Oasis Magazine - March | April 2020

ISSUE 34 MARCH | APRIL 2020

Take me WITH YOU

Celebrating life in Tropical North Queensland

FREE iday l o H l o o h c S ent m n i a t r e t n E

Melvilles Animal Farm Sunday 5th April – Thursday 9th April 10am – 4pm daily For more information visit cairnscentral.com.au

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Demeter Fragrance ~ Gin & Tonic | Worn by Drew Barrymore | $32

Oven Mit ~ I’m Not Bossy | $28

Bygone Badass Broads: Women Who Changed the World Book | $32 Women’s Socks ~ I’m a Girl | $22 MARCH | APRIL 2020

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Thankyou

WARNER’S CORNER WITH DAVID WARNER | STAR FM

On a sunny Saturday afternoon, a little over 50 years ago I entered the world via a Melbourne hospital. I know it was a Saturday because as the story goes, my Dad came to introduce himself during the afternoon tea break in the local cricket match he was playing in further up the road. He wasn’t playing in an Ashes test, he wasn’t representing his country, it was 2nd grade club cricket for Camberwell.

Yet in 1970, it was deemed more important than supporting your wife during the birth of your child.

Blows. My. Mind. And it gets worse.

Mum was up for a visit recently and recounted another story of how she would sit in the car out in the car park of the cricket club with three young boys, all under the age of 5, while the blokes enjoyed a good laugh and numerous cold beers after the days play. But not by choice, in those days women weren’t permitted to drink with the fellas in the clubhouse. Yet they were permitted to give up their Saturday, bring a plate for the lads for arvo tea, and sit in a parked car waiting to drive their drunk husbands home.

Bang! Mind blown again.

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Mum worked full time, ran a household and raised three boys. Dad worked full time and… um, he… no, that’s it. That was a man’s role back then, to financially provide for his family, which in today’s currency is not nearly enough.

Such were the times in Australia in the 60’s and 70’s, it was a man’s world.

It just so happens that their world was efficiently run by women, without the recognition or credit.

Sunday March 8 is International Women’s Day, a day to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women and to promote gender equality in all facets of our lives. I’ve heard some blokes ask, ‘why don’t we have an international men’s day?’ Because for two millennia, every day was international men’s day.

I am so grateful to all the women who have not only positively contributed to my life but also lit the path of equality for the sake of my daughter’s.

Thank you, ladies, I am forever in your debt.

Happy International Women’s Day

Art and Culture CELEBRATING AUSTRALIA WITH HAYLEY GILLESPIE

The Next couple of months are about celebrating Australia.

It’s beauty, it’s wildlife, it’s vulnerability and it’s stories.

The Gallery turns 25 in 2020, and our birthday gift to the people of Cairns is to bring exhibitions from some of Australia’s greats, starting with john Mawurndjul ‘I am the Old and the New’, on now until the 29th of March.

‘John Mawurndjul is not simply Australia’s premier bark painter, he is one of our greatest artists of all time’ (John McDonald, Sydney Morning Herald’s art critic).

Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly Series, A National Gallery of Australia exhibition Sidney NOLAN Ned Kelly, 1946 from the Ned Kelly series 1946 – 1947 enamel on composition board, 90.8 x 121.5 cm National Gallery of Australia Collection Gift of Sunday Reed, 1977

March is a super exciting month at the Gallery as we host Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly Series, This is the first time in 15 years that the collection has left the National Gallery of Australia and we are THE ONLY Queensland venue to be hosting this iconic Australian series of paintings. Sidney Nolan’s paintings on the theme of the 19th-century bushranger Ned Kelly are considered one of the greatest series of paintings of the 20th century. Kelly’s homemade armour has been depicted in a simplified, yet instantly recognisable style. The series of paintings is a rich narrative

of the life and times of Australia’s most famous bushranger, taking the viewer through the main events of the story of Ned Kelly and his gang - the shooting of police constables at Stringybark Creek, the ensuing police chase, the activities of the police spy Aaron Sherrit, the siege of the hotel at Glenrowan and the trial which ended in a sentence of hanging for Ned Kelly.

Destination North II brings together four female artists, Julie McEnerny, Hannah Parker, Cathy Snow and Melanie Hava with a particular focus on the unique flora and fauna of the region. The Gallery LOFT space will be transformed into an exhibition space and open studio, allowing visitors to meet exhibiting artists and understand more about the working process of each artist.

Volunteers are always welcome, and with a full and exciting program planned for the year, we welcome those wanting to share in the Gallery with us on a volunteer basis. A volunteer application form is available on the Gallery website, or from the front desk at the Gallery.

There is also a wide program of classes and events to participate in, so stick on an apron, get your hands dirty and MAKE IT happen.

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Three events

WITH VISITING AUTHOR EDWINA SHAW CAIRNS TROPICAL WRITERS FESTIVAL

Visiting author and facilitator Edwina Shaw is coming to Cairns in February as part of a statewide writing project for people who have suffered from institutional care as children. We have added some separate events to her visit for very different audiences and participants.

Bjelke Blues: authors talk Edwina Shaw, who holds a Masters in Creative Writing, is also the editor of Bjelke Blues – Stories of Repression and Resistance in Joh Bjelke-Petersen’s QLD 1968 – 1987. This new collection of 45 essays, memoirs and fiction comes from people on the wrong side of the regime 30 years ago. Many are prominent authors today, including Nick Earls, Sam Watson, Matthew Condon, Bob Weatherall, Miles Franklin winner Melissa Lucashenko, and more. Join Edwina and three local contributors to this gripping collection, Bill Wilkie, Christine Howes and Chris Morris, for an authors’ talk and morning tea hosted

by Cairns Tropical Writers Festival at 11.00am at Cairns City Library on Wed 12 February 2020. Free entry.

The Healing Power of Story workshop The Forgotten Australians workshops

by Edwina Shaw across regional Queensland are specifically for people who experienced some form of abuse or neglect in an institutional setting as a child. They are hosted by Lotus Place and Micah Projects and supported by the QLD government. Change can come through re-imagining the past, claiming power over the stories we tell ourselves and inventing new ways of seeing these stories and ourselves.

Edwina is a skilled facilitator who nurtures participants and creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to explore their creativity, relax and write. Her approach is tailored to suit participants’ specific needs.

This workshop is 10.00am-3.30pm on Thursday 13 February at Cairns City Library. If unsure you are eligible to attend, you can contact Lotus Place in Townsville for a chat.

Life Writing workshop Join Edwina Shaw as an editor, playwright, fiction and memoir author for this inspirational workshop guaranteed to get your stories out of your head and onto the page.

Edwina’s unique easy writing exercises helps to quiet the inner critic that stops so many people writing.

Bring a notebook and your favourite pen and get ready to turn your life’s ups and downs into compelling memoir, or fiction, at Stratford Library, 10.00am12.30pm on Saturday 15 February.

Bookings essential.

