Puntil Kathy Cuming Sharyn Garrett Diane Nicol

Above Right (left to right): Renae Catalano Tracey Minehan Angelo Catalano Emma McConochie

Loloma Jewellers CastleTown 4772 6865 Stockland Townsville 4775 4974 loloma@loloma.com.au www.loloma.com.au

A GLEAMING RESPECT Much like Castle Hill, The Strand and JT, Loloma Jewellers has become an icon of the Townsville Community.

Owner Graham Jackson is not only proud to be a part of this group of civic standouts, but of their strong association with the city’s military community, which he also considers to be an icon.

“Defence members and their families are amongst our best clients and many have become good friends of our Loloma team over the years,” Graham said.

“We always happily service their jewellery, no matter where it was purchased, and help them tend to the special events in their life even when they’re posted away. We’ve helped so many of them celebrate special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays of their loved ones from halfway around the world!”

Graham recalls countless interactions with people in the military over the past 40 years coming to his stores dotted around the Townsville shopping landscape, and helping many through the process of choosing their engagement and wedding rings.

“Our Design Manager Angelo helps bring smiles to the faces of many Defence

members with his jewellery designs, which he tailors specially to suit their needs and wants,” Graham said.

“Also, our highly-skilled watchmaker Greg is always on hand, able to fix any make or model of watch you bring in for servicing.”

Again in 2017, Loloma Jewellers is offering a 10 percent discount store wide for purchases, as well as for watch and jewellery repairs to all ADF members and their families.

With a large selection of watches and jewellery as well as an exclusive line of Hearts on Fire diamonds in store, it’s no wonder Loloma is Townsville’s most popular destination for all things that shimmer!

Loloma Jewellers has stores in both Castletown and Stockland.

Visit their website for opening times.

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Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above (left to right): Rachel Forster Sales Professional Matthew Mandl Sales Professional Rachel Cook Neighbourhood Liaison Officer

The Village Sales and Information Office 12 Riveredge Boulevard, Oonoonba 1300 650 689 info@thevillagetownsville.com.au www.facebook.com/TheVillageTownsville www.thevillagetownsville.com.au

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IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO CREATE A LIFESTYLE Just six minutes’ drive to Lavarack Barracks and 11 minutes to the Townsville’s RAAF base, it’s hard to find a more ideal place to call home for Australia’s largest Defence population, than The Village.

This 83-hectare river front site in Oonoonba is already home to many local Defence members and their families. General Manager Greg Chemello said the ‘villagers’ have already created a beautiful and homely environment for anyone else looking to invest.

“We are still growing The Village community and our regular contact with residents helps us keep a strong perspective on how well we are meeting their needs, to ensure it’s the perfect place to live,” he said.

“Eventually it will be home to about 3,000 residents with a diverse mix of executive-style terrace dwellings through to impressive waterfront homes, with land sizes currently ranging from 150 square metres up to 608 square metres.”

Designed with community in mind, The Village has a dedicated Community Liaison Officer onsite who is charged with bringing the villagers together regularly for fun, family events in the neighbourhood.

Close to the CBD and a stone’s throw from local shopping centres, schools and sporting fields, Greg said it’s the ultimate location for busy, working Defence families who want an affordable, well-connected community to come home to.

“With its own childcare centre due to open later this year, The Village is specifically designed for active lifestyles and busy families; but also for young singles, who make up a large portion of the Defence Force here in Townsville,” he explained. “It offers a low maintenance ‘lock and leave’ option, with home designs suited to transient lifestyles and on smaller lots so you don’t have to come home to an overgrown lawn!

“Also part of a local Neighbourhood Watch group, The Village is committed to maintaining a safe community for those who want peace of mind that their home and belongings will be safe while they’re away.”

DEFENCE MEMBERS SPECIAL Take advantage of the current ‘Refer a Friend’ offer! If you already know someone living in The Village, have them refer you and if you decide to make The Village your new home, you’ll both receive $500* to spend! *Terms and conditions apply. For more information visit www.thevillagetownsville.com.au

Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above: Christopher Di Giacomo Home Loan Specialist, Mobile Banking National Australia Bank Limited

Chris Di Giacomo 0472 871 855 Christopher.A.Di.Giacomo@nab.com.au www.nab.com.au

NAB; FLEXIBLE BANKING ON YOUR TERMS Chris Di Giacomo knows better than anyone the challenges our local military personnel face and how much of a struggle it can be for them to fit everyday tasks like banking into their unpredictable schedules.

After nine rewarding years at NAB, Chris has never been more fulfilled in his role than now, as front man for Townsville’s mobile banking service and resident Defence lending specialist.

“NAB’s strong ties with Townsville’s Defence community is all about trying to give back as much to our serving members and their families as we can,” explained Chris.

“As a local North Queenslander myself (born and bred in Ingham), I have strong ties to this Garrison community as well as an avid personal interest in the property market.

“So it’s been such a coup for me to be able to help so many of our Defence customers turn their dreams of home ownership into reality. It’s a great feeling!”

A bit like the online dating game, finding a bank that suits your needs can be taxing at the very least.

But if you’ve often found yourself wishing your bank would just come to you, you need look no further.

“As part of the flexible nature of the Mobile Banker role, I will come to you wherever and whenever it suits,” Chris said.

“With the support of a large retail platform

of our five local branches, we uphold our commitment to NAB customers to meet their own personal needs.

“If this means coming to your home, office or local cafe, we will do whatever is most comfortable for our clients; Defence members or not.”

Working closely with organisations like Mates4Mates, Townsville’s NAB network has formed alliances with a circle of trusted advisers who also support the same cause; backing events such as Family Welcome Days, sponsoring Townsville to Cairns bike rides, Christmas Treat Appeal and Defence expos.

So, whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, investing in property, building or renovating, Chris Di Giacomo is the mobile Defence lending expert who you’ll want to discuss your home loan needs with, when and where it suits you.

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Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above (left to right): Jane Keast Social Worker Glen Davey Psychologist/Director

A HEALING REVOLUTION

Above right (left to right): Carly Walsh Neuro Assistant Shae Davey Practice Manager Glen Davey Psychologist/Director Jane Keast Social Worker)

If their name is anything to be guided by, you’ll know that the team at Innovation Psychology will be thinking far from the confines of the proverbial square when it comes to your treatment.

Innovation Psychology 15 Warburton Street, North Ward 4724 4887 info@innovationpsychology.com.au www.innovationpsychology.com.au

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“We are first to acknowledge that all individuals are unique and respond to various therapies differently; so what works extremely well for some clients may not be as effective for others.”

Qualified psychologist Glen Davey and colleague Jane Keast, a mental health social worker, both specialise in the treatment of PTSD and trauma-related conditions, amongst other mental health conditions. They also have a passion for treating Townsville’s military members and their families.

“The effects of PTSD are far reaching in the community, not only for the individual but for their family and friends as well,” Glen explained. “We need to support these brave people in their time of need, so for us it is a small way of saying thank you for your service and sacrifice.”

There is more than 50 years of combined experience in Glen’s small but dedicated team in treating people with trauma-related conditions such as PTSD. With International Accreditation for their Neurotherapy services and continued training in the field, they have more than just passion for the mental wellbeing of our local Defence community.

“We know that one therapy does not fit all so we use a variety of therapeutic approaches in our treatment,” Glen said.

“The brain therapy approaches we use allow us to make better clinical decisions for treatment and hence shorten treatment time.

This is at the cutting edge of therapy and we are seeing very promising results.”

Also a consultant to the Mater Hospital PTSD Unit treating ex-military or emergency services sufferers, Glen’s devotion to the cause is the foundation for the caring and supportive environment his practice provides for patients and families.

“This is a real-life struggle of some veterans and their families,” he stated.

“One partner of a ADF client made an indelible memory on me when she tearfully asked whilst holding her young child if she could have her husband back as he had not been the same for a long time.”

Appointments can be made by contacting their reception staff by email or telephone.

Townsville Businesses Supporting Our Defence Families

Above (left to right): Roman Sales Assistant/Warehouse Cayla Store Manager – Domain Centre Store Michael Sales Assistant Kalven Store Manager – Charters Towers Road Store Sue Sales Assistant

HOME IS WHERE THE HANDMADE FURNITURE IS Home… it’s not always a tangible entity for our serving members as they post around the country from place to place. But no matter how many houses they live in, there is one constant that travels with them wherever they go…

Eureka Street Furniture Townsville 73 Charters Towers Road Hermit Park 4721 4833 Eureka Street Furniture Townsville Domain Centre 103 Duckworth Street Garbutt 0410 538 995 www.eurekastreetfurniture.com.au

Furniture to some may be something to sit on, an object to eat dinner at or a surface to put your new smart TV on, but to the Brisblats of Eureka Street Furniture, it’s a lifestyle choice that everyone should be able to take delight in.

“Finding the right quality furnishings can make a house a home; whether it be the comfort of a soft sofa, the rustic charm of a recycled timber cabinet or an outdoor piece that allows you to enjoy our great Queensland weather,” Daniel Brisblat, Chief Operations Officer of the family-owned company said.

“We understand how much of a challenge it can be for people who move around a lot, like people in Defence, to find the right furniture for their homes.

It’s important for us to know that they’re getting the best service in any of our Eureka showrooms and if they can’t physically get to one of our locations, they can shop from wherever they are using our online store.”

Eureka Street Furniture is a proud family business which began humbly in a small Brisbane store three decades ago.

Since becoming one of Queensland’s most established furniture stores with showrooms throughout the state, Daniel said they’ve been showing their appreciation to their military customers by way of a 30% discount, available to all current and ex-service members who can show their ID. “We’ve also just launched a special offer of 40% off the recommended retail price for the month of April to all Defence members and their families,” Daniel said.

“We understand and appreciate the sacrifice our military families make to keep us safe and we want to make sure they have access to our extensive range to help make wherever they live feel like a real home.”

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DUOCommunity

ARMY JOINS FORCES WITH COMMUNITY From offering support to local charities to hosting expos, forums and sporting events, the Army’s 3rd Brigade in Townsville has been busy engaging with the local community.

THE first part of the year has been a busy and exciting time for the Army’s 3rd Brigade in Townsville. The units are active making sure their procedures, troops and equipment are ready but while the tempo is ramping up, the Army continues to remain strongly engaged with the local community.

In January Commander of 3rd Brigade, Brigadier Chris Field, welcomed new Defence families with the assurance that Townsville is a welcoming city, with the city’s community, sporting, educational and business associations keen to make Defence families feel at home.

Newcomers were able to experience this for themselves at the Defence Community

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Organisation Welcome and Information Expo at the Townsville Stadium held in February.

A key event in early March was the Indigenous Elders and Community Breakfast hosted by Defence Force Recruiting, Townsville. The event was an opportunity for ADF personnel to meet the much-respected community Elders and Indigenous Recruiting Team (SRT-I) from the Townsville region.

The breakfast served as a forum to exchange views and build relationships with the aim of helping young Indigenous people with career opportunities.

