+ CELEBRATING WOMEN
+ MOTHER’S DAY COCKTAILS
+ THINGS TO DO
+ FIRST NATIONS WRITERS FESTIVAL
+ PLACES TO STAY
DOWNLOAD FULL DIGITAL COPY HERE
WATCH VIDEO INTERVIEWS
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Well at the time of writing this I would welcome some change in the weather. Seems like the longest summer I have experienced here so far here in sunny Townsville. That said I also thought last winter was the coldest I had experienced, so maybe I am just finally climatising to North Queensland.
This issue we have featured some amazing women and have grown our columnists and made a couple of changes.
Those who have been devout readers may notice the change, new readers may not. Head to our website and check out some of our previous editions or sign up to get our digital edition straight to your inbox.
There seems to have been so much change in the last few months, for me at least. I have found some comfort in working with our new columnist on Men’s Mental Health, Graham Cotter. Change is always good in the long term, but if you are struggling remember to reach out to friends or get some professional help. Our magazine also has Claudia Aubort to help with self-development and relationships. Change happens everywhere though, the weather, relationships, in business and dare I say, interest rates. That one has hit a bit hard and scared a few people unfortunately. I have to admit I still remember some really scary interest rates from the 90’s, but that’s showing my age.
The great thing about Townsville are the potential opportunities here. It is a city now built on a multi-channel economy, unlike a few years ago. There is just so much happening, and so much on the precipice of happening. A few barriers sure, but this is one magnificent city (especially The Strand).
Well folks, I am on a bit of a personal change journey and hopefully that will help to continue to grow our ability to keep even better Townsville stories coming and a new approach to the magazine next month.
As always, our team are relentless and growing and changing. We welcome Justin Fimmel, local musician, social media and promotions identity on board as our music reviewer. I believe we are about to hit the “events season” – there is just so much going on. Read his review on the next big music event to embrace our beautiful, fun city.
Well take care and keep in touch (checkout our Linktree accounts) and I hope you keep finding your peace and serenity in an everchanging world.
JOSIE
Constantly looking for excuses to play at the beach.
Brae picks up all the pieces Josie leaves behind and makes sure our digital playground works properly. Most days though he works as a fabulous Sales & Marketing Agent for Belle Property.
JOSEPHINE
Photography & Videography
Townsville’s best photographer and videographer. Ably assisted with videography and editing by Kate. Her sweet nature and relaxed approach to taking photos belies her eagle eye for taking ‘feeling’ photos full of energy.
JAKE
Graphic Designer
Jake was a local for 15 years before recently moving out west to Mount Isa. As our resident creative genius, he meets unrealistic deadlines and last minute design changes. He also runs his own design agency, Glass Onion Creative, and enjoys working with small businesses locally and nationally.
Justin is Geelong-born, Townsville raised and can’t think of calling anywhere else home. Whether he’s working as a musician professionally, in radio or poking a little satire at the region through his page Townsville News Flash, Justin is all too happy to shine the light on Townsville and it’s authenticity in North Queensland.
CREATIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF:
Jack Ryder (Digiryder) – 2nd Videographer
David Moyle – 2nd Photographer
Ray Mercer (Townsville Advertising) - Digital and social media
CONTRIBUTORS:
Anna Williams – Birdie Property Design Columnist and Owner at Ethos Interiors
Ruth Guice – Birdie Networking Columnist and Presenter & Networking Skills Coach at Mouthin’ Off Academy of Communication & Kick Assery
Master Jan Leese – Birdie Feng Shui Columnist and Owner of The Qi Consultant
Graham Cotter – The Auguthella Fella - Birdie Men’s Mental Health Columnist & Life Coach & RTT Therapist at KISS Business Management
Claudia Aubort – Birdie Therapy Columnist and Behaviourist, Author & Entrepreneur at Claudia Aubort
Krissy Regan – The Wellness Poet and founder of Mindful Mum Qld
Kate Pearce – Birdie Healthy Eating Columnist and Owner at Nutrition Queensland
THINGS
PROPERTY
MEET THE BOSS LADY 08
FRONT COVER: Model: Brandi Murphy, Holiday Hosting | Photographer: Josephine Carter
ADVERTISING & EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES: Phone: 0475 703 643 | Email: hello@thelittlebirdiemag.com.
au PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN: Josephine Carter Photography | Jake Tolcher – Glass Onion Creative
PRINT: Hastings Allclear OUR NEST: 15 STAGPOLE STREET, WEST END QLD 4810 | PO Box 424, Belgian Gardens QLD 4810 THE LITTLE BIRDIE MAGAZINE: ABN 19 335 022 536 | www.thelittlebirdiemag.com.au
As an independent publication we work with local business people to share their stories and some
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge the Wulgurukaba of Gurambibarra and Yunbenun, Bindal, Gugu Badhun and Nywaigi peoples as Traditional Owners of the land we operate and pay respect to Elders past, present and future; At The Little Birdie Magazine, we believe in inclusive communities and choose to commit to providing a platform that showcases storytelling of our whole eclectic community.
