Issue 100_The Milestone Issue

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100 ISSUES

As I read the headline above, I am blown away and also deeply humbled. ‘100’ is A LOT, that’s for sure. But we would not have gotten here without YOU, our readers, and without wonderful clients and an amazing team both now and through the years. Many thanks to our hugely talented, head designer Zonya Bird, co-designer Brooke Murray, sub-editor Roxanne McCarty-O’Kane, our printers Sheena Canning and the team from The Inkspot Printers and all the various designers, proofers, writers and editors that have been part of the magazine over the years.

Our cover and new editor's note pics this issue are thanks to talented local brand photographer Paula Brennan, who is a personal friend and amazing human. Thanks also for allowing us to shoot your gorgeous penthouse Deb and Pat Hannan, just wow! And our cover wouldn’t be complete without my gorgeous outfit by designer Nikki Bagadia, owner of Czarina Luxury Resort Wear. Your clothes represent me perfectly: colourful, sparkly and unique; I always feel like a million bucks when I’m wearing Czarina. The truth is that this is the first thing I have ever done for this long. It’s over fifteen years since the magazine started, and I thank my lucky stars that

I get to do what I love each and every day, educate, inspire and connect.

At Matters Magazine we are so passionate about sharing education and inspiration about things that MATTER.

The truth is that Magic and I have reached a time in our life where we are ready to slow down life’s merrygo-round a little. We recently sold our Buddina beach house and have bought an apartment on Kawana Island right on the water, we absolutely love it, so as of this issue, Matters Magazine will now be Bi-Annual, how cool is that?

Six months to put it all together and you’ll get six months to read every single page of the magazine. It seems that our advertisers are loving this too, with lots of them choosing to go bigger with their ad sizes and lots of new clients coming on board too, excited by the awesome value for their advertising dollar that Matters Magazine now presents.

We are thrilled to bits that this decision has resulted in such a massive win for us and a win for our advertisers and we hope our readers too.

This is an epic Milestone in more ways than one.

www.MattersMagazine.com.au

Vickie Magic

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100 issues

WOW. We are so happy to celebrate our 100th issue and of course, we decided to do it in style.

We thought about the last 15 years and just how much Matters Magazine matters here on the Coast and although we have worked hard over the last ten years and more, we are not ready to hang our hat… just yet.

We aim to truly live into our slogan of ‘What matters most on the Sunshine Coast’.

Recently, we have made a huge life and business decision with regards to the magazine. We are ready to slow down and so will change the magazine, as of the issue in your hands right now, to bi-annual. We thought we were doing this for us, but the feedback and take-up of advertisers both old and new has just blown us away.

They are just loving the 26-week shelf life, it represents the biggest bang for buck ever. So, we are thrilled to bits that it has resulted in such a massive win for us and a win for our advertisers and we hope our readers too.

Let’s have a little look back through time at some of the milestones we are most proud of for ourselves personally and for the magazine.

Personally, my life milestones are:

19th July 1960 – Born to parents Elaine and Jerry Exton, third daughter, sister to Debby and Julie and later Sheree.

1971 - 75 – Queensland champion cross country runner, 800 and 1500 metres.

1978 - 1985– Travelled around the world including England, Europe, Africa, America and Asia, visiting a massive 86 countries.

1986 - 87 – Posting to Islamabad, Pakistan.

Feb 1991 – First child, Ashleigh Kate, was born.

1991 - 1993 – Posting to London, England with husband.

Nov 1992 – Second child, Jamie Julian, was born.

7th January 2006 – Married my soul mate Dranko Magic.

15th September 2016 – Lost my mentor and my dad.

5th November 2018 – Lost my beautiful,

kind, generous, caring, sharing, loving mother.

Other huge milestones along the way include: Being accepted from 5,000 interviewees into Foreign Affairs and Trade, where I worked for 11 years.

Becoming a Beauty Therapist.

Becoming a Journalist.

Becoming a Life Coach.

Becoming NLP trained.

I truly believe that learning is the key to growth and through that, to success and joy, stretching and stretching ourselves to do more and be more, or at least do and be the best and most that we can be.

Outstanding Business-person of the Year, Micro Small Business of the Year, Sunshine Coast Business Excellence Small Business of the Year, and back in 2003, I even won a RA (Radio Australia) Award for Best Salesperson in commercial radio.

said, “Well done. I love the magazine. I love the local success stories. I love the education. I love the inspiration.”

It’s what makes us keep going, knowing that you love what we are giving the Sunshine Coast.

While others have closed their doors and stopped printing, we keep flying the banner high to ensure that the printed message stays valid and true here on the Coast. It’s important and it’s something we take very seriously to ensure that we keep on telling you about local successes to inspire you to run your own race and create your own success.

If I was to offer a tip on this, then I would say this:

“STAY IN YOUR OWN LANE.”

Don’t worry about what others are doing, trust yourself, back yourself, hold your head high and own what and who you are. Believe in yourself and know that you are enough. In fact, you are more than enough. e

www.MattersMagazine.com.au

www.VickieMagic.com.au

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I’ve very proud of each of these accolades, but the truth is that nothing makes me prouder than the journey we have been on over the last ten years with this magazine. It has just been incredible how loved we have become locally and how supportive the people and businesses of the Sunshine Coast are and have been. I can’t even tell you how many people have stopped me in the street over the years and

Photography - Paula Brennan // Clothes - Czarina Luxury Resort Wear

THE RISE OF REAL ESTATE with Melissa Schembri

The happiest property agent on the Sunshine Coast shares her wealth of real estate knowledge and how she gets her clients the highest bid. Every time.

Remember when three-bedroom brick and fibro houses lined the waterways and esplanades of the Sunshine Coast? And how ‘grand’ any house built above one storey seemed? What about the ruffle amongst the neighbours as those first floor-to-ceiling windows were installed to capture the magnificent view?

Times have changed here in our little piece of paradise, with a bevy of beautiful and premium properties beginning to appear from Noosa to Caloundra and out into the Hinterland. In tandem, our real estate market has galloped ahead to become one of the Nation’s fastest moving and people are clamouring to live here by the water, something the delightful Melissa Schembri of Next Property Group knows all too well.

As the Sunshine Coast’s premium and waterfront property specialist, Melissa has been at the forefront of high-end real estate for years, involved in over $2.4 billion worth of property settlements both as a sales agent and former property lawyer, including the current highest waterfront sale in the region at $7.3 million.

To say she’s got experience in the Coast’s property arena is a bit of an understatement, but even she admits, “This current market is like nothing I’ve ever seen.” Which, she hastens to add, is great news for anyone who owns their own property here on the Coast.

“Empty nesters in the large home they’ve had for decades, people who bought small low-set brick houses even five years ago and absolutely anyone looking to downsize, they’re all in a fabulous position to get a huge return on that asset.”

With her head constantly in the market, she is always surprised at just how astounded her clients are once she’s conducted her free evaluation and appraisal of their property.

Revealing that projected number is a wonderful aspect of her role, with Melissa adamant that, “So many of my clients are absolutely amazed when I show them just how much their property is worth in the current market. It makes my day!”

There’s a catch, however. Obtaining a price tag worthy of a luxury waterfront property or lifestyle in proximity to our fabulous beaches is more than just being in the right place at the right time.

“There’s a lot of behind the scenes work and

strategy involved in presenting a property to its greatest potential. We give buyers the opportunity to fall in love and secure their dream home, while ensuring the seller feels comfortable they’ve obtained the best result,” she says.

Applying her three P’s for success to every property

Melissa lists is at the foundation of her continual

real estate triumph: Presentation, Pricing and Promotion.

PRESENTATION: A property presented at its finest (within the means you have at the time) is crucial to obtaining the best price for the seller and have buyers clamouring at the front door. Melissa knows this wholeheartedly, so much so she offers her clients a FREE one-hour consultation with the Sunshine Coast’s best property stylist to ensure the property is dressed to sell.

PRICING: People underestimate the power of a great pricing strategy and what that means to achieving the best result. The strategy must meet the market and with the current state of affairs on the Coast, getting an expert in is imperative to hitting that sweet spot between overpriced and undervalued. Finding out how much that three-bedder sold for down the street is not enough: thorough research and a deep understanding of the market are necessary to create the most effective pricing strategy for a property, something Melissa loves working on with her sellers.

PROMOTION: Melissa has learnt that there are markets within markets and, importantly, the audiences within each respond to very different channels, methods and periods of advertisement. Buyers looking to purchase a modest family home are not going to look in the property section of The Australian, however the Mansions Magazine could be just the place to snag a billionaire wanting a wildly unique trophy home. How, when and where a property is promoted can make all the difference to connecting happy buyers and sellers.

Having an expert professional like Melissa on side to help present, price and promote your property for maximum results makes a huge difference in the number of days a property is on the market and the dollars that property sells for. Examples of those in her client portfolio who followed her advice and experienced overwhelming success are plentiful. One client was astounded when Melissa helped her downsize from her

large family home to a luxury two-bedroom apartment, with money leftover not only to furnish her new apartment, but retire on! Melissa helped another client make a whopping $1 million in just nine months on a property: “I knew he had purchased well and could make a huge profit on the property. He followed my advice and five weeks later achieved the goal. That’s a mind-blowing profit of $3,703 per day of ownership.”

Whilst Melissa takes great joy in getting the best price for her clients regardless of their street address, she has shown real flair in the sale of luxury and prestige property.

“High end property takes a lot of sophistication to deal with,” Melissa says. Something she is displaying currently with her Malumba Estate listing, one of the Coast’s most prestigious properties and priced accordingly at $21 million.

“You can’t just throw these kinds of amazing properties on realestate.com and think they’re going to sell themselves. It takes finesse, strategy, sound market knowledge and an eye for detail to connect sellers and buyers at that level.”

For Melissa, the greatest thrill of being a high-end property specialist is not in the sale itself, but in negotiating a process which is not only smooth and calm, but joyful for both the buyer and the seller. Her delightful personality bubbles over an eye for detail and a knack for negotiation; skills she has honed as a property lawyer, life coach and real estate agent.

With an amazing sales record of doing just that, Melissa is on track to become ‘The Prestige Property Agent on the Sunshine Coast’.

Want more from this outstanding expert?

Melissa is offering a FREE, INSTANT auto valuation of your property. Simply text your name, address, phone number and email address to 0403 327 792 and Melissa will send back a free ‘AutoValuation/Property Report’ from CoreLogic within two hours.

Scan the code with your camera to watch a video about ‘Secrets to Selling with Melissa Schembri’.

“I love helping people, and selling or buying a property shouldn’t be stressful: it should be a joy!” she says.

WITH ROZ WHITE // WHITE'S IGA

Congratulations Vickie and Magic for celebrating their 100th issue of Matters Magazine. This is a wonderful milestone to celebrate.

White’s IGA will be celebrating 28 years in October and what an honour it is to serve our community. Michael and I started in retail with a small convenience store selling confectionery, milk, bread and basic goods.

We brought in a small range of fruit and vegetables from Natoli’s produce wholesale and Bushie from Maroochydore News delivered papers and magazines for us to sell.

Michael ran a confectionery delivery van for a couple of years to make a few extra dollars and we bought our second convenience store one week after our son Harrison was born.

The Mooloolaba NightOwl, which we onsold to new operators in 2009 (or thereabouts), recently closed its doors. The first two stores we

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

owned are now closed, which is sad to witness. Both stores were in busy areas, which highlights how hard it is for small business to keep competing.

White’s IGA stores located at Peregian Beach, Mt Coolum, Bli Bli, Baringa and Mooloolah feature hundreds of locavore products, created by local families. Each Sunshine Coast producer, maker, supplier and farmer has a story to tell and milestones to commemorate.

Our locavore program celebrates their stories, highlighted instore with our signature tractor logo to make it easy for shoppers to select local products. This is what makes us a community; supporting each other and celebrating the nuances which make us different.

We are proud to share many significant milestones with our team members who are celebrating 15 and 20+ years working with Michael and I at White’s. An achievement worth honouring.

Milestones help us to reflect on where we have come from and look to the future with hope, positivity and gratitude in our hearts. ca

Roz and her husband Michael, commenced their retailing journey on the Sunshine Coast in 1993. Currently the White's IGA Group consists of the Supa IGA Bli Bli, IGA Mooloolah, IGA Peregian Beach, IGA Mt Coolum, and IGA Baringa. The unique 'locavore' culture guarantees you to always spot a local in store, because they are locally owned, they employ locals and it's where the locals shop.

Sunshine Coast’s leading female Lawyers join forces

Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice, leading Sunshine Coast family law firm, announce expansion.

Left to right: Sarah Quilliam, Pippa Colman and Samantha Bolton.

“We have assembled a formidable team of family law professionals, who are led by three experienced female lawyers, who together will be able to provide an excellent level of care and family law services across the Sunshine Coast.”

- Pippa Colman

Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice is now led by 3 of the most respected Sunshine Coast female lawyers - Pippa Colman, Sarah Quilliam and Samantha Bolton.

Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice is recognised as the largest family law firm on the Sunshine Coast, providing expert advice on Divorce, Property Settlement, Children and parenting issues, PreNuptial Relationship Agreements and Domestic Violence, and was established by the highly regarded Pippa Colman who has nurtured and grown the firm since 2001.

“The sustainable growth of our firm has been a long-term priority for both Sarah and I with our focus on client first services, talent development and organic growth,” said Pippa Colman.

“Samantha Bolton joining Sarah and me as Directors in Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice, enables us to deliver an unrivalled level of care, support and legal advice to our clients for many years to come.”

Having been admitted to practice as a lawyer in 2011, Sarah Quilliam joined Pippa Colman & Associates as a Solicitor in March 2015 and became a Director in July 2017. She helps clients with separation, divorce, parenting and financial matters, child maintenance and domestic / family violence and is committed to resolving their matter in the most timely and costeffective manner. Sarah is a past President of Suncoast Community Legal Services.

Samantha Bolton, who has over 13 years’ experience as a lawyer, made the move to Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice, bringing with her Alicia Lucas (lawyer) and Louise McCauley (legal secretary).

Samantha is highly regarded for her experience in parenting matters and she has been appointed to the panel of Independent Children’s Lawyers and Separate Representatives (in which she advises the courts about the interests of children). Samantha can assist clients with interstate or international relocation matters, parental alienation cases, negotiating arrangements for children after separation, and preparing Parenting Plans and Consent Orders, as well as all property related matters, domestic and family violence issues, and Child Protection matters. Samantha is the Immediate Past President of the Sunshine Coast Law Association and current Ambassador for the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland for the region.

“Our female led team, with several decades of combined experience working in family law, clearly positions Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice not just the largest, but the leading family law firm on the Sunshine Coast.”

“Between Sarah, Samantha and myself we know what works and what doesn’t. We know that our clients don’t just need the law on their side but need a support team who understands the physical and emotional toll of a family breakup better than anyone else.”

At Pippa Colman & Associates Law Practice, we have 3 strong lawyers as Directors, 3 Accredited Specialists in Family Law and 11 lawyers. We will continue to support clients and deliver practical solutions across the Sunshine Coast.

Chysophase rose gold ring, large portrait orientation

To Hold & To Have, Buderim www.toholdandtohave.com.au

Renee Blackwell Jewellery Design

Vintage button and crystal earrings

Renee Blackwell Jewellery Design www.reneeblackwelldesign.com

Beautiful collection of vintage & antique button pendants, earrings and classic fresh water pearls.

It’s just a piece of jewellery until it becomes yours... then it becomes a treasure!

Little Chakra Co affirmation cards for children. Building confidence, self-love and positive thinking by encouraging a mindfulness routine from an early age. $39.95.

Little Chakra www.littlechakra.co Instagram: @littlechakra.co

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Jamie Kay organic essential rib bodysuit Moo Baba, www.moobaba.com.au

'Summer Nights' maxi dress with bell sleeves.

