True Blue Magazine - Oct/Nov 2019

TrueBlue Oct/Nov 2019

OUR HEART IS IN THE COUNTRY

A real Australian business magazine

REDISCOVER SYDNEY Unexpected experiences

OUTBACK ADVENTURE

History and culture in Longreach

CENTRAL COAST A surprising newcomer on the gourmet scene

Loving Lisa We catch up with the unflappable Lisa Wilkinson during times of change

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Letter from the COO

EDITORIAL

Welcome to the October/November issue of True Blue.

Did you know that the regional New South Wales town of Parkes is host to the legendary Parkes Elvis Festival?

Officially endorsed by Elvis Presley Enterprises, the trustees of the estate of Elvis Presley, every second week in January, the town gets gets ‘all shook up’ as Elvis fanatics and impersonators flock to participate and spectate in 200 Elvis-themed events over a five day extravaganza.

In 1992 the inaugural event at the Graceland Restaurant hosted 200 enthusiasts for a commemorative dinner in celebration of the rock ‘n‘ roll king‘s birthday. In 2019, 27 years later, the festival saw the Parkes population swell from a calm 11,000 to nearly 40,000 people, as the town became a vintage rock ‘n’ roll haven.

For the third year running, Rex is partnering with the Parkes Elvis Festival in 2020, to bring you the Hound Dog Express. The package includes return flights from Sydney to Parkes, pre-flight entertainment in the Rex Lounge and a ticket to the festival, including a seat at the Miss Priscilla Dinner table. Book now at parkeselvisfestival.com.au In July 1969, shortly after the release of Elvis’s tenth studio album, From Elvis in Memphis, Parkes cemented itself on the

map for it’s monumental contribution to the broadcast of the Apollo 11 lunar landing. The Parkes Observatory, colloquially known as ‘The Dish’, on July 21, 2019, celebrated 50 years since the historic moment when Neil Armstrong took the first step on the moon – a moment that captured the globe and changed the world of astronomy forever.

Turning our focus within, the Flight Operations department, in collaboration with Rex Catering, is excited to report the commencement of a single-use plastic reduction plan to minimise the airline‘s environmental footprint. The initial stages of the process are complete, seeing the removal of individually wrapped Mentos, and plastic-wrapped stirrer packs (which accompanied tea/coffee service), and a significant reduction in the use of plastic cups, which have been replaced with paper cups. This initiative will continue over the next few months, maximising further reductions in singleuse plastics. Turn to page 7 to learn more about this tremendous initiative.

Until next time, please sit back, relax and enjoy the flight.

Neville Howell Chief Operating Officer

Publisher: Michelle Hespe publisher@publishingbychelle.com Art Director: Jon Wolfgang Miller Lifestyle/Travel Brand & Communications Manager: Shakira Wood shakira@publishingbychelle.com WA/NT Brand & Communications Manager: Greg Parkes greg.parkes@publishingbychelle.com AusBiz. Brand & Communications Manager: Effe Sandas advertising@publishingbychelle.com Assistant Editor: Sarah Hinder editorial@publishingbychelle.com Sub-editors: Claire Hey, Lucy Pearson & Shane Cubis

CONTRIBUTORS

Sarah Hinder Natasha Dragun Tim Richards Jac Taylor Darren Baguley Lisa Smyth Ian Lloyd Neubauer Kirsten Craze

PRINTING

Blue Star PRINT 81 Derby St, Silverwater, NSW 2128

True Blue is published by Publishing ByChelle, (ABN: 78 621 375 853 ACN: 621 375 853) 3 Westleigh Street, Neutral Bay, NSW 2089 publishingbychelle.com The reproduction of any content, in whole or part without prior written permission by the publisher is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the content are those of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the publisher. All information in this magazine was believed to be correct at the time of publication, and all reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Publishing ByChelle cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. We apologise if we don’t get back to your email, as we do receive a large volume of communication via various online channels. Some images used in True Blue are from iStock and Getty images, and we make every effort to credit all contributors.

OCT/NOV 2019

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Publisher’s Letter

Social media and the web has irrevocably altered the way we consume media, how we see one another and sadly, even how we view ourselves.

@TRUEBLUe _ MAG

/TRUEBLUEMAG

For this issue of True Blue I had the honour of meeting the lovely Lisa Wilkinson for a chat about today’s tumultuous media landscape, what she loves about Australian people, and her ongoing love affair with travel.

I grew up with shows such as Sunrise, TODAY and 60 Minutes airing daily in our house, and so Lisa, Elizabeth Hayes and Jana Wendt were faces I was accustomed to seeing in our loungeroom at night and in the family room over breakfast.

I always thought how down-to-earth, smart and composed Lisa was, even in the face of difficult questions, and in a role where you are often put on the spot in front of millions of people.

I admired her strength and her ability to sail through periods where the media were not so nice, and where tragic events and issues would have had a deep effect on her while working. I’ve always thought that it can’t be easy being famous.

I loved talking to Lisa about today’s crazy media landscape and how it’s such a different beast to the days when TV, radio and videos were all we had. Social media and the web has irrevocably altered the way we consume media, how we see one another, and sadly, even how we view ourselves. We both agreed that it’s more important than ever to be yourself, and to consume healthy media. I think she’s an excellent role model and I hope you enjoy the story.

I also had the chance to explore the Central Coast, just north of Sydney.

I’ve lived in Sydney on and off for decades and I am ashamed to say that before now I have not taken the time to delve into this breathtakingly beautiful region.

The new and upcoming operators on the coast are breathing fresh life into the many communities there.

While there I had the chance to go on a pearl farm tour, and this is something really special for this part of Australia. Previously you had to travel all the way to Broome to experience and learn about pearls.

We also cover the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria to see what’s new in food, wine and hotels, and venture into Outback Queensland to explore some extraordinary experiences with the locals. In this travel-jammed issue we also check out some of the lesser known delights of Sydney, head down south to roam around the former gold rush city of Bendigo, find out why Goulburn is an awesome place to do business, and head off on a couple of inspiring road trips across one of my favourite islands in the world: Tasmania.

So now sit back, enjoy the read, and drop us a line anytime – we love hearing from you.

MICHELLE HESPE & THE TEAM AT TRUE BLUE. OCT/NOV 2019

3

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57.. christmas gift ideas Our great gift ideas for the whole family.

26

Cover Story

We speak with Aussie journalist and muchloved TV personality, Lisa Wilkinson.

Inside TrueBlue AusBiz. Check out AusBiz. at the back of the magazine.

DRIVING DIVERSITY Mining has changed so much in the last decade, but has diversity improved and how will things look in the future?

TIMES OF CHANGE Will wind farming be our biggest generator of sustainable energy?

LIFESAVERS WITHOUT WATER Meet the people helping those who find it hard to a see light at the end of the tunnel in crippling times of drought.

upfront

Features

07 Rex News

32 Rediscover Stunning Sydney

48 Tour Tasmania

Unexpected experiences and places to explore.

Exploring the beauty of Tassie with two road trips from Burnie to Hobart.

36 Longreach, Qld

52 Goulburn Boom

40 Central Coast

54 Art Space

Rex takes steps to reduce single-use plastic on its aircrafts; Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum celebrates the first moon landing; Holiday Explorers provide travel for people with intellectual disability.

13 Rex Directory

Some of the best places to eat, stay and play across the exciting Rex network.

21 Entertainment

The latest theatre, books, art shows and tours.

Fantastic reasons to visit the historic heart of Outback Queenland.

We explore gourmet delights around this emerging destination.

Why this regional NSW town is a great destination for business and lifestyle.

The stunning paintings of Sydney-based artist Zahrina Robertson.

36

22 Events Calendar

A line-up of some the best events around the country.

24 Out & About

The latest offerings in cool hotels and restaurants.

OCT/NOV 2019

5

Rex News Rex Airlines initiatives supporting regional causes.

Reduction of single-use plastics With more and more plastic waste accumulating in our landfills and oceans, Rex is leading by example and implementing an initiative with an aim to reduce the airline’s ecological footprint, and assist in maintaining a healthy and sustainable planet for our children, grandchildren and generations to come.

In May this year, during a Rex board meeting, a scheme to minimise waste was born, and the Flight Attendant Department was tasked with the challenge of reducing single-use plastics (SUP) onboard the aircrafts.

A collaborative team involving representatives from the Flight Attendant, Pilot, Catering and Airports departments put their heads together to identify all the single-use plastic items onboard, and to brainstorm environmentally friendly alternatives. The highest waste items were quickly recognised as Mentos, stirrers packs, water bottles, plastic passenger cups and foam tea/coffee cups.

Implemented in stages, the initial phase saw the removal of Mentos from in-flight service, while plastic passenger cups, used for serving water, were substituted with paper

cups. Stage One was successfully executed on July 1, 2019, and the feedback has been very positive: “Dear Rex, It was very pleasing to know that you are making moves to reduce the amount of single-use waste on your flights and that you have a staged plan to do more.

Perhaps Rex could become the Australian leader in the greener way to fly. What a marketing opportunity.“ “How about it, Rex? Global warming is a serious threat to our farmers and environment, and I know you guys care about that. Thanks for taking this feedback. I’m a FIFO doctor, and I feel very guilty re my carbon travel footprint. Please help me to feel less guilty!”

Stage Two commenced in August 2019 with the removal of plastic stirrer packs. The plastic stirrer packs were replaced with individual items, offered to passengers on request, and plastic spoons were replaced with wooden stirrers.

With sights set beyond the cabin, Rex continues to review products and processes with plans for the singleuse plastic reduction strategies to be implemented company-wide in crew rooms, offices and hangars.

OCT/NOV 2019

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Rex News Carnarvon Space Museum’s MercuryRedstone Carnarvon Space Museum’s Mercury-Redstone.

Gathering of the original Carnarvon ’Trackers’ with family representatives, Minister Dave Kelly and Phil Youd following the dedication of the NASA Carnarvon fountain replica.

The final frontier

Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

It may seem unlikely, but Carnarvon will always play an important part in the story of the USA’s manned race to the moon. Performing a key role in transmitting the live broadcasts of the first man on the moon to the world, the Carnarvon Space Museum, Phil Youd’s brainchild, commemorates the global scientific achievements that, in 1969, put the Gascoyne region of Western Australia on the map.

“In 2011 I bought the local radio station, looked at the hill nearby and saw the satellite dish,” says Phil. “I did some research, dug around a bit and found the tracking station there, too.”

His interest piqued, Phil founded the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum, mostly, he says, ”because it’s a good story for the town.” A passionate supporter of all things Carnarvon, until he began his passion project, he had no idea of Carnarvon’s connection to NASA’s space program.

Little did Phil know that by the time the museum was ready to welcome visitors, one of the world’s most famous astronauts and member of the Apollo 11 crew, Buzz Aldrin, would be shaking his hand on opening day.

Through fundraising, hardworking volunteers, a ‘good deal’ with the owner of the small building which would house the original museum – and Phil’s indomitable spirit and vision – the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum was set to open in 2012, just a year after conception.

“I thought we probably needed a kick-starter to get it going, a big name. So I asked Buzz Aldrin if he would like to come to the opening.

He said yes!” says Phil, still slightly amazed at this turn of events.

In the years that followed, the museum has been honoured by visits from Australian-born astronaut Andy Thomas, ‘the last man on the moon’, Gene Cernan, and former NASA Flight Director, Gerry Griffin.

The day the world held its breath: July 21, 1969 Perhaps its biggest claim to fame rests on one momentous day in the history of humankind; the day of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

The Casshorn antenna (known as the Sugar Scoop), which stands beside the Overseas Telecommunications

Commission (OTC) Dish, relayed Neil Armstrong’s unforgettable first steps on the moon from NASA’s Honey Suckle Creek Tracking Station to Perth’s TV audience via the Moree Earth station. It was Western Australia’s first live broadcast on television and, as it did for millions of viewers around the world, formed an indelible memory on all those who witnessed this momentous human achievement.

To celebrate the anniversary, Phil and his team hosted a cocktail party in a marquee in front of the dish.

“It was a celebration of the first time the whole world was one, holding its collective breath as Neil Armstrong took those small steps on another world.”

Did you know?

The Carnarvon Tracking Station was built in 1964 to support NASA’s Gemini, Apollo and Skylab programs.

For 11 years it was the last station to communicate with astronauts before leaving the Earth’s orbit, and the last voice they’d hear as they headed for splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

Visit carnarvonmuseum.org.au OCT/NOV 2019

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Rex News

Holiday Explorers: finding connections through travel Travel gives us an opportunity to connect. To connect with each other, to connect with destinations, experiences and opportunities. Travel gives us a reason to see beyond our everyday life and provides a pathway for growth.

Holiday Explorers is a South Australian not-for-profit organisation that is devoted to assisting these connections through travel experiences. It provides adults with intellectual disability, or ‘Tourists’, the opportunity to experience growth through connection.

At the core of the organisation is a dedicated group of volunteers who provide a supportive environment to make this possible. Volunteers travel in pairs and accompany up to five Tourists as they explore destinations all around Australia and beyond. They bring together a rich diversity of skills and experiences, and are enthusiastically motivated to enrich the lives of others.

Graham has been a valued Holiday Explorers volunteer since 2010, soon after immigrating to Adelaide with his family from the UK. Graham was inspired to learn about, and give back to his new community, and make a difference for individuals with intellectual disability. He is a selfemployed landscape gardener by trade, and now an experienced volunteer tour guide at Holiday Explorers. With no previous experience in either tour guiding or assisting people with a disability, Graham undertook the mandatory volunteer training program, designed to educate

and empower volunteers to feel confident and supported in their role. Graham has since volunteered at least once a month, for holidays ranging from days trips and weekends in South Australia, and longer trips all over Australia and the world.

Nancy has been volunteering with Holiday Explorers for 18 years and has visited a vast number of destinations. She explains, “I probably participate in 16 to 20 trips each year; I enjoy meeting and helping the Tourists, and I often get to try fun new activities, too.”

Graham and Nancy understand that for many people with intellectual disability, there is a strong desire to connect with others, but often individuals lack the functional capability or social skills to make this happen on their own. Obstacles for connection go beyond environmental barriers.

Volunteers provide support with planning and organising itineraries, preparation for air, train and bus travel, and guidance with money handling, communication and problem solving, as well as facilitating the Tourists’ participation in the holiday activities.

At the end of the day, everyone involved is looking to connect with others and our environment in a meaningful way. Travel is a wonderful means to nurture wellbeing through shared adventure.

If volunteering inspires you, and you would like to connect with others through travel, please visit holidayexplorers.com.au TB

Tourists explore Port Lincoln and the Tunarama Festival with Holiday Explorers.

Holiday Explorer volunteer Graham, fishing.

OCT/NOV 2019

11

Directory

TrueBlue Experiences

Great places to stay, and awesome things to do across Australia.

COAST HOUSE Tasmania

COAST HOUSE Tasmania

RoofClimb Adelaide Oval

Adelaide Oval Stadium Tour

CYGNET, TASMANIA T 0409 446 290 E stay@coasthousetasmania.com coasthousetasmania.com

ADELAIDE OVAL, WAR MEMORIAL DRIVE, NORTH ADELAIDE SA 5006. T 08 8331 5222 E enquiries@roofclimb.com.au roofclimb.com.au

COAST HOUSE Tasmania offers exclusive boutique accommodation nestled on a private peninsular in the beautiful Huon Valley. Surrounded by waterways and wildlife, this stunning setting offers guests the ultimate tranquil getaway. Wine and gourmet meals are included with your stay.

An unforgettable experience awaits with this exhilarating adventure across Adelaide Oval’s iconic roofline. Enjoy picturesque views of the city and beyond before testing your nerve with a lean-out point 50 metres off the ground! With a wide range of climb possibilities, RoofClimb is a must-do for locals and visitors alike.

ADELAIDE OVAL, WAR MEMORIAL DRIVE, NORTH ADELAIDE SA 5006 T 08 8205 4700 E enquiries@adelaideoval.com.au adelaideoval.com.au/tours

Take a fascinating journey behind the scenes.

Explore the 100-year-old heritage scoreboard, gain an insight into match-day preparations inside the players’ change rooms, feel the roar of the crowd on the hallowed turf through the interactive players’ race, and much, much more.

OCT/NOV 2019

13

Directory

TrueBlue Experiences

Porky Beach, King Island

Outback Pioneers – Tours and Experiences 128 EAGLE ST, LONGREACH QLD 4730 reservations@outbackpioneers.com.au T 07 4658 1776 outbackpioneers.com.au

Unleash your pioneering spirit with Outback Pioneers. Discover Nogo Station, experience a gallop on the Cobb & Co Stagecoach, cruise the Thomson River, shop in The Station Store or dine at The Stonegrill. Free WiFi for all guests.

Our season runs from April to October.

King Island Escapes 135 BARNES RD, LOORANA, KING ISLAND, TAS T 0417 580 550 E stay@kingislandescapes.com.au kingislandescapes.com.au

Immerse yourself among the raw beauty of King Island from the comfort of our luxury four-bedroom retreat. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the red cedar hot tub and glass sauna, with access to your own private beach.

Relax and reconnect at Porky Beach Retreat.

14 TrueBlue

Kalbarri Edge Resort

Rock Cottage, Winmark Wines

22 PORTER STREET, KALBARRI, WA 6536 T 08 9937 0000 E reservations@kalbarriedge.com.au www.kalbarriedge.com.au

229 WOLLOMBI ROAD, BROKE, NSW T 0429 265 268 E info@winmarkwines.com.au

Positioned on the Murchison River where it meets the Indian Ocean, Kalbarri Edge Resort offers well-appointed rooms, a fantastic restaurant experience and outdoor activities.

Experience rugged cliffs, gorges, sensational beaches, and the world-famous Pink Lake and stunning spectacle that is Nature’s Window.

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre 51 BROLGA STREET, QUILPIE QLD 4480 T 07 46 56 0540 E tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au visitquilpie.com.au

This stunning south-west Outback Queensland region is steeped in rich pioneering and Mesozoic history. Pick up a brochure, souvenirs and free Wi-Fi before visiting our museums and gallery.

Call us to order your free Quilpie Shire book.

