HS15 WINTER

I’M YOURS, TAKE ME!

ISSUE #15 Winter 2024

CONNECTING COMMUNITY THROUGH STORYTELLING

HELLO SUNSHINE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #15 | Winter 2024 www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

Whale of

A WINTER

SAVVY

SURPRISING

SPIRITED

more than a magazine www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

In the heart of the Noosa Hinterland, Alsahwa Farm is an eco-lifestyle destination that curates products and provides education that harness our guiding philosophy of MIND. BODY. PLANET - an ethos that is intertwined with the Alsahwa Farm experience.

We are excited to launch our limited edition KITX x ALSAHWA activism tees. This collaboration has 3 styles available in a unisex mens cut.

Shop via QR code below.

www.alsahwa.com @alsahwafarm MIND. BODY. PLANET.

HELLO SUNSHINE WINTER DPS 24.indd 2

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THE TEAM

Editor’s Note

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inter is here, and we’re getting ready to have a whale of a time in more ways than one! The beautiful painting on our front cover by local artist Prudence Coburn is reminding me to book a boat trip or hit a coastal headland to appreciate these magnificent creatures as they travel through our backyard between June and November.

DEB CARUSO

PAUL BIRD

JOHN CARUSO

Deb has more than 30 years’ experience providing strategic communications and brand reputation advice to clients in the government, business and not-for-profit sectors. She started IN Publishing to connect the community through storytelling and is passionate about local businesses and hanging out with her boys John and Maximus.

Paul is the Publisher and co-Director of IN Publishing.

He has enjoyed a successful career spanning almost 40 years working in media and corporate communications industries and more recently, in the profit-forpurpose charity and business sector as an Independent Director and Corporate Advisor.

After 30 years in radio, John now runs the Everyone Has a Story: Conversations from the Sunshine Coast and Noosa podcast and in between being our writer, delivery driver and event MC; he spends time with his first love, recording a daily Drive program for regional radio while also raising his son Maximus.

PUBLISHER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PUBLISHER

WRITER/PODCASTER/MC

That’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to winter excitement, as you’ll discover within these pages.

This season is jam-packed with foodie, cultural and community events, including 10-day celebration of local produce, growers and chefs, The Curated Plate; incredible fashion and art spectacular the Australian Wearable Art Festival; the four-day Earth Sustainable Living Expo at Peregian Beach; cultural extravaganza Noosa Alive!; Christmas in July at Secrets on the Lake; the fantastic Namba Street Fair; Caloundra Cup Day at Sunshine Coast Turf Club; Greensmith Grocers’ Nourish Retreat; Mundubbera Blueberry Festival; and many other fun, innovative happenings.

Whether you live here or are visiting for a spot of winter sunshine, we hope you’ll get out and help support these amazing initiatives.

You’re guaranteed to have your heart warmed in return!

Bex

Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer Editor

FIND US @hellosunshinemag Keep in touch with our e-newsletter: www.hellosunshinemag.com.au

SPRING DEADLINES Bookings close: 12 August 2024 Art Deadline: 26 August 2024 hello@hellosunshinemag.com.au www.hellosunshinemag.com.au Hello Sunshine Magazine

ALI SMITH

DESIGN + OPERATIONS MANAGER Ali is our go-to girl when it comes to design, deadlines and digital.

An experienced graphic designer with nearly 20 years’ experience in advertising, magazines and publishing, she brings creativity and efficiency to the team.

When she’s not at her computer, you can find her on the water with her husband and three kids.

REBECCA JAMIESON DWYER

JAKKI GOODALL

EDITOR

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Rebecca is a writer, editor and communications consultant with a passion for connecting people and brands through storytelling. When she’s not writing or reading, you might find her moseying around cute hinterland towns, stomping along a forest track, or hanging out at the beach with her husband, two small kids and rascally sheepdog.

With 30 years’ experience in Marketing, Advertising, Sales and Promotions and an MBA, Jakki loves to connect with and develop local businesses which can be seen through her position on the Executive of the Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce as well as other local networks.

MICHELLE TAIT

MELANIE ROSETTENSTEIN

ACCOUNTS + ADMINISTRATION

SENIOR WRITER + MARKETING COORDINATOR

Melanie is a passionate storyteller with 17 years of experience in journalism, communications, and PR. When not writing, she can be found beachside attempting to further her ‘murfer’ (mother who surfs) career, in a remote camping location or cheering her kids on from the side of the sport’s field.

Michelle has a Bachelor of Business plus 30+ years’ Administration experience in both private and government sectors. She loves all things local, has a creative flair as a handbag designer and is passionate about sustainable fashion. She loves exploring the region with hubby Ian and puppo Daisy aka ‘Pocket Rocket’.

MILLIE ROBSON DESIGN

Millie recently completed a Bachelor of Design and now works as a freelance designer.

After spending her youth across the UK, USA, and Australia, she has called the Sunshine Coast home for almost a decade.

Naturally creative, Millie is passionate about graphic design and finds joy in sewing, cooking, and spending time at the beach.

HELLO SUNSHINE QLD SUNSHINE PANTRY! Enjoy a VIP experience with a passionately prepared menu featuring the best flavours from the region.

Secure your seat for this Savvy! Surprising! and Spirited! event as you explore Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry as part of The Curated Plate.

BRUNCH $59 with welcome drink, 10am-11.30am

LUNCH $89 Two courses with welcome drink, 1pm-3pm

Proudly presented by Hello Sunshine Magazine in association with FAN and Qld Sunshine Pantry.

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Scan the QR code to book your VIP experience now!

SAVVY SURPRISING SPIRITED

SAVVY

CONTRIBUTORS MATT GOLINSKI

HELEN FLANAGAN

MICHAEL BRENNAN

A highly regarded chef with a passion for simple, produce-driven cuisine based on seasonal, fresh local ingredients. Matt is an active member of the Slow Food movement, a champion of artisan producers and a generous mentor to keen young chefs. When he’s not cooking up stories for Hello Sunshine Mag you’ll find him at food festivals and giving back to the many charities he supports.

Noosa’s sophisticated charm, vibrant food culture and the magnetism of a subtropical paradise surrounded by national parks inveigled Helen’s manic world and flipped it on its side. She pursues the good life with gusto, instinctively understanding the joys of travel, the art of storytelling, a candid review and surviving another reno whilst thriving on the motto: Live! Laugh! Love!

The Director of Noosa Regional Gallery and Floating Land has been described as an ‘accidental curator’ as a prize-winning painter and sculptor who has moved from creating works to curating them. It all began when he opened The Trocadero Art Space in Footscray to build an arts community in the area. Sixteen years later it is still standing and we are lucky to now have him taking the arts to a whole new level in our region.

ALLY CHUCK

JENNIFER SWAINE

JACKIE HILLEGERS

Stylist Ally Chuck has a certification in Styling from The Australian College of Professional Styling, brings a wealth of knowledge in trends and forecasting, and has years of experience managing busy retail stores.

With her positive outlook, creative flair and lifelong passion for fashion, she loves working with the team to bring our fashion shoots to life by telling a story through clothes and accessories.

A born storyteller and connector of people, Jennifer works with a number of SMEs looking after their branding, marketing strategy, communications, PR and events.

As Chair of the Sunshine Coast Business Awards, Vice President of the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance and a Non-Executive Director of Visit Sunshine Coast, Jennifer proactively engages with local businesses on a daily basis.

Jackie holds Mindfulness Workshops, teaches Mindful Photography and is a Holistic Integrated Creative Arts Therapist & Holistic Counsellor. Her passion is working with children and teens to help them reduce stress and anxiety and increase self-love. She loves to create art and learn about the mind and brain from her Tewantin studio.

FOOD

FASHION EDITOR

ART

TRAVEL + LIFESTYLE

BUSINESS

MINDFULNESS

JODIE CAMERON

TONY COX

NIKKI FOGDEN-MOORE

Jodie is a city-turned-countryturned-coastal chick with a degree in Journalism & PR and a passion for events. Her 15+ years’ experience is diverse, including launching a macadamia nut farm! In her spare time, she’s beachside with her two tiny treasures and furry love Staffy x Red Cattle dog, Rudi.

After 25 years of sniffing, swirling, spitting and slurping various vinous temptations our drinks writer has decided that his future lies firmly planted on the consumption and storytelling side. Tony not only still enjoys consulting about wine and other beverages but is now part of the successful Kate Cox Real Estate Team at Reed & Co Noosa.

Proud local and lover of the outdoors Nikki is a highly regarded leadership expert, author, and speaker dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their peak performance and achieve optimal wellbeing. Nikki has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor to high-profile executives, entrepreneurs and athletes - and through her books, coaching programs and podcast, she assists others in finding balance, vitality and success in all aspects of life.

WRITER

DRINKS

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LEADERSHIP

WINTER 2024

MORE THAN A MAGAZINE Print | Digital | Social | Podcast | Events

We would like to acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional owners, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara people, whose country we create on, and we would like to extend our respect to their elders, both past, present and emerging.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER: Deb Caruso, 0428 853 224 deb@inpublishing.com.au PUBLISHER: Paul Bird ADVERTISING: advertising@inpublishing.com.au SUBSCRIPTIONS, EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS & DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES: hello@inpublishing.com.au Unit 12/ 2-6 Focal Avenue, Coolum Beach PO Box 542, Noosa Heads Q 4567 www.hellosunshinemag.com.au DISTRIBUTION: 20,000 printed copies available throughout the Sunshine Coast: Peregian to Caloundra and the hinterland, in locally designed and handcrafted magazine stands. Hello Sunshine Magazine is also supplied to local businesses and visitors through its tailored distribution process, including placement in key resorts.

18 SPIRITED

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Australian Wearable Art is back and we have exclusive VIP tickets with backstage passes to give away!

SURPRISING Prepare to be amazed by the young couple breathing new life into an old favourite - and scooping awards along the way.

Hello Sunshine Magazine is a free publication (subscriptions available) published four times per year

by IN Publishing, a business of IN Noosa Magazine Pty Ltd (The Publisher). All rights are reserved and the contents are copyright and may not be reprinted without the express permission of The Publisher. IN Noosa Magazine Pty Ltd ATF Hello Sunshine Magazine, their related companies and officers hereby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with copy information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of The Publisher, or any persons actions in reliance thereon.

Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication. Inclusion of any copy must not be taken as any endorsement by The Publisher. Views expressed by contributions are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

ON THE COVER 'My Cup of Tea'

by Prudence Coburn. @byprudencecoburn www.prudencecoburn.com Discover Prudence's art and read her story on page 10.

IN appreciation!

Our sister publication, IN Noosa Magazine is celebrating 10 years of connecting the community through storytelling.

We would like to thank all the local businesses that have supported us, the people who have shared their stories with us and the team members who have helped us grow.

FINALISTS 2022 SUNSHINE COAST BUSINESS AWARDS CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

Download the Everyone Has a Story: Conversations from the Sunshine Coast and Noosa podcast with 200+ interviews and fresh content regularly!

Including: Pat Ryan, Jon Coghill, Dan Munday, Brett Mills, Mark Webber, Amanda Yeates, Aldy Johnson, Matt Golinski and more!

HELLO SUNSHINE Magazine is printed on 100% recyclable paper.

Made with love. Please enjoy!

Hello Sunshine Magazine

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WINNERS 2019 SUNSHINE COAST BUSINESS AWARDS CREATIVE INDUSTRIES WINNERS 2021 SUNSHINE COAST BUSINESS AWARDS CREATIVE INDUSTRIES - LARGE BUSINESS

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SPIRITED Get ready for a Spring Fling at Spice Bar where we will be 'rosé-ing the bar' for a fresh and fabulous wine lunch!

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SAVVY Discover the magic of going on country with a purpose-led entrepreneur.

SPIRITED Get the city vibe for a wonderful winter wardrobe.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

MEGAN GILL

www.megangillportrait.com

LAUREN BIGGS

www.laurenbiggsphotography.com.au

IAN WALDIE

www.ianwaldie.com

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RYAN HAYWARD

www.ryanhaywardphotography.com

BARRY ALSOP

www.eyeswideopenimages.com

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

CHEERS TO COMMUNITY

Event: Winemakers Masterclass Venue: Maroochydore RSL The annual Travis Schultz Winemakers Master Class saw over 370 guests raise over $187,000 for SunnyKids, aiding vulnerable children on the Sunshine Coast.

Themed ‘A Day at the Winery,’ the wines were cold and the bidding was hot as guests enjoyed a four-course meal with fine Australian wines, winemakers and special guests. SunnyKids CEO, Kathleen Hope, said it would enable them to continue to provide critical support to children who desperately needed SunnyKids’ help.

PHOTOS: RAW LENS MEDIA

WEALTH OF WOMEN Event: Women’s Wealth Legacy Lunch Venue: Lanai Noosa The Mojo Maker Nikki Fogden-Moore brought together an inspiring panel of powerhouse women to share their journey to financial freedom. The room was buzzing with beautiful food and inspiring conversations to break down the barriers around discussing wealth for women - everyone was richer for the experience!

PHOTOS: EMPIRE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

OPEN CELEBRATIONS Event: Sunshine Coast Open Studios launch Venue: Old Ambulance Station, Nambour From shoemakers to sculptors; painters to potters; printmakers, upcyclers and fibre artists - excited artists and supporters gathered to celebrate the launch of Open Studios Sunshine Coast and an exhibition featuring the works of more than 70 artists participating in the 2024 event.

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

Tag yourself and your friends at our events #hellosunshine Hello Sunshine Magazine

@hellosunshinemag 8

hellosunshinemag

SPIRITED

FASHIONABLE FESTIVITIES!

Event: IN Noosa Magazine launch Venue: Noosa Festival of Surfing

PHOTOS: DOWN THE LINE PRODUCTIONS, MELISSA HOAREAU PHOTOGRAPHY& DEB CARUSO

IN Noosa Magazine’s autumn launch combined all the things we love about Noosa - surf, sun, food and fashion!

A capacity crowd enjoyed the free fashion show featuring local models and designers strutting their stuff on the sandy catwalk before clients and supporters enjoyed delicious local dishes by chef Wayd Bailey and flicking through the latest 180-page edition, hot off the press!

CUP CREDENTIALS

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2.

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Event: Caloundra Cup Launch

Venue: Atrium Bar, Sunshine Coast Turf Club Supporters of the 2024 Caloundra Cup were joined by horse trainers, owners and Melbourne Cup royalty to launch the event with Sky Racing’s Paul Joice and Kiaarn Dickens (1) hosting a candid Q&A with esteemed trainer Anthony Freedman; jockey Michael Rodd (5); and young guns of the racing world, Billy Healey, James Healy, and Taylah MacKinnon (4). Marketing Manager Taryn Delaney (2) announced proceeds from the day would go to Wishlist with CEO Lisa Rowe (3) saying it will aid its lifesaving work on the Sunshine Coast.

Send your event to hello@inpublishing.com.au

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PHOTOS: RYAN HAYWARD

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Visit www.hellosunshinemag.com.au for more social pics and the latest events.

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WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

For us land-walking mammalians, the life of our underwater counterparts is somewhat of a mystery — and for our Winter cover artist, Prudence Coburn, her fascination runs deep.

Jodie Cameron discovers the inspiration behind Prudence’s oceanic adventures with a paintbrush…

BRINGING STORIES TO THE

e c a f r Su

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f you have been lucky enough to witness any sea creature in its natural habitat, you will appreciate their almost prehistoric presence. Our front cover artist, Prudence Coburn, combines her love of surfing and a deep affinity for the ocean to bring their stories to the surface – with a gentle focus on deepening our appreciation for preserving and protecting their magic for generations to come.

Growing up in rural Victoria, frequenting her family’s beach house as a child is where Prudence’s love of marine life and seascapes began.

“I have always loved the ocean, and I have always had a deep love of the arts, so I am naturally drawn to anything creative,” she says. “My family are very loving of the arts too, so I was exposed to this world from an early age; which helped me see it as a viable career path.”

In her final year of high school, Prudence exhibited a sculpture as part of the National Gallery of Victoria’s (NGV) Top Arts exhibition – a highly-esteemed platform for the next generation of innovative artists to showcase their spirited, talented and passionate works.

“Having my sculpture at The Ian Potter Centre at the NGV has been a huge highlight in my career, and recognition that my hard work paid off,” she says.

After graduating from high school, Prudence went on to study a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Sculpture) at Melbourne University’s College of the Arts where she refined her sculpture practice while dabbling in other mediums such as photography, painting and drawing.

Hello Sunshine Magazine

PHOTO: JANE PENNANT

“Being able to visualise and sketch to develop my ideas benefited my sculpture practice, and after graduating I took a break from sculpture and really leaned into painting,” Prudence says.

After finishing university and moving to the coastal town of Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road, Prudence learned how to surf and this was a catalyst for her deep dive into painting the captivating sea life that lurked beneath her.

“I fell in love with surfing very quickly – it’s really special being out there with the solace of the ocean, in the waves and connecting with all the elements of sea life,” she says. “It’s been a huge motivation for my work and I often paint after these experiences.”

Fast forward three years and life on the Sunshine Coast is a constant source of inspiration for Prudence, who draws on the natural world around her to create contemporary visual works of art from 10

her home studio in Buderim.

“My paintings are deeply influenced by my surroundings; so after moving to Queensland, I shifted my focus to the spectacular coastlines, plants and animals,” she says. “I have really found my niche in the natural world here and will often see dolphins or spotted eagle rays playing in the shallows while walking my dog along Mudjimba Beach.”

Happy spending time on her own exploring and creating, Prudence finds painting to be quite meditative, and often loses track of time when she becomes focused on a piece.

“These breathtakingly beautiful creatures are also living a meditative, tranquil life in the ocean and we can forget about them because we don’t see them all the time,” she says. “This is why I love painting them – they bring perspective because of the power and intensity they have over us as humans,

so painting them is like bringing them to the surface of people’s minds.”

Prudence has a soft spot for whales – you simply cannot erase the first time you see a whale breach in all its magnificent glory and the sheer joy they evoke when witnessing a mother frolick while teaching her young. It’s truly magical, and Prudence has captured their utmost beauty in our cover image My Cup of Tea. “I love creating versions of advocacy by interweaving a sense of spirit to make them more approachable – it will often lead to conversations about global warming and captivity, to shark nets, with the creatures I paint in vessels.

There is that side to sea life and sometimes my art can draw attention to

Musing

Blue Ribbon

My Cup of Tea

When you encounter sea life in their natural surroundings, you feel this instant connection – like you are the only one witnessing them in that moment in time, and there’s something really precious about that. this, but not in an aggressive way.”

Prudence says advocating respect for these creatures is so important because they deserve respect as much as anyone, and despite their power, they still have a place and are keeping the ocean alive.

“When you encounter sea life in their natural surroundings, you feel this instant connection – like you are the only one witnessing them in that moment in time, and there’s something really precious about that,” she says.

“We are on land seeing amazing things all the time, but there’s a whole other world down there, and there’s so much we don’t know about it; that vastness can sometimes be intimidating, so I lean into that.”

Largely using acrylics to explore themes of calmness, solitude, depth, collaboration, warmth, beauty, strength and vulnerability, Prudence says a painting is much easier to approach than a living creature, so she creates layers of detail to build contrast and texture that replicate the complexity of these animals.

“Acrylics have my heart; they give so much flexibility to work with and form so many finer details that from afar it’s almost realism, but as you get closer you see not just the intricacies of the layers, but the intricacies of the sea creature and their skin, spots, and unique markings – all the elements of the different brush strokes at play,” she says.

There’s an element of minimalism to Prudence’s artwork – she keeps the background neutral or with minimal landscape so the eye is drawn to the sea creature and not lost.

“A lot of people assume the space around the creature is the water, so by using a spatula, I can create much more contrast, texture and dimension.”

Prudence also likes working with silver and gold aluminium leaf – placing it on the dorsal fins of great white sharks and bull sharks to shine a conscious light on shark finning.

“I called this series Worth their Weight in Gold – sharks need their fins for survival and this gold leaf draws attention to the value of their fins while 11

opening up the conversation about why it’s happening; some people might already have an idea, but if they don’t then its creating a gentle awareness of the issue,” Prudence explains. “Whereas, I use the silver leaf to represent a reflection of water and movement. I like focusing attention on flow; especially with sea creatures because a lot of their movement creates an element of grace and fluidity.”

Like the vastness of the ocean, with its ebbs and flows, art can elevate our thinking to a higher level regardless of age – which is why Prudence has also moved into making art prints.

“I found offering art prints at a lower price has been a valuable way for the younger generation to own art they can appreciate and admire, when they can’t necessarily invest in an original piece.” .

When inspiration strikes, whether she’s in her pyjamas or getting creative after a casual day of work at Stevens Street Gallery in Yandina or Flock Interiors in Pacific Paradise, Prudence is endeared by how welcoming the Sunshine Coast art community has been.

“So many opportunities have come from being part of these artists’ collectives,” she says. “I think a lot of artists would agree when you sell an artwork you’ve spent so much time loving, then hating and then loving again, letting go can be hard – but I am so grateful when someone values my work in the same way I do and appreciates it enough to buy it so they can see it every day of their lives.

“That’s the biggest compliment I could ever receive.” www.prudencecoburn.com WINTER 2024

Your Foodie Destination Discover over 25 dining and entertainment venues on the Riverwalk Visit Horton Parade Maroochydore or sunshineplaza.com

SURPRISING

Sunshine Plaza with its array of eateries and fabulous indoor and outdoor activities makes it an easy destination where friends can gather and families can relax, as Melanie Rosettenstein discovers.

Fun!

D

espite the best intentions to get away from it all over the holidays, sometimes we still need a bit of extra entertainment and foodie delights to keep boredom at bay. For a quick and easy escape, grab the keys and head to Sunshine Plaza for some easy peasy lemon squeezy fun.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

FOREVER

BCC Cinemas Grill’d

Plaza Pontoon

With more than 25 dining and entertainment venues, Sunshine Plaza is always humming with activity.

Besides the abundance and diversity of stores for every taste and budget, there are some fantastic dining venues which, when coupled with one of the centre’s exhilarating entertainment options, makes for a great day out with your friends or family.

What’s more, with ample parking onsite, you won’t have to battle it out to find a place to park your car.

Do you have what it takes to take on the high ropes? Put your nerves to the test and reach new heights across seven challenging high ropes with Next Level.

Located overlooking Cornmeal Creek, start on level one, the Sunshine Scramble, and progress through the ranks to level seven, Next Level Ninja. Are you, your mates, or your kids brave enough?

You’ll have to see!

If you’re after something a bit more sedate (or romantic), then Plaza Pontoon with its paddle boats, mini speed boats, solar electric boats, kayaks and stand up paddle boards is ideal for a little bit of outdoor water-based fun, especially on a sunny winter’s day. Use this as a chance to explore Cornmeal Creek and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Weather not conducive to outdoor activities? Get your crew together for

Fishbowl a Red Lock Escape Room experience.

This fun and interactive challenge can be played with two to six players and will transport you into another world. Work together to find the clues, solve the puzzles and escape before time runs out.

If you are now ravenous, Sunshine Plaza has heaps of options from quick bites to casual dining that will not only fill hungry bellies but also satisfy all tastebuds with a smorgasbord of international foodie offerings.

Sushi lovers will be delighted with Wara Sushi which uses only the freshest ingredients created by the best chefs.

Grill’d, located along the Riverwalk, delivers great tasting, freshly-made meals, burgers and snacks.

And let’s not forget about their famous chips – a must-have for any mealtime.

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If you’re on the run and need to grab a quick bite, Zambrero is your go-to for all your Mexican favourites. Taco about delicious!

In the mood for something fresh and Asian? Make a beeline to Fishbowl which prides itself on delivering the healthiest, freshest Japanese-inspired dishes that are made from scratch every day.

To truly escape, why not catch a movie at BCC Cinemas? Spoil yourself with a huge box of popcorn, a slushie or a well-deserved choccie, settle in and enjoy the show!

That barely scratches the surface of what’s on offer at Sunshine Plaza - from shopping to dining and entertainment, there truly is something for all tastes.

No doubt heads will happily hit pillows after such a big day out.

WINTER 2024

CITY Y O U R

Discover

F U T U R E

SPIRITED

A VISIONARY

City

Deb Caruso catches up with the driving forces building a city from the ground up.

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here is something about the energy of a city - it ignites the senses with purpose and promise - and while the Maroochydore City Centre might not be buzzing yet, there is definitely a hum: an undercurrent of excitement for the promise of what’s to come. It seems each week there is another building underway or completed, defying the current national easing on development projects.

Artist impression to transform the region into a highly connected, vibrant hub of commercial and cultural activity that is anchored by technology and innovation,” he said.

“For residents, we’re delivering a vibrant community where their backyard will be green open spaces, waterfront experiences, and some of the best beaches and dining options in the world; and for the wider community, we’re providing a central destination they can enjoy with lots of public space and cultural infrastructure.”

I’m meeting with the leaders behind what is Australia’s largest greenfield development.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said watching the transformation of the 53 hectare site into the Maroochydore City Centre before our eyes was very exciting!

Amanda Yeates, CEO of SunCentral, an entity owned by Sunshine Coast Council to oversee the design and delivery of the $2.5 billion project said there were currently around 1000 workers and 300 residents in the City Centre.

“That is about to increase again with the Corso Residences almost finished,” she said. “Over the next 15 to 20 years, about 10,000 residents will call Maroochydore City Centre home, surrounded by commercial and retail space including medical, education, entertainment, food, arts and cultural facilities plus premium accommodation and residential precincts.

David Gallant, Walker Managing Director and CEO; Mayor Rosanna Natoli; Amanda Yeates, SunCentral CEO; and Peter Saba, Walker Group Executive of Development highly-skilled independent Board are instrumental in successfully delivering a project of this magnitude.”

A revised Masterplan ensures the city centre now encompasses an impressive 6.5 hectare waterway surrounded by walking tracks, parks and community space, including an amphitheatre.

Walker Corporation Group Executive of Development, Peter Saba, said they were proud to lead the design, development and delivery of the project, working with Council and SunCentral to create an exceptional new city for future generations.

