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April 2023
PUBLISHER
Leanne Hart
EDITOR
Nicole Madigan
JOURNALIST
Holly Bartter
DIGITAL PRODUCER
Laura Broad
CONTRIBUTORS
CREATIVE
Melinda Leu
PRINTING
Fast Proof Press, Nerang
CONTACT US
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My first book for adults is being published this year. I signed the book deal the year I turned 40. I’ll turn 42 a month after it comes out.
The completion of such an enormous project ignited something in me. The desire to do more. Perhaps return to study, create a podcast, write another book.
Learning, goal kicking, and achieving things, be they big or small, nourish one’s soul.
But often, we get so caught up in the trenches of life, that we relegate this stage of life to our twenties and thirties, leaving midlife and beyond to survive, rather than thrive. To dedicate to others – our children, our spouse, our parents.
That’s not to say we’re not enjoying our lives. But the prospect of designing our life, learning new things, and discovering ourselves doesn’t end at 40. Or 50. Or 60. Or 70, or even 80.
It’s what life’s all about.
That’s why this issue is extra special to me. It’s all about women who have transformed their lives after 40.
We also hear from a group of women who share the best advice they’ve ever received, the advice they’d give their younger selves.
We meet one woman, who pulled herself out of $100k of debt, only to become a millionaire later in life.
Whether it’s a new career, new love, a new qualification, a project, your first home, your tenth home, another new language, or a trip around the world – it’s never too late.
Life is more fulfilling when you’re learning, and doing, and loving, and living.
So, why stop now? Or ever?
I don’t plan to.
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Anti-aging. This whole concept amuses me. It’s not actually possible to stop aging. You can be as ‘anti’ it as you want. You can be strongly, vehemently, passionately opposed to aging – you are not able to stop it.
Well, there is one way to stop aging but it’s a little drastically permanent and you can only do it once (unless, apparently, you’re the son of God but I’ll get myself in trouble if I head down that path).
Since aging is inevitable – what people really mean when they say they are ‘anti-aging’ is that they are ‘anti’ looking old. This is a little more complicated, not everyone of the same age looks the same amount of ‘old’.
Genes, lifestyle, environment, how many glasses of Sauvignon Blanc you had the night before, all contribute to how ‘old’ you look today.
There are things you can do, from drinking more water to slathering your face in rare Himalayan yak placenta to make yourself look a little younger. This is what people pay the big bucks for. This is why celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow openly ‘embrace’ being 50 - because they look 30 and they can sell a bunch of slightly crazy products and practices to help YOU with your own ‘anti-looking old’ journey. One of which is herbal steaming of your va jay jay for internal cleansing and vitality. HARD PASS.
Looking younger is a mixed bag of success. But joy of joys! FEELING younger is entirely possible. Having more muscle (weight training), moving more (walking, cycling, swimming), fuelling yourself better (more greens, less wine) will ALL make you feel younger.
Trying a new activity, hanging out with new people, learning a new skill/language – this will make you feel younger. Life does begin today but work with what you can control. You may or may not be able to achieve ‘looking younger’ but ‘feeling younger’ is 100 per cent possible and need not cost any money!
Get moving, thinking, creating people. Because for everyone there is a day when we stop aging, we just need to make sure that we keep LIVING until then.
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Author
“The best piece of advice is to cultivate a sense of gratitude – focus on being thankful every day and in as many ways as you possibly can. This advice first came to me when I was going through a difficult time and I thought I was powerless to do anything about it.
Being grateful has helped me to focus on the positive and find the beauty in life, and having this positive attitude brings peace and joy to my regular days and makes it easier to overcome both minor and major challenges that come along.”
“I share this advice with others, and often! I think people forget how powerful this simple perspective is and everyone appreciates a little reminder now and thenmyself included!”
“It’s so important to listen to each other and don’t let the little things get in the way of being happy – don’t hold grudges! Life is too precious to be angry at each other. When I was younger and earlier on in my marriage, I could only see other people’s faults and not mine - I came to realise that no one is perfect, including myself.”
“I became more tolerant and accepted other ideas and opinions. I share this advice with my children and grandchildren - the sooner you realise it, the more peaceful your life becomes. This all comes from life experience, people can tell you something but you have to live it too!”
Karla J Noland Author & Speaker
“My number one piece of advice is ‘You can’t plant the seed and eat the fruit the same day’. The mantra stems from a quote from awardwinning author Fabienne Fredrickson, and it reminds me that if we are not careful, we can get so focused on the destination that we are overlooking the growth and lessons learned from the journey.”
“Seeds need to be nurtured, watered, and receive adequate sunshine for optimal growth to bear fruit. By living out this mantra, I can take it easy on myself and give myself more selfcompassion by taking steps one day at a time to work toward my goal. I find myself sharing this advice with young women in particular - I think so many of us can get focused on reaching our goals that we become discouraged by setbacks or challenges. Growth takes time!”
“My standout advice is ‘You have to nourish in order to flourish.’ I’ve learnt that nourishing ourselves doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or costly process. I like to take time to close my eyes and inhale the smell of freshly ground coffee in the morning and take the time to look into my dogs eyes while they shower me with love! Nature has provided us with so many incredible ways we can nourish our minds and bodies. Sometimes all it takes is a few seconds to find something to focus on to nourish and refresh ourselves.”