Respect, inclusiveness and equal opportunity are central to Army values, so it

was fitting that the Lavarack Barracks Geckos Family Centre was the venue for a morning tea marking International Women’s Day on March 8. Head Coach of the JCU Townsville Fire, Claudia Brassard, gave the keynote address emphasising the value of stepping up to meet career and life challenges.

Community relationships were also enhanced with the first quarterly Townsville Defence Community Forum held at the Townsville City Council Chambers in March.

The tangible benefits of the forum are reflected with improvements in areas like health, employment, education and coordination for Defence personnel in partnership with community, government, ex-services, sporting, educational and business associations.

Each unit at Lavarack has a particular charity or cause they support. For example, the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment helps eradicate family violence through support to the White Ribbon Organisation. It’s a cause that Brigadier Field is also passionate about.

“Domestic and family violence has no place in our Defence family and does not align with Army’s values of courage, initiative, respect and teamwork. Together we can end domestic and family violence,” Brigadier Field says. “We have a 3rd Brigade Domestic Violence framework in place to support those efforts and it’s an area we’ll continue to progress in partnership with the North Queensland Community.”

A local organisation soldiers also help with is Food Relief NQ. With volunteer assistance from soldiers and the community, Food Relief NQ prepares special Christmas hampers for families doing it tough.

DUOCommunity

Legacy has a special place at the forefront of 3rd Brigade charitable efforts with their support to the many widows and families of deceased service people in North Queensland.

Last year $60,000 was raised from the very successful Lavarack Barracks Open Day and King and Queen of Mount Stuart endurance run. Much of the fundraising was made possible by local businesses that provided support, with the biggest contribution coming from the Queensland RSL. This event continues in 2017 on Saturday September 2 at the western end of Lavarack Barracks.

The sacrifice that families and children of current serving members make while mum or dad is away is also recognised as Brigadier Field observes; “We acknowledge how tough absences from home can be for families. This is why our unit support teams, the Defence Community Organisation and the Townsville community work hard to ensure availability of high-quality family level support,” he says.

“I encourage all of our people to make use of the excellent services available through the Defence Community Organisation and our own Geckos Family Centre. Geckos offer a wide variety of support services from a Justice of the Peace drop-in service to partner gym sessions with babysitting.”

Sport plays a key part in growing community relationships. Australian Army Indigenous Rugby League Team, Murungal, annually compete in a Townsville-based Rugby League Carnival. Murungal presents an example enabling young people to reach their personal potential. 3rd Brigade’s relationship with the North Queensland Indigenous community is further enhanced with the annual Bill ‘Kookaburra’ Coolburra Shield rugby league match, named after legendary Vietnam War tunnel rat and Palm Island community leader Bill Coolburra. This year the Palm Island Skipjacks will travel to the mainland and play the 3rd Brigade as a curtain-raiser for the NRL ANZAC round on April 22, before the North Queensland Cowboys take on the Newcastle Knights.

Sport also ties in to commemorative events like Remembrance Day with a tribute to the fallen on the morning of November 11, followed by charitable Rugby matches for a worthy cause in the evening. Last year it was the Hounds for Hounds for Healing charity that benefited. In addition, 3rd Brigade’s annual sports competition with James Cook University (covering many codes) continues to build community bridges beyond the ‘game’.

One-off events supported over the past 12 months have included the Townsville 150 Commemorations and Lavarack Barracks 50th

Anniversary. The Freedom of Entry is another traditional example of military and community relations. The ceremony of Freedom of Entry is one of the oldest military traditions. It dates back to medieval times when armed bodies of soldiers were challenged before being permitted to enter a city. Today the Freedom is a ceremonial event and is the highest honour a city can extend to a unit of the Armed Forces as a symbol of mutual respect, trust and confidence. The 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, was originally granted the Freedom of the City of Townsville in 1971 as a result of the close association between the citizens of Townsville and members of the Battalion. And in 2016 they exercised that ‘Freedom’ for the first time in many years.

An event that is growing in stature is Queensland’s official Australia Day Flag Raising Ceremony held at Jezzine Barracks.

The ceremony features the raising of the Australian, Governor’s, Queensland, Townsville, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. Brigadier Field calls it an impressive and inclusive ceremony highlighting

the Army’s shared value of respect with our community.

Front and centre was a Royal Guard of Honour provided by the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment parading the unit’s Queen’s and Regimental Colours. They were ably supported by the 1st Battalion Band and Flag Orderlies from the three services, including personnel from HMAS Cairns and RAAF Townsville. His Excellency the Honorable Paul de Jersey, AC, Governor of Queensland, inspected the troops followed by a Royal Australian Air Force fly-past and a traditional 21-gun salute provided by the 105mm ceremonial guns of the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery. The rumble and drifting smoke from the high ground reminded all that Townsville is indeed imbued with a proud military heritage – one that continues in 2017.

The pinnacle of remembrance occasions remains ANZAC Day, where community and those in uniform step up together to honour the fallen – this is the ultimate community engagement.

DUOProfile

WHO ARE THE RESERVISTS? Reservists are men and women who want to do something exciting, challenging and rewarding on the occasional weekend, weekly evenings, or days off work and give something back to the broader community EACH week groups of young men and women gather at the various Army depots in North and Central Queensland to attend training parades or exercises. They are citizen soldiers who form part of today’s Army Reserve.

They come from all walks of life, trades and professions, but share in a common bond of comradeship and spirit of service. They proudly serve in the 31st/42nd Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment, known as 31/42 RQR. 31/42 RQR has existed in one form or another for over a century. Various reorganisations throughout its long history have given it a number of varied titles, but its link with North Queensland and Townsville has remained constant since 1886. In that year, various independent volunteer military companies were gazetted as members of the Queensland Defence Force and formed into the Third Queensland, or Kennedy Regiment. Last year, 31/42 RQR, as the modern incarnation of the Kennedy Regiment, celebrated its 130th Birthday.

In the years to follow its formation the Kennedy Regiment lived up to its motto ‘Semper Paratus Defendere’ (Always Ready to Defend). Many of its members were to serve in the Boer War to earn the unit’s first battle honour – ‘South Africa 1901’.

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Northerners can take pride in the fact that the Kennedy Regiment was the first Australian infantry unit mobilised for service at the outbreak of World War One, when it was dispatched to Thursday Island to protect Australia’s northern defences.

The Kennedy Regiment provided the bulk of the soldiers formed into the 31st Battalion, Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) which gained many battle honours during World War One, in places such as the Somme, Ypres and Polygon Wood. In September 1917, Private Patrick Bugden of the 31st won a Victoria Cross in the terrible advance on Polygon Wood.

In World War Two, the 2/31st Battalion was formed as part of the Second AIF. It saw service in the sands of North Africa, the rock strewn hills of Syria and the jungles of New Guinea and Borneo and was awarded many battle honours. On 10 July 1941, during an attack on ‘Greenhill’ north of Jezzine, Private James Gordon won the Victoria Cross. The current-day 31/42 RQR training facility and Soldiers’ Club proudly bears the name of ‘Jimmy Gordon’.

While the 2/31st was formed overseas, the 31st Militia Battalion was training in Australia focusing on the Defence of Townsville and its

surrounds. In 1942, as the war in the Pacific progressed, Townsville transformed into a highly fortified garrison city packed with American and Australian servicemen. During the period 1943 – 45, the 31st was linked with the 51st Battalion and saw action in New Guinea and Bougainville. The 31/51st was awarded four battle honours in its short history including one for the Battle of Porton Plantation where it suffered many casualties.

After World War Two, the 31st was reformed as part of the Citizen Military Forces with its headquarters in Townsville.

The Battalion has been through many reorganisations and undertaken various roles since World War Two but has always maintained its presence in the Townsville region. In 2008, it was amalgamated with the 42nd Battalion (Capricornia Regiment) based in Central Queensland thus leading to its current organisation of 31/42 RQR. 31/42 RQR has Depots in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton and Gladstone and is part of the Queensland Army Reserve Brigade – the 11th Brigade. Its current role is to reinforce the 3rd Brigade which is the regular Army Brigade based in Townsville. Due to need to be interoperable with Regular Army units, 31/42 RQR soldiers often train with 3 Brigade soldiers and are issued the same equipment. The modern day Army Reserve is well resourced, equipped and trained to undertake its role of reinforcing the Regular Army. Many Reservists volunteer for operational deployments, demonstrating the same spirit that soldiers of the battalion have had since 1886.

31/42 RQR and the 11th Brigade are currently on a recruiting campaign and have a number of different roles available. Service in the Army Reserve allows you to stay in your local area and still experience the benefits of being in the Army.

It is a fulfilling part-time job that offers tax free pay and great training opportunities.

If you are interested in joining the Army Reserve, you can contact Defence Force Recruiting on 131901 or via their website at Defencejobs.gov.au/Army Reserve.

You can also visit the 11th Brigade Recruiting Centre at the Western entrance of Lavarack Barracks, University Drive, Townsville on any Tuesday night from 6 pm.

Words Lieutenant Colonel Keith Potter Commanding Officer 31st/42nd Battalion Royal Queensland Regiment

DUOProfile

PRIVATE ALEX FORD A CAREER AS A REGISTERED NURSE AND SERVICE IN THE ARMY RESERVE KEEPS ALEX FORD WELL AND TRULY ON THE MOVE. Alex, who completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree at Central Queensland University, serves as a Rifleman in Bravo Company of the 31st/42nd Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment, based at Lavarack Barracks.

He was raised and schooled in Mackay and Rockhampton, and joined the Army Reserve when he was 17 years old.

“I joined while I was still in high school, and finished basic training before I’d even graduated from Year 12,” Alex said. “I wanted to learn new skills and have an adventure. I also just wanted to do my bit for my country.”

He said Reserve service had given him skills he’d always wanted to acquire, including the ability to survive in harsh environments and to be ‘the best I can be.’

“The Reserve has helped me in doing all these things.

It’s also made me more appreciative of the things in life that I used to take for granted.”

Alex said he would definitely recommend an Army Reserve career to those considering part-time service in the Australian Defence Force. “It offers the best of both worlds – experiences you would not have in any other part-time job. The Reserve also provides you with the flexibility to have your own life.

“Like anything, you get back what you put in. If you join the Reserve, the more time you can dedicate to it, the more rewards you’ll get from it.

“I’ve had the privilege of being an Army Reservist for ten years and I look forward to ten more.”

“I WANTED TO LEARN NEW SKILLS AND HAVE AN ADVENTURE. I ALSO JUST WANTED TO DO MY BIT FOR MY COUNTRY.” PRIVATE ALEX FORD DUOMagazine April 2017

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CORPORAL CATHREN HAWKER SERVICE IN THE REGULAR ARMY AS PART OF THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE GAP YEAR PROGRAM LED TO CATHREN HAWKER CONTINUING HER MILITARY CAREER PART-TIME AFTER HER FULL-TIME COMMITMENT HAD ENDED. Cathren, a Registered Nurse with Queensland Health, is a soldier in the Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps (RAAOC) and serves as a logistics specialist with the 31st/42 Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment, at Lavarack Barracks.

She transferred to the Army Reserve after completing her Gap Year following high school in South Australia. “I transferred to the Reserves while I studied and have since paraded at many different units around Australia. I was initially drawn to the Reserves because of the tax-exempt income, but have since stayed nine years later for many other reasons,” Cathren said.