Winmark Wines is a breathtakingly beautiful property situated on 116 acres in the Hunter Valley. It has recently launched its first vintage of chardonnay. Nestled into the landscape is Rock Cottage — a perfect getaway for exploring the Broke region. The retreat has three bedrooms, a cosy living area with a fireplace and a spacious dining room.

Sapphire Waters Motor Inn 32-34 MERIMBULA DRIVE, MERIMBULA NSW 2548 T 02 6495 1999 E info@sapphirewatersmotorinn.com.au sapphirewatersmotorinn.com.au

An award-winning motel located just a short walk from the CBD, restaurants and clubs of Merimbula. We have a large range of room types to suit all occasions. Set on Merimbula Lake on the Sapphire Coast, we offer some of the most spectacular scenery on the NSW coast.

DON’T MISS A VISIT TO OUR

BOTANICAL GARDENS One of the most visited attractions in Tasmania, this is Australia’s premier cool climate Garden.

To book a guided walking or buggy tour, call 03 6166 0451. Entry by donation. Open all year!

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Rex FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions As you sit back in comfort en route to your destination, the Rex crew hope you enjoy this entertaining and informative light reading.

Q. Why do the flight attendants insist that all window blinds be up for take-off?

A. The most critical phases of a flight are the take-off and the landing. In the most unlikely event of a situation that requires an emergency evacuation, it is important that crew and passengers are able to have a clear view of the outside conditions in case of obstructions. For example, before exits are opened, staff must check for fire or other obstacles that may present potential hazards during the evacuation.

Q. Why do you have to stow your hand luggage in the overhead lockers, under the seats or in the seat pockets for take-off and landing?

A. Flight crews are required by Civil Aviation Regulations to secure the cabin as well as possible for take-off and landing. As mentioned, these are the most critical phases of the flight and securing as much hand luggage as possible ensures that in the unlikely event of an emergency, the exits and aisles stay as clear as possible, in case evacuation is necessary. It is also important to keep hand luggage secure whenever possible to ensure that heavier items do not become airborne within the cabin. This is especially important when the aircraft is experiencing turbulence.

Q. Why do you feel so tired from flying?

A. As the aircraft altitude increases, air pressure decreases. As the pressure of the air decreases, the body absorbs less oxygen than it would at sea level — therefore, it must work harder to supply oxygen to the body’s cells. As the body is working harder, it becomes more tired.

Q. Why do you sometimes feel pain in your ears or sinuses during ascent or descent?

A. The sinuses and middle ear are aircontaining cavities that connect with the nose via narrow channels. As aircrafts ascend and cabin pressure drops, air passes out of these cavities (without any effort from the passenger) to balance the cabin pressure. It is a different matter during descent, as the cabin pressure increases. The channels close down and must be actively opened by holding the nose and

blowing to inflate the cavities. Facial and ear pain can occur during descent if re-inflation does not occur, and this is much more likely if the passenger has nasal congestion. If you must fly with a cold or hay fever, use a decongestant nasal spray before descent and buy some ‘ear planes’ to plug your ears. (Information contributed by Dr Daniel Hains, ENT Surgeon.)

Q. When can electronic equipment such as laptops, iPods and mobile phones be used?

A. All Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) must be placed in flight mode inside the departure terminal and must remain in flight mode until inside the arrival terminal. Small hand held PEDs weighing less than 1kg, such as mobile phones, can be used in flight mode during all stages of flight on Rex’s Saab 340 aircraft. PEDs over 1kg, such as laptop computers, must be stowed appropriately for taxi, take-off and landing, and are permitted to be used only during cruise when the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ sign is switched off.

PEDs cannot be used while crossing the tarmac.

Q. What is the average speed of the aircraft when cruising in-flight?

A. Approximately 500 kilometres per hour.

Q. Why do you have to get permission from the Captain to move to a vacant seat?

A. The aircraft’s take-off speed is calculated by the weight and balance of the aircraft, and many factors need to be considered for a successful take-off. Factors include the weight of passengers and where they are seated, the weight of cargo, freight and fuel, the distance available on the runway, etc. For example, if there are 100 or more kilograms of freight in the cargo, the balance of the aircraft will be better maintained if passengers are seated in the forward rows.

AIR TURBULENCE

Q. Aircraft often experience air turbulence, but what causes it?

A. Imagine the air around the aircraft is water in a stream. We can see how water is disturbed around rocks or when two streams converge.

Turbulence in the air is similar: as the aircraft passes through cold air or in the vicinity of

terrain that has disturbed the airflow — often incorrectly referred to as ‘air pockets’ — the aircraft climbs and descends in the same way that a boat moves on water. Though turbulence can be uncomfortable, it poses no threat to the aircraft and is akin to driving on a rough or unsealed road. More severe turbulence can be associated with developing thunderstorms.

The Saab 340 has a sophisticated weather radar that pilots use to avoid these areas.

Occasionally, a flight attendant will discontinue serving passengers in turbulent conditions; this is a precaution to ensure everyone’s safety.

Q. Why should you keep your seatbelt fastened even when the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ sign is switched off?

A. On occasions, the flight crew cannot foresee turbulence or it is not picked up on the flight-deck radar. Because of this, we could unexpectedly experience turbulence at any time. The company recommends that you always keep your seatbelt fastened while you are seated — for your safety, just in case unexpected turbulence is encountered.

ENGINE NOISES

Q. Why do the aircraft’s engine noises change during flight?

A. Aircraft need more power to climb than to descend, in the same way that a car needs more power to go up a hill than down one. The Saab 340 turboprop has more than enough power to climb, so shortly after take-off you will notice a change in noises as the power is reduced.

The pilots also control the pitch angle of the propellers for various stages of the flight and as they ‘change gears’, this can also be heard in the cabin.

Q. What should you do if you see or hear something that does not look or sound right?

A. Please advise your flight attendant. The flight attendant may be able to answer your query and allay any fears. If not, the flight attendant will contact the flight deck and advise the pilots of anything unusual. Rex encourages open communication and will always treat a passenger’s concerns with the utmost seriousness.

OCT/NOV 2019

17

Rex Exercises and Stretches

Exercise and stretch regularly while seated Exercise and stretch regularly while seated

INFLIGHT COMFORT

SEATED EXERCISES

Exercise and ExerciseSTRETCHES andstretch stretchregularly regularlywhile whileseated seated SEATED

Inflight comfort

Flying can be demanding and altitude may make your body more sensitive to the Flying can be demanding and altitude effects of alcohol and caffeine. Sitting in one may make your body more sensitive place for a long time can be uncomfortable to the effects of alcohol and caffeine. and slow down your blood circulation.

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Drink plenty of fluids — adjust to flying and to maintain off draw a circle with and point feet high as Then youliftcan.

Then put adjust to flying and to maintainyour your thefloor, toes, simultaneously moving one foot the clockwise as you can.

Thenupward put both feetas flat on the floor. heels high, keeping the water, juice, non-caffeinated soft drinks — to personal comfort and wellbeing, we toes, moving both balls feet flatfeet ononthe floor.

Then lift heelsintervals. high, keeping and thesimultaneously other foot counterclockwise.

Reverse circles. of your the floor.

Continue cycle in 30-second Keep hydrated.

Drink of fluids personal comfort andplenty wellbeing, we – Do each direction for 15 seconds.

Repeat one foot clockwise and theif desired.the balls of your feet on the floor. Continue cycle in preventrecommend dehydration, fatigue and headaches. you take the following steps: water, juice, non-caffeinated soft drinks recommend you take the following steps: ANKLE CIRCLES Lift feet off floor, draw a circle with30-second FOOT PUMPS Start with both heels on the floor and point feet upward as high other counterclockwise. intervals.

Minimise– intake of dehydration, alcohol andfatigue coffee.

ANKLEfoot CIRCLES Lift feet off floor, draw a circle with FOOT PUMPS Start with both heels on the floor and point feet upward as high to prevent and the toes, simultaneously one foot clockwise as you can. Then put both feet flat on the floor. Then lift heels high, keeping the Reverse circles. moving Do each Exercise Exercise and and stretch stretch regularly regularly while while seated seated the toes, simultaneously moving one foot clockwise as you can. Then put both feet flat on the floor. Then lift heels high, keeping the Moisten the face to help reduce drying and the other foot counterclockwise.

Reverse circles. balls of your feet on the floor.

Continue cycle in 30-second intervals.

Keep hydrated.

Drink plenty of fluids –– direction seconds.Reverse circles. balls of your feet on the floor. Continue cycle in 30-second intervals. headaches.

Minimise intake ofthe alcohol and the otherfor foot 15 counterclockwise.

Keep hydrated.

Drink plenty of fluids Do each direction for 15 seconds.

Repeat if desired. effects of cabin air.

Repeat if desired. water, juice, drinks Do each direction for 15 seconds. Repeat if desired.

SEATED SEATED EXERCISES EXERCISES and coffee.

Moisten the facesoft to help water, juice,non-caffeinated non-caffeinated soft drinks –reduce dehydration, fatigue and the drying effects of cabin air. to Eat lightly.

Eat lightly on longer flights –totoprevent prevent dehydration, fatigue and headaches. intake alcohol avoid indigestion — our in-flight is headaches.Minimise Minimise intakeofofmenu alcohol and Moisten the totooptions. help Eat lightly.

Eat lightly onface longer flights designed tocoffee. provide lighter meal and coffee.

Moisten the face help to reduce the ofofcabin air. avoid indigestion –effects our inflight menu reduce thedrying dryingeffects cabin air.is Exercise. We encourage you to do the designed to provide lighter meal options. gentle on-board exercises on this flights page to Eat Eatlightly. lightly.Eat Eatlightly lightlyon onlonger longer flightstoto enhanceavoid yourindigestion wellbeing during the flight.

– our inflight menu isis Exercise.

We encourage you to the avoid indigestion – our inflight do menu We recommend you do these exercises for KNEE LIFTS Lift leg with knee SHOULDER ROLLS Hunch ARM CURLS Arms held at 90° angles, designed totoprovide lighter meal gentle onboard exercises on thisoptions. page to designed provide lighter meal options. bent while contracting your thigh shoulders forward, then upward, elbows down, hands in front. Raise hands about five minutes every one to two hours. enhance your wellbeing during theStartheels flight. muscle. Alternate legs. Repeat 20 then backward, then downward, up to chest and back down. Alternate ANKLE CIRCLES ANKLE LiftCIRCLES feet off floor, Lift feet drawoffa floor, circledraw with a circleFOOT with PUMPS FOOT StartPUMPS with both withonboth the heels floor and on the point floor feetand upward point feet as high upward as h should also occasionally walk down We encourage you to do the theYou toes, simultaneously the toes,Exercise. simultaneously moving one foot moving clockwise one footyou clockwise as do you can.

Then as you putcan. both Then feet put flatboth on the the feetfloor. flat on Then theliftfloor. heels Then high,liftkeeping heels high, the keeping to 30 times for each leg. using a gentle, circular motion. hands. Repeat in 30-second intervals.

We recommend these exercises Exercise.

We encourage you to do the and the other and foot the counterclockwise. other foot counterclockwise.

Reverse circles.

Reverse balls circles. of your balls feet on of your the floor. feet on Continue the floor. cycle Continue in 30-second cycle in intervals.

30-second intervals.

KNEE LIFTS Lift leg with knee SHOULDER ROLLS Hunch ARM CURLS Arms held at 90° angles, aisles, as space permits.

In addition, weto exercises on this page Do each direction Do each forgentle direction 15 seconds. foronboard Repeat 15onboard seconds. if desired.

Repeat if desired. every KNEE LIFTS Lift leg with knee SHOULDER ROLLS Hunch ARM CURLS Arms held at 90° angles, for about five minutes one to two gentle exercises on this page to bent whileLIFTS contracting thighleg shoulders forward, then upward, elbows down, hands in front. Raise hands KNEE —your Lift SHOULDER ROLLS ARM CURLS Arms recommend that you avoid crossing your bent while contracting your thigh shoulders forward, then upward, elbows down,— hands in front. Raise hands enhance your wellbeing during hours.

You should also occasionally walklegs. muscle.knee Alternatebent legs. Repeat 20 then backward, then downward, to chest and back down. Alternate enhance your wellbeing duringthe theflight. flight. with — Hunch shoulders heldupup at muscle. Alternate legs.while Repeat 20 then backward, then downward, to90° chestangles, and back down. Alternate to 30 times for each leg. using a gentle, circular motion. hands.

Repeat in 30-second intervals. you do exercises SEATED down the aisles, as permits.

In MovingWe about the aircraft.

You may move contracting your forward, upward, elbows down, to 30 times forSTRETCHES each leg. thigh using athen gentle, circular motion. hands.

Repeat inhands 30-secondinintervals.

Werecommend recommend youspace dothese these exercises muscle. Alternate legs. then backward, then front. Raise hands up to for minutes one toand two addition, we recommend that you avoid about the aircraft as spaceevery permits when forabout aboutfive five minutes every one to two Repeat 20 to 30 times for downward, using a chest and back down. hours.

You should walk crossing your legs.also the seatbelt sign is off.

However, when the hours.

You should alsooccasionally occasionally walk each leg. gentle, circular motion.

Alternate hands.

Repeat SEATED aisles, asas space permits.

InInremain SEATEDSTRETCHES STRETCHES seatbeltdown signthe is you are required in 30-second intervals. down theon aisles, space permits.to addition, we recommend that you avoid Please note: you should not do any of seated with the seatbelt fastened. addition, we recommend that you avoid crossing your legs. these exercises if they cause you pain or If you feel unwell, tell the cabin crew.

They crossing your legs. cannot done withcommon ease. can assist withbe the more in-flight KNEE LIFTS KNEE Lift legLIFTS with knee Lift leg with knee you should SHOULDERnot SHOULDER ROLLSdo Hunch ROLLS Hunch ARM CURLSARM ArmsCURLS held atArms 90° angles, held at 9 Please note: any offurther complaints and, if necessary, can seek note: you shoulders should not do any bent while contracting bent whilePlease your contracting thigh your thigh forward, shoulders then forward, upward, thenof upward, elbows down,elbows handsdown, in front. hands Raiseinhand fron muscle. Alternate muscle. legs.

Alternate Repeat legs.

20 Repeat 20 then backward, then then backward, downward, then downward, up to chest and up to back chest down. and Alternate back down. these exercises if they cause you pain or Moving about the aircraft.

You may and assistance these exercises iffor they cause you pain to advice 30 times for to 30 each times leg. for each leg. using ayou. gentle, using circular a gentle, motion. circular motion.or hands. Repeat hands. in 30-second Repeat inintervals.

30-second cannot be move about thewith aircraft ascan space permits On descent.

Ears and sinuses cause cannot bedone done withease. ease.

SEATED SEATEDEXERCISES EXERCISES

Inflight Inflightcomfort comfort

and when thethe seatbelt sign is discomfort, due to change inoff. air pressure on descent.

To minimise discomfort: Moving about the aircraft.

You may about the asasspace you are required to remain seated with • Yawn move or swallow frequently. move about theaircraft aircraft spacepermits permits the seatbelt sign isisoff. the seatbelt fastened.

• Pinch and your nostrils together blow firmly andwhen when the seatbelt signand off.

However, when the seatbelt sign into your cheeks with mouth However, when theyour seatbelt signisclosed. ison on you are required to remain seated with Ifyou you feel unwell, tell the cabin crew. are required to remain seated with the fastened.

They can assist with the more common theseatbelt seatbelt fastened. inflight complaints and, if necessary, If you have ongoing discomfort, seekcan the Ifseek feel tell cabin further advice and assistance for you. advice of the cabin crew Ifyou you feelunwell, unwell, tellthe the cabincrew. crew.

They Theycan canassist assistwith withthe themore morecommon common inflight complaints and, if necessary, can descent.

Ears and sinuses can KNEE TO CHEST KNEEBend TOOn CHEST forward Bend slightly. forward slightly.

FORWARD FLEX With both FLEX feet With oncan both the floor feet on theOVERHEAD floor OVERHEAD STRETCH Raise STRETCH both hand Rais inflight complaints and, ifFORWARD necessary, Clasp hands Clasp aroundhands left knee around andleft hugknee it toand hug it toand stomach and heldstomach in, slowly held bend in, slowly forward bend forward straight up over straight yourup head. overWith yourone head. han seek further advice and assistance for you. cause discomfort, due toassistance the change seek further and for you. your chest. Hold yourthe chest. stretch Holdforthe15 stretch seconds. for 15advice seconds.and walk your and hands walkdown your hands the front down ofin your the front ofgrasp your the wrist grasp of the theopposite wrist of the hand oppos and

SEATED SEATED STRETCHES STRETCHES Moving about the aircraft.

You may However, when the seatbelt sign is on KNEE TO CHEST Bend forward slightly.

Clasp hands around left knee and hug it to your chest. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds.

Keeping hands around knee, slowly let it KNEE TO —10slightly.

Bend down.TOAlternate legs. times.

KNEE CHESTCHEST BendRepeat forward KNEE TO CHEST Bend Clasp forward slightly. forward Clasp hands slightly. around left knee and hug it to Clasp hands around left knee and hug it to your chest.around Hold the stretch knee for 15 seconds. hands and your chest. Hold theleft stretch for 15 seconds.

Keeping aroundchest. knee, slowly let it hug it hands tohands your Hold Keeping around knee, slowly let it down.stretch Alternate legs. Repeat 10 times. the seconds. down. Alternatefor legs.15 Repeat 10 times.

Keeping hands around knee, slowly let it down.

Alternate legs. Repeat 10 times each leg.

FORWARD FLEX With both feet on the floor OVERHEAD STRETCH Raise both hands and stomach held in, slowly bend forward straight up over your head. With one hand, and walk your hands down the front of your grasp the wrist of the opposite hand and legs toward your ankles. Hold the stretch for gently pull to one side. Hold the stretch FORWARD FLEX —back With STRETCH — for 15 seconds.

RepeatRaise on theboth other side.

15 secondsFLEX and slowly sit up.

