Core Life Magazine Jul/Aug 2022 Issue

MONEY MATTERS

From the Experts

Home, Property & Garden Make Me Over

TRIPPING MAGAZINE Flip this Book To Have A Look!

STAGING PLAN GF & J Challoner

CLIENT:

SITE ADDRESS:

77 Telford Road Strathdickie

D

ROA

REAL PROPERTY DESCRIPTION 46 SP198041 DRYANDER HERBERT 34.33HA

Lot: on: Parish of: County of: Area: Local Authority: Locality: Horizontal Datum: Vertical Datum:

13

12

1.26 ha

14

15

4534 m²

2.18 ha

STAGE 3 11

AVAILABLE

TELFORD

1.04 ha

Staging Plan Lots 1 - 17 Cancelling Lot 46 on SP198041

17 10

9

0.85 ha

2916 m²

UNDER CONTRACT

9.18 ha

5120 m²

SOLD

Strathdickie MGA AHDD

TITLE:

STAGE 1

1.13 ha

16

WHITSUNDAY.R.C

8

2597 m²

3 5342 m²

7 4194 m²

4 5025 m²

2 4027m²

STAGE 2

5

This plan is prepared from a combination of field survey and existing records for the purpose of designing new constructions on the land and should not be used for any other purpose. The title boundaries shown hereon were not marked by the author at the time of survey and have been determined by plan dimensions only and not by field measurement. Services shown hereon have been located where possible by field survey. If not able to be located, services may have been plotted from the records of relevant authorities where available.

Prior to any demolition, excavation or construction on the site, the relevant authority should be contacted for possible location of further underground services and detailed locations of all services. This note is an integral part of this plan.

5212 m²

1

6

1.76 ha

11.53 ha

SOLD

RO

STAGES 2 & 3 ARE NOW AVAILABLE

MOON CRES.

AD

ROAD

FOR SALE Moon Crescent, Strathdickie | | | |

FE

RN

With only the one lot available in Stage 1 we are pleased to now offer stages 2 and 3 with varying size blocks and outlooks.

Power will be brought to the front of the lot and generous building envelopes allow for the dream home with pool and sheds.

• Privacy and views up high with • 10 mins drive to picturesque Airlie • Block prices are available upon protected forest covenants Beach, Whitsundays request • Sizes of available blocks range • Registration of blocks expected • Whisper quiet location with sealed from 2,916m2 to 2.18 ha Sept 2022 ready for you to build road

Airlie Beach

Mackay

Townsville Rockhampton

SE QLD

PRICE: From $220,000 E: admin@visionsurveysqld.com.au

P : 13000VISION

CONTACT:DATE: Brad Sobott 0411 236 507 SCALE: brad@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au DESIGNED:

Drawing No: 10114-SP1

Rev. A

Grandeur Meets Style The flawless indoor/outdoor flow with plenty of natural light creates a calming, seaside mood that automatically relaxes you, oozing a holiday-vibe with the ocean so close you can breathe in the fresh salty sea air.

• • • • •

Unobstructed sea views Vast open plan living 400m2 internal floor space 2 Entertaining decks with wet edge pool 1,955m2 block

FOR SALE 32/119 Botanica Drive, Woodwark CONTACT: Rhett Nelson 0499 009 855 rhett@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

6

5

4

BED BATH CAR

98 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale 2 | www.corelife.com.au

www.taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

4858 1000

From concept to installation We manage all stages of your engineering project Key Solutions Group (KSG) proudly provides clients an end-to-end service including design, draft, R.P.E.Q engineering, certification, fabrication and onsite installation.

Offering a wide range of services, from complete mining systems to coal preparation plants and uniquely engineered equipment for all mining, material handling, port facilities, sugar and government agencies. Key Solutions Group is committed to working closely with clients to tailor make solutions which suit their need and budget. With new extended workshop capability with 126T cranes, the fabrication division can do even more.

From initial concept to final installation KSG are able to manage all stages of your engineering project whilst remaining dedicated to ensuring a smooth process.

Our Mission

Our Vision

As a values driven business our professional team provides Engineering and Support Services with a commitment to Safety, Quality and Delivery.

Key Solutions Group – Your Future. Projects, People, Problems Solved.

52-58 Gateway Drive, Paget, QLD 4740 | 07 4952 2119 admin@keysolgroup.com.au | keysolgroup.com.au

www.corelife.com.au | 3

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4 | www.corelife.com.au

Open 7 Days Lunch 11.30am-2.00pm Dinner 5.00pm Till Late

THAI, SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIAN CUISINE ENTREE 1.

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Spring Rolls (4) Vegetarian Spring Rolls (4) Dim Sim (4) Coconut Prawns (4) Curry Puffs (4) Money Bags (4) Chicken Satay Skewers (4) Fried Gow Gee (4) Fish Cake (4) Stuffed Prawn Cutlets (4) Prawn Crackers Mixed Entree (4) Sang Choy Bow

$ 6.90 $ 6.90 $ 8.90 $ 10.90 $ 6.90 $ 8.90 $ 8.90 $ 7.90 $ 7.90 $ 11.90 $ 3.90 $ 10.90 $ 14.90

SOUP 14. Tom Yum (Hot & Sour Soup) Chicken/Vegetables - $ 8.90 Prawns - $ 10.90 15. Tom Kam (Hot & Sour Coconut Milk Soup) Chicken/Vegetables - $ 8.90 Prawns - $ 10.90 16. Wonton Soup $ 9.50 17. Laksa Noodle Soup Chicken - $ 17.90 Prawns - $ 19.90

THAI BBQ DISHES 18. Thai Beef Salad 19. Thai BBQ Chicken 20. Thai BBQ Pork

$ 17.90 $ 17.90 $ 17.90

CURRY DISHES

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Chicken / Beef / Pork / Mixed Vegetables Fish / Prawns / Seafood Combination Roast Duck Green Curry (gang kiew wahn) Red Curry (gang dang) Pangang Curry (mild red curry) Yellow Curry (karee curry) Massaman Curry (sweet curry) Jungle Curry (hot curry) Malaysian Nyonya Curry Singapore Hot Curry

$ 18.90 $ 21.90 $ 23.90

36. King Prawns Singapore Style $ 21.90 37. Salt & Pepper Chicken - $ 17.90 Calamari - $ 18.90 King Prawns - $ 21.90 38. Sesame Honey Chicken - $ 17.90 King Prawns - $ 21.90 39. Thai Cashew Nut Scallops $ 23.90 40. Scallops & Ginger Shallots $ 23.90 41. Sizzling Crispy Steak - $ 19.90 Pork - $ 19.90 42. Sautéed Steak with Green Vegetables $ 19.90 43. Black Pepper Steak $ 19.90 44. Emperors Chicken $ 16.90 45. Golden Fortune Chicken $ 17.90 46. Dry Fried Green Beans with Chicken $ 17.90 47. Combination Omelette $ 21.90 48. Combination Chow Mein $ 21.90 49. Buddhists Delight $ 18.90

(Fried or Braised)

(Malaysian Style)

58. Kung Pao Chicken

(Hot or Not Hot)

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Thai Oyster Beef Thai Chilli & Bail Beef Satay Beef Sambal Beef (Malaysian Style) Mongolian Beef

CHEF’SRECOMMENDATIONS

PORK

29. Sizzling Island Seafood 30. Combination Seafood Singapore Style 31. Roast Duck in Hot Pot 32. Thai Red Curry Duck 33. Roast Duck with Tofu Mushroom (In Hot Pot) 34. Fried Duck in Plum Sauce 35. Sizzling Garlic King Prawns

$ 21.90

66. Thai Sweet & Sour Pork

$ 21.90 $ 23.90 $ 23.90

67. Thai Oyster BBQ Pork 68. Satay BBQ Pork 69. Pork Spare Ribs with Plum Sauce (Fried) 70. BBQ Pork with Plum Sauce

(Fried or Braised)

$ 23.90 $ 23.90 $ 21.90

$ 18.90 $ 17.90 $ 17.90 $ 17.90 $ 17.90 $ 18.90 $ 17.90 $ 17.90 $ 18.90

BEEF 59. Black Bean Sauce 60. Thai Cashew Nut Beef

Shop 2, 24 River Street, Mackay | Full Licensed

(Malaysian Style)

76. Garlic & Pepper Prawns 77. Kung Pao Prawns

$ 21.90 $ 20.90 $ 21.90 $ 20.90 $ 20.90 $ 20.90 $ 21.90

VEGETABLES MEALS 78. Vegetables Stir-fried with (sauce) $ 17.90 1. Oyster 2. Garlic 3. Cashew (Sweet Chilli)

NOODLES & RICE 79. Pad Thai 80.

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Chicken - $ 16.90 Prawns - $ 19.90 Thai Basil Noodles Chicken (Hot) $ 16.90 Fried Kau Teow (Chicken, BBQ Pork) $ 16.90 King Prawn Fried Rice $ 16.90 Singapore Noodles $ 16.90 $ 15.90

(Prawns, Chicken, BBQ Pork)

50. Thai Cashew Nut Chicken

55. Satay Chicken 56. Sambal Chicken (Malaysian Style) 57. Garlic & Butter Chicken

(Hot or Not Hot)

72. Thai Chilli & Basil Prawns 73. Satay Prawns 74. Sambal Prawns (Malaysian Style) 75. Garlic & Butter Prawns

84. Nasi Goreng

CHICKEN

51. Thai Oyster Chicken 52. Thai Chilli & Basil Chicken 53. Thai Garlic & Pepper Chicken 54. Thai Sweet & Sour Chicken

71. Thai Cashew Nut Prawns

(Prawns, Chicken, BBQ Pork)

STIR FRIED MEALS (Hot or Not Hot)

KING PRAWNS

$ 17.90 $ 18.90 $ 17.90 $ 17.90 $ 18.90 $ 18.90 $ 18.90

$ 17.90 $ 18.90 $ 18.90 $ 19.90 $ 18.90

WE VER E D LI

85. Thai Chicken Fried Rice $ 15.90 86. Egg Shallot Fried Rice $ 13.90 87. Phoenix Special Fried Rice (Prawns, Chicken, Roast Pork) Large - $13.90 Medium - $ 11.90 Small - $ 9.90 88. Steamed Jasmine Rice Large - $ 7.90 Medium - $ 6.90 Small - $ 5.90 89. Coconut Rice Large - $ 9.90 Medium - $ 8.90 Small - $6.90

FAMILY PACKS PACK A

$49.80

Spring Roll (4) Massaman Curry Beef Thai Cashew Nut Chicken Phoenix Special Fried Rice

PACK B

$51.80

Spring Roll (4) Thai Sweet & Sour Pork Mongolian Beef Phoenix Special Fried Rice

PACK C

$71.80

Spring Roll (4) Curry Puffs (4) Thai Sweet & Sour Pork Mongolian Beef Pad Thai Chicken Phoenix Special Fried Rice

PACK D

$91.80

Spring Roll (4) Curry Puffs (4) Massaman Curry Beef Thai Cashew Nut Chicken Garlic & Pepper Prawns Pad Thai Chicken www.corelife.com.au Phoenix Special Fried Rice

| 5

Most affordable land available in Cannonvale.

12 lots already under contract

Andy Camm 0458 666 670 Amy Sumner 0448 622 623 6 | www.corelife.com.au

Cleaning up around your house, farm or business?

You can bring in your old whitegoods, scrap metal, old cars or machinery We’ll pay you CA$H on the spot!

Got a big load of scrap metal to move?

Call us about getting scrap bins or a truck pick-up

COMMERCIAL AND FARM CLEAN-UPS

1300 028 922

6 Crichtons Rd, Paget Qld 4740 www.corelife.com.au | 7

Share the Yacht, Live the Dream

The First Syndicate is SOLD

New Yacht on Offer

Achieve your dreams sooner with a yacht share Our first Bali 4.4 is sold. The good news is we have another of these beautiful yachts available for 7 lucky owners, (one share is already sold), scheduled to arrive in April 2023.

Eight lucky owners are about to begin enjoying a new lifestyle on this modern million-dollar yacht located at Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach. Free to follow their dreams in the warm tropical north in the months April to late October and then explore south from her home in Port Stephens for the summer months. We have signed a summer contract which will give our owners access to Port Stephens, Pittwater and Sydney Harbour and are looking forward to enabling all our owners a walk on walk off experience of luxury and adventure.

Contact Trevor Joyce on 0412 295 656 trevor@marinerboating.com.au or www.yachtsharemariner.com 8 | www.corelife.com.au

CONTENTS

JUL/AUG

2022

10 - 21

SOCIAL LIFE From music festivals to art and entertainment, find out what’s on, who to see and where to be this winter.

22- 28 BUSINESS LIFE Hear from those in the know, meet colourful characters in business and find out from tourism and local council about the issues affecting you in your area.

29 – 39 MONEY MATTERS It’s tax time! Our industry experts put their money where their mouths are and offer the best advice in taxation, home loans, investments and finance.

39 - 55 HOME PROPERTY & GARDEN REEF ELECTRICAL CELEBRATES 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS From security and software to gardening and electrical, discover a world of wonder waiting for you at home. Create the oasis of your dreams in your backyard or convert your shed into a space-age man cave.

56 – 73 KEY SOLUTIONS 15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY A turn-key solutions provider with an attitude of ‘there’s no problem we can’t solve’, Key Solutions Group provides end-to-end service to unlock the potential of projects. Meet the future of engineering and the people behind the problem solving.

74 - 75 MIND, BODY & SOUL Check in on your mental health, discover the latest trends in beauty and meet Breanna, the winner of our glamourous makeover.

On the Cover A turn-key solutions provider with an attitude of ‘there’s no problem we can’t solve’, Key Solutions Group provides end-to-end service to unlock the potential of projects.

Meet Director Frank Attard and read how a one-man engineering business transformed into one of Mackay’s most dynamic, with an imprint in all corners of the community, from the largest mining companies to the smallest sports teams.

CORE PUBLISHING AND EVENTS PTY LTD p. 0429 035 046 e. sales@corelife.com.au

COMING NEXT ISSUE SEP/OCT 2022

Couples In Business WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN GET A FREE

FULL PAGE EDITORIAL ON YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER!* Including: Themed Photo Shoot | hair and Make Up | Journalism

LIMITED PLACEMENTS AVAILABLE BOOK NOW

CONTACT US TODAY!

Editor In Chief: Rebecca Douthwaite bec@corelife.com.au Managing Editor: Rachael Smith rachael@corelife.com.au Production: Marc Evans Tarnate | Taylor Trewartha | Rebecca Douthwaite | Crissy Bottrell Sales Managers: Michael McCann michael@corelife.com.au | Jess Clark jess@corelife.com.au Accounts Manager: accounts@corelife.com.au Writers: Amanda Wright | Rachael Smith | Declan Durrant Sam Gillespie Photography: R Jean Photography robyn@rjeanphotography.com | Alyce Holzy Photography alyceholzy.com Styling: Make-up: Loll Doll Make-up 0415 987 843 Funk It Up 0402 258 416 Styling: Hair Adam & Eve Hair 4949 2711 | Funk It Up 0402 258 416 Post Production: Norina Jane norinajane@whitpro.com.au Cover: Design: Core Publishing Photographer: Norina Jane norinajane@whitpro.com.au Model: Frank Attard Publishers Indemnity. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to CORE Life Magazine, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes.

Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agent against any investigations, claims or judgements. All material is correct at time of printing and is copyright of CORE Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.

THE NEXT EVOLUTION IN VEHICLE REPAIR MCCARTHY PANEL WORKS ALUMINIUM -ELECTRIC-HYBRID REPAIR CENTRE (COMING SOON) WE WILL NOT COMPROMISE ON SAFETY, QUALITY & SERVICE !

07 4957 7548

admin@mccarthypanel.com.au

3A O`Loughlin St, North www.corelife.com.au Mackay QLD 4740 | 9

Enrolments Now Open At S

Caring for Whitsunday Families since 1984 PROVIDING QUALITY, HOME-BASED CHILDCARE

Proserpine | Midge Point | Wilson Beach | Strathdickie | Cannonvale | Jubilee Pocket | Mandalay

CHILDCARE, WHERE NATURE & NURTURE ARE AT HOME

• Exceeding Rated Service • Qualified Early Childhood Care Professionals • Play based learning in a family home environment • Small groups, personalised care, healthier children • Greater Community Engagement • Child Care Subsidy Approved

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A REWARDING CAREER? WORK FROM HOME!

Contact us now for more information to become a Family Daycare Educator

07 4945 2422 | whitfdc@bigpond.com 10 | www.corelife.com.au

t St Catherine's D

id you know that St Catherine’s Catholic College was named the number one Primary School in the Whitsundays for their 2021 NAPLAN results*? This incredible achievement is a testament to the drive of the ever-evolving school where students are nurtured and sculpted into their best selves.

From Kindy to Year 12, students are nurtured to be their best. The journey of the St Catherine's graduate starts young, with students individualised learning pathways supported through a focused holistic development. Through diverse experiences and extracurricular activities such as clubs, debating, Sports Excellence Program and more, both inside and outside of the classroom, the St Catherine's graduate is secure in their values, relationships, character, and future pathway.

These experiences inspire positive relationships which are integral to the well-being of self and community and encourage students to step outside their comfort zone, redefine their personal possibilities, gain confidence and think critically while fostering a team ethic when working with others. We believe that creative problem solving and self-expression are vital components in developing the 'whole' student and that fostering appreciation for and experience in creative processes, such as The Arts, directly influences levels of success across the curriculum and in later life. Mulkadee is one such experience our students

are fortunate to take part in, singing, acting and dancing at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Center in July.

In the early years, students explore in thoughtful play spaces and modern classrooms with up to date technology.

Play areas are engaging and shaded, and include both play equipment and mini sporting areas that connects with our rural heart. Garden beds, an onsite orchard, and hand water pump allow our students to nurture nature and watch it grow.

The progress of students is the school’s core business. A focus on literacy has seen the implementation of evidence-based strategies, and the exceptional NAPLAN results are the proof in the pudding. Through a constant review and tracking process, students are assured of growth in their learning. The school also has robust intervention, support, and extension programs for students who need them, with many taking part in Math and Science competitions across the region. Parents as welcomed as genuine and contributing partners in their child’s education, and work collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes for their students.

The Middle Years of the education journey are essential years for fostering positive teacher and

peer relationships at St Catherine's and allowing students to discover their passion and be confident in their learning. Students are provided a broad spectrum of opportunities to engage in subjects and in Year 10 commence work experience in chosen career fields. Each year we also offer students a range of social justice activities that encourage our students to 'walk in someone else's shoes' and serve others through involvement.

There are twenty, convenient, safe and reliable bus runs servicing the Kindy to Year 12 College and transporting students safely to school and home daily from Bowen, Jubilee Pocket, Bloomsbury, and Crystalbrook.

Families are always welcome to come and tour St Catherine’s. To book call 49451630.

www.corelife.com.au | 11

11 - 18 AUGUST 2022 Thursday 11 August

Skippers Registration, Briefing & Welcome

10:30am to 4:30pm

Registration at the Club

4:30pm to 6:30pm

Skippers & Crew Briefing

AIRLIE B

RACE WE

7:00pm Onwards Live Music from Matt Angell and Food Trucks at the Festival Village. Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) Friday 12 August

Racing Day One & Presentations at WSC

6.30pm to 7:00pm

Presentations on the main stage

7:00 pm Onwards

Live Music from Sam’s Band and Food Trucks at the Festival Village.

Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential)

Saturday 13 August

Racing Day two & Presentations at WSC

6.30pm to 7:00pm

Presentations on the main stage

7:00pm Onwards Live Music from Viva’s Fiesta Band and Food Trucks at the Festival Village. Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) Sunday 14 August

Racing Day Three & Presentations at WSC

12:30pm onwards Race Week Taste The World Long Lunch.

Book Online at www.abrw.com.au 6.30pm to 7:00pm

Presentations on the main stage

7:00pm Onwards Live Music from Mason Rack Band and Food Trucks at the Festival Village. Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) Monday 15 August

Lay Day

All Day

A range of programs and local tours available

6:30pm Onwards Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) Tuesday 16 August

Racing Day Four & Presentations at WSC

6.30pm to 7:00pm

Presentations on the main stage

7:00pm Onwards Live Music from Tim Griffin and Food Trucks at the Festival Village.

Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) Wednesday 17 August

Racing Day Five & Presentations at WSC

6.30pm to 7:00pm

Presentations on the main stage

7:00pm Onwards Live Music from Jackson Dunn and Food Trucks at the Festival Village. Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) Thursday 18 August

Racing Day Six & Series Presentation Night at WSC

6.30pm to 7:30pm

Series Presentations on the main stage

7:00pm Onwards Live Music from funk and reggae band ‘The Feel’, Food Trucks at the Festival Village. Dinner available at the 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant (Bookings essential) For all enquiries please email events@whitsundaysailingclub.com.au All Whitsunday Sailing Club events are COVID Safe Compliant 12 | www.corelife.com.au

SAVE THE DATE 11TH – 18TH AUGUST 2022 WHITSUNDAY SAILING CLUB Welcome to the 34th annual Airlie Beach Race Week – a festival that celebrates our vibrant sailing culture in the Whitsundays – this August the sparkling turquoise sea will be dotted with over 150 colourful sails as boating enthusiasts from across the country enjoy a lively regatta at one of the region’s largest on-water events.

With an action-packed line-up on the open water, the festival is also renowned for its exciting social calendar with events that everyone in the community will enjoy. The on-shore hub of the festival is the Whitsunday Sailing Club which boasts a large modern indoor dining area and an al fresco balcony. On its front lawn the Festival Village will host a variety of social activities, live entertainment and food vans throughout the week.

The Long Table Lunch Festival attendees and members of the community are invited to the extravagant long-table lunch which will be held on the shaded first-floor outdoor balcony of the Sailing Club on Sunday afternoon. A five-course degustation menu will greet guests, beginning with an Amuse-bouche followed by an appetiser, entre, main and of course dessert, all paired with matching wine.

When: Sunday 14 August Time: 12pm onwards Tickets: TBC

Live Music Most Nights With the exception of the festival’s ‘Lay Day’ on the Monday, live music will be played every evening. An eclectic mix of local musicians will serenade sun-kissed sailors and locals alike, creating the ambience the festival is renowned for – that of festivity, fun and freedom. From the Mason Rack Band to the Matt Angel, Tim Griffin and Jackson Dunn the line-up promises to be a mixture of lively singalongs and crowd favourites.

When: Every night aside from Monday Time: From 7.00pm Tickets: Free event for the whole community

E BEACH

WEEK SETS SAIL

Food Stall Fiesta

Jump Aboard The Spectator Boat

The expansive Festival Village front lawn of the Sailing Club will transform into a vibrant foodies paradise with a variety of food vans and mobile cocktail stations sure to create a seaside eat-street fiesta for everyone to enjoy.

Festoon lighting and festive bunting will adorn the activities and live music will create a groovy vibe while everyone enjoys a night under the stars with the lights of the boats dotting the horizon.

While much of the on-water activity can be viewed from land, if you wish to get up close to the action, head out on one of the spectator boats for a day of adventure. Staying close to the pack, you will be able to watch the boats jostle for position and enjoy the thrill of the race from the comforts of a secure and hosted tour. The experience includes delicious food, ice cold drinks and expert commentary from the skipper. Simply ask at the Sailing Club and they will be able to help you book.

When: Every night apart from Monday Time: From 5.30pm Tickets: Free event for the whole community

Lay Day Events A day off from sailing competitions gives participants the opportunity to explore Airlie Beach and the surrounding areas. Take a trip to Whitehaven Beach on one of the many charter boats, head to Bowen to admire the beaches or for a bushwalk to the picturesque Cedar Creek falls. Airlie Beach also has a range of restaurants, bars and retail outlets to enjoy and they are all within walking distance of the marinas. It’s time to kick-back, relax and soakup this wonderful destination by exploring what the Whitsundays has to offer.

FAST FACTS •

Up to 2000 participants will compete on 150 vessels

•

Racers come from as far afield as Tasmania and WA

•

There are 50 different courses and 14 divisions

•

Boats travel 25 miles a day on average

•

Races kick-off at 10am and finish late afternoon

When: Monday 15th August Time: All day www.corelife.com.au | 13

The Best Of Festival Of The Arts Mackay Festival of Arts brings a smorgasbord of cultural experiences to the sugar city every year. Here are some of the highlights of this year’s program.

Whitsunday Voices Flor-Hanly Literary Dinner Friday July 15 MECC The Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival is renowned all over the country for delivering insightful and engaging programs from legends of our literary scene. A signature event on Mackay’s calendar, the Literary Dinner introduces keynote speaker Dr Richard Harris, an Australian anaesthetist and cave diver who played a crucial role in the remarkable international rescue of a teenage soccer team from a flooded Thai cave system in 2018. Enjoy a delightful three-course dinner, mingle with the festival presenters in the elegantly styled MECC and be captivated by Dr Harris’ incredible tale.

Woollam Art on Show Awards Exhibition August 5-8 Mackay Showgrounds 500 Pavilion Celebrating its 16th year, the annual Art on Show Awards is this year joining the Mackay Festival of Arts as a new Fringe Event. Art on Show provides a platform for local artists to connect with the local art community, showcase and sell their work and further their artistic careers. The diverse collection of entries is displayed in the exhibition open to the public for viewing and purchasing, with the presentation of awards and the official exhibition opening happening Friday August 5 from 6.30pm.