Contact 0437 366 651 or book on Eventbrite bit.ly/3aNyMGC

Bookings are essential at Lotus Place on 07 4724 2559 or lotusnq@micahprojects.org.au

Save the Date for #CTWF2020 The biennial Cairns Tropical Writers Festival and its Program Advisory sub-committee have been planning an exciting new 2020 festival program since mid-2019. This is for the weekend of 7-9 August 2020 at Rydges Esplanade, but some extra special events will be spread right around FNQ on the weekdays before, so mark calendars now. If you aren’t already getting a regular eNews to hear the names of the visiting national and international authors as they are revealed, you can subscribe here... www.cairnstropicalwritersfestival.com 10 |

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What’s On MARCH | APRIL International Women’s Day Breakfast

MARCH

Cairns Regional Council is proud to recognise women who have demonstrated courage and have made an outstanding contribution to our local community. Woman of the Year, Young Woman of the Year, Scholarhip, and People’s Choice Awards are presented at this breakfast event.

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This is a show that is not to be missed at the newly refurbished Bulmba-ja Arts Centre (formally Centre of Contemporary Arts). Get in early to MARCH secure your tickets!

13 March 2020 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm 14 March 2020 | 7:30pm - 9:00pm 17, 18 & 19 March 2020 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm 19 March 2020 | 11:00am - 12:30pm 20 & 21 March 2020 | 7:30pm - 9:00pm LOCATION: Bulmba-ja Arts Centre (Formally CoCA) HOSTED BY: JUTE Theatre Company

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6 Mar 2020 | 7:30am - 9:30am LOCATION: Cairns Convention Centre HOSTED BY: Cairns Regional Council

Rocketman: Elton John Experience Live and Free What makes the Elton John Experience unique is how much Greg Andrew looks like and performs like the “real” Elton John.

To Kill a Cassowary

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20 Mar 2020 | 9:00pm & 21 Mar 2020 | 11:00pm LOCATION: BAR36 HOSTED BY: The Reef Hotel Casino KateWalia | kate.walia@reefcasino.com.au | 07 4030 8874

Cairns Battle of the Brains Trivia Night With 8 action-packed rounds of trivia to get the brain juices flowing, trivia nuts will have a blast going head-to-head to take out the winning prize! All proceeds go towards The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Program and supporting the educational needs of local children in foster care.

The Red Balloon Fundraiser A men’s mental health fundraiser in honour of the late John Mills of Cairns with all proceeds going to Lifeline Helpline. The exclusive event will be limited to 30 people with the hopes this will become an Annual Event.

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21 Mar 2020 | 6:30pm - 9:00pm |Three Wolves Distillery HOSTED BY: Amy-Lee Holland and Samantha Mills in collaboration with Three Wolves Amy-Lee Holland | amyleeh92@hotmail.com | 0437 545 321

26 Mar 2020 | 6:30pm 8:30pm | Bluewater a Bar & Grill HOSTED BY: Joeleen Bettini | The Pyjama Foundation cairns@thepyjamafoundation.com | 0417 992 954

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TABOO Enter the all new Paramour Cabaret Theatre and dive two stories underground to witness a new era in the Cairns nightlife scene. TABOO is not just a show... it’s a party and you’re invited!

The fun doesn’t stop when the cast takes their final bow though...that’s when the fun really begins! We invite you to join us after the show in our all new late night hidden bar “The Library” TABOO is awesome fun for mature audiences for the after party, here’s a hint…enter through that are not easily offended and love to have a the bookshelf! Don’t miss this sexy, sensoryaltering experience every Friday and Saturday good time. at The Paramour Cabaret Theatre where your Guests can expect to be up-close and personal imagination comes to play! with gorgeous dancing girls, well-endowed drag Queens and one D Grade, lady killer of a host This show must close at the end of March so “Wolfgang Valentine”. Get a group together for book before it’s too late! a night of debauchery and silly behaviour as The Paramour is bringing a touch of Vegas to Cairns and what happens here... stay’s here!

Perfect for hen’s nights, birthday parties, a night out with friends or just to have a laugh with the one you love!

0 5 $ m o r f s t e k c Ti

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W O N K O BO

TABOO EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY

To book tickets simply call the theatre box office on 4051 4410 or book online at WWW.PARAMOURTHEATRE.COM MARCH | APRIL 2020

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Feast of the Senses

NQ SIGNATURE TROPICAL FOOD EXPERIENCE

The Feast of the Senses is North Queensland’s signature tropical food experience and the Cassowary Coast’s major festival centred on the town of Innisfail.

Queensland’s premier fruit festival will be held in March this year. The four-day event will host a variety of activities from Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 March. From its humble beginnings in 2003, this local community festival has become one of the top 10 must do festivals in Queensland, and it’s right on your door-step!

Just 86km south of Cairns, the Feast of the Senses has been attracting local, regional, interstate and international visitors for years. 2020 marks the 18th annual festival.

Begun in 2003, a band of dedicated volunteers and staff of the Department of Primary Industries held the very first event, a much smaller version of today’s four-day event.

The festival showcases the region’s unsurpassed variety of rare and exotic fruits whilst also including an impressive range of produce including meat, cheese & dairy, seafood, herbs, spices and tropical wines. Nowhere else in Australia will you find such a diverse and tantalising range of tropical produce and culture.

The festival includes tours to growers and producers across the Cassowary Coast with two food trails, gala dinner, food & wine tastings and displays culminating in the Sunday ‘River Feast’, a day of tropical and exotic fruit displays, food vendors, market stalls, music and entertainment, children’s activities at the Feast of Fun Kid Zone and the drawing of the Chamber of Commerce Shop Local Competition. The event will be staged in Innisfail’s town centre and along the riverfront on the banks of the picturesque Johnstone River. The town’s historic art deco buildings and tropical palm trees provide a festival backdrop like no other.

The festival is a celebration of this vibrant and multi-cultural community, attracting about 5,000 attendees at River Feast, sponsored by Australian Bananas, on Sunday 29th March.

The region boasts a vast array of tropical and exotic fruits which have been collected over the past 30-years from all corners of the tropical world. Combine this with the many ethnic cultures in the

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region and the unique concentration of Innisfail’s Art Deco architecture, Feast of the Senses celebrates everything that makes this part of the world unique.

The Feast of the Senses Inc. is a notfor-profit community organisation that is run by an independent committee of passionate local volunteers who believe in the importance and significance of this event to the community, both economically and socially.

The local community managed to break a Guinness World Records title at the 2017 festival for the ‘Longest Banana Split’, a record that had remained unbeaten for 29 years. The new record set is 8 040 metres, involving some 43 000 bananas – a record unlikely to ever be broken. 2017 also proved another record for the Feast of the Senses with a total attendance of 10 000 over the four days. Drive south of Innisfail to view the road-side signage that now shows you the length of the banana split and the banana statistics. It was an amazing community feat, also winning the Cassowary Coast’s Australia Day award for ‘Community Event of the Year’ in 2018!

The 2020 festival begins with a tropical cocktail cruise on the scenic Johnstone River at sunset, on Thursday 26th March.

Local tour operators, Snapping Tours, will provide an array of tropical taste sensations. Enjoy a sumptuous selection of tropical cocktails and mocktails made with our local rare & exotic fruits. This is also a great experience for photographers and tourists alike, with plenty of opportunities for those scenic sunset photographs. Cruise the gorgeous Johnstone River in a relaxed and happy atmosphere. You’ll be welcomed aboard at 5pm and set sail at 5.30pm. Bookings are available through the Snapping Tours website and at just $30.00 per person is a great deal.

