LHere’s what you can expect at Cooly Rocks On – the ultimate celebration of the motors, music and lifestyle of yesteryear.
a dies and gentleman, start your engines because Australia’s favourite annual nostalgia festival, Cooly Rocks On, will take you back in time to celebrate all things motors and music
Originally kicking off back in the 80s as the WinterSun Festival, the first vibrant event brought 17 hot rods down from Brisbane to rev up the crowds between exciting events like a billy cart derby, skateboard championship, roller derby, marathon swims, and more.
The festival’s love for the 50s and 60s reached fever pitch by 1985, as Rock ‘n’ Roll entertainers joined the line-up of vintage cars and bikes to the tune of Elvis Presley and The Beatles. Fast forward to 2011, and the name Cooly Rocks On officially took over – bringing with it a slew of Queensland Tourism Awards and loyal fans both locally and beyond.
Nowadays, Cooly Rocks On’s famous Show‘N’Shine display features over 900 retro vehicles that line the streets of Coolangatta to leave jaws dropped all over town. It’s impossible
to miss – you can hear the fanfare before you see it!
The festival is also renowned for hosting an official preliminary round of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises. In fact, Cooly Rocks On is one of only three festivals in Australia to do so, with the winner heading straight to Elvis Week in Memphis. Plus, the music doesn’t stop there, with an incredible line-up of Rock ‘n’ Roll, swing, rockabilly and tribute artists from around the world heading to the Gold Coast just for the occasion.
Don’t let bygones be bygones! With a range of free and ticketed events across the five day program, there’s truly something for everyone at Cooly Rocks On.
The details
What: Cooly Rocks On
Where: Coolangatta, Gold Coast
When: Held annually in June
For dates, event & booking information, visit www.coolyrockson.com
A building that’s seen it all
Standing tall and overlooking the crowds of Brisbane for almost 100 years is City Hall – one of Queensland’s most significant heritage and cultural icons.
Atestament to the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur, City Hall truly is the beating heart of Brisbane. Over the decades, it’s served as the central hub for civic, community, artistic, and social events – earning the affectionate title of the ‘People’s Place’. From royal receptions to orchestral concerts and political meetings, City Hall has seen it all, and has even welcomed distinguished guests including The Rolling Stones and Queen Elizabeth II.
Following a three-year restoration in 2013 to reinstate the icon to its former glory, City Hall continues its role as a cherished landmark in Brisbane’s cultural landscape.
FIRSTS
• The first foundation stone was laid in 1917 by the then Governor, Sir Hamilton Gould-Adams
• The City Hall offices opened for business on 3 January 1928
• It was the first major Australian concrete ‘column and beam’ building constructed
• City Hall officially opened to the public on 8 April 1930
MAIN AUDITORIUM
Originally known as ‘Concert Hall’, City Hall’s Main Auditorium was so vast that early performers dubbed it the ‘two acre paddock’. Its circular design with fluted pilasters around the perimeter is based on the Pantheon of Rome. A decorative frieze by artist Daphne Mayo runs above the stage, featuring a classically-inspired motif of nymphs playing trumpets and cymbals.
The Brisbane City Hall Organ was built in 1892 by Henry Willis and Sons of London for the Queensland National Agricultural and Industrial Association (QNA) at Bowen Hills. In 1897, the QNA was declared bankrupt and several musicians came together to rescue the organ from the auctioneer’s hammer – raising funds for the Brisbane Municipal Council to purchase the organ.
CLOCK TOWER
An important landmark and timekeeper for the city, the City Hall clock tower stands at 92 metres high and was the tallest structure in Brisbane until the 1960s. Every year, thousands of visitors ascend in the historic cage lift to the top of the clock tower. “Once at the summit, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the city, while also being able to explore the clock mechanism and the iconic bell.”
MUSEUM OF BRISBANE
Housed in a purpose-built gallery on Level 3 of City Hall, Brisbane’s leading history and art museum brings the city’s vibrant culture to life, offering a year-round program of free exhibitions, workshops and events.
