OUTthere Rex June 2014

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The in-flight magazine for Rex Airlines, Australia.

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  • Issue 120 June 2014TOP PERFORMING AIRLINE ASIA-PACIFIC 2013TOP PERFORMING REGIONAL AIRLINE 2009-12BEST REGIONAL AIRLINE

    A U S T R A L I A N

    READERS CHOICE AWARD

    20112013

    Cool retreats Its not all about chasing the sun

    Mountain magic The Blue Mountains

    hits a fresh stride

    Armidale arises The once-quiet town turns up the charmJames Courtney dares to live his dream

    DEMON

    The engaging monthly in-f ight publication specif cially f

    or res

    ourc

    es p

    rofes

    sionals

  • Destination of the month: Armidale.

    WELCOME to the June issue of OUTthere.As many of our regional passengers know, regional air services are essential for you to conduct your daily lives. They connect your business to the city, enable you to visit specialised medical practitioners and bring your children home from school for the holidays.

    Regional air service providers also help to ensure that emergency relief for disasters such as fires and floods can be efficiently met. This was shown through Rex and its subsidiary Pel-Airs recent involvement in conducting charters to cities close to areas that were being devastated by bushfires. The company conducted 10 such charters during January for the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS).

    In the past few years, Rex has also helped thousands of State Emergency Service (SES) members from across New South Wales travel to communities affected by floods, storms and cyclones helping them prepare, respond and recover from the devastating effects.

    This month you can read about the efforts of the SES to shape the future of the service through member experiences being gathered throughout New South Wales.

    We are proud to support the volunteers of the RFS and SES, helping them to get to the areas where they are needed.

    So, until next month, from all 1000 of us at Rex, Air Link, Pel-Air and AAPA, we invite you to sit back, relax and let us do the flying.

    Dear friends of

    Image courtesy of Nathan Emery njephotography.500px.com

    welcome

  • 28XVI

    XVIII

    Issue 120 June

    X rexnewsRex flies much-needed volunteer firefighters to Adelaide.

    XI rexinsiderThe New South Wales SES Roadshow gives members a voice.

    XIII rexcommunityRex sponsors youth award that recognises kids who help the community in the New South Wales Far North Coast region.

    XV dontmissUpcoming events worth checking out.

    XVI artspaceArtist Rone takes his street art all the way to the National Gallery.

    XVIII regionalstopoverSue Wallace falls in love with the delights of the sea in Port Lincoln.

    01 checkinKathryn Marshall chats to Australias only female stock contractor about being a woman in male-dominated bull riding.

    05 entertainment A selection of compelling books, music, DVDs and apps to check out.

    06 closeupWe catch up with James Courtney one of V8 Supercars biggest stars, and a really down-to-earth guy to boot.

    12 outtahereStephanie Williams explores some cool getaway options to get into this Winter. Its not all about chasing the sun.

    20 destinationFor too long Armidale has been considered a pit-stop between Sydney and Brisbane. Not anymore. Get into this historic gem of a town.

    28 getawaySimone Henderson-Smart travels to the Blue Mountains for the regions Roaring 20s Festival, and finds that everything old is new and exciting again.

    35 communityA new national campaign is urging young doctors to head to the country for work.

    36 agribusinessIts that time of the year when you need to take a good look at finance and insurance.

    news & views resources sector issues finance & technology

    insidemining

    contents

    III

  • The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.

    (Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message Board

    Blue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.

    (Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message Board

    Blue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.

    (Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message Board

    Blue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

  • A friend and I recently visited the Yarra Valley and stopped at a charming vineyard called Maddens Rise. Justin is the estates owner and his partner Emma, with a background in floral and interior design, took it upon herself to create the shed that is now the couples stylishly kooky, rustic cellar door.

    Emma loves her wine, but she also has a deep-seated lifelong passion for watering cans, and that is how one of the stories that defines her and the look and feel of the little wine shed, was created.

    A year ago, Emma and Justin travelled to Paris, and while exploring the neighbourhood of Le Marais an alternative suburb bursting at the seams with artists studios and trendy cafs she found a Fleuristes Atelier a little flower studio that only opened by appointment. With her nose lovingly pressed up against the shop-front window, Emma could make out the little haven inside, and a row of well-used zinc and galvanized metal watering cans, including a tiny old-fashioned, well-loved watering can that looked like it belonged to a child. Just looking at the watering can set Emmas heart racing she desperately hoped it was for sale, but feared it wouldnt be.

    Over the next week while the couple stayed in Paris, Emma made many trips past the studio to see if by some stroke of luck, it would be open. It never was, and so they travelled back to Australia, the baby watering can etched in her mind.

    At home in the Yarra Valley, Emma wrote an email to the store owners, painstakingly using her best French to tell her story and describe her love for watering cans; only to receive a friendly letter back in English from the Frenchman who owned the store. His name was Frederic Garrigues, and he invited her to visit.

    A year later, the couple returned to Paris, and Emmas heart thumped as they approached the florist, a warm light flooding from the window. A smiling man greeted them at the door, welcoming them into his space. Emma was nervous, but soon ended up deep in conversation with the Frenchman. As he didnt mention the watering cans, Emma thought it best to not raise the subject. She thought they could not possibly be for sale.

    But he must have read her mind, for then he asked if she would like to hold the watering

    cans, asking which one she liked the most. She nervously pointed out the baby watering can and Frederic found an old step ladder so that he could fetch it from its resting place. As he placed it in her hands, he said: I have had this arrosoir since I was a small boy. It was my grandmothers before it was mine. When I was little I lived with her in Provence and helped her tend her beautiful garden. I would help water the flowers and vegetables with it. My grandmother is responsible for my love of flowers. A brief pause, then: This little arrosoir has been waiting for you for over one hundred years, and now I am giving it to you.

    Emma almost fainted but responded quickly politely refusing the kind offer. But he insisted. Many ladies come to Paris for clothes, handbags and shoes. But not you Emma, you came for a little arrosoir and now it is yours, he said. She told him that if she took it, it was on loan, and she would keep it safe in Australia for him. The Frenchman agreed and the two became firm friends, who to this day stay in contact.

    Its so lovely to hear inspiring stories like this. And to hear them while sipping on a glass of wine made by a person in that story, in a small vineyard in regional Australia, makes it all the more special.

    Drop us a line sometime. If you have a story to share wed love to hear from you. And of course, enjoy your flight and your next adventure.

    Michelle Hespe and the OUTthere team

    From the editor...

    OUTthere is published by Business Essentials (Australasia) Pty Limited (ABN 22 062 493 869), trading as Edge, under license to MGI Publishing Pty Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of the Publisher. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. OUTthere cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. Some images used in OUTthere are from Thinkstock and Getty Images.

    EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle [email protected] EDITOR Danielle CheneryASSISTANT EDITOR Simone Henderson-SmartINTERNS Dana Groop, Kathryn Marshall SUB-EDITORS Kris Madden, Liani Solari, Amal Awad, Tatyana Leonov PRODUCTION MANAGER Brian VentourSENIOR DESIGNER Guy PendleburyPRINTER SOS Print & Media

    CONTRIBUTORS Sue Wallace, Stephanie Williams, Sue Webster, Rochelle Tubb, Christine Retschlag, Mitch Brook, Kris Madden, Mandy McKeesick, Darren Baguley, Richard Asher, Kevin Lee, Kath Malmstedt, Andrew CrossleyADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR, In-flight DivisionJason [email protected] NATIONAL SALES MANAGER, Rex, OUTtherePeter [email protected] NATIONAL SALES MANAGERS, Inside Mining Chris [email protected] [email protected] ACCOUNT MANAGER, National Property Guide, skytransRobert [email protected], SA and NT SALES AGENTHelen Glasson, Hogan MediaPhone: 08 9381 [email protected]

    PUBLISHER Geoff CampbellCHAIRMAN Chris Innis CEO Eddie Thomas

    ON THE COVER:

    OUTthere is published by Edge51 Whistler Street, Manly NSW 2095 Phone: 02 8962 2600,edgecustom.com.au

    Cover image of Jam

    es Courtney supplied by Veracity M

    edia/Holden M

    otorsport

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.

    (Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message Board

    Blue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.

    (Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message Board

    Blue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.

    (Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message Board

    Blue or Green - $20

    The Rex Story - The First 10 years.(Soft Cover) $40

    Rex LCD Clock with Message BoardBlue or Green - $20

    V

    editorsletter

  • Q. Why do the flight attendants insist that all window blinds be up for take-off?A. The most critical phases of a flight are the take-off and the landing. In the most unlikely event of a situation that requires an emergency evacuation, it is important that crew and passengers are able to have a clear view of the outside conditions in case of any obstructions. For example, before exits are opened, staff need to check for fire or other dangers that may present potential hazards during the evacuation.

    Q. Why do you have to stow your hand luggage in the overhead lockers, under the seats or in the seat pockets for take-off and landing?A. Flight crews are required by Civil Aviation Regulations to secure the cabin as well as possible for take-off and landing. As mentioned, these are the most critical phases of the flight, and securing as much hand luggage as possible ensures that in the unlikely event of an emergency, the exits and aisles stay as clear as possible in case of a necessary evacuation. It is also important to keep hand luggage secure whenever possible to ensure that heavier items do

    not become airborne within the cabin. This is especially important when the aircraft is experiencing turbulence.

    Q. Why do you feel so tired from flying?A. As the aircraft altitude increases, air pressure decreases. As the pressure of the air decreases, the body absorbs less oxygen than it would at sea level therefore, it must work harder to supply oxygen to the bodys cells. As the body is working harder, it becomes more tired.

    Q. Why do your ears feel blocked during take-off and pop during descent?A. As the cabin altitude increases, gases in the air expand. This causes the gases in open cavities within our bodies (such as those in our ears) to expand hence, they may feel blocked.

    Q. Why do you sometimes feel pain in your ears or sinuses during ascent or descent?A. The sinuses and middle ear are air-containing cavities that connect with the nose via narrow channels. As the aircraft ascends and the pressure in the cabin drops,

    air passes out of these cavities (without any effort from the passenger) to balance the cabin pressure. It is a different matter during descent, as the cabin pressure increases. The channels close down and must be actively opened by holding the nose and blowing to inflate the cavities. Facial and ear pain can occur during descent if re-inflation does not occur, and this is much more likely if the passenger has nasal congestion. If you must fly with a cold or hayfever, use a decongestant nasal spray before descent and buy some ear planes to plug your ears. (Information contributed by Dr Daniel Hains, ENT Surgeon.)

    Q. Why is it so important that mobile phones not in flight mode not be used on an aircraft?A. They have antennae that give and receive signals, which can interfere with the aircrafts operating equipment.

    Q. When can electronic equipment such as laptops, iPods and mobile phones be used? A. With more new technology being used by passengers every day, it is difficult for

    Frequently asked questionsAs you sit back in the comfort of a Rex SAAB 340 en route to your destination, enjoy this compilation of light reading that the Rex crew hopes you will find interesting and informative.

    rexFAQ

    VI

  • flight crew to differentiate various items of electronic equipment. Most electronic items are permitted for use while in cruise however, only after the FASTEN SEATBELT sign has been switched off. Mobile phone use is also permitted provided the phones flight mode has been activated prior to boarding the aircraft. Q. What is the average speed of the aircraft in cruise?A. Approximately 500 kilometres per hour.

    Q. What is the estimated speed required for take-off?A. Approximately 220 kilometres per hour.

    Q. What is the estimated speed during the aircrafts approach to landing?A. Approximately 250 kilometres per hour.

    Q. Why do you have to get permission from the Captain to move to a vacant seat?A. The aircrafts take-off speed is calculated by the weight and balance of the aircraft, and many factors need to be considered for a successful take-off. This includes the weight of passengers and where they are seated, the weight of cargo, freight and fuel, the distance available on the runway, etcetera. For example, if there are 100 or more kilograms of freight in the cargo, the balance of the aircraft will be better maintained if passengers are seated in the forward rows.

    AIR TURBULENCEQ. Why should you keep your seatbelt fastened even when the FASTEN SEATBELT sign is switched off?A. On occasions, the flight crew cannot foresee turbulence or it is not picked up on the flight-deck radar. Because of this, we could unexpectedly experience turbulence at any time. The company recommends that you always keep your seatbelt fastened while you are seated for your safety, just in case unexpected turbulence is encountered.

    Q. Aircraft often experience air turbulence, but what causes it?A. Imagine the air around the aircraft is like water in a stream. We can often see how water is disturbed around rocks or when two streams converge. Turbulence in the air is similar: as the aircraft passes through cold air or in the vicinity of terrain that has disturbed the airflow often incorrectly referred to as air pockets the aircraft climbs and descends in the same way that a boat moves on water. Though turbulence can be uncomfortable, it poses no threat to the aircraft and is akin to driving on a rough or unsealed road. More severe turbulence can be associated with developing thunderstorms. The SAAB 340 has a sophisticated weather radar that pilots use to avoid these areas. Occasionally, a flight attendant will discontinue serving passengers in turbulent conditions; this is a precaution to ensure everyones safety.

    ENGINE NOISESQ. Why do the aircrafts engine noises change during flight?A. Aircraft need more power to climb than to descend, in the same way that a car needs more power to go up a hill than to go down one. The SAAB 340 turboprop has more than enough power to climb so, shortly after take-off, you will notice a change in noises as the power has been reduced. The pilots also control the pitch angle of the propellers for various stages of the flight and, as they change gears, this can also be heard in the cabin.

    Q. What is the bump that can be heard coming from underneath the floor just after take-off?A. After take-off, the pilots retract the undercarriage to achieve a smooth aerodynamic shape. The wheels fold and are stowed underneath the aircraft, remaining there until they are selected down for landing.

    MOVEABLE SURFACES During your flight, you may notice the planes wings changing shape. The devices at the end of each wing are called ailerons and move when the aircraft turns. Behind each wing are the flaps. The flaps can be used to increase lift for take-off by extending 15 degrees below the surface of the wing. Flaps are also used on landing to enable the SAAB to touch down at a slower speed. In this setting, they are providing drag, and can be set at angles of up to 35 degrees to achieve this. Though the speed varies according to conditions and aircraft weight, the SAAB 340 touches down at approximately 180 kilometres per hour. After landing, the pilots may reverse the thrust of the propeller to slow the aircraft more quickly.

