IN46 SUMMER 2025_26

MARAVILLA

SUNRISE BEACH

SUNRISE BEACH

NOOSA WATERS

EXCEPTIONAL INGENIOUS PROSPERITY

The vibrancy of Noosa, with lifestyles built around sunshine, surf and unbelievable natural assets, is a paradisiacal part of the world, and home to some of the most sought-after real estate in Australia.

Tom Offermann Real Estate consistently outshines local and Sunshine Coast real estate agencies, while entrepreneurial principal Tom Offermann maintains his self-effacing attitude, refreshing candour, and gratitude to a team of leading property and marketing professionals, who give valued clients the ultimate edge every step of the way.

When it comes to achieving exceptional results, experience does make the difference. CoreLogic, Australia’s most trusted property data source, confirms that Tom Offermann Real Estate sold more than the next six Noosa agencies combined 2024-2025.

Powerful global interest for the brand has escalated via luxuryrealestate.com, a worldwide portal many times larger than Australia’s major property website, with 38,000 member-only agencies amongst the who’s who of international real estate. Tom Offermann Real Estate is privileged to be one of only 2 from Queensland.

SUCCESS SINCE 1992

Editor’s Note

Does it get better than summer in Noosa? Actually, every season offers something special when you’re living, working or playing in paradise!

Sometimes in the madness of ‘life’, it’s easy to forget how fortunate we are. Every edition, we are delighted and surprised by the amazing stories of our region - and the people in our Biosphere. It’s a pleasure and a privilege to share their stories and INform! INdulge! and INspire! you, our readers.

We like to get to know you better and understand what you are INterested IN - so please tell us what you think with our Reader Survey. You can even win the ultimate staycation of three nights at Netanya Noosa plus a gift voucher to dine at Locale and shop up a storm at It’s a Fad by Sara Leonardi.

At the time of going to press, the region has just been slammed with a furious storm that turned ‘deck the halls’ into ‘heck, the hail’! A timely reminder that while summer brings festive cheer and time with loved ones, it is also a time to appreciate the power and the beauty of Mother Nature.

It’s been another big year with lots of challenges so a friendly smile, welcoming hug or checking in on each other never hurts. Shop and support local business and be friendly to the people who are working to serve you - it can make the world of difference.

All the best for a safe and sensational summer - see you next year!

DEB CARUSO

PUBLISHER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

THE TEAM Deb

Deb Caruso

Stay INformed with our e-newsletter: www.innoosamagazine.com.au

AUTUMN DEADLINES

Bookings close: 9 February 2026

Art Deadline: 16 February 2026

hello@inpublishing.com.au www.innoosamagazine.com.au

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.

ALI SMITH

CONTENT + CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Ali is our go-to girl when it comes to design, deadlines and digital. An experienced graphic designer and creative with over 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.

PIP CASEY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Pip has 30 years’ experience in magazine advertising and sales in both print and the digital space. She loves being outdoors walking or running in the Noosa National Park or being at the beach with Dave the dog, her hubby and twin kids.

RHIANNON COX DESIGN

Rhiannon has a Bachelor of Design (Visual Communications), her Masters in Teaching and is a freelance designer and photographer. She has a love of storytelling through visuals and is leaving us for an extended holiday in Canada and then to pursue a career in teaching! All the very best Rhiannon - we have loved having you as part of the team!

PAUL BIRD

PUBLISHER

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.

REBECCA

JAMIESON DWYER

ASSISTANT EDITOR + WRITER

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.

CARLIE WACKER

FASHION EDITOR + WRITER + MC

Carlie has spent the last 30 years in the media and entertainment industry. She is our Fashion Editor, writer and a professional event MC. She keeps busy designing the next range for her own fashion label, Wacker Clothing Company. Anyone who knows Carlie, knows that she is also obsessed with dogs.

WAITE DESIGN

A lover of all things creative with over 30 years’ experience producing high quality design communications within the food, drink and tourism industries. For Naomi, design is a lifestyle, not just an occupation. When not at work you’ll find her surfing the points at Noosa or enjoying a beach walk with her husband Ado, and fox terrier, Captain.

JOHN CARUSO WRITER + PODCASTER + MC + DISTRIBUTION

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 keeping up with the Kardashians and raising his son Maximus.

JAKKI GOODALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

With 30 years’ experience in Marketing, Advertising, Sales and Promotions as well as 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 ACCOUNTS + ADMINISTRATION

Michelle has a Bachelor of Business plus 30+ years’ Administration experience in both private and government sectors. She loves 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’.

IDA FINK GUNDTOFT WRITER

A graduate Communications student at UniSC, majoring in Journalism and Graphic Design, Ida has a passion for storytelling, exploring her creative side through design and content creation. In her spare time, you might find her at her local yoga studio, crocheting on the porch or walking her dog Ruby through the bushland she calls home.

NAOMI

CONTRIBUTORS

HELEN FLANAGAN TRAVEL + LIFESTYLE

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 story-telling, a candid review and surviving another reno whilst thriving on the motto: Live Laugh Love!

JENNIFER SWAINE BUSINESS

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.

PETE GOODLET GARDENING

Artist, landscape designer and man about town, Pete brings his love of gardens, design and all things green to IN Noosa. Having worked with design greats Rick Eckersley and Jamie Durie and having been featured in all the top mags, Pete loves to renovate with the patience and support of his partner Dave and Oscar Wilde (man’s best friend).

JODIE CAMERON WRITER

Jodie is a city-turned-country-turned-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.

TONY COX DRINKS

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.

MICHAEL BRENNAN ART

The Director of Noosa Regional Gallery 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 have him taking the arts to a whole new level in our region.

Stay INformed with our e-newsletter: www.innoosamagazine.com.au

FOUNDER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER: Deb Caruso, 0428 853 224 deb@inpublishing.com.au

CO-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.innoosamagazine.com.au

DISTRIBUTION: 15,000 printed copies available throughout Noosa and surrounds in locallydesigned and handcrafted magazine stands.

IN Noosa Magazine is also supplied to local businesses and visitors through its tailored distribution process with 100% takeup rate.

IN Noosa Magazine is a free publication (subscriptions available) published four times per year by 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 IN Noosa 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.

IN FORM

Meet the passionate winners of the 2025 Sunshine Coast Business Awards.

ON THE COVER Girl Eating Icrecream on the Beach by Ilana McBain

Discover Ilana's art and her story on page 14. @ilanamcbain_artist @ilanamcbain_author www.ilanamcbain.com

Discover a world of adventure close to home with small ship cruises that deliver maximum fun, minimum stress IN DULGE

IN NOOSA Magazine is printed on 100% recyclable paper. Made with love. Please enjoy! We would like to acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional owners, the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi people, whose country we create on and we would like to extend our respect to their elders, both past, present and emerging.

SPIRE

Old-fashioned hospitality meets homegrown goodness at one of the region's oldest country pubs.

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

Art meets fashion for a creative summer forecast.

FORM

Discover how to turn your outdoor spaces into a summer oasis.

Experience

MUSIC & MAGIC

Event: Imagine Festival

Location: Noosa River Foreshore

Bendigo Community Bank Tewantin–Noosa celebrated 21 years with Imagine Festival, a community day filled with colour, music and magic. Standout performances by Australian Idol winner Marshall Hamburger and incredible young local performers lighting up the stage for STARS Alive presented by Noosa Alive! This vibrant, heart-filled event truly captured the spirit of our community – here's to banking that gives back!

SPRING FLING

Event: Hello Sunshine Spring launch

Venue: Fish House Steak & Grill, Mooloolaba

Where better to celebrate the Spring Edition of Hello Sunshine Magazine than at one of the Coast’s hottest new restaurants – Fish House Steak & Grill?! As expected, the food, drinks and service were divine as we sipped glasses of sparkling and savoured signature canapés - and strengthened those all-important community connections. Thanks to Fish House Steak & Grill for making us feel at home - welcome to Mooloolaba!

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

PRETTY IN PINK

Event: Pretty in Pink Art Auction

Venue: Studio One Noosa

The Pretty in Pink finale at Studio One Noosa was a wonderful celebration of art, generosity and community spirit. Art lovers gathered to bid on works donated by more than 45 Australian artists, all in support of the McGrath Foundation. The night ended on a high, with the exhibition surpassing its fundraising goal by raising more than $27K for this incredible cause. Discover what’s next for Studio One Noosa on page 136!

Event: IN Noosa Spring Launch

Venue: Catalina Noosa

The new season was in full swing at our launch of the Spring Edition of IN Noosa Magazine aboard the Catalina! Guests sipped Sunshine & Sons cocktails and cruised the Noosa River at golden hour, while our friends from Bandita served creative canapés with a Mexican twist. Our community loved coming together to celebrate the new issue and each other. And yes… it all wrapped up with an impromptu dance party – the perfect end to a fun and fabulous evening!

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

2026 EVENTS NOT TO MISS!

Pack your swimmers, sunnies and appetite – Noosa’s events calendar is bulging at the seams in 2026! Dishing up a bold and boutique lineup, where coastal cool meets creative flair, flavoursome delights and sunshine-soaked experiences are all at your fingertips. From behind-the-scenes artistic encounters to surf-side surprises, luxe long lunches and everything delicious in between, Jodie Cameron discovers that the first half of 2026 promises to charm, thrill and keep you living it up IN Noosa.

NOOSA FESTIVAL OF SURFING

CELEBRATING THE JOYS OF SURFING FOR 35 YEARS!

Friday 13 March to Sunday 22 March, First Point & Noosa Main Beach

Catch a front row seat to all your local favourites and international surfers riding the waves at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve! From long boards to short boards and dogs on boards, soak up some premium Noosa sunshine from the Beach Bar while cheering on the oh-so-cool surfing dogs, and don’t miss IN Noosa Magazine’s famous beachside fashion parade featuring all the best local fashions! Surf’s upjump on board!

www.noosafestivalofsurfing.com

@noosafestivalofsurfing

GOURMAY MARY VALLEY

CELEBRATING THE FOOD, FLAVOURS AND FRIENDSHIPS OF THE MARY VALLEY

Friday 1 May to Sunday 31 May, Various locations across the Mary Valley

Prepare to undo that top button, because feasting season lasts the whole month during GourMay Mary Valley! Set in the rolling hills of the Mary Valley region, just 45 minutes inland from Noosa, this is a seriously bumper month of foodie events. Meet the people who bring food to our tables through workshops, farm tours, breakfast, lunch and dinner events, camp oven events and bush tucker competitions, plus local art, film, music and dancing! Check out the diverse Satellite Events, the family-friendly Festival Day and the glamorous Gala Dinner Party Event, and get ready to soak up the culinary delights of this vibrantly fertile and abundant food bowl!

www.gourmaymaryvalley.com.au

@gourmay_mary_valley

BIG ROSELLA FIELD DAY

CELEBRATING THE ANNUAL ROSELLA HARVEST

Saturday 2 May to Sunday 3 May

Petersen’s Farm, 2 Riley Road, Woolooga

An irresistibly sweet country day out, bursting with rosella-inspired flavours, fun and family vibes, The Big Rosella Field Day is spread out over two jam-packed days. With farm tours, tastings, cooking demonstrations, entertainment and a Young Farmer competition, offering the chance to learn more about this unique fruit. Enjoy delectable homemade relishes, chutneys and preserves – all made with love on-site in the Woolooga Farm Kitchen (formerly CC’s Kitchen). Yes please!

www.petersensfarm.com.au

@wooloogafarmkitchen

*Information is correct at the time of going to print and may be subject to change. Refer to the event organisers for more.

NOOSA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

CELEBRATING AN EXCITING NEW CULINARY CHAPTER

Thursday, 11 June to Sunday, 14 June, Various locations

The Noosa Eat & Drink Festival has returned to its original name, Noosa Food & Wine Festival to blend Noosa’s coastal charm with bold new experiences, collaborations and talent. From local favourites to some of Australia’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants, expect an unforgettable celebration of flavour, creativity and connection. Beachfront bites, brilliant chefs and bubbles collide at Noosa’s gourmet go-to! Sip, savour and celebrate at one of the Seven Signature Events from long lunches in breathtaking locations to nights under the stars on Noosa Main Beach. The American Express Festival Village is the hub of Noosa Food & Wine and will return for one day only on Saturday 13 June - tastier than ever, with good food, good drinks and all the good times you can handle! Check the website for the full program of restaurant events.

www.noosafoodandwine.com.au

@noosafoodandwine

AUSTRALIAN WEARABLE

ART FESTIVAL

CELEBRATING CAPTIVATING CREATIVITY

Friday 11 July

Sunshine Coast Convention Centre, Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort

Step into a world of captivating creativity where fashion, art, fantasy and wildly creative imaginations collide in one jaw-dropping, catwalk-breaking spectacle. Witness the spectacle as more than 40 national and international entries strut showstopping creations down a 40-metre catwalkthe longest of its kind in the country.

www.australianwearableart.com.au @australianwearableart

NOOSA EV EXPO

CELEBRATING ELECTRIC VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY

Sunday, 21 June, Noosa Junction

Plug in, power up and discover the future of everything electric! Test-drive the future, minus the petrol fumes and with 100% more bragging rights.

www.noosaevexpo.com.au

@noosaevexpo

NOOSA

ALIVE!

CELEBRATING CULTURAL PERFORMANCES IN A BEACHSIDE SETTING

Friday 17 July to Sunday 26 July, various locations

Enjoy 10 days of music, theatre and thoughtprovoking performances that make Noosa come alive! Celebrating 24 years, the diverse program of events includes live shows, literary events, mind-tingling sensory performances and some of the best Australian and international performers, film-makers and more at this fusion of arts, food and wine! Culture on the Coast redefined.

www.noosaalive.com.au

@noosaalive

NOOSA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

CELEBRATING AUTOMATIVE EXCELLENCE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

Saturday 18 July | Hastings Street, Noosa

Get amongst the luxury, style, and horsepower at this catwalk for cars when it rolls into Hastings Street for the most glamorous automotive splendour in town. Attracting car enthusiasts and luxury thrill-seekers to the picturesque and iconic Hastings Street, you’ll witness an impressive display of rare and desirable cars, exquisite craftsmanship and of course, elegance! If you’re looking for a day out that defines the world of automotive excellence, this globally award-winning and family friendly event has it all. Start your engines!

www.noosaconcours.com.au @noosaconcours

FEEL-GOOD FASHION

IN THE KNOW

The INsider INformation on the clever, the quirky and the cool.

SUMMER LOVIN’

Summer fashion has officially landed, and Boom Shankar’s new arrivals are bringing all the festive-season joy. Think party-ready prints, colourful cottons to crush on, Lorna Murray x Boom Shankar accessories, and easy breezy styles made for golden afternoons and balmy nights. The Boom Shankar Noosaville Boutique is the ultimate one-stop shop for everything Boom – from fresh drops to past-season favourites on sale. Their lovely retail stylists are always on hand to help you play with new looks, mix up your wardrobe or simply enjoy a good old-fashioned dress-up session. There’s always something new to discover, no matter your mood or style. Pop in and say hello or shop online!

Boom Shankar Noosaville Boutique, 2/47 Gateway Drive, Noosaville www.boomshankar.com.au @boomshankarclothing

Ella & Sunday is all about natural fibres, exclusive prints and beautifully considered craftsmanship – designed in Australia and thoughtfully made in India with integrity and care. Tucked into a creative little enclave of independent designers and makers on Gateway Drive, Noosaville, the brand creates clothing that feels good, lasts, and celebrates quality. The Missy Maxi Hibiscus is a breezy, statement-making favourite, hand printed on soft cotton with a vibrant floral that’s perfect for sunny days.

With a flattering V-neckline, ruffled collar, pin-tucks and a tiered skirt, it’s feminine, effortless and the piece you’ll wear on repeat this summer!

3/40 Gateway Drive, Noosaville. www.ellaandsunday.com.au @ellaandsunday

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Female-owned health, beauty and wellness collective D’fine All is turning up the glow with its new Glo Suite – a full-body LED therapy experience using red and near-infrared light to rejuvenate cells and revive your whole system. This self-service treatment is loved for its calming, anti-ageing benefits, helping to reduce stress, improve sleep, boost muscle recovery and soften fine lines while supporting overall skin health. You can drop in for a single session or commit to a series with multi-session bundles for ongoing results. Step in, switch off and let the light work its magic! Prices start from just $25 per session – head online to book.

1B/1 Lanyana Way, Noosa Heads www.dfineall.com.au/gloupsuite @dfineallnoosa 0421 395 311

HYDRATION STATION

Friiskin was created by Sheri Friis, a skin therapist with more than 25 years’ experience helping clients achieve long-term skin health. After seeing the need for skincare that works with the skin, she developed formulas rooted in biology and barrier support.

This summer, Friiskin is unveiling its fresh Hydration x Glow Ritual, pairing its newest hydration heroes with a limited-edition water bottle, complimentary with any December purchase of $120 or more.

We’ll drink to that!

www.friiskin.com.au

@friiskin

WE LOVE LILO

Step aboard LILO NOOSA, an 11-metre luxury vessel crafted for unforgettable moments on the Noosa River. Perfect for intimate groups of up to 12, LILO combines bespoke design with attentive service from a dedicated Captain and Stewardess. Guests can enjoy seasonal beverages and tailored catering while cruising the river’s scenic waterways, and with flexible departure points and options for sunset or day cruises, private events, or stylish transfers, LILO turns any occasion into a truly memorable experience.

Embrace the best of Noosa from the water and discover a new level of luxury. Book your next cruise via the LILO NOOSA website!

2 Parkyn Court, Tewantin www.lilonoosa.com.au @lilonoosa

Christmas GIFT GUIDE

Support our local small businesses this Christmas!

The festive vibes have officially arrived, and so has our sparkling new IN Noosa x Hello Sunshine Digital Christmas Gift Guide!

It’s packed to the brim with gorgeous local goodies, clever gift ideas and joyful finds to spoil every special someone in your life. Browse beautifully curated sections spanning Home + Art, Fashion + Gifts, Health + Beauty, and Eat + Drink + Play – each one featuring local treasures and feel-good favourites.

Shop local and support the small businesses that make our community shine!

Scan the QR code and get shopping!

VIBRANT VESSELS

Laetitia’s Interiors brings a little slice of France to Noosa – and it all starts with Laetitia herself, a Paris-born design talent with a flair for timeless style. After years of transforming homes, hotels and workspaces across two continents, she now curates beautiful pieces that elevate any space. Her latest obsession? Handcrafted Anduze pots from La Poterie de la Madeleine – exquisite vessels made in France using 400-year-old techniques. Each one carries the artistry of generations, adding elegance, character and European soul to your home. Thoughtful design, authentic craftsmanship – c’est magnifique!

Get in touch to enquire, get a quote and place an order! www.laetitiasinteriors.com

laetitiasinteriors@gmail.com 0428 667 346 @laetitiasinteriors

From the snow-covered streets of Minsk, Belarus to the sandy shores of the Noosa, our cover artist’s journey is a powerful tapestry of resilience, reinvention, and artistic passion. Jodie Cameron explores their unique intersection of visual art and storytelling…

Pops! ART THAT

I’ve always believed in the power of being in the right place at the right time – and that couldn’t ring more true in the discovery of this edition’s cover artist, Ilana McBain.

After spotting a flyer on the wall of my local cafe: “Why Does My Partner Cheat (and How to Deal With It)” – a bold title on a sensitive subject - I curiously searched the author online, and stumbled into a vibrant world of digital art, poetry, and purpose.

That serendipitous encounter led to this full circle moment – sitting opposite Ilana: artist, author and activist, whose smile is as big as her ideas and heart.

A contemporary pop artist, poet, educator and creative visionary, Ilana lives an authentic life driven by freedom and peace. Her works explore themes of human connection, nature, and selfexpression, blending pop art aesthetics with rich, emotive storytelling.

Born in Belarus in 1966 into a family shaped by war and survival, Ilana’s early years were marked by challenge and warmth; a premature birth and childhood health issues setting the tone for a life of determination.

When Ilana was young, her family emigrated to Israel, seeking freedom and opportunity in the small town of Nahariya. It was here Ilana’s love for art took root as she found tracing, drawing and creating as both an act of expression and escape.

“The journey wasn’t easy, but my father’s persistent visits to the Russian immigration office eventually permitted us to go. So, at the age of 33, 26, and five, we embarked on a life-changing

adventure,” Ilana shared. “With all the horrible things going on in my home country, it’s not about taking sides –what matters is peace for everyone so we can live side by side and raise children safely. Freedom is not chaos. Chaos is no control. Freedom is control, the total control over oneself.”

A move to Australia in her teens sparked a bold new chapter. Independent and driven, Ilana eventually earned a place at the Sydney Institute of the Arts but the rigid academic structure clashed with her creative spirit.

“I took a year off, intending to return, but that never materialised,” Ilana recalled. “Instead, I immersed myself in painting, poetry, fashion design, and community projects, building a life where art became both vocation and voice.”

Since 2004, Ilana, her husband and two daughters have called the Sunshine Coast home. Their calm coastal existence fuelling Ilana’s creative output – work that speaks to strength, vulnerability, and beauty. Through visual art or written word, her purpose is clear: to live meaningfully, connect deeply, and inspire others to find light through creativity.

“Australia is the best place on earth, and the Sunshine Coast is so special,” she says. “I’ll always be a city girl but the Coast offers true balance. I want my art and books to be bought everywhere and I don’t need to go anywhere to achieve that. I am exactly where I am meant to be.”

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

Girl Eating Ice Cream on the Beach

I’ve always loved pop art, and I love putting things together that look sharp and involve text – it’s playful and thoughtprovoking...

Ilana’s two creative worlds – digital art and writing – are deeply intertwined. During the pandemic, the creative floodgates opened after her Coolum bar, restaurant and artspace, Foxy on Coolum, was forced into a lull. With time to reflect, her poetry began flowing – born from personal transformation.

“I never considered myself a writer, I told anyone who asked that I was an artist, but my thoughts started to turn into poetry,” Ilana explained. “That space between getting an idea and writing a poem can be a massive chasm, but it was just pouring out of me. So, I decided to make art my business.”

It took three years to act on, but writing helped shift Ilana’s thinking and eventually guided her back to visual art.

Her first book, To Be a Happy Cat, began asan experiment in pairing poetry with

illustration with Ilana transforming cat photos taken by her daughter into playful digital art.

Ilana’s books explore emotional growth and social expectations in a voice that’s both gentle and confronting. Her upcoming title, What will my life look like without anxiety? which tackles anxiety in a similar style – poetic, accessible, and grounded in lived experience.

“We’re often too afraid of what we might lose, not what we might gain,” she says. “Why not teach our kids this from day one and give them the right information to make the right choices.”

Ilana’s work is bold, commercial, and packed with personality, like our summer cover, Girl Eating Ice Cream on the Beach, captures the intensity and joy of a Queensland summer so vividly, you can almost feel the coldness of the ice cream dripping down her arm.

Her art practice remains personal and political, a platform for connection, empowerment, and peace.

“I’ve always loved pop art, and I love putting things together that look sharp and involve text – it’s playful and thought-provoking,” she says.

“I don’t believe vulnerability is a weakness, it’s a strength because when I choose to offer it, I’m in control of it.”

From launching community collectives in Yaroomba to supporting DV Safe Phone projects, Ilana’s work stretches far beyond her iPad. She runs mobile workshops through her Sunshine Coast Creative Academy and collaborates with local businesses to wholesale her work including Uncle George in Hastings Street, Noosa.

So, what’s next for Ilana McBain?

“World domination,” she laughs. “But seriously: more art, more books, and more human connection.”

Ilana’s journey from Belarus to Israel to Australia, through hardship and reinvention, gives her work a rare bedrock of empathy.

Her story is far from finished. Tethering bold aesthetics to human vulnerability, Ilana offers a voice that is not a silent witness; she is a translator of sensation, of instability, hope, aching, and of light. And she invites us, as readers and viewers, to pause, to lean in, and to see.

Follow Ilana’s purposeful journey @ilanamcbain_artist or @ilanamcbain_author

Scan the QR code to discover or purchase her art or visit www.ilanamcbain.com

James

Can of Sardines - Gold and Blue

Staycation YOUR SAY, YOUR

Tell us what you think and WIN the ultimate staycation on Hastings Street or one of five limited-edition Citrus gins!

After more than a decade of INforming, INdulging and INspiring the Noosa community, we thought it was time to check in with you – our fabulous readers! What are we doing well? What could we do better? What do you love most about IN Noosa Magazine – and what would you like to see more of?

Because here at IN Noosa, we’re more than a magazine – we’re a community. Together, we’ve celebrated local legends, championed creative industries and hosted unforgettable events. We’ve launched Hello Sunshine Magazine – a Savvy, Surprising and Spirited sister for the wider Sunshine Coast; delivered VanillaFood: The Cookbook and the Flo’s Crêpes cookbook; and recorded more than 200 interviews for our podcast Everyone Has a Story: Conversations from the Sunshine Coast & Noosa, which has now reached 40,000+ downloads. Plus our enewsletter and social media keeps growing!

Along the way, we’ve been honoured with two Sunshine Coast Business Awards for Creative Industries as well as being shortlisted for Publishing Company of the Year and Brand of the Year at the 2025 Mumbrella Publish Awards. It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised – but it means nothing without you, our readers.

Now, we’d love your help to shape what’s next! Tell us what you think in our Reader Survey, and as a thank-you, you’ll be in the running to WIN the ultimate Hastings Street staycation staying at Netanya Noosa with lots of goodies including gift vouchers from Locale and Sara Leonardi - plus one of five bottles of limited-edition IN Noosa Citrus Gin. Share your thoughts, help us grow, and you could be unwinding beachside with bubbles in hand!

TAKE THE READER SURVEY & WIN!

Tell us what you think in our Reader Survey and go in the draw to WIN one of five, 700ml bottles of IN Noosa Citrus Gin distilled by Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits or the Ultimate Staycation on Hastings Street package valued at $3,500!

Scan the QR code to take the Reader Survey and check out the Terms & Conditions. Entries close 15 February 2026.

WIN THE ULTIMATE HASTINGS STREET STAYCATION

Take 5 minutes to WIN the ultimate staycation on Hastings Street totaling a prize value of up to $3,500 INcluding a two-night stay at Netanya Noosa in a One Bedroom Beachfront Apartment with a gourmet hamper from Providore on Hastings, exclusive on-premise Penfolds Champagne (Cuvee Brut or Rosé), continental breakfast for two, mocktails on arrival, Netanya branded sand-free towel, tote and cap, and Cool Cabana hire PLUS a $300 voucher from Locale Ristorante & Bar and $100 voucher from Sara Leonardi! There is also a 700ml bottle of limited-edition IN NOOSA Citrus Gin by Sunshine & Sons for the winner and five lucky runners-up! Be IN it to WIN it!

Visit www.innoosamagazine.com.au or scan the QR code to take the survey and for full terms and conditions.

A SLICE OF

Paradise SECURE

Deb Caruso opens the door on the opportunity to own a slice of award-winning paradise.

There are places you visit once and never forget. Places that become woven into the fabric of your life, where you return not just when you need to, but for an experience that feeds your soul. For thousands of visitors over the past two decades, ikatan Spa has been that place.

Tucked away in the lush surrounds of Doonan, this multi-award-winning wellness sanctuary has become a beacon of relaxation. It’s where stressed-out professionals decompress, friends gather for rituals that enrichen their lives and self-care becomes more than an indulgence, it is a way of life. For tourists, ikatan Spa is an essential part of their holiday, and gift vouchers are treasured and redeemeed with gratitude, never forgotten in a drawer.

Now, after decades of pouring passion into creating something truly special, owners Nick and Katrina are ready to enjoy their own version of relaxation –retirement, while they’re still young enough to make the most of it.

But here’s what makes this story different from your typical ‘business for sale’ announcement: this isn’t about an owner checking out because things have gotten too hard. Far from it. This is about a thriving, profitable business at the peak of its powers, ready for the right person to take it to even greater heights.

Part of what makes ikatan Spa special is the passion, purpose and processes that Nick and Katrina have invested over the years. Robust systems, documented processes, and training a team that could run the place without them, makes this a dream for the savvy new owners.

The numbers speak for themselves.

...a thriving, profitable business at the peak of its powers, ready for the right person to take it to even greater heights.

With a client database exceeding 30,000 and an active VIP membership, this business has built something money can’t buy: genuine loyalty.

The awards lining the walls signal that this is a global destination. The business comes with the freehold property of more than one acre – increasingly rare and highly sought after by buyers who want total control over their investment.

The property itself is stunning. Purpose-built to deliver the ultimate wellness experience, the treatment rooms, relaxation area, gardens and spaces have been thoughtfully designed.

Renovations to the property’s reception area and lounge have added a level of sophistication that elevates the entire operation and presents a fresh, modern wellness destination with room to grow.

Speaking of growth, let’s talk opportunity. The injectable and cosmetic enhancement market is booming, and ikatan’s existing client base would be a natural fit for these services. The space, database and trust is already there.

There’s also capacity to add more treatment rooms and extend operating hours and to create additional revenue. The location itself offers something

precious: complete privacy in an idyllic tropical setting, easily accessible from Noosa, Gympie and the Sunshine Coast. That balance is hard to find and impossible to recreate.

What strikes you when you walk through ikatan Spa is the attention to detail. The signature treatments that can’t be found anywhere else, the proprietary product range that generates 100% margin back to the business owner, the team that genuinely care about their work; and the sense that you could be on a remote island paradise.

It’s turnkey in the truest sense – walk in tomorrow and you’ve got the database, the staff, the systems, the location, the products, and the intellectual property.

Perfect for the likes of a high-networth individual looking for a lifestyle change that also happens to be highly profitable; someone who is already in the wellness industry and ready to own their own premium destination; or maybe a savvy investor who recognises that this business is large enough to run entirely under professional management, freeing them to focus on strategic growth while the day-to-day operations hum along.

The beauty of ikatan Spa is its flexibility. You can be as hands-on or hands-off as you choose. You can maintain the current successful model or inject your own style and innovations.

Nick and Katrina aren’t sailing into the sunset without a proper handover and committed to ensuring the new owner has everything they need to succeed.

“It’s best to sell when you’re still passionate,” Katrina shared recently. And both she and Nick certainly are.

For the buyer, this commitment to a smooth transition is invaluable – you’re not just buying equipment and a client list; you’re gaining access to years of wisdom and industry knowledge.

The Sunshine Coast market is in a sweet spot right now. Tourism is strong, locals value quality wellness experiences, and the lifestyle appeal of this region continues to attract affluent clients from around the country.

One important note for loyal clients: all valid gift vouchers will be fully honoured by the new owner. The continuity of service is paramount, and the transition will be handled in a way that ensures the ikatan Spa experience that we know and love remains unchanged, or perhaps even enhanced,

awards, documented systems, passionate and professional staff, a freehold property, engaged database, and room to grow in one of Australia’s most desirable regions.

Beyond the investment potential, there’s something more meaningful - the chance to own a business that delivers joy and relaxation that genuinely makes people feel better.

For Nick and Katrina, the next chapter is about rest and reward. For someone reading this, the next chapter could be building something remarkable in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

If that sounds like the kind of smart opportunity you’ve been waiting for, expressions of interest are being handled by business sales specialist Dione Mauric

BUYER BENEFITS

IKATAN SPA. 46 GRAYS RD, DOONAN

Here are just some of the benefits that await new owners of this iconic business:

• Multi-award-winning luxury wellness destination with exceptional reputation

• Freehold property included

• Near-perfect gift voucher redemption rate demonstrating genuine client loyalty

• Highly trained, experienced team with established systems and processes

• Turnkey operation ready for immediate transition

• Proprietary product range with 100% margin returning to owner

• Significant expansion opportunities including injectable services, additional treatment rooms, and extended hours

• Prime Sunshine Coast location with complete privacy yet easy accessibility

• Recent renovations and ongoing property improvements

• Strong repeat clientele and large email subscriber base exceeding 30,000

• Can be owner-operated or run entirely under professional management

• Comprehensive training and handover process included

• Long-standing brand equity and local

The Sunshine Coast Business Awards celebrated 30 yearsand local business success!

Deb Caruso reviews the red carpet night of nights.

Success! CELEBRATING

More than 850 guests walked the red carpet for a spectacular evening to acknowledge local business success and celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sunshine Coast Business Awards.

The Sunshine Coast Convention Centre hosted the black tie gala which saw 34 category winners and six Hall of Fame inductees in one of the biggest celebrations in the program’s history.

Sunshine Coast Business Awards Chair Jennifer Swaine said this year’s milestone event marked a defining moment for the region’s business community.

“Thirty years on, these awards continue to reflect the incredible breadth and talent of the Sunshine Coast business community - from emerging entrepreneurs to nationally recognised leaders,” she said.

“Our 2025 winners have shown that the Sunshine Coast is not just a great place to live - it’s an extraordinary place to do business. They’ve demonstrated excellence, innovation and purpose in a year that’s seen record participation and unprecedented growth. Congratulations!”

2025 WINNERS

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Noosa Black Garlic

ACCOMMODATION

Thirlestane Farm

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

Small: Blue Seas AI Consulting

Large: Raider Targetry

BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING

Small: Complex Consulting Group

Large: Advanced Aquarium Technologies

BUSINESS SERVICES

Small: Sparo Studios

Large: Animal Emergency Service Tanawha

CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

Empire Art Photography & Coaching

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Small: Workplace Performance & Wellbeing Institute

Large: Real Life Skills Support Services

EXPERIENCES

Small: Saltwater Eco Tours

Large: Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Australian Wearable Art Festival EXPORT

Advanced Aquarium Technologies

FOOD & AGRIBUSINESS

Small: Noosa Black Garlic

Large: Maleny Cheese

HEALTH & MEDICAL SERVICES

Small: Noosa Junction Chiropractic

Large: Thompson Brain and Mind Healthcare HOSPITALITY

Small: Sunny Rays Catering

Large: Alex Surf Club

MANUFACTURING

Small: Grenof

Large: Helitak

PERSONAL FITNESS & WELLBEING Switch4Schools

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Small: Indepth Accounting

Large: Gregson & Weight Funeral Directors

RETAIL

Small: Indie Boho

Large: Knobby

SOCIAL IMPACT

Small: Manufacturing Excellence Forum

Large: ECOllaboration Ltd

SUSTAINABILITY

Small: Eastwell Farms

Large: Laguna Pest Control

TRADES & SERVICES

Small: MJB Bodyworks & Fabrication

Large: Qspec Building Mobility Solutions

Maleny Dairies

Mercure Kawana Waters Your Brand

Peace PLANNING FOR

John Caruso knows that getting aged care sorted can be tough. Morgans Noosa offers clear advice and real support to help you navigate every step.

Navigating aged care is a reality that almost everyone faces at some point. Whether it’s a partner, a parent or even for ourselves, the journey can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to dealing with government departments and the complex red tape involved.

For many, this is a lonely path, however, one local business does more than crunch numbers - they also extend a guiding hand through what can be a complicated and stressful time.

Jonathon Laird, Financial Adviser with Morgans Noosa, has seen firsthand the challenges clients face.

“When people come to us, generally it’s when their partner’s going into care. They ask, ‘How much is this going to cost me?’ because they’re often receiving a fixed income and can’t easily see how it will all work out.”

Morgans Noosa offers financial modelling to take clients through every

step and question that an aged care facility would ask.

“But the support doesn’t stop there,” Jonathon says. “We liaise with the aged care provider and Services Australia on behalf of the client.”

For those who haven’t previously interacted with government departments, this part can be daunting and Jonathon acknowledges it can be frustrating.

“Dealing with Government departments can be an environment with complicated rules and quite often, high staff turnover, so clients often get inconsistent information. That’s where we come in. We take the burden off our client’s shoulders.”

The landscape changed with new aged care reforms implemented in November which Jonathon noting that the costs of aged care facilities were generally going up for most Australians.

“One key change is the refundable

accommodation deposit, or RAD,” he shares. “In the past, when a client left a room, they’d get 100% of their deposit back. Now there’s a 2% fee charged annually for five years, which means you’ll get back at least 90%, but not the full amount.”

Self-Managed

Other tweaks include the breakup of

Jonathon Laird

fees into a basic daily care fee, a hoteling contribution and a non-clinical care fee, which are both means-tested.

“It’s a complicated area,” Jonathon admits. “And it’s stressful for families, especially if it’s urgent or unexpected.”

Urgency is a big part of this process and families can often feel pressured to make quick decisions about funding accommodation deposits.

Jonathon urges people to remember that they have time.

“If you’re not ready to pay a big lump sum for a room deposit, you can continue paying daily accommodation payments until you’re ready to decide which option to take,” he advises.

This kind of counsel can be invaluable as he says there is often a sense that the financial side of the transaction has to be sorted immediately.

“But really, the focus should be on finding the right care for your loved one first,” he says.

It’s important to note that aged care here means nursing and supportive care, not retirement villages.

“Many people enter aged care when it becomes hard to look after themselves,” Jonathon said. “Someone may be starting

We provide the support, advice and time clients need to feel comfortable.

to show signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s. Sadly, it’s the great equaliser, regardless of wealth.”

Nearly everyone confronting this stage, whether they have millions or just enough, faces a similar hurdle: “Many have never dealt with this situation, which makes it overwhelming when you’re thrust into this situation. We’re here to cut through the noise.”

Morgans’ role extends beyond the initial financial advice.

“We help clients understand the linear progression, from the first assessment that says ‘yes, they’re eligible for permanent care’, all the way through moving into the facility and managing the assessments and payments,” Jonathon says. “We can manage that end-to-end process, which takes an enormous weight off families.”

This hands-on approach offers more

than just clarity. It brings peace of mind at a difficult time.

“Most clients come in stressed. It’s a huge life change; you’re dealing with your loved one losing independence and adjusting to new realities,” Jonathon emphasises. “We want clients to know they aren’t alone. They don’t need to navigate this maze by themselves or be rushed into decisions. We provide the support, advice and time clients need to feel comfortable.”

Locally, many aged residents prefer to stay close to home, and Morgans Noosa offer a lifeline.

“There’s big demand for this kind of support here. Families want to get it right, but it’s such an involved process that advice and experience matter.”

For those facing aged care decisions, that’s a reassuring message: you don’t have to handle the confusing red tape on your own. There’s someone beside you, with expertise and genuine care, ready to guide you through the steps, making what feels overwhelming just a little easier to manage.

DISCLAIMER: The advice in this story is of a generic nature. You should seek your own personalised advice before making any financial decisions.

WHY SLOWING DOWN IS THE NEW

Power Move

Everyone wants to go faster – scale faster, sell faster, post faster, earn faster. But speed without strategy is a race to burnout, says peak performance coach and author Nikki Fogden-Moore

If you’re reading this on holiday in Noosa, good for you. Resist the urge to keep checking your phone, grab a comfy seat, and sit back and think, “How can I relate this to what I’m doing in life?”

Most founders and high performers I meet are addicted to movement however they often confuse motion with momentum, productivity with progress, and hustle with happiness.

They’ll outwork anyone in the room. But ask them what they’re actually working towards and you might get a pause, then a shrug, then a vague answer about ‘more’ – more clients, more revenue, more growth.

It doesn’t matter what size of business, whether it’s a family company with a few staff or a multi-million-dollar operation with teams of people, the hustle is real, and the feeling of being responsible for everyone and everything only gets tougher at the top.

This is where it gets uncomfortable and when it is most important to give yourself permission to step out for a moment and regroup. To be honest with what you need to be doing, what the goals are, and if you’ve allowed yourself the time to get radically clear on what matters most.

More is not a strategy. More is a default setting for people who’ve forgotten to define enough.

THE ADDICTION TO URGENCY

We live in a world that has always, in one way or another, celebrated the grind: “First in, last out.” “Sleep when you’re dead.” “Keep pushing.” “AI will save you

time and build your seven-figure business.”

But when you’re always pushing, you’re never checking. Checking alignment. Checking clarity. Checking capacity.

Every high performer eventually hits a ceiling. But we rarely realise that the ceiling wasn’t always imposed externally – it was self-built from a lack of selfawareness and a desire to do more, have more and be more.

I see this constantly with my private clients – founders running seven, eight, and nine-figure businesses who come to me exhausted, scattered, and wondering where the joy they once had is gone.

It’s simple: They scaled chaos. They scaled noise. They scaled a version of success that wasn’t even theirs.

It doesn’t matter what your turnover is. Your life P&L is just as important as your business one. Using AI and getting more external tools won’t help unless you have your own internal operation system aligned with health, wealth, happiness and a good mindset.

It’s time to consider what ‘great’ actually looks and feels like to you.

Here’s my thoughts on how to reset and align at any given moment, regardless of title, age or the stage your business is at:

STILLNESS IS A STRATEGY

This isn’t about quitting. It’s about recalibrating.

The smartest CEOs I coach don’t just make time for vision – they prioritise it. You can too!

That means doing the work no one sees:

• Turning off the phone.

• Sitting in the silence.

• Asking the hard questions: “Is this still what I want?” “Am I building something I’ll want to keep?”‘ “What do I need to grow, delete, delegate and complete?”

What you will discover is powerful: when you remove the distractions, the truth becomes really loud and clear.

Along with this you will have the doubts, the limiting beliefs and what I call ‘the blurts’ that usually would have held you back from taking the next right step. Write those down!

Clarity doesn’t come when you’re rushing. It comes in the stillness. And stillness is a discipline most people avoid, because silence reveals what speed masks – misalignment. It can be uncomfortable.

THE MYTH OF CONSTANT GROWTH –SOMETIMES BIGGER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER

Growth at all costs is not just dangerous – it’s lazy thinking dressed up as ambition.

Real growth is intentional. It’s strategic. It’s sustainable.

That means sometimes you plateau. Sometimes you refine. Sometimes you stop adding and start editing.

That’s not a setback. That’s mastery. True efficiency is not by doing more but growth by doing less – with precision.

PHOTO: VALERIA RAMIREZ

It’s the difference between leading a business… and being consumed by one.

The same goes for your personal energy.

You don’t need another productivity hack. You need a decision filter. A system to cut the noise and stay ruthlessly aligned.

That’s what I call a “Winning Week” –a structure that protects your energy, focus, and firepower.

This is why I’ve created a 3-Day Reset to help you to set up what your goals are first.

It isn’t about slowing down – it’s about recalibrating your system so you can operate from clarity, not chaos.

It’s designed specifically for founders, business owners, and high performers who need to get back to their best without losing momentum – but anyone can use it.

It’s the difference between leading a business… and being consumed by one. WHAT THEY DON’T TELL YOU ABOUT SUCCESS

Success isn’t built in the big moments. It’s built in the quiet ones.

When no one’s watching. When you say ‘no’ to the deal that looks good on paper because it feels wrong in your gut.

When you choose to rest, not because you’re lazy – but because you’re strategic.

1. Rest is part of performance.

2. Silence is part of success.

3. Stillness is where your next best idea lives.

But it takes courage to stop. To zoom out. To ask: “If I keep going at this pace, where does this really end?”

The strongest leaders I know? They build space on purpose. White space. Thinking time. Design time.

Time to be unavailable to the world, so they can be fully available to their vision.

MY INVITATION TO YOU

If you’ve been running fast, but feeling disconnected, it’s time to pause. Not forever. Just long enough to realign.

Block a half-day. No meetings. No emails. No distractions. Ask yourself:

1. Where am I going – really?

2. What feels heavy or forced right now?

3. If nothing changed, would I be okay with this being my next three years? If any of those answers leave you unsettled, good. It means your intuition is working. Now you just have to listen. Because here’s what’s at stake: You can either keep racing towards someone else’s version of success… or slow down long enough to build your own. Choose wisely.

GET THE RESET

Nikki Fogden-Moore is The Mojo Maker – a global advisor to high-performing founders, CEOs, and teams. Her proprietary Winning Weeks methodology, Boardroom Retreats, and ACCELER8TE

Where Visionaries Retreat to Lead What’s Next

“We know time is your biggest commodity. Join us for a meticulously 3 curated days,

defining and designing what peak performance and sustainable success means for

personally and professionally”. Nikki Fogden-Moore. Founder.

This isn’t a conference. It’s the strategic recalibration leaders need. Designed for the next era of business and life. Where leadership demands solid decision making in fast paced environments, clarity, energy and true embodiment of peak performance.

Welcome to The Boardroom Retreat© ALCHEMY EDITION. The award winning ultimate energiser for business owners, founders and CEOs. Designed to reignite vision, creativity, and purpose in both life and work.

Deep dive into AI with global experts. Define the AI expertise you need and the foundations of success for yourself and your teams.

Create your personal 2026 game plan with focused strategy conversations. destress with ocean-side wellness, and time to actually press pause. Dive into Neuroscience and flow state coaching with highly trained experts.

Private chef-curated dining, elite PT and wellbeing sessions.

pdf or to inquire

Downtime to do your own thinking. Reconnect with what matters most and how to navigate the now and the future — this is your space to think bigger, lead deeper, and move with unshakable clarity.