Czarina, Sunshine Plaza (David Jones end) www.czarinakaftans.com.au

Accessories

Salt

Tourm and Tahitian pearl

Onyx Poppy Boutique, Sippy Downs

Bueno leather Gilli shoes Onyx Poppy Boutique, Sippy Downs

Duke

Duchesses Tilly dress

Renee Blackwell

Jewellery Design www.reneeblackwelldesign.com

'Warrior Princess' cocktail maxi dress

Czarina, Sunshine Plaza (David Jones end) www.czarinakaftans.com.au

Models wear shaping bodysuit, $59.00, shaping skirt, $59.00, shaping dress, $69.00, latex waist trainers, corset steel bones, $119.00. All in black and nude.

Bueno leather Ranch shoes Onyx Poppy Boutique, Sippy Downs

Tahitian pearl and diamond earrings, yellow gold To Hold & To Have, Buderim www.toholdandtohave.com.au

Mister Fly Fox backpack Moo Baba, Mooloolaba www.moobaba.com.au

Little

Instagram:

Just Ray baby footwear Moo Baba, Mooloolaba

Bowy made headtie and swaddle set

Little Chakra Co affirmation cards for children. Building confidence, self-love and positive thinking by encouraging a mindfulness routine from an early age. $39.95.

Little Chakra www.littlechakra.co Instagram: @littlechakra.co

'Power

www.czarinakaftans.com.au

Diamond huggies white gold bracelet, Art Deco To Hold & To Have, Buderim www.toholdandtohave.com.au

of Love' high waist pants Czarina, Sunshine Plaza (David Jones end)

Frank Lyman formal wear Onyx Poppy Boutique, 45 Burnett Street, Buderim

CREATING SPACES as unique as you

WITH DI HENSHALL // DI HENSHALL INTERIOR DESIGN

There is talent everywhere you look on the Sunshine Coast, sometimes it is right under our nose.

You may have already read or heard about one such talent, the incredible Di Henshall. Di is one of Australia’s most industrydecorated interior designers. She has been honoured with over fifty awards for her exceptional work throughout Australia and New Zealand. Di won the International Interior Design Award back in 2019 for a remarkable project in New Zealand. The client’s brief was to create “the best house in New Zealand” and many people believe that she achieved this ranking.

Not only is Di an incredibly skilled and knowledgeable interior designer, she also has released her second magazine publication in August this year, the first publication was named Horizons and now this second one has been aptly renamed to ‘Di Henshall’s Inspired’.

The truth is that Di and her team are continuously inspired and continually inspiring in their field of design. The beautifully laid out magazine is filled to the brim with residential and commercial projects Di and her team have accomplished and also delves into the life of Di and what inspires her as an interior designer and visionary, including the likes of Mies Van Der Rohe and Martyn Lawrence Bullard, both phenomenally gifted designers.

Claim a FREE hardcopy of this gorgeous creation by emailing the team at design@dihenshall.com.au who will immediately send you a copy.

Di and her team service their clients all over Australia and abroad, designing and outfitting diverse projects such as wineries, heritage-listed buildings, restaurants, private residences, offices and apartments. Di Henshall Interior Design can totally furnish a home or commercial site, from top to bottom, or add some beautiful pieces to enhance existing furnishings. Get in touch today by phoning 07 5449 0788 or via email at design@dihenshall.com.au and one of the friendly team members will assist you in booking a consultation. ca www.dihenshall.com.au

PANDEMIC… what pandemic?

The team at Savvy Business continue to achieve phenomenal sales results, despite challenging times for many businesses affected by the worldwide pandemic.

Transactions have been solid with 20 sales/settlements worth more than $19 million achieved in the first eight months of this year. Supply of blue chip enterprises continues to be a problem, with many baby boomers holding off selling, fearing Covid may hurt business values, saleability, and demand… little do they know this could not be further from reality.

Buyers are here in their droves, cashed up with strong appetites for well-established businesses with key staff in place and attractive profitability. Astute buyers realise just like the current residential market, competition for businesses is fierce, there are few quality opportunities on the market and they’ll pay premium money for quality businesses.

This is the perfect scenario for those business owners who are looking to retire from working life. Clearly, we are now at the top of the selling cycle, interest rates are still at record lows, interstate migration is booming and investment into infrastructure is unprecedented and will continue until the 2032 Olympic games. These drivers combined is boosting buyer confidence.

Demand will be diluted, though, as more opportunities will come to market in the near future. More than 50% of business owners are in the baby boomer category, meaning the youngest are not far from their 60’s and the eldest boomers are now over 75 years of age, so retirement is just a matter of time for many of them.

Timing is everything in business sales, so, if you are contemplating selling, get in while the market is hot. Call Rod Russell on 0409 931 600 for an obligation free appraisal today.

Retired and living on the Sunshine Coast… surely life doesn’t get any better than that! a www.savvybusiness.com.au

DON'T STUMBLE, trip or fall

Ensure your business does not stumble, trip and fall. It can all happen quickly – a customer catches their foot on a chair leg or slips when coming in from the rain. But your business is left dealing with the legal and financial fallout. If a customer is on your premises, generally you’re responsible.

Here are five steps to minimise the impact.

1. Make your site safe. Check SafeWork Australia information and guidance on identifying hazards, as well as assessing and controlling risk.

2. Record your actions. Record what you've done to prevent a slip or trip occurring. This should include keeping regular cleaning logs.

3. Approach the potential claimant.

If someone does take a fall on your premises and is not seriously injured, it can pay to be proactive.

4. Record the incident.

You may be legally required to record and report an incident on your premises, consult your local workplace health and safety authority to clarify your obligations.

5. Insure against costs. The reality is, slips and trips are common, and the consequences can be significant, have an appropriate public liability insurance policy in place. ca

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR a government grant?

In May of 2021, the Queensland Government announced three small business grants worth $25 million over two years:

• Business Basics = $5,000 to support emerging businessesturnover $75,000-$300,000. Funded activities: training and coaching, website build or upgrades, professional business advice, strategic marketing services, business continuity and succession.

• Business Boost = up to $15,000 (co-contribute 30%) – turnover $300,000 to $600,000. Funded activities: future planning, specialised and automated software, staff management, development and planning.

• Business Growth Fund = up to $50,000 (co-contribute 25%) to buy highly specialised equipment.

Round 1 has closed. As we wait for Round 2, here are two tips.

1. Take the time to explore your options. You want to get the most out of this game-changing investment in your business.

2. Prepare early. Business Basics grant received 3000 applications in under three hours. You can draft your responses and prepare your documentation.

At Marketing Broker Australia, we provide free government grant consultations. We take the time to understand what you need and source the right suppliers. Get more for your business with us.

To find out more, go to: www.queenslandsmallbusinessgrants.com.au

www.marketingbroker.com.au

SOLAR POWER just makes ‘cents’

Solar power really does make sense, and it really does make cents. The dollars you can save on power is unbelievable.

A 6.6kw solar system will lower fossil fuel CO2 emissions while saving an average home between $1,600 and $2,400 per year.

Not only that, but solar is 100% clean and renewable. It reduces the reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to global warming and harmful emissions.

So, you can save money and save the planet all at the same time.

Apro Electrix is a family owned and operated Electrical Contracting business servicing the Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas. They provide

an honest and friendly approach, making them the electricians of choice for businesses and families in and around the Sunshine Coast.

Don’t let the Sun Go Down on your Savings! Plus receive up to $7,000 Government Assistance towards your new solar system today.

While Apro Electrix focuses on providing top quality products and service, they also pride themselves on offering competitive pricing to ensure you get top results at a low price.

Offering: grid connected solar, solar upgrades, hybrid solar power, off grid solar, solar health check, solar panel clean.

Contact us today for your FREE SOLAR DESIGN. ca

A LAW FIRM WITH our focus on you!

Focus Family Law is a local family law firm situated in Birtinya. The firm was established by principal solicitor Michelle Britton. Michelle was born in Sydney but has been a Sunshine Coast local for over 20 years. Focus Family Law has continued to be one of the Coast’s leading Family Law practices.

Michelle has a large, blended family and has the empathy and knowledge to guide you through this important time, as well as providing you with expert family law advice and assistance.

Further, Michelle and her team will advise you of costs and risks involved. She will work with you in your family law matter and can offer you a fixed fee, hourly rate and also an ‘as needed’ basis

www.focusfamilylaw.com.au

option. Great for those who wish to be in control or be involved in the court process.

Focus Family Law aims to provide professional, caring and unique service with the focus on you and your situation.

The firm consists of friendly lawyers and support staff that will advise you where you stand legally and will be honest about your matter. They will provide you with the advice and options for resolution in accordance with your goals and wishes.

Focus Family Law offer a free initial advice session over the phone and would love to hear from you!

Contact them today to book your appointment.

Phone 07 5493 9888 or email admin@focusfamilylaw.com.au ca

BUSINESS

with Melissa Austin

YANDINA ART & FRAMING

with Bill Gissane

BUSINESS BY DESIGN

If you knew what you know now about yourself as a business owner and about your business, would you do it differently? We’ve usually made mistakes, learnt a lot along the way and with the benefit of hindsight, would probably do things a bit differently from the start.

But it’s a process and we are better business owners for experiencing it. If you were starting your business from scratch today, selfishly, ask yourself these questions:

1. How many days/hours are you working, if at all?

2. Where are you wor king from – dream office, on the road, overseas, remotely?

3. What work brings you joy?

4. What cash are you drawing?

5. What are you doing in your spare time?

6. What wealth are you creating - time, financial, community contribution?

It’s never too late to create a business by design. But it does take guts and perseverance and that is where your accountant or business coach can help you achieve results. You didn’t come this far to only come this far. ca

Change – a concept with which we’re all very familiar.

Change has more recently become synonymous with dislocation and its cousin, deterioration. A general diminution in what we all expected were ‘ground rules’ for living. In these times, the need for resourcefulness, resilience and hope has never been more in demand. These are qualities brilliantly on show in our wonderful business community in Yandina and surrounds. Flourishing markets on Saturdays, new light industrial structures continually being developed, housing estates growing and a general air of heightened activity. If masks weren’t on show, one would be forgiven for thinking “Virus? What virus?”

Crowds flock to The Ginger Factory and Nutworks, young families are enjoying the brilliant weather and the fabulous outdoors whilst the food, fashion and arts hub of Stevens and Farrell Streets is abuzz.

Yandina Art & Framing is in the centre of this hive of activity, with great exhibitions and an expanded stock of art supplies suitable for the beginner through to the accomplished artist. We’d love to see you! ca

FAMILY LAW

DO I NEED A FAMILY LAWYER IF I HAVE AN AGREEMENT WITH MY EX-PARTNER?

Have you separated from your ex-partner and agreed to an arrangement either regarding your children and/or your financials?

Great job, you have achieved something extraordinary that many separating parties find very difficult.

However, an agreement between yourself and your ex-partner will not be binding unless you take action to enforce it.

Because you have reached agreement, it is imperative that you act before something changes. To make this agreement binding, it will also need to comply with the principles at law. We can help with this without the need to go to court.

To formalise and finalise your agreement, seek assistance from a family lawyer. For property matters, you may also obtain a benefit of not paying any stamp duty if you are changing the title of the property (subject to individual circumstances).

For more information about making your agreement enforceable, call our office today to speak to a well experienced family lawyer. ca

Brilliance for Business

Ph 07 5437 7624

Email melissa@brillianceforbusiness.com.au

Yandina Art and Framing

Ph 07 5446 8000

Web www.yandinaartframing.com

Location 7 Stevens St, Yandina

Focus Family Law

Ph 07 5493 9888

Web www.focusfamilylaw.com.au

Location 4/9 Capital Place, Birtinya Q 4575

with Michelle Britton

WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT with Vickie Magic

YOU MATTER

You deserve some YOU time.

We are often just too busy, we give, give, give to others, but when is YOUR time?

Bump yourself up the list of importance and give yourself some time for self-development, time to recharge your batteries and time for more peace, joy and a little more magic for yourself and your life.

Reclaim your power and get your groove back or just step up into the next level of your journey, no matter where you are right now.

A retreat is a wonderful opportunity to step back from our daily lives to find a moment of rest, to get in touch with yourself and simply find inner peace. It's a way of taking time out and assessing our life decisions, helping us to bring clarity to the challenges ahead.

Why go on a retreat?

Our current lifestyle is hectic. Technology may make life easier but it is not without stress. Our bodies’ natural state is not used to this rhythm, and periods of rest are becoming more and more important. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of life and dedicating time to ourselves affords us peace and strength to carry on our way of life. Retreats include all food except for dinners, three levels of accommodation, meditations, massage and connections with amazing non-judgemental ladies.

Contact Vickie for more details and dates of upcoming retreats.

You MATTER Retreats

Web www.vickiemagic.com.au/retreats

FINANCE with Rachael

Yurko

with Brendan Butler & Peter Patrikios

NEW BABY ON THE WAY?

Here’s some tangible ways to make the twoto-one income drop less stressful:

1. Discuss your money values with your partner in depth. Invariably, there’ll be views on spending that don’t align between the two of you. Knowing ahead of time can lessen the stress this causes when money is tight. Agree on a discretionary budget for each of you to use however you see fit with no judgement. But if your wants don’t fit inside that budget – don’t spend it.

2. Review.

Assess your outgoings annually. Reviewing your mortgage can save thousands of after-tax dollars. Ensure you know what every direct debit is for and set some time to phone around and have your rates reviewed. Private health, personal insurance, home insurance, electricity, phone – anything that comes out automatically should be reviewed to see if you can get better rates, and to ask yourself if it continues to be necessary. Nothing’s cheaper than $0 and if it doesn’t continue to offer value, it should go. ca

MOVE YOUR BODY

If you get stiff and sore from sitting in front of a computer for hours on end, then check out OFFIT.

The app sends you reminders to take a minute and move. It provides the exercises based off your selected pain-points and will offer more exercises if you have a trigger point ball or small resistance band in your desk draw.

Avoiding sedentary lifestyle promotes improved circulation, improved circulation provides your muscles with increased levels of oxygen and essential nutrients that are used for the repair of damaged muscle fibres and cells. Improving blood and lymphatic circulation helps to decrease swelling, reduce pain and increase healing.

OFFIT can help by giving the user exercises to create improved circulation throughout the body, thus having a great impact on overall health.

We are passionate about improving the mental wellbeing, physical health and productivity of everyone who works in a sedentary environment. ca

BRANDING

with

Ruth Holland

INFECTIOUS CLOTHING with Pete

and Sally Doran

EXPAND YOUR BRAND

The team at Expandasign have been helping customers across Australia and the globe to create successful brands for over 21 years, through their innovative range of high-quality portable signage and marquees.

Famous for introducing the very first Teardrop and Pop-Up banners into Australia in 1999, Expandasign continues as the industry leader in portable outdoor and indoor signage and marquees.

Their single purpose is to help expand your brand to success.

Using the latest technology and materials to provide the most extensive range of innovative portable advertising solutions available at competitive prices.

Customer service is their top priority, with a management team comprising of professionals in manufacturing, sales and distribution with over 30 years of experience. You can trust the Expandasign team to help expand your brand, from the smallest inquiry to large volume orders; and you can depend on them beyond placing your order, consistently striving to deliver first class service, communication and support from your initial inquiry right through to after sales service. ca

CORPORATE UNIFORMS

There are so many reasons why a work uniform is good for your business and your employees. With so much choice out there and some fun and different options now on the market, it is a great time to think about your company's uniforms and how it can help with the overall identity of your practice.

There is no doubt a uniform can help create a consistent and branded image for your company. By having your employees wear a uniform, it is basically a form of free advertising. Your workers essentially become your brand ambassadors both inside and outside of work. Create a great first impression with your staff uniforms and really elevate your brand with a consistent and creative look.

The health profession is not historically known for unique or creative workwear options. The current emerging uniform options are a great way to build morale and create a sense of pride in your workplace. Scrubs and workwear no longer have to be boring; instill a sense of fun and a point of difference by creating a branded look with your uniforms. Lift the team spirit and create a sense of belonging with a branded work uniform that workers can be proud of. ca

FAST RESULTS

EMS stands for Electro Muscular Stimulation, a revolutionary workout that is taking the world in a storm.