“It’s an exciting project and we’re proud to work with Walker to deliver the vision set out by Council,” she said.

to the people of the Sunshine Coast is to

“SunCentral’s strategic advice and

is delivered methodically and responsibly

“Our commitment to the project and ensure that the Maroochydore City Centre

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PHOTO: RAW LENS MEDIA

“It is a privilege to now be part of this project knowing that the decisions Council has made, and will make in the future, will strengthen our region by growing a thriving and vibrant business district as well as a beautiful, sustainable place for thousands of people to call home,” Mayor Natoli said.

Peter said the late Walker Corporation founder, Lang Walker, was passionate about the vision for the project.

“Lang always said ‘we are placemakers’ and that is the driving force behind our vision for a world-class city centre that stays true to the region’s identity,” he said.

“It’s not often that you get to work in partnership with local council, industry and the community to develop and deliver a Masterplan with a shared vision, so it’s an exciting time.”

Walker is investing over $2.5 billion to lead the development of the city and their first of many commercial buildings, 50 First Avenue, will bring hundreds of new jobs to the Sunshine Coast.

With less than one quarter of the overall site delivered so far, there is still lots to do, including significant investment in infrastructure for water and sewerage services, bridges, roads and all the things needed to sustain a city of the future.

The energy that comes from construction, new residents and workers will continue to hum until it becomes a buzz that is worthy of a city anywhere in the world. Exciting times ahead!

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

h c t a W

Purpose-built entertainment space Venue 114 is bringing the community together with live music, wearable art and kids’ shows this winter. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer gets the ‘411’ on what’s happening at Venue 114…

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s there anything better than the magic of a live show? Whether it’s music, fashion, author events, kids’ shows or something else, there’s a special alchemy that happens between the performers and the audience that can’t be replicated online.

Venue 114 is facilitating that magic this winter with a diverse range of events that offers something for everyone.

Centrally located next to Lake Kawana, this purpose-built space has been designed with the community in mind,

Hello Sunshine Magazine

Emma Memma

featuring accessible toilets and designated wheelchair areas during seated theatre events, meaning every audience member can fully immerse themselves in the action.

The fun begins with Australian metalcore band Polaris playing on Thursday 4 July at 7pm, featuring special guests Ocean Grove and Bloom. This 18+ event is sure to electrify the stage and raise the roof with the Sydney-based five piece playing songs from their third album Fatalism, which was nominated for

or talk to our lovely team on (07) 5409 0599

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PHOTO: SUPPLIED

ONE TO

Best Heavy Album at the 2024 AIR awards.

If you love to let loose to loud music, this is the show for you!

In a change of key, national treasure Maggie Beer will take to the stage on Friday 2 August from 7pm for a sold-out event as part of The Curated Plate, where she’ll be talking about her new book Maggie’s Recipes for Life with popular radio personality Caroline Hutchinson – it’s sure to be a feast of fun!

Fashion fans and creative cats, get ready: on Friday 9 August to Saturday 10

SPIRITED

August, Venue 114 will come alive with colour and creativity when the Australian Wearable Art Festival 2024 begins!

Melding sculptural art with high-end fashion, this sartorial spectacular is the nation’s largest showcase of wearable art – described as “where Gaultier meets Picasso” – and is guaranteed to amaze and inspire.

As well as experiencing the 27-metre long runway featuring 39 high-calibre national and international artists and designers, attendees are invited to fully

With more exciting performances planned for later in the year, a good time is guaranteed at Venue 114!

Head along to the Friday Night Show from 7pm, the Saturday Matinee Show from 12pm, or the Saturday Gala Show from 6.30pm, featuring an intimate gala atmosphere where the winners of the four categories – Trashion, Sustainable Nature, Avant Garde and Floriana – will be announced. Get your tickets now for one of the most exciting events on the Australian creative calendar or get ready to have serious fashion FOMO! It’ll be a very twirly Tuesday when ARIA-award-winning children’s entertainer and ex-Wiggle Emma Memma comes to town on her big orange tour bus as part of her Boop and Twirl 2024 tour on Tuesday 17 September from 10am to 11am and 12pm to 1pm!

PHOTO: EYES WIDE OPEN IMAGES

... designed with the community in mind, featuring accessible toilets and designated wheelchair areas during seated theatre events, meaning every audience member can fully immerse themselves in the action.

An interpreter will be present to translate the music and story into Auslan for the audience.

immerse themselves in this wonderful world – enjoying welcome cocktails, locally sourced food and the opportunity to have their photo taken on the red carpet alongside the models rocking the amazing designs.

Australian Wearable Art Festival

Spreading joy and sunshine wherever she goes, Emma will be playing a selection of old and new tunes that will get your little ones singing, dancing and signing, with help from Elvin Melvin and some other friends including BB Butterfly and Waffles the Wombat!

WINTER AT VENUE 114 Polaris Thursday 4 July, 7pm Meet Maggie Beer Friday 2 August (sold out), 7pm Australian Wearable Art Festival Friday 9 August, 7pm; Saturday 10 August, 12pm and 6.30pm Emma Memma ‘Boop and Twirl’ Tour Tuesday 17 September, 10am and 12pm

UPCOMING EVENTS Play School Live ‘Let’s Play Together’ \ 21 June Polaris Regional Australian Tour \ 4 July Australian Wearable Art Festival \ 9 August Emma Memma Boop and Twirl Tour \ 17 September

Venue114.com.au

#Venue114

@Venue114bokarina

17

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

You’ll never toss away a teabag, tyre or tent peg once you see how they can be transformed into haute couture. The Australian Wearable Art Festival is back bigger than ever and Carlie Wacker will be weaving her way into it.

WEARABLE

s r e d Won 2023 Supreme Winner, Floriana Winner and Textile and Fibre Winner: “Dear Babushka” by - Isabell Cameron. PHOTO: Barry Alsop

T

here is a sense of fantasy at the Australian Wearable Art Festival and with the tickets selling fast, there is every chance this homegrown event will continue to feed the need for experiences that celebrate culture, art and escapism for years to come.

In August, 39 national and international wearable art pieces will come alive on the Australian Wearable Art Festival’s 27-metre-long catwalk at the Sunshine Coast’s Venue 114.

The visual feast will challenge the most fashion-forward, creative and artistic minds to think even further outside the box as the stage is set for a display of garments made from the most unexpected everyday bits and bobs - proving that trash is truly treasure when placed in the hands of a fertile, creative mind.

I remember the first Wearable Art Festival in Eumundi in 2019 where I created a paper mâché dress made entirely out of IN Noosa Magazine proof Hello Sunshine Magazine

2023 Runner-Up, Avant-Garde: “I am the Wilderness” by Galina Mihaleva.

PHOTO: Barry Alsop

...trash is truly treasure when placed in the hands of a fertile, creative mind. sheets. It grew so quickly and in 2024 the Australian Wearable Art Festival is bigger than ever and has attracted a global following.

Curator and co-founder Wendy Roe is one of the legends behind the most imaginative event on the calendar.

“This is a meeting point of art, fashion, costuming and technology, the Festival fills a particular niche in the national art landscape,” Wendy says.

“From the moment guests arrive at the gala they are immersed in a world of wearable art where any found object – from coffee pods, bicycle tyres, flowers, softdrink cans, feathers – are 18

transformed into haute couture.”

Do not underestimate the power of wearable art – this event has attracted finalists from all over the world including Europe, South East-Asia and the United States who will showcase alongside the most talented local and national artists.

The Australian Wearable Art Festival opens the world to the Sunshine Coast and our eyes to a planet of extraordinary skill and vision.

SPIRITED 2023 Floriana Finalist: “Green Lights” by Natalie Hamblin.

PHOTO: Colin McLellan

PHOTOS: EYES WIDE OPEN IMAGES

Supreme Winner 2023 “Dear Babushka” Isabelle Cameron Photo credit: Colin McLellan

“It’s a chance, especially for emerging artists, to have their works shown and our audiences are able to revel in an unbridled level of creativity that occurs when experimental creative minds blend genres and mediums,” Wendy says.

Brisbane-based artist and last year’s Australian Wearable Art Festival Supreme Winner Isabelle Cameron will once again showcase her Ukranian heritage through the underestimated art of crochet with a mind-blowing new work named Stardust.

So, if you want to be sprinkled with that magical stardust and see something that might just make your jaw drop then secure your seat at the 2024 Australian Wearable Art Festival.

FRIDAY 9 AUGUST 7PM SATURDAY 10 AUGUST 12PM & 6:30PM VENUE 114

114 Sportsmans parade, Bokarina, Sunshine Coast, QLD

Step into a world of captivating creativity at the Australian Wearable Art Festival’s Gala, where over 40 national and international entries take to the 27-metre runway.

2023 Avant-Garde Finalist: “The Princess and the Pea” by Kelcie Bryant-Duguid from NSW. PHOTO: Colin McLellan

For more information visit: australianwearableart.com.au

TICKETS ON SALE NOW. BOOK TODAY.

WIN A VIP EXPERIENCE!

One lucky Hello Sunshine Magazine reader will have the chance to WIN a double pass VIP Experience with backstage access to the Saturday Night Gala, valued at $410!

Experience the excitement and thrill of Venue 114 , 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina Scan the QR code to enter and for full terms and conditions!

19

WINTER 2024

CELEBRATING Sunshine Coast Business Awards Chair Jennifer Swaine shares why she believes in the importance of supporting and celebrating local businesses.

D

s s e c c u S

id you know that between the Noosa and Sunshine Coast regions there are just over 40,000 smallbusinesses registered?

adapt, collaborate and pivot every year.

When you think about it – it is small business that is the heart and soul of our region.

It is for this reason that the Sunshine Coast Business Awards exist. Every year we encourage these incredible businesses to enter the awards and gain the recognition they deserve for running an outstanding local business - big or small.

They are in every industry from tourism to manufacturing, food and agribusiness, cleantech, professional services and everything in between.

Small businesses employ the people who work in the cafés and restaurants, or who do your accounting, provide you with legal advice or who treat you when you are unwell.

They also produce the local meat, eggs, milk, cheese and veges that we so proudly showcase across the region; and they fix our plumbing, build our homes, tile our bathrooms, help with maintenance, service our cars and publish first class publications (like the one you are reading).

Without small business, our economy ceases to thrive.

We succeed as a region because we have a thriving ecosystem of small businesses that continue to evolve, Hello Sunshine Magazine

They are run by hardworking, committed, dedicated humans that are more resilient than even they realise.

And we are once again off and running for 2024, having launched this year’s awards at a breakfast attended by 250 people in early May. The awards are an important platform for our business community as they allow us to recognise and celebrate the success of the talent we are very fortunate to have here on the Sunshine Coast.

Now in their 29th year the business awards have become a highly recognised business recognition program that I truly believe is on par with any awards program in Australia!

Testimony to the value people and businesses place on the prestige and recognition of these awards, every year we see an increase in entries and the 20

calibre of the businesses who enter continues to rise.

The Sunshine Coast Business Awards are open to ALL Sunshine Coast and Noosa businesses that have been operating in the region for 12 months or more. You do not have to be nominated to enter and it is not a popularity contest – multiple nominations will make no difference should you choose to apply. But you should apply, or nominate your favourite local business!

The Sunshine Coast Business Awards belong to all of us and provide a platform that allows businesses from across our region to be recognised for their outstanding business efforts.

Please let an outstanding local business know that you value them by nominating them today!

KEY DATES Applications Close: Monday 26 August, 5pm Finalists Announced: Thursday 19 September Finalists Media Masterclass and Cocktail Reception: 10 October Sunshine Coast Business Awards Gala: Saturday 9 November www.sunshinecoastbusinessawards.com.au

PHOTO: BARRY ALSOP

SPIRITED

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CELEBRATING

s s e c c u S

The start of Queensland’s Small Business Month also kicked off the 2024 Sunshine Coast Business Awards with some of the region’s finest, as Deb Caruso discovered.

T

he annual Queensland Small Business Month Breakfast was again hosted by the Sunshine Coast Business Awards Committee with more than 300 Sunshine Coast business leaders coming together for networking, insights and celebration.

act,

ess

In addition to the newly-elected Mayors of both Noosa and the Sunshine Coast Councils, guest speakers included a panel of former Sunshine Coast Business Awards winners Nicky Turner from Laguna Pest Control; Tim Hall from Grease Boss and Sandra Gosling from COYO. Their key message to those considering entering the Business Awards - just do it! Win or lose, you will be richer for the experience.

Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie and Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli

Sandra Gosling, COYO

Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce

Awards Chair Jennifer Swaine

PHOTOS: BARRY ALSOP

As two-time winners of the Awards for the Creative Industries category, we wholeheartedly concur!

Jayne McIntyre, Susan Toft & Ana Ferreira, The Laundry Lady.

SunCentral’s Amanda Yeates & Sunshine Coast Council CEO Emma Thomas

IN Publishing’s Deb Caruso (left) & Rebecca Jamieson-Dwyer (right) with Cr Maria Suarez & Kokopod’s Brigid Woolnough 23

Henzells Agency’s Katherine Allan & Nicole McCarroll with Brady Sullivan, Caloundra Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc

Awards Committee Member & VSC’s Andrew Fairbairn WINTER 2024

SAVVY

HOW DO YOU MEASURE

? s s e c c su

M

oney makes the world go around, but when was the last time you truly defined what success means to you?

you can identify your financial priorities and set goals that are meaningful and achievable.

Do you know what you need to live with reduced financial stress and more time for what matters? Are you ramping up or winding down your work energy?

Knowledge is power. Avoiding overwhelming financial issues doesn’t alleviate stress. Getting informed, setting benchmarks, and achieving small milestones can boost your confidence, help you stay calm in challenging markets, and empower you to make conscious financial decisions. Whether you are just starting on your financial journey or need to reassess your current situation, it’s never too late.

What about your legacy, family, and life after achieving success? Maybe you feel it’s too late? If you have a plan, is it still relevant? Have you taken time to review and refine it?

In a world where financial stress is rampant, exacerbated by media focus on the housing market and economic uncertainties, navigating out of an overwhelmed state of mind can be challenging. The American Psychological Association (APA) states that money is the top cause of stress, a trend I see mirrored in staff surveys undertaken with my clients across Australia, New Zealand, and the USA - invariably, financial stress is the primary contributor to anxiety, lack of productivity and poor decision making.

WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT? 1. Turn Financial Fear into Your Opportunity It’s easy to get caught up in the constant stream of negative news and sensational headlines so stop consuming news that fuels anxiety. Take a step back from media and social networks bombarding us with doom and gloom to find space to define what truly makes you happy and financially secure so that Hello Sunshine Magazine

2. It’s Never Too Late to Start or Regroup

3. Take Control of Your Financial Fitness Don’t wait for external conditions to change. Get educated with experienced, factual information and experts who empower you to meet your goals. Make informed decisions based on facts and stats, not media hearsay, and build a foundation for sustainable success. Start by understanding your current financial situation, setting realistic goals, and creating a plan to achieve them. Utilise resources such as financial advisors, workshops, and educational materials to enhance your financial literacy.

Just like the gym, flex the right financial muscles and mindset and you will see positive results. Sitting at home and worrying won’t get you fit - take the steps to be informed rather than letting fear rule your money conversations.

ARE YOU HAVING THE RIGHT CONVERSATIONS ABOUT CASH FLOW? 24

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Building wealth isn’t just about cash in the bank, it’s also about how we think, act and plan our financial fitness for now and the future, Nikki Fodgen Moore writes.

Do you know your money matters, what’s in your bank accounts, and what you need for the future? Have you balanced personal time, wellbeing, and financial success? Are we educating ourselves and our children about budgets, pay, investment, planning, and financial acumen?

Financial literacy empowers you to make informed decisions, build confidence around money, and secure a legacy for future generations. It’s crucial to have open and honest conversations about money to demystify it and remove the stigma around financial discussions.

Surround yourself with people who are honest, want to see you do well and can have supportive conversations around the goals that are true to you. It’s OK to talk about ambition and not alienate yourself.

CHANGE YOUR MONEY MINDSET Examine your attitude towards money.

Do you see it as abundant or scarce? Does the topic stress you out? Your mindset about money influences your relationship with it and others. For example: • Have open, transparent conversations with your spouse or significant other.

• Discuss savings, cash flow, equity, and property with your family.

• Respect money’s value but don’t let it define your life.

• Focus on quality over quantity, and work with trusted experts.

Replacing fear with curiosity can transform your financial mindset.

SAVVY By approaching money matters with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to learn, you can develop a healthier relationship with money and make more informed financial decisions.

FINANCIAL STRESS AMONGST FEMALES According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, nearly 20% of Australians report high levels of financial stress, with women being disproportionately affected, with significant disparities in financial services leadership roles.

Bridging this gap and empowering women and girls with education and discussions around finance from a young age remains crucial.

LEAD BY EXAMPLE My 16th Legacy Lunch series was a sold-out Women’s Wealth Legacy Lunch with a panel of guest speakers with the aim of enhancing women’s financial literacy and confidence by starting a more open conversation about success, financial security, and managing finances. The event provided practical insights and actionable advice for a sustainable financial future.

The key takeaways and things we all need to champion for ourselves, those we care about, and set the scene for future generations, include:

5 KEY “VITALITY BANK” TASKS

way to grow your wealth.

1. Know your Cash Flow Situation

THE IMPORTANCE OF FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE

Understanding cash flow is essential.

Track it to identify spending patterns, cut unnecessary expenses, and allocate funds more effectively. Focusing solely on income without considering expenses, leads to financial stress.

2. Be Confident on Financial Knowledge Educate yourself about financial terms, investment options, and market trends to make informed decisions.

Confidence in handling money is crucial for financial wellbeing. Studies show that women, in particular, underestimate their financial acumen.

3. Be Prepared for Financial Emergencies Life is unpredictable, and financial emergencies can arise. An emergency fund covering three to six months of living expenses provides peace of mind.

Gaining control over finances reduces stress and allows you to pursue passions, invest in personal growth, and create a legacy for future generations. Moving out of fear and into information starts with asking the right questions. Stay informed, seek professional advice, and regularly review your finances to stay on track with your long-term goals.

Successful individuals continuously educate themselves about financial matters, track their spending, assess their investment performance, and adjust their financial plans as needed. Create your roadmap for success and be sure to review and adjust along the way.

5. Be Aware of Investment Options

At the end of the day, success is a trifecta of health, happiness and having a degree of financial freedom where you are safe, secure and ready for anything.

While that ‘life equity’ balance will be different for all, it’s important to define your own version of success and revisit it regularly.

Understand stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. Diversify investments to reduce risk and grow wealth over time. Investing is a powerful

You don’t have to have it all figured out, but you should have enough knowledge and confidence to be in the driver’s seat.

4. Have a Long-Term Financial Plan Utilise tools and advisors to set financial goals and create a roadmap.

Having a clear plan is vital.

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WINTER 2024

SAVVY

When it comes to schooling, a lot can be accomplished in the senior years. Melanie Rosettenstein discovers how more and more families are enrolling their kids at St Andrew’s Anglican College for their final few years of high school – and the amazing opportunities that can be accessed there.

r o i n e S

MAKING

SCHOOL COUNT A

s they transition into their final years of senior school, many kids start to dream big about their future. Whether it’s excelling at sport or music, being awarded a place at university, or starting their own business, these years are truly formative and will help them grow into the person they’ve always wanted to be.

St Andrew’s Anglican College in Peregian Springs has proven to be a popular choice for student enrolments for Years 10 and 11 with this uptick attributed to parents recognising the College’s commitment to academic excellence, as well as its exceptional co-curricular programs, and service initiatives.

Additionally, the College’s tailored learning options, extensive elective choices, and robust support system are highly valued as they prepare students for their future endeavors.

Millie Eldridge is a great example of how supportive the St Andrew’s program is after her family relocated from Melbourne to Coolum when she was in Grade 10.

Navigating such a big change was initially daunting but it didn’t take long for her to find her feet and she is now thriving as the Year 12 School Captain.

When her parents moved, Millie originally decided to stay at her boarding school in Victoria but after an interview with the school, she decided perhaps it was time for a change.

Hello Sunshine Magazine

Millie Eldridge social sports teams, even if you aren’t good at something, you can still get involved.

On my first day there were some buddies already set up for me and I was welcomed into a mentor group which I’ve been in ever since. This really helped me to settle in quickly.

“In my online interview with Mr Piper we chatted about what the moving process would be, and I thought maybe a change to build up some resilience would be exciting,” Millie said.

She decided to change schools in time to start Year 10 and even though she knew no one else at the school, she has never looked back.

“St Andrew’s is a very welcoming school,” Millie said. “On my first day there were some buddies already set up for me and I was welcomed into a mentor group which I’ve been in ever since. This really helped me to settle in.”

When asked about what she loves about school, Millie bubbles over with enthusiasm. “I love all the amazing opportunities,” she said.

“As soon as I arrived I got involved in sports, and because St Andrew’s has 26

“For academics, there are so many extra tutorials you can do with the teachers if you need to.

“I think these things are important because not all schools give you all these opportunities straight away. St Andrew’s brings them to you and it’s easy to get involved.”

Millie settled in so well at St Andrew’s that, after 14 months of being there, she was able to fulfil her dream of becoming school captain, despite being so new to the school.

Millie has multiple interests in and outside of school and admits she currently doesn’t have a free night.

She coaches and plays netball, plays social soccer for a laugh and a kick with her school friends, tutors five children in her spare time, successfully completed the Kokoda 30km trail earlier this year and works in a restaurant.

Looking to the future, Millie says that after school she hopes to travel to Europe and visit family in the UK, followed by a ski season in Japan before returning to Australia to study physiotherapy or medicine.

To prepare her for this brave new world Millie said St Andrew’s had an amazing careers advisor.

“All I have to do is book a session with Mr Stewart and we go over opportunities

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

SAVVY

and where and how to apply,” she said.

“This process isn’t just left to the students and parents to navigate alone.”

Millie is a shining example of the personalised teaching and learning principles adopted at St Andrew’s Anglican College.

The school is well-known for taking the time to truly understand students’ background, goals, and aspirations and how they can be supported both academically and pastorally in order to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Deputy Principal, Head of Teaching, Learning and Operations Maggi Gunn said that in Years 10, 11 and 12, students

are offered a broad curriculum that will assist them to identify their passions and strengths and find those pathways to university, TAFE, and the workforce.

Beyond the classroom, St Andrew’s is preparing its students for multiple careers and changes which brings into focus their efforts to ensure they have the capacity to grow, change and adapt.

“There is rigour and high expectations in our academic offering and beyond the classroom in our co-curricular

opportunities, outdoor education offering, leadership programs and global learning opportunities,” Maggi says.

“But we also have a common theme of building personal capacity in our students, so they have the resources and skills to adapt and be resilient in a constantly changing environment.”

If the effervescent Millie is an example to go by, the future is certainly bright for students starting their senior years at St Andrew’s Anglican College.

engage +

St Andrew’s Institute of Learning

Business Breakfast Series

Keynote Speaker

Karni Liddell ‘Harnessing Choice - Turning Life’s Challenges into Triumphs’

Former world record holder, Paralympian, disability activist, keynote speaker, journalist, podcaster, mother and clinical social worker.

Thursday 15 August

7.00am to 9.00am, Sunshine Beach Surf Club Proudly presented by

BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE 27

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

DOWN ON

m r a F e th

More than an eco lifestyle destination and regenerative farm, Alsahwa Farm is a place where a vision for a more sustainable world drives its entire philosophy. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers how the team are breaking new ground with their thoughtfully curated farmstore, hands-on educational events and new fashion collaboration all focusing on Mind, Body and Planet.

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VIP Picnics at The Lookout

From a free community tree-planting session (where 150 saplings were planted!) and community film screening of Rachel Ward’s film Rachel’s Farm; to workshops on beekeeping, eco-living, a Terra Firma Cooking Masterclass, plus an Introduction to Permaculture masterclass and so much more; there was a common thread running through the weekend learning how to get back to nature, rediscover our roots, understand the power of holistic wellness, and nourish the precious planet that sustains us.

An ex-entertainment industry executive, Jo Walker’s career (and life) pivoted in an entirely new direction once she was exposed to concepts around regenerative agriculture, and as she began to understand the intrinsic link between soil health and human health, she came to appreciate how vital this concept is for the time we live in.

In 2019, while driving in Sydney with her friend Kit Willow – the renowned fashion designer behind the luxury sustainable fashion brand KITX – Jo had Hello Sunshine Magazine

Terra Firma Cooking Masterclass a conversation that was to change the course of her life.

phone about an earth regeneration weekend in Bowral.

“We were discussing the state of the world, and Willow (Kit) said, ‘Joey, it’s not about sustainability anymore because we can’t sustain what we are doing right now, it’s about regeneration’,” recalls Jo.

“That weekend started my journey to the regenerative space that is now Alsahwa Farm.”

“Minutes later in a serendipitous moment, an email popped up on my 28

Alsahwa and Kit have since collaborated on the KITX series of activism tees made from pure organic cotton, which help highlight some of the

PHOTOS: CHEVAUNE HINDLEY

he sun is setting on the final day of the Alsahwa Farm launch, and as the last few golden rays filter through the macadamia tree leaves, founder Jo Walker and her team are experiencing the buzz that comes from sharing their huge vision and magical location with a community of like-minded people over three wonderful days.

SPIRITED

KITX x Alsahwa Koala Tee modelled by KITX creator Kit Willow with images taken by renowned photographer Simon Upton.

Beekeeping Workshop

Rachel’s Farm Screening

Retail Farmstore

Kit Willow modelling the Bee Tee

Tree Planting

save our koalas and their habitat.

That weekend started my journey to the regenerative space that is now Alsahwa Farm. regenerative work that’s occurring on Alsahwa’s 38 acres: the Mushroom Tee for the mushroom forest of Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail and Reishi that grows on logs; the Bee Tee for the on-site apiary; and the Koala Tee for the wildlife corridor of over 1000 trees that have been planted at Alsahwa Farm in the last few years, including a wildlife habitat tree planting as part of The Queen’s Jubilee.

Kit Willow says she hopes these garments can help promote change.

“The more we know the more we care; the more we care; the more we have the ability to change,” she says. “We do need to save our bees, understand the power of the underground fungi network and

“The activism tees are designed to look good, feel good, and be good, and it’s an honour to collaborate with Alsahwa Farm to bring these tees to both men and women from one of the most beautiful nature havens on earth, the Noosa hinterland.”