Future-forward personal and professional frameworks designed for CEOs, founders, and legacy-driven business owners.

What if you could access world-class financial planning and wealth management services right here in paradise? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the new firm that proves you don’t have to compromise when it comes to managing your money.

BEYOND THE

Gone are the days when you had to travel out of Noosa to access premium financial planning and wealth management –thanks to the recently opened Ord Minnett Noosa, it’s never been easier to access expert advice in this stunning slice of paradise we call home.

Led by Senior Private Wealth Adviser Chris Harris, this branch of Ord Minnett (pronounced ‘minute’), located in Noosa Junction, is a full-service operation with a high-performing team; plush, soundprotected meeting rooms; and best of all, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re supported by one of Australia’s oldest wealth firms, with origins dating back to 1872.

Don’t go thinking this is a regional satellite office – it rivals big-city firms, with Chris and his team ranking among Ord Minnett’s top-performing firms nationally by revenue (something that Chris doesn’t shout about, but is proof of their exceptional client outcomes and expertise).

Chris, who spent more than two decades advising clients from the Buderim Ord Minnett office before heading up the Noosa branch, says that you have to earn your stripes in the investment world before being trusted by high-net-worth individuals.

Ord-inary

“I bought my first shares at the age of 20,” he says. “I started out as an accountant, added a Master of Commerce with taxation and business law, then spent time with KPMG before joining Ord Minnett. When I first came to the Sunshine Coast, I had just two clients under management.

Now, thanks to decades of experience and proven results, Ord Minnett Noosa manages a diverse client base including business owners, CEOs, retirees and more.

Chris said that each case was unique, depending on the person’s desired strategies, goals and outcomes.

“We can have a conversation with anyone, but I’d say those we can help most are high-net-worth individuals with self-managed super funds, trusts and companies,” Chris explains.

“Whether navigating intergenerational wealth transfers, superannuation, investment or philanthropic giving, we focus on forward-thinking advice

customised to complex needs.”

The Ord Minnett Noosa service rests on two main pillars: the first is advisory and structuring, and the second pillar is investing, where their prudent, conservative approach has proven itself time and time again.

“Our aim is strong, risk-adjusted returns,” Chris says. “Most high-networth individuals aren’t looking for their money to be doubled – they just don’t want it halved.”

He sums up their role succinctly:

“We act like the CEO of your personal financial position; you’re the board,” he says. In practice that means Ord Minnett does the heavy lifting – analysing, proposing and implementing – while clients have the final say on everything. It all starts with a complimentary consultation to see if you’re a good fit. Every two months, each client receives a clear portfolio review outlining asset allocation and any suggested adjustments.

Tom Hartvigsen and Chris Harris

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

Then once a year, the team liaises with your accountant, particularly around SMSF requirements such as pension minimums and contributions, and sends tailored pre-30 June recommendations.

Just like the waves rolling onto shore, each client has their own rhythm. If you need four or five catch-ups in a year because life is moving fast, Chris and the team will be there, or if one thorough meeting and regular reporting suits you better, that works too.

Chris is led by each client when it comes to how many details they’re comfortable sharing.

“I never ask them how they made their money, and I never assume a lack of financial knowledge,” he says. An engaging people person, he enjoys the face-to-face aspect of helping people protect and build their wealth and is genuinely interested in people’s stories.

The Ord Minnett Noosa team works collaboratively with purpose: Senior Private Wealth Adviser Chris and Private Wealth Adviser Tom Hartvigsen head up strategy and recommendations across their clients, while Private Wealth Assistant Josephine Cartwright (aka Jo) – who has been with Chris for more than a decade – is the trusted person for client enquiries and the steady hand

keeping everything on course.

“The advantage to our collaborative approach is that the client always has coverage – they know the whole team is across their situation, even if one person isn’t available,” Chris says. “We like to think of it as a private bank-style relationship: if a pension needs paying, an ATO bill needs to be sorted or a transfer needs to be verified by phone to prevent fraud, Jo will make it happen with the right checks and friendly reassurance.”

You may recognise Chris’ voice from ABC Sunshine Coast Radio where he provides the 7.30am Finance Report – a daily snapshot of the ASX, global markets and what futures suggest about the day ahead, delivered in his signature calm, informed and conversational style.

At the heart of Ord Minnett Noosa’s success is a dual strength: the heritage and scale of the Ord Minnett national brand combined with the intimacy, responsiveness and lifestyle understanding of a local team.

With around $71 billion in funds under advice nationally (as at 30 June 2025), clients gain access to opportunities many regional firms simply can’t offer – such as a wholesale bond desk that gives qualified clients exposure to defensive

assets alongside major funds.

“These sorts of opportunities are just not available anywhere else,” Chris says. If you’ve ever wondered if you have to go to a capital city for top-tier wealth advice, the answer is ‘absolutely not’.

“Post-Covid, the demographic of Noosa shifted – people relocated here for good, rather than visiting a couple of times a year, which was part of the reason we opened this full-service branch,” Chris explains.

“Plus it’s an absolutely beautiful place to be, and the community here is very inspiring.”

Business is thriving and they’re looking to recruit an experienced paraplanner to join the team, with more growth opportunities on the horizon.

With a team who understands the Noosa lifestyle and excels in navigating global financial complexity, working with Ord Minnett Noosa means you can surf in the morning, stroll the National Park after lunch, and trust your financial future is in expert hands.

To start the conversation, book a complimentary, no-obligation chat at the Ord Minnett Noosa branch today –because you don’t have to compromise your lifestyle for financial confidence.

Growing wealth

roots in Noosa

Ord Minnett Noosa brings a local service backed by a national network, managing more than $71 billion* in funds under advice for clients.

Start a conversation

Contact Chris Harris and Tom Hartvigsen today on (07) 5231 9966, noosa@ords.com.au or visit ords.com.au

One-Stop SUMMER

Stay cool, calm and collected this silly season and beyond with this one-stop hub for shopping, wellness, food, life admin and so much more. Whether you call Noosa home or you’re visiting, it’s summer, sorted! Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the ticket to a one-stop shopping destination.

Pssst, want to know a secret about summer in Noosa? When the hectic holiday vibes are high and patience is low, locals head to Noosa Civic shopping centre – a calm, air-conditioned oasis with everything you need to glide through summer in style.

From the weekly grocery run and last-minute gifts to fresh fashion and life-admin essentials, Noosa Civic has more than 100 specialty stores under one roof, not to mention plenty of easy parking. Tick off your to-do list, grab a coffee, and maybe even sneak in a quick beauty treatment. It’s shopping, errands and indulgence made easy!

For a calendar that’s choc-full of beach days, barbecues and balmy nights out, the fantastic fashion at Noosa Civic will

It’s shopping, errands and indulgence made easy!

have you looking fabulous as you swing into summer. Browse Sportsgirl, Sussan, Suzanne Grae, Cotton On and Bikini Hut for on-trend pieces that move from sand to sundowners, plus Lorna Jane, Cotton On Body and Rockwear for awesome activewear.

Stock up on summer staples for the man in your life at Connor, Cotton On, and Lowes, while the kids can get decked out for beach adventures at Cotton On

Kids, Big W or City Beach. Complete the look with summer-ready footwear from Skechers, Williams, Spendless Shoes or The Athlete’s Foot – plus it wouldn’t be Christmas without a sparkly showstopper from Priest Jewellers or Prouds the Jewellers!

But summer’s not just about looking good, it’s about feeling good too. If you’re due for a haircut, a manicure, or simply a self-care session, Noosa Civic’s beauty and wellness line-up has you sorted. Liberty Hair Design, Just Cuts and the barbers at Male Alchemy will have your locks looking lovely; Elegant Beauty and Brows will bring your eyes to life and ‘nail’ a polished finish at ProfessioNail and Nail Studio. Laser Clinics Australia and the multi-award

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

winning Chloe Regan Cosmetic Clinic offers advanced treatments, expertise and excellent results. You glow, girl!

If you’re due an eye test or need to get some fancy new frames, keep an eye out for OSPM, Oscar Wylee and Specsavers And when you’re running low on suncare products or need to stock up on your favourite skincare, Priceline and LiveLife Pharmacy have everything you need.

Home is where the heart is – and Noosa Civic’s homewares stores make it easy to keep things festive, fun and fabulous. From coastal cushions and linen bedding at Adairs, Pillow Talk, and House Bed & Bath, to fresh kitchen essentials from House and sweet summer scents from Dusk, there’s everything you need to turn it into a welcoming haven. If you’re entertaining, decorating or simply styling the spare room for guests,

you’ll find inspiration at every turn – and maybe even a new lamp or artwork from Beacon Lighting or Complete Framing Noosa

Heading away for the holidays? Visit BCF for kit that’ll make you the envy of the outdoors; up your luggage game with Strandbags; sort your foreign currency with Lotus FX; and don’t forget Flight Centre for expert travel advice.

And we all know life admin doesn’t take a break, which is why it’s so handy to have banks, Australia Post, Poolwerx and Services Australia all on site.

Need to schedule some wellness or much-needed health appointments? Medihub is here to help; meanwhile, Greencross Vets and Petbarn ensures your furry family member is in good health, groomed and with goodies galore.

Summer. Sorted.

Conveniently, all you need in Noosa for shopping, banking, beauty, fitness, health, medical and more.

Holidaying is hungry work, so you’ll want to head to Woolworths to stock up on everything from beachside snacks to your festive feast – and don’t forget decadent drinks from BWS!

Get a much-needed caffeine fix and some tasty eats at The Coffee Club or Jamaica Blue; enjoy flavours from around the world at Brown Rice; Pearl’s Burgers or Sunshine Kebabs and treat the kids (and yourself) at Donut King. Then sit back, relax, and feel smug about how you’ve managed to tick so much off your list in record time!

Whether you’re a local dodging the coastal chaos or a visitor discovering a new side of Noosa, Noosa Civic is the sweet spot that offers convenience, choice and calm. It’s summer, sorted.

WHAT’S ON!

MEET SANTA | 21 NOV TO 24 DEC

Bring the kids for festive photos and meet the jolly man himself!

WIN BIG, GIFT BETTER!

Check out the Civic Christmas Gift Guide for your chance to win up to $500.

SUNNYKIDS GIFT APPEAL

Donate a gift to support local families in need this festive season.

BEAUTIFUL GIFT WRAPPING

Support local charities while having your gifts beautifully wrapped - tick and tick!

Located 10 minutes from Hastings Street with ample free parking, it’s all you need made easy.

Want to experience a whole world of adventure without straying too far from home? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer asks the experts for their favourite small-ship expedition cruises that you’ll fall in love with.

Adventure AROUND THE CORNER

Craving a life-changing escape just around the corner? Traveloso, the experts in luxury immersive travel, have handpicked four extraordinary smallship expedition cruises close to home for maximum adventure, minimum stress.

Celebrating the beauty, culture, and spirit of Australia and beyond, each is an unforgettable journey worthy of a place on your bucket list.

Ready, set, sail!

AQUA EXPEDITIONS: RAJA AMPAT

Raja Ampat, also known as the Spice Islands, is an Indonesian archipelago located just off West Papua, north of Australia.

Traveloso’s luxury travel designer, Tess Foxwood, says it has been the go-to destination for 2025, with a steady stream of enquiries from travellers.

Luxury small ship cruise line Aqua Expeditions takes passengers to explore this very special area – one of the most biodiverse marine regions on Earth. Their ship, the Aqua Blu, is a 60-metre long-range ocean explorer yacht carrying a maximum of 30 guests that permanently cruises Indonesian waters.

Part of the Coral Triangle – an area celebrated for its pristine reefs, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant marine life – Raja Ampat’s isolation means every snorkel or dive feels like a private discovery of untouched paradise. Marine encounters can include manta rays, whale sharks and reef sharks while moving through a kaleidoscope of coral gardens.

What makes Aqua Expeditions exceptional is their seamless blend of adventure and refinement.

Thanks to the guest-to-crew ratio of 1:1, the level of service is extremely high, with guests enjoying contemporary design, spacious suites, and gourmet cuisine by renowned chefs.

You’ll love the carefully curated itineraries combining world-class diving and kayaking with guided excursions through jungle-clad islands, hidden lagoons, and local villages.

SEABOURN: KIMBERLEY REGION

If you’re seeking adventure on our very own shores, Australia’s Kimberley region is a natural wonder that deserves to be experienced at least once in a lifetime – if not again and again. It’s easily accessible from major Australian cities,

with simple flight connections to Darwin or Broome, where the cruise begins.

From May to September, Seabourn sails these waters in signature luxury.

Traveloso’s founder and luxury travel designer, Anthony Lee, who has personally cruised the Kimberley Coast, attests that exploring by ship offers access to rare hidden gorges, remote tributaries, and towering waterfalls that would otherwise remain unreachable.

Highlights include the tidal marvels of Montgomery Reef and Horizontal Falls, as well as the awe-inspiring King George Falls. Each day unveils breathtaking landscapes steeped in Aboriginal culture and raw natural beauty.

As Kimberley cruise experts, Traveloso knows which departures align perfectly with the tides – ensuring guests experience these extraordinary natural phenomena at their very best.

HERITAGE EXPEDITIONS: ANTARCTICA

If you want to explore the great white continent of Antarctica without flying all the way to South America, look no further than the Heritage Expeditions cruise In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton:

Raja Ampat with Aqua Expeditions

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Ross Sea Antarctica, which departs from Bluff in the very south of New Zealand near Invercargill.

Heritage Expeditions cruises this route on its fully equipped ice-strengthened flagship the Heritage Adventurer, which holds a maximum of 140 guests. This is an epic cruise steeped in history which takes you to the heart of Antarctica, the Ross Sea, which is less frequented than the more common area south of the Drake Passage.

With a team of experts aboard, including historians, biologists and geologists, to entertain and enlighten, guests will visit Subantarctic islands enroute to the destination. Along the way you’ll hop into zodiacs to explore

colossal ice shelves and icebergs, visit research stations observing whales and seals, and walk with emperor penguins. You’ll also visit the historic huts of Shackleton, Borchgrevink and Scott, effectively following in their footsteps.

PONANT: SOUTH PACIFIC

Dreaming of a South Pacific escape?

Ponant’s 15-day luxury expedition from Suva, Fiji to Papeete, Tahiti offers the perfect blend of ease and adventure.

Jess Munday, Traveloso’s resident island specialist, says this cruise is an absolute must. Travellers begin their journey with a short three-hour flight to Fiji, where they’ll embark on a voyage through some of the world’s most breathtaking tropical islands.

Sailing aboard Ponant’s elegant expedition ship, enjoy refined Frenchinspired cuisine, exceptional service, and immersive experiences. Along the way, explore the kingdom of Tonga where time slows to island rhythm; and the Cook Islands, renowned for pristine beaches and warm local culture.

The journey culminates in French Polynesia, home to the legendary Bora Bora Island, whose turquoise lagoon and lush, forest-draped peaks are the

epitome of South Pacific beauty.

With seamless flight connections, this itinerary is wonderfully straightforward yet overflowing with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

It’s an ideal choice for travellers seeking a luxurious, culturally rich adventure through paradise.

If you love the sound of these epic adventures, get in touch with the expedition cruise experts at Traveloso for a one-on-one appointment and tailored recommendations!

CURIOUS ABOUT CRUISING?

SAIL BEYOND THE ORDINARY WITH SEABOURN AND UNIWORLD Tuesday 3 February 2026

Set sail on a journey of inspiration! Join the Traveloso team for a special morning with Seabourn and Uniworld, to uncover the magic of luxury ocean and river cruising. Whether you’re a passionate cruiser or simply curious, discover what makes these voyages so extraordinary. Morning tea included.

RSVP essential: scan the QR code, call 1300 747 100, email events@traveloso.com.au or visit www.traveloso.com.au

Anthony at King George Falls, Kimberley region with Seabourn

If you love soft golden light, glorious farm-to-table fare, and the sense of awe that comes from being surrounded by nature, then this is your sign to ring in the new year at this seriously special hinterland location, writes Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer.

GONNA BE

Golden

Picture the scene: the calendar is edging towards the final hours of the year, and you’re gathered with loved ones in an achingly beautiful restaurant, raising a glass of champagne over a table laden with exquisite food as the golden light slowly disappears over the treetops.

It might sound like the most beautiful fever dream, but it could actually be a dream come true at Alsahwa Estate’s stunning Sundown Soirée happening 31 December from 3.30pm to 7.30pm –a New Year’s Eve celebration done differently, designed for food-lovers, families and anyone craving an extra special end to the year.

Wander the stunning gardens and enjoy a waterside cocktail under swaying palm trees on the lawn at Agora on Duck House Dam before into the estate’s ēthos restaurant for a four-course shared feast crafted by the culinary team.

You’ll enjoy freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters jewelled with finger lime; kingfish crudo with preserved lemon, cucumber and cumquat; and roast lamb short loin with parmesan gnocchi, zucchini and provincial jus – plus a champagne tower toast outside at sunset to celebrate the year ahead. Oh, the golden light and the glamour!

Alsahwa Estate’s General Manager, Michelle Clark, says everyone is welcome to join the celebration: couples, friendship groups, and even families looking for a memorable way to celebrate without keeping everyone out way past witching hour.

“New Year’s Eve is such a magical time and we wanted to create something that truly celebrates that,” she said. “Our Sundown Soirée gives families the chance to enjoy a beautiful evening together, reflecting on the year that was, setting

intentions for the new year.

“We recognised a real gap for people who want a memorable New Year’s Eve without the late-night chaos. Our Sundown Soirée offers the perfect balance: a beautiful celebration timed with sunset with the flexibility to still head off to watch the fireworks, and a chance to start the new year feeling refreshed rather than tired.”

All the excitement but none of the exhaustion? That’s our kind of celebration!

While ēthos is known for its modern Mediterranean-style menu crafted from local ingredients, it’s what’s happening just beyond the dining room that might be the estate’s most meaningful story.

The first stage of Alsahwa Farm –a spray-free, regenerative, deeply intentional growing space filled with vegetables, herbs and flowers – is now complete, with the second stage vision underway on the 30-acre property.

For Founder Jo Walker, the farm is more than a food source, it’s the heart of the estate and the basis of the brand’s Mind, Body, Planet philosophy.

“Completing the initial phase of Alsahwa Farm has been such a milestone, and knowing that our spray free produce ends up on the plate of our guests at ēthos is really satisfying,” she says. “In the next phase, we are looking to revive the orchard that once flourished on the property, which will give our beautiful bees more exciting places to forage.”

Just as the seasons are cyclical, so too is the Alsahwa process: orchard to bees, bees to blossoms, blossoms to produce, produce to plate.

And speaking of plates, Head Chef Mal is already imagining how this second

stage of the farm will influence ēthos’ ever-shifting seasonal menu.

He believes that great cooking starts in the soil as he watches ingredients grow, ripen and deepen in flavour.

“Seeing ingredients emerge from the ground changes the way we cook,” he said. “It nudges us to pay attention, to understand exactly when something is at its peak and how to honour it on the plate. It’s also strengthening our collaboration with local growers, whose work remains essential to the integrity of the dishes we serve. This all shapes the evolution of what we offer at ēthos and we have some special projects planned for the year ahead.”

One of those projects is sure to be a fun, communal crowd-pleaser… let’s just say if you know your orecchiette from your pappardelle, watch this space for a regular night coming your way.

As the sun dips behind the trees on 31 December, glasses raised and hearts (and bellies) full, it’s clear that Alsahwa Estate isn’t just welcoming a new year – it’s also welcoming its next chapter. Here’s to community, seasonality, purpose, and the simple joy that comes from gathering with loved ones.

SUNDOWN SOIRÉE

Farewell the year surrounded by golden light, good company and exquisite food at ēthos restaurant, Alsahwa Estate, Palmwoods. Tuesday, 31 December 2025, 3.30-7.30pm

Tickets: $199 per person. Includes arrival drink + champagne tower and 4-courses. Optional: $65pp beverage package upgrade. Children: $60pp (includes main, dessert & soft drink).

Bookings essential.

Scan the QR code or visit: www.alsahwa.com/event/sundown-soiree

It’s time to treat yourself to a trip to this award-winning retreat with handcrafted treehouses, stunning vistas, fantastic food and a sense of calm you won’t find anywhere else. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers more about the Coast’s bestkept secret.

Secrets SWOONING OVER

DISCOVER THE SECRET: Scan the QR code to read the ebook, The magic of Secrets: 35 years in the making

There’s something about Secrets on the Lake that makes people exhale the moment they arrive.

Maybe it’s the crisp hinterland air, the glimpse of Lake Baroon flashing through the trees, or simply the sense that you’ve stepped away from real life and into a precious pocket of calm.

Whatever it is, it doesn’t take long before shoulders drop, heart rates slow and everyone remembers how nice it feels to just… relax.

For more than 28 years, George and Aldy Johnston have poured their hearts into creating this lakeside retreat, just a seven-minute drive from the quaint village of Montville.

Secrets on the Lake isn’t just a collection of beautifully built treehouses; it’s the result of decades of craft, creativity and the duo’s generous philosophy about how people should feel when they go away for a break.

It’s a place for couples, families and anyone who needs a truly tranquil reset – the kind you can’t get from a rushed weekend at an overcrowded resort.

Each treehouse has its own personality, with hand-carved details, cosy corners and views that make you want to sit still.

Many guests return every year... It becomes their special place, woven into their family traditions.

Aldy says that guests often design their own rhythm: “You can paddle a canoe across the lake, wander through the gardens, head out on the Sunshine Coast Great Walk, play pool, book a massage or stay on your deck with a cheese board with no intention of being productive,” she says. “It looks like early-morning birdsong for some; sleep-ins without guilt for others.”

If you’re looking for a place to celebrate the festive season, Secrets knows how to make it feel super special. Right through to the end of December, their atmospheric restaurant, Dining on the Deck, takes on a cheerful buzz as friends, families and workmates gather over long lunches with views of the gently swaying rainforest and sparkling lake.

The team has created an à la carte Christmas menu for everyday diners, along with a group menu for celebrations of 15 or more. The ingredients are seasonal, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the view does half the hosting for you. It’s a busy time, so booking ahead is very much recommended!

Of course, some people prefer to escape the Christmas rush entirely – and for them, a treehouse getaway is hard to beat.

Swap crowded shops for rainforest walks, trade stress for stillness, and let the sunshine, the lake and a private deck do their thing.

Whether you’re celebrating with a partner or bringing the family for a slow summer escape, Secrets gives you space to reconnect over fun, wholesome activities such as canoeing, fishing, bushwalking, playing billiards, getting massages and more.

“Many guests return every year for that exact reason,” says Aldy. “It becomes their special place, woven into their family traditions.”

Once the festive season is firmly in the rear-view mirror, the Secrets on the Lake team gears up for one of their favourite

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

annual traditions: Love Month, running for the whole of February.

George and Aldy have always believed that love deserves more than a single day – and with a 67-year love story behind them, it’s clear they know a thing or two. They first met as high school teenagers who rode their bikes to class and sat near each other whenever they could. After graduation, life took them in different directions – Aldy became a teacher, George became an electrician and travelled the world – until, at 24, George tracked down her phone number and asked her to a Highland ball. The rest is history!

“Running Secrets has been a long journey, but we’ve always had rules: look out for each other, back each other up, keep small gestures alive, and never leave the property without saying goodbye,” says Aldy. “So it becomes 365 days of being a team.”

During Love Month, Dining on the Deck becomes a hub for all kinds of lovefuelled celebrations – anniversaries, proposals, reunions, or simply two people deciding to treat themselves.

This year, anyone dining in February can enter a draw to win one of three prizes. First prize is a $500 treehouse voucher; second prize is two

monogrammed robes; and third prize is a bottle of Louis Perdrier plus a luxe box of divine Montville Country Chocolates.

It’s a great excuse to make a booking and an even better excuse to linger!

Throughout summer, the restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8am to 4pm for breakfast, lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea.

The fresh air, lake views and the gentle hum of rainforest wildlife are all amazing but the real highlight is being able to experience it with people you love.

If you’re ready to recoup, revive and thrive this holiday season and beyond, it’s time to book your trip to Secrets on the Lake! You’ll love it!

CELEBRATE LOVE IN FEBRUARY!

Make a booking at Secrets on the Lake’s Dining on the Deck restaurant any day during Love Month – not just Valentine’s Day – and you’ll go in the draw to win:

FIRST PRIZE: A $500 voucher towards a treehouse stay

SECOND PRIZE: 2 monogrammed robes

THIRD PRIZE: A bottle of Louis Perdrier French sparkling + Montville Country Chocolates

Be sure to book early, as tables fill quickly!

Scan the QR code or visit diningonthedeck.com.au

retreat yourself

STAY | DINE | DISCOVER | SAY

Tucked away in the lush Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Secrets on the Lake is a retreat where time slows and nature takes centre stage. Our handcrafted treehouses nestle high in the rainforest, while overlooking panoramic views of Lake Baroon… The perfect place to relax, reconnect, and celebrate life’s special moments.

As the festive season approaches, make your reservation to gather with friends, family, colleagues, or groups and enjoy our Christmas Menu, launching in the last week of November and continuing throughout December.

Plan a holiday across the Summer months and in particular Christmas and New Year and escape the bustle of everyday life. A stay with us makes a thoughtful gift for someone special, a promise of shared memories and time together in the heart of the hinterland.

Whatever you plan, Secrets offers a haven for diners, accommodation guests, wedding couples and their guests, that daily surprises with its unique charm and creativity

Join us and make memories that will last a lifetime!

George and Aldy Johnston

Sydney

IN A SPIN

Deb Caruso discovers the city she never knew she loved.

Growing up in Brisbane before moving to the Sunshine Coast, Sydney was never quite on my radar as a holiday destination. It felt more like a business centre rather than a holiday destination.

So when IN Noosa Magazine was named as a finalist for Brand of the Year and IN Publishing was named as a finalist for Publishing Company of the Year for the 2025 Mumbrella Publish Awards, it offered the perfect reason to spend a few days with the family in Australia’s iconic harbour city.

With Sunshine Coast Airport offering direct flights, we arrived in Sydney in less time than it takes to tackle the Bruce Highway for a trip to Brisbane!

Being a fan of Novotel Sunshine Coast, we chose Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour as our base and were rewarded with super-friendly staff, a spacious room for myself, hubby John and 16-year-old Max. We were welcomed with a cheese platter and bubbles on arrival and water views over the harbour that was indeed quite darling!

Novotel’s prime location made it easy to slip into the city’s rhythm and easy access to public transport and walking paths made it easy to explore.

A short walk to Pyrmont Bay ferry offered that classic Sydney commutegliding under the Harbour Bridge, with the Opera House coming into perfect view, ferries zigzagging the harbour like clockwork. It was our family’s first “how had we never done this before?” moment.

Within easy strolling distance, Darling Quarter and Chinatown buzzed with life, and crossing Pyrmont Bridge opened up family-friendly attractions and waterside dining.

One of the best ways to navigate Sydney quickly but well was the Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour. Its maroon double-decker offered a breezy, insightful tour of Sydney’s landmarks,

from the Opera House and Harbour Bridge to Circular Quay, The Rocks, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Darling Harbour and more!

With 15 stops, you can explore at your own pace, hopping off to linger where you like, grab some lunch, do some shopping and then rejoin the route.

The guided commentary was absolute gold with entertaining local history and quirky facts, making it both fun and informative and providing a new appreciation for how Sydney came to be what it is today.

Sydney’s icons live up to their reputation. Circular Quay is a magnetic gathering spot, with the Opera House’s shells gleaming and the Harbour Bridge soaring overhead - it’s a sight that never gets old and deserves a few days to explore all that it offers. We immediately regretted only allowing three days to soak it all in!

The adjacent Rocks precinct invites you to wander cobblestone lanes, absorb heritage charm and stop for a leisurely lunch. Meandering into the Royal Botanic Garden reveals green tranquility with harbour views framing it all perfectly.

Waterfront walks from Darling Harbour through King Street Wharf and Barangaroo lead to the base of the bridge, revealing new angles and layers of the city’s personality - next time.

Our family loves a cultural experience from museums to art galleries and

theatre performances. The Book of Mormon musical was on at the historical Capitol Theatre so we took full advantage to see this extravagantly shocking satire.

Before the show, we explored the energetic Haymarket precinct nearby where Paddy’s Hay Street Markets blend food stalls and vintage shopping - a hit with my teenage son Max as he hunted vintage fashions. We were spoilt for choice with where to grab a bite before heading to the show.

The next day, we took it down a notch and headed to Circular Quay. While John caught up with an old mate at The Ship Inn, Max and I explored the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and were fortunate enough to be part of the unveiling of its latest installation on the museum’s outdoor lawn, a striking bronze sculpture by Thomas J Price. Inside, exhibitions that challenged

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Still Thriving by Indigenous artist Dylan Mooney, Darlinghurst.

Photo taken from on board Big Bus Tour.

perception were on show, including the large-scale light sculptures of Cerith Wyn Evans. The rooftop restaurant and terrace offered stunning views, intriguing sculptures and a divine menu with the best views of the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and comingsand-goings of the Harbour - another one to add to the ‘next time’ list!

Sydney’s dining scene pulses with variety. Woodcut, at Crown Sydney, serves open-fire grilled fare with smokey depth and showmanship with two open kitchens providing entertainment and nourishment. The view, service, expertise and aromas were a cut above!

Thanks to the Big Bus, we were able to hop off whenever we felt hungry or tempted, including the must-do iconic ‘Tiger’ pie at Harry’s Café de Wheels, an institution that has proudly served customers for over 80 years, including the likes of Frank Sinatra, Sir Elton John and Prince Harry.

Casual bites contrasted beautifully with plans for more indulgent future visits, perhaps exploring coastal fine dining at Bondi’s Etheus or the sky-high Infinity at Sydney Tower.

Some of the best memories were simple moments: twilight walks around

It has carved its own place in our short-break lineup, filled with stories and surprises that beckon us back.

There’s so much more to discover: coastal walks, harbour cruises, kayaking adventures, museums and galleries, and vistas seen from a seaplane’s window.

For someone who once saw Sydney as ‘that big city down south’, it now feels like an exciting cousin- full of life, slightly showy, but utterly welcoming.

While we didn’t win the awards, our experience was totally rewarding and another one for the family memories.

Darling Harbour, the fountain-lit laughter of families, ferry-watching and seagull-avoiding at Circular Quay; shopping and vintage discoveries with Max. We were tempted by the likes of Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and Madame Tussauds just steps away from Novotel, but wanted to keep moving with the City’s energy. Same with the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, harbour kayaking, or even a seaplane flight - next time.

A memorable moment was had with thoughtful reflections at the Anzac Memorial which is both a work of art, sprawling park and a remarkable piece of architecture. With guided tours, exhibitions and the Hall of Memory, Hall of Silence and Hall of Service, it is also a must-do - next time.

And there will easily be a next time with the ease of travel from Sunshine Coast Airport turning Sydney into a perfect quick getaway rather than a distant city. No big-city driving stress, no long transfers - just a short flight and you’re in the heart of it all.

Leaving Sydney, we all reflected on our experiences and definitely shared a new warmth, interest and appreciation for this energetic city of steel, sails, street food and theatre lights.

MUST-SEE SYDNEY

Stay: Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour for central, harbourside comfort and easy access to ferries, walking routes and family attractions.

Do: Grab a Big Bus hop-on hop-off pass to cover key landmarks such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, The Rocks and the Royal Botanic Garden without transport stress.

Culture: Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay; check out the temporary outdoor sculpture by Thomas J Price and current exhibitions. Catch a theatre show such as The Book of Mormon for a big night out.

Explore: Wander Darling Harbour and Circular Quay on foot; dive into Chinatown and Paddy’s Markets for food and vintage shopping; plan ahead for walks, cruises, kayaking or seaplane adventures.

Plan: Use Tourism NSW as a go-to reference for up-to-date information on shows, exhibitions, dining and new experiences to add to your own Sydney swirl.

Fly: Sunshine Coast Airport runs regular return trips to Sydney. With onsite short and long-term parking, it’s easy and accessible

Opera House view from MCA

Darling Harbour

ANZAC Memorial Woodcut

Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

Private Jet Charter Beyond First Class

Beyond THE BEACH

John Caruso discovers that real freedom lies not just in where you go, but how easily you can make it happen. Take the high road for an unrivalled luxury lift-off.

Most people approach the summer break with the same intention: switch off, slow down and let the sunshine do its thing.

In Noosa and on the Sunshine Coast, it’s perfect - early swims, long lunches, quiet afternoons and the kind of vibe that makes you wonder why you would ever live anywhere else.

But eventually, even the most beachdevoted traveller hits that familiar moment. The relaxation is welcome, but the rhythm becomes predictable. You want a day that stands apart. Something you’ll talk about long after the tan fades.

Distances in Australia work against curiosity as the most remarkable places sit far beyond an easy drive and the thought of spending hours on the road or dealing with airports isn’t exactly the spark you’re after.

Why not take the high road? I’m talking about taking to the air - in style, without the chaos and discovering how much of Australia is suddenly within reach when you charter a private jet.

Sounds like something only a movie star would do but believe me, it’s well within reach thanks to Flight Options and their fleet of private jets, including the sleek and capable Learjet 45 XR.

With a maximum range of 3,389km and a cruising speed of 860km/h, it removes the grind, queues, transfers, and rigid timetables, replacing them with a kind of freedom that’s hard to find.

Simply arrive at Sunshine Coast Jet Centre, park in the private carpark, step aboard, and within minutes you’re airborne and heading somewhere you’d never dream of tackling by road.

This isn’t about extravagance, it’s about time. Holiday time is elastic; you either lose it to logistics or gain it

through good decisions. Chartering a private jet provides a way to turn the longed-dreamed-of ‘one day’ dreams into effortless, achievable adventures.

And here’s the part many people overlook: private jet charter can be one of the most strategic and empowering ways to stay ahead. Beyond the allure of luxury, it offers remarkable efficiency and freedom. Flight Options regularly supports corporate travellers, executives and business owners who need to move fast, maximise productivity, or reach multiple destinations in a single day.

Whether it’s a board meeting in Sydney, site visits across regional areas, a last-minute team deployment, or simply arriving fresh and focused, the Learjet 45 XR turns business trips into streamlined, high-performance missions where productivity thrives and the frustrations of commercial travel vanish. No delays or overnight stays, unless you want them - just direct, point-to-point travel that puts you in control of your schedule. Convenience that delivers a competitive advantage for organisations or business owners trying to fit more into a day and juggling timelines.

What ties all these ideas together is the same principle: private charter doesn’t limit you, it expands the horizon. Choose your own adventure. After all, the sky really is the limit. Is there a town you’ve always been curious about, a festival you want to drop into, family to visit, or a golf course you’re keen to hit?

Take the Hunter Valley. By road, it’s a multi-day commitment. By jet, it becomes a single, indulgent day of tastings and vineyard wandering; the sort of long, slow lunch that suits a real holiday. Fly out in the morning, enjoy the region’s fruits, and return in time

to catch a Noosa sunset.

Or consider Lightning Ridge, with its opal mines, underground carvings, bore baths and colourful locals. Impossible to drive there and back in a day - but a private jet changes that. Fly out, explore the Black Hand caves, wander the town, and return home with a story that outshines the usual holiday chatter. Then there’s the pull of the outback. For many travellers, the idea of venturing inland feels ambitious, even impossible, a fantasy better suited to documentaries than day trips. But leave from Maroochydore and distances shrink. Roma, Charleville, Winton, Longreach - places with museums, wildlife centres, dinosaur fossils and proper country hospitality, suddenly become easy additions to your holiday rather than separate expeditions.

How about a bit of island-hopping? The Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach suddenly sit within reach. And international trips have never been easier - Bula Fiji!

The Flight Options team can make it happen. The spacious, climate-controlled cabin, double-club seating, well-stocked galley and generous luggage capacity make it a comfortable and convenient option for day trips, longer stays or corporate missions.

The freedom lies not just in where you go, but how easily you can make it happen - no queues, no crowds, no fuss; just the excitement of a new adventure. Sometimes the best summer break isn’t spent at the beach. Sometimes it’s the day you traded the sand for the sky and discovered just how big your holiday - or business opportunity - could be. Time to take off.

The Taste of the Tide wine lunch at Peregian Beach Hotel marked the end of a month-long 20 Cheers for 20 Years celebration - and oh what fun!

Chef Matt Holt dished up stunning seafood courses which were perfectly matched with Tasmanian wines paying homage to Kylie and Sam’s heritage.

Freshly shucked Tasmanian Pacific oysters with MV Clover Hill sparkling on arrival was followed by Noosa Spanner Crab gyoza with clams, saffron and ginger consomme served with a Stargazer Single Vinyard Riesling from Coal Valley.

The dish of the day was undoubtedly the fresh Queensland reef fish caught that morning and served with Moreton Bay Bug, bisque, asparagus, kumara and fennel rosti, and samphire - expertly paired with a Yabby Lake Chardonnay.

To finish, house smoked Woombye Triple Cream Brie with fresh pear, muscatel and cranberry pear lavosh and the clever and quirky Dark Chocolate & Mr Barista truffles using Sunshine & Sons’ molasses, cold-brewed coffee and macadamia liquer with a wild raspberry compote and MV Clover Hill Rosé d’Assemblage from Pipers River to cleanse the palate.

Bravo and congrats to Kylie, Sam, Matt and the team on 20 years!

AND

SIPS BITES

What’s brewing, cooking and happening...

Sip, snack, repeat – Noosa’s summer season is bubbling with fresh flavours and cool new spots! Shake off your flip-flops, Noosa –summer’s here and the local foodie scene is sizzling! From zero-alc bubbles to street eats that pack a punch, there’s more to sip, snack and swoon over than ever before.

NEW FLAVOURS

Japancakes Noosa’s soufflé pancakes, gelato, and matcha are now delighting coastal mornings and moonlit nights on Gympie Terrace, Noosaville.

Chef Udee Suradasa is bringing a vibrant splash of Sri Lankan flavour and island soul to Gympie Terrace at her new venue, Colombo Foodies Noosa. Dive into a world of tantalising curries, traditional street food, and inventive cocktails that celebrate the best of Sri Lankan cuisine with a coastal twist. Why not enjoy a cocktail at Colombar while you wait for your takeaway?

Royal Mail Hotel in Tewantin has undergone a major makeover, blending its 150-year history with fresh coastal charm. The new light-filled beer

garden overlooking the Noosa River has already proven a hit while the sports bar is packed with big screens for game days.

The Kin Kin Hotel has added a Hexodome amongst the trees for increased al fresco seating. There’s also a welcoming firepit and pop-up gelato cart adding to the options on offer including the Pub Pavilion and Woodshed degustation experience. Plus Richard and Kirsty Mundt baking up sourdough breads, cakes and pastries (including gluten free) from The Bakehouse across the road. Looking for flavours of the world in Tewantin? Noosa Curry House is ready to spice up your life with authentic Indian dishes and keep an eye out for Bali Vibes with tropical drinks and modern street eats to teleport your taste buds straight to paradise. Just in time for summer, Graze Craze is your go-to for party-ready charcuterie boards and boxes in Noosa Junction, next to the IGA – perfect for everything from beach hangouts to rooftop soirées. The Ridge at Little

Cove is the fourth venue under the Little Cove Local family with the coffee roaster and cafe expanding from its Noosaville premises to Cooroy, Peregian Beach and now, Noosa Springs on the former site of Alba serving speciality coffee (Little Cove Coffee of course!) and a delicious all day breakfast menu, made from locally sourced ingredients and fresh pastries made in-house daily. Sofitel Noosa is keeping tight-lipped about its renovation into Elysium Noosa Resort with 175 new luxe rooms plus Cibaria, an Italian piazza-inspired experience and coastal-inspired Bar Capri by celebrated Sydney restaurateurs Alessandro and Anna Pavoni. Taking over the former Noosa Beach House site, it will be the first interstate opening for Chef Alessandro and is expected to include an all-day trattoria, walk-in bar, and poolside terraza, offering everything from morning coffee to late-night cocktails. Watch this space.

NEW FLAVOURS

Mid-strength spirits and no-alcohol optons make a splash this summer with Enough Beverages, the fresh face on the

block. A Noosa-born company crafting mid-strength gin, agave, and vodka designed for those who want their celebrations with a little less kick but all the style. Alongside this, Zero Hour’s non-alcoholic prosecco from Joval Wines is making waves across the Sunshine Coast, popping up at iconic venues like Embassy XO Cellars, —clear heads and bubbles to match those ocean views. Also, don’t miss the range of Non-alchoholic wines at Ra Restaurant - the perfect tipple for a Sri Lankan feast with all the ceremony so non-drinkers also feel in the spirit. Don’t forget Ra’s Sunday Brunch runch on the first Sunday of each month offering a colourful spread of sweets, spiced cakes, and Sri Lankan classics.

NEW OWNERS

In Peregian, Sushi Wave and Pizzami have welcomed new owners who are set to keep delivering the delicious tastes locals love. Plus, 250 Grammi carries new energy under Graeme Bradford’s management, brother of Phil Bradford from Noosa Boathouse FESTIVE FUN

As the festive season approaches, Noosa

Boathouse is ready to impress with Christmas lunches nearly sold out and three New Year’s Eve events lined up, including the much-loved 9pm fireworks on the river.

Get your orders in for Christmas goodies, including gluten-free Christmas cakes and mince pies at Fiona’s Fancies - and call Woody and the crew at Noosa Harbour Fish Market for the freshest seafood orders to help keep summer flavours afloat. Indulge in the freshest seafood and housemade sauces for dine-in or takeaway and be sure to catch a tipple for Happy Hour from 4-6pm.

Don’t forget to grab and gift VanillaFood: The Cookbook and Flo’s Crepes cookbook for the ultimate present!

SPECIAL

Bandita offers BYOB for midweek lunches from Tues – Fri. Bring your own wine, pair it with a meal, pay no corkage, and let the Bandita crew handle the rest - plus enjoy river views and delicious specials

from 3:30 to 5pm for a golden-hour happy hour from TuesdaySaturday.

Locale is tempting diners with a three-course lunch special for $75, complete with a glass of wine or beer.

Head to Mr Drifter in Noosa Junction for chilled vibes, cold drinks and Asian street food plus the new Drifter Sessions featuring local musos playing intimate sets. Noosa Food & Wine Festival Signature Events are now on sale offering long lunches in stunning locations to intimate evenings crafted by some of Australia’s leading culinary talents. Plus tickets to the American Express Festival Village with a huge one-day program planned for 13 June 2026. The full program is expected to be released soon with 40+ events of flavour-packed fun! Keep an eye on the socials or subscribe to the enewsletter for all the information. That’s the scoop—sip, snack, soak up the sunshine and keep those taste buds tingling!

Royal Mail Hotel

Mr Drifter

The Kin Kin Hotel

Colombo Foodies Noosa

Bandita

HEARTFELT

Hospitality

Deb Caruso discovers a reinvented relic that delivers big on old-fashioned hospitality, hinterland flavours and heartfelt experiences.

The Kin Kin Hotel’s next chapter is unfolding with a vibrant energy as the classic country pub is reimagined, reinvigorated and reinstated as a mustdo destination for old-fashioned hospitality with homegrown goodness.

The whisper of potential for one of the region’s oldest treasures now hums with activity and the aroma of honest, heartfelt food made with passion and enjoyed in stunning surrounds.

The vision from owners David and Ellie Ezrine has been to establish a worldclass destination built on the key values of community, sustainability and heart.

It’s not just the thought and care that has gone into every aspect of the renovation of the heritage pub of more than 111 years of age; but it’s also the people that have joined the movement.

Head Chef Oscar Holgado; experienced hospitality professional PJ Choroomi and bakers Kirsten and Richard Mundt lead a passionate and very capable crew.

From Thursday to Sunday, starting at 8am the energy starts to rise: the bar fills with baskets and cabinets of sourdough sensations including bread, cakes, pastries and sweet or savoury croissants, including a gluten-free range; the coffee machine sings, and the steady rhythm of regulars sets the tone for the day.

By midday, the landscape shifts again. Tables in the shady beergarden - the Pub Pavilion - fill for lunch, with guests making the most of country hospitality and a menu that features produce from the Hotel’s own market garden and local farms. There’s a solid wine list, artful cocktails with local spirits, and of course, cold beer - 12 on tap.

Dog-friendly and family-friendly, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink in hand, indulging in long lunches and lazy or lively afternoons, often peppered with live music.

The latest expansion sees the garden

area beyond the Pub Pavilion deliver another dimension with an inviting firepit and an impressive Hexodome providing shelter from the elements.

That’s the thing that makes The Kin Kin Hotel so comfortable, there is ample room for whatever pace you are seeking - from intimate nooks and couch-laden corners to bar stools, fire pits, private dining rooms and long tables for lively conversation.

Menus reflect this same ethos: everything is changing with the seasons, nothing is rushed, and every plate tells a story. From marinated olives to local macadamias; Fioretto cauliflower with creamed corn, brittle and chimichurri; or affogato with espresso, liqueur and homemade gelato.