It fits over three hours of strength training in a single session by activating over 98% (as opposed to 30% in a conventional gym) of the muscle fibres in a whole-body work out.

A once or twice weekly, 20-minute, low impact, but high intensity workout, which is tailored to your personal fitness level and around your injuries.

A personal trainer will guide you through each session, making sure you reach the optimal result while minimising the risk of injury.

Many people with health issues like back pain, Sciatica and knee issues have achieved great results and found a way to keep an active lifestyle despite their injury.

Young mothers are welcome to bring their little ones.

If a conventional gym does not work for you, give EMS a go!

Our discounted three-session trial allows you to experience EMS in a semi-private, clean studio with a PT. Enough to feel and see some results! ca

Expanda Sign

Ph 1300 720 058 / 07 5351 1757

Web www.expandasign.com

Infectious Clothing Company

Ph 1300 661 475

Web www.infectious.com.au

Fit

Email

with Thor and Ruby Schmidt

FINANCE

with Marilyn Brayshaw

MAGIC FOR THE FACE with Vickie Magic

LEGAL

with Madeline Klein

GET SMART

With the new financial year underway, now’s the time to make smart decisions about your finances.

An experienced Mortgage Broker can discuss your needs and give you a clear understanding of your options.

Do your loans still match your short and longterm goals?

Are there any options to reduce debt faster?

Are your interest rates still competitive?

Do you need to consider borrowing for any purpose in the next 12 months?

Are there any potential upgrades needed for business equipment this financial year?

Are any loans up for expiry, renewal, or is there an end of fixed rate period term that you need to prepare for?

This past year, more than ever, our lives have changed, and the impact of COVID-19 on business and personal circumstances has, in many circumstances, been significant.

Now’s a great chance to ensure you’ve got the right loans to match your unique circumstances, so get onto it before another financial year disappears. ca

Astute Financial Management Pty Ltd

Ph 0414 789 665

Web astutefinancial.com.au/mooloolaba/

ABN 59 093 587 010

Australian Credit Licence Number 364 253

FACE FORWARD

With changing the magazine to bi-annual, I have a little time to go back to a passion that I absolutely love and that is beauty therapy, but more specifically – faces. Let’s face it (pun intended), your face tells a story about you. It’s the first thing people see when you meet them. We don’t always look after our skin as well as we could.

Regular facials aren’t just amazing, relaxing and rejuvenating, they are also a way to help keep your skin young, moisturised, and give you the potential to look and feel better for longer.

Magic for the Face beauty salon specialises in FACES. We offer the good old fashioned facial, including: double cleanse, steamer, ten-minute relaxing massage, optional microdermabrasion, customised mask, and an optional live meditation from Vickie while your mask is on.

Vickie uses Queensland-based Simplicité Skin Care range, which are plant based products bursting with pure, potent and organic ingredients. The Simplicité range strengthens skin and gives it the nutrients it needs to easily resist and overcome common issues.

Text 0433 198 868 to book.

Appointment times:

Thursdays 12 noon - 7.00pm

Friday / Monday 9.30am - 4.30pm ca

Magic for the Face

Ph 0433 198 868

Facebook @magicfortheface

Location inside Angelic Hair at Shop 4/

18-29 Parkana Cres, Buddina

BUILDING INDUSTRY PAYMENT DISPUTES

If you work within the building and construction industry, you will know about the Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act 2017 (Qld). It is also known within the industry simply as the BIF Act. If you don’t, you should.

The BIF Act was primarily created to help people working in the building and construction industry to be paid for the work they do.

The BIF Act grants relevant parties rights to progress payments irrespective of whether there is a specific provision made for it within the relevant contract. It also establishes a procedure for making, responding and adjudicating a payment claim and a procedure for the recovery of amounts claimed.

If you receive a payment claim, it is important that you understand the requirements for you to respond to the payment claim, especially if you are disputing payment.

If you need legal advice about the BIF Act and how it applies to you, contact us today. Our building and construction lawyers are here to help!

This is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you require legal advice about this topic, call Klein Legal on (07) 5458 6855. ca

Klein Legal

Ph 07 5458 6855

Email mklein@kleinlegal.com.au

Waterfront Dining

BASIC TRANSMISSION MAINTENANCE IS MISUNDERSTOOD…

Taking care of your vehicle’s transmission is important for its longevity, especially if your vehicle suits your lifestyle and you plan to keep it past the warranty period. Just like the engine, it requires specific service intervals. Regular engine maintenance gets a good look in due to the logbook / warranty conditions, but the Automatic Transmission is often overlooked.

Here’s a few questions we are regularly asked …

When does the Automatic Transmission fluid need replacing / servicing?

Commencing a regular transmission service schedule from 50,000km then every 40,000km is the best you can do to keep your car’s transmission running well and in return, extend the life span of the transmission.

Does my logbook tell me when to service the Transmission?

Sometimes, but you really must look for it! The first transmission service may be noted at over 100k, which is 50k short of keeping the fluid at its best.

MAINTAINING THE TRANSMISSION IS

When is it a good idea to flush the Transmission?

A flush is recommended when the oil has either had inadequate servicing or the fluid has become hot e.g. towing. A flush will remove any contaminated oil that remains trapped in the cooler pipes or the torque convertor. A standard transmission service replaces 50-70 percent of the transmission’s fluid. The remaining will be held within the torque convertor, valve body and clutch packs.

Is my Transmission sealed for life?

Most vehicle manufacturers tell us that the automatic transmission in most modern vehicles are ‘sealed / filled for life’ and never need servicing. This makes the vehicle appear to be cheaper to run and reduces maintenance costs, resulting in a more attractive vehicle to fleet buyers (being the manufacturer’s biggest customers). If you plan to keep your vehicle longer than the warranty period, then servicing the transmission makes sense.

Prevention is better than cure - regular transmission servicing costs less for long term ownership

We are experts at diagnosing and repairing automatic transmissions – whether it be from lack of regular servicing or overheating when TOWING.

IMPORTANT — AND OFTEN OVERLOOKED

Let’s keep our focus local. Supporting Sunshine Coast products and services really does make a difference. Next time you are looking to buy ANY product or service, remember SUPPORTING LOCAL MATTERS.

ARE YOU STUCK IN YOUR BUSINESS

The internet is a brilliant invention. It has changed the way that we live our lives. It has made it possible to work from home, it has helped us to stay connected with friends and family all across the world and it has given us access to an endless stack of resources for learning. However, all this technology can be pretty exhausting. When we are constantly bombarded with notifications or trying to juggle our inboxes on top of everything else on our plate, we can end up feeling like we’re barely keeping up. And at some point in time, there will come a day when the only way to free up some time is by paying someone else to do what you were doing.

The simple principal is:

1. Audit the task.

2. Transfer the Task.

3. F ill the Task with awesome people, preferably with people who can handle multiple roles.

Note: These people can be local, distributed around Australia or overseas depending on the role.

So how do you decide what tasks you should delegate? The five steps are as follows:

1. Determine what task you are stuck on. Chances are this is an admin function and it’s managing your inbox and your calendar. This could also include running around and researching for you.

2. Discover where you are stalled. This is likely to be customer service. If you are still working on the tools, you don’t have all day to talk to

customers and either sell to them or solve their problems. Having someone to onboard and support your customers is essential.

3. Work out what is causing friction. Unless you are a marketing business, marketing can take up a bucket of time and really bog you down. Getting someone to take this pressure off you as the business owner will free up lots of your time. Ideally this person will create content, publish content and process your email/social programs.

4. Work towards a feeling of freedom. Take yourself out of the sales process, have a professional to take sales calls, do the follow up and send the proposals.

5. Go with the flow. By now you probably need an Executive Leadership Team who can assist you with the Strategy and Leadership of your business.

Ultimately, there are thousands of tasks that need to be completed daily to run a business. You need to determine what tasks are the best use of your time and outsource the rest. Million Dollar companies are not built by the owner/founder completing $10 tasks. ca

P: 07 5444 7094

E: admin@hbaencompass.com.au

www.hbaencompass.com.au

YOUR UNIQUENSS!

Vanessa Nock specialises in custom design and manufacturing of fine jewellery. For 25 passionate years she has been hand making jewellery. She creates quality pieces to commemorate special occasions, memories and milestones.

Bringing your story, energy and emotion into your very own golden sculpture to hold, admire and enjoy for a life time.

Vanessa says, “We take a journey to bring their dream to life, to allow them to have what they truly desire. I help cure the curiosity of how to achieve your forever-after creation. That then becomes part of your legacy.”

The process is magical! It starts with a conversation and a hand drawn sketch, then carefully a sculpture is created in precious gold, leading on to opening a small box and seeing a loved one’s eyes light up as they see it for the first time.

This just brings so much joy for Vanessa! She feels very blessed to be a part of so many life moments, which she creates treasured symbols for.

To Vanessa, ‘Jewellery is a moment frozen in time!’ From beginning to end, lifelong friendships have been made with this connection. Each and every piece holds a special place in her heart as every piece is hand made with love.

Who would have thought that this tremendous career would have stemmed from being the only girl in her manual arts class at high school? Upon graduating, she completed a ‘Visual Fine Arts’ course majoring in Jewellery. This is when she knew that she wanted to be a jeweller and create her own style of design!

Vanessa says, “I am ever so grateful that I found my passion at such a young age. My heart sings every day knowing that I am doing my soul’s purpose! Helping you to find your Uniqueness!” ca

Photos by Jodie Modric Photography

MILESTONES

One of the key shifts I aim to make in the work I do with clients is the balancing of masculine and feminine energy. An imbalance of this energy often translates into the physical, namely imbalanced hormones. This affects the progress some of my clients make with their weight, energy and overall health and wellbeing. Traditionally we set masculine goals when wanting to lose weight or improve our health. For example, lose five kilos by December 2021. However, I have found that not only are these masculine energy goals not so helpful for most people, they can also be a hindrance. Instead, I work with my clients to create feminine energy goals (yes, even men!) such as ‘Create a healthy relationship with myself and my body for life’, that guide and inspire daily thoughts, feelings and actions. We also set helpful masculine energy milestone goals that align with this bigger vision. This could include drinking two litres of

water a day, eating five serves of veggies a day, completing a ten-kilometre fun run in November 2021.

Perhaps considering this balance might help in your own weight loss or health journey? In my experience, it's a winning approach! ca

Bridget Jane

PARTY

Roz White (White's IGA Group), Mark Paddenburg (Legion Telecom)

Bill & Sandra Olah (Ron Hill Automatics), Venessa Webster (Webstar Marketing)

Shivam Bagadia(Czarina), Vickie Magic(Matters Magazine), Nikki Bagadia(Czarina)

Natalie McIvor (The Vibration Healer), Rachael Yurko (Thrive Financial), Jean Sheehan (Millennium Education)

Jan Richards & Dranko Magic (Matters Magazine)

Mirela Streza & Mark Doctor (Sunshine Coast Art & Framing)

Brendan Butler (Offit), Cassandra Dodd Ethan & Bret Davis (Wholesale Solar)

– Counsellor – Eating Psychology Coach

Bridget Jane

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BOOKKEEPING AND ACCOUNTING

WITH VICTORIA BERRY

What is bookkeeping?

Bookkeeping is the process of tracking and reporting financial transactions.

The process involves recording the financial side of every transaction that occurs in an organisation or company, including deposits, expenditures, investments and loans.

In this context, bookkeepers maintain records to track a business's finances and prepare reports such as balance sheets and income statements, which are required by authorities like boards or shareholders or other stakeholders.

What is accounting?

Accounting is the advanced process of recording and summarising the financial transactions of a business. Accounting also includes understanding and communicating this information in a meaningful, clear way.

Accounting is one of those professions that doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. It’s more than just preparing tax returns, it’s a field that provides long-term value to an organisation by providing key financial information to decision makers.

BOOKKEEPERS VS ACCOUNTANTS

Both are essential.

Accountants are professionals who handle the finances and transactions of a business.

They are responsible for the reporting and tax filings, gathering data for financial statements, and other tasks related to accounting and making business decisions.

On the other hand, bookkeepers are professionals who handle day-to-day financial transactions in a business. They also provide their clients advice, generally making sure the company is operating smoothly by tracking payments and making sure there's enough cash on hand at all times.

When to hire a bookkeeper

Bookkeeping is typically a full-time commitment while accounting is a part-time commitment.

Whilst most people can generally prepare basic bookkeeping for a business, knowing how to use this information to help you make decisions is generally the realm of a professional.

Using a bookkeeper can generally cut down up to 80% of the time you spend on finance administration for your business.

Why you need a bookkeeper for your business

While you might be a whiz at keeping up with your personal finances, the responsibility for managing the finances of a small business takes on a whole new challenge. From taxes to invoices and payments, there are plenty of opportunities for things to go awry. And

without proper bookkeeping, it’s difficult to know where you stand financially.

A bookkeeper is trained and experienced in dealing with all aspects of small business accounting and can provide insight into what is going on with your books. They are also trained in working with Accounting Software such as Xero, which will save you time because they already know how to properly input transactions into the system so that it keeps track of everything from bank balances to outstanding bills. They also know heaps of shortcuts to streamline this process.

Which should you hire, a bookkeeper or an accountant?

Both accountants and bookkeepers have their own set of skills, and it is important to know them before you hire one. Depending on your business size and needs, both are likely to be essential. ca

P: 0419 179 177

IS THE MIRROR your friend?

WITH DR RAFIQ // REJUVENATIVE

As our birthday number rises, our days in the sun do too and this often results in the mirror not being the friend it once was.

Cosmetic injectables, treatments and cosmetic filler injections are becoming more and more popular as the population realises how effective they can be in helping to smooth away facial lines and wrinkles and helping to shape your facial contours again. Fillers can add definition and volume to the face for your cheeks, chin and jawline, lip, eyes and more.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Q. Does the treatment work?

A. Anti-wrinkle injections work by providing temporary relaxation and softening of the muscles of facial expressions. This provides a smoother, youthful appearance to the face and helps avert future expression lines from forming.

Anti-wrinkle injections are very effective in areas like: frown lines, crows’ feet, forehead lines, gummy smile, bunny lines, chin crease (Mentalis muscle crease), chin dimples (chin Peau D’Orange), relaxing hyperactive neckbands (Platysma muscle), jawline slimming (Masseter muscle), mouth corner lift (DAO muscle).

Non-cosmetic benefits of anti-wrinkle injections include reducing migraines, cluster headaches and softening of chewing muscles to avert teeth-grinding.

Q. “Will I look frozen or ducklike?”

A. “No, the aim of anti-wrinkle treatment is to appear refreshed. When delivered by an experienced cosmetic doctor, the results seem natural, with appropriate facial expressions still intact.” ca

Shop 6, 1 Old Gympie Road, Yandina

1300 288 606

www.rejuvenative.com.au

Dr Rafiq completed his M.B.B.S. in 2002 and has over 10 years’ experience as a General Practitioner in Australia. He lives and works on the beautiful Sunshine Coast and has a special interest in cosmetic medicine. Dr Rafiq’s approach is to treat the client as a whole to address their long-term goals and ideal results with the aim to minimise treatments and products needed to meet the client’s optimal goals.

THE COST OF COTS and avoiding Frankenstein!

What is COTS? Commercial Off The Shelf solutions, specifically software.

With the varied states of digital transformation for businesses, we’re finding more customers wrestling with smorgasbords of software solutions and inadvertently creating Frankenstein…

Why? Because the IT anatomy of every business is unique.

Your data, processes, performance and security requirements are all individual to scale and offering; off the shelf solutions are one size fits all.

Resulting outcomes are multiple pieces of software, cobbled together and your IT Frankenstein limps over the line of modern agility.

How can it be avoided? Tecoda don’t reject COTS solutions, we simply ask businesses

to PAUSE.