A feast of activities over four

something for everyone!

days with

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Feast of the Senses..

On Friday 27th March, the first of the Feast of the Senses Food Trails departs ANZAC Park on Friday morning at 8.30am. The Southern Food Trail will visit the Jungle Creek Aquaculture Barramundi Farm, a pepper farm and ‘Fruits of the Forest’, a farm growing a variety of rare and tropical fruits. This food trail, sponsored by local business Norfoam, includes morning tea and lunch and will return to Innisfail at 5pm.

The tour, with 22 seats available for locals and visitors alike, is priced at just $80.00 for the day. Tickets are available from the Feast of the Senses website at www.feastofthesenses.com.au On Friday night, the Gala Dinner will be held at the elegant, art deco era, Johnstone Shire Hall in Rankin Street in Innisfail. Sponsored by local company Findex, this event will feature a stunning menu by Sapore Di Italia, with an innovative menu showcasing a variety of fresh produce from the local area. Entertainment will be provided on the night with a cash bar operating.

Tickets are available from the Feast of the Senses website at $75.00pp.

Saturday 28th March will see the second of the food trails depart at 8.30am. The Northern Food Trail, sponsored by local bus company Trans North Bus and

Coach, will visit the Johnstone River Community Gardens, followed by visits to Basilisk Blooms Heliconia Farm, Broken Nose Vanilla Farm and Pacific Coast Eco Bananas. Morning tea and lunch are included on this great day out with tickets available on the Feast website.

The next event on Saturday is the ‘Feast of Talent’. Now in its second year, this competition will feature the enormous array of talent from the Cassowary Coast and surrounding areas. Sponsored by Innisfail Brothers’ Leagues Club, the prize money on offer to our budding and experienced performers is well worth the effort of entering. There are three talent sections: primary schoolaged students, vying to win the $200.00 prize, high school students looking for the chance to win $300.00 and the open section, for those of any age who have left school, looking to win $500.00 in prize-money. Not a bad result for a three-minute performance on stage.

Entry forms for the Feast of Talent are available online through the Feast of the Senses website, in the events section. While there is no cost to enter for competitors, an entry fee of $2.00 will be charged for audience members.

Held at the town’s showcase art deco building, the Johnstone Shire Hall in Rankin Street, doors will open at 12.30pm with competitors taking to the stage at 1.00pm. This is an event not to be missed, proving to be very popular in 2019. On Saturday night you can treat yourself to the region’s best wines, cheeses and local produce. To be held at Roscoe’s Piazza in Innisfail, this event

will be a great night to sample all that is on offer. Tantalise your taste buds for just $50.00, with tickets available from the Feast of the Senses website. Bring your friends along for a fun night of food, wine and entertainment.

Sunday morning begins early for members of the committee, council staff and marketeers, setting up stalls, signage, marquees and furniture for use during the day. Gates will open at 9am with an entry fee of a gold coin donation to the Australian Bananas River Feast event. River Feast will feature a selection of food vans and stalls, serving local produce ready to eat, as well as artisanal foods from across the region to take home at the end of the day which include bottled sauces, herbs, spices and condiments. Local coffees and teas will also be available, along with jams and chutneys, exotic fruit products, wines and beverages. Almost anything that can be made from our rare and exotic fruits and local produce will be available on the day.

Innisfail is also home to many local artists and craftspeople. Products such as home-made soaps and candles, lead light artworks, leather goods and jewellery, bags and baskets, pottery, ceramics, wood work and framed artworks will all be available from stall holders on the day.

On the banks of the Johnstone River in the lush green of Jack Fossey Park, the Queen’s Hotel of Innisfail and Hemmingway’s Brewery from Cairns, will host a licensed beer garden with live entertainment throughout the day. After the crowds have departed at 4pm, join the ‘Isle of Destiny’, the Irish translation of Innisfail, to continue enjoying the ambience along the riverbank well into the evening, as the hustle and bustle of the day recedes.

This year, the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce have partnered with the Feast of the Senses, providing sponsorship for the $500.00 Lucky Gate prize. The entry fee this year is a gold

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Tickets are on sale now on the Feast of the Senses website at www.feastofthesenses.com.au

coin donation. All entrants on the day receive a ticket for the lucky gate and then go into the main prize draw. The drawing of the ‘Shop Local’ competition will begin at 2.30pm on the Esplanade, but you’ve got to be in it to win it and be there to claim your prize!

Further along the riverbank, near the main precinct, an area has been set aside for the Feast of Fun Kid Zone, hosting a variety of activities and rides for children during River Feast on the day. There will be art and craft activities, painting a community mural, books and stories, games and fun activities free of charge. The area has free entry but some ride fees will apply. There’ll be an inflatable climbing wall, jumping castle and more. Rides and fun are for all ages, from pre-schoolers to teens. Wristbands for unlimited use of attractions will be available for sale on the day.

There is a feast of entertainment on the day, including our Celebrity Chef. See our amazing cook whip up some tasty treats during the day, using our freshest local produce, as well as compere the local celebrity cooking competition, featuring some of Innisfail’s most wellrecognised and notorious identities.

There’ll be some great fun to be had watching this competition!

The jewel in the crown of River Feast will be the amazing Rare & Tropical Fruit display. Sponsored by local company Soils First, you’ll be able to taste-test fruits you’ve never seen or heard of before, admire the colours, textures and aromas of the region’s best examples of rare and tropical fruits. At the end of the day, bag a bargain at the fruit auction of all that has been on display during the day. This a must-do for any serious fruit lover.

The festival offers a feast of activities over the four days, with something for everyone.

Don’t miss it!

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Ken Fairweather FAREWELL WHITE MAN

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is only an hour or so from Cairns, and our closest foreign capital, and yet relatively few of us have been there.

Brisbane is twice the distance!

Ken Fairweather has made the Port Moresby–Cairns run countless times over the last 50 years. Born in Melbourne, but based in Lae, Papua New Guinea’s second largest city, Ken is a trucking boss, and has been a farmer, a miner and a government minister.

Always a larrikin, he has had the optimism and skills to survive Papua New Guinea business and politics, through the 1980’s coffee boom and bust, the 1987 stock market crash, the Bougainville war and Peter O’Neill’s installation as Prime Minister. He’s made many enemies, and some unlikely friendships that have stood the test of time.

Ken is a truly colourful character, and his new memoir, Farewell White “...a great read with Man, pulls no punches lessons galore for as he recounts the people and events those who care about that have shaped Australia’s volatile Australia’s nearest neighbour. This oftengritty tale is peppered neighbour.” with outrageous anecdotes that give insight into Papua New Guineas complex culture, politics and way of life.

“You walk around with a hand grenade up your arse and just when things are going well, you pull out the pin. Papua New Guinea and I have this in common.”

As Sean Dorney (ABC’s Foreign Correspondent — Pacific and Papua New Guinea) said, “Farewell White Man is a great read with lessons galore for those who care about Australia’s nearest neighbour.”

Farewell White Man is self-published and available from Collins Bookstore, Smithfield (Cairns) or online through www.farewellwhiteman.com

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The MaraWay A BOLD NEW APPROACH

It’s a little bit different, and it’s working Every time you drive down Anderson Street, you probably pass The MaraWay Community Hub. It’s the lime green and orange building opposite Brothers Leagues Club and is a shining beacon of help for those that reside in the surrounding suburbs.