Be Social Fest Saturday August 6 Harrup Park Be Social Fest is back for its second year and is bringing some big names to the sugar city.

After an epic debut in December last year, the music festival is headlined by electronic hip hop heavyweights Hermitude, indie rock icons Middle Kids and thumping Thundamentals. Also on the genuinely stacked, 19-act line-up are the likes of Mashd N Kutcher, Peach PRC, Stellie, Cherry, KLP and local legends The Stone Apes.

The festival’s objective is to bring together a fun bunch of festival goers to enjoy each other’s energy and just BE, and when paired with an epic line-up and Mackay’s tropical winter climate, it’s set to be one hell of a night.

Aerial and Underwater Photographic Art Prints | Souvenirs | Hotel Artwork | Corporate Gifts Come see us at The Port of Airlie Marina, Airlie Beach or www.aboveandbelowgallery.com.au 14 | www.corelife.com.au

Social Life

NEW FESTIVAL

L

egends on the Lawn is a new festival coming to rock the socks off Mackay, bringing some of the all-time biggest names in Australian music to north Queensland. After a false start in May and an all too familiar virus-related reschedule – not even the great Barnesy is immune – it’s set to go down in August at Harrup Park.

than The Beatles and is considered rock royalty both in Australia and overseas.

Headlined by the great Jimmy Barnes, along with The Living End, Jon Stevens, Vika & Linda, Vanessa Amorosi, Busby Marou and Christine Anu, Legends on the Lawn is put together by the organisers who are responsible for the hugely popular Red Hot Summer Tour.

Jon Stevens cemented his place in Aussie rock working with the likes of Noiseworks, INXS and the Dead Daisies and he pays homage to these legendary bands with his live show. Jon also has a swag of solo hits to his name, spanning his fourdecade career with a set of back-to-back hits.

Jimmy Barnes, affectionately known by all as Barnesy, is the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll. He has more #1 albums under his belt

Vanessa Amorosi’s songwriting and dynamic vocal range have seen her sell over two million records worldwide. She’s sure to have ‘Absolutely

The Living End are considered Australian rock royalty for their blistering live performances, raucous blues-punk and iconic double bass. Having performed for decades, they’re sure to rock from the first note to the last.

Everybody’ on their feet for her energetic set.

Vika & Linda, Busby Marou and Christine Anu are all also sure to enchant audiences, capping off a star-studded and diverse line-up with something for everyone.

Organised in conjunction with Queensland Festivals and Events, and Regional Touring, promoters who have a strong affinity with regional Queensland, it is hoped the inaugural Legends on The Lawn will become a stalwart of the live music calendar in Mackay.

Don’t miss this inaugural event, happening Saturday August 27 at Harrup Park, Mackay.

For additional information, go to www.legendsonthelawn.com.au.

WHEN TRAGEDY STRIKES CAN YOU BE THE ONE TO HELP SAVE A LIFE We are giving away first aid kits and defibrillators when minimum size classes are met! * conditions apply

Training/ Courses Available, 1300DISASTER now offer courses in the Mackay, Isaac & Whitsunday regions, with profits going towards Disaster Management Hubs and Response Teams. Training and assessment delivered on behalf of Allens from each course Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909 10%enrolment for all of 2022 will be proudly donated to RACQ CQ Rescue

For all bookings or enquiries please call 0428028023 or see our site https://1300disaster.trainingdesk.com.au www.corelife.com.au | 15

WINE, FOOD

Social Life

T

he Choirboys will be running to Mackay’s little pocket of paradise this month when they play the Mackay Festival of Arts Wisely Wine and Food Day on July 16.

We caught up with lead singer Mark Gable to chat about Mackay, touring and that absolute earworm of a hit.

Run to Paradise has become one of the most iconic Australian songs of all time, what’s it like performing it and having it screamed back at you by passionate crowds?

I love it. There’s a lot of guys and girls in the music industry that go, ‘nah, I don’t like doing my hits,’ and I go, ‘well, I think you’re a wombat.’ These are the things that make us what we are. The song’s so iconic, it doesn’t matter whether it’s The Church, ABBA, Midnight Oil – Midnight Oil always take pride in doing their stuff, they don’t have a problem with that. But there are some artists, they really have an issue with the songs, and I go, well if the song wasn’t a hit, would they have an issue with it?

I don’t know what it is. I just love it, I just go, ‘this is such a cool song,’ and it just came out of nowhere, bang, and there it was. People have embraced it, it’s become a part of Australian history and I’m pretty proud of that and I love doing it, it’s fun.

I see you’ve been to Mackay a few times throughout your career. Can you tell me about the other times you’ve been up here?

The first memorable time we were in Mackay was when Run to Paradise had just become a hit and I remember sitting out on a balcony at the hotel which overlooked the river and it was either morning or sunset, it was beautiful, and I’m going, ‘Wow, life’s not bad at the moment.’ I vaguely remember the gig and it went berserk as they used to in those days. This will be a very different one, of course.

How do regional audiences differ from metro ones?

What I find is regional populations are generally happier and more congenial and happy to see

you, not just performing but walking down the street like a normal person. I always love going to regional places and doing gigs...So, the audiences, generally, are way more upbeat and positive.

What can we expect when you play The Festival of Arts?

Hopefully, the unexpected, and hopefully, I don’t go too nuts … I have a tendency to have a lot of fun on stage, I just can’t stop myself, so the band just follows along. It’s going to be a nutty performance, I know that.

WHAT: The Choirboys headlining the Wisely Wine and Food Day WHEN: Saturday, July 16 WHERE: Queens Park, Goldsmith Street, Mackay TICKETS: This is a free community event

THE NEARNESS OF YOU AT A TABLE

Looking for a special getaway weekend in the Whitsundays?

Booking Freecall

1800 555 684 Toscana Village Resort, 10 Golden Orchid Drive, Airlie Beach.

Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef www.toscanaresort.com 18 | www.corelife.com.au

ENJOY OUR NEW WINE, FOOD AND PIANO BAR THURSDAY TO SUNDAY 5.30 TO LATE

T H E

A

B E LV E D E R E

A T

T O S C A N A

summer wind comes blowing in from across the sea. It lingers there to touch your hair and wafts the aroma of the Amalfi Coast through the Belvedere restaurant, floating above Airlie Beach. Romance is a throughline of Italy and its cuisine. And here in the Whitsundays, the Mediterranean brand of love is alive in this hilltop villa.

there was no second guess. The panorama lured them away even from their home and restaurant in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales – and their heart now belongs to the beautiful Belvedere.

The Belvedere at Toscana Resort is the treat of Tuscany. The new restaurant has the feel of a Whitsunday winter drenched in sunlight and the taste of luxury and love.

Chef Nathan has curated his cuisine from French and Italian inspiration, bringing his experience from years in the kitchen to create this experiential and moveable feast. Everything on the menu – from its wine to its selection of deserts – is designed to be shared.

And it is home to one of the most spectacular views in the world.

The Italian coast experience is to sip wine on a balcony with a painted background of ocean, the taut horizon line the hem of a blue sequin dress of ships. That is what it is to dine at Belvedere.

When restaurateurs Tayla Clout and Nathan Parker first laid eyes on the crème walls, red ochre plated roof tiles, and view of the Coral Sea,

There is no place like it in the Whitsundays, and no food can compare.

“Our food is in sync with the venue. It’s refined dining: a lot of love, a lot of heart, a lot of flavour,” Chef Nathan said.

“The Chef’s selection tasting menu of 10 different dishes, a taste of everything, is what I will always recommend; it’s an experience.”

In her role at front of house, Tayla is the expert

R E S O R T

Social Life

hand ready to complement each dish with a wine or cocktail. She prides herself on the good food and good wine that an unforgettable Belvedere dining experience creates.

A glass of Cotes de Provence, and a goose liver pate, agrodolce, house made focaccia is a match made in heaven, all the better as the gloaming rolls in. It turns the vista a vibrant purple and burnt orange cascade of colour. The music – Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald – and the selfplaying piano create an atmosphere of soothing amour.

“It’s nestling back above all the main strip, where you can look at all of the light and fun happening down there and spend it with someone you love,” Tayla said.

“There’s nothing like it in the entire Whitsundays.”

As the evening fades into night, and amber light festoons the Belvedere in finery, a fine wind blows in from the sea. It lingers there to touch your hair on a night in Tuscany.

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But, What If He Can?

I

t’s a good thing people don’t necessarily take after their name, otherwise John Cant might not have said ‘can-do’ so many times to his community.

Retirement can take many different forms. It might be packing up the caravan and following the warm weather as a grey nomad. Maybe it’s getting an old Commodore back to its former glory. Or simply tending to an expansive garden full of vibrant flowers and fresh produce. For John, retired life is almost as busy as working life thanks to his volunteering and community commitment – and he still finds the time to maintain his flourishing garden.

Retirement came for John in 2003 when he was 55. He grew up in Rockhampton and moved between there and Mackay throughout life, chasing the next promotion in his career as a train controller, before settling in Mackay in 1987.

performed in local musicals. John even sang as a chorus member from time to time. He always had a love for the theatre, but when he got his first promotion from railway clerk to train controller, there was no time for that.

“When I first started, we had one day off a month, which was a Sunday, so there was no time to do anything else,” he said.

“It was a very exciting job, but it was extremely busy.”

In 2005, two years after retiring, John reinvigorated his passion for the theatre, joining Friends of the MECC and working at events as an usher and bartender.

“My first job was as an usher at a Delltones concert, and I thought 'how great is this?’” he said.

“I probably spent half my life in Rocky and half in Mackay,” he said.

What John didn’t know at the time was this would kickstart a string of volunteer roles that filled his weeks to the brim.

Growing up in Rockhampton, his family were heavily involved in the theatre where they

“I started at the MECC, and I didn’t really set out

20 | www.corelife.com.au

to become a professional volunteer but that’s almost what happened.”

In early 2009, much of Victoria was devastated by one of Australia's all-time worst bushfire disasters.

John, who owns a property in Ball Bay that backs onto the forest, was inspired to join the local brigade.

“I said if this bush catches fire, I’d like to have some input,” he said.

He joined the Ball Bay Halliday Bay Rural Fire Brigade and is still an active member, being deployed to Townsville in 2019 and Eden, NSW in 2020 to assist with natural disaster recovery throughout his tenure.

That same year, his good friend John Blackwell told him about volunteer opportunities with Mackay Tourism, and who was John to say no?

In 2010, the Mackay Tourism Supervisor at the time suggested the two Johns undertake a heritage walk throughout the streets of Mackay.

Social Life “She said to John Blackwell and myself, 'this town needs a heritage walk and I think you are the right boys to pull it off,’” John said.

The pair put together a weekly walk, gathering information from the museum and local historians, and it became a raging success.

“We ran the thing for ten years and didn’t miss a day,” he said.

“Visiting tourists just loved it.

“A lot of people were pretty sad to see it stop, in the end.”

John’s taken up many more volunteer roles throughout his time, all aligning with his passions and hobbies.

His love for fishing saw him volunteer with fishing clubs and marine education facilities, his love for the beach saw him travel to the Northern Territory to assist with cleaning ghost nets, his love of dancing saw him heavily involved in the Mackay Rock and Roll and his love of the arts saw him work with the Film & Arts Mackay Committee.

“What’s the old saying? If you want to get a job done, give it to a busy person,” John laughed.

“In the end, I just had to start saying no. I was too busy.”

Earlier this year, John was recognised for his contributions to the community, receiving the Pride of the Region award presented by Mayor Greg Williamson.

“It came as a total shock but, I was just ever so humble to accept it,” he said.

John’s not in it for the recognition, though.

“Volunteering for any group can be a whole lot of fun,” he said. “I had a great time. You’d work hard at some places, but it was just self-satisfaction.”

“I’d recommend to anyone that’s sitting at home and, as old people do, get lonely by themselves, just get out and volunteer. Even if you don’t know anything about the subject or where you’re going to start, you’ll soon learn.

“And, you can bet your life you’ll form long friendships.”

JOHN’S VOLUNTEER RESUME 1966 – light gear fishing clubs 2005 – Friends of the MECC 2009 – Mackay Isaac Tourism 2009 – Ball Bay Halliday Bay Rural Fire Brigade 2010 – Artspace Mackay 2010 – Mackay Heritage Walks ustralian Conservation Foundation ghost net clean up 2012 – A 2014 – M ake A Wish Foundation fundraisers bar work 2014 – Sunfish fishing education 2016 – Mackay Rock and Roll Club 2016 – Film & Arts Mackay Committee eployed to Townsville flood clean up with fire brigade 2019 – d 2020 – deployed to NSW fires with fire brigade 2021 – Pine Isle Lighthouse preservation

www.corelife.com.au | 21

get to know

Ron Palmer

COMPANY AND POSITION: FOCUS ON MACKAY – DIRECTOR/OWNER

Jess Hope

OWNER/OPERATOR – PROTECT AND SANITISE

Fast Facts

Fast Facts

Star Sign: Virgo – I’m an awesome person, just ask me

Star Sign: Taurus

Fav Movie: Interview with the Vampire

Fav Movie: I don’t watch movies; much prefer to read a book instead. My favourite authors are Lynda La Plante and Quintin Jardine.

Fav Colour: Blue Fav Holiday destination: Camping around the Mackay region Fav Music: I like a wide variety of music, depends on the mood (love Graeme Connors)

Fav Colour: Blue Fav Holiday Destination: Visiting family on the Gold Coast Fav Music: Anything on the radio!

Fav Quote: If it is to be it’s up to me

Fav Quote: Treat others as you wish to be treated

Tell us something most people don't know about you: I love country music

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? Nothing!

Describe your personality in three words: Loyal, Intense, Fun

Describe your personality in three words: Kind, friendly, chatterbox!

They don’t come much more travelled than Ron Palmer. He previously lived in Adelaide, Sydney, Darwin, Papua New Guinea, Orange and Melbourne before settling in Mackay. In the early 90s, he and his family left Sydney and travelled around Australia, choosing Darwin as the place to stay at the time. He says he saw many life-changing sights on this journey.

Jess Hope has been a Whitsunday local for 16 years but took a bit of a round trip to get to this beautiful part of the country. Starting with her primary school education in close-by Charters Towers, Jess soon headed off to New Zealand for High School, graduating and eventually meeting her husband, Mike. The pair travelled back to the Lucky Land, tripping around Queensland for a number of years before a stop for a holiday in the Whitsundays turned into a lifelong home.

“We as a family can say we have all witnessed the phenomenon of the Min Min lights while travelling in outback QLD towards Cloncurry,” he said.

Back in the day, Ron started as an apprentice chef before moving into the automotive industry for 23 years. This is the career that took him to Port Moresby and Lae in PNG, working for Toyota. He then reinvented himself in real estate and hasn’t looked back, loving what he does. He started Focus on Mackay two years ago and has grown the business to include an awesome team of seven.

Ron’s wife, Deanna, is a local photographer and they have a beautiful “grand dog” Molly, a West Highland White Terrier. Ron and Deanna like to camp throughout the Mackay region and entertain their eclectic collection of friends.

22 | www.corelife.com.au

Much of her time in the region saw Jess work in tourism before she and Mike bought Protect and Sanitise in 2013. It was up until last year that Jess split her time working as a receptionist for Whitsunday Escape which she loved - and doing the admin for Protect and Sanitise.

Now she solely focuses on their business, building relationships with their clients and being able to provide a quality carpet cleaning service for the community.

“I mostly work in the office, but I also love jumping in and helping the team on the tools where I can,” Jess said.

When she’s not working, Jess and Mike spend their weekends with their two boys, Ben, 11, and Mathew, 8. They love watching the boys play sport – cricket in summer and soccer in the winter, but the family also love spending time at Conway Beach with their dogs, Milo and Max, as well as gardening and camping.

THERE IS A HUGE VARIETY OF MEAT AND SEAFOOD AT MBW!

NOT JUST YOUR ORDINARY BUTCHER!

Sam Watson

LIGHTNING COMMS, MANAGING DIRECTOR Fast Facts Star Sign: Libra Fav Movie: One of Casino, Goodfellas, or The Departed Fav Colour: Blue and Black Fav Holiday Destination: Anywhere tropical Fav Music: Anything played on The Rock FM NZ Fav Quote: Don’t count the days, make the days count.

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you?

I was formally a chef in the Gold Coast and United Kingdom for 10 years.

Describe your personality in three words: Positive, approachable, trustworthy Born in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, Sam Watson wanted a change of scenery and moved to Airlie Beach in 2011 – but not from Hawkes, from the Gold Coast.

“The Gold Coast was always a second home for me growing up; I had a lot of family living there, and I pretty much went there every year for holidays,” Sam said.

It became home when he turned 18 and made the move to Aussie shores. He had been learning a trade at the time, working on a mechanic apprenticeship, but picked up work in a chef apprenticeship, which led him to a ten-year career in the industry.

He worked at Oskars on Burleigh and then as a private chef for families in the UK out of their holiday homes. He returned to Australia and started cheffing out at the mines in 2011. From here his new career path began as a telecommunications technician, when he soon spotted a gap in the Airlie Beach market, and started a little company as a sole trader on the NBN project. And it just “kept getting busier and busier.”

Multi Award

WINNINGR BUTCHE

AT MBW T WE’VE GO T YOUR MEA

But before all that, while living on the Gold Coast, he met his future wife thanks to some mutual friends.

Sarah, another Hawkes Bay resident, has become the rock of their family and the glue of their business. She now runs the administration side of Lightning Comms and “holds it all together”. They are now raising their three kids: Ruby, 9, Xavier, 7, and the newest member of the Watson tribe, Willow, their four month old daughter.

Whitsunday Shopping Centre near Coles

Cnr Shute Harbor Rd and Stewart Dr, Cannonvale

Marian Town Centre, Marian

4946 7461

4946 6753

4954 4882

“Starting a family is the best thing that ever happened to me,” Sam said. www.corelife.com.au | 23

MEET THE JUNIOR JO

Core Publishing is bringing a fresh young voice to print – and here are the tenacious teenagers who stepped-up to be heard. Keep your eyes open for their monthly feature in Whitsunday Life Newspaper where we offer them the platform and some free reign to talk about issues that matters most to them. In the meantime, let’s meet the team and find out who they are.

Scarlett Foti - 16, year 11

Abbie O'Sheehy

Shehara-Lee Bradley

“Writing is a passion I strive to ignite in every way possible. I believe that words hold far more power than most people are willing to accept”

“I enjoy writing and I thought this would be a good experience”

“I would like to share my thoughts with others and this seemed like a fun idea when my teacher first told me about it”

Best thing you’ve ever read?

The Wind in the Willows. It is a book that has inspired me my whole life after first reading it when I was around 6 years old - despite its juvenility, it paints a picture through a marvellous usage of imagery and holds deep messages that I carry with me to this day Favourite quote?

Only in the darkness can you see the stars – Martin Luther King Jr Your personality in three words: Abstruse, acumen, insouciant

Best thing you’ve ever read?

Normal People by Sally Rooney - it doesn't portray the idealised person that everyone wishes to be, it shows people with quirks and flaws and people who have issues and vulnerabilities, and it makes you realise that it’s ok to be like that because we're human Favourite quote?

Please believe there is still time for you to be all that you want to be Your personality in three words: Creative, Kind, Empathetic

Matthew Mendoza

Emily Poles “I decided to join Youth Voices because I really wanted expand my writing skills and I thought it would be a fun idea to write and be a part of a new group with new faces” Best thing you’ve ever read?

I like to read are articles that don’t share the same views as me. It inspires me to think in different ways and sometimes changes the way I think

“To be a representation of the junior half of the school for the youth voice” Best thing you’ve ever read?

Dog Man Grime and Punishment because some of this story plot is one of the characters is dealing with a father problem, however instead of continuing to avoid that problem, he forgives it, and somehow deals and increase his confidence with his father

Favourite quote?

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing -Walt Disney

Favourite quote?

It’s your story, kid. You can colour it any way you want ― Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: Grime and Punishment

Your personality in three words: funny, caring, creative

Your personality in three words: Fun, Silly, Positive minded

Best thing you’ve ever read?

I once read this book called “In the Miso Soup”, I can’t exactly remember who it was written by but I remember it being super interesting Favourite quote?

Have you ever had that feeling-that you'd like to go to a whole different place and become a whole different self? - Haruki Murakami Your personality in three words: Really, Really cool

Charley Grigg “I have always enjoyed writing about topics that either involve real world issues or just matters involving the people in Proserpine or other towns, and their own experiences.”

Best thing you’ve ever read?

The Midnight Library - it completely changed the way I perceived many things such as life and death. It was extremely eye-opening and I would definitely recommend to anyone who can deal with confronting topics Favourite quote?

You may not be able to re-do the beginning, but you can always change the end Your personality in three words: Independent, energetic, creative

Thank you to Proserpine State School for working with us on this project.

24 | www.corelife.com.au

JOURNOS

Business Life

The junior Journo Team: Scarlett Foti, Emily Poles, Abbie O’Sheehy, Matthew Mendoza, Shehara Bradley, teacher Nathan Sainsbury and Charley Grigg

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Welcome To The Heart of Business Events

26 | www.corelife.com.au

Business Life

T

he Whitsundays is located in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef and is at the Heart of planning your next corporate event. If you are going to bring the team together, or have a statement to make within your industry – why not do it with a stunning Whitsundays backdrop?

Consisting of 74 island wonders including resorts on Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Long Island, Camp Island and Hayman Island, the casual beach towns of Airlie Beach and Bowen and the charming hinterland townships of Proserpine and Collinsville – there are plenty of incredible destinations to choose from.

Offering a wide variety of unique venues for your team building or business conferences, The Whitsundays is the perfect backdrop in which to host your corporate gatherings. From picturesque island function venues to dining experiences on the spectacular Whitehaven Beach or Langford Island sand bar, the options are endless.

For the adventurous, choose from a range of team building activities such as hiking, kayaking and day trips to the Great Barrier Reef – The

Whitsundays is the best location to host your memorable Business Events.

The vibrant coastal town of Airlie Beach is the stepping off point for the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands and offers a great range of dining and live music.

Proserpine is full of historical charm and art deco that will have any enthusiast enthralled. Lake Proserpine is an ideal spot for water sports and freshwater fishing.

Bowen grows most of the country’s winter supply of vegetables and mangoes and is known for its secluded beaches and some of the best fringing reefs where you can snorkel straight off the beach.

Drive inland from the coast and you arrive at Collinsville, the Heart of the Outback, a small country town known for its historic mining attractions, traditional hospitality and the Coalface Experience Museum.

The Whitsunday region has over 6,000 hotel rooms and apartments, ranging from 3-star to

luxury, with meeting spaces suitable for small workshops and conferences as well as venues able to host 1,000 attendees.

The region also plays host to an incredible Heart of Events calendar throughout the year. From arts and cultural festivals, fitness and endurance events, to celebrations of the beautiful islands and local produce. The Whitsundays offers events that celebrate the region, its environment and its people.

The 2022 Heart of Events calendar celebrates all that is unique to The Whitsundays. Stay and play in the region all year round and take advantage of the ideal climate, picture-perfect islands, reef and beaches, lush rainforest and welcoming regional hospitality.

With over 150 experiences and an annual calendar of events to enjoy in The Whitsundays, you will be spoilt for choice! From sailing to snorkelling, scenic flights to segways, the Great Barrier Reef Festival to Airlie Beach Festival of Music, the opportunities are endless for a truly unique business event in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

For more information about Business Events in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, please visit: whitsundaysbusinessevents.com.au

www.corelife.com.au | 27

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www.corelife.com.au | 29

I CAN MAKE YOUR REAL ESTATE DREAMS COME TRUE...

Mandy Atherton 0400 540 781

Rentals & Sales Mackay

30 | www.corelife.com.au

Money Matters

W

IS YOUR SEAT BELT FASTENED?

hilst writing this on 23rd June, the US Share market has fallen 22% from its peak at Christmas and the Australian Share market is off 15%. With bond values tumbling as rates rise, the average person’s super or super pension would be down around 15 to 20%.

The big question is ‘How low will it go?’ The answer is ‘Nobody knows.’ The solution is always having a plan in place, at all times, for the next share market crash.

Anyone that tells you it won’t fall further or that it’ll go down by xx% more is guessing. Anyone that says it’ll turn around and recover by a certain date is guessing.

Bearing in mind the experts quoted in the media are paid to have an opinion, they must guess to keep getting paid. They don’t know what the economic indicators will read in the short-term future any more than they know this weekend’s lotto numbers. The situation changes daily and so does the outcome.

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prolonged their economic stimulus longer than they should have after the GFC. This was because COVID hit just as they were starting to withdraw it and so instead they enhanced it. With COVID being controlled much quicker than expected, the extra stimulus and supply chain shocks has led to much higher inflation.

They now have to raise interest rates to try and rein in inflation and get it back to normal, sustainable levels of 2% to 3%.

We haven’t had rising interest rates since the 2000’s so there’s a whole cohort of young borrowers that have never seen their home loan repayments rise.

How much will rates rise to curb inflation depends on how quickly people get scared and slow down their spending. The 24 hour news cycle means we are all much more aware of things like interest rates and the expert’s predictions than we were 20 or 30 years ago.

The threat of higher rates in the future, has more of an effect nowadays as more people are aware of it.