Before rolling out a new solution, take a moment to ask yourself:

P – Problem being solved: What is it exactly and how much pain is it causing?

A – Assumed outcomes: What are all the benefits and is this company-wide?

U – Usability by employees: Can this be used by employees other than the change champion?

S – Software Policy: Does it pass your Software Purchase Policy (including security/ performance)?

E – End game cost: How much will the solution really cost (including migration/ training/maintenance)?

Niche-based COTS software offerings are fantastic (we built one ourselves!) and can

be an immense help.

When it’s not an exact match however, you may experience server bloating, additional vulnerabilities, uncontrolled pricing and strictly votes-based changes or upgrades. Would custom development be the smarter path for your business?

If you PAUSE when looking at the latest and greatest piece of helpful automation, you may find that a minor development project is a better fit for purpose and projected costs, or at minimum provide an informed decision. It really is choosing your own adventure, so why not do it on your terms?

If we can help, or even just have a chat, reach out on 07 5353 5178 or info@tecoda.com.au ca

www.tecoda.com.au

managed service provider based in Maroochydore. Our award-winning software development and network engineering teams are committed to honesty, reliability, delivery and security.

Meet your local team...

Pratik Pokharel

My name is Pratik Pokharel, people who know me call me Pat. I have been working at the Telstra Business Technology centre for the last 10 months, but I have been working in Telco Industry for the last seven years.

I am a proud Nepalese-born Australian that has been calling this great country home for the last 14 years.

I love travelling, and as much as it sounds like a cliche thing to say, through my travels, “I’ve met so many great people over the years that I can call friends.” Travelling has opened my eyes to

different cultures and has taught me perseverance, love and humility, among other things. Among other projects, I am currently working with our project team upgrading the infrastructure on one of the apartment buildings in Mooloolaba to provide high speed internet to all the residents. This will help the building management to retain their current tenancy as well as attract more clients. A project of such scale will not only help the current clients but also be a model example so that we can assist similar clients in future.

I am Matt Storer. I will be entering my 20th year in the Telstra channel, so I am pretty much part of the furniture. Actually, the truth is that the furniture doesn’t stay as long as I have.

Fun fact: I was in the North Coast Academy of Sports as a junior cyclist, and I am still an avid cyclist today. I enjoy keeping fit and being outdoors, so cycling helps me achieve both of these goals.

I love working with business owners to help transform their business into the digital world. One of my current projects is moving a local

Matt Storer

business from an old phone system, (where their team had to be in the office) to Telstra Calling Office 365, introducing conference and collaboration audio solutions so the business has the ability to have their employees work from home or from absolutely anywhere in Australia. Over the last 12 months, this has become something quite important to businesses with unpredictable lockdowns meaning their team have to work from home. This has also increased productivity and enabled flexible working arrangements for their team.

Melissa Whitfield

I have worked as an Account Manager for Telstra Business Technology Centre Queensland Central Sunshine Coast for just shy of five years. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to experience both face-to-face and service delivery roles, so I understand the importance of both ends of delivering solutions to our business customers.

I have been working in Telecommunications for the past 11 years, starting on Anne Street in Brisbane in the Telstra Internet Direct Business Dealer Care team. I then moved interstate to NSW and started my journey working

in the Telstra Business Centre space and it was from there that my diverse experience in different areas began.

I love the interaction with customers, the diversity of each and every business, working with them closely and getting to them know them and their business. It means I have a full understanding of their requirements, allowing me to ensure we provide the right solution the first time, instilling satisfaction and the built-in trust for our customers to feel safe, so that they can rely on that one person to provide all that they need for the success in their business.

I am a 41-year-old dual citizen from Switzerland and have been exposed to the telecommunications industry for over 20 years.

When I am not liaising with our customers, regarding innovative technology solutions, I enjoy being part of the Alex Surf Club as a surf lifesaving volunteer. I also love to spend time with my partner and our two kids, as well as hitting the mountain bike trails here on the beautiful Sunshine Coast.

For me the biggest reward in our industry is to witness the transformation our customers experience after a solution has

Pascal Stussi

been implemented.

An example is a current project that our team and I are working on, supporting one of the largest construction companies here on the Sunshine Coast, implementing a fully cloud-based communication solution via Microsoft in conjunction with Telstra called ‘Telstra Calling Office’.

The solution will enable the company to move away from running a costly on-premises phone system, and we can make sure that they can work from any location at any given time, as long as there is an internet connection present.

I’ve been working in the Telstra Business team for a few months, but have been a part of the Telstra world for seven or so years.

I love my footy and outside of work, I host a podcast in which I interview some of the amazing minds that live in our country. I’ve always been passionate about people and being able to influence how a business runs is a fun and rewarding experience. Right now, I’m working with a company in the aged care and support industry, which has grown exponentially over the last two years. They have created a ‘scattered’ infrastructure

Karl Brockman

of telephony and technology, getting services as they need them. We’re currently in the scoping process to understand exactly how the business operates, why they do what they do and what they need to achieve their vision and goals as effectively and efficiently as possible. Thinking proactively, we’ve been able to draft a roadmap to a ‘nirvana’ of technology and service which will future proof this business, be flexible in growth and give the team the best opportunity to perform their roles well, with minimal interruption or difficulty.

I’ve been involved in sports from a young age and have been fortunate enough to represent Australia in four different sports – Cricket (U23’s), Gaelic Football (2005 World Cup in Ireland), Rugby Union (three 15’s World Cups and one 7’s World Cup –we were the inaugural World Cup Champions in 2009) and Triathlon (2018 – ITU Age Group Olympic Distance).

I’m currently working on a multi-site networking solution with a customer. The customer has a large chain of pharmacies and the current issues they’re experiencing include connectivity, Wi-Fi for

Trish Brown

customers, lack of visibility across sites from a central point and security. Working alongside our Business Solutions Architect, we’re able to scope out a solution utilising Meraki equipment in each of their sites. This will provide them a solution that’s not only secure but will offer connectivity throughout the sites with no ‘dead spots’ for customers and/or staff and most importantly, provide their IT team with a central point of visibility and control through the Meraki dashboard, allowing them to manage their sites remotely.

Jackson Curro

I work as a business solutions architect.

I'm passionate about technology and the role it can play in helping the community and businesses thrive. My main focus is building streamlined, robust and secure solutions for our customers.

My role is to support the account management team with a technical focus so we can work together to put the best solution together for every business we work with. I enjoy collaborating with clients to deliver projects that are market leaders both technically and commercially.

I am currently working on a

range of solutions such as complete Wi-Fi solutions for hotels and resorts, where we utilise existing infrastructure to reduce cost and complexity while still increasing bandwidth and security for residents and guests, designing whole business transformations, increasing security, resilience and preparing future growth.

In my spare time I run a Sunshine Coast Dad’s Group on Facebook. I started this group after seeing a dad asking for help. It’s a place where fathers are able to talk openly and possibly help each other out.

I grew up locally on the Sunshine Coast surfing and playing a variety of sports. From a young age, I’ve had a passion for technology and solution building, which is the main reason why I love being a part of Telstra.

I am currently working alongside a large school on the Sunshine Coast ranging from kindergarten to secondary.

At the moment we are working with the school in an effort to migrate a number of technology types to a cloud-based solution in the Microsoft Team’s

environment. In this process, this organisation has found a number of benefits including:

• remote working

• remote learning

• easy and simple modification for calling

• simple collaboration between all areas of the business

Recent local events have caused the current older technology types to breakdown and cause outages. A solution such as Microsoft Teams will eliminate this from happening.

Jason Phillips

CALOUNDRA INTERIOR DESIGNER 'seas' value in Qoin

anna Pappalardo

An interior stylist on the Sunshine Coast who is adapting homes for those seeking a sea change now has designs on digital currency, Qoin.

Rosanna Pappalardo launched RJP Design and Decor in Brisbane 17 years ago. Now based in Caloundra, her business works alongside those residents who have recently relocated to the Sunshine Coast.

“More and more people are making a sea change and moving into areas like Caloundra and Maroochydore,” she said.

ABOUT QOIN

“My role as a designer is to help them adapt their home to suit their needs and make them feel more comfortable.

“Qoin makes my business more accessible for the changing times.”

RJP Design and Decor offers a full design service including kitchen and bathroom design, interior and exterior colour schemes, decoration and styling, furniture layout and space planning, renovations and new developments, product sourcing and window coverings.

“I love to be involved in the whole project and follow through a client’s vision. I like to work with their ideas, and I enjoy the challenge of bringing them into reality,” Rosanna said.

One of the first interior designers on the Sunshine Coast to accept Qoin, Rosanna joined the community because the digital currency network is all about supporting small business.

“There’s been a lot of hype around digital currencies. The biggest difference about Qoin is the opportunity to support other small businesses on the Sunshine Coast,” she said.

“Businesses here are small, they’re not big corporations… if I’m on board and there’s others on board, then it will encourage people to buy locally, support Sunshine Coast made and promote the small businesses on the Sunshine Coast.” ca

www.qoin.world

In the past 15 months, more than 37,500 Australian small businesses have joined Qoin, the newest digital currency. Built on blockchain, Qoin offers merchants and consumers an innovative and secure alternative to connect and interact.

ENSURING PEACE OF MIND for property owners

WITH KATHERINE ALLAN // HENZELLS AGENCY

investment is a dynamic sector with ever-changing legislation, trends and technologies, making it vitally important to have the right property management team in place. Henzells Agency’s skilled property management professionals are resourced to give every property the attention it deserves, whether it is a small unit or executive home. We work hard to take the worry out of ownership and ensure investment properties always perform at their very best.

With demand for property management

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katherine

services at an all-time high, it is crucial to only entrust a proven performer such as Henzells with your most important assets. Through our Landlords First program, we are taking a proactive approach to see how landlords rate their experience with us, to monitor any concerns they may have or if there are any improvements they would like to suggest.

We are taking this opportunity to also offer our 600-plus owners a free market valuation on their primary place of residence or investment properties, and to assist anyone who may be interested in growing their portfolio.

Owning a rental home can seem like a logistical and legal minefield. Henzells staff have the expertise, longevity and up-to-the

minute training to ensure a stress-free experience, such as guiding landlords through the new 2022 Queensland smoke alarm laws.

Placing the right tenants is one of the most important factors in a smooth leasing experience. Henzells have one of the most rigorous selection protocols in the business, ensuring peace of mind for owners.

We are always seeking new properties to manage, so if you are considering renting your property, you have one that is sitting vacant or if you are unhappy with the way it is currently being managed, Henzells Agency can certainly help.

Contact us today on 5491 2000 or rentals@henzells.com.au ca

www.henzells.com.au

Property

Allan is the General Manager at Henzells Agency and is one of many long serving members, being a part of the team for over 16 years. Her strong leadership ensures the continued success of the business in all departments including property management, sales, commercial and holiday rentals.

In 1993, Len and Doris came to my office at Living Valley for a naturopathic consultation. Len was 95 years old, fit and full of personality. Doris was his second wife, as his first wife had died nine years earlier. Len related that he had secured a younger woman the second time. Doris was only 72. The reason for their visit was to address Doris’ health, which had been in steady decline for over twelve months. Len smiled as he said that he was getting too old to find a third wife. After a full examination of Doris’ medical history and blood chemistries, I recommended a live-in program, during which our team of naturopaths would conduct extensive investigations while providing a high level of care. She would receive appropriate treatments, education, emotional support, age-based fitness training and a little reconditioning. I explained how important it was for her to regain an effective level of fitness, especially at 72.

Often like cars, our bodies fail to give optimum performance when they are not properly tuned. A two-week program would provide a well-needed tune up for Doris, promoting better energy levels, a feeling of wellbeing and hopefully a longer life.

Len and Doris checked in. While Doris was receiving a variety of remedial therapies, attending exercise classes and consultations, enjoying steam saunas and receiving emotional support, Len pursued his own activities, running up the mountain daily and entertaining the other guests. He had a brilliant sense of humour. I followed him with a notebook, as I was eager to learn how a man of his age could be so fit and mentally sharp. Then, one day he shared much of his strategies. At age 16, Len purchased a book which detailed eight basic principles for achieving optimal health and longevity. For nearly 80 years, he had steadfastly applied each one of the tenets found in its pages. “Optimal health and fitness are not achieved merely through the performance of regular exercise,” he says. There are seven other dynamics, he believes, that feature heavily in the determination of one’s strength. He talked about balance between physical, emotional, spiritual and social health as he related story after story about his abundant adventures. Attitude was his central pillar for keeping all the other activities in equilibrium. This was evident every time he entered the common lounge area. Within a minute all the other guests would laugh uncontrollably, while Len stood there with a straight face. He always had something funny to say

on health

BY GARY

and he excelled at making people laugh. As much as I could determine, Len had never allowed the issues of life to get on top of him. He enjoyed every moment as he focused mostly on uplifting others. He thrived on promoting happiness.

Len exercised every day. He was an avid gardener and he enjoyed daily walks. During his younger years, Len maintained muscle integrity through regular weight training. He believed that strong connective tissue is critical in the maintenance of health. He also emphasised the importance of breathing correctly. Sunlight was also one of Len’s key fitness factors. “Sunlight hardens the bones, modulates cholesterol, lowers triglycerides, kills bacteria, boosts the immune system and increases glycogen, supporting muscle integrity,” he says. Rest was another one of Len’s laws. He retired early every night to maximise repair and maintenance. By getting at least three hours of pre-midnight repair-sleep, Len was able to support his rigorous exercise regime. Hydration was another of Len’s secrets. He drank a lot of pure water at regular intervals throughout each day. He also started each day with a huge drink of water with a dash of lemon and a little salt. “Muscles won’t work properly when they are not adequately hydrated,” he says. Len also talked about temperance. He never smoked nor consumed anything that would potentially compromise his health. Sounds boring? Well, Len had an incredibly enjoyable life. His abstinence from harmful substances gave him the assurance of mental lucidity and fitness in his old age. As far as food goes, Len ate as natural as possible. He avoided refined, processed foods and he ate plenty of good fats. He believed that refined sugar was poison.

I felt privileged to sit at the feet of a healthy 95-year-old. He left refreshed with a reconditioned wife. Doris called me two years later. She said that Len had been whistling in the garden. He fell, unable to get up. Doris called the ambulance. Later, as she waited in Emergency, a doctor took her hand to lead her to Len’s side. There he was lying with a big grin. He had gone. Doris asked the doctor why Len was smiling if he was dead. The doctor stated that he had never seen that before. But wouldn’t you

smile at the end of a life that you perceived to be perfect?

From that day on, I decided to focus on the roses, lilies and pinks in life rather that the thorns, briers, thistles and dirt. a

Keeping our systems serviced and our minds positively focused in this ever-demanding world is indeed the ultimate challenge in life.

MARTIN LIVING VALLEY HEALTH RETREAT

TURNING A DIFFICULT DIAGNOSIS INTO AN OPPORTUNITY

REBECCA HODGSON HAS TURNED A DIFFICULT DIAGNOSIS INTO AN OPPORTUNITY TO HELP OTHERS, WITH THE MOTHER-OF-TWO

AND DOUBLE TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT PUSHING THROUGH LIFE’S CURVEBALLS IN HER QUEST TO BECOME AN ENROLLED NURSE.

Driven by a determination to support others at their most vulnerable, Rebecca Hodgson has overcome several medical challenges of her own along the path to achieving her goal. Now, Rebecca is on track to graduate with a Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115) from TAFE Queensland and will launch her career in the healthcare industry by the end of this year.

Rebecca’s medical journey began when she developed gestational diabetes in pregnancy – a condition that triggered a years’ long battle with Type 1 diabetes and multiple organ failure.

The 43-year-old mother-of-two and part-time retail worker was placed on dialysis for four hours every second day, but not one to let life get her down, Rebecca learned how to do dialysis at home and used that time to study for a Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115).

“With the dialysis and all the medical stuff going on during the years, I wanted to give back and be a nurse so I could help other people in similar situations,” Rebecca said.

