We hope you love our second edition of our magazine.
I have likened starting a new magazine in this city to Todd Payten’s first year as coach for the Cowboys – we know we still have a long way to go but stick with us because our amazing team are kicking goals every day. We aim high and need your support to keep doing so. Like our socials, consider advertising with us, or come join us at the many events we are planning for next year.
Mostly though, we want our community to be kind to each other. Especially at this time of year, when some of us get a bit stressed, remember to take some time out in this beautiful city of ours. It doesn’t cost a cent to sit on the beach, walk along the river or walk up Castle Hill (call me if you do, I still haven’t done that yet).
Remember that this is a time for the people you love, so I thought I would share a few tips that can be easy to forget:
+ Put your phone away some days while on holidays or sharing with family (like hidden in a box with a key that you give to a neighbour)
+ Make time for the people you care about
+ Share food with your family and friends (and maybe a Christmas cocktail or two)
+ Remember that supporting local businesses keeps a community strong
+ A gift can be your time
+ Respect everyone’s choices
+ Be kind to staff who miss out on time with their families so you can shop, eat and celebrate
+ If you can, be generous to others who are less fortunate, even if that is donating your time.
From all our wonderful team at The Little Birdie Magazine, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Successful New Year with whatever that means to you. We will be back in February for our Love and Looking Good edition and remember to grab tickets to our “Love Launch” on Valentine’s Day (I know it sounds early to mention that now, but time flies). It will be an event you won’t want to miss!
Take care, drive safely and enjoy our Christmas and Summer edition.
Free city parking during December (and everyone joined a collective sigh of relief)
Tan Lines Distillery is finally here at the Rockpool Pavilion, distilling NQ’s own lines of gin. Congratulations Aaron, brilliant to see!
The Royal Hotel in Stagpole Street, West End has new owners who have taken no time in starting renovations on the old girl. Stay tuned we hear it’s going to be ‘one of the best pubs in Townsville’.
The Mansfield has re-opened its refurbished areas –hold my beer we hear it’s the best beer garden here!
The newly re-opened Empire Hotel has food! It has opened to rave reviews.
Peppers Blue on Blue planning a major update to their outdoor space and have a new Executive Chef, Rob Noij, planning an exciting new menu in the New Year.
Osk Bar has gone to 7 days a week – yay!!
Regus Northtown have a promotion for DecemberLease a meeting room, an office space or the terrace in December and go into the draw to win a dinner for two at Watermark Townsville valued at $150.
Locally designed swimwear company, April Marie, has launched. Orders are online or by appointment. Connect through Facebook.
Check out the new live painting concept launched in Townsville in October for your next event. Contact Faye Studios through Facebook.
Red Hill Collective (fashion, shoes, gifts) are in the process of moving from Hermit Park to its new digs in North Ward, which will also host a café in the old Renegade shop.
Explore Property have moved from South Townsville to Sturt Street in the city.
CopperString project gets go-ahead. Great news for our region.
Manpower 2023 comes to town on January 28th. Check out our events page.
Tickets available now for Tropic Sounds music festival (May 2023).
Tickets for our Love Launch on sale now (Feb 2023).
Got something happening in your business or community group? Let us know email:hello@thelittlebirdiemag.com.au
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 was a local for 15 years before recently moving out west to Mount Isa. As our resident creative genious, 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.
Christine Kelly has tried her hand at everything from journalism to media training, business planning and running what was, at the time, the largest PR consultancy in Brisbane. She enjoys sampling the latest restaurant or patisserie, being a pillion on a very large adventure motorbike with her husband and pottering around their 2&1/2 acres which will one day be self-sustaining, hopefully!
Tradie DJ (Derrick Lunney) – Birdie Music Reviewer & Owner at TLC Maintenance Group Richard Norris – Birdie Wine Reviewer & Owner at Osk Bar
Anna Williams – Birdie Design Column & Owner at Ethos Interiors
Claudia Aubort – Birdie Therapist & Psychotherapist/Self-Awareness Specialist at Claudia Aubort
Ruth Guice – Presentation & Networking Skills Coach at Mouthin Off Academy of Communication & Kick-Assery Master Jan Leese – Qi Consultant
Head Birdie & Storyteller
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.
MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT OUR INTERVIEW WITH UGO BY CLICKING HERE.
I
n our city it’s not difficult to find great local talent to fill the boots of our feature story. This edition, we feature Ugo Kennedy, who fits the bill perfectly as a quirky addition to the creative tribe calling Townsville home. Relatively new to his craft, he is a passion-ista about his bespoke hats, as any artist needs to be and will happily share his story. This chap, with his thick London accent, has become known as Townsville’s very own Mad Hatter.