The tees will be available at Alsahwa Farm’s permanent stall at Eumundi Square – a gorgeous space that features a range of thoughtfully-curated products such as lifestyle books, eco homewares, plants from their farm nursery and seasonal produce.

Alsahwa’s online store is launching 20 June, so no matter where in the country you hail from, it’s easy to support this mission-led brand and experience your own little bit of Alsahwa magic!

KITX’s range of activism tees, collaborated with Alsahwa Farm, will be available to purchase via the online store at www.alsahwa.com and through Alsahwa Farm’s Eumundi Square Farmstore, RRP $155.

29

Macadamia Nuts

WHAT'S ON Sign up for Alsahwa Farm’s newsletter to discover experiences coming soon, such as: • VIP Picnic Experiences • Long Lunches • Bees & Brunch • Film Nights • Corporate packages and more!

Scan the QR code or visit www.alsahwa.com for more information.

Don’t miss our fashion shoot at Alsahwa Farm on pages 115-135!

WINTER 2024

S

EARTH

NOOSA & SUNSHINE COAST SUSTAINABLE LIVING EXPO 4 - 7 J U L Y 2 0 2 4 P E R E G I A N B E A C H

ECO VILLAGE & LOST ARTS - SUSTAINABLE BUSINESSES, GUEST SPEAKERS & WORKSHOPS ARTS & CULTURE - ECO ART DISPLAYS, BUSH TUCKER TOURS & MORE

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE & SUSTAINABLE FARMING PRACTICES TINY HOMES AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATIONS HOPE FOR THE FUTURE - ACTION ORIENTED SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION

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TESLA TRANSFERS NOOSA

SPIRITED

e l b a n i a t s u S OUR

PHOTO: TOURISM NOOSA

COMMUNITY

The sustainable living movement is flourishing in our region! Melanie Rosettenstein discovers what’s on offer at Peregian Beach’s upcoming EARTH Sustainable Living Expo.

T

hey are the masterminds behind more than 220 events and markets that take place in the Sunshine Coast and Noosa every year and now, Cartel Music and Events, in conjunction with the Peregian Beach Business Association (PBBA), is bringing another not-to-bemissed event to our favourite seaside village, the EARTH Sustainable Living Expo at The Village, Peregian Beach.

Sustainable living is fast becoming the foundation on which the socially conscious and environmentally aware build their homes, lives, and businesses.

It’s a lifestyle choice where people are reducing their reliance on the earth’s natural resources by altering how they live, eat, move around, and more.

Cartel Music and Events Director Lea Bye said sustainable living was growing in importance to residents in the Noosa and Sunshine Coast region, driven by a strong emphasis on eco-living and a heightened environmental awareness.

“It’s great to see our community making conscious choices about having a lighter impact on the environment,” she said. “Many people are already making small changes, such as using keep cups for takeaway coffee and living a plastic-free life - now it’s time to take the next steps, which is what the EARTH Sustainable Living Expo is all about.”

Taking place in The Village, Peregian Beach and celebrating Plastic Free July, the expo and events will run from Thursday 4 July to Sunday 7 July.

PBBA President Kylie Plunkett said that as a central point between Noosa and the Sunshine Coast, and with a rich history

The sustainable living movement is growing quickly in the Noosa and Sunshine Coast region, driven by a strong emphasis on eco-living and heightened environmental awareness. of pioneering eco-friendly initiatives and events that celebrated sustainable living, Peregian Beach was the ideal location for an event such as this.

“We’re excited about hosting this event with its focus on people and the planet,” she said.

Those in the know and those who want to know more about sustainable living will be spoilt with a busy lineup of intriguing, family-friendly, interactive events and hands-on activities.

Kicking off on Thursday 4 July, the Expo’s Slow Food and Fashion event will feature delicious and stylish wares from Peregian Beach Village Square’s local retailers and restaurants.

Day two will begin with the EARTH Green Business Breakfast, featuring a mind-blowing glass-blowing display, and for the fashionistas who love a bit of pre-loved clothing, there will be a Sustainable Swap and Sip clothing swap from 6pm to 8pm.

Peregian Park will be the bright and 31

breezy location for Saturday’s Eco Village with yoga classes, educational talks, a denim upcycling workshop, art displays, bush tucker tour and more.

Wine enthusiasts can indulge in an Eco Paint and Sip, while foodies can tuck into the delectable offerings from the various vegan and vegetarian stalls. Don’t miss the 6pm film in the park!

On Sunday 7 July, the Peregian Beach Markets, well known for its variety of homegrown, handmade and upcycled goodies will be back with a host of workshops - and special celebrations for its 35th anniversary!

“Our region is already a shining example of sustainable living, with a community that’s passionate about conservation efforts and care for natural habitats,” Lea said.

“We look forward to seeing everyone at the EARTH Sustainable Living Expo to build on this fantastic foundation for a brighter future.”

EARTH EVENTS

Slow Food & Fashion Village Square, Thurs 4 July, 3-6pm EARTH Green Business Breakfast Fri 5 July, 7-8.30am Sustainable Swap & Sip Clothing Swap Fri 5 July, 6-8pm Eco Village with all-day events Peregian Park, Sat 6 July, 8am-4pm Peregian Beach Markets, workshops and 35th celebrations Sun 7 July, 7.30am-12.30pm More events to come - scan the QR code for the latest updates!

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Expect ten days of sheer delight mixed with mesmerising sights and sounds, a cacophony of laughter, riot of colour and a cultural feast like no other, effuses Helen Flanagan.

ALIVE WITH ITH

d e l g n a p Star-S

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urtains up, lights dimmed, sound on and tables set. It’s almost time to tune in and get ready to be enthralled when the stars align for the 22nd year of Noosa Alive!

Imagine Australia’s theatre royalty; a ballet world premiere; alluring sopranos; a country and western superstar; Gold Logie award-winning comedians; intoxicating musical artistry; operatic arias on the beach; literary masterminds; now-you-see-it, nowyou-don’t magic; a Taylor Swift extravaganza - and so much more!

A multiplicity of stages have been chosen from Noosa Main Beach to the Hinterland and in-between.

Queensland Ballet opens the Festival for the 11th consecutive year with two breathtaking works, including Papillon, a world premiere by acclaimed Australian choreographer Jack Lister; and Holberg Suite by Greg Horsman. Join Queensland Ballet’s new Artistic Director Leanne Benjamin AM OBE in conversation.

Noosa Main Beach ignites with Seaside Vibes a two day music festival with local bands The Froth, Gold Creek and Waiting For Tom, and ex-Noosa local, now multi-instrumental Nashville star, Wesley Dean (formerly Wes Carr) headlining day one; while a line up of DJs, De Saint, Joskie, Greg Sara & Tilly Saunders with headliner Luke Millions aka ‘The Synth Lord’ leading the dance party on day two.

The 7 Sopranos, Australia’s most beautiful voices, are a high impact classical spectacle, a unique fusion of contemporary and classical style combining entertainment, glamour, and power vocals!

International cabaret diva Meow Meow returns to Noosa, direct from her sold Hello Sunshine Magazine

De Saint

EVENTS

out Carnegie Hall, New York debut, for one show only. Whilst there it only took one call from Festival Director Ian Mackellar, with an invitation to which Meow replied, “Absolutely! I adore Noosa Alive and would love to return... so excited!”

Bask in the dangerous realism of electro-acoustic collaboration by Satu In The Beyond, featuring an all-star cast of Australian musicians drawn from punk, indie and classical genres. Virtuoso violinist and vocalist Satu Vänskä leads ACO Artistic Director Richard Tognetti on electric violin, Midnight Oil’s Jim Moginie on guitar, Paul Beard on keyboards, Kiah Gossner on bass and Declan Kelly on drums to deliver a uniquely intoxicating blend of genredefying artistry and experimentation.

The Box Show by Junkyard Beats provides something unique, a beautifully crafted ecofriendly performance revealing the transformation of discarded Junk, converted into unique sounds and musical instruments. You’ll never look at a cardboard box the same way again!

A one-woman tour-de-force, a story about love, loss, laughter, surviving, and the dance of life set to the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Tell Me On A Sunday features at Noosa Arts Theatre; and at The J, Sunny Coast Showdown will showcase the award winners amongst 20 locally produced short films and documentaries.

Join the fun with Murder Village, two interactive improv theatre performances, where the audience decides whodunnit.

Are you ready for Taylor Swift?

Reputation Preview - the ultimate Taylor Swift Tribute Show happens under a 32

Junkyard Beats marquee on Main Beach. If you miss this Tay-Tay tribute, prepare to dance your heart out at the full production Reputation show at The J Theatre.

Opera on the beach with Twilight Classics, is an evening of fine food and wine plus exceptional music with a trio of flute, cello and harp by Carisma ABC classics group, String Quartet by Bridgerton Strings performing music from the hit period drama and superb vocalists Tarita Botsman, Natasha Veselinovic and James Shaw performing a mix of operatic arias, art song, musical theatre and contemporary classics.

Words & Music is an intimate event with Australian theatre royalty John Bell AO OBE who with extraordinary pianist Simon Tedeschi, will give a sneak peek into life ‘behind the curtain’. After decades of celebrated performances between them, they’re sure to have some wicked backstage stories from the Opera House to the Concert Hall.

Tim Ellis has been wowing audiences around the world including Hollywood’s Magic Castle, Le Double Fond in Paris and New York’s world-famous Monday Night Magic. He is the Guinness Record

SPIRITED

19 - 28 JULY

Wesley Dean Holder for The World’s Longest Magic Show at 85 hours non-stop and his exclusive Timeless Magic show will broaden the mindset of what is possible.

Close Encounters with Harry Milas invites you to get up close and personal in an intimate performance and teaching of sleight-of hand magic and card tricks. His Sydney Harbour Bridge shows have completely sold out for the remainder of the year. Be prepared to be astounded and amazed!

Amongst the literati, actor and writer William McInnes will share his journey and latest book Yeah, Nah!; a Crime Writing Panel brings together authors Michael Robotham, Candice Fox and JP Pomare for some whodunnit hi-jinx; enjoy morning tea with sexologist, counsellor and special education teacher, Jodi Rodgers as she comes to the rescue of families who deal with autism and spectrum disorder with the release of Unique a book about difference, connection and belonging; or brave breakfast with crime writer Chris Hammer to discuss his latest book, The Seven; also multiple

Walkley Award and Logie Award–winning Australian journalist and author Chris Masters will discuss his book on Ben Roberts-Smith, Flawed Hero: Truth, Lies and War Crimes.

SHOWCASING WORLD-CLASS LIVE PERFORMANCES, WORKSHOPS & OUTSTANDING ARTISTS

Sensational Seafood is a 3-course lunch at Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant where seafood is the indisputable star of the show and Estampa entertains. The Italian Long Lunch at popular Noosa Waterfront Restaurant, inspired by Italian families enjoying warm conversation, good wine, and beautifully prepared food. Includes a glass of Prosecco on arrival, and entertainment.

OVER 30 EVENTS ACROSS NOOSA CELEBRATING 10 DAYS OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Join the free Festival Wrap Closing Party on the Noosa River at the Lions Park and stage. A line-up of local bands will play into the winter sunset as the water laps the foreshore. Hosted by Damien Anthony Avery-Rossi (aka Mr. Hollywood in OZ) the event will also include the STARS alive! finalists who will battle it out on stage. Slow Food Noosa’s Film with Food is already SOLD OUT, as is Tom Gleeson (hard luck!) with many others close to capacity so look alive and book now!

SECURE YOUR TICKETS!

IT’S ALIVE!

NOOSAALIVE.COM.AU

The 10-day annual arts and cultural festival NOOSA Alive! returns from Friday 19 to Sunday 28 July 2024 with a jam-packed program of tantalising events to suit all budgets – even FREE. Scan the QR code or visit www.noosaalive.com.au for more information and to purchase tickets.

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times

AMAZING Rather than hedging their bets, Adam and Robyn Cheshire have transformed a tired tourism spot into an award-winning attraction offering something for everyone.

Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer prepares to be amazed…

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“I’d always managed businesses, mostly in tourism, and I really wanted to buy one of my own and build that life for our family,” Adam says. “We were also looking for an acreage property to live on at the same time, so I’d check the real estate and business sale websites every day. One day, the old Bellingham Maze in Tanawha came up on both sites, and it ticked all the boxes.”

The couple were determined to make it happen, smashing their kids’ piggy banks, giving up wine for a month and maxing out their credit cards in order to stump up the money they needed to buy the business. They moved into the house on the property, and began the huge job of turning this dated spot into a thriving tourist attraction they could be proud of.

Fast-forward six years and the re-branded Amaze World is very much living up to its name, with fun for the whole family in the form of a purposebuilt nature playground and water play area; mini golf; games; a newly renovated cafe serving great food and coffee; and, of course, the famous hedge maze, timber maze and a few smaller mazes, all in a lush hinterland setting.

The huge, star-shaped living lilly pilly hedge maze features an immersive augmented reality app experience – featuring dragons, unicorns, trolls and fairies in an enchanted forest that comes to life via your phone – that helps bring Hello Sunshine Magazine

PHOTO: MEGAN GILL

ometimes things just fall into place, and feel like they’re meant to be.

That was the case for Adam and Robyn Cheshire six years ago, when they were looking for a business to buy after years of working in high-level travel and tourism roles around Australia and the world.

Adam and Robyn Cheshire Amaze World well and truly into the 21st Century. But there’s also plenty of good old-fashioned fun to be had, with giant puzzles, riddles and challenges dotted around the grounds providing both physical and mental stimulation for bodies and brains of all ages.

As well as catering to children and families during the day with school visits, homeschool groups, birthday parties, and the launch of their Midweek Pass – where mums and dads can bring their little ones for unlimited visits – Adam and Robyn are branching out into hiring out the venue during the evenings for corporate events, adult birthday celebrations, high school student events, team building experiences and lots more.

The strategic way that lighting and music has been incorporated into the venue makes it an atmospheric choice for an evening function.

“Amaze World feels completely different at night – it’s absolutely magical with the twinkling lights overhead, the colourful lights in the maze, and music playing all through the 34

grounds,” Robyn enthuses.

“We’ve loved hosting parties and corporate events, and can’t wait to introduce our enchanted world to a whole new audience.”

The duo has done a beautiful job of retaining the charm and history of the venue while putting their own spin on it, recently renovating the iconic Dutch windmill that stands at the edge of the hedge maze.

The landmark originally came from a zoo and koala park nearby, back when the street where Amaze World sits was a thriving tourist destination featuring multiple attractions.

“There was a big water slide, a dinosaur park, a deer sanctuary and more – but we’re the only one that still stands here today,” Adam says.

“It’s not just a renovation; it’s a celebration of history and community.”

As the third owners of this heritage business, Adam and Robyn have kept in touch with the second owners and the original Bellingham family who

SPIRITED started it all, inviting both couples to Amaze World’s grand reopening.

The pair’s hard work and passion hasn’t gone unnoticed by the local community, with Amaze World being voted the #1 thing to do on the Sunshine Coast in 2021 in a competition run by Visit Sunshine Coast and local radio.

In 2023, they were awarded the impressive accolade of ‘Sunshine Coast Business of the Year’ at the 2023 Sunshine Coast Business Awards, as well as winning the ‘Experiences, Large’ category for the second year in a row; setting them up for the Hall of Fame.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

“All three sets of owners were there, which felt like a special moment,” Robyn recalls. “We wanted them to feel happy about the direction we’re taking it in, and they’ve been very supportive.”

“I was there and I know it was real, but sometimes I catch myself thinking ‘What?!’” Robyn laughs.

“The competition was stiff, and we honestly couldn’t believe it. We’re absolutely thrilled.”

they’re completely enthralled by this magical world Adam and Robyn have created.

“We recently moved out of the onsite house to achieve a better work-life balance, but the kids’ love for Amaze World remains strong,” Adam says.

Winning awards is one thing, but what do their most important customers – children – think?

“Whenever it’s their birthday they ask to have their party here, and they were very excited by the fact we lived in a real-life maze. We love seeing how much they enjoy it.”

If their own kids, Blake, aged 10, and Zara, aged nine, are anything to go by,

As proud maze owners, Adam and Robyn’s complementary skills have

The Bellingham Hedge Maze Find your way through a twisting, turning, living labyrinth of Lilly Pillies

helped them navigate the twists and turns of business life.

“Adam is the entrepreneurial one and I love people, so we make a good team,” Robyn says. “We had three staff members when we started, and now we have 22 wonderful members of our crew who are instrumental in making the magic happen.

“It’s been an aMAZEing journey so far, and we have big plans for the future.

“I can’t wait to see where it takes us!”

Whatever it is, I bet it will be amazing!

Where funtastic memories are

Mazey’s Mini Golf 18 hole mini golf course

MAZEd!

Augmented Reality Take a trip to Mazey’s ‘appy’ place a magical land of enchantment

Many Mazes & Puzzles Timber, Rainbow, Digit Dash, Get-it-right and more

Nature Playground & Water Play Go crazy with Mazey in his brand new playground.

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm | 7 Days

Book online

274 Tanawha Tourist Drive, Tanawha. 5445 2979.

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amazeworld.com.au WINTER 2024

Hello Sunshine Magazine

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SPIRITED

The Sunshine Coast Turf Club’s winter racing lineup offers all the racing thrills and spills without the chill. Melanie Rosettenstein finds out more from Marketing and Events Manager, Taryn Delaney.

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PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

RACING

f you’re looking to experience the high glamour and thrilling drama of horse racing, then the Sunshine Coast Turf Club, the world’s busiest grass track, is right here on our doorstep.

Marketing and Events Manager, Taryn Delaney, is buzzing with excitement over the lineup of fantastic winter racing events that punters, racing enthusiasts, fashionistas and merry makers can look forward to, especially after last year’s refurbishments which have seriously elevated the venue.

The turf club’s snazzy newly upgraded venues now include The Chairman’s Club, The Glasshouse and the Parade Ring Terrace. The Member’s Bar and Bistro, Atrium Bar and Dining, and Champagne Garden have alse been upgraded and the Turf Club now exudes modern horse racing vibes with a luxe coastal feel.

What’s more, ahead of the Caloundra Cup on Saturday 6 July and Noosa Cup on 18 August, the Sunshine Coast Turf Club proudly announces the opening of The Avenue, their newest off-track destination that will enhance feature raceday experiences with unparalleled live music, entertainment, fashion, bars and food trucks as well as brand activations.

“Our winter racing events are not only about the sport. They are a celebration of the lifestyle, luxury, and leisure that define the Sunshine Coast and Noosa,” Taryn says. “These events offer the thrill of the track coupled with the finest culinary experiences and fashion

...super excited to announce that Hello Sunshine Magazine will be running Fashions on the Field for major race days including Caloundra Cup! forwardness akin to having the ‘Birdcage’ right on your doorstep.”

And by ‘Birdcage’, Taryn is referring to that other racetrack down south which is generally freezing at this time of the year. But here on the Sunshine Coast, the weather will rarely (if ever) put a dampener on the Sunshine Coast Turf Club’s electric atmosphere or the ability to frock up without the chill.

While we’re talking fashion, we are super excited to announce that Hello Sunshine Magazine will be running Fashions on the Field for major race days including Caloundra Cup! Our Fashion Editor Ally Chuck and stylish judges will be looking for the most Savvy! Surprising! and Spirited! racegoers to win fantastic prizes!

The culinary offerings at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club have also received a revamp and, in the capable hands of 37

executive chef Brett Truloff and collaborating with former Flemington executive chef Matthew Haigh, the Turf Club’s new menus promise a galloping gourmet feast.

The food! The fashion! The experience and excitement of Race Day! Now you know where to get it - see you at Sunshine Coast Turf Club!

THE RACE IS ON! Grab your favourite friends and fascinator and head to Sunshine Coast Turf Club for a premium racing experience in stunning surroundings!

Here is your winter racing lineup: • Caloundra Cup Day – Saturday 6 July • The Curated Plate - Racing Revolution: A Culinary Celebration – Sunday 4 August • Noosa Cup Day – Sunday 18 August For more information, and to book tickets visit www.sctc.com.au WINTER 2024

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! s r e n Win

HELLO

Fashion, fun and fillies were fabulous as Deb Caruso and crew celebrated another winning edition!

E

The frocks and fascinators were sensational, the food was delicious and the Malfy Gin and delicious drinks were flowing, while on the track some of Australia’s finest horses showed their fine form to compete for significant prize money - welcome to the World’s #1 Racing Club!

We are SUPER excited to be partnering with Sunshine Coast Turf Club to be running the Fashions on the Field for major race days, starting with Caloundra

FRONT COVER ARTIST JASMINE VERONIQUE

veryone was a winner at the launch of Hello Sunshine Magazine’s autumn edition in the stunning Champagne Gardens at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club!

Cup on Saturday 6 July with a pool of more than $1 million in prize money attracting star horses from around the globe! Find out more on page 36.

Our LOCAL We’re hereTRADIES for you can holiday be thereseason. today! this

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27-29 September 2024 www.heartofgold.com.au

PHOTOS: RYAN HAYWARD

SPIRITED

SHOP IN THE SUNSHINE THIS SPRINGTIME! #SHOPLOCALTHISWINTER EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY every wednesday & saturday

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s ’ t e r c Se OUT

THE The Lake House

It’s no secret that when you get away for a few nights, having every little detail taken care of makes your stay extra special. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers how the team at Secrets on the Lake go above (the treetops) and beyond…

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f you love big gestures, you’ll love the big-hearted team behind stunning Montville rainforest retreat, Secrets on the Lake, nestled on the banks of Lake Baroon.

rocks on the lawn and a romantic picnic awaiting them in The Snug Hut, which looks straight out over Lake Baroon’s rippling waters,” she says.

“Or alternatively, you can arrive on foot and we can create a Boho Picnic in The Snug Hut, The Lake House or on your private treehouse deck - we are happy to accommodate special requests wherever possible!”

This sensational spot offers luxury treehouse and cabin accommodation, and has been the home of many a proposal, wedding, baby shower, birthday, anniversary and other celebrations in the 30 years since its creation.

It comes from the top with founders and owners Aldy and George Johnston passionate about executing an experience you’ll remember forever.

Struggling for ideas of how to surprise a loved one? You need Aldy on your side – a veritable fountain (or should that be lake?) of knowledge when it comes to creating magical moments.

For an extra romantic proposal, she suggests organising a secret night or two away – with some sneaky help from George.

“Surprise your other half by booking lunch or high tea in our alfresco Dining on the Deck restaurant, then ask for a cabin tour where George will say, ‘I’m Hello Sunshine Magazine

Aldy Johnston sorry! I‘m a bit flat strap, but I’m happy to give you the key!’” she explains. “You then take your companion to view the treehouse, which, unknown to them, is yours for the night.

“Imagine opening the hand-carved treehouse door only to find ‘Will You Marry Me’ in petals, or a ring box in the centre of a petal heart on the bed?!”

What a great secret!

Or if you’re after something even more extravagant, Aldy’s ideas just keep flowing: “Couples have been delivered by helicopter to find the proposal in white 40

Aldy knows that special events come in all shapes and sizes, and has made sure that Secrets on the Lake is also perfect for intimate gatherings: think bridal showers, small wedding receptions, anniversaries, baby showers, birthdays and more.

“The Hideaway is our stunning venue space for up to 20 guests – it overlooks the lake from its perch high in the rainforest, tucked privately away from the alfresco restaurant deck, and is just gorgeous!” she exclaims.

And larger functions are covered too, with The Gallery – which overlooks the rainforest – comfortably hosting 30 people, or Dining on the Deck catering for up to 70 for a super soirée!

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

SPIRITED

Even if you’re not celebrating anything in particular, the Secrets team are determined to add the wow factor to your stay through a wide range of extras, which can include breakfast in the restaurant; freshly cooked croissants to your room; massages; picnics; free use of canoes and fishing gear; walker’s backpacks; transportation back from exploring the nearby Sunshine Coast Great Walk trails; and pretty much anything else you can imagine.

Fancy warming up your winter with a cosy Christmas in July celebration?

Dining on the Deck is famous for its mid-year festive fabulousness, catering for tables for two to groups of 80 – showcasing some favourite house Christmas dishes that’ll have you feeling

merry and bright. Running for the entire month of July, it’s a popular one, so bookings are essential to avoid disappointment!

(with all sorts of dietary requirements

You can also enjoy the restaurant at any time of year (even if you’re not staying at Secrets), with breakfast served from 8am to 10.15am Tuesday to Sunday and lunch from 11am to 2.30pm daily – offering unforgettable lake views alongside mouth-watering menus prepared by dedicated in-house chefs

of Secrets, we’d love to make you

catered for, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan).

“For those yet to experience the magic welcome!” Aldy says. “Not only is our location truly one-of-a-kind, our team is skilled at making each and every guest feel special.”

Book in for your next celebration - or just because – the treetops are the limit!

CELEBRATE AT SECRETS Book your next special occasion at Secrets Dining on the Deck Restaurant. Enjoy the rainforest, lake and delicious food at a “must see” destination on the Sunshine Coast. Secrets welcomes all gatherings from small family celebrations to bus groups.

Nestled in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland just minutes from Montville overlooking Lake Baroon, guests to the restaurant and luxury treehouse accommodation bask in the tranquillity of the rainforest while admiring spectacular lake views and awe-inspiring hand carved wood creations in every corner.

207 Narrows Road, Montville Phone 5478 5888 www.secretsonthelake.com.au 41

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BLUEBERRY

Local festivals need our support to survive more than ever - so why not please your palate and hunger for live music while exploring our broader region?

Jodie Cameron explores the fantastic, jam-packed events on offer at the upcoming Mundubbera Blueberry Festival.

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ood and music festivals today have completely surpassed the creative boundaries of the past, with organisers now competing for their piece of the (blueberry) pie by creating immersive experiences that keep punters coming back year after year – and Mundubbera Blueberry Festival celebrating one of Australia’s favourite fruits is a berry good example of this!

At the daily rate my boys consume those tubs of blueberry goodness, I really should be investing in my own blueberry farm. But for now, a trip to the Mundubbera Blueberry Festival will suffice!

With three huge events spread over two days from 27 to 28 September, the North Burnett’s premier bi-annual food and music event has something to suit all tastebuds.

Festival Coordinator Lisa Wain said with the recent wave of music event cancellations, she hopes the Blueberry Festival can be a beacon of hope and will continue to grow even bigger and juicier than its inaugural year in 2022!