FORWARD With both feet on the floor OVERHEAD OVERHEAD STRETCH hands FORWARD FLEX With both feet on the floor OVERHEAD STRETCHstraight Raise both hands both on floor both hands andfeet stomach heldthe in, slowly bend forward Raise straight up over your head. With one hand, and stomach held in, slowly bend forward straight up over your head. With one hand, walk your hands down front of your grasp theyour wrist of the opposite hand and andand stomach in,the slowly With and walk yourheld hands down the front of yourup over grasp the wristhead. of the opposite hand and legsforward toward your and ankles.walk Hold the stretch for onegently pull to one side.the Hold the stretch bend hand, legs toward your ankles. Hold the stretch for gently pullgrasp to one side. Holdwrist the stretch for 15opposite seconds. Repeathand on the other side. seconds and slowly the sit back up. your1515 hands front of the for 15 seconds. Repeat on theand other side. secondsdown and slowly sit back up.

of your legs toward your ankles. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds and slowly sit back up.

gently pull to one side.

Hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the Please note: you other side.

should not do any of these exercises Please note: you note: you SHOULDER STRETCH — Reach your right handcause over you ifPlease they should not do your left shoulder. Place your left hand behind your right should not doany any PLEASE NOTE: You pain or cannot be elbow and gently press your elbow toward yourexercises shoulder. ofofthese shouldSTRETCH not do any SHOULDER Reach your right hand HoldNECK With your these exercises the ROLLS stretch forshoulders 15 seconds. Repeat on thewith other side. done ease. over left shoulder.

Place yourifleft hand relaxed, drop your ear to shoulder and ofyour these exercises ififthey theycause causeyou you behind right elbow andpain gently press your gently roll your neck forward and to the theyyour cause you NECK ROLLS —each With your drop your elbow toward your be shoulder.

Hold the stretch other side, holding position for shoulders relaxed, pain or cannot be or cannot done pain or cannot be ear to shoulder and gently roll your neck forward and to forwith 15 seconds.

RepeatReach on theyour otherright side.hand five seconds.

Repeat times.

SHOULDER STRETCH NECK ROLLS With yourfive shoulders ease.

SHOULDER STRETCH Reach your right hand the other NECK ROLLS With your shoulders done with ease. side, holding each position for five seconds. over your left shoulder. Place your left hand relaxed, drop your ear to shoulder and done with ease. over your left shoulder. Place your left hand relaxed, drop your ear to shoulder and

Keeping hands Keeping around hands knee, around slowlyknee, let it slowly it legs toward your legs toward ankles. your Holdankles. the stretch Holdforthe stretch gently for pull togently one side. pull Hold to onetheside. stretch Hold air pressure onletdescent.

Toslowly minimise for Repeat 15 seconds. on theRepeat other on sideth down. Alternate down. legs.

Alternate Repeatlegs.

10 times.

Repeat 10 times. 15 seconds and 15 seconds sitand back slowly up. sit back up. for 15 seconds.

On discomfort: Ondescent. descent.Ears Earsand andsinuses sinusescan can cause discomfort, due to •cause Yawn or swallow frequently. discomfort, due tothe thechange changeinin air pressure descent.

ToTominimise •air Pinch youron nostrils together and blow pressure on descent. minimise discomfort: firmly into your cheeks with your discomfort: • •Yawn swallow mouth closed.

Yawnoror swallowfrequently. frequently.

• •Pinch Pinchyour yournostrils nostrilstogether togetherand andblow blow into your cheeks with your Iffirmly you have ongoing discomfort, firmly into your cheeks with your mouth seek theclosed. advice mouth closed.of the cabin crew.

times. behind your right elbow and gently press your Repeat gentlyfive roll your neck forward and to the gently roll your neck forward and to the other side, holding each position for other side, holding each position for five seconds. Repeat five times. for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side. five seconds. Repeat five times.

behind your right elbow and gently press your toward your shoulder. Hold the stretch 12 elbow elbow toward your shoulder. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

SHOULDER SHOULDER STRETCH Reach STRETCH your right Reach hand your right hand NECK ROLLSNECK With ROLLS your shoulders With your shoulders over your leftover shoulder. your left Place shoulder. your left Place hand your left handrelaxed, droprelaxed, your eardrop to shoulder your earand to shoulder and Ifyour have ongoing discomfort, Ifyou you have ongoing behind your behind right elbow and right gently elbow press and gently your press your gentlydiscomfort, roll your gently neckrollforward your neck and forward to the and to the elbow towardelbow your toward shoulder. your Hold shoulder. theadvice stretch Hold the stretch other side, holding other side, each holding positioneach for position for seek the of the cabin crew. seek the advice cabin crew. for 15 seconds. for Repeat 15 seconds. on theRepeat other on side. the other side.of fivethe seconds. five Repeat seconds. five times.

Repeat five times.

18 TrueBlue 12 12

12

12

Please note: Please you note should not should do any not d of theseofexercises these exer if they cause if theyyou cause pain or cannot pain orbe cann done with done ease. with e

Up, up and away!

Regional Express: Our heart is in the country Bamaga NPA

Mornington Island (Gununa) Karumba Normanton

Cairns

Burketown Doomadgee

Townsville Mount Isa

Julia Creek

Hughenden

Richmond

Winton

Boulia

Longreach Bedourie

Windorah Charleville

Birdsville Carnarvon

Brisbane West Wellcamp (Toowoomba)

Quilpie Cunnamulla

Monkey Mia Coober Pedy

Brisbane

St George

Thargomindah

Lismore Ceduna

Grafton (Yamba) Armidale

Broken Hill

Perth

Port Augusta Whyalla

Ballina (Byron Bay)

Dubbo

Parkes

Orange Esperance Albany

Mildura

Port Lincoln

Adelaide

Kangaroo Island (Kingscote)

Griffith

Newcastle Bathurst

Narrandera-Leeton Wagga Wagga Albury

Mount Gambier

Melbourne

Sydney

Moruya Snowy Mountains (Cooma) Merimbula

King Island

Burnie

OCT/NOV 2019

19

Check-in Info

CHECK- IN

BAGGAGE

Online check-in You can check-in online through the Rex website, rex.com.au, on your desktop or mobile devices between 48 hours and 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time of your flight.

Checked baggage Passengers on all fares (except Rex Flex) are permitted a 15 kilogram free baggage allowance.

Passengers in possession of a Rex Flex Fare are permitted a 23 kilogram free baggage allowance.

Airport check-in If you have checked baggage, we recommend that you arrive at the airport for check-in at least 60 minutes before the scheduled departure of your flight at all airports except Burketown, Queensland (90 minutes before).

Passengers with international connections (within 24 hours) are permitted a 23 kilogram free baggage allowance upon presenting a valid itinerary or ticket.

Rex check-in closes: •6 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at Burketown airport.

•3 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Queensland airports (with the exception of Burketown above).

•2 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at regional airports in NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA.

Cabin baggage A maximum of two pieces per passenger up to a total of 7 kilograms of cabin baggage is permitted on board.

Excess baggage Excess baggage is permitted subject to restrictions of the day and a surcharge of $7.70 per kilogram.

Virgin Australia Baggage Agreement Rex accepts the checking of baggage to/from Virgin Australia flights. Ask at check-in for more information.

Passengers with special requirements Passengers with special requirements must check-in at the airport (online check-in is not available) no later than: •6 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure in major cities and all Queensland regional airports except Burketown (please see below).

• 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure in NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA regional airports.

• 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure in Burketown.

REX AIRCR AFT FACTS

AIRCRAFT

MAX. TAKE-OFF WEIGHT (KG)

SPEED (KM/H)

AVAILABLE SEATS

GALLEY

REST ROOM

FLEET SIZE

CRUISE ALTITUDE (METRES)

CREW

SAAB 340

13,155

520

34

Y

Y

60

8,000

3

20 TrueBlue

Entertainment

Entertainment

Compiled by: Sarah hinder

books

tour Elton John: Yellow Brick Road Tour

Me, Elton John

October 2019, Macmillan, autobiography The first (and only) complete autobiography of Sir Elton John reveals the truth about his life in his own words, also chronicled in recently released film Rocketman.

The release of Elton’s book coincides with his Australian world tour, which kicks off in Perth this November.

Damascus, Christos Tsiolkas

October 2019, Allen & Unwin, fiction One of Australia’s most esteemed contemporary writers releases his muchanticipated first long-form work since novel Barracuda in 2013. The story is set during the founding of the Christian Church, focussing on Saint Paul and the early years following Jesus’ death.

ANZAC & Aviator, Michael Molkentin

October 2019, Allen & Unwin, biography In November 1919 Sir Ross Smith was one of four Aussie serviceman to make the first ever flight from England to Australia. From enlisting in the cavalry at age 22 to earning his reputation as one of the greatest fighter pilots of the war, this true story recounts his remarkable life.

November 30– March 7, 2020 around Australia In his last ever tour, Elton wraps up half a century on the road and one of the most influential music careers of the 20th century. Performing in locations around the country, Aussies sing out ‘Goodbye Yellow Brick Road’ alongside Elton one final time. eltonjohn.com

art

THEATRE Tennessee William’s Baby Doll

October 18–November 16 at Ensemble Theatre in Sydney, NSW This anticipated new adaptation of Tennessee William’s Baby Doll brings to life a tale of lust, jealousy and betrayal set in the Deep South. Peppered with comedy, power and passion come irresistibly to the fore as a game of truth or dare plays out. ensemble.com.au

WOMEN IN VOGUE: Celebrating 60 Years in Australia

Adut Akech

by Charles Dennington (Vogue 2018).

October 11–November 24 at National Portrait Gallery in Canberra ACT Showcasing the remarkable Vogue Australia archive of the last 60 years, this one-off exhibition pays tribute to eminent Australian women who have graced its pages.

The archives include iconic portraits of Kylie Minogue and Elle Macpherson. portrait.gov.au OCT/NOV 2019

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Events Calendar

What’s on & What’s hot Our pick of the very best gigs, festivals, and cultural and sporting events from around the country.

Compiled by: Sarah hinder

October 20, November 10 & 24 The Color Run Love Tour

Perth WA, Sydney NSW & Melbourne Vic This colour-sprayed five-kilometre fun run, which raises funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation, will visit Perth for the first time this year. thecolorrun.com.au

October 17–November 3

October 18–27

Adelaide SA This vibrant program of contemporary Asian arts features free workshops, community performances and Australia’s largest Moon Lantern Parade. ozasiafestival.com.au

Byron Bay NSW Attend insightful conversations, filmmaking panels, red carpet nights and feature film screenings. bbff.com.au

OzAsia Festival

October 18–27

Orange Wine Festival

Orange NSW Expect weekends filled with premium food and wine experiences, night markets focussing on fine cuisine and roving regional lunch tours. orangewinefestival.com.au

22 TrueBlue

Byron Bay Film Festival

October 24–November 10 Sculpture by the Sea Sydney NSW The largest free public sculpture exhibition in the world follows a pop-up sculpture park along the two-kilometre coastal walk between Bondi and Tamarama. sculpturebythesea.com

October 25–November 3 Grafton Jacaranda Festival

Grafton NSW To a backdrop of violet and mauve, street parades, carnival sideshows and open gardens pop up around this regional town. jacarandafestival.com

November 7–10

Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival

Bendigo Vic This free grassroots event sees more than 100 artists perform throughout the Bendigo region. bendigobluesandroots.com.au

Events Calendar Events

January 17–26

Toyota Country Music Festival Tamworth NSW Tamworth is Australia’s country music capital, home of the Big Golden Guitar and renowned for hosting the biggest country music stars, with the biggest crowd at Australia’s biggest music festival!

The festival sees out 10 big days each January.

From start to finish, the festival is full of music, entertainment and activities to be enjoyed by all who attend.

Itineraries can be filled by wandering through the buskers that line Peel Street (aka country music’s ‘Boulevard of Dreams’), by witnessing up-close performances by some of

November 9 This That

Newcastle NSW Featuring the likes of Golden Features and Peking Duk, This That combines its park-like festival vibe with Newcastle’s urban cool. thisthat.com.au

November 9

Handpicked Festival

Langhorne Creek SA More than a music festival, Handpicked shows off the wares of local artisans and wineries to the soundtrack of new laidback tunes. handpickedfestival.com

November 8–17

Western Australia Gourmet Escape

Swan Valley, Perth & Margaret River WA This long weekend attracts some of the best chefs

the biggest names in the industry, by making your way to Toyota Park for a free night of outstanding entertainment, by enjoying the delicious flavours of the region in restaurants, cafés and pubs around town, and by simply taking in the whole experience of being in Tamworth.

TCMF-goers are guaranteed to make the biggest memories while enjoying the biggest festival with the biggest atmosphere ever! So, if you haven’t already, put the Toyota Country Music Festival on your must-do list this January 2020. tcmf.com.au

from around the world in a gourmet showcase of these stunning regions.

This year extends its reach to the Swan Valley and Perth. gourmetescape.com.au

November 9–24

Feast Festival

Adelaide SA Adelaide’s queer arts and cultural festival celebrates the diversity of sexuality and gender with theatre, music, comedy and parties across this vibrant city. feast.org.au

November 14–17

Mullum Music Festival Mullumbimby NSW This relaxed music festival features artists from a range of genres, as well as workshops, horticulture and farmers markets. mullummusicfestival.com

November 23–24

january 8–12

Tamar Valley Tas Farmers from the plentiful Tamar Valley host this weekend of behind-thescenes farm tours and tastings of fresh produce paired with local wines straight from the cellar door. farmgatefestival.net.au

Parkes NSW Dedicated to everything Elvis, Parkes hosts a massive annual Elvis-themed festival.

Take part in tribute concerts and vintage street parties alongside throngs of Elvis impersonators and fanatics. parkeselvisfestival.com.au

Farmgate Festival

Parkes Elvis Festival

OCT/NOV 2019

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Out & About

The Byng Street Boutique Hotel, Orange The Byng Street Boutique Hotel is Orange’s newest 4.5-star, luxury accommodation experience located right in the heart of town.

Formerly the historic ‘Yallungah’ homestead (c.1896), the building has undergone extensive renovations to create a spectacular juxtaposition of the significant historical homestead and contemporary architecture.

As you explore the building, you quickly appreciate the hotel’s commitment to its historical past, coupled with the magnificence of the modern additions.

The hotel presents 22 beautifully appointed rooms and suites. Choose from the superior comfort of the contemporary designed ‘Modern Wing’ or discover the historical style and charm of the ‘Heritage Wing’.

After a relaxing slumber, wake up to a delicious à la carte breakfast showcasing fresh local produce from Orange and the surrounding region.

The Byng Street Boutique Hotel will not disappoint if you are someone who appreciates unique style, luxurious comfort and service with warmth and sophistication.

For more information, visit byngstreethotel.com.au

CRAFT WORKS DISTILLERY

HUMANISING THE ART OF WHISKY We tell our story one cask at a time.

We pride ourselves that we engage with our loyal followers so they become part of Craft Works Distillery Australian craft spirits journey We share what it is to make small batch craft spirits.

We are Craft Works Distillery, distilling Australian craft single malt whisky, Eau de Vie and releasing internationally multi awarded independent bottlings.

WWW.CRAFTWORKER.COM.AU

Be out there in Parkes for a bucket list of quirky events, festivals and colourful experiences Be out there in Parkes for a bucket list visitparkes.com.au of quirky events, festivals and colourful experiences

Cover Story

26 TrueBlue

Cover Story

There’s something about

Lisa

Lisa Wilkinson is undoubtedly one of the most recognised faces in Australia – and after almost four decades in media she is still one of the country’s most prominent working journalists and a much-needed champion for ‘real news’.

She is always ready with a quick and wellinformed reply, and is always up for a great debate. She is also incredibly straight-forward and vocal about having no tolerance for the ‘BS fake news’ that is a well-fed monster in today’s society, making her a wonderful role model for young people.

“The public needs to pay attention to real journalism. And if you are a journalist, then look for the facts. Real journalism is about scraping away the top layer and finding what lies beneath,” she says. “It is what people are looking for, as there is so much rubbish out there. Never has there been a bigger need for great journalism than right now.”

Lisa thinks it’s a damn shame that Donald Trump made the term ‘fake news’ such a prominent saying. “Yet while there are

journalists out there ready to compromise themselves, it’s going to thrive,” she says.

“I mourn the affect that it’s having on so many young people today and I pity the people who produce and peddle it. They need to take a good hard look at the culture they are creating.

My overriding attitude to all of that is to ignore it as much as you can and to put energy into the things that matter. Look at what is worth your time, energy and emotions. And you cannot rely on social media for worth and self-esteem. That is so self-destructive.”

This ethical approach to journalism was ingrained in Lisa from a very young age, and she had role models herself – people that she recognised as accomplished journalists worthy of her attention. In fact, she can pin down two overriding memories from her teens that reflect the woman she is today. “One memory is being the first kid on the block in Campbelltown to buy Dolly magazine,” she says. This set Lisa on the path to becoming the youngest editor of the magazine ever at just 21. 

Images: courtesy of Network 10

We meet Australian television presenter and journalist Lisa Wilkinson. WORDS: Michelle Hespe

OCT/NOV 2019

27

Lisa with her The Project co-presenters Waleed Aly, Carrie Bickmore and Peter Helliar.

“You cannot rely on social media for worth and self-esteem.

It’s so selfdestructive.”

“And from a young age I was really into great journalists and social commentators such as Mike Willesee and Caroline Jones, A Current Affair reporter Sue Smith, Andrew Olle and Bill Peach from the ABC. “I loved watching great journos like that on TV – I lapped up the daily news and current affairs. They were all really hitting their stride when I was at school and it just became a part of my DNA. After my HSC I scored a job at Dolly, and I remember thinking: ‘It doesn’t get any better than this!”

But it did get better – a lot better – for Lisa as the years have gone on. She has rocketed along a dizzyingly successful career path while also getting married to media personality Peter FitzSimons, raising their three kids, and being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2016.

Lisa was still working in magazines (as International Editor-in-Chief of Cleo) when she had her first child, and while on maternity leave with her second child was approached for a six-week gig on Australian talk show Beauty and the Beast.

“I figured I had a job to go back to, and what was the worst that could happen?” she says with a laugh. “I felt as though I had nothing to lose by giving it a go, and I really

enjoyed it. I loved doing something new, thinking on my feet and staring down the barrel of a camera. I was thrilled, because at that stage I had no TV runs on the board.”

For the next six years Lisa combined her role on Network Ten and Foxtel’s Beauty and the Beast and running her international magazine consultancy. By 2005 she was hosting Weekend Sunrise and had become a household name.