    Q. What should you do if you see or hear something that does not look or sound right or normal?A. Please advise your flight attendant. The flight attendant may be able to answer your query and allay any fears. If not, the flight attendant will contact the flight deck and advise the pilots of anything unusual. Rex encourages open communication and will always treat a passengers concerns with the utmost seriousness.

    rexFAQ

    VII

  • Lynk AN REX 4c 0806 v8 cp.pdf 1 6/9/08 5:48:53 PM

  • Exercise and stretch regularly while seated.

    In-flight comfort

    rexFAQ

    IX

    Lynk AN REX 4c 0806 v8 cp.pdf 1 6/9/08 5:48:53 PM

    SHOULDER STRETCH Reach right hand over left shoulder. Place left hand behind right elbow and gently press elbowtoward shoulder. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

    NECK ROLL With shoulders relaxed, drop ear to shoulder and gently roll neck forward and to the other side, holding each position about five seconds. Repeat five times.

    KNEE TO CHEST Bend forward slightly. Clasp hands around left knee and hug it to your chest. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Keeping hands around knee, slowly let it down. Alternate legs. Repeat 10 times.

    FORWARD FLEX With both feet on the floor and stomach held in, slowly bend forward and walk your hands down the front of your legs toward your ankles. Hold the stretch for I5 seconds and slowly sit back up.

    OVERHEAD STRETCH Raise both hands straight up over your head. With one hand, grasp the wrist of the opposite hand and gently pull to one side. Hold the stretch for I 5 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

    KNEE LIFTS Lift leg with knee bent while contracting your thigh muscle. Alternate legs. Repeat 20 to 30 times for each leg.

    SHOULDER ROLL Hunch shoulders forward, then upward, then backward, then downward, using a gentle, circular motion.

    ARM CURL Arms held at 90 angles, elbows down, hands in front. Raise hands up to chest and back down. Alternate hands. Repeat in 30-second intervals.

    ANKLE CIRCLES Lift feet off floor, draw a circle with the toes, simultaneously moving one foot clockwise and the other foot counterclockwise. Reverse circles. Do each direction for I5 seconds. Repeat if desired.

    FOOT PUMPS Start with both heels on the floor and point feet upward as high as you can. Then put both feet flat on the floor. Then lift heels high, keeping the balls of your feet on the floor. Continue cycle in 30-second intervals.

    SEATED EXERCISES

    SEATED STRETCHES

    Flying can be demanding, as altitude may make your body more sensitive to the effects of alcohol and caffeine. Sitting in one place for a long time can be uncomforrable and slow down your blood circulation.To help your body adjust to flying and to maintain your personal comfort and well-being, we recommend you take the following steps:

    Keep Hydrated Drink plenty of fluids water, juice, non-caffeinated soft drinks to prevent dehydration, fatigue and headaches. Minimise intake of alcohol and coffee. Moisten the face to help reduce the drying effects of cabin air.

    Eat Lightly Eat lightly on longer flights to avoid indigestion our in-flight menu is designed to provide lighter option meals.

    Exercise We encourage you to do the gentle on board exercises shown on this page to enhance your well-being during the flight. We recommend you do these exercises for about five minutes every one to two hours. You should also occasionally walk down the aisles, as space permits. In addition, we recommend that you avoid crossing your legs.

    Please note: You should not do any of these exercises if they cause you pain or cannot be done with ease.

    Moving About The Aircraft You may move about the aircraft as space permits and when the seat belt sign is off. However, when the seat belt sign is on you are required to remain seated with the seat belt fastened.

    If you feel unwell, tell the cabin crew. They can assist with the more common inflight complaints and, if necessary, can seek further advice and assistance for you.

    On Descent Ears and sinuses can cause discomfort, due to the change in air pressure on descent. To minimise discomfort: Yawn or swallow frequently; Pinch your nostrils together and blow firmly

    into your cheeks with your mouth closed.If you have ongoing discomfort, seek the advice of the cabin crew.

  • X

    rexnews

    IN JANUARY, Australia was once again faced with major bush fires, threatening life and property around the country. Of particular concern were the fires burning out of control to the north of Adelaide in the Port Augusta region.

    On Saturday, January 18, Rex subsidiary Pel-Air received an urgent call from the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) State Headquarters to assist with flying fire crews from Sydney to Adelaide that evening.

    Pel-Air and Rex staff worked hard to quickly pull together the aircraft and crew to meet the RFS urgent need.

    That evening, 58 volunteer fire fighters boarded the aircraft and flew off into the night to Adelaide, providing a

    much-needed boost to the South Australian fire fighters. This was to be just the first of 10 charters that Pel-Air and

    Rex flew for the RFS in the following week, from places as far afield as the Gold Coast, Ballina and Grafton, as well as Sydney across to South Australia.

    PEL-AIR AND REX FLY TO THE SOUTH AUSTRALIAN FIRES

    Fifty-eight volunteer fire fighters flew to Adelaide, providing a much-needed boost to the SA fire fighters.

    Below and below left: Checking in at Sydney airport; Boarding the aircraft.

  • rexinsider

    XI

    TRAVELLING AROUND New South Wales is not new for the members of the New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) and Rex has been a long-term supporter in getting them there.

    In the past few years alone, Rex has helped thousands of members from New South Wales get to communities affected by flood, storm and cyclone in and out of the state to help them prepare, respond and recover from the devastating effects of these events.

    This time, however, Rex is helping to get members to locations around the state for the New South Wales SES Volunteers Association (SES VA) and New South Wales SES Roadshow. Its an

    opportunity for members paid and volunteer, past and present to provide feedback that will help shape the future of the service.

    We are getting to as many of our members as possible by travelling throughout New South Wales. They do so much for their community, covering so many vital roles, including those outside their core role of flood and storm, it is only right we travel to them to get ideas and feedback on what the future direction of their service should be, said New South Wales SES VA Chairman Charlie Moir.

    The Broken Hill Trades Hall was the perfect location to kick off the project

    the first of 21 Roadshow locations.Possibly one of the most iconic

    buildings in Broken Hill, the Trades Hall is the first privately-owned Trades Hall in the Southern Hemisphere. The fact the people of Broken Hill built and paid for it means it not only stands as a proud and fitting monument to all workers, past and present, but it also perfectly fits the premise of the Roadshow a chance to have your say.

    The Roadshow, organised and run by volunteers of the New South Wales SES and moderated by an independent facilitator, will run for three months in 21 locations around New South Wales .

    SES Roadshow travels across town

  • TummyTuck employs Lynk Biotechs proprietary technology to effectively deliver a high concentration of active ingredients to firm and shape the targeted areas.

    TummyTuck contains a powerful cocktail of active ingredients such as Carnitine, Coenzyme A, Glaucine, Caffeine and Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract that have proven scientific properties that aid in the redefinition of body contour at bulgy areas such as tummy, flabby arms, thighs and buttock. It also contains Aloe Vera Gel to moisturise the skin for a smoother texture.

    TummyTuck - The scientific way to a trim and shapely body.

    [email protected] online at www.lynkbiotech.com/webshop

    Firms and Shapes

    where it matters

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    CMY

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  • rexcommunity

    XIII

    THE ANNUAL Kids in Community Awards recognise young people from the NSW Far North Coast region who use their positive efforts to address issues affecting themselves and others in the community.

    Rex was proud to sponsor the Against All Odds Award. This award recognises youth who have overcome considerable personal challenges, such as health or family issues.