“When helping my clients find their ideal skin solution I always incorporate a touch of luxury into their routine to help them flourish and turn an everyday routine into an indulgence. Working within the beauty industry has clarified ways to provide this nourishment in our everyday lives.”
Four women over 40 share their insights.
Have you been given a piece of advice that you really resonated with? Get It Magazine chats to four women from different walks of life to hear the advice they live by, and how they pay it forward to others.
What would you do if you had a choice between the path that no longer services you or finding a better tomorrow?
What would it take for you to make change? Who would it impact? What is possible and what is not?
So many thoughts and options would go through your mind and at the end of it…there is only one question to ask.
What is the worst that can happen?
You are in a job that you are not happy with, your partner and kids complain that you are never present and you get blamed for everything. Work overwhelms you and a few times a year, you punch out and take off with your mates to ‘escape’ the world you live in, leaving an angry family unit. Inside, you are empty. There is no more job satisfaction, and this has in turn affected how you respond to your home situation and you are just over it.
You are not satisfied with work and your partner is not satisfied with you! You want to run away.
So what are the options available to you?
• Do you stay at your job?
• Do you leave your partner?
If you continue the way you are going, results show that high levels of stress and continued dissatisfaction can not only impact your mental wellbeing, but also your overall health.
Something has got to give.
When we are so close to the ‘mess’, sometimes the ability to navigate a pathway to find a solution evades you. You need to step back, take a breath and reflect on what you need…what your heart tells you and not what your mind dictates. We are so often in our heads that we forget to get in tune with our hearts, the core of who we are not what we are.
One small shift, like how you work, can take all the pressure off, which can have a positive ripple effect in all aspects of your life.
What do you need to shift to have a better tomorrow?
More and more Australians are turning to injectable treatments instead of going under the knife, according to a leading cosmetic surgeon.
According to Dr Vivek Eranki of Cosmetique, patients are concerned that cosmetic surgery is not only expensive, it is also permanent and comes with risks.
“Injectable treatments such as filler, wrinkle relaxants and fat dissolving are virtually instant however they are not permanent and their level of treatment can be adjusted according to the desired aesthetic outcomes of the patient,” Dr Eranki said.
“Further, they can also be administered on a gradual basis, allowing the patient to dip their toe in the water so to speak,”
Here’s why Dr Eranki says injectable treatments are preferable to invasive cosmetic surgery.
Depending on the procedure and individual, you could be enjoying the effects of your treatment for around three months or so on average.
If for any reason you decide that you would like to change your look at your next appointment, you can do this. This is the beauty of injectable treatments, they can be adjusted as you need to achieve a different look or outcome.”
There are a number of different injectable treatments available and the cost is small compared to cosmetic surgery which can cost into the tens of thousands.
You don’t actually go under the knife. No scalpel, no down time! If you were to get a face lift, you would be looking at nearly a month in terms of full recovery. And don’t forget, during this time you would be feeling very uncomfortable, with lots of bruising and heavy bandaging to keep the swelling under control.
And of course, there’s that safety knowing that with injectables, you’ll come out of the procedure still looking like yourself – but better.
Injectables are so effective that the results are often just the same as more invasive procedures such as cosmetic surgery, but without the risk, down time, cost and lack of ability to change your mind.
In recent years, mined diamond alternatives have been on the rise as we grow more sustainability focused. There have been three main contenders: lab grown diamonds, moissanites and cubic zirconia (CZ). All made in labs, making them a more sustainable and less expensive alternative to mined diamonds, but what is the difference between them?
Lab grown diamonds, like mined diamonds are real diamonds as they have the same crystal structure and beautiful sparkle as natural diamonds. On the Mohs scale which measures the hardness of the stone mined diamonds and lab grown diamonds are a 10, making them ideal for daily wear. Cubic zirconia’s are only 8.5 which means after a few years of wear, it will start to show scratches and imperfections. CZ will also absorb oils from the skin, leading to quicker deterioration and a cloudy stone.
Diamonds are notorious for their sparkle and shine, so is it possible to get the same effect with a diamond alternative? The short answer is, yes, lab grown and mined diamonds have the same sparkle.
Lab diamonds are cut in the same way as an earth diamond which creates more lustre. Diamonds also reflect three kinds of white light, which gives them their shine, while CZ’s only reflect one kind of white light, so it will shine, but not quite as bright. Lab grown diamonds test as a diamond as they are made from a diamond, CZ and moissanites will not test as a diamond as they are a simulant without the properties of a diamond.
Despite being colourless, moissanites can still throw yellow or grey hues, the larger the stone, the more noticeable this colour is. Compared to colourless diamonds, which don’t do this and this gives a bright white appearance. CZ’s can also be made colourless, or any other colour you would like.
When it comes to price, lab grown diamonds offer massive savings when compared to mined diamonds. CZ is the most affordable because they are mass produced and have a short life-span, often only lasting two years. Lab diamonds, however, are priced using the same metric as mined diamonds, looking at the cut, carat, shape, colour and clarity. Meaning, the better the quality of stone you choose will have a direct impact on the price.
CTJ Bundall has the largest selection of lab grown diamonds and diamond alternatives at Australia’s best prices. To find your perfect stone, call into the Bundall showroom and see for yourself.
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1. Can you give us a snapshot of your big life shift?
When I was 40, I hit rock bottom. I found out I was pregnant at 38 just a couple of weeks after my relationship broke up –I went through my darkest days. I effectively became a single mum and I was at the point of wanting to take my own life, but I knew I couldn’t risk anything happening to my baby.