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The key for investors depends on whether you are

financial services

helping grow, maintain + protect your wealth

still working and building your super or are retired and drawing down a pension from your super. If you’re still working, you are a regular buyer of investments like shares as you or your boss regularly deposit to your super. For you, this is a great opportunity to buy more quality assets at depressed prices, think about Salary Sacrifice or topping up your super. If you’re a retiree and drawing down on your super you are a regular seller of investments to fund your pension payments.

You should make sure you have a strategy in place to ensure you’re not selling good quality investments at temporarily depressed prices.

Some financial planners advocate drawing less from your super pension in the event of a Share market crash to minimise losses. For us at Eclipse, this is a pretty poor strategy, what if downturns last for years?

Try telling someone who lost five years of retirement income in the GFC that was a good idea. This may have been five of their prime, healthy retirement years where they had lots of dreams to fulfill. There are better strategies.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matter, contact Eclipse Financial Services at Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefs.com www.corelife.com.au | 31

Statione ARE YOU NERVOUS ABOUT INTEREST RATES RISING? May’s interest rate hike by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) was the first in 11 years, and nervous homeowners felt even more under threat when rates went up again in June. But, with rising inflation and cost of living out of control, the increased rates are a necessity to stabilize the economy.

Fiona Erquiaga from Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting says there are plenty of factors to ease the worry of homeowners.

“Interest rates have been at record lows for a long time and were not sustainable at those low levels,” Fiona explained.

“When borrowers take out their home loans, lenders build in a buffer of 3 per cent when undertaking their assessment – this is to ensure that when interest rates go up, that borrower should be able to afford their home loan repayments along with their living expenses and other liabilities.

“They may need to reduce any discretionary spending to ensure they can cover repayments as more rate rises come over the short term though.”

Fiona said that borrowers should review their loans every 2-3 years, or sooner if you’ve gone through a major life change.

“Competition between lenders is as strong as ever so there are many offers and incentives to switch banks and it is much easier to do than many people think,” she said.

“I have recently been able to get between 0.2 per cent and 1.5 per cent discount on my clients’ loans by renegotiating better rates or looking at alternatives.”

Fiona warns that not all offers are as attractive as they may seem.

“Be wary of the cashback offers, introductory discounts and frequent flyer rewards bonuses though – there may be hidden catches,” she said.

Having a good mortgage broker on your side is the best way to find the right deal for you; they are unbiassed, know the lenders’ policies and offerings, and most are willing to do a free financial health check of your situation to let you know whether

there are better options available for you.

“They will do the legwork for you in finding the best deal and take care of the whole refinance process.”

Those who have had low fixed rates are more likely to feel the shock when those rates expire and they move to a current variable or fixed rate which are higher, but Fiona said that negotiation shouldn’t stop with your bank.

“It’s a good time to review all of your expenses and consider consolidating debts into one loan with a lower interest rate, or picking up the phone and arranging a better deal with your utility providers.

Busin

“Phone, electricity, gas, television, private health, even your gym. Call your existing providers and ask for the best deal available and shop around.

“I have seen people save hundreds of dollars per month just by making a few phone calls.”

For further advice, Fiona can be contacted via her website smoothsailingfinance.com.au

Introducing the Whitsunday’s newest finance broker, Fiona Erquiaga from Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting.

With 20 years’ experience in the finance industry, specialising in specialising in commercial & rural finance, home and investment loans, asset finance and SMSF lending.

Offering flexible, tailored finance solutions with a personal touch from a wide range of lenders – contact now for an obligation free review of your position to find you a better deal and grow your wealth.

HOME & INVESTMENT LOANS BUSINESS LOANS I SMSF LENDING EQUIPMENT FINANCE PERSONAL & CAR LOANS 32 | www.corelife.com.au

0418 980 876 fiona@smoothsailingfinance.com.au smoothsailingfinance.com.au

Money Matters

www.corelife.com.au | 33

SHIRLZ RUSSELL Founder and CEO of Build Your F’empire

FROM FINANCE EXPERTS!

I

t can often seem like there is an invisible barrier to receiving financial advice, a tendency to bury our heads in the sand, ignorantly making the same mistakes and then wondering why our money woes remain. Is it the tricky terminology often associated with understanding money or perhaps the embarrassing moment you have to confess your secret online shopping addiction?

Whatever it is for you, remember that being in control of your money contributes massively to your own health and wellbeing. Imagine the huge weight that lifts off your shoulders when you know you have enough in your super to live a good retirement or the pride you will feel when you pay the last dollar on your credit card.

In our Finance Experts feature we meet a host of friendly money experts and debunk the myth that they are all calculator-tapping sergeants who frown on frivolous spending. In fact, as you will discover, the modernday accountant, financial adviser and mortgage broker is not only approachable - they are also on your side.

These friendly individuals understand that ‘life happens’ and credit cards get crazy – but they won’t judge – they simply want to help you make the most of your hard-earned money.

What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

How can I make more money? One of my favourite sayings is “You can’t save your way to wealth.” There’s only so much time in a day, so other than getting a higher paying job, the easiest way to make more money is to invest in positive cashflow property to increase your net worth and provide additional passive income. In Australia, property values double every 7-10 years on average, so by leveraging the bank’s funds, you could reasonably expect to turn a deposit of $100,000 into an asset worth roughly $1M in around 10 years.

Name a frivolous thing to spend your money on that is also a savvy investment?

We can absolutely have the best of both worlds! Two of my loves – property and vintage cars come to mind. I would say buying a holiday home can be both frivolous and a savvy investment if you get it right.

Think of all our forebears who purchased homes at Seaforth or that lazy seaside place called Surfers Paradise roughly 40 years ago for example.

I also think investing in vintage cars can pay off, again if you buy them at the right price.

What would be your definition of a successful retirement?

Having assets with a combined net worth that will produce enough passive income to afford your desired lifestyle. You choose how you spend your days, living life on your own terms. That is a successful retirement.

retirement

noun

[(having) the financial freedom to choose how you spend your days] Property Investment Services, Specially Designed For Women: How to Pay Your Home Off Sooner Reducing Tax via Property Investing Building a Multi-million Dollar Investment Portfolio Getting Started with Fractional Property Investing

Are you guilty of burying your head in the sand when it comes to money?

Do you want to feel empowered & in control of your financial future?

www.buildyourfempire.com.au | 0419 786 414 Register today for our next 90 minute Property Investor Webinar - 8pm, 21July 2022 34 | www.corelife.com.au

AMANDA ALDERSON

FIONA ERQUIAGA

Finance Consultant with over 20 years' experience, specialising in equipment lending, commercial and business customer needs

Director and Finance Broker at Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting

What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

What are my repayments going to be? With most of my transactions focussed on business customers, the discussion is always focused on the repayments.

My most common response is how the repayments will fit the cash flow of the business and knowing how you intend to cover the cost of repayments is right up there as my most discussed conversation initially with customers.

How do I borrow money to buy a house or car? You need to demonstrate your ability to pay the loan back by having enough income to make the repayments, as well as cover living costs and any other commitments you might have. You also need to have a good credit record which you get by paying your bills and loans on time and not applying for too many credit facilities. You will also need to have a deposit and demonstrate your ability to save when buying a house.

If someone loaned you $1 million how would you spend it?

Having the chance to be loaned $1 million would be a fantastic opportunity and I would look to spend it on a varied numbers of options including debt reduction, property purchases and other income deriving opportunities such as shares and stocks creating a diverse portfolio of income. Now this $1 million loan is tax free and interest free right?

Name three hidden dangers in getting a loan?

1: Understand your conditions of approval - too often the gloss of approval overshadows the need to understand what you are signing up for.

2: Shopping around for the best deal impacts your credit file - multiple credit enquiries can affect your credit score and impact your future lending ability regardless of whether you just enquired about a loan or were approved or declined.

3: Early Repayments can incur penalty – with the majority of commercial and equipment lending, often the facility is fixed to allow an even repayment over the term. Early repayments usually incur penalties so discussion of future use is a very important part of the loan process to avoid these dangers.

If you only had $1000 to your name how would choose to invest it to create the most amount of wealth?

I would invest it in myself – use it to pay for a training course to expand my skills which would then allow me to generate more wealth. For some people this could also be investing in a business asset to grow wealth eg buy a lawnmower to start a lawnmowing business.

If you could advise people of three quick and simple ways they could save money right now what would they be?

1: If they are home owners and have finance of any kind - talk to a broker about refinancing to get a better deal or consolidating, this can save hundreds per month.

2: Call your providers of phone/internet/insurance/health insurance and ask for a better deal and/or shop around for a better deal 3: Grocery shopping – shop the catalogues. Get the weekly specials catalogue, see what is on sale and plan your weekly meals and shopping around that.

www.corelife.com.au | 35

REBECCA GALEA and MELISSA EGAN

KRYSTAL BLYTH Partner at Connole Carlisle Chartered Accountant with 17 years experience

What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

New owners at BOQ Mackay City What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

Should I fix my home loan? Most lenders will let you split your loan into some fixed and some variable giving you potentially the best of both worlds. The answers to these questions can only be determined once you meet your lender so they can understand your current situation, your goals, how long you wish to keep your home for and your concerns.

If someone made you in charge of distributing money around the world, how would you choose to distribute it?

We may be biased however we would look to distribute the money mostly in the hands of women. It has been shown that when women work, they invest 90% of their income back into their families compared to 35% for men. It doesn’t mean that women are better at handling money than men however when you support their educational needs and provide opportunities to women and their children, it will have a greater carry on and multiplier affect generationally.

I often get asked ‘how much money I should be saving each month’. This is one of the most difficult questions to answer as your ideal savings amount depends on your specific, long-term reason for saving. A simple rule of thumb is the 50/30/20 rule. A maximum of 50% of your take home income should go towards necessities such as rent/mortgage, groceries, utilities and transportation.

A maximum of 30% should go towards discretionary items such as take out, entertainment and holidays, and at least 20% of your take home income should go towards your financial goals such as savings, investments and debt reduction.

If someone gave you a million dollars right now what would you choose to do with it?

When you have excess cash whether it be $1,000, or $1,000,000, the best thing you can do is reduce bad debt, followed by reducing good debt, and then consider different investment options whether that be high interest savings accounts, an investment property or the stock market.

Name two myths that you’ve heard about accountants and dispel them?

What do you think is one of the biggest, but also most unnecessary causes of financial stress for people?

People these days don’t want to just keep up with the Jones’, they want to keep up with the Kardashians. We find it is the purchases between $20 and $50 that people have the most trouble with. There is a tendency to say to ourselves, ‘I work really hard and I deserve this - it’s only $20’. When people come to us to coach them to improve their chances of home ownership, we normally find thousands of dollars of small expenditures.

Accountants only deal with taxes - Accountants also evaluate financial operations, identify issues and strategise resolutions to help organizations be more profitable, advise clients on wealth management and estate planning, conduct forecasting, cashflows and risk analysis assessments, offer guidance on cost reduction and more.

Accountants just sit in an office crunching numbers all day: We also enjoy getting out and about with numerous opportunities for meaningful interactions with clients and other professionals whether it be in the office, onsite or in a social setting.

LEAP INTO YOUR FINANCIAL FREEDOM

We have the Formula for …

• Your Superannuation • Personal Insurance • Wealth Creation & Accummulation • Estate Planning

07 4969 1800

www.sapphirefinancial.com.au 13 Sydney St, Mackay 36 | www.corelife.com.au

• Retirement • Centrelink Assistance • Tax Effective Strategies

www.centrepointalliance.com.au/pis Professional Investment Services Pty Ltd l AFSL No. 234951 Sapphire Financial Services Corporate Authorised Representative Number 1293361

STEVE OBST

ANDREW ZAMMIT

Senior Financial Planner at Eclipse Financial Services Certified Financial Planner for 26 years

Managing Director of Proactive Accounting Solutions

What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

“How long will my money last in retirement?” Well, the answer is - it depends!

Simple maths would provide an answer but life is more complicated than that!

Many retirees want a higher level of income in the initial years while they are healthy and able to enjoy a more mobile lifestyle, with less later if they are comfortable. Other factors including the long-term effects of inflation, taxation and any available Government Income Support also need to be considered.

If you could rectify a great financial ‘injustice’ you see happening in the Australia what would it be?

Start having financial literacy taught at school. Being able to manage money is an important skill and has a big influence on the well-being of people of all ages, so starting young makes total sense. Young people could benefit greatly from learning the basics like how to do a budget, setting a savings goal and managing debt.

Name three myths that you’ve heard about financial planner: 1: You need a lot of money to see a financial planner – we do not charge for an initial meeting to discuss your needs and current situation and we quote fixed fees for service up front.

2: Financial planners get paid hidden kickbacks – most financial planners stopped accepting any commissions over a decade ago and they have been banned for around 5 years.

With over 25 years’ experience in tax advice, business structuring and improvement, self-managed superannuation, estate and retirement planning What is one of the most common questions you get asked about money?

The most common question would be, “Where did the money go?”- all because your business shows a profit, doesn’t mean you have the cash in the bank. It is essential for business owners to understand the cashflow of their businesses to ensure they are able to meet their commitments, especially when it comes to superannuation and to the ATO. Working regularly with your Accountant can help you understand where the money has gone and help you to stay on track.

What is the one piece of financial advice you wished you’d known at 18?

At 18 I wish I knew the value of not only saving but also investing money. We just focused on firstly buying and then putting every dollar into our first home.

If we had put some of this money aside into investments also, they would have been worth a lot of money today.

If you could donate $10 million to an Australian cause that would actively change an important societal issue, what would that be?

When our daughter Layla was born and needed specialist care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in Townsville, we stayed at Ronald McDonald House. Using the money to further establish access to similar NICU care and Ronald McDonald House facilities in Mackay would relieve an enormous amount of stress for local families.

3: Financial planners will steal your money and go off to the Bahamas – Not true we find the fishing very good here in the Whitsundays!

Alex SENIOR ACCOUNTANT Alex Cahill joined Connole Carlisle Chartered Accountants fresh out of school in 2011. In the past 11 years, Alex has grown and developed her accounting knowledge as part of our team.

Despite initially applying for an administrative role, the management team recognised her potential, encouraging her to pursue the trainee accountant position. While balancing work and study, Alex was able to apply her real-world experiences to her degree. She credits this with developing her knowledge and understanding the balance of technical theory and client realities. Alex graduated from Central Queensland University with a Bachelor of Accounting in 2015.

After graduation, Alex took some time to enjoy working without the pressures of studying, as well as to be able to travel and see some of the world, before completing her Chartered Accountancy Certification (CA) in 2018. Alex assists a wide range of clients in various industries including but not limited to mining, tourism, hospitality and retail.

She applies her expertise to a range of our services

12 Gregory Street, Mackay |

4951 9333 |

including tax, compliance, bookkeeping, advisory and audit. Alex is often on the road assisting with audits or providing compliance advice. Software advice is part of Alex’s extensive client offerings, and she has played a key role in our cloud software offerings and is known as the go-to person for anything Quickbooks related. Her software knowledge is not limited to Quickbooks only and she is able to provide software assistance to clients that use a range of different softwares specific to their industry needs. This focus means she spends significant time with our small business clients where her recommendations can help streamline their businesses significantly, and make their internal processes and systems more efficient. In 2019, Alex was promoted to a Senior Accountant position.

As a local Mackay girl, Alex loves making strong client relationships - usually through her knowledge of sports. She is also an avid traveler - visiting her spread out family or traveling to clients in our secondary locations like the Whitsundays.

admin@concar.com.au |

connolecarlisle.com.au www.corelife.com.au | 37

FIND US EXHIBITING ALONGSIDE MACKAY SAFETY 38 | www.corelife.com.au

TIM PERKINS AND NORINA JANE

GROWING TOGETHER

I

mparting their shared love of nature into every unique element of their growing nursery and landscape yard, Tim Perkins and Norina Jane are a united and strong business duo who run a multifaceted enterprise that spans the transport, earth moving and horticultural industries.

Both coming from a farming background - Tim a 5,500-acre grain farm in the Wimmera Mallee in Victoria and Norina, a 70-acre kiwi and nashi fruit orchard in Gippsland, Victoria - the couple share a mutual love of an outdoors lifestyle and are used to the demands that change with the seasons.

“It’s no surprise that when we met in the Whitsundays, we joined forces and eventually ended up back in the industries we love,” Norina said.

“We both come well versed in machinery operation, horticultural practices and understand the environmental impact of farming and developmental operations.”

Launching Whitpro 16 years ago and raising three boys along the way, the couple have invested their time and energy in both their business and young family to ensure its health and growth. As their sons became adults, Whitpro also matured and found new pastures, moving its home-base to Paluma Road in Cannonvale. A beautiful old Queenslander lays at the heart of the property and acts as a central office with an expansive

landscape supply yard and a new developing nursery taking shape.

The garden maintenance business has also developed to service more than 200 regular customers, the arborist’s division now includes a 21m reach EWP and 18inch chipper, the earth moving equipment now includes bobcats, an excavator with an endless array of attachments and the water delivery service now includes a brand new 15,000L tank.

Whitpro also now operates a transport division from Townsville to Brisbane and employs 34 staff.

This dynamic business runs under the watchful eyes of its proprietors who both bring different but equally valuable qualities to its growth and operations.

Tim looks at the big picture and is the eternal optimist with a dream and a vision. Meanwhile, Norina shares that dream but on occasion brings him back to earth with her detail-focused and analytical mind that evaluates all potential outcomes. Together they make a great team that works in-tune with one another, founded on mutual respect and united in their vision.

“Whitpro would not have come this far for either of us as individuals, it has taken our different skill sets and support for each other to make it what it is today,” Tim said.

Emulating their shared passions in their personal life, Tim and Norina also enjoy a vibrant home garden, growing their own kitchen garden used to create delicious meals (yes, Tim too!), for hosting family and close friends, something they both really enjoy and plan to do more of in the not-too-distant future.

Together they have a new interest that will shape their vision in Australian natives, a passion that is transcending into their business life as they introduce this specialty area into Whitpro’s nursery too.

“The nursery will concentrate on, but not be limited to, Australian natives,” Norina said.

“We also want to focus on affordable plants that most gardeners can grow, while focusing on Australian natives that are surprisingly diverse - your native fauna will be encouraged into your piece of the world, and you will be doing your part in sustaining a healthy environment for our community, animals, insects and future generations.”

Norina and Tim are dedicated to nurturing the new nursery, further diversifying the bulk landscape supplies and expanding their transport division over the coming year.

Just like a garden, a thriving business takes yearround care and attention to growth, as well as a pair of hard-working hands, ensuring all thrive. www.corelife.com.au | 39

TOP TIP

TOP TIP

MATT FRY

SHANE COLLIGAN

The best installation of turf is achieved by adding Top Dress, specially mixed for grass to take root.

Grow your own veggies with our veggie seeds and we can help you save a tonne of money at the supermarket!

Bulk Landscape Supplies PRO

Nursery PRO

“Whitpro makes specialised garden soil mixes based on what you want to plant. From Australian Natives to vegetable gardens, every plant needs different soils and thrives on different nutrient profiles – we can mix the perfect blend for you.

“We are also expanding our landscaping yard, opening up more bays for more products such as our decorative river stone, gravels for landscaping jobs, a variety of mulches, sands and more.”

“We have an Australian native focus and we’re sourcing them for the tropics, so they naturally grow really well in this area. We have a mixture of small shrubs, hedges and full length trees – come and check it out and I’ll be more than happy to show you round. We also take orders so can help plan your landscaping project.

“From bagged mulches to soil improvers, fertilisers, animal straw and potting mixes, we have grab and go bags ready for your convenience.

Meet The Garden Maintenance Team JAMES WHITEHEAD Ride-On Mower PRO

“Being on a ride on for more then 25 years on a commercial level, I’ve mastered this machine.

Cutting as close to the edges as possible, knowing its limits on slopes (and pushing those limits) and always leaving a neat finish in the fastest time. It’s an artform I’ve developed over

time, to disperse clippings effectively whether it be to pile them together when customers wait too long between cuts or to have the cuttings disappear into the lawn without a visual trace – you’d think I had used a catcher.

TOP TIP

Leaving clippings dispersed through your lawn actually helps fertilise your lawn just as long as you mow regularly and the clippings are not too long

PETE VENARIE

RICHARD PENA

Push Mower PRO “I love seeing the finished product and the difference we make in people’s gardens – a regular cut means a healthy lawn!”

TOP TIP

Keep the water up during the dry months of our Whitsunday winter, a thirsty lawn will promote weeds. Don’t

Brush Cutting PRO

“I love decapitating weeds that have outgrown lawns, one by one they disappear, who doesn’t love seeing a weeds demise!”

“The art of brush cutting is surprisingly hard to master and that’s why I love it! You need to concentrate and have a good eye for detail and control. Cutting short enough to give a neat finish but not scalping leaving exposed earth, takes time and practice.”

Always use a brush cutter at consistent revs, preferably at full throttle and when cutting grass make sure you do long sweeping actions back and forth and hold the head just above the ground.

let your lawn turn brown and then start watering, keep the water up so it is continually green or watch your lawn turn into a weed haven. Fertilising your lawn will help keep it green but watering it is absolutely essential.

Its also the time to lift your mower deck and sharpen your mowers blades (or replace them).

Deck height is critical right now. Too short and you’ll promote bare patches for weeds to take over with growth rates much slower this time of year

DARRYL LEDWITH Hedging PRO

“I like seeing the finished product, turning a big ugly bush into something that looks neat and appealing. We can look at how it’s become

40 | www.corelife.com.au

TOP TIP

overgrown, assess the shape and work out how to trim it best so it will look as good as possible.”

TOP TIP

Don’t leave it too long between trims, once a month is best for a good shape.

JEREMY HALL-MARKICH Planting a tree is sowing a greener future for tomorrow. They are great for the environment, provide a perfect refuge for native fauna and they can transform the look of a property. But before you grab a shovel, there are a number of things to consider.

This is where expert advice from Whitpro’s arborists come in.

Your tree might look cute now, but what will it grow into? Consider whether it will provide welcome or unwelcome shade over parts of your home (important if you have solar panels) and whether it will block a favourable view if it spreads too far.

GET GROWING

WITH

PLANTING OUR FUTURE

CHARLIE WILLIAMSON

Other areas of consideration are the root and branch spans; roots can lift a concrete driveway or fence, impede plumbing and branches can overhang your roof, filling gutters or rubbing during windy days. In extreme cases, large branches can cause extensive damage to your home if they become too large. Too much shade over your roof and excessive leaf fall can also cause draining failures, leaks in your roof and mould growth.

It’s all about awareness and advice from experience arborists who know the correct position and spacing for every species of tree.

Whitpro’s arborists can also look at existing trees and offer services

to keep you safe, such as removing fronds, de-nutting coconuts and trimming large branches.

Slow-growing trees that are already established still require nurturing to grow optimally. Ideally, Whitpro’s arborists will work with you to save a tree rather than remove it where possible. This comes through management during its growth to ensure it doesn’t get too big.

Trees are worth growing and preserving because shade-loving plants create a diverse and interesting micro-climate beneath the canopy. Your garden ends up with vertical layers, providing a visually appealing green space brimming with colour and nature.

ENCOURAGING

A GREENER COMMUNITY WITH WHITPROS NURSERY By providing a selection of plants which grow well in the Whitsundays, Whitpro’s nursery will have a focus on Australian natives, celebrating the diverse flora of our country which supports the fauna of our unique ecosystem.

“Planting Australian natives for food and greenery is the revolution in agriculture happening now, providing climate adaptable plants which improve our carbon footprint,” Norina said.

“Not only can native plants introduce a world of new flavour to our dinner plates, but there is also a wealth of information to be shared about the Aboriginal use and understanding of Australian plants for medicinal benefits.

“It’s become a bit of a passion of mine to learn more about what our native plants have to offer beyond beauty.”

By choosing native plants, you provide a home for native bees and butterflies who are struggling to survive amid the growing urbanisation of our Australian towns. Chat to Whitpro about contributing towards a greener future.

www.corelife.com.au | 41

JAMIE SNOWDEN Bobcat and Slasher PRO “This service is great for people on acreage or if you are preparing a new block of land, also if you have let your property get away from you – even if your garden is eight-feet high we can help you out with this piece of machinery. Most people have slashers attached to tractor units but we use a bobcat to handle much more difficult terrain so we can go just

MATHEW PROMNITZ

GET GROWING

WITH

TRUCK & PLANT HIRE

about anywhere.”

Other attachments that we have available are stump grinders, augers and the trencher

TOP TIP It is really important that your property is all clear all big rocks as these will break blades which is costly and time consuming to change over. Let us know the location of electrical boxes, water metres and tree stumps so we can be sure to avoid them

All the challenges become worth the sweat, input and planning when all the elements come together.

Landscaping PRO

From retaining walls to pavers, and planting and mulching, there is nothing better than when the final stage of plants and turf are finally introduced into a new landscape project.

When all the foundation work is completed and the customer gets to see the end result

Remember: Drainage and irrigation are key elements to any landscape job’s success! You cant see it, but it determines the long term stability and success of your project.

TOP TIP Use geofab and drainage gravel when building a retaining wall to ensure that your wall last the test fo time

MARK PERFREMENT

Truck PRO

“I love getting out and about, we can deliver everything from top dress to garden mulches, crusher dust for paving and road base. Most of the products we have in-stock on-site but if there’s something else you want we can organise that for you too. We can also source specialty items such as landscaping rocks, including metre plus rocks which are often hard to get hold of.”