WORLD WAR II SIGNATURE WALL
Over 150 signatures from WWII veterans were uncovered in October 2008, as Brisbane City Council restored the basement of City Hall. Soldiers scrawled everything from their names to service numbers, and amusing mottos on the wall, which at the time sat above the men’s urinal. The wall is now part of the overall City Hall heritage listing.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES
In 2010, workers on the City Hall restoration uncovered an important archaeological discovery that dated back over a century – before the building even existed! As workers excavated below the Main Auditorium to make way for the building’s first kitchen, they found remnants of a cobblestone drain and old streetscape three metres into the dig which has been dated back to the late 1880s, when the site was converted from swamp lands into Council property. Experts believe the drain was incorporated into paths and driveways to allow movement of stock onto the site as well as storing tools and equipment for the construction and maintenance of the city’s infrastructure, including storage of paving stones and kerbing used for Brisbane’s early streets.
A MOMENT IN TIME
A time capsule containing photos and messages from 2012 was placed inside the wall of the Main Auditorium on 2 April 2013. It will be re-opened in 2059 to coincide with the 200-year anniversary of the declaration of the municipality of Brisbane.
Want to take a look for yourself? Free guided tours are available inside City Hall, and visitors can also take part in the popular Clock Tower Tours. Bookings are essential.
Around the grounds
Get to know the fabulous faces and phenomenal personalities behind our Village teams.
TAMIE SECHI
SIMON FORSYTH
Chief Executive Officer,
Village Central
Something random or unique about yourself? I taught English in Japan for 2 years in the late 1990s as a working holiday after finishing university.
What sets The Village apart from other retirement groups? Dedication to excellence and a focus on ensuring our residents have the best possible retirement opportunity and experience.
Favourite thing to do on the weekend? Family time, outdoor activities like hiking, standup paddle boarding and kayaking.
Coffee order: Small flat white.
Assistant Village Manager, The Village Taigum
Favourite holiday destination? There are so many – I can narrow it down to 2: Paris for its world-famous landmarks & Budapest for its architecture and history. What do you love most about your job? Knowing that my work contributes to something meaningful and makes a difference in the community.
If you could have one superpower, what would you choose? Healing. My mum has Parkinson’s – I would love to be able to heal her.
Coffee order: Very large latte, no sugar.
IAN RODWELL
Maintenance
Supervisor,
The Village on the Downs
A saying or quote that you love? ‘Don’t whinge and whine, get on with life and be nice to people.’
Something random or unique about yourself? I have lived in Queensland for 40 years but still support the mighty N.S.W Blues (I’m no traitor).
Best advice you’ve ever received? Don’t try to be anyone but yourself.
Coffee order: I drink tea!
Meet the Margarets
A Story of Friendship, Fun, and the Power of a Name
In The Village Yeronga, a group of residents have formed a remarkable bond. Meet The Margarets – a group of women, all with the same name, who gather once a year to catch up, laugh together, and share stories over a cup of coffee. We invited them for a special morning tea so that we could learn a little bit more about this exclusive fellowship of ladies called Margaret. It all started in 2019, when Margaret Piccini organised the first of what would become an annual tradition. “There were just so many Margarets here,” she recalls, “At that stage there
were probably 20, now I think there’s around 24.” The first event was an instant success, setting the stage for regular gatherings that became a cherished tradition.
“There’s one Margaret who says it’s her favourite thing for the year.”
The first morning tea that Marg (Piccini) organised was really successful,” said Margaret Ball, another key contributor to the Margarets gettogethers. “There are lots of ways that you meet people here – Marg (Piccini) has been to water aerobics this morning, I went to hydrotherapy yesterday. There are all sorts of various clubs, but this is what we have in common.” Reflecting on why their unique congregation is so special, Margaret Ball added, “It’s just our name. Not that we like to swim, or we like to play bowls, it’s just a nice broadening of the social groups that develop at The Village.”
The gatherings aren’t just about celebrating their shared name though – they’re about creating connections. And for the Margarets, it’s the little things that make their get-togethers so special.
From beautiful table settings to gifts, every detail is carefully thought out. “I like to dress the tables,” says Margaret Ball. “That’s my thing – to make them look pretty.”