Then along came the TODAY breakfast show where she presented alongside Karl Stefanovic, and 10 years later she has found her next calling as a co-host on The Project.

“I love working on The Project as it gets to the essence of the important issues that have been around for the past 24 hours in an informative and entertaining way,” she says.

“We want to put to air stories that truly matter, and we want people to be able to have a laugh as well. It’s the honesty of it that I love.

And I am just so blessed with the opportunity to sit next to, and work with people like Hamish, Waleed, Carrie, Georgie, Pete and Tommy – they are wonderful human beings.”

On a recent airing of The Sunday Project, Hamish Macdonald met with Greg Jerry, a fourth-generation farmer whose business and family have been devastated by drought. It shocked viewers to learn that every morning  OCT/NOV 2019

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Cover Story

“We want to put to air stories that truly matter, and we want people to be able to have a laugh as well.” many of his cattle have to be lifted to a standing position as they are too weak to themselves.

“Within 15 minutes of the show going to air, $120,000 had been raised for the family, as so many Australians were so moved by their plight,” Lisa says with pride and unconcealed sadness. “Aussies want to help whenever they can, and things like that really say something about who we are. Look at the recent tragic situation that unfolded in Sydney when a person went on a rampage. Instead of us responding with guns – God only knows what would happened if guns were allowed as they are in America – some brave people reacted with café chairs and milk crates. Those people stepped up selflessly. Both these situations sum up the Aussie spirit, and it makes me proud.”

Lisa travels a lot for her work on The Project, and she reveals that she couldn’t be happier when she’s on the road. “Pete and I had our honeymoon in Noosa, and it was also the first place I ever went on a family holiday. I’ve been faithful to it ever since,” she says. “If I don’t get my Noosa fix, something is not right in world!“ Lisa is also incredibly passionate about the Red Centre. “The Northern Territory is incredible, and tends to be a bucket list destination for many. But a lot of people don’t get to their bucket lists, so I encourage people to get out there and do these things – sooner rather than later.

“The moment when you see Uluru is just mindblowing,” she says. “It looks like a higher being has placed it there. You look away for 30 seconds, and it’s changed! It really is the beautiful beating heart of this country.“ “Then there’s the Kimberley, the Great Ocean Road, country Victoria – Bendigo, Ballarat and Beechworth. When we were there recently, Pete and I both asked: ‘Who’s been keeping this place a secret?’

“That’s the beauty of Australia – there is just so much to see in this remarkable country.” TB

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REDISCOVER

SYDNEY

Unexpected experiences and places to explore around this beautiful city will have reconsidering what you think you know about Sydney. Words: Sarah Hinder

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Getaway

Images: Destination NSW

Get outdoors Left image, then clockwise from top left: Queenscliff tunnel links Queenscliff Beach to Freshwater Beach; View of Lavender Bay and Sydney Harbour from McMahon’s Point; Jonah’s Restaurant & Boutique Hotel at Whale Beach; share plates at Q Station, Manly North Head.

Sydney is well known for its beaches and its beauty. But there’s far more to this diverse city to explore than the regular sunny days spent at Bondi and boating around the harbour.

If you’re in search of green spaces, go north.

A veritable bushland haven, the north side of the city is pocketed, literally all over, with bushland filled with tracks and trails for all skill levels to explore.

A good place to start is anywhere along the Great North Walk. Winding its way all the way from Sydney to Newcastle, the epic trail begins in the centre of the city, before making its way across the harbour and meandering between pockets of bushland throughout the leafy northern suburbs.

Meanwhile down south, the Royal National Park is a popular (but very worthwhile) venture into seaside scrubland with stunning vistas straight out to sea. Forgo the well-trodden tourist tracks towards Wedding Cake Rock, and perhaps try out the Palm Jungle loop track beginning right down south.

Sydney’s Northern Beaches is home to, in my (and many locals’) opinion, the best and most beautiful beaches that all of Sydney has to offer.

An easy ferry ride over from the city, Manly attracts loads of visitors in the warmer months, and is a great place to start – bursting at the seams with hip cafés, swanky bars and restaurants, ice cream parlours, cool street shopping and a good patrolled beach.

However, just a hop and skip up the coast, you’ll find less frequented, beautiful beaches with fewer tourists and welcoming, laidback locals.

There are several unpretentious beaches up north. For a few goodies – try out Whale, Avalon, Narrabeen and Newport. All offer a perfect combo of places to eat just a short walk from the beach and relaxed beaches where you’ll meet local northern Sydneysiders. For something even more quiet, take the (several) stairs down to Bilgola or tiny Turrimetta.  OCT/NOV 2019

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Images: Destination NSW

Untold histories

While you’re northside, be sure to head down to the Q Station at Manly North Head.

Originally the historic Quarantine Station, where migrants and other arrivals to Australia were quarantined before entering the country, the station holds history in its walls.

Its days of quarantine began in the 14th century as a way to protect Australia’s coastal communities from plague epidemics, and between the 1830s and 1984, many migrant ships suspected of contagious diseases were required to dock and offload its passengers at the Quarantine Station before being admitted to the general population.

In the decades before and after its closure, the station has been used for other purposes, including tours that preserve its history.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Tracy, which hit the Northern Territory on Christmas Day 1974, most of Darwin’s population was evacuated to other Australian cities, with many in Sydney housed at the Quarantine Station.

My grandfather worked there at the time, and my father remembers handing out blankets and food to the evacuees as a kid.

Today’s reincarnation is the modern-day Q Station, where visitors can explore the grounds, take nightly ghost tours and stay the night in its original restored buildings.

A short walk up to the headland delivers stunning panoramic views back towards the Sydney skyline unlike any other vantage point around the city (North Head is the

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furthest headland out from the Harbour).

The Sydney basin was once inhabited by 29 Aboriginal clans, collectively known as ’Eora’.

A great way for visitors to explore Sydney’s Aboriginal history is on an Indigenous-led tour.

In the city’s newest harbourside precinct, an Aboriginal Walking Tour around Barangaroo, provides some insight into the local natural environment and culture of the Indigenous people who lived here for thousands of years.

Join an Aboriginal Heritage Tour when wandering the Royal Botanic Gardens to discover its Indigenous heritage through local plants, bush tucker, artefacts and storytelling.

Images: Q Station at Manly North Head; Barangaroo Aboriginal Walking Tour.

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Image: James Horan

Entertainment

Clockwise from top: Farmers Markets at Carriageworks; Facade of the MCA; Archie Rose Distillery.

While expansive and epic at first glance, Sydney has an intimate and unintruding arts scene – which is so worth getting to know.

Its cobblestoned laneways and backstreets swirl throughout the inner city suburbs, where unpretentious art galleries and secret rooftop bar doorways shyly poke their nose.

Though a big institution, there’s no going past the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) when listing the best arts and culture in the city. Modern art and multimedia exhibitions perennially fill its high-ceilinged halls, while the upstairs view overlooking the harbour is something else – a hotspot during Vivid Sydney.

For something different, look out for MCA ARTBAR, which hosts themed events at the museum after dark four times a year, curated by a different artist or art collective each time.

In Redfern, Carriageworks cannot be underrated as fantastic arts venue. The versatile space, which is based around an old tram station, features art exhibitions yearround, (including the Biennale of Sydney), as well as weekly Farmers Markets and fabulously curated events like the Sydney Writers Festival.

For a night out, small bars, eateries and clubs line the streets throughout Surry Hills, Paddington and Darlinghurst – in this inner city triangle you’ll be spoilt for choice of almost any cuisine you could imagine.

Just south of the CBD, a tour of Archie Rose Distillery is a great way to quench your thirst while learning a little. The boutique distillery offers a range of experiences, such as its signature distillery tour, where you can learn how gin, whisky and vodka are produced. For an even more hands-on experience, try a ginor whisky-making class, where you learn the art of whisky blending and gin botanicals, before taking home your own signature blend, and a little taste of Sydney, at day’s end. TB OCT/NOV 2019

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Outback Adventure

A BIG-SKY STORY:

L ong reach

Find out why it’s so satisfying to stay awhile and listen to the stories that the ‘heart of the outback’ is telling.

WORDs: jac taylor

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OutbackAdventure

Images: TEQ

Left to right: Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience; Starlight’s Spectacular Sound & Light Picture Show; Cattle droving near Longreach.

The name alone conveys adventure and exploration. Longreach is that intriguing dot on the map, smackbang in the centre of the giant state of Queensland. It is indeed a long reach from anywhere, though it’s named after the ‘long reach’ of the Thomson River, on which the town is set.

As you can imagine with such an extreme place, holding its own on the plains of the Central West, 700 kilometres from the coast and almost the same to Mount Isa in the other direction, this town has a surplus of stories to tell. From the families that have worked the land for a century and more, to the seasonal workers bumping up the population each year, the yarns that people tell about life in this stunning, mind-bending location weave together to make a strong and fascinating town fabric that makes any visit to Longreach unforgettable, if you take a little time to talk.

This is not the place to keep your head down at the pub. The locals have too much to tell you.

Flying into Longreach, the town

beneath you is an orderly island, floating amongst the seemingly endless expanse of red earth below and blue sky above. Big-sky country reaches right up to the edge of its grid of streets, butting up to the fences and backyards of suburban residents and available to any visitor who takes a five-minute walk from their hotel.

Pause at sunset on that edge, where desert meets town, and you may be rewarded with mobs of muscle-bound kangaroos passing you by, or flocks of chattering birds heading to the river for their end-of-day social.

The river itself is a surprise. Thomson River is not only the lifeblood of the town and its wildlife, but of the region’s thriving tourism industry. “People come out and don’t realise the river is long enough and deep enough to have three different boats on it,” says Joyce Rogers, the owner of Toobrack Station, who I mistake for a local when we chat.

But she quickly corrects me. “No, no,” she says. “I’m not a local – you’ve got to be born here to be ‘a local’. I only came out here in ’56.”

By the water

Those three boats do a great job taking visitors to the region through the Longreach landscape, packaged with other must-do outback experiences, so even the most casual tourist can come away with an enjoyable taste of bush life.

Outback Aussie Tours’ MV Explorer boasts 360-degree views from the top deck – ideal for birdwatching or simply basking – with a bar, nibbles, plenty of stories told by the captain as you glide through the water, and a stop at Sunset Bend to toast another spectacular outback dusk.

Meanwhile, the Thomson Belle claims its stake as the only paddlewheeler west of the Great Divide, and along with its sister, the Thomson Princess riverboat, is run by Outback Pioneers for a slick cruising experience either way.

Storytelling wears a professional face these days in Longreach, and all cruises include a feed and plenty of entertainment. The MV Explorer stops at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show for  OCT/NOV 2019

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a two-course camp-oven dinner, plus plenty of music and storytelling on stage; Outback Pioneers’ two options similarly include some onshore fun in the shape of a campfire dinner and barefoot bush poetry, then a bigscreen presentation called Starlight’s Spectacular Sound & Light Picture Show.

On the land

Harry’s Restaurant at the Longreach Motor Inn.

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Image: Sarah Kennedy

Thomson River cruise.

One of the main attractions in Longreach is undoubtedly the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre: a long name for an equally comprehensive place. Capturing the spirit of Longreach – the tenacity of its pioneers, the impressive bushcraft of its stockmen and women, its love of a good story – can’t have been easy. Yet here the staff have beautifully turned the intangible into the tangible, accessible with all five senses.

The museum and heritage centre breaks the town’s history into five separate galleries, but it is the Outback Stockman’s Show that really brings station life into focus for visitors, with local stockmen and women (and their trusty farm dogs) showing off their best herding and animal handling skills. The experience includes a filling bush-style meal, storytelling and musical entertainment, and makes the sometimes extreme stories of bush life feel so much more appreciable,

even for city slickers or suburban kids Of course, nothing can give you a true appreciation of station life like actually staying on a property yourself, and there are opportunities to do just that around Longreach. It’s particularly satisfying to know your tourist dollars are going directly to those working the hardest out here, too. A special and inspiring stay awaits at Noonbah Station, a working cattle station run by the fourth generation of the Emmott family.

Those who live on the land can be tough, but Noonbah has a soft side, too.

Angus Emmott is a passionate natural historian, registered wildlife carer and nature photographer, and he loves to take visitors on his natural history tours around the property. Combine that with waterside camping spots (among other accommodation options on the station) and you’ll never see the outback the same way again. Once you take the time to look, the place is teeming with wildlife, from frogs to birdlife to Australian native animals. All funds raised go toward Angus and Karen’s caring for orphaned or injured wildlife.

If you want a different taste of Longreach history, Outback Pioneers recreates the original Cobb & Co Longreach to Windorah mail route by stagecoach, drawn by five stock horses.

It’s not a luxury tour, but it’s a fantastic experience, and definitely an adventure, for those who don’t mind a bump or

Images: TEQ

Sunset at Toobrack Station.

three on the journey – especially if your idea of luxury is scones with jam and cream, a movie, some entertainment and a billycan lunch at the end.

Under the night sky

Far from the bright lights on the coast, Longreach’s orange street lights may colour the occasional scudding cloud, but the glory of the Milky Way is still visible most nights just a few minutes’ walk away from the main street.

Longreach Tourist Park, on the outskirts of town, is flat, red-earthed and simple, but the stars stretching above it make for a luxury canopy if you want to camp close to town.

Within the town centre, six motels make up the total of more conventional accommodation options, and they are often booked out – so be sure to make a reservation ahead. It’s a similar message for Longreach’s best-known fine dining option, Harry’s Restaurant at the Longreach Motor Inn, which often turns around 70 to 100 plates in an evening, including weeknights.

Whether you’re staying at the Motor Inn or not, it’s where you head for good beef Wellington or the best fish

dinner in town. “It’s buzzing here every single night,” says staff member Sarah Kennedy as we chat. “And a lot of nights, we are turning people away.”

A surprising option in Longreach is Indian food, with both Curry Across the Street and Little Star Indian Restaurant producing delicious, authentic offerings.

Breakfasts are getting mighty fancy here, too, with detox smoothies available at the Secret Garden Café, and coffee to write home about at Casey’s in the main street. Meanwhile, Outback Pics does double duty, with a photography gallery and shop combining rather perfectly with coffee and cakes in the shady courtyard.

Worth a visit

Longreach School of Distance Education – take a daily tour, see a ‘remote’ lesson in action and smile at the fact your tour fee goes to assisting this essential service for outback kids.

Camden Park Station – just a short drive out of town is reputedly the British Royal Family’s favourite Longreach spot: a working cattle and sheep station and a fascinating visit.

Welcome Home Café & Tearoom and Stonegrill – grab some outback tucker at the Outback Pioneers booking office, in the form of biscuits and slices for ‘smoko’, to lamb shanks and hotstone steaks for the serious eaters. TB

Fact File Outback Aussie Tours outbackaussietours.com.au Outback Pioneers outbackpioneers.com.au Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre outbackheritage.com.au Noonbah Station noonbahstation.com.au Longreach Motor Inn longreachmotorinn.com.au Outback Pics outbackpics.com.au Longreach School of Distance Education longreachsde.eq.edu.au Camden Park Station camdenparkstation.com.au OCT/NOV 2019

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Getaway This page, then clockwise from top left: Philip Moore uprooting some Tumeric; Entrance to The Fragrant Garden at Distillery Botanica; Chef Dan Hughes of Bar Botanica; Fresh herbs bring gin to life; Chef Sean Connolly of Bon Pavilion; Vineyard at Firescreek Fruit Wines; Nadia, owner of Firescreek Fruit Wines, enjoying a wine tasting with guests; Cosy seating at Saddles; Philip Moore and his award-winning gin.

DOWN to E arth The NSW Central Coast has some fresh new offerings that are tempting those cruising up the highway to turn off, slow down and switch off.

Words: Michelle Hespe

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Image: Jacs Powell

Image: Jacs Powell

T here’s something so down-to-earth about the place and the people here.

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M Getaway

My partner and I are sitting in highly polished sturdy horse saddles enjoying a lovely bottle of pinot noir and a charcuterie and cheese board that tastes as good as it looks. That’s not a typo – we are very comfortably seated at the brass-scalloped bar of Saddles, otherwise known by locals and staff as ’Singo’s loungeroom’.

After media magnate, entrepreneur and businessman John Singleton sold the iconic Icebergs in Bondi for $15 million, it must have made perfect sense to invest in the beautiful land near his home on his beloved Central Coast. When he switches off from work, he can amble across the paddock and enjoy time with family and friends in this beautifully rustic restaurantcome-bakehouse that offers guests a grassroots country experience only an hour’s drive from Sydney CBD. It’s a joint venture with acclaimed restaurateurs Cameron and Hayley Cansdell, who also own Bombini and Bombini Pizza at Avoca Beach and Fish Dining at Point Frederick.

They worked with The John Singleton Group and White Dickson Architects to deliver this feel-good 11-acre property grandly spanning a dam.

Saddles is a culinary breakthrough for this picture-perfect patch of the Central Coast – gourmands travelling up the coast now have somewhere

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to stop, refresh and indulge before an open fireplace in the winter, or on a sprawling Queenslander-style wooden deck in the warmer months.

The place smells like home – the scents of sourdough, pastries, pies, sausage rolls, pasta and soup constantly permeate the air. They’re made here daily alongside the other treats on the menu, which has been designed to offer guests ever-changing hearty country-style fare created with local seasonal ingredients.

As we sip, nibble and relax, a waiter points out the painting hanging above the fireplace of a simple old Australian farm shack with a tin roof – it’s one of Singo’s favourite pieces, and where the inspiration for this venture came from.

The saddles we’re sitting on also tie into the theme – they were created by artisan saddler and stuntman Heath Harris, who worked with Singleton at his nearby Strawberry Hills Stud and appeared in the well-known hill scene from The Man from Snowy River. There are many other interesting pieces dotted about the place, making it look like a 100-year old renovated barn rather than a perfectly planned new-build.

It’s an over-used saying, but there’s something so down-to-earth about the place and the people working and dining here. And so Saddles sets the tone for the rest of our trip.

STAY THE NIGHT There are seemingly endless places to stay in the many lovely villages and towns on the Central Coast, and most have either bushland or ocean vistas.

There’s a plethora of B&Bs, and the upmarket faves Bell’s at Killcare and Pretty Beach House are like honey to bees for those after a luxury getaway.