TOP TIP

Try and pre-order so we can arrange to meet your deadline and ensure we have time to source what you are looking for

WATER DELIVERIES

OUR NEW WATER TRUCK AND TANK HAS ARRIVED AND IS TALLER AND LONGER THAN OUR 10,000L TRUCK AND CARRIES AN IMPRESSIVE 15,000L 42 | www.corelife.com.au

Keep in mind when ordering water that a bigger truck and tank means that trees need to be pruned back from driveways, property entrances and tank access areas. At 4m high, branches that can fit under our 10,000L truck may need to be removed to get larger deliveries.

For steep driveways and tight access properties we still have you covered and will continue to deliver in the smaller 10,000L truck and tank.

whitpro.com.au | 0412 137 337 124 | Paluma Rd, Woodwark

ENGINES & PARTS AG PRODUCTS GENERATORS SERVICING EQUIPMENT TRUSTWORTHY, RELIABLE, GENUINE WE ARE OUR PEOPLE SERVICING the Construction, Farming and Mining Industries PARTS and EQUIPMENT for industrial applications

287 Nebo Road 07 4842 9300 sales@gwind.com.au www.gwind.com.au

Dealer Direct Finance Let us do the legwork to get you the best finance, Australia-wide!

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It’s not ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to getting the best finance.

Our team of finance brokers are at your service 24/7 to work with your individual needs and circumstances to source the best loan for you, now – and for your future.

0402 074 386

Equipment Loans | Commercial Loans | Car Loans

dealerdirectfinance.com.au www.corelife.com.au | 43

MEET THE APPRENTICES WH Every business needs a solid succession plan that forges a new path yet is tightly linked to the journey already travelled. The wisdom and experience gained over the years, blended perfectly with the enthusiasm and innovation of a promised future. By combining the two, clients feel reassured that the quality of workmanship will be equally matched with the excitement to travel forward in a new direction.

A strong foundation of mateship and mutual respect rests at the heart of Reef Electrical in Cannonvale as it transitions from 30 years under the ownership of Bryan Harries who is passing the business over to his most skilled electricians. New owners, Ryan McLeod-Steinmetz and Guy Chojnacki, are dedicated to continuing Bryan’s legacy, carrying the mantle of integrity and the impeccable reputation that their mentor spent a lifetime creating.

Both men have been electricians since completing their apprenticeships straight out of school and chanced upon the position at Reef Electrical by walking through the doors with nothing but a recommendation and a resume, chatting with Bryan and starting work the very next day.

Ryan joined the business 10 years ago, becoming business partner after five years, and Guy became part of the team in 2017.

The two men have enjoyed many happy years on job, discovering a business that not only matches their ethics but also motivates their progression, working alongside reputable builders and architects while helping local residents and business owners.

Earlier this year, when Bryan formally announced his retirement, Guy stepped-up to join Ryan, forming a new business partnership.

Originally from Cootamundra, near Wagga in New South Wales, Guy moved to the Whitsundays when his wife was offered a position teaching locally. The plant, where he had been working in his hometown, was struggling to stay open so the couple jumped at the opportunity to move closer to family and a tropical Queensland lifestyle.

Coincidentally, Ryan moved to the area from Brisbane when

his wife was also appointed to a local teaching position. Initially the couple wanted to stay for two years and return home, but they loved the lifestyle, and could see career opportunity in the area, so decided to stay.

They have a two-acre property in Woodwark and two dogs that cause a lot of mischief. On the weekend Ryan can be found at home relaxing by the pool with a drink in his hand looking out enjoying the views the Whitsunday brings and like most people in the Whitsundays when the weather is right you can find Ryan and his wife Angel on the water in their boat.

Guy and his wife also have a rural property which is located in Sugar Loaf and requires ‘constant mowing’. Highly active in local martial arts, the couple train most days with WMA and also compete where possible.

The two men are gradually taking the reins at Reef Electrical, overseeing daily operations and managing a team of one qualified electrician, two fourth year apprentices and one second year apprentice.

GET TO KNOW GUY Time In The Industry: 21 years

Special Skill:

Automation and control logic

Best Electrician’s Catchphrase: Anything Milwaukee - I bleed red!

44 | www.corelife.com.au

WHO BECAME THE MASTERS INNOVATION Working alongside reputable architects like Chris Beckingham, who designed qualia on Hamilton Island, Reef Electrical has the skills and experience to both take direction and create innovation within a wide variety of building projects.

“We factor in attention to detail for everything - we are very verbal with our clients with what they want to achieve, same with our builders – whenever we run into a problem, we talk it through, nut it out and solve the issue,” said Ryan “Often times you’re doing things on the fly, changing things all the time so you need to be adaptable,” agreed Guy.

CALL A SPARKY One of the only local electricians available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – Reef Electrical are dedicated to helping local residents in times of strife. From emergency callouts freeing some guests from an elevator at one of the holiday complexes to attending a family home and getting the power back on – the guys are on-call and ready to assist, promising they will always answer the phone.

THE BUSINESS OF MAINTENANCE Regular contractors to luxury hotel chains such as at Hotel Group and local marinas such as Port of Airlie, the team at Reef Electrical are multi-talented and each of their clients know that each job is completed with pride and to perfection. From general repairs to smoke alarms, testing of emergency lighting to revamps and upgrades, they are best placed to offer recommendations, solutions, and peace of mind.

DOMESTIC SPARK While Reef Electrical can manage high-end large-scale projects they are also adept at looking after individual residencies – in fact they simply love helping people.

Whether suggesting solutions to make your renovation dreams come true or finding that frustrating fault that has been a mystery for years – the team can assist with almost any project and love solving your challenges.

Domestic and Commercial Electrical installations are their speciality and can recommend the best products that suit climate, lifestyle and the budget.

GET TO KNOW RYAN Time In The Industry: 15 years

Special Skill:

Problem solving and resourcefulness

Best Electrician’s Catchphrase:

Never trust an electrician without eyebrows!

www.corelife.com.au | 45

Haymans Electrical & Data Suppliers Airlie Beach Congratulate Reef Electrical for 30 years of service to the area.

30 years in business does not come easy.

Bryan, Ryan, Guy, Rachel and all others involved over the years have to be proud of this achievement.

Wishing you all future success from the Haymans team.

Looking forward to continuing our close business relationship for a further 30 years.

EACH B E I L R I A OP IN H S ODS P O O G T L S A E C N I EC TR L YOUR O E Y T I L A R QU U O Y L L A FOR

Haymans Airlie Beach, 13 William Murray Drive, Cannonvale QLD 4802 07 4946 5233 | airlie-beach.haymans.mmem.com.au 46 | www.corelife.com.au

SPARK OF A LEGEND

Bryan Harries and his two sons Trading his electrician’s toolbelt for his kite surfing helmet and the Australian coast for the Swiss mountains, Reef Electrical founder Bryan Harries is doing what many of us aspire to do – embracing a life of leisure, travelling with his partner, and slowly stepping away from the business he created, leaving Ryan and Guy to run the day-to-day operations.

Whilst always being on-hand to assist, Bryan confesses he is enjoying his new laidback lifestyle - breathing in the fresh mountain air, spending time with two of his three adult children who live in London and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

employed over 40 tradesmen. One of his favourite roles has been in mentoring young apprentices, training them up and watching them flourish.

In the early 2000’s, Reef Electrical received contracts for many lucrative projects. Bryan remembers flying the team over to Hamilton Island every day on the Air Taxi, working on many newbuilds and also the notorious qualia. Developing a reputation for a quality finish, easily working alongside other trades and often thinking of

For thirty years Bryan dedicated his life to establishing a reputable business that is now highly respected by the Whitsunday community.

From builders to architects, big developers to local families, everyone has a good word to say about a man who brings a high level of professionalism and a genuine heart to every encounter.

From the Regatta Waters development to fitting out all the electrics at the newly expanded Coral Sea Marina – Reef Electrical was at the forefront.

In 2007, the GFC put a lot of development on hold and Bryan consolidated the business to reflect the times, binging it down to roughly six electricians, a size it has remained at to this day. Working alongside Ryan and Guy, Bryan saw potential for both men to start leading the business and, eager to enjoy life while he was still young enough to go on adventures, he decided to step away and let the ‘young guns’ run operations.

“I am still maintaining an interest in the business and will always be available to help,” said Bryan.

“And I would like to say thank you to everyone - I would never have achieved 30 years without being surrounded by some of the most incredible people that made it all possible.”

Originally from Sydney, Bryan became an electrician as soon as he left school, moving up to the Whitsundays for work in 1992. Initially on South Molle Island looking after maintenance, it wasn’t long before he moved to the mainland and started up on his own. Moving from a home-based enterprise to his current office on William Murray Drive in Cannonvale by the late 90’s, Bryan soon picked up steady work during the building boom.

Business was soon thriving and at its peak Bryan

innovative solutions, Bryan’s leadership saw Reef Electrical secure a steady flow of big contracts.

A well-known face at the Whitsunday Raiders Rugby Union Club, Bryan played a game alongside his sons a few years back and says it was a moment he will cherish forever. Now pursuing more outdoor activities, Bryan can be found climbing mountains in the Swiss Alps with his partner, Donna, or kite surfing along the beach.

Living proof that life does indeed start when you retire, Bryan has truly found a new spark.

Bryan when he started the business 30 years ago www.corelife.com.au | 47

ADMIN QUEEN RACHEL MILLARD The friendly voice who answers your account queries and sends out the invoices, Rachel is Reef Electrical’s administration queen, keeping order in the fast-paced business and ensuring all paperwork is processed efficiently.

With a Bachelor in Nutrition, Rachel also runs her own business called Empower Me Nutrition and Personal Training, using fitness and dietary advice to help clients from across the region. Along with raising her children and looking after the accounts at Reef Electrical, this keeps her very busy, but she loves the full life and enjoys the challenge.

Originally from the Gold Coast, Rachel moved to Gympie and then Moranbah before deciding to come to Airlie Beach to start a family with her miner-husband. The couple now have 10-year-old Billie and five-year-old twins Nate and Olivia.

On a rare moment when the stars align, her husband is home from the mines, the children are well and the sun is shining, the family love to head outdoors to the park or the beach or for a leisurely walk. Rachel also loves to cook (and eat!), she can be found in the kitchen experimenting with delicious treats for the kids or sitting quietly reading a book.

Enjoying the sociable outlet of regular work and a little time away from her beloved children, Rachel was recommended the role by a mutual friend and has now been working with the company two days a week for the past six and a half years.

At work, she loves to help all her customers and make sure their service is as seamless as possible.

While mistakes are extremely rare, she says she would always rather hear first-hand if something didn’t work out as hoped.

“I feel really lucky to be part of this team, we are a pretty small but close-knit team,” she said.

“This is probably the most supportive, flexible environment I think I’ve ever worked in. I often bring the kids in if I have to, and Bryan is like an adoptive grandad to them! I feel really lucky to still be here and get to do what l do.”

“These guys are a wealth of knowledge and we’re all very approachable, if something’s not right let us know and we’ll fix it,” she said.

CANNONVALE

WHITSUNDAY TYRE SERVICE CONGRATULATIONS REEF ELECTRICAL ON 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING TOGETHER IN THE FUTURE.

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An Architects Dream Connectors Forming friendships along the way, Bryan Harries made much of his reputation through his ability to work well with other trades. Known for his easy-going charm, over the last 30 years with Bryan at the helm, Reef Electrical has become a contractor of choice for countless developments and high end projects.

Back in 1997 Bryan was tasked with the complex job of fitting all electrics at ‘Woodwark Bay’, the first house created by iconic Whitsunday building designer, Chris Beckingham which was being built for millionaire entrepreneur Jodee Rich. This project marked the beginning of a life-long friendship for Bryan and Chris who connected instantly with a shared ambition for quality workmanship and willingness to work alongside clients.

“Bryan always went out of his way to do things,” said Chris.

“He has great PR with people, he’s a really nice guy and everyone enjoyed working with him.”

The pair went on to collaborate on many projects alongside a broader team of tradies who enjoyed the peak of the building boom in the Whitsundays in the late 90’s.

Chris Beckingham became a highly regarded building designer who was sought after for his visionary architecture. He designed 16 houses on Hamilton Island and went on to create the award-winning qualia as well as the stunning Golf Clubhouse.

Paradise Cove

A born and bred Whitsunday local, Chris is the mastermind behind many striking architecturally impressive homes. His signature use of timber, glass and stone brought in natural elements from the region, playing with light and space to capture a truly divine feel.

Bringing the friendship to a new level, Chris even designed Bryan’s family home at the end of Coral Esplanade in Cannonvale. Trusted companions and esteemed colleagues, the two men are both now enjoying a slower pace of life and the fruits of their impressive careers.

qualia

“Young Ryan has always been Bryan’s protégé and with Guy now leading the team as well, I am sure they will continue to do a great job, they are both excellent electricians,” said Chris.

“I wish Bryan all the best – good on him!”

ABN 45 489 132 184

We are proud to support reef electrical and congratulate the team on 30 years in business

Specialists in: • Outdoor Blinds & Awnings • Indoor Blinds • Shutters • Curtains • Motorised Remote Control

Congratulations to Bryan, Ryan, Guy and all the Reef Electrical team for 30 years of success in business.

It’s been a pleasure to see your business continually grow & develop and we look forward to working with you over the many years to come.

From all the team at Leader Group Accountants

07 4946 7377 Located at 10 Chapman St in Proserpine P: (07) 49461666 | M: 0428883065 | E: windwoven@live.com.au | W: windwoven.com.au

info@leadergroup.net.au www.leadergroup.net.au

1st Floor Whitsunday Business Centre, 230 Shute Harbour Road Cannonvale, Queensland 4802

www.corelife.com.au | 49

50 | www.corelife.com.au

Jody was invited to co-author Courage and Confidence, a collaboration with 23 women entrepreneurs from across the nation.

Courage and Confidence is the essential guide for women in business who are ready to take on their biggest dreams and make them a reality, something Jody has achieved celebrating, 25 years in business. This book is filled with practical advice and tools combined with powerful and motivational stories to inspire you into action.

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I’m incredibly proud to share my story titled - Into the Unknown, which covers my journey not only as a business owner but also my experiences as a Mum of two teenage daughters.

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Jody Lee Euler, Director of redhotblue can now add published author, to her long list of accomplishments.

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PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THIS BOOK GO TOWARDS PROVIDING SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WOMEN TO ATTEND – THE WOMENS BUSINESS SCHOOL PROGRAMS. to purchase your copy, visit www.redhotblue.com.au

Intelligent creativity Marketing | Consultation | Design | Advertising | Web | Social Media | Events P 07 4953 2833 A 11 Macalister Street, Mackay QLD www.redhotblue.com.au www.corelife.com.au | 51

Home, Property & Garden

a hidden retreat Of Architectural

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ucked in the lush tropical surrounds of Funnel Bay and bordered by a remote, private beach lays a secret resort that has sprouted seemingly out of nowhere to become a small opulent village created by a family.

Kevin and Dolores Beasley first came to the Whitsundays six years ago, and when they discovered a small piece of paradise nestled in natural wonder they knew the remote location held promise as well as opportunity. After purchasing the land, they worked closely with local architect, Chris Beckingham, to build a signature dwelling: the luxurious Emerald House.

This stylish property is in the classic Beckinghamstyle with strong timber and rock elements throughout. A large, manicured lawn leads directly to a private beach and stunning views across the bay.

With the luxurious first house in place, Kevin, a self-confessed serial entrepreneur with a love for deep thinking and an uncanny perception for great opportunities, decided to continue building

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on the vast property. Within two years, Kevin and a dedicated team of local visionaries, had constructed several other houses on the property as well as a central Clubhouse and Day Spa.

opened as a resort for private events and largegroup holidays. Each dwelling has its own pool and is architecturally designed to reward function, ease and opulence.

Initially, Kevin built these houses for his adult sons and their families to use whenever they visited, but it soon became clear that a luxury resort was blossoming out of the lush Whitsunday undergrowth. The wild forest was tamed, and landscaped tropical gardens grew in its place, with four full-time gardeners tasked with maintaining its beauty.

The central Clubhouse and Day Spa is a haven of harmonious textures and elements providing a tranquil space for guests. It is also equipped with a fitness centre which boasts a climbing wall and state-of-the-art Technogym fitness equipment.

Yangaro is the merger of words that speaks to the philosophy of the resort – Yang, the passion and brightness of the yin yang, and Ngaro, the name of the indigenous people of Whitsundays.

Its name leads to connecting guests with each other, the unique environment and the experiences that unfold.

No expense has been spared in creating this luxurious micro-village which the owners have now

This tranquil oasis is designed to leave guests feeling renewed and relaxed – with added hydrotherapy - Vichy jet showers, a sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, jacuzzi, swimming pool and tropical outdoor rain showers.

Every aspect of the resort has been considered and built with love. What started out as a man’s dream to create an estate for his family to come together has become a gift for the discerning holidaymaker.

Bringing the resort into its new identity as a stylish tourist destination is the Beasley’s daughter-in-law Sandra Navarro who is currently marketing the unique location locally and throughout Australia.

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

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enee Saroglia has spent almost half her life in the real estate industry, so it’s no surprise she knows the industry inside out. Born and raised in Mackay and starting in real estate when she was 17, Renee’s 14 years of experience have seen her work across sales administration and office management, moving into a Sales Agent role two years ago.

them know their offer has been accepted,”

“I always had a passion for property and a dream to buy my first home at a young age, so I think it was inevitable I was going to be a Sales Agent one day” Renee said.

As well as being an award-winning sales Agent, Renee is mum to two young boys and a teenage girl. While Saturdays are for open homes, she says Sundays are family time. She and her family love to get the boat out on the water and venture to Keswick Island for a barbecue lunch.

Renee is rapidly developing her reputation in the Mackay region due to the great customer relationships she creates and the outstanding results she achieves for those valued customers. Whether she’s selling someone’s home for a great price or finding a buyer their perfect home, Renee’s commitment to the customer is evident. She loves meeting people, getting to know their property needs and making their dreams come true.

“It doesn’t matter how many houses you sell, it’s about the results you get for those clients.”

While Renee’s priority is undoubtedly the satisfaction of her customers, she’s also enjoyed industry recognition for her hard work and dedication. In 2021, she picked up ‘Outstanding New Talent’ and the ‘Elite Agent of the Year’ awards, proving her undeniable commitment to her work.

Renee admits she’s a bit of a workaholic and with a lifelong passion for real estate, a refreshing approach to her role and her trustworthy nature, she ensures a unique and pleasant experience for both buyer and seller.

To find out why Renee is renowned for her excellent customer service and care, get in touch on 0423 073 969 or email renee@ pinpointproperty.com.au.

Renee said the best part of her job, “is making that exciting call to the buyer to let

INTEGRITY CARE COMMITMENT

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND SALES www.corelife.com.au | 53

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Interior Design & Interior Decorating Style Central Home is a boutique service providing creative & practical direction in interior design, renovating & décor restyling.

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Frank Attard

THE KEY TO YOUR SOLUTIONS Being adaptable and bringing the right attitude to every problem is a simple theory to solve complex problems. It’s one which has grown a one-man engineering business into one of Mackay’s largest, with an imprint in all corners of the community, from the largest mining companies to the smallest sports teams.

A turn-key solutions provider with an attitude of ‘there’s no problem we can’t solve’, Key Solutions Group provides end-to-end service to unlock the potential of projects.

Complete delivery is their specialty, from design and development of equipment to mine remediation works, major overhauls and structural upgrades. Mining, ports, sugar and civil construction are the main industries which lean on Key Solutions Group to solve a problem.

SO HOW DID IT ALL START? Keep reading to meet the man who started it all, and the team who continue to grow the business from strength to strength

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15

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KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP

ANNIVERSARY

Being a turn-key engineering provider means taking the problem away for clients with no gaps left in providing a solution. www.corelife.com.au | 57

My dear uncle said to me in my teens, ‘if you want to get ahead, you have to be your own boss’

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well-known cane farming family with Maltese heritage, the Attards have claimed a sweet domain throughout the Mackay region, having worked the soil for more than a century. Despite being the third generation on his family’s farm, Frank Attard, the eldest of seven, decided to blaze his own path in business.

We unlock the potential of projects by providing end-to-end engineering solutions.

Although he didn’t opt to stay on the land as some of his siblings did, it was still the sugar industry that inspired his career choices, which led to the creation of one of Mackay’s premier engineering firms, Key Solutions Group.

Growing up on the family farm near Eton, when Frank left school, he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do.

“I looked into apprenticeships but didn’t know where to turn because nothing really stood out,” Frank said.

We listen to our client’s needs and offer innovative and personalised solutions across a range of key areas including taxation, superannuation and management accounting.

11 Sydney St, Mackay | 07 4953 5313 | www.shepdud.com.au 58 | www.corelife.com.au

Great business, great team, great leader!

Congratulations on your anniversary to Francis and the team at KSG. Your success is a testament to your vision, hard work and commitment. We wish you every success in the years to come.

The industry which his family helped to flourish is what gave him the sweet idea he was looking for.

“I started at Mackay Sugar doing lab tech work, which led to assisting tradesmen in the mill during the maintenance season,” Frank said.

“That triggered the idea to do mechanical engineering.”

His next move set him on a vastly different path than that of his family. His brother, Joe, purchased some of the family farm and operates the popular Note Park Grazing, while Frank set off towards engineering and mining.

“I started at TAFE and really found that the industry was where I wanted to be, but I wasn’t challenged enough,” Frank recalled.

“That led to eight years of external study in engineering, then I finished with two more years doing a Master’s Degree in Business.

“I took on engineering management roles, one with DBT Australia in an underground facility. That led to mainly specialising in the underground space with underground equipment.

“My dear uncle said to me in my teens, ‘if you want to get ahead, you have to be your own boss’. That was when I was 15 or 16, so it planted that seed early that stuck with me. It helped me to identify pretty early on that owning my own business was what I wanted, I just had to find the industry I was passionate about first.

“None of where we are today would be possible without support. Support from our community, our great people, clients and mentors. More recently, my partner Nadine and the endless 24/7 support I can turn to.”

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KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP

ANNIVERSARY

EXPERIENCE. KNOWLEDGE. DEDICATION. Surface & Underground Mining Projects have ranged from the design and development of equipment and mine remediation works, onsite project management and major overhauls of equipment and structural upgrades.

Complete project delivery is our specialty.

Port Facilities Extensive capabilities in project implementation of upgrades, expansion and optimisation of Port facilities have been widely utilized. Key Solutions Group specialises in material Handling Equipment and conveyor infrastructure.

By providing full time on-site engineering support and personnel their service and attention to detail is second to none.

Sugar Industry Key Solutions Group have worked in close consultation with Mackay Sugar,

Wilmar Sugar and regional Sugar Mills for a number of years, providing services to assist in onsite maintenance/repairs, fabrication and design feasibility reviews of facility upgrades.

With a number of key personnel having previously worked within this industry, Key Solutions Group is able to offer extensive knowledge in the design, development or complete supply of any project that may require operational improvement.

Key Solutions Group – Your Future.

Projects, People, Problems Solved.

End-to-end engineering solutions allow clients the unique opportunity to alter their design at any time during the project.

Key Solutions Group’s level of commitment to delivering client’s exactly what they need is another example of the quality work it upholds.

“We deeply believe in providing clients with the best level of customer service and we are committed to partnering with them – not just working with them.”

C&C Civil & Mining Construction congratulate Frank and his team at Key Solutions Group on achieving 15 years in business and look forward to the delivery of future infrastructure projects together throughout the Bowen Basin.

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THE CONCEPT OF KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP

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n 2007, a long drive from Brisbane gave Frank the headspace he needed to come up with a business idea of his own, one where he could utilise his engineering experience with his passion for delivering end-to-end solutions.

“While everyone else was asleep in the car I had a bit of a think tank with myself. It was around the St Lawrence straights where the name Key Solutions came to mind, which summed up the service I wanted to achieve.

“We unlock the potential of projects by providing end-to-end engineering solutions.”

It started simply with Frank and a car, then he brought on another engineer, and then another.

“Fifteen years later, here we are,” he said.

“We’ve grown into a business which has diversified with market demand and economic conditions, providing engineering design, maintenance work, specialist underground services, wash plants, generally anything that needs any sort of engineering

and any sort of solution.

“Being those people who say, ‘bring us a problem and we’ll find a solution’ means we get a lot of the hard jobs, not too many easy ones, but that’s shaped who we are as a business.”

Being a turn-key engineering provider means taking the problem away for clients with no gaps left in providing a solution.

“We do close to everything ourselves in most situations, but if there are parts of the solution we know are crucial that we can’t look after, we’ll bring in someone reputable that we trust to assist in delivering the complete package.

“It’s very much about building and maintaining relationships in the business community, whether it be with our competition or not it doesn’t matter, there may come a time where we need them, or they may need us.

“Your customer is always right, so ultimately, it’s about providing what’s best for them.”

TO SPECIALISE OR NOT TO SPECIALISE?

Congratulations to Frank & the team at Key Solutions Group on their 15th anniversary STEEL CENTRAL IS QUEENSLAND’S LARGEST AND BEST EQUIPPED STEEL PROCESSING & DISTRIBUTION FACILITY NORTH OF BRISBANE. Value add solutions for Central & North Queensland’s Mining, Engineering, Energy, Construction, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Bio-Fuels and Future Industries.