Casual as it feels, The Kin Kin Hotel’s kitchen is anything but ordinary. Oscar’s roots in London’s best kitchens have led to a menu where dishes like potato cakes

with blue cheese sauce; hand-crumbed lamb scrumpets; and Miso marinated skirt steak served with house-made kimchi, turn simple moments into something memorable.

The focus is firmly on fresh, seasonal and local with pork rillettes with pickles and sourdough competing with Eastwell Farms mushrooms with cashew, verjus and sunflower seeds for flavour.

Housemade cheeseburgers with pickles and mustard on a sesame bun redefine expectations; smoked Käsekrainer sausage (also made inhouse) with mustard is a surefire winner; 300g wagyu steaks are grilled to perfection; free range Yanjala Farm pork with apple ketchup is a sensation; and salads and sides let the hinterland’s bounty shine.

Some nights there’s a pub quiz, live music or simply the gentle hum of conversation and connection over books and board games.

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

The Sunday lunch, in particular, has developed a loyal following and Ellie says there’s a real buzz in the Pub Pavilion with people reconnecting, sharing plates, and eyeing the gelato stand for dessert.

“We’re proud of how The Kin Kin Hotel is evolving and really appreciate the support from the community,” she says.

“It’s a place that’s genuinely for everyone. There’s room for the regulars and warm welcomes for newcomers discovering us for the first time.”

On Friday and Saturday nights, The Woodshed offers a degustation service befitting any Michelin-starred restaurant (turn the page for more). If you don’t want to leave, there’s the option to stay in one of ten expertly-refurbished rooms.

“There’s real joy for us in seeing locals in their favourite corners, along with newcomers making special memories with birthdays and a recent wedding proposal in The Woodshed,” Ellie said. “Everything we do is about creating an environment that’s conducive to having a great meal, a good time and hopefully, leave feeling inspired.”

If there’s a thread that runs through Kin Kin’s story, it’s the commitment to creativity in all forms.

Across the road at The Bakehouse and next to the Market Garden, space is being made for creative workshops ranging from butchery, charcuterie and baking classes, and sessions with artists and makers who bring their skills to the hinterland.

The first artist exhibition with Lauren Jones saw her art sell-out, as did seats to the Christmas wreath making workshop. More are planned, particularly to provide space to support and showcase local artists and artisans.

“It’s all about engaging people at every level. Someone might come for a workshop and end up staying for a shared dinner, it really opens the space to different experiences,” Ellie says.

Central to The Kin Kin Hotel’s approach is the philosophy of slowing down, of making time for pleasure without pretence.

Whether it’s starting the day with a coffee and freshly-baked sourdough treat, joining a creative workshop, booking a table for a long lunch, decadent degustation dinner at The Woodshed or winding down beside the firepit, the invitation is open.

Menus may change with the seasons, but the next chapter of this historic building is clear: The Kin Kin Hotel is a canvas for creativity and a destination worth exploring. If you’re seeking a shift in pace, The Kin Kin Hotel is just over 30 minutes from Noosaville yet a world away from hectic holiday crowds.

Schedule a summer adventure (or two) and come for the casual connections, dig in for a degustation dinner and overnight staycation; or pop in for coffee and cake served with heartfelt hospitality and the finest hinterland flavours.

Over a century of history, and more memories to come. Old-fashioned hospitality, honest cooking, artisanal pastries, and elevated design — a country pub reimagined.

Noosa Hinterland destination worth the drive.

There are dinners you remember for the food, the flavours, the textures, the mastery on the plate. And then there are dinners you remember because every element of the experience surpasses expectations.

At The Woodshed, the fine dining space at The Kin Kin Hotel, the “soundtrack of the place”, as Head Chef Oscar Holgado describes it, are the hums, the clinks, and the murmurs. The spirit of the space that surrounds you.

As soon as I met Oscar, I knew that the kitchen he runs, and the dining room he serves, would be something special.

“I love the aesthetics of The Woodshed,” he tells me. “Lighting the fires, looking at all the finishes, the surrounding greenery, it’s just a beautiful place to work in.”

That’s a telling line from a man who worked the fine-dining circuit in London before finding his calling at Kin Kin.

The Woodshed’s design is a story of sustainability and local craftsmanship.

It started life as a dusty, windowless agricultural shed, corrugated iron still proudly holding its place, but today, thanks to the deft design skill and attention to detail of co-owner Ellie Ezrine, those rugged bones have been transformed into an inviting, meticulously-crafted space that leaves you wondering how ‘rustic’ and ‘refined’ can co-exist so perfectly.

Picture this, large windows cut by local artisans, polished concrete floors,

handblown light fittings, stacked firewood and exposed timber beams, and a stunning bench top made from Flame Tree stone, an earthy, unique surface that glows with rich yellows and greens.

The open kitchen’s centrepiece is a woodfire grill, along with ceramic Big Green Egg smoker and a wood-fired oven, blending tradition with a dash of quirky functionality. It’s a space that radiates craftsmanship and love for the raw materials, the same ethos that flows through every dish.

Oscar’s story fits perfectly with The Woodshed’s feel. He grew up in southeast London with Spanish roots, carrying nostalgia for family meals where the kitchen was alive with stories, laughter, and the scent of garlic and parsley clams or homemade tortillas.

That heart is captured in his food - simple, straightforward, letting the ingredients speak for themselves, but with a deep understanding of where everything comes from.

Owner David Ezrine shares the passion about working with the land and a commitment to sustainability

Across from The Kin Kin Hotel, he’s investing in a significant onsite kitchen garden and farm which provides vegetables, meat and more to support The Woodshed and The Kin Kin Hotel. There’s also The Bakehouse, where Richard and Kirsty Mundt make divine sourdough bread, cakes and pastries, including a popular gluten-free range.

What they don’t grow or make themselves, they source as locally as possible and Oscar works with local farmers seeking chemical-free, biodynamic principles wherever possible. Oscar says it’s all about respecting the land and its gifts and he works with suppliers to secure ethically raised seafood and meats, including Wagyu x Jersey, all butchered animals in-house, using every cut creatively, from stocks to homemade mortadella and cured ham.

“It’s about balance, flavour and respect. Bringing the whole animal in allows us to use every bit responsibly,” says Oscar who also loves spending time

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE AND SUPPLIED

in the garden, inspired by what they are growing and how to incorporate it into dishes. It’s a reminder that fine dining doesn’t have to be fancy just for fancy’s sake. It can be rooted in the local, the real, and the honest.

What struck me most was how Oscar and Venue Manager PJ Choroomi describe the dining experience itself, not just what’s on the plate but how it’s shared. An experienced hospitality professional, PJ says they wanted to step away from the transactional service culture for a more genuine feel.

“The Woodshed is curated like a dinner party among friends, where everyone arrives together, breaks bread together, maybe even makes a few new friends by the night’s end,” he explains. “There’s room for private tables but there’s also this sense of sharing in a special experience that invites connections.”

When you walk in, you feel it immediately, the warm glow from the lighting, the crackle from the open fire, the gentle murmur of conversation, the chiming of cutlery and glasses.

It isn’t noisy or overwhelming, but it has a definite pulse, a consistent hum. As Oscar says, a soundtrack! PJ and Oscar collaborate closely, especially with wines.

“Our pairings aren’t a set menu,” PJ says. “We curate the experience guest to guest. We ask where they want to go with their palate, playful, funky, traditional. Then we take them on a journey exploring that.”

I’ve spent enough time in restaurants to know a chef’s love for their space and craft often translates through every bite. Oscar’s passion is unmistakable in the calm efficiency of the kitchen, the firelight that warms the room, and the sincere hospitality that PJ delivers.

The wonderful thing about it is that you can book a room upstairs in The Kin Kin Hotel and while it may be more than 110 years old, Ellie’s deft touch has extended to rooms that honour the past with all the luxuries of the present.

“It’s like staying at a bed and breakfast with a whole lot of friends,” he says. “You start with a seven-course degustation, drinks by the fire and then locally-baked breads and pastries with fresh eggs and bacon for breakfast the next day.”

If you’re after an unforgettable experience with a soundtrack that lingers long after the last glass is drained, you can’t go past The Woodshed. It is more than just fine dining; it’s a gathering of place, people, and flavour where you leave feeling refreshed, nourished, and already planning to return.

WANT MORE?

Discover interviews with Oscar Holgado and David Ezrine on our podcast.

David & Ellie Ezrine, Oscar Holgado, PJ Choroomi

Deb Caruso discovers flavours that impress from the shores from Sri Lanka to Sunshine Beach.

RA-ving WORTH

ABOUT

Ra Restaurant brings the flavours and soul of Sri Lanka to Sunshine Beach, under the passionate guidance of Sri Lankan-born Vino Illesinghe.

Driven by the search for genuine flavours from her birthplace and an instinct to share her family’s legacy, Vino has created a destination for guests to experience the cuisine and culture of Sri Lanka in each plate.

Step inside and you’ll sense Vino’s personal touch in the décor - antique Sri Lankan timber panelling and elements, the space radiates comfort with long bench seating, a booth for groups and tables that sit amongst the trees and catch the breezes from the nearby ocean.

Vino has gone to great lengths to bring the island’s spirit to Sunshine Beach –tracking down local growers for the freshest produce, building relationships with farmers and growing essential, hard-to-find Sri Lankan ingredients at home, including aromatic curry leaves.

Where tropical ingredients can’t be grown locally, think jackfruit and tamarind, the team sources the very best suppliers, marrying authenticity with freshness and fusing Sri Lankan roots with the Sunshine Coast’s bounty.

Everything on the menu, from punchy curries to slow-cooked coconut stews, is dialled up on both freshness and flavour.

Ra’s kitchen crew stands out for their true Sri Lankan heritage and Vino is proud of her team, not just for their skills, but for their sense of purpose.

You’ll spot team members waving from the pass, ready for a chat, happy to explain a spice or swap a family story.

Vino is quick to highlight the collective spirit behind the scenes.

“They’re not working at Ra, they’re delivering on our dream,” she says.

The menu at Ra is a love letter to the island’s iconic cuisine. Sri Lankan spices including curry leaf, cardamom, cloves, and Ceylon cinnamon prized for its warmth and sweetness; are joined by coconut, lime, and aromatic herbs.

The ever-evolving menu is shaped by tradition and what’s seasonally available, making every visit a new experience.

Ra stands apart by being fresh and flexible, never heavy. Here, spice is about flavour, not heat, unless you ask for it.

Start with Hot Butter King Prawns or Vino’s Special Sri Lankan Vada, a moreish deep-fried lentil snack. Ceylon Fish or Jackfruit Cutlets offer something new; or stroll down Curry Street where you’ll find deeply flavoured choices such as Black Pork Curry, Home-style Beef or Ceylon Chicken. Choose your favourite curry to add to the famed Negombo Special Kottu, a hearty stir-fry of shredded roti, vegetables, and spices.

Don’t miss the pan-fried barramundi, basted in lemon, butter, and fried curry leaves atop a roasted red pepper sauce - the sort of dish that sticks in the memory long after it’s gone.

Crispy papadums add crunch and depth; house-made roti is essential for mopping up sauces; and salads are bright and keep things light. Everyone is catered for with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

Save room for desserts including a crème brûlée infusing cinnamon with a golden palm sugar crust and berries bringing island flavours to a French classic; the timeless Sri Lankan Watalappan - a creamy coconut and jaggery pudding with cinnamon, nutmeg,

cardamom and pandan, and finished with coconut ice cream.

The cocktail list is where Sri Lankan flair meets Sunshine Coast spirit in blends like the Curry Leaf Mojito, which swaps mint for aromatic curry leaves, muddled with homemade syrup and local spirits. Other standouts include the Kasippu, a passionfruit and mango gin concoction; and the bright blue Sri Lankan Blue Lagoon - the perfect sidekick to an afternoon in the surf.

Local beer and a spritz on tap, such as a grapefruit gin fizz, lines up perfectly with the kitchen’s punchy dishes. For non-drinkers, the ‘Non’ range offers ceremony and flavour - try the Toasted Cinnamon and Yuzu.

Vino’s evolving celebration of Sri Lankan flavours and Sunshine Beach’s laid-back lifestyle means every visit offers heartfelt food, drinks and hospitality that honours culture and connection. Simple things done rightSri Lankan food at home on the Sunshine Coast, just as Vino envisioned.

RA-RING TO GO!

Ra is open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday; lunch Friday and Saturday; with brunch on the first Sunday of each month offering a colourful spread of sweets, spiced cakes, and Sri Lankan classics. Keep an eye out for other events and opening hours during summer. To book your seat; peruse the menu; order takeaway; grab a gift voucher for someone you love; or subscribe to the enewsletter to be the first to know about Cooking Classes and High Tea with Sri Lankan cakes, bites and traditional Ceylon tea, scan the QR code or visit www.rarestaurantandbar.com.au

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

Business SOUL

Two decades of bold flavours and genuine connections define The Marble Bar’s legacy. John Caruso stops by for unforgettable stories and a perfectly crafted pint.

For 20 years, Marble Bar & Bistro has been a cornerstone of Sunshine Beach’s social scene, thanks to the dedication and spirit of its owner, Craig Prasser.

Celebrating this milestone isn’t just about the longevity of a local bar, but about the stories, friendships, and community spirit fostered along the way.

Craig’s roots run deep in small business, having grown up in a family enterprise in Gympie.

“Dad was always involved in town events, elephant races when the circus came through, go-kart races down the main street,” Craig recalls. “That hands-on approach to engaging people has shaped the way I run Marble Bar.”

His father’s flair for connecting with people left an indelible mark.

“He could have sold ice to an Eskimo,” Craig laughs. “That gift of the gab is something I think I inherited.”

From managing a Pizza Hut store as a young man to navigating the challenges of owning a small bar, Craig has earned a reputation for hard work and sharp business acumen.

“You’ve got to keep your finger on the pulse,” he says. “Whether I’ve got the day off or not, I’m here nearly every day, checking on things, training staff, and making sure every dish is consistent.”

This meticulousness extends to the bar’s kitchen, now led by Brazilian Charles Bennett, who started as a kitchen hand and is now head chef.

“Charles is fantastic, calm and professional, bringing fresh ideas, especially South American flavours,” Craig says.

Dishes like Moreton Bay bug rolls with lemon thyme mayonnaise; Seared Scallops with pickled ginger, wakami and wasabi mayo; and Glazed Pork Belly with jalapenos, pineapple & goats cheese are

firm favourites that showcase the bar’s versatile menu.

Forty Duke Street is famed not just for its food and drink but for the atmosphere Craig has cultivated.

“It’s a small, cosy environment where you’re almost encouraged to chat with the person next to you. I know what all the regulars drink off the top of my head. It’s like a scene from Cheers,” he laughs.

And it’s more than just a place to unwind. Marble Bar has been at the centre of many milestones. Craig met his wife, Andrea, right here in 2008, and they married a year later. Their son, Owen, was born amid the challenges of COVID when the bar closed temporarily, an unusual but necessary pause.

“We had three and a half months off, which turned into a good reset,” he says. “When we reopened, we were ready to hit the ground running.”

Twenty years is not without its challenges, but Craig focuses on the positive.

“The good times are fantastic. The tough times just test how you handle things,” he says.

Surviving the global financial crisis and COVID, navigating staff shortages, and

It’s a small, cosy environment where you’re almost encouraged to chat with the person next to you.

managing rising costs all demanded resilience and adaptability.

“You watch every penny, and you’ve got to move with the times and keep your business sustainable,” he says.

Beyond the bar, Craig plays a vital role in nurturing local events. He was instrumental in launching the Sunshine Beach Village Festival, which ran for two successful years. He speaks with warmth about the annual memorial held at the bar to honour a local who passed away.

“It brings people together in a way that only a small venue like ours can,” he says with an outlook on the future that is hopeful.

Approaching his 50th birthday, he’s planning a gradual step back to working fewer days while maintaining the quality

Craig Prasser

and atmosphere his patrons expect.

“I’d like to bring in a duty manager to run the day-today, and I could do two or three days a week,” he says. “If that works, I’ll happily keep going for another 10 years.”

When asked about advice for aspiring hospitality operators, Craig is candid: “Prospective businesspeople think they can sit out front with their friends and wine and dine while staff run the place. It’s not like that.

“You’ve got to be 100% committed,” he stresses, adding the importance of knowing costs, staff, and customers intimately.

Looking back, it’s clear that Marble Bar’s success isn’t down to luck but a blend of passion, savvy, and building genuine connections with patrons.

“It’s all about people,” he admits. “I live it, breathe it. Sometimes I can’t sleep at night because I’m thinking about what I can do next. This business is in my soul.”

Craig extends a heartfelt invitation to all: “If you haven’t dropped in yet, come by for a coldie. You won’t just get a drink, you’ll find good conversation, great food, and a place that’s been part of the Sunshine Beach fabric for 20 years.”

Here’s to Marble Bar & Bistro, celebrating two decades of stories told over a perfectly-poured pint - with many more to come!

of Sunshine Beach

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

Seared Sea Scallops

Glazed Pork Belly

Sessions SEASIDE

Swap fluorescent lights for sunshine and blank walls for ocean views, because this local icon is fast becoming one of the most sought-after venues for corporate events with a difference, discovers Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer.

There’s something about the sea that makes even the most serious agenda seem lighter.

Maybe it’s the salt air, maybe it’s the view, or maybe it’s that, at Sunshine Beach Surf Club, ‘business casual’ takes on an entirely new meaning.

Just footsteps from the sand, Sunshine Beach Surf Club has long been a favourite for lazy lunches, family dinners and Sunday sessions.

But behind the excellent culinary offerings and those legendary ocean views lies a full suite of function spaces that combine relaxed coastal vibes with professional polish, making it equally perfect for all types of corporate events, including conferences, strategy sessions, corporate retreats or gala dinners.

Sunshine Beach Surf Club Manager, Julie Strudwick, says that corporate teams love how the facilities help them feel connected with the beauty of the beach as a backdrop.

“We’ve designed our spaces to be flexible and inspiring, whether you’re running a board meeting, hosting a gala dinner or simply celebrating a team win with sunset cocktails,” she says.

Each of the three distinct spaces has its own personality and purpose, and is fully equipped with audio-visual equipment, Wi-Fi, and flexible layouts to support professional presentations and workshops.

The Legends Room is ideal for boardroom meetings, small conferences and strategy sessions – think private, comfortable and intimate.

For larger gatherings, the Ocean View

...Sunshine Beach Surf Club is all about good company, good food, and that endless horizon reminding you to breathe a little deeper.

Room lives up to its name; a light-filled, elegant space that can be tailored for larger conferences, gala dinners or keynote presentations, all set against the spectacular backdrop of Sunshine Beach.

Then there’s the Ocean Lawn, a lush outdoor space that adds a splash of seaside magic to any event. It’s the perfect spot for networking over lunch, hosting a cocktail reception under the stars, or simply giving your guests a breather between sessions.

When it comes to catering, Sunshine Beach Surf Club’s award-winning chefs take the lead with seasonal menus that celebrate the best of the region, including locally caught seafood, farm-fresh

produce, and flavours designed to impress. From grazing platters to formal dining, every dish is crafted to suit your event, and paired perfectly with a selection of carefully chosen wines, local spirits and craft beers, and cocktails.

“Food and drink are such a big part of creating memorable experiences,” Julie says. “We work closely with organisers to tailor menus that match the mood, whether that’s relaxed and coastal, or sophisticated and celebratory.”

Of course, running a seamless event isn’t just about the setting – it’s about the service. Thankfully, the friendly and dedicated events team takes care of every detail, from logistics and layouts to timing and tech, no matter the size of your gathering.

Two courtesy buses are available to ferry guests to and from the plentiful accommodation options nearby, and with direct flights connecting Sunshine Coast Airport to most major capitals, getting here is as easy as it is enjoyable.

It’s no surprise that so many corporate partners are choosing Sunshine Beach Surf Club for everything from executive retreats to networking nights. The vibe is relaxed, the setting is spectacular, and your team will leave feeling recharged,

inspired, and ready to make their mark.

For everyone else, it’s also the place to be if you’ve clocked off from work over summer – for catch-up drinks that turn into dinner, family celebrations that spill out onto the deck, and those afternoons when you just can’t resist the lure of that view.

Whether you’re planning a highpowered conference or a laid-back catch-up with friends, Sunshine Beach Surf Club is all about good company, good food, and that endless horizon reminding you to breathe a little deeper.

This is your sign to break out of the boardroom and bring your next event to the beach!

VENUE WITH A VIEW

Planning your next corporate event and looking for a picturesque ocean backdrop? Sunshine Beach Surf Club has three distinct spaces to suit any event, including conferences, seminars, gala dinners, keynote presentations and more. Scan the QR code for a virtual tour, to find out more, and for enquiries.

The Noosa River punches well above its weight with jaw-dropping sights, cool cruises and waterside options to eat and drink that make for a delicious sport, Helen Flanagan attests.

REPEAT INDULGE, UNWIND

In the main, the stunning Noosa River wends its way just west of Tewantin at heart-shaped Makepeace Island, along Noosaville, Noosa Sound and enters the Coral Sea between Noosa Heads and Noosa North Shore.

The best way to experience it is to jump on a Noosa Ferry. A cruise along Noosa River isn’t just a boat trip from A-to-B, it’s a scenic shortcut, a relaxing and informative experience. .

If you take the return loop between Noosa Marina with its cafés and specialty shops at Tewantin, and Noosa Heads adjacent to the Sofitel Hotel, (rebranded to Elysium Noosa), it’s 90 minutes plus there’s a variety of stops along the way.

riverfront, parallel to the gazebo-dotted parkland, dedicated walk and cycle ways and buzzy Gympie Terrace, is the Noosa Boathouse with myriad offerings from 6am! Little Boaty Coffee Bar is open every day, even Christmas Day. Hallelujah!

Whether lunch or dinner, dishing up top-tier views with flavours and sips to match is de rigueur at the Boathouse Restaurant, oh and an Aussie seafood experience for two is like no other!

What an extravagant tower of fresh Mooloolaba prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, freshly shucked natural oysters, local spanner crab and green papaya salad and chilli lime dressing, salt & pepper calamari, Heads of Noosa beer battered local fish and prawns, chips, as well as

charred garlic ciabatta.

“With our idyllic sub-tropical climate, fresh seafood is always a big winner,” says celebrated executive chef Shane Bailey. “A rich buttery, sustainable white albacore sashimi from Mooloolaba, crying tiger dressing, wakame and cucumber, clean flavours and a touch of spice is up there; and my version of a prawn cocktail is hard to beat using biggest, freshest local prawns, Kensington Pride mangos, avocado, local macadamia and a lime aioli that shrieks ‘summer in Queensland’.

“I source big fillets of barramundi out of the Daintree which we grill, use in tasty fish cakes and also in fish and chips.

“Everyone loves crumbed fish so it’s on the special’s board and is local snapper or

the stunning Noosa River aboard the

With all day hop-on hop-off service, relaxing sunset cruises, and private charter options, it’s the perfect way to explore, unwind and soak up the beauty of Noosa. Try HV Stillwater - the newest luxury hybrid vessel in our fleet.

PHOTOS:

Cruise

iconic Noosa Ferry.

Spanish mackerel.

“Seafood not your thing? A sensational chicken salad which is a recipe ‘borrowed’ from my wife Lucinda, is a best seller. We brine the chicken overnight before roasting, add roast sweet potato, pickled carrot, sultanas and pecans and top with a yogurt ranch dressing. There’s also a vegetarian version.

“Steak is always a hit, with grain-fed rib fillet from Nolans in Gympie and black grain-fed sirloin from Teys in Rockhampton; smoking brisket for beef bacon is superb, as is braised short rib and lamb for our gnocchi. So popular, it’s on the menu forever!

“Pete from Noosa Reds is growing us an heirloom variety which looks a bit weird but is packed with flavour. Most prefer the perfect medium red round tomato. Not me. Desserts include our version of a Tiramisu using mango and Malibu; and our hazelnut crème Brulé has local eggs from Sandy Creek which have super yellow yolks from chickens living under mango trees.”

Prefer lunch alfresco under a shady gazebo watching the kids splashing in the shallows and the pelicans eyeing off their catch of the day?

Open daily from 11am is the Boathouse

… the coolest and most favourite place on the Noosa River.

Takeaway featuring fresh fish and best chips. Always available are fresh Dory or Daintree Barramundi, grilled or in a crispy Heads of Noosa beer batter.

Similarly coated and so yum are prawns. Oysters are there too, also fresh chilled Mooloolaba prawns. A takeaway beer and wine list is available such as a cute Dal Zotto prosecco can and a Heads of Noosa beer for the perfect match.

Watch the sun set over the hinterland from your spot on the grassy foreshore or for something different why not a sunset cruise. Choose between the traditional Noosa Ferry Sunset Cruise which is now the only BYO sunset cruise on the Noosa River, with pickup locations at Tewantin, Noosaville and Noosa Heads - or the Signature Sunset Cruise on HV Stillwater, offering luxurious, silent cruising with hybrid propulsion and lounge style seating. Departures are from Noosa Heads and Pelican Boat Hire and include a complimentary beverage on arrival and nibbles platter to share.

HV Stillwater is also available for half day charters for up to 30 people, stopping for a swim, includes a floating pontoon, stand-up paddle board, lunch and the convenience of a freshwater shower on board. Ideal for family groups wanting something inclusive and different. Plus, it’s fully-accessible and undercover.

Last drinks and fond memories?

For a one-of-a-kind rooftop oasis, the Boathouse Sunset bar is the coolest and most favourite place on the Noosa River.

Cocktails, champagne, superb wines, liqueurs, spirits, tap beer, snacks and plates are the perfect accompaniments as the golden sun goes down, and later when the moon transcends its romantic glow.

The Noosa River of dreams truly is a unforgettable slice of Paradise.

Dive In

Family-owned for 25 years and famous for serving the freshest available seafood with menu options for the nonpiscatorial and gluten-free folk along the way, Noosa Harbour Fish Market is an undeniable local success story.

It’s perfect and popular for takeaways, also laidback lunch and dinner alfresco or indoors.

Plump oysters in season from the best beds in Australia and freshly shucked on premise, are a decadent starting point, similarly premium Tassie sea scallops grilled or battered, large prawn cutlets and oh-so tender salt and pepper calamari.

The choice of fresh seafood in the chilled display usually includes crabs, bugs, octopus, cuttlefish, mussels plus cooked and green prawns, the latter directly from Brian’s QSS trawler in Mooloolaba. Daniel’s Street Fish Market in Caloundra, and The Fish Factory in Brisbane supply fresh caught fish including tuna, sword fish, reef fish, salmon whiting and flathead, cooked just right grilled crumbed or with wispy tempura batter

As with any classic fish and chippery worth its salt, what about the chips.

Perched on the marina is a favourite local for good reason, where seafood and salivation with a side of salty breezes, is the catch of the day, says Helen Flanagan

Pickled onions are famous … sauces made in-house from an original recipe.

It’s not just about the crispness; it’s also about the quality of the potato. Gluten-free, so not battered, and from New Zealand, they’re golden fried in clean premium vegetable oil, also from New Zealand. Needless to say the verdict is unanimous: hot, well-seasoned and sensational!

Looking for more? Myriad tempters are on the white board, but for an easy decision why not choose a pack, from the Kid’s Treasure Chest, a Seafood Combo or maybe the Fish Wives Night Off with crumbed fish, sea scallops, calamari, prawn cutlets and chips for a hungry family.

Big pluses are wagyu beef burgers, bacon and egg rolls, spring rolls, dim sims, fish tacos made with fresh barramundi and let’s never forget the

pineapple fritter and the 50s revivala chiko roll!

Check out the conversation-stopping pleasure craft bobbing on the waterway and the coming and going of Noosa Ferry, whilst sipping on a local Boiling Pot golden ale, wines such as a pinot grigio from Adelaide, sauvignon blanc from Marlborough, chardonnay from the Yarra Valley, McLaren Vale shiraz, and a cheeky Domaine Chatillon French Rosé. Soft drinks are also available.

These days the original baton has been passed from legendary local Janete Ramsay to son Woody, who has ensured many other quality local relationships have not changed over the years.

The focus on fresh local seafood is an imperative part of the business, similarly supporting local producers.

Essential Grain makes the rolls, Noosa Village Meats supply best beef for burgers, and a farmer from Gunalda delivers just-picked juicy lemons every fortnight.

Marinades and salads are made fresh daily similarly fish bites and fresh crumbed calamari. Sauces from an original recipe are made in-house from

SEAFOOD SENSATIONS!

For the freshest, responsibly and sustainably-sourced seafood, homemade sauces and friendly service, Noosa Harbour Fish Market at Noosa Marina is open for dine-in, takeaway or catering orders daily from 11am.

DON’T MISS!

Happy Hour, 4pm-6pm daily with drinks specials and fresh seafood. Bookings not required.

Christmas and Summer Seafood Orders Phone 5473 0299 to discuss your needs for easy summer entertaining. Scan the QR code or follow on instagram @noosaharbourfishmarket

scratch using local Forage Farm organic eggs, oil and roasted garlic in the aioli and tartar.

When it comes to impressing guests with a bounty of fresh seafood, pop in and talk platters and plates in advance with Woody and his crew about what’s available.

Think large whole fish and fillets to cook your way, lobster, crabs, bugs, prawns and more prawns, of course oysters and accompaniments.

For generous piscatorial pleasures dive in every day of the week except Christmas Day - no bookings required. Noosa Harbour Fish Market: Noosa Marina, Parkyn Court Tewantin.

FLAVOURS SARDO SUMMER

Summer and Sardinian food?

It’s a match made in culinary heaven! Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the best things to sample and sip at this authentic riverside restaurant.

A relaxed ambience, striped cushions, fresh, flavoursome menu, and live music: Sardo has brought authentic Sardinian hospitality to Noosa, and there’s no better time to experience it than during these balmy months when sun-drenched afternoons stretch out into sun-kissed evenings.

Summer at Sardo also brings a few headline acts: standout dishes and drinks that are on high rotation and feel tailor-made for lazy days by the river.

On the mains front, co-founder Danny Isaac says there’s been one dish in particular that’s been stealing the show.

“Our Sardinian fish stew is an unforgettable combination of fresh prawns, calamari, mussels, barramundi, and Moreton Bay bug simmered in a rich bisque,” he enthuses. “We seal it with a pizza-dough base and bake it, then we cut it open in front of the customer and this whole steaming, beautiful fish stew sauce comes rising out.”

If you think that sounds impressive, wait until you experience the theatre and the flavours in real life.

It’s officially designed as a singleserve dish, but in true Sardinian style, plenty of diners can’t resist sharing.

“We love seeing people do that,” Danny says. “You break the bread, you scoop up the sauce… it’s a whole experience.”

In a place where fresh seafood shines, thanks to the Coast’s generous access to local prawns, snapper and daily catch, it’s easy to see why this one’s become a summer standout.

Another exciting addition to the menu can be enjoyed as both an aperitif and a dessert, depending on what you’re in the mood for – a frozen cocktail based on your classic espresso martini, featuring

all the flavour with none of the pesky caffeine.

“We created our Sardo Frozen Espresso Martini about three years ago in our Sorrento restaurant,” Danny shares. “People loved the idea of an espresso martini after dinner, but they didn’t want to be awake all night from the caffeine. So we thought, right, let’s fix that!”

The result is a decadent, creamy, icy

treat that’s just crying out to be enjoyed on a steamy summer’s day.

“The coffee taste comes from Kahlua, so there’s no actual coffee,” Danny says. “It’s simply Kahlua, vodka, Frangelico, and then this powdered creamy mix that helps it freeze beautifully.”

You’ll find it on both the cocktail and dessert menus – a little two-in-one treat for those who like their sweets with a splash of something spirited.

“It’s already been a big hit,” Danny says. “As it gets hotter, anything frozen just takes off.”

While Sardo’s Noosa home shares a coastal thread with its original Sorrento location on the Mornington Peninsula, also owned and managed by Danny and his business partner Stefano, the two restaurants have evolved differently.

“Here in Noosa we sell a lot more seafood,” he explains. “It’s the climate, the location, and the quality of the fish we can get. The snapper, the prawns, the mullet – they’re unbelievable compared to what we get in Victoria.”

In Sorrento’s cooler climate, heartier

dishes tend to shine, whereas Noosa diners are all about freshness.

“It’s almost opposite worlds,” Danny says. “In Sorrento, slow-cooked dishes do really well, especially in winter but here they’re just too heavy.

“People want light, summery food, and we love building our menu around that.”

Danny’s favourite way to experience a Sardo summer?

“It has to be a chilled glass of

Vermentino (a crisp, aromatic white) alongside a flavoursome seafood dish such as the Prawns Bruschetta or the Lobster Burrata Ravioli,” he says.

“On a warm Noosa evening, with the river catching the last rays of light, it’s hard to imagine a better combo.”

Indeed! If you’re thinking ahead to the festive season, Danny offers a little teaser for what’s on offer.

““Christmas lunch will have its own

special menu, and New Year’s Eve is a really big night for us” he says.

“We usually have live music, and we do two sittings: an early one for families, and then one for those who want to stay on and have a more lively time.”

Final details are still being polished, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their socials - and definitely booking early!

For now, summer is all about easy afternoons, fresh flavours, and those little moments that make a meal feel special, like cracking open an aromatic stew, raising a frosty glass, and discovering just how well Sardinian hospitality fits into the rhythm of Noosa.

If you’re hungry for a taste of the season, be sure to swing into Sardo!

SPECIAL OCCASIONS AT SARDO

Celebrating something special?

Sardo’s private dining room seats up to 32 people and is the perfect space for work parties, birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions!

To find out more and bring some Sardinian flair to your next function, scan the QR code or visit www.sardonoosa.com.au

Colombo’s FLAVOUR BOMB

Exciting street food from Colombo promises to pack a big flavour punch by the Noosa River, says Helen Flanagan.

Relish the thought and ensure taste buds are ready to dance - Udee Suradasa is bringing Sri Lankan street food to Noosa!

Like her mother, Udee was born in the capital of Sri Lanka - Colombo, living there until 11 years old when she moved to a coastal area. It’s the influence and flavours of her experiences that she now presents to the palates of Noosa diners.

Colombo Foodies Noosa on Gympie Terrace (opposite the big Pelican) promises to be a bijou venue offering an intimate experience whilst melding the sublime flavours of the island paradise with genuine Sri Lankan hospitality.

Naturally, herbs and spices are ground each day to maintain freshness with authentic blends of curry leaves, pandan leaves, goraka, rampe, cinnamon, roasted curry powder and hand-pounded chilli flakes are melded with key ingredients such as coconut milk, Maldive fish, lemongrass and tamarind, as the backbone to maximise flavours.

Expect famous street foods on the menu such as Kottu - a punchy flavourfilled stir-fry of shredded roti, vegetables, spices, chicken curry and cooked on a hot griddle. Pan Roll with tamarind sauce is a favourite snack with crispy onion on the outside and a soft savoury mix inside, deep-fried until golden brown.

Udee’s signature dish is a creamy Mustard Pumpkin Curry with crispy onion, dry chilli and curry leaves, served with aromatic Sri Lankan rice and coconut sambal; recipes for classic Black Pork Curry and Beef Rendang have been passed down through generations; and Jaffna curries typically use crab broken into smaller portions and simmered with coconut milk, curry leaves and eaten with sambal and rice.

Whole fish is a north Sri Lankan delicacy Jaffna-style marinated Whole Local Reef Fish wrapped in a banana leaf, grilled and served with Jaffna-style curry sauce and coconut sambal.

Godamba Roti is stretched with patience and care the old fashioned way and is mouth-watering!

Fresh local produce is delivered daily, similarly Mooloolaba’s Rockliff Wholesale, the primary seafood supplier. And keep an eye out for limited stocks of premium live mud crabs in-season for Udee’s signature crab curry.

Well-known local fisho Dave will drop in with the freshest and best. Look out for his daily catch on the specials’ board.

At 19, besotted by her Aunt Queshi’s brilliant home-cooked fare, Udee moved to Australia, trained as a chef and worked in numerous restaurants including in Brisbane where her Colombo Foodies catering business and restaurant garnered a loyal following.

Today, her heart is filled with love for the Noosa River location and Colombo street food with its overdose of Sri Lankan richness and flavours that wil leave you craving for more.

Adding more big smiles will be Udee’s three daughters. Minoshee, her oldest is business savvy and mad about cocktails. She’ll introduce an original cocktail list inspired by a recent visit to Sri Lanka at Colombar, the drinks part of Colombo Foodies Noosa. Lick your lips for Minoshee’s popular Colombo Tropical Sour with pomegranate, or a Spicy Margarita with chilli pineapple.

Second daughter, Dulani, is also passionate about exceptional service.

“She’s well known by locals and is a

with

and

young lady,” Udee says. “Third daughter, Keshia, has followed in both sister’s footsteps adding enthusiasm and energy to the team. I’m blessed with strong women with patience and resilience who love to serve.”

The exquisite food of Sri Lanka has its own distinctive flavours and combinations that stand on their own. The combination of spices and flavours that make it so unique and different from any other Asian country.

Be transported to the tropical flavours of Sri Lanka and enjoy a slice of paradise at Colombo Foodies Noosa.

TASTE COLOMBO!

Colombo Foodies Noosa and Colombar Shop 2, 185 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville. Fully licensed. Open for dine in and takeaway, 11am-late for lunch, dinner, drinks at the Colombar. For bookings, opening hours, menus including takeaway, wine list, cocktails and more, scan the QR code or keep an eye on social media for special o ers. www.colombofoodiesnoosa.com.au

PHOTOS:

Keshia, Dulani, Udee and Minoshee

Kottu, shredded roti

vegetables

curry bubbly

Fiesta Time! SIZZLING SUMMER

Amigos, it’s time to find your inner fiesta and dive headfirst into the best of inspired first-class Mexican Cantina fare with cracking cocktails!

Zingy, personality-laden dishes are freshly made using locally sourced produce wherever possible, barbeque dishes are cooked over organic charcoal, and many elements such as corn chips and tostaditas are made from scratch in house. It’s all top notch and designed by talented chef and owner Jason Jones who, together with wife and business partner Amy Watts set out three years ago to bring something fresh to the dining

scene - a modern, Mexican-inspired restaurant celebrating Sunshine Coast flavours overlooking the Noosa River.

“Our menu brings together our favourite dishes, crafted to deliver a dining experience that’s vibrant, playful, and full of flavour - just like Bandita itself,” Amy says. “Those seeking gluten-free options will be impressed - our menu is 99% gluten free and coeliac friendly, and our takeaway offering keeps things delicious and easy, every day.”

What to choose when perusing the menu? Here’s our Top Six Summer

1. 2.

Sensations! Read (drool) on...

1. STREET CORN

Two generous and juicy cobs, flame grilled with cheese, chipotle mayo and lime. Holy guacamole they are seriously good, down to the last corn niblet!

2. TAPIOCA FRITTERS

These tapioca-coated fritters are filled with with comte cheese, (also known as the French Gruyère de Comté), jalapeno, habanero wildflower honey, quince, Morita chilli peppers valued for their smoky and fruity flavours are a wonderful surprise - sweet, spicy and all so more-ish.

3.

Tapioca Fritters

Street Corn Moreton Bay Bug Tostadita

3. MORETON BAY BUG TOSTADITA

A change of pace with cool fresh Moreton Bay Bug Tostadita of Moreton Bay Bug meat, celery, serrano chilli and chive cream, topped with decadent Bergamot gel, and presented on housemade tostaditas to bring the right amount of crunch and salty goodness!

4. CARNE ASADA STEAK

Beef aficionados will no doubt make a beeline for the Carne Asada Steak, a 350gm Argentinian wagyu rump, perfectly barbequed with a porcini and ancho rub, thinly sliced and relished with a piquant red chimichurri sauce. Sensational!

It’s not just where the feast begins -

it’s where the fiesta takes you.

With sensational summer dishes and a cheeky selection of 40 tequilas, 20 mezcals, and cocktails laced with fire and smoke, there’s something to spark every palate.

It wouldn’t be Mexican without Margaritas, and this is where Bandita truly steals hearts (and tastebuds). Here are just two of the must-try Margys.

5. BBQ PINEAPPLE MARGARITA

This Margarita delivers a big bold tastebud tease. Made with Anejo, an aged tequila, and mixed with Plantation Pineapple rum, lime juice and a garnish of barbequed pineapple it sings the high notes of summer.

6. FROZEN MANGO CHILLI MARGARITA

Say Hola to heaven in the form of a Frozen Mango Chilli Margarita. It’s sensuous and next level! Cazcabel tequila, triple sec, lime, agave and chilli mixed in a slushie of mango, pineapple and passionfruit pulp and served in a glass rimmed with Tajín, a popular Mexican seasoning made from a blend of chili peppers, lime and salt.

Sip, snack, and soak up those Noosa River vibes from the chic corner location of Bandita Mexica Cantina and Bar, with river breezes and a Sunset Hour from 3.30pm to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday; plus BYOB Tuesday to Friday with zero corkage. ¡Arriba!

Carne Asada Steak

Frozen Mango Chilli Margarita

BBQ Pineapple Margarita

Summer SWEET

Whether you’re sipping on a creative cocktail or diving into a one-of-a-kind dessert of your dreams, Chinadina is the place to satisfy your sweet tooth this summer, writes Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer

A Chinese fusion restaurant might not be the first place you think of when you’re craving a sugar hit – but those in the know are flocking to Chinadina to try their clever cocktails and decadent desserts with a twist!

Proudly perched on Mary Street, this stylish spot is loved for its gorgeous décor, friendly team and vibrant Asianfusion menu. Since opening three years ago, it has built a loyal following thanks to flavour-packed dishes crafted by chefs who are passionate about authentic Asian flavours and sharing them with the Noosa community.

This summer, they’re taking it up a notch with a dessert and cocktail lineup designed to keep things icy-cool as the mercury climbs.

Whether you’re slipping into the atmospheric bar for a quick sundowner, grabbing a cheeky drink while waiting for takeaway, or kicking off your meal with an aperitif in cocktail form, their brand-new frozen cocktail range is impossible to resist.

The Frozen Toblerone is pure indulgence – a dreamy blend of chocolate, honey, Bailey’s, Frangelico and Kahlua, drizzled with sauce for that smooth, velvety chill. And if you like a little spice with your ice, the Frozen Chilli Margarita balances zesty lime and tequila with a bold chilli kick.

Prefer something classic? The Aperol Spritz is a veritable sunset in a glass: bright, bubbly and bittersweet with a burst of orange zest. And non-drinkers aren’t forgotten either, thanks to the crisp, cool and endlessly refreshing Cucumber Mojito mocktail with cucumber, mint, lime and sparkling soda.

On the dessert front, the star of the show is the Halo-Halo Special – a Filipino favourite and the perfect hot-weather treat. Layers of creamy shaved ice and milk are topped with sweet beans, corn,

caramelised banana, jellies, jackfruit, ube and leche flan, finished with a scoop of ice cream and a sprinkle of summer happiness. Choose Kids, Solo, For Two or Sharing sizes depending on whether you feel like keeping it all to yourself or competing for spoonfuls with your dining companions!

The rest of the dessert list is equally tempting. Chinadina’s legendary Fried Ice Cream arrives drizzled with warm butterscotch and topped with black sesame and fairy floss – pure joy on a plate. The Pandan Crème Brûlée with coconut ice cream is a silky, gluten-free

delight with the subtle perfume of pandan and the gentle sweetness of toasted coconut.

Banana Fritters are taken to new heights here: crisp, golden and drenched in caramel sauce with nuts and vanilla ice cream. And if you want to be transported somewhere tropical, the Mango Sticky Rice with coconut chips seriously delivers.

Of course, there’s more to Chinadina than drinks and desserts. Their savoury menu is packed with bold, satisfying dishes that hero fresh ingredients and vibrant Asian flavours. Crowd favourites

...taking it up a notch with a dessert and cocktail menu that keeps things icy-cool as the mercury rises.

include their flavoursome noodles, fragrant curries and signature set banquet menu – the kind of food that makes every day feel like a special occasion.

If you’re nearby at lunchtime from Friday-Sunday, don’t miss the all-you-can-eat Yum Cha – dumplings, prawn toast, spring rolls, pork siu mai, honey chicken, salt and pepper tofu, special fried rice and more for just $49 per person, or $75 with bottomless drinks.

December marks three years since Chinadina first opened its doors, and to celebrate the milestone they’re treating diners to something extra sweet! For the first three weeks of December, buy any dessert and get another free – it’s the perfect excuse to try the HaloHalo Special (you know you want to!).

Then in February, keep an eye on their socials for details of their Chinese New Year celebrations from 17 February to 3 March with an abundance of festive energy and a special menu to ring in the Year of the Horse in delicious style.

With talented chefs, a passionate team and a menu that always surprises, Chinadina is the perfect place to sip, settle in, and savour the season.

See you at the bar!

THREE YEARS OF CHINADINA!