Walk through their new playground and in the door and you’ll be surprised at the extent of assistance they can provide.

Put simply, they provide help. Real help for real people to get on with their real lives. No appointments, referrals or criteria to meet. Help comes in many forms and with no two days the same, its always a hive of activity.

What does help look like? Hub Manager Reggie Jackson describes some of the types of help he provided last Monday.

• Helping an elderly man with an application to Meals on Wheels so that he can have daily access to nutritious meals. He is currently living in crisis accommodation with no kitchen facilities.

• Assisting a young mother with applying for a child care rebate through Centrelink. He had previously helped her into a training course and now she has been accepted into university to study this year.

• Helping two young children access stationary supplies and shoes so that they can have a successful start to the school year. Putting them in touch with a school in their catchment to complete enrolment paperwork.

• Assisting a mother and her 4 children to complete a bond and private rental application. They have moved up to

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Cairns to escape a domestic violence situation and have been sleeping in their car.

• Provide an emergency relief food package to a young family and then working with them to develop a realistic budget.

One of the parents was made redundant late last year and bills have got on top of them.

• Helping a teenager with an application for a birth certificate and then a tax file number. He will use these to complete the application for his part-time job and join a sporting club.

• Assisting a young person with a plan for online study for his learners license.

Unfortunately, without a drivers license, the opportunities for employment are limited.

• Helping an elderly couple with an application to access their superannuation and teaching them about the internet and emails. They have spent the past 3 days at a library trying to access their new email with no success.

The MaraWay are a little bit different in the services they provide and in the way they fund them.

They operate independent of government funding. Running the Community Hub through profits from their own private

enterprises and partnerships in the business community. This refreshing approaches gives them the opportunity to work with all members of the community. They treat each person as an individual and give them the help they need, when they need it most. It’s a distinct tough love approach though.

The MaraWay will provide the help that is needed immediately, then encourage clients to take their own supported steps forward. Building resilience in themselves and the wider community as they begin to make improvements in their lives.

The front door is always open to all, even if it’s just for a chat. Everyone is welcome to come on into the MaraWay Community Hub and meet the team.

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Leave nothing in the tank..

IKE MARTINEZ

What year did you first get into swimming?

Swimming became my main sport at the beginning of 2017 when I was in grade 6.

How old were you at the time?

I was 10 years old at the time. Before that I was a competitive gymnast. I have always had swimming lessons once a week since I was 12 months old.

What do you most love about swimming?

I love the adrenaline rush you get when you’re standing on the starting block waiting for the start signal. I love pushing myself to my absolute limit every time I race, leaving nothing left in the tank.

What have been some of your career highlights so far?

My first ever real big competition was peninsula 2019 where I received a gold, sliver and bronze for the 200m, 100m and 50m butterfly events. This was when I realised that I really wanted to be a swimmer.

What awards have you competed in and or won?

Most recently I competed in the Queensland State Long Course Championships and received Queensland age champion for the 13 years boys. I received 5 gold, 1 silver and two bronze medals. 7 of the medals being individual medals. During the meet I also broke 3 championship times for the 200m fly, 400m IM and the 200m IM. I have broken numerous FNQ swimming records for both long and short course. I’m currently 2 seconds off both the boys 13 year Australian and QLD 200m fly record.

That’s my next goal and I’m working hard to achieve it.

Music is also important to me and last year I was awarded first place in the Cairns QLD Music teachers Association Cairns and District junior bursary which I auditioned for. I also received Saint Augustine’s grade 7 student of the year.

Who are some of your heroes, either swimmers or anyone else?

Definitely one of my biggest inspirations is the one and only Michael Phelps. I have always been interested in watching his races ever since I started swimming competitively. Being able to watch his races gives me the opportunity to be able to set personal goals for myself. One of my favourite Michael Phelps quotes is “If you want to be the best, you have to do things that other people aren’t willing to do. I am really lucky to have Duncan Todd as my coach. He understands my goals and knows exactly how to push me to reach them. He’s competed at the Olympics and knows what it takes to get there. There are so many amazing swimmers that I train with every day at TAS swim club. Even on bad days they encourage me to push myself. FNQ has a great swimming community.

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How often do you train?

I have recently been given the opportunity by my coach, Duncan Todd to train 7 swim sessions per week and 1 gym session. Originally before Queensland state championships I was training 6 swim sessions per week with 1 gym session.

It’s actually not a lot compared to other swimmers.

What has been some of the best advice you have ever been given?

One Saturday morning my swim mates and I were in the middle of a set when Duncan stopped us. He said “It’s all in your mind, you just have to believe you can do it”. This is most definitely the best advice I have been given. You can train your body endlessly, but if you don’t believe you can do it, you won’t.

What are your tips for juggling school and such a hectic training schedule?

Since I started my first year of high school, I found it very difficult to manage my schedule. Music is also a big part of my life. Some days I train in the morning, head straight to school for music rehearsal, complete my school day and then head back to swimming training again in the afternoon. It teachers you to be very organised and use your free time wisely. I suggest being on top of things and getting them done as soon as possible and never leaving things to the last minute. Talk to your teachers and let them know what you’ve got on and they will be more than willing to help you. My teachers at Saint Augustine’s have been great.

What would you say to kids out there who want to get into the sport?

Swimming is a great sport, I love it, but it doesn’t have to be a sport where you have to compete at a high level. It is great for keeping fit and being social. We have the perfect climate for swimming. There are heaps of clubs all around Cairns. Find one that’s right for you and give it a go.

Meet..

RYNO ALLEN

In the local wakeboarding community, St Andrews College Grade 8 student, Ryan Allen needs little introduction.

At the end of 2014, he was participating at his first competition, BoardStock at the Sunshine Coast. One year later, he successfully attempted a half cab roll at the 2015 Hyperlite Grom Nationals in Penrith, a trick that saw him announced as the winner of the Australian Under 10 Boys division.

Ryan, or Ryno as he is widely known, has already competed at both national and international level for the sport he loves so much. Ryno first hopped on a wakeboard in “Just go 2014, as an adventurous 7 year old. Admittedly, life on the water was not uncommon to the for it. Don’t let young ‘grom’, who had spent many weekends anything hold of his relatively short life waterskiing with his family at Tinaroo Dam. you back.

“I always loved water skiing, so when I had my first go on a wakeboard, I already knew how to balance, and it came fairly naturally,” Ryno explains.

And have

He took to the new sport like the proverbial duck to water, but his appetite for wake boarding became more than his family could accommodate in trips up the Kuranda range.

“I was heading into grade 2 and my parents had been asking what sport I wanted to get into that year.

About the same time, we were heading past the Cairns Wake Park and Dad said maybe we should call in and check it out as an option for me... So that week I went to 3 school holiday sessions of Kids Club, using my big sister’s wakeboard and boots (you can’t hit the obstacles without boots!) and I loved it!”

On Ryno’s first session at the waterpark, he “hit the kickers” - a phrase I quickly learned meant using the jumps to get aerial. The staff at the park immediately paid attention, and watched on in awe as this young child attempted tricks riders twice his age were apprehensive of.