A state-level award (South Australian Regional RAAOC Soldier of the Year) and a two-week attachment to the New Zealand Army have been career highlights, as have been the friendships made. “I was able to work, live and train alongside the equivalent rank and trade in the New Zealand Army as well as fitting in some serious sightseeing,” she said.

The flexibility offered by the Army Reserve and the support of her employer drew strong praise from Cathren. “Initially I worked Reserves around my university studies. I’d work weekends and Tuesday nights, plus some extras as needed. I’d also attend exercises and courses during the holidays.

“After I graduated and started working as a nurse, I reduced my commitment to Tuesday nights, but made use of the Defence leave that my employer offers in order to attend courses.”

Cathren recently returned to the workforce after a year’s maternity leave, and was able to arrange flexible work arrangements with the Reserve, working a different schedule while fulfilling her training commitment. She will also access her employer’s Defence leave to attend a major training exercise later this year.

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DUOProfile

SERGEANT GRANT LOWIEN AS A SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER IN THE ARMY RESERVE, GRANT LOWIEN IS A LEADER – A PLATOON SERGEANT IN THE 31ST/42ND BATTALION, ROYAL QUEENSLAND REGIMENT AT LAVARACK BARRACKS. The former Regular Army soldier previously served in the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, (2 RAR), deploying to the Solomon Islands and twice to East Timor.

“I joined the Army because I’d always had an interest in the military. My father served in the military and was also a Reservist,” Grant said.

He said transferring to the Reserve gave full-time soldiers the chance to still feel part of the team. “It’s the best thing for those leaving full-time service,” he said. “You meet great people, and get to network with them. Those serving in the Army Reserve environment have so many different roles.

“Friends you make here are friends for life.”

Grant, a Custodial Correctional Officer, said working full-time and serving in the Reserve was a challenge at times, but this was overcome by planning and good communication with his employer.

“You get really good at time management – it’s about balance. If you focus and have the drive to do it, you’ll find a way.”

He listed the benefits of Reserve service as great training, mateship and teamwork, the development of leadership skills, physical and mental fitness, self-discipline, flexible work arrangements and challenging activities that “pushed the boundaries, both personally and within the team.”

PRIVATE TROY OGILVIE MATESHIP, LEARNING NEW SKILLS AND THE CHANCE TO IMPROVE HIS PHYSICAL FITNESS INSPIRED TOWNSVILLE’S TROY OGILVIE TO JOIN THE ARMY RESERVE AS A RIFLEMAN IN THE 31ST/42ND BATTALION, ROYAL QUEENSLAND REGIMENT. Troy, a former Regular Army soldier who was raised and schooled in Townsville, is employed at the Port of Townsville. He says Army Reserve service fits in well with his work and family commitments.

He said the decision to join was influenced by some mates who were in the Army Reserve. “They were having a good time, learning, improving their skills and physical fitness and we can all do with a little of that,” Troy said. “I’ve only been in the Reserves a short time, although in this time I’ve completed a two week course in Perth and some other small courses up and down the east coast.”

He said the Army Reserve had also helped bring his soldier-skills back up to speed after the break in his military career.

When asked what Reserve service had given him, Troy summed it up as “good times.”

“Smiles, laughs, improved bush skills, physical fitness – all those, plus it’s inspired me to try and improve myself.

“I’d definitely recommend the Army Reserve to anyone considering part-time service in the ADF.”

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DUOBusiness | News

CHARITY RAISES $80K FOR DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS Hand Heart Pocket, the charity of Freemasons Queensland, announced at Hermit Park State School a donation of $80,000 to the Joyful Foundation. The donation will allow the Joyful Foundation to support North Queensland’s disadvantaged primary school students to reach their full potential by providing them with basic essentials like stationery packs, uniforms and the cost of extracurricular activities and excursions for those who might normally go without.

MERCEDES-BENZ TOWNSVILLE WINS RURAL DEALER OF THE YEAR It was a trifecta win for Mercedes-Benz Townsville at the Dealer of the Year awards held in Sydney recently. The dealership took out awards for 2016 Mercedes-Benz Rural Dealer of the Year, Rural Sales Manager of the Year (Peter McCann) and Rural Marketing Star (Georgina Pendle). Dealer Principal Glen Sharp says the dealership award would not have been possible without the dedicated effort of the staff in all areas of the business and the fantastic support of customers.

“The awards are such an honour for the staff and recognition of their efforts,” said Glen.

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TOWNSVILLE TO HOST JUNIOR STATE TOUCH FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS Townsville has been announced as the host venue for the 2017 Junior State Touch Football Championships.

The annual three-day carnival brings together more than 500 junior players from across the state. It’s estimated event attendees will inject $500,000 into the Townsville North Queensland economy.

MIKE CARNEY TOYOTA SECURES NAMING RIGHTS FOR TOWNSVILLE MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL Mike Carney Toyota has come on board as the the naming rights sponsor for the inaugural Townsville Mountain Bike Festival, which runs 29 April till 5 May and incorporates the 2017 Australian MTB Cross Country Marathon Championships. Chris Carney says Mike Carney Toyota is proud to partner with Mountain Bike Australia Limited (MTBA) to bring this exciting new event to Townsville.

“This event will give us the opportunity to show the wider community the fun and benefits of mountain biking as a recreational and healthy lifestyle activity and also gives Townsville the chance to show the nation that it’s a must-visit destination,” he says.

DUOBusiness

Business Administration Consultant

Trent Yesberg Regional Business Services

In Sickness And In Health Are you running a business or is your business running you.

WE had quite a scare late last month. The Boss (aka Dad) came down with a very serious infection is his leg. After many trips to visit Doctors, Specialists, Hospital and X-Rays, it seems he is on the mend but it has not been an enjoyable experience, as you could imagine. He has been out of action, as much as a business owner allows themselves – which means not for long.

No one ever plans on an accident, hence it’s name. When an emergency presents itself, you soon appreciate where your priorities lie.

Normally work is not at the top of the list, well except for those really really strange people. Chances are your health or the health of the impacted is the priority and rightly so.

But what happens when you’re in business and you and your family rely on the income and you are out of action? As Benjamin Franklin famously touted: By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

Fortunately for us, we have prepared our business to continuously operate smoothly whilst The Boss is away. We have had a lot of practice as it seems he is away on holidays more than he is in the office (Sorry Dad, I couldn’t resist!). Time has been spent on our processes, ensuring uniformity and clarity when our staff are completing work. Time has been spent systematising our office, so we have a detailed set of policies and procedures for all of our functions.

What this helps us to do is cope in scenarios such as sickness and unexpected events, but also it enables us to continuously bring on new work with ease.

Three questions that every business owner needs to ask themselves; 1. Can someone else truly takeover this business (i.e. sell your business) the way it is run now?

2. Who would know where to start if tomorrow I couldn’t make it into work?

3. Am I really running a business or does my business run me?

It’s pretty confronting to think about, isn’t it? It’s a serious matter and because it’s confronting, it means you absolutely need to prioritise your focus on refining your business systems.

Here are my starting suggestions to setting up your business systems: • Create a list of all of the programs you use, including the user name and passwords to access each program.

• Detail your customer sales cycle, right from the beginning. Jot down every step that goes into a transaction. From the initial request, through the various staff touch points, closing the sale, completing the process and collecting payment.

• Detail your administration process. List all the steps in each of the following processes: receipting payments, paying bills, recording GST, paying BAS, preparing payroll.

• Collate this information into a simple, chronologically organised document.

Congratulations, you have now developed a simple emergency manual that will allow your business to function in your absence.

The next step is to refine and develop this document over time and turn it into your Standard Operating Procedures manual.

This is the backbone to a competent and scaleable business.

Another way of considering scaleable is saleable. I don’t mean you have to have a plan to sell your business (although an exit strategy is an extremely important future consideration).

It just means that ‘you’ are not the centre of the business – you are interchangeable without impacting the business.

REGIONAL BU S INES S S E R V I C E S

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DUOMagazine | Profile

Not Your Average Accountant Elected the first State President of CPA Australia outside of Brisbane, Townsville’s own Gerard Byrne has found a rewarding career as a Certified Practising Accountant.

DUOMagazine | Profile

Words Kylie Davis Photography Matthew Gianoulis

AFTER being elected State President of CPA Australia at the end of last year, Gerard Byrne’s first official function this year was a visit to CPA Australia’s China Head Office.

“CPA Australia has six offices in China and has had a presence in China for over 60 years,” says Gerard, who as well as being State President is a member of CPA Australia’s Global President’s Group.

Gerard’s visit to China early this year is significant to Townsville regarding our Sister City arrangements in China.

There are 500 CPA members in North Queensland, 16,000 members in Queensland, and globally 155,000 members in 122 countries. Gerard will be visiting all nine Queensland branches as well as attending state meetings.

“My priorities as President for North Queensland (and Queensland) are small business, employment and investment,” Gerard says.

Having completed his Commerce Degree at James Cook University, Gerard maintains strong links to the university.

“I soon realised that having a Bachelor of Commerce Degree was just a beginning, and if I really wanted to expand my horizons, I needed to do the post graduate Certified Practising Accountant Program,” Gerard says.

“MY PRIORITIES AS PRESIDENT FOR NORTH QUEENSLAND (AND QUEENSLAND) ARE SMALL BUSINESS, EMPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT.” Gerard funded his studies with a host of part-time jobs including being a postman, Coles shop assistant, hospital orderly and contract cleaner.

This experience had a profound impact on his subsequent career choices and community involvement.

After completing the three-year postgraduate program, Gerard accepted a position with the Australian Audit Office in Canberra. Promotion came quickly with a move to Darwin where he worked on major reviews of the Darwin Hospital, Northern Territory Police Service, and Jabiru Town Development Authority.

Further opportunities arose for Gerard, and he moved back to Canberra, and then to Melbourne with the Australian Government, working on project management of major computer and office automation roll-outs.

With his career now well-established, Gerard looked to become more involved in community and volunteer work.

He volunteered at community centres and trained as a Lifeline telephone counsellor in Melbourne. Looking for something different, he applied to join the Royal Australian Naval Reserve and went on to serve as a Navy Intelligence Officer in Australia and overseas.

In 2000, Gerard returned to Townsville with the Department of Primary Industries working on community capacity building in rural and remote communities, bringing together his business background as a CPA, and his broader experience working with community and volunteer organisations.

In recent years, he has devoted more of his time to the community sector, serving as Operations Manager, UnitingCare Community, Regional Services Manager, Australian Red Cross and more. Receiving a Premier’s Award for his work on Cyclone Larry Recovery in North Queensland was a highlight.

“Looking back on my career, the important factors in my endeavours have been the relationships I have built up over the years and my willingness to seek out new opportunities and never stop learning,” Gerard says.

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DUOBusiness | Observation

Founding Chairman

Warwick Powell Sister City Partners

Routine Roster Is Out Regional prosperity in the 21st century will look nothing like the drivers of wealth of the past. Long-run patterns of changes in the structure of our national and regional workforces are accelerating, courtesy of the rapid developments in automationenabling technologies.