“I worked the days that I wasn’t at TAFE, then on my TAFE days I’d come home after class and study while I was on dialysis. I was actually on my way to TAFE when I got the call (last February) to say I needed to be in Sydney within a couple of hours for a kidney and pancreas double transplant.”

Now just months away from completing her qualification, Rebecca says her journey, though fraught with difficulties, has been worthwhile and made easier thanks to the support and direction she received from her teachers at TAFE Queensland.

“I’m absolutely excited to finish – I had to take five months off for my transplant, so I’ve been studying for two years,” she explained.

“While I was on dialysis, I was looking at different avenues and TAFE Queensland was really supportive in guiding me in the right direction. The course being only three days a week gave me the flexibility to work the other days and have money coming in.”

“I hadn’t been to school for 20 years or so, but the lecturers were all really supportive and made learning easy.”

While Rebecca, who is now diabetes and dialysis free, says “the whole experience through TAFE is awesome”, it’s the handson learning and work placements that really fortifies her opinion of studying with TAFE Queensland.

“I love the support and the labs –the hands-on stuff was really good and they made sure you got the practical experience,” she said.

“You’re never too old. TAFE Queensland supported me and made it feel achievable.”

According to the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment, the nationwide employment opportunities for enrolled nurses over the five years from 2020 to 2025 are set to increase by 9.8% (based off National Skills Commission Projections).

As the state’s largest and most experienced training provider, TAFE Queensland is committed to providing Queenslanders with the

“I hadn’t been to school for 20 years or so, but the lecturers were all really supportive and made learning easy.” quality, hands-on training they need to succeed in their chosen career, while fulfilling the skills demands of the community.

To find out more about TAFE Queensland’s Diploma of Nursing, visit tafeqld.edu.au or call 1300 308 233, and enrol today.

IS YOUR SPINE GIVING you a pain in the neck ?

WITH DR DAVID HENDREY, CHIROPRACTOR // HENDREY CHIROPRACTIC

Your body is a masterpiece that is controlled and coordinated by your brain. The way your brain does this is by sending and receiving electrical impulses or messages along the nerves. These impulses must be synchronised for you to feel great and function well.

Sadly, poor posture, whiplash injuries, knocks, bumps and falls can injure the neck and can cause the spine to become misaligned.

New research conducted by Dr Jeb McAviney, the clinical director of Sydney Scoliosis Clinic, has found that patients who have lost the

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

normal curve in the neck are 18 times more likely to suffer with headaches, which can be caused by:

• Pinched ner ves. People often talk about a “pinched nerve,” which does happen, but is actually quite rare.

• Sprain of the joints or ligaments.

• Strain of the muscles.

• Disc injur y. Although disc injuries are most common in the lower back, neck disc injuries are particularly nasty.

Dr Wayne Wittingham, Chiropractor, PhD and researcher conducted several major studies with patients who were suffering with headaches and migraines. One study was a double-blind study with a crossover aspect. This means the patients received eight weeks

of treatment and eight weeks of a sham or fake treatment. Another group received the sham or fake treatment first then eight weeks of real Chiropractic treatment.

This study not only showed that Chiropractic care reduces the severity, intensity and frequency of headaches and migraines, but because of the crossover aspect, also showed that Chiropractic care actually prevented headaches and migraines occurring.

Your Chiropractor has trained for more than 6,200 hours to find the cause of your neck pain or headaches and can find the cause, and tailor a treatment plan for you. m

www.hendreychiropractic.com.au

Dr David Hendrey has a life-long passion for human performance, longevity and the mind-body-spirit connection. During his 25 years as a chiropractor, Dr David has also coached fellow chiropractors, written the ‘Vision for Vitality’ and worked with world-class athletes.

SUNSHINE COAST ART & FRAMING gallery and art café

WITH PAULA AND JOHN GOWLAND // SUNSHINE COAST ART & FRAMING GALLERY

At our framing workshop and Gallery Café in Minyama, you will find our amazing team of consultants and picture framers with years of experience waiting to provide you with old fashioned customer service and high-quality products.

We pride ourselves on educating our customers with the latest framing techniques and methods that will protect your treasured memories to ensure they will last a lifetime. We specialise in art preservation and custom

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

framing, canvas stretching, printing, custom mirrors, framing of sporting memorabilia and objects and ready to hang artwork.

You name it, we frame it!

Including original art, limited edition prints, embroidery, mementos and objects, medals, photographs, posters, certificates and so much more!

You can now relax in our new Gallery Café and take in our beautiful range of wall art, homewares and gifts. There you will find our experienced baristas serving Bear Bones coffee and treats.

For those of you looking to explore the art world, be sure to keep updated with our new workshops and fun classes that are scheduled for the coming months.

For our artists, we have an extensive range of art supplies in different medias such as acrylic, watercolour, oils, inks, and pastel. We have a large range of ready-made canvases and painting accessories like brushes, inks, paper and pads available to you.

We are open six days a week Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm and Saturdays 8.30am to 4pm. ca

www.artframes.com.au

Paula and John Gowland are passionate about everything to do with the Art and Framing World. They head a team of experts with over 100 years’ combined knowledge in the area. Each member of the team brings their own unique skills that, when combined, leaves no stone unturned.

CELEBRATE your wins!

WOW Property Women founder Lorna Willis is most definitely a woman who loves to celebrate her wins and she’s had many. She is one incredibly inspiring woman.

Lorna is a mother, grandmother, friend and mentor. Just add a dash of ‘passion for property,’ and you will find an amazing woman who has created a community for like-minded women.

Standing for Women Owning our Wins, WOW Property Women are truly passionate about all things property.

The ‘WOW Group’ ladies come from far and wide. They are homeowners, investors and developers, all thriving on discussing anything to do with property, from interior design to land subdivision and much more, all in a safe and encouraging environment. They support each other by sharing knowledge, experience and wisdom and through ensuring they celebrate their own and each other’s wins by including lots of fun activities in their program.

Lorna and the WOW Property Women care deeply about their community too and keep themselves humble by helping the homeless. Just before Christmas last year, they took on a mammoth task of transforming one of the empty and messy houses on the future Lowanna site in Buddina, into a home to accommodate a homeless woman, who not only got a roof over her head, but also beds, lounge and cutlery, complete with food in the fridge and cupboards. Lorna was thrilled to

hand over the keys to her so she could move in by Christmas Eve. It was a massive, but ever so fulfilling task.

Let’s take a step back in time. Lorna fell in love with creating homely spaces at a very early age, building cubby houses in the haystack on the family sheep, potato and cattle farm in the hills of Gippsland, Victoria. There was no power, no fridge, no hot water. They had to bring water up from the river and put it into an old copper boiler with a wood fire under it in order to heat water for the family’s weekly bath. The family cat would fall through the gaps between the walls and the floor and possums lived in the roof.

Couple that with poisonous snakes in the yard and the picture begins to be painted as to how this lady learned resilience from a very early age. She learnt how to drive a tractor, back up a truck and ride a motorbike as well as hold her own amongst groups of men. She learnt to become self-reliant and quick-acting to solve problems before they could escalate.

land at just 18 years of age for a whopping $4,000 with a dream to build a home that she could be proud of.

Having moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2013, she was helping a girlfriend to understand ‘property language’- things such as LVR, Equity, Leverage, Flip, Widow Block… and she invited her to bring some of her friends to sit around the kitchen table and share her knowledge and experience.

From there, it just grew. More and more people would join in each month, first into her dining room, then her lounge, until finally she had to set it up with an outside venue for the monthly events.

Having pioneered and endured the struggles in a male-dominated industry (and still doing so), Lorna loves inspiring and encouraging women to create their own financial independence using property as a vehicle. It wasn’t until she turned 30 that she realised what she wanted to do in life. After physically designing and building the family’s first two homes with her then husband, alongside growing their family of four beautiful daughters, she decided to go back to school to study Architectural Design and Interior Design.

After six years of study while working parttime and raising a family, she stepped out to start her own Architectural Design business. This grew rapidly to three offices in different locations with a team of eight. Lorna found herself being all things to all people, but not the designer she wanted to be.

Lorna purchased her very first block of

Her upbringing eventually became a real gift in versatility, adaptability, creativity and gratefulness. It also gave her the vision and the passion to design something beautiful for herself one day.

So, she began to dabble in her own projects using the mixed-use zone to take a residence and convert it into a small-scale commercial development. Over time, these got bigger and bigger and eventually gave her the cashflow that enabled her to give up her ‘day job’.

All this while raising the girls. However, Lorna is proud to say, “I have raised four beautiful, well-balanced daughters who make a positive contribution to their communities, which was always, and still is, my number one priority.”

“We have travelled through many of life’s challenges and celebrations together. And at this precious time in life, I know that I must have done something right as a mother; for now, I am a trusted best friend to each of them and a loved Grandi to nine grandchildren. Our bond continues to remain extremely close, no matter where in the world we are.”

Being our milestone issue, Lorna shares one major milestone that she still holds her head high with pride about. In business, it is the development of Lowanna Beach Resort,

which is a $95 million project with three buildings that include 112 apartments and five commercial spaces. It is a testimony to all of her life’s learnings, tribulations, and triumphs, including the inherent skill to build an awesome team to support the vision.

It has been four years in the making so far, with one-and-a-half years still to go. Nothing says ‘milestone’ better than surviving Covid-19 through a foreverchanging environment of turbulence and unprecedented extremes.

When other developers were shelving their plans, Lorna’s words to her team were, “Guys, you can’t be half pregnant. We are pregnant and we are going to deliver this baby.”

The sort of thing only a woman would say!

As a woman leading this huge project, which is one of the bigger residential developments on the Coast, in a predominantly male dominated industry, Lorna has repeatedly received comments that demonstrate building the group of ‘WOW Property Women’ has not only helped her - by being

surrounded by inspirational women – but it has also helped many other women step outside their comfort zone and take action to build their own wealth plan, using property as their vehicle.

I asked Lorna to share her number one tip for success.

Hang around with like-minded people long enough and you will build your confidence and learn the ‘how’ of growing a successful property portfolio.

Join the WOW Property Women group now by scanning the QR code and receive your first month for only $7 using the coupon code ‘7dollarfreedom’ as a welcome gift from Lorna to help start you on your way. a

www.wowpropertywomen.com.au/join/

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She says, “Find a mentor or coach, don’t try to do it alone. It’s just too hard!”

WOW – Owning our wins with a celebration

IS SOLAR WORTH getting in Spring?

WITH BRET DAVIS // WHOLESALE SOLAR

Winter has come and gone; June 21 was the shortest day of the year. While it’s worth getting a solar system in winter, if you missed that, spring is the next best thing.

If you’re considering getting Solar, check if your roof suffers from any shading with the sun lower in the sky.

If your roof is free of shade now, it will be free of shade all year, which is great news.

What is the solar performance for winter/spring compared to summer?

In winter, the average solar system performance is reduced by an average of 20%.

On the Sunshine Coast during winter and spring, we get day after day of clear blue sky days, which is great for solar performance, even though these days are shorter in length than the long summer days.

Last summer, we had a wet one, with many cloudy, rainy days and the solar performance was not that great.

Now is the easiest time to get a solar system installed as the solar industry is not as busy.

Don’t forget, you can still take advantage of the government financial incentive for solar.

So yes, consider solar during spring if you have spare space on your sunny roof.

If you already have solar, how can you improve your solar performance?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Here are three ways:

• If your existing solar panels are in the shade, can they be moved to a roof area out of the shade?

• Can you eliminate the shade by removing unwanted trees or other obstructions?

• Do you have roof space for more solar panels? A 10kw solar system will provide 52% more energy than a 6kw one, and you can still get government financial assistance when adding more solar.

• Be more efficient with when you use power. Use as much electricity during sunlight hours for things like your pool filter, spa heater, washing, drying, baking and air conditioning. At night, be conscious of turning off lights and other appliances that are not being used.

Also remember the sun is free, so take advantage of its endless source of power. m

www.wholesale-solar.com.au

Bret has been passionate about solar as long as he can remember. With over 30 years in management roles, Bret now follows his passion to get solar installed into as many homes and business premises as he can, at the most affordable price possible by cutting out the middle man.

STILL PAYING

Don't delay

Right

LOOKING FOR a career change?

WITH KATE LANGFORD // KATE LANGFORD CAREER CONSULTING

Since covid ‘hit’, the world of work changed across the globe. For many, this break in the day-to-day hustle has enabled them to reflect on what they want, or definitely don’t want, in a career or business aspiration. For others, this situation has been less of a choice to change and more of a forced hand with uncertain shifts and a large number of redundancies issued.

ABOUT KATE LANGFORD

We’ve been living through a time of great disruption and confusion, and while some yearn for pre-COVID normal, Kate Langford, an expert career consultant and business coach, encourages everyone to really consider what they want their future to hold.

“Various lockdowns and drastic changes in people’s lives has meant that many individuals and businesses have recognised that they need to do things differently,” explained Kate.

“What I really want job seekers and career changers to know is positive change can be on their horizon. It really is possible to have a job you love, and it can be achieved in a competitive job market,” shared Kate.

“It breaks my heart to think of so many people feeling trapped in jobs they don’t like and never leaving, or the people desperately searching for any job to pay the bills but not fulfil their soul,” she added.

That’s exactly why Kate created Kate Langford Career Consulting; to help those people find and land the job they love, not just the one they can do.

“It starts with a free 20-minute call with our incredible career consultants, and then we can help with resumes, career coaching, applications, interviews and career confidence,” shared Kate. ca

www.katelangford.com.au

Kate Langford Career Consulting (KLCC) is recognised as one of the top career coaching companies in Australia. The team transforms the lives of people through their honest and authentic approach and in doing so has won awards in both Roar and Ausmumprenur. As a team of 14 (and growing!), KLCC works Australia-wide and throughout NZ from their head office based on the Sunshine Coast.

OF A ghostwriter

Have you ever found yourself in a Mexican stand-off with your computer screen because you aren’t sure what to include in your book or even where to begin?

You’ve decided you want to sit down and finally write your book, but a million ideas are swirling around in your mind and you can’t make heads or tails of it all.

The result? You are left frustrated by the blank screen and your book idea gets shelved.

It may be weeks, months, or years later before you decide to begin again, but you find the cycle of frustration repeating once more. The solution is simple – your story needs structure.

By the end of this article, you will have a basic structure you can follow if you are writing your life story in the form of a memoir and another if you are writing a book for your business. These will give you the basic foundations to begin to shape your manuscript outline and write with purpose.

When you are writing a memoir, you are choosing a single theme or situation in your lifetime and only writing about that. Powerful memoirs will include lessons the author has learned throughout the experience, making it the perfect candidate for The Hero’s Journey structure.

At its core, this starts off at a set point, covers a fall from grace and then how the author overcomes challenges to rise to greatness. When you break down Hollywood blockbusters, 90% of them would follow this formula. It is something we are familiar with and highlights the powers of resilience, persistence and strength – values we all admire.

Keeping this structure at the forefront of your mind as you begin to plan your memoir will help you to determine which events are relevant to the theme you are presenting to your reader.

For a business book, there are a few popular ways you can structure your content.

They include:

• Running the reader through a framework or process, with a number of steps the reader can follow.

• Presenting the reader with the best of the best of your advice or knowledge, like Top 10 Tips for...

• Grouping like topics into chapter headings and discussing each point in great detail.

• A listicle, like 100 Ways to...

Of course, it is vital to ensure that even a business book links your personal experiences in so that the reader gains a better understanding and connection to who you are as the author and businessowner. That way, if your end goal is to convert readers into clients, they will already trust you and have a sense of who you are and what you stand for.

If you were to follow one of the above structures, what would your basic manuscript structure look like? Send me an email at hello@roxannewriter.com.au as I’d love to see what sort of journey you will take your future readers on.

In the meantime, if you are ready to dive deeper and truly solidify your book structure, book your seat at the next Ignite & Write Workshop.