- 20 Years supporting local businesses PH: (07) 4952 1005 | E: sales@steelcentral.com.au | 45a Michelmore St, Paget | www.steelcentral.com.au 60 | www.corelife.com.au

15

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KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP

ANNIVERSARY

THE BIRTH OF A BUSINESS Wanting to be your own boss and setting up a business from scratch are two different things, so how did Frank start Key Solutions Group?

“Originally it was just me, and I knew I was leaving the comfort of having a steady income stream. You have to be prepared to go out and find work, because in the early stages, it won’t automatically come to you,” Frank said.

“After setting up Key Solutions Group, I joined with a business partner and we brought different aspects, mechanical and electrical, to cover the bases. He ended up going on to do other things and I still talk to him a lot today, as he was also a mentor and a good mate.

“You can’t stare at the phone and hope it will ring. I went out and talked to businesses, let them know I could help with problems they had. One person turns into another and then another. All of a sudden you reach 100 per cent capacity very quickly when it’s just yourself.

“After 12 months I had an engineer with me, he stayed for a decade, before he had developed as far as he could within the business.

“I’ve been thrown this suggestion a lot during my time in business, but when you specialise, and that industry or market dries up, what then?

“We’ve kept the concept of being a turn-key solutions provider relatively open, with the theory that there’s no problem we can’t solve. We’ve kept the fold as open as we can, which has led to interesting corners of our business I wouldn’t have imagined a decade ago,” Frank said.

“That’s essentially the key. What will mining be like in a decade? We don’t really know. We’ve got to be willing to pivot towards revolutionary new markets and adapt our way of thinking by continually upskilling to offer our clients the high-quality solutions we’re known for.”

“Growth after that was always keeping the ability to service customers. It’s the chicken and the egg, you get too much work, your lead time gets too long and you risk losing work, but hire too many people you need to ensure the work is there for it to be viable.

“Making sure we could get a job done within the timeframe promised, providing an all-in-one solution to solve a problem and doing a good job, that’s the key to success and continual growth. That’s how we’ve gone from one person to around 80.”

Congratulations to Frank and all the team at Key Solutions on their 15th birthday

MOBILE SOLUTIONS SERIOUS EQUIPMENT SAVES YOU SERIOUS MONEY Cost Neutral Investment Increases Safety Employee Comfort Fully Self-Contained

www.mpservices.net.au

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The Key Solutions Group difference is our people, teamwork and a can-do attitude Failing is not an option

JAMES MUSCAT Operations Manager

ABOUT JAMES Favourite movie: Bad Boys Dream automobile: 5.8L XD Falcon – First Car Biggest lesson learned in life: You never stop learning James grew up as a Valley lad at Owens Creek on a cane farm.

With five brothers, he grew up working hard and playing harder, racing dirt bikes and water-skiing. His tough constitution saw him play football for the Wests Tigers, his 1988 team winning the Reserve Grade Premiership.

He went to secondary school at St Brenden’s College in Yeppoon before returning to Mackay. He’s been married for 32 years and has two adult daughters.

“Life between family and work is never boring and weeks fly by.

Family and friends are a big part of my life. I still enjoy going for a water ski and motorbike rides when time prevails.”

Q&A WITH JAMES WHAT TIP DO YOU HAVE FOR A YOUNGSTER WANTING TO FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS? “Study wise, in my opinion it is up to you, I have worked with numerous individuals that have changed their careers and study later on in life.

“An apprenticeship or tertiary education is always a good starting point.

“Patience is a virtue as career development does not happen overnight and remember that life experiences, sometimes as difficult as they are, the challenges are all learning experiences.

“Where you start today may not be where you end-up in the future; take every opportunity in life as it comes.”

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rowing up on a cane farm, James Muscat was drawn to the general repairs and maintenance side of farming from a young age. This set him on a career path to become a fitter and turner, a progression which saw him evolve from mills to mines.

“Cattle Creek Mill was the largest employer for jobs within the area I grew up in and I was fortunate to do my apprenticeship there,” James said.

As the Operations Manager for Key Solutions Group, James supports the business across all departments, from the support of personnel and safety to planning, tendering, scheduling, quality control and customer service.

The diversity of his role at Key Solutions Group comes from a comprehensive background in repair, maintenance and servicing the mining industry. He spent three decades across a broad spectrum of OEM roles gaining specialty knowledge in underground mining equipment.

“In 1991 I joined a major OEM company that was new to Mackay which supported the Mining Sector in equipment supply, repair and overhaul of underground mining equipment,” James said.

“The growth of this company was rapid with lots of opportunities for career development.

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KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP

“Over a 5-year period I covered all the shop floor duties as a supervisor leading into a workshop coordinator role. While doing this I also completed night studies for a 2-year period completing advanced trade-based courses.”

“The success of all projects comes from having the right key individuals in critical roles and the ability to set a plan that is manageable, achievable with the support of the client,” he said.

James then spent the next 22 years continuing with OEM companies, covering a broad spectrum of positions in management to becoming general manager.

“I continued to study in the area of management and business.

“My career development has come with hard-work, life experience and good mentorship from others but also a commitment to ensure, as a team, we achieved required outcomes.”

“Customer Service is key to a successful business.”

James has been with Key Solutions Group for five-and-a-half years, and credits teamwork for success in large critical projects.

ANNIVERSARY

“Planning is key and you need good people around you.

“When we do a quick turn-around on a shield project, these are typically completed during the longwall relocation on a critical path with a fixed timeline for the mine-site to get back into production.

“Working alongside our clients as a combined team, we pre-plan all contingency spares, scope line-items, duration and manning levels to ensure all outcomes are achieved.

“The best part is when we live up to our name of finding a key solution, making the impossible possible.”

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Southern Steel would like to congratulate Frank and the team at Key Solutions on celebrating 15 years of business. We’re glad to have been able to support them over this time and look forward to continuing long into the future.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL AUSTRALIAN AND FAMILY OWNED STEEL SUPPLIER For all enquiries please call (07) 4998 5831 or email mackaysales@sqsteel.com.au www.corelife.com.au | 63

DEAN LOWE Mechanical Engineering Manager

ABOUT DEAN Favourite beverage: A cold beer - Hahn Ultra Crisp Dream automobile: My own Mack Truck Childhood hero: Not a childhood hero but sportspeople who can change the game and influence the team culture, like Jonathan Thurston or Cameron Smith Biggest lesson learned in life: Be patient with progress. Not everything will come in the early days, put the effort in now to pay dividends in the future.

While mining and manufacturing brought Dean to Mackay, the lure of the rainforest and the reef has been a big bonus. As an avid camper, Dean and his wife and son love to explore the outdoors and spend nights under the stars. He’s a keen fisherman too, but admits to not getting out as much as he used to.

His family are in Rockhampton, where Dean grew up, so he has banded together with other ‘mining orphans’ to form a family network here in Mackay.

“We have a group of friends all in the same boat with no immediate family here in Mackay, so our friend structure is our family here, with sharing Sunday roasts and hanging out,” Dean said.

Dean’s greatest adventure just after marrying his wife was a sixweek adventure, starting with a Contiki tour through Europe. That led to honeymooning through the Greek Islands before finishing in Bali to watch another mate’s wedding.

Q&A WITH DEAN WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT WITH KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP? “One that comes to mind was a major project at Oaky Creek with washplant extensions and upgrades. The construction was a 6-to8-month stint with carefully planned shutdowns.

“Those big jobs don’t come up all the time so it’s great to be part of one. It’s a hard slog at the time, when it’s on it’s on, but then you can look back with accomplishment after the end result is delivered.

“All the roof support overhauls we do are a big team effort. We come together and get it done.

“Another memorable job was just before Christmas at the end of 2020, we relocated to Narrabri across the border in NSW to do a roof support overhaul. We flew back on 22 December after just over three weeks on the job. It took a lot of planning and logistics to take what we do here to New South Wales, but that was part of the satisfaction of delivering for the client.”

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hile the rainforest and the reef are what would attract most people to the Mackay region, for Dean Lowe, the ultimate attraction was found between the mines and what he says is one of the best manufacturing hubs an engineer could ask for.

“The industry hub in Mackay is second-tonone.

“From an engineering and manufacturing perspective, it doesn’t get any better than Mackay,” Dean said.

He moved here from Rockhampton after his second university placement with CQUniversity. He studied Mechanical Engineering and found Mackay to be an engineer’s dream, where a bustling industry hub offers a diverse range of opportunities.

“That’s a reason why we are so diverse at Key Solutions Group, because it’s not just mining, the sugar and port industries are constantly providing challenges for us to solve also,” he said.

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Dean started with the company around a decade ago and worked for six years, before a different opportunity took him elsewhere for 18 months. He returned to Key Solutions Group almost four years ago and oversees around 15 people in the mechanical engineering division.

Executing major overhauls is a project he likes to be a part of.

“We do a lot of work in the underground mining space, with roof support overhauls and maintenance,” Dean said.

“A part of what makes us stand out is that often we’re not only tasked with the maintenance of equipment, but designing and constructing solutions to improve the equipment and efficiency of the mine as well.”

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Dean said he enjoys the start-to-finish approach he gets to experience with Key Solutions Group.

“I like that we’re not just a design consulting office, we can conduct trials and look after the construction.

“Taking a problem from the start, working through conception and design, implementing the build and then delivering the solution for that complete problem solve is far more fulfilling than being stuck in an office in Brisbane delivering a theory.”

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MATTHEW CUSACK Civil Engineering Manager ABOUT MATTHEW Favourite movie: Shawshank Redemption Dream automobile: Aston Martin DB5 Childhood hero: Michael Schumacher – he became the best at what he does through hard work and determination Biggest lesson you’ve learned in life: Take opportunities when they present themselves. “It didn’t work out” is better than “what if”.

Growing up in the UK, the COVID travel restrictions hit Matthew hard when it came to not seeing friends and family.

He thought he would miss his brother’s 40th birthday, but restrictions in the UK eased just in time to plan a grand surprise.

“My brother’s wife had organised a surprise party for him but with all the COVID travel restrictions, we didn’t think we could make it.

The restrictions lifted about two weeks before the party so I just booked a ticket and didn’t tell anyone.

“He wasn’t expecting the party at all, and it was great to give him an extra surprise and catch up with the family we hadn’t seen for a few years.”

Matthew is also married with two daughters aged 6 and 8.

“When I’m not working, I enjoy spending my free time with my family, taking the dogs to the beach, bike riding, camping and the occasional fishing trip.”

Q&A WITH MATTHEW WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST INTERESTING PROJECT YOU’VE WORKED ON? “Terminal 5 at Heathrow was fantastic to be involved in, just about every engineering discipline you could think of was involved. I also like to think I’ve made a bit of a mark on Mackay since I’ve been here, working on Forgan Bridge, Mackay City Centre and the MARC.” WHAT TIPS DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE IN SCHOOL WANTING TO BECOME A CIVIL ENGINEER? “Maths, science and technology subjects will help on the study side.

“As far as experience goes, just get as much as you can. Schoolbased work experience, vacation work, gap years, uni placements, it all helps. Can you use CAD or work as an offsider in a materials lab or for a surveyor? Anything remotely linked to what you want to do! Real world experience will set you apart from your peers when you graduate.

“Once you graduate you need to ask for a mix of larger projects where you can learn from people who are good at what they do and smaller projects where you can develop yourself by grabbing as much responsibility as your boss will give you.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE WITH KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP? “It is very satisfying when something you have designed or planned the construction of moves off the paper or computer and into real life.”

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rowing up in Birmingham in the UK, Matthew Cusack remembers from a young age being interested in how things worked.

He would take things apart and try to fix them, inspired by his father who was a motor mechanic.

This fascination led to a career in civil engineering, thanks to an older cousin who was already working for an engineering contractor.

“Civil engineering seemed a good fit as it required maths and science, which were my strong subjects, but also presented the opportunity to get out on site rather than being in an office all day,” Matthew said.

“Between school and university in Birmingham, I managed to get a gap year placement on a civil engineering project. When I got the opportunity to put those maths and science skills to use in a practical way in a fast-paced environment, I was sure I’d found a career I wanted to have a go at.”

From across the other side of the world, Matthew built skills around bridge and rail structure projects, which led to building underground rail lines to service Terminal 5 at London Heathrow.

“Not only was the time at Heathrow good technical experience, but a chance to live rent free in London for 18 months,” he laughed.

While working on road and land development projects around the Midlands in the UK, Matthew met his wife, an Australian who was due to end

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her working holiday and return home to work as a teacher.

“I came along for the ride and ended up in Mackay, where we’ve been ever since.

“In 2008 the opportunities for civil engineers in Mackay were fantastic and I spent a few years in the contractor’s team working on the Forgan Bridge replacement project.”

“After this I switched back to consulting and spent five years with a large engineering consultancy in Mackay. During this time, I worked on multiple subdivisions, road projects, pipelines and the occasional industrial project as both a design engineer and in construction supervision roles.

“In 2016 I found Key Solutions Group and decided to make the move both for the variety of projects on offer and also the flexible approach to business and personal touch that a multi-national just can’t match.”

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Key Solutions Group can provide engineering and contract administration for road, drainage and pipeline projects as well as for civil and industrial structures.

“While civil contracting isn’t KSG’s core business we do often perform the civil aspects of our industrial structures projects,” Matthew said.

“We’re also willing to gear up to deliver those tricky projects that no-one else wants to do when our clients need us to, either with inhouse resources or using specialist sub-contractors co-ordinated by our supervision and engineering teams.

It’s an area we’d like to grow, when we find good people who are a good fit with the company.”

“For the larger projects we’re also able to embed our staff into client or contractor teams to help get the project delivered.”

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RYAN COLE Workshop and Field Manager ABOUT RYAN Favourite TV Show: All 4 Adventure or 4WD 24/7, those outdoor programs Dream automobile: Old school Camaro, wants to one day start restoring old Holdens Childhood hero: Was very much into all things cricket, most of Australian cricket teams, Merv Hughes and Glenn MacGrath Biggest lesson learned in life: You’re only as good as your last job so make sure you give all you can in everything you do Ryan was born in Victoria, and moved to Airlie Beach as a 10-year-old.

He played school boys rugby union, club cricket and was a keen golfer, playing Laguna Quays as often as possible before it closed.

As an 18-year-old, he moved back to Victoria to gain his motor mechanic apprenticeship, but the lure of the mining economy and opportunities to expand the diversity of his career led to Ryan moving back to the region in 2006.

He spends his spare time with his young family, his wife is book keeper for a local business and they have two children aged 7 and 10.

“They’re great kids, good at school and have a great handle on technology. They like getting outdoors with us camping when we can.”

Ryan when completing his apprenticeship was runner up for the Australian Kmart Tyre & Auto apprentice of the year program, he was a second-year apprentice.

In 2015 Ryan was part of the record crowd that filled the MCG for the State of Origin in Melbourne, only the second time it had been held in Victoria, with more than 91,000 people in attendance.

Q&A WITH RYAN WHAT HAS BEEN AN INTERESTING PROJECT YOU’VE WORKED ON WITH KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP? “We installed and commissioned a horizontal filter belt extension and lots of other process improvements and upgrades to various mines around the basin.

“Very much enjoy some of the high intensity fast turnaround roof support overhauls we bring to the workshop in town. This takes a lot of pre planning to ensure we complete them on time for the mines tight time frames

It’s not only about what we can supply, it’s about what we can design or fabricate to make a solution for what the client needs.

“Another thing we do well is work with our clients on shield PPU’s and underground equipment for compatibilities between different OEM products and modifications made to upgrade and update their equipment.”

WHAT DOES THE KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP DIFFERENCE MEAN TO YOU? “Teamwork.

“There aren’t too many problems that we can’t solve as a team, and the team has such diversity within it that we can cover multiple areas to get large and small projects done.

“With the depth and experience of our trades and staff and the expertise of our engineering and management team, and our enthusiastic apprentices and the industry networks. We have the confidence to say to our customers, ‘bring the problem to us, and we’ll solve it for you’.”

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motor mechanic by trade, Workshop and Field Manager Ryan Cole was drawn to Key Solutions Group for the diversity of work.

“At the simplest level, we can build or design anything our clients can dream of,” Ryan said.

“We manufacture or fabricate componentry for all areas in the mining industry and we can redesign, engineer and certify everything our customers require. We also have the infrastructure to complete onsite installations and maintenance anywhere.

“I like that one minute I’m looking after the workshop trying to plan and schedule an overhaul, the next I’m underground looking at the equipment to solve a problem.”

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back to North Queensland where he could expand into mechanical construction.

“I started in mining work as a mechanic fitter in construction of wash plant and draglines, shovel maintenance.

“A guy that I worked with in another engineering firm called with an opportunity to make the move to Key Solutions Group and I followed suit, for a more diverse career with plenty of problem solving.

“I first started 11 years ago as a field supervisor and over the years my main role has been in developing the field services teams so we can offer our services to many different mining companies to complete various maintenance down days and overhauls.”

Ryan added that Key Solutions Group has been developed to be able to make decisions to suit the customer’s needs.

“We are the key to their solution,” Ryan said.

Ryan completed his motor mechanic apprenticeship in Victoria, but rather than stay south and focus on vehicles, Ryan was drawn

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“A customer tells us what they need and we build it. We have the flexibility to fabricate what we need to provide the best solution for our clients.”

“With our own workshop we can supply the heavy fabrication for the maintenance of wash plants and underground roof supports.”

“It’s not run-of-the-mill every day, that’s the great thing about Key Solutions Group. It’s the willingness to go the extra mile to do whatever it takes to solve a problem for a client, nothing is ever simple, there’s always a challenge and every day is different.”

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We’re only ever as good as our last project

THE NEXT GENERATION

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The business isn’t about me, it’s about everyone else

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key part of Frank’s success in business is by recognising that people are his greatest asset.

“When someone says the business is about me, I say it’s about everyone else,” Frank said.

“I may have started it, but it’s much bigger than any one person.

“Our culture is to look out for each other as best we can and do the best job we can for everyone around us.”

Another integral part of Frank’s business acumen is to remind his team that the business is only ever as good as its last job.

“When you do a great job, everyone high-fives and congratulates each other, but even if you do 20 good jobs and one bad one, it’s that one bad one that people remember.

“We’re only ever as good as our last project.”

OUR MISSION

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This is why he never stops searching for the ideal people to bring into his team while also fostering potential through developing apprentices.

“It’s not about employing just anyone, it’s about finding good people, so we never stop searching.”

“When we have a good team, like a good football team, you’re always looking to improve no matter what skillset comes along.

“I encourage kids from different schools to come and gain work experience through their different programs, whether it be engineering or trades-based learning, “We take on engineering graduates, usually around two to four per year, to help them diversify and gain experience too.

“We’ve never shied away from grabbing young talent to mentor, even in

downturns, because we know when you’ve put in the development during the quiet times, you reap the rewards when things get busy and you have experienced people on hand.

For children at school considering mentoring or an apprenticeship, Frank says that attitude is key in being given opportunities to thrive.

“They have to display qualities that show that they’re willing to learn and are open to suggestion for improvement.

“They don’t know what they don’t know, so sometimes it might mean a complete change of direction.

“It starts with spending a week across the different divisions, carpentry, boiler making, fitting, electrical. The more experience you can get across various fields, the more likely you’ll figure out what you want to do.

“My son is studying mechanical engineering and I say as long as he enjoys it, it’s a long road and nothing comes easy.”

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COMMUNITY

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n Mackay, community could be replaced with communikey, because you would be hard pressed to find a community group which hasn’t received support in one way or another from Key Solutions Group.

the Europeans and Americans have, with old money that keeps being reinvested back into the community, is what Mackay needs more of. It doesn’t matter who is in government, a foundation like that remains for the community.”

Its purpose to ‘give where we live’ is entrenched in the company values, which say; “We are an active member of our local community and support a number of sporting clubs, schools and not-for-profit organisations. We value the local areas we operate in and we take pride in giving something back.”

It’s not just the big financial donations that Key Solutions Group is known for. When we asked Frank which community donation stood out, he mentioned the garden arbour his team designed for Summer House, an area where children and families of all abilities can come together in a nonjudgmental environment.

A recent example of this is with the Mackay Community Foundation, who said “Frank Attard from Key Solutions Group is a true advocate of our community who ‘gives where he lives’.

“When we approached Frank for help with the costs of replacing the ground floor air conditioning of Foundation House he did not hesitate. Mackay Community Foundation is humbled by his generosity and swift action.

“His donation of $25,000 ensures that we can continue to maximise the grant-giving that we provide on an annual basis to non-profit organisations that help individuals in need in our local community.”

“All Abilities Mackay doesn’t get big government funding and this was something we could do. It wasn’t hard for us to engineer yet we know how much it meant to Bec and Summer House,” Frank said.

Founder of Summer House and All Abilities Mackay, Bec McNicol said she couldn’t have imagined the arbour turning out any better.

“We cannot thank Key Solutions Group enough for the garden arbour they designed and engineered for us.

“They are one of our sponsors and when they asked what else they could help with, they delivered and we absolutely love it.”

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“Boards like the Mackay Hospital Foundation are made up of good people wanting to do great things for our community. I just hope I can make a bit of a difference and help with the business knowledge I’ve gained over the years,” Frank said.

“Individually I don’t think I have that much of an impact, but collectively to be able to look back on decisions made that have affected real change for the community and helped countless people, that’s where the real power to make a difference is.”

“No one ever grew themselves as a person by doing less”

Frank said supporting a charity like the Mackay Community Foundation was important to the growth of Mackay.

“That type of foundation modelled off what

Not only does Frank put his money where his mouth is, but he donates the most precious commodity of all, time. He is on the board of the Mackay Hospital Foundation and has recently joined the board of the Cutters to help direct our region’s premier rugby league organisation.

“Someone has to step up. I have a lot of people say that I have so much on my plate already, how do I find the time to help these organisations, but that’s how you grow. The more you put on your plate, the more you push yourself, that’s how you improve.

Frank Attard donated $25,000 to the Mackay Community Foundation (MCF) to replace the air condition in Foundation House. Frank (centre) pictured with Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson (left) and Frances Easton, Chair of the MCF (right)

“Frances and the team at the Mackay Community Foundation do a great job for the community. Their motto ‘give where you live’ is an ethos I believe in which is why I’ve donated a lot of money to the foundation over the years.

“I’d like to think we’re one of the most community-minded organisations in Mackay, and if someone else wants to challenge for the title, then that’s great because it means more money for the community.”

Bec McNicol of Summer House (left) with some of the Key Solutions crew who designed and engineered a garden arbour for the all-abilities charity

“On community boards there are other people to help come up with solutions. In business it was always just me, and my partner Nadine is the person who listens to my ideas when I get home.

On a board, there are numerous ideas and you learn from the way other people think.”

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ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN AT BATHURST

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pring is the most wonderful time of year for sports fans, headlined by a high-octane weekend of motorsport straight from Mount Panorama. This October, one Mackay motorsport fan won’t be tuning into the Bathurst 1000. He’ll be behind the wheel himself, alongside one of the most decorated drivers to ever take to the track.

21-year-old Declan Fraser is the Triple Eight wildcard entry in this year’s Bathurst 1000, racing alongside his childhood idol Craig “Lowndesy” Lowndes.

“It’s definitely pretty cool,” a stoked Declan said after his first test day with Lowndesy. “We gelled instantly so it was pretty cool to be able to say that I’m driving with Lowndesy, who was probably my hero growing up, so driving alongside him, there’s a lot to learn and he’s already teaching me straight away.”

Declan and his family moved to Mackay in 2007, when Declan was seven. His family was always involved in racing motorbikes and cars and a young, incident-prone Declan took up go-karting, even representing Australia in international championships. He eventually transitioned into driving cars and spent countless afternoons and weekends at the track.

“The local track out at Mackay was basically my second home,” he said. “Every time I get to go back there, I love going back to the track and seeing all the local talent that’s out there at the moment.”

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Declan says the transition from racing go-karts to cars wasn’t a seamless one, but one race weekend it all clicked and he found himself signed up as an academy driver for Paul Morris.

“Moving up through the categories has been highlight after highlight and everything gets bigger as you get further up,” he said. “That was a point in my career that it all turned around.”

Tyres and DrillPro. “I want to give back to as many people as I can who have helped me in my career and the people of Mackay have played a massive role in that … It’s been really cool to have the local support.”

When the focus turns to Bathurst, the expectations couldn’t be much higher.

Declan currently drives in the Super2 series where he’s been honing his skills, learning from Lowndesy who plays a mentor role to the team.

“Lowndesy’s made it very clear that he wants to be on the podium at the end of the race,” Declan laughed.

“He’s always been behind the scenes helping us out,” Declan said. “He’s always sort of been there but not really involved as much as we are now racing together.”

“With his knowledge and him helping me out as much as possible, we’ve already made massive gains in our first test day, so I think if we keep moving forward at the pace we are now we’ll definitely be in for a chance.

Declan’s main focus is his next Super2 event in Townsville in July.

“It’s sort of like a home race for me being the closest one we’ve got to Mackay, so I’ll have a lot of friends and family there to support me, which will be really good,” he said.

“I think just getting back into the Super2 mind frame is going to be really good and see what we can do in Townsville.

“Anything can happen at Bathurst, as everyone knows, and we’ve just got to be there to make sure we capitalise on everything.”

Growing up in a motor-mad family, Declan says racing cars was always the dream and now he’s living it, with hopes to cement himself in a main game seat for years to come.

“When we get a bit closer to Bathurst it’ll start shifting focus over to that.”