Creating hats for people, both men and women, from all over the world, his unconventional and bespoke headwear speaks for itself. Colourful and vibrant, with every single one is handcrafted and truly unique.
Having come to the trade a couple of years ago, it was simply by trial and error that he blazed his own trail when he decided to stop feeling sorry for himself during the pandemic that left most of us feeling jilted by life. He began making felt hats in his tiny second bedroom after negotiating the space with his flatmate, who happily agreed.
Thinking about the sweatshops pushing out massive quantities of headwear across the globe, this tradesman has taken time to master his craft and create his own sweatshop, with one labourer (maybe that’s because of the Townsville summers). It is a slow process, but this one-man team works tenaciously to customise and create designs from life inspirations.
When I first met Ugo, he was making two hats a week. He has now increased production to around five hats a week. A necessity due to demand, with quality of the utmost priority. Each hat is lovingly handmade, and he finds that effort and creativity bring him peace.
Before finding his new studio on Flinders Street, Ugo held a full-time job in hospitality. It was a serendipitous conversation with the owners, when he mentioned what he wanted the space for, as the tiny bedroom had become too small, that the universe joined the dots and he prepared to move in.
He had originally moved to Townsville due to an unfortunate family commitment and sadly had the opportunity to meet the famous surgeon, Charlie Teo, whom he speaks highly of. When things didn’t go as well as hoped, Ugo admits he went off the rails for a long time and only found comfort when he started expressing his creativity through his new-found passion.
A bundle of positivity, Ugo proudly tells you his name means ‘God’s Eagle’, and he is flying high right now, ready for what the future brings.
Stay tuned for upcoming and exciting collaborations with Ugo and the Townsville Brewing Company very soon.
Click here to visit Ugo Kennedy’s website
Shop 2, Hyde Park Centre, 36-48 Kings Rd, Hyde Park QLD 4812 houseofflorian.com.au
Great game, designed by a local mum, just for kids. Use the code merrychristmas for a 15% discount. healthylittleeatersgame.com
EM
P. 0422 666 782 facebook.com/thecoloniccoach
Healthy Little Eaters Game. $29.95.
Coffee Trader Pink Ribbon, Rachelle’s Unique Boutique Fashion Show. Danielle Flynn, Alyssa Adams, Alex Jurgens, Natalia Dearnley.
Ladies in Business November Event. Faye Gapit, Natalie Dukes, Laura Carcary, Dimity Louise, Lucy Curtis, Loren Kalis, Donna Glass.
BOQ Aitkenvale ATOS VIP Event. Dione Hughes, Tim Hughes, Amy O’Neill, Andy O’Neill.
Ladies in Business November Event. Estelle Poots, Melanie Hamilton walking the red carpet
Ladies in Business November Event. April Marie Hewat, Dimity Louise, Jenny Bishop - Sponsors
BOQ Aitkenvale ATOS VIP Event. Ross Greatrex, Martin McDonough, Troy Townsend
North Queensland Club Ex-President’s Dinner. Rachelle and Zane Foley
BOQ Aitkenvale ATOS VIP Event. Leela Rolfe, Sheeran Gilmore, Danielle Frakes
Photo by Insight Creative
Photo by Insight Creative
It is fitting that ASADS Amanda’s upcoming exhibition at Murky Waters Studio is called “The Pursuit of Happyness” – opening on February 4, make sure you head there, it will be well worth it.
Amanda is one of those characters that you rarely forget. Her entire persona oozes happiness and positivity. Not long after I had originally met her, she accosted me in the middle of Flinders Street with her two boys. I was running late for a meeting, but do you know what, I was so glad I stopped because for that little moment in time, she brought me a few moments of joy. Everything about Amanda is happy and colourful.
Working as a fulltime teacher and Practising Visual Artist, Amanda’s life is centred around creativity and joy. Like all of us, she suggests there was a pivotal moment in her life when she had that “aha moment”. Two years ago, she lost one of her students. At his ‘Celebration of Life’, she had the opportunity to speak, which was extremely moving for her. She decided at that moment that she
needed to follow her heart and knew that she was ready to begin the dedication to her creative legacy.
While chatting with Amanda I was impressed by her attitude of simply ‘converting life’s hard times into something beautiful’. Not a bad perspective for us all at times.
So, if you want to get into your creative self and have a supportive, positive and colourful mentor, make sure you check out Amanda’s workshops, exhibitions and paint and sips for 2023. Amanda also alluded to some upcoming collaborations into printed fabrics in the fashion world, so make sure you connect and keep following her for updates.