After spending the day with me and three

other like-minded aspiring authors in a hands-on environment, you will have greater clarity of your purpose for writing a book, you will know how meaningful it is to share it with the world and you will be ready to launch into a great future as an author.

Of course, you will also get practical advice on how to get started writing your book as well as shaping up a manuscript structure that you will be able to take home and fill out with all of your experiences and knowledge. Just imagine... reaching that milestone of holding a physical book in your hands with YOUR name on the cover!

If this is something you want to achieve, head to www.roxannewriter.com.au/shop/ workshop/ignite-write-workshop/ to book your seat. a

www.roxannewriter.com.au

Facebook: facebook.com/roxannewriter

Instagram: @roxannewriter

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Head to qoin.world to find out more!

LIFE ON THE frontline

Frontline workers through the Pandemic have been hailed as the heroes that they are. But there are other heroes that may have been forgotten, who have also been fighting the battle and that’s our Early Childhood Educators.

You may not even know that all early educators worked right through the pandemic. These essential workers care for children of health care professionals as well as the workers that keep the Sunshine Coast running!

We wish to thank and celebrate all Early Educators, but would like to give a very special shout out to the educators of excellence at Karinya Montessori Children’s House.

These educators support our children to feel secure, confident and capable every day by creating environments for learning that are engaging and inspiring.

All while ensuring they meet all the regulations from the National Quality Standard and innovative practice, which is no small task! A mystery spot check inspection can happen at any time.

The Montessori Method is unique. It includes:

• Practical life – care of self, care of others, care of the environment.

• Sensorial – sensory exploration of taste, touch, smell and sound.

• Culture Arts – painting, drawing, music and dance.

• Culture Science – investigation of plants, animals and people in our community and around the world.

• Numeracy – hands-on meaningful exploration of numbers.

• Literacy – hands-on purposeful exploration of literacy.

Karinya Montessori Children’s House wants to empower parents to feel confident and capable, giving suggestions and help on navigating the tricky and most important foundation years of their children’s life. The team at Karinya Montessori care for kids, that’s a given, but it’s also important

that they care for themselves. Working with children is a great joy, but it is also a great responsibility and takes high emotional intelligence and resilience. The team care for themselves by including Yoga, Meditation, Rock Climbing, Zumba and Walking in Nature as part of their health regime.

Karinya Montessori Educators are highly valued and so are compensated with above award salaries, as well as being rewarded with many perks during the year.

On September 1st, we celebrated ‘Early Educator Day,’ celebrating these front-line workers who help pave the future of our children. Make sure you say thank you to your child’s early educator the next time you get the chance!

Kerri is the Approved Provider and Educational Leader of the centre and can be contacted about any aspect of Karinya Montessori on info@karinyamontessori.com ca

www.karinyamontessori.com

FOCUS FAMILY LAW

ECLIPSE DOG TRAINING

Are you frustrated by your puppy's behaviour?

Is your dog stressing you out? You and your dog matter to us. We can help you have a happy, calm, stress-free life with your puppy or adult dog. In our private behavioural training lessons, we give you and your dog the attention you deserve. e

https://eclipsedogtraining.com.au

SOUND HEALING

Is stress or trauma holding you back from living a life you love? You have most likely tried a range of other methods to assist you, with limited to no success. Gently release stress and/or trauma, even if you do not know the exact root cause, so you can achieve physical and emotional wellness without deep-diving into your past. By appointment in Caloundra, Nambour 0410 490 211 or online. e www.leighannedaniels.com

WOW PROPERTY WOMEN

Lorna Willis has been a pioneer in a man’s world. She is the visionary for ‘Lowanna Beach Resort’, one of the bigger residential developments on the Sunshine Coast. Lorna is also the proud founder of the ‘WOW Property Women’, which has helped many women step outside their comfort zone and take action to build their own wealth creation strategy, using property as their vehicle. e

www.wowpropertywomen.com.au

We practise exclusively in family law, both marriage and de facto and can assist you with divorce, property settlement, children’s living arrangements, consent orders, domestic violence matters, representation in court, mediations and settlement conferences, child support, spousal maintenance and recovery orders. e www.focusfamilylaw.com.au

RYAN DESIGNER HOMES

Pat and Petrina Ryan don’t just build houses; they build dreams, aspirations, memories and relationships. In short, they build real homes. In fact, flexibility is a built–in feature with Ryan Designer Homes because whether you are looking for a personalised design and build or to renovate, or even if you have your own plans, they stand ready, willing and very able to achieve the home of your dreams. e www.ryandesignerhomes.com.au

Brothers from the bush set up shop here on the Coast 25 years ago. This year they celebrate their longevity in business with a few tips they have used to keep their business and relationship intact after all these years. To celebrate they have taken over operation of two new store locations, Goodyear Autocare Nambour and Dunlop Super Dealer Gympie.

Between the several store locations across the Sunshine Coast, they are able to ensure the best tyre offers from Buy 3 get 1 FREE Deals to Cash back offers on Goodyear and Dunlop products.

CHANGING WITH the times

Congratulations to Levon Yaghdjian, partners and the whole LYNP team for their innovative approach in changing with the times.

LYNP Projects and Construction design and build new residential and commercial projects. They have a strong, committed team working with quality and knowledge to provide the best possible results for their clients.

“I am grateful to both our team and our clients, they are our company’s biggest assets,” Levon says.

LYNP Projects and Constructions is an award-winning building and design company with a considerable number of projects past, present and future.

Their whole philosophy is ‘ensuring function’. All of their room designs join together to ensure one unique, functional building.

Throughout history, constructions have been designed using materials available in their geographical region.

Where clay was plentiful, the main material was brick and ceramic coverings.

Where stone was more readily available, the walls and floors were stone. The beautiful Roman buildings are a perfect example of extensive use of marble and other types of granite in that region. In the new world of English-speaking countries, it was all about wood. Initially tree logs were used and then, with industrialisation, wood and clay derivatives for structure and ceramics for coverings and roofs came into play.

This type of culture continued over time, with the globalisation of culture and of architectural space.

The different influences were mixed and the different materials, regardless of their origin, created new forms of design. However, the fact is that right now, there is a current worldwide crisis in the supply of construction materials, especially those considered traditional within the construction culture of each country or region. Here in Queensland, for example, many materials are in low supply, including wood in its various forms, including laminated wood for structures, roofing and finishings. Likewise, the labor of carpentry is scarce due to the high demand.

This has created a serious problem for the building industry and resulted in some construction needing to stop completely.

At LYNP, changing to other materials such as steel and reinforced concrete for structures has meant they have been able to keep going.

There are numerous advantages of these materials over the traditional concept of local construction based on wood and its derivatives. Steel or concrete structures do not need termite protection.

Steel and reinforced concrete constructions, in addition to being more solid and durable in bad weather, require less maintenance. They allow greater freedom in the creation of spaces, due to the simple fact that the structure is independent from the rest of the construction. With this, it is possible to create larger free spaces, greater heights and larger openings to the outside, creating the possibility to allow light and external landscape into the more comfortable and more efficient home or commercial space, which is ultimately visually more pleasant.

In the beginning, LYNP was running small renovation projects. However, in no time at all they moved into new residential and commercial projects, design and construction, combining architecture with structure.

Levon is an overseas graduate in architecture and civil engineering and a registered builder in Queensland with more than 40 years’ experience. a

QBCC 15057927

www.lynp.com.au

There is just no END to how much endED is doing and providing for the Sunshine Coast Community.

 Just opened - the endED Espresso Bar (The Hedge, 5 Bermagui Crescent, Buddina) represents stage 3 of a 6 year plan envisaged by Mark and Gay Forbes (co-founders of endED). This is a not-forprofit entity that provides funds back to the charity and just as importantly work experience for those who have been supported by endED through their ED journey. The staff are mostly volunteers and the enterprise as a whole provides connection, community and compassion. Your support of the endED Espresso Bar will eventually allow endED to employ a 4th lived experience endED support team member. The espresso bar has quickly become a community connector with a vibrant atmosphere.

 OFFERING The Book Lovers Club first Wednesday of each month - 10am-12pm.

 OFFERING INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKERS each week. Past speakers: Matt Golinski, Dr Dinesh Palipana, Anne McDonald Uniforms for Kids, and Leon Stensholm

 endED was founded in early 2015 and was initially established as a parents/carers connector/support group conducting fortnightly meetings at the Forbes residence.

 endED completed construction of Australia’s first live-in residential eating disorder facility at Mooloolah Valley August 2020.

 In December 2020 endED established the endED House of HOPE at Woombye which currently hosts support groups three times per week and will become a transitional house for those leaving the Mooloolah residential facility.

www.ended.org.au

Check endED's facebook page for upcoming speaker dates and times.

(See blackboard to view some inspirational upcoming speakers) YOUR SUPPORT IS WELCOMED.

HOW TO BOOST your energy naturally…

with Goodlife Health Clubs.

It’s pretty easy to feel low in energy during the cooler months here on the Sunshine Coast. A regular early morning ocean swim to boost our energy can easily fall off our health and wellness routine when the mornings get chilly.

At Goodlife, we love being able to offer health and fitness advice that empowers our community of members to feel good for life. Physical exercise helps all of us continue to do the things we love, like having that little bit of extra energy to spend quality time with our family and friends. Or to simply help us build muscle tone, maintain bone density and increase energy so we can feel confident doing the daily activities we enjoy.

But when it gets cold and our exercise routine gets swapped out for that extra hour in bed, here are a few simple things you can do to boost energy instead:

• Limit your sugar intake.

When we feel low in energy, our bodies often crave sugar for a quick ‘pick me up’. The problem is, this creates a very quick spike in our blood sugar

levels (gives a big hit of energy) but then just as quickly, that energy dissipates and the cycle continues. Instead of sugary snacks, keep healthy, wholefood snacks nearby for when you need an energy boost. This will keep you energised for longer, without the health impacts that are associated with sugar.

• Restorative exercise.

One of the things our members at Goodlife love about us is that we offer more than 60 types of classes. This makes it really easy to mix up your workout routine to match the season and your energy level. In winter, you might like to opt for a Yoga

class to focus on restorative movement. If Yoga isn’t quite your thing, swapping out high intensity workouts for something a little more light-hearted like Zumba is a great way to improve mental wellness.

• Move your body daily.

Staying consistent with daily movement is a necessity when it comes to maintaining your energy. If you need a little motivation, or someone to keep you accountable, then a Personal Trainer is a great idea. Working with a fully qualified Personal Trainer at Goodlife means you’ll get tailored advice and workout plans to help you

maintain and improve your fitness and avoid injury when working out.

• Get enough sleep.

This one sounds like a nobrainer, but if you’re not getting between seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night, then your body isn’t getting a chance to rest and repair. If you know you aren’t getting enough sleep, you’ve probably noticed the symptoms of sleep deficit already. Things like changes in mood and appetite or a general decrease in energy are clear signs of needing to get more sleep.

The key to maintaining energy naturally really lies in having the right fitness community around you. At Goodlife, you’ll find a team of supportive and friendly fitness professionals to help you stay motivated, on track and most importantly, feeling good for life.

To find out more about what being a Goodlife member is all about, try us for FREE with a 10 day pass. Visit goodlife.com.au or get in touch with your local club in Maroochydore or Caloundra. a www.goodlife.com.au

MY PHILANTHROPY IS my gift and milestone

WITH

JEAN SHEEHAN // MILLENNIUM EDUCATION

Last year I offered my bike for f.r.e.e. on my FB page. It was time for me to let it go and pass it forward. PIF as I call it. I have always loved to give and celebrate people as that heals the body, according to Medical Intuition. The young gentleman who took the bike had a heart attack three months prior and had just been diagnosed with a lime-size brain tumour.

Now this is where people will ask me, why do I give so much? What has it got to do with Medical Intuition? And how can it heal the body? How is it a milestone? So glad you asked.

The word medical means to make ‘whole and complete’. The word intuition means ‘spontaneous insight’. Together it means that our bodies will heal when we feel whole and complete and ‘see the bigger picture’, which is absolute love. Now what if by me gifting a bike, there was major healing happening...

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

• My body feels good, so it releases hormones and chemicals for me.

• The gentleman feels good, so releases hormones and chemicals to heal his body.

• Being open to receive empowers the heart, prostate, uterus and hands.

• Being able give to empowers the hands, heart and second chakra.

• Gifting empowers each person’s own purpose.

• Letting go empowers the bladder and bowel.

• Making a decision empowers the gall bladder and ankle.

• Detaching from the outcome empowers the brain and eye chakras (areas of expectation).

• Caring for others empowers the heart chakra.

• Ser ving others empowers the crown chakra.

One simple act of giving and receiving makes us healthy in mind and body. That is why I love what I do.

This week, I ask you where can you PIF? ca www.millenniumeducation.com

Jean is an entrepreneur and keynote speaker of Medical Intuition and a best selling author known as the Queen of Hearts and of Manifesting. Using Quantum reality and Law of Attraction, Jean travels globally teaching her accredited Millenium Modality®

OUR milestones

WITH JOHN AND PETER O'LEARY // ALL COAST TYRE SOLUTIONS

A milestone by definition is “a significant stage or event in the development of something.” The team at All Coast Tyre Solutions are celebrating 25 years in business on the Sunshine Coast this year. Brothers and business partners, Peter and John celebrated this milestone by expanding their empire, investing in new plant and equipment to better service the Sunshine Coast.

Here’s exactly how we celebrated 25 years in business on the Sunshine Coast;

1. Two new store locations on the Coast.

All Coast Tyres Gympie and All Coast Goodyear Nambour – both formally Beaurepairs - are now operating under the All Coast Tyre Solutions Banner, soon to be rebranded as a Dunlop Super Dealer and Goodyear Autocare.

2. All Coast mobile tyre van.

We are now able to come to you at home, at work or roadside for all passenger, SUV and 4WD vehicle tyre needs, from new tyres fitted at home to puncture repairs. This little project has been years in the making. We are excited to be able to launch the All Coast Mobile Tyre Van as part of our 25-year celebration.

3. Expanding our commercial onsite and roadside tyre service. The newest truck to our commercial tyre service fleet will be a multi-purpose truck. This truck will be equipped with the latest truck and earth moving tyre changing equipment, allowing our fitting team to be more efficient while out on our Sunshine Coast roads servicing commercial businesses, from haulage fleets and roadside break downs to onsite construction jobs across the Coast.

Upon reflection over the last 25 years, with four store locations, a mobile tyre van, six commercial service trucks and an abundance of long-serving team members, we are excited to be able to celebrate our milestone in such a significant way.

ALL COAST GOODYEAR NAMBOUR

07 5441 2133

22 Coronation Ave, Nambour 4560

ALL COAST GOODYEAR AUTOCARE MAROOCHYDORE

07 5479 0966

71 Wises Rd, Maroochydore 4558

ALL COAST TYRE SOLUTIONS YANDINA

07 5446 7444

17 Pioneer Rd, Yandina 4561

ALL COAST TYRES GYMPIE

07 5482 6633

50/56 Mellor St, Gympie 4570

sales@allcoasttyres.com.au ca www.allcoasttyres.com.au

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Brothers John and Peter O'Leary come from Chinchilla, Queensland with an agricultural background. With over 70+ years of experience between them in the tyre and automotive industry, they are known as the go-to tyre guys.

VALUE-ADDING TIPS FOR selling your business

BY SHAREE WEBSTER, CA DIRECTOR // HOLMANS ACCOUNTING & TAXATION

As a business owner, the chances are one day you will consider selling your business to which you have put a lot of time, effort and equity into growing. If you’re looking to sell your business for whatever reason (retirement, finances, building another business, etc.), you will want to get the best sale price that you can for that business.

Factors to consider are – timing, are you ready to sell and let go, why, what a potential buyer of your business wants, your business’s value, your financial future and what you’re going to do next.

specialisation that has room to grow, where the business is located, if it is situated in a growth industry with a competitive advantage over others in the same industry and having good staff, products and services.

Characteristics that may lower the perceived value of your business on the market include the weak financial position of the business, a small customer base and poor industry outlook, key relationships held with the owner, poor recordkeeping and selling dated products or services.