DISCLOSURE
Views, reviews, thoughts and opinions expressed on our media platforms belong solely to the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of the author’s employer, organisation, committee or other group or individual.
COPYRIGHT
Contents of The Little Birdie Magazine are subject to copyright. No part of this publication is to be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information in this publication. Expressed or implied authors' and advertisers' opinions are not necessarily those of the editor and or publisher.
The community came together to celebrate the final days of Tiny Mountain Brewery before its shock close on April 2nd. It’ll be dearly missed... but I don’t think it’s a final goodbye.
The Bayview Bar & Bistro opened up recently at 69 Palmer Street, where The Crown used to be. Great food and live entertainment, open 7 days a week.
The Pedlar Project behind Townsville Bulletin Square on Flinders Street has reopened after undergoing some brief renovations. The interior is boasting much more space, with a new counter with the same amazing service and menu for your brunches.
Sean of Townsville Records has opened up a store space at 336 Flinders Street, appropriately next to the great Aunty Vintage store, boasting a beautiful new exterior paint job.
The announcement of Tropic Fiesta has taken the city by storm and music fans are very excited. For more on that, flick on through this issue!!
Got something happening in your business or community group? Let us know by email at hello@thelittlebirdiemag.com.au
SEARCH SOCIALS FOR MORE INFORMATION
BONUS INTRA MELIOR EXI ENTER GOOD, EXIT BETTER
BY JOSIE HOWARD
Hey folks, have you heard about Townsville’s very own Airbnb Queen? I know I was a bit curious, so I caught up with Brandi Murphy to find out the scoop. She started off just trying to pay her mortgage, and now she’s running a thriving property empire helping others do the same!
Brandi is the stylish, driven, and uberdedicated owner of Holiday Hosting, a company that’s killing it in the local short and mid-term rental game. Her secret sauce? A combo of resilience, passion, and some good old-fashioned hard work (plus a sprinkle of luck, of course).
But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Brandi. She’s had to overcome plenty of obstacles in both her personal and professional life. But she’s powered through, and now her business and family life are absolutely thriving.
Flashback to 2002 when Brandi bought her first property while working as a corporate sales agent. By the time she hit 30, she had nearly a dozen investment properties under her belt! Talk about hustling.
Brandi has always had a soft spot for Townsville and decided to move there after landing a gig as a financial planner. To make ends meet, she took a chance on Airbnb, renting out her spare rooms to medical students. It wasn’t long before her top-notch service started paying off, and she found herself helping other property owners jump on the Airbnb bandwagon.
Fast forward to today, and Brandi’s business is booming. She’s got the keys to the former Strand Hotel (now Strand Apartments) and manages over 75 properties with her partner Brent. All this while juggling life with their two gorgeous kiddos, Sofia and Ava.
And it’s not just their property count that’s growing – there’s a lineup of owners waiting to join the Holiday Hosting family. But Brandi’s all about quality, so they’re careful not to bite off more than they can chew. She also makes sure to work with only the nicest and most genuine folks, whether they’re guests or owners.
So, what’s next for Brandi? She laughs and says it was easier with just 20 properties, but we all know she’s got more up her sleeve. With a team of around twenty staff members, Holiday Hosting is all about that personalised touch for both owners and guests. They go the extra mile with services like grocery pickup, free baby gear, and special touches for late arrivals.
And it’s not just guests who get the VIP treatment. Owners benefit from property styling, maintenance, and a steady income from bookings. Plus, with nine different booking platforms, they’ve got all their bases covered.
Brandi’s “whatever it takes” attitude and eagle eye for detail have been instrumental in her success. There’s no doubt she’ll continue to make waves in Townsville’s Airbnb scene. In an industry that’s seen massive local growth over the past eight years, it’s clear that Brandi’s hard work has played a huge part. She might be too modest to wear the crown, but we think it’s safe to call her Townsville’s Airbnb Queen.
Brandi’s passion for property is a shining example of doing what you love and succeeding at it. Has it been easy? Heck no. Is she superwoman? Maybe not. But she’s got the focus and determination that we can’t help but admire. Brandi Murphy, you truly are the Boss Lady.
Holiday Hosting can be contacted at: www.holidayhosting.com.au 0404 528 709 (8am – 6pm) enquiries@holidayhosting.com.au
Hey, fellow mums out there! If you're looking for inspiration on balancing career and motherhood, you gotta check out Stephanie Wilson and Dyhan Sadleir's story. I had the pleasure of chatting with these amazing local mums who are also senior employees at Bravus Mining and Resources, a global business based right here in Townsville.