    Rex sponsored two return flights between Lismore and Sydney for the winner, Jamahlee Evans, to spend a weekend in Sydney with the Kids in Community patron, actress Rachel Ward, and her husband, actor Bryan Brown.

    For more information visit kic.com.auLeft to right: Rex Sales Manager NSW & Qld Maurice Gahan with Against All Odds winner Jamahlee Evans and guest speaker Graham Hyman.

    Kids in Community Awards

    Travel in Rex-tra Style!Book Rex-tra Legroom on-line now*

    Emergency exit row seats have a couple of inches of extra legroom and can now be reserved for less than $10.00 each sector*. Plus, enjoy the Rex-tra Legroom in row 1 to be one of the first to disembark on arrival.

    You can purchase Rex-tra Legroom any time on-line by selecting the Amend Booking icon on our website. You will need your Rex Booking Reference for this.

    If you have purchased your ticket through a travel agency or travel manager, ask them for the relevant Rex Booking Reference. And the next time they book your Rex flight, remember to ask them to add in the Rex-tra Legroom directly.

    *Terms and conditions apply.

  • Paradise Taveuni, situated on the southern tip of Taveuni, is a secluded and remote boutique oceanfront Resort. Nestled amongst lush tropical gardens with Rainforest Mountain as a back drop the resort caters to discerning travellers looking for their own piece of paradise. Its unique deep water frontage allows Guests to dive, snorkel and swim from the lava flow edge into pristine warm tropical waters at any time. If youre searching for true Fijian hospitality and long to experience the culture of this mystical land, spend some time in Paradise.

    [email protected] | www.ParadiseinFiji.com

    Mention this ad when booking to receive a Pure Fiji gift on arrival.

    STDA

    1894

    rj

    HELLO OR GOODBYE?Devil Facial Tumour Disease was discovered in Tasmanian devils in 1996. Its a contagious cancer spread through biting, and it is always fatal.

    The devil population has suffered immensely and, more than 80% have been lost.

    The Save the Tasmanian Devil Program supports the survival of the devil in its natural habitat, the Tasmanian wilderness.

    Funding is vital, and we need your help. To make sure its not goodbye, the Tasmanian devils need your help!

    Photo credit: Mike Calder Photography.

    AN INITIATIVE OF THE SAVE THE TASMANIAN DEVIL PROGRAM COORDINATED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA FOUNDATION

    Log onto www.tassiedevil.com.au for more info and ideas.

  • XV

    JUNE 415Sydney Film FestivalThe sixty-first instalment of the annual Sydney Film Festival one of the worlds oldest cinematic festivals is screening at various venues in the CBD. With a $60,000 cash prize on offer for the winner of the Sydney Film Prize, the event has received 250 entries, including documentaries, animations and short films. Grab some popcorn and be entertained by world-class cinema. sff.org.au

    JUNE 69Merimbula Jazz FestivalThe June long weekend in Merimbula is a real toe-tapper, with jazz-lovers converging on the beautiful coastal town for four days and nights of traditional and modern jazz everything from ragtime to funk as well as parties, parades and lots of dancing. merimbulajazz.org.au

    JUNE 29Offshore Superboat Championships Townsville hosts round three of this powerboat racing series held along Australias east coast. Position yourself near the imaginary finish line (indicated by a buoy) and brace yourself for white-knuckle action in the Supercat Extreme, Supercat 1000, Supercat 600 and Supercat 400 classes. superboat.com.au

    JUNE 130Hunter Valley Wine & Food MonthA short drive from Sydney or Newcastle, the Hunter Valley is one of Australias best-loved wine regions. During June, various cellar doors, restaurants, luxury hotels, chefs and winemakers conspire to tempt and treat you with their local offerings. It doesnt get more local than the Original 100-metre Meal held daily at Margan, where everything on the lunch menu is grown within 100 metres. margan.com.au

    JUNE 7Parkes Picnic RacesThe annual Parkes Picnic Races is among the most anticipated events of the year in country New South Wales, drawing 3000 to 5000 people to the track. The day features the Coradgery Cup and the popular Fashions on the Field. At this festive social affair a generous portion of the proceeds is donated to a local beneficiary have a punt and a couple of drinks for a good cause. parkespicnicraces.com.au

    JUNE 69Fat Tyre Festival, MelroseThe southern Flinders Ranges offers some incredible mountain biking, and this festival attracts devotees to the sport from all over Australia. With tracks winding for kilometres through stands of red gums, there are plenty of jumps to get the heart racing. Melrose tops it off with great accommodation offerings, including the famous North Star Hotel. melrosemountainbike.com

    JUNE 621Adelaide Cabaret FestivalIts set to be a big year for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, with a line-up of more than 470 local and international artists delivering 170 performances. Under the creative direction of Australian songbird Kate Ceberano, this years festival offers a smorgasbord of theatrical, musical and artistic events to suit every taste. adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au

    JUNE 2223 Adelaide Hills Tarmac RallyThis motorsport event is held on the roads around the Adelaide Hills and along the Fleurieu Peninsula. Take to the streets to catch a glimpse of the action from the various vantage points to enjoy the rally that gets better each year. ahtr.com.au

    JUNE 59Henry Lawson Festival, GrenfellCelebrate the birthday of Australian poet and author Henry Lawson in his birthplace, Grenfell. On this long weekend the town buzzes with visitors enjoying the art exhibitions, street parade, childrens rides, car show, street performers and local musicians. A great weekend to breathe in the country air, chat with locals and explore welcoming Grenfell. henrylawsonfestival.com.au

    dontmissthese events in June if youre in the right place at the right time.

    Compiled by Kathryn Marshall

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    artspace

    RONE GREW UP on the Bellarine Peninsula, just a hop across Port Phillip Bay from Melbourne, and had never even seen graffiti until he visited the city. He began with stencils in 2001 and was inspired to turn his sketches into street art after seeing the work of artists he

    admired, such as Ha-Ha, Sync and Psalm.He began creating his larger than

    life-size works with the help of his own stencils and screen prints, but has since taken on the challenge of doing his works freehand an impressive feat given the enormous scale on which he works. The sides of buildings are his canvas. The ability to map out such incredibly detailed portraits on that scale with nothing but his eyes, and then create them freehand, is nothing short of astonishing and can be an enormous challenge, he says.

    Rone has the support of art studio Everfresh, which he explains is a loose collection of artists sharing a creative space where they motivate one another and collaborate on major pieces.

    We have toured the world and exhibited at the National Gallery of Victoria. We meet

    at exhibitions and other artist hangouts. Some of us were part of another studio in the city called The Blender Studios. When Blender closed we found a space to work from. It turned out to be an old confectionary company. We found a sign that said Everfresh Confectionary and the name just stuck, Rone explains.

    He has not only become an integral part of the burgeoning street art scene in Melbourne, but has art cropping up all over the world. Rone cites a building he painted in Berlin as a career highlight. I really wasnt sure if I could pull it off!

    But he definitely did pull it off, illustrating, yet again, why he went from local street artist to internationally-acclaimed creative.

    Rone originally started travelling due to his work as a graphic artist, and was only

    EASY STREETDana Groop talks to street artist Rone about how he went from moonlighting as a street artist in Melbourne to painting sides of buildings all around the world freehand.