“Festival-goers have the opportunity to escape the bustling crowds and immerse themselves in an intimate Hello Sunshine Magazine

setting beneath the wide-open country sky,” Lisa says.

“It’s going to be a spectacular weekend and it’s just a few hours’ drive from the Sunshine Coast.”

But don’t wait until September to purchase your tickets; book early and start planning your weekend getaway now – the early bird gets the berry!

Just three hours north-west of Noosa, Mundubbera is the perfect escape to the country for the weekend, with affordable accommodation options to suit all budgets.

If the Blueberry Festival brings you to Mundubbera for the first time, you may be wondering where to stay – from hotels, motels to camping sites, Mundubbera has ample accommodation options for all tastes.

If you are travelling with your RV or camper, ticket prices include campsites at the Mundubbera Showgrounds where you can easily access all the festival celebrations!

Book early to ensure you don’t miss out on being close to the action.

Kicking off the festival is the Locavore 4626 event on Friday 27 September, 42

...Matt Golinski will take you (and your tastebuds) on a gastronomical journey to a mystery location for a gourmet celebration. where celebrity chef and Sunshine Coast food champion Matt Golinski will take you (and your tastebuds) on a gastronomical journey to a mystery location for a gourmet celebration.

Showcasing the finest flavours of the North Burnett region in every dish and every bite, diners will experience the vibrancy of farm-fresh ingredients sourced from local producers and artisans as expert Chef Golinski transforms raw materials into an epicurean centrepiece that will tantalise and ignite the senses before your berry eyes.

Whether you’re a natural born foodie like me (always thinking about your next meal, even while eating), a food

SPIRITED enthusiast, or just love experiencing new flavours, don’t miss out on this unforgettable dining experience that will unlock the mystery of the region while celebrating community, sustainability, and the art of fine cuisine.

Locavore 4626 tickets are $110 per person and include transport via bus from the Mundubbera Showgrounds to your mystery location, but tickets are limited so head to the website today to secure your seat!

From 9am to 4pm on Saturday 28 September, the beautiful Bicentennial Park on the banks of the mighty Burnett River will come alive for the Berry Big Day Out – a vibrant artisan market and FREE family fun day!

Local producers, artists, crafters, community groups and food retailers will come together for a full day of markets, interactive stalls, activities and entertainment for the whole family.

There will be something for all ages including free activities to keep the kids (young and old) engaged, roam the markets, and catch up with family and friends over delicious local food and refreshments. Enjoy the local entertainment on the Big Day Out Stage and get ready for an epic evening of live

music when the Mundubbera Showgrounds will transform into the Blueberry Jam Sesh!

Tickets are $97 for adults, $45 for kids aged 5-14 years, kids under 5 are free!

Celebrating a full line-up of original Australian music with a sprinkling of homegrown talent, don’t forget your dancing shoes for the Battle of the Bands Final, grab some grub at one of the many on-site food trucks + bar, and secure your seat under the stars!

Headlining this year’s Blueberry Jam Sesh are The Angels – one of the most enduring Australian rock bands, while electric and infectious riff-and-groovebased blue-billy-grass-rockin’-roots band 19-Twenty will have you dancing the night away!

As word spreads of this quaint country town’s mission to paint the town blue, grab the kids, your lover or your berry besties and flock to Mundubberra for the weekend. Help keep our local festivals alive while INdulging in berry-licious country and the wonders of the North Burnett’s abundant food bowl!

STAY AND PLAY! Saturday Camping Package $108pp: • 1 x Blueberry Jam Sesh ticket (15+) • 1 x night showgrounds camping (Saturday night only) 2-Day Camping Package $229pp:

Byron Bay-based Bourbon Street will perform all the fan faves from their albums as well as high-energy covers from The Doors, Neil Young, Led Zeppelin, The Stones, AC/DC and more!

• 1 x Locavore 4626 (Friday Night Dinner)

Back by popular demand, Blake Beneckee, a homegrown country singer and songwriter will perform a mix of covers and original music; and the delicious sounds of Soul Tree Union Australian indie music duo Paully Rivers and Kate Marian Rose - will surprise and delight with their soulful mix of contemporary folk music to rock grooves.

Locavore 4626 Camping Package $121pp:

• 1 x Blueberry Jam Sesh ticket (15+) • 2 x night showgrounds camping (Friday & Saturday night) • 1 x Locavore 4626 ticket • 1 x Friday night camping only (must leave the campsite Saturday morning) Scan the QR code for the full program and tickets, including camping packages.

3 BERRY SPECIAL EVENTS: LOCAVORE 4626

Friday 27 Sept | 5:45pm til late With Celebrity Chef Matt Golinski $110pp

27 - 28 SEPTEMBER 2024

BIG BERRY DAY OUT

Saturday 28 Sept | 9am - 2pm Free Family Fun Day & Artisan Market SCAN ME!

BLUEBERRY JAM SESH Saturday 28 Sept | 3:30 til late The Angels, 19-Twenty, Bourbon Street, Soul Tree Union & Blake Benecke | $97pp

LIVE IN CONCERT SATURDAY 28 SEPT

GET TICKETS NOW! mundubberablueberryfestival

www.mundubberablueberryfestival.com.au 43

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! n o i t a c y a t S WINTER

Melanie Rosettenstein lives the resort life - in her own backyard!

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t’s been a long and busy school term with what feels like thousands of school runs, packed lunch boxes and sports fixtures. So when the opportunity came up to spend a night at Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort in Twin Waters, we jumped feet first into the chance to get away from it all.

Just the drive into Twin Waters is relaxing. As we turned off the Sunshine Coast Motorway, weaving through the quiet suburb and crossing its many waterways gave us all the feels that we were now ‘away’ for the night.

Despite its vastness, the resort’s reception area is warm and welcoming, just like its front of house staff. After being checked in by the lovely Gaby, we did a double take! We were booked into the Grand Overwater Bungalow!

The resort’s most luxurious accommodation, this expansive and stylishly designed three-bedroom, two-bathroom bungalow features luxe king size beds, a kitchenette and 180-degree views across the lagoon.

From sunrise to sunset, we did not tire from those views. Once we’d unpacked, it didn’t take long to feel at home in this warm and sumptuous space - the perfectly chilled prosecco from the mini-bar was the cherry on top!

While mum and dad could have lounged in our bungalow drinking prosecco for hours, the children were keen to experience the resort’s Very Important Kids (VIK) program of activities. With lots of outdoor and rainy day activities, the program runs during school holidays and during the school term it runs from Friday to Sunday.

Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort’s most iconic feature is undoubtedly the sparkling pool overlooking a white sandy beach and private lagoon. This is where all the action happens and my enthusiastic kiddos were keen to try Hello Sunshine Magazine

“family team building”. With the wind in our favour, it took us approximately five minutes to get across the lagoon - and another 25 minutes to get back!

stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and to take a cruise on one of the resort’s four catamarans. But first we had to say g’day to the resident parrot fish which at 2pm every day, come rain or shine, Activities Manager, George, heads to the resort’s jetty to feed.

These iridescent fish were introduced to the lagoon, and it has become something of a ritual for the children staying at the resort to feed them and, by the looks of them they are clearly enjoying their daily dose of pellets!

George laughs, sharing that because they are well-fed and have no predators, they are pretty large specimens.

He suggests we take a little cruise on one of the catamarans before the rain set in. The children were amped! Climbing aboard, George gave us a brief rundown on sailing and off we went.

For novice sailors like us, the experience can only be described as 44

Everyone tried their hand at sailing the catamaran back to shore and, after calling for calm amongst the ranks, we heroically managed to get there with my husband observing that the kids had learned how to harness the wind.

“Better than watching a screen for sure,” he said.

Back on land, the children indulged in a plethora of activities including taking the kayaks and stand-up paddle boards for a spin followed by a bike ride through the resort grounds.

After all that paddling and pedalling, a swim was on the cards. Even though it’s June, the pool water was still warm enough for a leisurely dip with the nearby spa bath offering an even warmer alternative.

Lots of action equals hungry bellies.

Sola Restaurant overlooking the pool offers casual family-friendly dining. For one hungry dad, the BBQ Pork Ribs went down a treat while the kids gorged themselves on a Capriccioso pizza and the SOLA Burger. And me? I indulged in a delicious Salmon Siciliano - the freshest poached salmon with pepper-

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lemon crust, capers bearnaise, radish, broccolini and sugar snap peas.

With bellies full, it was time to turn in for the evening and we couldn’t wait to tumble into the Grand Overwater Bungalow’s ultra luxurious king size beds! Needless to say we were all snoozing away in la la land very quickly!

The next morning’s sunrise cast exquisite reflections across the lagoon’s surface. I was lucky enough to enjoy it (alone) on the Grand Overwater Bungalow’s deck with a steaming cappuccino in hand courtesy of the room’s easy-to-use coffee machine.

What a privilege to soak up the stillness before the day got underway.

On waking, the children were hungry for the breakfast buffet and all the untold delights it promised. They were not disappointed. Giving them free rein, and in no particular order, they indulged in waffles and pancakes with all the toppings. Hubby and I were a bit more sensible, sampling the fruit and cold smoked salmon before tucking into a full English brekkie.

Full to the brim, our staycation had come to an end, and we sadly bid farewell to the beautiful Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort and its friendly staff. But before the reality check of heading home took hold, we partook in a rather competitive game of putt putt.

Winner still to be decided.

With Novotel Sunshine Coast literally in our backyard, it’s super easy to live the resort life and escape for a midweek refresh or family weekend.

NOVOTEL SPECIALS

• Family & Co special - Book one room and get the second 50% off.

• Early Bird - Book 30 days ahead and get a discount on a fully pre-paid room or include breakfast.

Coming soon… Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort’s day passes will return, offering Sunshine Coast families full access to the resort’s many amazing activities. www.novotelsunshinecoast.com.au

ESCAPE TO SUNSHINE COAST PARADISE THIS WINTER! Trade the winter chill for the sun-kissed warmth of the Sunshine Coast at Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort. Experience the ultimate getaway with our endless array of activities & amenities designed to make your stay unforgettable.

Bike Rides & Lagoon Activities Explore scenic coastal trails with our onsite bike hire, perfect for all ages or dive into adventure with paddleboarding & kayaking in our pristine lagoon.

Culinary Delights at SOLA Bar & Restaurant Indulge in fresh meals at SOLA Bar & Restaurant & savour the flavours of Italy & the Sunshine Coast while enjoying breathtaking views.

Relax & Unwind Poolside Bliss – Lounge by our sparkling pool, soak up the sun & refresh with a cool dip.

Over-Water Bungalows – Experience unparalleled luxury in one of Australia’s premier over-water bungalows, offering stunning ocean views & ultimate comfort.

SCAN FOR LATEST SPECIALS!

270 OCEAN DRIVE, TWIN WATERS WWW.NOVOTELSUNSHINECOAST.COM.AU 45

WINTER 2024

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What’s brewing, cooking and happening...

FARM FRESH Alsahwa Farm’s fresh produce, plants, lifestyle books, ecohomewares, conscious clothing, and more are now at their market stall at Eumundi Square or via the online store.

PLAZA PALATE PLEASERS New flavours at Sunshine Plaza include Brazilian BBQ gurus Brazzos Smokehouse; Asian Supermarket giant, Hanaromart plus La Fabricca della Farina from the team behind Noosa’s 250 Grammi Food & Wine Bar! And, the Plaza’s Zambrero’s are now also in Coolum.

CASITA COOL Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at Casita Mooloolaba - a gorgeous bar with delicious bites, perfectly paired wines and cool cocktails.

CAFFEINE HIT Colombian Coffee Co. has added a City Hall cafè to its existing one at The Met in the Maroochydore City Centre as well as its Buderim and Mooloolaba digs.

A BIT FRANCIER Flo’s Crêperie at Mooloolaba Wharf

just got ‘Francier’ with Chef Francois Poulard’s new dinner menu featuring French classics to complement their delicious crêpes and gallettes!

CHRISTMAS SECRETS It’s Christmas in July all month at Dining on the Deck overlooking Lake Baroon at Secrets on the Lake, perfect for pairs or larger groups seeking festive fun; or indulge in a sumptuous High Tea any day of the week - and don’t forget to book for Father’s Day.

ACQUA EVENTS Enjoy milliondollar views with lunch specials starting at $26 at Acqua Restaurant!

Enjoy your choice of a main meal with a beverage for $26; 2 courses for $39 or three for $47. You can also hire out the entire Caloundra restaurant for up to 100 guests or the deck for up to 35 people.

BELLA BELLISSIMO! Indulge in Bella Venezia’s Lunch Prix Fixe menu daily from 11.30am -4pm with 2 courses, $49; or 3 courses, $59.

There’s always

delicious events at this Mooloolaba hotspot - from Champagne Tastings to Tours of Tuscany and beyond.

DON’T MISS! 7 Step Chef’s Tasting Menu A Journey to Italy as part of The Curated Plate on Saturday 27 July.

Starting at $129 per person with options for wine and premium wine matching.

BOOK NOW!

COOL COLLABS! Catbird Restaurant at Fairhill Native Botanic Gardens in Yandina has teamed up with First Nations catering company, Three Little Birds, to create a menu of locally-sourced, homemade, seasonal and Indigenous produce - love it!

SPICE OF LIFE! Spice Bar is now open from 5pm WednesdaySunday. With killer ocean views and fresh Asian delights from light bites to substantial mains, banquets from $82; or a special five, seven or nine course degustation starting at $99.

Plus, Bottomless Lunches are returning and...

DON’T MISS our Spring Fling Rosé Wine Lunch on Friday 6 Sept: four courses, welcome cocktail from Sunshine & Sons and matching rosé wines for just $99!

BOOK NOW!

PEREGIAN PLEASER! Looking for live music? Check out Peregian Beach Hotel from Friday to Sunday. Open everyday from 11am with all-day woodfired pizza and tapas; or Asian-inspired cuisine for lunch and dinner. Dine in or take away and add your fave drinks from the onsite Bottle Shop!

FOOD + FASHION Love Italian? Love All’ Antica at Buddina! Get the limited edition Tshirt for only $25! Book online or order takeaway from this 35-yearold Italian icon.

DEE DEN DINE AT HOME Enjoy the heartwarming flavours of Buderim’s Dee Den at home with our faves Red Curry of Roasted Duck or Beef Cheek Massaman!

AWARD WINNERS! Addinggto the

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Club Hotel Namba

recent World’s Best awards for CAVU Distilling for its Sunshine & Sons spirits and Nil Desperandum rum range (see page 73),the team’s Locky Craven was awarded the Independent Stave Company Young Distiller Fellowship.

Congrats!

Tasmania has also dished up the best of their Royal Food Awards with Silver Tongue Foods and Noosa Black Garlic leading the medal haul (see page 50)!

MEET THE WINEMAKER! Meet Yarra Valley’s Rob Dolan and enjoy his wines matched with a 5-course Long Lunch at Sunshine Beach Surf Club on 21 July. Tix $129 or $119 if you book via Club reception and mention Hello Sunshine Magazine!

Phone 5447 5491.

See page 64 or scan the QR Code.

NAMBA NOSH Head to Nambour Twilight Markets for food, art and music, 2nd Friday

of each month, 4.30-8.30pm.

Club Hotel Namba is pumping all the time - from sport on the big screen to live music and trivia nights. Chef Wayd Bailey loves local and seasonal food and putting a tasty spin on pub classics plus kids eat for free on Mondays!

DONT’ MISS our Culinary Conversations lunch as part of The Curated Plate with a speciallydesigned four course menu, welcome cocktail and chats with local distillers, brewers and producers. Friday 26 July, 11.30am.

BOOK NOW!

CURATED CHOICES The Curated Plate returns with a stacked menu of delicious events from 26 July-4 August. Check out the program and book tickets HERE:

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WINTER SERVES 4

ROASTED GRASS-FED FILLET OF BEEF WITH WALNUT STUFFING AND SAUTÉED GREENS

RECIPES BY MATT GOLINSKI Matt has been busy with a feast of food festivals and events, so we’ve chosen three of our favourite recipes from the past ten years (yes really!) that he has lovingly created! Enjoy!

- Deb Caruso Editor-in-Chief Hello Sunshine Magazine

Ingredients:

Method:

• 800gm whole grass-fed beef fillet, trimmed • 1 onion, diced • 1 clove garlic, finely sliced • 1 tbs olive oil • 1 cup grated cauliflower • 150gm walnuts, roughly chopped • 1 egg • 1 tsp chopped thyme • 200gm Brussels sprouts, sliced • 1 bunch cavolo nero, roughly chopped • 1 bunch kale, roughly chopped • 2tbs olive oil • 1 onion, diced • 1 clove garlic, sliced • 1 red chilli, sliced • ½ tsp fennel seeds • 50ml apple cider vinegar • Salt and pepper

• Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.

Add the cauliflower and continue to cook over a low heat for 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and cool.

Mix in the egg, walnuts and thyme and season well with salt and pepper.

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• Using a long, thin knife, make an incision in the beef lengthwise through the centre to form a pocket for the stuffing. Stuff the walnut mixture into the beef and secure the ends with wooden skewers.

Season the beef well with salt and pepper and sear all over in a hot heavy based pan. Transfer to a roasting tray and bake at 220˚C for 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and rest for 5 minutes.

• Sauté the onion, garlic, chilli and fennel seeds in olive oil until soft. Add the Brussel sprouts, cavolo nero and kale and stir over a medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper.

• Slice the beef into 1cm slices and serve fanned over the cabbage mixture.

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SALT-BAKED GOLDEN BEETS, GOAT FETTA, RADICCHIO, PARSNIP CHIPS AND DILL Ingredients: • • • • • •

500gm baby golden beets 500gm rock salt 800gm goat fetta 1 cup torn radicchio leaves 200gm parsnips 2 cups vegetable oil

• • • • • •

1/4 cup dill tips 1 golden shallot, finely sliced 30ml white wine vinegar 75ml extra virgin olive oil 1tsp Dijon mustard salt and pepper

Method: • Lay the rock salt in a 1cm layer on a baking tray and arrange the beets in a single layer on top. Bake for 30 minutes at 170ºC or until tender when pricked with a knife and the skins slip off easily. Cool, peel and slice or dice the beets.

• Peel the parsnips and shred the long strips with a peeler. In a medium saucepan, deep fry in the vegetable oil until crisp and golden. Drain on absorbent paper.

• Whisk together the vinegar, olive oil and mustard, and season with salt and pepper.

• Mix together the beets, radicchio, parsnip, shallots and dill and dress with the vinaigrette.

• Arrange on four plates and crumble the fetta over. Serve immediately.

SERVES 4

SERVES 4

WHITE CHOCOLATE AND PECAN BROWNIE, STRAWBERRY AND ROSE PETAL SALAD Ingredients:

Method:

• 200gm dark chocolate couverture • 200gm unsalted butter, diced • 40gm cocoa • 300gm castor sugar • 3 eggs • 80gm plain flour • 40gm self raising flour • 200gm white chocolate couverture pieces • 125gm pecans • 500gm strawberries, hulled and diced • 100ml honey • ½ tsp rosewater • ¼ cup organic rose petals • 200ml double cream • cocoa to dust

• In a dry, stainless steel bowl melt the butter and dark chocolate over a low heat without allowing it to get too hot. Whisk in the cocoa and allow to dissolve through the mixture for 2 minutes.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO EXPLORE OUR RECIPE ARCHIVE

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• Whisk together the eggs and sugar and mix into the chocolate mixture. Gently fold in the flours using a rubber spatula. Fold in the white chocolate and pecans.

• Line a 22cm square non stick tin with baking paper and pour the mix in, spreading it out so it covers the whole base of the tin.

Bake at 180°C with the oven fan off, for 35 – 40 minutes or until set all the way through.

• Allow to cool in the tin before cutting into rectangular bars.

Gently toss the honey and rosewater through the strawberries.

• Dust the brownies with cocoa and serve with the strawberry salad, rose petals and double cream on the side.

WINTER 2024

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Andy Tolson and Kristina Kucan

WINNING Jennifer Swaine meets a few local producers who are pleasing palates on a national and global stage.

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he Sunshine Coast region has earned a reputation as being a stunning tourism destination – and no one can deny we tick that box beautifully.

We are increasingly becoming renowned as a foodie destination and recent wins from a number of local producers are turning heads for all the right reasons.

WINNING ON THE WORLD STAGE Sunshine & Sons started the year off right with their Original Vodka being named the World’s Best Botanical Vodka in the highly coveted World Vodka Awards.

They outshone competitors from 20 countries around the world including Poland, Sweden and Canada.

This was followed up in May with taking the Gold at the World Rum Awards for their Nil Desperandum Botanical Rum - as well as a few Silver and Bronze awards to add to the trophy room!

With their impressive array of products earning accolades all over the world, it was fitting that their rum, Nil Desperandum, was named a finalist in the International Onboard Hospitality Awards in the category of Best Onboard Beverage. At the time of going to print the winners had not been named.

When talking about their recent wins, Hello Sunshine Magazine

! s r u o Flav

Co-Founder Matt Hobson said the wins reaffirmed that we were producing spirits of exceptional quality.

“Together with the team, we work incredibly hard to produce quality spirits that people will stand up and take notice of – and we do it from one of the best locations in the world,” he said.

SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN GOURMET SNACKING Following hot on their heels were Silver Tongue Foods who make organic, sourdough crackers and gourmet condiments which were awarded a haul of 11 medals at this year’s Royal Tasmanian Fine Food Awards!

Among the trophies were two Champions, three Gold, three Silver and three Bronze medals.

The sourdough cracker that started Kristina Kucan and Andy Tolson’s journey to launch their business four years ago took home the Gold and secured the title of Champion Baked Product (Savoury).

Appropriately named, ‘Fleur’, this cracker is adorned with seasonal and fresh edible flowers that are pressed into the dough before being baked in small batches to deliver a unique cracker where no two ever look the same.

The second Gold and title of overall 50

Champion was awarded to the ‘Spiced Orange’ preserve in the Champion Preserve (Sweet) category; and the final product to be awarded a gold medal was ‘Cowboy Kisses’ in the Savoury Preserves category.

These umami flavoured, candied jalapeno pickles are crunchy and spicy, showcasing the artistic talents of Co-Founders Kristina and Andy in combining flavours and textures that truly resonate.

Co-Founder Kristina Kucan, said it was an honour to win at such a prestigious Royal event, particularly considering Tasmania’s reputation as home to some of the country’s finest artisan food producers.

“We entered the awards this year seeking formal feedback on our products to gauge our progress and we are so honoured to have received the Champion titles in two categories,” she said.

“It is particularly meaningful that Fleur took the Champion (Savoury) title, as she was the first product we developed.

We’ve been humbled by the positive feedback of this cracker, often featured as a special indulgence on grazing platters, both domestically and abroad.

“These awards come at a time when we have recently relocated into a larger premises in Chevallum, facilitating

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A perfect waterfront destination for good food & great times.

Matt Hobson and Michael Conrad

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

increased production and distribution of our product range.”

SWEET SUCCESS If you’ve never tried black garlic, prepare to have your world changed!

Noosa Black Garlic is best described as the “Truffle of the Garlic World” and is being lauded for its rich, complex flavour and culinary versatility.

What began as a passion project by husband-and-wife team, Tony and Teneille has, in three short years, turned into an award-winning business that has not only won awards but drawn praise from chefs all over Australia.

Explaining the product, Co-Founder Teneille Newton said they used organically-grown Elephant Garlic sourced from Noosa and Sunshine Coast farmers.

“It is recognised for its sweet, dark, and umami flavours,” she said. “Aside from the many health benefits, it has the added benefit of not causing garlic breath because the sulphur is broken down during the ageing process.”

While the original Noosa Black Garlic is a standout product on its own, magic happens when they infuse local paperbark honey from the Noosa Hinterland with pureed black garlic cloves that permeate the honey and result in a flavour that is truly out of this world!

The awards have been coming thick and fast for the team who also excelled at this year’s Royal Tasmanian Fine Food Awards, taking home six medals.

The Black Garlic Honey was awarded Gold before going on to be named Champion Honey of the show. They also took home a Gold medal for their Black Garlic Salt; Silver for their Black Garlic White Balsamic Vinegar; and a Silver and

Enjoy a breathtaking view over the Pumicestone Passage and a down-to-earth menu Teneille Newton a Bronze medal for their Caramelised Black Garlic Paste.

Without a doubt, the Sunshine Coast has become a region that stands out for its exceptional food and produce and those mentioned in this story are merely the tip of the iceberg.

It’s worth mentioning that Woombye Cheese won a Silver medal in the Washed Rind category at The World Cheese Awards in Wisconsin recently, making them the second best washed rind cheese in the world!

The list of award-winning artisan producers is both long and impressive.

From cheesemakers to chocolatiers, to honey and herbs and spices – you can pretty much find it in the region.

While the products are impressive, it’s also about the unwavering passion of the people who turn ingredients into unforgettable culinary experiences, solidifying the Sunshine Coast’s reputation as a true haven for food enthusiasts.

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Corner of The Esplanade & Otranto Avenue Bulcock Beach, Caloundra 5492 8155 www.acquarestaurant.com.au WINTER 2024

The Curated Plate is on!

FRIDAY JULY 26 UNTIL SUNDAY 4 AUGUST

Get ready to indulge in over 90 events, across 10 delicious days, showcasing more than 200 local producers and suppliers from the Sunshine Coast.

Explore our program and book your seat at the table.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

OUR PARTNERS

The Curated Plate Food & Drink Festival | Sunshine Coast, Queensland thecuratedplate.com.au @thecuratedplate

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Excitement is in the air for The Curated Plate – a 10-day celebration of all the deliciousness the Sunshine Coast has to offer, discovers Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer.

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othing brings people together like good food and divine drinks, which is what makes The Curated Plate such a special event for our region.

From long lunches and culinary cruises to mini food festivals and hands-on cooking classes, this epic feast-ival showcases the best flavours the Sunshine Coast has to offer – from the hinterland to the ocean and everywhere in between.

Read on for a tiny amusebouche of what’s on offer – we hope it whets your appetite!

Next is the highly anticipated Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry on Sunday 28 July – a new event connecting food enthusiasts with the region’s top producers and makers to discover the passion that goes into creating local goods. Hello Sunshine Magazine will be offering a VIP Experience of Brunch or Lunch with a specially-crafted menu showcasing the food and drinks on offer!