Other factors that could affect the overall sales price of your business include if the business can be easily relocated if needed (i.e. is it a business that must be conducted in a certain place, such as a central office, or can it be moved to suit the buyer’s needs?)

Regardless of when you are selling, you should look into establishing and building additional inherent value into the business to further maximise your potential sale price. Assess your business internally and externally and look for opportunities to create value that buyers will appreciate and recognise the extrinsic worth of what you are offering. However, the sooner you can put into play the better for your future sale.

Areas to consider that will add value to your business are a strong cash flow, a good history and reputation, is a business with a niche

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

www.holmans.com.au

Disclaimer: This article contains general information only. Regrettably, no responsibility can be accepted for errors, omissions or possible misleading statements or for any action taken as a result of any material in this guide. It is not designed to be a substitute for professional advice, as such a brief guide cannot hope to cover all circumstances and conditions applying to the law as it relates to these items.

Sharee Webster is one of the directors of Holmans and is located at the Maroorchydore office. Sharee is a Chartered Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Commerce. At Holmans, Sharee specialises in business structures, taxation advice, superannuation and in particular, Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs). She has extensive experience in providing strategic tax advice.

Numerous factors will come into play that will affect the projected value of your business and how quickly it will sell on the market.

In summary, when it’s time to sell your business is up to you. Ideally, you should be liaising with your accountant at least 2-3 years before any intended sale to ensure you get the best outcome for your success. m

DO YOU NEED TO KNOW MORE about eCommerce

WITH YVETTE MOREAU // ONLINE VISIONS

It’s no secret that whilst many industries and businesses have suffered from the economic impacts COVID-19, it has brought upon unprecedented growth in eCommerce. Australia Post reports, "eCommerce has been booming since late March. National growth since the pandemic was announced by the WHO is up over 73% year-onyear (YOY).”

If eCommerce hasn’t been at the forefront of your business strategy before, then now is the time to adapt! Here are a few factors to consider when planning your eCommerce growth strategy.

Use the right eCommerce Software Platform

Before expanding on an already outdated or inefficient eCommerce website, take time review your options and don’t let your eCommerce platform capabilities limit your growth potential. In particular, if your business sells wholesale, has a large product catalogue, multi-warehousing, complex pricing or product configurations, requires a multi-site architecture or sells internationally. These are the key areas where differences in eCommerce platforms start to become more divided.

Integrate your back-office systems

Leverage the latest eCommerce technology to integrate your eCommerce platform with your ERP and business systems, you can then comfortably expand without the inefficiency of disconnected systems dragging you down.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Optimise for Mobile

With mobile devices dominating at an average of 60-70% of all website traffic, it’s never been more important to offer a great onsite customer experience on mobile. Adapt a mobilefirst strategy and see a significant shift in eCommerce conversion rate. Don’t be always out of stock. If you often have items out of stock, look into how this can be better utilised on your website by integrating with your warehouse inventory and using waitlists, out of stock notifications, backordering, pre-orders and alternative product recommendations.

Fast and Relevant Onsite Search

Did you know there’s actually a profession now called Searchandising? Yes, onsite search has become so critical to eCommerce conversion rates that leading online retailers have staff dedicated to fine tuning results for the optimal relevancy. Why? Its simple, a customer who searches is more likely to buy.

Understand PCI Compliance

It’s surprising how many businesses still aren’t aware of PCI compliance. If you’re transacting online, handling customer information or credit card details, research PCI compliance online and what you should be doing to protect this information. Operating outdated eCommerce software on Magento, Wordpress or similar opensource solutions is a common breach of these guidelines due to software security vulnerabilities and most businesses are unaware they risking penalties for non-compliance.

To find out more, contact us via our website OnlineVisions.com.au or connect with me on LinkedIn. ca www.onlinevisions.com.au

Yvette is the founder of Online Visions & a specialist in eCommerce for more than 15 years. She has consulted and delivered solutions to some of Australia's largest retailers and corporations. Online Visions specialises in digital strategy, international expansion, growing online sales and aligning eCommerce technology with business goals. We work with a broad range of clients in both B2C & B2B sectors.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A local superstar

BY VICKIE MAGIC

You more than likely already know that superstar Grant Smith, is a multi-award-winning Century 21 Real Estate Agent with 20 years under his belt. You may have heard about him starting at just 13, riding his bicycle around the streets of Buderim with a true vision and passion for the industry. You probably already know that he is a force to be reckoned with when buying or selling a property on the Sunshine Coast. With over a thousand properties sold on the Coast, Grant prides himself on the fact that if he saw any one of these people on the street, he would remember them personally and have a chat.

So, I thought in this article we might get to know the effervescent Mr Smith on a more personal basis.

For example, you may not know that Grant and his fiancée Geoff, are passionate about their four-legged fur babies, French Bulldog Jacques and Italian Greyhound Valentino.

They truly love animals, so it’s no surprise that one of their favorite charities is the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge (SCARS). Grant is pretty excited to be part of a group that is currently rebuilding its 42-yearold dog facilities.

For over 20 years, Grant and Century 21 have sponsored the Buderim Ladies Bowls Club, supporting the trophies and prizes for the Club.

Grant and Century 21 Grant Smith Property have supported

these and many other charities over the years – donating freely, of course, but also giving freely of their time and knowledge for a cause that touches their heart.

Grant admits that he is a soft touch when it comes to charities that are close to his heart. He believes this is because of his humble beginnings. Some may think that the designer-loving, immaculately dressed Grant was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but nothing could be further from the truth. His gorgeous, resilient, strong, smart, supportive, single mum Carmen - who has worked alongside him in the business since the beginning - was determined that she would ground, support and encourage her three children every step of the way.

Grant’s brother Dean and sister

Tenelle share his core values of integrity, resilience and drive for success, taught to the three of them by their mum.

First there is Dean, who owns and runs Sunny Rays Catering, which he named after his mascot-dog, Sunny. Dean has travelled the world with his passion to create beautiful mouth-watering food, working in restaurants from London to Morocco before choosing to return to Australia and start his food fusion catering business for any kind of event.

Tenelle is a Gold Coast based nurse, who recently has had a pretty amazing journey in a whole different ‘pandemic world’. We sometimes forget that these frontline workers are the backbone of our health. We truly appreciate people like Tenelle.

Travel is something that always

excites Grant, but clearly at the moment this is out of the question, including a planned wedding for Grant and his fiancée Geoff at Lake Como in Italy, which is currently on the back burner.

Lake Como in Italy’s Lombardy region is both dreamy and mysterious. It’s about 40 kilometers north of Milan and has been labelled the most picturesque travel destination for lovers far and wide.

“Lake Como just screams romance, love and enjoyment to me,” Grant says.

Once international travel recommences, Grant’s perfect wedding day consist of an intimate group of family and their closest friends. They’ll leave the beautiful lakeside city of Bellagio in a gorgeous classic timber boat.

Take a guess at what the wedding song might be? Will it be 'My Heart Will Go On', 'How Does A Moment Last Forever', 'Because You Loved Me'? One thing’s for sure, we at Matters Magazine have money on Celine Dion featuring more than once on the big day.

Grant has seen Celine live,

40 times so far. His favourite being the first time he saw her in Vegas. It was 2011, creating one of his all-time favourite life milestones.

Every day in the life of Grant Smith is certainly jam-packed. “Every day is different,” he says. However, most days he checks his emails and messages before he even gets out of bed. That way he feels like he really hits the ground running and everything that has come in overnight is sorted before his feet even touch the ground. Being organized and ready to start the day keeps Grant’s OCD at bay.

It’s important to Grant that he has zero notifications and zero emails on his phone too. He likes to stay present in the moment and with the person that is in front of him in that moment of time.

During summer, after emails and messages are cleared, the day will start with a walk with the dogs. Not quite so much in winter, when they stay tucked under the blankets for a little longer.

Then it’s breaky and into the office to start the day. Grant loves to ensure he keeps the whole team in the loop with everything that is going on, but they don’t spend too much time in endless meetings.

It’s gym at midday, four times a week. You don’t keep a

gorgeous healthy-looking body without a little work. That’s from me, not Grant, who whilst some think is loud and proud, is actually one of the humblest humans on the planet.

Grant is not afraid of hard work, it's not possible for someone wanting to be successful in Real Estate. It is a profession filled with after-hours meetings, appraisals and sales. They happen when they happen. You can’t say, “I’m not working at night,” you have to be there to strike while the iron’s hot. You can’t take it for granted that the iron will still be striking tomorrow.

That is something that Grant has learnt over the years: when opportunity knocks, open the door, even if you’re in your PJs. (As long as they are designer ones, of course).

Evenings in the Smith household mostly consist of Grant and Geoff, Jacques and Valentino, sitting on the couch in their beautiful, newly renovated Buderim home debriefing the day, chatting, laughing and watching the tele.

It’s no surprise to hear that if they are watching ‘Trash TV’ then their version of that includes renovation-makeover type shows or interesting reallife stories or documentaries.

Grant is a warm and fuzzy, soft soul who loves people and loves life, oh and absolutely loves Real Estate, designer clothes,

beautiful things and prestige cars. His day-to-day outfit consist of casual tailored shorts and a Tommy polo, but he also loves Gucci, Louis Vuitton and all the extras.

Grant says, for him, when you work hard, it’s nice to really feel the benefits of that success and treat yourself as often as you can.

He wears the nice clothes for no-one but himself, and maybe Geoff, to really put his best foot forward and feel the experience of dealing with brands that make you feel good.

In fact, it is these learnings gained from dealing with these amazing brands that drive him to deliver the same level of service and experience to his clients. His ‘unique selling point’ goal is that he wants each and every client to feel like a million bucks, to feel like they are the only person in the world in that moment of time.

So, there you go, there is a little that you maybe didn’t know about this gorgeous human who loves life and lives each and every day like it may be his last. Oh wait, that wasn’t an upbeat ending, let’s try that again.

buderim.century21.com.au

Let’s believe that Grant and his style, class, passion and love of life lives on forever. Why not! e

Let the sun do all the work and power your home with free clean power today. Save on your power bill from day one. With Apro Electrix, you pay nothing upfront and take advantage of the great government solar rebates.

Power your appliances with solar power today and receive a $3,600 government rebate off your system before 2022. There are also fantastic business solar benefits available so you can have premium solar that pays for itself.

You will be able to maintain effective power production with the latest technology and yes, they offer rebates for replacement solar systems.

Get ready for cool summers and warm winters by having perfect climate control 24/7.

Apro Electrix is your go-to for solar power. They are a family owned and operated

electrical contracting business servicing the Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas. They provide guaranteed workmanship and an honest and friendly approach, making them the electricians of choice for businesses and families in and around the Sunshine Coast region. While they focus on providing top quality

products and service, they also pride themselves on offering competitive pricing to ensure you get top results at a low price. Call Brad on 0423 232 519 for your free solar design. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram #aproelectrix e

www.aproelectrix.com.au

SUPER DEALER MILESTONES OF LIFE

All Coast Tyre Solutions must be getting the formula for success right, with such a high number of team members having hit the ten and twenty years of service milestone with them.

Owners John and Peter O’Leary are extremely proud of their team. “Nothing excites me more or makes my heart race than seeing and hearing our team working with customers and using all the systems, tools and customer service training Peter and I have developed over the years,” John says.

All Coast service three totally different types of clients.

● The mum, dad and extended families retail customer.

● The small to medium commercial clients with one to two vehicles and some five to ten vehicles.

● Large commercial clients in the transpor t and civil contracting. (who have 70-100 trucks).

Something you won’t know about Peter and John: John loves the colour red, having owned 20 red cars over the years. The next time you see him, ask him to show you his socks and jocks. They too are all red.

Peter won a silver in the state titles for surf boat rowing in Western Australia, under Cottesloe SLSC.

They have hit a few milestones over the years, but the ones they are the most proud of are being recognised as National Dealer of the year for Beaurepaires in 2004 and Queensland & National Dunlop Super Dealer 2019.

“Take time to work on your business, ask for help and have good mentors around you. Don’t be afraid to pay some for good advice something we personally struggled with earlier in our business life,” John says. f www.allcoasttyres.com.au

Life is punctuated with many significant milestones. Birth, death and marriage are so significant they are recorded officially for prosperity. There are other big moments that, as we look at our life, stand out. Some happy, like your first kiss, your first car or graduating from school or university. Others are sad or even tragic; your first broken heart, an injury that ends your sporting life or even the death of a friend or family member.

As I reflect over my life, I can easily remember some amazing victories that fill me with a sense of accomplishment and bring a smile to my face. Equally, I can remember some tragic things that have really shaken me to my core. Some so significant that I didn’t know if I would ever recover and be the same again. For those of you who have experienced tragedy, I want to share some of the things that helped me get back on my feet.

As I go through these steps, I will use the example of a significant knee injury, as a physical injury is easy to understand. An emotional trauma or a blow to our soul is unseen, but the steps are similar.

Firstly, allow yourself time to heal and recover. As soon as you get the MRI and confirm your ACL is ruptured, everyone knows you are out for 12 months. The expectations are there and the pressure to “Just get on with it” comes off. Grief is a funny thing that often comes in waves and just when you think you’re doing well, it can hit you again. That’s normal and okay.

Get a support team around you. It can be a few close friends who you can lean on, or a health professional who can guide you with your recovery. In this modern world, there are some amazing support networks online and on the telephone. Don’t battle alone.

Be kind, gentle and patient with yourself. We are often our own harshest critics.

Be grateful every day. This helps focus our attention on the good things in life and helps build a foundation of hope. For without hope, nothing is possible.

As you feel yourself healing, dare to dream. Life will never return to the old normal. Accept this and create a new life with new habits, activities and new goals. f

www.hendreychiropractic.com.au

LIFE'S MILESTONES THE PROOF IS IN THE PRINTING!

Nothing is really 100% true unless it’s in print – right? Running a printing business gives Sheena Canning her purpose. Sheena and the team at The Inkspot Printers have extreme energy and enthusiasm for what they do. They simply love helping see their clients’ ideas and concepts come to reality. Customer Service is their middle name. Exceeding expectations is a daily intention.

Being a shy introvert makes it a little tricky for Sheena in a world where expectation sees her networking and socialising. But lots of people together? That’s just not her jam. She’s always more comfortable one on one.

For just shy of 12 years, Sheena and the team have been supporting the Sunshine Coast with all their printing needs, from corporate business to publishing memoirs for retirees, priding themselves on building client relationships. This goes for their team too, who are a big, albeit sometimes crazy, family.

Previously owning an Event Hire Business and being GM for an Electrical Engineering Company in Sydney meant that Sheena already had the smarts to run a successful team, it was learning the printing industry specifics and jargon that took a little more time. She didn’t even know what CMYK meant! For those who are also in the dark, CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black. These are the primary colours printers use to create the whole colour spectrum.

The naysayers thought she wouldn’t make a success of it. However, Sheena is grateful to them.

“The best thing anyone can ever do is tell me I can’t do something, because then I have to prove that I can and will,” she says.

Her home on the top of a hill, with, in her words, “The world’s most amazing husband, Patrick”, and her puppy Roxy, looks out to the ocean and backs onto bush. It’s her sanctuary, her happy place. It includes a beautiful garden with lovingly homegrown veggies.

Making money isn’t what life is all about for Sheena. It’s more about relationships, friendships and the memories you create that last a lifetime. f

www.theinkspotprinters.com.au

For some, it’s one milestone after another. Amazing things happening left right and centre. Life for Sharee Webster has been wonderful, that’s for sure, and there have been many such milestones that have been truly incredible.

However, the ones that she actually holds in the highest regard are the simple things:

● Moving back home to the Sunshine Coast in 2007 to be closer to her family

● Commencing the Maroochydore Office of Holmans Accounting and Taxation in 2008

● Growing from a team of three to now a team of ten.

