Imagine One by Reid Media Pty Ltd

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ARE YOU ON TRACK? retirement planning

FINANCIAL Planning

IMAGINE EVENTS GUIDE

The best events, books & movies

Strategies for life

Destination:

BOOKEND:

JONO COLEMAN

Las Vegas step beyond The Strip

Life, wealth & my first job

Ministry of Food: Preaching in practice AUS $6.95 • NZ $8.95 ISSN 1838-0514

Hot Property

imagine one spring 2010

The Lifestyle Channel’s Andrew Winter talks hot property

Life, wealth & imaginings

ISSN 1838-0514

Imagine Your Lifestyle Pty Ltd ABN 27 120 725 073 ACN 120 725 073

Publisher Nicholas Reid publisher@imagineyourlifestyle.com.au

From the

Publisher’s Desk

elcome to the first edition of Imagine Your Lifestyle Magazine. It’s an exciting time at Imagine Headquarters as the first issue rolls off the press and is finally with you, someone who shares an interest in financial matters. Like you, I enjoy reading wealth and lifestyle publications, big and small, however at times I find most can be too technical, business focused or don’t appeal to my personal financial interests. Needless to say, not everyone in my

When planning for a year, plant corn. When planning for a decade, plant trees. When planning for life, train and educate people. Chinese Proverb

family is interested in reading technically heavy financial information. I believe personal finances should interest everyone, therefore Imagine Your Lifestyle Magazine was developed to offer you real wealth information in a relevant lifestyle format. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the team who have worked tirelessly over many late nights to bring you a world-class magazine.

As you will discover we have secured the best team of writers and journalists in their respective fields, all of whom have helped shape our first issue and the future of the publication. I would like to thank Jamie Oliver for taking the time to discuss his vision and imaginings for the future. I would also like to thank the amazing team at Professional Investment Services, Australia’s largest independent financial services group, who opened their doors and offered their complete support. They have guided us through the intricacies of effective financial planning and personal finance solutions, and have inspired us with amazing stories of tragedy and triumph, some of which you can read in this and future issues of Imagine Your Lifestyle Magazine. Once again thank you to all. We welcome your feedback as Imagine Your Lifestyle Magazine is here to inform and entertain you. Please send any feedback or story suggestions to editor@imagineyourlifestyle.com.au. Sit-back, relax, enjoy and keep imagining!

Nicholas Reid, Publisher www.imagineyourlifestyle.com.au

Join Us FOR THE LATEST NEWS Join us on facebook and keep up to date with the latest news and ideas or follow us on twitter @imagine_mag and join in the conversation on everything life, wealth and imagings. There are also great prizes to be shared and won. See you there!

Editor Jeni Bone editor@imagineyourlifestyle.com.au Advertising Sales & Marketing John Blondin - Media Titles Pty Ltd advertising@imagineyourlifestyle.com.au Art Direction Reid Media Pty Ltd studio@reidmedia.com.au Printed in Australia by Caxton Web www.caxtonweb.com.au Distributed by D&D Mailing Services www.ddmail.com.au Imagine One Contributors Carol Yip, Andrew Winter, Margo Bowers, Jon Thomson, Lizzie Loel, Helen Hawkes, Sam Tannous, Lauren Brittain, Ron Reid and Rachael Keith. Disclaimer No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form by any means without prior written permission from the Publisher. Opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Imagine Your Lifestyle Pty Ltd. All editorial material is accepted in good faith. We welcome editorial and photographic contributions.

www.reidmedia.com.au

A big thank you to Jamie Oliver for taking the time to talk with us. Every issue of Imagine Your Lifestyle is prepared with careful attention to accuracy. Please use this magazine as general guide. It is important to consult a professional before making decisions relating to your own financial investment. Imagine Your Lifestyle expresses the views of the authors and is based on the information available at the time and it is not to be taken as advice.

Life insurance made for living. Macquarie Life Active One of the most ironic notions of traditional life insurance is that it’s about death. At Macquarie Life, we’ve decided it’s time to turn the industry on its head: Macquarie Life Active introduces a revolutionary all-in-one insurance product that covers life, TPD, trauma and income protection in a single policy. It covers more medical conditions, allows for multiple claims over the lifetime of the policy, and promotes an active and healthy lifestyle. It’s like a breath of fresh air – life insurance that’s actually about life.

Discover the joys of an easier life Talk to your financial adviser about Macquarie Life Active or contact us on 1800 005 057.

The Macquarie Life Active product disclosure statement (PDS) is to be issued by Macquarie Life Limited (Macquarie Life or “us”) ABN 56 003 963 773 AFSL 237 497 and is to be available by contacting us from 11 June 2010. The PDS should be considered before deciding to acquire or to continue to hold the product. Macquarie Life is not an authorised deposit-taking institution for the purposes of the Banking Act (Cth) 1959, and Macquarie Life’s obligations do not represent deposits or other liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542. Macquarie Bank Limited does not guarantee or otherwise provide assurance in respect of the obligations of Macquarie Life. MQ572_FP_Imagine_P1

BMWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diesel Motoring

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Too many people are being affected by what they eat. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for a national revolution. Australia needs to stand up for better food!

p.16 Jamie Oliver

MasterChef Cuisine

p.64

Bookend with Jono Coleman

p.114

Money Lessons

Fashion

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Contents Regulars Welcome & Imagine

Home 04

Women’s Fashion

Men’s Corner

Kids’ Biz

Health & Wellbeing Health News

Relax - Stressbusters

Technology Overload

Active Get Active Life - get in to it.

Sport Profile Pefect pitch - RWC 2011

Noticeboard 08

Property 52 With Andrew Winter

Ask a Planner

Decorate Online

Travel

Antiques & Collectibles

Organic Cleaning

Destination: Local 92 Hervey Bay - whale watching

Contributors 09

Out & About Events & Festivals Guide

At Home

Books & Film Reviews

Market News 62 What’s new on the gourmet shelf

GALLERIA Latest Instore Techno File

Beverage Connoisseur

FeatureS Jamie Oliver Life lessons

Cuisine 64 MasterChef marvel 68

Soho 16

Destination: International VIVA Las Vegas Travel Bits

96 101

Detour Motoring Feature BMW’s diesel motoring

104

Motoring News

109

Boating Feature Boat syndication

110

SOHO Trends Hot Under 30

Boating News

113

Eric McCay 22 From bikes to bigger dreams

Bookend

Hotel Sweet Home Rae’s on Watego’s

Jonothan Coleman 114 Life, wealth and my first job

Financial Planning Success in Planning Robbie Bennetts

Carol Yip 36 Redefining retirement planning Planner Profile 42 Financial planner of the year

Family Matters Lance’s Legacy Anna Norman

Philanthropy 46 Giving as a tax deduction Kids & Money Teaching kids about money

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PERFECT PITCH

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Decorate your home without leaving it.

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Noticeboard

FAQ

IssueTWO

YOUR SAY. Send us your feedback and one lucky reader will win a Santos Wish package: a ‘Trenza’ soft leather wrist wrap with multiple charms, plus three freshwater pearl bracelets made from lustrous river pearls from Acapulco {total value $400}. Email thoughts and comments to: letters@imagineyourlifestyle.com.au

Described by founder, Kellee Cruse as “Mexican spirited jewellery with meaning”, the Santos Wish range has attained cult following, counting among its ambassadors Delta Goodrem, Dannii Minogue and Bono of U2 fame! Inspired by a stint in Mexico, Kellee drew on saints’ medallions for remembrance of the culture and warmth of the people. Peace, protection, luck and love are entwined in the beautiful beading, freshwater pearls and intricate patron ‘Santos’ imparting various virtues. They also make the perfect wedding bonbonniere. www.santoswish.com

ask@imagineyourlifestyle.com.au Who can provide advice? Most people are willing to give an opinion, however to provide ‘financial service’ advice, a person needs to obtain an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) or become an authorised representative of an AFSL holder. Thus an accountant or solicitor must have a Licence or be authorized before providing advice. 'Financial Services' are defined very broadly and include providing financial product advice and dealing, or arranging to deal, in financial products. So unless they are covered by an AFSL, an accountant or solicitor cannot offer investment advice or recommend specific financial products.

How much should a planner typically charge? The planner should be able to give you an estimate of possible costs. This could include the cost of the planner’s services (their time and expertise) and the percentage they would receive as commission on products you may purchase.

What do I need to know about risk? Any investment involves ‘risk’, that is, the chance that you will

not achieve your financial goals. Generally, the higher the expected return, the higher the risk.

Can I have a written statement of advice (SoA)? Your planner should provide you with a written financial plan or ‘statement of advice’ (SoA) whenever giving personal financial advice. This written plan should set out the basis for the advice and the reasons for the particular recommendations.

Will my financial plan change as my circumstances and needs change? Your goals will change over time, and so your financial plan should be reviewed and changed too.

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Santos Wish

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions of Financial Planners. If you would like to ask our experts any financial questions or something relating to your lifestyle, email your questions to:

Fact:

38% of Australianot n say they regret e or m having done ing financial plann ert or seeking exp advice. Imagine One | Spring 2010

Noticeboard

Contributors Carol Yip.

Andrew Winter. Best known as host and residential property expert for the award-winning series “Selling Houses Australia”, exclusive to The LifeStyle Channel, Andrew is a global ‘Property Guru’. His “Selling Houses” series has gone from strength to strength in the UK and Australia.

Margo Bowers. With experiences including a memorable personal audience with Ralph Lauren at New York Fashion Week, through to working with Adele Palmer, Robert Burton and Deborah Hutton, Margo has the proven credentials to advise on ways to enhance personal style.

Jon Thomson. Jon has been a motoring writer in various forms since 1981. He has written for leading motoring magazines Wheels, Motor, and Road and Track. Jon has been the host of SBS TV’s Speedweek and reports on motorsport for Fairfax Radio and 2UE.

Lizzie Loel. Lizzie has been a restaurant critic for more than 10 years. Prior to taking up the pen, she spent 15 years in the kitchen as a chef. She now writes regularly for Vogue Entertaining + Travel and brings a wealth of food experience to Imagine.

Helen Hawkes. One of Australia’s foremost lifestyle journalists. Helen is a UNIFAM qualified counsellor and author of two books. Her most recent, The Slow Guide to Sydney, is a salute to a slower, more satisfying city life.

Sam Tannous. For the past 15 years, Sam has written about financial matters, design, health and consumer products. She studied philosophy at the University of NSW and maintains an interest in ethics and social philosophy.

Lauren Brittain. Having established a first-class reputation in PR, Lauren displays broad experience across all media. Tertiary qualified with a Bachelor of Business, Lauren has worked with many international clients. w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

The six-step financial planning process. When developing a financial plan for you, known as a Statement of Advice (SOA), a financial planner will follow a structured process to help understand your needs and recommend an appropriate strategy. The six-step financial planning process is as follows: 1 Gather your financial information; 2 Identify your goals; 3 Identify financial issues; 4 Prepare your financial plan; (called a Statement of Advice) 5 Implement the recommendations based on your financial plan; 6 Review and revise the plan at regular intervals, or when circumstances change.

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Carol has over 20 years experience in the financial industry with Price Waterhouse Coopers & Arthur Andersen. She holds a Master’s in Business Admin from the University of Hull, UK, a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (Honours) from Monash University in Melbourne.

Top tips for

successful investing:

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Invest with your head, not your heart - Investing can be an emotional experience and rash decisions based on emotions like fear, generally result in losses. Stick to your guns - Establish a long-term investment plan and stick to it. It’s difficult to reap the rewards if you’re continually changing your investment focus by chasing last year’s best performing asset class.

Branch out - Make sure your investment is adequately diversified across a range of areas. Think about how you can best take advantage of opportunities in emerging markets such as Asia. Diversification remains the key. Most asset classes appear priced for moderate economic growth, which seems the most likely outcome. As the global economy transitions from initial recovery to still uncertain longer term trend, there is plenty of scope for renewed volatility as expectations shift. 9

CALENDAR

National Events & Festivals

September – 14 November Valentino, Retrospective: Past/ Present/Future.

September August – 5 September Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Melbourne Spring Fashion Week is a time to celebrate the exceptional talent that is the essence of Australia’s fashion capital. The event offers more than 100 free and ticketed public events celebrating the arrival of the Spring/ Summer fashion season, featuring all the hottest designers, labels, styles and retailers in and around Melbourne.

September – 31 October Mary Poppins The Musical Disney and Cameron Mackintosh invite you to let your imagination take flight. Rediscover the power of family and the joy of youth. Brilliantly adapted from the beloved books by Australia’s own P.L.Travers and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film. Live on stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne. 10

One hundred exquisite haute couture garments will reveal Valentino’s mastery of the elegant line, classic form and opulent detail at the Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland. A major exhibition developed by Paris’s renowned decorative arts museum, Les Arts Décoratifs. It explores the work of the celebrated Italian fashion house Valentino, known the world over for its sophisticated, timeless design and glamorous clientele.

October 7 October – 10 October Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. The iconic racetrack at Mount Panorama is considered to be the Mecca of Motorsport. Watch it come alive again and be part of history while the V8 Supercars battle it out in one of the greatest events in Australian Motorsport.

22 October – 23 October Ben Hur – The Stadium Spectacular

September – 18 November Spring Racing Carnival

Combines the scale of the Sydney Olympic Games Opening Ceremony with the drama of the slave who dared defy the Roman Empire. Be part of the biggest theatrical event ever seen in Australia.

Victoria’s Spring Racing Carnival showcases 50 days of world-class thoroughbred racing in a party atmosphere unmatched by any other Australian sporting event.

11 September – 10 October ACT Floriade Celebrate Spring, at Australia’s biggest flower festival! Featuring more than one million blooms, artistic entertainment and engaging exhibitions, Floriade set in Canberra’s Commonwealth Park is sure to be a stimulating experience.

November 2 November Emirates 150th Melbourne Cup Since its humble beginnings in 1861, the Melbourne Cup has remained a constant in an ever-changing world. Celebrate 150 years of history whilst enjoying the fashion, food and racing fever, that are all part of the culture of the race that stops the nation. Imagine One | Spring 2010

The Artefact Exhibition.

In a major coup for Victoria, rontier Events, Premier Exhibitions, Inc., Museum Victoria, with the support of the Victorian Government, are pleased to announce the exclusive presentation of Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition at Melbourne Museum until 17 October 2010. “This is a true blockbuster exhibition which has been an outstanding success across the world, and we are delighted to be partnering with Michael Gudinski, Museum Victoria and Premier Exhibitions USA to bring Titanic exclusively to Melbourne,” said Sir Rod Eddington, Chairman of Victorian Major Events Company. “Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition is an incomparable insight into the grandeur, romance and the tragedy of the Titanic and her passengers and crew. I’m honoured that this will be the first major exhibition project for Frontier Events and that we’re a part in bringing it to Australia for the very first time,” said Michael Gudinski, CEO of Frontier Events. “We are proud to be presenting this remarkable exhibition that by displaying extraordinary objects removed from the w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

sea bed, will bring visitors closer than ever before to the dramatic story of the Titanic,” said Dr J Patrick Greene, CEO, Museum Victoria. On April 15, 1912, Titanic, the world’s largest ship, sank after colliding with an iceberg, claiming more than 1,500 lives and shaking the world’s confidence in the infallibility of modern technology. Almost 100 years later, Melbourne Museum will pay tribute to the tragedy in Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition, which showcases more than 280 artefacts retrieved from the Titanic’s debris field, offering visitors a poignant look at this legendary ship and its passengers and crew. The exhibition has been created with a focus on Titanic’s compelling human stories, told through authentic artefacts and exacting re-creations of the ship’s interior. Delicate bottles of perfume, china bearing the logo of the elite White Star Line, even a piece of the hull of Titanic - these and many other objects collected from the wreck site offer poignant connections to lives abruptly ended or forever changed by one of the world’s greatest maritime disasters. As they enter the exhibition, each visitor is presented with a replica boarding pass of an actual passenger, drawing

them back in time to 1912 and the ship’s fateful maiden voyage. Then begins a journey through the life of Titanic, from construction to life on board, to its ill-fated voyage, tragic sinking and the amazing efforts to recover artefacts. Along the way visitors will marvel at the full-size recreation of the ship’s Grand Staircase, learn countless stories of heroism and humanity and even press their palms against an “iceberg”. The exhibition also tells Titanic’s Australian stories, and how its sinking strongly resonated with communities here. In the “Memorial Gallery”, guests will be able to take their boarding pass to the memorial wall and discover whether their passenger and travelling companions survived or perished. “With more than 22 million visitors to date, we consistently see how Titanic resonates and touches everyone. Each of us can relate to someone on Titanic and the retelling of her story feeds our curiosity time and again,” states Cheryl Mure, Vice President of RMS Titanic, Inc. “We have been anxious to present Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition in Australia for many years. Now through the exciting partnerships with Melbourne Museum and Frontier Events, we look forward to offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience this important piece of history.” Over the past 19 years, this powerful exhibition has appeared in major museums worldwide - from Chicago to Los Angeles and Paris to London. RMS Titanic, Inc. is the only company permitted by law to recover objects from the wreck of the Titanic. The Company was granted Salvor-in-Possession rights to the wreck site of Titanic by a United States federal court in 1994 and has conducted seven research and recovery expeditions to Titanic rescuing more than 5,500 artefacts. Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition When: Until Sunday 17 Oct 2010 Where: Melbourne Museum Tickets: www.titanicmelbourne.com Phone: 13 11 02 11

Foreword Juliet Anne Fortier When a young woman inherits the key to a mysterious safety deposit box in Italy, she is told it will lead her to a family treasure. But her inheritance launches her on a dangerous journey into the past – and the true history of her ancestor Giulietta, whose legendary love for a young man named Romeo turned medieval Siena upside down. An inspired reimagining of the world’s most famous love story, and a heart-pumping contemporary thriller, Juliet intertwines the fates of two unforgettable heroines in one peerless tale that is impossible to put down. In stores, September 2010. RRP $32.99.

Empire of Silver Conn Iggulden The new novel from master of historical fiction, Conn Iggulden. Genghis Khan is dead, but his legend and his legacy live on. His son Ogedai has built a white city on a great plain and made a capital for the new nation. Now the armies have gathered to see which of Genghis’s sons has the strength to be khan. In stores now. RRP $32.99.

A Simpler Time Peter FitzSimons

I Heart Paris Lindsey Kelk When Angela Clark’s boyfriend, Alex, suggests a trip to Paris at the same time as hip fashion mag Belle asks her to write a piece, she jumps at the chance. But even as she’s falling for the joie de vivre of Paris, someone’s conspiring to sabotage her big break. And when she spots Alex having a tête-à-tête with his ex in a local bar, Angela’s dreams of Parisian passion all start crashing down around her. With London and her old life only a train journey away, Angela can’t decide if she should stay and face the music or run away home. In stores now. RRP $24.99.

A Rat in a Stripy Sock

Peter FitzSimon’s account of growing up, one of six children on a farm on the rural outskirts of Sydney in the 1960s, is first and foremost a tribute to family. But it is also a salute to times and generations past, when praise was understated but love unstinting, when work was hard and values clear, when people stood by each other in adversity. Witty, tender and wise, A Simpler Time is told with good humour and enormous self-deprecation. Peter comments: “They say if you had a happy childhood you remember the sun shining… whereas if you had an unhappy childhood you remember wet Wednesday afternoons, trudging home from school. When I look back on my life in that family, I remember the sun shining.” In stores now. RRP $35.99.

Frances Watts

he rain poured down like misery, washing the city in grey… Grey bricks, grey street, grey puddles, grey rubbish bin, grey rat. But look – amid the grey, a heartlifting flash of colour. A Stripy sock! From bestselling author Francis Watts comes a whimsical, uplifting story that shows how happiness can be found in the simplest of things. In stores now. RRP $24.99.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

SilverScreen

&ABOUT

OUT

Salt Angelina Jolie stars in Columbia Pictures’ Salt, a contemporary espionage thriller. Before becoming a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt (Jolie) swore an oath to duty, honour, and country. She will prove loyal to these when a defector accuses her of being a Russian sleeper spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture, protect her husband, and stay one step ahead of her colleagues at the CIA. In cinemas now.

Eat, Pray, Love Elizabeth Gilbert (Julia Roberts)

had everything a modern woman is supposed to dream of having – a husband, a house, a successful career – yet like so many others, she found herself lost, confused, and searching for what she really wanted in life. Newly divorced and at a crossroads, Gilbert steps out of her comfort zone, risking everything to change her life, embarking on a journey around the world that becomes a quest for self-discovery. In her travels, she discovers the true pleasure of nourishment by eating in Italy; the power of prayer in India, and, finally and unexpectedly, the inner peace and balance of true love in Bali. Based upon the bestselling memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love proves that there really is more than one way to let yourself go and see the world. In cinemas in October.

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows The final in the series, this massive mega flick will be divided into two parts – the first due for release in November 2010, the second part in July 2011. True to the formula, this one revolves around Harry, Ron, and Hermione and their battle against Lord Voldemort. This time, they are entrusted with the quest to find and destroy all his remaining Horcruxes. It is meant to be their final year of school at Hogwarts, but Voldemort’s rise to power prevents them from attending. The trio undergo a long adventure to destroy Voldemort, with many obstacles in the way, inclduding Harry’s obsession with the mysterious Deathly Hallows, as well as increasing pressure and chaos on the Wizarding World.

Imagine Galleria Edifier Luna 5 Encore iF500 This statement of design excellence offers uncompromised audio quality. As an iPod, iPhone or MP3 docking station, or when operated in FM radio mode, the simplicity of use, design and audio quality of the Luna 5 encore iF500 make for an outstanding visual and audio experience. RRP $499

Audio Visual

Techno Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a high tech jungle out there! So many devices, so much jargon! For the uninitiated and the full-on tech-addict, our resident tech guru presents the pick of the bunch of recent releases for your audiovisual pleasure.