“It was definitely something that I think I was destined to do and we’re getting there now and seeing the rewards for the effort that my family and myself put in,” Declan said.

Declan says the race is also an opportunity for him to show his thanks to his hometown sponsors, including Red Hot Couriers, Oz Property, Thommo

“With Lowndesy helping me and Triple Eight and Supercheap Auto behind me, we can have a really good result at Bathurst and show what we can do.”

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Mind, Body & Soul

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iscovering a link between mind and body is something endurance athletes grapple with daily. That motivation that gets you out of the door every day to simply put one foot in front of the other doesn’t always come easy, but as local runner Justin Rule has discovered, the reward for effort has been lifechanging.

“The mental health aspect has been huge,” Justin said.

“You can come home from a terrible day at work, go for a run, then come hope happy to the family.

“Work’s busy, hectic and stressful; running resets me for family time.

“That’s what keeps me going.”

Justin was a talented runner as a teenager, preferring cross country to athletics.

“I started Little Athletics in grade 4 or 5, then I moved to a private school in Brisbane where they had cross country. That was definitely my favourite,” he said.

Like many athletes, Justin drifted away from the sport when he got older, when camping, drinking and girls become the main priorities. Having two sons, Oliver and Toby, who have both found a passion for running in recent years is what inspired him to lace up the runners once again.

“We tried Ollie out as a tiny tot in little athletics, he just couldn’t concentrate,” Justin said.

“We didn’t pursue that until one day Ollie came home from school and said, ‘oh I’m off to the Mackay District Trials’. So I thought we better do some training. We went to Pioneer School and were running laps, Toby joined in with us and enjoyed it, so he joined Little Athletics. That was 2018.

“In 2019 the kids lost a bit of focus so I said, ‘come on, I’ll show you how to do this’, I jumped on the track

with them and found my enjoyment of running again and got competitive with them,” Justin said.

Despite only a short three seasons in the sport, all three Rule boys have paced themselves to success, winning a multitude of regional and state titles, breaking records and most importantly, becoming role models within their sport.

Justin’s wife, Belinda, manages the family's sporting endeavours and acts as coach to keep her tribe inspired.

“I’m immensely proud of what they achieve on the track, but it’s seeing the sportsmanship off the track and how humble the boys remain that makes me proudest,” she said.

The pinnacle for the family was at the recent Oceania Athletics Championships held in Mackay last month in June. Oliver and Toby were both selected to represent Regional Australia in the U18 team, and Justin competed as a master’s athlete. Belinda was part of the organizing committee and was a photographer during the competition.

Oliver said the experience was enriching.

“We got to run with people from other parts of the world and listen to a lot of different languages being spoken in the call room.”

Toby added, “It was great to run against people better than me so I can see what I have to chase to improve.”

Both boys represented their club and country with style, keeping hot on the heels of some of the best young runners in Oceania. Justin competing in the M45 category won two Oceania championship titles in the 3,000m steeplechase and 5,000m run.

Justin said it’s important to him to continue to be a role model for his sons.

“If I’m role modelling for these guys, it doesn’t matter

how hard it is or what the conditions are, I try to tell them that you run in anything, so as long as you’re not injured, you run.

“The day you’re not out the door is the day your competition just got faster.”

Oliver and Toby study at HSC, with this being Oliver’s last year. He has his eye on studying information technology and hopes he might be able to combine study with a scholarship to keep running.

Toby’s aspiration is to keep improving to be able to compete professionally on the Diamond League athletics circuit.

Justin said it’s more important than ever to spend this time with them while they’re still home.

“We travel together, run together, and over the last 18 months it’s brought us so much closer together as a family,” he said.

“I enjoy that running is something we can do together and they like that I’m so engaged with something they do.”

The trio train Monday to Thursday and race Saturday and Sunday. Friday is for rest and recovery.

Coming back into the sport as a senior athlete and keeping up with his young sons wasn’t easy, but Justin says it just takes dedication and consistency.

“After 27 years of not running, it was really hard to get started again.

“When you come back to it, your body rejects all that effort and hard work, you get a strain here and a sore there, you think why am I doing this?

“I just pushed through it and thought I’m getting lazy, unhealthy, my lifestyle’s terrible, I drink too much and I’m eating the wrong stuff.”

“The more I engaged with regular training, the better I felt, it was easier to get out of bed.”

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50 Triathlons To Help The Homeless

haun Brown has run his 50th sprint distance triathlon in as many days. It’s a cold winter morning for the last 750-meter swim, the final 20 kilometres ride, and the finishing five kilometre run of his Hero50 Triathlon Campaign.

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have many challenges left and I wanted to give back to the community I love,” Shaun said.

Those distances have been a before work ritual for the past two and a half months, and Shaun isn’t sure that he’ll miss it. But he sure is proud to have started something incredible.

“You see big sportsmen do big sports fundraisers all the time - and I’m not that – but I said, I’ll see what I can do. I think it’s been a great vessel for me and for everyone to see what you can give back to the community.”

His goal was always to give back to those most vulnerable in the community, all through the power of sport.

His 5am, roughly hour and a half morning rite wasn’t because he’s a fitness fanatic – although he certainly is – it was all an altruistic athletic pursuit to raise awareness for community charities, local triathlon clubs, and the personal benefits of exercise. As well as hand over some much-needed donations for a local cause.

A keen triathlete, Shaun decided to channel his passion for a good cause: to complete 50 sprint distance triathlons in 50 days to raise money for the homeless.

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“I didn’t have money but what I did have was time and so I offered that.

His two charities of choice are Chances Café and Op Shop and the Australian Street Aid Project – both Mackay local non-for-profits that help the homeless.

The idea to donate those funds to the two grass roots charities came from his wife.

“I’ve heard some terrible stories from her job at the local PCYC about people and even entire families ending up without a place to live,” Shaun said.

“It’s not just in the cities and it can happen to anyone at any time - people everywhere are being affected by homelessness.”

He reflected on Day 24 of the challenge when he

rode near South Bank after rain the night before.

“There would have been 40 homeless people there under a bridge, and it’s horrible to see that. It’s like seeing it in a movie; it’s surreal. You don’t expect to see it in Australia,” Shaun said.

“I think: how can that happen? As a society I think we have a bit to look at and to better.”

Shaun’s goal was to raise ten thousand dollars for both; a goal he smashed. And those funds are now directly benefiting the two groups, with Chances using their half to run their regular breakfast facilities, helping feed thousands of needy in Mackay.

By the end of his 50 days, Shaun rode 1000 kilometres, swam 35 kilometres, and ran 250, but the distance wasn’t what drove him – it was about continuing to get the word out.

“I’d like to keep it going; what it stands for. I want others to get involved and to take it on, I want them to spread the word and the conversation to inspire,” he said.

“Everyone can be a Hero50.”

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Mind, Body & Soul

FINANCIAL STRESS CAN WREAK HAVOC ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH According to a survey, almost one third of Australians are under financial stress

Overall, 31 per cent of Australians reported being under financial stress, meaning they had difficulty paying for essential goods and services.

D

espite the economy’s rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, many find themselves “just making ends meet”.

About one in four Australians suffer mental distress, a rise from 20 per cent this time two years ago, and more than half of the nation’s under-35s face financial troubles. These are figures from the University of Melbourne’s Pulse of the Nation Survey.

The number of people dissatisfied with government economic policies has risen since the last survey in April 2020, from about 16 per cent to 28 per cent.

Australians with more secure work tended to be more satisfied with government policy. People were more financially and mentally stressed the less secure their jobs were. About half of self-employed workers, people on contracts or casual employees were financially stressed, compared to 20 per cent of people on on-going contracts This was higher than the 26 per cent who say they are “just making ends meet”. The level of financial stress has climbed from 28 per cent two years ago.

The link between mental and financial health can be a vicious cycle. Financial stress can lead to mental health issues or exacerbate existing symptoms, which then in turn make it more difficult to address the financial concerns. Financial hardship can lead to people engaging in unhealthy behaviours such as gambling, substance abuse, overeating, and isolation which in turn impact on mental health, workplace performance and personal relationships.

parents’ level of stress even if it is unspoken •E ngage in self-care - Exercise for 30 minutes a day, meditate and limit your worry time SUPPORT Financial Counselling Service, Mackay 4957 2626 Uniting Care, National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007

So, what should we be doing if experiencing financial hardship?

Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Program 4947 2626

•A cknowledge the problem and your feelings

Gambling Support 1800 858 858 or 4050 4988

•S hare your concerns with someone you trust or a mental health professional •C onsult a financial counsellor. They will assist with exploring all options for financial support, delayed payments, financial relief and debt consolidation. Most of these services are free •C reate extra sources of income •R eassure your children as they can pick on their

Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4686 Anna Croce BA(Psych) GradDipPsych GradDipCounss MPsychOrg Psychologist and Director Mind Matters Psychology

We’reHere For You At Mind Matters Psychology, we have a compassionate and caring approach with our clients and believe that the relationship between a client and their psychologist is key to their healing and empowerment.

We use evidence-based practice to assist our clients in improving their lives.

0467 156 354

annacroce@themindmatters.com.au • themindmatters.com.au • Stanley House, 5 Discovery Lane, Mount Pleasant www.corelife.com.au

| 81

FIND YOUR PERFECT FRAME STEP ONE:

Are you round, oval, square, diamond, triangular, or heart shaped? Because, depending on the way your face and head are shaped, you’ll likely look better with different shaped glasses.

If you’ve been wondering which pair of bifocals are best for your face shape, it’s all about finding a style that makes you feel confident – knowing your facial features and picking the specific specks that will have you looking your best.

So, to start it all off, you’ll need to identify your facial features:

HAVE A LOOK BELOW AND CHOOSE WHICH FACE SHAPE SUITS YOU BEST, THEN MOVE TO STEP TWO!

FIND YOUR SHAPE Although there are types of face shapes, its important to remember that everyone’s face is different; it’s yours and yours alone – almost nobody fits perfectly into the categories listed below. In fact, most faces are a combination of these – you might have a rounded chin and a tall forehead, or angular features and a tapered jaw – which is great news, because it means there are plenty of glasses styles that will look great on you!

Broad forehead and chin, wide angular jawline

Wide forehead, narrow chin, prominent cheekbones

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Forehead, cheeks, and chin are similar in length and width, with soft cheekbones and jawline

Narrow forehead and chin, wider cheekbones and full cheeks

Mind, Body & Soul

STEP TWO: CHOOSE YOUR FRAME

Narrow forehead, wide jawline and chin

Round Faces

Oval Shaped Faces

People with round faces have softer angles with slighter, wider cheekbones and equally wide foreheads and jaws. The perfect picks to accentuate your features are rectangular frames which can add contrast to your facial features. Or you might want to try out some angular and geometric frames. Try upswept glasses, too, like cat-eye or browline.

Narrow foreheads and slightly narrow chins, which typically creates a long face silhouette, are the tell-tale signs of an oval shaped face.

Heart Shaped Faces

Diamond Shaped Faces

This face-type is widest at the brow, narrowing down through to the chin with high cheekbones.

Diamond shaped faces are defined by a narrow forehead and chin with angular jawline, defined cheekbones and full cheeks.

When finding the best glasses for heart shaped faces, get playful with opposites and look for winged-out or wide frames that jut out slightly wider than the forehead, with rounded bases to balance and complement. Those can be aviator frames, rectangular or oval frames, or even round frames.

Triangular Faces

Narrow forehead and chin, high and wide cheekbones, subtly curved jawline

Triangular faces are widest on the bottom and narrowest on top. Compliment your beauty by adding contrast, looking for frames that play with opposites (featuring wider top and narrower bottoms) and mix round and angular shapes. Grab yourself some browline, aviator, or cat-eyes frames.

Choose glasses that emphasise the natural balance and add angles to your face’s subtle curves: Pick square or rectangular glasses, geometric shapes, or Browline frames.

Look for frames that draw attention to your eyes while bringing a softer contrast to angular features: try out oval glasses, cat-eye or browline, and even round glasses.

Options Aplenty There’s one thing to note, though: this list is a guideline – it’s a helper to point you in the right direction on how to balance and compliment your features – take the suggestions and make them your own. The best thing to do with this knowledge is to head to Specsavers in Cannonvale and pick out a pair with the help of experts.

Designer looks, Specsavers price Two from $

199

Cannonvale Whitsunday Plaza 4948 3407

Book an eye health check online

In store only. Price includes single-vision lenses. Lens upgrades available at an extra cost. Both pairs must have same prescription. Final price is based on price of higher value pair and any lens upgrades. www.corelife.com.au | Use with other offers restricted.

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Model

BREANNA RIX

After

Before

Testimonial “The whole experience was amazing – everyone was so welcoming - I also loved drinking a coffee while it was hot!

“When I looked at myself afterwards, I cried – it was good to feel seen and to leave feeling beautiful!”

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DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A MAKEOVER? Each issue we will give away a free makeover to someone in our community – simply like and follow our Facebook page to get updates on next month’s competition

Hair By ADAM & EVE HAIR STYLIST: NATALIE HEALY Breanna was seeking a brighter, creamier blonde as her hair was feeling dull and lifeless.

I explained that a common mistake is over-toning at home with silver shampoo which can dull the vibrancy of a bright blonde. I used a classic baby light foiling technique to create a seamless natural result but with the addition of more foils throughout to achieve optimum lightness.

I wanted to maintain the condition so the healthiest way to do this for Breanna’s hair was to do a basin balayage, to create more brightness on existing blonde hair. Then to seal the blonde I used a soft violet-based toner to get rid of any warmth in the hair and leave it with the creaminess and beautiful soft blonde colour she was hoping for.

I used system professional luxe shampoo and conditioner which is a keratinbased care range that helps to strengthen the hair, leaving it feeling soft and manageable. Using a good care range is commonly overlooked, good at-home products is the best way to maintain health between salon visits.

I loved looking after Breanna, her final results were exactly what I was hoping for, the colour was a lot more even and consistent from roots to ends, the basin balayage really helped to cleanse away the dullness and bring Breanna’s hair back to that bright creamy blonde it used to be.

To finish, I styled her hair in a soft lived-in wave, something a bit special and different from the ponytail that being a busy mum often limits her to.

Makeup By LOLL DOLL MAKEUP ARTIST: LAURIELY TAYLOR The classic airbrush foundation element2 gave Breanna a clear and vibrant complexion which had been prepped with my favourite Youngblood Skincare.

I then used Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette for Breanna’s eyes and lashes by Hava Beauty Co. Individual Lashes.

Her eyebrows were sculpted by Argan Brow Control Stick by Silk Oil of Morocco and defined with On Point Brow Defining Pencil in Soft Brown.

Breanna’s cheeks were accented with blush using the Plumberry

by Youngblood and coloured by Lips Velvet Teddy by M.A .C.

BLONDE & COLOUR SPECIALISTS KEVIN MURPHY - HAIR CARE & STYLING WELLA PROFESSIONAL - COLOUR WEDDING & OCCASIONAL STYLISTS ZIP PAY AVAILABLE

Phone: 07 4948 2711 38 Coral Esplanade,Cannonvale QLD 4802 facebook.com/adamandevehair @adamandevehair www.corelife.com.au | 85

FREE COPY

WINTER ISSUE 2022

A WORLD OF EVENTS IN THE WHITSUNDAYS OCEAN ROADS $5K GIVEAWAY FIND OUT HOW TO ENTER ON PAGE 28

40 Prizes 40 Winners

What’s Your Next Experience?

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2 | www.corelife.com.au

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This integrated approach between the two companies allows our team to plan the entire event for you. We will take your event from the initial concept and assist with planning, budgeting, design and logistics. With a large inventory of assets including luxury motor vessels and vehicles, high end marquees, quality tableware and decor. Ocean Dynamics and Affinity Events enable you to plan your special event with confidence and take the stress out of the important decisions with our integrated event solutions.

As Green Travel Leaders and being recognised as Advanced Eco Certified, our team take our environmental sustainability very seriously. We do not use single-use plastics at any event.

Ocean Dynamics hold a rare permit to host functions on Whitehaven Beach for over 300 guests - one of the best beaches in the world. This permit coupled with our 5 star service will give you a WOW experience like no other! We can assist with the most unusual "out of the box" events - even as extreme as underwater weddings and proposals!!

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www.corelife.com.au | 3

15% off our Best Flexible Rate

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inclusive of buffet breakfast in Graze Restaurant each morning.

You will also be the first to know about accommodation specials, sales, member offers and event information.

At the end of our trip, we all have to leave Daydream. But more often than not, it doesn’t leave us. Many visitors come back time and time again. And as a

Daydreamer Club member, you’ll enjoy a host of exclusive benefits when you do.

Find out more at www.daydreamisland.com/daydreamer-club 4 | www.corelife.com.au

CONTENTS

JUL/AUG 2022 6–7

W HALE WATCHING SEASON Discover some interesting facts about these majestic mammals that are currently visiting the warm Queensland waters to have their young

10 – 11

E XPERIENCE MAGNETIC ISLAND Get excited for a host of winter events including Magnetic Island Race Week and the Ocean Swim, it’s a fantastic time of year to visit!

12 – 14

S TAY IN BEAUTIFUL BOWEN Uncover some of the best places to stay in Bowen this winter, enjoy their famous coves and beaches, walking tracks and of course the Big Mango!

16 – 17

O N THE WATER Explore the Whitsunday Islands at your own pace with Airlie Boat Hire or receive a guided personal luxury experience with Ocean Dynamics

20 – 31

F ESTIVAL FEVER It’s festival season and our region is beating with the sound of a new drum – get amongst the party – head to a race week, music festival or long table lunch!

www.corelife.com.au | 5

DID YOU KNOW? •3 50,000 humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to north Queensland each year •W hales can grow up to roughly 20 metres in length and weigh up to 45 tonnes • They can live to 50 on average but some have been recorded as old as 100

E

very winter, some of earth’s oldest living mammals begin their journey from the frigid waters of Antarctica to the warm, subtropical seas of the northeast Australian coast.

Hosts of humpback whales travel five thousand kilometres or more to dance in the plate glass waters of the Whitsundays.

Their migration is paralleled by humans who travel across the country to catch just a glimpse of the majestic creatures. We witness the calmness of the whale, the subtleness of the sea; how marvellous beings glide underwater, imperceptible for the most part, hidden beneath the loveliest tints of azure.

As everyone knows, meditation and water are wedded forever; and the whales know this better than any.

The beginning of whale watching season in the Whitsundays is a phenomenon of epic

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proportions. The nomads of the sea provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for tourists and locals alike: to see a whale breach, to hear their haunting song. It’s something you can never forget.

Amongst the Whitsundays 74 islands, you can spot these stunning Leviathans traversing the crystalline waters of the pacific. To find them, there are charter boat tours and whale watching spots across the coast, so launch off from Airlie Beach to see the nomads of the sea.

Cetology: Studying The Whale There are around 80 species of whales worldwide, and the mammal that calls the Whitsundays home in winter is the humpback, a species of baleen whale. They gain their name from the way they feed: filtering food through the brushlike plates in their mouths. Pushing water out between these plates – known as baleen or

whalebone - like a sieve. They take large lunges at their prey of mostly krill, small shrimp and fish, then almost strain the food through the teeth-like bones.

They don't feed while they are in the Whitsundays but instead fill their bellies in the south before leaving, opting to fast during their migration.

These astounding creatures can live for 50 years but there have been whales recorded as old as 100. And being mammals, they need oxygen to survive and utilise the blowhole on their backs to breathe, as well as to shoot water from in sprays that catch the light in a rainbow.

The most spotted whale in Australia, humpbacks are identifiable by their black top half with a white underbelly, but colouring can differ from whale to whale. Their enormous heads and large mouth are full of baleen in a mimic wide grin, and the gentle giants are often host to bumps and

barnacles across their hide.

They can have up to 22 throat pleats, which look like a ribbed sweater that stretches the length of their underbellies, starting from their chins down to their large fluke, or tail. They have a small dorsal fin, and their pectoral flippers are close to a third of the length of their body.

The humpback is just one of the worlds strange species known as Cetacea, and you can find them in the Whitsundays from late July to September.

Finding Migaloo Hark! The Whitsundays is often home to its own Moby Dick. But this creature is no brute, Migaloo is Australia’s humpback sweetheart; an icon of the seas.

The White Whale’s migration pattern passes

between the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef and freezing Antarctica along the east coast of Australia each year, and his white coat has garnered him an exquisite reputation.

Migaloo, an adult male humpback, is albino – completely white – and that has made him a celebrity in Australia. Estimated to have been born in 1986, now in his 30s, he was first spotted in 1991 passing through Byron Bay. He regularly joins the estimated 35,000 humpback whales that migrate yearly, and you might be lucky enough to spot him. Hop aboard your own Pequod and see if you can’t find yourself a white whale.

The Whale Watch One of the great sights to see in a lifetime is the incredible surface behaviour of the whale. And it

all starts when the enormous creatures decide it’s time to gain momentum.

Diving deep underwater before propelling themselves back up to the surface, the humpback whale fully emerges from the blue, hurling into the air and performing acrobatic twists before landing in a gigantic spray of water.

Breaching is commonly associated with playing, and is a common behaviour in humpbacks, especially when they are young. It is a must witness for any aspiring whale watcher, and something which can be seen from a distance, or even up close, on the Whitsunday waters.

There’s plenty of ways to watch the whale, and when it’s prime season for these stately seafarers, it’s hard to miss them enjoying the Whitsundays and all it has to offer.

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things to do Townsville

Nestled below a resplendent red rock, Townsville’s famed golden beaches are only matched by the city’s penchant for fun. Excite an intuitive mind at a museum or art gallery – there’s quite a few to choose from - or unwind with coffee or cocktail in hand at a beachside bar. Choose from a plethora of places to awaken the palate then let your hair down amid the vibrant night scene. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to discovering hidden treasures as you weave your way through art-filled laneways and iconic streets.

THIS IS TOWNSVILLE, WHERE LIFE SHINES!

WATERFRONT DINING From superfood cafés to classic fish and chips, a plethora of eateries await to entice epicureans who delight in dining with a view. Drink in the panorama of Magnetic Island while sipping on coffee then take a walk along the waterfront esplanade to take a dip in the rockpools to rest and refresh. The iconic ‘Strand’ is where oceanfront dining can be found, with a mixture of ice cream stands and cafés to classic pubs and specialty spots. However, fine dining is more likely to be found in the heart of the city beside the river.

Locals Tip: A Touch Of Salt located in the heart of Townsville City is a family restaurant serving an exquisite award winning menu in a relaxed dining atmosphere. The premier waterfront restaurant destination offers diners an exceptional culinary experience.

WHAT’S NEW? Galactic Donuts is a truly cosmic creation with a mixture of fantastic colours and fun flavours. Townsville’s one and only donut specialists, Galactic located on Herveys Range Road bake donuts fresh daily for a sweet experience out of this world.

“With something for everyone to enjoy, each delicious recipe has been carefully crafted to send your senses into orbit! With a light and fluffy texture that will leave you desperate for the next bite, the warm and gooey goodness will keep the whole family coming back for more!”

AWAKEN THE MIND Simply strolling the historic streets can be a wonderful way to spend a day, but if your active mind seeks more stimulation, there are a handful of museums and art galleries to awaken the senses. Here are two of our favourites.

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND The star attraction is the HMS Pandora gallery. Sent to catch the famous Bounty and her mutinous crew, the Pandora sank off the coast of Cape York in 1791. Hundreds of amazing artefacts have been recovered from the wreck and are on display.

KID SPOT One of the most popular areas for children is the Enchanted Rainforest, which focuses on one of North Queensland’s most iconic ecosystems. Built around an awe-inspiring recreation of a quandong tree and featuring a slide and rope bridge, kids can learn about rainforest plants and animals in a safe and fun environment.

PERC TUCKER REGIONAL GALLERY Perc Tucker Regional Gallery is Townsville's premier regional art gallery, offering a dynamic range of local, national and international exhibitions complemented by workshops, talks and a host of other programs. It’s located within one of Townsville's heritage buildings on the corner of Denham and Flinders Streets, in the city centre.

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Townsville’s Top Events JULY AND AUGUST QUEENSLAND CHAMPIONS CUP – Aston Villa V Brisbane Roar July 20 at Queensland Country Bank Stadium Queensland will host English Premier League Football Clubs, Aston Villa F.C and Leeds United F.C when they contest the very first Queensland Champions Cup alongside the A-League’s Brisbane Roar F.C. The three-match series will be played across the Sunshine State and is the revival of a previously postponed tournament launched in 2020 The tournament kicks off in the Gold Coast and ends with Roar and Aston Villa heading north to Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville for the final match of the series and likely series decider on Wednesday 20 July.

AUSTRALIAN FESTIVAL OF CHAMBER MUSIC July 29 to August 7 at Varying Locations Across Towsnville The Australian Festival of Chamber Music is bringing the finest musicians from around the world to Townsville for a wonderfully unique and innovative tenday program of 30 concerts.

The tropical winter warmth of Townsville will host the festival which has been delighting audiences for over 30 years and has earned an international reputation for the quality of its programming and performances, along with its friendly, intimate, and relaxed atmosphere.

More than 35 musicians from across the globe will travel to Townsville to perform in world-exclusive combinations. There is truly nothing else like it in the world - the unique combination of music, winter warmth, and tropical location create a special atmosphere that entices audiences and artists back year after year.