At that moment, I decided to get my physical and mental health on track – I wanted to be a happy, healthy and engaged parent.
I became a personal trainer and studied nutritional medicine, and then I started my own business. I’ve been a single mum for 12 years now, and I’ve continued to learn and grow and develop myself further, and supporting other women to harness the magic of their body, mind and soul.
Last year I relocated from Orange NSW to the Gold Coast - my 40s were incredible, and my 50s will be amazing too.
2. What’s your advice to women over 40 who are looking to transform their lives?
You’re never too old and it’s never too late! So often women accept where they are in life as their only way of ‘being’, simply because they’ve become caught up in their role of wife, partner, mother, career woman or carer of everyone and everything else and they forget who they are. Transformation doesn’t have to be scary or hard, think of it as an adventure.
From finding love to kicking career goals, Get It Magazine’s Holly Bartter sits down with four inspirational women to hear how they took the reins of their lives to make big changes in their 40s and beyond.
1. Tell us about your life transformations - you’ve been through more than one change through your 40s.
When I was 36 I quit nursing after 16 years and bought a farm - inspired by a permaculture course. I knew I was born to be a healer, and wanted to start helping people at the grassroots starting with their food intake. The next 6 years was a journey of discovery learning how to be a farmer and applying it to my 101 acres - I turned my sandy patch into a thriving pasture through permaculture principles. I loved living off the land but it was very hard work!
In 2012 I met the girl of my dreams, and we did the long-distance thing, but the farm was demanding and there was always something to be done. My partner Suzie came to me one day and said “I do not want to be a farmer.” This was another massive turning point in my life, I chose Suzie over the farmer life.
I knew we wanted to be somewhere warm for our next move, so we decided on the Sunny Coast and fell in love with a petfriendly house in Buderim. One of my friends, Lorraine, introduced me to intuitive medicine and told me I needed to learn this therapy, so I went all in and studied to become a business owner in this space. There were a number of hills to climb going from being a nurse to starting a holistic health clinic, but the thing that kept me going was seeing the positive results in the lives of my clients.
My clinic flourished and I furthered my education to become an instructor, and my wife and I got married in 2018 and we’re on a mission to share our knowledge with the world.
2. What inspires you today?
I have a two year old and he is my biggest motivator to stay physically fit so that I can keep up with him. I want to be a role model to him that I am living the life I am here to lead, and I want to create a legacy that he will be proud of. !
1. What happened when you turned 40 that prompted you to take stock of your life?
Prior to turning 40 I was a shell of a person, trying to keep up appearances and hold it all together. I lived in my head, continually reflecting on the past and worrying about the future. Fast forward 12 years, and my life is no longer a daily struggle. I have a deeper understanding of who I am, what inspires me and how I can contribute to the world. The turning point occurred in my early 40s following a spur-of-the-moment travel adventure to the USA and Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, that could be likened to Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love.
I was flying by the seat of my pants, and it resulted in the best six weeks of my life. Returning home was beyond difficult, but I pulled myself together and reflected on what made my holiday so special - I was surrounded by like-minded people and doing things I enjoyed.
I filled my days with creative activities and listening to and reading inspirational
content, and the lectures and books I’d been drawn to were centred around the power of the subconscious mind. It provided me with the information and tools I needed to uncover my life’s calling - I began implementing this information immediately. And that’s when my life started to change dramatically, and quickly, in my early forties. These resources became the foundation for my work as an author, content curator and facilitator for self-transformation and my Build a Life You Love Workbook Series.
2. What’s your advice for someone going through similar struggles to what you’ve experienced?
Changing your experience of life needs to come from within. Most people attempt to transform their life by modifying their external circumstances. A new job, relationship, environment or diet may provide temporary relief, but eventually the unwanted scenarios and circumstances that you are trying to avoid reappear. Lasting, positive change will only occur by doing ‘inner work’.
1. Can you tell us about your life transformation and how it unfolded?
In my early 40s I was at my lowest, no identity, no career, no money and no self-worth. I was over the dating apps. I returned home late one night after trying something new - a “speed dating” event. I sat down and shook my head. “What the hell was that?” I said to myself. It was nothing it promised to be and I had spent the night just walking around trying to find the next person I was to meet.
I saw an opportunity and by saving a little of each pay, I started the research process to discover what would make other singles over 40 walk away thinking “that was a really great night”. Something that gives them more than just a “night out”. Something that rewards them for being brave and attending an event for the first time and leaves them with a wonderful memory.
I now organise and run exclusive Singles Over 40 through my business, Steppin’ Out Events. A glam night of great food, music and conversationconnecting singles with hundreds of like-minded people.
2. What are some misconceptions about turning 40 that you can “myth bust” for us?
“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” would have to be my favourite mythbut there are so many. You won’t make new friendships, you should forget about finding someone special, you are too old to wear sexy clothes or a bikini. In reality, it only gets better and you are hardly past your prime! At 40, you are focused, determined and know what you want. You have evolved, have life experience and an understanding of the ‘no BS’ rule.
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For many women, overcoming debt can be an isolating and daunting experience. Get It Magazine speaks to Sandy Forster, founder of Wildly Wealthy, to talk about the journey from being $100,000 in debt and on welfare to running her own successful business and living a life she once only dreamed of.