To celebrate three amazing years, the Chinadina team is running a special offer for the first three weeks in December: buy one get one free on any dessert! There’s also a special banquet menu coming soon, plus Chinese New Year celebrations will be in full swing –keep an eye on their socials for all the delicious details. And don’t miss all-you-can-eat lunchtime Yum Cha from Friday-Sunday for $49pp / $75pp with bottomless drinks. For menus, to order takeaway, book a table or give the gift of ‘yum’ with a Chinadina gift card, scan the QR code or visit www.chinadina.com.au

Waterfront FANTASTICO

The love of Italian food is universal especially when those classic sun-kissed flavours are taste triumphs, effuses Helen Flanagan.

Is there anything finer than a waterfront table admiring the Moreton Bay figs as the odd gondola drifts past, enjoying classic Italian dishes punctuated with modern panache and passionately created by Italian-born chefs? As the Italians say ‘la vera cucina’ - the real kitchen.

Peppered with knowledgeable, inobtrusive service, surely this is what the well-practiced Italian art form of a long lunch or dinner is what the good life is all about.

All this and more at the Noosa Waterfront Restaurant and Bar, tucked well away from the hubbub of Hastings Street and a big hit with food-lovers and urban sophisticates from Brisbane, interstate and locally.

Head chef Simone Zambetti and sous chef Matteo Stefanoni both hail from Milan, renowned for fashion, design, art and exquisite cuisine; chef Edoardo Caponetti is from the Marche region, celebrated for its rich history, art, culture and delicious cuisine; and the fourth member of the team is Alex Moore, a very talented pastry chef from the UK.

The team has been working at the restaurant for several years and each dish they prepare has carefully considered elements of simplicity, texture, temperature, taste - and in the case of desserts, 5-star good looks too!

Suppliers are hand-picked and extensive research is used to source the best products locally and elsewhere. Where to start? Maybe a caviar experience with Champagne; Sydney rock oysters and sherry vinaigrette with finger lime and shallots; or perhaps a selection of appetizers such as Ascolana Olive - a meaty crumbed beef and pork stuffed Sicilian olive with olive mayo; the signature Bundaberg half shell scallops with prawn butter and smoky chorizo. Entrees are next level. Begin with Antipasto All’Italiana - a serious selection of primo Italian cured meat,

...looks like a postcard from the Amalfi Coast, tastes like a dream.

cheeses, house pickled vegetables and charred house-made bread; and Fritto Misto All’Italiana with softshell crab, prawns, calamari, whitebait and vegetables in a wispy dust of semolina with homemade tartare sauce, both perfecto. Lemon marinated Hiramasa kingfish is accompanied by rockmelon, lemon and black garlic jelly with a coconut and dill dressing and sourdough crisp; delicate Western Australian whiting is wrapped in crisp prosciutto spinach and ricotta; and pan-seared slices of duck breast Piadina pairs perfectly with pistachio slaw and duck fat sweet potato chips.

Pasta is made in-house; gluten-free is an option. Take a delightful journey to the Mediterranean coast with Acquerello risotto with saffron, baby zucchine con fiore, and salame infusion; Tonnarelli pasta with mussel velouté, stracciatella and house smoked Mooloolaba tuna loin and toasted breadcrumb is as good as it sounds; and the Mancini spaghetti with fresh north Queensland lobster, chilli

grilled cherry tomatoes, preserved lemon and bisque is called a signature dish for good reason.

Mains deliver more starpower such as a classic Tuscan Cacciucco - a seafood medley, simmered in a rich tomato and white wine broth, and served with garlic crostini for the perfect balance of flavours. It’s hard to go past the Sovereign Lamb Saddle roll with Provençal herbs, bullhorn capsicum, broad bean puree and roasted almonds.

If sharing a main course is your happy plate, consider Cotoletta alla Milanesea 400g veal cutlet, grissini crumbed, pan-fried in butter and herbs and served with potato dauphinoise; an 800g rib eye steak on the bone with grilled vegetables and jus; Hanger Steak of tender 2GR Wagyu with roasted baby carrots,

Fish of the Day

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Waterfront Lemon

house-pickled onions, grilled endives; or for fish aficionados consider the oven-baked whole barramundi served with garden salad.

Room for dessert? Hopefully, especially when it features the restaurant’s original version of classic tiramisu with Venezuelan chocolate and coffee bean gelato. The simpy-titled ‘Mango’ is a dreamy blend of tropical mango compote, rich vanilla ganache, crunchy macadamia praline, and velvety white chocolate - a work of art!

As is Waterfront Lemon with its lemon curd, pinenut gelato, treacle tart and lemon balm mousse which looks like a postcard from the Amalfi Coast, tastes like a dream. Magnifico!

Adding accolades to the already impressive award-winning wine list is the latest addition of 2 glasses (3 is the maximum) in Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards for 2025. Not surprising when looking beyond the bounty from Italy on the list to some top Aussie names, some familiar, some not, while the odd Burgundian and New Zealander also get a mention.

If you cannot decide what to eat and

drink, the six-course tasting menu with matched wines will have your tastebuds dancing on your palate.

When it comes to feedback about Noosa Waterfront’s popularity for sensational birthday celebrations and elegant weddings, organisers and guests all concur, ‘it’s not just a perfect space, it’s an exceptional one. And everything else is too!’ The location has a lot to offer for creating memorable experiences to deliver the brightest ideas and wishes.

Fantastico Noosa Waterfront Restaurant et molto bene head chef Simone Zambetti, your team and, of course those front of house maestros.

Duck Breast Piadina

Edoardo Caponetti, Simone Zambetti and Alex Moore

Authentic Italian Restaurant right by the Noosa River

Fork FARM TO

There’s something special about eating food with a real sense of place. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the biodynamic farm quietly powering some of Noosa’s top restaurants with its standout seasonal harvests and heirloom produce.

Lots of restaurants embrace the paddock-to-plate philosophy these days, but how many of them can claim that they’re supplied by their very own biodynamic farm?

Much-loved Noosa institutions Rickys, Locale and Aromas Noosa are three that can – thanks to Maravista Farm, a 250-hectare hinterland property that’s become an essential part of The Ogilvie Group’s food story.

Once a bean and beef farm, Maravista

has been steadily transformed into a thriving hub of organic vegetables, micro herbs, citrus, bees and more than 20,000 macadamia trees. It’s a big operation with a simple purpose: grow exceptional produce for the Group’s restaurants Rickys, Locale, and Aromas Noosa.

Rickys General Manager, David Jouy, says they’re responding to what diners have been asking for.

“We want to offer the best, freshest produce,” he says. “Everything we use

from seafood to herbs is locally sourced. We now have about 70% of our vegetables from Maravista farm and 100% of our herbs. People visit Noosa and they want to taste the local flavours.”

For Rickys Head Chef Enrique Mansilla, it’s about letting the flavours combine naturally, highlighting what’s at its peak.

“I want people to taste the region in every bite,” he says.

With Noosa’s summer in full swing, the

Maravista Farm from above.

... I want people to taste the region in every bite.

farm is at its busiest. The warmer months bring a bumper line-up of heat-loving favourites: glossy zucchinis, crunchy cucumbers, vibrant capsicums, nuts that bring the crunch, fragrant herbs and leafy greens that deliver pops of flavour, colour and nutrition.

It’s the kind of produce that chefs love – fresh, seasonal, and divinely delicious.

Locale’s Head Chef, Chris Hagan, said it was a privilege to work with such beautiful ingredients.

“We’re so fortunate to have seasonal produce from The Ogilvie Group’s very own Maravista Farm,” he says. “The freshness and quality really helps our dishes zing, and I love that sourcing ingredients locally in this way also helps to minimise our carbon footprint.”

Take the Fiori di Zucca from Locale as an example: Scallop & prawn moussefilled zucchini flowers, tomato and bonito sugo, salted zucchini, Yarra Valley salmon roe.

For Locale owner Rio Capurso this dish highlights how the best ingredients bring flavours to life.

“The soft crunchiness of flash fried zucchini flower with the cut-through of beautiful acidity from the sugo, combined with salted zucchini and richness from the salmon roe, burst onto your palate and plate,” he enthuses.

“The soft, velvety flavours of the mousse will linger in your heart long after the final bite.”

Rio said Maravista Farm flavours featured strongly in Locale’s lunch special of $75 for 3-courses with a glass of wine or beer.

Maravista isn’t your typical commercial farm. Organic and biodynamic methods guide the way here, which means no machinery in the garden beds, no

HASTINGS ST. NOOSA HEADS THE FRENCH QUARTER

ph 07 5447 5111

open 7 days | lunch | dinner | functions

LOCALE

synthetic fertilisers, and – perhaps most impressively – no watering.

The chefs work closely with the farm team to plan their menus, understanding the seasons, incorporating what is in abundance and occasionally requesting and trialling specific ingredients for a hero dish they’re inspired to create.

So the next time you’re enjoying a long lunch on the river at Rickys or twirling forkfuls of housemade pasta at Locale, keep an eye out for those little hints of Maravista: the herbs that smell like sunshine, the freshest zucchini with real character, the capsicums that capture the colours of nature on the plate.

Because somewhere in the Hinterland, just beyond the macadamias and citrus trees, a small team has worked hard to grow flavours to savour.

Fiori di Zucca, Locale

Enrique Mansilla and David Jouy, Rickys

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE PHOTO:

Go with the Flo at this coastalchic French restaurant, where the menu changes with the seasons and there’s always something new to fall in love with! Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the très délicieux dishes on offer this summer.

Français FLEXIBLE, FANTASTIQUE

Looking for a fabulous, flexible dining destination where combining food and friends feels as easy and refreshing as diving into the ocean on a perfect summer’s day? Find it all and more at Flo’s Crêperie!

At this Noosa Junction favourite, the relaxed, authentic French menu is perfectly suited to a Sunshine Coast summer with such a comprehensive range of flavours which means no one has to compromise. Co-founder Michelle Guillemard says that’s the beauty of their varied offering.

“One of the things we cherish is the flexibility of French food and how beautifully it suits the way people dine today,” she says. “At Flo’s, one person can enjoy a traditional Bretagne galette while their friend tucks into steak frites, or the table can share Escargots alongside a mid-week special. Nothing feels out of place.”

The team loves keeping it fresh and introducing new dishes every season, with the latest additions to the dinner menu showcasing seasonal produce and stunning flavours.

The Tartelette Provençale feel like a breath of warm Provençal air: heirloom

One of the things we cherish is the flexibility of French food and how beautifully it suits the way people dine today

tomatoes, Meredith goat’s cheese, marinated capsicum and a punchy black olive tapenade on a delicate tart base.

And it doesn’t get much more French than the Escargots – snails bubbling away in garlic–parsley butter, served with a warm baguette that makes it perfectly acceptable (or more like encouraged) to mop up every last drop.

These newcomers sit happily alongside Flo’s divine dinner staples, including Steak Frites, Confit Duck, Moules Frites and more, plus the huge range of signature crêpes and galettes.

And each month brings something different on the crêpe and galette front:

sometimes indulgent, such as the Dubai-inspired Chocolate Crêpe; sometimes bright and summery like the Mango Pavlova Crêpe; and sometimes experimental in the best way - enter Chilli Mango Prawns atop a buttery galette with fresh coriander and lime – zingy, vibrant and perfect for hot weather!.

The crowd favourite Hallouminati which sees a crispy thin galette layered with honey, thyme, pine nuts and pan-fried halloumi, has reached cult status and makes reappearances by popular demand, as does La Bert, a Sunshine Coast meets French bistro mash-up featuring Woombye camembert and prosciutto.

When summer’s in full swing, you can also look beyond crêpes and galettes to the refreshing Sunny Goat’s Cheese Salad – peach, marinated goat’s cheese and grilled almonds with lemon vinaigrette – or dreamy desserts like Mango Paradise with fresh mango, mango coulis, whipped cream, vanilla ice cream and macadamia crunch; and Floreo, a favourite for both kids and grown-ups

PHOTOS: FLORENCE LEMYRE

that you’ll be dreaming about for days, with crushed Oreos, Cookies’n Cream gelato, Belgian chocolate sauce and whipped cream – what a combo!

Wednesdays and Thursdays are also getting a glow-up with Flo’s rotating mid-week dinner specials – fabulous French comfort food, available yearround, excluding summer holidays.

On Wednesdays, enjoy the sea-riously amazing Prawns à l’Américaine: local king prawns nestled into saffron potatoes with a rich, tomatoey sauce – a coastal French favourite that’s been thoughtfully reimagined. While Thursdays are all about the classic Cordon Bleu, crisp and golden with melted Gruyère and glossy jus – comforting, familiar and deeply satisfying.

What makes Flo’s special isn’t just the menu, it’s the passion and intention

behind it. The team genuinely listens to their diners, with new dishes often sparked by guest comments, travel memories or a casual “could we have something a bit lighter?” or “a little more summery?”.

That feedback shapes the menu season after season, keeping Flo’s connected to and inspired by the people who walk through the door.

Speaking of connection, if you’d like to keep the French vibes flowing at home, you’ll love the Flo’s Crêpes cookbook –packed with recipes, tips and French flair – available to buy in store and online.

Relaxed, flexible French dining with maximum flavour and minimal fuss? Generous seasonal specials that bring the authentic taste of France to your Noosa table? Memorable meals to satisfy your whole crew? It’s fantastique at Flo’s!

MID-WEEK MAGIC

Swoon over these new mid-week specials for just $34 and available until sold out.

WEDNESDAYS: Prawns à l’Américaine – a popular French seafood dish, reimagined. Local king prawns, Dutch carrots, saffron potatoes, breadcrumbs, sauce Américaine.

THURSDAYS: Cordon Bleu – crispy, golden chicken breast filled with ham and melted Gruyère, served with green beans, Dutch carrots and a rich jus. To peruse the menu, book a table or buy the Flo’s Crêpes cookbook, scan the QR code or visit www.floscreperie.com

Our delicious new mid-week dinner specials bring even more French flair to the menu – think Prawns à l’Américaine, Cordon Bleu and more.

Finish with a signature crêpe for dessert and… voilà.

FLO'S CRÊPERIE NOOSA, AUSTRALIA

Cordon Bleu

Tartelette Provençale

Mango Pavlova Crêpe

Deb Caruso joined foodies and friends to paint the town - and the plates - red to celebrate and support Noosa Reds.

Two of the most important things in life are good food and great friends to share it with.

So when chefs Matt Golinski and Andy Wilcox wanted to help their good friends at Noosa Reds, they assembled a culinary crew for a one-night-only celebration and fundraising dinner.

Joining Matt (aroMATTic Food Co) and Andy (Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas) were friends and long-time fans of Noosa Reds, Andrea Ravezzani (Park & Cove), Shane Bailey (Noosa Boathouse) and Glen Barratt (In Pursuit of Pastry) for an unforgettable five-course dinner with Noosa Reds starring in every dish.

In honour of the flavour and passion behind Noosa’s iconic tomatoes, guests dressed in red for the sold-out event which raised almost $15,000 to assist Pete and Dory after extreme weather and disease wiped out much of their crop.

Peter shared stories of his humble beginnings and showed appreciation for the network of restaurants, chefs and diners who continue to support them.

You can buy Noosa Reds vine-ripened and spray-free tomatoes from the farmgate on Beddington Road Doonan (opposite The Doonan), 7 days a week, 7am-5pm - bring cash.

DON’T MISS!

There’s always something delicious at Park & Cove perched above Hastings Street at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas.

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

Celebrate Christmas with a festive shared feast featuring a Seafood Banquet, live Carvery Station, Cheese Platter and Christmas Pavlova. Kids aged 17 and under receive a special gift. Enjoy a three-hour beverage package with house wines, local beers and soft drinks.

Make this Christmas unforgettable. Thursday 25 December 12pm or 12.30pm $255 per adult, $195 per child (14 to 17 years), $115 (4 to 13 years), infants free. Scan the QR code to book.

Open 12-2.30pm daily for a la carte lunch; dinner, 5.308.30pm. Bar opens 12pm with Happy Hour 4.30-6pm daily. For menus, specials, upcoming events and bookings, visit www.parkandcovenoosa.com.au

ILLUSTRATIONS – BOTANICALS

These botanical lithographs document the flora within the Sunshine Coast.

4x illustrations have been provided in the toolkit, with the option to extend this collection, using the style and local plants as a reference point.

The graphics have been provided in greyscale .TIFF format, enabling the image to be placed and easily recoloured using swatches within InDesign/Illustrator.

SUNNY COASTAL KITCHEN

TRY OUR NEW SUMMER MENU FROM $65

2 courses with Andrea’s snacks

With a new collection of prestigious international awards to its name, this beloved Mooloolaba gem continues to redefine fine dining on the Sunshine Coast. Ida Fink Gundtoft discovers awardwinning bliss at Bella Venezia.

On a golden afternoon in Mooloolaba, the ocean hums just beyond the esplanade, and the soft clink of glasses drifts through the air. Inside Bella Venezia, laughter mingles with the aroma of the finest Italian cuisine and the clink of glasses. Every detail, from the crisp white linen tablecloths to the rhythmic dance of plates and wine glasses, feels deliberate, effortless and full of heart.

It’s no wonder then that Bella Venezia has once again captured the world’s attention, winning an extraordinary sweep of awards in 2025, including three (yes three!) World Luxury Restaurant Awards for Australia and Oceania: Best Fine Dining Cuisine, Best Italian Cuisine and Best Luxury Beachside Restaurant

Presented in Singapore, these accolades join a glittering list of recognitions closer to home: a Three Glass Rating in the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards, TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Travellers’ Choice Award 2025 placing them in the top 1% of restaurants globally, a Best of Queensland Experience Award and the prestigious Chef’s Hat from the Australian Good Food Guide

Hot off the press, the team were also awarded Champion in the Restaurant category at the Australian Women’s Small Business Awards

Triumph

Behind the impeccable service lies a team whose commitment feels more like a calling than a job.

For owners Kristine and Todd Young, this isn’t simply a tally of trophies. It’s the culmination of years of vision, perseverance and love for the craft.

“These awards mean the world to us,” Kristine said. “They represent not just recognition, but a true celebration of our entire team’s dedication and passion.”

Stepping into Bella Venezia is like entering a story. One that has been evolving since 1983, when the restaurant first opened its doors.

Under the stewardship of Todd and Kristine, it has grown from a beloved local gem into one of Australia’s - and now the world’s - most awarded dining destinations, continually redefining what Italian fine dining can be.

The experience is both luxurious and deeply personal. Regulars are greeted by name, first-time visitors are welcomed like family, and every plate tells a tale of authenticity, innovation and craftsmanship.

“We don’t just serve food,” Kristine reflected. “We listen, we learn, and continuously refine what we do based on the feedback we receive. We want Bella Venezia to feel like a home, a place where people celebrate milestones, connect and create memories that last a lifetime.”

That philosophy has earned Bella Venezia something even rarer than

awards: loyalty. Many of their guests have been coming for decades, marking anniversaries, engagements and longoverdue catch-ups beneath the glow of pendant lights and the scent of basil and lemon. And now, it’s only a matter of time before international travellers flock to this coastal gem to experience its award-winning brilliance for themselves.

For Kristine and Todd, excellence is a journey. One that often leads them far from home. Their most recent research trip took them to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where they immersed themselves in the region’s culinary traditions and artistry.

“What stood out to us most was how simplicity and quality go hand in hand,” Kristine said. “Everything was about purity and balance; from the vibrant lemons to the cold-pressed olive oils, hand-cut pastas and fresh herbs like basil. The best local ingredients, treated with respect.”

That experience now weaves its way into the Bella Venezia menu, where freshness, authenticity and care take centre stage. Over the coming months, the team will unveil a series of beautiful new creations inspired by the flavours of the Amalfi Coast. Dishes that are elegant, simple and true to their origins.

Of course, no meal at Bella Venezia is complete without a glass – or perhaps a bottle – from their world-renowned wine list. Spanning over 550 carefully curated labels, it’s one of Australia’s finest collections, showcasing both international prestige and the best of emerging Australian vineyards.

“Our travels continually inspire us to evolve,” Kristine mentioned. “Each journey brings new perspectives that

help us refine our approach, whether it’s adjusting flavour profiles, introducing new techniques, or reimagining wine pairings to highlight regional authenticity.”

Receiving a Three Glass Rating from the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards is no small feat. It’s the sommelier’s equivalent of a standing ovation.

Behind the impeccable service lies a team whose commitment feels more like a calling than a job. That culture of care, both for the craft and the customer, is what Kristine believes keeps Bella Venezia at the forefront of Australia’s dining scene.

“Great dining is never static,” she said. “It’s about growth, creativity, and staying true to the essence of what we love while keeping things fresh and exciting for our guests.”

It’s also why Bella Venezia remains such a vital part of Mooloolaba’s identity: a restaurant that doesn’t just serve the Sunshine Coast community but helps define its character. The experience is immersive, from the first pour of prosecco to the last spoonful of tiramisu.

After such a glittering year, it would be tempting to rest on their laurels. But that’s not in Bella Venezia’s DNA.

The team are building a similar story around the corner at the newly-opened Fish House Steak & Grill where premium steaks and fresh local seafood with a Japanese twist are served alongside curated wines and relaxed coastal dining.

Kristine brimmed with excitement when asked what’s next, offering just enough to intrigue.

“We’re feeling incredibly grateful for what has been such a remarkable year,” she smiled. “There’s so much more we want to create, explore and share. The best is yet to come!”

As the evening deepens, the lights glow warmer, the laughter a little louder. Plates of handmade pasta glide from the kitchen, each a work of art. At Bella Venezia, excellence isn’t just a standard. It’s a feeling, one that lingers long after the final sip of wine.

For those lucky enough to dine here, one truth becomes clear: this isn’t just Italian cuisine by the sea. It’s a love letter to passion, precision and the timeless joy of sharing a meal well made.

I’d urge you to book a table straight away. But with the restaurant’s glittering array of awards and the heart, soul and care that define this coastal gem, I have a feeling you probably already have.

2025 AWARD WINS

WORLD LUXURY RESTAURANT AWARDS – AUSTRALIA & OCEANIA

• Best Fine Dining Restaurant

• Best Italian Restaurant

• Best Luxury Beachside Restaurant

ADDITIONAL 2025 ACCOLADES

• Australian Women’s Small Business Awards Champion - Restaurant

• Three Glass Rating – Australian Wine List of the Year Awards

• Best of the Best Travellers’ Choice Award – TripAdvisor (Top 1% Restaurants Worldwide)

• Best of Queensland Experience

• Chef’s Hat, Australian Good Food Guide

A huge congratulations to Kristine and Todd, and the entire Bella Venezia team!

SEAFOOD, STEAK

The reviews are in. There’s a destination that’s redefining the local dining landscape.

John Caruso discovers bold flavours and fresh twists that are turning heads and winning hearts.

There’s been a real buzz about Fish House Steak & Grill since it opened its doors just a couple of months ago, yet it sits so comfortably in the local dining scene that it feels like it’s always been there. Kristine Young, who co-owns Fish House with husband Todd, tells me it feels like a lifetime already.

That’s a good sign for any new venue, the kind of place where customers settle in quickly and keep coming back. And from what I’ve seen, it’s not just locals but visitors who are making the effort to seek out the experience that delivers the freshest seafood alongside gourmet meats with a Japanse fusion.

The sheer volume of glowing reviews speaks for itself.

“The feedback’s been amazing and that means everything,” explains Kristine.

Customers appreciate the vision behind the menu, which is no ordinary steakhouse fare. Fish House expertly caters to steak lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and those hungry for something different thanks to the

& Style

...this Wagyu has become one of the most soughtafter types worldwide, making it a smart focal point for the menu.

influence of Japanese flavours.

The balance is crucial, and it’s clear Kristine and Todd have nailed it.

Their inspiration spans the globe, a recent trip to Singapore had them visiting Michelin-starred restaurants, while a stop at Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill in London reinforced to the duo that they’re delivering world-class quality.

Kristine talks proudly of sitting in Gordon’s favourite booth and realising that the experience was up there with the calibre of what they’re creating on the Sunshine Coast.

The emphasis on premium Australian Wagyu beef is pivotal. Locally sourced from farms in Queensland, this Wagyu has become one of the most sought-after types worldwide, making it a smart focal point for the menu.

“We wanted to fill the void for a premium steakhouse, and I believe we’ve achieved that,” she says.

Kristine also points out the major draw of combining fresh, local seafood with dry-aged steak and Japanese-inspired dishes gives Fish House a unique edge in a market saturated with seafood options.

Since its opening, one of the most popular experiences has been their Land and Sea Tasting Menus, a fine way to sample several signature dishes without committing to just one plate.

“Groups love sharing the tomahawk steak and it’s become somewhat of a communal ritual,” Kristine says. “It’s the kind of meal that brings people together with minimal fuss.

“You don’t have to think about it. You sit, and we take care of everyone. That’s

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

what we’re loving.”

It’s this kind of easy-going, relaxed sharing culture that sits well with diners, cutting through the sometimes-stiff atmosphere associated with fine dining.

It’s premium food served in a welcoming and approachable way and paired with an expansive wine list that complements the menu.

What really stands out is the passion behind the scenes. The husband-andwife duo, who long established their mark with Bella Venezia, bring a creative spark and balance that’s evident in every detail of the experience.

“I’m the creative and Todd’s the spreadsheet guy. It’s the perfect combination. We back each other, and that’s a huge part of our success,” she says.

Situated right near the trawler-lined Mooloolah River in Mooloolaba, Fish House maintains a strong connection to its suppliers, sourcing seafood fresh from nearby waters.

This sense of place flows through the menu, from small plates with finely tuned Japanese flavours like miso Toothfish, to the simple joy of a perfectly chargrilled ribeye.

There’s a broader story here about what it means to be a destination restaurant on the Sunshine Coast.

Fish House isn’t just saying “come for a feed”; it’s inviting people to be part of something bigger. A hub for locals, yes, but also a stop for those travelling through or choosing to spend an evening exploring great food in a casual yet polished setting.

As someone who’s followed Kristine and Todd’s journey through Bella

THE SUNSHINE COAST'S

Venezia’s established success, I can say this next chapter at Fish House feels just as promising.

It’s a place where quality and consistency aren’t an afterthought but the foundation.

Here, food is crafted not just to impress but to be enjoyed, and the atmosphere encourages sharing and connection without any fuss or formality getting in the way.

That’s the real Sunshine Coast flavour.

Source THE SECRET

John Caruso discovers the passion behind the plates, introducing the chef and the local producers reshaping this region’s flavour frontier.

Step into Copperhead Restaurant and Brewery at Cooroy and you’ll be greeted by a friendly face. Look a little further and you might notice the microbrewery and beer taps before your senses light up with the delicious food wafting from the kitchen to the tables.

These days, most venues like to sprinkle ‘local’ through their menu, but here, it isn’t lip service.

For Head Chef Mark Potter, using local produce and working with local producers is non-negotiable and it’s something he is extremely passionate about. It’s an old-fashioned approach, shaped by decades of working in kitchens around the country.

Take the mushrooms, for starters. Mark’s unwavering commitment to quality means turning to Emma Court of Rocky Creek Mushrooms.

Their relationship is built on mutual respect for each other’s craft.

“Storms wiped out crops, power outages stalled production,” Mark says, “yet Emma still managed to deliver a batch of mushrooms to me on time.”

Emma knows the value of supporting each other through thick and thin.

“Mark has been an amazing advocate

for using local, fresh produce,” she said. “He creates amazing dishes with what we supply, always coming up with new and innovative ways to create food for his customer.

“Honestly, what he does is magic.”

The result? Dishes like Copperhead’s mushroom linguine, deceptively simple, yet deeply flavourful.

“Mushrooms are torn, not cut,” Mark insists. “You tear them, so they don’t get bruised from the knife as metal reacts with the mushroom.”

His old-school approach isn’t just nostalgic; it’s about the right kind of fussiness that lets fresh, nutty, buttery varieties like Emma’s chestnut and Pioppino mushrooms shine on the plate.

“Our spray free organic gourmet mushrooms deliver a whole spectrum of flavours,” Emma says. “It’s fantastic to see how Mark honours the produce and engages the customer with our product.”

Crayfish is another local favourite of Mark’s, courtesy of Scott Shanks at Cherax Park Aquaculture Farm.

“I had another supplier who was supplying frozen crayfish - which was okay, but I prefer them fresh,” Mark says. “I discovered Scott and he delivers them live once a week straight from the farm, full of flavour and freshness.”

Scott’s commitment to his crayfish craft is meticulous and unrivalled.

“We harvest, grade and purge our extra-large and jumbo crays every Thursday and within an hour they’re delivered to Mark at Copperhead,” he says. “It doesn’t get fresher than that.”

The difference is clear in dishes like house-made gnocchi with poached leeks and a rich crayfish bisque made using the shells.

Chef Mark Potter with Emma Court from Rocky Creek Mushrooms

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

Cherax Park Aquaculture Farm

“Nothing is wasted,” Mark says.

For summer, it would be hard to not take up the option to add a crayfish to the Summer Seafood Platter special.

For the finishing touches, meet Steven Lewis from Cooloola Microgreens whose obsessive attention to detail provides the freshest microgreens and edible flowers.

“Mark is very particular about what he puts on every plate, and it’s an honour to have my produce used at Copperhead,” Steven shares. His Gympie-grown microgreens are cut and picked right before delivery.

“They don’t sit in a cool room for days,” Mark notes.

Steven sees the importance in not only keeping their vibrant colour but also ensuring they are full of flavour

“Microgreens can have up to 40 times the nutrients of the adult counterparts,” Steven says. “You get more vitamins out of a handful of broccoli microgreens than

you would from a whole plateful of broccoli. They’re all grown as nature intended with water and no chemicals.”

Copperhead’s devotion isn’t just sentimental; it’s practical.

Mark says that while there are less people growing things locally, his suppliers keep going and growing and he’s always open to discovering and supporting more local producers.

His partnerships with local producers like Emma, Scott and Steven aren’t about shortcuts. If something’s not available, he simply adapts the menu, no compromising for inferior product, ever.

For customers, that means the freshest

LOCAL SEAFOOD

BASKET

flavours from the region, expertly prepared with respect and presented with passion.

At Copperhead Restaurant and Brewery, each plate is a showcase of simple ideas done well with the very best ingredients sourced from local operators who live and breathe their craft, rain or shine.

Here, ‘local’ means what’s grown, delivered, prepped, and served every day, with real faces, real stories, and genuine care behind every mouthful - and that’s the secret source to success.

Take a seat, place your order and taste why Mark’s old-school approach to sourcing local still matters.

For 2 people

FOR 2

Beer battered fish, crumbed Mooloolaba prawns, flash fried calamari, tempura scallops, beer battered oysters, handcut chips, tartare, smoked ginger & chilli sauce. And a bottle of house red or white wine OR 2 schooners of beer. All for only $99.

Add local crayfish & butter lettuce salad + $25

AVAILABLE Thursday and Sunday nights, 5-7pm

Steven Lewis and Mark Potter

Cooloola Microgreens

FOR THE LOVE OF Meats

John Caruso discovers an old-fashioned butcher that elevates the everyday meal and barbecue from bland to brilliant.

If you’ve ever wondered whether shopping for meat could be as satisfying as grilling or roasting it, step inside Eumundi Meats at Belmondos Organic Market Noosaville.

This boutique butcherie is a destination for food lovers who appreciate knowing exactly what’s going on the plate, and who enjoy a friendly chat at the counter.

Owner Jono Emblin beams when asked about the growth and evolving nature of the business.

“Our whole philosophy is about helping people feel confident about what they eat and making top-quality food accessible,” he says.

This is not a place for mystery meat deals or bland supermarket fare; every cut here is the product of thoughtful sourcing and passion for the trade.

The backbone of Eumundi Meats is choice: local, certified organic, wild, and free-range beef, lamb, pork, veal, chicken, and more - sourced from farmers who value ethical practices and traceability as much as taste, and who understand that the two go together.

A wonderland awaits with dry-aged steaks, housemade sausages and more ready for those spur-of-the-moment or special gatherings, plus a mouthwatering range of free-range and organic meats and Ready Meals that let you cheat at dinner without feeling like you’ve skipped a step.

“The Ready Meals have been a win for busy families as well as anyone who wants the home-cooked feeling without all the prep,” Jono explains. Favourites include classic lasagne; sausage rolls with just the right pastry flake; honey soy chicken; and warming curries, all chef-prepared for convenience, but uncompromising on quality.

But what truly sets Eumundi Meats apart are their sausages. Crafted by hand, free from preservatives, and ranging in flavour from traditional to adventurous, Organic BBQ Beef, Pork & Fennel,

There’s a sausage for every mood: paleo, keto, and even low-histamine options for those who follow their own culinary path.

Rounding out the product range is a selection of offal for those nose-to-tail enthusiasts, plus staples like bacon, eggs, gourmet burgers, sauces, and small goods. Your weekly shop just got a lot more interesting, and a lot more local.

Jono is particularly proud of the Bella & Boots pet food line, a partnership with Dr Renee from The Natural Vets, which brings organic, wild, and free-range nutrition that looks and sounds good enough for man and man’s best friend.

“It’s made with the same care we’d use for any member of the family,” Jono jokes. “These raw blends offer single proteins, signature mixes, bone broths, and absolutely no fillers. It’s a little slice of the original Eumundi ethos and if it’s not good enough for our crew, it doesn’t hit the fridge.”

Driven by a desire to make premium local food simpler to access for everyone, the Eumundi Meats team has rolled out delivery across the Sunshine Coast, free for orders over $200 and making amazing meals easier than ever.

Jono frames the expansion as a positive response to how families live today.

“People are working more flexibly, connecting in new ways,” he said. “We wanted to keep that personal experience alive and now it’s possible at home.”

On top of home delivery, they can be

found in over 55 gourmet grocer stockists in Queensland and northern New South Wales with more stores planned.

For true aficionados, the Meat Club subscription service offers complete control over what arrives at your door, prime cuts, gourmet sausages, Easy Meals on tap, keeping your kitchen stocked and your tastebuds happy.

It’s convenience, but with genuine substance and quality behind it.

Eumundi Meats stands apart thanks to ethical and transparent sourcing.

Just like the good old-fashioned neighbourhood butcher, the team knows where your food comes from, how it was raised, and how to best prepare and serve it at home.

The range genuinely suits every household, including busy families, BBQ fiends, and pets with gourmet tastes.

Innovation drives everything they do, from chef-ready meals to the flexible Meat Club subscription. Shopping here offers friendly expertise that makes eating well easy and enjoyable. For many, it’s become a genuine part of the region’s food culture.

As the festive season approaches, Jono encourages locals to set the table with confidence, knowing the meat is as honest and delicious as the company.

“It’s about treating your family, friends, and yourself, to something really good, without the hassle,” he says.

Find Eumundi Meats at Belmondos, online, or soon at a satellite store near you. There’s joy to be found in eating well, and now it’s just a click away.

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

Moroccan Beef, and the cult-favourite Chicken Macadamia Lemon Myrtle, developed with chef Matt Golinski.

Sizzling SUMMER

Summer is made for grilling, sizzling and drizzling, and isn’t complete without a backyard barbeque. Jodie Cameron discovers the secret to elevating your outdoor entertaining…

You can’t get more quintessential Queensland summer than a backyard barbeque – the sizzle of seafood, the aroma of seared steaks, and good people gathering under the sun.

So why not dial it up a notch? Let me introduce you to Teneille and Tony from Noosa Black Garlic, who bring awardwinning magic to your tastebuds and table. We’re talking gluten free, dairy free and vegan game-changing kitchen staples you won’t know how you ever lived without. Be warned, their products come with a firm disclaimer: once you go black... you never go back!

Why? Because they source only the best quality, local, organic elephant garlic.

Known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, we know that garlic can help strengthen the immune system.

Thanks to the unique ageing process, known as the Maillard reaction, the usual pungent and sulphurous garlic odour is broken down into a sweet molasses and balsamic umami bomb with no dreaded garlic breath - Noosa Black Garlic delivers all the flavour and then some. Talk about black magic!

Here are some of the must-have products and why we love them:

NOOSA BLACK GARLIC AIOLI

Rich, irresistible and made from slowaged signature Noosa Black Garlic Cloves, this creamy, yet velvety aioli is your secret weapon to culinary success.

Bold, versatile and addictive with the perfect umami punch, use it as a dip, spread, or drizzle over – burgers, roasted veggies, sandwiches, seafood platters – it’s an all-star, everyday essential. Handcrafted in small batches using real ingredients with no nasties, it’s big flavour, done right!

NOOSA BLACK GARLIC SALT

Pass the swanky salt, please! Two ingredients, one unforgettable flavour. Noosa Black Garlic Salt is an awardwinning topper that brings depth and delight with every sprinkle.

Use on seafood, steaks, salad dressings or honestly, anything that takes your fancy. Ditch the celtic, table and rock salt in favour of a flavour-packed explosion!

NOOSA CARAMELIZED BLACK GARLIC PASTE

Spread it, mix it, devour it! Whether you’re pairing with seafood, meat or cheese, swirling into sauces, or going rogue and eating it straight off the spoon (no judgement), Noosa Black Garlic Caramelized Paste is a plant-based next-level entertaining essential.

NOOSASHIRE BLACK GARLIC SAUCE

BBQs aren’t complete without sauce, and this beauty has been crafted to elevate anything you throw on the grill. With a deep umami backbone and just the right amount of smokiness, it’s incredibly versatile and perfect as a glaze for ribs or brisket, drizzled over grilled veggies, or a punchy dip for wedges, wings or chargrilled meats. Marinating, brushing, basting or dunking, this handcrafted sauce takes food from good to gourmet.

LAGUNA BAY LUXURY GIFT BOX

Delight the senses with a gourmet curation that celebrates the very best of Noosa Black Garlic including:

• Black Garlic Cloves

• Caramelized Black Garlic Paste

• Black Garlic White Balsamic Vinegar

• Black Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Black Garlic Salt

• Black Garlic Honey

NEW! FAIRY POOLS MINI TRIO GIFT BOX

An epicurean’s dream, curated to satisfy even the most discerning palates - the perfect secret Santa, gift or stocking stuffer with mini jars of three top sellers:

• Caramelized Black Garlic Paste

• Black Garlic Salt

• Black Garlic Honey

Sometimes simple is simply the best!

GIVE THE GIFT OF GOURMET EXPERIENCES WITH THESE EASY RECIPES:

MAPLE & CARAMELIZED NOOSA BLACK GARLIC PRAWN SKEWERS

Ingredients:

• 500g green Mooloolaba Prawns, shelled, deveined, leave tails on

• 1/2 cup Maple syrup

• 2 teaspoons Noosa Black Garlic

- Caramelized Black Garlic Paste

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

Method:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

1. Place the prawns on bamboo skewers (lengthways or round).

2. Heat the BBQ or grill.

3. Mix together the maple syrup, Caramelized Black Garlic Paste, vinegar, olive oil and the herbs.

4. Baste the prawns with the marinade mix and place on the BBQ. Cook each side for 2 minutes.

5. Remove the prawns from the BBQ and onto a serving plate. Drizzle over any remaining marinade/sauce. Enjoy!

GRILLED

MORETON BAY BUGS WITH NOOSA BLACK GARLIC BUTTER

How can just three ingredients come together to create the most heavenly, delectable dish? Well seafood lovers this is it!

Ingredients:

• 4 x Moreton Bay Bugs

• 250g Salted Butter

• Noosa Black Garlic Black Garlic Cloves

Method:

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1. Split the bugs down the centre with a knife & clean well.

2. Heat the BBQ or grill.

3. Mash 2-3 Black Garlic Cloves into the butter until well combined & set aside.

4. Brush the bugs with a little olive oil & place flesh down on the grill, cook for a minute or 2, until you have some nice grill lines form. Turn the bugs over.

5. Spread the black garlic over the bug meat & close the BBQ to cook for a couple of minutes.

6. Serve with some lemon or lime segments, coriander and a lovely fresh side salad.

BREAKING NEWS! Congratulations to Noosa Black Garlic for winning the Food & Agribusiness (small) category AND Business of the Year at the Sunshine Coast Business Awards! Bravo!

Chocolate DREAMS

Dark, milk or white? Who cares, there’s something for everyone!

Jodie Cameron explores a wonderland choc-ful of local flavours worth sharing…

If happiness had an address, it’d be 21 Venture Drive, Noosaville – home of the Noosa Chocolate Factory.

It’s my personal Narnia for all things smooth, creamy and irresistibly cacaofuelled; a dreamy destination worth celebrating all year-round. Walk in stressed, walk out glowing, carrying a warm hot choccy in one hand and a bag of choc-covered macadamias in the other. This is what I call a balanced diet – chocolate in both hands!

I’ve travelled far, eaten widely and sampled more chocolate than I care to admit, but nothing compares to Noosa Chocolate Factory, where everyday is a reason to indulge.

Step through the doors and prepare to instantly melt, but don’t be fooled – it’s not just the aroma making you drool.

The irresistible mix of warm cocoa, toasted nuts and local fruits certainly tickles the taste buds, but it’s the feeling that you’ve entered a world where the serious business of chocolate is treated with joyful devotion. No sugar-coating required.

From Christmas, birthdays, Easter, anniversaries, “just because” days, Valentine’s Day, and the occasional Tuesday-afternoon sugar slump, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Channel your inner Charlie Bucket and witness the magic for yourself, and discover the local artisans turning beans into dreams – tempering, pouring, spinning, dipping.

A sweet choreography that looks deceptively effortless but is only made possible by a team passionate about their

craft, and sharing that love with you!

For next-level gifting all year round, shop online or visit their retail store in Noosa’s industrial heartland. Grab a basket and start your cocolicious tour!

Slabs and bags of brittles, choccovered freeze-dried fruit delights; Rocky Road loaded with chewy clusters including jelly and marshmallow all made in-house – all at your fingertips in every imaginable cocoa combination!

Looking to elevate your summer grazing platters, or shopping for a sensitive chocoholic?

Noosa Chocolate Factory’s awardwinning range covers all dietaries including vegan, dairy-free and glutenfree, with a cult following for good reason. Everything is made fresh in small batches, and come Christmastime, prepare to choc the halls because this is when Noosa Chocolate Factory take their craft to another level with limitededition festive showstoppers.

Remember the giant Easter bunnies?

This Christmas, enjoy giant chocolate snowmen (each one takes four hours to mold and hand-paint!), plus Christmas bark bursting with seasonal flavours, and beautifully-wrapped hampers are

PHOTOS:

perfect pleasures for teachers, clients, neighbours and that friend who says ‘no gifts’ but secretly loves surprises.

In a region renowned for artisan food makers, Noosa Chocolate Factory isn’t just keeping up; it’s raising the bar.

With local and sustainable sourcing, meticulous methods and a focus on delivering the freshest chocolate possible, they’ve created something that feels both indulgent and meaningful.

A place where craftsmanship meets

creativity so you can savour something truly handmade.

If you’re visiting Noosa and get hooked while on holidays, Noosa Chocolate Factory has you covered with stores across the region including Sunshine Plaza, Brisbane CBD and a new delicious store opening in Chermside soon!

So this season, don’t dream of a white Christmas in New York – make your dreams come true with a slab of handmade white chocolate in Noosa!

Nestled in the heart of Noosa, we create mouthwatering, handcrafted chocolates that celebrate the joy of every bite. From the finest locally sourced ingredients to our passion for small-batch, artisanal methods. Visit us in-store to taste the Noosa difference

Elevate your gifting and spoil yourself with something handmade, local, and wrapped with love.

CHOCOLATE LOVE

Keep an eye on the social media @noosachocolatefactory for updates to continue your chocolate holiday affair. To browse the range, shop online, or find your nearest outlet, scan the QR code or visit www.noosachocolatefactory.com.au

Summer,

SIP, SAVOUR

Noosa’s buzzing… and so are our kettles. Handcrafted in Noosa with purpose, Heart Therapeutics’ functional tea turns even the hottest days into moments of pure bliss, one sip at a time. Ida Fink Gundtoft and the IN Noosa team take discover the perfect blend for their needs.

There’s a quiet revolution brewing in the heart of our office: a true symphony of scents, flavours and pure organic goodness.

At the helm is Heart Therapeutics, the Noosa-based artisan tea company, crafting certified organic blends that capture the essence of wellness, mindfulness and everyday INdulgence.

For our team, discovering the perfect cup has become more than just a morning ritual. It’s a shared adventure of taste, energy and self-care, day and night, at home, on the beach and in the office.

Handcrafted in Noosa, Heart Therapeutics teas are designed to uplift, restore and make you feel your best –from morning to night.

From invigorating daily tonics to calming evening blends, every sip offers a moment of pause amidst the bustle of modern life.

Our office is stocked with a range of Heart Therapeutics tea allowing our team to undertake a journey of discovery, exploring the blends that speak to each of us at certain times in our lives.

We asked some of our tea-totallers what their default drink is:

Bex’s morning boost: Rise and Shine

For Bex, a dedicated mother keeping pace with two energetic little ones, Rise and Shine is the ultimate daily tonic.