I feel like 2023 might just be the year for us all to do a rewatch of the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” and focus on what gives us joy! Amanda is a wonderful example to follow.
Contact Amanda on here socials by clicking here
AMANDAW ell, this week we decided to give some local brews a review, just in time to enjoy the Christmas spirit and summer holidays. Nothing says summer like an icy cold beer, better still if it is brewed locally. Well known Townsville Brewery and Townsville Brewing Company, have been brewing beer in their beautiful historic building since 2001.
Please check out our review where we have a hardened beer drinker (Richard), a not so savvy beer drinker but keen to give it a try (Josie) and a sophisticated French non-beer drinker, who was prepared to give it a go, with some surprising feedback.
Owners: Daniel Blakeman & Jennifer Lee
Service: Wed – Sun from 5pm (BYO)
Review by: Josie Howard
Review:
I t would be easy to think that a restaurant tucked away on a sleepy island off the coast of North Queensland could be easily forgotten, that is definitely not the case with Saltwater on Magnetic Island.
It is true that the décor is laid back, and you can certainly turn up in shorts and a T-shirt, the weather often dictates that would be the most comfortable attire, but sitting under the fairy lights, in the open air, you know that Dan and Jen, who opened the restaurant right before Covid hit, are onto something special. I could start with the food and Dan’s extensive, global experience as a chef, but first I will pay homage to the excellent customer service. I am a lover of context when it comes to food experiences and Saltwater absolutely hit the mark. Service is managed under the careful eye of Jennifer. Friendly, sophisticated and observant of diners needs. In a world where so many things are fast, this is a place you can truly relax and enjoy every morsel of your meal.
It actually began to rain when we started our meal and we were carefully escorted by staff to a nearby table to avoid the rain drops. The rain was a bit of a relief in fact, as it was one of those hot Sunday’s where a drenching could be refreshing. There was little fuss, smiles and a bit of joking with the staff, which is reflective of Jennifer’s style of keeping things so well organised, staff can relax to enjoy their profession of service.
We allowed the chef to choose share plates for us, to sample their best.
My favourites included Salmon tartare with pickled cucumber, and capers, soy cured yolk, avocado puree, wasabi mayo, tempura seaweed. This was an amazing experience which allowed the cured yolk to break over the salmon.
Portions are generous while being delicately plated and flavour is balanced with some unlikely housemates, served in a delightful fusion for the palate.
Chef Daniel has a long history in the food industry with a passion developed for cooking alongside food heroes such as Neil Perry from Rockpool. He fell into the industry through a girlfriend who was a chef at the well-known Bel Mondo at The Rocks, when he saw that Rockpool needed help. He was initially refused but kept calling everyday for two months before they got sick of hearing his voice and brought him on board as an apprentice with absolutely no cooking skills. It has paid off. This now talented chef deserves accolades for the amazing menu he has produced, the fresh local produce and ingredients he serves and the innovative style he brings to the sleepy island, which easily challenges any restaurant in Townsville or the Big Smoke.
To be honest, I would recommend you pop over for an early dinner from the mainland and head home on the late ferry, any night between Wednesday and Sunday. What an amazing experience it is.
To make a reservation please text your details to 0414 352 762.
20 The Little Birdie Magazine | thelittlebirdiemag.com.au
How you communicate and what you do on social media is a crucial question for couples to address because it’s now a factor in one of every seven divorces. One in five couples have conflict daily due to social media. Important relationship discussions are being thrown back and forth over texts, resulting in misunderstandings and conflict. Not to mention the ‘restaurant couple’, (we’ve all seen them), who spend their date night entirely on their phones. And then there is the break up text. No matter what the situation, when it comes to relationships, you are hurting yourself and others if you are not having meaningful one on one conversations. If you are in a relationship or even dating, it’s important to establish some guidelines around social media, what’s discussed in text messages and what should be reserved for face-toface discussions.
Let’s start with texting. It’s a big no to discussing important relationship topics via text because more often than not it will lead to assumptions and conflict. The best way to deal with the big relationship issues is to be the person to say, “This seems far too important to attempt to resolve via text or a
phone call, let’s sit down and talk about it.” Text and even a phone call eliminates the ability to see the impact of a certain issue on your significant other. When you speak face to face, it provides the opportunity to connect or even provide comfort to each other during difficult conversations. It also validates the importance of your relationship because you are willing to take the time for a more meaningful discussion.