Finally, the Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival comes to Spicers Tamarind Retreat on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 August as part of an amazing culinary adventure that sold out last year! With delicious offerings from the likes of The Tamarind, Rice Boi and Spirit House, it’s sure to spice up your weekend.

In between and all around, there will be breakfasts, brunches, lunches, dinners, masterclasses, workshops and

opportunities aplenty to indulge in the amazing flavours of the Sunshine Coast!

As partners of The Curated Plate, we’re excited to once again be working with some of our favourite restaurants and producers to bring you a range of innovative events.

Don’t miss our Culinary Conversations lunch at the revamped Club Hotel Namba on Friday 26 July, where podcast host John Caruso will be chatting to local growers, distillers and makers, while you feast on a specially-curated menu with the freshest local produce from Executive Chef Wayd Bailey.

Elsewhere, we’re presenting the 7 Step Chef’s Tasting Menu: A Journey to Italy at the fantastico Bella Venezia in Mooloolaba on Saturday 27 July, where you’ll indulge in an exquisite culinary journey crafted from fresh and local produce, with matching wines and premium matching wines available.

For our third course, we’re excited to 53

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Fill your cup (and your belly) at three signature events: first up is Chefs in Conversation on Saturday 27 July, where celebrity cook Hayden Quinn will uncover the secrets behind four of the Sunshine Coast’s most talented chefs - Peter Kuruvita, Tom Hitchcock, Cameron Mathews and Stacey Conner.

be hosting a VIP Experience at Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry on Sunday 28 July, with a passionately prepared menu showcasing the best flavours from the region. Proudly presented in association with the Food & Agribusiness Network (FAN), join us for brunch with welcome drink from 10am-11.30am, or a two-course lunch with a welcome drink from 1pm-3pm.

Feeling tempted? Grab your tickets and get ready to pull up a chair – we can’t wait to feast with you!

LOCK IT IN! The Curated Plate, various venues Friday 26 July to Sunday 4 August Visit www.thecuratedplate.com.au to see the full 2024 program and to grab your tickets!

WINTER 2024

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

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s n o i t a s r e v n o C CULINARY

Back for another year, Melanie Rosettenstein previews what’s on the menu ahead of Culinary Conversations.

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ould there be anything more delightful than a gathering of local producers, brewers, distillers and chefs - all the people who make the Sunshine Coast so delicious - in one of our area’s most iconic and welcoming locations?

on Friday 26 July, as part of The Curated Plate 2024.

Following on from Hello Sunshine Magazine’s sold-out Podcast + Pinot events of 2022 and 2023, John Caruso, host of Everyone Has A Story - Conversations from the Sunshine Coast and Noosa, is back with even more delicious conversations this time at Nambour’s refurbished and revitalised, Club Hotel Namba.

He is now firmly ensconced at Club Hotel Namba on a mission to honour and elevate classic pub food with seasonal, local ingredients and tasty twists on old favourites.

Since reopening its doors in 2022, the historic landmark which has been privy to countless conversations and good fellowship, has gone from local watering hole to a vibrant destination pub and the cornerstone of Nambour’s social scene.

It’s here, steeped in a century of heritage as a community watering hole, that Culinary Conversations will take place Hello Sunshine Magazine

Those that attended last year’s Podcast + Pinot at The Doonan will recall the mouthwatering menu of local flavours and culinary expertise showcased by Head Chef Wayd Bailey.

For Culinary Conversations, he and the kitchen team have been meeting with local producers to cook up ideas for a specially-curated menu using the freshest local produce.

For starters - and with a new charcoal grill in place - he is excited about the prospect of char grilling some Good Growin’ gourmet mushrooms with garlic and seaweed over charcoal to bring out the earthiness; local seafood is bound to feature or what about sous vide slow54

cooked pork jowl with a watercress, radish and fennel salad glazed with red wine vinegar caramel? He is also playing around with a twist on the classic Chicken Schnitty with a Bush-spiced Quail Schnitzel incorporating native ingredients such as bush tomato and served with native jams or chutney; and those who remember last year’s showstopping Woombye Truffle Brie Cigars, will be salivating for what Wayd dishes up this time around with Woombye Cheese’s Blackall Gold Washed Rind - the cheese that won a Silver medal at the 2024 World Cheese Awards!

While he is only tempting us with ideas and teasing us with flavours at this stage, be sure to check online for the final menu - or turn up on the day knowing that whatever comes out of the kitchen will be a showcase of local flavours that is sure to surprise and delight!

Speaking of Woombye’s ‘world’s best’

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Good Growin’ Mushrooms the special panel of guest speakers.

What’s a pub without beer? The team from Heads of Noosa will also join in the action as well as Wayd and some of the featured growers and producers that he will be showcasing on the plates on the day. award winners, the crew from CAVU Distilling won World’s Best Vodka for their Sunshine & Sons Original Vodka at the World Vodka Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2024 World Drinks Awards for their Nil Desperandum Botanical Rum- they’ll be creating a special welcome cocktail and founder Matt Hobson will be part of

So, with a mouthwatering meal featuring the freshest local ingredients by one of the area’s most recognised chefs plus insightful and entertaining conversations with players from the region’s thriving food and beverage industry, Culinary Conversations is a not-to-be-missed event. Make sure you get in early before tickets sell out.

Chef Wayd Bailey

JOIN THE CONVERSATION Enjoy entertaining conversations celebrating local flavours over a specially-curated four-course feast with a welcome drink on arrival.

Friday 26 June, 11.30am Club Hotel Namba For the latest updates and to book, scan the QR code or visit www.thecuratedplate.com.au

VIBRANT DINING ATMOSPHERE AND BAR. SPORTS BEER GARDEN MASSIVE SCREEN & TAB FUNCTIONS KIDS ROOM

“IT’S LIKE NOOSA AT THE NAMBA!”

80 CURRIE STREET, NAMBOUR OPEN MON-SUN 11AM - LATE www.clubhotelnamba.com.au

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Gritty, cool and creative, Nambour is a town where you’ll find something surprising around every corner, discovers Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer.

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With the scenic train journey from Brisbane taking less than two hours, we recommend booking a nearby Airbnb to make a weekend of it – and with Wildlife HQ, Big Pineapple, Sunshine & Sons Distillery, Thrill Hill and many other attractions right on Nambour’s doorstep, one visit won’t be enough!

“You can start anything you like here – it feels like a blank canvas,” enthuses musician and artistic director Andrea Kirwin, who runs her Peace Run Records and Agency from a beautiful shop front on Queen Street. “There’s lots of people here collaborating to grow a foodie, fashion, arts and music scene.”

Longtime Nambour resident Nicole Hoffman, who recently opened Banksia Espresso in the centre of town agrees.

“I love that Nambour feels like our own little city,” she said. “I take a lot of inspiration from the arts scene in Melbourne, and Nambour feels similar; it has the same creative streak and edge.”

ARTS & CULTURE The Presynct keeps the good vibes flowing with live music five nights a week in an art deco/steampunk-inspired setting and is run by a mother-daughter duo passionate about rejuvenating Nambour’s nightlife; while Currie Street’s The Vogue Theatre has been tranformed from movie theatre to one of the coast’s hottest music venues.

Eclectic arts venues The Old Ambulance Station and Dance Art Etc include studio and performance spaces, and Peace Run Records hosts intimate events by night. Nearby you’ll find 2nd Space – an ArtsCoast-curated studio “for creatives to connect, collaborate and cause commotion”.

Feeling inspired? Unearth your

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

here’s no place like Nambour. This gateway to the hinterland has a personality all of its own, with street art, quirky cafés and bars, vintage shopping, twilight markets, and a thriving arts and music scene.

PHOTO: JESSE LINDEMAN. COPYRIGHT: TOURISM & EVENTS QUEENSLAND

creativity at The Pottery Studio on Brookes Street with their Clay and Wine nights and ceramics classes!

FOOD & DRINK Club Hotel Namba has been revamped with a stylish rustic interior and an excellent menu showcasing local and seasonal flavours by Head Chef Wayd Bailey. Nambour has no shortage of places to get your caffeine fix: we love the indie vibes of Nambour Social, Small Change Espresso, Banksia Espresso, Mill Street Kitchen & Pantry and Muffin Whole. Beer enthusiasts might also like to mosey along to Morts Brewing Co. to sample their constantly changing selection of taps and experience the atmosphere of the Nambour Twilight Markets where the whole town comes together for Friday night knock-offs.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES If you’re lucky enough to be in Nambour on the second Friday of each month, Nambour Twilight Markets light up Short Street and the Nambour Town Square comes to life to the beat of a live DJ on the main stage. Discover a world of culinary delights, captivating art and rhythmic beats!

Don’t miss the global flavours on offer at Namba Street Fair as part of The Curated Plate! Get ready to taste your way around the world with an epic street party on Mill Street. Mandy Day, from Sunshine Coast Council’s Place Activation Team, said of last year’s event: “It was 57

so wonderful to see the people of Nambour come out in droves, the community absolutely loved it, and I hope we can see this delivered again!”

The Tramfest Bar, Club Hotel Namba and the Royal George Hotel will be the places to find a range of tasty beverages including some local brews on the day.

SHOPPING Mr Beesley’s Vintage Clothing on Howard Street is a treasure trove of retro delights and a key stop on Nambour’s famous Op Shop Hip Hop Trail. Music lovers should pop next door to Backbeat Records, which stocks LPs from all eras alongside a curated selection of books and clothing – while just along the road, Bad Habits Records and Collectables organises local gigs by touring musicians.

There’s so much more to discover in Nambour - head to an event or spend a weekend exploring to see for yourself!

WHAT'S ON

Nambour Twilight Markets Food trucks, artists & live tunes from local musicians. Short Street, the second Friday of every month, 4.30pm-8pm Hello Sunshine Culinary Conversations The Curated Plate Festival Club Hotel Namba Friday 26 July, 11.30am-2.30pm Namba Street Fair - The Curated Plate Festival An epic street party with international street food, live entertainment, roving street performers & a fun, family-friendly vibe!

Mill Street, Saturday 27 July, 12pm-8pm WINTER 2024

A FEAST OF

s e i r o Mem

A location and a dish with the power to transport you to another time and place. Words by John Caruso.

F

ood, and the enjoyment of it, preparation and consumption, transcends mere sustenance.

As the son of Italian parents who both enjoyed cooking, I’ve seen food become an art form that speaks to our senses and connects us across generations and geographies.

Every dish has a story to tell and an experience to offer.

My childhood home stood as a testament to my Italian heritage - every Sunday, the house was filled with the aroma of onions and garlic sautéing in olive oil, a signal that mum was in the kitchen, her hands working magic on the old stove.

The beef cheek ragu was the star of our Hello Sunshine Magazine

Sunday lunches with mum searing the beef cheeks locking in the flavours, ready to then be slow-cooked, rendering the fat and tenderising the meat down to that melt-in-your-mouth ragu ready for the gnocchi.

exuberance, would often end up with more ragu on his face and the tablecloth than in his mouth.

Our dining table, draped in a colourful tablecloth set with the cutlery and red paper napkins, was the stage for these Sunday performances.

These memories are not just confined to my parents’ home. They live on in the gnocchi with beef cheek ragu served at All’ Antica, one of our favourite Italian restaurants on the coast.

It was here that we would gather, sharing stories and laughter over plates of gnocchi and red wine, served in small water glasses.

Dad, with his infectious humour, would have us all in stitches, his jokes eliciting peals of laughter from my son, Maximus, who with his youthful 58

But those stains were badges of honour and pride for my Mum, Max’s Nonna, signs of a meal thoroughly enjoyed.

Shane McNally is the head chef and owner, along with his wife Helen and when I saw him recently, I asked if he’s channelling an old Italian nonna when he prepares the dish each day.

“I worked with a lady called Renza, who was from Trento in Italy, on the

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

SPIRITED

SPIRITED

SERVES 6

Method: Put all beef cheeks in large roasting or thick bottom casserole pan.

GNOCCHI WITH BEEF CHEEK RAGU Ingredients: • 2 or 3 whole beef cheeks (around 1kg) • 1 cup diced brown onion • 1 cup diced carrot • 1 cup diced celery • 8 whole garlic cloves • 2-3 tablespoons Italian or Tuscan herbs • 2 tablespoons sweet paprika • Sea salt & cracked pepper • 2 sprigs of rosemary • 2 cups dry red wine • 3 tins of Italian chopped tomatoes • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil • 1 cup of water • Fresh Grana Padano cheese or parmesan (optional) • 1kg fresh or Italian pre-made gnocchi or make from scratch using a good recipe, I like Jamie Oliver’s recipe, available online.

Rub meat with dry herbs, salt and pepper & olive oil. Roast on 180°c until meat is well browned.

Remove meat from oven – add red wine to deglaze plus chopped tomatoes, rosemary, garlic and 1 cup of water.

Return to oven on low heat 120°-140°c for 2-4 hours.

Once meat is soft, slowly pull apart Prepare the gnocchi according to the instructions - generally by poaching the gnocchi in batches in a pan of lightly salted water for 2-4 minutes. Gnocchi will float to the top when cooked.

Strain and serve immediately with the beef cheek ragu.

Garnish with fresh Grana Padano or parmesan cheese, if desired.

Plating: Place 150 to 200 grams (or desired serving size) of gnocchi on each plate and place your beef cheek ragu on top and garnish with Grana Padano or parmesan.

northern alps near the Austrian border, where they use a lot of wooded herbs like rosemary and their prime source of protein is a lot of game, lamb and beef,” he shared.

“I was experimenting with the dish towards the end of summer in preparation for winter so we put it on the menu - and it was selling so well that we added it before the colder season.

“It gets very cold in winter, so slow-cooked food is a big part of their lifestyle and our beef-cheek ragu draws inspiration from Renza and from the region she came from.

“It’s become a very popular dish with our customers,” says Shane.

“The beef cheeks are sealed off at a high temperature, deglazed with red wine, and then we cut the temperature back and slow-cook them for four hours.

I TA L I A N R E S TA U R A N T

I’m not surprised.

Each mouthful takes me back to that large kitchen table at my parents’ place - the aromas, the tastes, and the laughs echoing in my mind, a testament to the enduring power of food and family.

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TASTE OPEN FROM: 4:30pm till late

PH:07 5444 0988 115A Point Cartwright Drive Buddina QLD

@allantica w wa. lalla l anntti icca a .. ccoom w www. m. .aauu WINTER 2024

Bella Venezia Mooloolaba, QLD

www.agfg.com.au

OPEN 11.30am - Late 7 days a week TAKEAWAY AND PIZZA MENU AVAILABLE

95 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba | Book Online at Bellav.com.au

LA DOLCE

SPIRITED

Vita!

From casual pizzas and beers to a gastronomic celebration of fine food and service, John Caruso dives into the secrets behind Bella Venezia’s longevity and how they’ve stayed on top.

Fast forward almost 25 years and I’m in the same venue, sitting in one of the lush velvet booths with my wife and teenage son celebrating our May birthdays and enjoying a meticulously presented seven-course degustation with matching wines. The menu includes Mooloolaba Yellowfin Tuna Crudo; house made Ravioli with West Australian Lobster and Mooloolaba King Prawns; and Sous Vide Grain Fed Eye Fillet with a Leek and Potato Terrine - and to cap off the experience, Tonino our waiter was the perfect ‘master of ceremonies’.

The Venetian wall may have disappeared, however the atmosphere and anticipation of good food and good times remain at an establishment that clearly deserves its title as an awardwinning ‘institution’ - Bella Venezia.

Hospitality businesses don’t survive with a single string to its bow and for Bella Venezia, it has created a symphony of delicious flavours, expert hospitality and one of the most impressive and award-winning wine lists in Australia.

Todd and Kristine Young are the conductors of this success, leading with as strong a commitment to business management and marketing as there is to the overall dining experience.

“Bella Venezia is currently a 150 seat, 500 square foot venue and it would have been Carlo the original owner who commissioned the painting of those Venetian scenes, along with terracotta tiles on the floor and arches on the sides of the walls,” Todd recalls.

Since then, Bella Venezia has gone

PHOTO: JASON KING SPOONING

through several refurbishments, the first in 2018.

“We wanted to modernise the back room while keeping it classic ensuring that the Venetian feel remained,” he says. “The mural is still there, behind the plaster, so if you were to refurbish, you’d find those original paintings.”

A background in sales and retail management grounded and sharpened Todd’s skills with budgets and cash flow.

“Working in retail taught me a lot about finance, especially running a large supermarket. It was all results-driven and it wasn’t unusual to get a call from your boss if your wages were over budget or if your sales were under,” Todd says.

“Understanding cash flow is very important and it’s hard to survive in this business without that knowledge.

I forecast my cash flow and profitability every day, two weeks out at minimum I know exactly what my weekly costs are for food, beverages, wages. Everything.”

When you’ve been part of the hospitality landscape for decades and the awards flow as smoothly as the shiraz, I wanted to understand what kind of planning was necessary to keep growing and avoid becoming complacent.

“It’s about staying true to who we are, looking at our business model and tweaking it according to trends,” Todd says. “Running a restaurant in Australia is a tough gig, especially at that higher price point and we’ve seen iconic restaurants pull the pin because the cost of doing business was too high.

“For us, it’s about having different offerings. People can come in off the beach and share pizza and beers while in another area, guests are enjoying a silver-service, fine dining experience with a beautiful wine from Bordeaux,” he explains. “Our takeaway and delivery 61

Kristine and Todd Young. service also keep the wheels turning.”

While staying out of the red from a business perspective is critical; delving into ‘reds’ is something Todd enjoys.

“I’m the wine director who creates the wine list and I’m lucky to work with our amazing sommeliers with brilliant pedigrees,” he says. “Like the restaurant, our wine list has evolved from twelve bottles to more than 550, all at different price points and we have earned a lot of awards and a three-glass rating, which I’m very proud of.”

I couldn’t help but think that the journey and transformation that Bella Venezia has undergone in the time I’ve called the Coast home, has mirrored my own - from youthful indulgence to a more considered approach and deeper appreciation for the finer things in life - la dolce vita!

WANT MORE? Download the interview with Todd from our podcast.

WINTER 2024

PHOTO: EMPIRE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

W

hen I moved to the Sunshine Coast from Melbourne in 2000, one of my earliest memories was eating pizza and enjoying a few Italian beers at a spot on the Mooloolaba Esplanade. I vividly recall the wall mural of Venice in a room at the rear - and many laughs shared with friends. It felt like home and I was living the sweet life.

SPIRITED

! r a B e th

ROSÉ-ING

A long lunch drenched in rosé is the perfect way to shake off the winter blues, and when paired with superb Asian cuisine, Deb Caruso says it’s a match made in heaven!

I

f you thought all rosé was the same, think again. The Spring Fling lunch at Spice Bar Mooloolaba will explore the nuances and depths of rosé, matched with a fresh feast of Asian delights by chef and owner Sophie Phipps!

Starting with a welcome cocktail, specially crafted by the multi-award-winning Sunshine & Sons team, a super-seasonal amuse bouche will awaken the palate. While Sophie patiently waits to see what will be at its peak this season for this opening act, she can share that the next course will be an alternate drop of two of her signature dishes matched with an Italian sparkling wine, the Jacarando Brut Rosé which won First Place, or the Medaglia d’oro Vinum at the global World of Rosé 2024!

Asian fusion restaurant with stunning Mooloolaba views

Made from grapes grown up to 700 meters above sea level to enhance its aroma, the soft, coral pink colour and fine and persistent perlage (the bubbles or ‘string of pearls’ for the layperson) scream spring! With fresh, fruity notes of blackberry and raspberry, it is the ideal match for the starters - the first being locally-caught Sashimi with Smoked Bone Oil, Homemade Ponzu Soy, Fingerlime and Dashi Cream.

Bella Venezia Mooloolaba, QLD

Bella Venezia

www.agfg.com.au

Mooloolaba, QLD

BOOK ONLINE spicebar.com.au www.agfg.com.au

First Floor, 123 Mooloolaba Esplanade Mooloolaba Phone 5408 4361 Hello Sunshine Magazine

62

Straight off the boat and perfectly prepared, Sophie also incorporates the bones for the smoked oil and skin as a base for the dashi cream.

“We honour and use the whole fish, which is why I love doing this dish,” Sophie

said. “It will be lovely, fresh and light for spring with pops of fingerlime, puffed buckwheat crunch and the creaminess of the dashi matching superbly with the sparkling. When the bubbles hit the dashi and then a little bit of acid and smoke comes through – it’s super fun and puts a smile on your face.

Already hoping this one lands in front of you? You won’t be disappointed with the alternative of cured Eye Fillet Tataki with Daikon Wasabi Cream, Nori and Soy. For this dish, Sophie takes a John Dee 5+ Marble Score Eye Fillet, cures and dresses it in a nori and black peppercorn emulsion with pickled daikon and spring onion; thinly sliced and served with a homemade nori rice wafer crisp with an avocado and wasabi mousse.

“Again, we’re bringing a lightness to the event that captures the spring vibe,” Sophie says. “The saltiness of the soy-based dressings in both dishes are perfectly counteracted by the subtle sweetness of the rosé.”

Served with traditional accompaniments of gohan - fluffy, slightly sticky rice; tone-wan, pickled spring vegetables; and ko-no-moto, miso broth to warm the soul.

Sophie is still cooking up plans for the main course, waiting to be guided by the season’s bounty, however she is confident the 2020 Étè di Elodie or ‘the summer of Elodie’ rosé will be a perfect match with its light, juicy and

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

SPIRITED

When the bubbles hit the dashi and then a little bit of acid and smoke comes through – it’s super fun...

Sashimi Sophie Phipps well-balanced Syrah/Cinsault grapes from Provence, France.

With its light salmon colour, this drop offers notes of watermelon, rose and red fruits, with some vegetal notes in the background and a palate that is quite zingy with lots of fresh acidity soft but enjoyable. Grown in clay-limestone soil, it delivers a nice texture with minerality and poise.

Before you call it a day on the rosé, get ready for the final act of Sophie’s famous Seasonal Parfait with Spring Fruits, Smoked Almonds and savoury Asian herbs.

This time, matched with a cracking rosé closer to home from the granite sands of the Minim Metcalfe vineyards in Heathcote, Victoria.

The 2023 Metcalfe Syrah is unfined and unfiltered and made from regeneratively farmed Syrah grapes that are picked early to retain clarity and freshness while pushing ripeness enough to welcome some tasty red fruit and soft spice - a great muse for the light and irrestistible Parfait.

While the current iteration features strawberries, Sophie believes that new-season mandarins are going to be in.

“I’m thinking a confit mandarin with a mandarin marmalade which is exactly what this wine is going to sing with,” Sophie says. “It’s a bit savoury and chewy and when you think about marmalade, it

has a saltiness with a savoury pithiness which is always interesting to finish your meal, particularly for lunch.

“The other dishes already have a small amount of natural sweetness to them so we want to finish with something that is not too sugar-forward; something that is light, and leaves you wanting more!”

You’ve been warned!

If beautiful views with fresh and fabulous food in a friendly, family-owned establishment is your flavour – be sure to book your tickets for our Spring Fling Rosé Wine Lunch at Spice Bar. It is sure to please – and to sell-out; so don’t miss out!

Beef Tataki

Spring Fling Rosé Wine Lunch

Friday 6, September - 12noon-2.30pm Say HELLO to spring with four courses of fresh & light Asian delights!

Welcome cocktail by Sunshine & Sons Matching Rosé + Stunning views!

$99

Scan the QR Code or call 5408 4361 to book

BOOK ONLINE spicebar.com.au

First Floor, 123 Mooloolaba Esplanade Mooloolaba Phone 5408 4361 63

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

e n i v e Grap

Tony Cox sniffs out what will be on offer when one of Yarra Valley’s pioneering winemakers comes to town for a very special event.

Rob Dolan

H

More than 30 years later, and having been integral to the success of Sticks and Punt Road labels, Rob is still producing superb wines using Yarra Valley fruit.

ow good is Sunshine Beach Surf Club as a venue to kick back, enjoy a few bevvies and savour some salt-tinged air in your nostrils, all whilst enjoying a vista over the pristine ocean?

Taking it one step further, the chefs are turning it on to provide a wonderful menu paired with Rob Dolan Wines from the Yarra Valley - an area that Rob has made wines in since he made Yarra Ridge into a success in the early 1990s.

Hello Sunshine Magazine

I couldn’t think of a better venue to host this larger-than-life legend of the wine world than the expansive function rooms with the best views in the world.

The lunch will feature six wines paired with five courses alongside no doubt, lots of commentary and tales from Rob’s

64

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

ON THE

impressive career. No need to hear it on the grapevine, this will be an up-close and personal affair full of beautiful wines, great conversation and delicious food - and did I mention the views?

We kick off with the Black Label Blanc de Blanc – think green apple, lemon, typical chardonnay flavours with yeasty elements derived from extended lees contact and mid-palate texture from a small portion of malolactic fermentation.

SPIRITED wonderful event, remember that the Surf Club is accessible Monday to Sunday lunch through dinner and all points in between offering a fantastic selection of beverages at incredibly reasonable prices.

Next, the White Label Pinot Gris - with apple and pear nuances, a slight staining from skin contact and bright acidity delivers a light–medium bodied wine ideally suited to the fig, goat cheese and balsamic accompaniment.

When was the last time you saw a wine by the glass at $7, drink in? There is a substantial number of wines by the glass below $10 including Rob Dolan’s Chardonnay or Paxton Shiraz from McLaren Vale at $9, as well as plenty of options from premium regions and producers.

Stepping it up, True Colours Rosé is pale salmon colour and sits firmly in the savoury style category with melon and nectarine flavours working as a delicate foil to the prawn and avocado ceviche.

Third course is the classic match of duck and pinot noir with the fruit-driven and savoury White Label Pinot Noir spiced with enough acidity to cut through the richness of duck rillettes.

For those wanting to splash out, chardonnay and pinot noir from Ten Minutes by Tractor sit comfortably beside a Champagne selection, where the two offerings from Duval-Leroy look incredible value at $100 per bottle.

Next, Wagyu Striploin takes centre stage. The White Label Shiraz, being more medium-bodied rather than full-bodied, has red fruit flavours, spice and savoury edge, with the back palate combination of acid and tannin cleansing the palate between mouthfuls.