A gold-medal-winning blend from the 2025 Royal Tasmanian Fine Foods Awards, this anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic and immune-supporting tea is her personal powerhouse.

“I need this tea after school dropoffs,” Bex laughed. “It’s my little moment to recharge before I start writing.”

From invigorating daily tonics to calming evening blends, every sip offers a moment of pause amidst the bustle of modern life.

Rich with herbs that nurture the body and energise the mind, Rise and Shine is a true all-rounder, supporting even the busiest of routines.

Ali’s minty fresh pick: Noosa Mint Tea

Ali is our resident mint lover, and for her, nothing beats the freshness of the Noosa Mint Tea

A lively combination of spearmint, rose and lemon myrtle, this blend is her go-to pick-me-up during hectic workdays.

“I love the crispness of mint,” Ali said, “It’s a little burst of energy in a cup.”

Perfect over ice for the scorching summer days, this tea is as refreshing as the sea breeze, and equally rejuvenating.

Ida’s mindful moment: Flow

For those seeking harmony and mindfulness, Flow is the blend of choice. Peppermint, rose and lemon myrtle combine to cool the body and uplift the mind – the perfect companion for my yoga enthusiastic self or anyone needing a moment of clarity. I’ve been making this over ice after my hot yoga classes, refreshing and grounding all at once. Whether sipped before meditation or during a mid-afternoon break, Flow encourages balance, calm and a touch of indulgence.

Michelle’s gentle reset: Spring Tonic

After the hustle of launch parties and the inevitable indulgences of the silly

PHOTOS:

Bex’s morning boost

Ali’s minty fresh pick

Ida’s mindful moment

season, Michelle turns to Spring Tonic, a delicate blend designed to cleanse, detoxify and nourish.

Nettle, lemon balm and red clover work together to support the body’s natural detox pathways.

“I like to have a cup ready for when I return home after a busy evening,” she shared, smiling.

Light and revitalising, Spring Tonic is a reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is

When the day winds down and the world feels just a little too busy, Deb finds solace in Rancho Relaxo. A calming infusion of chamomile and lavender, this blend is crafted for rest, relaxation and gentle support during stressful or sleepless nights.

“I feel like I am constantly ‘on’ so Rancho Relaxo is my little ritual to slow

down, breathe and reset,” she said.

Ideal for meditation or as a bedtime wind-down, this tea transforms the evening into a tranquil, restorative experience.

“As a woman in perimenopause, I am also a huge fan of Flashdancer for calming the hot flushes and assisting with hydration,” she says.

Together, these teas form a spectrum of wellness, each tailored to different moments of the day. Whether you’re chasing energy, seeking serenity or simply enjoying a break, Heart Therapeutics’ blends reflect a philosophy that tea should do more than just taste good. It should nourish the body, calm the mind and bring joy to daily routines.

Tea has become a delightful ritual, sparking conversation, laughter and discovery as well as providing a ritual during moments of solitude to help us to pause, breathe and savour the moment.

Heart Therapeutics invites everyone to explore their range and find a blend that resonates with their rhythm, energy and lifestyle.

After all, wellness isn’t just about expensive treatments. Sometimes, it’s found in the small, mindful pleasures of life, one sip at a time.

a well-chosen cup to restore balance.

Deb’s evening calm: Rancho Relaxo or Flashdancer

Deb’s evening calm

Michelle’s gentle reset

SUNSHINE

Sipping

Jodie Cameron discovers the spirit of an award-winning distillery where people, pooches and picnics are welcome every day.

There’s something special about the Sunshine Coast – a place where weekends are for exploring, connecting, and soaking up the good life. Overlooking lush rainforest at Woombye, next to the Big Pineapple, Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits captures the spirit of the Coast.

It’s more than a spot to sip worldclass spirits; it’s where good company, great drinks and golden light come together, every day. At Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits, the coastal vibe isn’t just celebrated – it’s bottled.

Visitors can join a guided Distillery Experience, learn to mix, shake and pour in a Cocktail Masterclass, or simply enjoy the sunshine with a drink in hand. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it’s relaxed and welcoming – the kind of place where kids and dogs roam freely while adults toast to the good life.

In just a few short years, Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits have become one of Australia’s brightest distilling success stories, bringing home gold from some of the world’s top spirits competitions. Their smooth Original Vodka was named World’s Best at the World Vodka Awards, while Nil Desperandum Rum earned Gold at the World Rum Awards. They’ve also been crowned Best Distillery in Australia and named a 2025 Best of Queensland Experience – proof that their spirits reflect both skill and the true essence of coastal living.

I’ll admit, I was never much of a gin or coffee drinker. But after joining a Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits Cocktail Masterclass, that changed fast. Guided by one of their mixologists, the two-hour session combines laughter, learning, and a few friendly challenges.

You’ll create and enjoy three cocktails, each showcasing a Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits or Nil Desperandum Rum. The flavours are bright and tropical, the atmosphere easygoing and fun. Between sips and stories, you’ll discover new favourites, take home a

recipe booklet, and receive a $15 credit toward your next bottle.

For those who prefer to sip and stroll, the Distillery Experience Tour is a relaxed way to taste and learn. For $15 per person (redeemable with any bottle purchase), guests can meet the makers and discover the secret ingredient to award-winning drinks, and take home a keepsake etched glass. Tours run hourly from 10am to 4pm daily, and walk-ins are welcome.

From the clean, coastal lift of their Original Dry Gin to the pure clarity of volcanic rock-filtered Original Vodka, every bottle tells a story of place and passion.

Sunshine & Sons is proudly part of Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry and champions local farms that shape their unique flavours.

There’s fresh excitement this season with the release of Summer Citrus Gin – a a refreshing, zesty celebration of summer on the Sunshine Coast. Distilled with fragrant Bergamot, Seville, and Valencia oranges, it’s smooth, fruity, and effortlessly refreshing. Perfect for slow afternoons by the beach or wherever summer takes you. Enjoy as a vibrant G&T with an orange slice, or mix into citrus-forward cocktails to brighten every occasion. It’s available online and at the Distillery Door.

For those hunting unique gifts, Sunshine & Sons’ limited-edition bundles bring the taste of spirit to any occasion. Plus there is the opportunity to personalise the label and add some Sunshine & Sons etched glasses.

The 50ml party pouches are perfect for popping in the picnic basket or for pool parties where space is as premium as your spirits.

The philosophy is simple: celebrate the Coast, craft with care, and create spirits that make people smile.

Whether you’re a gin lover, rum devotee or simply chasing an afternoon in good company, Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits is where the soul of the Sunshine Coast shines brightest.

Pack a picnic, let the kids roam and furbabies frolic (on a lead), and enjoy the sunshine in good spirits.

SIP, SHAKE & WIN!

Discover the award-winning ingredients that make Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits so magical.

Distillery Experience

$15 per person (redeemable on any 700ml bottle). Includes tasting and take-home tumbler. Bookings essential.

Friday to Tuesday, 3-5pm.

Cocktail Masterclass

$99 per person (2–10 guests). Includes a recipe booklet and $15 credit towards any bottle. Bookings essential.

Friday to Tuesday, 3-5pm.

Distillery Door

Free entry for tastings and purchases. Perch at the outdoor bars or BYO picnic rug and enjoy the sunshine.

Open 7 days, 10am-5pm

Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits 104 Nambour Connection Rd, Woombye WIN a Cocktail Masterclass for two!

Scan the QR code to enter the draw to WIN a Sunshine & Sons Cocktail Masterclass for twothe ultimate way to sip, shake, and savour the Sunshine Coast spirit.

THE BOOZE

Buzz

Tony Cox looks at the latest moves towards low alcohol, no alcohol and ready-to-drink, easy-to-transport booze. It is the silly season after all!

With the crazy season upon us, now isn’t the time to take Man of the Match awards at the annual work bash. Nothing gets you passed over for promotion better than posting your posterior on the photocopier and then having to endure everyone tilt their head to the side trying to look around at the guilty body part the first week back after Christmas indulgences.

Luckily, there is an abundance of options to help you keep a lid on overindulging this festive season.

Your scribe has been impressed by the recent launch of Enough, a 22% ABV range of vodka, gin and agave spirit range launched by Noosa local, Tahli Watts.

Discovering that her favourite drink, Negronis, packed a punch Tahli sought an option that allowed her to enjoy her favourite drink without peaking too early or compromising on quality. Enough allows you to enjoy the flavour and texture of full alcohol spirits without the aftereffects.

For those of you who are electing to skip alcohol altogether, there are several alcohol-free options in the market. Your scribe’s major criticism around the zero-alcohol wine and spirits to date has been the inability to replicate the viscosity, flavour and warmth of alcohol, which are significant factors in the enjoyment of those drinks.

Zero Hour Prosecco seems to have navigated around this with the clever use of fizz. Expect notes of crunchy pear, lemongrass and honey with the finest of bubbles bringing the sparkle, flavour, and festive flair of traditional Prosecco, with the alcohol gently removed.

It caught a few people out with tastings offered at this year’s Noosa Eat & Drink

Enough

(now Noosa Food & Wine, again), including our very own Editor-in-Chief Deb Caruso who stars in their sizzle reel video along with many others who were genuinely shocked when they were told it was alcohol-free. Well mostly, Zero Hour Prosecco contains no more than 0.5% alcohol by volume - about the same as what’s naturally found in fruit juice.

A lot of people expect alcohol-free to cost considerably less with the belief that the buzz is the expensive part of the process. Not necessarily so. Zero Hour is a good case in point as its journey begins just like any traditional Prosecco - from vineyard to winery, using premium Australian grapes. The magic happens in the final stage, where advanced de-alcoholisation technology removes the alcohol while preserving the wine’s texture, complexity, and character. Doesn’t sound like a cheaper, easier production process to me.

Back to the issues of viscosity, flavour and warmth that alcoholised drinks deliver. These have been alleviated somewhat by some companies serving the spirits in RTD (ready-to-drink) format with pre-mixed cans. Lyre being one example with a range of G&T, Amalfi Spritz and Classico (a nod to prosecco) included in the convenient, well-packaged, single

serve can option.

Smug AF has built its whole range around alcohol-free cocktails/mocktails in a can. Inspired by popular cocktails and presented in eye catching cans, their Peach Bellini, Mint Mojito and a range of Margaritas including Classic, Coconut, Chilli or Grapefruit plus a handy range of garnishes and sherbert rimmers - Peach Fuzz anyone?

They represent the ideal party or BBQ

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Zero Hour Prosecco

buddy - again without the repercussions of overindulgence.

For those of us who like to indulge and have some buzz in their bellini, there are a few options around which are conveniently packaged and make a lot of sense if camping, visiting friends or just seeking effective portion control.

Clever packaging makes it easy to chuck in the handbag, esky or Christmas stocking without taking up too much room. Also, perfect for squeezing into the fridge which will be no doubt chock-full of leftovers from Christmas Eve until the New Year.

Cin Cin Beverages takes this convenience to the next level with its ready-to-drink, compact spritzed canned cocktails. It has a range of classic cocktails in 250ml cans which sit at 6% ABV, approximately one standard drink.

The range consists of the classic Bellini and Caipirinha along with Frenchie - a spin on a 110-year-old cocktail a

MAKE US YOUR LOCAL

Offering an extensive range of quality wines, spirits and independent beers

...there is an abundance of options to help you keep a lid on overindulging this festive season.

sophisticated sip, zesty, fresh lemon juice, smoothed out with a gin kick and bubbly fizz of Prosecco.

Never one to rest on their laurels, multi-award-winning team at Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits and Nil Desperandum Rum offer a range of 50ml pouches, which are ideal for camping, hiking, basically any outdoor activity where you lug equipment and wish to keep weight loads down.

I couldn’t think of anything better

Check out our range of LOW and NO alcohol drinks!

than twisting open a 50ml pouch of Sunshine & Sons Premium Spirits around the resort pool or Nil Desperandum Rum sitting around the Glampfire – your scribe doesn’t rough it!

For those of you wishing to refrain or reduce your alcohol intake, there are a growing number of options on the market. The team at XO Cellars in Noosa Junction and downstairs from XO restaurant in Sunshine Beach, are ready to point you in the right direction. They’re also pretty knowledgable and well-stocked with an excellent range of quality wines, spirits and independent beers from around the world and closer to home.

To all, a safe season of restraint, indulgence or overindulgence –whichever you select, there are plenty of tasteful options.

Cheers and good drinking!

CINCin

Sunshine & Sons

The Gold Standard in Skin Tightening & Rejuvenation Has Arrived

AT SANCTUM NOOSA

Subtle, sculpted, and scientifically advanced - Thermage FLX has arrived bringing the next generation of non-surgical skin tightening technology.

Loved globally for its ability to lift, firm, and contour the skin with zero downtime, Thermage FLX works deep within the dermis using radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production. The result? A smoother, tighter, more youthful appearance that evolves over time - naturally.

Unlike injectables or lasers, Thermage FLX focuses on restoring skin architecture from within, improving definition around the eyes, jawline, neck, and body. Its precision and power make it a favourite among clinicians and clients seeking lasting rejuvenation without compromise.

At Sanctum Noosa, our team of doctors and aesthetic nurses deliver every Thermage treatment with a clinical yet considered approach - ensuring your results are tailored, safe, and seamlessly natural.

EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE AT SANCTUM MEDICAL AESTHETICS, NOOSA.

To experience the art and science of intelligent skin tightening, book your consultation today.

Skincare FULL-CIRCLE

Founded by a circle of women united by purpose, Sircle Skin blends medical science with mindful skincare. Carlie Wacker enters the ring to experience this new movement in ethical, results-driven beauty.

The Sircle Skin philosophy is that true beauty is the reflection of total wellbeing, and with that in mind they have created a range of skincare products that deliver results powered by nature and perfected by science.

This luxurious brand is led by mother daughter duo Dr Asha Ram and Dr Clair McCartney plus a highly respected team of co-founders including Ella Mackay (Creative Director) and Registered Nurses Bonnie Paine, Georga Jeffery and KatieJo Webb.

With extensive experience prescribing skincare professionally, these women distilled their expertise into a streamlined, affordable and science backed range that delivers what it promises. Proudly Australian, Sircle Skin was built on a foundation of medical knowledge and ethical formulation.

Each product is thoughtfully created to support the skin’s natural rhythmworking with it, not against it. No gimmicks, just clean, active-rich formulas that are backed by research and proven results.

The use of Tasmanian and Australian botanicals add to the sensory experience and celebrates sustainable beauty and our natural environment.

The team took one look at my skin and directed me to Hero - a serum that lives up to its name! Packed with vitamins including niacinamide (B3), Panthenol (B5), folic acid (B9) and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) to help hydrate, repair and fortify the skin’s barrier to reduce breakouts as well as calm any redness and irritation. Botanical aromatics including bergamot, orange peel and tea tree oil are the first thing to get you hooked. But it’s the hydrating qualities and ability to help reduce pore size to smooth the texture of the skin that make this product a superstar.

Unlike some serums I’ve used, this is suitable to apply under makeup and I used it morning and night.

No gimmicks - just clean, active-rich formulas that are backed

by

research and proven results.

I looked forward to my evening ritual with Hero followed by After Dark - a luxurious night cream to renew and recode dull skin. With a hardworking blend of retinol, bakuchiol and peptides to hydrate the skin, minimise fine lines and wrinkles as well as treat breakouts and pigmentation. The botanical extracts are rich in natural anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that rejuvenates your skin while you sleep and the overnight collagen stimulating formula assists skin cell turnover, rebooting the skin for glowing skin all day. Talk about multitasking!

With intelligent ageing at the forefront of every product developed by Sircle Skin there had to be an offering that worked from the inside out - to come full-cirle. And that’s where we enter a world of ingestible health to say hello to my

current obsession – Advanced Collagen

As collagen production naturally declines with age, this science-led formula harnesses clinically proven ingredients to stimulate cellular regeneration, strengthen collagen and elastin fibres and combat the effects of UV exposure and stress.

The key ingredient is Cosmythic (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract) which is clinically shown to stimulate cells to produce more collagen and elastin.

I am onto my third pack as I have it every morning in my smoothie because I do see the improved hydration in my skin and I truly don’t think I’ll ever stop using it.

From the inside out, Sircle Skin has our back. With its medical roots, ethical formulations and sensory sophistication, Sircle Skin is Australian luxury skincare - simple, intentional and deeply effective.

SHOP SIRCLE

Find Sircle Skin at Sanctum Medical Aesthetics in Noosa Junction, scan the QR code or visit www.sircleskin.com

With sun protection in the spotlight, we’ve asked our experts to share their top products that will genuinely shield your skin from the harsh summer sun.

Spotlight SUN PROTECTION

SIRCLE SHIELD SPF 50 – DR CLAIR MCCARTNEY, SANCTUM MEDICAL AESTHETCS AND SIRCLE SKIN

“Your SPF should feel as good as your skincare. We created Sircle Shield SPF 50 to offer intelligent, everyday protection –a formula that’s luxurious, gentle enough for the whole family, and clinically designed to support healthy, resilient skin, because consistent sun protection is the smartest step in ageing well. It’s also infused with antioxidants and skin-hydrating actives.”

SYNERGIE SKIN ÜBERZINC – BIANCA DYDA, COSMEDIC LAB

“Formulated with zinc oxide and skin-repairing actives, ÜberZinc protects while it heals, making it the ideal daily moisturiser for anyone serious about long-term skin health and pigmentation prevention – with no greasy after-feeling.”

ASPECT SUN ENVIROSTAT ON THE GO SPF 50 –CHLOE REGAN, CHLOE REGAN COSMETIC CLINIC

“My go-to SPF for summer is Aspect Sun Envirostat On The Go SPF 50. I love it because it provides excellent high-level protection with light coverage, making it perfect for everyday wear. It’s hydrating, doesn’t have that typical sunscreen smell, and feels great on the skin. Plus, it’s easy to travel with and reapply throughout the day – and at only $30, it’s fantastic value.”

MATTIFYING – ANGIE LAMB, ABOUT FACES NOOSA

“This clever, lightweight formula gives you high UVA and UVB protection without the heaviness. It absorbs fast, won’t clog pores and leaves skin beautifully matte thanks to silica, which helps control shine throughout the day. Used daily, it helps prevent premature ageing – think fewer fine lines, smoother texture and firmer, healthier-looking skin.”

INIKA ORGANIC TINTED NATURAL SUNSCREEN SPF50+

– KATRINA THORPE, IKATAN SPA

“This SPF50+ physical sunscreen is your daily glowgiver and skin protector in one. The lightly tinted mineral formula evens tone, adds a soft luminosity, and shields your skin from UVA/UVB rays.

Pink Algae and Jojoba team up to smooth texture, boost elasticity and help minimise sunspots and wrinkles – keeping your skin looking fresh, healthy and protected.”

DERMALOGICA DYNAMIC SKIN RECOVERY SPF50 – JENNY WILSON, NOOSA BODY AND SKIN CARE

“Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 is my number one pick – it’s really a moisturiser with a sunscreen built in. It feels beautiful on the skin, with the softest hint of roses, and it’s one of Dermalogica’s top ten products for a reason. It just makes your skin look and feel incredible!”

ABOUT FACES NOOSA

With 35 years of experience, an impressive 171 five-star reviews, Angie Lamb is celebrated for exceptional client care, advanced technology and extensive qualifications. Known as Noosa’s Skin Whisperer she creates healthy beautiful luminous complexions for all ages with transformative results.

ADVANCED SKIN

& LASER

TREATMENTS

• Pico Laser - Pigment-Melasma

• Skin rejuvenation - Tattoo Removal

• Vascular - Roseaca - Acne

• Ablative Fraxel - Sun Damage

• Rosacea - Age Spot Treatment

• Acne - LED Lutronic Therapy

• RF Needling - Tixel - Dermapen

• Skin Tag, Mole - Sun spot removal

• Laser Hair removal - Waxing

• Vaginal Rejuv - Strech Marks - Scars

• Bespoke Facials - Micros - Peels Brows

- Lash Lifts - Tints Makeup - Beauty

Treatments Cosmetic Injectables - Fillers

• Bespoke Jewellery

Lamb

SKIN, BEAUTY & LASER PROFESSIONAL Noosa Waters P 0411 699 227

aboutfacesnoosa@gmail.com www.aboutfacesnoosa.com.au

Confused about how to look after your skin properly? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers a boutique beauty salon that will tailor a results-focused approach that’s right for you – while calling out a few common skincare mistakes along the way.

Saviours SKIN

Have you ever washed your face with a bar of soap? Applied eye cream to your eyelids? Or agonised over EVERY SINGLE PORE in a magnifying mirror?

It’s safe to say that most of us would be guilty of one or two of these skincare sins – especially when we’re inundated with Instagram “experts” encouraging us to self-diagnose our routines and try all sorts of products that might not be right for our unique skin type.

Step away from the magnifying mirror and put down the soap bar (or expensive serum that may or may not be working) – it’s time to consult the professionals.

Known for their expertise, friendliness and calm approach, the team at boutique Noosa Junction beauty salon Noosa Body and Skin Care has been quietly building a reputation as some of the region’s most trusted skincare gurus for more than two decades!

Founder Jenny Wilson says she understands that skincare can feel overwhelming, and her team genuinely loves working with clients to design routines that make a difference.

“Unless you have a skincare consultation with a professional, you never really know what you’re working

...a one-stop destination when it comes to making your skin the best it possibly can be.

with,” she says. “We can tailor a program that might include facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and more, as well as recommending the right products for your skin journey.

“We’re really a one-stop destination when it comes to making your skin the best it possibly can be.”

A major part of that results-driven approach comes down to the brands they’ve chosen to work with, particularly their hero skincare range, Dermalogica, a company that began with the philosophy of skin education.

“Dermalogica is the only skincare brand that actually started as a beauty school,” Jenny explains.

“Their training background is incredible, and they’re very focused on education. Our team is regularly completing their courses to understand

the ‘why’ behind every product.”

It’s this combination of rigorous training and carefully matched advice that means clients are getting skincare that really works for them.

“We hardly ever get returns, it’s one of the only professional brands I’ve stocked where that happens,” Jenny says. “When we’re recommending the correct product to the correct person, the results speak for themselves. That’s why it’s so important to get proper advice rather than guessing what your skin needs.”

While some Dermalogica products are available over the counter, many of their professional-strength offerings –including peels, targeted cleansers and results-focused masks – are best used with guidance.

Noosa Body and Skin Care’s signature ProSkin 75 Facial is a local favourite: a 75-minute escape that blends highperformance Dermalogica products with face, neck, shoulder and scalp massage, tailored to what your skin needs.

And then there are the cult classics.

“PreCleanse is one of our most popular products – everyone who uses it falls in love,” Jenny says. “Skin Perfect Primer is another favourite. It’s zinc-based, so it’s

perfect for our Queensland sun.”

She also gives a special shoutout to the PhytoNature Firming Cream, which is a luxurious moisturiser that clients return for again and again.

For body care, the salon stocks Pure Fiji – a female-owned brand made in remote Fijian villages using locally sourced ingredients.

“It’s made in the communities and supports them directly,” Jenny says.

“They even make the paper that wraps the soap.”

With nothing over $50, the coconutrich range is a go-to for gifts, self-care rituals and the salon’s dreamy Paradise Island Pedicure, which includes a hot body butter massage before finishing with a coat of polish in your choice of colour.

Whether you’re after a relaxing tropical-scented body treatment or a skincare treatment that truly works, the team’s philosophy stays the same: informed guidance, great products and a results-focused approach.

With experts like these in your corner, you’ll be well on your way to glowing goddess status this summer – skincare sins begone!

SKINCARE SINS

Jenny from Noosa Body and Skin Care

shares skincare sins to avoid:

Using eye cream too close to your eyes

“Eye cream is for the use on the orbital bone around your eyes and it’s designed to drift in. Putting it close to your eyes will ‘drift’ into your eyes!”

Skipping your morning cleanse

“We have millions of little bugs called demadex that live on our skin and eat our dead skin cells. And they do everything (I mean everything) on your skin! So a quick clean in the morning washes off their mess, plus any moisturiser that’s congealed from the night before which makes your skin dull.”

Washing with soap

“Soap equals dull skin (yes, even if it’s $50 goat milk soap). All solid soap bars make your skin feel clean but leave it dull and dehydrated – if you love that super-clean feeling, try a gel and whip it into a foam.”

Relying on a magnifying mirror

“No one, and I mean no one, can see that tiny little pore to the left of your cheek. When it comes to looking at your skin or checking your makeup, our tip is to stand a good foot back from the mirror and look at your face as a whole. This is how everyone else sees you – not those tiny imperfections in a magnifying mirror!”

Finalists in the Australian Beauty Industry Awards for the best Salon/ Spa QLD 4 treatment rooms or less 2019, 2022, 2023 & 2024. Finalist for best Eco Salon 2021. Dermalogica Gold stockist Salon 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2024.

Formula FINDING OUR

In a world overflowing with skincare promises, finding something that truly works – and works naturally – can feel like striking gold. At the IN Noosa office, we’re always trying, testing, and talking about what makes us glow. So when Ann Donnarumma, founder of Founder’s Formula, stepped in to show us the science behind her award-winning botanicals, we couldn’t resist. Join us as we set out to find our formula with Founder’s Formula.

When it comes to skincare, our office is a lively mix of philosophies. Amongst us there’s Ali, our sporty, salt-kissed, minimal-effort beauty; Deb, our luxe-loving, on-the-go Editor-inChief; and me, kind of in between, with Danish skin that still hasn’t quite adjusted to the Queensland heat.

So when we were offered the chance to try Founder’s Formula, a homegrown, award-winning, all-natural skincare brand built on the power of Australian botanicals, we couldn’t resist.

We jumped online to take their personalised skincare quiz, which cleverly tailors products to your individual needs. A few days later, owner and skincare guru Ann Donnarumma arrived with our customised Discovery Kit: compact, beautiful and brimming with promise. It felt like nature itself had been bottled, and we were about to find out just how much difference sciencebacked botanicals could make.

Founder’s Formula is more than just skincare. It’s a philosophy. Rooted in the resilience of Australia’s wild landscape, the brand harnesses potent native botanicals known for their hydrating, brightening and anti-inflammatory properties. From the salvation of Kakadu Plum’s Vitamin C properties to the nourishing and cleansing power of Macadamia Oil, these ingredients have evolved to thrive under Australia’s harshest conditions, and so can our skin.

“Your skin deserves natural care, not harmful hormone-disruptive ingredients,” said Ann, whose passion for merging science with nature shines through every formula. The products are clean, clinical and results-driven. No nonsense, no compromise. If skincare could be a personality, Ali’s would be bare minimum with a glow Our office’s ‘sporty spice’ spends her days between the beach, the gym, and designing magic in front of a screen. Often coated in SPF and salt spray, a simple yet effective routine was essential.

...discover just how much difference science-backed botanicals could make.

Her Founder’s Formula kit was built for her element-loving skin: a gentle Macadamia Oil Cleanser, Australian Botanicals Brightening Oil and Wild Rosella Hydrating Moisturiser

“I’ve always been a foam-cleanser girl,” Ali admitted. “I’ve never thought of using an oil to cleanse.”

She says switching to Founder’s Formula has converted and transformed her skin, as well as her daughter’s.

“We love how the Macadamia Oil Cleanser melts away sunscreen and salt without stripping the skin,” she said. “It emulsifies beautifully when mixed with water and rinses away easily leaving skin feeling clean but still hydrated.”

Her other go-to? The Australian Botanicals Brightening Facial Oil, a silky blend that evens out pigmentation.

“I never realised how dull my skin was until using this product,” she said. “I definitely noticed how it gave my skin a lift and a glow, without feeling heavy,” she said. “It’s easy, quick and I looked forward to using it after a beach day.”

For someone who’s never been one for fuss, that’s a win!

Then there’s Deb: our time-poor leader, always in and out of meetings, late-night laptop sessions and effortless glamour. She’s the first to admit she often falls into bed mid-email or postparty with makeup intact. Enter Founder’s Formula to change everything.

Her Discovery Kit also included the essentials of Macadamia Oil Cleanser along with Purslane and Commelina Gentle Balancing Toner and Australian Botanicals Pro-Ageing Treatment Concentrate Serum, a powerhouse packed with vitamins B3, B5

and hyaluronic acid, designed to hydrate, strengthen and smooth mature skin.

“I was surprised that the oil-based products didn’t actually make my skin oily,” she said. “They just feel good, luxurious and light. You can feel it working, so you want to keep going. I was surprised at how effective the Macadamia Oil Cleanser was in removing makeup with little mess or fuss.”

Deb’s sensitive, rosacea-prone skin often reacts to exfoliants, but even the Wild Pandanus Exfoliating Enzyme Cleansing Grains left her glowing, not flaring.

When our Discovery Kits first arrived, Deb’s eyes widened. She laughed, half-joking, that our petite trial bottles would not last more than a few days.

“I’m a woman of excess,” she admitted. “I slather on skincare - the more the better right?”

Wrong. According to Ann, the skin can only absorb so much and the high concentration of botanicals only requires the smallest amount to activate.

To Deb’s surprise, all of the products, including the Wild Rosella Moisturiser lasted more than a fortnight, even with twice-daily use.

She’s now swapped makeup wipes for a bamboo cloth and a proper cleanse, adding in Lemon Myrtle BHA Refining Organic Cleansing Oil every few days to harness the antioxidant power of Lemon Myrtle to clarify pores, target congestion, and refine the skin texture.

Deb’s skin has never looked better.

“It’s actually made me question what’s in all my other products,” she said. “Especially the ones with ingredients I can’t even pronounce.”

And then there’s me. My skin is fair, sensitive and perpetually confused, torn between my Scandinavian DNA and Queensland’s fiery UV. I’ve always been low-maintenance, but lately I’ve realised that good skin doesn’t just “happen.”

My Discovery Kit delivered a warm, hydrating hug for my parched face.

The award-winning Macadamia Oil

Cleanser has quickly become the holy grail for all three of us.

Recognised as one of the best Oil Cleansers at the 2021 Global Makeup Awards in Scandinavia (and the UK), this cleanser transforms into a silky, milky texture when mixed with water, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and nourished, never tight (unlike most other cleansers).

To remove the dead, dry patches, I’ve been alternating between the Wild Pandanus Exfoliating Grains and Lemon Myrtle BHA Refining Organic Cleansing Oil These magical products sound like something out of a rainforest ritual but feel like the gentlest massage and care for my face. My skin now feels (and looks) like a baby’s.

And when the sun gets too harsh, the Calm Tasmanian Mountain Pepper Berry Serum soothes inflammation and redness to become my post-sun salvation.

As Ann likes to remind us: “Your skin shouldn’t be squeaky clean. It should be clean, lush and moist.” And she is on to it, as this feels just right.

What sets Founder’s Formula apart is how intelligently each product is designed to work with your biology.

Rather than masking problems, the formulas nourish and rebalance from

within. Natural ingredients such as Kakadu Plum, Lemon Myrtle and Wild Rosella, have evolved over thousands of years to endure Australia’s extremes and that resilience transfers directly to your skin.

Formula delivered the perfect balance for each of us.

Because, as we discovered: when nature meets science, that’s when the magic (and the moisture) really happens. We are so happy we found our formula!

So, did our at-home trials work on our (very) different skin types? Let’s just say, after a few weeks, we were all glowing – literally and metaphorically. Our skin looked brighter, our routines felt simpler and our bathroom shelves became cleaner. For three women with completely different lifestyles, Founder’s

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

How do your hormones affect your skin – particularly in perimenopause, menopause and beyond? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the local clinic that’s empowering women to look and feel their best with a holistic approach to beauty.

Skin Support THROUGH STAGES & AGES

There’s a change in the air! Once a taboo topic, a new generation of women are speaking openly about perimenopause and menopause – helping others feel less alone and offering strategies for them to thrive during this time of transition.

One of these women is Bianca Dyda: registered nurse, aesthetic trainer, and founder of the results-focused Noosa cosmetic clinic, Cosmedic Lab.

The topic of menopause arrived front and centre for Bianca: first in her own life, then in her clinic. She says that as someone who deals with skin every day, she realised her clients needed a holistic approach to their health to complement their treatments.

“Menopause is a natural part of life that affects every woman in a variety of ways, including their skin, but up until recently so little information was accessible,” she says. “I’m 37 years old and have a family history of early menopause, so this is something I’ve been dealing with on a personal level, as well as in the treatment chair with my beautiful clients.

“Our customer base here at Cosmedic Lab is mainly women aged 35 and above, so we wanted to offer a service that explains how hormones affect skin health, alongside providing our tailored beauty and cosmetic treatments and products.”

Hormonal changes during

There’s still so much misinformation, so we’re proud that Cosmedic Lab is a safe space where women feel heard and supported

perimenopause and menopause can wreak havoc on skin due to a drop in estrogen and hyaluronic acid, often resulting in dryness, increased fine lines, dullness and sagging, seemingly overnight.

Increased cortisol can also trigger redness, eczema, and those frustrating breakouts; not high on anyone’s wishlist!

“People tend to think hormonal changes only affect women in their 50s, but perimenopausal symptoms can start as early as your 30s and are relatively common throughout your 40s,” Bianca says. “Treatments such as HRT or MHT can help, particularly with restoring some collagen and elasticity to the skin.

“As someone experiencing this myself, I had a lightbulb moment: instead of just treating the symptoms, let’s help educate women and connect them with an incredible menopause specialist who can help them through it.”

Enter Dr Emily Watters, a Brisbanebased GP who is now the Medical Director at Cosmedic Lab. Highly accomplished with a special interest in women’s health and aesthetic medicine, Dr Emily offers on-site consultations covering hormonal health checks, perimenopause management, HRT/MHT prescribing, and preventative care.

“We’re delighted to have Dr Emily on board,” says Bianca. “She’s an expert who’s also down-to-earth and highly relatable. Her Instagram page demystifies so many aspects of perimenopause and menopause, and we wanted to make that same education and expertise available to our clients.”

This comprehensive approach to women’s health means Cosmedic Lab is the place women can access everything they need to thrive into this new phase

Bianca Dyda

of life: hormone advice, tailored beauty treatments and cosmetic options.

One of Bianca’s favourite treatments for women in this stage is RF Needling.

“We experience a real decline in elastin and collagen as we age, but RF Needling is incredibly effective at stimulating collagen growth and achieving great results,” she says. “There are cosmetic injectable options that can do this too, and we discuss them during consultation.

“We all love the Synergie PressPause Serum, formulated specifically for women over 40, which helps prevent glycationinduced skin ageing and was the Winner of the Prevention Beauty 2025 Best Hydrating Serum for Hormonal Skin

“There are so many ways to maximise your skin health so you look and feel like the very best version of yourself,” Bianca adds. “Alongside Dr Emily for women’s health, our team includes experienced aesthetic nurses, dermal therapists and beauty therapists who work together to help you achieve your skin goals.

“Your initial consultation with one of our friendly nurses is complimentary, and from there you can access services such as Hydrafacials, skin needling, chemical peels, aesthetic injections, LED light therapy and more – we’re a one-stop shop for getting back your

Dr Emily Watters

gorgeous glow.”

Bianca is so passionate about supporting women that she recently hosted Cosmedic Lab’s first The Menopause Edit VIP Day, an empowering afternoon featuring honest insights from Dr Emily, a skin and menopause talk from Senior Dermal Therapist Deb, lucky door prizes, champagne, and plenty of laughter and connection.

I mention that while menopause podcasts and articles seem to be everywhere now, real-life gatherings like this are rare.

“Exactly,” Bianca says. “That’s why it’s so important to bring our community

together – so they find their tribe, learn from each other and remember they’re not going through it alone. Watch this space for more events in the future!”

Women’s voices are getting louder, yet Bianca still hears concerning stories of women not receiving the treatment they deserve.

“Multiple clients in their 50s have told me they’ve been refused HRT – even by female doctors,” she says. “There’s still so much misinformation, even within the medical community, so we’re proud that Cosmedic Lab is a safe space where women feel heard and supported.”

“When your skin feels amazing, it gives you a confidence that flows into other areas of your life – and that’s something we all deserve, at every age!”

BOOK YOUR BEAUTY BUZZ

Want to know more about how perimenopause and menopause affects your skin?

Book a women’s health appointment with Dr Emily or a complimentary nurse consultation at Cosmedic Lab for holistic, tailored advice to help you look and feel your best self! www.cosmediclab.co

Caring for you inside and out

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Radiant Skin THE CRAVE FOR

Endless blue skies and sunlit days are part of life in Noosa. And so is the challenge of maintaining healthy, radiant skin under a harsh coastal sun. One local cosmetic clinic is redefining what it means to truly care for skin in a coastal climate. Ida Fink Gundtoft goes skin deep with Chloe Regan. In a town drenched in sunshine and salt spray, that summer ‘glow’ can come from great skincare… or one too many hours at the beach.

Few understand that better than Chloe Regan, founder of Chloe Regan Cosmetic Clinic and creator of Crave Skin, a homegrown skincare brand redefining what it means to care for your skin.

After more than two decades as a Dermal Therapist, Chloe has built a reputation for her knowledge, integrity and deeply personal approach to skin health. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: healthy skin is confident skin. And this summer, she’s helping Noosa locals (and professionals across Australia) achieve that effortless, sun-kissed radiance from the inside out.

For Chloe, skincare is in her DNA.

“My passion for skin started young,” she said. “My mother was also a skin therapist and inspired my career path.”

After years in the industry, Chloe began noticing a pattern: clients frustrated by products that promised the world but delivered nothing more than

marketing fluff.

“So many formulas rely on cheap fillers or harsh ingredients that disrupt the skin barrier,” she said. “I wanted to create something that performed clinically while protecting and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier.”

That vision became Crave Skin, a professional-only cosmeceutical range five years in the making. What began as an idea during the quiet of the 2020 lockdown evolved into a labour of love marked by research, testing and relentless refinement.

Every formulation meticulously trialled for over a year before launch: a process Chloe describes as “equal parts science and heart.”

The result? A brand that’s Australian made for Australian skin, born from Chloe’s understanding of how our climate, UV exposure and lifestyle uniquely shape our skin’s needs.

Crave Skin officially launched in February this year and has already made waves in the skincare world. Within months, the brand was recognised

nationally, taking home Best MultiTasking Moisturiser in the Prevention Australia Beauty Awards 2025 for its Crave Skin Collagen Plus Moisturiser.

To be recognised among some of the industry’s biggest names (just seven months after launching) is a testament in itself. Each Crave Skin product is a masterclass in balance, combining peptides, antioxidants, probiotics, hydrators and vitamins to protect, repair and strengthen the skin barrier.

The range focuses on long-term skin health, supporting collagen synthesis and DNA repair while enhancing radiance.

As Noosa gears up for another golden summer, Chloe’s focus naturally turns to seasonal skin health, helping clients protect and maintain that natural, healthy glow even under the harsh Queensland sun.

“SPF is non-negotiable,” she emphasised. “And antioxidants like Vitamin C give the skin a deeper level of defence against environmental stressors.”

Her other essentials? Hydration and

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

barrier repair.

“Salt water, air conditioning, and UV rays can all dehydrate and inflame the skin,” she shares. “That’s where ingredients like peptides, ceramides and probiotics come in. They keep the skin resilient, calm and luminous.”

At her Noosa Civic clinic, summer treatments are tailored to restore and revive sun-exposed skin. Hydration Infusions, LED Therapy, Skin Boosters and Crave Medi Facials are among the most popular for the season, each designed to enhance vitality.

“It’s all about maintaining balance,” Chloe said. “We focus on treatments that nourish the skin from within, so our clients can enjoy that healthy, radiant glow all year-round.”

Her summer tip? It’s quite simple.

“Keep it light,” she said. “Opt for breathable, active formulations that let your skin glow naturally. It’s about enhancing, not masking.”

For Chloe, creating Crave Skin wasn’t just about filling a gap in the market. It was about changing the narrative around skincare itself.

“I wanted to reach more people than I ever could from within my clinic,” she explained. “Helping clients achieve healthy, glowing skin has always been my passion, but I wanted to expand that impact. Crave Skin allows me to share real, transformative results with people everywhere, not just those who walk through our doors.”

That mission extends to sustainability with Crave Skin products packaged with purpose, using recyclable materials and QR codes in place of traditional printed inserts to reduce waste.

“Healthier skin and a healthier planet,

one face at a time,” as Chloe puts it. This alignment of science, ethics and sustainability reflects Chloe’s belief that true beauty starts with integrity – both in what we put on our skin and how we treat the world around us.

Whether it’s a restorative facial at Chloe Regan Cosmetic Clinic or a daily ritual using Crave Skin at home, Chloe’s message remains consistent: glowing skin begins with knowledge, consistency and care.

As we head into another hot summer, Chloe’s approach feels especially timely. Healthy summer skin, she insists, isn’t about perfection. It’s about protection, hydration and repair. In Chloe’s world, radiance isn’t just something you see; it is something you feel. And for anyone chasing that glow, she is here to help you find it, this summer and beyond.

Launched in February, Crave Skin has already earned national recognition winning Best Multi-Tasking Moisturiser in the Prevention Australia Beauty Awards 2025 for its Collagen Plus Moisturiser. This came just after Chloe taking home the award of Best Dermal Therapist of the Year (in Australia & NZ) at the ABIA Awards 2025. Congratulations Chloe!

Award-Winning Cosmetic Clinic

Healing FROM HYDRATION TO

Ida Fink Gundtoft discovers that hydration is more than topping up your water bottle and explores the importance of cellular hydration for optimum health.

Walk into Bottoms Up Colonics Noosa and you’ll quickly learn that hydration is far more than how many glasses of water you drink in one day.

In fact, if you’ve been proudly glugging your way through litres and still feeling tired, sluggish, foggy, dry or just “not quite right” the team at Bottoms Up might gently suggest a truth that surprises almost everyone: it’s not about the water you drink; it’s about the water your cells can actually use.

While many clients come in for gut support, cleansing programs or simply a reset, they leave with something far more foundational: a new understanding of hydration at the core of wellbeing. And an introduction to a form of water that behaves less like a liquid and more like a supercharged, life-supporting elixir.

Inside the human body, water is everywhere. Running through tissues, cushioning joints, bathing organs and carrying nutrients. But the body does not run on ordinary liquid water the way a car runs on fuel. The water your cells rely on is something more refined, more structured, more intelligent. And that’s where Bottoms Up Colonics enters the conversation.

Treatment therapist Orion and her team have built their hydration philosophy around the work of researcher Dr Gerald Pollack, whose groundbreaking exploration of water revealed the presence

Using exclusively structured, negatively charged water isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.

of a fourth phase of water, beyond solid, liquid and vapour. Dr Pollack calls it EZ water, short for Exclusion Zone water, though many simply call it structured water or negatively charged water.

The science is fascinating but surprisingly intuitive: when water flows, spins and interacts with hydrophilic (water-loving) surfaces, like the inside of your cells, it begins to reorganise itself into a tightly packed, almost crystal resembling structure. This gel-like water is denser, purer and active. It carries a slight negative charge, allowing it to store and transfer energy and repels particles, acting as ‘Super Water’ with enhanced purity. Most importantly, it forms the true foundation of cellular hydration.

Unlike traditional colonics that rely on forceful water pressure, Bottoms Up Colonics uses Rojas Colon Hydrotherapy: a gentle, deeply hygienic and surprisingly soothing therapy designed to leave you feeling lighter, clearer and profoundly hydrated. Each session slowly flushes the colon of accumulated waste and toxins

while simultaneously delivering muchneeded hydration. A powerful pairing that forms the foundation of genuine, lasting wellness.

But here’s the part most people don’t realise: it’s not just about elimination. Yes, waste removal is definitely an integral part of the treatment, but the true magic lies in restoring balance, improving flow and supporting the body’s natural ability to detoxify and rehydrate on a deep, cellular level.

The result? Cellular hydration that energises the whole body, bringing with it clearer thinking, improved circulation, elevated vitality and even anti-ageing benefits (to mention a few).

Orion says that the water used at Bottoms Up Colonics undergoes a transformation long before it enters the body for treatment.

“We triple filter our water to remove impurities and then we send it through a vortex which reoxygenates it, structures it and charges the molecules in the water negatively,” she said.

Imagine a whirlpool spinning molecules into alignment, tightening their formation, and amplifying their natural vitality. This is the process that turns everyday H2O into something richer. Something your cells slurp right up.

At Bottoms Up Colonics, hydration is at the forefront. It’s a part of the conversation, every single time.

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

Clients often come to realise, sometimes for the first time, that despite drinking water all day, they have been living in a state of cellular dehydration.

The signs are everywhere: dry skin, constipation, low mood, headaches, brain fog, muscle tightness and even stubborn weight gain. Structured hydration becomes the missing puzzle piece. And in most cases, once that piece locks into place, everything else tends to flow, literally and metaphorically.

Of course, Bottoms Up Colonics is still widely known for its cleansing and gut health services. But beneath these offerings lies a deeper philosophy: the gut cannot thrive without water. And not just any water, but the right water. Using exclusively structured, negatively charged water isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.