Then there is social media and the question that comes up a lot. “Why is the person I love following all these men or women on Instagram?” The short answer to that is this. What is acceptable for you? What will you tolerate and what crosses the line? Have this discussion with your significant other taking into consideration what might be affecting them. Ask yourself is it worth sacrificing your relationship simply because you want to follow certain people on social media? Are you avoiding the issues you have in your current relationship through flirtation on social media? Start by checking your screen time and just how much energy you are investing into social media as opposed to spending time with your partner.
My final world is don’t fall into the ‘relationship neglect’ trap. Relationships require investment and if technology and social media become bigger then the importance of intimate and meaningful conversation in yours, the end destination might not be what you expect. Sit down and decide on guidelines, (dare I mention to please do this face to face), because it will likely save you from being the one in seven.
CLAUDIA AUBORT
Founder - The Therapy Destination, Psychotherapist/Couples Therapist
BA CHC / Dip Relationship Therapy
Click to visit Claudias website
W ell, they say never work with children or animals, but can I say, Aggie from Angel Paws was an absolute delight to have in for a Pink Chair Chat, and Natalie of course, her carer.
Angel Paws is a well-established animal adoption agency , based locally who care for animals who can no longer stay in their homes, who have been rescued and are usually animals that would normally be rejected.
Homing over 200 animals at any time throughout the year, they hold regular adoption days and fundraisers, to help keep the animals alive and retrained, so they can find their new forever homes.
Meeting with Natalie Kruss, their new Fundraising Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, was uplifting. Angel Paws have three fulltime staff and a whole load of volunteers. They are currently going through some big changes that will see some new property added to their assets which will allow them to operate a boarding kennel, in addition to their existing cattery located at Kelso.
The purpose of the new kennel is to provide immediate shelter for some animals but also to look at a sustainable funding model for the charity, so they can continue to do their wonderful work in the community caring for our furry friends.
+ Littlefoot Cafe and Bar, 807 Flinders St
Dirty Boots Cafe, 1 Staging Camp Avenue, Oonoonba
Tobruk Kiosk, 72 The Strand
The Old Railway Cafe, 520 Flinders St,
The Beet Bar, 1/21 Stokes St
Born Wild Wholefoods and Espresso, 383 Flinders St
Pedlar Project, 320-334 Flinders Street,
Cafe Bambini Verde, 445 Flinders St
The Tree House, North Ward
Juliette’s North Ward
The Coffee Club Cafe, The Strand
Vitti Cafe on Gregory, 42 Mitchell St, North Ward
Skull and Swallow Cafe, 44-46 Allen St South Townsville
Absolute Cravings, Tumbetin Lodge, 555 University Rd, Annandale Click here for more pooch friendly places
W
e have such descriptive names for groups of birds - a murder of crows, a parliament of owls, a squadron of pelicans and my personal favourite, a flamboyance of flamingos!
It got me thinking. What would you call a group of Townsvillians?
A ‘castle’ of? A ‘strand’ of? A ‘flood’ of Townsvillians, perhaps? I’d love to hear your thoughts on a collective noun for us all.
Anyhoo, one thing that we Townsvillians do a lot of, is flocking together. There is almost an embarrassment of different networking events. The question is, are you using them to your advantage?
I have seen many nervous souls, sporting a deer-in-the-headlights stare, hovering around the outskirts of a networking event, clearly contemplating whether to do a runner. You are my people!
Seriously, Townsville is at its best when we network, collaborate and support – so don’t be shy, get some networking into your diary for the new year.
Click here to contact Ruth via LinkedIn
I
t’s the season of festivity so here are some feng shui tips and information. Everywhere you look you see the colour red just like the celebrations for lunar new year. In traditional feng shui red is the colour of celebration, it relates to the element of fire, the season of summer, the triangle shape and to the middle-aged woman, as well as passion, entertainment, glamour, our heart, and eyes. Our Christmas trees are generally the shape of a triangle with red decorations on them, plus they have sparkling lights – there’s plenty of the fire element in a Christmas tree. As all this fire can cause some ‘heat’ and we already hot enough in Townsville, ensure you bring some balance with plenty of other cooler colours.
When putting your Christmas tree up don’t put it in the centre or southwest of the home this year, if possible, put it in the south, east or southeast of the home. Or put it in the south, southeast or east corner of a room. Help lift the unseen qi (and therefore our own energy) by ensuring there are some decorations up high and not all on eye or ground level.
Having a round or oval table rather than square or rectangular helps to improve communication at the Christmas table – have
something in the middle that everyone can enjoy and that shows a celebration. The idea is to create a mutual sharing space.