So this was the sport Ryan was now looking at – and mum and dad needed to quickly find a second-hand board and boots (that looked a bit more suitable for a 7 year old boy, rather than his 18 year old sister!).

“We just wanted him to be active, not attached to a screen, and if this is what he was interested in, then it suited our family just fine, he could turn up and ride whenever it fitted in with our schedule.”

The boy took no time to fit it.

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The medal count continued, with two firsts places at the 2016 Australian National Championships in Sydney, and another double trip to the podium at the 2017 Australian National Championships in Brisbane. Also in 2017, Ryno gained further experience when he competed at the World fun.” Championships in the Philippines. As a 10 year old competing against 14 year olds in his division, the odds were stacked against him, but Ryno learned valuable lessons and his hunger for the sport grew further.

Ryno is also making waves commercially.

Two National wakeboarding industry stalwarts, Elevated Clothing Australia and Ronix Australia have snapped the young boarder up, and have secured him as brand ambassador, meaning he gets to test the clothing and equipment on a regular basis. And it seems Ronix Wakeboards know they are onto something special, even when their star ambassador keeps cracking the wakeboarding boots they supply him. After viewing video footage of why the equipment they were supplying kept getting damaged, they realised this 13 year old grom was a melting pot of awesomeness, and that his talent needed attention. Ryno is now the newest recruit to the Ronix Wakeboards national Research and Development squad.

Due to his sporting achievements, Ryan was nominated by his school (Trinity Beach State School) to be their representative baton bearer for the GC Commonwealth Games Queens Baton Relay in 2018. He missed out on an international wakeboarding comp to do this, and although he was reluctant at having the spotlight on him and was very nervous about the responsibility, realised once he’d completed his leg, what an absolute honour it was and how incredible (and lucky) it really was to have had such an amazing opportunity.

When asked what suggestions he has for kids who are so passionate about their sport, Ryno has some fairly simple advice. “Just go for it. Don’t let anything hold you back. And have fun.” Wise words, indeed. We can’t wait to see you continue on this journey!

Let’s get Hannah to Hawaii BILLFISH TOURNAMENT 2020 In August 2019, keen anglers from across the country descended on Cairns for the Australian International Light Tackle Billfish Tournament. Participants in the three-day competition endured ocean swells of over two metres, 24+ knot winds and FNQ rain, in all her glory. One of the stars to emerge from the tournament was 15 year old Cairns High student, Hannah Dunlea, who claimed the title of Champion Junior Angler of the event. We caught up with Hannah for a chat about her love of fishing, and the amazing opportunity on offer to her attend the Invitation Only Hawaiian International Billfish tournament in 2020.

When did you first become interested in fishing?

“My dad is a keen fisherman, and for as long as I can remember, I have been fishing with him. I enjoy all types of fishing whether it’s crabbing and throwing the cast net in the creek down the street from my home, to bottom bashing and Pelagic fishing out on the continental shelf. I love the thrill and excitement of pulling up a new type of fish I’ve never seen before.”

“In 2016, I begged dad to let me come Pelagic fishing with him in the Wahi Wahi Tournament at Yorkeys Knob. The weather forecast was predicting 30+ knot winds and 4-5 metres of swell. As scary as that seemed in our tiny boat it was so much fun, and I ended up catching my first Mahi Mahi and won the Junior category.

“Since then I have competed in a number of bill fishing competitions including 2017 Yorkeys Knob Heavy Tackle Competition and the 2018 Innisfail Billfish Competition.”

“What I especially love is the ocean and it’s unpredictability. One moment, the ocean is as smooth as glass and you can see for miles, and the next minute, it’s creating giant walls of water. I am very passionate about the ocean and I aspire to work in the marine industry when I graduate from school.”

Game fishing isn’t your typical sport for a high school student. Can you ever see that changing?

“That’s true. So many times, when I’m entering a competition, I’m the only female, and the only junior. Game fishing is mostly a male-dominated sport, but that’s certainly something I would like to see changed in the future. It’s so much fun!”

“Billfishing is often thought of as being cruel to marine animals, however in recent years, Cairns has adopted a method of tagging and releasing the billfish and other game fish, to ensure we act ethically, and keep plenty of fish in the water.

The sport of Billfishing has also been able to help in scientific research on billfish, which is something that interests me.”

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You’ve been invited to compete in Hawaii in 2020. That’s fantastic! Tell us about how that happened.

“We were in our little 6.5metre boat named Dun Deal. I was the only person in the entire competition to tag two Black marlins, including the adults. But as I am only 15, the rules stated that I’m only eligible for the junior prizes.”

“Overall, our team came second, and part of our prize was an invitation to represent Australia at the 2020 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. And as exciting as that sounds, we know it’s going to cost a lot of money. We will need to pay for flights, accomodation and chartering a boat in Hawaii. But despite this challenge, It would mean the world to me to represent my country in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Here at Oasis Mag, there’s little we love more than seeing locals kicking enormous goals. And when that local happens to be a young girl, and the goal she’s kicking is in an area that has previously been a traditional male-engaged field, well … we love it even more! So, we’re proud to be getting behind Hannah in her quest to get her to Hawaii in 2020.

Along with recently completing her Junior Certificate, Hannah is currently working three part-time jobs to fund her trip to Hawaii.

We’d love you to join us in supporting #HannahToHawaii and contribute to her GoFundMe campaign at this link: https://bit.ly/348D4Uw

Power of

PARTNERSHIPS WITH YOLONDE’S YARNINGS

The Women’s Yarning Place is a perfect example of the power of partnerships. Taking a vision and making it a reality is exciting, however, keeping that vision alive is another story.

When people partner amazing outcomes are achieved. On most occasions it is organisations that receive acknowledgment, yet in reality it is the relationship and trust between individuals within those organisations that make ‘things’ happen.

The success of the Women’s Yarning Place is all about relationships. The women who actively engage with the Yarning Place – many of whom are there every day – now describe their relationships with other women as ‘family’. That feeling of ‘family’ really describes a sense of belonging, feeling valued, cared for and respected. It is these feelings that allow all of us to grow, develop and become the best version of ourselves.

We are so blessed living in the Tropical North because we have a strong sense of community. The Yarning Place is a thriving community where vulnerable women feel supported and safe. This would not have come about without the support of Tony Breuer - owner of Cairns Villla & Leisure Park, Zonta Club of Cairns, the Cairns Men Shed, the Rotary Clubs of Cairns, Cairns Sunrise and Cairns Trinity, Ruth’s Women’s Shelter, Status Plus and Instyle Curtains & Blinds.

Women who have never used a sewing machine are now smashing out scrunchies - all the rage if you have a teenage daughter. Young women are teaching older women how to

make jewellery. Other women are taking seeds and growing them into plants. Some of these items will be sold and some gifted. Access to computers and support to manage some of those more difficult jobs like navigating MyGov without computer literacy takes pressure off women, who then begin to open up about personal challenges and lived experiences.

This is where we begin to see real change.

All of this happens organically and has only happened because of partnerships with incredible people who believe in supporting those less fortunate than themselves.

The Women’s Yarning Place is open Monday to Friday. To create a sense of safety it is open only to women, however, moves are afoot to create a similar space for men. The Yarning Place does not receive funding and relies on donations and volunteers willing to share skills.