“If we’re putting water inside the body it must be the purest, most bioavailable form,” Orion said. “We’re supporting the gut lining, flushing out toxins, nourishing tissues and restoring balance. Structured water enhances this entire process.”

Clients frequently report improved digestion, reduced bloating, better elimination and a sense of lightness that comes from deep internal hydration.

Hydration shapes everything: how we think, how we sleep, how we digest, how we detoxify, how we move, how we age. Perhaps that’s why so many clients describe their experience at Bottoms Up Colonics as life-changing. They expected a cleanse but discovered renewal, inside and out.

“We’re here to help people hydrate at the level where life actually happens, inside the cell,” Orion says. “Because when water is structured, charged, and intelligent, chances are we can be too.”

In a world overflowing with wellness advice, Bottoms Up Colonics offers something surprisingly simple, profoundly elemental and scientifically sound: the right water, in the right structure, doing exactly what nature intended.

The real magic happens at the microscopic level. With a little help from the magicians at Bottoms Up Colonics.

Structured water;

• Forms stable, hexagonal layers

• Carries a negative electrical charge

• Acts as a semi-solid gel near cell membranes

• Stores and transfers energy

• Helps repel pollutants, toxins, and unwanted particles

To find out more or book a treatment, scan the QR code. phone 5231 9765 or visit www.bottomsupcolonics.com.au

Ida Fink Gundtoft sets her sights on a local clinic bringing world-class care and delivering a clear vision for eyecare in Noosa.

Noosa is a sight to behold - the shimmer of the ocean, the curve of the coastline, lush hinterland and the colours that shift with the light through the seasons.

Thanks to the excellence of one local healthcare provider, residents can protect and restore that vision right at home.

Meet Dr Madeleine Adams, ophthalmic surgeon and owner of Insight Eye Surgery.

With Australian and international training, and a PhD in eye health, Madeleine brings global expertise to her mission of ensuring Noosa residents have access to world-class eye care without needing to leave town.

“We treat our patients and staff like family,” Madeleine said. “I hope that consistency and care comes through.”

Insight Eye Surgery works hand-inhand with Noosa’s strong network of optometrists, GPs and allied health professionals.

This close collaboration ensures that patients receive timely referrals and individualised treatment plans for conditions ranging from cataracts to glaucoma and aged related macular degeneration.

“We’re primarily a surgical practice. One of the bigger ones on the Sunshine Coast and in Southeast Queensland,” Madeleine explained.

Working in close partnership with Noosa Private Hospital, Madeleine and her team perform a wide range of procedures from cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange to glaucoma surgery.

What truly sets Insight Eye Surgery apart is the deeply personal approach that flows throughout the business.

From the first consultation to postsurgery recovery, Dr Adams takes the time to listen, answer questions and develop a plan that feels right for each patient.

When it’s time for surgery, Madeleine is right there again in the operating theatre at the hospital. The same familiar face, guiding you through each step of what can be a daunting process.

“Patients often come in feeling nervous,” Madeleine said. “Eye issues can seem scary. But we work hard to make our patients feel comfortable from the moment they arrive. It’s a privilege to be part of that journey with them.”

This continuity of care, seeing the same surgeon from start to finish, gives patients a sense of calm confidence and reassurance as they’re in the same trusted hands, every step of the way.

All Insight Eye Surgery procedures take

From the first consultation to postsurgery recovery, patients are cared for by the same person.

place at Noosa Private Hospital, a fully equipped, state-of-the-art facility with exceptional theatre staff and specialist anaesthetists.

For Madeleine, this hospital-based model isn’t just about safety. It’s about teamwork and trust.

“I serve on the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee and collaborate with local GPs and optometrists. We host regular education sessions to strengthen that team-based approach to patient care,” she said.

This partnership ensures that every patient benefits from the highest level of expertise and support.

If complex care is required, Noosa Private Hospital has the facilities and professionals to provide it immediately – something that gives patients and their families great peace of mind.

“We’re not just health providers. We’re part of the community,” Madeleine said.

“We live here. Our patients are our neighbours, the local shopkeepers, the

yoga instructors.”

This collaborative and communitybased approach is what really sets Insight Eye Surgery apart.

When it comes to eye surgery, precision is everything. Madeleine and her team combine advanced technology with meticulous care when undertaking procedures such as presbyopia-correcting lenses, refractive lens exchange and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.

These innovations not only restore

clear vision but also enhance independence and quality of life.

Cataract surgery, for example, can significantly reduce the risk of falls and even delay the onset of dementia. But for Madeleine and her team, the impact goes beyond medical outcomes. It’s about helping people see the world (and their lives) more clearly again.

Before Insight Eye Surgery opened its doors in 2019, many Noosa residents had to travel to Brisbane or the southern

Sunshine Coast for specialised eye care.

The long drives, early starts and distance from family were major barriers, especially for older patients.

Thanks to Insight Eye Surgery, treatment can now be done locally from consultations to procedures and followup care, all without leaving the comfort of Noosa.

“I pinch myself most days,” Madeleine said. “It’s such a beautiful, supportive community, and we’re so lucky to be here. We’ve got a wonderful team. Not just in our practice but at Noosa Private Hospital too. The theatre staff are exceptional.

“I feel like we’re really delivering what we set out to: world-class care right here in Noosa.”

With Noosa’s population growing and its medical services expanding, Insight Eye Surgery stands as a shining example of what happens when expertise meets empathy.

Patients are welcomed, guided and supported from start to finish, receiving the kind of care that feels as personal as it is professional.

That’s a clear vision for providing personalised and professional eyecare.

Hours:

Magic

Near the Beckmans Road and Swanbourne Way roundabout, you’ll find Exercise Matters. With its location removed from the rush of daily life, this isn’t your standard allied health clinic. It’s a purpose built Exercise Physiology Clinic that services a large proportion of the Noosa community.

With decades of experience, Dr Sven Rees had a clear mission: to build the region’s leading Exercise Physiology clinic combining state-of-the-art equipment & technology with a welcoming space where clients feel supported, connected, and part of a genuine community.

“Treating injuries and improving one’s health should be accessible, welcoming, and rewarding,” he says.

Exercise Matters clinic has grown into a local fixture where personal stories mean as much as physical progress, and where seven years of sweat, tears and laughter have turned clients into a community.

If you want to see what happens when serious science gets a good dose of local spirit, this is where to start.

Sven remembers the beginning clearly.

“I wanted a space where clinical rigour meets real-world results, a place that felt welcoming, not intimidating,” he said.

After making the move north from Sydney with his wife, psychologist Dr

MATTERS

John Caruso discovers a place where encouragement replaces ego and every workout leaves you wanting more.

Jasmine Green, and their kids, Sven brought decades of experience: academic research, high-performance sport, and a rare, human perspective on what ‘movement is medicine’ really means.

Launching a new clinic in the middle of uncertain COVID times wasn’t easy, but Sven knew Noosa needed a specialised Exercise Physiology Clinic where locals are known by name and empowered to achieve improvements in their health.

Step inside Exercise Matters and you’ll find a space alive with energy, laughter and just enough ‘data nerd’ spirit to keep every session on point.

Beneath the nerdy intellect of exercise physiology, there’s a sense of compassion and fun that makes the technical stuff feel simple, and the simple stuff feel special.

“If we peel everything back, the real magic is our community,” Sven tells me.

You don’t just see it, you hear it. Take their legendary Christmas Party where clients get together to celebrate the year with fun performances that memorialise their journey and victories. Last year, the team flipped the script with “I’m Just Sven” to the tune of “I’m Just Ken”, complete with fun awards and gifts that made everyone feel like a champion.

It’s become a tradition and one of those moments where you realise

exercise might not be the most important thing happening in the room.

The Exercise Matters secret ingredient really lies in the people behind the team: Annika Coyne is passionate about women’s health and injury prevention; Jarrad Greentree is a triathlon-obsessed local who loves treating sporting injuries; while Ebony Blackstone can spin rehab and life chats without missing a beat.

They’re experts, yes, but the real story is how they show up for clients. One week it’s a high five for a pain-free walk, the next it’s supporting someone through loss or celebrating ‘personal best’ milestones.

This isn’t a clinic of cookie-cutter programs. Each clinician is highly skilled in their respective areas of interest, and they make sure each client’s program is tailored to their needs.

Everyone is an individual and treated as such. Take the Clinical Exercise Classes - no matter what walk of life; retirees, athletes, newcomers, there is a clinical yet welcoming space for them.

These group classes have a clear clinical focus that also offers connection, confidence, and a supportive community for every participant. Whether they are managing bone density, back pain or health improvements, the clinic provides a safe space and is the backdrop to countless quiet victories.

“Many of our clients who join our classes end up becoming friends,” says Dr Sven Rees. “You see it in the way they support one another, staying connected beyond the clinic and showing up for each other well beyond class schedules.”

So, what really is the philosophy?

“Consistency beats intensity. Start where you are, do what you can, repeat,” Sven says. Advice that’s as much about courage as it is about calf raises.

Every client’s version of ‘strong’ is different, and the team will tell you that progress trumps perfection, every time.

Any place worth talking about has something at its core. For this crew, it’s their ‘clinical huddle’, a weekly ritual where the team swaps research, dives

into tough cases, and, most importantly, checks in on each other. They live and breathe their profession and living what they coach: active, connected, and full of small pleasures that echo through the clinic. A perfect day for Sven is getting up early for a hit of tennis & coffee; Jarrad trains for Ironman; Ebony’s learning to surf; and Annika recently notched up her first triathlon.

Exercise Matters isn’t just about rehab, reps, lab tests or VO2 max scores.

It’s a true reflection of the local community - a place where clinical expertise meets genuine warmth, where hard work often ends in laughter, and where everything starts with one question: ‘What matters most to you about

your health right now?’

Whatever the answer, the team at Exercise Matters brings structured assessment, individualised exercise prescription, and ongoing support to help people move better, stay stronger, and live the life they want for themselves.

And that’s what really matters.

“What started off not too long ago with a handful of loyal clients and a vision to make movement accessible, Exercise Matters has quickly grown into a leading local Exercise Physiology clinic,” Sven says. “Over seven years, we’ve invested in state-of-the-art facilities while staying true to our community root, where every person’s story matters as much as their progress.”

Ebony, Jarrad, Annika, Dr Sven

MOVEMENT IS MEDICINE

• VO2 Max Assessment

• DEXA Scan - Body Composition & Bone Density Scan • Injury Rehabilitation

• Back Pain Treatment

• Knee, Hip and Shoulder Injury Rehab

• Neuro Rehabilitation

• Osteoporosis Treatment

• ONERO Classes

• Perimenopause and Menopause Support

• Pre and Postnatal Exercises

• NDIS Provider

Luxury HIGH FREQUENCY

There is a Noosa candle company turning home fragrance into lifestyle art – Carlie Wacker explores how Luxe Candle Co are elevating every moment with high frequency and fine fragrance.

Elegantly positioned in the heart of Hastings Street, Luxe Candle Co is quietly rewriting how we think about designer home products. Founded with a singular vision - to support the energy of luxury and increase the frequency of your space - this boutique brand has become a go-to for those seeking quality, refinement and a local luxe touch.

At the heart of Luxe Candle Co’s aesthetic is an elevated sensory experience created by Founder Meagen Kwiatkowski. Her signature creations cannot be described as simply as candles but as ‘High Frequency Luxury’ artefacts designed to lift the atmosphere of a room.

Meagen is driven by the power of energy and frequency and the ability it has to elevate your environment and life.

“Every formula and fragrance is thought driven and has a purpose,” Meagen says. “Luxe Candle Co candles even offer a different feeling when you’re

Luxe Candle Co candles are ‘high frequency luxury’ artefacts designed to lift the atmosphere of a room. not

burning them.”

The candles frequencies are supported by crystals in every handmade piece and they truly are statement pieces in your home and business – a work of art with function.

From richly scented soy-wax blends to curated collections of room mists and incense, Luxe Candle Co creates more than fragrance - they craft ambience.

The candle collection offers playful yet sophisticated options like Lychee+Guava, Lemongrass+Kaffir Lime, Watermelon and Vanilla+Caramel, among others.

Beyond the burn, there’s the scentspray and ritual side of Luxe Candle Co and the High Frequency Room Mists have become a bit of an addiction for me.

The Grande High Frequency Mist has been designed to awaken the Crown chakra which brings with it clarity in thoughts, ideas and decision making –it’s ideal to have in your workspace. I’ve sprayed the mist seven times (the suggested ritual) as I write this story.

The Opulence mist supports the heart chakra to attract love; and the cinnamon keynote in the Exotica mist supports the third eye, throat and solar plexus chakra which brings new connection and calm.

Then there is the Luxe Incense offering another way for customers to raise the frequency in their space.

The stunning accessories like rechargable lighters and candle care kits make for ideal and unique gifting.

Plus, they have a range of consumable high frequency – The Knowing Effect tea

collection has again been thoughtfully formulated to elevate everyday living.

The Angel Blend supports the release of pain and congestion in the Third Eye chakra; The Nurture Blend supports the nervous system and The Collagen Creator Blend supports the production of collagen for glowing skin. It is very clear to me that these products deliver the frequency as intended –Meagen’s skin is flawless.

I love the way Luxe Candle Co has tapped into the interplay between scent, surface and space to offer function led fragrance and living. This brand reflects the Noosa luxury coastal lifestyle and the products don’t just smell great they look truly beautiful. The emphasis on high frequency changes the way we think of home fragrance – welcome to the world of ‘Interior Wellness’ thanks to Luxe Candle Co.

Experience the frequency at Luxe Candle Co in Bay Village Hastings Street, Noosa. To become a stockist, shop designer products and corporate gift packs or to find out more, visit www.luxecandleco.com.au

The tail-ented ex racing Rascal, as Helen Flanagan discovered, has morphed into paw-some retirement.

Pet-ential UNLEASHING RASCALLY

Greyhounds, the oldest purebred canine, have the most amazing credentials. Originating as a hunting breed in the Middle East over 8,000 years ago, today’s modern greyhounds are the result of careful, controlled breeding in England and associated with such royalty as Queen Victoria and King Henry VIII, nobility and the upper class. Also known as the fastest dog in the world, the sight hound, can see clearly up to one kilometre and has amazing peripheral vision of 270 degrees.

Taryn and Ash Delaney had their hearts set on a greyhound knowing it to be quiet, well-mannered, and very easy to live with.

Taryn, the general manager of Stay Noosa and Noosa Secret Destinations who has worked in thoroughbred horse racing for the best part of a decade, says the full life cycle of an athlete, especially life after racing was something she cared deeply about.

“I’ve seen first-hand how much love, care, passion and dedication goes into creating a high performance animal athlete, and how important the transition into retirement has to be thoughtful, supported and respectful.” she said.

Ash an Olympian, who retired from competitive swimming at 30, coaches swimming at St Andrews Anglican College. He loves greyhound racing and long admired the well-natured breed, the perfect balance of bursts of energy, then pure laziness, suiting their family dynamic to a tee.

Greyhounds are put up for adoption simply because they’ve retired from professional racing. Just like any athlete, their competitive years are limited.

...he’s tall enough to swipe food off the table...

“Animals are no different,” says Taryn. “You can’t make a greyhound race if they don’t love it. Rascal completed his job, had nothing left to prove, and was ready for a family to call his own. We’re thrilled.

“The Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) was brilliant in building a profile around our lifestyle and family, and matched us with Rascal all 76cm, the height of a small great Dane.”

It was absolute love at first sight, especially for sons Austin and Xavier.

“We’re an active family, but when we’re home… we’re home,” Taryn says. “We didn’t want a dog that needed constant walking or stimulation. Rascal still asks for walks anyway!

“He is five years old and has a sweet, calm temperament. We’ve only had him for a couple of months, but you’d think he’s lived with us for years.

“He spends most of his time inside following us around or lounging on his bed. When his tail starts wagging we know the zoomies are coming and it’s time to take him outside to the big backyard aka acreage, where he can thrive, rip around and burn off the pent-up energy.

“There are safety measures in place with the boys who he absolutely adores

but he’s big, fast, excitable, and still adjusting to domestic life.”

Rascal’s diet consists of two and a half cups of his favourite dry mix, morning and night plus an occasional treat. He sleeps through the night on his huge comfy doggy bed in the lounge room, with bedrooms and couches off-limits so he has his own calm space.

“He’s naturally incredibly clever learning our routines to the minute,” says Taryn with a big smile. “When the alarm goes off, he knows it’s walk time; when the cars pull into the driveway, he’s waiting at the garage; when yoga mats come out, he trots straight to the door as the area is off limits because he becomes far too excited trying to join in.

“And before we eat he knows to go outside, mostly because he’s tall enough to swipe food off the table without anyone noticing!

“Yes, he may be retired, but we’re still shocked at his speediness.”

A Rascal indeed!

Rascal

Wildling Pet Co - Coastline Harness Collection Wildling Pet Co

EZY Dog - Rashie UV Shirt

EZY Dog - Harnesses

Wildkind - Western Desert Camel Jerky

Art Fashion MEETS

The air was electric at Noosa’s Gateway to Art - a creative precinct where galleries, studios and makers’ spaces transform Gateway Drive into a living corridor of culture.

It’s here, amongst finished artworks, canvases in progress, sculptural forms and paint drop sheets that our fashion story unfolded.

The locations became more than backdrops but fashion art collaborations. In this fusion of style and artistry, the season’s trends including luxe linens, woven accents and bold, expressive prints took on a whole new energy, grounding fashion firmly in the world of local creativity.

Carlie Wacker @worldofwacker

The Colourful Ikat long sleeve panel dress and Love Heart

Recycled Plastic Tote from Sara Leonardi, www.itsafad.com.au

ARTIST STUDIO: Juanita Van Den Bergh

Blue Toile Prairie shirt with matching pants and Nadia Dafri Feriha Tote, from Sara Leonardi,

Rowena dress – Anjali, Brown leather purse, bracelets and beaded necklace from Soul Song, 0412 246 550. ARTIST STUDIO: Jo Cook www.jocookartist.com.au

Mevlana sleeveless – Amara dress, Sundara Scarf in Aqua Palms, cushions from Soul Song, 0412 246 550. Malibu Flexibraid Mix Camel from Canopy Bay by Deborah Hutton from Harbourside Hats, 0418 871 397. Shoes, stylist’s own. ARTIST STUDIO: Dianne McInerney @diannemcinerneyartist

Rou Slip in Positano by Kinney, Leather Trim Raffia BB bag by Nim, Tulum sandal by Elyson from Domini Collective, 5470 2641

ARTIST STUDIO: Sean O’Donoghue @seanodonoghueglass

Art UNDERCOVER

Wear art close to your heart with these stunning lingerie sets from Lady Bird Noosa.

Be fitted with care by the most experienced bra fitters on the Sunshine Coast. experienced

• Personalised fittings with care and consideration

• Beautiful basics designed to be worn every day

• Domestic and European brands famed for their quality, design and fit

• Extensive ranges in underwear, lingerie and sleepwear

Noosa Junction Plaza, Noosa Heads

5455 4070

www.ladybirdnoosa.com.au @ladybirdnoosa Dedicated to the perfect fit...

Prima Donna Devdaha unpadded bra underwire bra and full brief, Lady Bird Noosa, 5455 4070

Sarda Shay half padded bra and thong, Lady Bird Noosa, 5455 4070

Marie Jo Lizelot unpadded bra and rio brief Lady Bird Noosa, 5455 4070

SHOP OUR ONLINE

Lookbook

See something you like?

Shop the HOTTEST looks and local labels online!

Simply scan the QR code to access the Summer 2025/2026 Lookbook with shoppable links to take you from curious to catwalk-ready!

the team

SUMMER FASHION

2025/2026

Fashion Editor: Carlie Wacker @worldofwacker

Photographer: Ian Waldie @ianwaldiephotography

HMUA: Craig and Lara Argent @pony_beauty_bar_noosa

Model: Sharlize Benson @sharlize_benson

Assistant: Kiki Argent @pony_beauty_bar_noosa

Shot on location at various Gateway to Art studios, Gateway Drive, Noosaville @gatewaytoartnoosa.

Special thanks to Studio One Noosa www.studioonenoosa.com.au

BINNY | POL | KINNEY | NU | BITTE KAI RAND | ZHRILL | DE ROCOCO | SEVENTY + MOCHI | ONCE WAS | NIM THE LABEL | SABEN | GEORGIE A

Garryowen striped dress by Binny, Gani shoulder bag by Saben and Wise sandal from Domini Collective, 5470 2641

Earrings from Wacker Clothing Company, www.wackerclothingcompany.com.au

ARTIST STUDIO: Lis Eberle www.liseberle.com

14k White Gold and Diamond Pendant featuring a 11.36ct Queensland Boulder Opal

18k White Gold and Diamond Ring featuring a 1.81ct Queensland Boulder Opal

18k Yellow Gold and Diamond Ring featuring a 0.91ct Queensland Boulder Opal

18k White Gold and Diamond Ring featuring a 1.2ct Queensland Boulder Opal

18k Yellow Gold and Diamond Ring featuring a 6.76ct Queensland Boulder Opal

18k White Gold and Diamond Ring featuring a 1.21ct Lightning Ridge Black Opal

14k Yellow Gold and Diamond Pendant featuring a 3.07ct Lightning Ridge Black Opal

Opals Down Under, 5494 5400

Avignon Rafia Natural Canopy Bay hat by Deborah Hutton from Harbourside Hats, 0418 871 397.

ARTIST STUDIO: Dallas Lesley @dallaslesleyart

WIN a Veneto Fedora Flexibraid Hat!

Timeless yet contemporary, the Veneto Fedora Flexibraid hat combines classic design with clever functionality in a refined ivory and earth colour.

Crafted from Flexibraid, it is lightweight, packable and crush-resistant offering UPF50+ protection for effortless sun-smart style. The complementary tonal trim adds a distinctive touch to the versatile fedora silhouette. Finished with an internal ComfyFit adjuster for a custom fit, the Veneto delivers timeless elegance with a modern travel-ready twist!

Scan the QR code to enter and discover more at www.flexibraid.com.au and available at Harbourside Hats, Tewantin.

Warning: DO NOT SKATE ON UNEXPLODED MISSILES

Noosa Regional Gallery Director Michael Brennan curates a powerful, world-first exhibition exploring the power of skating as an expression of freedom and hope.

How do you write an arts editorial for a lifestyle magazine when the subject of that editorial is the activities of a group of people whose ‘lifestyle’ is defined by famine, destruction and a constant threat of annihilation? Perhaps skip past this story if you prefer your arts writing to be about vibrant colours and idyllic landscapes...

I first became aware of Gaza Skate Team earlier in the year through their Instagram account. The first video I saw hit hard. Like most of us (I assume), my feed was spattered with a constant stream of the devastation and carnage coming out of Palestine. Much of this was quite graphic.

Then, in amongst it was this image –a young man, Rajab Al Reefi, standing on a skateboard atop an unexploded missile surrounded by rubble.

Tentatively, the man’s foot pressed down on the tail of the board, bouncing it

...free skating lessons against the backdrop of the bombardment of their homes.

off the hard steel surface, his other foot sliding its length and launching it into the air before landing back on the bomb – heart in mouth. It was equal parts compelling and chilling.

Diving further into the account, I was completely transfixed by both the story and the images of this small group of young men dedicated to bringing some sense of joy and hope to the children of Gaza by giving them free skating lessons against the backdrop of the bombardment of their homes.

The images show them holding the hands of young boys and girls as they helped them coast across spaces they’d cleared of debris, tents and ruins in the near distance. Peppered through these were images of the young men using skating as their own way to negotiate the fractured space, jumping smashed pylons and rolling down fallen slabs.

For them, skating is an expression of freedom, as well as a push back against the authorities deciding how you use a space or place.

In a local context, that plays out in Noosa with ‘no skating’ signs in civic centres and car parks, with dedicated skate parks relegating the activity to a place deemed ‘appropriate’ - and generally out of the way.

In Gaza, it’s both a desperate attempt to find joy in an impossible situation, as well as a declaration of agency – a reclamation of a place that has been

Shaun Gladwell, Storm Sequence, 2000 (still) video, 4:3, colour, sound.

Courtesy of the Artist & PALAS, Sydney.

Gaza Skate Team, Ollie on Missile, 2025 (still) video, 9:16, colour, sound.

destroyed by an invading force. Brings new meaning to the ‘skate or die’ philosophy.

I felt compelled to share the heartfelt humanity of their project to remind us of the scale of the devastation and trauma they’re dealing with to do it. It was unlikely that I’d be able to contact them directly, even less likely that we could arrange an exhibition of their photos and videos here in Noosa, yet here we are.

Alongside the gripping Gaza Skate Team exhibition, celebrated Australian artist Shaun Gladwell has loaned a copy of his seminal video work, Storm Sequence, for a rare showing outside major institutions. The slow-motion video captures the artist spinning on his own skateboard on a concrete ledge in front of a storm-soaked Bondi Beach. A tale of two worlds.

And the story of skating’s local context is told in another group of works brought together by artist and curator, Warwick Gow. Refuse explores the mythology of a secret Sunshine Coast skate spot and the quest of locals to find it and skate it.

Try telling them where they can and can’t skate.

GET ON BOARD

Don’t miss this engaging and heartfelt exhibition. Free entry. 13 December 2025 - 22 February 2026

GAZA SKATE TEAM

SHAUN GLADWELL: STORM SEQUENCE

REFUSE, CURATED BY WARWICK GOW

28 February - 19 April

ANDREW HILLHOUSE: SOLO EXHIBITION

Noosa Regional Gallery | Riverside, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin

Tuesday - Friday 10am – 4pm | Saturday & Sunday 10am – 3pm www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au

After a successful decade, one masterpiece event is looking for its next leader. Deb Caruso paints the picture.

Opportunity OPEN TO

Noosa Open Studios 2025 marked a major milestone, celebrating its 10th year as Queensland’s largest and most engaging open studios art trail with a resounding success that illuminated the Noosa region’s vibrant creative spirit.

Over ten days in October, 94 artists and galleries opened their creative spaces across five trails spanning hinterland hills, rainforests, the coastline, and charming townships; attracting over 16,000 visitors to explore, engage, and experience art at its most authentic.

Run by a passionate team of volunteers, the event generated a lively buzz that permeated streets, galleries, and creative spaces throughout Noosa, reflecting a decade of steady growth and deepening community connections.

Noosa Open Studios 2025 President Trevor Purvis said that there was a strong buzz in the region with the Noosa Open Studios flags visible throughout the region for this landmark celebration, underscoring the event’s broad reach and local enthusiasm.

The 2025 event featured many outstanding highlights, starting with a celebration of the ten-year anniversary where committee members, artists, sponsors and supporters reflected on the humble beginnings, challenges and success that has seen the event maintain the title of Queensland’s largest open studios art trail.

The prestigious Noosa Open Studios & Hinternoosa Prestige Art Auction at Lucio’s Marina was the largest ever and showcased works by the finest artists to raise more than $22,000 to fund ongoing marketing and event initiatives and a $2,200 donation to McGrath Foundation. Not to be overlooked, the ArtCubes series of hand-painted cubes crafted in

collaboration with the Cooroora Woodworkers Club and sponsored by Moon Mountain Sanctuary also saw auction success at The Doonan, adding a fresh, dynamic element to the festival’s fundraising and promotional efforts.

Collaboration with Sunshine Coast Open House helped to broaden audiences and share resources to mutual benefit, helping to create an even more compelling cultural landscape; and a series of workshops strengthened the engagement and skills of artists at all stages of their artistic journey.

The launch of the colourful Noosa Open Studios Trail Guide and associated App showcased the participating artists and galleries and proved indispensable for visitors planning their journey.

For locals and visitors alike, Noosa Open Studios strips away the barriers of the traditional gallery setting and invites art lovers to step directly into artist studios to gain unique insight into creative practices, witness art in progress, and purchase original works.

This accessibility and personal touch creates an intimate atmosphere rare in larger arts festivals, fostering a deeper appreciation of and connection to the arts. It also provides artists with direct feedback, sales opportunities, and a platform to showcase their work in a supportive environment.

Beyond its artistic and cultural achievements, Noosa Open Studios stands as a model of volunteer-driven success and the tenth anniversary not only celebrated a decade of cultural contribution but also set the stage for a promising future.

It illustrated the power of passionate volunteers and a committed committee in sustaining and growing an event that

...meet a broad spectrum of passionate artists and art lovers, develop community connections, and contribute meaningfully to Noosa’s cultural assets.

is vital to Noosa’s cultural identity and tourism appeal.

The robust ten-year history of the event owes much to a dedicated team of volunteers and committee members who work tirelessly behind-the-scenes to coordinate the many facets of the ten-day program from marketing and logistics to artist engagement and visitor support.

The rewards of volunteering extend far beyond event duties. Volunteers gain a unique insider’s view of the creative

PHOTOS

(LEFT & RIGHT): IAN WALDIE

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

process, meet a broad spectrum of passionate artists and art lovers, develop community connections, and contribute meaningfully to Noosa’s cultural assets.

Many volunteers describe their experiences as profoundly rewarding, noting that their work fosters personal growth, new friendships, and a sense of purpose. Serving on the committee offers leadership opportunities that help develop skills in event management, communications, sponsorship, and community engagement.

Outgoing president Trevor Purvis highlighted the vital role played by volunteers in making the event a continual success and issued a call for

new leaders and committee members to take part in shaping this remarkable event, ensuring Noosa remained a beacon for artists and art lovers alike.

“We are urgently needing next year’s leaders to step up and make a difference,” he said. “The benefits of being involved go beyond the immediate achievements of the event. The volunteer framework nurtures a creative and supportive environment where people can develop expertise while contributing to a signature cultural experience that attracts visitors from across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.

Involvement connects participants with Noosa’s affluent and engaged audience,

enhancing social ties and professional networks. The organisation invites new committee members and volunteers to inject fresh ideas and enthusiasm into the governance and delivery of Noosa Open Studios.

This opportunity includes the prestigious role of president - a position that offers the chance to steer a wellestablished, high-profile event with strong community roots and wide artistic influence.

As the festival looks toward its next chapter, the call to action is clear: the continued success and evolution of Noosa Open Studios depends on people willing to bring fresh energy. Those who embrace this invitation will find themselves at the heart of one of Queensland’s most enriching creative events, enjoying meaningful connections, a sense of achievement, and the joy of celebrating art in its many forms.

Congratulations to the volunteers and committee who have built such a strong event over the past decade. If you feel this could be the start of your masterpiece, scan the QR code to find out more or email Trevor to express your interest: president@noosaopenstudios.com.au

Register your interest

ARE YOU OUR NEXT PRESIDENT? NOOSA ART NEEDS YOU

We are looking for visionary leaders and committee members in the business world to take us into the next phase of growth. An opportunity to realise the future with Noosa Open Studios Art Trail 2026.

Knowledge of communication and marketing into the new world of cultural entertainment would help. The opportunities for innovation and broader expansion are in your grasp.

If you share the enthusiasm for the huge possibilities that this dynamic, already successful volunteer organisation offers, please contact Trevor Purvis at president@noosaopenstudios.com.au to discuss your interest.

We are really looking at a range of skills and capabilities in people who wish to make an impact on the Noosa Art Scene. noosaopenstudios.com.au/committee-expression-of-interest/

Serene STUDIO

Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer meets an artist who takes inspiration from nature, music and the stillness around him…

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN EXPLORING ART?

My favorite subject at school was art, and my parents indulged me by getting my paintings framed.

Later, my architecture course covered art history and art theory, and we did a lot of freehand drawing and even some sculpture and painting.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND JOURNEY TO BECOMING AN ARTIST…

The journey was briefly diverted into a career in architecture.

Although much of architecture involves managing the delivery of complex buildings in a sometimes adversarial environment, many architects are ultimately searching for an expressive voice within the long tradition of the “mother of the arts”.

In that world, you absorb and respond to thousands of years of thinking about design, place and shelter.

It has influenced the way I think about rhythm and space – and about how to work both within, and in opposition to, constraints and rules.

Moving to the Sunshine Coast provided more space for art and eventually a studio – the luxury of a dedicated space just for creating and experimenting. Getting my studio was like turning on a large tap.

Getting my studio was like turning on a large tap.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WORK?

At the moment, the best inspiration is nature. Sitting for hours by Booloumba Creek, travelling to the Flinders Ranges, camping at Stradbroke Island and exploring the headlands and rock formations and listening to the curlews at night. Oddly, I’m not inspired by traffic infrastructure.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS…

I get impatient. My wife, Sarah, says I get a particular demeanor, then I disappear to the studio. Generally I just work intuitively and paint, and then look back later and see the connections to what might have inspired that weird process.

HOW DID YOU CREATE YOUR STUDIO?

My studio is a modest tin farm shed on our property that we renovated years ago for one of Sarah’s businesses, with a panoramic view down the valley towards Mt Cooroy. It’s separate from the house, and now has its own compound with a container for storage. It has exposed roof framing and we used the old roof for a ceiling when we reroofed it.

NAME

Andrew Hillhouse

STUDIO LOCATION

Vale

HOW DO YOUR SURROUNDINGS INFLUENCE YOUR ARTWORK?

There are so many birds creating this constant soundscape. There’s a strong connection to music with my work.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT YOUR SPACE?

My favourite thing about my studio is that I have lots of room, I don’t need to put everything away as I go; I can work on a project over time, leave in the evening and come back in the morning and pick it up straight away.

I love that I can hang a series of paintings on the walls and sit on my old leather couch and contemplate them. I love having my own little kitchen and coffee machine.

PHOTOS: MEGAN GILL

WHEN DO YOU FEEL MOST CREATIVE?

Mornings either before anyone is up, or after everyone else has gone for the day

DO YOU HAVE ANY RITUALS TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR FLOW?

Cleaning my pallet knives and brushes, and prepping the canvases the day before. I might spend a few hours getting paints out and thinking about which I want to work with before mixing them.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’VE GOT A CREATIVE BLOCK?

Take the dogs for a walk in the forest or go to the beach.

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT IN YOUR ART CAREER?

When the first person walked in on my first Noosa Open Studios on day one, walked over to a painting and said, “That one’s mine.”.

THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE YOUR STUDIO & ART?

Meditative, intuitive, resonating.

WHAT’S CURRENTLY TAKING SHAPE IN THIS SPACE?

We are just back from a successful showing at Sydney Affordable Art Fair with Stevens Street Gallery in Yandina, and there are some commissions to fill and orders to process.

I also have work to do in preparation for an exhibition at Noosa Regional Gallery early next year.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MEDIUM?

I’m working in acrylics with an added gel medium that provides some viscosity and translucency.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLOUR PALETTE?

The colours that I use vary depending on where I’ve been in the natural world.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE TOOL?

My main tools are a bunch of pallet knives and silicone kitchen implements.

WHERE CAN PEOPLE DISCOVER YOUR WORK?

Follow me on Instagram @andrewhillhouseart and check out the Stevens Street Gallery online catalogue. And you’re always welcome to arrange a studio visit to check out what’s on the walls in person.

28 February - 19 April 2026

ANDREW HILLHOUSE: SOLO EXHIBITION

Noosa Regional Gallery | Riverside, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au

andrew hillhouse art

BIG AND

THINKING Beyond!

Like any masterpiece, SO Noosa continues to evolve and grow with many layers. Deb Caruso explores what’s up next for this dynamic art gallery and artist studio.

There’s a daring sense of momentum rising at Studio One Noosa this summer. The gallery, already known among locals and visitors for shining a light on contemporary Australian art, is pushing further with Think Big - a new exhibition that asks audiences to expand their expectations of what art can be.

Running through to 31 January 2026, it’s set to be one of the season’s most exciting showcases, bringing together artists who thrive in the realm of scale, imagination and big ideas.

Described by artist, curator and Studio One Noosa Director Juanita Van Den Bergh as “ambitious, expressive and ever-changing,” Think Big is not a show you visit once.

“Works shift, rotate and evolve over the season, forming a living, unpredictable collection that reveals something new each time you step inside,” she promises.

“It’s the kind of exhibition that rewards curiosity; the kind that grows as you do.”

Studio One Noosa has built its identity on this approach. The gallery began as an online space created by artist Juanita and partner, Richard Donelly, before growing into a full creative hub on Gateway Drive. What sets it apart is its commitment to doing things differently: exhibitions that transform across the year, a working studio behind the scenes, professional print service, and a philosophy built around making original art more accessible.

It’s the kind of exhibition that rewards curiosity; the kind that grows as you do.

The dynamic duo has consistently championed a mix of local and national works, making space for everything from emerging talent to seasoned artists whose work belongs in major collections but is just as powerful hanging in homes in Noosa and beyond.

Think Big gathers an impressive line-up: Thom Kadera brings his energetic coastal scapes, full of movement and playful perspective, works that feel like summer stretching across a canvas; Brisbane artist Lisa Perruzza adds her unmistakable abstracts, rich in colour and texture, with compositions that pull you in layer by layer; Carley Bourne’s Mediterranean series offers sun-washed hues and expressive mark-making that seem to sway with the rhythm of distant shores.

Juanita contributes her signature blues - moody, atmospheric and instantly recognisable - artworks that seem to shift tone depending on how the light lands.

Saint Chalom’s abstract florals bring a burst of wild, instinctive energy, while

Bronwyn Barton delivers stunning botanicals that showcase her refined sense of colour and intricate markmaking.

Stephen Berger, the exhibition’s only First Nations artist, brings depth, perspective and cultural grounding through works that bridge stories of place with contemporary expression. They’re just some of the artists featured, but together they set the pace and tone for a show built around scale, concept and ambition.

One of the things that has made Studio One Noosa stand out is its ability to surprise. Past exhibitions have brought in artists from across the country, creating unexpected combinations that expand the region’s creative landscape.

Juanita is constantly sourcing new work, forging connections, and seeking artists who are exploring ideas with freshness and fearlessness.

That sense of active curation from someone always on the lookout for the next exciting piece to hang, gives the gallery an energy that is hard to replicate.

With Think Big, that energy is amplified. This isn’t just a collection of large artworks. It’s a showcase of boldness, expressed differently by each artist, yet united in a shared willingness to push against what’s familiar.

Some pieces challenge scale, others challenge form, and others challenge preconceptions entirely.

The effect is an exhibition that feels

alive; a conversation happening in real time between artists, their ideas and the viewers who wander through.

For visitors, it’s a chance to encounter works that provoke, delight, unsettle and inspire. For collectors, it’s an opportunity to secure pieces that speak to a distinctly Australian voice in contemporary art - not safe, not small, but layered with intention and confidence.

And for Studio One Noosa, it’s a declaration of what the gallery represents: a curated experience where big names, adventurous works and fresh concepts sit side by side.

As summer unfolds, Think Big offers something rare - an exhibition that refuses to stand still.

Whether you’re strolling in after lunch on the river, making an afternoon of gallery hopping on Gateway Drive, or returning to see what’s changed since your last visit, the invitation remains the same: step in with an open mind and let the works reshape what you think you know about Australian art today.

Come February, the energy will change to offer a more subdued exhibition featuring the latest works by Juanita.

“We’re

Running from 3-28 February, The Quiet Between speaks to the subtle spaces where things shift - where sea dissolves into sky, light fades into shadow, and emotion moves quietly beneath the surface.

These latest works by Juanita explore the moments we often overlook: the pause between breaths, the stillness after movement, the soft transition before something becomes something else.

Rather than defining form, the paintings hold space for feeling; they invite viewers to rest in the liminal, to sense rather than interpret, to notice the delicate threads that connect one state to another.

In this body of work, nothing is fixed - colour unravels, boundaries blur, and meaning is found not in what is seen, but in what is felt in The Quiet Between

Studio One Noosa continues to evolve as a place where creativity isn’t just displayed, but actively championed.

And this summer, they’re encouraging everyone to think bigger, dream bigger, and experience art that isn’t afraid to take up space - visually, conceptually and emotionally.

That’s SO Noosa!

evolving into something that feels so much more Noosa.

We connect you with art that feeds your soul, from unknown hidden studios to celebrated artists—because great art should be both accessible and unforgettable.

Our selections are bold, courageous, a little luxe and absolutely unapologetic.”

Here, creativity is curated, considered and always unmistakably SO… Noosa.

THINK BIG & BEYOND

SoNoosa is located in the Gateway to Art creative precinct - a destination for art lovers and the art curious with the highest concentration of artists and galleries in the region.

Don’t miss these upcoming exhibitions at SoNoosa:

Think Big - Until 31 January

An Evolving and Revolving Showcase of Today’s Avant-Garde for collectors, dreamers, and those who believe art should make you feel something -Think Big… Dream Bigger

The Quiet Between - 3-28 February

Latest works by Artist Juanita Van Den Bergh exploring the moments we often overlook: the pause between breaths, the stillness after movement, the soft transition before something becomes something else.

SoNoosa offers an every-changing gallery of art. Its online store represents artists from the region and beyond and offers access to original works and limited edition fine art prints.

To explore the range and to sign up for exclusive invitations to exhibition openings and discover the latest releases, scan the QR code or visit www.studioonenoosa.com.au

Arts RADA R

COOROY BUTTER FACTORY

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER

CLARE LLEWELLYN: THEN AND NOW

Reflecting the generation of women who came of age artistically in the 80s-90s.

12 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS MARKET

Handcrafted artisan wares.

3 JANUARY-1 FEBRUARY

FIRST TIME EXHIBITOR PROGRAM

The first ever solo shows of four artists.

6 JANUARY - 15 FEBRUARY

MEMBERS’ EXHIBITION

Works from more than 50 artists.

11A Maple Street, Cooroy | 5442 6665 www.butterfactoryartscentre.com.au

POMONA RAILWAY STATION

BANANA SHED, UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

JO ELLIS/ROWLES: STEEP TERRAIN

Ink works focusing on mountainous abstracted landscapes.

CARRIAGE ROOM, 6-30 DECEMBER

SALLY HOLT: ARTEFACT

Acrylic and mixed media on canvas.

10 JANUARY-5 FEBRUARY

JASON WHITEMAN AND TRISH MENZIES LANDSCAPES OF MEMORY

Oil landscapes of Australia and beyond. 10 Station Street, Pomona | 5485 2950 www.pomonagallery.com

BENDIGO BANK –TEWANTIN-NOOSA

8 DECEMBER-16 JANUARY

This season’s exciting new exhibitions in Noosa's galleries, studios and arts centres.

NOOSA ART GALLERY

UNTIL 6 JANUARY

VARIOUS ARTISTS: EDGE & ELEGANCE

LIZZIE CONNOR @LIZZART54

Works inspired by the ocean and beach. 16 JANUARY-6 MARCH

@THERESEVANHAASTER.ART

Watercolour works by Therese. 114 Poinciana Avenue, Tewantin | 5440 5289

BENDIGO BANK – COOROY

5 DECEMBER-9 JANUARY

PATCHES OF COOROY

Works by the quilting and craft group.

19 JANUARY-27 FEBRUARY

@RESINATE.WITH.KRISTEN

The ocean’s beauty captured in resin art. 36a Maple Street, Cooroy | 5447 7131 STUDIO ONE NOOSA

UNTIL 31 JANUARY

VARIOUS ARTISTS: THINK BIG! Always-evolving large-scale works.

3-28 FEBRUARY

JUANITA VAN DEN BERGH: THE QUIET BETWEEN

Exploring the subtle spaces where things shift and emotion moves quietly.

10/64 Gateway Drive, Noosaville 0481 155 287 www.studioonenoosa.com.au

An exploration of contrast, where bold contemporary expression meets refined sophistication.

10 JANUARY-28 FEBRUARY

NOOSA NOUVEAU – NEW ART 2026

Celebrate the 1st birthday with fresh art. 11/100 Rene Street, Noosaville | 1300 018 100 www.noosaartgallery.com.au

NOOSA REGIONAL GALLERY

13 DECEMBER-22 FEBRUARY

GAZA SKATE TEAM

SHAUN GLADWELL: STORM SEQUENCE REFUSE, CURATED BY WARWICK GOW

A multi-faceted, multimedia exhibition exploring skate culture around the world. 28 FEBRUARY-19 APRIL

ANDREW HILLHOUSE: SOLO EXHIBITION 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin | 5329 6145 www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au

LEIGHTON CONTEMPORARY

UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

EMMA CURRIE: YOU OPEN ALWAYS

Exploring the quiet tension between intimacy and restraint.

5/64 Gateway Drive, Noosaville

DINAH WAKEFIELD

Contemporary abstract landscapes reflecting the natural beauty of Noosa. Dinah is known for the tremendous sense of movement in her paintings and the beautiful ambience her work creates.

Studio visits by appointment Phone 0419 491 323 dinahwakefield.com

Specialist in oil, water colour & acrylic Art for Interior Styling Residential & Commercial Projects Commissions | Workshops | Art Retreats Private Studio - Viewings by appointment Sunrise Beach. Phone 0407 673 674 tarastowerstudio.com

Deeply influenced by the natural environment and farmland surrounding his studio, Andrew’s work explores abstract colour fields suggestive of a landscape or a story illuminated by light.