As this can be a very busy yang period you want to ensure there are some soft gentle yin spaces in your home to create a restorative space for balance whenever you need it, for example a cosy chair with a nice garden view to have your morning cup of tea.
Get ahead now and start decluttering before you add more items to the house and then once Christmas is over declutter again ready for lunar new year. We want the lunar new year to begin in an uncluttered and clean home to help welcome in the new energy (ie before 22nd January 2023)
Your front door is the mouth of qi to your home, ensure it is clean and uncluttered so the qi can easily flow in and around the home. You also want to make it welcoming – this is where a Christmas door wreath or other similar welcome visual is a good idea. Set the tone right from outside your front door.
Remember doing good deeds, being kind, donating to charity all improve our own man luck. Christmas is the ideal time to help those less fortunate and if you have nothing to give donate your blood it could be the most grateful gift every received.
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.
Welcome to Yunbenun, the island jewel just off the mainland from Townsville. This sleepy island has a long history with the Wulgurukaba ‘canoe people’ and is now home to about 2,500 locals who are fiercely protective of this captivating get-away. Known to most of us as Maggie Island, it was renamed by Captain James Cook who believed the island’s granite boulders possessed a magnetic force that interfered with the compass on his ship the “Endeavour”. Not a bad place to be ship wrecked, but thankfully the ferries to get you there have a 100% success rate these days. This small island is only about seven kilometres by five kilometres and has over 25 kms of walking tracks. There are 23 bays and beaches, not all accessible by car, and historical sites and views that are breathtaking. The weather is consistent, with highs between 25 – 32 degrees, which gives you swimming weather all year round. We headed over for a day, to check out some of the eateries and shopping, but will definitely be doing a nature trip to share soon. One thing about this magnificent island, one day is simply not long enough. If you are lucky enough to be a Townsville local,
it’s an easy day trip you could put on your monthly outings. If you are from out of town, take the time to spend a few days or weeks here. I seem to meet a lot of island locals who come for a quick visit and their vacation turns into a staycation.
After booking our accommodation through Best of Magnetic, Renee and the team are fantastically helpful, we headed over on a Sunday with our car and crew on Magnetic Island Ferries. This ferry takes both passengers and cars, and it is advisable to book early during peak seasons. There is a kiosk onboard, and the staff are helpful and friendly.
Although you don’t necessarily need a car on the island, the local bus service is cheap and has consistent buses travelling between Nelly Bay, Arcadia, Picnic Bay, Horseshoe Bay and all the stops in-between, it can help to get to places in a timely way and off the beaten track.
Well as we drove off the car ferry our first stop was pretty close. Peppers Blue on Blue Resort is right at the marina.
I may be a little biased, but I don’t think so. This resort is so perfectly placed. You can step off the ferry and walk straight in. Having enjoyed a few trips across on the ferry just to come to dinner and head back afterwards, it was great to meet up with the new management team at this beautifully located resort, to catch up on upcoming plans and grab a quick buffet breakfast enroute.
There are some great improvements planned for the resort, including updating the stunning deck facing the marina, and a fresh new menu to be rolled out by new Executive Chef, Rob Noij in the coming months.
Don’t expect a massive redevelopment, but more a slow, considered approach to creating a new atmosphere, to entice and engage the locals and tourists alike.
Stay watching this space as new General Manager, Patrick Grant works with Johnathon McMahon, Interior Designer and the most recent addition, Executive Chef, Rob Noij who promises a menu based on local food with a Mexican/Asian fusion – Sounds interesting.
For more information and updates on the resort head to peppersblueonblueresort.com.au
Check out our interview with Johnathon and Rob here
Step out of Peppers and cross the foyer and you have a fabulous beauty and massage spa that has been a part of the resort for a while, formerly as Endota Spa.
Having recently taken over Marissa Haller, bought the business to complement her existing spa on the mainland and is working on some changes.
One of the big changes, apart from some renovations in the near future, is the focus on remedial massage for men and women.
At the moment they are unable to offer walk-ins consistently, but if you book an appointment, they will ensure your beauty and massage needs are taken care of.
For more information or to make a booking go to balancebeauty.com.au
Checkout our interview with Marissa here
Well, what a find this place is. Mandy Dittman and Richard and Barbara McArthur have created something special here. Cocktails, tapas, share plates, pizza and a great wine menu - How could you go wrong?
If you’re a Maggie local then you will know that it is the old French place, which has had a complete European style makeover. There are no fancy, creamy French dishes on the menu, this place exudes easy, tasty, fresh food and drinks to share with friends. Their pickled dishes are hand-made and all their ingredients are fresh and sourced as locally as possible.