Follow the Women’s Yarning Place on Facebook

Brassed Off RONDO THEATRE This is the first time ever, 2 cultural organization in Cairns have come together to put on a production of this type.

The Cairns Little Theatre and the Cairns Municipal Band have been a part of the culture landscape of this city for over 70 years and it is exciting that finally they are joining their talents to put on Brassed Off .

A heart-warming story about community spirit and triumph in the face of adversity, Brassed Off is by turns funny and poignant and features rousing live music played by Cairns Municipal Brass Band.

1994. Yorkshire, England.

Returning to her hometown up north, Gloria discovers a community in crisis.

The local Pit is on the brink of closure, money is scarce and morale is at an alltime low. Only the Colliery Brass Band is keeping spirits up, sights set firmly on reaching the national brass band championships at the Royal Albert Hall, but as conversations turn to talk of picket lines and redundancy packages, the miners are falling out of tune‌ Flugelhorn-playing Gloria brings hope to the band and the town.

But is she all she seems?

And how will the miners react when they find out who she works for?

The award-winning smash-hit film captured the hearts of a nation when it was released in 1996 and this new version of the BAFTA-nominated story is sure to captivate Cairns audiences.

Brassed Off AD? MARCH | APRIL 2020

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| DESIGNER ~ CHERYL CREED | MAKUP ~ CASS ELLMER MAKEUP ARTIST & JASMIN BOOR | HAIR ~ YASEMIN KAYA | STYLIST & LOCATION ~ LISA SEVANDER STUDIO | PHOTOGRAPHY ~ LOVEGREEN PHOTOGRAPHY & KERRY TRAPNELL | JEWELLERY ~ LITTLE COPPER VINTAGE

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Giving Back

THE PYJAMA FOUNDATION WITH JOELEEN BETTINI

Giving back is an important part of our Cairns community and underpins so much of what makes this city great.

There are so many people here willing to give of their time and their money to see others succeed.

I’m grateful to be in a position to work with many of these people each and every day. As the Far North Region coordinator for The Pyjama Foundation, I am forever in awe of the incredible volunteers who come my way so willing and committed to change the life of a child in the foster care system.

Our organisation screens and trains community volunteers who are matched with a child in foster care. These Pyjama Angels become learning mentors and build a strong relationship with the child they are supporting to not only help improve educational outcomes, but to also help them build a sense of self efficacy. Ultimately, their time together is helping to pave the way for better life outcomes for the child.

Currently in Queensland there are more than 9000 children in the foster care system and, of those, 92 per cent fall below the average reading level by age seven. A further 75 per cent will not complete high school. These shocking statistics are the reason we started and continue to provide this vital program, one which we’d love to grow within the Cairns community.

Currently we have more than 20 children on our waiting list. These

children have been referred to our program by their child safety officer or foster carer but, unfortunately, we are lacking volunteers in their area to support them. Our community volunteers don’t need any special skills or qualifications, they just need to be caring and compassionate adults (over the age of 18) who are willing to commit to one hour a week with a little person desperately awaiting their arrival. If you think this volunteering opportunity is for you then please get in touch with me via cairns@thepyjamafoundation.com or send through your application via www.thepyjamafoundation.com/ volunteer.

If this volunteer opportunity isn’t for you but you’d still like to support the work we do, we host numerous events throughout the year which you can be a part of. This includes National Pyjama Day in July and our Battle of the Brains Trivia night, which is coming up on Thursday, March 26. It’s an incredibly fun night with a best dressed competition, amazing prizes and feisty, yet healthy, competition between teams.

For more information on our events or to get involved please check out our website.

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Helping

OUR HEROES WITH KAREN DOW | SHINE STRONG PSYCHOLOGY

On April 25, 1997, I was a backpacker at Anzac Cove, Turkey, seeking adventures and the next party. I did not recognise the significance of being there at the time until the bugler began playing, silencing the crowd. The cold of the morning air was no longer biting, the hangovers forgotten as the atmosphere pulled us in. I stood together with my friends, other Australians, New Zealanders and a handful of dignitaries both Australian and Turkish, all watching the sunrise, realising tears were now rolling down my cheeks as the horror of their sacrifice sunk in. After World War 1, our Australian way of life was changed forever. Our optimism and enthusiasm to follow our King was blunted as our country felt the scars of a generation of young people affected by war. Those families who were fortunate to celebrate the homecoming of their loved ones could not have foreseen what was yet to come.

The psychological and physical damage of war would ripple through affected families and communities impacting on every part of their lives. The medical profession were ill-prepared, and did not understand the emotional difficulties these heroes were subjected to, which they named “shellshock” or “battle ground disease”. Consequently, limited treatment was available other than admission into an asylum, and in some cases this came with a diagnosis of insanity. At that time, insanity was believed to be an inherited disease where families would do all they could to spare the humiliation of this diagnosis. This lack of understating had the psychological profession searching for ways to treat the emotional scars of the nation’s returned heroes. Fast forward 102 years, and psychologists and the medical profession now know considerably more about “shellshock” and “battle ground disease”. We are much better equipped to treat all our front line heroes, including our first responders. Over the past months, our nation has witnessed some of the worst bushfires in our history. We watched brave men and women putting their lives at risk to protect their fellow

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Australians, livestock and property. How incredibly proud we have been watching the true Australian spirit play out through our TV screens, where a mate is willing to lay down his life for another. But once again, our country’s allegiance to its leaders has sometimes wavered as we grapple with environmental changes and search for solutions to save our landscape, as we know, it for future generations. Meanwhile, our firefighters and first responders carry scars that are unseen as they witnessed horrors that may never be told. We owe all our heroes our deepest gratitude and respect, whilst allowing them the space and resources to heal from their psychological injuries.

Thankfully, therapy is now available that can treat psychological effects from the stresses that our front-line heroes experience. In 2013, the World Health Organisation acknowledged that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) should be considered as a treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Since then, much research has been undertaken on the effectiveness of this treatment with positive results. We no longer have to live in an era where “shellshock” is a mystery.

Psychologists have a deeper understanding of neurological effects of trauma and have developed effective treatments. It is an honour for me to utilise my skills as an accredited EMDR therapist to work with our modern-day heroes to assist them in dealing with their emotional scars of trauma. If you had asked me back on the beach 23 years ago what I would be doing in 2020, “treating psychological trauma” would not have been my answer!

Watching the sunrise over the beach at Anzac Cove ended up being a poignant moment in my life that is firmly etched in my mind. If you or any of your family are suffering from front line trauma, or are carers for those suffering, please contact your GP for support, the Department of Veterans Affairs or 24 hour support line such as Life Line on 131114.

Staged to Sell WHAT IS HOME STAGING? WITH JO FALKENSTEIN | PROPERTY STYLIST

As a Property Stylist, I am often asked, ‘what is Home Staging – and what do you actually do?’ …It isn’t such an easy question to answer but to put it into a nutshell…

‘Home Staging is the preparation and presentation of a house for sale. It is a marketing strategy and the goal is to make the home appealing to the widest range of buyers to reduce listing time and potentially making a quick sale for the best price.’