We met up at Rostrata – Tropical Scene at Belgian Gardens, which by the way, is a fabulous spot to chill and have a platter and glass of prosecco. And guess what? Their partners came along to help out with their beautiful babies, Bijou and Estelle, who were total scene-stealers (off-camera) during the filming of the video (click/scan the QR code to watch it, you won't regret it).
Stephanie and Dyhan have been colleagues for four years, and as fate would have it, they both fell pregnant within four months of each other. But instead of feeling anxious, they were thrilled with the enormous
amount of support they received from Bravus. The company provided flexible work arrangements, genuine consideration for juggling illness from babies at childcare, and incredibly, promotions in their careers while they were on maternity leave. That's right, promotions while on maternity leave! Now, that's a company that walks the talk of supporting working mums.
Another perk - Bravus also offers 18 weeks of full paid maternity leave. This kind of support shows that Bravus is a company that genuinely values the contributions of women and is committed to making its workplace a better place for everyone.
What's even cooler is that Bravus has recently used Bijou and Estelle (with Dyhan and Stephanie tagging along) in their ad campaigns. Jake Granville, an iconic hooker for the NQ Cowboys, was also at the shoot with his son Bobby. Bravus is definitely a company that's passionate about supporting families and the local community.
Stephanie and Dyhan also raved about living and working in Townsville, citing the free parks, beaches, and chill vibe of the city as major draws. And as a mum who's been around the block, I can definitely vouch for Townsville as a great place to raise a family. So, if you're a working mum who's looking for inspiration and support, definitely check out Bravus Mining and Resources. They're a company that's got your back, and Stephanie and Dyhan are living proof of that.
Click here to visit the Bravus careers page.
HERE FOR EVERY GENERATION.
bravusmining.com.au
Photo: Stephanie Wilso, Dale Robertson, Bijou Robertson (baby), Dyhan Sadleir, Trevor Sadleir, Estelle Sadleir (baby)Okay Townsville get ready. If you are a lover of culture, great stories and meeting really interesting people, then make sure you head to the First Nations Writers Festival which will be held in Townsville on the 26th – 27th May at the Mercure Hotel.
This is the second year Townsville hosts the only writing festival, specifically promoting First Nation creatives from around the Pacific.
Back from travelling the Pacific to promote the First Nations Book Awards, founder, Anna Borzi AM and her delegation including local business identities Jenny Bishop and Nancy Swanjo Waffi, are welcoming locals and the wider community to enjoy the cross-cultural speakers and stories they secured.
This year they also welcome published playwright, widely read novelist and an award-winning poet, Julie Janson as a guest speaker. One giant literary intellect and recognised as one of only three Indigenous Australians in history to write a crime novel? Julie is from the Darug Nation, and Burruberongal clan in New South Wales. Julie’s credits include a long listing for the NIB Literary Award 2020; the Voss Literary Award 2021 and Barbera Jefferis Award. Awards for poetry include Oodgeroo Noonuccal Poetry Prize 2016 and Wright Poetry Prize 2019. The infamous Belvoir St Theatre has hosted her plays and she has received several awards for this genre, including a nomination for the AWGIE Award, Patrick White Award and Griffin Award.
You will be able to hear Julie her speak of her work and also her contribution to Emerging Indigenous Authors as a mentor, over the duration of the #FNWF2023 Celebration. Other VIP Speakers are from PNG, New Zealand, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, Samoa, an Inaugural Book Launch, Books of Cultural Significance and Story Awards.
The First Nations Writers Festival is a registered charity and welcomes sponsors for this event. Registration and tickets may be found at firstnationswritersfestival.org or Eventbrite.
Click here to visit register or purchase tickets.
1. Head to The Strand early in the morning and go for a lovely walk along the beach and watch the sunrise.
Moving from Adelaide to Sunny North Queensland a few years ago, I fell in love with the adventurous and relaxed lifestyle that the tropics had to offer, especially as a mother of two young boys. My interest in healthy eating began when I worked as a Registered Nurse, which fuelled my desire to learn more about nutrition and how it impacted our body. Now as an Accredited Nutritionist, specialising in sports nutrition, blood sugar control and weight loss, it is my passion to help people lose weight, ramp up their energy and strengthen their mind and body in a fun, kind and supportive environment.
Nutritionists are dedicated to help you break through fears and beliefs and achieve your health and wellness goals through evidence-based dietary recommendations that are tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
Whether you're looking to lose weight, regain your zest for life and beat fatigue, tighten and tone your body, improve your athletic performance, or simply feel great again, we can support you every step of the way!
We offer a range of services, including 1:1 consultations, group workshops, family - healthy little eaters sessions and couple consultations.
Here at Nutrition Queensland we are incredibly passionate about helping you discover the wonderful benefits of a healthy diet, bust myths surrounding food marketing and help you to build skills and control around food. Ultimately you will gain practical steps and discover how you can use food to re-energise and revitalise your body. It is of great importance that you receive the tools and knowledge to walk away feeling motivated, supported and ready to make a positive change.