As well as this, super-chilled but sophisticated bar they also team up to run the bakery next door. Expect the bread to be very yummy and fresh. Barbara also let a secret out, that with notice she can make specialty cakes on request. They look stunning.
Do yourself a favour and head to this bar for a cruisy afternoon. It is a must do!
For more information head to granitemagneticisland.com
Check out our interview with Richard and Molly here
Well, I hate to admit it but I have become a Maggie Island bingo junkie. Not for the game itself, but the beautiful community spirit it embraces with the locals and tourists stopping for lunch or a quick afternoon drink. Held on Sundays at 2.30pm, you can bunker in for a free game of bingo and classic entertainment from Arthur, who knows his bingo, and the locals, inside out. Keep focussed though, make a mistake and you may have to shout the bar a beer.
For more information for what’s on at the hotel head at arcadiavillagehotel.com
Well, Derrick got lucky this Sunday – check out the video here
Hidden from the street, in true island style, this oasis of creative retail and work away from home space, is a little gem. I chatted with Georgie from Jorg Creative to get an idea of what is happening in this eclectic island space. It is worth checking out if you love your coffee and fresh juice, some retail therapy or want to explore an innovative creative space, or place to catch up on some work while on holidays. The brainchild of Frankie Ratford, full time adventurer and lover of design, walking through the property, you feel like home with a creative tingle in your spine. For more details about The Jungle Club, visit jungleclub.com.au WHO
Watch the video with Jorjie Kercher from Jorg Creative here
Owners: Sarah & Tyson Reeve (and Elsie, Edie and Arlo)
Purchased: November 2021
Features: 3 bed, 2 bath, 1 powder room, disability access and internal elevator, swimming pool, large kitchen with all modern features, large deck facing the ocean, office space, heaps of storage and utilities room.
Key Feature: Location, frontage to Picnic Bay
Rates: $670 per night (low season) $730 per night (high season) at the time of going to print
Availability: Through Best of Magnetic – (07) 4778 5955`
There are many beautiful homes in Townsville, but only a few are located in such a dazzling location, with perfect views of the Coral Sea across from Picnic Bay. There are no roads to obscure, or shops, or really, that many people that manage to cross the path of the view from the pool and front deck. It is within metres of the sand at Picnic Bay.
Sarah and Tyson Reeve, who purchased the home in November 2021, bought the property as a get-away for the family during Covid, but realised that their ability to use the property was often enough limited by their busy careers and young family while living on the mainland. They decided to share the property
with visitors to the island so the vibrant energy families and holidaymakers bring into the home, ensured the atmosphere in the house never felt stale.
Tyson suggested that was almost not the case, when the grandparents moved in to help rejuvenate the property with fresh paint and maintenance, but recognised rather quickly how alluring the lifestyle and property were, and didn’t really want to leave. They did, but the family regularly block the home out for their own family too.
At first glance it seems that the name of the property has been misspelt, but I was assured that wasn’t the case. The home has actually
CLICK
Click here to make a booking at EEAST on Picnic
been named as an acronym of each person’s name in the family: Elsie, Edie. Arlo, Sarah & Tyson which is rather quirky and sweet.
EEAST on Picnic is a beautifully designed home. It is also designed for intergenerational living. All access externally has ramps and internally there is an elevator, which stays locked unless requested to be used. There is something about elevators that makes you want to constantly press the buttons, especially in a private residence.
Even the toilets have an extra seat for toddlers, which I no longer need but do appreciate for young families it is a bonus. There are some styling changes they would like to make, and they are planning another major renovation in the next couple of years.
With strong family ties locally, it would be easy to see why Tyson and Sarah chose Magnetic Island as their investment choice, instead of one of the big metropolitan cities. They have the best of both worlds: a holiday house they can stay in, 20 minutes from home when they have the time, and a great beachfront investment they can share with other holiday makers throughout the year. Their long-term plan likely includes relocating to the island, and with all grandparents now located in Townsville, it seems the island may look forward to some new island-locals in the coming years.
Project: CGM Residence
Completed: 2022
Nestled into the quiet streets of Hermit Park this CGM Residence was designed as a quiet coastal oasis. This beautifully renovated family home is carefully private, with a long hallway leading you under sea-glass pendants, until it opens expansively onto the large deck and open plan living area, which overlooks neighbouring parklands.
Naturally, the kitchen is the hero of the open plan living area, featuring a raked ceiling and oversized central island which has become the focal point of life for the owners; a spot to cook, entertain and dine, right in the heart of the home.