AMY SHARK SEE U SOMEWHERE AUSTRALIA August 26 at the Townsville Entertainment Centre 9:00:pm Show Start Amy Shark is embarking on her biggest tour EVER, hitting the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre this year. The “I Said Hi” and “Adore” singer scored nine nominations at the 2018 ARIA Awards and four wins, including Album Of The Year, Best Female Artist and Best Pop Release.

Amy has toured internationally and performed on several major US television shows including The Late Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and collaborated with renowned musicians in many genres such as Ed Sheeran, Travis Barker, and Keith Urban.

Don’t miss out as Amy Shark hits Townsville this year!

www.corelife.com.au | 9

The Maggie

CALENDAR’S TOP THREE There’s plenty to do and see on Magnetic Island’s golden sands. From koala tours to snorkelling dives, there’s natural splendour galore – but there’s also opportunities in the event sphere. Here are our top three picks for the next few months on Maggie’s Calendar.

MAGNETIC ISLAND TO TOWNSVILLE SWIM July 30 More than 120 swimmers regularly take part in the annual Magnetic Island to Townsville, a storied swim that’s been undertaken for 68 years. The iconic event in the middle of North Queensland's tropical winter is one of the country’s finest.

Starting from Picnic Bay on Maggie’s silver shores and finishing on Townsville's golden sands at Strand Park, the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim is a total distance of 8km. Solo swimmers and teams of two or four, both young and old, will jump into the waters for a chance to swim the enormous channel.

The legendary race started back in 1954 when three surf life savers, Kauko Kaurila, Don Howlett, and George Marshall swam for the first time from Magnetic Island to Ross Creek in Townsville to celebrate a Royal visit by the Queen.

But it wasn’t the very first swim across what was once an extremely treacherous channel - a previous nursing ground for tiger sharks and an area often strewn with stingers. That fateful journey was performed in 1924

by Douglas Pitt on Australia Day who, in order to protect himself from the numerous marine life, swam inside a shark cage made of timber and wire that was towed by a boat.

Originally, the race was only able to be contested amongst 11 swimmers – each in a shark cage – but in 2007 it changed its tune, thanks to comprehensive and well-thought-out safety plans. Those numbers have since skyrocketed up to hundreds of competitors, each guided by a paddleboarder and safety boats.

There are races across the globe that contest with “the shark problem”, and the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim has done so successfully in its aqua waters for over a decade.

BARRY MORGANS WORLD OF ORGANS August 11 The toothy tunesmith, Barry Morgan, is bringing his post-mortem organ party to Magnetic Island in the Barry Blows thru Your Town Tour.

With a pandemic proportioned organ and tunes as catchy as covid, Australia's favourite organ salesman, Barry Morgan, is bringing his safari suits and walking socks to Magnetic Island.

Barry Morgan rose to fame after performing on ABC’s Spicks and Specks where he became an instant audience favourite. He’s sold-out live shows Australia wide including Melbourne Comedy Festival, Sydney Comedy Festival, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth Fringe, the famous Spiegeltent, and performed to adoring young crowds at Homebake and Falls Festival.

Barry has even travelled his show overseas to the NZ Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Fringe.

Expect the unexpected and leave your worries at the door in this night of singalongs and silliness. Bring your Nan, because she's bound to ask: "Can I have some more?"

Dare to challenge Barry Morgan’s unsurpassed passion for his organ and you will undoubtedly lose. A character created by Stephen Treakle, this stage persona has made him an unlikely hit around the country. The safarisuited purveyor of vintage organs with the sparkling grin is “all real: the hair, the moustache, the shop… With Barry, what you see is what you get.”

The king of organ kitsch runs his store, Barry Morgan’s World of Organs, out of Adelaide’s Sunnyside Mall. He’s one of Adelaide’s favourite sons and a celebrity mascot for 1970s shag-carpet retro.

Do not miss him when he arrives at the Magnetic Island Country Golf Club.

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There’ll be plenty of courageous people in the beautiful setting and its challenging conditions alongside the experienced and well-prepared race organisations – the essence of any great open water swim.

JUST 20 MINUTES FROM TOWNSVILLE

Explore Magnetic Island

your way!

Ferry Deals Return Ferry $34PP

Ferry + Guided Bus Tour $105PP

Tour Package Ferry, Drink & $ Sunset Sail 165PP

Accommodation 2-night Island $ Discovery 252PP Car hire, 2-night twin share + return ferry

MAGNETIC ISLAND RACE WEEK September 1 to 7 The fifteenth anniversary of Magnetic Island Race Week is close at hand. One of Northern Australia's premier sailing destinations will welcome hundreds of boats to its tropical waters in six days of firstclass racing across Cleveland Bay. The tropical north’s top race sails off the coast of Magnetic Island in the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Following on from the Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island Race Weeks, Maggie’s iteration serves as finale of the Queensland Season of Sailing.

Day Trips Ferry, Drink & Car Hire

2 ADULTS $

139

This year, the race week sold out within four hours of opening its entrants. It always hosts a wide variety of boats, from multihulls to monohull racers, cruisers, and sports boats from across the country.

Entries will represent Victoria, Tasmania, NSW, Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory, but hopefully the crown title ends in the hands of a Queenslander – for every class and division.

The annual SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week will return to bring together the excitement of competitive sailing and community events, all flanked by the ambience of Maggie’s golden shores. There’s more to it than just the top-notch racing, with live bands and partying galore on shore, this annual regatta leaves its guest wanting more year after year.

There’s seven days of fun on the island itself and five days of racing on the waters. There’s nowhere better to be on the warmer end of a northern winter than watching the Magnetic Island race week take off.

You don't need to be a competitive sailor to participate, with the onshore program leaving plenty to do for the landlubbers. Whether that be jumping onboard a race yacht for a seaside sabbatical, partying after dark with the crews, or listening to music by the bay.

BOOK ONLINE & SAVE

sealinkqld.com.au Or call us on 1300 MAGGIE (624 443) T&C’s apply. Prices are “from” prices; upgrades and family pricing are also available. Pricing and timetable are subject to change.

www.corelife.com.au | 11

A

G E T A W AY

mongst seven acres of award-winning garden sites, Queens Beach Tourist Village is a perfect blend of suburban comfort and seaside jungle.

In the small coastal town of Bowen sits this cosy, relaxed village with a reputation for fun, experience, and its friendly atmosphere.

Ideal for travellers, this Queens Beach escape features the full suite of amenities.

Its tranquil, comfortable abodes are close by to tennis courts, the cinema and restaurants, as well as walking tracks, seaside golf, and sandy beaches – this incredible accommodation is a complete retreat; a hidden gem where guests always wish they could stay for longer.

All of its rooms are serene and gorgeous – its Double Ensuite Cabins perfect for a couple’s getaway on a quiet weekend or those looking for the feeling of a home away from home. There’s nothing better than ordering take-away or cooking for yourself in these spacious cabins in beautiful Bowen.

Complete with split system air-conditioning, 200 litre capacity fridges and a full kitchenette– they’re the perfect place to snuggle up at night after an active day out in nature.

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There are cabins on the poolside, disabled friendly cabins, budget ensuite cabins and deluxe ensuite cabins - each a new experience. The village invites you in and makes you feel at home amongst those seven acres of garden sites just a short walk from the best beaches in the Whitsundays.

The Village staff complete its atmosphere of hospitality. The helpful and friendly staff are knowledge banks on where to visit during your days – whether that be Queens Beach itself, some of Bowen’s fantastic walking tracks, or restaurants.

With two crystal-clear swimming pool one with a small water park - and the beautiful shade of its tropical surrounds, Queens Beach Tourist Village is a tropical paradise with the heart of a loving home. The Travellers’ Choice 2021 Tripadvisor winner for accommodation in Bowen, having consistently been ranked in the top 10 per cent of properties on Tripadvisor, this firstclass holiday accommodation is the winner of Best Large Caravan Park at the Grey Nomad Awards 2021, and is one of the best places to stay during your visit to Bowen.

THE PERFECT WINTER GETAWAY W ith fringing reefs, secluded beaches and plenty of accommodation options, Bowen is the perfect location for the family to enjoy a winter getaway. Known for Australia’s famous mangoes, Bowen is also the salad bowl of the north producing tomatoes, capsicums, corn and other produce during the winter months.

You can snorkel directly off the beach, watch a movie at Queensland’s oldest cinema, taste delicious seafood and enjoy scenic bush walks. The kids can visit the waterpark on the Front Beach or learn about the town’s history by checking out the 28 murals scattered on walls and water tanks throughout the town.

You can even learn all about the movie “Australia” which was partly filmed in Bowen when Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman spent several months in the town in 2007. There are storyboards with information about the movie near the historic 750 metre jetty. If fishing is your thing, don’t forget to pack the rods as the jetty also makes a perfect spot to drop in a line.

Bowen’s lookouts are a great attraction as they have breath-taking views across azure seas.

The Big Mango Visitor Information Centre, on the Bruce Highway just south of the town, is the perfect first-stop to enjoy a mango sorbet and find out what the region has to offer. It is also a great place for a selfie at this iconic landmark.

Located at the top of the Whitsundays, Bowen is the jewel at the northern end of the Whitsundays.

It is just 45 minutes from Airlie Beach and only a two hour drive from the major centres of Townsville or Mackay.

With an average maximum temperature in July and August of 24 degrees during the day and just 15 degrees overnight, this is the perfect getaway in winter.

For more information about planning your trip to Bowen, contact the friendly staff at the Visitor Information Centre at the Big Mango on 07 4786 4222 or go to www.tourismbowen.com.au

BOWEN AT A GLANCE

• Eight secluded beaches

• Fringing reefs allowing you to snorkel directly off the beach • Lookouts with breath-taking views • Edgecumbe Bay Walking track • Summergarden Theatre – Queensland’s oldest cinema • Historic jetty ideal for fishing – 150 years old and 750m long

Dreaming of a beach escape? It’s time to visit Bowen Book Today:

Big Mango Visitor Information Centre

www.discoverbowen.com.au

(07) 4786 4222

www.corelife.com.au | 13

A Getaway

By The Bay J

ust a stone’s throw away from Horseshoe Bay is a resort at the tip of Cape Edgecumbe; a gorgeous treat where the bush meets the beach and the sun rises and sets over the water. Horseshoe Bay Resort overlooks one of Bowen’s best beaches, flanking it with colourful huts of pink, yellow, and turquoise where your vacation stay – a romantic evening getaway or a family holiday – is abounded by nature.

From fully self-contained accommodation to powered sites, there are options galore at this exceptional resort. Tucked away just south of Horseshoe Bay itself and surrounded by green fauna and the Rotary walking track, you’ll never be lacking for activity.

You’re spoilt for choice, with four sandy beaches surrounding the cosy cottages and units that are some of the cutest and most comfortable you can find in the Whitsundays. Each abode at the Resort feels like home, with the favourite for travellers the Beach Huts.

These colourful treats can sleep up to

six, meaning they’re perfect for families, or spacious for couples and close by to Horseshoe’s beachfront.

The Resort is perfect for grey nomads or any caravaner, with its powered sites surrounded by bush with spectacular ocean views – there aren’t many places in the country that marry the water with the forest. There’s also every amenity you could ask for, from camp kitchens, three laundries and four amenity buildings, you’ll never be wanting while you stay at Horseshoe Bay. Close by to fishing and boating, diving and snorkelling, nature walks and more, the entirety of Bowen is at your feet.

The Resort acts as a secluded, calm place where the sea washes up on the sand in rhythmic and soothing tones. It captures the essence of the Whitsunday spirit – lounging on a sunbed listening to warm wind and waves sweep over silver and golden shores.

This gorgeous resort is in a truly stunning location and a must-stay on your trip up to Bowen.

SURROUNDED BY 4 SANDY BEACHES ACCOMMODATION AND POWERED SITES

ING E V I D , G N I DIS ELL A K R R A O P N S G A IN AND FISH

• Unsurpassed ocean and island views · Unsurpassed ocean and island views

• Fully self- contained 2 BR · Fully self- contained 2 BR Penthouses, Penthouses,22BR BRand and11BR BR Apartmentsand and 11 BR BR Studios Studios Apartments

• Free WIFI / Lift access to all levels

· Free Wireless Broadband •/Pool and BBQ Lift access to all/ Private levels balconies · •Pool BBQ / Private balconies Fullyand Air-conditioned · •Fully Air-conditioned / Foxtel Pet friendly apartments available

1 Horseshoe Bay Road, Bowen. QLD. 4805

07 4786 2564

info@horseshoebayresortbowen.com.au www.horseshoebayresortbowen.com.au 14 | www.corelife.com.au

Ph: 07 4786 9000 2 Pandanus St. Bowen www.rosebayresort.com.au Like us on Facebook

WHAT

Party Dreams

Three Free Things To Do In Airlie Beach

ARE MADE OF

Walk To The Honeyeater Lookout The Honeyeater Trail is a moderately challenging walk through Conway National Park taking approximately 2.5 hours to complete, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. With an expansive vista over Coral Sea Marina and the islands beyond, it’s the best spot in town for that perfect panorama photo. You’ll spot plenty of cute critters and take in plenty of beautiful flora on the way up and back. The route is predominantly uphill so a decent pair of shoes and water are musts.

Peruse Beach Book Boutique Awarded "Bookshop of the Year - North Queensland'' in 2022, Beach Book Boutique is located near the lagoon and is brimming with books for everyone.

The huge range of preloved and new books is meticulously categorised by genre and age, making it simple to navigate and find your next holiday read.

Being a book exchange, you’re also welcome to bring in any books you wish to exchange and the friendly staff will be on hand to help you find a new favourite.

Relax At Boathaven Beach

A

party on Airlie’s main strip with your closest friends sounds pretty great, but how about your closest 29, all staying under one roof for the ultimate stag-do, hens’ night, birthday, or just a big night out in a oneof-a-kind extravaganza.

A short walk from town is one of Airlie’s nicest new beaches, Boathaven Beach. Complete with soft, white sand, a peak-season stinger net and a magical view over the boat-filled Coral Sea and beyond, Boathaven Beach is the perfect seaside respite from all the action Airlie has to offer. Whether you’re cooling down in the water after an adventurous walk to Honeyeater Lookout or chilling out with a new book, Boathaven Beach is the place to be.

It can all kick off on the terrace overlooking the Airlie Beach main street with the entire town at your fingertips in Holiday in the Whitsundays’ Airlie Sun and Sand accommodation. This unique set of studio rooms above Garuma café and across from the Airlie Lagoon is centrally located within walking distance to pubs, clubs and restaurants.

With a barbecue, bar fridge, smart TV, party lights and more on its spacious deck, the ambience is ideal for almost any type of gathering.

Situated in the heart of Airlie Beach, Airlie Sun and Sand is for those special occasions that just need good music, great friends, and magical views across the Airlie Esplanade. There’s nothing better than a birthday bash on long tables filled with friends, brimming with beer and laughter, or getting your sporting group together to celebrate a successful campaign on the pitch with a lively weekend on the town.

Airlie Sun and Sand is the launching pad to spend a night bar hopping, and the best crash pad once the party night turns into sleepy morning.

The location can also be celebration venue on its own; there’s no better feeling than having a barbeque with a view. Hanging out with your extended family on the terrace, enjoying the sunset and catching up with old friends.

Three of Airlie Sun and Sand’s apartments lead directly onto the deck, with three others to its side.

Available for big group bookings and small intimate occasions, Airlie Sun and Sand is versatile and adaptable to all groups and moods – a team of travellers or a romancing couple – all can enjoy being smack dab in the middle of Airlie with the entire Whitsundays in the palm of their hands.

Holiday In The Whitsundays have you covered, whatever your needs, find them at www.holidayinthewhitsundays.com or 0448 253 469.

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED CAFE Breakfast • Lunch • Hand Crafted Desserts House Made Pastries • Delicious High Teas www.myrainbowbakery.com.au 115 Shingley Drive located in Shingley Beach Resort, Airlie Beach

0458 398 560

www.corelife.com.au | 15

The

Whitsundays

At Your Own Pace T

he Whitsundays offers a plethora of magical experiences and, with so much to see and do, why not explore it all in your own time?

Airlie Boat Hire offers a fleet of licensed and unlicensed boats available for anyone to hire and drive, allowing you to explore with independence.

to Manta Ray Bay and see the giant Maori Wrasse and all the thousands of fish out there, a lot of people love to go fishing,” she said.

Want to get the authentic Whitsunday experience and stay the night? Boats are also available for multiple-day hire, so whether you’d like to camp out under the stars or stay at one of the many stunning resorts, Airlie Boat Hire can get you there.

With licensed boats available to those holding a boat license, you can make your way through the islands, doing and seeing what you want to do.

Deb from Airlie Boat Hire says hiring your own boat gives you the opportunity to see the best of the Whitsundays.

“There’s always iconic Whitehaven Beach which everybody wants to go to, a lot of our customers go

Unlicensed boats offer the opportunity for those without a boat license to get out on the bay and go fishing and sightseeing, with plenty of turtles and dugongs to get a glimpse of.

“People can do it at their own pace on our boats,” Deb said.

Airlie Boat Hire also offers the hire of everything else you need – from snorkel gear and stinger suits to fishing gear, bait and ice to beach umbrellas and cabanas to knee boarding and wake boarding equipment - they have everything to ensure an unforgettable Whitsundays experience.

Bob, Deb and Ryan of Airlie Boat Hire all have an intimate knowledge of the region and will equip you with the best equipment and advice to get you where you want to go. Their boats are regularly maintained and upgraded and will serve you as the ideal tool to explore everything the Whitsundays has to offer.

Airlie Boat Hire is located at Coral Sea Marina.

WATERSPORT ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE wake boarding, knee boarding and tubing Licensed and unlicensed boats for hire.

Be Your Own Guide to the Beautiful

Whitsundays With a Self-drive Boating Adventure

Sportsrider

Great for fishing, snorkelling and watersports!

16 | www.corelife.com.au

KaKadu tinny

Find a good fishing spot or pull up to a local beach and relax with a picnic

Centre Cab

Explore the stunning Whitsunday Islands and venture to Whitehaven Beach

Book Now at www.airlieboathire.com.au | 0419 143 049

Smartwave

Unlicensed boat perfect for exploring the Airlie foreshores and bay

THE

J

ust you and the open blue seas of the Whitsundays. A destination cruise: your singular voyage, spontaneous and luxurious, flanked by islands afloat on plate-glass waters brimming with whales. On an Ocean Dynamics charter – intimate and opulent - the fringes of the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands are yours to see, so dip your toes into the teal Coral Sea. From launching points on Airlie Beach, Hayman, Hamilton, and Daydream Islands, any one of Ocean Dynamics vessels ranging from 10 to 28 metres, both motor and sail, are a key to unlocking the Whitsunday Islands. The company’s expert team of private charter consultants make choosing a vessel from the fleet an absolute breeze. There is a perfect ship to sail away to your island paradise, and Ocean Dynamics know it.

Their vessels each offer entirely unique experiences: their magnificent yacht, Ocean Free, is a luxury 60-foot motor yacht ideal for families, couples, special events, and even small group functions. Ocean Enigma is an 88-foot luxury motor cruiser suitable for intimate charters with a lot of space to relax, or larger groups of up to 80 guests.

Here’s just a taste of what a cruise aboard one of these luxury yachts has to offer:

Tailored And Bespoke Experiences Ocean Free and Ocean Enigma are synonymous with luxury. These multi-deck cruisers are a three-

level haven for relaxation. With endless views over turquoise waters, turning the Coral Sea into your own infinity pool, Ocean Dynamics has the fittings and five-star service of the world’s best hotels all wrapped into one private and exclusive sea escape.

Lounging on enormous decks, champagne or beer in hand, is bliss perfected. This vessel of dreams can cruise to Whitehaven beach – if you so desire – for a gourmet lunch served while anchored in its quiet bay. A day on the water with Ocean Dynamics – custom itinerary courtesy of Ocean Dynamics’ expert team – isn’t complete without snorkelling, or even a scuba dive. No matter your skill, your private charter is the perfect time to undertake an incredible dive among the Great Barrier Reef, with it all to yourself. A rainbow of colourful fish and coral is just under the surface.

But if you’re more inclined to enjoy in the water activities rather than underwater ones, you can make use of a variety of water sport equipment including paddle boards, snorkelling equipment and more. There are hours of water exploration and fun to be enjoyed for an entire family.

There’s one non-negotiable, must-have experience onboard aside from the snorkelling and paddleboarding. Something that just must be done.

Ocean Dynamic’s catering team, who are oceans apart from their continental contemporaries in terms of service and variety. With a range of gourmet catering packages, showcasing fresh Queensland and Australian ingredients, these experts are happy to accommodate special dietary requirements.

Or if you are looking for a more adrenaline packed, fast paced tour Ocean Spirit is the perfect option for groups and families of up to 10 people wanting to explore the wonders of the Whitsundays on a faster paced private charter. This is the ultimate luxury RIB’s with sleek design, and luxurious fitout.

There are options galore for feasts including fresh local seafood, antipasto and fruit platters, picnics, even beach barbecues and seafood platters with each highlighting some of the very best food Queensland has to offer and sourced from local suppliers.

Ocean Dynamics are recognised as Green Travel Leaders and their Director, Carolyn Lewis, is one of the elite group of Master Reef Guides who are ambassadors to the Great Barrier Reef and trained with up-to-date information on what people can do to make a difference to this World Heritage listed area.

A Cruise To Silica Sands Whitehaven's sands have revealed the universe.

The substance which Australia’s most famous beach is almost entirely comprised of - silica – was reportedly used in the Hubble Telescope. Scooped up by a NASA scientist for use in creating a device which has helped humanity understand space, the sands of Whitehaven are a universe of beauty all their own.

Those cool sands are at your toe-tips aboard an Ocean Dynamics private charter. www.corelife.com.au | 17

DRIVING AUDIO TOUR Airlie Beach | Bowen | Collinsville | Proserpine Beep, beep! Jump behind the wheel of discovery with four new self-driving audio tours that feature Airlie Beach, Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine. Tourism Whitsundays in collaboration with Storytowns recently launched the ‘Discover The Whitsundays’ podcast series which shares stories told by local personalities as travellers drive around and explore the region.

The informative new podcasts showcase the interesting history of the townships and local community members that make the region so wonderful. From meeting a crocodile wrestler to discovering the story behind the disappearance of the world’s biggest mango, and then stepping back in time at Bowen’s Summergarden Theatre which has a unique red carpet Hollywood connection. The Whitsundays has a fascinating history and story to share with visitors.

The ‘Discover The Whitsundays’ tour is now available via the Storytowns app. Scan the QR code below to start discovering the unique townships across The Whitsundays.

Scan to download the app!

A T

D AY D R E A M

O

ne of the most intimate, magical island resorts in the Whitsundays, Daydream Island and Living Reef is a holiday destination where nature abounds and comfort exudes. Where each experience creates wonder and a personal connection to our precious marine environment.

More than just a resort holiday, Daydream Island champions the comfort you would expect from a luxury vacation while embedding a deeper meaning that helps create memories that are treasured forever.

Sailing the azure waters of the Whitsundays in style, your fast, modern and air-conditioned catamaran operated by Cruise Whitsundays, will transport you in-style to the picturesque resort island which is just 20 minutes away from the mainland. A grand welcome awaits, with resort staff ready to greet you and place a seashell ley over your head, marking the beginning of your pampered holiday experience.

Checking-in is a breeze and the large, striking atrium presents a magnificent central foyer, with soft cushioned seating, indoor activities such as table tennis and pool, the buffet restaurant and a decadent lounge bar.

With 280 newly refurbished rooms, Daydream Island is a large resort complex, yet its laidback tropical charm creates a small and intimate holiday

I S L A N D

DO COME TRUE A N D

vibe that allows each guest to instantly relax and unwind.

The Living Reef A unique and breathtaking feature of Daydream Island is the Living Reef, a free form coral lagoon which stretches 200 metres around the central buildings and holds over 100 species of local marine life including fish, small sharks, rays and other reef dwelling creatures.

Bringing the reef to you, this incredible lagoon boasts an underwater observatory which takes you four metres under the surface to a tranquil room with floor to ceiling viewing windows. Here you can watch the shovelnose rays glide majestically by and perhaps spot a shy lobster poke its head out from inside a rocky enclave. This dynamic world and its array of wonderful sea creatures is available to you without even getting wet!

Make sure you attend one of the daily feeding shows where the island’s qualified marine biologists enthral with in-depth knowledge of the marine life and the opportunity to feed the rays. For those more adventurous, ask about the snorkel tour which allows you to enter the lagoon and explore the reef within the safe confines of the enclosed natural ecosystem which contains 1.5 million litres of fresh, filtered sea water.

L I V I N G

R E E F

For those that wish to discover more about the reef, join a tour of the reef propagation project and witness how the resort’s staff are helping the environment by growing coral and re-planting in sparsely covered areas around the islands.

Poolside Vibe A jewel in the Daydream Island crown is the decadent poolside vibe which epitomises the stylish resort experience, its series of lagoon shaped swimming pools sweeping across the stunning coral sea vistas in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands. Refresh in the cool waters and order a cocktail from the swim-up bar. Lounge on a seaside cabana for a relaxing afternoon or enjoy a free activity such as kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding.

Sunset At Lovers Cove As the day fades and the evening begins, head to Lovers Cove, a short five-minute walk from the central atrium. Here you will discover the best sunset views on the island, the coral beach is bordered by smooth rock boulders framing an uninterrupted view to the horizon where you can watch the sun fade, casting orange and purple hues across the sky. Order a drink from the beach bar, sit back and soak up a truly magical way to end the day.