Check out my tips and if you would like any further information or a friendly chat, please send us an email at nutritionqueensland@gmail.com, we are always more than happy to help and answer any of your questions.
Check out our socials @nutrition_queensland for great tips and practical nutrition guidance.
2. Swap your sweet brekkie (cereal, toast etc), for a savoury option instead. Try having eggs or a veggie filled omelette of mushroom, spinach and tomato or adding nuts and berries to your morning yogurt. This will add protein, fat and fibre to your breakfast which will help to give you sustained energy throughout the day and avoid sugar cravings or afternoon slumps.
3. Head to Squeeze Me at The Strand for a great morning green smoothie instead of your morning coffee.
4. Try out the local farmers market at Willows or Cotters on Flinders instead of buying your fruit and veggies from Woolies or Coles. You will get more bang for your buck as the produce is local and much fresher making it richer in vitamins and minerals.
5. Be mindful of incorporating one healthy fat into your diet each day. This could be adding olive oil or avocado to your toast, or grabbing a handful of nuts on the go! Avocados have been proven to help with weight loss and other healthy fats like nuts, coconut and seeds are important to maintain a healthy brain and boosting your energy!
If I had to describe my version of love it may vary day to day, but I’m grateful to have experienced love in a variety of ways throughout my life which have shaped how I see the world:
My grandmother taught me to sew, knit and shop in charity stores.
My father taught me to raise animals and kill them for food.
My mother taught me to cook, clean and be happy with what I’ve got.
My siblings taught me to stick up for myself but defend those that are weaker than me.
My horse taught me that animals can love humans, and humans and can love animals.
My husband of 20-years teaches me that each day starts anew, and not to carry forward my hurts of the previous day.
My children teach me that my capacity to love is bigger than I could have ever imagined.
And over the past few years I’ve learned that self-love is not for those that think they are better than everyone else. Selflove is for me too.
Growing up the terms self-love and selfworth were never discussed. In fact, we were actively discouraged from loving ourselves and I remember many derogatory expressions about people who thought too much of themselves. However, the deeper meaning of self-love and self-worth came into my life significantly in the last 5 years.
I recognised that the denial of self-love was having a big impact on my overall well-being. The thing is if you’ve never been encouraged to love yourself, it can be a scary place to start. I remember my friend Maurice Harvey-Hall, author and Spiritual Coach encouraging me to say to myself; “I love you, I love you for loving me, thank you for loving me…”. This was totally weird, and so far out there, I just couldn’t do it without feeling immensely uncomfortable. After I reflected for a while on why I felt so uncomfortable with this idea of loving myself, I realised that I was in a state of lack.
I was not rooted in my own sense of self, what was best for me, and who I truly was as a person. I was wearing a mask, carrying a heavy load and so busy self-sacrificing I had no idea I was carrying so much emotional baggage. It took time and practise to love myself. I still need to remind myself constantly that how I feel about myself has no bearing on another person, and that loving myself is a gift that I can give myself every day.
Loving myself has enabled a deeper connection to the world around me, a more authentic version of myself that is constantly evolving, and a person that I’m prouder of now that I put my own needs and values first. I’m a better mother, better friend, better writer, and better person than I was before, all because I decided that I was worth loving and even if people don’t like me, I can still love every part of myself.
As a child I remember a poem we read in church that I’ve never forgotten.
“You don’t have to tell how you live each day, You don’t have to say if you work or play, For a tried true barometer stands in its place, However you live, it shows on your face.
The envy, hatred, and deceit that you bear in your heart, Does not stay inside where it first got its start;
For sinew and blood are a thin veil of lace, What you bear in your heart you show on your face.”
This poem tells me that if I love myself. It will show on my face and I would rather walk around with a face of love than the opposite. So, I will cultivate self-love at every opportunity so that those that see my face see love and feel loved too.
You can practise this each morning before you open your eyes, say to yourself; I love you; I love you for loving me; Thank you for loving me! Then get up and go about your day. You will find more and more things to love about yourself, and you will attract other people that want to love you, and your heart will feel full. Why should you do this? Because YOU are worth it!
The decision to move house is one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. Whether or not it is relocating from another state or moving into a new home, it will be stressful. However, it’s also an opportunity in disguise to make changes and reinvent your life. In fact, surviving and adjusting to moving is all about your mindset and how you view your situation. The reason many people struggle with their mindset is based on the circumstances of their move. Did you recently divorce or go through a breakup? Did you have to move for financial reasons? Or have you moved away because you wanted to retire somewhere quieter? These circumstances can fill your mind full of fearful thoughts, making adjusting difficult.