What was life like for you in your early 40s, and what was your vision for the future at that point?
I met a boy in high school, went out with him for 11 years, then married him. Within a few years ended up divorced with a 3 year old and a 6 month old. With the money from our property settlement, I made a series of bad choices and experienced a series of money challenges.
From starting businesses that went further into debt each year, investing in the share market and losing the lot, joining an investment club just before it went bankrupt and getting financial advice from people who really didn’t know what they were talking about, I really didn’t respect or take care of my money. By the time I was in my early 40s I’d made every money mistake possible – except going bankrupt. By this time I was $100,000 in debt and on welfare, ashamed of my situation and very scared about my future.
How common do you feel it is for people to be in significant debt and not have others in their network aware of what’s going on?
People around me definitely didn’t know I lived in constant struggle. My entire life revolved around money or, more precisely, the lack of it. I knew I was a good person, so why was my life such a shambles? What had I done to deserve this? I felt embarrassed, ashamed, frustrated, guilty, angry, scared… you name it, I felt it.
What was your “turning point”, and at what age did you begin to take action to turn your life around?
I spent my late 30s and early 40s struggling with my finances and super stressed, while discovering and then becoming passionate about anything to do with personal development and success. I read every book I could get my hands on, listened to all the audios, and attended seminars whenever I could. Although my situation didn’t improve at first, my mindset and attitude did and at first I simply began to feel my life could be different. However, things really changed when I discovered life coaching - I trained to be a coach (after borrowing the money to do the course), and incorporated practical strategies into my business and things began to turn around.
My accountant and I went into business together, and I hit the big time when I woke up one morning with the name ‘Wildly Wealthy Women’ in my head. A few months later I’d launched a national mentoring program of the same name where I taught mindset and my business partner taught practical strategies and it was a massive success and we made close to $2 million in the first few months.
It didn’t really hit me until the blender I was using to make my morning smoothies blew up. I went to buy a new one and as I was standing there looking at all my options, I realised I could buy any blender I wanted, I didn’t have to just choose the cheapest!
What lifestyle changes did you make to reduce your debt?
I was $100,000 in debt and receiving $15,000 a year in welfare, so to say I was money challenged is an understatement - I didn’t have a lot to spend to start with. Before I got serious about improving my financial situation, I used to put everything on credit card because I figured I was already so far in debt it didn’t matter. Eventually I realised being frugal was a powerful practical mindset and action I could take which would allow me to eventually create wealth. I wasn’t spending much because I didn’t have much. A big night out was a Domino’s pizza between the 3 of us and a rented movie –that was a splurge!
What are the first steps you’d recommend to anyone in debt who is looking to turn it around?
Don’t just ‘dip your toe in’, make the decision to do whatever it takes. Find a mentor or someone you resonate with who has already achieved your dream or goal, follow their footsteps, whether that’s listen to their free podcast or read their books, take them out for coffee to pick their brain, or attend their events or join their courses, whatever suits your schedule and finances. I know from my own experience it will save you so much time, energy and money to learn the shortcuts and to avoid the mistakes from someone who has ‘been there, done that it’s so worth it.
I feel extremely blessed with my life. I went from welfare to millionaire and now I Iive in a divine home on a beautiful acreage oasis with spring fed dam and wild kangaroos that feed off my grass every afternoon. I like to say I went from stressed to bliss, but in reality, life can be messy, so it’s not always perfect, but compared with how it was when I was on welfare, it feels pretty blissful to me!
I live a life I once only dreamed of and I’ve created a business in the personal empowerment industry doing what I love - it doesn’t get any better than that for me.
“PEOPLE AROUND ME DEFINITELY DIDN’T KNOW I LIVED IN CONSTANT STRUGGLE. MY ENTIRE LIFE REVOLVED AROUND MONEY OR, MORE PRECISELY, THE LACK OF IT.”
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Baker and Co provide a luxury travel concierge service to take the stress out of holidays and give you more time to relax. The company was founded by Cathy Baker, a luxury travel veteran who has been working in the industry for over 30 years. Her commitment to travel was passed on from her parents who both worked in aviation and travel industries.
Baker and Co Concierge Travel has rebranded after operating as Helloworld Travel Hope Island for 14 years. During COVID-19 Cathy and her team were forced into being home-based which has led to the transition into Baker and Co in November 2022. Now, Baker and Co have agents placed all over Queensland, including Bundaberg, Brisbane, and of course, here on the Gold Coast. Despite being located amongst world-class beaches and restaurants, Baker and Co give a window to the world driven by passion.
The concierge service is designed to manage and plan all aspects of your travel, including hotel and flight bookings, but also restaurants, activities, even your shopping trip! Baker and Co are there to make sure your trip is planned to perfection and runs smoothly, and are there to be your advocate.
Cathy Baker has always had a passion for high quality travel, and specialises in luxury travel. With access to all the best luxury travel and insider knowledge, Cathy and the team at Baker and Co are sure to find and customise your perfect vacation.
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From honeymoons and extended journeys to family holidays, curate your holiday of a lifetime, with the help of Baker and Co’s travel experts to tailor make your individual itinerary.
or visit the website www.bcctravel.com.au
Your mother deserves the best, so treat your Mum (and yourself) at with one of the following destinations, guaranteed to give you a break from the everyday.