Yamaha Modus Digital Pianos These Yamaha digital pianos are utterly gorgeous, play music by themselves and when you do play them, the feel and the sound are extraordinary. Tap into the on-line Radio Service for Piano and you can listen to uninterrupted streaming of music on your piano. There are four pianos in the range. RRP $8,999 to $18,999

Sony Bloggie Camera The bloggie camera from Sony is pocket-sized, lightweight and available in white, pink, violet and blue, and will ensure all the festivities can be viewed within minutes online. The bloggie camera offers effortless image capture with a unique 270Â° rotating lens, capturing HD footage from every angle and making self-filming easier than ever. RRP $299

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Philips 21:9 Screen

Galleria

Philips have taken the plunge and released their 56” 56PFL9954H LCD screen. This 21:9 format screen is designed to display DVD and Blu-ray movies as they were intended – full screen width (just like the theatres) without the black bars. In true monitor style, it comes without a tuner. However if you watch a lot of DVD or Blu-ray movies and only a limited amount of conventional TV, this could be the screen for you. There is also more to this screen than its shape. The

most obvious feature is ‘ambilight’, a subtle lighting system behind the screen that reflects from the wall behind the unit, giving the illusion that the screen is floating. From a technical aspect this screen is also impressive. It boasts a 1 millisecond response rate, and has 2560 x 1080 resolution. It uses edge-lit LED lighting and 200Hz picture smoothing. The dynamic contract ratio is 80,000:1. RRP $8,999

Diva Lamp

Peachtree The Peachtree Nova integrated amplifier is an ideal solution to improve computerbased or streaming audio to a ‘high-end’ performance level or if you are simply looking for a high quality amp. RRP $1,799

Now available in Australia, Diva Lamp was the standout hit of the 2009 Milan Furniture Fair. It’s an LED light and music system for iPod or iPhone, and also connects to computers, CD players and other MP3 players. Available in black, white or anthracite from Studio Italia. RRP $599

Pure Sensia This football-shaped, touch-screen operated, multi-media oriented piece of techno-wizardry is a DAB+ radio with too many features to list. With a 5.7”/135mm colour, multi-touch sensitive 640x480 pixel resolution screen, it can change to suit a number of applications. Via the internet you’ll be able to access podcasts, internet radio and eventually Twitter and Facebook update alerts. Available in red, yellow, white or black. RRP $749

The Nova has now been joined by its smaller brother, the iDecco, which is billed as the world’s first ‘Tube Hybrid Integrated amplifier with a Pure Digital iPod dock’ sharing many of the properties of its larger sibling. RRP $1,499

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Imagine

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Imagine Exclusive

Chef to media mogul, and now good food evangelist, Jamie Oliver is putting his global profile to grass roots use and working with Aussie families via the ‘Ministry of Food’ to combat poor diet and obesity. On his recent trip to Australia, Jamie spent some time with IYL and shared his thoughts on life, wealth and imaginings.

ith a decade of media under his belt – TV series, 10 cookbooks, docos, restaurants, homeware products under the brand Jme, ‘Jamie at Home’ parties, a magazine and these days, quests that surmount all of these – Jamie Oliver could rightfully claim to have single-handedly revolutionised how we approach home cooking (no offence to the cookery stalwarts such as Delia Smith and Margaret Fulton.) No foul-mouthed tirades from Jamie, except in frustration when he sees what some kids have in their lunch boxes. His tousled charm and ebullient approach make people – men, women, kids, grannies – just love ‘im! From a humble start, his popularity and sway with the public have catapulted the grinning boy next door to a formidable social force. Leaving school at 16, Jamie attended Westminster Catering College. After years in the kitchens of some serious luminaries of cuisine, Jamie was “discovered” by the BBC in 1999 and his first series, The Naked Chef, debuted that same year, followed by his cookbook which became a number one best-

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seller in the UK. There are too many series and books, travelogues, docos, specials, tours, live shows and appearances around the globe to list. Suffice to say, he has cooked for dignitaries, royalty, stunned villagers, adoring fans, schools and his mates. In 2003, the Queen awarded Jamie an MBE for his services to the hospitality industry, after he worked with a group of disadvantaged young people to train them to become chefs in his restaurant, Fifteen. Jamie’s real passion for a role in the wider community has emerged in recent years – combating obesity and replacing junk food with nutritious, wholesome, home-cooked food. It started in 2005 when he initiated a campaign called “Feed me Better” to motivate British schoolchildren to cut back on junk food and acquire a taste instead for home-cooking. The British government took notice. Then came his “School Dinners” campaign which focused on improving the quality of meals served at schools that could still come in on budget and taste yummy – or “lovely jubbly” as he was fond of saying in his early days. Jamie’s quest made headlines 17

Imagine

Changes in family life, the rise of convenience foods, and a dearth of food education in schools have led to people losing touch with one of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most essential skills and enjoyable pastimes: cooking.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Jamie Oliver

and influenced parents, all the way to 10 Downing Street. The British Government committed £280 million over the subsequent three years to raising the nutritional standards in schools, which PM, Tony Blair acknowledged was a direct result of Jamie’s dedication to the cause. And thus, “Ministry of Food” was born. Jamie realised that too many kids weren’t eating any better at home than they were at school. It wasn’t that their parents didn’t want to feed them properly; it was just that nobody had ever taught them the basics of cooking so they didn’t have the knowledge they needed to be able to whip up good hearty family meals. Jamie believed that if he could show non-cooks how easy, fun and satisfying cooking could be then get them to share their new knowledge by passing it on to their friends and family, everybody could make a difference to the health and happiness of the country. He took this ethos and culinary zeal throughout the UK and US. Now it’s Australia’s turn. Australia has achieved the dubious w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

status of one of the most obese nations. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 37 per cent of all adults were classified as overweight in 2007-08, while another quarter were deemed obese. Alarmingly, a quarter of all children aged between five and 17 were overweight or obese in 2007-08, up four percentage points from 1995 levels. Changes in family life, the rise of convenience foods, and a dearth of food education in schools have led to people losing touch with one of life’s most essential skills and enjoyable pastimes: cooking. The “Ministry of Food” concept involves adults and children mastering simple and healthy recipes, rather than reaching for takeaway food, by attending free cooking classes. “When you know how to cook, you’ve got control over your life and your health,” Jamie said at the launch of the initiative in Sydney in March. An appreciation of food and cooking is in danger of being overwhelmed by time poor lives and competing 19

Imagine

Jamie’s iPhone & iPad Cooking Companion priorities, he warned. “As life changes, as we live busier, faster lives, the fact is the passing down of skills, cooking skills, life skills, isn’t like it used to be. “I believe that every child has the right to fresh, nutritious meals, and that every family deserves real, honest, wholesome food,” said Jamie. “Too many people are being affected by what they eat. It’s time for a national revolution. Australia needs to stand up for better food!” Whitegoods retailer, The Good Guys is contributing AUD$5m to the funding of the cooking school program in Australia and is utterly behind the communityfocused initiative and its aims. “We believe ‘Ministry of Food’ has the potential to improve the health and social welfare of communities right across Australia,” said The Good Guys’ chairman, Andrew Muir, announcing the establishment of The Good Foundation, an independent not-forprofit organisation that will address the growing list of health concerns related to poor eating habits. “We have been looking for a significant and meaningful way to approach this issue. It was a logical decision for us to work with someone, who stands up and can be counted! His name is Jamie Oliver. Jamie is flying the flag for better food education for children and adults so that everyone has the opportunity to get vital knowledge about good food and simple, delicious, nutritious cooking.” Ministry of Food centres are already operating in Britain and the US, and Oliver hopes the concept will include a mobile kitchen and a “bricks and mortar’ kitchen in Sydney by the end of the year. “It can go to a school, it can go to hard to reach areas, deprived areas,” he said of the mobile kitchen. “You can put it outside a football pitch, at festivals – wonderful, it works! For details, recipes and other interesting tid-bits, visit www.jamieoliver.com iyl 20

amie’s 20 Minute Meals application (app) transforms the iPhone, iPod Touch or new iPad into your ideal cooking companion. The beautifully designed, intuitive interface simplifies recipes into simple steps. Every step is accompanied with gorgeous full-screen photography, while voice prompts from Jamie give handy advice right at the point it’s needed.

Features: •5 0 completely new step-bystep recipes. • Stunning step-by-step photography for every recipe. • 21 exclusive Jamie videos featuring tips, techniques and kitchen skills. • Beautiful intuitive design. • Handy voice prompts and tips from Jamie in every recipe. • Easy to use interactive shopping list. • Comprehensive kitchen essentials guide. • Powerful browse or search recipes by ingredient or recipe type. • Shake for random recipe. • Toggle portion size. • Features metric and US measures. • Once installed, no Internet connection required.

Video Library. Over 20 exclusive videos are included and explore a wide variety of tips, techniques and kitchen skills including ‘cooking the perfect steak’, ‘making a risotto’ through to ‘knife care’, ‘preparing garlic’ and ‘tips for great pasta’.

Shopping List. The interactive shopping-list feature makes getting the items you need for cooking easier than ever. Recipe ingredients can be viewed by supermarket aisle and then crossed off oneby-one. Custom items can also be added and easily share your shopping list with friends if you want them to help out.

Kitchen Essentials. A section dedicated to kitchen essentials makes setting up the kitchen with everything the aspiring chef needs simple and easy. By making sure the kitchen is equipped with the right equipment and ingredients, 20 Minute Meals lays the foundation for aspiring chefs to make great food both quickly and easily.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Jamie Oliver

imagine

fastfifteen

with Jamie Oliver

How long have you been cooking? I’ve been a chef since the mid-90s when I graduated from college and started working at the neal street restaurant but I’ve been cooking since I was a boy, growing up in my parents’ pub and helping them in the kitchen from the age of eight. Was it a childhood passion? Yes, it was. I wasn’t very good at most subjects in school because I’m dyslexic so I found it hard to read and understand maths. I still struggle with books. So cooking, for me, was like an escape and also something I was good at. Who are your main influences? I’m influenced by all kinds of things – my travels, the chefs I work with, and sometimes just ideas that I come up with. Where did you study and apprentice? I studied at Neal Street, Westminster Catering College which is one of the best in london and then when I went to work at neal street, I learned from my mentor, gennaro contaldo, who now works with me at Jamie’s Italian. After that, I continued learning at the River Café under the brilliant Ruth Rogers and Rose Gray, who sadly died earlier this year. When did you first decide to turn your culinary skills into your business? I knew when I left school that I wanted to be a chef, if that’s what you mean. I wasn’t very good at anything else apart from woodwork. What were your ambitions when you first started out? Originally I just wanted to one day have my own little restaurant in the country where I could cook great food for a handful of people. It didn’t quite work out like that. What are the main ‘perks’ and benefits of having a high profile? It’s hard to say. It allows me to be able to help people and to do things that allow change, such as publishing a recipe book where all my profits go to charity. It also allows me to do things like the School Dinners campaign in the UK and people listen to me because of who I am – and the same with the w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

Ministry of Food campaign in australia, of course. Are there any pitfalls of fame? Having a couple of photographers outside my house every morning! Is running ‘an empire’ difficult, or is it something the evolved as you grew with it? Fortunately I have a very good team of people so the business is in very good hands and this allows me to go off and do my travels and my campaigns and all the rest of it. How important are your team, staff, advisers around you? Really important. I’ve got a great team and I think that shows because I only employ people who really have a passion for what we’re trying to do here. What are the main things you will teach your kids about money and managing it? My dad never gave me pocket money – he said I had to earn it. So even when I was young, I had to do little jobs around the house and the kitchen before he gave me ten pence or whatever it was. I’m trying to do the same with my girls because I want them to grow up appreciating that you have to work for money and you don’t just get everything you ask for.

obesity problem is the 4th or 5th worst in the world. I’ve just spent some time in the USA which is number one for obesity and there are changes happening there, so I figured that it was about time something happened in Australia. Then the Good Guys came in with their support and it all took off. How can parents share a love of real food with their kids? I think it’s very important that families eat together whenever possible, for a start. I know that often one parent is out at work but I think you should at least try to all eat as a family once or twice a week – it’s time to talk about what’s happening in people’s lives, but also if you’ve got kids who are fussy eaters, often you’ll find that if they see mum and dad tucking into something new, they’ll want to try it themselves. And, go on – what’s your favourite food? It changes all the time depending on what I’m working on or what’s in season or where I’ve been recently. I know that’s not the answer you were hoping for, but it’s the truth. iyl

What are your main aims in australia with the ministry of food? With the help of the Good Guys, I’d like to open Ministry of Food centres like the ones we have in the UK. These centres play an incredibly important role in helping teach people how to cook delicious meals from scratch. You’d be amazed by how many people can’t. I’d also like to launch some mobile food centres so that we can reach communities that are a long way from the big cities. What prompted this initiative? I’d been thinking about it for a while and I’d been looking at the figures saying that Australia’s 21

Imagine

Belinda and Eric McCay at the Benowa,Gold Coast HO of Mortgage Administration Services.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Eric McCay

Eric McCay learned the principles of investment from a young age, and has parlayed his ambition for bikes and budgies to creating wealth for his many satisfied and thoroughly entertained clients.

n 1970, Eric McCay was a typical 6th Grader, yearning for a push bike to pedal along with his peers and occupy the interminable Brisbane summers, often punctuated with torrential rains, but always pavement-melting. “My two best mates had second hand bikes but my dad wouldn’t buy me one,” recounts Eric. Instead, his dad – a TV and radio mechanic by trade – suggested Eric help him with the milk run that he ran, seven days a week, starting well before dawn. “I earned $3 a day and once I had the $15 I needed for a second hand bike, I said: ‘righto, I’ve done the work I needed to, now I’ll get my bike’.” But his old man wouldn’t allow the pre-teen Eric to settle for second hand, warning it would be too dangerous and could break. “I didn’t realise it at the time, but he was raising the bar, encouraging me to get into the habit of working, sowing the seeds for bettering myself.” A new bike would cost $120. Eric toiled alongside his dad with his goal in mind. “Once I had $85, dad took

w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

me in to town, to his office, which I’d never been to before. He introduced me to his colleagues and then told me to open a door and there in a showroom were hundreds of bikes. Dad worked for Philips at the time and the company had just taken over Malvern Star Bicycles. Dad said: ‘I can get you one wholesale price, so take your pick’. I went home with my own 10-speed racing bike that retailed for $120.” Needless to say, Eric’s shiny bike was the standout among the clapped out old rattlers thrown casually against the wall of his High School. “Dad said: ‘I bet you’re going to look after this bike, Eric. You’ve earned it’. And he was right. I kept it in pristine condition. It was the only one ever locked up in the bike rack. I polished it and looked after it, and in Grade 10, I sold it for $95 – a great lesson in buying well and taking care of your possessions.” Then there was his other income stream. Eric caught fish to sell to pet shops for money to buy budgie seed while building his aviary stock until it was self funding. He kept up the milk run too, even in to his 20s, realising that his

dad’s philosophy of “earning your wages 9 to 5 and building a business 5 to 9” was entirely accurate. As for investments, Eric had already begun to accumulate a portfolio. “My grandfather had retired before he was 50 and lived very comfortably on his share and property portfolio. He would explain that buying shares is the most practical and safest way for working people to build an income stream as you can buy bits of the best businesses in the country as you save small sums of money. “So, having bought my bike, I began learning from my dad the fundamentals of share investing, learning about the sums involved and watching the progress of a handful of shares in the weekend paper. I was hooked when I realised I could have bought my bike in three weeks with the first shares we tracked, doing nothing, instead of working at dawn on a Saturday morning for 6 months. “That lesson has stayed with me for life. Through my 20s and 30s, I would temper my spending by increasing my share portfolio whenever I bought toys 23

Imagine

Top l to r: Belinda McCay, Alison Pollock, Kathy Herring, Serena Mulder, Kim Lochowicz, Rob Bradfield, Sally Kirke. Bottom l to r: Graham Gohl, Rob Dugdale, Eric McCay, Steve Cook.

such as a boat to ensure that I wasn’t going backwards.” Even with that upbringing, Eric was not “destined” to be an accountant. “Far from it!” he laughs, launching back in to the narrative familiar to his clients. “I tell them about my own experiences so they can see that creating wealth is not about earning huge amounts of money – it’s dependent on a mindset. “You need to clarify your vision of how you want your life to be, then establish a plan you can work with to achieve it. People don’t like the word ‘budget’. They say ‘I tried it once and it didn’t work’. It’s not a short term fix. Like dieting, it won’t work. You need to change the way you think about money and make a life plan.” In his teens, painfully shy and having undertaken a manual arts stream at high school – woodwork, metalwork and tech drawing – Eric had his sights set on being a cabinet maker. “In grade 10, I did an aptitude test and the careers adviser said I should be an accountant. But I couldn’t understand it. I was dead against wearing a suit and tie and working in an office. I didn’t have the right subjects to go on to senior, I hated school and I was good at woodwork.” His mum – who had subtly nurtured Eric’s talent for figures involving him in Scout bottle drives and collecting the soccer subs – had contacts in education and was determined he would study 24

accounting. “Mum played golf with Greg Norman’s mum and the wife of the Registrar at the Queensland Institute of Technology. They were all worried about their sons’ futures. Toini (Norman) was worried that Greg wouldn’t amount to anything because all he did was play golf! The other lady told mum that there was a certificate level course in business at QIT that didn’t require a senior pass to enter. “I couldn’t believe it! I hated school and here were my rotten parents, trying to make me study for another two years. It felt like National Service. I thought of it as punishment.” But enrolled and kitted out for uni,

you’re not, you’re just wasting your time’. Responsibility for my future was finally given to me. Our first assignment in that course was 500 words on the underlying psychology of ‘Why Man Works’. I will never forget his words and what I learnt in those first few weeks about what makes us tick.” Throughout his Certificate course, the budding accountant was able to put his theory in to practice, if only attempting to persuade his dad of the merits of borrowing to invest and working within the system to reduce provisional tax. “But dad was a saver, he wasn’t a borrower. I was learning all these things at uni and dad had started a new business which was taking off. But he

Dad’s accountant said his job was to tell him how much he owed the government, not how to reduce tax and increase his wealth. the surly Eric adjusted his attitude in the first week of Orientation where he encountered the inimitable Dr Bernie Wolfe. “He had multiple degrees, which blew me away,” continues Eric, “But more than that, he said ‘nobody cares if you don’t study or do your work here. It’s up to you. Make up your mind now. If you’re here to learn and take advantage of this great institution, then fine. If

wouldn’t listen to me.” As a consequence, a massive tax bill almost derailed his dad’s fledgling business and certainly took its toll on the family. “Dad’s accountant said his job was to tell him how much he owed the government, not how to reduce tax and increase his wealth. “I saw for myself how this ‘old school’ attitude caused so much stress and ripped apart a family. When my mother Imagine One | Spring 2010

Eric McCay died that year at age 39, without life insurance, and dad’s tax bill wiped out all his profit that year, he completely lost it emotionally and forced my brother and me out of home.” At 17, a full-time student, Eric moved out and lived with his teenage girlfriend, making their modest ends meet with the first version of his now streamlined and highly sophisticated software-based, wealth coaching program. “I took a ledger and wrote all out incomings and outgoings, plus what we wanted to spend on going out. I said: ‘at the end of the week, after rent and food and utilities, we can do anything we like, as long as it only costs $5’. But we made it work. “My mate was living at home, so he could get ahead, not paying board, earning tradies’ wages, but spending it all by Sunday night. I showed him a way he could own his own house by the time he was 21, but he wanted to stick to his habits. I caught up with him when we turned 40 and found he was still living in his rented home, with no car and no assets to his name.” Eric made it through his course and began in a trainee accountant position at ARC Engineering Ltd. He continued with the milk run, two mornings a week, out of habit and for the pin-money it provided. But he realised he would not be able to progress any further through the corporate ranks without Degree qualifications. So at 22 years-old, he went back to uni. “I just did it. My mates couldn’t see the sense of it. But I had the mindset to go on to achieve it.” Given credit for some courses and with his exceptional aptitude, Eric completed his Degree in just over two years. It was 1982 and Queensland’s development boom was in its nascent stages. Eric took a job with Kern Corporation Ltd which was building the Hilton Hotel and Wintergarden shopping centre on the Queen Street Mall. Recalls Eric: “This was the pre-1987 boom period. It was a bull market. At uni I had been fascinated with share trading and security analysis. I did a lot of share trading on the side and paid for my house in two years.” Eric was promoted to accountant for the investment division where he prepared the financial accounts for the Property Trusts within the group, managed money market operations and learned w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

the power of tax effective financing structures. He witnessed Kern Corp grow to become one of Australia’s Top 100 companies. Then an opportunity arose that would alter his career direction and his personality. “The ‘Personal Investor Money Show’ Expo, with David Koch was launching and I was asked to man the stand for the company. I freaked out. I was still shy and even though I knew everything about the properties and returns, speaking to the public just wasn’t my forte. But we had a $24m public offering to raise, so I did it. Turned out to be fun. In the three days of the expo, I met hundreds of people and pretty much got over any fear of talking to crowds.” Equipped with the technical skills and ability to present facts and figures in a compelling, inspiring way, Eric caught the attention of the marketing manager of the financial planning arm of a major Gold Coast share broking and financial planning firm, in whose estimation Eric would make “a great financial planner”. “In April 1987 he offered me the role as office manager for the financial planning division, took me out on his boat on a gorgeous day on the Broadwater and I made up my mind on the spot. I thought how much more money I could make trading shares if I worked inside a share broking office!” That was when he discovered how primitive the financial planning industry was at that stage. “There were hardly any systems in place,” Eric recalls. “There was little client education about market volatility or alignment of investment products to client risk profiles. There was no budgeting or cash flow planning software. It was a bull market and it was all about sales.” “I was pretty disillusioned,” admits Eric. “I had spent 10 years developing my skills as an accountant within two of Australia’s major listed companies where it was all about strategic planning and monitoring. I wanted to be more than a salesman.” Then the crash obliterated the world’s stockmarkets. October ’87 is an indelible scar on the annals of financial history. While those around him panicked, Eric says a strange calm came over him and, heeding the advice of both his dad and grandfather, he resisted the urge to join in the frenzy. “Everybody in the office was going

Real people, real issues.

How strategic planning enabled ordinary people to achieve their goals. Names have been changed to protect client confidentiality.

Case Study One After a relationship breakdown, Marie was left with her ex-partner’s debts as well at the mortgage on the house. She was juggling family commitments as well as working three jobs, seven days a week to cover all the repayments. When she came to see us, she was understandably quite distraught and stressed out about her current situation. The first rule is cashflow, so we refinanced some of the ‘relationship debts’ into the mortgage and took out a personal loan for the balance of the credit cards and then focused on paying out the highest cost debt first. The client was also able to stop working one of the three jobs. Over the next two to three years, she managed to pay out the personal loan and we then used the additional cashflow to make further payments off 25

Imagine

mad, selling shares and offloading their clients’ shares. It was manic! I told the handful of clients who would listen to me to hold on to their shares and that in fact, this was the buying opportunity of a lifetime. Those who listened had their money back in 18 months. And they were very grateful. “The planners left the industry and I was asked to take their place but did not feel at all comfortable simply selling investment products. I had just witnessed 100s of people selling their shares and managed funds at the worst possible time due to a lack of understanding of market cycles. I vowed and declared I would never be party to selling investment products to people who didn’t have the right mindset. I spent many, many hours putting all these lessons into a program that would educate people and instil in them an understanding of how to plan and invest

his animated white board presentations where everything comes together with the final strokes of the pen. “I try to motivate people, like a personal trainer, to find their own motivation. Working out a budget, or better still, an ‘expense planner’, is a process, not an event. It’s not easy. You need the skills and specialised software. You have to write down your goals for a lifetime not just a year, and then submit yourself to the number crunching and ongoing review. “But, you also need the right mindset. Over 23 years, I’ve heard all the excuses. They just get more elaborate with increased income – more extravagance and bigger excuses.” In Eric’s way of thinking, budgeting is not frightening, nor does it mean going without. “I find it a challenge. It’s fun! The harder the case the better. It should be seen as a liberating experience. It’s

with no advertising other than referrals and word of mouth, Eric has grown the business to a staff of 12 and a client base of 250 for the future.” With an acute understanding of the critical role debt and cash flow management plays in the wealth creation process, Eric established Mortgage Administration Services P.L in 1996. Since then, with no advertising other than referrals and word of mouth, has grown the business to a staff of 12 and a client base of 250 with 140 working families committed to his “wealth coaching program”. In the same year, Eric became one of the original shareholders in Professional Investment Holdings, the parent group of Professional Investment Services Australia’s leading independentlyowned network of financial advisers and accountants, and is a member of its Platinum Club. He has also been recognised for his award winning client functions for their inspirational and entertainment value. Eric’s clients have described him as “the Rolf Harris” of financial planning, partly because of his voluble explanations of real-life situations and 26

exciting! You ask yourself ‘What if . . .’? and then we make it work.” From his Benowa offices, Eric is content with the product of his lifetime of labour, spending most of his time these days overseeing the corporate governance of the company he created. “I don’t need to work so hard these days. I look after myself, spend time with my family, go the gym regularly, but I still enjoy helping people make life-changing differences to their finances.” Revealing most about this formerly introverted accountant, the walls of his practice are lined not with plaques and certificates testifying to his achievements, but with collages from client events – some of them themed, all of them featuring mega-watt smiles and conveying Eric’s ethos. “It’s always a celebration. How could we party like that, in the midst of the GFC if my clients hadn’t developed the right mindset? It’s so rewarding to have come through the GFC without any casualties. It makes the past 23 years of hard work all worth while”. iyl

Real people, real issues. the house. We also started an investment plan. The client then decided to take an overseas appointment and rented out her home. She managed to make the same repayments, contributed the rent to the loan and added to the investment plan. Having recently returned home, she is now completing further education for a career shift. She owns her home and is well on the way to financial independence.

Case Study Two With a large family to care for, Janet and Pete had little time in the past to consider their retirement. However, on reaching 50 they realised that action was needed. They had a small savings capacity and modest retirement goals and came to see us about putting a strategy in place to achieve them. Part of any plan involves risk management and in particular, adequate insurance cover. A few years into their strategic plan, Pete, the main income earner was struck down with a debilitating illness which has prevented him from working to this day. Fortunately, they had adequate income protection cover and this has enabled them to maintain their lifestyle and their investment plan so that their retirement goals are still within reach.

Case Study Three A tough start. During the first week of 1999, Sid and Mary presented Eric with quite a challenge. They were both sole parents and were ready to make a new start. They were both in their 40s. Mary had a home worth $135,000 with a mortgage of $100,000. Sid was renting. They wanted to buy a new home and had signed a contract for $210,000 on which they needed to borrow $200,000. They also had personal debts of $30,000 between a car loan and credit cards and couldn’t sell Mary’s home. They had secure jobs but couldn’t raise the money for the new home. They had been referred to me by friends who they worked with who had told them about our wealth coaching program and they Imagine One | Spring 2010

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What’s on your

Bucket List?

We’ve all got a Bucket List – whether it has been put to paper or in the back of our minds; it may be buying a boat, ballooning over the pyramids or spending time in Europe. The question is how do you ensure that you can afford what’s on the bucket list? Seeking professional advice, is the first step when it comes to your wealth creation and family protection. Whatever your situation or stage in life, a financial adviser can guide you through the strategies available that will work to securing your long-term needs. Professional Investment Services is Australia’s leading independently-owned network of financial advisers and accountants. Professional Investment Services’ network of qualified advisers and accountants can provide you with quality financial advice tailored to suit your individual circumstances; the planning you need to achieve your bucket list goals sooner.

It’s never too late or too early – the sooner you start, the easier it is.

www.profinvest.com.au Professional Investment Services Pty Ltd | ABN 11 074 608 558 | AFSL 234951

Eric McCay

Eric McCay’s

10 Tips for

successful budgeting.

1. Determine the type of budget you need. 2. A “Static” or “Special Purpose” budget is adequate for saving for an event or thing such as a holiday or a car. Simply divide the amount required by the number of weeks in your savings plan and bank that amount into a separate cash management account which has minimal fees and pays interest, don’t use it for any other purpose and your dream will become a reality. 3. An annual “Household” budget is an extension of the “static” budget to the extent that it is used to balance your cash flows and remove that sinking feeling when the rates notice arrives and Christmas approaches. 4. This is best established using a spreadsheet as it allows you to easily change any of your individual numbers and get a final result in an instant. Split it into 5 sections with subtotals for each section. a. Income (Gross before tax is deducted by your employer) b. Less Tax c. Equals Household Income. d. Less Expenses – broken into 4 sections i. Fixed costs; “the must haves” such as utilities, home maintenance, furniture replacement allowances, food, health, clothes, insurances, motor vehicle. ii. V ariable costs; “the nice to haves” such as entertainment, restaurants & takeaways, alcohol, sports, presents, holidays , gambling, smoking etc. iii. C hild costs; including all direct costs associated with their welfare, school fees, sport, clothes, trips, bus fares, their share of the grocery bill (a crude estimate will suffice), school lunches, music, pocket money. iv. L oan repayments; home loan, car loans, other loans and credit cards. Enter the minimum repayments required in your initial draft so you can see exactly how much you have left at the end of the year, if any. e. Equals “Household Surplus or Shortfall”. 5. Now start entering the annual numbers starting from the top. Note the amount of tax you pay (ouch) and the w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

amount of take home pay you have, it is usually quite high at this stage. You should be able to do just about anything right?