Make a conscious decision that you are taking up an opportunity to change your life because everything you do will flow from this mindset. When you view your move as an opportunity, you’re saying to yourself, “I am worthy of a better life and that’s what I intend to create.” Ask yourself important questions like:
1. How will this move benefit me?
2. What would I like to do differently in my new home and location?
3. What is available to me now that I didn’t have before?
4. Is my home aesthetically a reflection of who I am?
Based on your answers to the above, create a plan for your environment including how you want your new home to look and feel so
it becomes a place you love coming home to. Then do a personal plan describing the changes you want to make in your life. Ultimately the key is to embrace all that comes with your move as an opportunity to eliminate bad habits, make changes and reinvent your life.
CLAUDIA AUBORT Behaviorist, Author and Entrepreneur BA CHC / Dip Relationship TherapyClick here to visit Claudia’s website.
F or me to be in this space is unusual in itself, in that I have spent the last fifty plus years in the world of finance and business. This current direction my life has taken has been pretty amazing really. I say amazing because it was as if I have been dragged along by some unknown force, as it was never my intention to be in this mental and emotional wellness space.
On reflection I guess I was always destined to be here. I always said that I was not driven by money and what made me feel good was helping good people reach their full potential. The other reason was that when in my midfifties, I was 200 meters from taking my own life. I had let the gremlins and the constant self-criticism get in my head and felt at that time, the only way to stop the constant and relentless noise in my head, was to end m life. Becoming a RTT Therapist and Life Coach has been an amazing journey. What I have learned about myself and more importantly a better understanding of how our minds operate, has been life changing. One thing that really stands out, is the fact that with all of the science and technology at our disposal today, we have only scratched the surface of what an incredible organ the brain muscle, we have in our skull, really is.
The other stand out for me on this journey, is the fact that we have all the answers within us, to whatever we need or whatever we need to fix or change.
When you consider how our minds work we have a better understanding of ourselves. The mind does what it thinks you want it to do. It responds to the words you say and the pictures you make in your mind. It drives you towards what is familiar and away from what is unfamiliar. It does all it can to keep you alive on the planet and away from pain. In the above lies the reasons and the solutions to what is right and what is broken in our individual lives.
Men find it particularly difficult to access help when they need it. The first step is reaching out.
To contact Graham, scan the QR code below or call 0458 743 500.
Address: 203 Denham Street, Townsville
Features 4 bedroom (sleeps 8)
Offered as a 1, 2, 3 or 4 bedroom listing Additional bedding available on request
Multiple living spaces
Managed by: Holiday Hosting
Rates: From $380 per night for 4 bedrooms (minimum three-night stay)
If you are after a fully serviced short or mid-term spacious property located within walking distance to The Strand and the city, this is it.
Perched on the side of a hill with magnificent views, this older but luxurious open plan property, welcomes groups of family or friends. It is even perfect for intimate events with an outdoor bar, pool and perfect views over the Coral Sea towards Magnetic Island. It has already hosted a number of weddings. This three-level home has multiple living spaces, indoor and out, making it perfect for groups, or families that may need a little bit of space to retreat to at times.
The outstanding parent’s retreat, encompassing the entire top floor, boasts a full walk-in robe and a spacious ensuite. This is a beautiful space that embraces the full views the property offers.
Although this is an older property, it is beautifully decorated with some stunning stand out pieces of furniture. Although large, it feels just like home where you can relax and simply soak up the chilled Townsville
vibe. Whether it’s relaxing on the couch, sitting at the outdoor bar, meditating by the pond or cooling off in the pool, this home offers it all. Fully air-conditioned, which is pretty important for most of the summer season in Townsville, the top floors overlook North Ward to the ocean and are perfectly positioned to capture the daily sea breezes. Located on a hill (yep that is why you get such great views), it is only a short walk to the multitude of cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars and shops along the iconic The Strand. The Strand is also great for fitness and has a multitude of outdoor gyms and netted beaches during stinger season.
Holiday Hosting also offer full servicing including cleaning, refreshing sheets, pick up of groceries or whatever you need. They even put it in the fridge for you.
The only thing that is constant is CHANGE. Nature is our biggest teacher showing us that this is true. Our natural surroundings are always changing but sometimes the subtle changes of the bigger cycle, are easy the miss. We are the same, we are always in some state of change therefore how can we expect others or life to stay the same?
We go through life changing from birth to an infant to a teen, an adult, we start to age and decline and finally death, it is the cycle of life. From a Chinese metaphysics point of view, we are influenced by some other factors too.
We go through temporary age luck cycles in our personal astrology every 5 to 10 years. When we enter a new age luck cycle something we used to love doing, or people we used to love hanging out with may no longer resonate with us because that was from the previous cycle/a different time. We can often feel a change within ourselves but perhaps not understand why.
Our homes also go through change that affect us. Feng Shui is all about time and space, each space can function differently at a different time on a longer 20-year cycle and can have different combinations of usefulness or not depending on the annual cycles. Each space/room is supportive of us or not depending on how it is used and who is using it for what activity.