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    moonlighting as a street artist. I would work, but then go out and put my work up at night. Ten years on Im very fortunate to have people ask me to travel just for that purpose to display my work.

    In the past year, Rone has travelled to exhibit work in Hong Kong, Berlin, London, Miami, Mexico, Portland (United States), Hawaii, New Zealand, and locally in Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.

    He is best known for his incredibly moving portraits of women, which is his main focus now, although according to

    Rone it didnt start out that way.It wasnt always the women. At first

    I was painting all different subjects from skateboarders to comic characters. The women just struck a chord and I began to focus on just that.

    They struck a chord with his audience as well, and one look at his work makes it easy to see why; the women he paints are both strikingly beautiful and thought provoking; conveying multifaceted emotions in their prismatic eyes and gorgeous faces. They are sad and

    mysterious and they are intriguing.One of the greatest mysteries is

    the identity of a recurring face in his portraits, who Rone refers to simply as Jane Doe.

    Who is this Jane Doe? A face he knows, perhaps the woman of his dreams? Rone is apparently just as curious. When asked who she represents Rone answers, I actually dont know who she is.

    You never know perhaps one day Jane Doe will be walking down a city street and find herself.

    The women are beautiful and thought provoking; their eyes conveying multifacted emotions.

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    ts no wonder Southern Bluefin Tuna, which have put South Australias Port Lincoln on the world map, are known as bullet

    fish they travel at lightning speed.Just as Im about to dive in and

    swim with them, I recall that they can accelerate at double the rate of a Ferrari and swim at speeds that are illegal on most Australian roads. It makes me wonder whats in store.

    Luckily, as quickly as they dart towards me in the pen they abruptly change direction at the last minute, leaving me mesmerised.

    Often described as the worlds most luxury fish, most Bluefin end up as expensive sashimi in Japan, where they can fetch up to $735,000 each at the Tokyo fish markets.

    The Eyre Peninsulas bounty doesnt end there: known as Australias Seafood Frontier, its pristine waters produce more than 65 per cent of South Australias seafood, offering a smorgasbord of plump oysters, prawns, abalone, tuna,

    rock lobster and other saltwater treats.Port Lincoln was the birthplace

    of prosperous Southern Bluefin Tuna ranching in 1991, and it has since developed into the largest farmed seafood sector in Australia.

    The colourful city is also home to the largest commercial fishing fleet in the southern hemisphere, and many wealthy tuna farmers with massive mansions to match. But it also has another claim to fame: Melbourne Cup extraordinaire, Makybe Diva is owned by South Australian tuna fisherman Tony Santic, who named her after the first two letters of five of his employees names Maureen, Kylie, Belinda, Diane and Vanessa.

    A bronze statue of the mighty horse that won three Melbourne Cups stands on the foreshore.

    The entire peninsula is crammed with impressive vistas and it doesnt take long to be seduced by its natural beauty: huge expanses of sparkling seas, white beaches and azure skies. Its a place where you can still get

    Australias seafood frontier, not only tempts the tastebuds, but provides encounters with friendly marine life against a backdrop of pristine beaches and national parks, finds Sue Wallace.

    Ocean gems in

    Its pristine waters produce more than 65 per cent of South Australias seafood.

  • THE JOURNEY TO BRAVE HEARTS AND

    BOLD MINDS

    www.tsc.nsw.edu.au

    For more than a century, boys have been boarding at The Scots College in Sydneys Bellevue Hill. Boarding is available from Years 5 to 12 and boys become part of a boarding house family where excellent pastoral care, individual attention and resident housemasters provide high-quality education and care in a safe and nurturing environment.

    Jesse Staples, a Year 10 boarder in Royle House started at Scots this year. Boarding at The Scots College has been a huge change in my life, moving away from my small coastal home up in the Northern Territory, he said. Initially, Jesse thought he would feel homesick and second guess his decision, but this was not the case for me boarding at Scots has been one of my best decisions yet. Ive found many new opportunities that I would have never been offered if I had stayed in the Northern Territory.

    The Colleges Brave Hearts Bold Minds education philosophy seeks to make every day in a Scots boys life part of an exciting adventure. State-of-the-art facilities and development-stage-relevant models of learning combine to create an atmosphere of excellence where boys are supported to reach their full potential. Scots has improved my learning capabilities and knowledge, Jesse said.

    By providing experiences of excellence, team spirit and adventure, the boys are challenged to fully realise their inner strengths and individual resources, providing a platform for them to flourish in life, said Dr Ian PM Lambert, The Scots College Principal.

    To find out how your boy can become part of the Brave Hearts and Bold Minds journey, visit www.tsc.nsw.edu.au.

    P R I V A T E I S L A N D

    Ratua is a private islandright in the well-preserved Vanuatu archipelago. This 146-acre jewel of unexplored nature is coveredwith lush tropical vegetation,and bordered by sandy beaches,turquoise water andamazing marine life. This eco-luxury hideaway wasdeveloped with a strong ambition to preserve an untouched sanctuary while establishingsome modern comforts.

    information +678 300 20reservations +678 75 111 [email protected]

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    regionalstopover

    off the beaten track by following a dusty road leading to an isolated bay and be the first to leave your footprints in the sand, but theres plenty of action here too. Swimming with a 50-kilogram tuna is just one of the many marine activities available in Port Lincoln you can also take a dip with Great White Sharks if you are after a bigger adrenalin rush.

    The triangular peninsula with 2000 kilometres of rugged coastline is bound by Spencer Gulf to the east, the Great Australian Bight to the west, and the Gawler Ranges to the north. Its beaches are surrounded by national parks where native wildlife including kangaroos, emus, soaring eagles and rare native fauna species are at home.

    Fruits of the seaPort Lincoln is heaven for seafood lovers, with many restaurants and cafes attracting a following with their seafood specialities.

    Sarins restaurant at the Port Lincoln Hotel that overlooks Boston Bay, is a great place to savour the fruits of the sea where giant king oysters are available at $100 a pop.

    The large seafood platters are popular and the Bluefin tuna is delicious even though I do feel a pang of guilt after swimming with their kin.

    Del Giornos Cafe, located on the Port Lincoln foreshore, also has a reputation for great King George whiting and Hiramasa Kingfish.

    Coffin Bay, 46 kilometres from Port Lincoln, is a great day trip and its easy to see why the population swells from 500 to 3000 every summer it is the picture perfect seaside village. The clear waters are ideal for sailing, swimming, water-skiing and scuba diving. Plus its known for its world-famous oysters, which are large, plump and full of flavour.

    Chef and co-owner of The Oysterbeds caf, Marion Trethewey, describes the Eyre Peninsula as a chefs dream and Coffin Bay is thought of as a hidden gem by many.

    The seafood in these waters is outstanding, it is just so fresh ... plucked from pristine waters and then cooked you cant beat it, she says.

    Marion says shes got one of the best views in the world looking out across the bay where theres always plenty happening. Salt and pepper prawns and calamari, plus the local tuna and oysters are firm favourites at her popular restaurant.

    Nearby, Coffin Bay National Park features beautiful scenery and crystal clear waters where pods of bottlenose dolphins can often be seen and sea lions salute the sun from the rocks.

    For an even closer encounter with marine life, head to world renowned Baird Bay where Alan Payne operates his much-awarded Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience.