In the mid-range offerings there’s a newcomer on the scene taking full advantage of its breathtakingly pristine hinterland and beach views. The Outlook Cabana is tucked into dense

Getaway Fantastic views from Seasalt Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific.

bushland and surrounded by mature flower-filled gardens. Overlooking rainforest with a sublime view of Avoca Beach, the romantic couples-only glass-walled cabin perched above an infinity pool offers complete privacy (when you have the blinds down), and on the property there are bushwalks and a horse riding academy.

If getting into the action of the Central Coast is more your style, Terrigal is a buzzing seaside location with the Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific hotel proudly positioned at its epicentre. The 199-room palatial complex has stunning ocean views, live music, a heated swimming pool with a poolside bar, a fitness centre and a range of stylishly decorated spaces to eat and drink.

Onsite Seasalt restaurant is a favourite for locals and visitors alike, and with its floor-to-ceiling windows you can take in the ocean views while enjoying chef Simon Quick’s modern Australian meals.

Tuck into the best-selling seafood platter, with a side of his famous halloumi fries, and don’t sleep in too long as you might miss the rightfully raved about breakfast, where the offerings are as expansive as they are fresh and delicious.

Image: Jacs Powell

CENTRAL COAST SCENIC SIPS

Fact File Saddles at Mt White saddlesmtwhite.com.au The Outlook Cabana theoutlookcabana.com.au Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific terrigalpacific.crowneplaza.com Firescreek Fruit Wines firescreek.com.au

Saddles, aka Singo’s loungeroom.

“Save the planet – it’s the only one with wine on it” says the sign inside Firescreek Fruit Wines. I have a chuckle as we meet up with owner and winemaker Nadia. Despite her family once being city dwellers, she is another down-to-earth champion of the Central Coast, who knows just how lucky she is to have access to such an energising lifestyle in a beautiful location.

As we wander about her fruit winery, Nadia’s plump Wyandotte chickens roam about – the intricate patterning of their feathers making them look as though they’re wearing fancy lace coats.

A lot of ’peep-peeping’ is going on, and she stops to pluck a tiny fluffy chick from the grass and offers up a cuddle. “Her mother is relaxed, and doesn’t mind  OCT/NOV 2019

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Firescreek Fruit Wines.

at all,” she says with a smile.

We enjoy a tasting of the latest six varieties of Nadia’s wines – raspberry, chilli & orange, blueberry & lavender, coffee & blackcurrant, plum & rose petal, and peach – and are completely surprised by the layers of flavour explosions that unfold. The wines are fermented in steel vats for around a year, so the sugar has long gone.

What’s left to lovingly bottle is fruity combinations, often with a surprisingly dry aftertaste. We buy one of each for the cellar, knowing that they’ll be the perfect ingredient for a range of unusual Kir Royales at our next dinner party.

With so much happening on the Central Coast, some savvy locals put their heads together and created Central Coast Scenic Sips – a selfguided tour where people can visit four different ‘sip-based’ operators all a few minutes cruise from one another.

And so our next stop is Distillery

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Botanica and Bar Botanica, both of which are on the same grounds only five minutes down the road from Firescreek.

The property was formerly known (and well-loved) as The Fragrant Garden. Now the collaborative operators have breathed new life into the garden concept, and it’s a busier and more charming venue than ever.

Distillery Botanica is the brainchild of master horticulturist and herbalist Philip Moore, who has dedicated 20 years of his life to distilling. Using a traditional copper still he blends each of the six separate distillations by hand, and the result is highly distinctive, award-winning liqueurs and gins. Philip has won seven golds and six silver medals in prestigious spirit competitions, and Moore’s gin is the first Australian gin to have ever won gold in the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition.

Nigel Weisbaum is the manager of Distillery Botanica. His humour, absolute

passion for distilling and amazing depth of booze knowledge make the educational tastings here a real treat.

He fits right into the mob of down-toearth people who call this happening place home. Try to wiggle your way out of being the designated driver for this tasting, as it’s worth trying every one of Philip’s concoctions.

Next on the sipping tour we cross the courtyard and enter Bar Botanica.

Formerly a cluttered gift store, the building, which is a bit log cabin and a bit yurt, has a waterfall window, brick floors and sandstone walls.

It’s surrounded by thriving herb, flower and vegetable gardens, and inside, chef and café owner Dan Hughes has hired staff who are obviously passionate about making excellent coffee. They also happily scoop up and hand out award-winning Mr Goaty Gelato to excited patrons.

Dan runs a tight kitchen where light 

Northern Peninsula Area

WITH RESPECT AND PRIDE WE STRIVE TO BUILD A FUTURE FOR OUR CHILDREN BASED ON UNITY, EQUITABLE SELF–GOVERNANCE, EDUCATION AND CULTURE. Cape York is at the very northern tip of Australia. It’s a narrow peninsula only 80 miles south of Papua New Guinea, with the Coral Sea to the east, the Arafura Sea/Gulf of Carpentaria to the west and the Torres Strait Islands to the north.

The Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) is a land of two seasons: the wet season, December to April, and the dry season, May to November. NPA is made up of five Indigenous communities; Injinoo, Umagico, New Mapoon, Seisia and Bamaga.

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) NPARC is the governing local council involved in developing the local economy through everyday municipal services, operating local enterprises and administering social, community, cultural and recreational activities.

Visit the NPA, by air, sea or by road. Explore the adventurous, challenging and historical Telegraph Track or drive by the Scenic Peninsula Development Road all by 4WD only.

This sacred area is full of wonderful nature at every turn, scenic views, waterfalls, and sunsets equal to the best in the world and make your way to the very tip of the Australian continent, a must do when you visit this remote area.

Enjoy the cultural performances, indigenous arts and crafts, fishing tours, boat trips, scenic helicopter flights from Punsand Bay, croc spotting, or other seasonal tours.

Accommodation options range from motel units and self-contained cabins, to lodge rooms, eco tents and camping.

Embark upon adventure in the Cape York region. Come and experience the unexpected.

For all the latest information about the NPA visit the Council website – www.nparc.qld.gov.au

Getaway Clockwise from top right: Room for lounging at Bon Pavilion; Celeste and Steve run the Pearls of Australia Broken Bay Pearl Farm Tour; Eastcoast Beverages farm in Kulnura.

lunches are the order of the day.

He lovingly sources every ingredient from nearby producers, and has abundant gardens at his fingertips forage in every day.

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Image: Carmen Glenn Photography

NEW OFFERING & ESTABLISHED ICON Gosford has long been known for its pubs and community clubs, but even the locals will admit that it’s not the first place that springs to mind if you’re seeking a high-end architectually impressive hangout with great food, cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Well, things have changed.

Enter Bon Pavilion. Aka Bon. Singo has hit the town, this time arm in arm with acclaimed chef Sean Connolly and the entrepreneurial couple behind Bells at Killcare and Pretty Beach House, Brian and Karina Barry. The foursome have opened the upmarket eatery in the 14-storey Bonython Tower – a fully integrated commercial and residential tower.

Bon is home to café Bon Bon Espresso, a cocktail and tapas ’Bon Bar’, a dining room called Bonfire, specialty craft beer and whisky den Bon Vin Private Dining, and wine bar Bon Vin. A half hour’s drive away is Eastcoast Beverages, which began in 1965 when Salvatore Lentini picked and packed fresh fruit from his Central Coast orchards to supply to Australia’s Flemington Markets. Years later, when the Australian Government removed tariffs on imported juice concentrate, it became less profitable to produce juice derived solely from fresh fruit. That’s when Salvatore’s three sons – Sam, Mick and Frank Lentini – saw an opportunity to create their own niche market by squeezing citrus fruit juice made entirely from 100 per cent fresh fruit.

Today Eastcoast Beverages is a third-generation Australian family business that creates a range of fruit juice, spring water, sparkling water and kombucha on its farm in Kulnura.

The company’s solid philosophy is to Return – Regrow – Re-juice, so that absolutely nothing is wasted.

Fact File Distillery Botanica distillerybotanica.com Bar Botanica barbotanica.com.au The Bon Pavilion thebonpavilion.com.au Pearls of Australia pearlsofaustralia.com.au Eastcoast Beverages eastcoastbeverages.com.au

GEM OF AN EXPERIENCE One of the many things that attracts hordes of tourists to the Central Coast is its sublime waterways. A new way to enjoy some time out on the water is to take a Pearls of Australia Broken Bay Pearl Farm Tour, which largely takes place on a 10-metre catamaran.

Celeste and Steve are a great team for this tour that teaches you everything you need to know about natural and cultured pearls, specifically concentrating on the pearl that is famous in these parts – the Akoya pearl.

Steve is a quintessential Aussie bloke who loves the water, and his entertaining and educational tour

has all passengers marvelling at how intricate the process of seeding a pearl is, and how skilled the hatchery technicians need to be to continually succeed in their role.

Everyone on the boat is in awe when an oyster is pried opened to reveal a perfect golden-hued pearl.

Later we cruise back to Ettalong, where over a cup of tea the lovely Celeste gets everyone involved in a hands-on session with precious Akoya pearls, explaining how pearls are graded and turned into stunning jewellery. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a weekend filled with Central Coast gems. TB

“They were eager to hideaway from reality; relaxing, indulging and making memories by the bay”.

For The Romantic Explore the softer side of the Western Wilds, as you hide away on the waters edge of Lettes Bay. Designed to spoil the senses, Saltbox Hideaway highlights some of Tasmania’s finest products and produce for you to relax, indulge and unwind with, throughout your stay.

saltboxhideaways.com.au

Special Feature

ROAD TRIPPING IN TASSIE More of Tasmania is waiting for you. Discover the wild frontiers and food beyond the cities.

Flying into Burnie places you on the edge of Tasmania’s raw, untouched wilderness, surrounded by fresh produce and fascinating people. For a small island, Tassie packs a powerful punch – boasting 2800 kilometres of walking tracks throughout pristine bush and what feels like more experiences each kilometre than anywhere else in the world. With a bounty of fresh produce, it’s no wonder its chefs, winemakers, brewers and distillers are winning international awards.

On these two journeys, you’ll also discover contrasting stories of ancient culture and tenacious pioneers, to wineries handed down over generations and seafood plucked fresh from the ocean.

Western Wilds DAY 1: BURNIE TO CORINNA

Burnie is a natural starting point for a journey into the Western Wilds. Once an industrial centre on Tasmania’s north-west coast, Burnie has emerged as a creative hub with quality produce, art deco architecture and coastal scenery. Get your bearings at the Makers Workshop, a contemporary art gallery, workshop and café where you can watch local artists at work.

Head toward Waratah, on the edge of the diverse takanya / Tarkine Forest Reserve to explore its mining past at the Waratah Courthouse Museum and view the town’s tumbling waterfall. It contributed to hydropower here more than 100 years ago and is a pretty spot to enjoy a picnic.

Burnie Waratah Corinna

Strahan

Zeehan Queenstown Derwent Bridge Tarraleah Russell Falls New Norfolk

Cruising the Gordon River with World Heritage Cruises.

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Hobart

Image: Jason Charles Hill

Special Feature

The takanya / Tarkine Forest Reserve is home to Australia’s largest temperate rainforest. On the drive to Corinna, stop at Philosophers Falls for a 45-minute walk along the historic mining water race. From origins as a thriving mining town, Corinna Wilderness Experience is now a wilderness retreat.

The surrounding forest is full of walks and kayak trails, and you can cruise the Pieman River in a legendary Huon pine vessel and sleep in renovated mining huts.

DAY 2: CORINNA TO STRAHAN Ocean Beach Lookout, Strahan.

Image: Jason Charles Hill

After an invigorating morning walk in the forest, head towards Strahan via Zeehan. Zeehan was once Tasmania’s third largest city, built on the back of lucrative silver mining.

Much of the opulent architecture has been restored, and you can learn about its history at the West Coast Heritage Centre.

Once in Strahan, make your way to the waterfront and join World Heritage Cruises on the Gordon River. The Grining family have been running tours here for more than 100 years, with its fifth generation now taking guests into Franklin-Gordon Rivers National Park.

Retire tonight at nearby Lettes Bay, an historic village of Tassie ‘shacks’ or small cabins overlooking the water.

Try Salt Box Hideaway, which has been restored with modern luxuries, including your own private deck and a firepit down at the water’s edge.

DAY 3: STRAHAN TO TARRALEAH Today’s drive is a winding journey from the windswept coastline toward the agricultural heart of the west.

First stop is Queenstown, another fine example of a town once reliant upon mining (the world’s richest, in fact) that has creatively reinvented itself. The landscape is dramatic and moon-like, and its streets are filled with historic buildings. The West Coast Wilderness Railway departs from here on a journey deep into the wild west coast, telling tales of deception and resilience along the way.

Wind along the banks of expansive Lake Burbury as you head towards Derwent Bridge, the gateway to the southern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Lake St Clair is Australia’s deepest lake, which you can explore on foot or by ferry.

End your day at Tarraleah Estate – once a town for the workers who developed Tasmania’s pioneering hydroelectric scheme. Its cottages, houses and lodge have been converted into accommodation.

DAY 4: TARRALEAH TO NEW NORFOLK Heading back towards Hobart, the roadside scenery graduates from wilderness to agricultural land, passing through small historic towns like Ouse and Hamilton.

Take the turn off to Mt Field National Park, Tasmania’s first national park. It’s an accessible 20-minute walk through towering swamp gums, ferns and cool temperate rainforest to Russell Falls, a magnificent cascading

Russell Falls.

waterfall. In autumn you can witness the spectacular ‘Turning of the Fagus’, when the endemic fagus plant changes from green to shades of red and gold.

Charming roadside stalls abound here, so keep an eye out for cherries, honey and vegetables, and stop by Westerway Raspberry Farm. Try the local hop at Two Metre Tall Brewery.

You can bring a picnic or barbecue and set yourself up on the grassy area near the Farm Bar overlooking rolling hills.

Stay the night at Stanton Farmhouse, a large Georgian house in Magra built by convicts in 1817.

DAY 5: NEW NORFOLK TO HOBART New Norfolk is Tasmania’s third oldest city, established when early settlers were evacuated from Norfolk Island to Tasmania in the early 1800s. It’s now the heart of the Derwent Valley, surrounded by lush agricultural land.

The hops from here supply most breweries in Australia.

Explore its antique and bric-a-brac stores, and Tasmania’s oldest church, the Anglican Church of St Matthew.

Willow Court is Tasmania’s oldest mental asylum, now home to two-hatted restaurant The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery. On the journey back to Hobart, stop at Stefano Lubiana Wines. If you have room, lunch in the Osteria and taste the biodynamic cool climate wine.  OCT/NOV 2019

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Image: Rob Burnett

Special Feature

Burnie

St Helens Hadspen

White Sands Resort Coles Bay

Twamley Farm Hobart

Red Feather Inn

North & Great Eastern Drive DAY 1: BURNIE TO HADSPEN After flying into Burnie, jump in the car and start your exploration of the delicious Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Agriculture is central to industry on the north-west coast, so you’ll see rolling hills striped with crops and roaming livestock. Stop at House of Anvers for handmade chocolate tasting and Ashgrove Cheese for cheese, cream and butter.

If you’re more interested in grapes, taste cool climate wines at Ghost Rock Wines with views over Bass Strait, or try a produce platter at Three Willows near DeLorean.

Dine tonight at the Red Feather Inn in Hadspen, which uses local ingredients, often grown or raised onsite, to prepare an ever-changing menu well-matched with its extensive wine list.

Alternatively, retire in one of the 10 beautifully restored luxurious guest rooms at Quamby Estate, a boutique country estate with a fascinating history dating to the 1830s.

DAY 2: HADSPEN TO ST HELENS The Tamar Valley produces some of Australia’s best

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cool climate wines, especially sparkling wine, second only to Champagne, France. Explore the Tamar Valley Wine Route to taste your way through several varietals across its 30 vineyards. Have lunch at one of the many cellar door restaurants such as Timbre Kitchen at Velo Wines or Clover Hill Wines.

Head to the coast in the afternoon. Pyengana Dairy have produced handcrafted cheese onsite for more than 130 years. Be sure to taste the award-winning cloth matured cheddar and enjoy a gourmet platter with matching Tasmanian wine or beer at Pyengana Farmgate Café.

At night explore the St Helens food scene. Choose from Nina Restaurant and Bar, which serves tapas and substantive plates, or Furneaux Restaurant and Comptoir, which draw upon French connections.

DAY 3: ST HELENS TO COLES BAY Tasmania’s east coast is home to the Great Eastern Drive, which starts at the Bay of Fires, north of St Helens. The middle section of the drive is dotted with coastal towns and villages where locals have holidayed for generations.

Just south of Scamander, Ironhouse Brewery, Winery & Distillery at White Sands Estate make four handcrafted

Image: Adrian Cook

Image: Jason Charles Hill

Special Feature

HOBART’S TOP 5 ATTRACTIONS

1. Salamanca Market: Tasmania’s most visited attraction, held every Saturday morning in Hobart.

2. Museum of Old and New Art (Mona): One of the world’s most controversial private collections of modern art and antiquities.

3. kunanyi / Mount Wellington: A wilderness experience just 20 minutes from Hobart.

4. Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens: Established in 1818 and just a short walk from the centre of Hobart.

Freycinet National Park

brews using water sourced from their own spring, and wine produced from 60 hectares of vines. Take a detour at Bicheno for fish and chips at The Gulch, overlooking the water. Then explore the bounty of the sea further at Freycinet Marine Farm near Coles Bay. Oysters and mussels are harvested daily, and they sell scallops, abalone, rock lobster and salmon sourced from local fishermen. Enjoy it fresh on the deck or take your haul with you. You can join an Oyster Bay Tour to harvest oysters and learn how to shuck before enjoying a selection with a glass of local wine.

Spend a luxurious night in one of the architectural award-winning Coastal Pavilions at Freycinet Lodge.

DAY 4: COLES BAY TO TWAMLEY FARM (BUCKLAND) Start your day with a walk to the lookout over Wineglass Bay, then hit the road to explore the wineries of the Great Eastern Drive. Devil’s Corner Vineyard are open for tastings daily and wood-fired pizzas. While there, take in views of the pink granite formations of the Hazards and Freycinet Peninsula. Then pop into Spring Vale cellar door, a small family vineyard producing award-winning drops.