Nothing is as it is, everything is relevant to something else or where we are at that time, everything depends on our perspective, everything is in a state of change, including us.
When we go back to the basic but powerful layer of yin and yang, we understand the above statement very well. We only understand sadness if we have been happy, we know hot if we have experienced cold, high is relative to low but high can become low when something higher comes along – everything changes. Nothing is anything without its opposite. The yin yang symbol shows this clearly. It is at the peak of yin (the largest part of the black) that there is a dot of yang (the white), symbolising that when the yin reaches its peak is when the yang starts to grow. Likewise the peak of yang (the white) has a dot of black symbolising that in the peak of yang yin starts to grow. It is the natural change; things must correct themselves and go in the new cycle. We would not have yang without yin, we would not have life without death, we cannot enjoy happiness without sadness. Nothing is what it is, everything is in a state of change, don’t have expectations, don’t judge, just go with the flow until that needs to change. If our life is too yin (slow and dull) add some yang and vice versa, we can make the change ourselves using our man luck, we don’t have to wait for it to happen to us. Click
Master Jan Leese is the founder of The Qi Consultant a firm based in Townsville conducting Chinese Astrology readings and Classical Feng Shui Audits for homes and businesses.
Learning from specialised schools, Masters and Grand Masters has given her many tools in her kit to help her clients. As an international and keynote speaker, feng shui columnist and lover of all Chinese Metaphysics topics, Jan is a lifelong student in this incredibly powerful art and science.
Project: New build by Proview Homes
Designer: Brooke Booth from Ethos Interiors
Completed: 2022
Designing and building a dream home can be a challenging task, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of one's life.
Our design team work with all the clients from Proview Homes, so we were delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with Sam, their sales and house designer, in creating her family home.
While Sam had developed her perfect floor plan, she had many inspirations for her home, but wanted help combining them effectively to create a cohesive home, and documenting her vision clearly to suppliers and trades to ensure the build went smoothly.
The use of curves is one of the standout features of this home. From the arched entryway to the curved wall into the living area and the curved end on the island. These design motifs draw your eye and add to the organic Mediterranean feel. The scalloped paneling and radius shower screens also add to the unique style.
To bring Sam's vision to life, designer Brooke Booth combined a few styles for a boho/ coastal mix that is filled with warm shades and textures. The high ceilings are accentuated by an oversized textured pendant light, while the statement powder room features chunky terrazzo and a deep green concrete basin. Large format pressed edge tiles add to the natural and earthy feel of the wet areas, while
light and neutral vinyl planking and carpet allow the texture and color to flow seamlessly into each area of the house. Mixing pendants and wall lights in different rooms was a costeffective way to add an individual feature to each space.
As a result this newly built home has plenty of character, showcasing Sam’s unique style from the moment you step through the front door.
Click here to order Tan Lines gin or vodka.
The bergamot oil in the Earl Grey gives a lovely citrus hit.
INGREDIENTS
+ 1 tbsp good loose-leaf Earl Grey tea
+ 500ml Tan Lines Gin
+ Ice
METHOD
STEP 1
Put the Earl Grey tea in a large jug. Pour the gin over and stir with a long-handled spoon for about 45 secs.
STEP 2
Strain the gin through a tea strainer over a funnel back into the bottle. You’ll see small particles of leaf still suspended in the gin. Rinse out the jug and, using a coffee filter or some muslin inside the funnel, strain the gin a second time to remove all the particles. In this way, the gin will be stable and the flavour won’t change – it’ll be good for months and months until the final sip if it lasts that long.
STEP 3
To serve, shake or stir over ice – I like how the flavours change as the drink dilutes.
Every mum’s pick-me-up
INGREDIENTS:
+ 40 ml Tan Lines Vodka
+ 20 ml Kahlua
+ 20ml espresso coffee (head to your favourite café, grab a takeaway and let it cool if you don’t have a machine at home. A standard takeaway cup should make about 10 cocktails)
+ 3 x coffee beans (garnish)
METHOD:
STEP 1
Place the vodka, kahlua and espresso in a cocktail shaker with ice.
STEP 2
Shake vigorously 10 times, then pour briskly into a cocktail glass. (Scrape out foam inside if necessary)
STEP 3
Garnish with 3 coffee beans and serve immediately.
Without a question we suggest using local Townsville, Tanlines Distilling Gin or Vodka for all of these yummy cuppa/cocktail treats. Grab a bottle or three online or head to the Rockpool Pavilion on The Strand and checkout their distilling operation. Probably best not share them at morning tea – Sunday brunch might be best.
Make sure mum holds onto her hat for this one.