THE GREAT TRANSITION There’s a bit of chatter about the region’s economy being “in transition”. Most of this usually revolves around the idea that it is transitioning from one that is dependant on natural resources to one that isn’t.

Unfortunately, this is probably not a very useful way of understanding the dynamics at work.

For starters, as I discussed in last month’s column, mining’s contribution to the Townsville economy is actually pretty small in comparison to other sectors. At its peak (around 2012/13) mining employment was in the order of 5,000. That it has come back to levels more typical of the pre-commodities

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boom period doesn’t actually point to a transition from ‘mining’ to something else.

There are also deeper, longer patterns at work, which can be understood by reframing how we think about work. To do this, I’ve taken the lead of researchers at the Reserve Bank of Australia, who’ve recently dissected employment on the basis of skill types.

Four main categories are introduced. These are: 1.Routine manual work includes the ABS occupation groups of ‘machinery operators and drivers’, ‘labourers’, and ‘technicians and trades workers’; 2. routine cognitive work covers ‘clerical and administrative workers’ and sales workers’; 3. non-routine cognitive covers ‘managers’ and ‘professionals’; and 4. non-routine manual covers ‘community and personal service workers’.

Across the country, over the past 30 years, we have been witness to a progressive but inexorable decline in ‘routine’ employment, whether these are ‘routine manual’ jobs – which have declined from over 40% of the workforce to 30% in that time – or ‘routine cognitive’ roles. Routine cognitive roles have declined from around 26% to 23.5%.

On the flipside, ‘non-routine cognitive’ roles have increased their share of employment from around 27% to 36% or so, and ‘non-routine manual’ roles from 6% to 11% or thereabouts.

A TRADIES’ BUBBLE Townsville data (from 1999, as opposed to the national data which starts in 1986) suggests that we’ve bucked the national trend, and experienced something of a ‘tradies’ bubble’ between 2003 and 2014.

In 1999, 38% of Townsville’s workforce was found in ‘routine manual’ roles. This peaked at 43% in 2007 and fluctuated since

then to present levels of … 37%. In raw number terms, the tradies’ bubble is even more apparent. In 1999, 32,500 workers filled routine manual roles. After slumping to <25,000 in mid-2002, the number of routine manual roles skyrocketed to a peak of 47,300 in 2010.

This more or less marked the heights of the Rudd Government’s post-GFC fiscal largesse.

A modest decline to 41,000 then took place to mid-2012 before the China Boom kicked in to spike routine manual employment back to 47,200 in late 2012/early 2013. It has fallen now precipitously to 35,400 (September 2016).

This explosion in routine manual employment tells the story of Townsville’s recent decade of prosperity. It also speaks to the underlying structural reasons for its rapid collapse since late 2012 (and indeed, a little before then).

An economy that experienced prosperity on the back of an historically unprecedented credit boom (2003-2008), followed by unprecedented levels of domestic pump priming (2008-2010) coupled with being carried on the cushion of China’s own $600 billion stimulus and America’s quantitative easing that injected billions into the global capital markets, finally reaching a crescendo on the back of China’s unprecedented demand for coal and iron ore, was bound to come crashing back to earth.

And that’s exactly what’s been happening.

The tradies’ bubble saw Townsville’s employment structure diverge from the national patterns for more than a decade. This was never sustainable. In statistical terms, a reversion to the mean was always inevitable.

In some respects, the nature of the roaring noughties in Townsville masked the underlying changes taking place. It was easy to become complacent.

DUOBusiness | Observation

DIGITAL DISPLACEMENT The conditions of pre-2014 prosperity are unlikely, therefore, to be readily replicated.

The conditions of cheap credit are slowly disappearing. Long-term US bond yields are rising, which will place upward pressures on interest rates. Household indebtedness in Australia continues to rise, and there’s every likelihood that in places like Townsville, a large number of households are invidiously sitting on ‘negative equity’ where borrowings are worth more than the value of the underlying asset.

I doubt that we’ll be seeing a credit boom in Townsville any time soon.

On the skills composition of work front, the structural dynamics would suggest that we’ve yet to bottom out. These dynamics are underpinned by the supersonic developments in digital technologies that enable automation to further erode ‘routine manual’ employment and algorithms to displace heretofore safe ‘routine cognitive’ administration, compliance and general office work in the private and public sectors.

AUTOMATED ADANI In the hopes of recreating the conditions of China Boom Mark 2, but this time off the back of India’s thirst for energy, much hope is placed in the employment prospects of Adani’s proposed Carmichael Coal mine in the Galilee Basin. Claims of 10,000 jobs being created have been countered by references to the 1,450 or so jobs estimated

by Adani’s own economic expert in evidence provided, under oath, in a court hearing.

Whatever the actual numbers, we can be more certain of the likelihood that the mine and associated logistics activities will be automated wherever possible, and as quickly as possible. Local Adani CEO Jeyakumar Janakaraj was reported in The Chronicle (15 June 2015) as saying: “We will be utilizing at least 45, 400-tonne driverless trucks… All the vehicles will be capable of automation. When we ramp up the mine, everything will be autonomous from mine to port. In our eyes, this is the mine of the future”.

This focus on automation is hardly surprising. To make the mine viable, it needs to get cash costs down, way down, to mitigate a likely long-run decline in seaborne coal prices. Removing labour from the production process is the most obvious route. Additionally, as if profit motive wasn’t enough, indeed that’s exactly what Cisco – a global leader in automation – asserts in its latest advertising.

Set against a photograph of a dump truck leaving a mine explosion in the background,

we have the words: “There’s never been a better time to automate the world’s most dangerous jobs”.

Says it all, really.

COUNCIL IN THE CLOUD White collar and pink collar (service sector) jobs aren’t immune either.

In Townsville, ‘routine cognitive’ employment occupied around 23% of the workforce in 1999. Over the intervening 17 years, it has fluctuated all the way to around 23% in late 2016; that is, it barely budged.

This level is on par with the national situation in percentage terms, but in straight number terms, what we’ve experienced is a rise from just under 20,000 to around 25,000, having peaked at around 32,500 in mid-2011. It’s fallen since.

This suggests quite some room to fall, as routine cognitive displacement by algorithms in the cloud is only in its infancy.

Government routine administration and compliance is a classic locus of displacement.

We’ve seen the tip of the iceberg on this in recent years, but one suspects that the tsunami of cloud-enabled hollowing out hasn’t even hit our shores. To grasp at suggestions that regional employment can be sustainably boosted by relocating bureaucrats to Townsville is short-term folly, and belies a failure to understand the drivers of workforce change.

Townsville City Council itself is likely to be a vanguard of digital displacement of routine cognitive employment. Sure, it won’t publicly say so for fear of upsetting the apple cart, but the pressures of a diminishing rates base will drive the Council down a workforce-trimming path. Old models that had ratios of ‘so many Council employees per 1,000 residents’ need to be re-thought. Local authorities simply don’t need as many people per resident as they once did.

And of course, that means there’ll be lesser demand for floor space. Cloud-based algorithms simply don’t need the 10sqm per worker demanded by the office workplaces of the 20th century. And you can save on the lunchrooms and staff car parks too.

The hollowing out of routine cognitive roles is, on the contrary, likely to see a further concentration of non-routine cognitive roles coalescing in the thick labour markets of larger urban conurbations. Whether a place like Townsville can be connected to this market is a massive challenge.

FLUID, UBER ALLES ‘Fluid, more than anything else’, is how we may translate my final sub-heading.

Politicians might not like automation, and instinctively are attracted to a protectionist reaction aimed at preserving the status quo, but this isn’t a strategy to deal with the future that is here today.

Some, for instance, may say they don’t like Uber, and stamp their feet and claim that “Uber will only come to Townsville over my dead body” (or words to that effect), but disruption in the transport market is here to stay. And, incidentally, Uber has now arrived in Townsville.

If non-routine employment is going to increasingly dominate the work of human beings in the 21st century, then we are entering into a period of considerable fluidity. The certainties of old are no longer, melted into thin air.

Hoping for a mining-induced employment boom in the face of a commitment to automation seems like pitching hope up against reality. Similarly, clutching to more government bureaucrats, as a salve for labour force hollowing out, seems like a desperate last-grasp for the 20th century.

Regional prosperity depends more than ever on the ability of regions to cultivate a pipeline of non-routine activities that are difficult to replace, either with robots or with cloud-based algorithms. High-touch manual, and highcreative cognitive roles are the touchstone for future prosperity. As for the activities that will be digitally displaced, the real question is how the proceeds of automation will be distributed across our community.

What to do with the displaced is, however, the challenge du jour.

Warwick Powell is the founding Chairman of Sister City Partners, a regional not-forprofit investment bank with headquarters in Townsville. He brings almost 20 years of experience in global capital markets and project development and finance to bear on the challenges of creating regional resilience.

He is an iconoclast who questions and challenges orthodox thinking.

More information about Sister City Partners visit www.sistercitypartners.com.au. Warwick is active on LinkedIn. Search him and hook up.

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DUOBusiness | Townsville Enterprise Limited Promotion

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Whether you’re a downhill demon or a marathon mountain biker, the off-road trails in Townsville North Queensland are sure to impress!

Words Lucy Abbott – Townsville Enterprise Limited

Image by @barekiwi

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DUOBusiness | Townsville Enterprise Limited Promotion

MOUNTAIN Biking is one of the world’s fastest growing recreational, sport and tourism activities and is an area of potential growth for Townsville North Queensland. The region’s diverse environment, outstanding scenery and range of complimentary attractions and accommodation options perfectly positions Townsville North Queensland to take advantage of this growing trend. Townsville is also blessed with a strong local mountain bike community led by the Townsville Rockwheelers.

Last year, the Townsville North Queensland Bid Fund secured the Townsville Mountain Bike Festival for two years. This event will generate 2,880 guest nights and inject $722,880 into the local economy each year. Not only do major events like this create significant economic stimulus for the host city, but they also enhance the destination’s attractiveness and more specifically, strengthen Townsville’s position as the home of regional Australia’s best events.

Townsville was chosen by Mountain Bike Australia to host the national event due to its diverse landscape and experiences on offer for visitors. The event will attract over 300 competitors to the region and provide an opportunity for the city to be marketed across the country.

The festival will be held from 29 April – 5 May 2017 and again in 2018, encompassing a number of events including, the XCM (Marathon) National Championships and a staged race which will cater for bikers from amateur to elite level. The event offers competitors the opportunity to be crowned the Australian Marathon National Champion and will have mountain bike enthusiasts following the competition from across the country.

Mountain Bike Australia successfully secured $195,000 in funding through the Queensland Government’s State Development Program which will assist in the delivery of the Townsville Mountain Bike Festival. The Townsville City Council also committed $50,000 over three years towards the event’s track development and infrastructure.

CEO of Mountain Bike Australia, Shane Coppin, said that the funding will help them deliver a spectacular event in Townsville. “As a destination, Townsville has an incredible amount to offer mountain bikers of all levels, including sensational views all within a beautiful tropical location. The views experienced riding along the cliff’s edge at Pallarenda overlooking Magnetic Island are second-to-none.”