Stop in at Triabunna to see the busy marina and enjoy fresh fish and chips at The Fish Van. It’s the launch pad to

Freycinet Marine Farm

5. Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery: Australia’s second oldest museum with interactive displays and masterful storytelling.

visit Maria Island, a natural wildlife sanctuary with the most intact example of a convict probation station in Australia.

Your bed tonight is at Twamley Farm, a 7000-acre working farm outside Buckland dating back to 1842. The Turvey family, who run the farm today, have been at Twamley since 1874. Stone farm outbuildings have been reimagined as boutique accommodation, plus there’s pods and bell tents.

DAY 5: TWAMLEY FARM TO HOBART Prepare a sumptuous breakfast from the Twamley Farm provisions or order a Gourmet Picnic Hamper to take with you. Drive the longer route to Hobart and explore the historic town of Richmond, at the heart of the Coal River Valley wine region. The centrepiece of this Georgian-era town is Richmond Bridge – it’s Australia’s oldest, built by convicts in the 1820s.

Wind your way through Coal River Valley and stop at one of the many cellar doors. The region’s oldest vineyard is Domaine A, planted in 1973, now owned by Moorilla Estate and open Friday to Monday for tastings. Or pop into Puddleduck for their ‘reverse BYO’ – bring your own food to match your wine, or book a vineyard and winery tour. westernwilds.com.au | greateasterndrive.com.au TB OCT/NOV 2019

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Special Feature

GET TO GOULBURN

Achieve your business goals in Goulburn – the vibrant, growing region located within easy reach of Sydney, Canberra, the South Coast and the Snowy Mountains.

Goulburn offers all of the services of a major regional centre, yet a 10 minute drive in any direction means you can be home with your family, enjoying the quiet peacefulness of a friendly neighbourhood or the region’s beautiful rural landscape.

Infrastructure and service availability are essential to the region’s growth, says Mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Bob Kirk. “Business based in industrial precincts of Goulburn have access to fast NBN, reasonably priced water, essential sewer services and other

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great infrastructure at the price of between $80-$100 a square metre for vacant land.

“All the while, Goulburn is just an hour from Canberra and two hours from Sydney. If you are looking to move large amounts of product or access export markets, it’s easy to utilise the main southern railway line through to Sydney.”

Population growth in the area is steadily increasing, now with five years of sustained increases between 1.5-2 per cent. This is projected to continue for decades to come as people seek a tree change to a location where they can still build a professional career and find work in their chosen trade. Around 30,000 people are expected to call the City

Special Feature

CASE STUDY: GOULBURN REGION INNOVATION NETWORK AND CO-WORKING SPACES

of Goulburn home by 2036, while the wider region will house more than 37,000 residents.

The good news for those families looking to escape the rat race is that the local economy is thriving! The mining and resources industry, particularly in Marulan in the northern part of the region, is the ‘shooting star’ of the Goulburn economy. Significant renewable energy projects within the solar and wind industry are also underway, and will generate huge employment for years to come.

Security of water is a key issue in regional Australia, but Goulburn has been able to set itself apart by ensuring a secure water supply – meaning the city is open for business. This issue was one of the primary reasons Mayor Bob Kirk became involved in the council.

“During the intense drought of the early 2000s, the region’s water level fell to under 10 per cent and the population was placed on severe restrictions. The council acted to secure supply by combining with State and Federal Government to invest in the Highland Source Pipeline, which taps into the Wingecarribee Reservoir to ensure the water supply of the region,” says Mayor Kirk.

This security has enabled the region to attract businesses that require large amounts of water, such as Tribe Breweries, one of Australia’s biggest craft beer brewers, and a poultry processing plant which is currently working through the approval process with the NSW Government. These are businesses that simply could not have been established in Goulburn without this water infrastructure.

The region is looking ahead to a bright future – ideally positioned and well-serviced by vital infrastructure, yet retaining a ‘country’ feel. Business is booming in Goulburn. TB

High-speed Internet and a computer are all you need these days to work outside the traditional office. Goulburn’s strategic location, along with two co-working spaces, make it the perfect place to relocate your business or start up a new one!

Goulburn Region Innovation Network (GRIN) has been established to support innovation and entrepreneurship to drive social and economic growth. The group includes members from key organisations such as Council and Regional Development Australia, and is driven by the

Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders.

GRIN hosts monthly networking events at The Collective, along with larger events targeted at start-up culture, including the successful ‘Pizza & Pitch Fest’ held in October each year, which offers cash prizes, mentoring and support to the winner.

Hot desks and flexible offices are available at Workspace Goulburn (Clinton Street) or The Collective on the corner of Auburn and Market Streets – just Google them for more info!

CASE STUDY: TRIBE BREWERIES Goulburn ticked all the boxes for Tribe Breweries – a secure water supply, accessible services and an excellent location – providing a long-term solution for the company’s future growth.

Tribe purchased the former Coles-Myer distribution centre in 2014, and over five years have invested millions of dollars to build one of the most advanced breweries in the world.

The first beer was rolled off the

production line in early 2019, and Tribe has its sights set firmly on high growth.

Anton Szpitilak, CEO of Tribe Breweries, says the process in Goulburn has been easy. “I highly encourage people and businesses to engage with Goulburn – and utilise its services for a fraction of the cost. There isn’t another city on the corridor between Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra that can compete with Goulburn.”

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ArtSpace

ART ON PURPOSE

For artist and photographer Zahrina Robertson, her art is about creating meaning and furthering a cause.

WORDS: sarah hinder For long-time photographer and international branding expert Zahrina Robertson, her move into the art world has been all about creating meaning in her life and the lives of others. When she started painting for the first time in September 2018, it began as an outlet for balance, which then turned into a catalyst for Zahrina finding her purpose.

“I had a canvas randomly sitting at the back of my office in its wrapping for two years,” Zahrina explains. “It was just sitting there looking at me for so long. Then one day, the next thing you know, I just started painting on it.

“Everything just evolved from this moment of truth and purpose. From saying: ‘I need to find balance. I need to find something that’s a passion of mine.’ And when I discovered art, it gave me that inner balance.”

Fast forward to now, and it’s been a massive journey. Zahrina launched her art website (ZahrinaGallery.com)

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on Christmas Eve, and just two weeks later, on New Year’s Eve, she was contacted by a New York art gallery, requesting to feature her art overseas.

“It took me three weeks to decide,” Zahrina reveals. “I had to ask myself: ‘Why am I doing what I’m doing? What’s driving me?’ And the whole thing that I discovered about this whole exercise is that what I create is ‘art on purpose’.”

Today #artonpurpose is Zahrina’s mantra, aligning with her values.

It’s what drives her to create large energetic ocean paintings as a way to share her global vision of keeping our oceans clean from the colossal floating islands of garbage.

Tapping into her purpose and sharing it through limited edition paintings has given a voice to herself and to others.

It’s been the catalyst for her future and is what led Zahrina to where she is now.

“Art on purpose is about discovering colour and movement in the creative

process of art that continually brings me back to my purpose. With photography, I was branding people for their purpose – which I love.

With painting, it’s about creating my purpose, while also creating purpose and meaning for others.”

Having grown up and lived by the ocean for much of her life, one initiative that is truly important to Zahrina is the environment. “It’s really important to me that we look after our oceans,” she says. “I grew up by the ocean in Sydney and on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, so sharing why we need to look after our environment is vital. The ocean is a life force and very close to my heart.”

As a result, much of Zahrina’s artwork depicts beautiful oceanic tones, and she explains that something she would like to explore in the future is statement art – as a way to reflect upon the beauty of the ocean and natural environment

ArtSpace

juxtaposed by the pollution that we as a society are desecrating it with.

A multi-award-winning photographer and international speaker on personal branding and photography, Zahrina has written ten books on branding and is an in-demand speaker regularly presenting on branding at corporate events. A big inspiration of hers is Tony Robbins, who she describes as someone who has truly changed her life through his mission to help others reach their purpose and personal success.

Zahrina can be described as an ‘Artist to the Stars’, and is currently working on several commissioned artworks for Hollywood personalities.

At Robbins’ ‘Unleash the Power Within’ event series in Sydney this September, Zahrina presented an incredible large-scale ocean painting artwork to Tony on stage in front of a 6000-strong crowd. Named Destiny’s Date, the back of the special artwork is signed by dozens of people who love Tony Robbins and have been inspired by his motivational mission.

The phenomenal artwork was on display at the official opening of Zahrina’s Australian debut at a Sydneybased art gallery in September.

For Zahrina, her true calling always comes back to ‘art on purpose’.

“It’s deeply true to my heart,” she says, and is something that she would love to explore speaking about on stage in the future. “There’s a future for my purpose,” Zahrina tells me.

“The future I see is me on stage doing a TED Talk on ‘art on purpose’.

Meanwhile, Zahrina is also currently developing her own brand line of art merchandise, collaborating with like-minded businesses to release her stunning limited edition art designs of her artworks on merchandise and products.

With great new things in the works, the online Zahrina Gallery is an exciting and ever-evolving space to watch.

Visit ZahrinaGallery.com to puchase your own ‘art on purpose’. TB

Art, left to right: original painting: Phoenix Rising; limited edition artwork: South Pacific.

AUG/SEPT 2019

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a world rich in heritage, culture, natural beauty and adventure is ready to be explored.

Goulburn is the ideal place for that short break or a longer one.

Perfectly positioned just one hour from Canberra, and two hours from Sydney. #rightnowingoulburn

goulburnaustralia.com.au

(02) 4823 4492

VisitGoulburn

Christmas gift ideas

Christmas gift ideas Get organised early with these Christmas gift ideas for the whole family.

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Compiled by: Sarah Hinder

1. Blundstone Boots The new Blundstone #600 is built for comfort, with a soft brown leather upper and leather lining. It also features hidden stitching in the heel for added durability. It’s the perfect boot to wear for work or play. $149, blundstone.com.au

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2. Bose QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones II This is second release of these top-tier wireless headphones, now engineered with even more precise noise-cancelling technology. Allowing greater focus and the opportunity to block out noise when travelling, the headphones are sturdy, impactresistant and connect via Bluetooth.

The best part – 20 hours of battery and super-quick charging. $499.95, bose.com.au

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3. Tom Dixon Tank Decanter This Tank decanter takes its minimal, sculptural design from the functional shapes and volumes of scientific glassware. Each decanter is handmade, and fuses clear and solid black glass. $250, top3.com.au

4. SHREK THE MUSICAL

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On at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre from January 1–19 (then on to Melbourne and Brisbane), this Broadway hit will have the whole family in stitches.

From $49.90, sydneylyric.com.au

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Christmas gift ideas

5. noble cut gin This New World Australian Gin introduces techniques and flavours from both brewing and distillation. Young Henrys has produced a unique expression of quintessential Australian botanicals, including pepperberries, lemon myrtle and Tasmanian hops. $75, shop.younghenrys.com

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6. Catherine Manuell Design Overnight Bowler Bag

7. Waverley Mills Blackwatch Recycled Travel Rug

Perfectly suited for an overnight or long weekend trip, this stylish bag has a separate base compartment for storing your laptop or shoes, an accessible side pocket for essential items, and the option of adjustable shoulder or across-the-body straps. $180, catherinemanuelldesign.com

Waverley Mills is Australia’s oldest working textile mill. Using timehonoured, artisan craftsmanship, bolstered by the latest sustainable practices, the range includes these soft and stylish travel rugs made from recycled wool fibre. $199, waverleymills.com

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8. brookie’s byron gin and mac In the Byron Bay Hinterland, Cape Byron Distillery is set in the heart of the Brook family’s macadamia farm and regenerated subtropical rainforest. It’s in this unique rainforest that many of the botanicals are sourced to create Brookie’s Byron Gin and Mac Roasted Macadamia and Wattleseed Liqueur.

From $40, capebyrondistillery.com

Christmas gift ideas

9. Wouf Messenger Bag Inspired by the classic bomber jacket, this messenger bag is both functional and stylish.

It is available in three colours, is waterproof and has multiple compartments for storing essentials. $295, top3.com.au

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10. FAME greeting card pack

11. Southern Wild Co Candles

Good greeting cards never go astray.

Featuring artworks by local Australian designer Danielle B Latta, FAME’s card designs include the Tasmanian devil, western quoll, southern cassowary, numbat and Mary River turtle. $19.95, to order email fame@fame.org.au or call the Foundation on 08 8374 1744

Inspired by the diversity of Australia’s distinct landscapes and references, Southern Wild Co pays homage to our cultural Australian identity through its range of beautiful bespoke candles and its collection of various scented goods. $65, southernwildco.com.au

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12. Islands of Australia: Travels through Time In this new photographic travel/history book, travel guru Tony Wheeler takes a journey around the Australian coast and beyond to discover the stunning natural features, unique wildlife and chequered histories of our remarkably diverse islets, cays, atolls and archipelagos. $39.99, bookshop.nla.gov.au

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Since 1983, Hollick Estates has been producing some of the Coonawarra’s finest handcrafted wine. Come and enjoy an exceptional cellar door experience and indulge in our region’s fantastic culinary offerings at our award-winning restaurant, Upstairs at Hollick, with sweeping views over the vineyards.

+61 8 8737 2318 | www.hollick.com | 11 Racecourse Road, Penola, SA 5277

Christmas gift ideas

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Hunter Candles All about celebrating earthy natural scents, these candles make you feel as though you’re surrounded by Australia’s best flora and fauna. Hand-poured in Newtown, Sydney, these stylish candles have notes of blue gum, lemon myrtle, Kakadu plum and yuzu. The Christmas candle of nutmeg, pine and smoke is unlike anything you’ve experienced! $29–$99, huntercandles. com.au

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14. Danish Fuel Bar Cabinet

15. Hampers With Bite

16. The West Winds Gin

Made from recycled fuel cans which would otherwise end up in landfill, this truly unique handcrafted ‘art bar’ makes for a fantastic conversation piece and will store all your bar essentials.

All Danish Fuel designs are made using Jerry Cans that are collected from Military surplus stock-houses in Europe, and are one-of-a-kind. $795, top3.com.au

Looking for an extra special gift? Look no further than The Veuve Selection from Hampers With Bite. Starring Veuve Cliquot Brut Yellow Label with notes of brioche and biscuit, alongside smooth Fosette Heathcote Shiraz and an assortment of sweet and savoury snacks, this hamper is sure to impress.

Use code INFLIGHT10 for 10% off.

RSP $200, hamperswithbite.com.au

‘Handcrafted and tailored for the discerning palate’. This mantra stays true for The West Winds Gin’s latest creation: the ready-to-drink Gin & Tonic. Pairing the award-winning citrus and juniper flavours of ‘The Sabre‘ with a custom-made tonic, this is a new adventure from The West Winds team. $99 for 24-pack, available at all good bottle shops or thewestwindsgin.com

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The Secret is Out Interior Secrets is your online destination for great designer furniture. Based in Melbourne and delivering Australia wide, Interior Secrets is passionate about excellent craftsmanship and iconic modern styles, offering homeowners a wide range of designer furniture at honest, straight from the manufacturer prices.

By partnering with the best suppliers and manufacturers directly, Interior Secrets cuts out unnecessary costs to help you stay within your budget. Give your home the modern makeover it deserves for less. Save more with Interior Secrets' online store and live the styles you want today.

interiorsecrets.com.au | 1300 668 605 | sales@interiorsecrets.com.au

Christmas gift ideas 18

17. George & Willy Letter Display

Inspired by the lazy board game afternoons you daydream about, the Letter Display makes the ideal menu, to-do-list, spot for ideas or at-home thought-board. $583, georgeandwilly. com

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18. Lamb Chop Socks Who said socks have to be boring? Who said socks even have to be identical?

These ‘odd socks’ are made from sustainable bamboo, which is moisture wicking and anti-bacterial. Meaning: no more stinky feet! $16.95, lambchopssocks. com.au

19. Moore’s Dry Gin This classic citrus and juniper dominant dry gin is enlivened with a selection of native botanicals, including wild lime, macadamia nut and Illawarra plum. It’s the first Australian gin to ever win gold at the prestigious London International Wine and Spirit

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Competition. The judges said Moore’s Gin is: “Truly classic in style – uplifting, assertive, balanced; pleasing and captivating.” $60, distillerybotanica.com

20. Sullivans Cove XO Single Cask Brandy Rich, powerful and complex, Sullivans Cove brandy is a gift for the serious spirits connoisseur in your life. Distilled from 100 per cent Tasmanian wines and aged for many years in hand-selected oak casks, each unique bottling is single cask, single varietal and non-chill filtered. $275, shop.sullivanscove. com

OCT/NOV 2019

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DOMETIC CFX SERIES

The ultimate cooling performance The CFX series is the next generation of powerful compressor portable fridge/freezers that keeps food and drinks cold or frozen for longer. With generous gross capacity, these portable fridge/freezers can store fresh food and drinks effortlessly, perfect when you need extra refrigeration for your summer get-togethers or holidays. The series includes a variety of sizes ranging from an ultra-compact model to a large model with two separate temperature zones for simultaneous cooling and freezing.

For more information visit dometic.com or freecall 1800 21 21 21. *Suitable on Android or iOS phone or tablet. Excludes CFX 28.

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Controlled via WiFi app*

AusBiz.

NEWS+VIEWS | MINING | AGRIBUSINESS | INFRASTRUCTURE

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12 P.3 buisness news+views p.6 driving diversity in mining P.12 real estate special p.16 farming and mental health p.21 australian wind farming P.26 charity spotlight: careflight P.31 education special

insoles

Business News+Views Maseur has looked after Australian feet for more than 30 years In Australia, 44 per cent of adults report having sore and tired feet. Incorrectly positioned feet can place pressure on knees, hips and spine as your body compensates. Maseur sandals help to reduce this pressure with contours and arches that gently and comfortably help your feet find their optimum position. This may help to relieve stress, tension, pains and aches.

Maseur sandals come in two variants: Invigorating and Gentle. Flexible nodules on Maseur Invigorating Massage Sandals are designed to massage and help support healthy circulation, invigorating feet and body. The contoured footbed gently supports arch profiles to facilitate correct position of your feet and help relieve pressure on your body. The cushioning sole provides protection from hard surfaces. Maseur Gentle Massage Sandals alleviate fatigue and help recovery after sport. Its comfort soft straps align to the curvature of your feet and allow for adjustments to fit both narrow and wide feet.