Words: Charmaine Yabsley
Escape to The Star Gold Coast with 20 per cent off luxury accommodation at The Star Grand or The Darling for an ultimate autumn getaway. The Sundowner STARcation includes a daily $50 dining credit, daily breakfast for two, and late check out until 12.00pm. Enjoy the last of the summer’s rays and head to the Star’s exclusive Isoletto pool club for some well-deserved time out.
Sundowner STARcation at The Star Gold Coast; from $378 per night. (www.thestar.com.au)
Is a holiday really a holiday if you still have to parent? Get away from it all (and everyone) with an adults-only break to Mt Quincan Crater Retreat, where you’ll find six luxe cabins perched in the rainforest on the Atherton Tablelands. Ahh, the serenity.
We love kids, but everyone needs some grown-up time. Thankfully, Sailaway in Port Douglas (www.sailawayportdouglas. com) has an adult-only half-day sail to the Low Isles that hits the “pick me” button. Think tiny atoll dusted with swaying palms encircled by a fringing reef that jags a hit list of marine creatures in every colour of the rainbow. Add a 1pm departure for a late sleep in and this could just top the list.
One for foodies, vino lovers, or anyone who loves a good day out with friends; Tash Maree Travel has launched a Deluxe Wine Tasting Tour in the scenic Mt Tamborine. The tour – which includes door-to-door pick-up and drop-off service, a gourmet two-course meal and tasting platters –visits a world-renowned distillery, three wineries and Mt Tambourine Brewery & Cheese Factory, all with a glass of drink in hand.
www.tashmareetravel.com
Soak Bathhouse is the ideal place to while away a few pampering hours. Choose between Mermaid Beach or the newly opened Brisbane location, and let your stress float away. Make a morning of it and book in some treatments, infra-red sauna session or LED light therapy, all designed to help you feel your absolute best. It’s the wellness gift card your mum will love.
Buy online at soakbathhouse.com.au from $49.
Spoil mum this Mother’s Day with a special One Spa gift card from RACV Royal Pines Resort. Choose from a range of rejuvenating treatments for some well-deserved rest, relaxation, and pampering. Drift away during one (or two) of the spa’s deeply restorative treatments, such as the One Spa Advanced Performance Facial or the Knowing Touch face and body massage. End the perfect day with some downtime in the relaxation room with some herbal tea and contemplation.
Visit racv.com.au/rpr-one-spa.
Head to the magnificent HOTA Gallery on Mothering Sunday for a spectacular high tea at Pallette Restaurant, where the carefully prepared delicacies are an artwork in themselves. Enjoy a curated menu, balanced with savoury and sweet options including pumpkin spice macarons, Davidson Plum Danish and mulled wine fruit scones. Enjoy with Tavalon tea or a glass of Veuve Clicquot. Don’t miss the latest exhibitions too.
www.paletterestaurant.com.au
Surprise Mum this Mother’s Day with a fabulous picnic lunch whilst enjoying live music at the beautiful O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards. Enjoy a Mother’s Day Homestead Basket for Two ($110), which includes a delicious grazing platter (vegan and vegetarian options are available), plus any bottle of O’Reilly’s artisan wine and a special gift for Mum. Tuck into the delectable spread on the banks of the bubbling Canungra Creek, located right next door to Mountview Alpaca Farm. You can bring your own picnic blanket, or hire a private Creekside Long Table for 5 hours (various table sizes available).
www.oreillys.com.au
Journey with a Traditional Custodian and explore the Gold Coast’s “Dreaming Mountain” in a gift aimed at the whole family (particularly for kids between five and 12 years). The $25 Jellurgal Little Explorers includes an art workshop, activity book, and one adult can go along for free.
www.jellurgal.com.au/tours/jellurgallittle-explorers
Book a weekend away with your girlfriends and leave your responsibilities behind with a break that focuses on food and fun. The newly refurbished Mysa Hotel (Mysa means ‘cosy’ in Swedish), is a sevenbedroom boutique motel in Palm Beach, boasting a retro, boutique-luxe style, sustainable ethos, contactless check-in experience, iconic magnesium pool, and is perfectly positioned just across the road from the beautiful beaches and local cafes.
www.themysamotel.com
Spoil your Mum this Mother’s Day with a long lunch in Marriott’s Citrique restaurant, where award-winning seafood and locally harvested seafood is served for the ultimate sea to table experience. To finish, indulge in a fantasy array of artful desserts created by their talented pastry team. Sip champagne while you savour the sounds of the live entertainment. Best of all, every Mum receives a hand-crafted dessert for a sweet finish to their day.
Cost: $129 per person; $64 per child (5 - 12 years); 4 years and under complimentary
goldcoasttickets.com. au/event/mothersday-seafood-buffetin-citrique-17636
The question of how to regulate medicinal cannabis has been a major source of debate in many countries and continues to divide the public health community.
A team of researchers from Griffith University, Australian National University, University of Newcastle, University of Melbourne and University of Wollongong have come together to investigate multistakeholder views on the use of, and access to medicinal cannabis in Australia.
Focusing on three key areas, the study looked at public and industry preferences for medicinal cannabis, possibility of having medicinal cannabis products registered with the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and clinical trials to determine the baseline effectiveness of different cannabinoids and cannabis medicines.
Lead researcher Dr Daniel Erku from Griffith University said he was primarily looking at access for advanced cancer patients for management of pain and other symptoms.