    Wetsuit on, facemask and snorkel in place, we ease into the blue waters of Baird Bay just as a group of playful sea lions tumble through the waves around us.

    FAST FACTPort Lincoln celebrates

    all things fishy every January at its Tunarama Festival that

    features a hotly-contested World Championship Tuna

    Toss. So far 37 metres is the record for tossing a

    10-kilogram tuna.

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    regionalstopover

    The animated mammals have a great time twisting and turning while other family members hefty bulls, calves and pups watch from the shore and sea-ravaged rocks.

    Our adventures arent over yet, and as we head to where dolphins are frequently seen, right on cue they arrive as we slip into the water again. They check us out then resume their aerial antics, diving through waves and simply having fun around us. Its an experience to treasure forever.

    Baird Bay, which covers about 3800 hectares, is also great for bushwalking, bird watching, camping and fishing.

    Close by, youll find Murphys Haystack forty-two kilometres from Streaky Bay. Its a photographers paradise with its strange monolithic pink granite boulders and pillars that take centre stage in the middle of a field.

    Streaky Bay, named after streaks in the water caused by the reflection of light and seaweed, is another must-see. The pretty coastal town has sheltered beaches that are great for snorkelling and theres an eco-friendly golf course and walking and cycling paths.

    Mocean Cafe, overlooking Streaky Bay jetty, is a popular haunt with locals. Chef Hardy Weyrauch and partner Margii Caldwell swapped the Flinders Ranges for the coastal haven when they took over the cafe in 2008. Weyrauch says Streaky Bay is a great place to live and work, especially with those million-dollar seaside views.

    The beauty of the Eyre Peninsula gets under your skin and sea-change fever often takes hold. More than a few visitors have found themselves wandering into the nearest real estate agency and dreaming.

    GET THERERex flies from Adelaide to Port Lincoln.rex.com.au

    STAYPort Lincoln Hotel1 Lincoln Highway, Port Lincolnportlincolnhotel.comStreaky Bay Motel and Villas,711 Alfred Terrace, Streaky Baystreakybaymotelandvillas.com.au

    EAT & DRINKThe Oysterbeds61 Esplanade, Coffin Bayoysterbeds.com.au Mocean CafeJetty Platform, Streaky Baymoceancafe.com.au

    EXPLORESwim with dolphins and sea lions. Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience, Baird Bay Road, Baird Bay bairdbay.com

    MORE INFOsouthaustralia.comvisitportlincoln.net

    Round-up

    The dolphins check us out then resume their aerial antics, diving through waves

    and simply having fun around us.

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  • Ive known a lot of the other contractors growing up, so I guess it doesnt seem like its a different thing for me to contract bulls, as thats what Ive grown up around. When I say theyre helpful, I mean that if I had trouble with a bull or needed help doing a job, I know it would be no big deal for them to help me.

    Have you considered bull riding?Ive dreamt about it. I think it would be a lot of fun, but its so dangerous. I dont believe that bull riding is a female sport. Id rather just provide the bulls and leave the riding to the men. I havent ever needed to ride a bull, either. We use a dummy on the bulls when theyre growing, and theres always been someone around, like my brother or other riders, to ride the bulls when theyre in training.

    What have been your most rewarding moments?Last year we won the Bucking Bull title at the Brisbane Invitational. We got a big belt trophy, which was pretty cool. This must all sound pretty strange to someone who has nothing to do with the rodeo scene! In a comp, judges score both riders and bulls, and weve had high-scoring bulls at heaps of other competitions and have won things like feeding grants for the bulls. Its been a lot of fun.

    How did you get into the stock contractor trade?My dad was a champion bull rider and we always had practice bulls on the property. When he retired from competing, he started stock contracting and training the bulls. I used to help him out a lot. Its become a bit of a family deal and turned into a family business.

    How do you prepare a bull for competition?Throughout the year, we put the bulls on a diet to fatten them up. The bigger they are, the better they buck. On competition day we monitor what they eat and drink. Just like humans, bulls cant have too much to eat and drink before competing because it might affect their performance. We fast the bulls on the day so they will buck to their best ability. We also let them into the ring before they compete and let them walk around for a bit so they can get to know the arena.

    Do you have to psych up the bulls before they compete?I wouldnt say the bulls need to be psyched up at all. They naturally know

    what to do when it comes to bucking. We run them through the arena so they know where they will be bucking and where to leave the arena. The rest is up to them. A lot of our bulls arent aggressive and are rather quiet from being handled so often, but there are always a few that are a bit more sketchy, which you have to watch, but thats all part of it. To be able to buck, they have to have a bit of a wild nature about them.

    Have you ever been injured while working with the bulls? There was one incident where I was just standing in the wrong place at the wrong time. A bull was running and it hit a gate, which swung open onto me. But other than that, no Ive been very lucky.

    Is stock contracting your career or a hobby?Its my career. Its the family business. But I also see it as a hobby. I really love it and enjoy it. We do a few other things, but we mainly deal with stock contracting and growing the bulls.

    How are you treated as the only female stock contractor?I dont believe Im treated any differently. Were all pretty close. If anything, the male stock contractors are very helpful.

    At just 18 years of age, Dakota Brandenburg is the only female stock contractor for Professional Bull Riders Australia competitions. Kathryn Marshall speaks with the young trainer.

    minutes with

    Five

    Dakota Brandenburg

    1

    checkin

  • No matter how enormous the task, at BGC Contracting we strive to not just meet, but to exceed expectations. That means bringing that extra 10% to every project we undertake, making it extra safe and extra effi cient.Our commitment to giving 110% has seen us grow to be a leader in the fi eld of mining and civil contracting, with a motivated workforce thats over 3000 strong.

    Going above and beyond to deliver for our clients is a core part of our culture. This has seen us complete many successful projects right across the Australian resources sector, helping design and construct major infrastructure for some of the biggest names in the business. When you need a team to do more than just make the grade, BGC Contracting is 110% ready to go.

    SHED

    _BGCC

    0057LEADERS IN MINING AND CIVIL CONTRACTING

    Perth (08) 9260 2300. Brisbane (07) 3119 0900. Whyalla (08) 8647 8411. WWW.BGC.CC

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    citybites

    GRAND OL DAMERANDWICK, SYDNEY

    The Royal Hotel in Randwick, established back in 1887, is a familiar sight to most East Sydneysiders. With its sprawling wrap-around verandahs, the grand Queenslander-style hotel has had its 40 large rooms renovated while still retaining its charming heritage features. LED chandeliers light up the darkly-stained original wooden staircase leading to rooms outfitted in classy shades of cream, grey and pale blue. All rooms have ensuites, flatscreen TVs, Foxtel and free Wi-Fi. Downstairs, guests can enjoy the stylishly renovated bar and restaurant, complete with a tree-filled courtyard adorned with fairy lights. Acclaimed chef Danny Russo is behind the exciting new pub menu that takes pride in putting a twist on Australian pub classics such as pot pies, chicken parmigiana, beer battered fish and chips and steaks ranging from a 200-gram eye fillet to the 400-gram grainfed rib-eye. Russo is known for using the best quality local produce, and his personal picks from the new menu are the burgers. I still reckon they stand out as some of the best on offer in Sydney, he says. royalhotel-sydney.com