NOW Leasing NT NOW Leasing NTÂ was formed by Joely Sullivan and Joanne Griffiths almost four years ago. They are long-term, experienced Darwin Property Managers with a reputation of providing personal and proactive service to clients in the management and leasing of residential property. In the current market, its commitment to service has the company outperforming its competitors in leasing in under 20 days on average compared to the industry average of 69 days.

Managing property in all suburban areas of Darwin, the office in Darwin Corporate Park on the Stuart Highway means NOW Leasing NT are just 15 minutes away from almost any potential appointment.

Call today if you have property to lease in the Darwin area on 08 8984 4404, or visit nowleasingnt.com.au OCT/NOV 2019

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Business News+Views

Dust control at its finest – from Pit-to-Port Achieving effective dust control in mines and across the supply chain is an ongoing challenge for operators. Relying on conventional methods alone, such as water carts and lowpressure watering systems, is rarely enough. A combination of customised measures tailored to specific dust issues is required.

Dust-A-Side is a global specialist

in dust control management to the mining and resources sector.

First established in South Africa in 1973, Dust-A-Side Australia has been in operation since 2005. The business has grown steadily from its core capabilities in dust control management and maintenance of mine haul roads to its current ‘Pit-to-Port’ strategy incorporating custom-designed dust suppression

solutions in fixed plant, freight transport, soil erosion control and road stabilisation.

Dust-A-Side Australia operates in Brisbane, Perth and Newcastle and is investing heavily in sales and operational capability to meet demand.

For more information, visit dustaside.com.au or call 1800 662 387.

Tropical North Queensland birds exposed from the air Environmental research into the rainforests of Cape York has revealed new insight into the life of large Australian land birds which incubate eggs in large mounds of rotting vegetation, aka megapodes.

Hundreds of large megapode nesting mounds, including those of brush turkeys and yellow-footed scrubfowls, have been located by the Airborne Research Institute, using cutting-edge light detection and ranging (LiDAR) techniques.

“It’s fascinating to think an eye in the sky can strip away the rainforest with this technology to record and study the terrestrial nesting patterns of Australian brush turkeys on remote parts of the Cape York Peninsula,” says Airborne Research Australia’s chief scientist, Jorg Hacker.

LiDAR remote-sensing

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technology has been used across several worldwide archaeological applications, including the discovery of Mayan pyramids in Central America. “Now we have used our configuration of airborne LiDAR to [virtually] ‘remove’ the dense vegetation of the Australian rainforest to ‘see’ what’s on the ground in high resolution when it’s otherwise almost impenetrable to the human eye and aerial photography,” explains Hacker.

Backed by the not-for-profit Maxim Foundation, which funds philosophical and environmental research initiatives, the aerial mapping research forms part of a greater biodiversity project in the region.

For more information visit airborneresearch.org.au or news.flinders.edu.au

Business News+Views

Celebrating Indigenous Business Month 2019 This October marks the fifth annual Indigenous Business Month. Events will take place around Australia, as well as in New Zealand for the first time this year, celebrating and showcasing the talents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women entrepreneurs from across a diverse range of business sectors.

The initiative is headed up by Melbourne Business School’s MURRA Indigenous Business Master Class alumni, with an aim to spark conversations about Indigenous business development and innovation.

Since the inception of Indigenous Business Month in 2015, the Indigenous business sector has become one of the fastest growing sectors in Australia.

Regionally based NGOs deliver significant results to local economies New research undertaken by the University of South Australia has shown that for every dollar spent by regionally based Australian NGOs, there is a return of 2.3 times the original dollar value to local communities.

The study found that the benefits flowing from NGOs in regional areas extend well beyond the direct services that they provide and play a significant role in reinvigorating local rural and regional economies.

Director of the study Dr Catherine Mackenzie explains, “The findings in this study suggest there are enormous social, civic and economic benefits of supporting country based non-government community service organisations and the significant role they play in underpinning and supporting local economies and vibrant communities.

They provide residents with something to build a community around and help to counter some of the problems associated with recent regional industrial and social change.�

OCT/NOV 2019

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Mining

Darren Baguley Darren specialises in the fields of technology, mining, agriculture, energy and business.

Diversity and the mining company boardroom THE MINING INDUSTRY IS FACING CHALLENGING TIMES – PROPONENTS ARGUE DIVERSITY WILL HELP COMPANIES FUTUREPROOF THEMSELVES. The Australian mining industry is in the midst of a once-in-ageneration transition. William Gibson has oft been quoted as saying, “The future is here, it’s just not evenly distributed.” And nowhere is this truer than the mining industry.

The mine of the future is close enough for its features to be seen and to transition to that future, companies must innovate, unlocking the power of digitisation. To do this they will need to attract a different type of talent.

The pace of change in mining’s global operating environment would be enough for any industry to deal with, however mining faces a host of other

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Mining

challenges. Environmental issues and distortions in the economy caused by the long-over mining boom have led to governments, communities, investors and other key stakeholders scrutinising the industry more than ever.

According to Deloitte’s ’Tracking the trends 2018’ report, “This level of scrutiny mandates new forms of co-operation and collaboration.

To repair broken relationships and tarnished reputations, miners must also explore ways to operate more sustainably. These drivers make it clear that companies will need to make substantive cultural shifts.

“Some companies have already taken steps in this direction by engaging in cross-functional collaboration, seeking out best practices from other industries, strengthening their executive teams and setting targets to achieve greater diversity and inclusion.

To cement these changes, however, mining companies will also need to ensure that their boards are properly constituted to support transformation.”

This new reality presents a challenge

for boards because they need to be able to embrace new operational realities before they can help drive the changes the industry needs.

As shareholder activism ramps up, companies are held to higher standards of corporate governance and technological disruption alters industry dynamics, this will be especially critical.

In the past directors were focused on oversight, however this notion is also under challenge. Today directors are increasingly expected to weigh in on corporate strategy, and studies show the best boards take a more active role in constructively challenging the executive team than merely fulfilling their fiduciary responsibilities.

According to Deloitte, “Boards mired in old ways of thinking will increasingly struggle to fulfil this mandate. Although experience can help inform opinions, it can also inhibit directors from questioning their current assumptions – leading to a form of cognitive bias that prevents them from considering non-traditional solutions.

“Low levels of diversity among 

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Mining

Fast Facts

46.9%

Women comprise 46.9 per cent of all employed persons in Australia.

13.7%

Women hold 13.7 per cent of chair positions, 25.8 per cent of directorships, and represent 17.1 per cent of CEOs.

35.2%

35.2 per cent of boards and governing bodies have no female directors.

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mining board members only complicate the issue by limiting their ability to uncover outside views or challenge their habitual thought processes. Diverse perspectives are necessary if mining boards are to effectively challenge organisational assumptions, assess the validity of new ways of thinking and help determine if the organisation is taking on too much risk, or perhaps not enough.”

It’s not just mining companies that have issues with diversity. A recent Australian Institute of Company Directors report claimed that at 29.8 per cent, the ASX200 was just shy of the magic ’tipping point’ of 30 per cent female board representation.

According to Swinburne Law School Corporate Governance Research Fellow Helen Bird, further investigation showed that when women who held multiple directorships were only counted once, the number came down to less than 25 per cent.

Bird does however emphasise that recent research had shown the mining industry was no worse than any other industry when it came to diversity.

“We did a networking study last year, where we looked at board networks

– looking to see what the network effect was,” she explains. “Our initial hypothesis was that female-dominated sectors such as health and education would be where we might see more women on board appointments, but we found no such connection. Gender diversity is an issue across the ASX and it’s not relevant to specific sectors.”

Bird adds that it’s not just diversity of gender that’s important, “it’s also skills, ethnicity, cognitive diversity, experiential diversity. Nevertheless, although gender represents a divide of half the population, it doesn’t need to be as messy as we make it sound.

Companies simply need to ask: ‘Who is our client base?’ A lot of this diversity stuff is used to make out that it is too complicated and an abyss, when what we need to do is simply sit down and determine who we’re selling to. If half your client base is female dominated, you have to wonder why half your board is not constituted by women.

“No business sits still – there’s disruption, transformation and boards are increasingly accountable to a wider range of factors. Mining is a perfect example when considering the need for diversity because it’s a globally

Mining

exposed industry. We need to have a wide range of experiences and points of view if we’re going to identify future risks and opportunities.

“In addition, there’s a strange similarity between mining and banking. When all is going well, the focus is on profit and there is little focus on issues beyond the financial cost of the business. Once the boom is over, other questions start to play a part, such as environmental footprint and digital disruption, and you need to have a more complex and diverse analysis of your business.”

Deloitte’s ’Tracking the trends 2018’ report made the point that board members are often appointed because of their functional experience/skillset – ie. former mining company C-suite executives, but cautioned that those skills which were valid in the past may not be what the company needs for the future.

According to Bird, “Companies need people with a range of skills and to not rely on the idea that a former CEO is a perfect non-executive director. Some studies have shown ex-CEOs are not the best directors because they want to tell the CEO how to do their job. No mining company, no company really, should have a board exclusively made up of ex-CEOs. There’s a natural attraction to stick with what you know, but experiential diversity is important as are reasonable periods of renewal.”

Deloitte US Mining and Minerals Consulting Leader Amy Winsor closes the ’Tracking the trends 2018’ report, saying “Mining companies are considering new business models and driving step change through innovation and digitisation. To enable this broader transformation, they need the right board composition.

Rather than having a firm grasp of how things were done in the past, today’s board members need to understand how the industry is evolving into the future.”

OCT/NOV 2019

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Special Feature

Technology at full throttle for Singapore’s Grand Prix For the second year running, Singapore contractor United E&P was tasked with the preparing the racetrack for the country’s Formula 1 race which took place in September.

Unlike many cities that utilise existing race circuits, Singapore transforms some of its city streets into race carworthy surfaces in just a matter of days, shutting down roads for the shortest periods possible to minimise impact to residents, visitors and traffic.

To meet the tight deadlines and deliver a track that passed muster with the racing car elite, United E&P partnered with Topcon Positioning Systems’ largest distributor in the Oceania region, Position Partners.

Using a full suite of design software, mapping and profiling technology, survey instruments and paving machine

control systems, United E&P began by scanning and modelling the planned track surfaces before optimising a design and paving the tarmac.

“We really used every bit of technology we had at our disposal for this job to give a great result in a limited amount of time,” said Mathew Connelly, Position Partners Manger for South-East Asia.

The racetrack had a specification governed by global motor sport safety association FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile).

“The tolerances on this job were very tight,” said Graham Castle, Construction Manager at United E&P. “We had a riding index that we had to meet, a +/- 3 millimetre tolerance on our levels and also 3 millimetre tolerance under a four metre straight

edge for the paved surface.”

United E&P utilised a range of Topcon paving machine control solutions (these steer the paver to deliver the smoothest results, automatically correcting the machine for optimal compaction).

Topcon offers a unique machine control system for fine tolerance work including grading and paving applications. Millimetre GPS uses a combination of a high-performance laser transmitter and GNSS positioning technology to create a large working zone that delivers up to 300 per cent greater accuracy than a standard GPS solution alone.

With the proven results seen from the Changi Airport project and this year’s Formula 1 track, Castle has been very pleased with the results this year.

OCT/NOV 2019

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IMAGE: TOTAL DEVELOPMENT ARTIST IMPRESSION

Train Street Central is ideally located and surrounded by a growing customer base offered by two nearby high schools, primary school, day care centres, expanding retirement village and the established township. The airport at Moruya is 8km away and offers flights to both Sydney and Melbourne. The coastline at Broulee is stunning with golden beaches and sheltered coves and has long been the favoured destination of both locals and visitors from Canberra, Queanbeyan and Country NSW. Interest in this development has brought early sales in both commercial and residential properties.

GET ON BOARD AT TRAIN STREET. To register your interest or to find out more, please contact Pat Jameson: 0405 442 905 or the First National office on 02 4472 5566, or email Pat on pat@bbfn.com.au

www.trainstreetcentral.com.au

Special Feature

TRAIN STREET CENTRAL Broulee, South Coast NSW The original vision for Train Street Central to become an exciting mixed-use development and opportunity for local businesses in our community – is now a reality! With all the buzz surrounding the sold-out completion of Stage 1, Train Street Central is now occupied, and businesses are operating!

In the past 15-20 years Broulee has transformed from a haven for holiday homes to a community enjoyed by families and retirees alike. Train Street Central will offer more to a community that currently caters for three of the region’s major schools and one of the largest and still expanding retirement villages. It is envisaged that Train Street Central will add a further dimension to the community, creating more infrastructure for local businesses and tourists alike.

Train Street Central is located on the corner of Cambridge Crescent and Train Street in Broulee. Train Street Central is divided into

three construction stages, incorporating a mix of office, retail, food spaces and north facing residential units. The concept of this mixed-use development is to act as a village centre mid-point between Moruya and Batemans Bay, catering for the growing population in the region.

Stage 2 is comprised of four more luxurious two-storey two-bedroom townhouses and eight commercial units.

Concept plans have been prepared for a potential Medical Centre and Café/Food Outlet to show prospective investors and businesses the endless possibilities.

To register your interest or to find out more about this unique development becoming Broulee’s commercial hub, please call Pat Jameson on 0405 442 905 or the First National Office on 02 4472 5566. trainstreetcentral.com.au Images by @timtaplinphotography

Stage 2 selling now (Stage 1 sold-out before construction was complete) • Stage 2 – Commercial prices from $345,000 • Stage 2 – Residential priced at $515,000

Local area info • Redevelopment & upgrades of the Moruya Airport; to provide vital economic, social and medical links to Sydney and beyond.

• $274M Batemans Bay bridge development providing better connections for commuters within the Eurobodalla region.

• 150M Proposed Regional Hospital for Eurobodalla.

OCT/NOV 2019

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Dream the days away at Frenchman’s River.

Beauty, luxury, serenity. Come and stay. book@frenchmansriver.com.au | 0466 790 142 @frenchmansrivercygnet | www.frenchmansriver.com.au

Investment Special

QLD Invest deliver valuable property investments to Australian families Let’s face it, working for the man is good for paying the bills, but to really get ahead, we all know that property investing is a must. As a wise old investor said to me years ago: “This property will never be as cheap as it was when you bought it.” Well, I guess that’s why they call it REAL estate.

Where do you start? Seriously!

How much research do you need to conduct before you buy a property?

When navigating all the contradicting property reports out there, it’s easy to follow the herd, simply because that’s what the herd does. Plus, who has the time to drive across the country investigating every nook and cranny, trying to locate that ‘great deal’?

Well, enter Korry from QLD Invest.

The really unique thing about what Korry does is he ‘manufactures’ the wealth into the property design. It’s a concept that takes time to wrap your head around. But once you get it, you’ll probably never buy a stock standard property again. QLD Invest was set up by Korry in order to deliver real wealth, to everyday families, through smart property investments.

Korry explains that his team spends most of their time looking at council zoning, and what would be allowable under council rules. Then designing a building that will deliver a specific commercial outcome to the investor.

“We deliver a complete package.

All the investor needs to do is be prepared to work with the mortgage broker to get the lending in place and sign a few contracts.

“We’ve got dozens of clients currently involved in projects which will provide $80,000-$120,000 in immediate uplift, within six to eight months. Not only that, it provides big tax deductions. It’s hard to beat. And an investor on a normal salary can get into high return property, with around $100,000 equity or deposit.”

Korry explains: “We named the business QLD Invest because southeast Queensland is in fact one of the best locations for investment at the current time and foreseeable future.

“Many of our projects are returning high weekly rents and incredible returns of 6 to 15 per cent each year.

On top of that is the capital growth.

One of our clients who wanted to move up from Sydney, is in fact getting a 25 per cent annual return on the project that we delivered. It’s basically allowed the family’s dad to stay at home. That’s life changing, and that’s when I get real satisfaction from my business. We are a family business, and we pride ourselves in helping families secure a great future.”

QLD Invest makes the investment process seamless. With every step, from initial discussion through to securing lending, managing the project and getting it rented, the team at QLD Invest support the process at no charge to clients.

“We deliver far more than most people would be able to achieve with their own knowledge, and we do it quickly, including high return SMSF property.“ Talking with Korry, you will learn more in three minutes than you may in a lifetime. qldinvest.com.au | 0439 425 855 korry@qldinvest.com.au

Korry and Roma from QLD Invest with their daughters.

OCT/NOV 2019

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Mental Health

Ian Lloyd Neubauer With nearly 20 years’ journalism experience, Ian is abreast of global news as it happens.

WITHOUT WATER

WE MAY BE THE LUCKY COUNTRY, BUT MANY AUSTRALIANS DON’T FEEL THAT WAY. EVERY DAY, EIGHT PEOPLE IN THIS NATION TAKE THEIR OWN LIVES. 16

AusBiz.

Mental Health

Suicide is a major problem in Australia’s country regions.

A recent study by the Centre for Remote and Rural Mental Health found suicide rates in rural areas are more than 50 per cent higher than in capital cities, while the suicide rate for farming men in Australia is actually double that of the general male population.

The drought, the worst to have hit Australia in 50 years, is exacerbating the crisis. Research on Australian farmers published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America shows a 15 per cent increase in the suicide rate among working-aged men during periods of drought.

But the bush is fighting back with a small but determined army of mental health professionals and volunteers who go above and beyond to help farmers in need. We talk to three of them about the modern farmers’ plight and their experience working on the frontlines.

Jenny O’Connell – Leading From Within There are few parts of Australia the drought has hit harder than the Murray-Darling Basin, where below-average rains since the year 2000 have seen 60 per cent of dairy farmers sell up or go broke.

“It’s very evident from doing the sums that farming is not viable anymore,” says Jenny O’Connell, a clinical social worker in Shepparton, Victoria. “But for some, especially the intergenerational farmers, their work, their lifestyle and home are all tied up with farming, so quitting the farm means losing everything. And when everything they have is being threatened by drought, vegans, water politics or any other source, their mental health can be compromised.

“They feel like failures even though it’s not their fault – it’s the drought’s fault – and there’s a tendency to think there are no options other than suicide; that 

OCT/NOV 2019

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Mental Health

“Leading From Within is based on the principle that instead of internalising trauma, growth can come from traumatic events.” their families will actually be better off without them as they might get a life insurance payout.”