“Poor symptom control, or intolerable adverse effects from PBS-listed medicines such as opioids has led to an increased interest in medicinal cannabinoids in supportive care in cancer,” he said.
“The use of medicinal cannabis is quite distinct because it’s usually people who have tried other medications listed on the PBS, but haven’t seen any benefit from those.
“These patients are usually nearing end of life, so there are compassionate grounds to gaining access to these products, but they are still bound by very strict and specific state and federal rules.”
Submissions from patients or family members claimed they had experienced obstacles in accessing medicinal cannabis products, pointing to various supply, regulatory, legislative, financial, and dispensing challenges that hindered timely access to medicinal cannabis products. Some even admitted they had resorted to illicit markets (also referred to as the ‘black’, ‘grey’ or ‘green’ market) to source their medicinal cannabis products, or self-producing for personal use, despite concerns about the legal repercussions and safety issues.
The stigma and prejudice associated with cannabis was also described as a challenge, with health professionals hesitant to openly discuss or prescribe medicinal cannabis products.
“While the government has made a series of reforms to the way these products are accessed, the current model is still not fit for purpose because it puts a lot of pressure on both prescribers and patients,“ Dr Erku said.
“In the short term we want to see at least some approved cannabis-based medicines accessible to patients for a reasonable price.”
Despite policy and legislative changes enabling health practitioners to prescribe cannabis-based medicines, the growing number of interested patients still struggle to access them.
As we get older, we see an increase in the number of chronic diseases and conditions such as stroke, osteoporosis, poor balance, diabetes, dementia and high blood pressure to name a few.
These diseases and conditions don’t discriminate either, with both males and females suffering as they age above 55 years.
The question often asked is WHY this is the case and WHAT can be done to slow the process. The good news is that the answer to both these questions can help keep us healthy and reap the most out of life while we age.
A 2009 study showed the two factors most important in determining mortality, functional independence and quality of life are one’s fitness levels, and muscle mass/strength.
Increased fall incidences in the elderly are often from a combination of weaker lower limbs, impaired reaction time, general loss of muscle mass and multiple medications, which in combination can lead to compromised balance.
Depression, anxiety and stress can also lead to psychosocial issues often due to social isolation.
So why has exercise been so helpful in preventing and reversing such states?
The benefits of structured, regular exercise programs using resistance, aerobic and balance training for this population has seen significant benefits across falls risk, mental health, cardiovascular disease and comorbidities. There are a number of components of exercise, each of which play a specific role in bettering health.
These include:
• Aerobic exercise: This is exercise specifically targeting the cardiovascular system (the heart muscle). Examples may include walking, stationary bike or anything that gets the heart rate up. Benefits of this exercise include improved fitness, cardiovascular health, weight management and prevention of chronic disease.
• Resistance training: This is exercise targeting our muscles, with examples including weights machines, bands and body weight exercises. Specific benefits include increased strength and muscle mass, improved bone health, reduced falls risk as well as improved mobility.
• Balance training: This, as the name states, looks at tailored exercises to challenge our proprioception and balance. Benefits of this include improved balance, heightened proprioception and a decrease in the number and severity of falls.
• Flexibility: Here we use stretches and gentle movements to improve the elasticity of muscles and joint range movement. Benefits of improved flexibility include better pain management, improved range of motion and reduced falls risk!
• Supervised group training: Here we focus on the social aspect. Not only does this help increase adherence to programs and keep us moving, it also provides the social aspect and make exercise fun!
So, if you’re looking to fight the ageing process it can be as simple as moving more and implementing exercise into our lifestyles. And the best news, it’s never too late to start! Be sure to speak to one of our experts to develop a program appropriate for your health needs. In addition to group training and at home exercise, supervised training 2-3 times a week is critical to ensure you are doing the right exercise for your needs, measuring your health outcomes and ultimately keeping you safe every step of the way.
Bundall Studio ph: 5538 4788
Southport Studio ph: 5679 2235
visionpersonaltraining.com
We are bringing a taste of New Zealand’s finest to the Gold Coast this month. These healthy and hearty recipes are perfect for Easter entertaining!
Cook time 4 hours
Serves 6
Ingredients:
• 1 Pure South Lumina Lamb Square Cut Shoulder (approx.2.2kg)
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tsp Coriander powder
• 2 tsp Cumin powder
• 2 tsp Garlic salt
• ½ tsp Chipotle powder, optional
• 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1 cup Bouillon
• 2 Cinnamon quills
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 2 Oranges, sliced
• ½ cup Superb Herb Coriander, roughly chopped
• 2 Avocados, mashed
• ½ Iceberg lettuce, shredded
• 5 Radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 Limes, cut in wedges
• 12 Corn tortillas, toasted
Method:
1. For the lamb: Preheat the oven to 160°C. Combine coriander, cumin, garlic salt and chipotle powder in a bowl, then rub all over the lamb shoulder.
2. Pour bouillon and apple cider vinegar into the bottom of a large casserole dish. Add cinnamon quills and lamb, then drizzle with honey and place orange slices over. Roast, covered for 4 hours, or until the meat easily pulls apart.
3. Remove lamb from the dish and use two forks to shred the meat. Discard the bones and cinnamon quills, then return the shredded lamb to the roasting juices. Keep the orange slices for serving.
4. To serve: Load tortillas with mashed avocado, shredded iceberg, radish slices, orange slices and pulled lamb. Garnish with spicy pumpkin seeds and fresh coriander. Serve with lime wedges.