The club actively promotes local producers with Heads of Noosa Japanese Lager being very popular and Sunshine & Sons Gin and Vodka being first pour in the bar, as well as Noosa Gin from Noosa Distillery and Diablo Ginger Beer.

Fifth course completes the afternoon and the Yuzu tartlet sees citrus fruit and yuzu paired with the Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Left to shrivel on the vine (but without botrytis) the wine’s notes of orange blossom, marmalade and cumquat will be another perfect match!

Best of all, the more you support the club the safer the beach will be, as the Supporters Club provides financial support to the Volunteer Lifesavers, assisting with valuable equipment.

Perhaps we could make a case for our

Whilst the lunch promises to be a

contributions across the bar being a tax-deductible donation?

There are plenty of reasons to enjoy a drink and/or a bite to eat at Sunshine Beach Surf Club and the Rob Dolan Long Lunch is yet another.

Look forward to seeing you there.

Cheers!

ROB DOLAN LONG LUNCH MENU Black Label Blanc de Blanc ~~ Fig, Goat’s Cheese and Balsamic White Label Pinot Gris ~~ Prawn & Avocado Ceviche True Colours Rosé ~~ Duck Rillettes White Label Pinot Noir ~~ Wagyu Striploin White Label Shiraz ~~ Yuzu Tartlet Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc

BOOK NOW! Sunday 21 July,11.30am Scan the QR code or book directly at Club reception and save $10.

n a l o D b Ro 5-course meal, each paired with a selection of Rob Dolan Wines with special guest Rob Dolan himself.

SUNDAY 21 JULY | 11.30AM - 3.00PM

SCAN THE QR CODE TO BOOK YOUR TICKET

129

$

OR purchase direct from Club reception and save $10 on your ticket

+ BOOKING FEE

Duke Street, Sunshine Beach | sunshinebeachsurflcub.com.au 65

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

COSY, CLASSY WINTER

y a w a e tak

Sometimes a takeaway is just what the doctor ordered after a busy week. Melanie Rosettenstein discovers that a Dee Den takeaway will not only give you the night off from cooking but will provide a fancy home dining experience like no other.

P

icture this! It’s a Friday afternoon at the end of a busy week, you’re starving but there’s nothing in the fridge. You could be persuaded to enjoy a fancy dinner out with hubby but it’s pouring with rain, you don’t have anything to wear and the babysitter is not returning your calls. What’s a busy modern mum to do?

At this point, and as the hanger sets in, takeaway is your best option but ordinary fast food is the last thing you or your waist line needs!

For something different, a takeaway from Dee Den is the fabulously fresh, fancy and filling solution.

Dee Den takes pride of place on top of quaint Buderim in a beautifully renovated Queenslander. It’s mission: to delight its many new and loyal customers who come from all over the Sunshine Coast with a modern take on Asian food which combines fresh aromatic flavours with a playful blend of spices.

The restaurant has both charm and sophistication in spades as well as friendly, smiling staff who are always on hand to top up your wine, clear your dishes and report on their menu Hello Sunshine Magazine

favourites - or whip you up a cocktail while you wait for your takeaway order.

The name “Dee Den” comes from a Thai phrase that loosely translates to “standing out” or being the “odd one out”. And so the restaurant’s name and slogan “Something Different” is entirely appropriate.

After announcing to the mob that our Friday night dinner would be a special Dee Den takeaway, bellies rumbled with anticipation as we scan the easily accessible online menu, making sure to pop our best bottle of rosé in the fridge.

This was going to be no ordinary eating-in affair.

Dee Den’s takeaway menu features some of the restaurant’s top sellers as well as some comfort food that can be enjoyed at home without the hassle of cooking and then cleaning up afterwards.

Owner Jeremy Khoo says all the takeaway dishes are made using the same modern cooking techniques and 66

in-house recipes as you would find dining at the restaurant; suggesting also to add a note to not add any chilli if your kids don’t like their food too spicy.

Once we had decided on our Dee Den delights, it was simple to place our order using the restaurant’s convenient online system. And if you’re a bit more organised than me, you can also place your order before the restaurant opens its doors in the early evening.

I volunteer to pick up the feast, enjoying the alone time to drive to Dee Den and wait in the luxurious lounge and soak in the buzz of the popular venue, and if I allow enought time, maybe grab a cheeky wine or cocktail.

Plus I like being treated like a rockstar when I arrive home with the tantalising aroma of dinner for the hungry hordes.

If thoughts of single use packaging are playing on your mind, rest assured that Dee Den only uses the best eco-friendly packaging for their takeaways.

SPIRITED

“The paper bags, cardboard containers, and even the lids are recyclable,” Jeremy says. “We’re constantly looking for more sustainable packaging.”

Even the dipping sauce came in a tiny biodegradable container with its own lid!

Talk about guilt-free gluttony!

To honour the occasion, we laid the table, lit the candles, poured the wine and sat down to slowly enjoy our meal.

Standouts for the kids were Chef Mike’s Popcorn chicken with larb powder, lemongrass dust, crispy lime leaves and Japanese mayo; and the

Chicken Fried Rice with egg, onion, choy sum, pak choy and prik nam pla.

The Chicken Pad Thai with tofu, egg, crushed peanuts, garlic chives, beansprouts, dried shrimp and tamarind was also a favourite and all were devoured with great zest despite mum’s pleading to eat slowly and savour the goodness.

My husband’s Slow-Cooked Angus Beef Cheek Massaman with sweet potato, almond flakes and toasted coconut was right up his street. His review: “The best Asian food I have ever had.”

This is a massive endorsement from a man who frequently travels to Asia.

As for me, the die-hard Dee Den fan, I went with my usual Pork Belly Kailan Stir-fry with shiro miso, chilli, fried garlic and dried shallot. I can report that this delicious dish which I loved from the first time I tried it on a girls’ night out is just as good in my home as it is in the restaurant. So filling and flavourful!

Jeremy was right! Dee Den’s takeaway meals really do hit the spot.”

Next stop, the couch.

Open Tuesday-Sunday 11.30am-2.30pm 5pm-8.30pm 1st Floor, 87 Burnett St, Buderim

Menus & Reservations deeden.com.au

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WINTER 2024

SURPRISING

An evening at Flo’s Crêperie is about to get a little more Francey with the introduction of their brand-new French dinner menu – featuring plenty of beloved classics with that signature Flo’s twist, bien sûr!

Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers what’s on the menu and starts planning her next visit…

! i u O t C’es

TO DINNER!

I

f you already love Flo’s Crêperie and their delicious selection of crêpes and galettes (and if not, where have you been?), then prepare to be delighted – their new French dinner menu has arrived, and it’s as fantastique as you’d expect!

Entrees such as Steak Tartare; Scallop Vol Au Vent; Flo’s Cured Ocean Trout with sauce vierge, black olives, dill, creme fraiche; and many more tasty offerings are hard to resist but leave room for heartier mains, including crowd-pleasers such as Steak Frites; Chicken Fricassée; and La Papillote, which is barramundi, mussels and local king prawns cooked in a paper bag with saffron potatoes and bouillabaisse – hard to pronounce, but easy to devour!

Sensational sides include Courgettes Grillées with confit lemon, pepitas and fresh herbs; Salade Verte; and Potatoes a la Flo layered with cream and chives.

It wouldn’t be Flo’s without a selection of classic, seafood and vegetarian galettes (savoury crêpes) and divine dessert crêpes that everyone knows and loves. Très bien!

Hello Sunshine Magazine

Scallop Vol Au Vent PHOTOS: FLORENCE LEMYRE

Start your French feast with ‘Petits’ including Moules Gratinées topped with confit garlic butter and breadcrumbs; Chicken Liver Pâté with pickles and croutons; and the amazing-sounding Raclette Bombs (I’ve been obsessed with raclette since a childhood French skiing trip, so sign me up!).

The philosophy behind our new dinner menu is affordable, approachable French food done well!

La Papillote “The philosophy behind our new dinner menu is affordable, approachable French food done well,” says Flo’s Crêperie co-founder Michelle Guillemard.

“Alongside delicious crêpes and galettes, you’ll now also find dishes that capture the true essence of French cuisine. We want Flo’s to be the destination for French food on the Sunshine Coast.”

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The menu will be rotated regularly, featuring plenty of new delights, and all dishes are designed to be shared, embracing the spirit of dining with loved ones and the cosy, casual surroundings.

Why try just one dish when you could share a few with your table?

“We encourage diners to order a range of dishes and try different things – mix them up with our galettes, or with a

SURPRISING Chicken Liver Pâté

glass of wine, Flo’s French Cider or champagne,” Michelle adds.

“Since launching Flo’s for dinner, we’ve had so many amazing comments – people love the new dishes and attractive prices, and pairing these new dishes with a savoury galette or sweet crêpe for dessert has been a popular move!” she says.

But if you’re simply craving a crêpe, never fear: Michelle said diners could still enjoy a range of savoury galettes and sweet crêpes that Flo’s is famous for with the signature flambe crêpes offering the perfect finish to a French feast.

Raclette Bombs

XO Scallops galette

Alongside the new menu, you’ll find a revamped wine list, with beautiful French drops from many different regions suited to all budgets and tastes.

France, but can also execute these classic French dishes to perfection,” she adds.

“Our personal favourite is the Château du Moulin Noir because Bordeaux is unbeatable and it really reminds Flo of his country,” Michelle says.

The dinner menu is a team effort, with Flo’s talented crew of chefs working together to create French foodie fabulousness.

“We are lucky to work with amazing chefs who not only know how to make crêpes and galettes just like they do in

For a dish that celebrates the flavours of the south of France while showcasing the exceptional local produce of the Sunshine Coast, Michelle recommends the La Papillote.

“It’s Flo’s favourite, because the taste of the bouillabaisse really brings you to the south of France, and with our local fish it works so well to link French tradition and Sunshine Coast flavours together perfectly,” she said.

Craving fantastique French food?

It’s time to go with the Flo!

A Little Bit MORE FRANCEY

New Dinner Menu at Flo’s!

A range of French classics with a Flo’s twist.

Think Steak Frites, Fricassée, Rillettes, Bouillabaisse – all those dishes that are hard to pronounce but easy to indulge in.

And, of course, the signature crêpes and galettes!

SCAN TO BOOK FLO'S CRÊPERIE NOOSA, AUSTRALIA

Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | The Wharf Mooloolaba | 5444 1680 | BOOK ONLINE floscreperie.com/book 69

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

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CHOCOLATE

General Manager Nick Southon

Matt Golinski discovers the place of his dreams - a magical chocolate shop full of wonder, flavour and history, right here in our own backyard.

I

remember being a little boy the first time I watched Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

I could practically smell those sweet rivers of molten cocoa and taste all the changing flavours of that Everlasting Gobstopper - and I desperately wanted to be the one getting my hands on that Wonka Bar with the Golden Ticket inside.

It was mini chef Matt’s sweet fantasy world, full of colour and theatre and quirky humour, but it contained important messages of fairness and honesty - and that greed could see you stuck in a large glass tube!

I’ve seen it dozens of times over the years, and I still get that cinematic sugar rush every time.

So, when I pulled into the carpark of the Noosa Chocolate Factory in Venture Drive, Noosaville and the big glass doors opened, I realised I no longer needed to long for that Golden Ticket to enter a world of pure imagination and chocolate craftsmanship.

Shelves stacked with glistening chocolates of all shapes, sizes and colours overwhelm your senses the moment you step through the entrance, each section you pass by as exciting as the last.

Macadamias, pecans, almonds and hazelnuts, strawberries, raspberries, Hello Sunshine Magazine

the amazing quality of their work.

I realised I no longer needed to long for that golden ticket to enter a world of pure imagination... blueberries and ginger, honeycomb, brittles, Turkish delight and marshmallow.

All the very best quality of everything made on site, and all mixed with or coated in the finest couverture and packaged into pouches of treasure.

The aromas wafting out from the coffee machine in the corner as you drift blissfully around the room make it almost impossible to leave without sitting for a while and sampling some of your treats over a brew.

From a viewing area you can witness the magic happening – not by Oompa Loompas, but by very busy and focussed chocolatiers who work skilfully and with precision timing - melting, mixing, spreading and cutting, desperately trying to keep ahead of the huge demand they have created for their products through 70

It may be fast paced and stressful, but they all seem so happy, the couple sitting wrapping mountains of confectionery studded chocolate blocks; the girls bagging, weighing and labelling the panned chocolates; even the lady responsible for keeping up with the literally thousands of hampers required by the factory’s five outlets every week.

The fact that they work all day in a cloud of pure delicious sweetness at a constant 19 degrees might have something to do with their smiles but being a part of something that brings so much joy to others must surely add to the level of job satisfaction. Having their very own Willy Wonka at the helm probably helps too.

Pam and Gordon Thomson opened Noosa Chocolate Factory in 2009 in a small kitchen a stones-throw from the behemoth new factory. From humble beginnings, Pam has retained ownership to today - employing 68 staff and stocking two outlets in Brisbane City and one at the Sunshine Plaza.

It’s not surprising that the business has been a success; after all, chocolate and confectionery was very much in Gordon’s DNA. Anyone who has ever shoved a set of lolly Teeth over their own to make

PHOTOS: PETER WALLIS

SPIRITED

Gordon Thomson

Sunshine Plaza Store

themselves look silly or survived a long road trip by demolishing bags of Snakes has Gordon’s father Charles to thank.

‘Charlie’ worked in various chocolate factories in England until serving in the second world war, and at 22 was captured in Singapore and worked alongside Aussie soldiers as a prisoner of war on the Thai-Burma railway.

After the war his connection to Australia prompted him to move to

Melbourne where he took on a job as factory manager at Allen’s and was responsible for creating many of our iconic Australian sweets that still exist.

And they want to make sure that the things they are remembered for are a commitment to quality, pride in their craftmanship and the service to match.

His son Gordon’s artisanal approach to what he does means he and the Noosa Chocolate Factory team aren’t looking to conquer the world - with roughly three tonnes of chocolate a week walking out the door they are already close to full capacity in the space they have.

Visiting Noosa Chocolate Factory is something special, a chance for you to choose all the treats you’ve always wanted. And don’t forget what happened to the person who suddenly got everything they always wanted.

They lived happily ever after.

The freshest, handcrafted chocolate in Australia is made daily in Noosa

Visit us in store to taste the difference OPEN 7 DAYS - Factory + Cafe - 21 Venture Drive, NOOSAVILLE - Retail + Cafe - Level 1 Sunshine Plaza, MAROOCHYDORE

noosachocolatefactory.com.au 71

WINTER 2024

the world’s best vodka

Made here on the Sunshine Coast

premium

spirits Hello Sunshine Magazine

VISIT OUR DISTILLERY DOOR, OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 10AM 104 NAMBOUR CONNECTION RD, WOOMBYE TOURS, TASTINGS, COCKTAILS AND NIL DESPERANDUM RUM 72

SPIRITED

Tony Cox raises a glass to the latest global success for the crew at CAVU Distilling.

GOLDEN

T

s m a e Dr

here really must be something in the water at Woombye because the team at CAVU Distilling have won more global gongs!

Not content with winning World’s Best Vodka at the World Vodka Awards for the Sunshine & Sons Original Vodka, the team has just been awarded a Gold Medal at the 2024 World Drinks Awards for their Nil Desperandum ‘Botanical’ Rum providing proof that it doesn’t matter whether the spirit is white or brown, the end result is always golden.

In fact, Nil Desperandum came away with five medals across their rum range with the ‘Botanical’, in the Contemporary and Botanical category, being the highest awarded - even rating above such esteemed brands as Pussers from Guyana – so the competition was pretty hot.

Other awards received include: Traditional Spiced Category: Silver, ‘Artfully Corrupted’ Spiced Rum Pot Still 5 Years & Under: Silver, ‘Special’ Rum; and Bronze, ‘Premier’ Rum Flavoured: Bronze, ‘Artfully Corrupted’ Orange Rum A huge achievement when you consider the team has been doing their thing for four years compared to some overseas producers with generations of experience.

The 1871 Club Membership entitles members to five releases each year, all bottles being numbered and not being readily available.

The second release for members for 2024 is now available and for those with sufficient palate memory if you cast your mind back to 2022, where The Wild Muck won Best Pot Still Rum at the 2022

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Australian Rum Awards, some of that batch was put aside to age further in ex-bourbon barrels with previous sherry and port fill creating a stunning fouryear-old rum, The Muck Redux.

Weighing in at a warming 53.7% ABV, it is limited to 101 bottles.

As always, if you are looking for something to do of an afternoon there would be nothing better than kicking back in the sun, the distillery taking the brunt of southerly winds in the cooler months, and checking out the warming rum selection or sampling the latest cocktail creations.

The Nil Desperandum Mai Colada is a hybrid of a pina colada and a mai tai.

With 30ml each of Premier and Special Rums combined with 20ml each of Triple Sec, coconut milk, pineapple juice, lime juice and orgeat syrup all shaken with ice and strained over ice. Plenty of vitamin C to ward off winter sniffles.

Best suited to those cooler months and a bit of contemplative sipping over serious conversation or just a little bit of friendly banter is the Nil Fashioned, a take on the classic Old Fashioned (your scribes favourite post-dinner non-wine 73

down). Two nips of Special Rum, 10ml of simple syrup made using dark Demerara sugar, two dashes Angostura bitters and a dash each of orange and chocolate bitters with ice in a mixing glass and stir. Strain into a rock glass with one large ice cube garnished with a twist of orange peel. Quality dark chocolate would make the ideal accompaniment.

Now that State of Origin is with us, what better way to support your team than with our much-loved maroonlabelled Nil Desperandum Special, OR if you hail from south of the border, the NSW Blues Limited Edition bottle will let you show your true colours!

What can we say about these guys that hasn’t already been mentioned (other than predicting the gongs that are likely to continue to flow for the team at Nil Desperandum and sister operation Sunshine & Sons).

To keep abreast of what is happening, drop in and enjoy a cocktail or cocktail class at their distillery door near the Big Pineapple at Woombye, visit the website or to sate your passion for premium rum, become a member of The 1871 Club.

WINTER 2024

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SURPRISING

t n a i d a R GYM FOR SKIN

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Melanie Rosettenstein finds the lift she needs for younger, healthier looking skin.

S

ometimes we forget that our skin is the largest organ in our body and needs to be nurtured and replenished to look good and perform its essential functions. Thankfully, Body Transformation Institute (BTI) has a wide range of non-invasive yet effective and transformative skin treatments, with the EMFACE Non-Surgical Facelift being one of their most popular.

EMFACE treatment gets top marks.

Located in Cotton Tree, BTI is a family-run clinic that blends traditional Chinese medicine with cutting-edge technology offering services like acupuncture, HOCATT ozone therapy, Tesla Chair Pelvic Floor treatments, and advanced fat-freezing. It specialises in ‘biohacking’ - a holistic approach that uses technology to enhance physical, emotional and spiritual wellness.

By first heating the skin’s dermis with synchronised radio frequency, the EMFACE electrodes prepare your facial muscles (akin to stretching before exercise) for the contractions while also stimulating the production of collagen and elastin fibres. Dawn said that this phase was basically reminding the deeper cells in your skin to behave in a more youthful fashion.

Their innovative skin treatment, the EMFACE Non-Surgical Facelift, is a game changing, three-phase cosmetic treatment that targets your skin’s deeper layers for more lift, less wrinkles and radiant-looking skin.

As the muscles warm up, the HIFES energies begin contracting your muscles and this is where the gym workout for your face begins. For 20 minutes, the electrodes contract the muscles, rebuilding them so that they are strong and healthy enough to do their job - to lift your skin and make you look younger.

Phase one is the EMFACE device which uses synchronised radiofrequency and High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Stimulation (HIFES) to painlessly stimulate the skin, connective tissues, and muscles in your face.

“Think of it as a gym class for your face,” says BTI Skin Specialist, Dawn Simm, a skin practitioner with 28 years of experience under her belt. Having learnt the ropes, the ‘old school way,’ Dawn has seen many diverse types of treatments come and go and for her, the

She thoroughly explains every detail of the process while strategically placing the electrodes under my chin (for that stubborn double chin) and on my cheek bones (this is where the important elevator muscles which lift your skin live). If preferred, electrodes can also be placed on the forehead, but Dawn says the chin area is the most requested.

It feels strange at first to have your facial muscles involuntarily contracting but once a few minutes had passed I could feel the work being done, especially on my double chin.

Dawn explained that the muscle under the chin, called the digastric muscle, was deeply embedded and hard to reach but luckily, EMFACE’s HIFES pulses get right in there giving this elusive muscle a full 75

workout to lift and sculpt the neck and chin area. My chin felt like it was doing hundreds of sit ups which surely delivers a more slender and youthful look.

After 20 minutes, it’s time for phase two as Dawn applies a pomegranate peel to my face to slough off dead skin cells and promote skin renewal ahead of phase three, the infrared light therapy. The light therapy, she says, is the perfect way to end the treatment as it stimulates collagen production, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and detoxifies the skin.

While I was feeling warm and glowy, Dawn imparted some of her hard-earned wisdom, telling me that before the treatment my skin was dehydrated, suggesting that I add retinol to my daily skincare routine - but only 48 hours after this treatment.

After applying ample moisturiser, she said the next step was for me to massage my face to increase circulation and lymphatic flow so that the facelift could keep doing its job after I got home.

“For optimal results, another three treatments, one week apart, is ideal to ensure less wrinkles and more lift,” she said. “Positive results are usually reported in four to six weeks after the last session and your skin continues to improve for several weeks after that.”

As a safe and non-invasive procedure, the EMFACE treatment requires no downtime and it’s quick to see the results. I glide out of BTI’s rooms feeling (and looking) like a million dollars!

Best workout session ever!

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

COUNTRY Y OF

r u o l o C

While it is often said that the journey is more important than the destination, Jennifer Swaine discovers that a special destination can also capture the essence of the journey.

T

he minute Alana Kennedy sat down in front of me I was mesmerised. I don’t recall if it was her captivating dark eyes that looked deep into your soul, how breathtakingly beautiful she was or the confident, articulate, passionate way she spoke about her work, particularly her Ochre Sun skincare range that honours her heritage and harnesses the power of bush medicine while creating a brighter future for her people.

Many entrepreneurs are passionate about what they do and Alana is no different. Being a proud Kalkadoon, Eastern Arrernte and Waanyi woman, Alana is proud of her roots and her heritage and so it was important to take her back on country to capture images of her that would help to tell her incredible story.

This was how our team at The Comms People ended up spending four incredible days with Alana in Mt Isa. I had never visited this part of Queensland and from start to finish it was a trip that changed our lives.

Before we started our shoot Alana arranged for us to meet with Nanna Joan and Nanna Di to be welcomed on Country. It was a deeply moving experience and each of us felt humbled and grateful to receive the blessing of Nanna Joan who welcomed us with open arms.

If you have never been to outback Queensland you need to put it on your bucket list. The countryside is a contrast of beautiful extremes.

We saw chatters of stunning green, wild budgies zooming in and out of the vibrant red rock formations and because of the recent rains this often dry Hello Sunshine Magazine

landscape was bursting with colour and life.

One of our first locations to shoot was the Granites and it was at this point we were incredibly grateful for our amazing local guides Kylie and Erin who expertly advised us on how to get there.

In fact, finding the Granites would have been near impossible given it is unsigned and a fairly remote location.

This old granite mine is no longer used and rising out of the ground are huge slabs and boulders of red granite.

It was a beautiful location and at dusk it was simply breathtaking. The contrast of the red dirt and yellow spinifex contrasted with a stunning couture gown we styled Alana in for this shoot and as the sun set behind her, we were all left speechless.

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Our other favourite location was Fountain Springs. Again, it was great to be travelling with such amazing local ladies who knew their way around the area and who provided local knowledge and insights.

Fountain Springs is a location often used for filming and many will remember the water hole where the crocodile grabbed a surprised Linda Koslowski in Crocodile Dundee. In recent years it was also used as a backdrop in Australian Survivor.

We were fortunate to visit this site after it had rained and the water was still cascading down the rockface into the dark pool below. It really is a scene out of a movie and is a “must do” on a trip to Mount Isa. On the day of our shoot we arrived as

SPIRITED

PHOTO: COMMS PEOPLE

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It was impossible to ignore the magic of such a special place.

significance of traditional knowledge and the age-old healing practices of

The time we spent in Mount Isa was full of experiences and moments like this but perhaps the most significant and special time was at the end of our third day when Nanna Joan and Nanna Di cooked us dinner back at the Granites.

bush medicine.

Our products are infused with our unique blend of healing extracts and

They treated us to an incredible homecooked meal of Johnny Cakes and beef, all cooked for hours over a camp oven. As we sat together enjoying our meal, they shared stories of their childhood and of their time growing up in the region.

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WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

As the mercury drops, so does our motivation. Jackie Hillegers encourages us to foster healthy habits over hibernation.

HIBERNATING

s t i b a H

A

lmost half our daily experiences and behaviours are formed out of habit. We come up with New Year’s resolutions on an annual basis and plan to start these new habits on the first day of the new year.

But on the Sunshine Coast, January is often our busiest social month: we’re still winding down from Christmas, the beach is beckoning, and social events and outings are at an all-time high.

In my opinion, the best time to form a new habit is now, at the beginning of winter! It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the dip into cooler weather and decide which of our habits to swap out for new ones.

Rather than curling up under a blanket and hibernating, this season calls for trying new things and forming new habits - explore our beautiful surrounds; leave your phone on silent while you take advantage of long slow lunches filled with chatter and laughter; practice self-care at a local day spa; attend a regular pilates class; or engage in regular café catch-ups with freshly brewed coffee, meaningful conversations and eye contact.

Now is the perfect time to support your community and invest in yourself and your friendships by making these exciting, healthy changes.

So, what exactly is a habit, and why is it so hard to change?

A habit is a fixed way of thinking or behaving that accumulates through repetition of an experience.

Your ongoing habits mainly occur Hello Sunshine Magazine

grab comfort food to eat before the next episode (reward).

A habit is a fixed way of thinking or behaving that accumulates through repetition of an experience. subconsciously, so you may not always be aware that you are repeating them.

The good news is that a habit can be changed by being more consciously aware of the thought pattern or behavious that you wish to change.

The three main components of a habit – or a habit loop – are the cue, the routine, and the reward.