Real people, real issues.

wanted in. A new start deserves every chance it can to succeed. We talked about their long terms goals 6. As you enter the expense items with respect to educating the children just enter your best guesses if you don’t and maintenance to exes, and how they know the amounts. This will become envisaged their retirement to be, as well clearer over time. The great thing about as their immediate challenge to fund spreadsheets is that you can easily add their new home. They wanted to retire more lines and change the numbers. in 15 years with an income of $40,000. 7. Note the effect on your bottom I knew this wasn’t going to be an easy line surplus as you enter each expense case. Getting the loan over the line item amount. This provides the key to would be hard enough but then they understanding where your money goes had to repay those loans and build an and highlights the line items that may investment portfolio of $800,000. require further examination once you This clearly couldn’t be done if they understand where all the money goes. followed the traditional thinking of 8. Keep an 18 column cash book on paying off the family home before the dining table and get the whole family starting investments. involved with completing the numbers To satisfy the bank’s deposit every night. Shopping in the food column, requirements, we arranged a sale petrol in the car column, McDonalds in and lease back of one of their motor the restaurant and takeaway column etc. vehicles for $20,000. Mary rented out Good habits start in childhood and this her existing home and used the rent as is a great skill to teach your kids. It also the basis of a debt recycling program helps them understand the value of money and why you don’t have an endless pit of designed to double the new home loan it. Get them involved in prioritising the repayment and clear their personal outings, presents and holiday budgets. debts within eight years. Managed funds would come later as 9. Add up the columns at the end of they chipped away at the mortgage and the month, calculate the annual equivalent as property values rose with inflation. and revisit the amounts you have entered in your spreadsheet. Adjust, check the The property market was stagnant bottom line and reconsider your options. during the first few years but patience Repeat this process each month and by the paid off when the housing boom end of the year you will be an expert. arrived. Both houses more than doubled in value and Mary took the opportunity 10. Once you have this under to sell her rental property to clear their control you will be ready to progress to a “Dynamic” budget which opens the private debt and commence her door to a whole new world of managed funds portfolio. cash flow management Today, 11 years on, strategies and they have no private investment debt, have a solid If you are over possibilities investment 40 and haven’t including paid off your ho portfolio and me loan yet then strategies you don’t have an are looking at y tim e to waste. that will save Make it a priori a retirement ty to consult a fin income tax, ancial planner who sp income ecialises in budg halve the eting and cash flow m stream of anagement. Crea time it will ting financial indepe $60,000 ndence can take take to pay 20 excluding ye ar s an d it always sadd off your home ens me any age when I hear peop loan and guide le in their pension or 50 ’s say “if only I ha you ultimately d met government to financial you 10 years ag o”. assistance. iyl independence.

Tip:

Financial Planning

Robbie Bennetts Group CEO Professional Investment Services

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Robbie Bennetts

Robbie Bennetts has seen the world from all angles. His family operated a butcher shop, he was a successful representative footballer, and then used his brawn and negotiation skills during a stint as a hotel bouncer in his early 20s.

e aspired to owning a company, bought out the security company he worked for and then invested in some butcher shops. As Robbie recounts: “By 1982, I had worked hard and it was time to take it easy. So I sold it all and focused on my health, travelled and spent time with my family.” After a dose of life at a more mellow pace, Robbie realised that he didn’t have a sufficient nest egg to retire at the level he and his wife would find ideally comfortable. “I had a mate who had moved into financial planning, and that seemed like a stable job that would suit my skills, so I completed the relevant courses in Sydney and on the Gold Coast and made a start in the business.” During the next couple of years, Robbie worked in investment and planning. His stamina and sharp entrepreneurial instinct meant that before long, he progressed through the ranks to management. In 1995, the business was bought out by a newcomer to the Australian banking landscape, with a culture

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imposed that Robbie says proved “a conflict” with his ethos. “I identified the benefit of working with accountants to provide the best solutions for clients. The new boss had an entirely different view point, focusing more on selling products than implementing strategies.” This schism marked the turning point in Robbie’s career and heralded the birth of Professional Investment Services. “A number of financial advisers and accountants got together and decided that if we weren’t happy, we’d better do something about it and set up our own firm.” That was 1996 and as Robbie recalls, uncertain times for the fledgling company which hung out its shingle on the Gold Coast with just a handful of like-minded planners and partners. “We were hoping not to lose more than $300,000 in the first year, and then aim for two years before we celebrated any profit. But, miraculously, in the first year we took off and made a profit.” Within 12 months, the company had 21 people onboard, expanding to 50 accountants and advisers in the next three months.

AFA National Conference, October 2009. “The future of financial advice in Australia” Industry panel discussion. Left to right: David Whiteley (Industry Super Network), Jim Minto (Tower), Julie Bennett (64 Media), Bernie Ripoll (Federal Member for Oxley, Chair, Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services), Robbie Bennetts (Group CEO, PIS) and Christina Kalantzis (Alexis).

“We were hoping for good coverage in Queensland, but then after just one year in business, we received a few enquiries from Victoria from accountants who wanted to get involved. That grew rapidly through referrals to other accounting firms.” Today, the organisation has 200 staff and is a wholesale provider of financial services to more than 1400 accountants and financial advisers Australia-wide. The company exists to provide the business structure and support to enable financial advisers, insurance specialists and accountants to offer

advice to their clients. To put it into perspective, Professional Investment Services through its strong network of advisers and accountants, services approximately 700,000 clients around the country – that’s one in 20 adult Australians. As Professional Investment Services broadened and bolstered its offering, there have been a myriad of changes, but always with Robbie staunchly at the helm. “It has evolved from the nature of my character and approach,” admits Robbie. “To work here, you have to be a team player, but saying that, we are

composed of all types and personalities. It’s like a giant jigsaw; a whole lot of pieces who together make a powerful and disciplined whole. There’s a broad spread of management in Professional Investment Services with personal and professional skills of all kinds. There’s enough diversity here that there is somebody who suits you and the way you operate.” Nurturing corporate culture is fundamental to maintaining consistent services across the board. When new recruits join Professional Investment Services , there is compulsory two-

What we’re about can be seen in the actual testimonials from people we have helped get some direction in their lives. Robbie’s family. Clockwise from top left: Sheree Bennetts, Brooke Bennetts, Courtney Bennetts, Robbie Bennetts, George Young and Mary Young (Sheree’s parents).

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Robbie Bennetts

day training to complete. “You meet everybody, do the training and learn the systems,” says Robbie, warming to his favourite part of the process. “Then there’s the welcome dinner, where you have to sing with the company band.” It’s not a metaphor for gelling with the team, it’s actually Robbie’s pet project, a form of “Idol”. “We get together, have a nice meal, toast the new people and then they get up and sing,” he explains, adding that this now legendary custom is a valued and vital part of every Professional Investment Services conference or training exercise. The conferences are a lot more than the opportunity for a feel good, knees-up, cheer-leading and team building week. Says Robbie: “We hold a conference each year with an incredible calibre of speakers, like Bruce Johnstone and Dr Quincy Krosby – both of them highly respected market strategists. We get the

best available to industry and they’re always unique and informative. We expect 100% attendance. Three out of four days are devoted to speaker sessions, then there are some enjoyable activities, like our karaoke.” Key to the Group’s ability to keep up with markets and consumer needs is training. “Training is important to a nimble organisation,” states Robbie. “We have an active workforce that engages in 200 days of continuing education each year and keeps ahead of the industry via electronic media, courses and seminars.” Professional Investment Services may have been born out of adversity, Robbie acknowledges, but by no means is the underlying culture one of rebelling against the norm. “We may have been swimming against the industry tide then, but not in our attitude to financial matters. In that regard, we’re entirely

conservative. “We founded the Group solely on the objective of delivering what’s best for clients. That hasn’t changed – we represent the consumer, and in that regard, we are standing out in an industry that is dominated by businesses selling branded product and making clients fit their parameters.” If Robbie sounds like an evangelist, it’s no coincidence. After 14 years of driving the Group, he has worked with senior management to reorganise the structure of Professional Investment Servicesand is gradually phasing himself out of the day to day operations. His new cause is championing the industry. “That is my goal, to lobby for our industry and for changes in the best interests of the client, ensuring they get the best, unbiased advice there is. Today, there’s a slim chance of that

Professional Investment Services 2009 Kuala Lumpur Conference.

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Financial Planning

when most so-called advisers are working for the banks or industry super funds.” Robbie aims to apply his expertise and considerable energy to the speaker circuit, addressing corporate and community audiences about financial trends, tax and superannuation legislation, insight into international markets and conditions and how they impact on Australia, as well as

advocating for client-focused advisery practices. He conducts seminars here and abroad, most recently for 300 accountancy practice owners in Singapore. “I present insight into the global economic outlook and emerging economies, as well as the longer term implications of financial events.” As well as speaking to industry, Robbie wants his doctrine and zeal for planning

Professional Investment Services 2008 Las Vegas Conference.

to reach the broader community via seminars in the next phase of his role. “There’s a real need out there for information,” he says with genuine conviction. “From IFSA/TNS Protection Gap research, we know that 60% of Australian families with dependent children do not have enough insurance to cover the household expenses for a year if the family bread winner were to die. We also know that on average those who have death cover through their super policy have less than half the level of cover they need. People realise the need to insure their homes and cars, but less than a third insure their most valuable asset, their incomes. Then there are a host of other wealth creation strategies that regular families can implement to make the most of their incomes before they retire, plus setting up a secure future for their children.” Robbie says it’s crucial that a financial planner be a “people person”. “This is an emotion driven industry. You have to deal with families considering the consequences of divorce, death, trauma, illness, life-changing events. All the while, financial planners are holding their hands. You have to be the type of person who thrives on that closeness with clients.” Despite the success of the business and with that the material trappings, what motivates Robbie are “the real stories”. What we’re about can be seen in the actual testimonials from people we have helped get some direction in their lives. There are good and bad experiences in all industries, but if you go to the Doctor and are prescribed a treatment that doesn’t work, or you don’t get a result, does that mean you never consult a Doctor again? Of course not. It’s the same with the planning industry. The best advisers are a vital part of people’s lives and add to their quality of life.” Even after more than two decades in the industry, Robbie says his aims are the same as when he started out in 1985. “Wanting success for other people and seeing the relief and peace of mind clients get from receiving quality professional advice. There’s nothing more rewarding. I still love it.” iyl

Imagine One | Spring 2010

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Financial Planning

Redefining Retirement Plannning

e cannot ignore the biological fact of aging. The aging process sometimes prevents us from doing more compared to our younger days. The mind is willing to work but the body is not. Income earning capability will be affected. How can a retiree sustain the lifestyle he is used to throughout his twilight years? There may come a point where there is no more income but expenses have to be paid. I will now challenge your views about retirement planning on a different perspective.

with Carol Yip

For some time now, I have been advising retirees about shifting interests and reinventing careers, and I cannot emphasise enough that there is a need for those between 40s and 60s to re-look at their retirement for many reasons. Some have opportunities to work and make more money; some will keep working to keep busy. Others simply cannot afford to quit. Does retirement planning sounds like an individualistic approach? For those who are single, I would presume so. For married couples, it could be a joint-effort planning, depending on the relationship. How about couples who have children or even single parents?

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Carol Yip

What will the retirement planning structure be? Will it be a collective view where the children participate in the retirement planning for parents and have constant discussion? How much should each sibling contribute to their parents’ retirement fund? If this collective retirement fund provides more than parents’ financial needs, will this fund help siblings who are retiring and need financial support later on? In Singapore, The Maintenance of

to financial disagreements. • Different parenting style towards different children in terms of financial expression. • Each family member’s personality, behaviour and attitude being influenced by external environment like friends, spouse, in-law. In some situations, money become more important than family. • Communication or lack of it – verbal and unspoken and

How can a retiree sustain the lifestyle they’re used to throughout their twilight years? There may come a point where there is no more income but expenses have to be paid. Parents Act came into force in 1995 to give parents above 60 years old who could not support themselves the legal means to claim maintenance from their children. What does this legal act tell us? I have been advocating family involvement as the fundamental methodology of retirement planning. When family relationship structure is stable, with a sense of belonging, togetherness, love and support, we find financial peace and help from the family. Financial contribution towards parents’ retirement will be a happy discussion at home. Each family has its unique characters that make the family dynamics complicated. It can be passed down from one generation to another. Family structure can become fragmented because of many reasons – from sibling rivalry, favoritism, jealousy, extended family influences to generation gap. There are several issues that may lead

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behaviour – could lead to financial misunderstanding. • Different perception and expectation of parental and siblings’ roles and responsibilities in supporting each other during happy and difficult times. A power struggle, a lack of understanding and collaboration between parents and children or between siblings can result in children going against parents and sibling

rivalry. This creates alienation and the family is fragmented. There is a lack of family ownership among all members. When this happens, taking care of aging parents will become a serious issue. What will be the last resort for aging parents? Will they end up in the old folks’ home? Just like an organisation of people in a company, a family organisation requires team work, a sense of responsibility, motivation, support and complementary roles among siblings to balance the weaknesses and strengths of a family structure. Strong family support will be transcended to provide financial support to parents or even siblings who need help in their retirement years. Isn’t this an important element that we need to consider in our retirement planning? Since I have expressed the important variable of family with children in the retirement planning process, how about singles or married couples without children? Where is the support system for them? Can friends and relatives be part of this retirement planning? Why not? After all, friendship and relationship are “commodities” that money cannot buy. Some would agree that friends are better than family when help is needed. iyl

Carol Yip Carol Yip is a Singapore based Personal Financial Coach and founder and CEO of Abacus for Money. She is also a seasoned writer for some of Singapore’s most respected financial media, and Author of “Money Rules & “Smart Money-User”. Each issue, Carol shares with IYL her views on points to consider when thinking about financial strategy. www.AbacusForMoney.com

Imagine

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Business Profile

Hotel sweet

Home Story by:

Jeni BOne

Boutique and bohemian, tucked away in a balmy palmlined alcove at Watego’s Beach, Rae’s enjoys celebrity stature on par with its guests.

nspired by his extensive travels to the world’s most exclusive locations and hotels, owner Vinnie Rae was determined to create a one-of-a-kind destination. Rae’s on Watego’s, just beneath the Cape Byron lighthouse that marks Australia’s most easterly point, has established itself as one of the world’s top hotels thanks to its distinctive, eclectic architectural style and stunning location. A visionary with charisma and unconventional approach, Vinnie is a sought-after international hotel stylist. “It’s champagne surfing up here,” he says of Byron Bay and the quieter Watego’s. “It’s luxurious but has an authentic, rustic flair and natural beauty that people crave.” While the restaurant’s menu was initially influenced by Vinnie’s extensive travels

throughout Thailand, his recent study trip to Southern Italy has left its mark on this former chef’s menu. In true Mediterranean tradition everything from the fresh local fish to the gelati is lovingly handmade and the kitchen is supplied with grainfed Angus Beef and home-grown organic fruit and vegetables from Vinnie’s nearby Bangalow property. “Our food reflects our surroundings,” says Vinnie. “We aim for pure, understated elegance. We spare no expense to offer guests the highest quality produce.”

How long have you owned Rae’s? 19 years. I came back from New York and was surfing at Watego’s. I knew the owner, Ruth Harris, who was rather eccentric, and when I saw it was up for sale, I bought it. It was a 39

Imagine

jobs to put us through College. I had the privilege of being educated at Grammar School, so I value education a lot. These days I travel for a living consulting and for pleasure. I like to keep things simple and indulge in quality – from wine and food to accommodation, but I’m not a social person flaunting it.

Do you have a ‘reckless’ or ‘conservative’ approach to money?

private home, with a little restaurant at the front known as the Argentine Ant and Belle Epoque over the years, so thankfully, it had a liquor licence.

How has Rae’s evolved since you began? We are always adding and sourcing products from around the world, like hand painted tiles from a palace in Java. We regularly make structural and cosmetic changes to get a better product without taking away the old world charm.

What have you had to implement to compete and cope with various economic conditions? Sadly, we have had to downsize our staffing. Also, tighter control with food and alcohol wastage and discount rooms when necessary. We have never scrimped on the quality of the Hotel, staff or food. Tough times make you work harder. Our guests are not priceconscious they are quality-conscious. On a practical note, when business gets quiet, we spend on marketing, investment in renovation. When the market gets tight, you have to be a 40

leader – innovate, spend and position your brand to attract your customers.

How did you get into hotels/ property? What was your path? I worked as a waiter first and at 21 years old, owned the first of several award winning restaurants in Brisbane, among them Le Figaro, Faces, Toscanos and Rae’s Bistro. I was sick of pretentious chefs and realised that hospitality is knowing your kitchen, so I became a chef in my own business. I owned one of Australia's largest night clubs and became involved in the music business. A Hotel was my next move.

What were your ambitions when you first started out?

I was too focused on what I was doing when I was younger to think about ambition.

Growing up, what did you learn from your parents about money? That we didn't have any money. I was one of five kids under five. My father was a gambler – one of the reasons that I don't gamble. My mother worked two

In my younger years I was reckless with money, As I got older I have become more intuitive with what is a good or bad deal. If it sounds too good to be true it is usually a bad deal. These days I do my own homework. I am lucky enough to have the time and resources to devote time to business and investment decisions.

What are some of life’s luxuries/necessities you would never scrimp on? Fun things. I travel, surf, meditate, I like red wine, hosting dinners and looking after people.

What can you compromise on? I don't compromise on anything. I have a simple life. I enjoy the Hotel, surfing at Watego’s and travelling, especially Italy, where I do the occasional master class in Italian cuisine. I lived in Paris and love to stay there, as well as London and Indonesia. I have a property in Fiji and consult around the world so, yes, I am lucky I love it!

How important are your team, staff, advisors around you? Everything to do with the Hotel is paramount. We are here to enjoy life and create a good product. It is about balance. This is what makes Rae’s so special. Imagine One | Spring 2010

Business Profile What are the main things you have learnt about money and managing it?

What have been some of the challenges and pitfalls of running your companies?

Money gives you the opportunity to do lots of things. It gives you freedom to make choices. I’m not so good at managing money, but I am good at making it. Money is a vehicle to establish the quality of life that you want. Although happiness comes from within, I make business decisions now more about quality of life and slowing down. This doesn't stop further projects, like the new Hotel underway in Byron Bay. Money allows you to express yourself on a creative level. I don't search for wealth to wear it like a badge.

Every business is susceptible to economic influences which are out of your control, and things like unseasonal rain when you’re opening a resort. I have been very lucky to have the same banker for 20 years, who has become a personal friend, Mick Canavan.

Was financial advice a key part of growing your business? I get expert professional advice on share trading and venture capital pursuits such as mining and technology companies. I also apply a lot of time and have honed my skills over the years for most of my business decisions.

What do you wish you’d known about finances before you started out? Don't borrow too much money. You have to pay it back with interest.

What is on the horizon for Rae’s – any brand extension, new ventures? We are waiting on Council approval for our new Hotel in Byron. I have a Villa and Beach club development underway in Bali. I am planning to sell and move out of Fiji to concentrate on Australia and Asia. Locally, our new property will incorporate a 56 room

Hotel in Bangalow Road. Designed by FJB Architects and with interiors by David Bromley, it will be hidden and groovy, with a Palm Springs feel, more theatrical and elaborate. Also, we’re working on a signature spa range. We hope to get approval from Council soon and have the Hotel completed by the end of next year.

Any advice for people with a dream or a passion about setting out to make it happen? Work hard, keep focused. Don't be delusional about what you think is grandeur. I don’t have kids, but I am Godfather to eight, so I would say to them: ‘Learn that there’s a certain elegance in life that comes from learning languages, music, travel, cuisine, education, understanding different cultures and how the universe works. Money is a tool to achieve these facets of understanding’. iyl

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Imagine readers can experience the Rae’s difference for themselves until the end of November with an exceptional and exclusive offer. Simply mention this offer when you book your three night stay.

Stay three nights and recieve the fourth night free*. * Midweek only. Offer ends 30 November 2010. Subject to availabilty.

Financial Planning

Profile Getting to know the real Financial Planners.

Planner Profile: Name: Rob McGregor Age: 40 Company: Holmans and Holman McGregor Financial Services Location: QLD Offices: 4 Services: Accounting & Financial Planning, Insurance, Lending, Management Rights, Taxation Notes: PIS Financial Planner of the Year.

A Passion for Empowering. Combining livelihood and lifestyle add up to the perfect balance for Financial Planner of the Year, Rob McGregor.

ob McGregor always liked numbers and puzzles. His father and uncle were business men, highly ranked in the mining behemoth BHP, “so some of it was bound to rub off eventually,” he quips. Rob started his career at the coal face, working as a bank teller with CBA and studying at university part-time. He persevered for 18 months, when his manager who recognised his talent – numeric and strategic – recommended he set his sights on working within a merchant bank. “Three weeks later I was working for HSBC.” He followed on with stints at Stockbrokers, Funds Managers and Banks, among them Bell Potter, JB Were and ANZ, drawing inspiration from some of the industry legends he worked with, including Charles Macek, Keith Ince, Bruce Teele and Colin Bell, all instrumental in Rob’s approach to

the job, as well as his appreciation of people. “Every person you sit down with is different. You have to be a ‘people person’ in this industry or you can’t achieve success for a client or for yourself. Once you understand people’s needs – through what they say and also, what’s often unsaid – you can match the best solutions for them at the various stages of their lives.” As testament to Rob’s practice of what he preaches, he still has the first clients he ever acquired, some 12 years ago when he left the corporate grind and sought the more personal realm of private practice, initially in Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast, before starting Holman McGregor Financial Services based at Noosa. “It’s a lifetime commitment for clients. I see my role as a trusted adviser, a guide. It’s a complicated world and we help people make sense of it.” “When you speak with people who Imagine One | Spring 2010

Planner Profile

our aim is to develop long term relationships with our clients, to make complex issues simple and help people create a clear plan for their future.

have had money challenges or a sudden change of circumstances, they all express genuine relief and a renewed confidence – and that’s the payoff for me.” Rob says his ethos these days is to provide an antidote to what he terms “the call centre mentality”. “Our clients can speak with people who know them well, about anything, at any time. In an industry that has had the boot laid into it recently, and rightly so in some cases, we want to be dedicated to personalised advice and strategy, helping people do smarter things, not just the basic.” Holman McGregor comprises a team of eight, including two other advisers, working with around 300 clients on a regular basis. Earlier this year, Rob was chosen from more than 1400 financial advisers in the Professional Investment Services network as Financial Planner of the Year at the 2010 Annual Conference held in Hawaii. The award is judged by the PIS executive and management team and based on a combination of factors that include production, professional standards, ongoing activity, business growth, and advocacy of the Group. “The award was a great honour and totally unexpected,” says Rob. “It is the appreciation from our clients and the w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

dedication of our staff that really make us feel proud about what we do.” The head office of Holmans Accounting & Taxation and Holman McGregor Financial Services is in Noosa, with around 50 staff in branches in Maroochydore, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It offers a “onestop shop” for clients with services covering accounting, taxation, financial planning, mortgage broking and risk insurance. “The benefit to our clients is that they are advised by professionals who actually talk to each other to ensure the clients are getting the best information, are adequately protected and on the path to building and managing their wealth.” PIS’ Group CEO, Robbie Bennetts, is generous with his praise for Rob and the entire Holman McGregor team. “Rob deserves all the accolades,” he says. “Rob and Holman McGregor embody professionalism within the PIS network and broader financial services industry. Their expertise, professional standards and client management skills are excellent. For those who know Rob it’s no surprise he is the 2010 winner,” adds Robbie. For his part, Rob is content to live and work in one of the country’s most superb natural environments, the

quiet, yet nonetheless prosperous and progressive Sunshine Coast, with his two teenaged kids and wife Shelley. Far from being a boring numbercruncher, Rob is active in the community – Surf Club President and coach of life saving, fond of competing in paddleboard and surfing, and gourmand, the local swathe of restaurants offering “too many great ones to list”. Travel is also high on his agenda, with New York, London, Egypt, Costa Rica and Mexico contenders for his favourite destinations list. But back to work. Rob is intent on growing the company to the motto “slow and steady”. “For the next 10 to 12 years, we hope to continue to develop advisers as we expand to cover more geographical area. But our aim will remain the same: to develop long term relationships with our clients, to make complex issues simple and help people create a clear plan for their future.” iyl

www.holmans.com.au info@holmans.com.au

Family Matters

lance’s legacy. It’s no exaggeration to define something so finite and apparently numerical as a financial plan as a true gift of life. For a family grieving the loss of a father, stability and financial security are a legacy of love. Story by:

Jeni BOne

nna Norman’s life has been blessed by many gifts– marriage, beautiful children, remarriage and more beautiful children – seven in total. What makes Anna’s story noteworthy is the way she was able to navigate a family tragedy that could have change the fortunes of the extended Norman family irrevocably. In 1990, each with kids of their own, Anna and Dr Lance Norman married and began a charmed life together, throwing some more kids together into the voluble, vibrant mix. Anna admits that being young and “invincible”, they focused on making a family of seven kids work, having fun, “living a passionate life”. “It wasn’t until 1995 that we thought that since we had a young family, we should take care of certain aspects of our lives. We started to think about insurance and trauma cover, so that if anything ever happened to Lance, we’d be taken care of.” A devoted family man, Dr Norman ran a

private practice specialising in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, with a staff of four including Anna as practice manager. Delivering babies at all hours – 500 per year – and seeing up to 40 patients per day, Lance was a busy and popular specialist, renowned for his outgoing and compassionate manner. “He really was considered one of the nicest guys in the business,” confirms Risk Insurance Specialist, David Bourke, whose wife Lisa consulted Dr Norman in the lead up to the birth of the Bourkes’ first child. “Lisa described him as funny, warm, full of character, very intuitive, very knowledgeable.” The rapport between patient and doctor was immediate. During a regular check up, Lisa and Lance “got chatting” and when the topic of the number of kids came up (11 in total!), Lisa mentioned that insurance would probably be a means of putting his mind to rest about the kids’ futures. Recalls Anna: “Lance came home and said: ‘I have this lovely new patient whose husband is in insurance. She’s suggested that we get in touch and sort something

out in relation to our insurance needs’. We thought it was a great idea, because we’d never addressed them properly.” After one meeting with David, principal at Bourke Financial Services in Brisbane, it became clear that Lance only had just one life insurance policy, somewhat out of date, as Anna was not mentioned as a beneficiary of the policy, which paid out on death only and was owned by the Bank and would be paid out to the Bank if Lance passed away. “I saw there were issues with their insurance and they were in no way, shape or form covered adequately,” says David. “Lance had no income protection, no trauma insurance or business expense insurance. If something had happened and Lance was unable to work as a specialist, the family would have had David Bourke Principal Bourke Financial Services www.bourkefs.com.au

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Anna Norman no income and his business would have floundered.” Anna explains: “I’m sure there are a lot of people like us who don’t realise that the bank owns their insurance policy. We were very naive. We actually didn’t have any protection at all under that policy. It was protecting the bank and the mortgage. David explained to us we needed to get policies that would take care of the children and me, should anything happen to Lance.” David worked with Lance and Anna’s solicitor and delved into the matter of Estate Planning. “Turned out with 11 children in total and two families, Lance didn’t have a will. There was a lot to consider. If he hadn’t drawn up a will and taken out the appropriate insurance, the Courts would still be working out the details.” David worked with the Normans to plan the relevant life, trauma, disability, income protection and business expenses insurance that would encompass their liabilities and assets. “Lance had a business, staff, leases, machinery, not to mention his former wife. There’s a layer of other issues there that people often don’t consider in terms of maintenance and wills. It can be played out in Court, but who wants to add to the pain and grief that follow a death? A family doesn’t need that drama and conflict.” An extremely fit, athletic man, who walked his dogs religiously, loved sailing, surfing, parasailing and “everything life had to offer” as Anna recounts, Lance was the last person anybody would suspect would succumb to a serious illness. Observing certain symptoms, Lance self-diagnosed his condition to be the debilitating and rapidly fatal Motor Neurone Disease. “It was November 2004, when a Neurologist found that Lance did have Motor Neurone Disease. I wanted her to tell us that he didn’t have it. But she confirmed it. At that point, my whole life imploded. My world fell apart. I was thinking: ‘how could this man that I love and adore be dying?’ I was shell-shocked.” Anna contacted David, who immediately began the claim process, firstly by checking that Motor Neurone Disease was covered under trauma. “At any diagnosis, that’s exactly where insurance comes in to

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play,” he says. “We checked the wording and definitions and most importantly, how do the Normans stand in terms of money?” Lance’s illness, as is always the case, struck unexpectedly and immediately impacted their lives and plans. The Normans were mid-way through renovations on their large family home, they had three children at Private Schools, and four more to come through, a practice with employees who had worked with them for 15 years, and suddenly, all these – the myriad facets of a normal modern life – were thrown into flux. David recalls the immediate response to the news that Lance had passed away just 22 months after diagnosis. “Straight away we went into action and handled all the paperwork,” recalls David, adding that he and Lisa spent more than 80 hours liaising with the insurer and specialists to get paperwork sorted out on behalf of Anna and her family in a claim process that lasted 28 months in total – from diagnosis

family, comfortably, because of David’s advice. If we hadn’t taken the precautions of making this commitment to our family, we wouldn’t be in our family home and we would certainly not be leading the lives we were able to maintain. I actually despair when I think of where we could have ended up.” Anna was able to pay off the family home and now invest in her children’s future. “It’s an education process,” she says. “We need to let people know why they need this. It’s imperative. Yes, policies can seem a costly outlay, but it’s worth every cent.” Says Lisa: “Losing your best friend, husband and father is devastating enough, without the financial burdens as well. Lance knew that he was dying, but leaving his family in a financially stable environment.” David and Lisa are passionate about what they do. “We see the benefits,” says David. “Kids are in effect saved from the further trauma of losing their homes, moving

It was November 2004, when a Neurologist found that Lance did have Motor Neurone Disease. to eight months past his death. “I saw our friend, a man who brought our three children in to the world, pass away, which was devastating for everybody. We are just relieved and glad we could create a legacy to help Anna and her children maintain their way of life and secure their future as well.” “We were most concerned that we would have the confidence to pull it all together with the insurance we needed so we could relax and deal with Lance’s illness,” says Anna. “If we hadn’t secured ourselves financially, I honestly think I would have had a nervous breakdown. With the emotional pressure we had to deal with, with seven children all going through a tough time, losing their father, if we had been under financial pressure as well, it would have been too hard.” Anna is acutely aware of the turn her life could have taken, but for the foresight of taking out insurance. “He was most grateful for that and he passed away with peace of mind, knowing we would be ok. I am only able to raise my

schools, falling in to hardship.” With most of their work drawn from referral and word of mouth, relationships with people are at the core of David’s business. He recommends “annual checkups” to make sure insurance and policies are up to date, taking in to account changes in circumstance, income and your own goals. In this day and age, when people are prepared to devote so much time tending to their Facebook profiles and surrounding themselves with high-tech gadgets, it’s astounding that intelligent people do not take the time to plan for their futures, whatever that may involve. “People don’t like to think of death, illness, dying – we all think we’re bullet proof and that it happens to somebody else,” says David. “But it is inevitable. What you can control is your legacy. “We live by the credo that: ‘people don’t take out insurance because they want to die, but because they want others to live’.” iyl

Family Matters

The gift of giving. Story by:

Jeni BOne

Charity can serve as a connection to your community and if structured correctly, a neat tax deduction.

hilanthropy, tithing, donations and bequests are all means of supporting our fellow man, and in many cases, animals. Despite a reputation for the contrary, Australians are quite generous and even in the hardest times, can be found digging deep to help people in need. According to Philanthropy Australia, we are a giving nation. Based on statistics showing tax deductions, we are placed third or fourth in the world, per capita, after the US, Canada and UK. That was evident in the aftermath

of the tsunamis, bushfires and floods in recent times, where despite our collective discomfort as the economy tightened, people across the board were able to reflect on the plight of others and donate money to those causes. Along with “feeling good”, giving money to charitable foundations is an investment in the fabric of society. Many individuals, businesses and organisations expect nothing in return and keep a low profile, while others like to leverage their gifts with publicity to inspire others. Both types add up to around one billion dollars per annum through the nearly

2000 Foundations in Australia. But that is only part of the $11bn that the “Giving Australia” report of October 2005 estimates is the total giving of money, goods and services to not-for-profit organisations by individuals and businesses, which does not include the response to the Asian tsunami crisis in late 2004/early 2005. The Giving Australia report puts individual and household giving at $7.7bn from 13.4 million people, or 87% of adult Australians, in the year to January 2005. This figure can be broken down into $5.7bn given in donations (excluding

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Philanthropy

giving to the 2004 Tsunami appeal) and $2 billion through funds raised via charity events and ‘charity gambling’ (raffles, lotteries and gaming activities). In order to receive deductions from the ATO, you must ensure the organisation or foundation is endorsed by the ATO as “a deductible gift recipient (DGR)”. And there is a good regime of tax deductions. Since 2001, introduction of the “Private Ancillary Fund” has revolutionised philanthropy and made it a more attractive option, as well as spawning 850 new grant making foundations. Peter Winneke, Head of Philanthropic Services at The Myer Family Office and Secretary of the Sidney Myer Fund and The Myer Foundation, says that while Australians are certainly kind-hearted and come to the aid of others in need, figures can be deceptive. “Australians give around 0.4% of their income. That is quite low compared to the US and other OECD nations. We could certainly be more giving.” Many people use the reasoning that we are a heavily taxed country and our

who are working to assist those less fortunate to make the community a better place.” Compared to donating money through the Church or charity, establishing a philanthropic foundation provides many benefits. As Winneke explains: “These include the opportunity to tax-effectively accumulate capital and create a family legacy and work with your family to strategically consider issues in the community in which you are passionate about. The long term nature of a foundation, which tends to be established in perpetuity, significantly improves the ability of a family to evaluate their giving efforts and measure the outcomes, thereby maximising the impact of their giving.” A foundation enables a family to become engaged in its community, working on projects and influencing positive change. “Another major benefit is the educational benefits to children,” observes Winneke. “Foundations can teach children the responsibility that goes along with

initial gift of at least $500,000. Says Winneke: “The majority of our clients have established a Private Ancillary Fund, a form of family foundation. They must only make grants to charities endorsed as charitable deductible gift recipients by the ATO. As long as grants are made to eligible charities, it is the family’s decision to whom the grants are made to. We encourage our clients to focus on a couple of areas, and do it well.” The Myer Family Office works with families through philanthropic vision workshops to assist with determining the mission and focus areas. “These always involve unique family discussions, bringing the family closer together as they work to achieve their goals,” says Winneke. “The Myer family say that philanthropy is ‘the glue that binds a family together’. Foundations can and should lead social progress.” “Living a decent life demands more than living for ourselves. Establishing a family foundation with your children is a great way to get them engaged with

Foundations can teach children the responsibility that goes along with wealth. Often the family foundation is the children’s first exposure to the family wealth. Peter Winneke. taxes should go to aiding those in need in the community. But Winneke counters that more than eight million Australians did not claim a tax deductible gift in 2007/8. “By any measure, this is not generous, particularly given the pressing humanitarian needs throughout the world. And it is the wealthy in this country who are particularly slow at assisting others less fortunate.” At the front line of establishing trusts, Winneke sees the impact that corporate and private generosity has on the lives of the less fortunate. “There are thousands of community groups in Australia (and offshore)

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wealth. Often the family foundation is the children’s first exposure to the family wealth. A foundation, no matter its size, has finite resources. We encourage families to get the children involved with the foundation’s investment strategy. Immediately, they are learning about risk and asset allocation. A budget is required for the foundation. And of course the children need to assist with the collective decision making process of determining the mission of the foundation and the focus areas that the foundation will make grants to.” To establish your own family foundation our rule of thumb is an

the community and make some positive change to the world.” Says Winneke: “There are thousands of families in Australia who are in a position to make this happen. I have no doubt that if people really understood how easy it is to establish a foundation, and the benefits that would flow, that many more would get involved in the sector. Children get their self-esteem in life from their achievements, not their inheritance. My favourite quote is from investor, Warren Buffett, who says ‘You should leave your children enough to do anything in life, but not enough to do nothing’.” iyl

Family Matters

Teaching Kids About

Money It’s not how much, but what you do with it that counts when you’re teaching kids about money. By Samantha Tannous.

hat’s the advice from the experts, who agree that money is a personal matter for each family. Whether you give pocket money, how much you give, and whether chores are attached, for example, is unique to each family. Pocket money is not a mandatory. However for those kids lucky enough to get it, it’s a great way to start teaching them “financial literacy” –concepts such as saving, budgeting, borrowing and repaying. After all, money is a

basic foundation that makes most societies function. Starting early with financial literacy – which implies more than numerical counting – is the best way to help your children become expert managers of their finances as they grow into teens and adults. The most important thing is to develop good habits early on, that will stand a child in good stead for the future. Money, and learning about money, is much more than counting how much you have. It’s about making decisions about what you will do with it.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Teaching Kids

Value vs values Little Kids As soon as a child can cou nt confidently, it’s time to start lear ning about money. Value is the first concept that kids can lear n, around the age of four, just before they start school, says Greg u. Smith, founder of Kidsmoney.com.a this buy can “Show the child that $2 but not that,” he explains. her Kids’ banking expert, qualified teac from ht wrig Cart Lisa and mother, Com monwealth Ban k says simple it’s money-play is not only educational, also entertaining for kids. r, Tipping out the money box on the floo how ting coun , stacking coins by type ing many of each coin there is, and putt hour an take can box it all back in the or maybe more. At the same time, the exercise is building the fine motor skills of young financiers. Star t by teaching the value of each coin. A fifty cent piece isn’t wor th more than a two dollar coin, even h though it is physically bigger – whic to n lusio conc cal logi might seem the some kids! Teach them that it takes four of the big coins to be equal in value to the smaller, two dollar coin. School banking prog rams are also a great way to introduce financial literacy – and especially to establish good savings habits – and many of for today’s prog rams offer fun rewards rs. save regular , “We don’t care how much they bank each just that they bank something week,” says Cart wright. That is how good savings habits are built.

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One of the key aspects of KidsMoney that makes it so appealing to parents is that it not only teaches financial literacy to children aged five to 12, it also teaches them values. “We believe in social good,” says Smith, who explains that the company’s money box demonstrates this very clearly. In four compartments – giving, living, saving and wealthing – the money box teaches budgeting and allocation of resources while at the same time encouraging charitable behaviour (“giving”) and anti-greed. “These are hidden issues, valuebased messages that are embedded in our books. We believe that if you touch a child with it early on you will make a massive change.” Another concept that is invaluable for young children to learn, is the difference between a need and a want. Kids as young as three can start to articulate, “I need this!” And says Smith, sometimes parents need some help making the distinction as well. Cartwright gives an example: Rebecca has to go to the shops on the

bus. Does she need the bus money or want the bus money? At the shops she sees the lolly shop. Does she need the lolly money or want the lolly money? Deb Humphries from Money Cubby – a sectioned money box geared towards helping children to learn to allocate their money – says that advances in technology over the past 20 years means that children don’t get to see cash very often anymore. “It’s been very easy and convenient for us as parents to use our credit cards, and that means children aren’t seeing their parents handling cash anymore,” she says. “They need to be allowed to save the money by themselves, and manage the money. They learn that overspending means you don’t have any money left to buy something else, and they experience the gratification of putting money aside for something.” A money box can teach children about money in a tangible way, they can see the money build and have the satisfaction of saving up for something. They need to learn from taking responsibility, says

Family Matters

Kids see their parents and other adults interacting with money – dad goes to work to earn money to pay the bills – and by having some money of their own, their curiosity can be turned into valuable learning experiences.

Teenagers

Humphries, of even small amounts of money. “It might sound a tad old-fashioned, but with credit card debt the way it is these days it’s a good way to get children to see money.” Humphries says that a single money box is not enough. A sectioned money box – or even jars labelled for different purposes such as saving or giving – is most effective. When kids are learning about these concepts, they learn better in a fun and interactive environment. When they’re up and laughing and playing, they remember the experience and more importantly, the message. It’s not uncommon for kids to have to “earn” their pocket money via some contribution to the household – it could be making their bed every day, or helping out with other chores around the home. Some parents offer extra one-off payments for special jobs, or the opportunity for kids to earn extra money for extra work. Smith says, whatever your system stick with it. Parents need to allocate the pocket money within the family budget each week and hand it over each week,

Money in the bank Keeping money at home where you can see it might be fun, but putting it in the bank where it can earn interest is better. Children feel very grown up when they get their first bank account, and bank accounts provide proof that the holder is capable of saving. It’s not about the boost in funds when you deposit the gift from grandma, it’s about the regular depositing of even small amounts that builds a good credit rating for the future.

for the system to work. If chores are expected in exchange for the pocket money, work out what the chores are with the child, rather than an autocratic pronouncement of “this is what you will do”. Smith says the child needs the element of two-way flow to feel involved in the process. And similarly at the end of the week when the chores are ticked off as achieved or not achieved, this provides a feedback loop.

As you get older, your financial literacy becomes more complex – things like contracts, loans and interest, budgeting, credit and debt become relevant. Especially in a work of mobile phones and debit cards that act like credit cards, online shopping and the like. Decisions then have to be made by families: who pays the mobile phone bill? When is the debit card allowed to be used? As a parent, suggests Cartwright, your kids need to earn your trust about their responsibility with financial products. As kids grow into young adults, they need the disciplines ingrained so that they can achieve their goals. More money gives more choices. If a teen is saving for a car, what will they be able to buy with $1000 compared to $5000? If they already know how to budget and how to save, they will be prepared for major events in life, such as saving for school camps, university, buying a car and eventually buying a house.

Money mistakes It shouldn’t be a competition, says Cartwright, especially between siblings. It’s not about how much each child has or who can save the most. The best thing parents can do is to recognise consistent behaviour and be positive about it. However, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of competition between siblings, as that can lead to more effort around the

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Teaching Kids

home to earn some extra dollars! The worst mistake, she says, is giving children money with no comprehension of value. Like the difference between a fifty cent piece and a two dollar coin. Smith says parents need to be prepared with their response for when the child comes home from school complaining that someone there received more pocket money. “Explain what your family strategy is, and stick to it,” Smith says. Dealing with over-indulgent relatives can be another sticky situation, Smith says. “Money as gifts for birthdays or the holidays is fine, but some relatives think they are being helpful and hand over money for odd jobs or other reasons, that might fall outside of the strategy you have established for your kids.” Smith says it’s important to share your strategy with these well-meaning people in your children’s lives, so that they can keep within the regime you have set up.

Make it fun! Money matters have to be fun, even for adults. Money should have positive connotations for everyone. Having goals is a great way to add fun, says Cartwright. Teach then budget calculators. If I save $5 per week, how long will it take me to have $100? Setting goals means that, at the end there’s a sense of accomplishment – when you can finally go out and buy that bike. iyl

www.kidsmoney.com.au www.moneycubby.com.au www.understandingmoney.gov.au

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CASE STUDY

The Hore Family

ude Hore and her two teenagers – Alex and Grace – have always made money matters a part of the family routine. The kids started receiving pocket money in earnest when they reached Year Six (about 11 years old) and have always been encouraged to save. “There’s not much that kids don’t get for birthdays or Christmas,” says Jude, “and mine weren’t any different. Which makes it hard sometimes for them to find a goal worth saving for.” Jude encouraged them to save by matching their savings dollar for dollar when they had identified a goal. She also offered the chance to earn more money by taking on extra chores around the house. Now that mobile phones are a part of their lives, both teens have had the shock of a large bill. “We’ve had to hold back some pocket money on those occasions to teach the art of restraint,” says Jude. “Hopefully it’s a lasting lesson.” Alex has just started his first job, and was receiving his pay in cash at the end of the week. Jude successfully convinced him to get paid into his bank account. “It’s still pretty new to him, earning his own money, and he’s experienced being broke pretty quickly, as money evaporates on incidentals like coffee and food. So I’ve taught him that he needs to cover his essentials upfront, like travel and phone.” Lisa Cartwright says being paid into a bank account is the best option, as it helps to build a credit rating. When Alex wants a loan, say for a car, the bank will be able to track his ability to save and more importantly, to repay the loan. Jude says the most important lesson she has tried to instil in her children is that money is a tool. It’s a necessary tool and it’s much easier to handle if you respect it and manage it from the outset. iyl

Home&Property

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Real Estate

HOME & PROPERTY. Property exper, Andrew Winter shares his tips on the best ways of making money from Real Estate.

purchase price

et the purchase price right – make sure you know and understand the local market, establish what homes have really sold for in recent months. Ensure you do your research, not only what has sold but what is for sale currently below and above your price band to get a real feel for an area’s values. Never expect a deal in a booming market, to secure the right price you need sellers keen to sell, even better in a forced sale scenario! Buying the property below real market value or even at market value will be the foundation of any residential real estate success.

THE PROPERTY

he property itself - the best buys are often home types that are most popular in an area, or fulfil a niche, but constant demand. So good value units in a central expensive suburb, family size homes below an area’s median figure. A home with a prime position, particular views, or a quiet location in a busy areas etc. It could be a home with potential to extend, rebuild or develop, or even subdivide. Often the absolute best buys are the homes that do not have obvious potential, they could be the ugliest house in the street, the home and block that could have future potential and could be re zoned in the future. Whatever its attributes, it will only work alongside getting the price and location spot on.

LOCATION

ocation is another key element, but should be combined with buying at the right price. Choosing a location is different for home buying and investing – home buying is about a place you want to live, investing is about deciding where you should buy for future $ growth. Your view to location should be coupled with your view to risk, low risk is an established suburban and urban area where supply is usually restricted and demand constant. New areas, out of town and rural places, mining towns etc all can be higher risk, but along with that higher risk can be big profits, but big losses too. So choose your location wisely and remember if an area is already a hotspot and has had big growth you are too late. Remember each suburb has good parts and bad too. w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

FOR SALE

inally the last element of the process because, the only time you really get $$s in your hand is when it is time to sell. So ensure your property is ready to go to the market, half finished projects usually mean very low sale price. Present the home right, ideally a home should be not be tenanted to offer buyers a choice. But it is not just how your home looks at that point it is when you sell – timing is everything – not too many homes for sale in your area, sold boards and agents chasing for listings are all good signs it is time to sell. If you have to sell at the wrong time or because you have to, your profits and all your hard work could disappear. 53

Home&Property

What are the pitfalls & rewards of investing in property?

he rewards for choosing to invest in property are obvious; making money! As with any investment that is the ultimate goal; investing in property has numerous benefits for the average Aussie looking to the future and more financial security. As a form of investment the ‘product’ has history and a wonderful tendency to always bounce back given a little time! It is a product we all have some knowledge and understanding of. This is a product that we can manage and control ourselves. I will always describe it as a tangible asset, I know most other forms of investments are too, but in this instance I refer to the actual ability for you as the owner/investor to see it, to be able to control when it is sold, what it looks like etc. It is a touchy, feely form of investment. So the pitfalls – the main one is complacency, just buying any old property in an un-researched or unknown location for an unquantified, or rather, let’s say ambitious price could lead to losses rather than profits. Another negative is the time required – the time to find and secure a property, the time it can take for the value to appreciate and that can be many, many years and then the time it can take if you really need to access funds held within this investment, patience is often required! In my experience the real mistakes are made because of that lack of research and knowledge about the home itself, its location and the market it is part of, couple that with many investors forgetting to do a risk assessment on their proposed investment complete the pitfalls. Patience, research, foresight and market knowledge will see you through!

What to look for and how to judge a good buy?

F 54

irst place to start will be to establish your budget and the right spot to buy for your

investment, the right location is often argued to be the key to success, but in reality it is just one slice of the cake. You can get the location spot on; but pay too much or choose wrongly within that area and you could be waiting a long time to see a profit! So that is why the choice you make within any area, whatever your budget is really the ticket to profits. You need to look for homes that have been on the market a long time with motivated sellers, a home new to the market that maybe the ugly one in the street or even overpriced and watch it not sell and then pounce. You look for homes with hidden potential, a higher risk strategy of course, but homes that maybe re zoned in the future, or could be subdivided, or extended and developed. You can consider brand new areas, but only if they are very much cheaper than their established suburb neighbours, one day they will catch up and that means big gains for you. Occasionally developers are keen to sell their first few homes within a big development and offer the first few at below market value to establish some early sales. To judge a good buy is simple – do your research and compare, analyse your proposed purchase – is it really a good deal, what is its future potential sale value? Ensure that your costs to improve, or develop it, are or could be more than you spend. The other vital question is who is going to buy it from you – ask yourself – who would want to buy this house and that will be the best way to judge future demand from buyers.

How to choose an agent?

hat to look for and what questions to ask? If you’re planning to sell, despite the numerous non agent web sites and discount services offered, still the majority of Aussies use a traditional form of real estate agent to sell their home and this is still the case in many other places in the world, with similar high proportion of home ownership within the population. Choosing agents is quite simple, you need to choose about 3, but if you don’t like any of

those keep going – there are plenty! Look around your area see sold boards, look on line see who is selling in your area now, then contact these guys and ask around for recommendations too from family and friends. Before you narrow these guys down to 2 or 3 to consider, invite them to your home – the ultimate research you can do is be the ‘mystery shopper’. DON’T PANIC – you will be fine. As a potential client, why not see how they respond to inquiries about homes, do they return your call, how do they react to you, are they polite would you be encouraged and comfortable to buy a home from them. Are they a person you want to represent you and your home? Now you have narrowed it down to the final 2 or 3, it is time to get them into your home and ‘interview’ them. You want a knowledgeable individual who knows all the recent sales activity in your area has sold similar homes, has office back up, what if they were off sick /holidays etc. Do they understand your home its positives and possible negatives. Can they offer you sound advice and will they listen to you, not bully you into marketing plans/auction etc., when only for their benefit? The main element is for you to remember is you are the client, they work for you and you need to be able to work well together during what could be a pretty stressful time. Don’t be scared to negotiate and remember, ensure the agent is not just going to get the sale. A good agent needs to be involved all the way through the process. That means right until the money is paid in full and the keys handed over. Final note: look at the small print of any agency agreement ask questions and discuss any queries, which you may have. iyl Host and residential property expert for the award-winning series Selling Houses Australia, exclusive to The LifeStyle Channel, Andrew is a global ‘Property Guru’. Over the past seven years his “Selling Houses” series has gone from strength to strength both in the UK and Australia.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

PRINCESS

For those who take cruising seriously

V52

NEW. Available for Christmas delivery.