Home Staging companies such as Cairns Home Staging help homeowners to sell their homes by furnishing and decorating them to appeal to as many buyers as possible. It goes way beyond cleaning, de-cluttering and organising.

A professional Home Stager adds style, sets the scene, creates space and ambience. By doing this, they often increase the value of the property.

All the aspects of selling, from picking the right time to sell, selecting an agent and going to the market can be a very stressful time. For most of us, opening the doors to prospective buyers for an open home is the most nerve-racking experience in selling a home. However, with a great property stylist you should be able to lower the stress level and in many cases increase your property’s sale price.

is or get confused by how they could arrange things. By adding furniture and accessories the guesswork is taken away and it becomes easier for the buyer to imagine themselves moving right in.

One of our favourite parts of staging homes is seeing the amazing transformations again and again. The right staging can turn a house into a home. With the right furniture, layout and finishing touches staging creates a story that buyers can relate and respond to. We love finding the unique character of each home and bringing it to the forefront in a way that will easily communicate the lifestyle the home can offer. Armed with the right stager, selling your home just became easier!

Home staging makes a big difference for both ‘online’ presentation and ‘open homes’. Staging makes empty houses lose their coldness and become warm, inviting homes. Occupied homes have the edge on empty homes as they increase the appeal to buyers. Most buyers struggle to imagine what their furniture could like in a space, and can often underestimate how large a room

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Keratin or Chemical HEALTHY HABITS HEALTHY HAIR WITH EMMA GELLING

With the current intense heat wave, our salon has been inundated with clients wanting length removed as quickly as possible, and there’s also been a run on our smoothing treatments. Let’s talk about the difference between keratin and chemical salon treatments.

Keratin service A keratin service is a smoothing service performed in-salon. Typically suited for someone with thick, frizzy or unhealthy hair, Keratin is a cream solution applied to the hair; then blowdried into the hair and hot ironed to lock moisture into the cuticle, resulting in smooth, softer and silkier hair.

It is perfect for hot months.

But I’m blonde... can I have keratin?

Most keratin products on the market now are suitable for blondes, and some of them even have a purple toner added to make sure the colour stays optimal.

I swim a lot ... does that matter?

Absolutely! Keratin usually lasts between three and five months. If you’re an avid swimmer, discuss your aquatic routines with your stylist, as chlorine, salt water, and non-professional shampoos all result in keratin fading quicker, meaning the result will not last as long.

How long and how much?

There are so many products on the market and each salon will pick a certain brand that best suits their style and clientele.

However, the product is expensive, and does amazing things. Depending on the length of your hair, the process will take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours and your investment will start from $150.

Chemical straightening This is not for the faint hearted. These services are most suited to someone who constantly struggles with styling, and enjoys a consistent look and colour. This service is a commitment like no other … once you’re straight, you’re going to have this style for a while!

Chemical straightening became popular at the start of the century, and was the complete opposite to the perm that was popular prior to then.

I absolutely love these treatments on the ideal client, however it’s also one of the most damaging services stylists offer. Make sure you have a thorough consultation prior to having it done with your regular stylist, who knows your hair history.

But I’m blonde... can I have chemical straightening? No, no definitely not.

Being blonde (bleach, foils, highlift, home colours) means your hair has already been under chemical strain, to have chemical straightening on top of that, or have blonde over chemical straightening would almost always end in breakage, or very fragile hair.

I’m natural and love having straight hair, would it suit?

Absolutely, if your natural colour or even darker artificial colours you as so suited for thus treatment, especially if you never vision going lighter.

How long and how much?

Chemical straightening is a very specialised service. I highly recommend using your personal hairdresser for this service, as they know your colour history. Prices range from about $300 to over $500, depending on your length and thickness, and the process will take between two to five hours.

Hopefully this answers some of your questions about the two main types of smoothing, there are always more indepth conversation to have around these services, ask your stylist when your next in, or book in for a complimentary consultation with me at Blended.

xx Em

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An equal world

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY TAMLYN LEAHY | FAMILY LAWYER

International Women’s Day is celebrated on 8 March 2020.

The theme this year is “An equal world is an enabled world” and the focus is on building a gender equal world.

A gender equal world is not only a women’s issue or a business issue. It impacts on all aspects of our larger society and the family.

In family law, the legislation is gender neutral. Although its detractors will say that it favors one gender over another, this is not the intention of the Family Law Act 1975.

Family law legislation enables a gender equal world in a number of ways: • The Family Law Act established the principle of “no-fault divorce” in Australian law. From 1975 the court was no longer required to consider which spouse in a marriage breakdown was at fault. Prior to this a party seeking a divorce had to prove that a spouse had caused the breakdown and causes included adultery, alcoholism or insanity. The reasoning behind this change was to reduce the hostilities of parties towards each other and encourage the parties reaching agreement through mediation processes as opposed to emotional confrontations and character assassinations in court. No fault divorce has been described as “important to the emancipation of women” in abusive relationships and it removed the requirement for women to go through the process of proving that their husbands were abusive, alcoholic or insane.

• In applying family law principles in dividing the property of a relationship the court must place value on the roles that traditionally women play in relationships, including as a home-maker. Family law gives equal weight to the role

of home-maker and parenting contributions as it would to financial contributions such as wages.

• Domestic violence perpetrators are no longer permitted to cross-examine their victims in Family Court. The Federal Government introduced legislation which took effect in 2019 which prevents a self-litigant from cross-examining another self-litigant spouse – an opportunity for an abusive spouse to arguably exert control and continue the abuse on a spouse escaping an abusive relationship. Now cross-examination can only be conducted by an independent counsel.

Statistically women are more likely to be victims of domestic violence and the amendments to the Family Law Act are a preventative measure protecting women and enabling their voice in family law proceedings.

• In the division of matrimonial property family violence is generally not considered to be relevant. In exceptional cases however such conduct could be relevant.

The Full Court of the Family Court of Australia in the case of Kennon and Kennon (1997) FamCA 27 found that violence can be taken into account in a property division where there has been violence in a marriage or relationship which has demonstrably caused a significant adverse impact on a party’s ability to contribute financially and non-financially to a relationship. Again, as statistically women are more likely to be subjected to domestic violence this decision can afford victims some measure of addressing this imbalance.

Proving that a violent course of conduct has had such impact however can be a very difficult task for a victim.

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Trading Stories

LESS = MORE + MORE + MORE JODI ALLEN

The whole idea behind Trading Mate has never been costbased, well not in the traditional way people might expect a business to operate.

counterparts, because at the end of the day we’re all doin’ it for our ourselves, our families and ensuring our very hardearned dollars stay local whenever possible . . .

The amount of times a month someone pipes up and says “charge more, we’d pay it, we LOVE being part of the Trading Mate family!” Or the finance, business coaching and advisor types, wandering their peaky little eyeballs over the books – saying “how can this concept work, with so little cost to clients??”

So how do we connect?

But the low cost is exactly what we are about, the absolute affordability for any business, including fresh start-ups and well established larger organisations, meaning we can increase your VOLUME of exposure, making it even better value, because there’s more people to connect your business with, more opportunities to form those relationships and make those much needed collaborative connections!