    nightout

    SOME LIKE IT HOTBONDI BEACH, SYDNEY

    Mexican fans beware, as this is the kind of place you may head to thinking youre just going to knock back a couple of drinks with some guacamole-loaded tacos and perhaps some beetroot chips. But it doesnt work like that. The dynamic duo with all things Mexican in their blood husband-and-wife team Bildo Saravia and Regina Bueno Ros wont let you leave Mr Moustache without thoroughly indulging in their authentic Mexican street food, and also sampling some of their beloved Mezcal straight up or mixed into creative cocktails by award-winning mixologist Mike Tomasic. Interior designer Tamsin Johnsons decor is also bound to woo you old-world French sophistication meets art deco with Mexican flourishes, resulting in a bar and restaurant thats as cosy as it is cool. The gluten-free tostaditas are gems of black corn truffle, roasted corn and fresco cheese (unpasteurised cheese). Or get into something larger (not to mention damn hotter) and dig into the braised pork mini sandwich, over which you pour a hot arbol chili sauce. Mix it on your plate and eat it with your hands while maniacally reaching for something cold to cool you down. Seriously hot stuff. facebook.com/mrmoustachebondi

    sleepover

    Or get into something larger and dig into the braised pork mini sandwich, over which you pour a hot arbol chili sauce.

    No matter how enormous the task, at BGC Contracting we strive to not just meet, but to exceed expectations. That means bringing that extra 10% to every project we undertake, making it extra safe and extra effi cient.Our commitment to giving 110% has seen us grow to be a leader in the fi eld of mining and civil contracting, with a motivated workforce thats over 3000 strong.

    Going above and beyond to deliver for our clients is a core part of our culture. This has seen us complete many successful projects right across the Australian resources sector, helping design and construct major infrastructure for some of the biggest names in the business. When you need a team to do more than just make the grade, BGC Contracting is 110% ready to go.

    LEADERS IN MINING AND CIVIL CONTRACTINGPerth (08) 9260 2300. Brisbane (07) 3119 0900. Whyalla (08) 8647 8411.

    WWW.BGC.CC

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  • NORTHSHOREHAMILTON

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    Targeted 5 star NABERS rating to lower your occupancy costs Direct train station access and excellent car parking availability

    NOW LEASINGAreas available from 10 - 10,000 square metres

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    WINTER GARDENKristin Hannah, Pan Macmillan, $24.99Two very different sisters

    and their cold-as-ice

    mother are drawn

    together around the

    deathbed of their father.

    He extracts one final

    promise from them, and

    reveals a secret about

    their mothers past as well

    as a terrible truth that forever changes

    the girls sense of self and family.

    THE POWER OF THE SECOND QUESTIONChris Skellett, Exisle, $29.99Discover who you are

    and what wisdom youve

    gained throughout your

    lifes journey by following

    Chris simple steps, which

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    gain a valuable view of

    themselves, which can

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    a life of greater purpose and fulfillment.

    A GOOD PLACE TO HIDEPeter Grose, Allen & Unwin, $32.99This is the story of a brave,

    compassionate and

    heroic community

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    Valley, who gave shelter

    to around 3500 Jews

    during WWII, despite

    the possible dangerous

    consequences to

    themselves should their

    secret be discovered.

    A riveting read.

    A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WESTUniversal Pictures, in cinemas May 29Seth MacFarlane of Family Guy and Ted fame has his comic mitts all over this film: not only playing the lead role of Albert the sheep farmer desperately

    trying to stay alive, but also directing, producing and collaborating on the

    screenplay. The story is a pretty simple one of love and revenge, but Seth has

    a habit of making the mundane amazing.

    MacFarlane also played a major part in the production of the recent

    edition of Carl Sagans Cosmos with scientist Neil de Grassi Tyson.

    Compiled by Kathryn Marshall

    read

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    If the only way to get you

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    this immersive story where you

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    GUMTREE AUApp store, free

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    Buyers and browsers alike will

    be delighted with this little app

    that gives access to Australias

    number one free classifieds site,

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    real estate, to everything really!

    SCANBOTApp store, $1.29

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    This app effectively turns your

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    /UniversalPicturesAU #AMillionWayswww.amillionways.com.au

    COMING SOON

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    ZOO BOYZBenjamin Gorilla Marshall, Oliver Kangaroo Looms,

    Josh Giraffe Fergus, Daniel Penguin Baxter and Luke

    Seal McCabe make up new childrens music group,

    Zoo Boyz.

    The talented quintet offers a fresh sound, with

    Marshall as drummer, all members on guitar and

    ukulele, and all are excellent vocalists. The group is

    renowned for its eclectic repertoire that caters to

    both children and parents.

    The Zoo Boyz most popular hit, Shake it Like

    a Jellyfish recently shot to the top of the iTunes

    childrens music chart, knocking The Wiggles Hot

    Potato off its number one spot.

    The Boyz provide a refreshing approach to

    education through music, and are passionate about

    the importance that active participation through

    song has on a childs development and their

    confidence in learning. Benjamin (Gorilla) Marshall

    says: Were loving spreading our music around to

    as many people as possible and look forward to an

    exciting year ahead.

    With no shortage of fans throughout Queensland

    after the groups recent gig in Mackay, these party

    animals are exploring new ground filling school

    halls and playgrounds on their safari through primary

    and infant education centres around Sydney.

    Their album is available on iTunes and the CD can

    be ordered through their website zooboyz.com.au.

    NORTHSHOREHAMILTON

    WESTLINKGREEN

    BUSINESS &TECHNOLOGYPRECINCTS

    BTP WESTLINK GREEN An emerging urban renewal precinct offering quality

    commercial office buildings in Brisbanes western suburbs

    Call (07) 3853 5200 for further informationwww.btpinfo.com.au

    Targeted 5 star NABERS rating to lower your occupancy costs Direct train station access and excellent car parking availability

    NOW LEASINGAreas available from 10 - 10,000 square metres

    listen

    5

    entertainment

  • 6

    closeupIm

    ages

    : Ver

    acity

    Med

    ia/Ho

    lden

    Mot

    orsp

    ort

    Holden Racing Teams James Courtney is one of V8 Supercars biggest stars, but hes as down-to-earth as they come.

    LIVING THE

  • 7

    HE COULD EASILY be your best mate, the knockabout wingman who is always ready with a quick joke here and a knowing smirk there. Yet, when it comes to racing, almost like flicking a switch, Holden Racing Teams (HRT) James Courtney becomes razor-sharp and ready for battle.

    You can see it when hes training in the gym or when hes about to step into his day-glo HRT Commodore. His eyes burn hot with intensity. He means business, and you can instantly see why hes so successful.

    This year Courtney and HRT are starting to build some serious momentum in V8 Supercars. The 34-year-old won the opening round the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide and has backed it up with podiums in Tasmania and Winton.

    We came away from the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide with a solid victory, which was very well deserved for the team, says Courtney, who is now fourth in the championship standings on points. Its still early days in the championship, but were starting out in a far better position than we have in a long time. So thats fantastic.

    Its easy to see why Courtney has so many fans. His victory celebrations are now legendary, with a massive outpouring of emotion. His signature move simply called Frank the Tank after a character and scene in 2003 cult comedy classic Old School really has to be seen to be believed, with fists and arms pumping all over the place.