Events such as these are not just about the sport – it’s about the destination and maximising the region’s natural beauty and landscape to provide participants, supporters, family and friends with a unique experience and holiday.

We have an opportunity, through this event,

to transform Townsville into one of the top mountain biking destinations in the country.

This event will see spectacular images of the destination showcased across social media and in magazines across the country, strengthening the profile of Townsville North Queensland and the opportunity to attract additional visitation to the region.

The long term aim of attracting national level mountain biking events to the region is to position Townsville North Queensland as a destination for Mountain Biking Tourism and ultimately drive visitor expenditure. A number

Victoria’s Otway Odyssey, one of Australia’s most respected off-road cycling events, is embarking on its 11th year of operation. The two day event regularly sells out, with an average of 1,700 competitors generating a $1 million boost to the local Forrest economy. This iconic event provides exposure of the region and leads to increased visitation throughout the year.

Following recent investment into Mountain Biking Tourism and events by the Atherton Tablelands, a study was undertaken to explore the benefits of Mountain Biking on the area.

The study includes direct bookings with local

WHETHER THEY’RE LYCRA-CLAD, IN IT FOR THE LEISURELY CRUISE, OR LIKE GETTING DIRTY ON THE DOWNHILL, TOWNSVILLE IS BRIMMING WITH CYCLING ENTHUSIASTS. of destinations in Australia, New Zealand and around the world have invested in this trend and are now reaping the benefits.

Derby, Tasmania, invested $2.5 million in 40km of bike tracks and has since hosted the Australian Marathon Mountain Bike Championships. Since the work began in 2013 the number of cafes in Derby has doubled and tourist accommodation has tripled. Within three years, Mountain Bike Tourism is expected to add $15 million to the region’s economy and generate nearly 100 jobs.

Rotorua, New Zealand, is also a destination that has invested heavily in Mountain Bike Tourism and is now enjoying the return on that initial outlay. In 2012 it was predicted that mountain bike riders using Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest were injecting $10.2 million into the economy each year. Rotorua Airport is now using Mountain Bike Tourism as one of its main strategies for promoting Air New Zealand’s Sydney-Rotorua flight route.

caravan parks and accommodation providers producing tangible and direct benefits for the region’s tourism industry. The Tablelands have only just started to invest in this space, with the close proximity to Townsville providing an opportunity for collaboration in driving mountain bikers to North Queensland.

Townsville North Queensland has a ripe opportunity to add the Townsville Mountain Bike Festival as a permanent fixture to its annual events calendar. An event like this is more than just racing. From local cafes and accommodation to bike repair shops, massage therapists and pubs – the event is far reaching. It’s not just for competitors, but for their family, friends and the local community. Whether they’re lycra-clad up Hervey’s Range, in it for the leisurely cruise, or like getting dirty on the downhill at Mount Stuart, Townsville is brimming with cycling enthusiasts. This is an untapped market that can continue to put our destination on the map.

Gear up, and watch this space!

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DUOBusiness

Director

Karen Quagliata Northern Tax & Financial Services

Ensure A Super Health Check Before 1 July 2017!

For those with superannuation balances higher than $1.6M, it’s vital you consider the new Superannuation Reforms.

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LEGISLATION to implement the Government’s superannuation reforms passed the Parliament on 23 November 2016. This has set out a clear objective for superannuation: ‘to provide income in retirement to substitute or supplement the Age Pension’, which guided the superannuation changes.

The government also has created this ‘$1.6 million transfer balance cap’, which is aimed to limit the total amount of superannuation savings that can be transferred from accumulation phase into ‘a tax-free retirement account’, according to the 2016 Federal Budget papers.

Superannuation in Accumulation phase is when the member is contributing into a superannuation investment portfolio with the expectation of funding their own future retirement.

Once accumulated, and a member is of certain age and/or meets certain conditions, then the superannuation balance can be transferred into Pension phase (which is this ‘tax-free retirement account’). This is the time during which the superannuation fund pays the member an ‘income stream’ or ‘pension’.

So it is particularly important for those with the excess of over $1.6 million of super, who, if in pension phase, will need to either consider: 1. a withdrawal of the excess balance OR 2. Revert the excess amount to accumulation phase (which is then subject to 15% earning tax), before 1 July 2017.

This second option may likely be your preferred option. Reverting the excess amount can be facilitated by your administrator/ accountant, with a transfer from the pension account into a new accumulation account. But it has consequences that you need to be aware of.

It is also imperative that all SMSF clients

have their deeds reviewed and consider an update (by way of a ‘deed or variation’) if required. This is very important now that the legislation has been mandated and we are certain of the rules commencing 1 July 2017.

Many of our SMSF clients utilise a subscription ‘deed upgrade service’, that once a deed of variation is prepared, they are able to subscribe by way of a small annual fee, to provide both them and us, the reassurance that the deed is automatically updated for all changes with legislation as the changes occur.

Many of our trustees enjoy the peace of mind this service provides.

In updating the Rules of the deed, the updates take into consideration matters such as: • The trustees and the members ability to undertake any SMSF strategies allowed by law; • ensuring all rules are current and up-to-date; • that members don’t impose any limits over and above those required to stay compliant; • the Rules should authorise trustees to (where appropriate) meet the requirements for any applicable concessions of stamp duty/transfer duty.

Why do you need to engage an expert at this most critical time? You will need to be sure your deed is up to date, that you are ready for the new rules to take effect, and furthermore, have the awareness that your fund may also be eligible to take advantage of capital gains tax (CGT) relief, which may be a vital consideration in this lead up to 1 July 2017.

The information provided is general advice only. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives and you should seek the assistance of a qualified advisor before you make any decision regarding any products mentioned. Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, no warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly Northern Tax & Financial Services Pty Ltd employees or agents shall not be liable on any ground whatsoever with respect to decisions or actions taken as a result of you acting upon such information.

DUOFood+Drink | Profile

Simply The Best

1986 Jorge Solano nsville General Manager Tow International Hotel

Back in the day, Jorge Solano headed up one of Townsville’s first high-end restaurants. Nowadays he manufactures a range of gourmet syrups and roasted coffee… but he’s as passionate as ever about delivering the best of the best.

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DUOFood+Drink | Profile

R

emember Solano’s Restaurant at Opus One in Flinders Street East? In the 70s, it was where the movers and shakers met to talk business and if you didn’t dress up, you didn’t get in.

The man who started the gourmet restaurant, Jorge Solano, was well-known as the dynamic general manager of the Townsville International Hotel, or the ‘Sugar Shaker’ as we locals call it. Going out on his own to set up Solano’s Restaurant, Jorge’s belief that Townsville needed a first-class restaurant was rewarded with a loyal following.

“Coming from the Townsville International, where we had a very good restaurant, I knew I could expand from there to create something Townsville would be proud to call our own,” Jorge says.

“The aim was to create a restaurant that offered all those little luxuries.

Matt Muhl & Jorge Solano

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Townsville in the 1970s was still very rural, but we started seeing an increase in visitors from Melbourne, Sydney and overseas, back when the Townsville Airport was international.

“The influx of new businessmen demanded better services and attitudes in the hospitality and catering space and locals hosting people from the big capital cities down south were keen to impress.”

Pink-carpeted, with deep-red curtains, Solano’s Restaurant offered a full silver service menu. The staff wore long black frocks with white gloves, while the maitre d’ donned a tux. The chef was imported from Germany and was trained in France by a grand chef.

“We won a North Queensland licensee board award as the Best Designed Restaurant,” Jorge recalls.

“My fondest memory is guests arriving dressed in ties and coats and cocktail gowns. People wanted to show that Townsville was as good as,

or better than, the big cities. It made me feel very proud as the host.”

In his life after the restaurant, Jorge became involved in the staffing of the Four Seasons Flotel on the Great Barrier Reef before going to manage the Four Seasons’ Darwin hotel.

“In the early 80s I got an offer to manage the first Sheraton in Costa Rica, where I’m from,” Jorge says.

“I then moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina USA, still working for Sheraton. While I was there, a German consortium who had bought the Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort in Costa Rica approached me and offered me the position of General Manager.

“I took up the challenge and later went on to become Vice President, of the Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort, where I stayed for over a decade.”

However, determined that his children should finish their schooling in Australia, Jorge decided to return Down Under. He retired in 2004 but,

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DUOFood+Drink

being a person who is constantly on the go, soon found he wasn’t suited to life in the slow lane.”

In 2005, as a ‘hobby’, Jorge launched a coffee importing business under the name Café Nica. While doing the coffee cupping at the SUPA IGAs, from Cairns all the way to Townsville, he started using syrups to complement the coffee and Solano’s Syrups was born.

“While importing coffee from Nicaragua, and through a food chemist professor from the University of Nicaragua, I learned more about syrup making and manufacturing, sometimes through trial and error,” Jorge says.

“Solano’s Syrups are made from North Queensland sugar and are a natural product manufactured with a wide range of applications in mind from coffees to pancakes, cocktails and liquors.”

When Jorge’s ‘hobby’ grew bigger than one person could handle, he took on 24-year-old Matt Muhl, who has a strong knowledge of coffee, as his business partner.

“Our business is far more than syrups –we’re a specialty coffee roaster and syrup manufacturer and our shared vision is for the business

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01 1989 Solano’s Lunch Menu 02 1989 Jorge and wife Gina Solano opening night of Solano’s Restaurant 03 1989 Newspaper article on the opening of Solano’s Restaurant

to comprehensively cover Queensland and the Northern Territory,” Jorge says.

“We deal in all spectrums of the coffee world and all of our products have the quality and attention to detail the Solano’s name is known for, which is why they’re so popular.”

Operating out of their Garbuttbased factory, Solano’s Syrups sell their syrups and coffee from 3/14 Whitehouse Street, as well as via local retailers such as The Cat’s Meow, Lamberts, Otto’s, Coffee Dominion and IGA.

“Everyone is welcome to come and try our products and if you’d like a list of flavours, or to trial us in your cafe, you’re welcome to get in touch,” Jorge says.

“After all these years I’m still as passionate about food as ever. I even turned down an opportunity to lecture at TAFE in hospitality, which I’m sure I would’ve enjoyed, to remain in the industry.

“Matt and his fiancé Edith and brother Tim often come around to our house for beautiful meals and laughter. You can’t beat good food and good company.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/solanossyrups

Words Kylie Davis Photography Matthew Gianoulis

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DUOSeen

1 2 Women of Achievement: In Her Shoes Luncheon Michelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant Josephine Carter Photography A panel of local women shared their wisdom at this inspirational event, explaining how they have chosen positivity, a growth mindset and courageous action. Guests got to ask the panel questions, who were only too happy to share their personal and professional strategies to support all parts of who we are as women.

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1. Tamahra Moore, Tanya Roberts 2. Karen Read, Donna Sands 3. Sharyn Brown, Shantelle Scovell, Lisa Leonardi 4. Claudia Williams, Lou Costanzo 5. Kylie Bartlett, Lisa Westcott 6. Jasmine Plozza, Ngairie Hartwell 7. Bronwyn Bender, Taryn Bartsch, Sally Vujica 8. Marlene Anderson, Leisa Parker 9. Amanda Carr, Jacqui Gillespie 10. Ferne Hemsley, Anna Preston, Kirby McGill.