Studio visits by appointment Phone 0437 377 030 @andrewhillhouseart

HELEN PEEL

Helen’s portraiture reveals a talent for reflecting the life in her subjects’ eyes; her paintings bring to life a world rich with colour and radiant light.

31 Shorehaven Dr, Noosa Waters Phone 0411 511 533 helenpeelartist.com

LEIGHTON CONTEMPORARY

A boutique contemporary art gallery and art consultancy representing dynamic emerging and mid-career artists.

5/64 Gateway Drive, Noosaville 0413 477 947 leightoncontemporary.com

Artist | Author | Educator

Bold digital art, poetic books, and inspiring workshops exploring self-expression, emotion, and empowerment. Shop online, book a creative session, or view her work locally. ilanamcbain.com.au

KIM WALLACE CERAMICS

Noosa’s favourite gift shop. Unique handcrafted Christmas ceramics, festive tableware & decorations – perfect for heartfelt gifts. Come explore the magic! Open weekdays 8am - 4pm 10 Leo Alley Road, Noosaville Phone 0488 588 477 kwceramics.com.au

TRISH SHEPPARD ART

A fervent lover of nature, Patricia’s work embodies the essence of the environment. Her current works depict the harsh beauty of Australia’s outback in a vibrant array of colours using various mediums.

33 Hilton Esplanade, Tewantin Phone 0418 758 210 trishsheppardart.com.au

Artist and curator, creates intuitive, layered works exploring memory, place and colour. Artist in residence at Studio One Noosa, she champions authentic, timeless creativity.

10/64 Gateway Drive, Noosaville Phone 0418 155 287 juanitaart.au

TARA LOREL STOWER

ILANA MCBAIN

ANDREW HILLHOUSE

JUANITA VAN DEN BERGH

Looking to craft the unique story of your home? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers that you don’t need to travel the world to find handmade, one-ofa-kind pieces infused with soul

CHILLED FOR CHEERS!

The stylish Fieldbar Drinks Box is where Cape Town design meets Noosa lifestyle – perfect for long coastal lunches, hinterland escapes and sunset gatherings! Handcrafted with precision and built to last, these iconic hardcase cooler boxes come in a range of colours and blend vintage charm with modern function, keeping your drinks “champagne cold” for up to 50 hours. Cheers to that!

StorytellingSUMMER

Summer vibes are in full swing at Eclectic Style Noosa! The team travels around Australia and the world so you don’t have to, curating a stunning selection of homewares, furniture, art and more –all waiting for you to discover right here in Noosa.

A-DOOR-ABLE!

This statement heirloom table is crafted from an antique Beijing Door with a bleached natural finish and carved solid base – a truly special piece that’s sure to be a talking point at your next dinner party! And at three metres long, it’s big enough to host the whole family for Christmas.

BE MINE - MELAMINE!

Whether it’s poolside picnics, beach BBQs or long lunches on the deck, Eclectic Style’s range of durable yet stylish melamine servingware makes outdoor dining effortlessly chic. From sophisticated pearl detailing to classic blue patterns, sea-sational ocean-themed prints and more, there’s something for every aesthetic.

PRINTS TO IMPRESS

INTRIGUING ANTIQUES

This authentic Indian damchiya –once used as a dowry chest, features hand-carved details and traces of original paint. Every mark tells a story from generations past, adding warmth, character and serious wow-factor to modern coastal living.

Celebrated for his whimsical figures and bold use of colour, David Bromley – a five-time finalist in the Archibald Prize – brings an unmistakable vibrancy to any space. Colour your world with Eclectic Style Noosa’s curated selection of limited-edition prints, plus originals available on request!

TURN MORE THAN HEADS!

With its plush corduroy upholstery and smooth swivel base, the Lola Grand Swivel Chair in rich moss green is the perfect place to curl up with a book or snuggle up to watch the sunset from your lounge. The curves add a touch of retro-inspired charm, while the gorgeous green is sure to turn heads. Explore the full range of chairs to suit your lifestyle at Eclectic Style!

Dive into fresh vibes for your space at Eclectic Style Noosa. Head in store or shop online at www.eclecticstyle.com.au

STYLISH SUMMER

Security

As the Sunshine Coast heats up, so too does the rhythm and ease of summer living.

Jodie Cameron uncovers how to keep your home cool, secure and stylish with locally made security screens and window coverings…

It’s that time of year when we’re chasing those summertime breezes – doors flung open, coastal air drifting through, and that unmistakable hum of cicadas signalling long, languid afternoons.

But while we’re soaking up the season’s golden glow, we’re not the only ones looking to cool off. Creepy crawlies, mozzies, and even the odd curious snake are on the move seeking refuge from the heat – and they’d love nothing more than sneaking in to share your airconditioning. No thanks!

Keeping your home comfortable and secure without looking and feeling like a prison can become an art form, and no one understands that balance better than the team at Harlequin Blinds & Security.

For over 30 years, the Kunda Park business has been helping locals let the breeze in while keeping everything else out. For them and their clients, it’s not just about window coverings, it’s about crafting comfort and security that feels effortless and looks good.

From stylish blinds and shutters to

...we’re not just making blinds and screens –we’re helping create spaces that people love coming back to

custom-made security screens, every product is made in their Kunda Park factory, ensuring exceptional quality, and that authentic Sunshine Coast craftsmanship locals love to support.

Whether you’re refreshing your coastal retreat or safeguarding your family home for summer, Harlequin Blinds & Security blends security with style – the kind of easy, breezy protection that lets you soak up every sunny day with peace of mind.

Behind the name is a passionate, close-knit team, each with decades of experience and a shared love of what they do.

Co-Owner Marilyn Black, who has managed the business with husband Julian since the 1990s, says being local is at the heart of everything they do.

“We have an amazing teamexperienced, creative, and genuinely passionate about what they do,” Marilyn says. “We all love helping people create beautiful spaces that reflect their lifestyle.”

And that’s exactly what they do.

From onsite design consultations through to manufacturing and installation, everything is handled with care, precision, and a whole lot of heart.

Harlequin’s security screens are as tough as they are stylish, with sleek stainless-steel mesh that keeps intruders and insects at bay, and custom sliding doors that blend seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic. All made to measure with both practicality and beauty in mind.

Then comes the fun part: styling. From soft sheer curtains that dance in the

PHOTOS:

MEGAN GILL & SUPPLIED

afternoon light to modern plantation shutters and elegant roller blinds that complement coastal interiors, Harlequin’s window coverings are about creating mood, texture, and atmosphere.

“We love seeing how a simple change, like adding the right blinds or curtains, can transform an entire space,” Marilyn says. “It’s not just about privacy or sun protection, it’s about how a room feels.”

That feeling – the sense of calm and comfort that defines a Sunshine Coast summer – is something Harlequin Blinds & Security understands deeply.

Their products are designed to handle salty air, strong sun, and the occasional afternoon storm, while still looking beautiful year after year.

It’s this blend of local expertise, craftsmanship, and genuine care that keeps their customers coming back.

The team takes pride in offering personalised service. No call centres, no middlemen, just friendly faces who know their stuff and love helping clients find the perfect fit.

“We’re proud to be part of the local community,” Marilyn says. “Being based here means we understand how people live on the coast, so we’re not just making blinds and screens – we’re

Covering the Sunshine Coast in Colour and Style

helping create spaces that people love coming home to.”

As the temperatures rise and summer living spills outdoors, let the team at Harlequin Blinds & Security help get your home ready to enjoy the breeze, the light, and the laid-back lifestyle, safely and stylishly.

Because that’s what true Sunshine Coast living is all about - open doors, open windows, and the confidence from knowing everything and everyone inside is perfectly protected.

Make sure your home is ready for summer, get in touch with the friendly team or explore the range online www.harlequinblindsandsecurity.com.au

We manufacture and supply the most comprehensive range of Blinds, Awnings, Security, Shutters, and Curtains. SUNSHINE COAST FACTORY DIRECT for over 30 years.

Maroochydore 5476 9888 Noosa 5447 1888

Caloundra 5492 8888

5/46 Enterprise Street, Kunda Park

harlequinblindsandsecurity.com.au

Bonanza BARBECUE

Outdoor entertaining sizzles in summer so John Caruso discovers the latest in bbq brilliance and bold flavours from gas grills to smokey sensations for every taste. When it comes to barbeques, the range and technology on offer these days is staggering. Renee Bedford of BBQ and Fireplace Centre, a familiar face to anyone serious about outdoor cooking, has seen the scene evolve dramatically.

Wandering through the BBQ & Fireplace store is a reminder that for anyone who appreciates good food grilled well, there truly is a solution to suit all lifestyles, tastes and spaces.

I love a good barbie and am very partial to my Weber Family Q for the excellent after-sales service as much as its ability to make me look good behind the grill

It’s a reliable mate when time’s short but the appetite’s big and is also my best friend when it comes to delivering the perfect roast or slow-cooked, melt-inyour-mouth, full of flavour feast.

I share this with Renee, setting the tone for a deep dive into everythin’ grillin’!

“There are standard gas barbecues, the three, four, or five burner setups that most Aussies are familiar with,” she says. “Then there are the portable gas models, like the Weber Q series, perfect for weekend warriors and compact spaces.”

That portable aspect is becoming a key selling point with people living in apartments or travelling.

“Gas is quick, you can get cooking in a matter of minutes, and it’s fuss free,” she says. “But where gas has its merits, there’s a growing crowd who crave the smoky flavour that charcoal can deliver.”

Charcoal barbecues, especially the iconic Weber Kettle, are often seen as a labour of love. And it’s true, setting up the perfect bed of coals takes a bit of skill and patience.

“It can take time to get the fire going properly, but we’ve got things like chimney starters that cut that time right down,” Renee says. “The Weber Kettle is the Original Gangsta, it’s pure charcoal cooking and unbeatable flavour.”

“But it’s not for everyone every day,” I chip in. “When I get home after work, I want a fast feed, I don’t want to spend ages lighting up and babysitting coals.”

“That’s where lifestyle comes into it,” she agrees. “If you’re hitting the barbie on a Sunday roast kind of day, you might opt for charcoal or smokers because you’ve got time to tend the fire, slow cook a brisket or smoke a lamb shoulder. But on weeknights, it might be gas or electric, convenient and quick.”

I begin to appreciate why and how my brother-in-law Andy cooks the best, smoky smashed potatoes on his Weber

Kettle while at the same time whipping up perfect fish and steaks on his larger burner for get-togethers. Might be time to up my game?

Pellet smokers have grown in popularity for those who love that real wood flavour but want an easier set-up.

“We’ve got models like the Weber Smoque,” Renee explains. “It uses wood pellets and is perfect for smoking ribs, briskets, chicken wings and more, with minimal fuss,” Renee adds. “Then there’s the Weber Searwood, which is a hybrid. It’s also pellet-fed but acts like a Weber Q gas grill with the smoky flavour of charcoal, reaching cooking temps in about 10 minutes. Great for everyday use.”

For the traditionalists or those wanting to take the hobby to the next level, there’s the Big Green Egg, available through the Noosaville store.

“It’s like the Weber Kettle but ceramic, insulated and retains heat longer to deliver a deeper, smokier flavour,” Renee says. “It’s heavier and less portable, but a favourite for those who love to experiment and perfect their skills.

The rise in smokers is evident; I see mates on the socials working them. You might think it’s a weekend commitment, but there are options, like the pellet

smokers, that fit a busier schedule.

“If you want flavour without the fuss, a pellet smoker could be a game changer to deliver similar flavours to charcoal but are lower maintenance,” Renee says.

While pizza ovens aren’t strictly barbecue, they also fit into the outdoor cooking repertoire. BBQ and Fireplace Centre stocks Ooni pizza ovens, which run on gas, charcoal, or wood pellets, in a compact oven that heats up quickly.

“Some foodies swear by them for

everything from tomahawk steaks to pizzas with the ovens reaching super high temperatures in seconds,” Renee notes.

The common thread is matching your barbecue to your space, how many people you cook for, and your lifestyle. Whether it’s an apartment balcony or a sprawling backyard equipped for multiple barbecues, there’s something for everyone.

“It comes down to convenience, flavour, time, and the social occasion,” Renee summises. “Sometimes, you want

the quick, fuss-free gas setup for a weeknight meal and then there’s the slow flavoursome result that charcoal offers.

So, whether you fancy a fast throw down on the grill or want to explore the slower, smokier world of charcoal and pellet smokers, there’s a barbecue waiting to make your next meal sing.

Look out Andy, I’ve got my eye on a few options that may challenge your grill maestro status - smoke but no mirrors.

Sunshine

Sew LET IT

Tucked away in the Noosaville industrial area is a creative haven where fabric becomes art, where rooms find their personality and where every stitch tells a story. Ida Fink Gundtoft unravels the threads of creativity, craftsmanship and legacy with The Sewing Project.

There’s something deeply comforting about the hum of a sewing machine. That rhythmic brum that speaks of patience, skill and the quiet joy of making something beautiful from scratch.

I’ve always admired people who can turn fabric into beauty. As someone who crochets and embroiders (and has recently attempted to upholster a couch to disguise my dog’s enthusiastic scratch marks), I know just how much patience, precision and passion it takes to make something by hand.

Yet, despite my love for all things crafty, the second-hand sewing machine sitting in my cupboard remains my nemesis. Every time I try, it eats my fabric and tangles the thread into a mess.

Perhaps it’s time to call in the professionals. There’s no better place to start than The Sewing Project, Noosaville.

This is a place where sewing isn’t just a skill, it’s a legacy.

When owner Tracey opened the doors in September 2016, she imagined a one-stop destination for all things home furnishings: a place where people could find custom curtains, blinds, upholstery and cushions under one roof.

Today, that vision has blossomed into a creative hub where craftsmanship, design and heart are woven together as seamlessly as the fabrics that line the showroom.

Tracey’s own story reads like a love letter to sewing: she first picked up a needle at around four years old, stitching tiny outfits for her dolls while her father, an upholsterer, worked nearby.

On weekends she would scour his factory floor for leftover foam and fabric scraps – treasures she turned into her own creations. Her mother taught her the basics and by the age of thirteen she

had her first sewing machine, crafting curtains, clothes and even wedding dresses for family and friends.

With tailors, seamstresses and curtain makers on both sides of the family, it’s no surprise that sewing runs deep in her veins. Tracey’s aunt in the UK was a professional curtain maker who taught her to “do it properly or not at all”. Her great-grandmother and great-aunt were tailoresses, and her uncle a tailor.

Perhaps the most remarkable thread in this family tapestry is that of Tracey’s great-great-great-great-greatgrandmother, who in the 1800s visited Newgate Prison in London to teach sewing to women being transported to Australia. Each woman was given a Bible and a sewing kit, a humble start to a new life stitched with hope and skill.

That spirit of care, creativity and craftsmanship still shapes everything The Sewing Project does today.

Step inside the bright, fabric-filled showroom on Rene Street, Noosaville, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a tactile wonderland.

Rolls of fabric line the walls, soft linens, bold prints and intricate weaves from designers around the world. You’ll find the likes of Walter G, Anna Spiro, Mokum, Warwick, Textilia, James Dunlop, 3 Beaches Textiles, Westbury and more – names that make design lovers swoon.

Customers are welcome to browse, borrow swatches and dream up their next project, whether it’s elegant drapes for a coastal home or outdoor cushions that can withstand the sun.

The beauty of The Sewing Project lies in its process: personal, hands-on and refreshingly collaborative. Clients can pop in to chat through ideas, discuss the right fabric for a particular space or seek advice on trims, textures and foam

PHOTOS: IAN WALDIE

options. The team’s expertise extends beyond aesthetics: they consider durability, function and the little details that make a home sing.

For larger projects, home visits are part of the experience. Tracey and her team take precise measurements to ensure a perfect fit, whether that’s for a classic window or a tricky architectural nook. Most of the work is completed in-house, with additional workrooms to manage larger-scale projects, all handled with the same meticulous care.

It’s no surprise that The Sewing Project has built a loyal following among architects, interior designers and home decorators alike. Over the years, projects have ranged from intimate and domestic to grand and complex: curtains for Kenilworth and Kin Kin Halls; velvet swags and tails for a bespoke Verrierdale home (hung from crescent-shaped rails that required scaffolding); and boat cushions for a restored 1950s motor launch in Sydney. In between those statement pieces, the team is just as happy fixing a broken zip on a favourite cushion. Because every stitch matters - and that’s exactly what makes this business so endearing.

The Sewing Project isn’t a faceless interiors brand. It’s a warm, bustling

workshop run by a team who clearly love what they do.

There’s Bethany, who keeps the business humming along, zipping around Noosa in The Sewing Project van measuring curtains and delivering fabrics (and occasionally, cake). With a sharp eye for design and a no-nonsense attitude, she ensures each project runs smoothly from concept to completion.

Jo, with her interior design background, brings a creative spark and an encouraging approach, nudging clients toward bolder choices they might not have considered. Rommy is the queen of the sewing room – an exceptional seamstress with years of experience; while Lisa, who’s been part of the team since the beginning, adds wisdom and consistency. The newest

recruit, Jodi, has already become indispensable, bringing fresh energy and skill to the workroom. An absolute powerhouse of talented women.

Together, they create more than curtains and cushions, they create comfort, atmosphere and home decor that tells stories.

For Tracey, the philosophy is simple: provide the best customer service possible at a fair price. Whether it’s a single-bedroom curtain or an entire resort refit, every client receives the same level of attention to detail, respect and care.

Standing in the showroom, surrounded by rolls of colour and texture, it’s easy to feel inspired. Or at least a little braver about finally tackling that old sewing machine at home.

The Sewing Project is proof that traditional craftsmanship still has a vital place in our fast-paced, throwaway world. Every hem, pleat and stitch tells a story. One of family, skill, patience and pride, and in Noosa, that story continues to unfold beautifully.

If you want to transform your space with custom curtains, blinds, upholstery or cushions, all crafted with care, you ab-sew-lutely know who to call.

Convenience meets quality with a clever garden solution tailor-made for tight spaces. John Caruso grows fresh herbs and greens effortlessly, right next to his cutting board.

For 13 years, Vegepod has been providing raised garden beds for greenthumbs wanting easy-to-manage solutions for the great outdoors.

“They produce various sizes including small, medium, and large raised beds for outdoors that come with closable lids for protection,” explains Simon Van Roy from Manawee Garden Centre. “This is especially handy during summer for problem pests such as grasshoppers.

“You can close the lid to keep pests out without worrying too much about insects once your plants have flowered and been pollinated.”

When our family moved into a new apartment we knew some things would change about how we live, including how we garden. We love to cook, and having access to fresh herbs adds a whole new level of convenience, flavour and nutrition to our meals.

For folks like us who enjoy a taste of fresh produce but don’t have a sprawling backyard, Simon says the new Kitchen Garden Vegepod has been designed for indoor and compact spaces.

“The different models all work on the same concept with one of the standout features being the inbuilt self-watering system,” he says. “The Kitchen Garden

features its own water reservoir underneath, which means less guesswork with watering, a key benefit whether you’re new to gardening or just prefer a low-maintenance approach.”

The Kitchen Garden Vegepod also has a moisture sensor to indicate when it needs watering, plus, it has a built-in UV grow light if you need it.

“You can keep the unit indoors and it will still produce enough light to keep the plants really happy, even if you don’t get a lot of natural light,” Simon notes.

This gives apartment dwellers - or any kitchen cook - the opportunity to grow fresh herbs and greens year-round, regardless of light exposure or weather.

One of the biggest advantages is the use of soil in the Vegepod and the Kitchen Garden, as opposed to hydroponics or sprouting kits.

“It’s designed to use soil, which means you get a bigger root system and stronger plants,” he says. “For kitchen herbs and leafy greens, that translates to healthier, longer-lasting crops.

“The Kitchen Garden Vegepod has ample room to grow all your herbs plus lettuce, bok choy, kale, shallots and other seasonal vegetables.”

...it will still produce enough light to keep the plants really happy, even if you don’t get a lot of natural light.

For many urban gardeners, growing your own fresh, organic greens is a real bonus, and having a straightforward system like this makes it accessible.

Our family has found the Kitchen Garden perfect for our lifestyle. It fits neatly on our kitchen bench, providing fresh herbs whenever we need them, right at our fingertips. That means no last-minute dash to the shop for a bit of basil or parsley, and no more wilting store-bought herbs in the fridge.

Simon also explains the practical tech features built into the Kitchen Garden

“The UV grow light includes adjustable height, a manual on/off switch, and timer control through an app,” he says. “The full-spectrum LED grow light is set with a basic timer, so it’s energyefficient and doesn’t run unnecessarily.”

And the electricity cost is estimated at around $1 per month! Certainly cheaper than buying herbs at the supermarket.

These features make the Kitchen Garden an easy choice for anyone, whether you’re an experienced green thumb or just starting out.

The kits are a complete grow system so you simply need to choose your seedlings and soil from your local nursery, such as Manawee, plug in and grow!

“The Kitchen Garden is made for people who want to blend convenience with

quality and sustainability, even when they don’t have the space for traditional gardening,” Simon says.

So whether you’ve got a balcony, a kitchen bench, or a snug windowsill soaking in whatever sun comes your way, the Kitchen Garden by Vegepod is a solid way to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh produce at your fingertips.

It’s sure to grow in popularity...

WIN A KITCHEN GARDEN KIT!

Vegepod is coming indoors with the Kitchen Garden so you can grow food, regardless of climate or space. Take your cooking to the next level and have delicious fresh growing greens all year round in your home.

Thanks to Vegepod and our friends at Manawee Garden Centre, you can WIN a signature self-watering Kitchen Garden Vegepod valued at $299.95 PLUS $25 towards potting mix and seedlings from Manawee Garden Centre.

Simply scan the QR code for terms and conditions and to enter by 30 January! Get growing!

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 35

FIRST

COUNT IMPRESSIONS

Pete Goodlet shares the secrets to creating a harmonious outdoor living area.

The secret to a beautiful garden IN Noosa or anywhere, is in the design. Beautiful landscape design takes an architecturally well-designed home to a whole new level. Take a drive around your neighbourhood and it is immediately apparent when a home has a garden that makeS the architecture sing. The harmony hits a high note and is a joy to behold.

Enhanced curb appeal is only a hint of the benefits of living with a cleverly designed garden but also a vital part of the well-used phrase: “It pays to make a good first impression!”

A great garden will build anticipation before you even open the gate.

The key to achieving a cohesive home and garden is to have a landscape designer on board as part of your team right from the beginning of the design process.

Not only will you get a better outcome, but initial plans out for quoting will include fitout details for plumbing, electrics, and structural reinforcement for features such as pergolas and even a base for a spa or plunge pool; exterior lighting will be wired to the appropriate switches at the time of construction; and piping can be fitted for outdoor showers and allowance made for irrigation and pool equipment. While this can add to the initial build cost, huge savings will be made later in both budget and disruption of your building site.

Financial savings aside it is the aesthetic wins that make the biggest blooming difference.

Homes where the exterior and interior work in harmony are a joy to live in. They work brilliantly for daily life and expand with gay abandon for hosting soirées!

Look to the spaces beyond the room

and go for gold. Bathrooms can open to an enclosed courtyard, and rather than an obscure privacy window, you can include a plate glass door in the initial plans. Go the whole hog to include the plumbing and drainage for a private outdoor shower. Imagine starting each day in Noosa’s beautiful subtropical climate showering in the sunshine or finish the day bathing under the stars. Such moments transform a routine task into a thing of joy.

Living areas are busy places and with the alfresco lifestyle comes the need for ease of movement between inside and out. You want to be able to step confidently between the two, especially considering you may be balancing a cocktail or two!

Underfoot, the flooring and paving should work in cohesion. Stone tiling comes in both interior and exterior surfaces or step from timber floor to decking, with boards running the same way to enhance unity.

Scale is important too. The size of an outdoor entertaining space should mimic what is inside. Here too, you will want to include a dining and lounging area with plenty of circulation space between the two. A masonry wall enclosing an aspect of this space can enhance a sense of intimacy and privacy. An open fireplace and chimney will truly bring the inside out. Obviously, such a big feature is far more achievable if conceived early in the design development stage.

Internal garden walls or hedges can be great for discouraging the prying eyes of neighbours like the infamous Beryl Next Door! After all it is your own very valuable space and who you share it with should really be up to you!

When clients, architects and garden designers work together as a team you will have a harmony of both the look and feel of the home and garden.

Planting can be used to offer shading where needed and even assist in the passive heating and cooling of a home.

The breeze through trees or over a swimming pool can be directed to cool the home. Deciduous trees or vines can offer much needed shade in summer and in winter allow the full benefits of beautiful warming sunshine.

Stuart and his team at Earth Creation Landscapes have years of experience with working with the best architects in the game.

Their design, construction skills and experience will deliver a garden beyond your wildest expectations.

PHOTOS: EARTH CREATION LANDSCAPES

Trust BUILT ON

Thinking of building or renovating but have no idea where to start? You’re not alone. Jodie Cameron unearths what to look for when choosing a builder – and how to make the process smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable…

Ask anyone who’s built their dream home, and they’ll tell you that your builder can make or break the experience.

Beyond bricks and mortar, it’s one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make – emotionally, financially, and creatively, and one that’s built on trust, honesty, and quality craftsmanship.

The right builder won’t just construct your home; they’ll shape your experience, and confidence because you’re choosing a business partner to bring your vision to life.

For Tom Roebuck, founder and owner of Roebuck Concepts, that relationship is an essential foundation in his business – and shows in every meticulous detail of the crafted homes that bear his name.

The process can feel overwhelming, but with the right builder by your side, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, and few understand that balance better than Tom and his team.

“It’s not all about square metres and floorplans, it’s about people working well together,” Tom says. “It’s a two-way street, you have to get along. Every home we build is unique and no two homes we’ve built are the same because no two clients are.”

That belief underpins everything Roebuck Concepts stands for. From the hills of Coolum to Noosa Sound, Tom and his team are known for their architectural, high-end builds that pair form and function with something more elusive – a genuine sense of place. Every builder should be striving to

The right builder won’t just construct your home; they’ll shape your experience, and confidence...

ensure your build runs as seamlessly as possible because that’s what makes their job more enjoyable too!

“Open and honest communication is everything, from the first phone call to the final walkthrough, you need to keep clients in the loop,” he says. “We like to update clients at least every fortnight, sometimes weekly. If there’s a challenge or delay, we’re upfront straight away. Transparency builds credibility.”

It’s an approach that has earned Roebuck Concepts an enviable reputation for professionalism and consistency, along with a string of industry awards, including recent wins at The Master Builders 2025 Sunshine Coast Housing & Construction Awards

“First impressions really matter,” Tom says. “We respond quickly, we’re clear and realistic about costs and timelines, and we don’t shy away from tough conversations because the cheapest quote isn’t always the best option. A good builder is honest about what things cost and why.”

Architectural beauty meets relaxed coastal living on the Sunshine Coast, but there’s something about a Roebuck Concepts home.

Maybe it’s the way light drifts through soaring ceilings, dancing across earthy polished concrete floors. Maybe it’s the quiet strength in the craftsmanship, the finer details you notice when you really stop to take it all in. Or maybe it’s the feeling – that calm assurance that this home wasn’t just built, it was crafted just for you.

Roebuck Concepts isn’t a budget builder, nor do they try to be. Each project is bespoke, meticulously detailed, and crafted with longevity in mind.

“We’re not suited to cookie-cutter builds,” he says. “We’re for clients who want something special, a home that’s theirs, not anyone else’s.”

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

That focus on individuality extends to the way Tom collaborates with architects and engineers, stressing the importance of being involved early, long before plans are finalised.

“The earlier we come in, the better the result,” Tom explained. “Architects design with vision, engineers think structurally, and we come at it from a construction perspective to recommend the best materials, or find a more cost effective way of building.”

It’s a proactive, collaborative process that saves time, money, stress, and solves problems together before they happen to ensure that every decision made during the design phase stands up in the real world.

A recent project in Cotton Tree captures everything Roebuck Concepts stands for – bold, contemporary, and unmistakably refined. A suspended concrete home over two levels, crowned with a rooftop pool surrounded by four-metre ceilings that create a sense of drama and light, while a sweeping staircase and lush atrium run through the middle of the home, and a huge 2.5-metre front door sets the tone for what lies beyond!

“It’s very grand,” Tom says with a grin. “We even installed an insulation

Built

blanket under the pool to absorb sound – like they do in hotels. It’s one of those little details that makes the difference between a good build and a great one.”

When it comes to building your dream home, the journey is just as important as the destination. Every Roebuck Concepts build tells a story like this – a client’s dream translated into timber, concrete, and glass, alongside a careful balance of beauty, practicality, craftsmanship and absolute grandeur.

“Lifestyle and environment are so beautifully intertwined on the Sunshine Coast, so choosing the right builder can make all the difference between a house that simply functions and a home that

truly reflects you,” Tom says.

Whether you’re planning a contemporary coastal retreat or a bespoke hinterland haven, knowing what to look for in a builder - and why Roebuck Concepts continues to stand out - is key to a stress-free and successful build. Because it’s all about creating something that lasts, not just in structure, but in spirit.

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE

Scan the QR code or visit www.roebuckconcepts.com.au to discover the Roebuck Concepts difference today.

Carlie Wacker meets a couple designing homes that feel deeply connected to both the families who live in them and the local land they inhabit. A duo that add heart to the art of designing a home.

THE HEART Home BEHIND

Iziko Designs is a small, intentional Sunshine Coast studio built on the union of two strengths: Rustin Obery’s lifelong love of architecture and his wife Bernadette’s exceptional leadership in business, communication and client experience.

Together, they lead a practice grounded in creativity, clarity and connection, designing homes that feel personal and beautifully attuned to the land.

For Rustin, design has never been a career but a calling rooted in the earliest chapters of his life. Growing up in South Africa with an architect father, he spent his childhood wandering building sites, proudly carrying the tape measure and absorbing the craft of shaping space.

That curiosity became a lifelong passion for architecture, residential design and the poetry of a well-considered home.

The bond and belief this couple share in each other is palpable when you meet them.

Bernadette says that Rustin’s sweet spot was his humility and ability to listen.

“He’s extraordinary at it,” she says. “And he has a way with people that makes them feel comfortable and really seen. This allows him to understand what they want and desire out of a luxury home and bring that to life within their budget.”

Alongside Rustin’s design intuition sits Bernadette’s 15 years of experience in business management, program leadership and major transformation work including coaching teams through organisational change and IT integrations.

Today, she oversees project scheduling, operations, systems, marketing, budgets, finance and accounts bringing the structure, clarity and communication that allows creativity to thrive.

Clients consistently feel supported, informed and guided because of her steady

and nurturing leadership.

Together, they bring the perfect balance: design excellence paired with a peoplefirst business acumen; a business built on authenticity, exceptional skill and heartfelt authenticity.

Iziko’s story is shaped by two worlds. Rustin relocated from South Africa nearly a decade ago to join Bernadette on the Sunshine Coast, where she grew up. Today, they live in Coolum Beach, raising their beautiful family and immersing themselves in the community they feel deeply connected to.

Their South African heritage is embedded in their brand—Iziko is an isiXhosa (official African language) word meaning “hearth” - the warm, central gathering place of a home. For them, it symbolises connection, conversation, and belonging, the heart of every project they take on.

Iziko approaches every design holistically: architecture, interiors, landscape, light, materials and flow are all considered as interconnected parts of a whole. They believe homes should respond both to lifestyle and to their natural environment - especially on the Sunny Coast where sun, breeze, slope and views shape how a home lives.

Their environmental values run deep. Their first home, on 1.5 acres in Valdora, sat at the foot of Mount Ninderry, where Bernadette worked with neighbours and

Bernadette and Rustin Obery

A calm and confident journey awaits the Iziko client.

community groups like Landcare and Land for Wildlife to revegetate and restore the native landscape.

This hands-on work with the land reinforces their ongoing commitment to environmentally conscious, siteresponsive design and the use of native plant life.

Perhaps the standout feature within an Iziko client journey is the early collaboration between all parties involved in building a home.

“Rather than waiting until drawings are complete, we bring trusted local builders into the process from day one,” Bernadette says. Builders join site visits, provide early cost guidance and help shape key decisions as the design evolves.

Bernadette brings her interior design and native landscaping expertise to the table and this partnership ensures realistic budgets are set from the beginning, resulting in less surprises and designs that

are aspirational yet achievable. A calm and confident journey awaits the Iziko client.

They occupy a unique space in Noosa and beyond by offering thoughtful, sophisticated, highly considered design without the formality, hierarchy or high fees of the architectural world.

Iziko offers a range of custom homes for various budgets and Rustin’s reverse engineering approach allows clients to really see the full potential of their investment.

The Iziko Designs team thrive on difficult sites and layered briefs, especially Sunshine Coast blocks described as “too hard.”

Steep land, unusual shapes, tight access, orientation challenges are the projects

that spark their creativity. They see opportunity in terrain, not limitation.

Their own upcoming project is a new family home on a steep Coolum block which truly keeps them connected to the client experience.

They understand the emotions, decisions and complexities because they’re living it themselves.

Iziko Designs is a small, people-first building design studio with a deep respect for community, environment and the craft of designing meaningful, practical yet luxurious homes.

Their work is intentional, grounded and guided by the belief that a home should be more than a building - it should be a sanctuary, a story and a hearth.

Only One! THERE IS

It’s simple! People wind up in this paradisiacal part of the world because of its indisputable natural beauty which so often sparks the next wave of property buyers, enthuses Helen Flanagan. The vibrancy of the region with lifestyles built around sunshine, surf and unbelievable natural assets boasts some of the most sought-after real estate in Australia. To say Noosa offers only a one-dimensional experience is a yawning injustice!

From the gentle, protective curve of Noosa Main Beach and Laguna Bay to the wildly popular Noosa National Park with 15kms of walking tracks and world recognised surfing reserve, meandering Noosa River, lush Hinterland, epic collection of inviting beaches, spectacular views of the Coral Sea to forever, all evoking a palpable sense of happiness and optimism for those who are inspired to call it home.

Each morning as the sun blooms on the horizon, stretching ever outwards into the rich blue, meticulous and pragmatic Tom Offermann can be found plying his kayak, surf ski or e-foil on the Noosa River, feeling motivated by another exciting day filled with new accomplishments, working alongside enthusiastic people, and with a myriad of interesting and dynamic clients from all walks of life.

A far cry for the self-confessed outdoors-type who, so besotted by the location, as a young Brisbane-ite decided in 1986 to swap his tool bag for a real estate career in Hastings Street.

Tom’s first sale of $31,200 for a 3-bedroom unit in the Leilani complex on Weyba Road was the first of many until 1992 when he was “weaponised with a hand-held mobile phone with

proud tradition … no lives ever being lost whilst the beach is patrolled.

a pull up aerial.”

“But it was used infrequently as it cost 65 cents per minute, and texts were 40 cents so it was easier to return missed calls from the office,” he says, reflecting on his decision to go it alone.

A competitor warned Tom he’d fail by not having a business on Hastings Street and go broke within a year, but tenacious, determined and loving a challenge, the omen turned out to be a huge favour.

Turn the clock forward and today, entrepreneurially-spirited and with a strong sense of community, unpretentious Tom Offermann has prospered as an eponymous real estate company for 33-years.

He remains adamant that great people remain the heart and soul, the backbone of the business, and the thrill of the chase never subsides.

“During a typical day we meet with business leaders, celebrities, politicians, people at the top of their game from all over the world, retirees and even first home buyers,” he says. “Our industry and where we live, provides a unique combination which connects us with a diverse group of people on a level no other profession offers.

“The team of talented and highlytrained marketing agents have all the collateral, data and connections that matter, including access to a customer database broadly spanning the three decades and more.

“Every client across every price point, benefits not only from the commitment of their marketing agent, also the combined strength of the entire team, including me. When it comes to achieving those exceptional results, experience makes all the difference.

“Harmonious collaborations and premium targeted marketing drive premium results, consistently exceeding expectations.”

Tom says the power of the auction process is indisputable, just as every sale is different and all immensely satisfying.

“It is a tremendous responsibility knowing clients rely solely on your company for their next real estate move,” he says. “These valuable transactions stir strong emotions, and the trust given to us is humbling.”

Focussing on wide multi-media audiences, Tom Offermann Real Estate also has an exclusive in-house media team encompassing photography, videography, property writing, floor plan development and social media management.

In today’s digital age, captivating imagery videos and words, is paramount, but it is equally important to ensure they are seen across maximum strategic channels and platforms.

Craig Burton and Tom Offermann

In fact, records show the trail blazing company’s social media views are up to 10 times more than those of its competitors. Money cannot buy this unprecedented and unparalleled social media visibility.

CoreLogic, Australia’s most trusted property data source, confirms Tom Offermann Real Estate sold more than the next six Noosa agencies combined in 2024/25. Other notable achievements include being the top selling real estate agency across the Sunshine Coast, and as frequently reported in the Weekend Australian’s Mansion feature, sales records are continually smashed in numerous suburbs and well-known hot pockets.

“Total sales for the first ten months of 2025 exceeded $600 million, thanks to the many property owners who have entrusted their prized assets to the team,” Tom says. “Naturally we feel privileged to market it and endorse that we are on track to providing the highest level of service and results for our clients.

“Repeat happy customers and recommendations are the foundation of our business.

“So far in 2025 there has been a steady rise in market activity with renewed confidence, and the volatility of the post-COVID era is now well behind us.

“Interest rates have stabilised, and the supply of available properties remains tight, which, combined with growing buyer interest in the region, continues to place upward pressure on values.

“This is great news for those who already own their slice of paradise, and a strong incentive for those still looking to act quickly.”

Equally important is community engagement such as being the founding event partner for the annual Noosa Concours d’Elegance and presenting a weekly surf report helmed by world champion Josh Constable.

Tom’s innate sense of community has extended to 30-plus years as the major

sponsor of the Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club, with logo emblazoned on IRBs, rescue boards, marquees and more.

Craig Burton, a 50-year plus surf life saving stalwart from South Australia and recently appointed General Manager of the Noosa Heads SLSC, said Tom’s contribution had enabled rescue equipment to be updated and kept in top shape plus of course bolster resources on Noosa Main Beach.

“With huge numbers expected to flock to the shoreline this summer we’ll be out in force ensuring the proud tradition continues, of no lives ever being lost whilst the beach is patrolled,” he says, reminding people to swim between the flags. “Tom is certainly a big part of our club as well as local culture, and if you get up early enough, you will see him on his epic surf ski.”

In the highly desirable Noosa region where world-class architecture and design contribute to its allure, the indelible optimism and success of Tom Offermann Real Estate since 1992, continues to inspire new generations, and change the face of real estate accordingly, by always making a difference.

TOP TEN IN TEN MONTHS

Top 10 settlements from January to October 2025 with total sales in excess of $600m:

• 45 Witta Circle, Noosa Heads, $18m

• 78 Noosa Parade, Noosa Heads, $16.95m

• 92 Hilton Terrace, Noosaville, $16.5m

• 2/1-7 Bayview Road, Noosa Heads, $15m

• 11 Little Cove Road, Noosa Heads, $13.25m

• 11 Allambi Rise, Noosa Heads, $11m

• 40 Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach, $10.5m

• 17 Wyuna Drive, Noosa Heads, $9.5m

• 30 Enterpise Street, Sunshine Beach, $9.25m

• 1/40 Alderly Terrace, Noosa Heads, $9m

78 Noosa Parade

11 Little Cove

17 Wyuna Drive

Bayview Little Cove

Moves MARKET

A MARKET THAT CONTINUES TO DEFY EXPECTATIONS

In a year marked by shifting economic sentiment, evolving regulation and increasingly selective buyer behaviour, Noosa has once again demonstrated its enduring strength. Demand for quality property remained resilient throughout 2025, underpinned by lifestyle migration, investor confidence and the region’s unique supply constraints.

For buyers agent Kirstie Klein-Hunter, the past twelve months have reinforced a familiar reality: Noosa’s appeal is unwavering, but the market is growing more nuanced. Interstate investors continued to lead enquiry, holiday homes remained a priority, and the hinterland re-emerged as a prestige hotspot. At the same time, planning and policy shifts reshaped the landscape for owners, investors and prospective buyers.

As the year draws to a close, the key themes shaping Noosa’s property environment are clear - and they point toward continued evolution in 2026:

REGULATION RESHAPES THE PLAYING FIELD:

A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE NOOSA PLAN

September’s amendment to the Noosa Plan 2020 marked one of the most significant statutory developments of 2025. The update refined elements of residential zoning, particularly around medium-density development, as Council works to meet state density requirements without compromising Noosa’s character and environment.

While the zoning changes were measured, they are already influencing buyer strategy. Those seeking lowmaintenance lifestyle properties in walkable locations are paying closer attention to areas where mediumdensity adjustments may enable more diverse housing options.

SHORT-TERM LETTING TIGHTENS AGAIN

Council’s decision to restrict new Short-Term Letting (STL) permits strictly to the designated Tourist Zone has reshaped the investment landscape. Properties with existing STL entitlements have become even more valuable, driving heightened competition for well-

positioned holiday apartments and homes with compliant approval histories.

Buyers who once viewed STL approval as a ‘nice to have’ now see it as a critical differentiator, particularly investors from Victoria, where tightening rental regulations continue to constrain returns.

As a result, due diligence on renovation histories, certifications and permit records are essential for acquisition.

RISING LAND TAX SPARKS

INTERGENERATIONAL MOVEMENT

A less publicised but meaningful trend has been the number of intergenerational family properties entering the market, driven by rising land tax obligations.

For owners of long-held holiday homes - particularly those not rented - the inability to claim deductions has made carrying costs substantially higher.

Several families opted to divest earlier than anticipated, releasing tightly held assets and injecting fresh, high-quality stock into premium pockets of Noosa. These sales have attracted both lifestyle buyers and long-term investors, many seeking legacy assets of their own.

INTERSTATE DEMAND REMAINS A FORCE

The migration from Victoria into Queensland, and into Noosa specifically, remained one of the most consistent themes of 2025. Increased land taxes, softening values and restrictive tenancy rules make holding property in Victoria less appealing for many investors.

For those active in Noosa, two distinct buyer cohorts emerged: purchasers securing homes to move into over the next three to five years; and investors seeking holiday apartments with robust income and existing STL permissions.

Post-Christmas enquiry rose quickly and decisively and continued through the year, supported by improving economic

conditions, the first interest rate cut in four years, and growing confidence fuelled by infrastructure investment as Queensland edges closer to 2032.

NOOSA HILL TIGHTENS, LITTLE COVE LOOSENS

One of the year’s more unexpected shifts was a reversal of traditional supply dynamics between Noosa Hill and Little Cove. Stock contracted sharply on Noosa Hill with holiday apartments becoming more tightly held as high occupancy and strong income potential elevated demand, particularly among investors seeking immediate yield.

Whereas, Little Cove (historically one of Noosa’s most competitive markets), had more availability which, while still premium and tightly held, provided rare openings for strategic buyers.

This recalibration highlights the importance of granular, precinct-specific insights, particularly as micro-markets continue to diverge based on stock levels, zoning history and tourism performance.

A HINTERLAND SURGE IN THE SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR

After a subdued start - partly influenced by seller price expectations and cautious lending appetite - the Noosa Hinterland staged a resurgence.

The second half of 2025 delivered a series of $4 million-plus sales across Eumundi and surrounding hinterland pockets. Buyers sought space, privacy, acreage lifestyle and long-term amenity, signalling renewed confidence in high-end non-coastal product.

Improved alignment between vendor expectations and market realities unlocked more transactions and the upward trajectory should continue in 2026.

TOURISM REBOUNDS AS NOOSA RECLAIMS NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT

...Noosa’s appeal is unwavering...

Named Best Town in Australia by Australian Traveller Magazine, it experienced robust domestic visitation, with spring holiday bookings indicating one of the busiest seasons in recent times. After periods of volatility due to weather and inflationary pressure, consumer confidence returned, lengthof-stay improved and premium bookings recovered.

Allawah Noosa - the holiday letting arm of Klein-Hunter’s businessreported strong performance across its portfolio of high-end homes.

PREPARATION AND EXPERTISE REWARDED

While demand remained strong, the buying process became more complex as the rise of boutique agencies fragmented market visibility, making it difficult for buyers to have a grasp on available stock.

At the same time, Queensland’s new seller disclosure laws, effective from August 2025, elevated the importance of documentation, compliance checks and specialist due diligence. Buyers increasingly relied on local expertise to

navigate nuances such as historic renovations, expired permits and STL compliance - issues that often fall outside of standard conveyancing.

The result is a market where, informed, well-advised buyers continue to secure better-positioned assets and mitigate risks that may be easily overlooked.

LOOKING AHEAD: WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2026

SELECTIVE DEMAND WITH STRONG COMPETITION FOR QUALITY

The coming year is expected to echo many of 2025’s defining characteristics: strong interest in premium, compliant and walk-in–walk-out properties; persistent competition for STL-approved assets; and measured caution around renovation-heavy homes.