And let’s face it we don’t all use the same mortgage broker, hairdresser, electrician or plumber! We use who we like, who has been recommended, who is easily contacted, closely located, and who has built trust with us by delivering on their word previously.

Unlike other groups we WANT a variety of businesses trading in the same industries, ALL businesses are supported, welcomed and invited - we actually aren’t about competing with one another but genuinely connecting with our

2 ways – online, popping our info, images and links quickly and easily onto the online business directory so people searching online can find us, and – here’s an oldie but a goodie – offline too! Back in 2018 we decided a networking gathering to start the year could be a good idea to get our businesses off and running, and low and behold – the calls were still coming in after the bookings were closed, and all through the drive to the venue . . . we had over 100 people join us – holy smoke, what a buzz, it was just phenomenal!!

So why not do this EVERY month?

And that’s been the formula for success for our business members – 2 years on and we are super proud to have one of the most well attended networking groups in the Far North.

Our members tell us they receive so much work, referrals and connections from appearing and catching up with their Trading Mates whenever they make the effort to attend.

And maybe another reason for this success, is that we are allinclusive. Our members have so much to offer – as business owners, everyone gets the opportunity to stand up and tell us what they do and what makes them passionate about their work and how they can assist us or someone we know.

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# They present this information either as a speaker around a particular theme, during one-to-one networking, demonstrating their wares at a Trade Table event or even taking up the Guest MC option.

With so many different people contributing to our functions and the HUUUUGE variety of personalities that contribute to the presentation of the events, each gathering has a different feel, but always with the focus on positive & informative, fun and value-packed.

So with the formula in place, we are all set up, finished and done?

no way!!!

There are so very many plans in the pipeline, we’ve just released the the “get me a website now” function – that info you “popped in” - is NOW immediately transposed into a brand spanking modern website – all secure, done & dusted for less than the cost of a coffee per week! (Tell your friends!!)

Most recently released is the “Get a Quote” option for those who need to get some work done. Keep an eye on your inbox as those requests start coming through! Oh and the 13 month personalised diaries, these are such a great business planning tool, if we do say so ourselves . . .

And yes we heard you . . .

The website landing page needs an update, it’s happening as we speak! Other plans for the year include event bookings directly through the Trading Mate website, implementing the pre-made template for YOUR business advert needs, incl business cards, flyers & banners. Some other boring back end stuff: speedier searches, database upgrades . . . blal bla tech bla . . . and then we FRANCHISE!!

Let’s get this Trading Mate “show on the road” we want everyone in Oz to become part of the Trading Mate revolution, which is where this is really going to get traction for our members. We aim to offer a single unique, connective, marketing platform for ANY business, ANYWHERE.

And NO we won’t be increasing the price.

We will however increase the services and opportunities though . . . so . . . have we convinced you?

It’s time - #getonit!

Sabine Harth Professional Coaching & Mentoring Services TRE® Provider (Tension & Trauma Release Exercises)

Recalibrate Release & Recreate

+61 415959195 coach@sabineharth.com MARCH | APRIL 2020

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Business Liason ASSOCIATION

BUSINESS

Join the BLA Community The Business Liaison Association has changed the lives of thousands of Far North Queensland high school students in the past 26 years. The BLA is the perfect combination of the established, inspiring the next generation of our workforce, through example, practical guidance and mentoring. The BLA motivates and invigorates our youth, channels funding and sponsorship to where it’s needed most, and encourages all students to aspire to be more than they think they can be.

The breadth of students engaging in the BLA’s programs and events is increasing each year. Now including students from as far south as Tully, north to Thursday Island, and west to Weipa.

In today’s evolving world, we’re a trusted brand and an iconic organisation uniquely placed to bridge the gap between education and industry. We create invaluable impact through our Events, Programs, Workshops, Careers Expo, Student Awards and Competitions. The BLA aims to support our local schools, by working closely with Principals and Teachers to ensure that our awards and competitions align with the current high school curriculum and that our events are trending.

We also plan to give the students a larger exposure to the world of business through a stimulating and interactive program of Visiting Experts. These individuals are experts in their chosen industry, who kindly give up their time to share their drive, hard work and passion for their jobs with the students by individually visiting each school.

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Throughout the year we host a number of industry breakfasts for students to attend, where there can be one or more industry experts speaking. They will discuss the directions that their careers have taken, their successes and of course, their failures. Most importantly sharing with the students the invaluable lessons learnt. These breakfasts close with an interactive Q&A with the students.

As a society, we expect a lot from our high school students.

With no real-world experience, we expect them to have life all figured out by year 10 when they are asked to select their subjects, again in year 11 when they change their mind and finally in year 12 as the pressure is on to actually lock in that choice, as they go into final exams and onto graduate. This can cause our youth to become quite anxious about leaving school.

Each year for the past 19 years we have been coordinating the BLA Cairns Youth & Careers Expo where we bring together over 65 exhibitors from all round Australia in one place to answer all questions relating to their possible careers.

We are a not-for-profit organisation relying on funding support for all our awards, bursaries. programs and events.

We believe that the next big idea can come from a student within our community, your community, so please consider supporting us so that we can continue to help them dream that dream.

BUSINESS

MARCH | APRIL 2020

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A Sign OF COLOUR JESS SNEDDEN | ALLSIGNS PRINT & DESIGN | GRAPHIC DESIGNER | COLOUR ENGINEER

A business with no sign is a sign of no business Let’s get colour working for you!

Colour matters and contrast matters especially when it comes to effective signage. Have you asked yourself what your colours say to your potential customers?

Can your customers see or even read your signage?

Colour is a crucial element to consider when creating all your signage. Humans love colour, colours convey messages, evoke emotions, and add brilliance to everyday things including your signs. It is easy to just add colour however have you thought about what the colours you would like to use mean? Who is going to respond to them, are they suited to your target market?

For example, will using a colour that is psychologically more feminine deter your possible male customers?

Have you thought about how a small percentage of the population are colour blind and may find it hard to see colours that are used in close proximity together?

Then you have the simple fact that women and men see colour differently, I know who would have thought?

When certain colour combinations are used side-by-side that are aesthetically pleasing to the human eye, we witness colour harmony. This can either create contrast or use colours that use similar shades and tones, as long as they make sense together and create a visually satisfying effect.

High contrast is recommended on your signs when you require visibility and legibility. Your signage is ultimately the face of your business and you only get one opportunity to make that first impression.

It is highly beneficial to implement Colour Psychology and theory into your signage design process, this lets colour do the work for you. Pantone colour references should always be used to ensure your colour is correct and consistent across all signage and other aspects of your brand.

The most effective vehicle fleets are the ones where all the colour is consistent, there is no room for their audience to mistake them for another business.

It is beneficial to have your signage designed by a graphic designer with knowledge and the ability to guide you with design and the correct colours before being released into the world and cutting through the noise.

At allsigns print & design we are passionate about working with you to produce effective, functional signage.

We work closely with you, sharing our passion and knowledge, whether you are starting from scratch or wanting to rebrand with a fresh new look. We are making the world more beautiful one sign at a time.

Ask, what else is possible?

MARCH | APRIL 2020

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A fresh voice A strong voice www.julessteer.com.au

Security | Sustainability | Supporting Local AUTHORISED BY JULES STEER, 364 PEASE STREET, EDGE HILL 4870