Introducing the all new V52 Sports Yacht. The arrival of the new V52 is a landmark event in the evolution of the Princess model range. For the first time a V Class sports yacht of this size is available with an enclosed deck saloon, broadening the reach of open boating to new destinations and for an extended boating season. With a large full beam owner’s stateroom and en-suite, a VIP stateroom forward with a lower galley and featuring an open atrium through to the expansive windscreen, this beautiful craft is ideal for those who take their cruising seriously. Available for Christmas Delivery.

www.princessaustralia.com.au

PRINCESS YACHTS SYDNEY d’Albora Marinas, New Beach Road, Rushcutters Bay, NSW 2011 Ph: 02 9363 0000 Martin Rose 0407 777 400 sydney@princessaustralia.com.au

PRINCESS YACHTS QUEENSLAND Suite 3, The Boardwalk, Rialto Quay Drive, Hope Island, Qld 4212. Ph: 07 5514 1900 Alan Paterson 0418 759 926 Scott Davis 0412 763 163 Shannon Johnston 0458 419 000 info@princessaustralia.com.au

Flybridge

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V85-S

PRINCESS YACHTS MELBOURNE Sandringham Yacht Club, Shop 1 36 Jetty Rd, Sandringham, VIC 3191 Stuart Jackson 0418 541 782 stuart@jackonsmarine.com.au

V78

V72

V62

V56

V52

V45

V42

Home&Property

Top 3 by Design carries up to 3 products per category, deemed the best in the world by merit of design. As well as having two stores, at Bondi and Crows Nest in NSW, Top3 is the aesthete’s source of homewares and accessories. Award winning and innovative design from around the world and Australia, including exquisite jewellery, exclusive beauty products, items for outdoors, kids, pets and an amazing array of gifts and gadgets guaranteed to please the choosiest connoisseur. www.top3.com.au or phone1300 867 333.

interiors online

You don’t need to leave your home to gather the goodies to garnish it. These innovators make dressing your nest inspiring and convenient, with pieces sourced from around the globe and rapid delivery to your door.

Peter’s of Kensington An institution in Sydney, Peter’s is now available to all of us. There seems nothing that this bazaar does not stock – from tan in a can to the finest stemware, cookware, gourmet food, electrical and fine china figurines and the biggest range of incredible Alessi homewares in Australia. Why travel abroad when it’s all here in one spot! www.petersofkensington.com.au or phone (02) 9662 1099

Whiteport offers a unique range of premium and affordable lifestyle products, all themed around a stylish white palette. Why white? Because white products are simple, timeless and complement any colour scheme. “There are no limitations when you decorate with white,” says founder Jennifer McCabe. “Our products look equally good in a city loft apartment or a sprawling beach house.” www.whiteport.com.au or phone 1300 203 401

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Interiors Alfresco Emporium A family owned and operated business, Alfresco Emporium specialises in designing and sourcing home furnishing and lifestyle products that are unique and affordable, characterised by the qualities: classic, elegant and coastal. Furniture, home fragrances, jewellery, kitchen appliances, linen and a baby range are just some of the items stocked, along with an extensive bridal registry service. There are also three stores around Sydney, including the flagship store at Collaroy boasting a florist, book store, cooking demonstrations, a vast range of gourmet packaged foods, and a café later this year. www.alfrescoemporium.com.au or phone (02) 9972 9999

Malmaison Owned and operated by Edwynna and Bradley Adams, Malmaison is the outcome of Edwynna’s dream and vision of opening a store with a subtle blend of botanical beauty, seductively entwined with her love of French elegance, design and history. Malmaison specialises in French and French inspired products for the entire home, unique homewares and gifts, Petit Boutique for Children, exquisite French brands, delivered Australia wide and overseas. www.malmaison.com.au or phone 1800 280 686

Matt Blatt Got your heart set on a designer piece, but don’t want to break the budget? The solution for those in the know is Matt Blatt. Matt Blatt is a specialist importer of quality furniture – chairs, tables, sofas, lamps and accessories for home and office, most with unmistakable design pedigree, classics from the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s. The team has more than 30 years in the furniture game and know their stuff, importing from the manufacturers around the world directly to you, so there are no middle men involved. www.mattblatt.com.au or phone (02) 9572 8877

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Orson and Blake An institution in furniture and homewares sourced from around the world at their Woolhara and Surry Hills NSW stores, Orson and Blake offers an eclectic range of handpicked items such as vases, frames, cushions, fragrance, baskets, tableware, lamps, candelabra and linen from artists and designers, selected for their beauty, dedication to fine design, intrigue and soul. There is also a wedding registry service ideal for the sublime gifts you really want! www.orsonandblake.com.au or phone (02) 8399 2525

Home&Property

Everything old is new again.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Antiques&Collectibles

You can’t take it with you, that’s a certainty. And as anybody who watches “Antiques Roadshow” will tell you, one generation’s possessions can certainly add up to wealth for the next. But how do you determine what is trash and what is treasure? By Jeni Bone

t’s human nature to collect things that for whatever reason, appeal to our aesthetic, sentimentality or sense of worth. Phillip Thomas president of the Auctioneers & Valuers Association of Australia has seen it all over his 45 years in the game. If you’re interested in finding out the value of the dusty relic used as an umbrella stand at grandma’s for 40 years, or the painting that has been despised for years in your office reception, Thomas recommends you consult a member of the Auctioneers & Valuers Association or Antique Dealers Association. No ‘knick-knack’ is too insignificant, he assures me. “It’s our business. We go to people’s houses all the time, or people bring their goods in to us. It ranges from wanting a value for insurance, or to sell, of a rediscovered item in the attic, deceased estate property or possessions that need to be sold as a result of divorce. We see it all.” There’s plenty of treasure among the trinkets that makes the job interesting. Only last week, he says, a painting in a plain box was brought in for auction and earned its bewildered owner a staggering $38,000. Depending on the market, and whims, genres and objects go in and out of fashion and their value at auction w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

follows. How do you determine if that Victorian era teddy bear or toy soldier set is at its peak? “That’s the million dollar question!” exclaims Thomas. “There are certainly trends in terms of the popularity of goods and their worth, and many of those are lifestyle related. At the moment, we are seeing a downturn in what we call ‘brown furniture’ – Victorian era dining suites and settings. The formal dining room isn’t as important as it once was and people aren’t looking for large, stately furniture. “On the other hand, there’s an upturn in 50s and 60s ‘avant garde’ designer furniture. Designers like US couple, Charles and Ray Eames and the Australian designer, Grant Featherstone are really flavour of the month. I think it’s a generational thing. People are sentimental about the pieces and styles of their youth.” Thomas says that there is a pattern of “25 year cycles” as eras and items make a reappearance, with a different price structure, as each passing generation moves through. As for the impact of the GFC or any wane in business during so-called “hard times”, Thomas says it has been “business as usual” at Raffan Kelaher and Thomas in Sydney’s Leichhardt, where he is a partner and Auctioneer.

“People are always interested in buying and selling goods. There has been some migration in the industry. Half of the antique stores along Queen St Woollahra have gone, but Danks St in Waterloo has picked up and there has been an emergence of stores over there.” At the extreme upper end of the spectrum, Christie’s is synonymous with fine arts. In Australia, its representative, Ronan Sulich is frequently called out to the homes of respected collectors to value works for auction and he is always surprised at what he finds. “There are plenty of incredible pieces that turn up in Australia,” he says. And while Christie’s does not conduct auctions in Australia, the pieces Sulich is charged with disposing of are in high demand in the UK, US, Europe and Hong Kong. The most recent find was a Chinese Blue and White bowl dating back to 1450. It belonged to a collector of note in Adelaide and was expected to fetch between US$400,000 and $600,000. Obviously, it caught the eye of more than a few avid collectors and eventually it went for US$2m. The recent economic downturn has affected the fine art market, acknowledges Sulich, but at the time of the GFC, around September 2008, it was superheated. 59

“There was a lot of money around and people were being unselective. Overnight, the market halved. Revenue has been down slightly, but there are still a lot of people looking to invest in art. The stock market has been volatile, so people look for other avenues to put their money. It certainly contracted and the middle and lower ends of the market were culled, but the ‘best of the best’ is still competitive and still appreciative.” For example, a recent sale of a 17th Century Islamic carpet topped £6.2m. “That was a record for a textile,” explains Sulich. It also makes you pause and think that there have been 500 years of wear and ownership of that item. “It certainly does put our lives in to perspective.” “Hot” at the moment in the upper echelons of the market are “important Victorian art, major Chinese ceramics and Chinese contemporary art in general”, he says. Sulich advises people who suspect they have pieces of value and live beyond the Sydney and Melbourne centres to take quality photographs of their items and send them to reputable auction houses or specialist valuers. For those people keen to get in to the practice of collecting, he recommends looking around a lot before spending any money. “Hold off. The more you go to auctions and the more you absorb from observing, the more you’ll pick up the subtleties of collecting. Your personal taste will perhaps mature to an acquired taste.” The internet has played a big role in bringing people to auctions. Along with ebay – which Thomas says has its share of reputable traders and risky 60

enterprises, like anywhere – the websites of major auction houses is a convenient means of viewing online catalogues profiling goods that are coming up for auction. Sulich agrees and says the internet has made collecting more accessible than ever before. “Where once people were at a disadvantage if they couldn’t get to an auction, they can now go online and view our catalogue for anywhere in the world.” Christie’s online catalogue, unlike its printed version, is free, not at all cumbersome and equally filled with scholarly entries that contribute to acquiring an appreciation of each genre. Auction houses too have invested significantly in sophisticated websites

and most employ a photographer to take quality shots of all manner wares each week. Auctions are held Monday and Tuesday. This is a tradition based on the routine of “ad goes in the newspapers on a Saturday, viewing Saturday, Church on Sunday, sales Monday and Tuesday,” explains Thomas. Lots are usually divided into “bric-abrac”, decorative arts, general household, furniture and fine arts, but depending on the Auction house, there may be other speciality segments such as Militaria, Australiana, International Art, Jewellery and Watches, Wine, Books, Maps, Stamps, Clothing, and then into high ticket items like Boats, Cars and Homes. If you can’t be present for the auctions, Thomas recommends leaving an absentee bid or phoning in, although nothing replaces actual viewing of the object prior to bidding as “buyer beware” is the order of the day as goods are sold as is and old items, while they may be cleaned up to reveal are just as likely to be hiding a multitude of imperfections. For people whose appetite is whet by dabbling in the hobby and who would like more information on the techniques and technicalities of buying and selling at auction, the Auctioneers & Valuers Association runs courses, both for the enthusiast and budding professionals. There are courses suited to people who have an interest in the valuation of art, antiquities, plant, machinery and equipment and those who may wish to pursue a career in valuation, and courses for those who just want to understand how auctions work, the role of the participants and auction dynamics. iyl Visit www.avaa.com.au for information. Imagine One | Spring 2010

Interiors

Join the Stainless Squad

The ultimate bio-cleaning tool kit, according to TV and radio presenter, author and mistress of the organically clean house, Shannon Lush, sounds comfortingly like something from our grandma’s day – from her cookbook actually! What luck then that the Lush solutions to problem stains, spots and spills, as well as day to day cleanliness are so cheap, kind to the environment and fragrant to boot! Bi-carb Soda

An alkaline and mild abrasive. Also a natural cleaning agent. When mixed with white vinegar cleans hard surfaces very efficiently.

Methylated Spirits An alcohol solvent, which removes pen marks.

Oil of Cloves

Cold pressed oil from the dried flower bud of the clove tree. A useful mould inhibitor and insecticide. To lift mould from shoes add a quarter of a teaspoon of oil of cloves to 500ml bottle of Baby Oil. Daub onto leather with pantyhose and wipe mould away.

White Vinegar

A mild acid. When mixed with bi-carb soda a chemical reaction occurs.

Lavender Oil

When mixed with water it becomes a mild cleaner and deoderiser – good for finger marks on walls and general light cleaning. Also an effective air freshener and personal insect repellent. Mix 1 teaspoon per litre of water.

Tea Tree Oil

An oil extracted from the tea tree bush. It’s used as an anti-bacterial. Also good at getting sticky marks/ labels off jars etc

Tea

Contains tannic acid which cleans timber. Make up a teapot with 4 or 5 tea bags and pour into a bucket of boiling water. Mop the timber with pantyhose dipped in the tea

Lemon Oil

Extracted from the peel of the lemon, very good at keeping spiders and other insects at bay and also for stain removal.

imagine GIVEAWAY To win one of four copies of Shannon Lush’s latest book, just email competition@ imagineyourlifestyle. com.au with “Stainless” in the subject box.

Pantyhose Unprocessed Wheat Bran

A light abrasive and absorbent, when mixed with white vinegar and placed in a pair of pantyhose makes an effective cleaner for soft toys, dusty lamps, sisal flooring and more.

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The new must-have household reference from Shannon Lush, who has teamed up with Trent Hayes in Stainless will have you stain busting like a pro. Using her encyclopaedic knowledge of stainfighting formulas and chemical reactions, Shannon guides you through all you need to know to be able to diagnose and treat stains safely and effectively. This handy tome will help you: • work out the surface that’s been stained • identify the stain • determine which solvents are going to work • decide what method to use • know what to do if you stuff it up! In a clear and conversational style, Shannon explains the uses for each of the items in your essential cleaning kit, and shares loads of her tried-and-true grimefighting formulas. Available from ABC Books RRP $19.99. www.abcbooks.com.au

Mildly abrasive fibres become more abrasive as they get wet – this won’t damage surfaces but cuts through grease and grime. To make a pantyhose mitten just wrap the hose around your fingers and fold the open end over your finger tips to form a glove…this can then washed and re-used. This is a very good dust lifter when used with lavender oil and water. 61

At Home

Market News

What’s delectable from the providores and gourmet specialty stores. In Season: Cherries

hese sweet little treats are actually related to roses and are mostly grown in Young, Orange, Adelaide and Tasmania. More than 100 species and some 1200 cultivars of cherries are known. There are two types to choose from: red/black varieties or white varieties. Red/black varieties may be used fresh or cooked, while white types are best for cooking and preserving.

Sweet cherries should have firm, but not hard flesh, while sour cherries should be mediumfirm. The darker the colour, the sweeter the cherry. Cherries can be added to salads, cakes, pastries, pies, pavlovas, marinated in port and served as a delicious desert with cream or ice cream, added to fruit salads or enjoyed fresh. Cherries can also be frozen for use at a later date. Try this quick, easy but so impressive dessert.

Amaretto Cherry Dessert 375g Fresh cherries; stoned and halved 4tb Amaretti di Saronno liqueur 1tsp Arrowroot 1tsp Water 4 x 150g tubs soy yogurt 65g Amaretto biscuits; crushed Fresh cherries; to decorate Preheat the oven to 200 C, 400 F, Gas Mark 6. Mix the cherries with the liqueur in an ovenproof dish. Cover and cook for 20 minutes. Drain the juice and stir in the arrowroot, blended with water to thicken. Leave to cool. Puree half the compote and blend with the yogurt. Divide the amaretti biscuits between 6 tall stemmed glasses. Layer the cherries alternating with the yogurt mixture. Decorate with fresh cherries. www.marketfresh.com.au

What’s the buzz at Black Pearl? www.blackpearl.com.au Black Pearl Epicure, Brisbane’s home of delectable gourmet goods, welcomes: Tasmanian Manuka Honey. Collected from the native tea tree bush, it is famous for its antimicrobial, anti-fungal and antiinflammatory properties and tastes as sweet as can be. The Tasmanian Honey Company keeps its own bees and prides itself on creating a fine, soft candied honey that is easy to drizzle, and has wonderful mouthfeel. Then when the weather is cool, enjoy Maggie Beer’s new Soup range, all made with vegetable stock and quality ingredients for richness you’d expect from a traditional country cook’s repertoire. Flavours include Pumpkin & Verjuice with Mascarpone, Tomato, Saffron & Verjuice, Sweet Potato, Pear & Ginger and Porcini Mushroom with Creme Fraiche.

Anchovies & Icon Chefs at Essential Ingredient www.theessentialingredient.com.au Celebrating its 21st Birthday this year, and 12 years of its Cooking School, The Essential Ingredient has lost none of its dedication to serving the professional and home chef. New in store are the Aranoa Anchovies, ideal for adding a piquant boost to dishes. These rose tinted fillets have been hand cut and packed in olive oil, preserving their delicate flavour, in the Cantabrian region of Northern Spain for four generations. The highly aromatic olive oil can be used in an aioli, for brushing brushchetta or sautéing. Imagine One | Spring 2010

At Home

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Cuisine

Food For {and inspiration} Thought. E

MasterChef, it seems we can’t get enough of it. It’s the show that became a phenomenon sweeping across Australian television screens like a motorised pastry brush, bringing with it a renewed (and in some cases a new) interest in cooking and entertaining at home. Lizzie Loel savours the whole enchilada.

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ffectively it’s a cooking competition not unlike those feisty CWA bakeoffs that underpinned the social activities of countless home cooks in rural areas. Pickles, cakes and casseroles, chutneys, scones and Anzac biscuits were graded and ribbons awarded along with the undeniable cache of being a ‘prize winning cook’. Just a few decades later, with an advance in technology and the kind of budget that comes with huge TV ratings, you have the modern day equivalent of the Royal Show bake-off with one big difference – this modern version actually appeals to a much wider audience from teenagers to grandparents and everyone in between. So what made it so popular? It certainly isn’t the ease and speed of the recipes as many were complex and very taxing and this shows a clear move away from the four ingredient type of food trickery. Everyone I ask mentions how nice it is to settle into a reality series that does not emotionally pit contestants against each other and then capitalise on the ensuing spats. This would be the Big Brother formula where tears and tantrums underpinned the show’s popularity in lieu of actual content. MasterChef’s timing could not have been sweeter. In the throes of GFC panic, we sat at home in front of the telly instead of at restaurant tables and the enthusiasm for eating-in was given a much needed injection generating a sales boom at deli’s, butcher shops, bookstores and specialty provedores. Not since the eighties when greed was

good and budgets were bountiful has the dinner party seen such a revival. But gone are the gold leaf flecked desserts and the spray painted avocado halves, towers of overworked and underseasoned main courses so tricked up the hosts spent most of the night in tears in the butler’s pantry; this revival smacks of reality. Regional produce, ethnic veracity and a degree of ease in preparation and cooking methods now rules at the burners of thousands of households who prefer to eat well and still spend time with their guests. And while the GFC-induced slump probably increased the viewing population last year and created a small slump in restaurant numbers, as the economy bounced back, viewers became diners once more, with restaurateurs reporting an increased interest in diners’ food knowledge and interest in the provenance and integrity of what they are eating. It’s important to note that while MasterChef put Australia’s new food agenda firmly on the mainstream map, it is not alone in spreading the good food word. We have had a dedicated food channel now for several years and it rates well. Then there is the global hit, Iron Chef and its larger-than-life format and gripping suspense-based episodes that drew a massive audience of non-foodies. Suspense, theatre and miraculous outcomes make great viewing and add in there a little raging competition between a couple of knife-wielding super-chefs and you have a TV executives dreams. Channel Seven cashed in on the

At Home

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suddenly we are walking away from supermarkets and into Farmer’s Markets and we are learning to taste the difference

trend with My Kitchen Rules which they cleverly scheduled around the MasterChef off-season. States were pitted against each other using couples to stage a dinner party in their own home judged by celebrity chefs, Pete Evans and Manu Feildel. So what is the impact of all this culinary voyeurism out in the community? Six years ago, Noosa restaurateurs Jim Berardo and Greg O’Brien held a small festival celebrating the quality of great Australian food and chefs. Sixteen chefs performed to an audience of one hundred and all events took place inside their charming coastal chic dining room over a weekend. Six years on, one hundred and fifty chefs share the massive marquee that dominates Lion’s Park by the river with approximately sixteen thousand punters who eagerly lap up cooking demonstrations, hinterland food trails, degustation dinners, regionalised lunches and a host of panel discussions, wine tastings and, in a delicious turning of the tables, a full-on cooking competition of the nation’s food critics, ironically judged by the contributing chefs. “For both our restaurants (Berardo’s and the more casual Berardo’s on the Beach) 66

and the Festival, it feels like MasterChef has transformed the industry in just one year. Now there are three generations who are food aware and interested in eating out. Our dining population has gotten considerably younger - it’s as if this new world has been opened up for them. For the festival it’s great to see Gen Y mixing with X’ers and Boomers.” Says Berardo, of the recent changes. The downside of the trend is an increase in gastro-pretentiousness according to Melbourne-based freelance food writer, Sarah Mackenzie. “I SWEAR, if one more person drops the words ‘prepping’ or ‘plating up’ around me, I am going to stuff their chef’s hat right up their backenoff.” She rants in the Sun Herald recently then goes on to add, “‘Oh, I am such a foodie’, people will tell you in tones of smug self-righteousness. Calling yourself a foodie would seem to imply that you have a more advanced and complex love of food than me.” MasterChefs, cravated Matt Preston begs to differ and he also points out the significant contribution that newspaper liftouts and glossy magazines such as Vogue Entertaining and Delicious have made to rise and rise of the Aussie foodie. “At home, kitchens are once

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again regaining their place at the heart of our homes and the success of shows such as MasterChef is built on the idea of the nobility of cooking for others, a celebration of the role that the family table plays in social cohesion and the fact that true fast food takes 15 minutes to prepare in your own kitchen rather than a longer round trip down to wait in line at plastic counter for a cardboard box of salt, sugar and saturated fat.” “Things like food are inclusive. Just like those who know and love football or other activities, it is the stuff that binds us together – not pulls us apart. You can keep the celebrity and you can keep the ratings, what’s far more important to the three of us (co-hosts Gary Mehigan and George Colombaris), as blokes who are passionate about the desirability of eating well, is the impact that the show has had in bringing children to food and removing some of the fears that people have in attempting new dishes, whether its a soufflé, some fabulous or even, god forbid, a croquembouche.” Preston was thrilled with the calibre of cooks in the most recent series. “We realise the impact we have had so far is only marginal but with every series we hope that more people will cook Imagine One | Spring 2010

Cuisine

and come to understand how easy and approachable cooking good healthy food at home can be – whether you’re 8 or 80.” The record ratings of the show resulted in the launch of a MasterChef magazine in May. MasterChef magazine from News Magazines sells 150,000 copies a month and circulation figures from the Audit Bureau of Circulations released in the first week of August show the whole food segment rising amid a static or falling magazine market, all focused feeding our lust for fancy fare. So heartened is the publisher, there are said to be plans afoot for a spinoff, Junior MasterChef, to tie in with the Network Ten series of that name to air later this year, capitalising on the show’s popularity with kids in the kitchen. So while this culinary craze may give rise to the odd pretentious git who waxes lyrical about his line-caught, milk-fed, hand reared, biodynamic, artisan-made menu, interest in this sector has two significant benefits to two very needy areas in our society – suddenly we are walking away from supermarkets and into Farmer’s Markets and we are learning to taste the difference between fresh produce and over-packaged, often imported bulk stored rubbish. w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

This benefits the primary producer immeasurably and, on some level, counters the strangling monopoly of the giant food chains. And, if we’re shopping at the local deli, the ethnic food supplier and the Farmer’s Markets, we’re less tempted to buy the

preservative-laden fat-sodden products that litter our supermarkets shelves and transform us and our children into unhealthy, supersized blimps. Matt, you can have your cravat and eat it too – provided it’s from a boutique producer that is! iyl

At Home

bursting the bubbles

Despite their appeal and affect, sadly thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing mysterious about the bubbles in champagne.

hen champagne contacts the dry glass on pouring, it produces an initial burst of effervescence that forms bubbles on natural imperfections in the glass that facilitate nucleation. Bubbles can also form on the fibres left over from wiping the glass dry. After the initial rush of bubbles, the surface tension of the liquid smoothes out these minute imperfections, and they become too small to act consistently as nucleation points. In fact, the nucleation sites that act as a source for the ongoing bubbles are not the natural imperfections in the glass, but occur where the glass has been etched by the manufacturer. This etching is generally performed with a laser or acid to provide nucleation sites

for continuous bubble formation. If the manufactured glass does not provide this etching, then home consumers may etch the glass using a glass etching tool from a craft shop. Scientists have studied the formation and patterns of the bubbles in champagne (truly!) and assert their work is important in understanding bubbles formed of dissolved gasses in other situations, such as nitrogen bubbles that grow in the blood vessels of surfacing divers and can cause the bends and explosive events that result from gaseous incidents in volcanic lakes. So do your bit for science. Bottoms up â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it Brut or a basic brand of bubbly.

Pairing food with champagne Too often saved for special occasions, champagne is an exceptionally versatile wine, the preference of sommeliers and connoisseurs for everything from brunch and picnics to barbeques and dinner parties. Champagne contains high levels of acidity and a small amount of sugar. The two extremes complement elements in almost any food, from a tame

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Beverages

poached salmon to red-hot Thai food. Traditionally, the best food options to go with champagne are fruit, cheese, seafood, pasta, egg-based dishes and salty foods. Seafood is the ideal companion for champagne. Smoked salmon, red snapper, sea bass, clams, oysters, fish pate and caviar are superbly salty to combine wonderfully with champagne. A creamy pasta such as spaghetti carbonara or pasta alfredo is also a great choice, as are pasta dishes with prawns or shellfish. iyl

Demystifying the terms:

Prestige Cuvées A cuvée de prestige is a proprietary blended Champagne that is considered to be the top of a producer’s range. Probably the most famous of these is Moët’s Cuvée Dom Pérignon.