The cue refers to the trigger that starts your habitual behaviour; the routine is the repetitiveness; and the reward is the positive feeling you get each time you repeat your habit.

An example of a habit loop is when you binge-watch Netflix and the current episode finishes (cue), you run to the kitchen cupboard or pantry (routine) and 78

We must recognise the cues and rewards to change or modify our habits.

A healthier way to achieve that same reward could be limiting your Netflixwatching experience to just one episode per day/night, and taking a plate of fruit and nuts into the room with you before watching the episode.

When you engage in repetitive habits your neural pathways are strengthened, which helps your brain remember the action more easily or automatically for the future.

Our brain is always rewiring itself based on our experiences and actions, so by understanding your habits, you form valuable insights into your behaviours and allow positive changes.

Habits range from simple actions such as brushing your hair, to more complex ones such as procrastinating or smoking.

Most of your habits are beneficial to help run our day-to-day lives, but we all have a few that do need changing.

Think about your worst habit that you would like to change, and why it is holding you back or not serving you.

SPIRITED

Follow these six steps to make your habit-changing process easier:

healthy hair and skin starts here

1. Identify the habit you want to change Be clear about why you want to change this habit and think about how it currently impacts your life.

2. Understand your triggers Pay attention to what triggers the habit and then develop strategies to avoid or manage those triggers.

3. Replace your habit with a positive behaviour For example, if you drink too much coffee during the day, have a large bottle of water at hand so you can quench your thirst with an alternative.

4. Create a plan Write down a plan on how to change your habit in small, manageable steps. Create a timeline to hold yourself accountable.

5. Be consistent Consistency is the key so stick to your plan, and push through any challenges or obstacles that stand in your way.

6. Celebrate your success Celebrate small victories along the way, as this will keep you more focused and motivated. When you have stuck to your new habit for a month, reward yourself with a self-care gift.

Another way of changing your habit is called ‘habit stacking’. This is when you attach a new habit to an existing one.

INTRODUCING

For example, if you go for a walk each morning but also want to do weights, why not purchase ankle or wrist weights to combine the two?

We have all heard the saying ‘we are creatures of habit’. So let’s be a little more unpredictable this winter – after all, seasons change regularly and so should our habits.

NEW HABIT IDEAS: • Join the 5am club to increase productivity • Start a side-hustle to earn extra income • Complete a jigsaw instead of screen time

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• Work on your body strength with regular classes

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• Read a chapter of a book every day • Study or learn a new hobby

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• Support a friend and break your habits together 79

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

l u o S & t r a He COOKING WITH

I

s it me, or do the weeks seem to fly by at the speed of lightning — one minute it’s Monday and the next it’s Friday again; but do we ever really switch off?

For Greensmith Grocers’ Jess Holdsworth, it’s a hard ‘no’ — and we owe it to ourselves to do it more often.

Designed to educate and inspire creativity in the kitchen, Jess’ upcoming Nourish Retreat will be held from 18-24 October in the tranquil coastal surroundings of Noosa North Shore.

“Our retreats are ideal for those wanting to develop new cooking skills, but if you’re only interested in the eating part — that’s okay too; guests can immerse themselves in the art of self-care while learning how to create delicious seasonal meals that nourish the body on a deeper level,” says Jess. “I will teach guests how to cook seasonally, which is a great way to save money, ensure variety and avoid the mundane go-to meals we can all resort to when pressed for time.”

Learning to cook is an essential life skill most people acquire at varying ages and stages, but the art of cooking intuitively is a skill akin to driving a car, or brushing your teeth — once you learn how, it becomes second nature and you can pretty much do it in your sleep.

“I simply cannot cook without two key ingredients — heart and soul; and both form the basis of my Queensland and Bali retreats,” Jess says. “I encourage people Hello Sunshine Magazine

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Tucked away in the stillness and serenity of the Noosa North Shore, Greensmith Grocer’s holistic Nourish Retreats are the perfect way to relax, unwind and be taken care of while learning the art of intuitive cooking.

Jodie Cameron chats with owner Jess Holdsworth about her passion for feeding hearts, souls - and stomachs.

to cook with their eyes and what they have in their pantry; don’t be scared of swapping out ingredients because this is an excellent way to avoid food wastage while experimenting with new flavours.”

Offering guests a taste tester of all the things she loves in the world, the philosophy behind Jess’ retreats is for guests to enjoy beautiful organic food, good company, rest, reflection, indulgence, love, care, shared wisdom, and pure enjoyment — while feeling nourished and investing in self-care.

“We encourage guests to pack a bag and be completely looked after; do as much or as little as they like — there’s no need to think or worry, they can just be,” explains Jess. “Enjoying food the way we are supposed to with a relaxed nervous system, and surrounded by people who make us feel warm and included; we believe this is how our bodies are designed to be nourished.”

While developing knowledge and understanding of classic ingredients, flavour pairings and taste is a skill usually developed over time. So, with this in mind, Jess’ retreats focus on keeping things simple to inspire creative cooking.

“What makes my heart sing is how motivated guests are when they leave and how much more confident and free they are in the kitchen; they are empowered to experiment with herbs, spices, colour, texture and fresh produce 80

and continue their food and holistic health journey,” Jess enthuses.

Self-taught in the kitchen, Jess is a strong advocate for fresh, organic produce, and says while her retreats emphasise organic nutrition; there’s zero focus on diet rules or eliminating certain food groups — instead using intuition as a guide to creating food that nourishes more than any diet or supplement could.

“Practice makes perfect and the same rule applies to intuitive cooking,” she says. “Once you have your pantry staples sorted, the world really is your oyster when it comes to cooking whatever you like, when you like.”

As an ex-farmer, and natural born foodie, I adore cooking, especially with my boys, family and friends. The ritual of cooking has been a tradition in my life for as long as I can remember; from watching my Mother bake to using her hand-me-down utensils, including that retro yellow Tupperware colander; each element becomes a part of the experience and appreciation for cooking.

“It’s all about setting up your cooking space,” says Jess. “Whether that’s using your favourite bowl or like me; a $5 wooden spoon that I simply cannot cook without; it’s all about creating the right energy by listening and trusting your body knows what it feels like eating.”

From eating, sleeping, resting, reading, swimming, playing tennis, journaling,

SPIRITED inspiration in the kitchen, with a focus on vibrant vegetarian dishes made with organic and local produce, we cater to all dietary requirements,” Jess says.

Enjoy group cooking lessons, yoga classes, sunrise swims and daily QiGong — the inward act of regulating the mind, breath, and body’s movement and posture and the perfect way to start your day! And expect zero full days of sightseeing because this is your time to go slow, inward and connect back to yourself.

“And if you just want to sleep in, sleep in,” Jess says. “The beauty of going on retreat is often the people you meet — like-minded souls who have decided to take time out at exactly the same time you have, and there’s often a lot of connection in those experiences.” walking, chatting, or simply enjoying some time alone amongst the sounds of native bushland — the self-care options at Nourish Retreat are literally endless!

“Quite often guests arrive wanting to be involved in the cooking, but end up sitting back and simply enjoy the element of being taken care of,” Jess smiles. “I run daily cooking demos and workshops that bring a whole new level of connection to food, and a newfound

Which is why Jess is sharing the love and giving away a place for one lucky person to join her at the next Nourish Retreat! Simply scan the QR code (right) and you could be on your way to four blissful nights of self-indulgence and relaxation in Noosa!

Can’t carve out any time for a fournight stay, but still seeking to balance your inner zen while learning a thing or two in the kitchen?

Join Jess for a FREE Balinese cooking class where she will share her best curry recipe from her Balinese retreat or enjoy FREE QiGong classes + coffee every Sunday in August at their Birtinya store.

Check their website for more details.

So have I convinced you it’s your time to switch off and give yourself permission to savour every organic mouthful while filling your cup at a Greensmith Grocers’ Nourish Retreat?

Sign-up for your soul full of solace today!

WIN YOUR WAY TO WELLNESS!

• 4 nights’ accommodation in a twin-share room at Noosa North Shore • Organic home-cooked meals • 4 x daily nourishing breakfasts • 4 x gourmet lunches • 4 x comforting dinners • A 1hr indulgent body treatment (or as many as you’d like to book!)

• Daily intuitive cooking sessions with Jess • Take home goodie bag + surprises • Relax by the pool • Daily QiGong Scan the QR Code to enter the draw to WIN! www.greensmithgrocers.com.au

local. natural. organic.

FREE VIP MEMBERSHIP

SIGN UP IN STORE

Check out our markets, wellness workshops & retreats! @greensmithgrocers

OPEN 7 DAYS STOCKLAND, BIRTINYA greensmithgrocers.com.au 0421 855 225 81

WINTER 2024

SPIRITED

City VIBES A

s the cool air of a beachside winter sets in, fashionistas all over the Coast are redefining their wardrobes with a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary edge. Winter 2024 is all about embracing bold looks whilst staying warm and comfortable! Where warmth meets style with a balanced blend of textures, colours, patterns and silhouettes we see a modern twist on vintage glamour, effortless looks, and every garment tells a story of self-expression. Neutral tones will continue to dominate, with the addition of deep, earthy tones that evoke a sense of nature and pair beautifully for optimal layering.

Join us on our family adventure as we step into a world where city vibes meets creative spirits and the essence of style is around every corner - the vibrant heart of the Maroochydore City Centre! Whether it be an early morning stroll along the corso, green space for kids to run free and immerse themselves in nature, conversations over coffee, fine dining for lunch or dinner, or sunset cocktails – there is a place for everyone!

To top it off we can find Sunshine Plaza and Cotton Tree with a great variety of local fashion boutiques just a stone’s throw away for all our fashion needs – what more could we want!

ALLY CHUCK Fashion Editor @ac.stylecollective

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LILY WEARS: Woodys eyewear from Hammond Optometry, 5476 2333 Hannah knit top, earrings & handbag from Rayanna, rayanna.com.au 9ct yellow gold freshwater pearl ring from McLean and Co Jewellers, 5452 6774

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ABOVE AND RIGHT: LILY WEARS: Mel open back tank , Donna ruffle skirt from Desert Lily Vintage, desertlilyvintage.com.au Eggshell ripple large hoop statement earrings, The Linen Collection from Euphony Designs, www.euphonydesigns.com BRIAN WEARS: SABA Angus Shawl neck Knit and SABA Baxter chino pants from David Jones Sunshine Plaza,13 33 57

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FELIX WEARS: Bobby knit vest, Country Road organically grown linen shirt & corduroy pant from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57.

DAISY WEARS: Country Road Teen organically grown cotton collared knit dress from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57.

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WINTER 2024

CHRISSY WEARS: Edinburgh shawl, vegan leather pant, elbow swing tee, wood & chain necklace from Elmari Boutique - Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree and Coolum Beach www.elmari.com.au

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SPIRITED LILY WEARS: Alemais Pinball sundress from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 Khaki gingko leaf inverted arch earrings The Linen Collection from Euphony Designs, www.euphonydesigns.com FELIX WEARS: Bobby knit vest, Country Road organically grown linen shirt & corduroy pant from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 DAISY WEARS: Country Road Logo Intarsia knit & organically grown cotton blend solid rib legging from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57

CHRISSY WEARS: Bella banded sleeve top, shirred waist palazzo pants, leather blush crystal sneaker from Elmari Boutique - Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree and Coolum Beach www.elmari.com.au. Emerald, gold and neutral layered half moon earrings - Winter Layers Collection from Euphony Designs, www.euphonydesigns.com

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SPIRITED CHRISSY WEARS: Bella banded sleeve top, shirred waist palazzo pants, leather blush crystal sneaker from Elmari Boutique - Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree and Coolum Beach www.elmari.com.au Emerald, gold and neutral layered half moon earrings - Winter Layers Collection Euphony Designs, www.euphonydesigns.com DAISY WEARS: Country Road Logo Intarsia knit & organically grown cotton blend solid rib legging from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57

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BRIAN WEARS: David Jones ¼ zip cable jumper, Politix wool blend funnel neck coat, SABA Baxter chino pants, Calvin Klein formal belt, Alta Linea check scarf, Julius Marlow Gaucho Chelsea Boot from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 LILY WEARS: Annie cotton knit, Italian stretch pant from Rayanna, www.rayanna.com.au Steve Madden Vinetta shoe, PRENE The Amore Bag from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 DAISY WEARS: Country Road Verified Australian Cotton Heritage Sweat & organically grown cotton blend solid rib legging, Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Court II PS shoes from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 FELIX WEARS: Country Road Verified Australian Cotton Heritage Sweat & corduroy pant, Polo Ralph Lauren Heritage Court III EZ shoes from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57

Khaki gingko leaf long baton statement earrings; Art deco pendant textured statement earrings; and Emerald, gold and neutral layered baton statement earrings from Euphony Designs, www.euphonydesigns.com

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LILY WEARS: Dots wrap top, Dots tulle skirt from Rayanna, www.rayanna.com.au Black Caviar Lara Top Handle Bag, Steve Madden Allison Boot from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 Freshwater pearl studs, 9ct yellow gold freshwater pearl ring, 14ct yellow gold solid bar fine bracelet, 18ct yellow gold circle of diamonds necklace from McLean and Co Jewellers, 5452 6774 BRIAN WEARS: Politix Two-Tone Tailored Jacket, Joe Black 2 Colour pin striped shirt from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57

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CUSTOM JEWELLERY DESIGN, RESTORATION, REMODELLING & REPAIRS

LILY WEARS: Dots wrap top from Rayanna, www.rayanna.com.au Freshwater pearl studs, 9ct yellow gold freshwater pearl ring, 14ct yellow gold solid bar fine bracelet, 18ct yellow gold circle of diamonds necklace from McLean and Co Jewellers, 5452 6774

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WINTER 2024

LILY WEARS: Teneriffe sleeveless shirt, Joanie tiered maxi skirt from Wacker Clothing Company, www.wackerclothingcompany.com.au Steve Madden Vinetta Shoe from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 Matte Silver & Gold Earrings & Clutch from Elmari Boutique - Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree and Coolum Beach www.elmari.com.au Green sapphire halo tRing, silver erosion bangle from Debra Fallowfield, www.debrafallowfield.com

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ABOVE BRIAN WEARS: Noosa long sleeve shirt, Wacker Sailor T, Weyba tailored linen short from Wacker Clothing Company, www.wackerclothingcompany.com.au LEFT BRIAN WEARS: Maui Jim eyewear from Hammond Optometry, 5476 2333 Politix wool blend funnel neck coat from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57

Fashion History Reimagined Mens And Womens Designed In Noosa

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BRIAN WEARS: Politix two-tone Tailored jacket, Joe Black two-colour pin striped shirt from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 18k yellow gold ring with Queensland Boulder Opal, sterling silver cufflinks with Doublet Opal from Opals Down Under, 5494 5400

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CHRISSY WEARS: 18k yellow gold earrings with Coober Pedy Crystal Opal (1.1ct) and diamonds; 14k yellow gold pendant with Coober Pedy Crystal Opal (3.23ct); and diamond, 14k yellow gold Tennis Bracelet with Coober Pedy Crystal Opal (7ct); 18k white gold and diamond ring with Coober Pedy Crystal Opal (1.43ct) from Opals Down Under, 5494 5400 Relaxed box 3/4 sleeve top from Elmari Boutique - Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree and Coolum Beach www.elmari.com.au

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WINTER 2024

Lily wears: Oval sapphire halo ring; emerald spell ring; ‘My Heart is Open’ diamond necklace from Debra Fallowfield, www.debrafallowfield.com Staple The Label Senna reversible knit top from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57

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BEAUTIFUL JEWELS For those who prefer to stand out rather than fit in!

BRIAN WEARS: ‘Mr Mountain High River Low’ ring; ‘RELIC’ Gold Ring; and Horoeka band from Debra Fallowfield, www.debrafallowfield.com

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BY APPOI N TMEN T N OOSA H INTERL AND 97

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LILY WEARS: l.a.Eyeworks eyewear from Hammond Optometry, 5476 2333 Jacqui crop top from Desert Lily Vintage, www.desertlilyvintage.com.au

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LILY WEARS: Nude Lucy Darcy wool coat, Staple the Label Maxine wrap-front knit dress, Steve Madden Allison boot from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57. Mocha gingko leaf long baton statement earrings - The Linen Collection from Euphony Designs, www.euphonydesigns.com CHRISSY WEARS: Pop it on Top, Charlie wide leg Jean, Figaro coat long, red statement earrings from Elmari Boutique - Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree and Coolum Beach www.elmari.com.au Tony Bianco Fremont boot and Tucker cross-body bag from David Jones Sunshine Plaza, 13 33 57 TOYOTA C-HR Kona Hybrid from Ken Mills Toyota www.maroochydore.kenmillstoyota.com.au

BEHIND-THE-SCENES It was a stunning winter’s day to soak up the city vibes with our family of models showcasing the intergenerational appeal of the emerging Maroochydore City Centre.

Find out more on page 15.

Fashion Editor: Ally Chuck @ac.stylecollective Photographer: Lauren Biggs @laurenbiggslbph Hair and Make-Up: Justina Simone @justina_simone Assistant: Akiko Ando @kiko_makeupartist Shoot Assistant: Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer @becjamiesondwyer Models: Chrissy Kaye @thechrissy___ Lily Wooldrage @lilyjadewooldrage Brian De Bono @briandebono4 Felix & Daisy (Children) Shot on location: Maroochydore City Centre 99

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ABOVE: Students from Noosa District State High School working on their totems.

PHOTOS: JUDE HAMMOND

BELOW: Aunty Jude Hammond with her totem at the Cooroy Butter Factory

s n o i t c e n n o C

Image: Songline Totems by First Nations Womens Ceramic Group, Project Lead and Artist Jude Hammond (Gunggari & Kamilaroi) and Jaiva Davis (Gubbi Gubbi) 2024, ceramic, multiple sizes, collection of the artists. Photography courtesy of Jude Hammond.

NATIONAL The Sunshine Coast’s art scene is thriving with an amazing First Nations exhibition plus an exciting new take on a 19 year art prize, as Melanie Rosettenstein discovers.

T

he Sunshine Coast art scene is flourishing and for art lovers, Caloundra Regional Gallery is showing where it’s at this winter. With plenty of exciting events and exhibitions for all ages, visitors to the gallery’s upcoming exhibitions can foster a connection to country while also learning about the wider national art scene.

Currently on display, the Contemporary Songlines - Dhakkan/Mundagudda (Rainbow Serpent) and Maroochy (Black Swan) Project is the result of a year-long collaboration with First Nations youth and women that showcases local First Nations stories and culture.

Led by Project Creator and proud Gunggari/Kamilaroi elder, Aunty Jude Hammond, with the support of First Nations cultural arts trainee Jaiva Davis Hello Sunshine Magazine

(Gubbi Gubbi), this project is a collaboration between the nationallyacclaimed Bangarra Youth Rekindling Dance Project, four regional state high schools, First Nations Traditional Gubbi Gubbi Custodians, Dancers, Traditional Weavers, Filmakers, Musicians and young talented Composer.

a seven-minute long film by Jon Coghill which documents the various cultural camps where First Nations students learnt about traditional dance and then created contemporary dances and songs in collaboration with classically-trained musicians and the Bangarra Rekindling Dance mob.

Aunty Jude also worked with Project Auspice North Coast Aboriginal for Community Health, Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre, other agencies and local councils.

Emphasising the importance of traditional knowledge and practises in contemporary settings, the exhibition promotes reconnection with cultural roots and fosters cross-cultural understanding.

The Contemporary Songlines exhibition features a multi-media art project that reflects the cultural engagement activities undertaken by young, local indigenous people throughout the project, helping them connect with their heritage and feel proud of their identity in a safe space.

The show includes a variety of ceramic and metal songline sculptures, as well as 100

Aunty Jude said the exhibition project aimed to provide First Nations Women and Youth with quality culturally relevant arts practices and experiences, to best support their engagement in learning new skills that explore their own cultural identity and traditions, whilst building here on their social relationships, belonging and sharing.

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“The final works were selected based on their ability to widen the discourse on stories, ideas or current issues and whether the art itself shows an exceptional level of skill,” she said.

ABOVE: Lyndon Davis and the Gubbi Gubbi Dance group at Burnside State School at Tryout Day in February 2024.

“Participants also have the opportunity to showcase their deadly artworks with you mob in the broader community for cross-cultural sharing that promotes interconnected stories, such as connection with totem animals,” she said. “This creates positive social change with mutual respect, sharing and reconciliation. In breaking down stereotypes and stigmas, it will empower our mob and you to not only survive, but to thrive. Keeping the Fire Burning for all us mob this NAIDOC.” To further engage the community, kids activities and a public program offer the chance for hands-on understanding and immersion into First Nations culture.

On 1 July, children will have the opportunity to express their creative sides while learning more about the stories and symbols of local Aboriginal culture with a morning workshop, Drawing our Dhakkan/Mundagudda (Rainbow Serpent) and afternoon session, Create an air-dried clay Coolamon.

A Yarnup with Aunty Jude Hammond and Creating Connections Together with Coolamon Making will form part of the Public Program for all ages. Places are limited so book early.

Continuing the excitement, the next exhibition on show is the Gallery’s flagship art awards - Sunshine Coast Art Prize, now in its 19th year and renamed as the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize (SCNAP).

This visual arts award reflects Australia’s outstanding contemporary 2D and new media arts, and with a $25,000 first prize up for grabs and the chance for the winning piece to be acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection, attracted 450 entries from every State and Territory in Australia.

Gallery Director Jo Duke said that the standard of entries had been exceptional, making the selection of the 40 Finalists for SCNAP24 extremely hard.

The artworks offer diverse interpretations of our world through various mediums and will be launched in the gallery on 23 August with the showcase exhibition running from 24 August until 13 October with the Overall Winner and other prizes, including People’s Choice to be announced in October.

For art enthusiasts and the artcurious, SCNAP24 offers a great opportunity to see the works of some of Australia’s best artists.

“These artworks offer a profound and unapologetic interpretation of our world today,” Jo said.

“With a diverse portrayal of subjects in a range of styles from traditional oils and acrylics to new media and moving images, the show looks at celebrating, enlightening, confronting and engaging our community.

“An art prize of this calibre is highly beneficial to our region. Not only will audiences have the opportunity to view these exceptional artworks, this cultural activity will bring visitors to the region as well as key engaging events that will also boost the local economy.”

Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just beginning to explore this creative world, Caloundra Regional Gallery’s upcoming exhibitions and events promise an enlightening journey deep into the local and national artscape.

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS: UNTIL 18 August - Contemporary Songlines - Dhakkan/Mundagudda (Rainbow Serpent) and Maroochy (Black Swan) Project 1 July, 10.30am -12.00pm - Kids activity: Drawing our Dhakkan/Mundagudda (Rainbow Serpent)

Entering its 19th year and reflecting the full breath of the prize with an new name, Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2024 is our region’s flagship art award, honouring outstanding contemporary 2D and new media arts practice in Australia.

The acquisitive art prize is part of Council’s strategic collecting strategy, to build a significant cultural asset for the region, which can be enjoyed by current and future generations.

Come in and view the 40 finalists from entries received across the country. Each one offering a profound and unapologetic interpretation of our world today.

Image: Judith Nangala Crispin | Jenni, in spirit form, watches the first UFOs appear over the West MacDonnell Ranges | 2022 | lumachrome glass print, cliché-verre, chemigram, acrylic; | 140 x 97cm | Winner, Major Prize, Sunshine Coast Art Prize 2023 | Image courtesy of the artist.

See What’s On at: gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au Tues to Fri 10am-4pm, Sat to Sun 10am-2pm | 22 Omrah Ave, Caloundra | gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au | gallery@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

1 July, 2.00 - 4.30pm - Kids activity: Create an air-dried clay Coolamon 8 July, 2- 3pm - Public program: Yarnup with Aunty Jude Hammond 1 August, 4.30 - 7.00pm - Public program: Creating Connections Together with Coolamon Making 24 August to 13 October - Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2024 101

Coastline BMW

WINTER 2024

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ARTS RADAR CA GALLERY UNTIL 10 JULY CALLUM FRANCIS: RISING AND RETURNING

Celebrating Callum’s deep connection to the Burrum River and the Maroochy River and cherished memories of summer days filled with swimming, fishing and family.

22 AUGUST-6 SEPTEMBER KARINA SELIJAK

Karina’s work employs patchwork and hand-stitching to create soft sculptures and installations that challenge current socio-political paradigms in pursuit of equality and resilience body of work includes symbols of draped fabric, moons and vessels to give form to the felt, unseen energies of the earth. Odes to our disappearing ecologies underpin Karina’s pursuit of what may soon be lost.

5/43 Access Crescent, Coolum Beach Ph: 5471 7366 www.coolartgallery.com.au

BENDIGO COMMUNITY BANK MARCOOLA 7-14 JULY NAIDOC WEEK ARTISTS First Nations artists present work within the 2024 NAIDOC Week theme ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud’.

UNTIL 8 AUGUST ZARTISHA DAVIS A young Gubbi Gubbi / Kabi Kabi artist connections to Cobble Cobble & Butchulla tribes, Zartisha paints dreamings and stories closely connected to her tribes — particularly women’s business that has been passed down from foremothers.

ART SCHOOL CO.

Home to the creative soul, Art School Co. is a new destination for fine art supplies and art classes. Directed by award-winning artist Jess Le Clerc, Art School Co. guarantees the best priced art supplies on the Sunshine Coast.

The Zone, 32 Wises Road, Buderim Phone 0491 756 172 artschoolco.com & artstoreco.com.au Hello Sunshine Magazine

UNTIL 8 AUGUST TRISH SHEPPARD Trish is a Noosa-based artist and photographer with a passion for travel, colour, and the sea. Drawing inspiration from the earthy colours of the Australian outback, Trish has a passion for landscapes and underwater photography.

1/930 David Low Way, Marcoola Ph: 5448 8582 www.bendigobank.com.au/branch/qld/ community-bank-marcoola

MAROOCHYDORE LIBRARY ARTSPACE UNTIL 14 JULY CHLOE WATEGO: PASTEL ERA

Chloe is a South Sea Islander and Iman woman, based on Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi country with a passion for sharing and celebrating her culture through art. A self-taught artist, Chloe uses painting as a form of creative expression to aid in healing as she explores her heritage.