“And we always have a little parcel for them to take away,” adds Margaret Piccini. These gestures create an atmosphere that feels like family, where everyone can enjoy each other’s company, share their happiness (and sorrows too). “You get to share everybody’s joys. You share the sadnesses too, when we lose people, but it’s just lovely to know, somebody’s great-grandchild will come, and you can see how much they’ve grown since the last time you saw them,” says Margaret Ball.
“Even though there’s a generation difference between the youngest and the oldest, that ‘Margaret-ness’ is still there.”
Rumour has it that the Margaret meet-ups have become so renowned within the Village that they may need to start checking ID. “I’ve had a few people ask if they can come along because Margaret is their middle name… and it’s not easy to tell them ‘no’!”
MARGARET PICCINI AND MARGARET BALL
DID YOU KNOW:
There are as many as 2000 species of native Australian bees!
Want to attract bees into your garden? These three native Australian plants could help:
1. Australian Bluebell
Beautiful lavender-blue bell-shaped flowers. Plant bulbs in Autumn for Spring colour.
2. Grevillea
Produces vibrant, spider-like flowers in varying colours. More than 300 varieties of this shrub, so select the right size & style for you!
3. Salvia
Evergreen shrub with aromatic foliage. Choose flowers in violet or blue that bees are particularly attracted to.
MARC NEWMAN IN HIS GARDEN IN TOOWOOMBA
Seize the Bay
Half an hour away from Brisbane’s CBD, a slice of bayside paradise can be found. Offering the perfect mix of seafood, shopping and seaside relaxation, Manly boasts gorgeous cafés and stunning views, not to mention The Village Retirement Group’s latest medium rise village!
Th ere’s a distinct rhythm to life by the water - where mornings start with the hum of fishing boats, and afternoons invite you to wander the bustling weekend markets or settle in for a long lunch with a view.
Brisbane’s bayside suburb of Manly offers the perfect mix of laid-back, waterfront charm and urban convenience, making it an ideal escape just 30 minutes from the CBD.
The Bayside area’s evolution has been remarkable, balancing its maritime heritage with a thriving modern scene.
Once a quiet retreat for day trippers, today it’s home to a growing collection of boutique shops, award-winning restaurants, and scenic spots where locals and visitors gather to embrace the outdoors. Life here is centred around the waterfront.
The Manly Harbour Marina (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere) is a haven for boating enthusiasts, while the picturesque Esplanade provides the perfect backdrop for cycling, jogging, walking, or simply taking in the ocean air.
On weekends, the Manly Creative Markets transform Little Bayside Park into a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisan crafts, and live music.
And if you prefer to explore by water, you can set sail on a Moreton Bay cruise or take a kayak out for a closer look at the island-studded horizon.
For those who enjoy a touch of history, the
heritage-listed Lota House, constructed in 1865, is the oldest surviving residence in the ManlyLota area. One of only a few 1860s residences remaining in Queensland, Lota House is a rare example of 19th Century Georgian architecture.
The dining scene in Manly is as diverse as its community.
Whether you start your morning with freshly baked delicacies and cold pressed juice or a more traditional hot breakfast and great coffee, a quick stroll along The Esplanade unveils endless options favoured by locals and there’s no shortage of standout lunch spots either!
Seafood lovers will feel right at home with oysters the hero of many a menu, and fresh local catches are served alongside unbeatable waterfront views.
Sip a cocktail, indulge your sweet-tooth, or enjoy dinner with a sunset view – one of the area’s greatest luxuries is its ability to slow life down.
Being by the water delivers an undeniable sense of calm and Manly’s endless stretch of greenspace of foreshore parkland brings a sense of balance to activity and solitude.
With its blend of scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and warm community spirit, the Bayside lifestyle is both invigorating and relaxing.
Whether you’re here for the day, or staying a bit longer, one thing’s for certain—you’ll find yourself planning your next visit before you even leave.
Gut instinct
From sleep to diet, here is why a happy and healthy gut microbiome is so important.
Th e gut microbiome, a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes living in the digestive system, plays an essential role in overall health. Research has increasingly shown that the gut microbiome affects everything from digestion to immune function.