Buyers will continue to prioritise certainty around property condition, compliance and income potential.

PLANNING

AND STL RULES TO DRIVE VALUE

With STL permissions constrained and medium-density adjustments embedded, properties within these frameworks will attract increasing attention. Distinctions between Tourist Zone properties and all others will become more pronounced.

HINTERLAND MOMENTUM SET TO CONTINUE

Eumundi, Doonan, Cooroy Mountain and similarly sought-after locations will

Klein Hunter Property Buyers specialise in sourcing and negotiating residential property purchases for local, interstate, and international clients.

sustain the late-2025 momentum for buyers seeking space as well as access to Noosa’s lifestyle precincts.

TIGHT SUPPLY LIKELY UNTIL MID-YEAR

With many owners holding onto property for longer, increases in stock are unlikely. Intergenerational sales may provide a boost, but scarcity remains.

INVESTOR FOCUS TO EVOLVE

Yield performance, holding costs and operational efficiency will guide investor strategy. Properties requiring significant upgrades will appeal only to those with appetite for capital-intensive projects.

A REGION THAT CONTINUES TO SHINE

Noosa remains one of Australia’s most compelling and resilient property markets - an enclave defined by scarcity, beauty and enduring appeal. The past year has reinforced its strength, even amid regulatory change and shifting economic sentiment.

In 2026, opportunities will continue to emerge for those who understand the nuances of the region, recognise the micro-markets within it, and who prioritise informed strategy over speed.

Expert guidance will remain indispensable - and Noosa’s next chapter promises just as much energy, complexity and opportunity as 2025.

Our professional team expertly project manages every step of the acquisition process, from researching, sourcing and negotiation through to settlement - removing the stress and uncertainty from your property purchase.

Contact Kirstie today for a no-obligation discussion about how a local, independent Buyer's Agent can help you secure your piece of paradise.

Kirstie 0449 640 204

kirstie@khpb.com.au

noosapropertybuyersagent.com.au

Scan the QR code to connect.

List with the Kate Cox Team. List with experience.

For over 15 years, Kate Cox has been helping clients make confident, informed decisions about their next move - whether it’s selling the family home or finding the perfect low-maintenance lifestyle.

Your property journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Kate’s extensive market knowledge, honest advice and step-by-step guidance, you can plan your future with clarity and ease.

From understanding your property’s value to knowing the right timing, costs, and opportunities - Kate’s market knowledge is key.

If you would like some clarity into the value of your home, please contact us and we will put together an appraisal on where your home sits in the current market. Kate x

Kate Cox 0438 695 505 kate@reedandco.co

Tony Cox 0402 003 773 tony@reedandco.co

Erin McCartin 0432 909 808 erin@reedandco.co

PRIDE IN

Place

John Caruso learns the importance of loving where you live and how a little polish, planning and pride can give you and your home a new lease on life - without packing a single box.

It’s funny how often we only see the beauty of our own homes when we’re preparing to hand them over to someone else. The walls get a fresh coat of paint, the garden’s trimmed, the clutter is gone, the taps gleam, and suddenly the place feels lighter, calmer, almost new again. Then, just as we fall back in love with it, the ‘Sold’ sign goes up.

Kate Cox from Reed & Co says it happens all the time.

“People bring us in a few months before they plan to sell and ask what needs doing,” she says. “We tell them to clean gutters, update handles, fix taps, new carpet, maybe freshen up the paint. They do all that, the home looks amazing, and then they sell it. They never get to enjoy it.”

Her advice is simple, ‘don’t wait’! Prepare your home as if you were about to sell and then live in it.

“Do it while you’ve got the time,” Kate says. “You don’t have to actually sell it.” Summer, she points out, is the perfect time to start. You might not get a tradie to turn up in December, but you can get organised for the year ahead.

“Sit with your partner, plan what needs doing, and make your bookings,” she suggests. “Book the plumber, painter, the gardener, whoever you need. Even if the work’s not happening straight away, at least it’s lined up. Then when you’re back at work, things get done.”

It’s the sort of practical wisdom you get from someone who’s seen hundreds of homes at every stage of their lifecycle, particularly houses before and after they are transformed by a few thoughtful changes and attention to detail.

Kate says it’s about reclaiming pride and comfort in the space you own.

“It’s not necessarily about selling. It’s about enjoying your home at its best, not putting up with it at it’s worst,” she says. That line landed with me because we’d been through exactly that. We spent years saying we’d get to the garden ‘one day’. Then, just before listing, we brought in Stuart and the team from Earth Creation Landscapes. The transformation was staggering. The garden was lush and inviting, and we spent the next few weeks asking ourselves why we were selling.

Kate laughs knowingly at that scenario.

“You’re not the only ones,” she says. “That’s why I tell people to do it early. Get the garden tidied, declutter, give the place a professional wash-down. Clean the fans because everyone looks up and freshen the master bedroom flooring because people always look down, particularly in that room.”

That insight comes from experience.

“Conversations about buying the property happen in the master bedroom,” Kate explains. “That’s where people feel most comfortable. So, make sure it looks beautiful.”

It’s that mix of psychology and practicality that makes Kate such an engaging agent. She understands the small details that influence how we feel about a space, the textures, the air, the sense of calm or clutter.

And she understands the rhythm of real life, the way good intentions slip once the school runs begin and workdays return.

“If you start in the holiday break,” she says, “you’ll get things done that you’ll never manage during the year.

“Once February hits, life gets busy. Then it’s Easter, and everyone’s buying paint and tools because they’ve finally got a long weekend, and frankly you’ve left

...enjoying your home at its best, not putting up with it at it’s worst.”

your run too late.”

Her own story makes the point.

“I’ve been talking about fixing up my courtyard for ages,” she says. “I’ve had quotes, but the trades are booked out until February. If I were selling, it’d be done in two weeks. But because I’m not, I keep putting it off.

“That’s why I tell people, don’t procrastinate. Use your time to do it now and enjoy it, rather than doing it for someone else to enjoy.”

That notion, doing it for yourself, is what gives her message weight.

A home that’s fresh, clean, and decluttered isn’t just more appealing to buyers, it’s more enjoyable to live in.

The light falls differently through clean windows. A repainted deck or new carpet lifts the mood of a room.

Kate encourages homeowners to bring in an agent even if selling isn’t on the cards.

“Get advice on what would add value,” she says. “It doesn’t mean you’ve got to go to market immediately. You can do the work now, live in the improved space, and maybe sell later. It helps you prioritise.”

It’s a practical philosophy grounded in a kind of quiet optimism that life’s better when we take pride in what we already have. We spend so much time planning the next move, new job, new car, new house, that we forget to pause and enjoy where we are. It’s still your place. Enjoy it, at its best while you can.

In a world that seems to move faster every season, the true luxury many of us crave is space to breathe – homes that restore, soothe and quietly elevate the busy everyday. As wellness becomes the new currency of modern living, the real estate market is evolving alongside it. Ida Fink Gundtoft discovers the shift in luxury homes with Luxe Coastal Property Buyers.

REIMAGINED Luxury

Luxury used to sparkle. It used to glitter from rooftops, dance in the reflection of marble floors and whisper from the quiet hum of designer appliances. But somewhere between the global wellness boom and the shifting priorities of modern life, luxury has retreated into something softer, subtler and infinitely more meaningful.

Today, luxury isn’t about opulence on display. It’s about how a home makes you feel. And no one has been more attuned to this shift than Christine Mount, Principal of Luxe Coastal Property Buyers.

Every day, Christine works with prestige buyers, local families and interstate movers who arrive with a shared longing: more wellness, more nature, more privacy and more intentional living.

It’s not just a trend unfolding in our little corner of paradise.

According to the Global Wellness Institute’s 2025 Wellness Survey, Australia has been named the world’s number-one wellness travel destinations (topping Bali, of all places).

With world-class hiking trails, expansive coastlines and an abundance of fresh, local produce, it’s no wonder wellness is having its moment in the sun. In Noosa, this trend is doing something far more interesting: it’s shifting from a holiday indulgence into a home-

are now opting for home gyms.

Today’s discerning buyers are seeking homes that heal as they host.

ownership mindset.

“People aren’t just buying assets here,” Christine said. “They’re becoming caretakers of land. Wellness and privacy are the true luxuries.”

People aren’t simply searching for bedrooms and bathrooms. They are searching for sanctuaries. Luxury is no longer measured in crystal chandeliers or velvet chaise lounges but in the feeling a space gives you the moment you step through the door.

Christine has seen it firsthand.

“In Noosa, true luxury is about restraint,” she says. “Privacy, proportion, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Every line and material choice should enhance calm and wellness, not compete with the landscape.”

This shift isn’t just present in multimillion-dollar builds. Families who once may have leaned toward extra bedrooms

That extra storage space in the garage becomes an infrared sauna. Water filtration systems are standard procedure. Spaces for breathwork, yoga, journaling and meditation are on the rise.

Wellbeing, quite simply, is becoming foundational.

Perhaps it’s no surprise this movement feels deeply familiar to me. Having grown up in Scandinavia, where snow and sub-zero temperatures are the norm, wellness isn’t just something we do – it’s something we rely on to survive. Sauna culture is stitched into my childhood memories. Steam, heat, ritual. And always, somewhere nearby, a cold plunge or a frozen lake waiting to shock the soul awake. When I eventually own my own home, my fiancé won’t be surprised to see a sauna appear before the couch does.

And interestingly, I’m not alone.

Scandinavian design principles, minimalism with warmth, natural textures and low-profile/high quality furnishings, are showing up with increasing frequency in Australian homes. Somehow, the Nordic palette of wood, linen, neutral tones and purposeful simplicity feels right here. It is wellness architecture in its purest form, and giving

luxury a whole new meaning.

The Global Wellness Institute predicts wellness tourism will surpass the value USD $1 trillion by 2026. But in Noosa, where a UNESCO Biosphere means fine dining, surf breaks, stunning hiking trails and most of all, a protected natural environment, this global trend is already finding its way through our community and homes.

Luxe Coastal Property Buyers stand at the centre of this shift, with Christine and her team acting as trusted guides for those seeking homes that offer more than square metres.

Their process is deeply personal, highly confidential, and shaped around each client’s wellbeing, privacy and long-term vision. Whether sourcing a beachfront retreat built for mindfulness or a hinterland haven designed for generational calm, Luxe Coastal specialises in property as a form of lifestyle transformation.

With more than 30 years of global property expertise and over $1.7 billion in transactions, Christine has become a trusted authority on the Sunshine Coast, guiding international and interstate buyers through every step of securing a home or investment.

“Today’s discerning buyers are seeking homes that heal as they host,” Christine said. “Spaces that nurture vitality, connection, and quiet joy.”

As wellness continues to shape global travel, it’s becoming evident that the most profound shift is happening at home. In the way we design, the way we build, and the way we protect our peace.

It’s no wonder that Noosa was named Best Town in Australia by Australian

Traveller Magazine, beating the likes of Byron Bay.

Christine said it was no surprise.

“I do honestly believe part of the allure is the commitment to sustainability and wellness as recognised by Noosa’s UNESCO Biosphere status,” she said.

The new Noosa luxury is simple: to live in harmony with land, legacy and life itself. And Luxe Coastal is guiding the way, one sanctuary at a time.

DREAM

Driver

Selling your home should feel as easy and enjoyable as a Sunday drive. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer meets the local real estate agent who knows exactly how to make the journey supported, scenic and smooth.

There’s something magical about a Sunday drive. The windows down, the breeze in your hair, and the road stretching out ahead make everything feel calmer, clearer and easier.

If Kathy Wise had her way, every property sale would feel exactly like that – an effortless cruise towards a place you already know you’re going to love.

As Founder and Director of Sun & Sage Real Estate, Kathy says she’s built her reputation on making the selling journey feel less like a high-pressure sprint and more like a beautifully mapped-out coastal drive.

“Selling your home should be smooth, easy and breezy,” she says. “My job is to be in the driver’s seat so my clients can relax, enjoy the ride, and trust that we’ll reach the right destination together.”

That sense of steadiness – of someone who knows the route, understands the terrain, and has navigated it a hundred times before – is central to Kathy’s ‘Sage Approach.’

It’s a philosophy grounded in wisdom, insight and heart, and it shapes

My job is to be in the driver’s seat so my clients can relax, enjoy the ride, and trust that we’ll reach the right destination together.

everything she does.

With experience across property development, building, buyer advocacy and interior design, as well as formal qualifications in counselling, she brings a rare 360-degree calm to what can often be an emotional time.

“Selling a home is a huge decision, and people want someone they can trust in the driver’s seat,” she says. “Someone who’s honest, down-to-earth and genuinely on their team.”

For Kathy, that teamwork is essential.

Vendors, buyers, buyer’s advocates, her team – they’re all part of the journey. And while she’s the one holding the keys, everyone can jump in and enjoy the journey.

Of course, every drive has its bends in the road. Markets shift, expectations wobble, emotions occasionally rev or stall. But Kathy approaches these moments the same way she handles a winding hinterland road – with calm steering, clear communication, and the kind of grounded confidence that gently settles everyone’s nerves.

“You can have tough conversations without arrogance,” she explains. “It’s about being straightforward, being fair, and guiding people well.”

Just as importantly, Kathy knows the value of preparation and knowing where you are going – understanding the market, crafting a thoughtful plan, and giving clients a clear sense of what lies ahead.

She explains each stage without jargon, breaks big decisions into manageable steps, and keeps everything

PHOTO: JOSH DZWONCZYK

moving without ever making people feel rushed.

It’s this clarity that so many of her clients reflect on afterwards: a sense that instead of feeling chaotic, their sale instead unfolded with surprising ease.

And when things do get lively – a buyer hesitates, a vendor rethinks, or the market throws an unexpected turn –Kathy’s sage steadiness keeps everything rolling.

She knows when to accelerate, when to ease off, and when to pull over for a quiet chat that brings everyone back into alignment. Her clients often remark that what feels overwhelming on their own becomes wonderfully manageable with her behind the wheel.

“Every sale has its own rhythm,” she says. “But if you choose the right person to guide you, it can be a beautiful journey. You don’t need pressure, or drama. You just need expertise, communication, and someone who genuinely wants the best for you.”

Kathy’s approach is refreshingly human. She understands that selling a home isn’t simply handing over keys – it’s stepping from one life chapter into the next. Her role, as she sees it, is to make that transition feel supported,

thoughtful and grounded in real-world wisdom

And when you finally pull into that driveway, contract signed, next chapter ready and waiting – there’s no better feeling.

With Kathy Wise in the driver’s seat, selling your home becomes less of a task and more of a memorable journey to somewhere amazing. Hop in and fasten your seatbelt – it’s time to ride!

Briefs BUYER

Ever wondered how people secure their dream homes? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer delves into the stories behind the sales to discover how one passionate buyers agent is helping clients buy like a local in Noosa and beyond.

Spend five minutes with Bronwen Stacey and you’ll quickly understand why her clients speak so highly of her.

As the founder of Home Scouts, a boutique buyers agency specialising in the Noosa and Sunshine Coast regions, Bron is part-property strategist and part-detective, bringing a calm confidence to one of the most emotionally charged processes in life.

Bron understands that property isn’t just about bedrooms and square metres; it’s about understanding how people want to live, and then finding the place that supports their dream.

Bron’s eyes light up when I ask her what she loves most about being a buyers agent.

“It’s that moment when you help your client find their perfect fit and achieve their dream of owning property in this beautiful region – whether for themselves to live in or as an investment,” she enthuses.

Here are some standout stories of clients she’s recently helped…

It’s that moment when you help your client find their perfect fit and achieve their dream…

FROM HOLIDAY TO EVERYDAY

Melbourne-based Wendy and Steve had spent years escaping to Noosa to soak up the sunshine, and fell in love with the Noosa Sound pocket around Gympie Terrace and Quamby Place, an area they were determined to call home.

“Their friends living in Noosa recommended they chat to me,” Bron recalls. “I worked closely with them to refine their brief and budget, then uncover pre-market, off-market and on-market opportunities.”

After months of searching and ruling out properties that didn’t quite fit the brief or budget or due diligence criteria, Bron secured a stunning waterfront two-bed, two-bath apartment for

a competitive price at auction.

Thanks to her local knowledge and network, Wendy and Steve now wake up in their dream Noosa holiday apartment. FAMILY FIRST-HOME BUYERS

After years living interstate, Guy and his partner were returning to Noosa and wanted to buy a family home. But as first-time buyers, they had no idea where to start.

“The process can be complex and time-consuming, particularly if you are unfamiliar with how to assess value or negotiate confidently,” Bron says.

Guy engaged Home Scouts to manage the evaluation, negotiation and purchase of his ideal home.

Bron reveals that the thorough due diligence conducted by Home Scouts revealed that the selling agent’s guide price exceeded what research supported.

Drawing on over 15 years of local property experience in the area, she negotiated confidently to secure the Noosa Heads property for a competitive result fully in line with the market

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

conditions, as well as comparable sales and listings.

BENCHMARKED BEAUTY

Busy professionals Sean and Hannah were drawn to old Tewantin and wanted a low-maintenance family home but didn’t have time for the search.

“They were looking for a fully renovated low-set home and engaged us to manage the full search, evaluation, negotiation and acquisition,” says Bron.

Together they developed a detailed buyer brief, including examples of ‘benchmark’ homes they loved.

In a twist of good timing, one of their

exact benchmark properties became available again after a contract fell through. Thanks to our strong relationships with local agents, we were able to access it before it returned to market. Bron negotiated the price and terms, securing a brand-new four-bed, two-bath home on an 811m2 block at a competitive price - the perfect place to make new family memories.

FROM TRAFFIC TO TREE-CHANGE

M and J were living in inner-city Melbourne and dreaming of swapping traffic for trees. Their brief was clear: a private hinterland home with space, serenity and easy access to the beach.

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“My role was to uncover that perfect balance between seclusion and convenience – a home with character, space and serenity within the Noosa Shire,” Bron says. “And the pressure was on as they had already sold their Melbourne apartment.”

Bron scoured the Noosa and Sunshine Coast hinterlands before finding the one – a property set on more than 8,000m2, surrounded by mature gardens and featuring timber floors and a northfacing balcony with ocean glimpses.

Competition was strong, so Bron moved decisively and secured the property. M and J now enjoy morning coffee surrounded by birdsong and sea breezes – the lifestyle they’d been dreaming of.

SCOUTS HONOUR

As a REBAA-accredited buyer’s agent, Qualified Property Investment Advisor and multi-category national awards finalist in the PIPA National Awards for Excellence, Bronwen Stacey from Home Scouts is your trusted partner in finding the right property across Noosa. Scan the QR code or visit www.homescouts.com.au to schedule an introductory discovery call.

A TRUSTED

Harbour

A new kind of real estate agency is quietly transforming the way people buy, sell and invest in this coastal paradise, as Ida Fink Gundtoft discovers.

Noosa has a way of capturing the heart. A combination of sun-drenched beaches, lush hinterland and a community that feels more like family than neighbours.

For Donovan Biss and his wife Tara Morris, it is exactly that: a place to return to, to raise a family, and now, to redefine the real estate experience in the region.

Enter Cove, a premium and sophisticated agency that is not just selling property, it is creating a safe harbour for those navigating the often complex waters of buying, selling, renting and developing homes.

Officially established in November 2024, Cove’s foundation is rooted deeply in local knowledge and connection - Donovan and Tara are both born and bred in Noosa.

After living elsewhere for a decade, they returned in 2018 with a clear vision: to raise their young family in the place that had shaped their own childhoods, and to contribute to the community that had given them so much. Their daughter, now four years old, grows up surrounded by Noosa’s natural beauty and vibrant

lifestyle, just as her parents did. A daily reminder of why the region is unlike anywhere else in the world.

Family is central to Cove’s ethos. Donovan leads the agency with a meticulous understanding of property, town planning and development, drawing on his experience as a builder; Tara oversees operations with precision and care, ensuring every client experience is seamless; their nephew, Isaac Biss, manages marketing; and their niece, Charlotte Clark, takes charge of holiday and permanent rentals. In every way, Cove is a business built on trust, relationships and shared values that resonate deeply with the community.

“Just as ships come into a safe harbour, people can come in from the rough seas of dealing with other agencies or the complexities of property sales, often without the guidance or knowledge they need,” Donovan explains, the analogy that inspired the agency’s name coming naturally.

“At Cove, they tie their boat up, and everything they require is at their doorstep. We provide a 360-degree

approach, from residential sales and project developments to rentals, and we guide clients every step of the way.”

The agency’s origins stem from Donovan’s recognition of a gap in the market. With extensive experience across construction and development, he saw that many agents lacked the specialised knowledge necessary to truly add value to clients.

By bringing these services in-house, Cove provides a professional, highcalibre approach that maximises outcomes for both sellers and buyers.

Every property is assessed for its potential, every development carefully guided, and every transaction executed with precision and integrity.

“We’re guiding clients through every step, whether it’s understanding development potential, advising on property improvements or navigating the sales process,” Donovan said.

“Every day is different, but the goal is the same: delivering exceptional outcomes while protecting our clients’ interests.”

Charlotte Clark, Donovan Biss and Tara Morris

PHOTO: IAN WALDIE

Cove is also about perspective.

“I went for a swim at the National Park the other day and walked off the rocks into the sand and looked back towards Hastings Street bursting with life,” he recalls. “There’s just no place like it.”

That love for the local environment informs the agency’s ethos: a dedication to place, community and lifestyle that shapes every interaction and decision.

Despite its youth, Cove has already made a significant mark. Since March, the agency has three projects under construction and five off-market listings ready to hit the market in the new year; a testament to its hands-on expertise, deep local insight and results-driven approach.

“In our first year we have been able to transact over $20 million in transactions helping sellers and buyers alike from entry level homes at $600,00 all the way to major transactions including an $11 million+ hinterland mansion, which emphasises our ethos of working on all levels for all people,” Donovan said.

Its rental portfolio is expanding rapidly, holiday rentals are in the works and feedback from clients and industry peers alike has been overwhelmingly

...a safe harbour for those navigating the often complex waters of buying, selling and developing...

positive, praising the agency’s branding, office space and approach to client service.

The agency’s offerings are as comprehensive as they are bespoke.

Collaboration with town planners, finance partners and other specialists ensures that every client enjoys a seamless, informed and highly professional experience.

“We are on this journey with our clients,” Donovan said. From advising development partners and navigating town planning processes, to residential sales, rental management and holiday leasing, Cove provides a complete, performance-based service.

Yet, for all its sophistication, Cove remains grounded in community and connection. Donovan and Tara’s

You’re in good hands with COVE.

Buy. Rent. Projects. Holiday.

approach is relational: clients are more than transactions.

They are neighbours, friends and collaborators in a shared vision of Noosa’s future. This combination of professionalism, personalised guidance and family values makes Cove distinctive in a competitive market.

For those seeking to buy, sell or invest in Noosa, Cove represents a new standard of excellence – an agency that blends deep local insight with strategic expertise, while never losing sight of the people and place that make it extraordinary.

In a town where lifestyle and opportunity intersect, Cove offers not just real estate services, but a guiding hand, a trusted partner and a safe and trusted harbour for every property journey.

FIND YOUR COVE

Whether you’re buying, selling, investing or looking for a rental property, Cove makes the experience feel personal, professional and perfectly Noosa. Scan the QR code or visit www.covegroup.com.au to find out more. Enquire today. 0411 916 611 admin@covegroup.com.au

We trust experts to take the leg work out of many things in life, so why not when purchasing a home? Jodie Cameron uncovers why having a Buyers Agent in your corner could be the smartest move you make…

Confidence BUYING WITH

Buying a home has long been considered the great Australian dream – a milestone that represents stability, success, and a place to truly call your own. Yet navigating the property market can feel like wandering through a labyrinth, especially here in Noosa, where the dream of owning a home by the beach collides with soaring prices and fierce competition.

Enlisting a professional buyers agent can be the difference between a smart move, and a life-changing one.

A buyers agent is your eyes and ears on the ground, and exactly what Peregian Beach couple, Suellen and Steve discovered when they made the move from Sydney’s Northern Beaches to the Sunshine Coast. Think of a buyers agent as your personal property advocate.

Their role isn’t to sell you a home – it’s to make sure you get exactly what you want, at the right price, with far less stress. They are well connected and can tap into local knowledge, off-market opportunities, and insights you simply can’t get scrolling through listings.

So in the pursuit of living a mortgage free life, Suellen and Steve fell in love with the Sunshine Coast lifestyle, the weather and relaxed pace of life.

“We were lucky to have purchased our

Engaging a buyers agent was worth every cent for the peace of mind and guidance...

Sydney home at a low price back in the 90s,” Suellen shared. “Then sold it during the height of the pandemic, so we were able to make the move just in time for our daughter to start high school on the Coast.”

Following a property research trip to Queensland, where they inspected a host of properties but kept missing out, they realised navigating the market from afar was far more challenging than expected.

“It became clear that monitoring the market on our own wasn’t going to work,” she says. “That’s when we decided we needed professional support and interviewed a number of buyers agents.”

Enlisting the services of Kristy Bruggy from Noosa Buyers Agents, Suellen said the difference was immediate with Kristy providing local expertise, objective advice, and confidence in their decision to not go it alone.

“We were looking for a home that was north-facing, light and bright, offered privacy from neighbours, and suited our lifestyle – oh, and of course close to the beach because Steve loves to surf,” Suellen smiled. “Without Kristy we might have been too stubborn and missed out or compromised on something for the wrong reason.”

A common myth is buyers agents are only for the wealthy or that they’re prohibitively expensive. In reality, many buyers find that the agent pays for themselves through smarter purchasing, negotiation wins, and access to properties that would otherwise go unnoticed. They save buyers from costly mistakes and unnecessary stress.

A recommendation from a friend solidified Suellen and Steve’s choice in partnering with Kristy because she was instantly proactive, genuinely cared, and went the extra mile.

“Kristy handled the research, inspections, and negotiations, and even sourced off-market properties that weren’t available yet,” Suellen explained.

“She knocked on doors, spoke to neighbours, and guided us through every step of the process. Even after the purchase, she continued to support us, which really makes a difference when you are settling into a new town.”

The result? A dream home in Peregian Beach and a new Sunshine Coast lifestyle they haven’t looked back on since.

“Engaging Kristy from Noosa Buyers Agent was worth every cent for the peace of mind and guidance,” Steve added. “Without her invaluable local knowledge, and access to additional property options not listed, we may have missed out on this opportunity.”

Even for locals, the advantages are tangible.

A buyers agent helps spot red flags, uncover hidden opportunities, and negotiate effectively. For buyers relocating from interstate or overseas, the value is amplified.

Understanding true market value, evaluating properties remotely, and managing settlements from afar can be daunting – but with a professional in your corner, the process becomes far more manageable.

“Having someone represent us with a thorough understanding of our goals was priceless,” Suellen shared. “Without Kristy’s encouragement and sending

us her own internal and external videos, we wouldn’t have even inspected the property we purchased.

“She helped us realise it had everything we wanted and envisaged how we could renovate to really make it ours.”

Ultimately, using a buyers agent isn’t about cutting corners, or delegating dreams – it’s about making smarter, safer, and more enjoyable property decisions.

It ensures your purchase aligns with your lifestyle goals, gives long-term value, and keeps the process exciting rather than stressful.

“If you’re moving from interstate, overseas or feeling overwhelmed, don’t wait until you miss out on your dream home – get help securing it now and start living exactly where you want to live,” Suellen advises.

Whether you’re searching for a holiday home, moving to the Coast, or looking for a luxury property, a buyers agent might just be the key to buying with confidence.

After all, in a place as special as Noosa, the right property isn’t just a purchase – it’s the start of a new chapter in your life’s journey.

Suellen, Kristy and Steve

BEYOND THE

Listing

John Caruso meets an agent with a people-first approach, delivering a fresh clarity to local property dealings.

Jason Robertson understands why some sellers feel guarded when they step into the market. He said he’d noticed “a bit of game-playing and self-interest in pockets of the industry,” which encouraged him to shape a service built on transparency and genuine connection. That scepticism is a problem that Jason wants to solve. For many people, a house sale coincides with a watershed moment, relationship change, health issues, or a move for work. The industry’s volume culture and personality-driven marketing can leave vendors feeling exposed, misinformed or like a number on a spreadsheet. Jason’s philosophy is simple, if trust is broken, the transaction suffers. Fix the relationship and the result follows.

Robertson Real Estate responds with what its principal calls a seller-first model.

“It was never about building a personal brand for its own sake,” he said. “My focus is the client, their vision, and having a genuine approach to the deal.”

That line, practical and unshowy, runs through everything he does, selective listings, bespoke marketing and a considered strategy to suit the vendor’s needs.

The practice starts on the ground. Jason describes doing letterbox drops with his teenage sons recently, and stopping to talk, really talk, with some people along the way.

“I’ll have a conversation at a front fence for half an hour, and even if we don’t get any sales out of it, that conversation alone was worth it,” he says. Those moments are not small talk to be filed away; it’s the work of understanding what people want and why

they might be selling in the first place. His background explains why that approach feels natural rather than calculated. Trained as an electrician in the early nineties, Jason built several businesses - electrical, product distribution, gym fit outs and more, before moving full-time into real estate.

“I’ve always had a genuine desire to listen, hear what the customer needs and then find a solution,” he said. That range of experience gives him comfort to be selective; Jason won’t take on a listing he can’t stand behind.

That selectivity is his edge. As a small, financially-secure agency, Robertson Real Estate can be agile, tailoring pricing strategies, marketing and timing to a vendor’s objectives rather than pushing a quick sale.

Jason is candid about priorities: “The

Jason Robertson

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

money is third or fourth on the list,” he said. “It’s about having passion for the property.”

For owners of manicured acreage in the hinterland or a coastal home near the waves, that degree of care matters. They want someone who understands materials, structure and design, someone who can sell the experience of a place, not just its price per square-metre.

Trust also shapes how Jason handles the difficult moments. He’s seen vendors sell because of illness or broken relationships, and he treats those conversations with the discretion they deserve.

“You’re at a significant place with the client so if I can bring some value to the table and operate from a position of genuine care, I can do good work,” he says. Even when a positive interaction doesn’t lead to a listing, Jason measures success by the quality of the exchange rather than the commission.

There is a second, quieter purpose to the way he runs the agency. Education! He wants local people to walk away from conversations feeling better informed about their options.

That’s why his marketing focus is on clarity, not hyperbole, no inflated

I don’t care if my face is on a billboard or whether my results are published, my focus is transparency, delivering on promises, and ensuring everyone finishes the process happy.

opening prices or showy claims, just a clear explanation of what can be achieved and how.

“We don’t do the salesy jargon. We’re totally relatable and when people meet us, they often remark that we’re ‘totally normal’,” he laughs. “Good to know.”

Locally, our market blends acreage and coastal lifestyle, often carrying emotional weight as well as financial value.

Jason chooses to work in areas he admires such as Pomona, Cooroy and Doonan, with interest from Sunshine Beach and Noosa too.

His construction experience gives him

a credible voice when discussing a property’s features, which in turn helps vendors feel their home is being presented honestly.

If the industry problem is a gap in trust, Jason’s solution is straightforward and worth repeating: treat people as people, choose listings with integrity, and communicate plainly.

It’s not flashy.

“I don’t care if my face is on a billboard or whether my results are published, my focus is on transparency, delivering on promises, and ensuring everyone finishes the process happy,” he says.

That uncommon modesty is the selling point. For vendors who have tired of bravado and want an agent who will listen first and sell second, Jason offers a different way forward, a practice built on conversation, competence and a willingness to put the client’s outcome ahead of personal profile.

It’s a practical fix to a real problem, and for many people that will be the difference between a fraught sale and one that finally feels like a proper close. If you’re looking for a different kind of real estate experience, give Jason a call. It’s worth a conversation.

Champions GrowCONVEYANCING

John Caruso discovers first-hand, how a dedicated team can take the headache out of property deals, turning the convoluted into the clear and how seamless service and sharp communication are the key to success.

Buying and selling property can be one of the most stressful (and exciting) times in anyone’s lives.

At Coast to Coast Conveyancing, simplicity isn’t just a slogan; it’s how they do business. Senior Conveyancer Jessika Avenell explains that their process is built around taking the stress out of buying or selling property.

“People have enough on their plates without trying to navigate the ins and outs of conveyancing,” Jess says. “Our goal is to make it straightforward, clear, and easy to understand. If clients don’t get it, then we haven’t done our job properly.”

The team now includes Jess plus Commercial Lawyer and Director Anthony Murdoch; Property Lawyer Cass Young, who assists in all things

conveyancing and also covers commercial work along with wills and estates; and Georgia Whittaker who recently joined as Conveyancing Assistant.

Jess says that expanding the team has been critical to managing the workload without compromising service quality.

“Our team has grown and we already see the potential for growth next year,” she said. “It’s about having enough hands to keep things moving smoothly and not letting anyone fall through the cracks.”

Jess describes that balancing growth and simplicity is a constant focus.

“Adding more team members doesn’t mean complicating things,” she says. “We’ve honed our internal systems to keep the process tight and efficient.

“At the same time, we want to remain personable and responsive. That’s what makes the difference for our clients and we know that what they value most is how accessible and responsive we are.

“Clients know they can contact any of us and receive a clear, timely response. That ongoing communication cuts through the confusion that can otherwise make the process daunting.”

Speaking from my own experience, I recently sold a property in Brisbane and used Coast to Coast Conveyancing, and honestly, it was the simplest and most supported process I’ve encountered.

Compared to a previous purchase where I had to chase for answers and was repeatedly left in the dark, this time the process was completely refreshing. The team kept me updated throughout

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Cass Young, Anthony Murdoch, Jess Avenell and Georgia Whittaker

the experience and even when immediate answers weren’t available, I always knew someone was on top of things, which made all the difference.

Their expertise goes beyond just the core local team, with a skilled extended group in other areas so that when questions arise that needed specific legal knowledge, from litigation to commercial law to family matters, they rely on trusted solicitors.

“We recently had a client moving to the USA who needed guidance on a rental agreement under American law so Anthony Murdoch, our Principal and Director who studied law in Delaware, was able to help,” Jess says.

“It’s rare that we can’t provide solid advice or access the right expertise.”

This combination of knowledge and a straightforward, friendly approach forms Coast to Coast’s foundation.

Jess highlights how the process has gotten even smoother since Georgia joined the team.

“We’ve been able to manage more without losing that personal touch,” she says.

“Clients tell us they notice the difference, and positive feedback keeps coming in.”

If something is unexpected, we have the capacity to move quickly and get expert help without delays...

Despite busy schedules, the team is careful never to let clients feel like just another file.

“Even a quick reply to acknowledge a question can ease a lot of stress,” she says. “Every client’s case is important.”

The growing team means they can offer deeper support across individual cases.

“If something is unexpected, we have the capacity to move quickly and get expert help without delays,” Jess says.

“That peace of mind is huge for people dealing with property, which isn’t an everyday thing for most.”

For most people, buying or selling property isn’t routine, so having a conveyancer who takes care of the details clearly and simply is crucial.

“People want the journey to be

hassle-free, without dealing with unanswered questions or complicated jargon,” she says.

Cass, while still heavily involved in the conveyancing space and pre-contract negotiations, plays a vital role managing the commercial and estates side, allowing Coast to Coast to expand while keeping their signature straightforward service.

“Cass has made a big difference, and it’s great knowing she’s got those added areas covered so we can be more than just a conveyancing firm, but essentially a one-stop-shop and trusted advisor for our clients,” says Jess.

Looking ahead, Jess jokes about how tough it will be to replace Georgia when she fully steps into a conveyancing role.

“She’s a bit irreplaceable as an assistant,” Jess admits.

For now, the priority is maintaining the ease and clarity clients have come to expect.

Coast to Coast Conveyancing remains committed to making property transactions smooth and stress-free.

As I experienced, when the process is handled by a team who communicates well and cares about the details, the whole experience feels easier.

“That’s what really counts,” Jess says.

STAGE ONE HOMES AND STUNNING NEW CLUBHOUSE COMPLETE. FIRST RESIDENTS MOVING IN FROM DECEMBER.

Wake up to sea breezes, nature trails and the laid-back charm of Sunrise Beach.

Sunrise Beach Village offers resort-style retirement living in a vibrant, connected community and it’s ready for you.

• Brand-new villas and apartmentsmove in ready

• More new homes ready early 2026

• Clubhouse with gym, sauna, private theatre and lounge

• Outdoor heated pool, BBQ area and games room

• Beside Girraween Nature Reserve and BlueCare aged care

• 24-hour emergency assistance

• Just minutes from Sunrise Beach

*Artist impression.

John Caruso discovers a community that is redefining what it means to embrace change and opportunity at every stage of life.

NEW SUNRISE,

New Day!

New beginnings are equal parts challenge and thrill. They can mean boxing up a lifetime of photo albums, adjusting to a downsized kitchen, or simply seeing each morning as a new window of possibility.

Our family moved from a roomy four-bedroom home in Doonan to an apartment building at the other end of the coast, among dozens of neighbours, close enough to catch the ocean’s change in mood. Our new daily rhythms, unexpected friendships, and the buzz of our evolving community remind me that starting again at any age is less about what you leave behind, and much more about what you stand to gain.

For those about to turn the page at Sunrise Beach Village, the newest address by Keyton, new beginnings are in sharp focus. The village is ready to accept its first residents - people who, like me, have stories packed up in boxes but are now searching for what’s next.

“I was excited the second I saw the sign for Sunrise Beach Village,” says new resident, Helen. “This is for me. It feels like a good place, the people I’ve met are very diverse; they’re my kind of people. I’m looking forward to moving in and creating my own new traditions.”

Sunrise Beach Village isn’t just a collection of homes; it’s an invitation to truly be part of a community. Fresh starts come alive in walking groups, happy hours, gardening, and art classes - essentials that bring both structure and spontaneity. The Ignite Your Passion program stands out, empowering residents to propose real-life activities.

“I was never a joiner before retirement, but now, I’m running the village choir,” jokes Susan, a resident from a nearby Keyton Retirement Village,

whose initial nerves have given way to passion and joy. “Turns out, you can teach an old dog new tricks!”

New beginnings also mean the freedom to design your days, sometimes in ways you never imagined.

Marilyn, who arrived at another Keyton Retirement Village mid-year, says, “I thought I’d be lonely after my husband passed, but being here has opened outlets I never knew existed. I’ve learned pottery, joined the book club, and now I help with the veggie patch. It’s not just about filling time; it’s restarting with purpose.”

What excites most residents about these new beginnings is the wealth of opportunities waiting to be discovered.

Moving to Sunrise Beach Village means meeting people with fresh perspectives, forming new friendships that quickly feel like old mates. It’s about joining in on a broad range of activities, from fitness classes and swimming to music groups and technology sessions.

Residents also find joy in having a say in their community, and living so close to the coast offers easy access to walking trails, a refreshing swim, or simply enjoying the sea breeze from your balcony. Perhaps the most exciting prospect is the freedom from chores like mowing lawns or property upkeep, giving residents more time to travel, pursue leisure activities, spend quality time with family, and focus on themselves.

All of this is underpinned by a genuine sense of belonging - where neighbours look out for one another, share favourite recipes, and come together to celebrate life’s milestones with warmth and joy

Village Manager Carrie Woods has seen firsthand how this unfolds.

...people realise they’re building a new life, not just a new address.

“People arrive with understandable nerves, they’re starting over after decades, sometimes after loss, sometimes after big family decisions,” she says. “But it doesn’t take long before the conversations start in the hallway, the laughter spills out of the Clubhouse, and people realise they’re building a new life, not just a new address.”

What’s truly exciting about new beginnings is the unpredictability and the open-endedness.

Will you learn to paint, or will you take it up again? Find yourself dancing on a Thursday night? Share homecooked meals with neighbours? Maybe you’ll simply enjoy waking up with a fresh outlook, freedom from yesterday’s patterns.

Reflecting on our own move, I’ve noticed that the first step always feels the biggest, and the most rewarding.

There’s an odd comfort in unfamiliar places, a kind of energy in the unknown. New beginnings strip away expectations, clear space for growth, and offer the clearest path to joy.

If you’re stepping into Sunrise Beach Village, you’re not only joining a new community, you’re also choosing opportunity over routine, connection over isolation, and growth over stagnation.

That’s what new beginnings are truly about!

PHOTOS:

BarefootTHE CORPORATE

WARRIOR

Paul Bird discovers how intelligence changes with age. Our brains are front-and-centre for the growing cohort who are living longer. Those of us on the other side of 60 look back with nostalgia to our 20s and 30s when we felt at our sharpest and most capable mentally. A youth-oriented culture reinforces this view that it is basically all downhill once we hit 40.

The human body - and our mindis powered forward by an energetic whirlwind in our formative years. Our youthful, nimble bodies also house a nimble brain which uses its freshness to attack the dilemmas of life in ways that are quite different to more seasoned grey matters. So it does seem that as we move into mid-life that we can only pine for those younger, rapid-fire capabilities from which so much invention springs.

But wait! Before you can blurt ‘neuroplasticity’ three times rapid-fire without stumbling, comes along deep, insightful research which prises open the two forms of intelligence which we experience at different times in our life to reveal that we actually peak in brain power in our mid-to-late 50s.

‘Crystallized intelligence’ and ‘fluid intelligence’ are recognised neuroscience states which help us understand some of the differences between the mental capabilities of youth and aged.

Crystallized intelligence refers to the knowledge, facts, and skills acquired through experience, education, and learning over time - what we might call wisdom or experience-based decisionmaking; fluid intelligence is the capacity to reason and solve novel problems independently of any knowledge from the past - what I would judge as intuitive or instinctual reasoning often associated with speedy decision-making.

Our brains are wired differently at different times in the life cycle.

We gain crystallized intelligence as we age and lose fluid intelligence as we move out of the teenage and young adult years. The fluid intelligence of the young is exciting and sharp, but fleeting.

Researchers have recently brought together the findings from various studies to look at overall functioning and found that, despite middle age being

often portrayed as the time of life where “everything is falling apart” this is when we are actually at our sharpest.

We might be missing some of the speed of youth but we make up for that with a different kind of smarts. While our physical peak remains stuck in our 20s and 30s, it seems our mental and emotional peak is a moment best honed in life’s experiences over decades.

We know that our brain, this most powerful of engines, is assailed on all sides from the moment we are born.

Mental and emotional illnesses, problem-solving challenges, physical degeneration etc take their toll on our ability to navigate through the world.

From a purely physical standpoint we are up against it as our brains begin to decline in volume from our early 30s.

The research shows however that we are on a slow burn towards a more mature type of intelligence and cognition which peaks around the late 50s.

Scientists call this ‘overall cognitivepersonality functioning’.

This mid-life peaking has been revealed by a research paper published in the psychology journal, Intelligence The study, across 16 cognitive and personality dimensions, resulted in the formulation of the very fancy and authoritative-sounding CognitivePersonality Functioning Index (CPFI) pinpointing our peak from ages 55-60.

The researchers analysed age-related trends across nine life success areas: cognitive abilities, personality traits, emotional intelligence, financial literacy, moral reasoning, resistance to sunk cost bias (continuing to persist with a lost cause even when it is obvious we will continue to lose), cognitive flexibility, cognitive empathy, and need for cognition. They also looked at reason, memory, vocabulary and speed and suggest this later peak could be associated with mid-life career highs.

They also suggest that those under 40 may not be best-suited to what they call “high-stakes” decision-making.

The bad news is that there seems to be a pronounced decline from around ages

65-70, bringing decision-making abilities into question from this age on.

I was happy to note that financial literacy and moral reasoning continue to rise into the 60s and 70s, so all is not lost. Hope abounds - I am destined to both be ‘in the money’ and a ‘better man’ in coming decades.

Does wisdom bring timidity? Is fluid intelligence a form of courage?

I think the challenge for those of us with crystallized (moving to hardened diamond phase I predict) intelligence is: how do we retain/extend/recapture some of this fluid intelligence for as long as possible? Can we extend the peak? Are there methods and techniques which we can employ or do we simply wait for the pill to emerge in the next decade or so which will solve this problem?

As someone who is on the ‘wrong’ side of 60 I feel it to be my civic duty to mount an argument that the peak is in fact a plateau which lasts well into the 60s and beyond. I will be waiting for the research to catch up with that one.

One element missing from all this is the impact of self-awareness, consciousness or spiritual awakening to the universe and our place in it. Many people discover a mature spiritual life beyond conventional institutional religion as they age.

As a post (slightly)-peak/plateau individual I now have the evidence to suggest to “she-who-must-be-listenedto-at-all-times” that I have actually gained in mental maturity (she hasn’t always agreed). No more arguments.

AND RECHARGE WITH A

Soak up Noosa’s ideal year round climate beside our heated pool, with direct beach access and Concierge Services to cater for your every need. Relax at the ‘Paris’ end of Hastings Street, with dining and shopping at your doorstep and Noosa National Park only minutes away.