Sour Mix
+ 3 cups sugar
+ Zest of 2 limes (in strips)
+ Zest of 1 lemon (in strips)
+ Zest of 1 orange (in strips)
+ 2 cups fresh cold lemon juice
+ 2 cups fresh cold lime juice
Long Island Iced Tea
+ 1/3 cup Tan Lines Gin
+ 1/3 cup light rum
+ 1/3 cup silver tequila
+ 1/3 cup triple sec
+ 1/3 cup Tan Lines Vodka
+ Thinly sliced lemons, for garnish
+ Thinly sliced limes, for garnish
+ Thinly sliced oranges, for garnish
+ Cola, for serving, optional
STEP 1
For the sour mix: Combine 3 cups water, the sugar and the lime, lemon and orange zests in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until the sugar is completely melted. Remove from the heat and let steep in the refrigerator until very cold and the flavor has infused for at least 2 hours and up to 24 hours.
STEP 2
Strain the cold syrup into a pitcher and add the lemon and lime juices.
STEP 3
For the long island iced tea: Combine 2 cups of the sour mix, the gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, vodka and lemon, lime and orange slices in a pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours.
STEP 4
Serve in tall glasses over crushed ice with a splash of cola if desired.
PRESENTATION & NETWORKING SKILLS COACH MOUTHIN’ OFF ACADEMY OF COMMUNICATION & KICK-ASSERY
Did you know the latest John Wick flick is out (or even who that is)?
Did you know there is someone walking amongst the Townsville business community that has chickens named Princess Layer and Mary Poopins?
Do you know someone who’s been nose to nose with a Tiger Shark?
I do. All thanks to BUSINESS networking.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not ALL ‘so what do you do?’, ‘how’s business?’ and ‘how about them interest rates aye?’.
Those interesting pieces of info are just a few of the things that I learned at Townsville Chamber Coffee and The Table NQ recently. There are also many things that I learned about the businesses that these people own or work with as well – but I can honestly say
I care a little more and will remember them more easily now that I know something about them as people rather than just walking, talking logos.
If you are looking for somewhere to network, Townsville has a plethora to choose from. In fact, we’re flocking brilliant in that regard! There’s many different ways and different days to network – so find what works for you. Here are just a few:
+ Townsville Chamber Coffee
+ Beers Down Friday
+ Ladies in Business
+ Professional Singles Network
+ Planet-Conscious Townsville
+ CIC Together Townsville Networking
+ The Table NQ
If you haven’t heard of The Table NQ, Townsville’s newest networking opportunity, scan the QR Code to find out more. (Full disclosure: I am one of the founders and as my mother-in-law says ‘self-praise is no recommendation’, so I’ll leave you to decide if you wish to investigate further.)
Get out there and network, there are some amazing people looking forward to meeting you. Just remember to stay curious and be generous (more on that in the next issue). Click
about The Table NQ.
Our Townsville sunsets are nothing short of magical. The bursts of colour stretching far over the water and across the ranges bouncing glorious pink, red, orange and yellow hues across the landscape. For Jeanette, watching the sunset at Townsville’s Beach surrounded by her loved ones was her last wish and lasting memory – her Ambulance Wish.
After several days of rain, where the clouds almost obscured Magnetic Island from view, it is as if mother nature had saved her most spectacular sunset especially for Jeanette. She was joined by her husband, daughter, son-in-law and grandson for a light show of
As her grandson ran around the beach, Jeanette’s smile was perhaps the only sight that could outdo the sunset, and when he wrote her name in the sand, you could even argue that the sun went down a little quicker than normal, knowing it could not compete. Jeanette’s family were able to create this special lasting memory – enjoying a familiar moment of connection away from the clinical setting of palliative care. Staff and volunteers at Ambulance Wish Queensland were humbled to have played a part in creating memories forever for Jeanette and her loved ones on Pallarenda Beach’s golden sands.
Click here to learn more about Ambulance Wish Queensland.
Click here to visit Ambulance Wish Queensland’s website.
15 CABARET CHERIE
VaVoom Room, 234 Flinders St, Townsville City 4810
VELVET REWIRED
Townsville Civic Theatre
NORTH WARD HILLS
Queens Gardens, cnr Gregory St and Paxton st. North Ward 4810
REECE MASTIN LIVE
The Mansfield
16
YOUNG VOICES OF MELBOURNE CHOIR (WITH MALCOLM DAGLISH)
St. James Cathedral, 36 Cleveland Terrace, Townsville City
SUNDAY SOCIAL TENNIS
Tennis Townsville, 20 Burke St North Ward 4810
PICKLEBALL
Tennis Townsville, 20 Burke St North Ward 4810
18 CELTIC ILLUSION - THE MAGIC RETURNS
Townsville Civic Theatre CONTENT COLLAB WORKSHOP
Haus & Loft HQ, Cannan St. South Townsville
19 MORNING MELODIES - BEST OF WEST END
Townsville Civic Theatre
20 JAZZ JAMS Heritage Exchange
21 RIVERWAY MOVIES - AROUND THE WORLD IN 18 DAYS Riverway Oval, 20 Village Boulevard, Thuringowa 4817
CHOCOLATE STARFISH PRESENTS: BAT OUT OF HELL
Townsville Civic Theatre
23 PIANO RECITAL - SOLOIST - CRYSTAL SMITH Carlton Theatre, Carlyle Gardens Condon 4815
25 ANZAC DAY 2023
26 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW
Townsville Civic Theatre
27 TOWNSVILLE CINEMA GROUP
BCC Cinema
Homebase for the Veteran community in Townsville.