44 Sixth Avenue, Maroochydore Ph: 5475 8989 www.gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ exhibitions/maroochydore-artspace

UNISC ART GALLERY UNTIL 3 AUGUST STRANGE WEATHER A collection of artworks that consider our contemporary understanding of the environment and our place within it is mediated by technology.

90 Sippy Downs Dr, Sippy Downs Ph: 5459 4645 www.usc.edu.au/art-gallery

MYPHOTOMOTION

Christine Hall’s “Studio Project” is a testament to the vibrant artistic community of the Sunshine Coast.

Capturing the diverse works of the region’s artists and personal spaces of creativity— where the magic of art transpires.

Secure your copy now at pre-launch prices before its official launch this December. myphotomotion.com.au/shop/studio-project 102

Discover exciting new exhibitions at the Sunshine Coast’s leading galleries, studios and arts centres!

BUDERIM CRAFT COTTAGE 19-28 JULY NEEDLEWORK, PATCHWORK & MACHINE EMBROIDERY EXHIBITION

9-18 AUGUST PAINTING EXHIBITION – ART EXPO

14 SEPTEMBER: 10AM-2PM ATRIUM GALLERY SPRING OPEN DAY

5 Main Street, Buderim Ph: 5450 1714 www.buderimcraftcottage.com.au

CALOUNDRA REGIONAL GALLERY UNTIL 18 AUGUST CONTEMPORARY SONGLINES: DHAKKAN/ MUNDAGUDDA (RAINBOW SERPENT) & MAROOCHY (BLACK SWAN) PROJECT

A collaborative First Nations student/ youth and women’s exhibition showcases our First Nations regional artists’ collective stories and culture.

22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra Ph: 5420 8299 www.gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

TINBEERWAH ART GROUP 16-18 AUGUST 30TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL ART SHOW

Tinbeerwah Hall, Cnr Cooroy-Noosa Road & Sunrise Road, Tinbeerwah

NOOSA OPEN STUDIOS 30 AUGUST TO 8 SEPTEMBER Queensland’s largest open studios art trail event featuring 100 local artists over 10 days! Visit artists’ studios and sacred spaces plus workshops and events. www.noosaopenstudios.com.au

PRUDENCE COBURN

Prudence draws inspiration from her coastal surroundings, aiming to reveal the complexity and beauty of nature through her art, while serving as a reminder to deepen our appreciation for the ocean’s remarkable inhabitants. Originals, prints and commissions prudencecoburn@gmail.com www.prudencecoburn.com

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y t i s o i r Cu WHERE

REIGNS

Noosa Regional Gallery Director Michael Brennan invites you into a world of works that delight and excite the senses and stimulate the curious mind.

I

’m always kind of surprised when people tell me they don’t like art or don’t get it – or even question its value (and I’m not talking cash). But then I remember that I live in a creative bubble.

I don’t think people choose to not like or understand art. Instead, we’re often taught that art is a luxury or an add-on, pushed aside to make room for ‘proper’ subjects. What is interesting though, is that most children possess an innate curiosity.

New and different things can bring about excitement and wonder rather than frustration or confusion. But sometimes you’ve just got to let yourself be inquisitive or even playful - put reason and practicalities aside for a while and let your senses take the lead.

You can do this any time you enter an art gallery – in fact, it’s encouraged – but every so often an exhibition gives

you no choice. Imaginate, is a sensory wonderland of colour, texture and form, with opportunities to make as well as see. Pip and Pop have installed their immersive and colour-saturated installations in some of the world’s most exciting art galleries, and for three weeks their fantastical work is coming to Noosa Regional Gallery.

Their psychedelic dreamscapes create fictional spaces where imaginations can run wild. And while not all of their work invites tinkering, there are specific zones where visitors are encouraged to make and display their own Pip and Popinspired offbeat objects.

This celebration of curiosity extends into the subsequent exhibition at Noosa Regional Gallery – even if in a little more restrained way: Curious Novice is all about clay – arguably one of the most tactile and malleable mediums of art.

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Curious Novice assembles a selection of Sunshine Coast potters, together with a couple from further afield, to look at what they spend their time making through a lens of infinite possibility as opposed to simply functional form.

Material transformation and the excitement of the reveal and the ‘unknown’ is what is highlighted in this show, and much like Pip and Pop’s immersive installation, visitors are asked to shake free the shackles of purpose and indulge ‘curiosity’ as an end to its own.

WHAT'S ON Imaginate 15 June to 7 July Pip and Pop (aka Tanya Schultz) Curated by Brooke Bowtell Curious Novice 13 July to 8 September Laura Cope, Angus McDiarmid, Dennis Foreshaw, Claudi de Salvo, Pimparat Tantisukarom and Anwen Thomas.

Curated by Nicole Maggs

WINTER 2024

SAVVY Lavender

A BUZZ-WORTHY T

n e d r a G

As the world’s most prolific pollinators, bees are essential for supporting food security and biodiversity – but numerous factors have placed these tiny superheroes under threat. Manawee Garden Centre’s Simon Van Roy gives Melanie Rosettenstein the lowdown on how to create a BEE-autiful bee-friendly garden.

he big buzz about bees is that there are fewer of them than half a century ago and, according to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation, they are responsible for a third of the world’s food production. That’s a big stat for a tiny insect.

plants like clover and daisies.

While bee numbers are dwindling, the good news is that there is something we can do about it. And that is to plant a bee-friendly garden that will become a sanctuary where these diminutive powerhouses can thrive.

The garden also needs to be as sheltered as possible. Simon says a bee hotel is the best way to create a safe space for solitary (non-honey-producing bees that have left the hive) or native bees and other pollinating insects to nest and do their important work.

A bee-friendly garden needs several elements to ensure it becomes a buzzing haven for these plucky pollinators.

These include flowering plants, fruit, and vegetables to provide an abundant supply of pollen and nectar, a safe bee habitat like a bee hotel, and some wild meadow-like corners where less mowing allows the growth of low-growing lawn Hello Sunshine Magazine

In addition to ensuring the plants in your garden are suitable, the layout is just as important. Simon Van Roy from Manawee Garden Centre says plants should be strategically clumped in blocks to provide the bees with optimal access.

Simon says, “Bee hotels are ideal for solitary bees that are on their own but typically nest close to each other.

“These hotels also come with a sachet of pollinator-friendly flower seeds to help attract bees and other important insects to your garden,” he says. “So just like when we stay at a motel and still 104

need to go out for a meal, planting flowers around a bee hotel provides bees with the sustenance they need.”

To set the bee hotel up, simply hook a piece of wire through the back of the hotel and attach it to a tree trunk or branch, or just place it in a sheltered section of the garden.

Simon says his top flowering plants that are a must for creating a garden that’s alive with the hum of busy bees are: Lavender - Bees are most attracted to blue or violet and because it’s brimming with pollen and nectar, lavender is ideal to plant in your bee garden. This wonderful plant likes dry conditions and once it has taken, it adds a wonderful scent to your garden.

Swan River Daisy - This low-growing Australian native is also blue and is easy to grow in any corner of the garden.

SAVVY Buddleja

Argyeranthemum daisy

Grevillea

Because it is a meadow flower it’s perfect for foraging bees.

garden and for bringing the bees back time and time again.

Buddleja – This fast-growing and free flowering perennial can be a mass of flowers at any time of the year, and comes in a variety of colours too which makes it perfect in a range of garden types.

Calendula - These large self-seeding yellow and orange blooms make a bold colour statement in your garden, plus they flower throughout summer making them a real bee magnet.

African Marigold - Hardy and long flowering, Marigolds are great for bees and they are extremely effective at deterring pests such as white flies, cabbage worms, and mosquitoes.

Alyssum - This beautiful companion plant with its abundant, delicate white flowers is perfect for your vegetable

GET INTO

While the winter months have arrived, now is a good time to start planning a BEE-autiful garden that is brimming with bee activity when spring comes.

“If you want to get your bee-garden going earlier, be sure to add winter flowering plants like Argyeranthemum daisy, Grevillea and Kangaroo Paw,” Simon said. “These flower during the cooler months so can fill the pollen and nectar gap, keeping those busy bees occupied until spring arrives.”

g n i n e d r a G ALL YOUR GARDEN NEEDS AND MORE!

EXPLORE OUR FAMILY OWNED GARDEN CENTRE IN THE HEART OF BUDERIM

OPEN 7 DAYS

MONDAY - SATURDAY 8AM TO 5PM SUNDAY 9AM TO 4PM

18 Gloucester Road, Buderim 5445 2406

manawee.com.au

Where plants are pleasure GARDEN CENTRE & GIFT SHOP

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PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

SAVVY

BATHROOM

s s i l B

With more people taking the plunge with texture and pattern, it’s an exciting time in the world of bathroom design. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer taps into some of the trends for 2024 and beyond.

120 x 120 Solar Arena tile The reign of the all-white bathroom is officially over – if you’re looking to bring your bathroom up-to-date, it’s time to embrace texture and pattern, creating a tactile haven that’s just oozing luxury.

Vintage Check Rosa and Puff Pink

CHECK MATE Retro checks and stripes in bold tones are here to stay, with warm rusty red and vintage brown tones bringing the 70s and 80s style.

We chatted to style guru Crystal Bylett of Coolum-based store Sunshine Living Tile & Stone about some of the trends she’s been seeing recently and how to incorporate them into your own space…

“These retro colours and styles are being paired with beautiful textured white bricks to create unique concepts that we haven’t seen for a long while,” says Crystal. “It’s an exciting time to be designing bathrooms.”

ISLAND VIBES Tropical outdoor bathrooms are having a serious moment, with stone cladding, island pebbles and stone mosaics adding a luxe element to any bathroom.

“Think Bali, think palm trees, think stunning island vibes!” exclaims Crystal.

“Walls in stone cladding are being used as privacy dividers instead of shower

Hello Sunshine Magazine

basins are having a big resurgence.”

LIVING LARGE screens; bathrooms that can open up to the outside are popular, or if not, skylights are a must. White pebbles and stone mosaic floors are adding texture and interest, while stone baths and 106

Subway tiles continue to have their moment in the sun (or should that be heat lamp?), but people are also increasingly turning to large-format tiles in a variety of finishes.

“We are seeing lots of big beauties in

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White pebbles and stone mosaic floors are adding texture and interest, while stone baths and basins are having a big resurgence. elegance and sophistication to any space, adding a modern twist to the overall aesthetic,” Crystal says. “Both options are versatile, allowing homeowners to effortlessly incorporate them into various bathroom styles, from minimalist to eclectic.”

Stone cladding walls the form of 1200x600mm porcelain tiles with interesting textures such as linea, rendered, and rockface finishes,” Crystal says. “They are great for bathroom feature walls and kitchen splashbacks, and, as an added bonus, they also save on installation costs and create minimal grout joints.”

Your blissful bathroom awaits!

Tropical bathroom and laundry areas to create that oldworld charm,” Crystal says. “It’s a look that will never date.”

KEEP IT CLASSIC Classic designs are ever-popular for a reason, and the tile combination that transcends the trends and works in any home is the striking octagon-dot pattern.

TAP INTO CHROME AND ANTIQUE BRASS

“These finishes bring a touch of

PHOTO: NCP

“The classic design of octagon and dot is perfect for adding into bathroom floors

When it comes to tapware, brushed chrome and antique brass are emerging as new favourites in bathroom design.

Antique brass mixer taps

Sunshine Living Tile & Stone Not just a tile shop...

We believe that beautiful style should be accessible to everyone.

From exquisite tiles to stunning stone options, our showroom is filled with a wide range of unique and hand picked products.

Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are always ready to assist you in finding the perfect tiles or stones for your project. We have the local knowledge to connect you with reliable and skilled tradespeople who can bring your vision to life.

BOOK FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Open Mon - Thur 10am-5pm • Fri + Sat 10am-2pm 5 Beach Road, Coolum Beach (Parking out the back) hello@sunshineliving.com.au • sunshineliving.com.au • 5309 3936 107

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Oversees model shown

All-New Toyota Prado Arriving soon at Ken Mills Toyota.

Register your interest

Ken Mills Toyota 82 Sugar Road, Maroochydore 107 Coronation Drive, Nambour 5441 1544 maroochydore.kenmillstoyota.com.au

For some, the future of motoring may raise more questions than answers.

But, as John Caruso discovers, Toyota demonstrates that the journey is just as important as the destination and they’re not leaving anyone behind.

DRIVING

s n o i t Op

Toyota had just launched its first fully electric vehicle, the bZ4x with fullservice leasing and buy back option, and Brett was about to experience what owning an EV was like.

“The research we’ve seen is that people use an EV like a mobile phone,” he said. “They use it during the day and then plug it in overnight and it’s ready to go again the next day - and that’s how I started and as I got more confident, I worried less about the range and less about it being fully charged.

“I didn’t feel ‘range anxiety’ driving the bZ4X, however I felt I didn’t have the time in my day to sit at a café or charging station to recharge the battery if I was on the road. Fortunately, we have chargers at the dealership, however I realise not everybody has that option.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than 55% of Aussie households have two or more vehicles, so it may be a case of ‘horses for courses’ when it comes to the type of vehicles Aussies keep in their garage.

“It’s foreseeable that because of many factors, motorists might have an EV plus some sort of SUV or vehicle with a combustion engine; and you’ll jump in the car that suits your needs on that particular day,” Brett said.

There’s no doubt Toyota has earned immense trust as a brand, considering

PHOTO: KIERAN TUNBRIDGE

In our previous issue we introduced you to Brett Mills, dealer principal for Ken Mills Toyota. Our podcast episode of Everyone Has a Story delved into Brett’s background and history, and we discussed all things Toyota, looking ahead to what lies in front of us on the motoring landscape.

they were at the forefront of hybrid technology twenty-five years ago. This trust is deeply ingrained within the motoring community and as we navigate this new landscape with EVs, interest from consumers in the bZ4x was strong.

“Prior to the launch there were more than 7,000 who registered their interest in our EV, which is equivalent to the numbers we see for a new Land Cruiser, Prado or Hilux,” he said. “However, those numbers haven’t converted to the same percentage of sales, and when I talk to people in the showroom, there’s still a bit of hesitation. I believe they trust in the Toyota brand, but they represent the mass market that still have a few questions over exactly what will best suit their needs.”

This is why Ken Mills Toyota has had the second-generation Toyota Mirai Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) on their showroom floor recently, demonstrating and strengthening this multi-path approach that the Japanese manufacturer is committed to.

“The Mirai in its current form is not really a genuine sale item for most people,” Brett admits. “Consumers are still watching this space - vehicle propulsion and decarbonisation options, they’re not sure EVs are the answer and the Mirai is simply demonstrating that 109

Toyota is exploring all avenues.

“Toyota has made a huge investment into a hydrogen fuel cell concept, assembling hydrogen generators and fuel cell generators in Victoria, they’re using hydrogen in combustion engines and they’re using ammonia in engines - so there’s a lot happening in the background. It’s like how we listen to music - it used to be cassettes, vinyl records, CDs, mp3s and iPods, all those things are gone now.

“The future of motoring is similar and there’s more in the pipeline - more tech and more developments that haven’t even been thought of yet. Toyota’s multi pathway approach is about not leaving anyone behind,” Brett explains.

Toyota’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, embodied in the bZ4x and the Mirai, is a testament to their vision for the future. The road ahead may be uncharted, but with pioneers like Toyota, we can navigate the options with confidence.

WANT MORE? Download the interview with Brett from our podcast.

WINTER 2024

A PERSONAL APPROACH TO BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME

Every home we design and build reflects our lifelong passion for the industry. We create a personalised design and build that reflects your personality and lifestyle. Pat and Petrina Ryan work with you personally every step of the way whether you are looking for a new build or renovation project.

We stand ready and willing to achieve the home of your dreams.

4/27 Premier Circuit, Warana Phone 5444 7799 Make an appointment on our website ryandesignerhomes.com.au

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How often do you meet people who’ve always had a clear direction of where they were going?

John Caruso meets an individual whose chosen career has also helped hundreds of others achieve their biggest life-changing dream.

BUILDING

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Talking to Pat Ryan from Ryan Designer Homes for our podcast, Everyone Has a Story, I admired not only his vision and determination from an early age, but also his skills and business savvy in building his company into what it is today - a multifaceted team with the client at the heart of it.

Pat’s a quietly spoken individual and his success is a testament to the power of a dream. From a young age, he knew exactly what he wanted to do - and, after 52 years in the game, he still gets a ‘buzz’ when he delivers the keys to excited new homeowners!

“Ever since I was five years of age, I’ve always wanted to be a builder and now I’m in my sixties and I still live the dream,” Pat shares. His journey from a young apprentice to the owner of a thriving business is a story of passion, dedication, and a deep understanding of his craft.

“There was a construction company in the town where I grew up and their offices caught my eye,” he said. “They delivered some awesome projects and their business left an impression on me.”

This early inspiration set him on a path that would eventually lead to the creation of Ryan Designer Homes.

Pat’s approach is both personal and practical. He understands the importance of balancing his vision as a builder with the needs and wants of his clients.

At Ryan Designer Homes, the client’s

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

’ve always had respect and admiration for those that can work with their hands, especially those that can add value and equity to their own properties, thus creating wealth.

vision is paramount.

“One of the reasons we take on both design and construction is so we can put together the right team to manage the whole process from concept through to build,” he explains. “Clients will come to us with ideas and pictures of what they like - colours and styles, and we then bring together the best team for the project, including architects and/or building designers, engineers, interior designers and so on. The client forms a big part of this and it allows us to work together to deliver a really good result from day one, from design to delivery.”

The company works with a select panel of designers and architects, choosing the best fit for each client’s needs. This collaborative approach ensures that every home is a unique reflection of the client’s personal style and preferences.

But building a home is more than just aesthetics. Pat emphasises the importance of ‘home intelligence’, a concept that includes considerations of energy efficiency and smart design.

of the year, because it’s going to be comfortable; but if it’s facing south, you’ll struggle, even in temperate Queensland. You want to enjoy that space as much as you like.”

Communication is key in Pat’s approach and he believes in empowering clients with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their homes.

“I always say, ‘this is your home, I’m going to make suggestions for your consideration, and you’ll get to make your decisions from an educated perspective’,” he says. “It’s one of those jobs where there’s an end result that always gives me a buzz.”

Pat’s story is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and a clear vision, it’s possible to build not just homes, but to deliver dreams. With Ryan Designer Homes going strong for quarter of a century and winning five national awards in that time, it’s clear that Pat is also living his dream.

WANT MORE? Download the interview with Pat Ryan from our podcast.

“It’s not a pre-prepared plan straight off the shelf,” he says. “Aspect is critical, for example if you’ve got an outdoor living area that’s facing north, then you’ll be able to sit out there 90 percent

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Whether as an investment or your dream home, buying a property can be time consuming and daunting in equal measure. Enlisting the help of a registered buyer’s agent is a sure-fire way to achieve your property goals without the stress.

Melanie Rosettenstein gets the inside track from Murray McCarthy.

e c n e d Confi

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s an ardent fan of the people and lifestyle of the Sunshine Coast and armed with a passion for the real estate industry, it was natural for property expert, Murray McCarthy, to become a registered buyers’ agent.

Murray earned his stripes as a highly qualified senior property executive with prominent companies such as Stockland, Multiplex, and Walker Corporation.

Having served as Project Director for the Maroochydore City Centre, he brings a unique and highly experienced perspective to the local real estate landscape, especially ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Purchasing, developing and renovating property is his passion, and as a newly registered buyer’s agent, Murray brings all the property prowess people need to get the most out of what some would call the biggest, most expensive purchase they’ll ever make. Ultimately, he wants to help people make their property dreams come true!

A buyers’ agent is a licensed person who acts on behalf of a buyer to source potential properties to buy.

The Sunshine Coast has for several years had a small number of buyer’s agents but they have become increasingly active in local property transactions as more people become familiar with the service and how it adds value and an inside edge to the competitive property buying process.

Hello Sunshine Magazine

Angela and Murray McCarthy at Villa Cascata

...every day brings a new opportunity to change someone’s life by finding them a terrific property.

Murray exclusively sources residential properties for his clients, saying that traditionally, the purchase of a home or investment property was stacked in favour of the seller so there were numerous reasons why people should enlist the help of a buyer’s agent.

These include knowing which suburbs and areas within the suburbs are better; having the inside track on the best on-market, pre-market and off-market opportunities; saving time and money on research, sourcing, evaluation, negotiation, and settlement of property; and at the end of the day, saving the buyer money.

When Murray takes on a new client, he 112

says it’s important to sit down with them to fully understand their ‘dream home’ requirements and create a comprehensive brief.

“This includes budget, preferred locations, land size, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, building types, school catchment areas, and other preferences like a pool or shed,” Murray explains. “We use this information to then speak to agents and others to source a suitable property.

“My clients can rest assured they are in safe hands and that they can leverage off my knowledge and experience as a proven expert to get a competitive edge when purchasing a property.”

And the proof is in the property pudding.

With his ability to spot a good deal, and with his wife Angela’s excellent eye for decor and interior design, the savvy duo recently smashed the record price for Sunbird House, a property they renovated in the Parrearra and Kawana Island areas.

The team have now moved onto a

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

PROPERTY BUYING

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

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Sunbird House

beautiful new Buderim property, which they’ve named Villa Cascata for the charming waterfall in front of the house.

interior changes. Angela though, is adamant to hang onto its warm terracotta and Moroccan tiles.

They plan to renovate Villa Cascata in the coming months using a new scanning technology by Capture All which maps the property to exact measurements making it easier and quicker to plan a renovation - another one of Murray’s business ventures.

When quizzed about what he loves about the real estate industry, Murray says he loves all things property.

Clearly used to working together, the couple bubble over with excitement about their new home’s potential which includes adding a double garage, fencing the property and an array of exciting

“From sourcing quality houses on the market to identifying a renovator with huge potential to understanding people’s real estate needs, every day brings a new opportunity to change someone’s life by finding them a terrific property,” he said. “When it comes to the current state of the local property market I feel there are different markets within markets.

“I have found the sub-$1.2million market to be very buoyant for good properties so therefore it’s a sellers’ market. These properties go very quickly once listed, especially in premium locations.

“On the other hand, the upper end of the market is definitely slower with buyers taking their time hence the standoff between buyers and sellers.”

Operating within an idyllic location like the Sunshine Coast where the real estate market is strong, the sky’s the limit for Murray and he’s keen to be the key to your property-related success.

Your Key to Property Success We focus on finding and soucing residential properties for people seeking homes on the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane.

Murray McCarthy 0417 410 126 mmbuyersagent.com.au

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SPIRITED

e x u L THE ART OF

‘The Art of Luxe’ event featured a range of special guests sharing insights into the property market, interior design, economic growth, and future key trends and opportunities – with a focus on giving back at its core.

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he Sunshine Coast is witnessing sustainable growth in property investment, fuelled by having the majority share of regional net migration at 17.5%.

This growth is driven by the region’s appeal as a top destination, particularly among Sydney-siders seeking new horizons.

The recent The Art of Luxe event by Luxe Coastal Property Buyers at The G Contemporary Gallery in Noosa, reinforced this with insightful discussions on property, design and the importance of giving back.

Former cricketer and founder of the McGrath Foundation, Glenn McGrath, opened the event with heartfelt speeches on the charity’s drive to deliver cancer care nurses, with a talk that was both enlightening and impactful and resulted in The G Contemporary owners, Karen and Steve Beardsley, showing their unwavering support by raising over Hello Sunshine Magazine

$3,000 through raffle and art sales.

The informative presentations began with Christine Mount, founder of Luxe Coastal Property Buyers, highlighting the significance of off-market transactions, constituting approximately 30% of property deals.

Christine explained the benefits of engaging a Buyer’s Agent and how

...an industry expert in valuing high-end luxury homes and acreage, observed that the prestige market remains strong, evidenced by seven sales over $10 million in Noosa in 2023.

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leveraging 30 years of experience, she ensures clients can access exclusive opportunities to secure properties under favourable terms, and often before they go to market.

Stuart Greensill, Director at Herron Todd White, provided a comprehensive overview of current property market trends, noting that despite recent interest rate hikes, there was still a sense of confidence in the general residential market.

His data showed that construction costs had surged by approximately 125% since 2021, posing challenges for developers but also highlighting the scarcity of new supply.

This limited supply, coupled with buyer demand, has driven the region’s growth, resulting in a 9.8% increase in median house prices over the past year.

Stuart also highlighted the need to be very mindful when quoting median prices as the devil is in the detail, not

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

Steve Beardsley, Glenn McGrath, Di Henshall, Stuart Greensill and Christine Mount

SPIRITED

2032, he remains optimistic about the region, the market’s stability and growth prospects moving forward.

only to the exact property but also local market nuances.

That’s why you need a good buyers’ agent to guide you through pricing, through very different sub-markets, even in the same suburb.

The conversation moved towards how to maximise property potential through design - a perfect subject for Di Henshall, Founder of Di Henshall Interior Design and a multi-award-winning designer renowned across Australia and the world.

Stuart, an industry expert in valuing high-end luxury homes and acreage, observed that the prestige market remained strong, evidenced by seven sales over $10 million in Noosa in 2023.

Stuart added that 127 sales between $4 million and $10 million underscored the continuing demand for luxury homes and, when paired with the infrastructure spending due to the Olympic Games in

Di said that essential elements, such as colour, texture and space, were pivotal to success, particularly in sub-tropical homes. She illustrated her points with a compelling case study of a Noosa River home, showcasing the transformative impact of strategic design.

Overall, Luxe Coastal Property Buyers’ The Art of Luxe event provided a holistic view of the thriving property market in Noosa and the Sunshine Coast.

Attendees gained invaluable insights into navigating the market, accessing exclusive opportunities, and enhancing property value through design.

Leveraging Christine’s expertise as a Buyers Agent, alongside industry leaders is instrumental for successful property investments in this burgeoning market.

Tune into the Luxe Coastal Property Buyers’ Podcast to find out more about living the Luxe life and stay tuned for the next informative event.

50+ years property experience $1.7Bn strategy & transactions Extensive local knowledge

Discreet & Confidential

Explore our latest podcast episodes, where we have conversations with locals on finding homes & investing in properties on the Sunshine Coast.

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Christine Mount Principal & Founder

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Google Play.

M: +61 448 288 080 E: chris@luxecoastal.com.au www.luxecoastal.com.au

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