● Life par tner to the love of her life for 35 years

● Two great kids and two great dogs

● Recently commencing building of her dream home Chartered Accountant Sharee holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Queensland, is a Chartered Tax Adviser from the Taxation Institute of Australia, a Registered Tax Agent and has a Diploma of Financial Planning.

Sharee specialises in business structures, taxation advice, superannuation and in particular, Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs). She has extensive experience in providing strategic tax advice to private clients, owner-operated family businesses and large corporate entities.

Sharee is passionate about being part of the Sunshine Coast Community and about giving back to the community.

In June 2017, Sharee was appointed to the Board of Be Ltd (formerly Comlink Ltd), a large Sunshine Coast not-for-profit. Be provides Home Care and Community services across Queensland. She loves being involved with this organisation –whose goal is for all people to age well.

She was the Treasurer of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network for six years, stepping down in early 2018.

As a Buderim local, she was on the Board of Directors of the Buderim Community Enterprises Limited, trading as the Buderim Community Bank® Branch of Bendigo Bank for six years, stepping down from that role in 2018. f www.holmans.com.au

WELL, who knew?

“Apart from your engine, the automatic transmission is the single most expensive item to repair on your car, in some vehicles up to $10,000. Yet it is also the most overlooked and neglected when it comes to servicing!”

Nowhere in my Audi A3 1.8L Sportsback logbook or manual is there any indication that my automatic transmission should be regularly serviced. So how could one possibly be enticed to add an additional $400-600 biannual expenditure to their routine automotive maintenance budget? And who performs that service anyway, if not your trusted local mechanic? It was a chance meeting at a ladies luncheon that provided me with an opportunity to get the answers to just those questions.

With a delightful and engaging demeanor, Sandra Olah, one of the partners in the family owned and operated Ron Hill Automatics, invited me to be a “secret shopper” at her multi-award winning 45-year establishment located in the heart of Maroochydore.

Her goal? To educate car owners about transmission servicing and obtain an honest, unbiased evaluation of the proficiency and customer service provided by her team, unbeknownst to them. How could I resist?

I mean, who wouldn’t want a complimentary service (they didn’t know they needed) on their vehicle? I accepted.

BY SHARI HALL

When I called to schedule my transmission service, a voice greeted me with a congenial, upbeat, “Good afternoon. Ron Hill Automatics. Jo speaking. How may I help you?” Within minutes, she obtained the necessary information of contact details, vehicle make and model, and rego, and I was efficiently and painlessly booked in for the following Tuesday.

Subsequently, Jo provided the address and concluded the conversation with a cheerful, “Have a good day!” The day prior to my booking, I received a friendly, personalised SMS reminder with a “thank you :)” and a contact number to call should I need to reschedule.

With no difficulty finding the bright orange, white and green highly visible logo, I pulled into the driveway of Ron Hill Automatics at 44 Kayleigh Drive. Upon entering the reception area, Rachel, the Customer Service Manager (who I later came to realise was the daughter of the owners), welcomed me in, casually and neighbourly, as if I was just another member of the family. As she pulled up my details, I asked, “So, what exactly does my transmission service entail?”

Without hesitation, she proceeded to explain, in terms I could understand, what was included and why it was necessary. It went something like this:

“Well, the transmission fluid in your vehicle is what provides the hydraulic power and lubrication for the intricate parts of the

transmission to operate efficiently. Like you, people will often complain about hesitancy when gears are shifting, odd noises or vibrations while driving. That’s because, over time, this fluid gets dirty and contaminated, and breaks down through heat and therefore needs to be replaced.”

“How often would I need to have this done?”

“Generally, we recommend every 40,000 kms if there are no other issues with the vehicle.” With that, she informed me my car should be ready in a couple of hours and she would send me an SMS when the service was completed. I said I’d just be roaming around on foot, and she recommended a nearby café for a cuppa.

Two hours later, almost on the dot, my car was ready, parked in front, with a special little treat bag of goodies hanging from the rear view mirror. All was well, and a standard follow-up was recommended. We chatted about my upcoming wedding as she processed my payment, prepared the tax invoice, and with a laugh, a smile and a wave, sent me on my merry way.

By the time I finished my morning errands and arrived home, there was another personalised SMS from “Rach” thanking me for coming to Ron Hill Autos and asking for a Google Review and a “LIKE” on Facebook if I was happy with their workmanship and service. And a “big, huge CONGRATULATIONS :)” for my upcoming wedding!

Of course, the real test for me was the opinion of my soon-to-be betrothed. I asked hubby to take my baby for a spin. For him, it was a definite thumbs up – it was a smooth driving experience. He could immediately feel a difference, particularly in the hesitancy he’d been complaining about for weeks after accelerating from a full stop.

There is something to be said for achieving the milestone of having your local business survive four decades, particularly in current times. It takes a clear dedication to providing the best service available for a reasonable price, and consistently deepening your relationships in a way that cultivates repeated loyalty from your client base.

RENEE BLACKWELL DESIGN

Renowned Maleny jewellery designer Renee Blackwell wins the top award at this year’s Yowah Opal Jewellery Design Competition. Yowah Opals are singularly unique to that area of outback Queensland, and it was a requirement that the competition piece feature a Yowah Opal.

Renee comments: “This year’s entrants were of very high quality and I’m thrilled to have won this prestigious award! My winning piece was a wide sterling silver bracelet featuring 12 distinctive Yowah opals around the rim with gum leaf engraving between.” e

www.ronhillautomatics.com.au

To view Renee’s entire collection of jewellery go to: reneeblackwelldesign.com

A visit to Ron Hill Automatics means you’ll receive in-depth knowledge and excellence in workmanship guaranteed to extend the life of your transmission. More importantly though, you’ll gain a new friend you can trust, and that is well worth the investment. e

‘As a Professional Service Firm, we believe in engaging the hearts and mind of our team to set an expectation of accountability and achievement, along with a sense of fun. We instil the ‘Hustle Factor’ into the culture of our firm and our team strive to ensure that each of our clients receives a tailored service’.

PASSION, pride, people

Pat and Petrina Ryan don’t just build houses; they build dreams, aspirations, memories and relationships.

In short, they build real homes.

In fact, flexibility is a built–in feature with Ryan Designer Homes because whether you are looking for a personalised design and build or to renovate, or even if you have your own plans, they stand ready, willing and very able to achieve the home of your dreams.

While Ryan Designer Homes has won more than 40 prestigious awards for their work to date, that’s not what drives them. Despite demand for their expertise, they don’t plan on changing their philosophy anytime soon.

“It’s important that people know that we are approachable and flexible,” Pat says.

“Our focus is not just on building homes that look good, but designing houses that are liveable. That is at the core of what we do.”

The subtle difference between Ryan Designer Homes and project builders is something Pat and Petrina realised soon after to moving to Australia from New Zealand in 1999, and it’s a real point of difference.

“We had all these standard plans, but we were not comfortable delivering them to people because they didn’t really meet their needs or simply were not suitable for their land,” Pat says.

“When you build a house, it should meet all your needs. We Design and Build to negate the negatives and highlight the positives of the block along with considering how the house looks, but also how it feels when looking out. One of the many considerations is ensuring the home receives plenty of light and sun in winter.”

It’s when details like that are overlooked that it is a house, not a home. Light is essential to feeling good.

“With renovations, the options are varied. As an example, if a house has good bones, that is the floorplan and design works, it can be adapted over time to suit the owner’s needs. However, houses lacking the good bones often end up being bulldozed and rebuilt, as the cost to renovate becomes uneconomic,” Pat says.

If you are considering either building or renovating, Ryan Designer Homes offer a 2-hour complimentary consultation that will help and give clarity to potential clients on how and if they want to move forward with building or decide to buy existing.

To find out more and to receive a copy of their free magazine, which includes lots of great designs and ideas, email Petrina at petrina@ryandesignerhomes.com.au a www.ryandesignerhomes.com.au

Pat and Petrina do business well. They listen to their clients and to the industry and they just keep learning. In just the same way they refuse to get too big, because they don’t want to lose that connection, that integrity.

MAKE THRIVING IN BUSINESS your reality!

WITH KIRSTY ENGLANDER // ENGLANDER DAVIS

It is the new financial year and it is time for you to be in charge of your own success story. Do you really want to be the business owner who is constantly inundated with work within their business?

Working long hours with minimal sleep and doing the job of multiple people? It seems as though no matter how much gets done, there is always more work just around the corner. Like a revolving hamster wheel. Working insane hours.

Schedules piled so high you can’t see past them. Weekend work.

Can't sleep, won’t sleep.

All-nighters (and not the fun kind!).

Constant work and no real growth to see for it. The jobs that you’ve found yourself within your business affecting your home life, but most importantly, your quality of life.

MELISSA SCHEMBRI –NEXT PROPERTY GROUP

KATE LANGFORD

Kate Langford Career Consulting assists people to identify their dream role, using a holistic approach as well as resume writing, job searching strategies, career/ confidence interview coaching. They have many programs/membership packages that help hundreds of people every week. They transform the lives of people through their honest and authentic approach, and have won awards in both Roar and AusMumprenur over the last 12 months. e www.katelangford.com.au

LITTLE CHAKRA CO

So here we are… we’ve landed at the type of business owner many are striving to be. The one who is focused and has set clear goals. The business owner that will thrive with Englander Davis. Equipped with a laser vision for tasks that will provide them with the highest return on their investment. Mastering the art of delegating work out amongst their employees and automating their systems. Abolishing the busy mess within their business.

With the highest level of prioritisation, they’ve managed to make an insane sales machine. Guided by the experts at Englander Davis they have made anything possible.

At Englander Davis, we can make thriving in business your reality this year. We are giving away fifteen, free 30-minute Digital Strategy Sessions for Matters readers. But before you jump straight on board to schedule your session with us, you need to make sure that you qualify. The way that you qualify is to believe your business is ready to thrive and to be prepared to invest in your potential. ca

1300 640 508

www.englanderdavis.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kirsty’s experience sits with business growth and marketing, problem solving and automation; you could call her a ‘serial entrepreneur’. She entered the business world with the enthusiasm to learn, venturing out on her own at the age of 15. The lessons and skills learnt were invaluable and have allowed her to help hundreds of businesses reach their true potential so far.

“From the moment we engaged Melissa, she hit the ground running! Within two weeks of open homes and private inspections we had three offers and found our buyer! Melissa negotiated fantastic terms for us and provided expert legal advice from her background as a property lawyer. She really made the entire experience a joy and brought such a positive energy. Would absolutely recommend Melissa as an agent and personally a very genuine, warm and highest of integrity person you could find.”

Vendors Christine and Peter Vandenbogert e

Contact Melissa on 0403 327 792

Little Chakra Co is all about building confidence, self-love and positive thinking in children through products that promote mindfulness and selfempowerment. The brand is focused on children's wellbeing and a positive mindset. Inspiring daily routines that integrate affirmations to build self-esteem and joy in children. Helping children take five minutes a day to go within and speak positively about themselves will assist them to reflect on important values and focus on loving who they are. There are seven chakras and each stand for different emotional and physical aspects of our lives. $39.95 e www.littlechakra.co instagram: @littlechakra.co

FINANCIAL HARMONY

Suzanne Duncan offers a one stop finance shop for mortgage loan finance. As a qualified CPA accountant and an experienced finance professional, she is able to provide loans for business, commercial, FHO, Investment, SMSF. Asset (equipment, motor vehicle). She is a mobile broker and can visit you, assisting you to obtain a loan at a competitive rate within lender policy and in YOUR best interests. e 0417 817 203

suzanne@financialharmony.com.au

The secret to success isn’t working more, longer hours or harder. It is, however, working smarter. Focusing on the strategy that is going to launch your business into ultimate success. Remember you are running a business, not a busy mess!

ARE YOU THRIVING? just surviving?

Are you treading water? Gasping for air? Or sometimes do you feel like you are actually drowning?

Some of you reading this will be absolutely thriving, some will be just surviving, getting through by the skin of your teeth. Others may be drowning in debt and despair and unsure of your next move.

We are all different. We all have different goals and different backgrounds, and we are all in a different place with our finances and in our business right now. Sometimes it’s due to circumstances completely beyond our control.

finger to the point that it’s just no longer comfortable staying in bed).

Rachael says her children are a constant reminder that life does not always go to plan, so it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected.

She feels blessed to have both her parents and most of her siblings close by and to genuinely enjoy their company, as often as she can. Working alongside her dad means she sees him at least five days a week, and that’s all good because Rachael sees her dad, in fact both her parents, as her mentors and friends.

Rachael is proud that she has found her purpose. She has great energy and drive, although she admits that she may not always know exactly where she’s going. But she never stops trying to be better and do more.She is always aiming to

The reality is that we all get overwhelmed, and sometimes it’s as simple as having someone show you the first steps for the way forward that makes all the difference.

Rachael knows her purpose. She is a cheerleader through and through. She truly believes that she was put on earth to uplift, inspire and motivate. She’s also really good at breaking down the big picture into manageable chunks. She is one of those people that has a knack for connecting people and the truth is that sometimes all you need is to have the right team on your side and cheering you along.

Eleven and a half years ago, Rachael joined her father’s business. In the beginning, she anticipated that she would find a desk job totally boring. Turns out though, Insurance and Financial Advice makes Rachael feel like a detective. She loves digging deep to collate all the information, working out how it all fits. She takes all the bits that might not quite make sense to most of us and she helps to piece them together so that we end up with a roadmap that gets us to where we want to go. So, for Rachel it has definitely ended up anything but boring.

Rachael feels like she was born and bred on the Sunshine Coast, though technically that isn’t quite the case. Her family moved here when she was just nine years old and she stayed until she was 19, moving away but returning at the age of 31, just before her first baby was born.

She is such a family gal, albeit her family are nothing like she imagined they would be. They are wild, crazy, determined, each their own person from the get-go. They are the reason she gets up in the morning (there’s often one of them poking her in the eyeball with a

Personally, Rachael is a selfconfessed adrenaline junky, having parasailed, bungee jumped, skydived, been white waterrafting, Zorbed, been in a sky sling – and really enjoy trips to Dreamworld, with or without the children. Anything that gets the heart racing is her jam. Anything other than catching a mouse.

Her favourite thing is working with energetic people who love being alive. The ones who are up early and who laugh a lot. She often works with people who take life by the horns and run with it. Ones who say, “Yes, I’ll be there, with bells on.” They’re her people.

They know a little about money, enough to know they could probably be doing better and they are ready to go there. They are mums and dads (together and separately) that are in the wealth accumulation phase. They often say, “I should know more,” or, “I should have paid more attention to my finances/investments/

Regardless of your circumstances, Rachael Yurko can help you feel like the boss of your finances and by extension, your life.

When it comes to finances, most people

don’t feel like they’re nailing it. That is why Rachael loves helping her clients find clarity to achieve their financial goals in a way that makes sense to them and fits with their current lifestyle. She has found that most people think that other people are doing better than them, but the reality is that everyone is on their own path, running their own race. Everyone is capable. Today could easily be the day that you become the boss of your money.

Rachael was 34 before she really understood that she was in the driver’s seat; that she could design and create the life she wants for herself and she truly believes that you can too. That you are capable, that you’ve got this. Yes, you!

If you would like a free THRIVE Guide, which includes Five steps to Financial Freedom, to really get you started on your wealth creation journey, no matter where you are now, flick Rachael an email to grab a copy rachael@thrivefinancial.com.au a www.thrivefinancial.com.au

HENZELLS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

A team that cares

Can I just say how grateful I am to have had you as my Property Manager.

You provided quick turnaround times on any questions or requests, whether they were maintenance issues or general lease requests. You certainly made my move to the Sunshine Coast so much easier and provided me with the opportunity to enjoy Birtinya and the lovely townhouse. Please pass on my grateful thanks and appreciation to the owner and the rest of the team at Henzells.

- T Wills (Tenant)

If you have a property that is vacant or you’re considering renting out your home in the future, Henzells would love to help.

CONTACT OUR TEAM TODAY!

07 5491 2000

rentals@henzells.com.au