The design has been inspired by driftwood tones, showcasing soft colours in shades of white, cream, grey, green and blue and finished in a contemporary coastal style which was a collaborative effort between our designer and the effortlessly stylish clients. After many concepts, the final layout was chosen for its ability to keep the sink and oven along the back wall. This allowed the creation of a central island of impressive dimensions, which is a dream addition to prepare and serve food, do homework and much more. Due to the depth and size of the island, additional storage was incorporated seamlessly under the benchtop to include a wine fridge and hidden cupboards.
BRANDS FEATURED:
+ Brushed Nickel Tapware from ABI Interiors
+ Joinery by Acacia Kitchens, Design by Ethos Interiors
+ White Truffle benchtops from Stone Ambassador, Townsville Stone
The soft beige of the cabinetry creates a warm glow when combined with the stunning hardwood floors. Timber open shelves were used to break up the expanse of cabinetry and provide a display space for the clients’ collection of pottery. Texture was added with the hand chipped marble splash-back and the rattan pantry handles. Long term maintenance and easy-care finishes were selected to ensure that this family home remains timeless and loved as it evolves and grows with its family. WATCH THE VIDEO TO FIND
Click here to visit the Ethos Interiors webste
I think we first met at a networking event. In Townsville that is the most likely scenario for business women to meet other professional women. A chance opportunity to have a conversation with someone who stood slightly back, but seemed keen to engage and she certainly exudes a bubbly personality.
When I first met Natalia, we exchanged a conversation about our reasons for moving to Townsville. I had moved here a few years earlier and she had only recently moved here and was looking to grow her career in real estate. After a number of years in London, she was looking for an Australian regional city to call home. Townsville ticked all of her boxes, it was her ‘paradise’.
Like most newbies to Townsville, we were both, and still are, excited by what this beautiful city offers. This was a great
opportunity to catch up with Natalie and see how her career had progressed under the careful tutelage of one of Townsville’s most respected agents, Sally Elliott of Smith and Elliott Real Estate. Natalia has shown herself to be an exceptional student, and is now growing her own wings to fly in this demanding industry.
One of the things that has always impressed me about Natalia is her resilience in overcoming difficult situations and to focus on success. This translates well for her career in real estate. I guarantee that her focus is on achieving the best outcomes for both property owners and buyers.
Her previous experience included relationship management at a major US bank in London , where she lived for more than 20 years. She has translated her people skills to becoming, rather quickly, one of the most well-known agents in the area.
As well as a burgeoning career in real estate, Natalia has established herself as an active supporter of many local charities, both in attending events and actively helping organisers as a willing volunteer model for charity fashion parades. She is growing a
strong following on social media and shares stories about her family and things they like to do. It is almost like a very active event calendar that keeps you up to date with what is happening in our fantastic city, and she is living it every day with her two beautiful children.
Natalia has a determination to help people to both sell or buy a home that suits their lifestyle. Her service is exceptional, and she has a flair for social media marketing and connecting people to properties that are perfect for their family’s needs.
Natalia has a determination to help people to both sell or buy a home that suits their lifestyle. Her service is exceptional, and she has a flair for social media marketing and connecting people to properties that are perfect for their family’s needs.
Click here to get in touch with Natalia
At BOQ Aitkenvale, we believe that successful banking is all about relationships. That’s why I’ll be there to support you through your home loan process. From completing your application right down to purchase and set tlement, I’ll be there to help you every step of the way.