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Zonta Townsville Metro – International Women’s Day Cocktail Party

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North Queensland Club Josephine Carter Photography The Zonta Club celebrated International Women’s Day in style with canapes, a welcome drink and an uplifting talk from Paulina Skerman, Principal of St Patricks College. Funds raised went towards continuing the good work of the Zonta Club of Townsville Metro.

1. Paulina Skerman, Maria Torrisi 2. Tara Parish, Kate Smith 3. Kim Kippen, Renee White, Katie Johns 4. Kathy Park, Lara Brennan 5. Emma Micola, Cayley Downey 6. Grace and Adele Baldwin 7. DUO Magazine’s Rachel Dean, Courtney Frank, Stacey Morrison 8. Annie Van Homrigh, Amy Byrnes 9. Melanie Clair, Claire Mulqueen 10. Tressa Reddie, Harriet Geater-Johnson, Katie Whitworth

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Sky Foundation ‘Be Bold for Change’ International Women’s Day Luncheon

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Rydges Townsville Josephine Carter Photography

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This luncheon, with Special Guest Erin Molan (one of Australia’s most well-known radio/TV presenters), was a chance to network with locals who support a gender-inclusive world. Guests heard the latest news from local charity Sky Foundation with all proceeds from this event going to the Foundation to support the refurbishment of The Townsville Women’s Centre.

1. Erin Molan, Chantelle O’Neil 2. Loren Metlej, Nancy Jimenez 3. Tori Allen, Sarah McLoughlin 4. Yvonne Cooper, Elli Frau 5. Trina Willis, Amanda Govan, Debbie West 6. Jennifer Grigor, Prue Kelly 7. Donna-Marie Andas, Brenda Stone, Carol Honchin 8. Katie Miller, Jessica Bailey, Lyndsey Goriss 9. Skye Jerome, Merissa Martinez 10. Christina Paul, Scarlett Keam.

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KordaMentha Accelerate Townsville Launch The Wild Goose Brews and Chews Josephine Carter Photography Townsvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up-and-coming accountants, lawyers and bankers came together at this event to launch KordaMentha Accelerate, an initiative that focuses on connecting the next generation of professionals in the Townsville region.

1. Alanna Berryman, Chris Meehan 2. Ben Teitzel, Russel Campbell 3. Kiara Bonassi, Krystelle Quabba 4. Shaylee Crisp, Jessie Dykstra 5. Johanna Gatti, Jessica Miller 6. Taleesa Wood, Lauren Stathooles 7. Amanda Sartor, Brigitte Van-Lieshout, Clare Bosworth 8. Brendan Cahill, Chris Meehan 9. Kellie Hopkins, Meagan Hutchison, Timara Callaghan 10. Hannah Wilkinson, Matthew Keating.

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Jobtrain’s Grand Opening Jobtrain New Cranbrook Office Budd Photography Jobtrain celebrated a new beginning with business partners and the community at the grand opening of the Jobtrain office in Cranbrook. Cathy O’Toole MP unveiled a plaque and cut a beautiful cake announcing that Jobtrain had supported over 9000 individuals over its 30-year history.

1. Matthew Watts, Gracelyn Smallwood, Cathy O’Toole MP 2. Tracy Dawson, Major Mick Gallegos 3. Bronwyn Wheldon, Lorraine Jones 4. Verell McAlister, Peter Scott, Deborah Ford 5. Dawson Wilkie, Cr Maurie Soars, Paul Travis 6. Natalie Gross, Pauline Dawson, Anne Bahr 7. Emma Peters, Jan-Marie Hagerty, Matthew Watts, Brad Hastewell 8. Daniel Harris, Marlina Regan 9. Jill Nicholson, Alison Fairleigh, Fiona McGill 10. Katy Hamilton, Savvy Francis, Janet Tiffin

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2017 Townsville North Queensland Events Calendar Launch

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City Lane Photography Megan MacKinnon The launch showcased the wide variety of events on offer in the Townsville North Queensland region, and officially released the new cinematic-style destination television commercial.

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1. Gemma Rio, Nick Dametto, Lisa Woolfe 2. Stephen and Roslyn Budd 3. Richard Holliday, Jeff Jimmieson, Patricia O’Callaghan, Clayton Cook 4. Quentin and Sandy Kersh 5. Rachelle Foley, Mary Brown 6. Michael Chugg, Steve ‘Pricey’ Price 7. Carmel Brady, Laura Hunt, Jane Meredith 8. Blake Lowis, Vicki O’Reilly 9. Kristin Martin, Nyree Bolton 10. Alex Wellman, Michele Hyde

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DUOFood+Drink | Directory

FUEL CAFÉ

JAM Winner of Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017 With seasonally designed menus using the freshest produce from local suppliers, Jam consistently offers unique dining experiences that leave you coming back for more. Whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert, Matt Merrin and his team deliver modern Australian cuisine that is sure to impress. Jam is also perfect for your next private function or event, with elegant dining locations ‘Loft by Jam’ and ‘Luxe by Jam’.

Open Tuesday–Saturday 7am–late, Sunday 7am–3pm 1 Palmer Street South Townsville www.jamcorner.com.au 4721 4900

Fuel Cafe in Belgian Gardens is known by coffee lovers for its own special blend of coffee beans and perfect Bezerra 160ml coffee. It also delivers a delicious menu for breakfast and lunch with indoor and outdoor dining. There’s a great selection of healthy take-away meals including a gluten-free and lactose free range. Try your favourite blend made with our house made Almond or Soy milk.

Catering is also available.

Belrowes Place, 49 Bundock Street, Belgian Gardens www.fuelcoffee.com.au 4721 2101

OTTO’S FRESH FOOD MARKET

A TOUCH OF SALT Winner of Australian Good Food Guide 2017 Chef’s Hat & 2017 Readers’ Choice Award Perched on the edge of the Ross Creek, within Townsville’s CBD, family-owned restaurant A Touch of Salt serves up waterfront views from its al fresco deck and air-conditioned interior. Renowned for quality and creativity, the restaurant delivers an exquisite dining experience and a reputation for foodie festivals, intimate events and as a venue or caterer for weddings and functions. LUNCH: Wednesday–Friday from 12pm.

DINNER: Tuesday–Saturday from 6pm. 86 Ogden Street, City www.atouchofsalt.com.au 4724 4441

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Townsville’s first market place providore of specialty foods and gifts. Freshly baked artisan breads, fresh quality produce and meats direct from local farms, as well as everything else you need for the gourmet’s kitchen! Drop in for breakfast or lunch to enjoy a coffee, frappe, smoothie or coldpressed juice as well as a famous pie, pretzel sub or snack lovingly prepared by our in-store chef.

Open Monday–Saturday 6am–7pm, Sunday 8am–4pm 3-5 Illuka Street, Currajong (behind Warrina Cineplex) www.ottosmarket.com.au 4759 1755

S U N DAY 1 4 M AY

s r e â&#x20AC;&#x2122; th o M ay d S H O W E R M U M W I T H LO V E T H I S

AT AQ UA AT T H E V I L L E R E S O RT- C A S I N O Bring the whole family to spoil Mum with our delicious buffet that includes roasts, fresh prawns and a decadent chocolate dessert buffet.*

Breakfast

$29.90 | 6.30am - 11am

Lunch*

$46.90 | 12pm - 3pm

Dinner*

$46.90 | 5pm - 9.30pm

Bookings essential. For more information, visit the-ville.com.au or phone 4722 2333.

Subject to availability, change and cancellation. Terms & conditions apply. *Seafood & chocolate dessert buffet only available lunch and dinner.

Vantage Rewards members discount not applicable. The Ville practises the responsible service of alcohol.

#wildgoosebrewsandchews

D B C NEW

2 1 $ R FOLUNCH 12LIGHT MENU

Only 5 min walk from the Sugar Shaker

OR WET THE BEAK AND INCLUDE SELECTED POTS, WINES OR SOFT DRINKS FOR $15 TUESDAY-FRIDAY 11:30AM-2:30PM GRAB THE GAGGLE AND FLY IN TODAY TO THE NEWEST PUB IN TOWN We are here!

Next to the Mad Cow

137 FLINDERS ST EAST TOWNSVILLE // PHONE 4771 2799 TO PRE ORDER FIND OUR NEW LIGHT OPTIONS AT WILDGOOSE.NET.AU

INTRODUCING

r e n g i des m o i t a t s u dég WHEN TWO COURSES ARE NOT ENOUGH. Our carefully curated selections allow you, the diner, to build your own menu.

It’s a dégustation, designed by you.

3, 4 or 5 courses with or without paired wines.

Available for dinner Tuesday to Saturday.

Bookings recommended 4724 4441.

Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability.

RESTAURANT | CATERING

ATOUCHOFSALT.COM.AU

TAPAS SUNDAYS ARE BACK

12PM — 2 PM

AUTUMN 2017

$25 WITH A GLASS OF SELECTED WINE, BEER OR 1LT SAN PELLEGRINO SMOKED SALMON SALAD W / B E E T, W A L N U T S , A N C I E N T G RA I N S, P E P I TA , C R U M B E D P O A C H E D E G G , R O C K E T, BLACK GARLIC AND HERB YOGHURT QUEENSLAND AVOCADO, WHOLEGRAIN SOURDOUGH, W H I P P E D P E R S I A N F E TA , SPICE TEXTURES BIRCHER MUESLI WITH LEMON CURD, GORGEOUS GEISHA POACHED APPLE HOUSEMADE LAMB SAUSAGE, S A F F R O N F L AT B R E A D, H U M M U S, F R I E D E G G, Z A ’ ATA R SPICE

STICKY BEEF CHEEK + PORK WONTONS, SPICY TA M A R I N D S AU C E S T E A K B U R G E R – TA S M A N I A N R I B F I L L E T, R O C K E T, T O M A T O , MOZZARELLA, CHILLI SAUCE, CHIPS

COFFIN BAY OYSTERS L I M O N C E L L O G RA N I TA V I C T O R I A N L A M B L O I N, O U R MIDDLE EASTERN LAMB SAUSAGE, SMOKED PERSIAN F E T A , B E E T, Z H O U G

PANKO CRUMBED CHICKEN B R E A S T, A S I A N S L A W, CHILLI AIOLI

ASIAN CHICKEN OMELETTE W / S N O W P E A , B E A N S H O O T, FRIED SHALLOTS AND CHILLI JAM J A M PA C K E D – B A C O N, POACHED EGGS, HOUSE MADE PORK SAUSAGE, LOCAL MUSHROOMS, ROASTED VINE R I P E N E D C H E R R Y T O M AT O E S, C I A B AT TA

BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER - FUNCTIONS - PRIVATE DINING

D U C K B R E A S T, CONFIT DUCK STICKY RICE PAPER ROLL, KIMCHI, STICKY PEANUT SAUCE ‘DISH FOR TWO’ 1 2 - H O U R S M O K E D F E TA CRUSTED LAMB SHOULDER ‘DESSERT FOR TWO’ W H I T E C H O C O L AT E + STRAWBERRY BOMB ALASKA, TOASTED COCONUT MERINGUE, MILK C H O C O L AT E M O U S S E

1 PALMER ST, SOUTH TOWNSVILLE | 07 4721 4900 | WWW.JAMCORNER.COM.AU

DUORecipe Otto’s DUO Reader’s Request Recipe

OT TO’S FRESH FOOD MARKET RECIPE

Roasted Capsicum with Moroccan Cous Cous and Lentils Ingredients

Method

6 capsicums, halved lengthways, seeded

Step 1. Preheat oven to 220°C. Place capsicums, cut-side up, in a roasting pan.