Brut Very dry, having a low residual sugar content because of decomposition of sugar during fermentation. The opposite extreme is Doux, very sweet. Blanc de Blancs “White from white grapes” is used to designate champagnes made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. Blanc de blancs Champagnes are usually light and delicate. Blanc de Noirs “White from black grapes” refers to champagnes made entirely from black grapes, such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier or a blend of the two (these being the only two black grapes permitted within the Champagne AOC appellation)

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Vintage If the conditions of a particular wine growing year are favourable, some producers will make a “Vintage” champagne, which must be composed of at least 85% of the grapes from that vintage year. Not every year is a vintage year; this is left to the individual houses to declare themselves. Non Vintage (NV) A blended product of grapes from multiple years. In this way, the champagne house can achieve a constant house style. Rosé The rosé wines of Champagne can be made either by maceration of black grapes during pressing, so that the colour leeches out from the skins (known as de saignée) or by adding a small proportion of the red wine form the Champagne region (usually still Pinot noir) to give the wine a rose tint.

SOHO Trends

Corporate Culture Sistema Casse

Much ado about SOHO Working from home, or small business space, has never been more appealing or rewarding.

By Domayne

hanks to the rise of “satellite employment” and the “cloud shift” of the new Millennium, homeward bound takes on a delightfully domestic dimension. It’s your very own work place and can be personalised to suit your specific requirements, even your mood! Current trends include clever, concealed storage, desks that do double duty, ergonomic pieces that are as aesthetic as they are health-conscious, vibrant stationery bursting with emblems, textures and titivation, as well as lighting that’s ideal for burning the midnight oil, but at the same time, enhances your space with warmth or quirky charm. Imagine One | Spring 2010

SOHO Trends

Spinnaker

Corporate Culture Corporate Culture has one of the most comprehensive collections of small office solutions. The business was founded in 1997 by Richard Munao. The Corporate Culture name was derived from what at the time was a new vision for the Architectural and Design industry; it was Richard and the team’s desire to develop a new ‘corporate culture’ where investing in quality design was an essential part of any interior environment. www.corporateculture.com.au

Premium Rollerball Pen

Aviolux Verde

KIKKI K Swedish Home/Office Style. Provides ranges of inspiringly unique home & office stationery solutions. Products that help make the workspaces we use - and our lives in general both stylishly inviting and positively productive. With an innovative and fashionable collection of complementary stationery products such as diaries, calendars, classic storage boxes and more, Kikki-k aim is to help you achieve that fantastic feeling of well-being that comes with being organised and incontrol - with style. www.kikki-k.com

DOMAYNE With a passion for fashion and design, Domayne is emerging as one of Australia’s leading retailers in Furniture, Bedding and Homewares. Proudly supporting Australian made products and sourcing unique pieces internationally, they offer a wide range of products to turn any house into a homeoffice! At Domayne value is key; and they offer a wide range of products to suit all budgets and lifestyles. www.domayne.com.au

Greening your space:

Plants that survive and thrive indoors are back in style, lending not only a design element to a room, but also reducing harmful volatile compounds that ooze from furniture, carpets, paint, PCs and printers. The trend these days is for simplicity and “structural plants” in the form of species like Sansevieria, Zamiociulcus (Zanzibar gem) and Agavae. There are also the perennial favourites with designers, such as Howea forsteriana (Kentia palm), Dracaena deremensis (Janet Craig), Epipremnum aureum (Devils ivy), Spathiphyllum (Peace lily), Dracaena marginata (Marginata). There are plenty of flowering indoor species too, among them, the designer’s favourites: Orchids, African violets and Bromeliads.

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SOHO Hot 30

Young

Guns The SmartCompany “Hot 30 Under 30” list for 2010 identifies the top earning young entrepreneurs and the habits and practices that helped them to the pinnacle of their careers.

he businesses run by this group of rising entrepreneurs aged 30 years and under have more than $100 million in combined revenue. They employ well over 600 people. On average, their start up costs were under $100,000 and in most cases their companies have been in operation for less than five years. After breezing through the GFC, this group of young guns is looking to really ramp up their growth as the economy heads back towards top speed. So how are they managing growth and prosperity in such challenging times? Here are 10 strategy secrets from the Hot 30. www.SmartCompany.com.au

Live to serve As in the wider Australian economy, the clear trend from the list is the shift towards services – 18 of the 30 businesses on the list are service companies riding the outsourcing trend, typically in a very specific niche.

Leverage your tech edge

What sets these younger entrepreneurs apart is their ability to use technology in different ways to give themselves an edge by cutting out costs, connecting with customers and staff and delivering services faster and more cheaply.

Your idea doesn't need to be revolutionary

Many entrepreneurs think they need a completely original idea or a brilliant new product to succeed. Not true – simply delivering a better product or service than currently exists is enough to build a strong business.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

SUITS

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SOHO Hot 30

Young

Guns

Look overseas for great ideas Getting ahead of the local market by looking overseas is not a guarantee of success, but it can provide a strong building block.

The younger you are, the less you’ve got to lose Starting a business when you are young can be tough, particularly when you’re trying to scrape together start up funds. But a number of entrepreneurs on the Hot 30 say this is also an advantage – the less you’ve got, the less you’ve got to lose.

The explosive growth of a young business can be difficult for an entrepreneur to manage and the implementation of strong financial, HR and administrative systems is crucial to coping with grow.

Fight to persuade suppliers to work with you

One of the biggest challenges the Hot 30 talk about is convincing suppliers that young entrepreneurs should be taken seriously. The experience of the Hot 30 shows that it doesn’t get any easier, although success has a funny way of opening doors.

10. 7

Get advice – and plenty of it

Whether it is a mentor, a board of directors, an accountant, a legal adviser or an industry expert, soaking up as much advice as possible is crucial to success.

Hire well Entrepreneurs of all ages will tell you that good staff are one of the most important ingredients for success. For young and less experienced business owners, this is especially true.

Systemise it

Listen to the market

Perhaps it’s their ability to tap into social networks or maybe it’s just because they have grown up as big consumers of information. Whatever the case, the Hot 30 concentrate heavily on listening to customers and gathering market intelligence.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

SHIRTS

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Imagine

Fa st F o r wa r d Sultry is the forecast, and with the warmer months comes a celebration of new season trends: a brighter palette, sheers, denim top to toe, sportswear with flair, chunky accessories and statement pieces, and a touch of tribal to satisfy your wild side!

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Fashion

In-demand stylist and seasoned fashion commentator, Margo Bowers interprets the couture, catwalk and prêt-À-porter and selects the major themes that will work for real people. What are the main themes for spring/summer 2010? Summer 2010 is all about lots of white, military jackets and detailing cut a disciplined figure with safari suiting and camouflage shades. Minimalism with a less is more approach, clean lines, denim in all areas of dress, not just jeans. Sports wear with grey marle the feature colour and the track pant worn with structured jackets the best interpretation of this look. ‘Nudes’ are back teamed with black and white. Then there’s the classic white shirt and fabulous trench coat in nude tones. Tribal makes a comeback with animal as well as embellished “warrior princess pieces”. How can women ‘of a certain age’ (not 20) interpret them and make these themes work? By only adopting a “hint” of the trend, for example a military jacket with classic white accent is fabulous. Wearing this with too many gold accessories would be taking the look too far.

Muccia Frilling Heights Dress

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How can women dip into these trends and update their wardrobes without breaking the bank, buying pieces that might see the distance to next year? We need to understand that the core part of your wardrobe deserves to be well represented and that generally means investing in garments that fit well and are made from quality fabrics. It may extend your budget, but CPW (cost per wear) of these “classic” items can mean they are investments if you buy well.

Which brands should we look out for this year that have incorporated these trends in a practical, stylish way? You need to shop with a non-negotiable attitude. There are great designs scattered through most retailers in Australia, you just need to know how to look and choose the best items for your shape and budget. For working mums/professionals who need a versatile wardrobe, what are some “staples” that are worth splurging on? I shop for my clients with the idea that they need to have a core capsule wardrobe that can then be decorated and accessorised differently on a daily basis, depending on moods and movement for the day. The key is to get a really strong capsule together as this fabulous “backbone” will support trends to suit the occasion. Cheap and chic – is it possible? What are some of the best quality chain stores for ‘bang for your buck’? Target is great for shoes, Kmart often does a great range of well-cut jackets, Temt for trendy items, Valley Girl and Dotti are all great for up to the minute on-trend pieces. What about shoes? What can we expect for spring/summer? Practical flats are big, so are kitten heels, then there are lots of earthy leather gladiators with ankle detail and for something higher, wedges with rope detail to suit the military theme for spring/ summer 2010.

Imagine

Imagine if your jeans could talk? Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d probably have more dirt on you than you could ever get on them. Well look out because now they canâ&#x20AC;Ś Mavi, having already established their denim range with actual names for different styles, have now taken things a step further and personified several of their most popular cuts through a new campaign

Meet the Mavis. Created by Bondi Advertising, the campaign launched midApril and introduces Daniel, Serena, Marcus and Anna Mavi via meetthemavis.com. This site heroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s both product range and characters, before directing us on to their various Social Network profiles where they truly come alive.

Mavi Sera Super Skinny Dark Denim Jean

Daniel Mavi

Margo Bowers

Margo Bowers has worked in fashion forecasting for retailers and department stores, liaising with style icons here and abroad. A personal stylist who has the proven credentials to advise men and women on enhancing their personal style, Margo consults to Mercedes Benz Fashion Festivals in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Marcus Mavi

Anna Mavi

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Above L to R: Muccia Back A Winner Dress, Muccia Wasted Away Jacket, Muccia Long Weekend Cardi, Muccia Lounge Around Dress.

Accessories? What are the must-haves this year? Accessories are definitely THE most important part of any girl’s wardrobe! They allow us to “rework” what we already own and are a very snappy way of interpreting a current trend onto an already tried and true investment piece. In other words, they update your look. Remember, “The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize!” said Olympia Dukakis in the film Steel Magnolias. For this season, look for large statement rings, a statement fashion watch , embellished cuffs, antique gold and beaten silver, layering lots of fabulous necklaces to go with the simpler the clothes the better, because then the accessories do the talking. In my opinion, accessories say more about a woman’s style than her clothing. Androgynous dressing is also very strong this season, with soft suiting coming through into winter 2011, and accessories will again feature strongly so you will get mileage out of great pieces you buy now. Samantha Wills is a fabulous Australian designer that is worth investing in.

DKNY

Luette Taupe Bag. iboutique.com.au

. Estilo Womens Shoes For stockists phone (02) 9564 2904.

Samantha Willis

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Imagine What are the key themes for men this season? Military, Preppy, Jeans and Ts with classy accessories – a fabulous watch, groovy sneakers, deck shoes, coloured sunnies. A spectacular, well-cut black suit. Coated denim jeans. What brands are doing these well? Rodger David, Witchery Man, Country Road, Just Jeans and Van Heusen

Men: Shorts are great for warm weather, but they are tricky. How can men wear cargos and not look too bulky or too sloppy? Shorts are a fabulous way for blokes to dress, and most male shapes can wear shorts well. Just make sure the cut fits them and keep shorty-shorts for the footy field. What brands and what features should they look for in shorts? With shorts, as in most items in the male wardrobe it is all about FIT FIT FIT! Jay Jays and Just Jeans do great shorts for under $30. Is there a place for boardshorts in the wardrobe? Absolutely, but they need to be washed and clean (and a dip in the pool every now and then doesn’t count!)

Van Heusen

As far as investing in the essential suit, what should men look for? Wool and Wool Blends work best. There is great innovation happening at the moment with suiting fabric, so look out for modern textiles like the Van Heusen Performa Suit Range. It’s stain resistant, crush resistant, breathable, 100% wool. Find something that’s light and comfortable to wear. Durability is also a key factor, as your suit is an investment you want to make sure it will stand the test of time and wear. Alternate your trousers, for example, with a Van Heusen “2 Trouser Suit” to extend the life of your suit. As for fit, there is nothing more horrible that your suit wearing you. Spend some time with the tailor or salesperson to make sure your suit fits properly. The jacket should be neat around the collar, it should be nipped in the waist but not too tight. Trousers should fit your waist. They are not jeans and should not be cut to sit on your hips. The classic trouser length sits on the heel of your shoe but if you find a slim fitting suit you can wear your trousers a little shorter. Van Heusen run a “Classic Fit Suit” which will fit pretty much everyone but if you want something a little neater try a “European Fit” which is slightly more tailored and modern. To choose a style, think about where you plan to wear your suit. If it’s a one-off event like the races go crazy and buy something fun but for everything else simple is best. A clean two-button twin vent suit with notch lapels is classic. Always choose flat front trousers. Also, you need more than one suit. Alternating your suits will extend their life. Start with something classic and dark. Plain Black is versatile, charcoal or black pinstripe for when you need to be serious. Once you have a couple of basics branch out into a fancy design cloths like

Imagine One | Spring 2010

MensCorner Tim Cahill and Zodiac watches.

Storm ‘Thunder’ Watch.

a mid grey or blue or seek out interesting designs like a peak lapel jacket. Beyond the suit, what are the basics for a versatile working wardrobe? For men, I suggest about five classic well cut white shirts that need to be thrown away at the first sign of discolouration. What should men look for in shirts? With a Cotton Blend you get the best of both worlds – a nice clean pressed finished and a breathable soft fabric and most important easy to iron! Look out for the new generation of “Non Iron”, crush resistant and breathable shirts like those in the Van Heusen Performa shirts range. Fit is crucial with shirts. Choose a fit that flatters your body shape. There is also no excuse for an ill-fitting shirt when there are so many colours, fits, collars and styles available. With shirts it’s all about presentation. Clean classic white, bold colour and pattern fancy – you need a mix in your wardrobe. Make sure you are well stocked with white and blue but you can make a statement with colour or a pattern too. Lilacs, silver, greens, taupes Converse One Star Classic 74.

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are all great too when you’d like to add a splash of colour. Mix it up to with different collars like a cut away or a peak. Again micro and textured patterns are a way to introduce interest into your wardrobe so it’s not a sea of plain. Shoes: Men are sometimes hopeless, with a black pair, grubby sneakers and thongs. Are there smart, fashionable shoes men can enjoy wearing without looking like a boatie or a pimp? The converse “all star” hightop is a great addition to most male wardrobes. They are back in a big way in every colour and variation, including black.

Van Heusen

If they have a shoe-fetish, what are the looks now? Boat shoe High top boots in suede and leather Biker boots What are the accessories that are cool for chaps? Hats are big for summer as are extralarge watches – the bigger the better and rainbow-hued sunnies.

Roger David

Hugo Boss Watches

Emporio Armani Ceramica

KidzBiz Eco entertainment Not only does the massive selection from Eco Toys look good, they will make you feel like you’re doing your bit for the environment too. This online toy store specialises in beautifully crafted toys made from natural, sustainable and recycled materials that aim to inspire creative and imaginative play, such as the stylish modern wooden rocking horse with curved board and back rest for maximum stability and control. www.ecotoys.com.au

Learn, play, party! From babies to teens, Entropy has more than 2000 products, many of them hard to find or exclusive. All products are carefully chosen to foster activity, creativity and problem solving, but best of all, they are fun. Take this glorious indoor Pirate tent from Haba. This is every boy’s special place to dream, read, play and rest after exciting adventures. It has easy pop-up assembly courtesy of the plastic rods that stabilise it. www.entropy.com.au

KidzBiz

Make a Wishbone!

hbone From the brilliant minds at Wis inning rd-w awa Design Studio comes the and als ped no ultimate pre-bike. It has ination, ord coand nce teaches children bala with bike d eele -wh two a for preparing them from ver ts pedals. The Wishbone Bike con children for toy -on ride led hee a three-w -wheeled who are just walking to a two frame can bike that teaches balance. The sted to adju then be flipped and the seat age of five the to up n accommodate childre e.com bik one ishb w.w as they grow. ww

Cute Cubbies A home of his or her own is every kid’s dream! Cubbycraft specialises in kids’ cubby houses, tree houses, slippery dips, and play equipment for residential, daycares, schools and play centres. Made from the best quality Aussie timber, they are non toxic, environmentally friendly, white ant resistant and are available online for factory direct prices, and delivered Australia wide. www.cubbykraft.com

Stepping out The name on the feet of the cool kids is Keds. Now available in Australia, this groovy, glamorous range is sugar sweet for spring summer. For stockists Tel: (03) 8878 3000.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

KidzBiz

Sydney Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge on foot for sensational views, traipse through the 30 hectares of the Botanic Gardens with its free guided walks every morning, or take the kids to the Art Gallery of NSW which has free performance and art displays for kids every Sunday. late factor y, Adelaide Tours of the marvellous chocoOn your bike! Just Haigh’s are free, and you even get a sample or two; maritime histor y 20 mins from the city, Port Adelaide is home to the with friendly nal perso and close up get of the region, where you can Bikes gives Port ouse. lighth a out check dolphins in the mangroves or area. al coast and ide Adela Port you free bike use within the

Canberra Touch moon rock and learn about space travel at the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex. Darwin During school holidays, Council offers a “fun in the park” program at various ovals and parks around Darwin, with water slides, ball games, face painting, rides and jumping castles. Perth

The Perth Observatory will dazzle with star viewing nights or day time guided tours that are fun for all budding astronomers and boast the largest telescope open to the public in the Southern hemisphere.

Melbourne

Free cycling at Hawthorn Velod rome; Just outside Melbourne at Point Cook is the RAA F Museum, the birthplace of the Australian Flying Corps and the Royal Australian Air Force, offering interactive flying displays, tours of the hangars and all the histor y of the world’s second oldest air force.

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Free Fun! Is there such a thing in this day and age? You bet! And to parents’ relief, it can be good for the mind, body and in some cases the soul. Best of all, if you take your sandwiches and snacks, these activities won’t break the budget.

Hobart

Showground Sunday Market for aisles of interesting wares and an eclectic mix with everything from great gift ideas, fresh seasonal produce, lifestyle accessories and live entertainment; Royal Botanical Gardens at the Domain offers plenty of space to run around and lots of different gardens to look at. The gardens run holiday programs for all ages and there is a restaurant, kiosk and even a cabin to explore!

Brisbane South Bank pool and beach for instant humidity-beating family fun, right on the edge of the CBD; ‘Movies in the Park’ organised by local ward councillors; ‘Live Spark’ music at Spark Bar at The Powerhouse every Sunday from 3.30pm. Gold Coast

Hinterland bush walks, galleries and Natural Arch; any one of the familyfriendly beaches along the coast is great for an abundance of sand and sheltered swimming areas; the flat, concrete path from Surfers to Narrowneck is an easy stretch for a brisk scooter or bike ride, skate or walk, stopping at playground equipment along the way. 83

Health&Wellbeing

imagine GIVEAWAY

Miessence The secret to natural beauty is Miessence – the world’s first certified organic cosmetics products, independently certified to international food grade standards by the world’s most respected organic certifying organisations, including Australian Certified Organic (ACO), the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and IFOAM (Europe). 100% synthetic and chemical free, 100% synthetic allergen and fragrance free and using 100% recyclable packaging, the Miessence range includes products for body, hair, baby, home and health. Miessence can be purchased online from www.miessence.com or telephone (07) 5539 2011 for stockists and direct orders.

We have three Miessence packs to give away, each containing the three main products you need to start your organic beauty routine. Miessence Skin Essentials Pack contains the 250ml cleanser, 100ml skin conditioner and 50ml moisturiser. With this one pack you are well on your way to having skin that radiates health and well being. Available in four skin types – Rejuvenating (for dry/mature skin), Balancing (normal/combination skin), Purifying (oily/problem skin) and Soothing (sensitive skin). RRP $129.00 each. For your chance to win, email competition@ imagineyourlifestyle.com.au with ‘Miessence’ in the subject box.

Health&Wellbeing Bush beauty Using secret ingredients long relied on for health and longevity, the LI’TYA spa range of products draws on the indigenous wisdom from the Australian bush. Each combines subtle scents and extracts of native botanicals like lilly pilly, quandong, cherry alder and desert lime. The products harness the healing elements of nature, creating balance between physical, emotional, spiritual and environmental wellbeing, with minimal impact on the environment and make the perfect gift for Aussies abroad, visitors or to create spa indulgence in your own bathroom. www.litya.com

Clutter Distress? Declutter, destress Can’t think straight, take a quick look around. See lots of clutter? Consider it a sign. In a new book, The Superstress Solution, physician and author Roberta Lee writes that a disorganised, cluttered home is not only a symptom of stress but also a source of stress. Clean up the litter and you’ll dial up the calm. Research shows that we secrete the stress hormone cortisol when surrounded by disarray. Bad news for your body. But the good news is that you know exactly what to do about it. With a quick tidy-up, you could reclaim both your surroundings and your serenity. Roberta Lee’s tips: Take baby steps. Start with one room, one corner, one junk drawer, or one cupboard at a time. Set a schedule. Whether you do 20 minutes a day or reserve a whole weekend to declutter, set aside the time you need, and stick to your schedule. Write it down. Ask yourself what’s cluttering your life, why you keep it, and what parts of your life and house seem out of control. Then, list steps for changing it. Reach out. Get help from articles or people who can help you get organised and make decisions on what to toss, what to donate, and what to keep. www.superstresssolution.com

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Family Health

Sharpen Your Memory with This 6-Calorie Snack

Herbs for health ‘Herbal Extract’ is one of the many buzz-words thrown around in the health industry by any brand with a pack full of pills to peddle. However the vital information hidden in this terminology is the fact that these extracts are chemically manufactured. Herbal Enhancer is unique in that it contains only the real herb itself, not plant extracts. Sourced from the country of origin, slowly dried, crushed and capsulated, the plants used in Enhancer are widely regarded in the naturopathic health community as a source of holistic female health. Made from nine pure herbs and absolutely no chemical components, the key set of herbs and roots found in Herbal Enhancer has the natural ability to relieve problems related to feminine health from shrinkage and sagging of breast tissue, to irregular or painful periods, to hot flushes associated with menopause. www.enhancer.com.au

For a razor-sharp memory, give your mouth this 6-calorie snack to munch on – a stalk of celery. According to RealAge.com, celery is a top source of a high-powered flavonoid known as luteolin, and these compounds may help cool off destructive inflammation in the brain’s memory centre (the hippocampus). Not bad for just six calories! New cell studies suggest that luteolin may mute the nerve signals that tell immune cells in the brain to release inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. one of five Don’t like to munch? LI’TYA treatment packs, You can blend celery with one full-sized Ocean into juices, or sprinkle Dreaming Bath Oil chopped celery onto containing Honeysuckle salads for extra crunch. to cleanse and refresh, There are also respectable Lemon tea-tree to levels of luteolin can also invigorate and revitalise, be found in green peppers, Sandalwood to sooth the skin, Clary chili peppers, spinach, Sage and Ylang Ylang which are lettuce, chamomile tea, and effective at alleviating anxiety and thyme. one full-sized Quandong Hair If you haven’t taken the Mask, (Australian Native Peach) RealAge test, visit www. which conditions the hair and realage.com and take the time soothes a sensitive scalp. to fill out the questionaire to Simply email determine your body’s actual competition@imagine biological age. It can be scary, but yourlifestyle.com.au it lets you know where you can with ‘LI’TYA’ in work on your diet, exercise and the subject box. habits to take the years off.

imagine GIVEAWAY WIN

Nuts about Heart Health How do you halve your risk of developing heart disease? The Nuts for Life organisation, established by the Australian tree nut industry, and the Heart Foundation recommend eating a handful of nuts (30g) five or more times a week. Tree nuts such as almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts are packed full of beneficial substances for good heart health. It seems frequent nut consumption is associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers, which may partially explain the lower risk of heart disease and diabetes. The National Heart Foundation recommends snacking on plain, unsalted nuts as one way to help lower blood cholesterol levels and maintain a healthy heart. www.nutsforlife.com.au w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

Health&Wellbeing

One, two, three...

relax. We’re all time-pressured but experts say that finding a place in our lives for relaxation can pay significant wellbeing benefits. Helen Hawkes reports.

hen there’s simply too much to do the first thing to suffer is the time we take for ourselves. The truth is many of us are so involved in our careers, providing for our family, or trying to run a household that the idea of relaxing seems like a luxury. However, a growing body of research suggests that relaxation is crucial to our mental and physical health because it helps the body rid itself of damaging stress. While it’s true that a little stress can be good – it can help motivate us, for example – it has also been linked it with everything from the common cold to cancers and autoimmune disorders. A 2007 study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reported that a protein which causes the death of cancer cells becomes inactive when exposed to the stress hormone epinephrine. More recently a 2009 study by researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, in North Carolina, in the United States, found that social stress could be an important precursor to heart disease by speeding the harmful build up of plaque in blood vessels. The good news is that the body has an immense capacity to heal itself given the right conditions, says Craig Hassed, a senior lecturer in the Monash University Department of General Practice. What you need to aim for, he says, is to be in a relaxed state where heart rate slows, Craig Hassed is blood pressure decreases and anxiety levels the author of “The go down. Essence of Health”, Leading researchers at the Benson-Henry published by Institute for Mind/Body Medicine at Random House. Massachusetts General Hospital in the United States have termed these actions “the relaxation response”. They’ve even found that this mode changes the expression of genes involved with inflammation, cell death and the handling of free radicals. In other words, relaxation not only improve your mental and physical health, it helps you stay younger, longer. iyl

Stress Busters: 1

Listen to your favourite CD. Music can help heal the body by decreasing blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety levels, says Hassed.