During the day, O’Connell is a clinical social worker at a private practice in Shepparton. But at nights and on weekends she runs pro bono trauma-recovery therapy sessions under the name Leading From Within: a non-profit group she and her husband founded in 2000 after conducting an evaluation of the first-sector response to high-profile suicides in the area.

“After those suicides, there was massive trauma in the community, but no one was interested in using private or public treatment,” she says. “My husband and I thought there should be a process to help people recover.

Leading From Within is based on the principle that instead of internalising trauma and becoming victims with bad mental health, growth can come from traumatic events.”

For more information, visit leadingfromwithin.org.au

Mary O’Brien – Are You Bogged Mate?

When a spate of suicides hit Dalby Downs in central Queensland a few years ago, people in the community turned to Mary O’Brien for help.

“Friends and neighbours were ringing me to talk, which was great, but I was concerned about my lack of skills,” O’Brien says. “But what I discovered is that professionals from the city didn’t understand country people at all. They say men in the country need to sit down and express their feelings, that the men have to change. But it’s them that need to change their approach, and how they communicate with country men.”

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Are You Bogged Mate? is the manifestation of O’Brien’s research: a one-woman workshop that engages directly with rural men to break down the stigma surrounding mental health problems.

“It started as something I tagged onto my work,” she explains. “I travel around the state teaching spray-application technology. Afterwards, I ask the blokes if any of them are feeling bogged, and because they already know me, they listen. My approach is fairly direct. I keep it simple, peel away all the fluffy stuff and talk to them in a language they can understand.”

O’Brien reckons farmers are pretty much drought-proof.

But it’s not just the lack of rain that’s draining them today.

“Most farmers can cope with drought. In some parts it’s been going on for seven or eight years now,” she says.

“But now there are new social issues that weren’t around 10 years ago, like the fish kill in the Darling River. There was huge public scrutiny, farmers were blamed for taking too much water from the river, their kids got bullied at school and now they’ve got this vegan activism to deal with. It’s put all this extra pressure on farmers that they don’t need.”

For more information, visit areyouboggedmate.com.au

Mental Health

Dianne Gill – Rural Adversity Mental Health Program

“I always thought when the ground gets sick, so do our people. It’s very similar in the Aboriginal culture,” says Dianne Gill, a registered nurse from Condobolin in central NSW. “During the Millennium Drought, I started trying to figure out how we can help our farmers stay well and ended up joining the Drought Mental Health Assistance Package.”

When the Millennium Drought ended in 2009, Gill’s work was folded into the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program.

“To tell you the truth, the drought never really went away,” she says. “It takes cattle farmers seven years to recover from drought, while orchardists need 15 years to replant and regrow their trees, so even though there were a few good years of rain, for most farmers, the stress never left. Then they’ve got the isolation of modern farming to deal with. Going back a generation or two, you’d have five men working at a property. Today with machinery and the high cost of labour, they work long hours all by themselves.

And while they’re very good at looking after their farms, they’re not very good at looking after themselves.”

Gill connects with stressed-out farmers at field days, agricultural shows and via referrals from old patients and friends. “I am not a Florence Nightingale-type character,” she says. “I wear jeans and boots, I stand shoulder-toshoulder with farmers and ask them if they’re okay.

“I also ask them to think of any mates or neighbours who normally come to these things and aren’t here, and suggest they visit them. I also teach people about the four signs that can indicate someone could be in trouble: a change in their physical appearance, substance abuse, comments about ‘ending it’ and a tendency to not talk – and then when they do talk it’s all negative.”

For more information, visit ramhp.com.au

OCT/NOV 2019

19

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Agribusiness

BUNCH OF HOT AIR

Ian Lloyd Neubauer With nearly 20 years’ journalism experience, Ian is abreast of global news as it happens.

THE WIND HAS BLOWN BOTH WAYS WHEN IT COMES TO DISCUSSING RENEWABLE ENERGY OPTIONS. HERE’S THE BECALMED TRUTH ON THIS MUCH-MALIGNED SECTOR. OCT/NOV 2019

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Agribusiness

Thanks to exponential leaps in wind turbine technology, wind farming is on track to becoming Australia’s biggest generator of sustainable energy within a few short years.

Agribusiness

Temporal lakes, forested ridges and wide flat country bathed in soft pastel colours. These were the views enjoyed by people commuting between Sydney and Canberra on the Hume Highway for more than 100 years.

But shortly after Labor won its last federal election in 2007, the landscape changed with the erection of dozens of massive wind turbines – high-vis proof Labor was keeping their promise to ensure at least 20 per cent of Australia’s electricity supply would be generated by renewables by 2020.

“This is necessary to protect jobs into the future and also necessary to protect our environment into the future,” Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said at the time.

Attack of the clones

Fast-forward to 2014. Federal Labor is back in the Opposition and the wind turbines on the Hume Highway are making headlines again – for all the wrong reasons.

“I drive to Canberra to go to Parliament… and I must say I find those wind turbines around Lake George to be utterly offensive,” Treasurer Joe Hockey told Macquarie Radio. “I think they’re just a blight on the landscape.”

Hockey’s then-boss, PM Tony Abbott, followed through with a one-two punch combination. “When I’ve been up close to these things, not only are they visually awful, but they make a lot of noise,” he told broadcaster Alan Jones, who then alluded wind turbines can cause health problems like insomnia, headaches, dizziness, nausea, exhaustion, anxiety, irritability and depression.

Later Jones also repeated a claim that wind farming was flawed because the wind doesn’t blow all the time. “No matter how romantic [modern industrial people] are, they don’t want to return to pre-modern life. I mean, what are you going to do? Live in the dark?” he asked listeners, reminding them yet again that the push for sustainable energy sources would increase the size of their power bills.

All these claims are, of course, a bunch of hot air. The utility companies that provide us with power don’t rely on a single electricity source; instead, they use a mix of natural gas, coal, wind, solar and hydroelectric. So, if the wind doesn’t blow on Wednesday, we won’t be left in the dark on Thursday.

On the health front, 25 different studies

– including a 2015 review by Australia’s peak medical research body, the NHMRC – have found no evidence wind farms cause adverse health effects. Yet there is ample evidence linking the particulate pollution from coal plants to heart disease, respiratory problems and cancer.

And while electricity generated by emerging technologies like wind and solar power costs more than coal or gas, that’s only because there’s no level playing field in Australia.

A 2013 report by think tank The Australia Institute found Canberra gives the mining industry $4 billion in subsidies annually, while state governments offer their own subsidies.

And if you factor in the cost of air pollution created by burning fossil fuels with something like a carbon tax, wind farming becomes the cheapest source of electricity on the market.

Not in my backyard

Nevertheless, the writing appeared on the wall for wind farming when Hockey issued his rant.

Installed capacity – the maximum output of electricity that a generator can produce under ideal conditions – increased by only 10 per cent between 2013 to 2016 compared to 56 per cent in the two previous decades. 

Did you know?

Wind turbines reduce the number of fires started by lightning strikes by safely conducting the lightning to earth.

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Agribusiness

but I swear they were paid by coal companies; there’s no other reason why someone would say so many bad things about wind farms – noise, vibrations and shadow flickers.

I’ve stood right under a wind turbine and felt the flicker. It did not bother me.

“What the wind farm did cause was a lot of friction in the community, because the family who has the turbines on their land, they get $5000 a year for each turbine and there are 26 of them, while the rest of the community only got half a million dollars, which we used to build a park and hall,” Bonet says.

“And the people who live right next door to the turbines are very bitter. They got a few perks like free Foxtel for life because they lost their TV reception, and double glazing for their windows to block out the noise.

I’ve been to their homes and admit the noise can be bad. But again, if you compare it to living next door to a coal power station, well, you really can’t compare the two.”

Winds are changing

Did you know?

The first practical windmills were in use in Sistan, a region of Iran bordering Afghanistan, in the 9th century.

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In 2017 wind farming took another beating when it was falsely blamed for causing statewide power outages in South Australia after supercell tornadoes crumpled 23 major transmission towers.

The culture war in which wind farms have been caught up is best summed up by a mock crowdfunding petition to erect wind turbines on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, where Tony Abbott lost his long-held federal seat of Warringah to climate change warrior Zali Steggall in the May 2019 federal election.

“It’s only fair that the wake votes in Warringah put up these monstrosities, like those of us who live out in the bonnies do,” commented Mike Trigs, one of 24,000 Australians who signed the petition.

But according to Shlomi Bonet, an environmental scientist and farmer who lives 2.5 kilometres from Cullerin Range (one of eight actual or proposed wind farms in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales), having a wind farm in your neighbourhood is no big deal.

“What amazed me was the way we were bombarded with so much anti-wind information by lobbyists during the consultation stage,” he says. “I know it sounds like a conspiracy,

Despite the campaign to stop wind farming in Australia, the industry has proven unstoppable. In South Australia, 41 per cent of its power is generated by wind. In Victoria, the figure stands at 25 per cent, while the national average is brushing 7 per cent – almost the same quantity generated by hydropower.

But thanks to exponential leaps in wind turbine technology, wind farming is on track to becoming Australia’s biggest generator of sustainable energy within a few short years.

There are currently 94 wind farms in Australia with another 24 either under construction or formally approved that will boost combined output by a third when they come online.

The not-in-my-backyard phenomena will persist, but could be mitigated by strategies used in Denmark and Germany, like community sharing of rental incomes, free electricity or degrees of local ownership of wind farms.

But we can also expect to see more anti-wind scaremongering by populist leaders who use the strategy to lure disenfranchised voters.

“Windmills, wheeeee,” US President Donald Trump said during a rally in March 2019. “And if it doesn’t blow, you can forget about television for that night.

Darling, I want to watch television. I’m sorry – the wind isn’t blowing!”

AusBiz. Promotion

WHAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT CAREFLIGHT In 1986 CareFlight established Australia’s first dedicated medical emergency helicopter service.

Not only does the original rapid response helicopter service continue to serve the community in Sydney, the critical care team model it pioneered has been emulated around the world, making CareFlight an Australian success story in aeromedical training.

Doctors teaching doctors

CareFlight was the first organisation in Australia to be accredited by the Specialist Medical Colleges for training doctors in critical care skills outside of a hospital.

The doctor training program sets a benchmark both in Australia and internationally. It attracts and trains upwards of 50 specialist doctors each year, who will go on to fly all over the country and beyond, saving lives with CareFlight and many other organisations.

For more than 25 years, doctors at the top of their game have been vying for the opportunity to attend what is a unique and independent ‘school’ developed by some of the nation’s most experienced and respected specialist emergency doctors.

Today CareFlight trains doctors aboard its helicopters, propeller and jet aeroplanes, as well as in road vehicles.

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Nursing jobs like no other

The extraordinary conditions of Australia’s Top End call for a unique solution. CareFlight doctors, nurses, pilots, engineers, logistics, dispatch and support staff work together as one team, and across all operations.

The team is Australia’s only fully integrated aeromedical service, operated on behalf of the Northern Territory Government.

CareFlight nurses are on the front line of this busy service; they’re frequently a lifeline for families living in some of the most remote communities on the planet.

Training as midwives and in other advanced skills is vital for nurses so they can learn to manage all types of emergencies and save seriously injured and ill adults, children and babies who might be hours away from a hospital. 

AusBiz. Promotion

Fast Fact CareFlight trains some of the only nurses in the world who undertake downthe-wire rescues from the helicopter, day and night, over land and water.

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Darwin

AusBiz. Promotion

CareFlight’s social purpose and teaching on the ground CareFlight has grown to be one of the best known and most trusted charities in Australia. Its mission is unrelenting: to save lives, speed recovery and serve the community. All of the resources the not-for-profit can muster are strategically directed into growing the charity’s social impact.

The helicopter services in Sydney and Darwin are the best-known examples of CareFlight’s social impact funded with community support. In recent times, helped by businesses and individuals, CareFlight’s education programs have branched out to touch the lives of Australians right around the country, and will be expanding into Queensland soon. Highly trained and experienced pre-hospital medical specialists now deliver advanced training to volunteers and clinics in remote communities. Together, it’s about building resilience in remote, rural and regional Australia.

Territory Generation CEO Tim Duignan

“The MediSim Trauma Care Workshops have provided invaluable and potentially life-saving training to those in rural and remote areas, including some of our own employees, who may be the first responders in the event of a serious incident.”

TIO CEO Daryl Madden

“The MediSim program provides potentially life-saving education in some of the most challenging locations in the Northern Territory, and empowering local workers and volunteers with the skills and confidence as first responders is a great outcome for these regions.”

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AusBiz.

Cairns

Alice Springs

Brisbane

Perth Sydney Adelaide

Reach of mobile training since 2011 Total MediSim Training Sessions: 352 Total Responders attending: 5,011 We are looking for sponsors to expand our MediSim program into all states including Queensland.

Trauma Care Workshops

CareFlight’s award-winning MediSim program provides medical simulation training to rural and remote emergency service volunteers and workers. Given locals in remote locations are often the first to arrive at the scene of a major trauma incident, CareFlight trains them to deliver pre-hospital emergency care while awaiting the arrival of professional help. Educators use mobile simulation equipment and realistic scenario training to give participants the confidence to take action at an emergency scene that could ultimately save a life.

CareFlight instils cutting edge prehospital knowledge and skills in the workshops. Participants are also shown ingenious improvisation techniques that will work on scene, for example to stem serious bleeding or make a splint.

Dr Ken Harrison developed Trauma Care Workshops after years flying on the CareFlight helicopter. He was also able to draw on his personal experience of being deployed with CareFlight’s disaster cache to Indonesia after the 2004 tsunami, experiencing first-hand the need for improvisation due to lack of surgical equipment. More than 5,000 Australians have now been upskilled with MediSim. It continues to be delivered at no cost to participants.

Canberra

Melbourne

Hobart

Sick and injured kids in remote communities

Building lasting resilience is vital in remote and regional communities.

CareFlight’s Top End team last year developed an additional clinical training program designed specifically to help sick and injured children in remote and regional settings, particularly Indigenous communities.

Over the past year, eight workshops have been delivered at no cost to participants and health clinics. This is largely made possible with financial support from CareFlight’s partners TIO and Territory Generation.

Paediatric cases are challenging for all clinicians, particularly when access to specialists is limited. The course was designed to help clinicians diagnose and treat children to ensure they receive the vital treatment they need.

Experienced CareFlight nurse and midwife Dean Blackney led development of the course. He said it was designed to share the latest evidence-based knowledge in managing and stabilising unwell and injured children and babies.

“Remote area clinicians are well trained, but they don’t see trauma after trauma like those working in a big hospital. Practising their skills can mean the difference between life or death in a lot of situations,” Blackney says.

PARTNERING WITH BUSINESSES TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY

To find out how your business can benefit the community Contact Stewart on 0408 240 785 or at partnership@careflight.org

Train your team in advanced trauma care at your location

Sponsor a trauma-training workshop for first responders

Sponsor CareFlight to boost your brand presence

Education Special

Yanco Agricultural High School Yanco Agricultural High School is a public co-educational residential high school specialling in agriculture.

Established in 1922, this unique institution provides a broad, wellbalanced curriculum in a rural setting, beside the Murrumbidgee River just outside Leeton in the Riverina. The school covers 280 hectares, including 180 hectares of intensive irrigation and dry land agriculture, and 60 hectares of natural bushland boarded by the Murrumbidgee.

For students who come from farming properties, Yanco is a home-away-from-home. The school runs both sheep and cattle studs and students who are taking equine subjects are able to stable their horse at the school. All students from Year 7 to Year 12 are either weekly or

Yanco Agricultural High School 02 69511500 250 Euroley Road, Yanco, NSW 2705 yancoah-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au yancoag-h.school.nsw.edu.au

full-time boarders.

Apart from involvement in local team and sporting competitions, school facilities include a show stock centre, equine arena, tennis, netball and basketball courts, swimming pool, gymnasium, mountain bikes, kayaks and 10 hectares of playing fields.

Prospective Year 7 students sit the Selective High School Placement Test in Year 6. Students entering Year 8 to Year 11 should apply directly to the school. Applications are accepted mid-year, although requests outside this time may also be considered.

Yanco Agricultural High School will be having Open Days on Monday October 28, 2019 and February 17, 2020. For further information or to arrange a school tour, please contact Yanco Agricultural High School.

Puzzles

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AusBiz.

MIGHTY MONSTROUS SIZABLE TITANIC WHOPPER

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally. Theme: BIG, BIGGER

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GREAT HULKING IMMENSE KING SIZE LARGE MAMMOTH MASSIVE

WORD SEARCH

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BUMPER COLOSSAL CYCLOPS ELEPHANT ENORMOUS GIGANTIC GOLIATH

DOWN 1. For each grade, journalist put on an act (9) 2. Beat a retreat, initially, to pub (3) 3. Weird spade adapted for use by many people (10) 4. One who carries grizzly animal and queen (6) 5. Lord’s wife seen with Chatterley’s lover! (4) 6. Do they break in to steal mice? (3,8) 7. Insert a leader in Russia (5) 13. Anna kissed Dick, said to be anti-government (11) 15. Horse-drawn transport for a theatre instructor (10) 16. Sole position in the way (9) 20. Foil what’s often on the rocks (6) 21. Come before tea to see a heavenly body! (5) 23. Raised cattle, branded, and went (4) 25. Young chap started like a dream (3)

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ACROSS 8. Give lawful permission to call on league allies (8) 9. You can count on it (6) 10. Raft no longer right behind (3) 11. Be salver or be disloyal (6) 12. Temptation changed a bit (4) 14. I leave train games for ships (10) 17. Longed for Ned after 12 months (7) 18. Complaining bitterly about fence (7) 19. Depress some prudish ear?

Tenacious! (10) 22. Dashes off other half of code (4) 23. Mistake made by Yogi’s partner (3-3) 24. Cancelled producing child before spring (3) 26. Hope deer is let loose (6) 27. Cook taco mix for parrot (8)

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Enhance your experience with Hertz.

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This is Tiger Snake Country...

Taking inspiration from those great Tennessee Whiskeys and Kentucky Bourbons comes Australia’s version of a sour mash whiskey.

Tiger Snake has been twice awarded Australia’s Best Whikey at the World Whiskies Awards.

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