Drizzle with half the oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.

60ml (1/4) cup olive oil

Filling 1 brown onion 2 stalks celery, sliced ½ capsicum, diced 2 shallots, sliced 1 teaspoon Otto’s ground cumin 1 teaspoon Otto’s ground coriander

400g tin Capricco lentils drained, rinsed

Step 3.Once cooled, combine the lentil mixture and cooked cous cous, lemon juice and coriander in a large bowl. Gently toss to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Spoon evenly among roasted capsicums. Top with feta and grill until golden.

Top with toasted almonds and place on serving plates with lemon wedges.

400g tin Capricco red kidney beans, drained, rinsed

www.ottosmarket.com.au

1 teaspoon Otto’s kashmiri chilli 1 teaspoon Otto’s ground turmeric ½ cup Cous Cous, cooked

½ cup dates, coarsely chopped ½ cup slivered almonds, toasted 2 tablespoons lemon juice ¼ cup coarsely chopped coriander 100g feta Lemon wedges to serve

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Step 2.Meanwhile, heat remaining oil in a large frying pan over low heat. Add onions and celery to cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until golden and tender. Add the cumin, coriander, Kashmiri Chilli, turmeric and cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until aromatic.

Add lentils, red kidney beans, diced capsicum and shallots. Heat through then remove from heat.

DUORecipe Otto’s DUO Reader’s Request Recipe

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOFood+Drink

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DUORecipe Craig Smith’s DUO Reader’s Request Recipe

MICHELS’ CR AIG SMITH’S

CALAMARI STUFFED WITH PORTUGUESE RICE, CORN PUREE AND CHORIZO CRUMBLE Serves 8 Main size

CALAMARI

CHORIZO CRUMBLE

24 squid tubes

2 chorizo sausages minced 4 slices of white bread crust removed

Method

Preheat oven to 170°C. Stuff squid tubes with rice and sew together at end with tooth pick, place in hot pan and cook for 2 minutes.

Turn and place in oven at 170°C for 10 minutes.

Method

Blend both ingredients together then toast in pan.

Lay on baking sheet and bake in the oven to dry out on 100°C.

CORN PUREE PORTUGUESE RICE 1 tblsp butter ½ onion finely diced 1 carrot finely diced 1 stick celery finely diced 3 cloves garlic 1 ½ cups Arborio rice 1/3 cup white wine 1 tblsp paprika 1 ltr chicken stock boiling 1 ½ cups diced tomato Pinch saffron ½ bunch chopped coriander Method

Melt butter in pan, add onion, carrot, celery and garlic.

Cook for 2 minutes.

Add Arborio and paprika continue to cook for a further 5 minutes, add wine and continue to cook slowly.

Add 1 cup boiling stock, add saffron.

Once stock has disappeared add diced tomato and coriander, season with salt and pepper to taste.

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1 tbsp butter ½ onion diced 2 cloves garlic 4 corn cobs kernels removed 100 ml white wine 100 ml cream Salt and pepper Method

Melt butter in pan, add onion, garlic and corn. Cook on low heat until translucent, add wine and cook till the wine has reduced by three quarters.

Add cream and reduce by half.

Puree sauce, pass through colander and season.

To serve

While squid is cooking heat sauce then place sauce on plate with squid on top.

Garnish with tossed rocket, lemon vinaigrette and chorizo crumble.

www.michelsrestaurant.com.au

DUORecipe Craig Smith’s DUO Reader’s Request Recipe

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOFood+Drink | Directory

I.M.C. STEAKHOUSE

MICHELS CATERING Winner: ‘Caterer of The Year’ & ‘Best Venue Caterer’ Indulge your taste buds and experience a divine menu created by Michels Catering for your next function… wedding, corporate, BBQ, party, soiree… Michels Catering has evolved into an ’on-trend’ catering company with a strong customer focus, making it one of the regions most versatile and respected caterers. Michels award winning team caters to an array of palates and dietary requirements (food allergies, gluten free, vegetarian/vegan), offering a diverse range of delicious fare, sure to impress.

7 Palmer Street South Townsville www.michelsrestaurant.com.au 4724 1460

From the pastures of Central Queensland to the lush valleys of Northern Tasmania, the Independent Meat Company (I.M.C) Steakhouse showcases some of the finest produce from farmers around Australia; guaranteeing tender, juicy steaks of the highest quality. The I.M.C.’s 10 select beef cuts showcase that ‘great’ and ‘Australian’ need not be ‘expensive’. The I.M.C. also has a well-stocked wine and craft beer bar and monthly showcase steaks. Bookings welcome. Dinner Only 7 nights 5pm–late. 17–21 Palmer Street South Townsville 4724 3243

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4721 2101 | 0447 338 689

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62 Ingham Road West End Townsville Phone: 4721 4999 Local Call: 1300 721 156 www.cateringsuppliesonline.com.au * When you mention this advertisement instore. Offer ends 3o April 2017

WEDDINGS PARTIES EVERYTHING DISCOVER THE SURF CLUB. TOWNSVILLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST ADAPTABLE BEACHFRONT VENUE FOR YOUR CELEBRATION, WEDDING, MEETING, OR SPECIAL OCCASION. TOWNSVILLE PICNIC BAY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB 80 THE STRAND NORTH WARD 4724 4211 events@tpbslsc.com.au

DUOFood+Drink | Directory

THE SURF CLUB AT TOWNSVILLE PICNIC BAY SURF LIFESAVING CLUB

WILD GOOSE BREWS & CHEWS The Goose vision is simple, kick back and relax and have a gander around. Dismiss the worries of your day at our convenient location on Flinders Street East. Have a laugh or two and enjoy great gastropub food made with only the freshest ingredients. Plus a great selection of wines, draught beer and cocktails that are sure to give you goose bumps.

Open 7 days a week Monday 3pm–1am, Tuesday–Friday 7am–1am, Saturday–Sunday 3pm–1am 137 Flinders Street East. www.wildgoose.net.au 4771 2799

Situated on The Strand, this unique waterfront venue enjoys panoramic views of Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay. The versatile venue can be hired for business meetings, corporate workshops, social events and private functions. As one of Townsville’s premier wedding venues, with an indoor outdoor space, it offers couples the perfect venue for your special day. Open to the public for Sunday at the Bay with live music from 2pm Sundays.

80 The Strand, North Ward, Townsville events@tpbslsc.com.au 4724 4211

CACTUS JACK’S SALOON

AQUA RESTAURANT AT THE VILLE Aqua is Townsville’s most popular buffet, open daily for breakfast and dinner. Kick-start your day with a classic buffet breakfast offering everything from eggs cooked to order, grilled bacon, sausages, tomatoes, hash browns, fresh fruit, cereals, pastries, fresh juices and more. For dinner, Aqua provides a relaxed atmosphere any day of the week and features fresh seafood, soups, hearty roast meats, delicious pastas and decadent desserts. Open 7 days for breakfast and dinner.

For more information visit the-ville.com.au or for bookings call 4722 2261.

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The Cactus Saloon has three great levels, all with their own unique bars, sensational food and excitement. With an authentic smoker oven, Texas BBQ style slow cooked ribs have never been tastier. With our new range of succulent meats we also offer takeaway lunches and late night dining.

Experience Townsville’s home of Cocktails, BBQ and Craft beer. Lunch: Tuesday–Sunday Midday– 3pm. Dinner: Tuesday–Sunday 5pm–9:30pm.

Late Night Menu: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 9:30pm–Midnight. 237 Flinders Street Townsville www.cactussaloon.com.au 4721 1708

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DUORecipe Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

Tandoori Prawns with Spinach and Dill Sambal An Indian variation on a popular Australian barbeque favourite, barbecued prawns.

Serves 6–8 as part of a shared meal Prep: 45 minutes + 2 hours marinating | Cook: 10 minutes | Moderate

1 bunch spinach, washed 3 tablespoons dill, finely chopped 250 g (8 oz) plain yoghurt 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed to a paste 2 tablespoons mint, finely chopped salt and pepper, to taste • Place the washed spinach in a pot and cook until just wilted. You should not need any water.

W hen cool, squeeze out excess moisture and chop finely.

• Place the chopped spinach in a bowl with the remaining ingredients and mix well to combine.

Images and recipes from Spirit House the Cookbook

by Helen Brierty & Annette Fear New Holland Publishers RRP $49.99

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60 ml (2½ fl oz) vegetable oil 1 large green chilli, deseeded and chopped 2 teaspoons ginger, peeled and roughly chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped ½ teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon tikka or tandoori paste (store bought) 2 tablespoons plain yoghurt 18 green king prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined* * Your choice if you want to keep the heads and/or tails on the prawns.

• Combine all the ingredients, except the prawns, in a mortar and pound to a smooth paste.

• Place prawns in a shallow bowl. Add the paste and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.

• Preheat a lightly oiled chargrill plate or barbecue to medium. Cook the prawns for 3–5 minutes, turning a few times.

• Transfer to serving platter and serve with the spinach and dill sambal.

HOT TIP Garam masala, a popular Indian powder mix, is often added to a dish at a late stage of cooking as a flavouring agent. It can be bought at supermarkets and Asian grocery stores or you can make it yourself if you wish.

DUORecipe Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUORecipe Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

Images and recipes from Spirit House the Cookbook

by Helen Brierty & Annette Fear New Holland Publishers RRP $49.99

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DUORecipe Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

Chargrilled Salmon with Hot and Sour Dressing and Pickled Vegetable Salad Though this may seem a complicated dish, once the preparation is done the final cooking time is very short. It features one of our favourite fish and makes a colourful, healthy and delicious addition to a shared Asian meal.

Serves 4 Prep: 1½ hours + 2 hours pickling | Cook: 20 minutes | Moderate

1½ tablespoons fish sauce 1½ tablespoons rice vinegar 60 ml (2 fl oz) water 1 tablespoon sugar 1 garlic clove, peeled and chopped 1 small red chilli, finely chopped 1 tablespoon lime juice • In a small saucepan, combine the fish sauce, vinegar, water, sugar, garlic and chilli. Heat to dissolve sugar and then remove from the heat.

• Stir in the lime juice. Set aside until required.

4 salmon pieces, each 150 g (5 oz), skin off 2 red bird’s eye chillies, chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2 teaspoons caster (superfine) sugar 2 tablespoons fish sauce • Place the salmon in a bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and make sure the salmon is covered well.

Marinate for 30 minutes.