Go for a brisk walk, play a ball game, or try a dance class. Exercise pumps up the production of the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins and lowers symptoms associated with anxiety. A 2007 study by the University of Kansas also suggests it may make you less physiologically reactive to stress.

3 4

Spend time on a hobby you enjoy, whether it’s woodwork, or gardening.

Use visualisation to relax. Imagine that you are at your favourite (holiday) destination and picture yourself and your surroundings in full, colour detail, suggests exercise physiologist and motivational speaker Mark McKeon, author of Life Tips (Pan Macmillan).

5 6

Do yoga. This mind-body technique puts the body into a state of deep rest, says Sydney-based yoga teacher Megan McMahon. Try a meditation CD. Meditation normalises blood pressure, pulse rate and levels of stress hormones in the blood, says leading wellness researcher Dr Bernie Siegel, a surgeon and professor at Yale University.

Turn off the television. A 2008 study published in the International Journal of Behaviour Medicine showed that anxiety increases after watching the news on TV.

Try something hi-tech like biofeedback where you’re hooked up to sensors that allow you to monitor your breathing and muscle tension. Find a practitioner at http:// www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/energetic_ medicine/Bio_Feedback

Play with a pet. A recent study conducted at the University of California found that dog owners require much less medical care for stress-induced aches and pains.

Allow yourself 30 minutes a day to do the kind of things that made you happy when you were a child – painting, drawing, climbing a tree, or even riding a skateboard. It can help ease the kinks from your mind and body, says Megan McKeon.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Family Health

Technology Overload Few of us could imagine life today without mobile phones, DVD players, digital TV, FM radio or the internet.

e shop or pay bills online, are entertained by a variety of digital or pay TV channels, and download emails on our mobile phones, while our children chat online to others around the world and play PS3. According to the Nielsen 2010 Internet and Technology Report, Australians rank in the top 10 for use of social-networking websites – for every 10 of us three have a Facebook profile, more than two use Twitter and one logs on to MySpace. We also have the world’s fastest uptake of mobile phones. In many ways our life is better, says Gary Bertwistle, a keynote speaker and author of Who Stole My Mojo? (Allen & Unwin). But, at the same time, the sheer volume of

information we are subjected to daily – we are always ‘switched on’, ‘tuned in’ or ‘in touch’ – is behind a growing level of “infostress” that he says can make us feel disconnected and overloaded. Studies conducted by Swinburne University, Melbourne have found that we’re feeling increasingly inundated by the enormous amount of informational pressure we experience every day. While symptoms of this information stress vary, they can include limited attention span, confusion and frustration, lack of quality sleep, a sense of being out of control, decreased empathy, increased cardiovascular stress and being more likely to fall ill. Already many of us show signs of obsessivecompulsive behaviour when it comes to technology use: frequently checking email, never turning off our mobile phones, spending long periods online and constantly accessing electronic organisers, says Bertwistle. “These behaviours can disengage us from the physical aspects of communication and even affect the way we interact.” As for our children, no-one really knows

Tuning In

How to Beat Tech Overload

• Turn your phone off when you get home and don’t turn it on until business hours. • Have a cell phone drop box at the entrance to your house. • Set times to check email and stick to them. Don’t be a slave to the signal that you have a new message, says Bertwistle. elp children learn to watch a specific show, play a certain game, •H or talk to a certain person, then to shut off computers rather than

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what the long-term effects of their new, technology-driven childhood experiences will be. But, just like adults, one of the main side-effects of tech overload may be a diminished capacity for actual human interaction. It’s that interaction that is crucial for brain development of the very young, says Jane Roberts, an early childhood specialist and president of the Australian Council on Children and Media. As for adolescents, a 2010 New Zealand study reported in the Archives of Paediatric Adolescent Medicine has shown increased screen time is associated with consistently poorer attachment to parents and peers. Other issues include social isolation, obesity, and increased risk of exposure to violent and sexual content. Of course, it would be wrong not to acknowledge that technology also has benefits for children just as it has benefits for adults – keeping us more connected to friends, for example, or simplify tasks such as shopping. Computers and other interactive media have immense teaching potential, believes leading international expert Dr. Michael Rich, Director of the Center on Media and Child Health at Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health. “They respond to the user’s actions, at least in a basic kind of way, so for memorising the alphabet, learning numbers, or practicing mathematics they can be a great supplement to what a teacher or parent can offer for instruction,” he says. Electronics are not, however, good at teaching children how to think or that they should ask questions, or use creativity—all of which are critical parts of the learning process, he says. In this technology-rich age, the trick then, whether you are an adult or child, is to balance the use of it with a rich home life, personal friendships and real life play, says Bertwistle. “Technology is no substitute for good relationships.” iyl

surfing the internet without direction, says Dr Rich. “And, as always, a good rule of thumb is to make sure that media are used after all the important tasks of life - like sleeping enough, eating good meals, getting exercise, and spending time with family - are complete.” on’t even tempt yourself to work on holiday by taking your laptop •D or your Blackberry, says psychologist Tim Sharp, director of the Happiness Institute. ncourage children to engage in creative play, such as art work, role •E playing, or even board games. esist the urge to sign up for more television channels, get a smaller or •R smarter phone, or join another networking site.

Active

Life Get in to it! It’s no secret that Australia is becoming an increasingly obese population.

figures are quite heartening. An estimated 11.9 million people aged 15 years and over, or 71.5% of the population, participated at least once per week in physical activity. The top ten physical activities in 2008, in terms of the total participation rate, were walking, aerobics/fitness, swimming, cycling, running, golf, tennis, bushwalking, outdoor football and netball.

An estimated 11.9 million people participated at least once per week in physical activity. About one million people aged 15 years and over participated at least three times per week in club-based physical activities, a regular participation rate of 6.3%. The top ten club-based physical activities in 2008, in terms of the total participation rate, were golf, outdoor football, tennis, netball, touch football, Australian rules football, lawn bowls, outdoor cricket, basketball and martial arts. According to the National Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults, each and every one of us needs at least 30 minutes of moderateintensity physical activity, preferably every day of the week, to obtain health benefits. While organised activities such as Club-based sports and pastimes are finding it hard to

and fitness for seniors, workshops for art, craft, eco-friendly living, book clubs, and even circus skills! There are numerous health benefits to be gained by being active, including reducing the risk of heart disease, some cancers, diabetes and osteoporosis. Being active can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Regular activity also makes you feel good (and look good!) and improves your mental health. Being active is also a great way to meet people and make new friends, no matter what your stage of life, while participating in active leisure activities.

Some helpful sites: www.gcparks.com.au www.brisbane.qld.gov.au www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au www.melbourne.vic.gov.au

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Sources: Ausport, ABS, Live Life Well: NSW Gov.

ut according to the most recent statistics from the Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey, (a joint initiative of the Australian Sports Commission and the state and territory government agencies responsible for sport and recreation), most of us are trying to combat the sedentary lifestyle with at least a couple of sessions of physical activity each week. The

compete with the modern phenomena of separated parents and children who rotate between households, weekend work and commitments that preclude rostered games, travel and training, there is plenty you can do beyond the structure of a Club. If you’ve been to Asia, you’ll have marvelled at the serene groups of people – young and old – greeting the day with variants of Tai Chi, vigorous walking and a diet replete with fruit, vegetables, fish and the universal staple, rice. Councils are wise to the community need for free and low-cost exercise programs at flexible times, and the green space to practise them in, providing yearround programs at all manner of venues: beachside, parks, halls, gyms and paths and trails across their shires. Around Australia, from regional centres to capital cities, there are walking groups, expectant mum’s groups, pram walkers, canoeing, dog owners’ exercise facilities, activities for families, school holiday camps and day programs, cycling groups, Pilates, Tai Chi and Yoga classes, self defence, nutrition, health

RugbyWorldCup

Perfect Pitch: R u g b y

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Rugby World Cup is now the thirdlargest sporting event in the world.

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Active

he seventh Rugby World Cup Tournament, to be held in New Zealand in September 2011, promises to be the best yet, particularly as Rugby is New Zealand’s national game, and the perfect setting to host the spectacle of the world’s top 20 Rugby nations going head to head in 48 test matches. The Tournament Organisers are setting the stage for New Zealand to be a nation of four million fantastic hosts for the tens of thousands of visitors that will be welcomed next year. Overseas guests will not only be watching great Rugby in a country passionate about the Game, but they will experience the very best of New Zealand’s unique culture, natural heritage and Kiwi hospitality. Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) New Zealand has started to generate a huge international buzz, and is set to attract a huge influx of visitors from all over the globe to enjoy the world-class Rugby action, as well as the attractions of New Zealand. There is already a high

In New Zealand that level will be raised again. Expect fantastic match tickets, entertainment, celebrity speakers, first class dining and more. demand for tickets to RWC 2011, both on local and international scale through the Official Travel and Hospitality programmes. According to Chris White, managing director at International Quarterback and John Eales 5, there will never be a better time for Australians to experience international Rugby played at its peak. In fact, as White points out, this will be the last time for at least 20 years that we will

have the “motion and emotion” of the Rugby World Cup on our doorstep. “This is a unique opportunity,” he explains. “In 2015, the Rugby World Cup will be held in the UK, then in 2019, Japan has won the right to host it. Then in 2023, South Africa. So it could be a long time before we see it ‘downunder’ again.” New Zealand, says White, is the ideal venue for the event, with an avid fanbase, excellent facilities and just a short hop across the Tasman for Aussies. “They are a passionate, educated rugby audience. Home ground support will make it a great venue for the All Blacks, and for the rest of the world, New Zealand is an amazing place to visit. It’s a beautiful part of the world and nothing is too far from anything, so you can see a lot in a short time.” While the Kiwis will have to enter a ballot for tickets, people who take up RWC 2011 Official Corporate Hospitality packages will be assured premium reserved tickets to all matches including the quarter-finals, semifinals, Bronze Final and the Final , plus

Perfect Pitch: R u g b y

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Imagine One | Spring 2010

RugbyWorldCup access to hospitality and entertainment experiences that are second to none. “In Paris, the bar was raised in terms of the hospitality experience at a sporting event,” says White, referring the myriad of high-tech displays, entertainment, catering and special guests who appeared at Stade de France, during the Rugby World Cup held in the ‘City of Light’ in 2007. “For RWC 2011 in New Zealand that level will be raised again. People can expect a genuine ‘wrap-around’ experience – which includes fantastic match tickets, entertainment, celebrity speakers, first class dining and more.” Travel and hospitality packages are not only suited to the corporate sector to use as staff incentives and client entertainment. “It’s ideal for individuals, groups of friends, or mums and dads who are rugby fans,” says White. “For example, the Eden Park Pavilion Venue Series corporate hospitality package gives you category A undercover reserved tickets to nine big matches including the opening ceremony, quarter-finals, two semifinals, Bronze Final and the Final. You have access to the exclusive Rugby World Cup 2011 Eden Park Pavilion facility at every match in the Series, four course fine dining, pre and post-match entertainment and many other benefits at the venue.” The Eden Park Pavilion will be nothing short of a spectacular hospitality and entertainment venue. A world-class, dedicated 7-Star hospitality facility, it will serve some of New Zealand’s finest cuisine matched with impeccable wine, a great entertainment program and of course, world-class Rugby action. Built within the grounds of Eden Park Stadium, the package offers a convenient flow to and from the very best Category A undercover seats. “There is a mix of great value and premium corporate hospitality packages, really something for everybody. You can choose one match only or take in the entire Series. The main appeal is that taking up a corporate hospitality package adds to the first rate experience of this truly once-in-a-lifetime event.” iyl www.ticketekhospitality2011.com

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Eales

at the helm

ohn Eales, a dual Rugby World Cup winner and former Captain of the Wallabies’ triumphant campaign for the William Webb Ellis Cup in 1999, has been voted Australia’s greatest Wallaby. His tenure as captain recast the Wallaby mould forever. Eales played 86 Tests for Australia, making his debut in 1991 and retiring after the retention of the Bledisloe Cup and Tri Nations titles 10 years later. His humility, integrity and persistence

as a leader have become the mark for those who aspire to be great Wallabies and a yardstick for leaders in all public walks of life. During his rugby career John won every individual and team honour, and in 1999, when he captained the Wallabies to win the Rugby World Cup, he was awarded with the Order of Australia Medal for services to the community and rugby. The annual award to recognise the Wallabies’ best player for the year is also named after him the John Eales Medal. Post an illustrious Rugby career that earned him widespread acknowledgement as one of the game’s greatest players, Eales has managed to carry his on-field success to varied business ventures. A founding director of the Mettle Group, Eales is also involved with talent sponsorship management company International Quarterback and a director of John Eales 5. John Eales 5, in a joint venture with Ticketek, has been appointed one of two Official Agents globally to sell Corporate Hospitality packages by Rugby Travel & Hospitality for Rugby World Cup 2011.

Destination

A whale of a time. The protected waters of Queenslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hervey Bay, Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s whale watching capital, are the venue each year for tonnes of fun as their favourite oversized holidaymakers, the humpback whales, return for their annual sojourn in the sun. Story Jeni Bone.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Australia

Photos: Darren Jew / Tourism Queensland

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ervey Bay has often been called the jewel in Queensland’s crown and is internationally acknowledged as the Whale Watch Capital of the World. Each year the whales make the journey from the chilly Antarctic to Hervey Bay on Queensland’s Fraser Coast for some warm weather therapy while they give birth to their calves. Each pod generally stays three to four days in the sheltered bay. Whale watching is a popular activity along the east coast as the whales make their annual migration from July through to November, but Hervey Bay is the only place you’ll enjoy viewing the whales resting and playing and not on the move! These great whales weigh up to 45 tonnes and are between 10 and 15 metres long. The calves weigh around a tonne at birth and drink a phenomenal 600 litres of milk each day. As some of the more active whales, the humpback’s exhibit a variety of behaviours from the simple ‘blow’ to tail slapping, waving their pectoral fins, and the spectacular ‘breach’, the most sought-after photograph by visitors. Bobby Hayter has been involved in whale watching for around eight years, working for the business her dad Glen Dorn founded 23 years ago, the Spirit of Hervey Bay. She says Hervey Bay is the ideal base to enjoy a unique wildlife encounter, unlike anything else available. “Hervey Bay is naturally sheltered by Fraser Island. It’s calm water, not open ocean, so the whales view it as their safe haven. This is where they go to give birth and recuperate. It’s their holiday destination each year, so of course, we see some familiar faces, or tales, over the years.” Running from late July to late October every year, it’s an event Bobby never tires of. “I try and get out as much as possible. It’s always a thrill. It’s different every time. It’s a constant migration so there are whales coming in each week. There are between 50 and 100 whales in the Bay at any one time. We call it ‘whale soup’ when it’s very busy.” Passengers need not worry about stress on the whales, because, as Bobby explains, there are strict rules that apply to all the whalewatching vessels. “We stop the boat 100m from the whales. But 93

Destination because they’re so used to us and some even enjoy the company, they come to us. Generally, they flock around the boat to take a look at us! They used to keep the calves on the opposite sides from us, but we’ve noticed they’re getting more confident and actually allow their babies to approach the boat.” The Spirit of Hervey Bay is a 75ft ocean-going catamaran and the first of its kind in the world. The vessel has full walk around upper and lower decks as well as the popular large foredeck where guests sit in complete safety and comfort, front row seats for viewing the whales and their calves. A glass bottom viewing area is unique to the vessel, bringing new dimension to seeing the whales up close. There’s also a hydrophone to listen in on the haunting song of the whales at rest and frolicking. Another familiar sight in the Bay is the Oceania Project, a research boat whose team has been investigating whales and their migration for 15 years. Says Bobby: “Whales are very smart – more so than cats and dogs. They are complicated animals too. When they give birth – which is a very secretive process, nobody has seen it – there’s a companion whale who helps push the baby out and then nudge it up to the surface for its first breath. “Nobody has seen a birth, but we have seen calves

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Travel Facts: Whale watching tour options to the sheltered waters of Platypus Bay, between the mainland resort town of Hervey Bay and World Heritage-listed Fraser Island include dawn trips, fast half day tours to full day tours. The range of accommodation is also extensive - Hervey Bay offers self-contained apartments and

a few days old, which is spectacular, and we often see them splashing milk into the water to attract their infants to suckle.” Getting close to nature like this is popular with locals and international visitors alike. “We have tens of thousands of people visit Hervey Bay every year. It’s a once in a lifetime experience, but we have people who come back each year, they love it so much. You don’t see whales in the wild. They are huge magical creatures. Nothing compares to seeing them up close. People say they’d seen documentaries about whales but when they witness them so close and living and breathing, they’re blown away.” It’s not all tale slapping and leaping, though. Hervey Bay is the birth place of dozens of babies, so their mothers do a lot of resting and feeding before they head back to Antarctic waters at the end of October. But they are naturally animated, tending to roll about and breach for relaxation, and they’re massive. The real appeal of bobbing on a bay for a few hours to take in these mammals is their size. “They can weigh up to 40 tonnes. We’re in a 24m boat and the whales range from calves around 5m up to 18m. When they’re swimming down the side of the boat, it’s amazing. They’re so gentle and at ease in the water. You can see their personalities and how they communicate with each other. It’s spooky when they look at you.” iyl resorts, caravan and camping parks, backpackers, B&Bs, motels, hotels, while Fraser Island, a half-hour catamaran ride from the mainland, offers camping, beachside budget accommodation and Australia’s premier eco resort, Kingfisher Bay Resort. For the ultimate buzz, it’s also possible to take a helicopter ride to the island, or land directly on the beach in a light aircraft. There’s also a wide range of restaurants and al fresco dining. Hervey Bay is easily accessible from Sydney, Brisbane and South East Queensland. The scenic three-and-a-half hour coastal drive via the Sunshine Coast is the perfect starter to a relaxing Hervey Bay whale watch break.

THE Humpback Whale The humpback whale takes its name from the habit of breaking the water surface with a large area of its back when diving. Approximately 3,000 Humpback whales will migrate this season between Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef. Humpbacks are still the third most endangered species of all the big whales, but now their numbers are increasing 13% each year. They are the fifth largest animal on this planet, growing up to 15 metres in length with a weight of up to 45,000kg (99,000lbs) - equivalent to 11 elephants or 600 persons each! Humpbacks are the most acrobatic of all of the great whales. Adult whales have been seen to breach 20 - 30 times within 5 minutes, displaying awesome grace and power.

Getting There Drive & rail Hervey Bay is a three-and-a-half hour drive from Brisbane. QR offers regular services to Maryborough West with connections to Hervey Bay. Air QantasLink flies direct to Hervey Bay from Brisbane www.qantas.com.au. Virgin Blue www.virginblue.com.au Jetstar www.jetstar.com.au direct from Sydney to Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay) Airport and convenient connections are available from Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart. www.spiritofherveybay.com www.frasercoastholidays.info Imagine One | Spring 2010

Book early & save up to 52%! OCEAN VOYAGES, MEDITERRANEAN, NORTHERN EUROPE, CARIBBEAN, SOUTH AMERICA, USA & CANADA, SOUTH AFRICA AUSTRALIAN BROCHURE 2010 - 2011 OCTOBER 2010 - DECEMBER 2011

The most modern flee

Destination

Imagine One | Spring 2010

International

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all

bigger and brighter in Las Vegas.

Where else can you marvel at grandiose replicas of the Eiffel Tower, pyramid and sphinx, massive water displays, city blocks that take an hour to walk and fields of slot-machines in subterranean or soaring tower casinos? Story Jeni Bone. w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

Destination

ut it’s the cornucopia of golf courses and big names – not just Celine Dion and Elton John – but designer labels that make it well worth the trip. “Las Vegas” is loosely translated as “the fertile plains” and while most immediately think of the gaming capital of the world, there’s a lot more to America’s playground than partying, or a kitschy background for getting hitched. Vegas is home to some of the best shopping and golfing in the US. Sadly, only the shopping is famous for its discounts. On the shopping front, Casino Hotels are conveniently lined with a mouthwatering and credit card-sinking array of brands. Via Bellagio at the Bellagio Hotel boasts Gucci, Hermes, Giorgio Armani, Prada, Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Moschino and Fred Leighton, while over at Caesars Palace there is an equally prestigious array: Louis Vuitton, Escada, Guess, Christian Dior, Fendi, Polo/Ralph Lauren and Hugo Boss. Undergoing massive renovations to keep up with the Joneses of retail is the Desert Passage at

100 shops including a number of highend retailers, such as Coach, Escada, DKNY, Calvin Klein, Kenneth Cole, Banana Republic and Harley Davidson and Nautica. There’s Nine West and Skechers and the Cosmetics Co. Store has ultra competitive prices on Estee Lauder, Clinique and Origins. You’ll also find some big brands at the mall that you won’t find anywhere else such as Burberry, Versace, Bally, Gap, Old Navy and BCBG Max Azria. Burberry, a British brand icon, is especially impressive with men’s shirts as low as US$45, brilliantly coloured women’s coats around US$150 and all manner of accessories, bags, basics and golf attire for well under half price. At Bally, the range of shoes and boots is astounding and Versace, although offering a selection of garments that could be classed seconds and samples, has some great evening pieces, pants, jackets and the odd pair of shoes for smaller sizes. Closer to town are the Las Vegas Premium Outlets and Las Vegas Outlet Centre. Just a short cab ride from The Strip, Premium provides one of the

Nevada has more than 100 golf courses ranging from lush lakefront links to highdesert greens and country club resorts. the Aladdin Resort Casino which offers more than 130 retailers in an ambience of an exotic marketplace. There are plenty of entertainment choices (even a crowd-pleasing indoor thunderstorm) and a plethora of dining venues in this underground labyrinth – you need not emerge for days – although it is somewhat claustrophobic. Looking for a bargain in the order of 75% off retail prices? Take a US$15 roundtrip shuttle from your hotel door to Fashion Outlets Shopping Mall at a place called Primm, just 45 minutes from The Strip at the Southern Nevada/California border. Shuttle bus services run from The Strip as well as from New York New York Hotel & Casino and MGM Grand. Your driver’s upbeat commentary on the landscape, history and scenery of the outlying areas of Nevada make the trip pass quickly and lend some insight into the region’s origins that goes beyond the gaudy facade. The Fashion Outlets Mall has more than 98

most pleasant shopping experiences, with much of it outdoors boasting shady avenues around a village square. Stores include Nike, Adidas and Puma (get the newest fitness looks years before they land locally), Armani Exchange for great jeans, tops, shirts and coats for men and women, Dolce & Gabbana, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Tommy Hilfiger and Coach for wallets, bags and luggage at less than half price. Ofcourse, you’ll want to step out in your designer finery, so make sure to book a couple of shows online before you travel for optimal discounts. Disney’s The Lion King is on the stage in all is magnificence at the Mandalay Bay Theatre, or there’s the contortional brilliance of KÀ Cirque du Soleil at MGM Grand. Celine Dion is belting out her numbers in her now legendary show, ‘A New Day’ at the US$95m arena at Caesar’s Palace, which is a not-to-bemissed experience.