NAME OUR NEW MASCOT AND WIN A

CRUISE WHITSUNDAYS IS BRINGING A NEW TURTLE TO TOWN AND WE NEED YOUR HELP! Send us your mascot name suggestion, along with your contact details including name and phone number to marketing@cruisewhitsundays.com for your chance to win! Our new mascot and winning name will be revealed at the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival

? * THE WINNER WILL BE CONTACTED BY CRUISE WHITSUNDAYS BY PHONE, PRIZE IS A VOUCHER FOR A REEFSLEEP FOR 2 IN A DOUBLE REEFBED VALID UNTIL 30TH JUNE 2023. ENTRIES CLOSE 24TH JULY 2022.

20 | www.corelife.com.au

Great Barrier Reef Festival: 4 - 7 August Taking over the vibrant coastal town of Airlie Beach during the first weekend of August the Great Barrier Reef Festival is a celebration of the Whitsundays’ lifestyle and the community at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

Airlie Race Week: 12 - 19 August With over 150 boats competing and thousands of spectators as well as yachties participating in both the on-water boating fun and exciting social scene, this year’s Airlie Beach Race Week promises to be a lot of fun for all involved.

Hamilton Island Race Week: 20 – 27 August It’s one of Australia’s favourite yachting events and a firm fixture on the international sailing calendar. Competitors, family, and friends come together to enjoy the atmosphere of the Hamilton Island Race Week, soaking up the weather and on-water and off-water carnival.

Magnetic Island Race Week: 1 – 7 September The fifteenth anniversary of Magnetic Island Race Week is one of Northern Australia's premier sailing destinations and will welcome hundreds of boats to its tropical waters in six days of first-class racing across Cleveland Bay.

White On Whitehaven Long Table Lunch: 9 -12 September Imagine world-class dining on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this is what guests will enjoy at the iconic long table lunch hosted by Fish D’vine. Dress in classic white and sip chilled cocktails under white marquees while marvelling at the swirling sands.

Airlie Beach Festival of Music: 4 – 6 November The 10th annual festival has also just been named Festival of the Year at the Quensland Music Awards and boasts one of the best locations in the country with its signature big top tent looking out over the turquoise Coral Sea.

The Festival Comes To The Reef T

he annual Great Barrier Reef Festival is renowned as a family-friendly celebration of life in the Heart of Australia’s World-HeritageListed wonderland – and with a new partnership between the Festival and Cruise Whitsundays this year, there’s an added focus on those Great Barrier Reef experiences.

Running for one day only and paralleling the festival bringing the reef to the shore, Cruise Whitsundays will be taking festivalgoers to the reef.

The Whitsundays’ largest marine operator will be working with the region’s Master Reef Guides to provide a one-time-only, unparalleled reef experience. It will see guests access some of the company’s flagship products and ultimately the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Beginning on Thursday, August 4, is the Cruise Whitsundays exclusive, Master Reef Guide-hosted outer Great Barrier Reef experience - the likes of which has never been seen across the entirety of the reef.

The company’s Reefworld facility at Hardy Reef will be dedicated to the festival, providing a boutique, intimate reef encounter for those aboard a custom vessel travelling direct from Airlie Beach.

reef guides and interpreters sharing the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, and ten will be onboard at all times in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to truly ‘learn from the masters’.

In an experience unlike any ever offered on the Great Barrier Reef, guests will benefit from the knowledge and passion of the global treasure’s most ardent ambassadors: Master Reef Guides.

They’ll lead activities throughout the excursion like snorkel safaris, semi-submersible adventures, Eye On The Reef monitoring experiences and practical, in-water photography and videography sessions.

Master Reef Guides are some of the world’s leading

Capped at just 200 guests, this one trip aboard a

Cruise Whitsunday vessel will depart from Port of Airlie at 9am and return at 5pm, providing a full four hours at the mature platform reef dominated by hard corals, large pelagic species, and an abundance of marine life.

There are plenty of other events throughout the festival calendar being hosted by Cruise Whitsundays including an all-inclusive sunset and fireworks cruise aboard the 26-metre sailing catamaran Camira on Friday, August 5. www.corelife.com.au | 21

THURSDAY 4TH AUGUST

• Cruise Whitsundays Outer Great Barrier Reef Experience – 9am • Comedy Gala at the Reef Gateway Hotel – 6pm

FRIDAY 5TH AUGUST

• Cruise Whitsundays Camira Sunset and Fireworks Sail – 5:30pm • Night Markets, Eat Street & Carnival Rides – 5:30pm • Beats on the Beach Live Music & Popup Bar – 6pm • Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade – 6pm • Fireworks on the Foreshore – 8pm

SATURDAY 6TH AUGUST

• Lions Airlie Beach Markets - 7am • Coral Sea Academy – Protecting the Reef Workshop – 10am • Fraser Ford Revving the Reef Car, Bike & Truck Show – 10am • Motown Show at Airlie Beach Hotel – 2pm • Wilmar Sugar Wearable Art Parade – 3pm • Rotary Street Parade – 4pm • Magnums Magic Mile – 5pm • Foreshore Funk Party featuring Skunkhour – 6pm • Eat Street in Fairy Tree Park – 6pm

SUNDAY 7TH AUGUST

• Family Fun Day – 10am • Eat Street in Fairy Tree Park – All Day • Live Music & Popup Bar – 12pm • Anything Environmental Recyclable Regatta – 3pm • KC’s Bar n Grill Official After Party – 8pm

IMMERSE FESTIVAL ART INSTALLATION – ILLUMINATED FRI – SUN FROM 6PM - 9PM

22 | www.corelife.com.au

For more info or to register for the many events go to www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CRUISE WHITSUNDAYS

GREAT BARRIER REEF FESTIVAL The region’s favourite festival is back and better than ever this year, with its vibrant colours, fun activities and family events taking over Airlie Beach on the first weekend of August. Grab your friends, gather your family and head on down to Airlie for a festival that celebrates our unique Whitsunday lifestyle.

GREAT BARRIER REEF EXPERIENCE For the first time, the Great Barrier Reef Festival is taking guests to the reef, teaming up with Cruise Whitsundays to offer a unique Master Reef Guidehosted outer Great Barrier Reef experience. Spend a full-day 39 nautical miles out to sea on the Reefworld facility at Hardy Reef which will be a dedicated space for festival-goers. Providing a boutique, intimate reef encounter hosted by our global treasure’s most ardent ambassadors this is set to be a once-in-alifetime opportunity to truly ‘learn from the masters’.

Activities on offer throughout the excursion will include snorkel safaris, semi-submersible adventures, Eye On The Reef monitoring experiences and practical, in-water photography and videography sessions. Book through festival website.

Thursday - departs 9am IMMERSE ART INSTALLATION An illuminating arts trail from the Lagoon to Fairy Tree Park in Airlie Beach will transform the evening experience at this year’s festival where a display of creatively constructed marine life in 3D form sculptures and Vivid-style animated light displays will enthral the crowd. Award-winning multi-media artists Donna Maree Robinson and Margaret Burgess have been working with local creators Margie Murphy, Brigitte Peel, Anita Pender, and Liz Knight running workshops in the run-up to the festival.

In addition, children from St Catherine’s Catholic College have made 40 fish, and the communities of Ilbilbie, Flaggy Rock and St Lawrence made life-size dugongs and dolphins, so this is a real crosscommunity-participation event. This year’s theme is ‘The Great Eight’, in the same way as safari’s have its ‘Big Five’, the festival will celebrate eight of the region’s favourite marine life - clownfish, giant clams, manta rays, Maori wrasse, potato cod, sharks, turtles and whales.

Friday – Sunday – all day (alight from 6pm)

FIREWORKS ON THE FORESHORE On Friday, a festive evening of colour begins with the Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade which will take place at sunset, lighting up the boardwalk all the way to the Airlie Foreshore ahead of the fireworks. Following the official opening of the event, the Fireworks on the Foreshore will see thousands of people take to the beach or watch from nearby as the sky lights up with an incredible display. Make a night of it with the lively night markets, food vans, carnival rides, live music and street performers as well as the popular pop-up beach bar. Keen to see the fireworks from the water?

Board the Camira for an all-inclusive sunset and firework cruise. Tickets are just $120 and can be purchased through the festival website.

Friday 6pm – 9pm LIVE ENTERTAINMENT A series of exciting artists and DJs will get the crowd jumping at the Beach Music Stage throughout the weekend including performances from ridiculously talented oneman band Juzzie Smith and modern soul/RnB/ blues/hip hop duo Chris Ah Gee & JaZZella.

Saturday night will see the launch of the first Foreshore Funk Party headlined by 90’s legends Skunkhour, performing their own brand of rhythmic, indie-soul-pop rap.

Fri & Sat 6pm - 10pm, Sun from 1pm ROTARY STREET PARADE Saturday afternoon’s Rotary Street Parade is one of the most popular events, with spectators lining the streets to watch the colourful, reefthemed floats glide by. Created by businesses, community groups and schools a catwalk

of fantastic colourful creations will march down the road for your pleasure. Soak up the atmosphere from the many restaurants and bars that line the parade route.

Saturday – 4pm – 5pm FAMILY FUN DAY Sunday’s Family Fun Day focuses on the younger kids with a fun-filled day of free entertainment on Airlie’s beautiful foreshore.

Activities include the popular donut eating competition, circus workshops, whacky races and the biggest beach team water fight ever. An interactive treasure hunt provides opportunity for kids to learn about the reef from the many environmental stalls.

Sunday - 10am – 2pm RECYCLABLE REGATTA The Anything Environmental Recyclable Regatta will be the highlight of Sunday, launching off the Airlie Beach Foreshore opposite The Pub on Sunday afternoon at high tide. Enter your own raft but be mindful of what items you choose for construction! The rafts must be made from recyclable materials, but any type of oar or paddle is a-ok!

Sunday – 3pm – 4pm REEF GATEWAY HOTEL COMEDY GALA Time to get those big belly laughs rolling with some eye watering entertainment to kickoff the festival at the Reef Gateway Hotel in Cannonvale. Prepare for a night of giggles at the popular comedy night. Check out the festival website for full details and to purchase tickets.

Thursday night - doors open 6pm

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WHITE ON WHITEHAVEN LONG LUNCH by Fish D’vine

I

magine yourself dining on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach, constantly voted among the best in the world for its pure white, soft silica overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. White on Whitehaven Long Lunch offers a truly spectacular experience where you will be guaranteed to meet new friends and make memories of a lifetime.

Your day will start in the tropical resort town of Airlie Beach, the mainland hub of The Whitsundays, where you will begin your relaxing cruise through the azure blue waters of the Coral Sea, taking in the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands on board the SeaLink Ferry.

Upon arrival at Whitehaven Beach, you will be greeted with French champagne, freshly shucked oysters and sashimi followed by an extravagant buffet of amazing local produce from the reef to the range and expertly prepared by the talented chefs of Fish D’vine.

Throughout the day you can sip on champagne, boutique beers, premium wines and exclusive Grainshaker vodka cocktails and Aperol Spritzes. Enjoy live music by nationally acclaimed 5 piece instrumental band The Natural Culture who will be entertaining with tropical Caribbean sounds. Join in the limbo competition which is always a big hit on the day.

With many of our guests returning year after year, this incredible event offers a world class experience in a location like nowhere else on earth. With the long table set under the shade of white marquees, warm spring weather and crystal clear waters you will feel like one of the luckiest people alive as you soak up the atmosphere.

Dress in cool, classy white attire and lounge under beach umbrellas, enjoy world class service at your table or take a relaxing dip in the ocean.

With four beautiful spring days to choose from, book your tickets now and secure your seat to one of the Whitsundays most iconic events.

Tickets available at www.whitsundaytickets.com.au or contact the events team directly for group or cooperate bookings. info@whiteonwhitehaven.com.au Ph 0457 422 013 SAVE THE DATE – SEPTEMBER 9 - 12

EXPERIENCE THE WHITSUNDAYS

S

FROM ABOVE, ON AND BELOW THE WATER

WITH OCEAN RAFTING

hort on time or really want to tick off the Whitsundays’ most iconic destinations?

Enjoy the best of the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef in one day with multi award-winning Ocean Rafting’s Fly Raft package. Experience the Whitsundays’ ultimate destinations - Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and Lookout and top snorkel spots.

See the Whitsundays from above with a stunning scenic flight over the islands and Great Barrier Reef, including famous Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach, then ride the tropical waters on Ocean Rafting’s Southern Lights or Northern Exposure tour. Each Ocean Rafting adventure offers an exhilarating ride to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, pristine snorkelling reefs and guided Whitsunday Island National Parks walks. The Southern Lights tour offers more beach time and the Northern Exposure tour offers more snorkelling time.

If you prefer to see it all from above, experience the Whitsundays’ most iconic views with Ocean Rafting’s 60-minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet.

Experience a bird’s eye view of many of the 74 Whitsunday Islands, fly over Whitehaven Beach and picture postcard Hill Inlet before heading out to the Great Barrier Reef and one of the Whitsundays’ most photographed reef locations, Heart Reef. Fly in comfort in modern 12-seater Caravans or Australian-built Airvans, carrying a maximum of just seven passengers with a guaranteed window seat for the best views.

All flights depart from Whitsunday Airport located near Shute Harbour, just an eight-minute drive from Airlie Beach. Whitsunday Airport is perfectly located to take you on the flight of a lifetime, while offering a range of comfortable facilities to enjoy before or after your flight.

Whitsunday Airport’s Hangar Cafe and Bar offers ‘airside access’ dining, where you can indulge in delicious food, unreal coffee or a cold beverage from the relaxed bar. Pre-order your breakfast before your scenic flight departure and enjoy alfresco dining while enjoying your meal on return to mainland Australia!

For more information, call 07 4946 6848 or visit www.oceanrafting.com.au www.corelife.com.au | 25

Set Sail For Airlie Beach Race Week

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villa afloat above a Mediterranean coastline, built on a cliffside of greenery. Its architecture the colour of pastel-gold with tiled roofs of red clay. It has the feel of San Cosma or Sorrento but is dressed finely in a cobalt blue panorama of the Coral Sea. Toscana Resort lounges over Airlie Beach, perched on a tranquil, garden hillside, ensconced in the fringes of a Queensland rainforest. A picturesque villa in a picturesque seaside town; resting on a hill just two-hundred metres from the shoreline, with the sparkling waters splayed out before it.

There’s nothing quite like Toscana’s view over this Australian rendering of the Amalfi Coast; where the feel of afternoon sunlight slanting in golden rays kisses across your skin while you lounge by the pool. Or while you look out across crystalline waters from your balcony view on the hillside to the sound – real or imagined - of Tuscan minstrels.

Toscana’s spacious rooms are an Italian-inspired getaway from daily life, with options of one-, two- or three-bedrooms, or an extravagant penthouse apartment. Its airy accommodation brims with beauty and the feel of home.

Each room is painter’s vista views of the Whitsunday waters, where you can sit in the shaded beauty and sip some amontillado or shiraz.

The opulent penthouse apartment takes up the resorts entire top floor, with views out to Hayman Island and beyond. Have a drink and a meal at Toscana’s French and Italian inspired Belvedere restaurant, a slice of the ravishing natural beauty of the Adriatic and Mediterranean brought to Australian shores.

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ith colourful sails dotting the horizon and a lively Festival Village after party at the Whitsunday Sailing Club each afternoon, the Airlie Beach Race Week is a vibrant festival that brings sailors from around the country together to compete on the water and connect when onshore. This year, record numbers have seen 152 boats register across 14 divisions and it is expected that around 2000 crew will be participating in the event.

With community at its heart, however, there are plenty of ways both tourists and locals can become involved in the event. Get up close to the action on a spectator boat cruise which tracks alongside the feet and offers passengers the opportunity to see boats jostle and vie for position.

If onshore entertainment is more your thing, head down to the Festival Village which is located on the front lawn of the Whitsunday Sailing Club. Here you will find live entertainment and food vans every evening, aside from Monday which is lay day. Soak up the energy of the regatta and rub shoulders with sailors telling tales of the sea, kick-back and listen to some music on the lawn and enjoy dinner from one of the food vans.

The Whitsunday Sailing Club is one of the best places to watch the sunset and enjoy a cold drink while cherishing the beautiful nautical lifestyle the local community holds dear.

SAVE THE DATE: 12 – 9 August

Looking for a getaway deal to the Whitsundays?

Booking Freecall

1800 555 684 Toscana Village Resort, 10 Golden Orchid Drive, Airlie Beach.

Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef www.toscanaresort.com 26 | www.corelife.com.au

ENJOY OUR NEW WINE, FOOD AND PIANO BAR THURSDAY TO SUNDAY 5.30 TO LATE

The Ultimate Whitsunday Island Cruise Experience

Whitehaven Beach.

Whitsunday Island.

NOTHING BUT STARS

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aunched in December 2021, SeaLink’s Big Island Day Tour has rapidly grown to be the premier tour choice of travellers looking for the perfect all round day trip through the spectacular Whitsunday Islands.

The best scenic and relaxing day cruise around the Whitsunday Islands.

Don’t take our word for it, check out our reviews.

You only have to look at the comments and 5-star reviews on Facebook and Trip Advisor to know that if you only have time for one tour, then this is the one to choose.

Cruising in air-conditioned comfort on board the Nancy Wake, the SeaLink Big Island Day Tour takes guests on a scenic cruise through the stunning turquoise waters of the Whitsunday Islands stopping off at world famous Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach. Guided informative walks that lead to spectacular viewing platforms can be enjoyed at both stops, and at Whitehaven Beach enjoy a longer stop where the cool clear water and pure white silica sands fill your senses with happiness and bliss!

Whitehaven Beach

Food is delicious and plentiful and caters for all palates. Crew are informative and helpful, with nothing being too much trouble. They will look after everything from start to finish to ensure your day is everything plus more that you could hope for.

Guests have full access to the vessel facilities throughout the cruise and for guaranteed comfort, SeaLink caps numbers to 85 even though the Nancy Wake can carry 280 passengers. This is so guests can enjoy the space, comfort, and amazing views from all three decks.

With informative commentary throughout the tour, learn about:

Hill Inlet

• The 74 islands in the Whitsundays • The abundant marine life that calls the Whitsunday Islands home • Why Whitehaven Beach's sand is so white • The local indigenous culture and connection to this stunning place.

The Big Island Day Tour includes: • Guided tours of both the Hill Inlet and South Whitehaven lookouts • Gourmet lunch, morning, and afternoon teas • Rooftop observation deck providing 360-degree views • Full bar service throughout the duration of the tour • Beach Cricket and games on the beach

Air-conditioned comfort

With SeaLink’s Big Island Day Tour extending their special rates to 31st August 2022, now is the time to book and avoid disappointment!

Adults $220pp NOW $175pp, Children (5-14y) $165pp NOW $79pp, infants (0-4y) free, Family of 2 Adults + 2 Children $693 NOW $499.

A bucket list tour not to be missed!

Visit www.sealinkqld.com.au/whitsundays to book.

BOOK NOW

sealinkqld.com.au Terms and Conditions apply. See website for details.

www.corelife.com.au | 27

Island sailing, sunsets, Island back roads sailing, to the hinterland sunsets, and coastal beaches. back roads to Ocean Roads Whitsundays Oceandelivers Roads truly unique Whitsundays and all encompassingdelivers tours. trul

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28 | www.corelife.com.au

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Discover More Than The Islands

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hether you’re looking to explore the majestic Whitsunday Islands in style, enjoy a glass of bubbly on the bay as the sky turns to gold or discover the road less travelled, Ocean Roads Whitsundays delivers a variety of truly unique and all-encompassing Whitsunday experiences perfect for discovering the region while in town for festival season.

Nothing beats local knowledge when it comes to exploring the Whitsundays. Ocean Roads have recently launched a Creek to Cape tour with this in mind, exploring the spots all locals know and love.

Travelling in style and comfort in a brand-new Iveco bus, the extremely knowledgeable local tour guide will first take you to Cedar Creek Falls where you can swim, explore and discover the teeming flora and fauna all year round.

After a stop at Whitsunday Gold Coffee Farm, the perfect spot for a coffee and a morning tea snack, the bus will then take you through the cattle and cane fields of the Hydeaway Bay region to Cape Gloucester Resort. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing drink and a delicious meal overlooking the pictureperfect beach and striking blue water. There’s plenty of time to stroll along the sand and dip your toes in the water before the tour takes you to some of the favourite secret spots nearby.

Ocean Roads builds on its reputation of excellent customer service to deliver a new product that focuses on delivering a memorable experience that continually exceeds expectations. This is proven time and time again with their adults-only barefoot luxury sailing adventure on the stunning 72ft yacht Lady Enid, embarking on intimate tours to

Whitehaven Beach and Langford Island daily.

Sunset is prime time in Airlie Beach and Ocean Roads also offers sunset tours on both Lady Enid and their “floating bar” Sundowner. Whether you’re after a quiet, relaxing and romantic sunset sail or a fun, social and celebratory atmosphere, both tours provide the perfect end to a day of exploring beautiful Airlie Beach this festival season.

All experiences are also available for private charter celebrations.

To celebrate the launch - Ocean Roads are giving away $5,000 worth of trips for all Ocean Roads experiences. Check out the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Facebook page to enter. www.corelife.com.au | 29

Exclusive Charters Away From The Crowds I

magine yourself sailing across the tropical blue waters of the Whitsunday Islands onboard your own exclusively skippered yacht surrounded by only your closest family and friends. Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays offer the opportunity to explore the Whitsundays through a unique lens, with all-inclusive, skippered charters giving you the private Great Barrier Reef experience you’ve always dreamed of. With festival season right around the corner, this is your perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in all things Whitsundays.

The Wings fleet is made up of two impressive catamarans custom-built for comfort and adventure. The 50ft and 60ft fully air-conditioned catamarans are spacious and stable with plenty of deck space to relax and bask in the vast beauty

of the Whitsunday Islands. They’re available for private charter for anything from a two-hour sunset cruise to a five-day-four-night adventure.

The team at Wings Sailing Charters is ready to make your Whitsundays experience an unforgettable one. Their personal, one-on-one service ensures your trip is the one you’ve been dreaming of. They’ve got the local knowledge to deliver the quintessential Whitsundays experience and can cater to whatever your group may desire for your time on the water.

From your personalised initial enquiry all the way through to your selected charter and beyond, the Wings Sailing team will work with you to ensure you have the best event or holiday and exceed all your expectations. Overnight charters are an all-inclusive

EXCLUSIVE SKIPPERED YACHT CHARTERS

experience where everything is taken care of from all meals, refrigeration for all your BYO drinks, BBQ, beach toys, fishing and snorkel gear and kayaks.

Marine Park fees, taxes, fuel and cleaning fees are all also included, so when Wings Sailing say allinclusive, they mean all-inclusive. With comfortable bedding, private cabins and modern bathroom facilities, you can have your very own 5-star experience on these luxury floating hotels.

Whether you’re looking for an exclusive sunset sail on the bay of Airlie Beach after a big day of festivities, specialised event charters or an overnight holiday adventure, Wings Sailing Charters has the vessel to suit your every need. Their crew is on hand to ensure that you feel the Whitsunday Festival Fever.

All Inclusive Experience Specialised Event Charters Sunset, Half Day, Full Day & Overnight Departs Coral Sea Marina Airlie Beach, Whitsundays

Bookings & Enquiries 0418 757 088 info@wings.com.au wings.com.au #wingssailingcharters 30 | www.corelife.com.au

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resh from winning ‘Festival of the Year’ at the Queensland Music Awards, Airlie Beach Festival of Music is about to back-up a phenomenal year by celebrating its 10th annual event with a stellar line-up of world class acts.

Perched on one of the most scenic peninsulas in the Whitsundays, the impressive big-top tent which contains the mainstage, provides a stunning backdrop of turquoise Coral Sea making it one of the most beautiful festival locations in the country.

This is matched only by the incredible line-up which includes some iconic names in the industry.

This year, legendary British band The Animals will be entertaining the crowd with some of their greatest hits including House Of The Rising Sun, We Gotta Get Out Of This Place, Don’t Let Me Be

Misunderstood, It’s My Life and more.

Meanwhile, representing Australian rock royalty with a swag of ARIA awards between them will be WA alternative rock band Eskimo Joe, and singersongwriter Ben Lee renowned for his enduring hits ‘Catch My Disease’ and ‘We’re All In This Together’.

Another famous face will be Rick Price, whose catalogue of hits, including APRA Song Of The Year ‘Heaven Knows’, spent much of the ‘90s on high rotation throughout radio stations across the southern hemisphere.

This year’s festival also has the X Factor with Natalie Bassingthwaite set to be transported from Australia’s television screens to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, playing with her band ‘Rogue Traders’.

Rogue Traders and Ben Lee along with Mi-Sex and The Badloves were initially booked to play the festival in 2021 but were prevented from travelling due to border restrictions. This year they are all set to make a welcome come-back, further cementing the 10th annual festival as the best yet, with more artists still to be announced!

With over fifty acts on the line-up and the music spread over a dozen venues throughout the town, the atmosphere is electric.

Tickets cost $300 for a three-day festival pass and provide access to all days and events, including the Passport to Airlie finals in the main tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Thursday, November 3, and the After-Party hosted by Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill on Monday, November 7.

SAVE THE DATE AND BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW – November 4-6

www.corelife.com.au | 31