EVENTS
TOWNSVILLE VETERANS WARGAMING ASSOCIATION - BASH BY THE BILLABONG!
April 15
VETERANS & FAMILIES PIPE BAND
April 17 | April 24 | May 1 | May 8 | May 15 | May 22 | May 29
Homebase
SEWING BRING YOUR OWN PROJECT (SELF-GUIDED)
April 18 | May 2 | May 9 | May 16 | May 23 | May 30
10 WEEK KANGA TRAINING PROGRAM
April 19 - June 21
AUSTRALIAN MILITARY WIVES CHOIR
April 19 | April 22 | May 15
TABLETOP GAMERS
April 20 | May 4 | May 11 | May 18 | May 25
BANJO’S
April 21 | May 5 | May 19
Homebase
COFFEE & CROCHET MORNING
April 21 | April 28 | May 5, May 12, May 19, May 26
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS
April 21 | April 28 | May 5 | May 12 | May 19 | May 26
TOWNSVILLE DISTRICT SCALE MODELERS
April 22 | May 13
JCU MINDFULNESS PROGRAM
April 22
OASIS WATERCOLOUR CLASS
April 26 | May 3 | May 10 | May 17 | May 24 | May 31
Homebase
QIGONG
April 28 | May 12 | May 26
Grassed area
BY JUSTIN FIMMEL
Townsville transforms into a musical paradise this May, with a medley of the hottest up-and-coming talents to world class favourites, over three epic weekends. This celebration of live Australian music brings together 50+ artists, taking to 18 different stages and events to our tropical region. But the best part about it all? The majority of it is absolutely free!
Presented by North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA) and QMusic, Tropic Fiesta will see you discovering music in every corner of the city. With country music legends playing on suburban stages, Australian music royalty performing at pop-up events and a whole host of intimate gigs performed by some of the best new Australian artists, held in some of Townsville’s favourite venues, some of which might surprise you.
The start of Tropic Fiesta kicks off May 12th with ‘Suburban Sounds’, held at the Kirwan Tavern. Headlined by a little-known country act by the name of Lee Kernaghan. It’s been quite some time since Lee has performed in our corner of NQ, so the anticipation is already at an all-time high for his return. He’ll be joined by Newcastle legends Hurricane Fall and local Country royalty, Tammy Moxon.
If you’re after a different party vibe on the 12th, head to the James Cook Uni Bar for their ‘Fiesta Dance Party’. Head on down to groove along with some pumping DJ sets and the chance to win tickets to the Tropic Sounds event, held at the end of the month!
‘Fiesta at the Footy’ sees Tropic Fiesta, NQ Cowboys and Deadly Choices join forces to celebrate the Indigenous Round, with a special performance by Australian Idol winner, Royston Baira.
Here’s a big one… ‘East End Fiesta’ on May 20 & 21st is the ultimate FREE multiple show experience. Held throughout Flinders
Street including Townsville Brewing Co. (The Brewery), Flinders HQ, Flynns Irish Bar and Otherwise bar. The street will be decked out with a plethora of Australian talent across all genres including the smooth dance vibes of Donny Benet, the whimsical indie-pop of Greta Stanley, country tinges of the incredible Sammy White to the smooth beat-driven urban flavours of Horrorshow and the numetal revival antics of Ocean Grove… there’s definitely something for everyone. Again, this weekend is FREE to attend. Just bring your dancing shoes and good vibes.
‘Rainbow Fiesta’ sees our Mansfield Hotel transform into the ultimate rainbow party venue, stacked with a lineup of live drag performances and DJ set by DJ Dolly Llama!
Tropic Sounds held on May 27 is the final party of the Fiesta, with a lineup of ARIA award winners, crowd favourites and locals at Reid Park. After a covid-related cancellation, TONES & I and the PIERCE BROTHERS are hell-bent on picking up where things left off, alongside ILLY, CLEWS and more. Don’t miss your tickets for this one.
With a tasteful Recovery At The Ville session held the day after Tropic Sounds (I’ll definitely see you there, by the way), there couldn’t be a better way to wind-down after 3 weekends of non-stop music and dancing with the best of ‘em.
For more information of Tropic Fiesta including ticket links, full lineup and times scan the QR codes below.
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E jake@glassonioncreative.com.au
glassonioncreative.com.au
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