2 cups Vietnamese pickled vegetables (p. 48) 2 lemongrass stalks, white part finely sliced 2 cups mixed Asian herbs* 2 golden shallots, peeled and finely sliced *mix of coriander, Vietnamese mint, perilla or Thai basil

• Add all the ingredients to a bowl and pour over the hot and sour dressing. Set aside.

2 tablespoons roasted, coarsely crushed peanuts 2 tablespoons crispy fried shallots • Heat an oiled barbecue to medium and chargrill the salmon for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your preference.

Remove from heat.

• To serve as individual portions, place the cooked salmon on each serving plate. Place some salad on top of each piece of salmon. Garnish with the peanuts and crispy fried shallots.

• Serve immediately.

CHEF’S TIP If serving as a shared dish (it will serve 6–8), the salmon can be broken into large pieces and tossed gently through the salad. Serve on a large platter, garnished with the peanuts and crispy fried shallots.

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DUORecipe Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

Coconut and Mango Panna Cotta with Mango and Passionfruit Salad This is one of the easiest dessert recipes and it takes no more time to multiply the recipe to feed a large party. Any seasonal fruits can be used. In winter, when mangoes are out of season, use strawberries. A shot or two of Malibu, Cointreau or other liquor is also a decadent addition to the fruit salad.

Serves 6 Prep: 30 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Moderate

PANNA COTTA 50 ml (1 fl oz) water 100 g (3½ oz) sugar 1½ gelatine leaves titanium strength or 3½ leaves gold strength 100 ml (3½ fl oz) coconut cream 200 ml (7 fl oz) mango purée 200 ml (7 fl oz) pure cream • Bring the water and sugar to the boil then remove from heat.

• Soften the gelatin sheets in cold tap water then squeeze out excess water before stirring into the warm sugar syrup. Cool to room temperature.

• Place the sugar syrup and coconut cream in a large bowl and mix together. Stir through the mango purée.

• Whip the cream to soft peaks and carefully fold through the mango mix.

• Divide the panna cotta mix between 6 glasses and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to set.

2 mangoes, peeled and cut into 2 cm dice-sized pieces 3 passionfruit 1 tablespoon caster (superfine) sugar • Combine mangoes, passionfruit pulp and sugar in a bowl and stir to dissolve the sugar.

• To finish, remove the panna cotta from the refrigerator.

Add the mango and passionfruit salad to each glass and serve.

CHEF’S TIP Use a pretty water glass to set the panna cotta rather than the more traditional mould. It saves having to remove the dessert from the mould.

HOT TIP Leaf gelatine can be found in 2 strengths – gold and titanium.

Titanium is 5 gm and gold 2.2 gm, so a recipe needs to be adjusted depending on which you use. Leaf gelatine gives a smooth silken texture with no flavour, and is so superior to powdered gelatine which should be avoided at all costs.

Leaf gelatine is available at good supermarkets and can be purchased from food outlets online.

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DUORecipe Spirit House The Cookbook by Helen Brierty and Annette Fear

Images and recipes from Spirit House the Cookbook

by Helen Brierty & Annette Fear New Holland Publishers RRP $49.99

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOInterview

five minutes with: Lewis Doolan

FIREFIGHTER / COMEDIAN

Melissa Bonner

OWNER/ MANAGER OF SOUTH TOWNSVILLE TAKEAWAY

Suburb: Kelso AKA: Doolz or “Hey you’re that comedian?” I’m renowned for: My amazing chicken chilli and lime nachos. Only a local would know … who has right of way on Castle Hill, walkers/cars. My most memorable holiday was… an epic impromptu road trip. My wife, me and our two sons drove non-stop overnight to Brisbane and back in a Fiat 500 to see Cirque du Soleil. We had tickets but forgot to book flights. We didn’t realise until two days before the show. We used like $100 fuel total. My favourite day is: Camping on a beach with my wife, sipping whiskey, watching waves.

The biggest influence in my life was/is: Well comedy wise, it has to be the goons I work with at the fire station. In life I’d say the people I meet everyday. The funniest thing that ever happened to me was… the night I discovered that you should never have sex in a hammock! My hammock broke and my ‘friend’ and I fell naked from a second story veranda, over an eight foot fence onto a car parked behind a small town pub. To get back to my apartment we had to walk through the pub crowd, 20 metres down a busy street and get into my apartment building without keys. She covered her nakedness with her hands, I just covered my face. Someone famous I met was: We’ve brought many comedians to Townsville; Tripod, Troy Kinne, Bob Franklin, Bev Kilick, Sean Choolburra, but non-comics John Waters gave me a shirt off his back. I tricked Sigrid Thornton into giving me a kiss when I was 16. Met Elton John in a Cairns kite shop. My motto is: ‘Why not? What’s the worst that could happen?’

MY FAVOURITE: Song: Feels Like Home by Randy Newman Shop: Coffee Works Eat: Sushi Drink: Gentleman Jack & ice

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Suburb: Bohle Plains AKA: Mel, Mum or Min. I’m renowned for: Calling everyone Princess or Cupcake. Only a local would know… where all the good swimming spots are around the area. My most memorable holiday was… my first ever trip to Sydney and my honeymoon. Right now, I wish I was… in Mexico drinking Corona’s.

My favourite day is: Any day that the NRL is played – professional or junior, as my boys play it. The biggest influence in my life is: My husband Jason. He’s my rock and is always there for me no matter what.

The funniest thing that ever happened to me was… a lot of funny things have happened to me but the one that stands out was back when I had just finished high school. We went to schoolies at Lucinda Beach and one of my close friends and I decided to go for a drive. We did a U-turn but didn’t realise we were driving on sand. We got stuck and couldn’t get out. So, we had to convince an elderly man to let us use his phone so we could call for help. It was one of those ‘you had to be there moments’. Someone famous I met was: A few of the Broncos players at Bully’s after the game many years ago. My motto is: ‘Live in the moment.’

MY FAVOURITE: Song: Walking In Memphis by Marc Cohn Shop: K-Mart Eat: A good steak Drink: Kahlua Margarita

DUOInterview

We’re blessed with so many talented and interesting people that we introduce you to four local characters each month. If you think someone should be featured just send an email to: editor@duomagazine.com.au

Mike Boggild NEUROLOGIST

Julie Hagiaglou SOUL FOOD CREATRESS

Suburb: Annandale AKA: Sadly I’ve never had a worthwhile nickname, just Mike to everyone (never Michael). I’m renowned for: A complete inability to remember names. Generations of junior doctors – male and female – are simply known as ‘Gary’. Only a local would know… I’m a long way from being a local. We only arrived in 2012. Ask me again in 20 years. My most memorable holiday was… a whirlwind round the world trip in 1996 with my future wife. San Francisco, Route 1 to LA, Fiji, Whitsundays and Singapore – with no kids! Right now I wish I was… back on Orpheus Island where I spent my 50th. A secluded paradise just 30 minutes away. My favourite day is: Always today. I’m lucky enough to have a job I enjoy and family to enjoy life with. The biggest influence in my life was/is: Jim Heron – Neurologist in Stoke-on Trent in the UK. Confirmed my love of the speciality and launched the careers of a generation of neurologists. Sadly Jim died last year, RIP. The funniest thing that ever happened to me was… a tale from medical student days which doesn’t bear repeating in polite company. Ask me over a beer sometime. It’s a good story. Someone famous I met was: Ben Stiller, in the airport lounge in LA. He’s smaller than he looks! My motto is: ‘Treat each and every one with the same level of respect.’

MY FAVOURITE: Song: This Charming Man by The Smiths Shop: Dan Murphy’s Eat: Anyone else’s cooking Drink: Little Creatures IPA

AKA: Jules, Julesy, Honey, Mum. I’m renowned for: Being the most positive person anyone knows apparently. Only a local would know… how amazing it feels to walk up Castle Hill. My most memorable holiday was… probably when I went to Korea. It was crazy. I remember putting my card into an ATM and the writing on the screen was in Korean! I had to do the math and pray really hard. It worked, I got my card back. It’s the only place global roaming doesn’t work. Right now I wish I was… doing exactly what I’m doing. I love DUO Magazine and I feel very grateful to be in this month’s issue. My favourite day is: My birthday! I usually celebrate my birthday for the entire month of June. The biggest influence in my life is: My husband. He is my first thought when I wake up every morning. My best friend, my mirror, my inspiration. I love you honey. The funniest thing that ever happened to me was… Oh yes! I got wrangled into a karaoke competition and my friend paid the judges off to give me a high score so as not to hurt my feelings. It wasn’t funny at the time, it was really sweet. When I found out she had paid the judges off, I laughed and laughed. I still laugh about it to this day. Someone famous I met was: Missy Higgins. Years ago I won tickets to see her and also watch the sound check before the show. She was really beautiful. My motto is: ‘Be the change. You can’t control what anyone else is doing, so be the change you want to see in the world.’

MY FAVOURITE Song: One and Only by Adele Shop: Typo Eat: Home Drink: Henschke

DUOMagazine April 2017

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DUOLastWord

Playing With Fire Fascinated by watching the original Woodenbong Fire Tribe perform at local music and arts venues, Paula Swanson decided she wanted to be ‘one of those girls’.

Words Kylie Davis Photography Paul Freeman

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TWIRLING fire as they danced to live drums and saxophone riffs, the Woodenbong Fire Tribe made a lasting impression on Paula Swanson.

“I first became interested in fire twirling in 1996 when I saw the original Woodenbong crew perform – a group made up of university students, artists and musicians,” Paula says.

“In 1999 when my boyfriend, who had been involved with Woodenbong, was handed a $300 kitty from the group as they were going their separate ways, he decided to keep it going and that’s where I stepped in.”

Having been involved with choreography since she was a young girl, Paula saw an opportunity to combine the world of fire and dance.

Over the past three years the group has also been collaborating with aerial artists The Vertigals and tribal belly dancers Nomadica. Woodenbong have been a drawcard for the Palm Creek Folk Festival for 20 years and their last performance at the festival’s 25th anniversary was spectacular.

“Audiences set up to watch the show two hours beforehand so they could get the best seat,” Paula says.

“We’re now in the first stages of putting together our next big show for the festival and look forward to performing it for a second time at Cultural Fest this year. We also perform throughout the year on a smaller scale at corporate and community events in the region and

I’m running fire-twirling classes twice a week.”

In the past Paula says Woodenbong had been selective about who could and couldn’t join the group, so she set herself the mission to involve anyone of any size, shape, form or age who was committed to becoming a part of the tribe.

“We have long-standing members of 21 years, some who’ve been with us for 12 years, ‘newcomers’ who joined three years ago and some who’ve just joined this year,” Paula says.

“We even have two families of four.”

Woodenbong Fire Tribe have always delivered a unique theme-based performance, usually with a narration, tribal feel and driving drum beats.

They also love to invent show-stopping props such as fire-breathing dragons, flaming parasols and spinning planets.

“It’s very hard to say what my favourite show has been because no two have been the same but I feel our biggest achievement to date was our Sol Journey show in 2008 – a journey into the solar system,” Paula says.

“We have an extremely creative team of fire artists, stage managers, musicians and prop, lighting and costume designers and I’m in no hurry to retire.”

CONNECT NOW www.facebook.com/WoodenbongFireTribe

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