FREE BANJO BREAKY (RUNS EVERY 2 WEEKS) FOR ADF PERSONNEL
The Oasis Townsville 1 Staging Camp Camp Oonoonba 11
MAKE YOUR OWN GINGERBREAD HOUSE FUNDRAISER
VIRTUOUS VARIETALS WINE TASTING @ OSK Osk Bar
FLINDERS STREET CRAFT & CHAT - PERSONALISED BAUBLES Flinders Street Library STABLE AT RIVERWAY Riverway Precinct
SANTA @ THE OASIS TOWNSVILLE (TOT)
Townsville Brass Band Hall, 60 Morehead Street, South Townsville QLD 4810 13
The Oasis Townsville 1 Staging Camp Camp Oonoonba
TEXTILE TREES
Perc Tucker Gallery
14
WATER COLOUR ART GROUP
The Oasis Townsville 1 Staging Camp Camp Oonoonba
BUSH PARTY
Townsville Senior Citizens Club
MILONGA! TANGO DANCE PARTY AT HERITAGE EXCHANGE! Heritage Exchange 16
CAROLS SPECTACULAR - WONDER
Calvary
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS Cowboys Leagues Club 22
ROSTRATA CHRISTMAS EVENT Rostrata - Tropical Scene, Belgian Gardens
MOVIE NIGHT: G OLDSTONE Aitkenvale Library 23
TOWNSVILLE FIRE V MELBOURNE BOOMERS
Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre, Townsville, Australia
GIG @ THE BREWERY The Brewery, Flinders Street
NICKY NIGHT TIME
RIVERWAY MOVIE NIGHTS | SPACE JAM: A NEW LEGACY Riverway Precinct 17
Otherwise Bar
CRANKD CHRISTMAS SHOP RIDE
Douglas Mountain Bike Reserve
SECRET SANTA $10K GIVEAWAY
Cowboys League Club, Flinders Street
TOWNSVILLE KAYAK CLUB CHRISTMAS PADDLE Nathan Street Bridge 18
VIRTUOUS VARIETALS WINE TASTING @ OSK Osk Bar
FLINDERS STREET CRAFT & CHAT
- PERSONALISED BAUBLES
Flinders Street Library
STABLE AT RIVERWAY Riverway Precinct
CHRISTMAS DAY AT THE WATERMARK The Watermark, The Strand 31
SOL BAR NYE PARTY | UNDERGROUND
ELECTRONIC MUSIC Molly Malone’s Irish Pub
CELEBRATE NEW YEARS 22/23 - FREE LIVE MUSIC City Lane & City Arcade
MAGNETIC ISLAND NYE PARTY (FREE ENTRY) Magnetic Island NYE @ ANELAY Anelay, The Strand
NYE HAVANA NIGHTS @ THE BREWPUB The Brewery, Flinders Street NYE DISCO AND DIMSUM @ THE BANQUET CENTRE The Banquet Centre
ISLAND LIFE NYE 2022 FT - INTERUPT Nelly Bay Road, Nelly Bay
1500KS FOR UKRAINE Aplin’s Weir NYE 2022 - FEED ME BEFORE THE PARTY! Shorehouse, The Strand
NYE CELEBRATIONS
Dalrymple Hotel 28th April 2023
You’re not taking the Kingswood many Gen X’ers will recall. No, we are not, but Kingswood are coming to Townsville. The band, that is. And just like the iconic Aussie TV show and the legendary Aussie-made car, Kingswood are establishing themselves as an iconic Aussie rock band.
Formed in Melbourne, in 2007, this fourpiece slab are becoming highly regarded, establishing a career and legacy for themselves as an electrifying and dynamic touring band for well over a decade. They burst onto the scene in 2012 with the release of three singles, “Yeah Go Die”, “Medusa” and “She’s My Baby” and were named Triple J’s unearthed winners.
The Triple J win led the group to tour with some of Australia’s biggest bands. Now, after the release of their first two albums, they have earnt themselves a stack of fans across the country and the globe, and have toured with major acts like AC/DC and Aerosmith. They recently released their first new song in more than two and a half years titled “Burning Holes” and have also announced their fourth studio album “Home” to be released in February 2023. I am confident that the new album will be full of wickedly melodic guitar licks, thunderous drums and basslines so deep that you will feel it deep inside your soul. Typical of the Kingswood sound and style.
To support this album release, the band have announced a massive tour with over 70 concerts scheduled. This will see the band undertake more shows than any other on record in the history of Australia.
“Burning Holes” features an acoustic Americana style with fingerpicking guitar and heartfelt vocals. The group have stated that the single revolves around themes of solace, resolve and independence. The music
echoes the writing of classic country tropes where sorrow and hope clash in a beautiful duet. This is hands down the best writing to come from the Kingswood camp in recent times and heralds a significant return to form for the critically acclaimed four-piece. “Burning Holes” was recorded live, all in one performance, dedicated and honest, and the track genesis was incredibly straightforward – set up, play and sing. They just kept playing until one of the performances felt reflective of everything they wanted to achieve emotionally, and what you hear is exactly that. Musically and lyrically, Kingswood sound more sonically and emotionally aligned than ever due to the competence of rich acoustic and vocal harmonies.
Kingswood are a stripped-down, no bullshit, punch in the face of everything that is Aussie rock. There are no computers, no synths, and no production tricks – just a bunch of dudes playing their instruments hard, fast and loud. The band will be bringing their unique rock’n’roll to the Dalrymple Hotel on the 28th of April. Tickets are on sale now and are under $40. If you haven’t got around Kingswood before their upcoming tour and new album is definitely the place to start. Kingswood are renowned for getting the crowd pumping and will not disappoint. So, if you want to rock out, pound a beer and blow an eardrum, then get this, load up and let loose.
Click here for tickets to see Kingswood live