Dion is a true performer, and gives audiences her all during the two-hour spectacular. Along with a powerful voice, she demonstrates her masterful showmanship through varying the pace from a cast of hundreds, to an intimate conversation with the audience and then a riveting selection of songs in her native French – all this in front of the largest computer screen in the world which runs footage illustrating each number. No matter what time of year you visit Vegas, there’s always a glut of shows, exhibits and events in all major hotels to suit every taste, from the Moulin Rouge tribute, World Pizza Expo and luxury car auctions, to Mr Universe, and everything in between. One now are the Official Star Trek Convention at the Las Vegas Hilton, Lady Gaga strutting her stuff at MGM, Cyndi Lauper at House of Blues, Jay Leno at Mirage Hotel and for something different, The World Hip Hop Championships at Orleans Arena. Just visit www.vegas.com, pick up the 24/7 Magazine in your hotel or ask your concierge, who can even secure those last minute VIP perks like backstage passes, meet the artist and dinner packages. Then there’s the day trip to the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Grand Canyon. Carved over 16 million years by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Be sure and face your fears and step out on the Skywalk, spanning 70 feet (21.34m) over the Grand Canyon’s rim, 4,000 feet (1219m) above the Colorado River. Fly there and back in a luxury helicopter. Winging your way 100ft above The Strip at dusk as the desert sky burns amber before the switches eclipses nature with its glitz is one of life’s memorable experiences. For those golf aficionados for whom The Strip holds secondary appeal, Nevada has more than 100 golf courses ranging from lush lakefront links to high-desert greens and country club resorts – most open year-round, thanks to its highdesert climate. Walters Golf and other package providers can supply enough tee times to keep you satisfied, at reduced rates for online reservations. In some cases, golfing options are available only to guests of the particular chain of hotels all of which can organise your golf games Imagine One | Spring 2010

International

before you travel either online or via your agent. Only 30 minutes from The Strip, Cascata is a spectacular oasis designed by Rees Jones and after only six years in operation, celebrated as one of the world’s finest. Owned by Park Place Entertainment, coincidentally the world’s largest gaming company with brands under its umbrella including Paris, Bally’s, Hilton, Caesars, Grand Casinos and Flamingo, Cascata is impeccable. At US$350 for weekdays and US$500 on the weekend, plus the suggested tip for caddies of US$50 per person in your group, you’d want to be surrounded by pulchritude and luxury at every turn and you’d better have change left over from your outlet spree! But Cascata well and truly delivers. Class A PGA professionals attend to equipment, fashion or instruction needs, and players are accompanied on-course by a Tour-class caddie. The imposing 37,000-square-foot Tuscan-inspired clubhouse boasts a dining room with sumptuous menu and in Vegas style, there’s a collection of rare and fine tobaccos stocked in the cigar lounge’s custom-designed humidor. The golf shop is a veritable high-fashion boutique and men’s and ladies’ lounges are equipped with every conceivable amenity, including sink-side, flat-screen TVs. w w w.imagineyourlifetsyle.com.au

From its verdant fairways, punctuated by waterfalls, streams and a surreal, strangely lunar backdrop of ancient desert mountains, Cascata is visually splendid, but also a pleasure to play. Mercifully, multiple tees on each hole allow for a range of play between 5,591 yards and 7,137 yards, making it enjoyable and challenging for all skill levels. Afterwards as the shadows grow longer across the valley, unwinding with a generous portion of caesar salad and a long gin and tonic created by Cascata’s gourmet chef, you won’t be thinking of

the exchange rate. Another premium course well worth the fee is Bali Hai, Vegas’ only championship course located right behind The Strip. Also opened in 2000, the course is replete with towering palms, more than 100,000 tropical plants and seven acres of water features, contributing to its accolade as one of the “Top 40 Best Resort Courses in America”, as named by GolfWeek Magazine and “Best Course” by VegasGolfer Magazine. With the neon and glass skyline of The Strip still in sight, Bali Hai is a

Destination manicured haven of tranquillity – an accurate recreation of a South-Pacific resort. The par-71 course measures 7,002 yards and boasts “challenging play, breathtaking scenery and first class facilities”. For $325 weekends and from $175 weekdays, it’s comparatively cheap for the five-star experience. According to designer, Brian Curley, “the course was designed to go out like a lamb and in like a lion”, meaning that the drama and thrills build as players progress along the course. “We want to give guests an opportunity to loosen up and enjoy their surroundings before we begin challenging their skills,” he says. “This will be a fun course … you’ll know you’ve been tested, but it won’t beat you to death. It’s the kind of golf course you could play day after day and never tire of its charm.” Bali Hai is also known for its service, including on-course food and beverage cart operated by “Las Vegas’ Best Cart Girls,” as well as its course ambassadors whose job it is to assist with pace of play. At your request, a forecaddie will unobtrusively accompany each group attending to your every need from bag drop, through each hole and finally aiding with your departure following the round. Following a game, Cili Restaurant and Bar is the highlight, set within a 32,000 square foot Balinese themed clubhouse, also open to the public. Diners enjoy exquisitely prepared, award-winning gourmet cuisine. Recognized as one of Las Vegas’ most popular eateries with the “power lunch” crowd, Cili offers indoor and patio dining overlooking a blue lagoon. The Royal Links Golf Club is one of the most distinctive courses around Vegas. Designed by Dye International, the links-style course replicates some of the most famous holes from 11 different British Open courses. The par-72 course measures 7,029 yards and offers five sets of tee boxes, accommodating all levels of skill. In keeping with tradition, the course includes more than 100 pot bunkers but no water elements. The spectacular course gives golfers the chance to play famous holes including St. Andrews’ “Hell Bunker” and “The Road Hole,” as well Royal Troon’s “The Postage Stamp.” Legendary holes from courses including Royal Liverpool, Preswick, Carnoustie, Turnberry, 100

Muirfield and more can also be found, faithfully recreated, at the Royal Links Golf Club. The Las Vegas Review Journal gave it a gong for “Best Course in Las Vegas” in 2006 and the course earned a spot in GolfWeek’s list of “America’s Best Courses.” There’s the option of professional forecarddies, who are knowledgeable about the history of each hole. True to the Vegas spirit, there’s also the Par Mates program, with glamour girls to accompany players, at just US$225 each. Apparently these talented caddies, complete with cheer girl attire, specialise in “Mancations” and Bachelor weekends. Lake Las Vegas, 17 miles from The Strip, has a wealth of charms, including three challenging signature golf courses, a collection of spas, gourmet restaurants, elegant casinos, a helipad, a full service marina with watercraft rentals and yacht cruises and Monte Lago Village, a bustling enclave of shopping and dining. One of the courses, Reflection Bay Golf Club, is the first public resort golf course in Nevada personally designed

by Jack Nicklaus. The 7,261-yard, par-72 award-winning course makes its way through the desert where, along with three waterfalls, there is an abundance of panoramas to enjoy, including five holes located along one and a half miles of Lake Las Vegas’ scenic shoreline. Fees start at around US$275 weekdays and US$295 weekends, but a bonus for guests staying in house is reduced rates for games (about US$60 less). Twilight games are even better value. Remember, sunsets are not just bigger and better in Vegas, they’re longer and later most of the year round. One of Nevada’s best-kept golf secrets is the town of Mesquite, about 80 miles northeast of Las Vegas. Five stunning championship courses lure golfers from all over the world to this peaceful resort town. The spectacular landscape of red-rock canyons and desert plateaus make this area unforgettable, and several large hotel-casinos offer all the amenities of Las Vegas at a slower, more peaceful pace. iyl

Shopping www.visitlasvegas.com.au www.vegas.com www.freevegasguide.com www.premiumoutlets.com www.fashionoutletlasvegas.com

Golf www.golf.travelnevada.com www.golfcascata.com www.balihaigolfclub.com www.waltersgolf.com www.royallinksgolfclub.com www.lakelasvegas.com

Sightseeing www.grandcanyonskywalk.com

Imagine One | Spring 2010

TravelBits

Luggage fit for battle

Travel Bits And the winner is...

Movies are great for transporting us to other places, times and realms. Of course, we may not yet be able to visit the wonderland of Pandora as depicted in Avatar, but there are plenty of earthbound destinations that shone in this year’s batch of Oscar nominated films. Lonely Planet picked the following from this year’s Academy Award nominees for Best Picture as suggestions for those who want to stretch their legs and explore. www.lonelyplanet.com

Memphis, Tennessee (The Blind Side). The city of Michael Oher and the Tuohys is also famous for melodies and barbecue. Music City, USA, is a monument to truly American genres, from country and blues to rock ‘n’ roll. Pay your respects to Elvis, Johnny Cash and Howlin’ Wolf before chowing down on some good ol’ Southern pork.

Johannesburg, South Africa (District 9). A town with a reputation for crime, poverty and misadventure is ripe for a sci-fi thriller. But Jo-burg, more than any other South African city, encapsulates the triumphs and crises of this nation. Missing out on it means passing up a chance to see what makes South Africa tick.

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London, England (An Education). A destination that needs no introduction. Featured in the film as a 1960s swinger, London today is buoyant and uncharacteristically affordable. Iraq (The Hurt Locker). It’s painful that the cradle of civilisation is out of bounds for almost all travellers. But pockets of Iraq, such as the Kurdish areas of the north, remain peaceful and hospitable. And just across the border are the wonders of Jordan, where most of the movie was filmed.

Prepare for travel with the toughest range of luggage going round the carousel. Made of ABS Polycarbonate, the Seahawk Luggage range features a unique durable shell that maintains its shape and appearance. Roomier than most, the range comes in an array of urban colours, including camouflage! All include a hook belt to hold garments in place, internal zipped dividers, accessory pouches, four wheels, extendable handle and a combination lock. 79L RRP $329, 115L RRP $349. www.ducti.com.au

Cruise News Australia will continue to grow as a top cruising destination, long into 2012 when the 92,600-tonne Costa Deliziosa will make her maiden voyage to Australia as part of her Around the World Cruise. The call will be the first time a Costa Cruises ship has sailed in Australian waters, and she will visit Sydney, Melbourne and Perth during her four-month journey to five of the world’;s continents. Included in the recently announced 2011 Costa Cruises brochure were cruises specifically targeting the Australian market, including a 14day itinerary sailing from Singapore to Thailand and Malaysia during December 2010 to April 2011. www.deliziosa.costacruises.com.au

France (Inglourious Basterds). Vichy France of the 1930s and ’40s was a bleak, scary place. Today the country vies annually with Italy for the title of world’s most popular travel destination. 101

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I N T RO D U CI N G T H E LI M I T ED ED I T I O N 1 0 0T H A N N I V ERSA RY G T ALFA ROMEO 3 . 2L V6 ENGINE 18” ALLOYS, RED BR AKE CALLIPERS SPORTS LE ATHER SE ATS SATIN EFFEC T SIDE MIRRORS SPORTS PEDALS BLUE&ME ™ PHONE SYSTEM ASK FOR A TEST DRIVE TODAY

A L FA R O M E O . C O M . A U

KNOW YOU’RE RE ALIVE

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Imagine One | Spring 2010

Motoring

C l e a n

How to enjoy your motoring while saving fuel and the environment. Story Jon Thomson

here is no doubt the automotive world has changed dramatically in recent times under the enormous burden of fuel prices and the need to cut greenhouse gas emissions. No one can truly argue that humans could continue to use fossil fuel at the same rate, whether you are a climate change sceptic or not. World oil stocks are diminishing and while the tanks won’t run dry in the next couple of years we have to do something about being more efficient. BMW is one car maker that believes making cars more efficient doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Enter a range of turbo diesel Bimmers that not only sip fuel at an amazingly meagre rate but also don’t belch black smoke and other environment threatening emissions that we traditionally associate with diesels. Diesel has long had a ‘bad’ name in Australia where petrol prices have been low and the oil, smelly distillate makes it dirty and difficult to refuel the family car. In Europe where petrol is much more expensive diesel cars have long had wider acceptance. BMW is better known for its howling, free revving performance oriented petrol powered fours and sixes. I have memories indelibly

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Detour

etched in my brain of exhilarating and rewarding drives in taut and muscular little 2002s and M3s as well as in honking super saloons like the M5, rolling the car windows down to better hear the almost orchestral symphony from the Teutonic power plants. Fast forward to 2010 and BMW’s expanding fleet of turbo oil burners. The immediate question is how can one of those rattly, smelly, dirty diesels match the inspiring performance of those racy Bavarians of yore? Well I am here to tell you that they not only are they clean, quiet and swift but equally exhilarating and rewarding as any of the company’s petrol powered machines of the past. When it comes to the tough questions of how to reduce emissions and ensure energy security, the automotive industry seems to have split into two camps: the Japanese and Americans heading down a generally hybrid and electric road and the Euros looking at more efficient petrol and more particularly turbo diesel power plants in their cars. The Euros are convinced that hydrogen power will be the eventual source of motivation for our cars and trucks into the distant future and once a few challenges in regards to storage and refuelling are sorted the world’s most abundant element will deliver clean and efficient fuel for getting us about this big blue ball. Following the launch of the elegant 106

BMW 330d sedan in Australia last July, BMW has delivered an array of diesel powered cars in the last few months including the diesel-engined 3 Series Coupe, Convertible and Touring wagon, along with some astonishing diesel powered 1 Series models including a 123d coupe and the superb entry level 118d hatch which at around $40,000 is a perfect entree to the BMW line up. Depending on the body style, buyers can choose from a two-litre four-cylinder diesel or a three-litre straight-six diesel. I am here to tell you that the all alloy six cylinder diesel is an astounding power plant that even delivers a snarling growl that cements the performance heritage BMW has earned over the years, you

could almost imagine yourself in an edgy M3 when you give this engine its head on a twisting mountain road. The 3 Series diesel range is equipped with BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies, including Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering and Common Rail Diesel technology. Which helps to give buyers an added advantage with fuel economy figures below the 7 litres/100km luxury tax threshold, ensuring you don’t pay the full tax rate on your luxury purchase. So that means a car with cache and presence, a machine the doorman down at the Hyatt recognises as possessing some cred, while also delivering superb performance, environmentally friendly

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Motoring

the two-litre turbo diesel will push the 320d coupe to 100km/h in around eight seconds.

fuel consumption and low emissions. It is also a whole lot more exciting and impressive than a hybrid as well as being more enjoyable to drive. The two litre diesel engine develops a maximum output of 130kW and far more importantly peak torque of 350Nm. What does this mean? Well torque is far more important particularly on Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s give-and-take road system because it is pulling power, the ability for an engine to lug away from a slow corner or up a steep climb with seemingly little effort. That is exactly what these German oil burners do. The maximum torque is developed between 1750 and 3000rpm, in other words, down low where you most need it. As a result the two-litre turbo diesel

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will push the 320d coupe to 100km/h in around eight seconds, a shade more for the wagon and around 8.7 seconds for the convertible. That is pretty impressive particularly given the frugal fuel consumption. The all-aluminium three-litre straightsix diesel engine used in the 330d Coupe and Convertible delivers an added 50kW of power but a massive 520Nm of torque, giving the 330d Coupe a 0-100km/h time of just 6.1 seconds, while still being capable of returning is 6.2 l/100km, or around 45 mpg in the old language, a pretty impressive set of numbers which ever way you cut them. If you are on a budget then the superb little 118d and 120d hatches or 123 coupe may be the best way to enter the

BMW world without having to remortgage the house. Starting at just $43,000 the little 118d can deliver 4.5 L/100km ( about 60 mpg) and emits a tiny 119g/km of CO2. The littlest and cheapest Bimmer turbo diesel is a surprisingly quick machine racing to well over the posted limit with little fuss, noise or bother. So you can still have an exhilarating drive in a baby diesel that consumes the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s non renewable resources at an agreeably low rate. This comes with a six-speed manual and also with stop-start technology which will turn the engine off while sitting at lights or in traffic jams instantly restarting when you depress the clutch. The latest BMW Efficient Dynamics

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Motoring measures found in the 1-series diesels include air vents that automatically open and shut to reduce air resistance as well as electric power steering that does not tax the engine power in the way traditional hydraulic power steering does. Clever people those Germans!. There is also an optimum gearshift indicator that ‘teaches’ the driver the best times to change gears while there is also brake energy regeneration, which uses spare kinetic energy through deceleration or braking to charge the battery. A six-speed automatic is roughly $2200 more and is available across the range for those who prefer a self shifter. BMW like most luxury makers charges pretty heavily for any of its vast array of optional luxury and convenience items so it may be hard to get an entry level Bimmer diesel for the figures quoted here but these are incredibly safe, economical, exhilarating performance cars that bring a joy that a cardigan wearing hybrid could never deliver. In short they will give you a far more rewarding experience while making you feel good about driving a car that is not tearing a hole in the earth’s life support system. Just ask yourself this question: would you prefer driving onto the port cochere of a big city hotel in a Camry Hybrid or a diesel BMW? You see? It’s a no contest! iyl

MOTORING NEWS Speed not the demon

ercedes Benz’s leading safety expert says a crackdown on speeding is not the answer to reducing the road toll. The vice president of safety development for the marque, Ulrich Mellinghoff, says crash avoidance systems, better roads and more roundabouts would do more to cut the road toll than tougher speeding laws. Mr Mellinghoff says motorists often fell into the trap of thinking they were driving safely because they were doing less than the speed limit. He says the German road toll had reduced significantly in the past 20 years, despite much higher speeds on the roads. “What we have seen is there are a lot of very different reasons for accidents. Sometimes it is not the high speed, it is the wrong speed. If you limit the speed, the driver often thinks all they have to do is drive the speed limit and they don’t have to think,” he said. It was better to put the

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he Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is definitely “a new environment” for the brand, as it says in its media collateral. Compact and jampacked with luxury features of its bigger brothers, it is aimed at Aston Martin customers “who need a small car for urban and city use,” says Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez. “The Cygnet Concept brings intelligence, innovation and artistry to the small car

responsibility for driving at the right speed on the shoulders of the individual driver. Accident avoidance technology, including pedestrian avoidance systems, also had the potential to drastically reduce the road toll. When stability control was introduced on all cars in Germany, there was a 30 per cent reduction in accidents where a single car leaves the road. He says “crash tests”should not be linked to awards and safety ratings, rather manufacturers and industry bodies should recognise vehicles for crash avoidance, rather than the protection they offered in a crash. Mercedes is working on a variety of advanced systems designed to cut the road toll, including infra-red systems that detect pedestrians at the side of the road in the dark and spotlight them to alert the driver. The company also had brake assistance technology that intervened to provide maximum braking force in an emergency situation.

market. The Cygnet Concept represents the natural choice for those customers looking for a premium commuter car.” www.astonmartin.com

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Detour

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Imagine One | Spring 2010

Boating

F u N A f l o a t

New membership programs allow you to savour the boating lifestyle, without going overboard! Story Jeni Bone

oating is rhapsodized in every avenue of literature and life, from Mr Rat of Wind in the Willows who loved nothing better than “messing about in boats”, to Mark Twain who urged his kith and kin to “throw off the bowlines” and “explore, dream, discover”, and even Wil Shakespeare whose loveliest sonnets compare the depth of emotion to the boundless sea. Now there’s proof that boating is the ideal tonic for the pressures of modern life. Research by Discover Boating in the US has found that people who enjoy boating have a greater degree of satisfaction in key areas of their lives. Not only are their lungs full of fresh sea air, their physical fitness and overall health were rated higher than their nonboating counterparts. They also rated higher in leadership abilities, the performance of their children in school, family togetherness and even their love lives! Nothing like the lilt and lapping of water on the hull as the sun dips over the horizon for putting you in the mood, apparently. “Spending time with your family and friends aboard a boat is one of life’s most pleasurable pursuits and now there’s data

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that indicates boating’s benefits stay with you long after the experience is over,” said Pepper Schwartz, PhD, sociologist and relationship expert who contributed to the study. “Anyone looking for a new way to enrich their time together with family and friends will find boating is an outstanding choice.” Maybe it’s the new decade that has inspired people to evaluate their lives, but people are shrugging off the GFC and getting back to what really matters – work-life balance and leisure time spent with friends and family. The burden of maintenance and storage may have deterred many people from getting into boats, but now, syndication, fractional ownership and boat membership programs are making experiencing life afloat more accessible and affordable than ever before. Boating is now replete with all the pleasure and none of the hassles traditionally associated with maintenance, cleaning, berthing and keeping a boat. Not only are families and their network of friends getting involved, businesses large and small are using part ownership and membership schemes as staff incentives and corporate entertaining. Australia’s largest boat manufacturer, 111

Detour

Spending time with your family and friends onboard a boat is one of life’s most pleasurable pursuits.

Boating Club recently formed an alliance so their customers can extend their boating fun to include the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay, as well as Sydney Harbour and beyond. Members enjoy access to a fleet of fullymaintained luxury motorboats, such as Sunrunner, Riviera and Powercat, five-star valet service, no ongoing costs or capital outlay, and full training and support to ensure you get the most out

of your membership. The programs also offer flexible conditions and fair weighting for usage during the popular warm months. The alliance means that at no extra cost, members can use their boating privileges in each city. Joy King, Director of Leisure Boating Melbourne says it’s a great way for new boaties and families wishing to try before they buy or for people who

Riviera has run Riviera Syndication for the past decade, and now boasts 200 families involved Australia-wide. John and Sharon Russell who head up the program, say the appeal lies in the low cost and high fun ratio! “This is a very attractive option for people with busy lifestyles. They don’t need to tie up large amounts of capital to enjoy million-dollar luxury on the water,” he said. “It is a walk-on-walk-off lifestyle. When you arrive at the marina, the boat is sparkling clean, stocked, fuelled and ready to go. When you return, simply head home. Our team of experts takes care of the cleaning and maintenance.” Two pioneers in the industry, Leisure Boating Club Melbourne and Sydney 112

Imagine One | Spring 2010

Boating want to boat regularly, with no fuss. “Memberships are cheaper than a year’s boat berthing fees,” she points out. “It’s also ideal for corporate entertaining and employee incentive schemes, as you have regular access to top of the range boats, with none of the drawbacks of ownership,” says Delwyn Clark, Director at Sydney Boating Club. Most persuasive are the testimonials from satisfied members, who are effusive in their praise of the versatility of the programs, the socialising and the chance to recuperate from hectic lives. Without exception, they describe reconnecting to their kids and spouse, rekindling their spirit of exploration, unwinding, breathing salt air as if for the first time and all manner of pithy clichés typical of genuine happy folks. Now where do I sign up? iyl

For more information visit www.rivierasyndication.com.au www.sydneyboatingclub.com.au www.lbmelbourne.com.au.

BRIG Inflatable Big Fun. Fast and fun, the BRIG inflatable is Europe’s most popular brand. Ranging in size from 2.75m to 7.8m, they are not just tenders. These boats are fun in themselves and can be used on all waterways as a fishing, skiing, wakeboarding and all-round family fun boat. Stable, sturdy, light weight and economical, they are superlative quality and deliver a smooth ride. Available in Australia exclusively through Sirocco Marine. www.siroccomarine.com

BOATING NEWS Gold Anchors aweigh! A ratings system has been introduced to rate marinas, around Australia and around the world. The Gold Anchors Rating Scheme is an independent assessment of each marina’s infrastructure, facilities, environmental policy and service, helping Australia’s boat owners choose a marina. www.marinas.net.au

Global scope for boat owners If your horizons are even broader and if you already own a boat, BVC International could be more your curricle. Co-founded by Australianbased, Andy Young, it delivers access to hundreds of boats worldwide as a way of opening up the world’s oceans and waterways to boat owners. “The BVC system is extremely flexible, so our members are not tied down to exchanging in one particular geographical area,” explains Alan Gulliver, (BVC International Europe Division). “BVC International is also simple and sophisticated. Once boat owners have signed up to the service online they can choose the dates that they wish to make their boat available for use. They then build up day by day credit when their boat is used, which can be spent on using another boat in any destination they wish, on dates that suit them via the BVC interactive world map.” Prices for one year’s membership start at AUD$350 with 3 and 5 year membership packages also available. www.bvcinternational.com

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Saving in style PFD Australia has combined style and safety in the sleek new ladies’ Storm Rider Pro inflatable PFDs. Designed and made in Australia, the smart new jackets feature PFD Australia’s patented front opening system, which keeps the brightly coloured bladder hidden until it is deployed. In a choice of red, red-andwhite and red-and-navy, all feature reflective silver piping. Removable sleeves and hood mean it can be worn as a sleeveless vest in warmer weather, and an internal belt is used to fasten the PFD at all times so it can be worn with the front opening of the jacket unzipped if preferred. www.pfdaustralia.com.au 113

Bookend:

onathan “Jono” Coleman is one of Australia’s most loved radio/TV personalities and the host of My Generation, which for the past two years has been named Best Syndicated Program at the Australian Commercial Radio Awards. Married to Margot Fitzpatrick, they have two kids, Oscar 16 and Emily 13. Here, Jono shares thoughts on life, wealth and what he learnt from his first job.

What did you always want to be or do when you grew up? I was star-struck as a kid, glued to the radio – Bob Rogers, Top 40 – and hooked on the TV too. I lived across the road from the school, so I could go home at lunchtime and watch TV – all the classics like ‘McHale’s Navy’, ‘My Favorite Martian’ and ‘Combat’. At school, what were your main interests and main areas of excelling? Art and music. I thought I’d like to grow up to be in a band or a music teacher. The holidays sounded good. I loved piano and keyboards, and studied jazz at the Conservatorium. But my parents thought I should think about a ‘proper career’ so I did commercial art and graphic design and went in to advertising.

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How did media first open for you? I started at ad agencies as a copywriter and producer. I was playing in bands too and I was a bit of a show off. I got my first job in radio at 2WS, writing scripts. Then the job came up in 1980 on Simon Townsend’s Wonder World. Radio followed with the Jono and Dano Show on Triple J and then MMM. Then TV with various shows for Channel 7, like Saturday Morning Live, Have A Go and Late Night with Jono and Dano. After we got married in 1990, Margot and I packed up and headed to the UK and a stint in the US where I worked for Branson’s Virgin Radio, Chrysalis, Heart and the BBC. We’ve been back in Australia since 2006, when we revived the Jono & Dano Show, plus I’m hosting My Generation and reporting on Seven’s Sunrise. What was your first ‘job’ for money? Working at Edels and the record department of Grace Bros Thursday nights and Saturday mornings. I also played in various bands. Dad would drive me around to the different gigs and pick me up at about 11pm. I was reasonably shy as a teenager, so being in a band made me grow more confident and outgoing. How did you view working? I looked at a job as a way to make money to take girls out, and buy equipment, like my electric piano and amps. As you’ve matured, has your attitude change towards money? I’ve been conservative and reckless with money. Not on gambling and wild parties, but holidays and travel. I always had a desire to earn money. I realised that I wanted more, so I worked harder. My dad used to say: ‘no good being the wealthiest man in the graveyard.’ It’s important to use money and make it work for you.

Top left: Jono and Pamela Anderson. Above: With Sir Richard Branson.

What about money and your kids – what do you want to pass on to your kids about working and earning money? I have two teenagers. They think it grows on trees, of course! We force them to save, but still give them $20 when they ask for it. They do chores sporadically, but it’s not like our day when you’d work at Woolies or Coles for some money. They don’t have the same ambition or hunger to earn it. Everything’s more expensive too, so we end up giving them what they want for Birthdays and Christmas rather than them working for it. After living in the UK for 16 years, we came back to Australia four years ago because it’s a better climate for one thing, and my 84 year old mum is here, plus Australia is good for showing kids that if you want something, go out and get it. Work hard and you will make it happen. Regarding insurance – life, trauma and financial planning – have you a plan in place for your family’s future? Yes, yes and yes, particularly because I do all my own stunts! I have to have proper insurance cover in case anything goes wrong, professionally or personally. We have always had advice from a qualified insurance and financial specialist. Once you have kids, you start to make more plans, in case something happens to me or Margot. iyl

With former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Imagine One | Spring 2010

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