Recipe courtesy of Regal New Zealand King Salmon
Ingredients:
• Cold Smoked King Salmon
• Wood Roasted King Salmon
• Black olives or green Spanish olives
• Brie, creamy blue cheese or swiss cheese
• Pistachio nuts or pine nuts
• Dried Kiwifruit
• Fresh blueberries
• Strawberries
• Manuka honey
• Quince paste
• Avocado Oil
• Avocado hummus
• Crackers
Prep time 10 minutes
Serves 6
Method:
The best platters are bursting with multiple combinations of textures and flavours to satisfy the diverse tastes of your guests. Salty and sweet, creamy and crunchy, hot and cold – these different combos make for an aesthetically pleasing and delectable arrangement.
Want to create the perfect platter? Tick all the boxes on this checklist and you will:
1. Anchor with a protein – wood roasted and cold smoked salmon elevate your platter and give guests a divine melt-inyour-mouth dining experience.
2. Choose an assortment of your favourite crackers – we love seed-based crackers that give an extra crunch.
3. Select 1 to 2 cheeses, hard or soft –we’ve chosen brie, it’s a classic.
4. Include a dip or sauce – we’ve chosen an avocado hummus to complement our cheese selection.
5. Arrange a variety of fruits and veggies – grapes, blueberries and cherry tomatoes are perfect for large gatherings and strawberries and kiwifruit bring a pop of gorgeous colour.
6. Detail with something salty – add a salty or briny element like olives and nuts to bring balance to your platter.
7. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary – this extra touch just makes your platter look all the more appetising!
Recipe courtesy of Regal Salmon
Ingredients:
• 4 portions of Salmon fillet on the skin (de-boned)
• 1 tsp chilli kelp
• 2 tsp sea lettuce
• 1 tsp dried kaffir lime leaves, finely ground
• 2 tsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1½ tsp rock salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Method:
1. Mix all dry ingredients and add olive oil.
2. Cover the Salmon portions generously.
3. On barbecue: Oil grill and grill indirect (No heat directly under the portion and lid down) at 180 – 200°C for 15 minutes.
4. In oven: Place portion in oiled pan and grill for 14 – 15 minutes on high.
Recipe courtesy of Fix & Fogg
Ingredients:
For the biscuits:
• 2 cups almond flour
• ½ cup cacao powder
• ¼ cup coconut oil
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup Fix & Fogg Everything Butter
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 cup cornflakes
Topping:
• 100g Dark Chocolate
• Walnuts
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 180C (350F) and line a baking tray.
2. Combine all of the dry ingredients (except cornflakes) in a large mixing bowl.
3. In a separate bowl melt together the coconut oil, honey or maple syrup and F&F Everything Butter on a low temperature on the stove or in the microwave.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and combine until a dough forms.
5. Stir through the cornflakes until they’re evenly distributed.
6. Roll into balls (this batch will make around 12) and place on prepared baking sheet, then flatten slightly.
7. Bake for 10 – 12 minutes and leave to cool completely before topping with melted dark chocolate. Pop a walnut on top and you’re all done!
Recipe courtesy of Fix & Fogg These recipes were brought to Australia shores from the New Zealand Trade & Enterprise Made With Care campaign. The NZ Made with Care initiative is designed to spread awareness for New Zealand’s supreme produce and spotlight the thoughtfully crafted and ethically manufactured food and beverages the country is famous for.
As more and more young people turn to vaping, creating a new generation of addicts, more people are calling for stronger restrictions and controls on the products, that appear to be designed to appeal to children with bright colours and fun flavours.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has recommended stronger border controls, pharmaceutical-like packaging with health warnings and stricter regulation of products.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) President Nicole Higgins welcomed the recommendations and urged the Government to go even further.
“Big Tobacco saw the writing on the wall, and they have adapted to profit from a new generation of nicotine users,” she said.
“These are many of the same tobacco companies that targeted young people for decades, and their tactics have not changed. They obfuscate, they fund research that could provide a smokescreen for a few more years, they draw in as many people as possible to give them a captive market. They attempt to mobilise users in the name of freedom-of-choice, while knowing that in pushing an addictive product, they’re robbing those same people of freedom.
While nicotine vaping products are only legal to obtain in Australia with a prescription, many users are obtaining them illegally. Many also have colourful packaging and most are flavoured to increase their appeal to users.
Dr Higgins said she feared young users will find it even more challenging to quit.
“Young people’s brains are still developing, and I’m concerned it will be even harder for them to quit nicotine than adult users,” she said.
“It would be nice to think child and adolescent use of vapes is an unintended side effect of cynical addiction-asmarketing strategies, but when the vapes we’ve seen have cartoon characters and the same tropes as children’s cereal on the packaging, these companies are either targeting children or not taking care to keep children safe.
“This has to stop. Vapes must be sold in plain, unappealing packaging, the contents must match the label and strong import controls must be put in place and enforced.
“There’s no benefit to vaping apart from a brief stop to your cravings, but that’s not news to anyone. If you want to quit, you can, and it’s a lot easier with support from family,
friends, and your GP. Your GP is trained in strategies that can help you take back control and support you when it’s tough, without judgement.
“So, if you are ready to take control back from vaping or smoking, your GP is there to help.”