A healthy gut microbiome helps digest food, produce vital nutrients, and protect the body from harmful pathogens. Importantly, it also regulates inflammation, which can contribute to age-related diseases when uncontrolled. When the microbiome is imbalanced, a disruption in the gut’s immune function can lead to chronic inflammation, linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Why Gut Health Matters
The balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut is vital for supporting immune function and reducing the risk of chronic disease. Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a renowned gastroenterologist, explains that maintaining a healthy microbiome can influence not only physical health but mental well-being, as the gut-brain connection is strong. A well-balanced gut microbiome supports cognitive function, reduces stress, and may help slow the aging process by reducing systemic inflammation.
STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR GUT HEALTH
1. Eat More Fibre: High-fibre foods like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced microbiome.
2. Incorporate Fermented Foods: Foods such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics, which support the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
3. Limit Processed Foods: Reducing intake of processed meats, sugary foods, and artificial sweeteners can prevent harmful bacteria from proliferating in the gut.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining gut health and supporting digestion.
Recent research has highlighted that the gut microbiome also plays a role in regulating the body’s metabolism and the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals. Maintaining microbial diversity helps protect against obesity, diabetes, and other age-related conditions, further emphasising the connection between gut health and healthy aging.
Advice on Gut Health and Aging
According to Dr. Bulsiewicz, one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance your gut health as you age is through dietary changes. He suggests focusing on eating a variety of plant-based foods, which feed beneficial bacteria and encourage microbial diversity. “Eating the rainbow” - incorporating a wide range of colourful fruits and vegetables into your diet - can provide essential nutrients for gut bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Supplementing with probiotics and prebiotics may help boost gut health, but it’s important to first consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your individual needs.
5. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is linked to a more diverse gut microbiome, contributing to overall health and well-being.
6. Get Enough Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for gut health as it helps regulate the microbiome and reduce stress.
7. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga can help maintain balance.
“You have more bacteria that live in your gut than cells in your body.” –Dr Robynne Chutkan
Dr. Robynne Chutkan is a Gastroenterologist and author of “The Microbiome Solution: A Radical New Way to Heal Your Body from the Inside Out.
Picture perfect
Customise your settings
The rule of thirds is a photography technique where you divide the image into nine equal parts using grid lines and place important elements along these lines or their intersections to create a balanced composition. Your phone has a variety of built-in settings to help you take a better shot. In particular, the grid feature is a handy tool that splits the camera screen into nine sections – allowing you to apply the ‘rule of thirds’. To access on an iPhone go to Settings > Camera >Turn on Grid (green)
Experiment with different modes
Smartphones come with a variety of shooting modes designed to help you take better pictures. Use portrait mode for beautiful close-up shots and panorama mode to capture wide, sweeping views. Try experimenting with these different modes and angles to see which ones you like best and help you take the kind of photos you enjoy. After you have captured the shot you can also experiment with filters to add creative effects and enhance the mood of your photos.
Play around with focus and exposure
Tap on different parts of the screen to adjust focus or brightness, This is especially useful in tricky lighting. Don’t forget to use the flash when needed to ensure your subject is well-lit and your photo looks its best.
Take multiple shots
Unlike a film camera, smartphones allow you to take as many photos as you want in quick succession, so you can choose the best one. Just remember to delete your unwanted photos afterwards to avoid filling up your phone’s storage.
More features to explore
Use your smartphone’s auto-timer for hands-free shots and remember that the front facing camera is a great option for taking selfies. On an iPhone you can use your volume buttons as another way to capture an image (rather than tapping the screen).
Zoom with your feet
If you can, try to physically move closer to the subject of your photo, rather than using digital zoom. By doing this, you will produce a clearer shot because the resolution of the image isn’t reduced.
TIPS AND TRICKS:
1. Clean your camera lens (a quick wipe will do!)
2. Position your subject in natural light
3. Check your shooting mode
4. Use the grid to line up your shot
5. Tap the screen where you want to focus
Snap memories like a pro with this handy guide on how to capture frame-worthy photos using your smartphone.
Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.