While the RACGP has consistently warned of growing use of nicotine vaping products, new research has shown alarming uptake among children. Recent research by the Australian National University (ANU) and the Cancer Council’s Generation Vape research project indicates Australia may be at risk of losing ground on smoking cessation efforts:
• The ANU research found young nicotine vaping product users are three times more likely to start smoking than nonusers
• The ANU also observed that alongside addiction, young nicotine vaping product users risk poisoning, seizures, loss of consciousness from nicotine overdose, cough and throat irritation, and burns and other injuries from exploding batteries
• In a survey of 14 to 17-year-old children, the Generation Vape research project found 32 per cent reported having used a nicotine vaping product, 54% of whom had never smoked a cigarette
• Only 53 per cent of teens used a vape they knew contained nicotine, yet TGA testing of 314 products has found 264 contained nicotine, suggesting young users may be unknowingly being exposed to addictive chemicals.
“It’s very cynical, and with a disturbing level of vaping among children already, we need action now.”
Astrology is an ancient timing technique that constantly inspires with its cyclical nature, and Sarahʼs focus is to work the energetic weather-scapes to its highest forms and functions, allowing a greater understanding of life’s ebbs and flows.
Find out what’s in your stars, with popular astrologer Sarah Murphy. Connect with Sarah and request a personal reading at luminary-astrology.com; find her on Instagram @luminary_astro and Facebook ‘Luminary Astrology’.
Gemini
May 21 – June 21
Rebalancing your relationship between your creations and your audience is spot lit on April 6th. The full moon encourages expansion and healing due to Jupiter and Chiron being in aspect. The 2nd new moon in Aries in a month (Blue Moon) on April 20th re-enforces who your social networks and audience are as you readjust to Saturn and Pluto’s change of signs in March; which shakes up the status quo.
Taurus April 20 – May 20
Balancing your health and wellbeing sectors are important the full moon on April 6th. Buoyancy and healing are signatures of this lunation thanks to Jupiter and Chiron being in helpful aspect. The blue moon (2nd new moon in Aries) on April 20th is a chance to really nut out what hides in the darkness, which needs to come to light. Pluto beginning its transit of your career sector begins to transform what success and recognition is for you.
August 23 – September 22
The financial sector of your chart is where April 6th’s full moon works to rebalance your position in relation to resources. Jupiter and Chiron in aspect make this a healing and optimistic full moon. The new (blue) moon in Aries on April 20th sets you up so you are more in-tune with the March shifts of Saturn and Pluto, making this new moon a second chance to align with external resources.
June 22 – July 22
Your most public and private spaces are in the spotlight on April 6th with the full moon looks to find some balance between success and recognition in the public sphere and privacy and a healthy homelife. Jupiter and Chiron in aspect might be the balm that helps find balance. The new (blue) moon on April 20th in your career sector helps consolidate what is necessary from April 6th’s full moon.
Leo
July 23 – August 22
Communication and learning are the focus of the full moon on April 6th rebalancing and finding the sweet spot on how to both communicate, and education becomes less challenging, thanks to Jupiter and Chiron both healing and teaching effective ways to engage. The new (blue) moon in Aries on April 20th doubles down on teaching and communication as you adjust to large shifts of Saturn and Pluto in March.
Capricorn
December 22 – January 19
April sees a strong full moon on April 6th in your family and home sector you get recognition for what you have achieved or recognition in the public sphere. Jupiter and Chiron in aspect make this a healing and joyous lunation. April 20th is the 2nd chance to re-align your home and family situation with a 2nd new (blue) moon in Aries.
September 22 – October 23
The relationship sector of your chart houses the Libra full moon on April 6th. You are bringing your own needs into balance as you change the dynamics of your one on one relationships which is both healing and uplifting. A 2nd new moon in Aries (blue moon) on April 20th helps shift the focus of your relationships for the new Pluto and Saturn eras which began in March.
Scorpio
January 20 – February 18
Your communication and education sector will house a full moon on April 6th creating a restorative and healing lunation thanks to Jupiter and Chiron being in supportive aspect. April 20th is the 2nd new (blue) moon in Aries which is helping to integrate the changes of both Saturn and Pluto changing signs in March.
October 23 – November 21
Having a full moon in your soul sector on April 6th will be both insightful and healing as Jupiter and Chiron are in aspect at this lunation. A blue (2nd) new moon in Aries on April 20th will be a second chance to reset the balance between work and well-being as we adjust to the new Saturn and Pluto eras which began in March.
November 22 – December 21
The full moon is in your social sector on April 6th which brings healing and optimism through social settings and engagements. Chiron and Jupiter, your ruler is in aspect to this lunation which makes it more potent. April 20th is a 2nd new (blue) moon) in Aries helps align to your creative side. Allowing for you to adjust your focus after both Saturn and Pluto changed signs in March.
February 19 – March 20
The full moon on April 6th is a full moon in your resource sector highlighting ways to improve your relationship to finance and resources. Jupiter and Chiron in aspect make this a healing and optimistic lunation. The New (blue) Moon in Aries on April 20th helps integrate the changes of both Saturn and Pluto who changed signs in March. The new moon realigns your relationship to income and self-worth.
March 21 – April 19
The full moon in your relationship sector highlights optimism and healing energy around your one on one relationships, thanks the moon’s aspecting Jupiter and Chiron. The 2nd new moon in Aries (blue moon) on April 20th gives a chance for you to reconfigure how you are seen by the world now that Pluto is starting to evolve and transform your social sector.