    It started back in 2008. My mechanic and I both loved the movie, and we were joking around about me doing it after I took my first win, Courtney recalls. I did it after the first one and its just stuck with me, so its a tradition now after 11 race wins in V8 Supercars.

    I was rolling down the pit lane at Clipsal and all the boys were doing it as I was driving past them. It was awesome!

    In terms of achievements, theres not much Courtney hasnt done and won since he started go-karting at the age of seven. Before joining V8 Supercars, Courtney took the world by storm by winning the FIA World Formula A Kart Championship, the British Formula Ford Championship and the Formula Ford Euroseries.

    He was even a Formula One test driver for Jaguar Racing (which later became champion team, Red Bull Racing) before sustaining serious injuries at Monza during a test in 2002.

    7

    closeup

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    9

    In V8 Supercars, he took the championship in 2010 with Dick Johnson Racing before making the switch to HRT in 2011. He remains hungry to close the deal again, this time for the official Holden factory team.

    The Penrith-born driver is yet to win Australias Great Race, the Bathurst 1000. You can bet its on his wish list, though, as HRT teammate Garth Tander is a three-time Bathurst winner.

    Away from the frantic V8 Supercars lifestyle, Courtney lives on the Gold Coast with his wife Carys (rhymes with Paris), their children Zara (aged six) and Cadel (four) and their two dogs Tojo and Diva.

    Their place on the water at Hope Island is a modern, spacious and beautifully decked-out family home from the moment you step in, you can tell its their haven of comfort away from the media spotlight.

    I came back from overseas and we were living up on the Sunshine Coast for a while and needed a permanent place to live, Courtney recalls. Id just done the deal to race in V8 Supercars, so Carys and I were just looking around for a place on the internet and we found it there. Its also a great base for Courtneys intense training regime.

    For any athlete, preparation is always key, says Courtneys trainer, Phil Young of GP Human Performance. The difference between James and others is the fact that hes not trying to peak for one event a year. Hes trying to peak for 15 events a year, so we do a number of mini peaks, and then we go for a larger peak before the endurance races.

    As with most racing drivers, Courtney is a self-confessed cycling nut. He gets out on the bike as much as he can to train and enjoy some time-out.

    Its a good outlet where I can get away and still think about work stuff but go through things without having any sort of distraction, he says. Its so beautiful at this time of the year with the weather so good, and its very motivating seeing a lot of other people out training. Its a great hobby and Im passionate about it.

    The difference between James and others is the fact hes not trying to peak for one event a year. Hes trying to peak for 15.

    From top: James famous victory

    dance; relaxing at his Gold Coast digs.

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    I watch a lot of cycling on the TV as well.By the time youre reading this, Courtney will

    be preparing for Round 6 of the championship in Darwin. The event, which is held at Hidden Valley Raceway, is a firm fan favourite it is less than 15 minutes by car from the city and has a distinct relaxed party vibe about it. Everyone loves going there.

    Its also something of a bogey track for JC, as hes fondly known, with last year yielding a pole position and two podiums.

    Darwin is a good part of the world, he says. Its very different to where I live, and where the team is based in Melbourne. Its really good to get up there and its a brilliant event.

    In past years, Courtney and Carys have stayed on in the Top End after the event to check out Litchfield National Park and Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge).

    It was pretty amazing, he says. We flew down to the gorge in a small plane and then got into a helicopter and went all the way through it. We also stopped and did some kayaking. In a light aircraft youre not all that high so you can see a lot. The pilot was pretty cool and took us on a bit of a tour on the way back.

    Then we went four-wheel driving through Litchfield National Park, which was great. Its a beautiful part of the world youve just got to stay away from the crocs.

    Courtney will be hoping to be the man to beat this year in Darwin. With the star driver in the zone, and the might of Holden behind him, anything is possible especially when Frank the Tank is in town.

    JAMES COURTNEYAbove: James with his family wife Carys and their children Zara and Cadel. Below: James approaches the finish line at the Clipsal 500.

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  • outtahere

    12

    The weather might be colder and the days shorter, but winter is a great time to get out and about and explore these cool gems, writes Stephanie Williams.

    COOLHOTSPOTSWINTER

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    13

    Take your partnerSome people chase the sun in winter, but if you love winter youll enjoy a getaway to the wild and woolly southern state. Hobart is the perfect combination of cosy nooks and fresh breezes and has so much to offer, even for a weekend.

    Check into The Islington boutique hotel and then check out MONA, Hobarts world-class contemporary art gallery. Catch the MONA ROTA, a bright-purple helicopter offering scenic flights from the gallery; or splash out on a flight in a seaplane, from the city, over the Derwent River and Mount Wellington.

    A Gourmania walking tour with a local expert will reveal the talented artisan producers, cafs and food stores of Hobart. And a trip to Hobart isnt complete without a

    visit to Salamanca Market and the surrounding boutique stores.

    After dark, Hobart remains an epicureans paradise. Start the evening with a drink at local favourite Preachers its like entering the grand old home of a friend who just happens to have 16 boutique beers on tap. Try Westend Pumphouse for a casual dinner in a large, warehouse-style space where you can watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen; or Ethos Eat Drink for its menu featuring superb local ingredients. From Wednesday to Sunday drop into Sidecar for a nightcap on the way home.

    Beechworth, an easy three hours drive from Melbourne, is another winter hotspot. Apart from being on the way to the ski fields in the Victorian Alps, this is the perfect

    Hobart at night as seen from the summit of Mt Wellington.

  • Guess whos Armidale: home of The Coach. Birthplace of the next NRL star! coming to

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    place to cosy up to the one you love. StoneTryst Spa Villas makes for a picturesque base camp; its a short walk from town and each villa has a gas log fire and a spa bath.

    Ned Kelly left his stamp on Beechworth, so history buffs will love to while away a few hours in the old Beechworth Courthouse (where Ned was tried for murder) and Beechworth Gaol (where Ned and his mother were held). But if history isnt your thing, the boutiques and quaint cafs should keep you occupied.

    Cyclists will love the Rail Trail (hire a bike for some two-wheeled action on the historical disused railway tracks; while mountain bike enthusiasts should head for the Beechworth Mountain Bike Park.

    Book a table at renowned two-hatted restaurant Provenance and enjoy chef Michael Ryans outstanding degustation menu; or dine at The Ox and Hound Bistro on local produce such as foraged yabbies, mushrooms and berries. Locals love the coffee, the wines by the glass and the charcuterie at Cellar Door Wine Store.

    Take your familyIn winter, thoughts turn to football, and in Australia were spoilt for choice. For AFL lovers theres no better place to be in winter than Melbourne (pictured left), barracking for your familys favourite team. But theres more to Melbourne than just AFL.

    Familiarise yourself and the kids with this sports-minded city with Real Melbourne Bike Tours. Take off from Federation Square and, along the way, see rowers on the Yarra River. Swing by the home of the Australian Open, and ride past the world-famous Melbourne Cricket Ground and the newest stadium, AAMI Park, where NRL games are played. If youre lucky you might even see an AFL or NRL team training on the nearby ovals.

    Lygon Street, which runs through Carlton and Brunswick, is home to the best Italian restaurants in town and is a Mecca for Ferrari-lovers after the Grand Prix. Go to Tiamo (Carlton) for authentic pastas; or 400 Gradi

    Image courtesy of Jeff Owen.

    Image courtesy of Tourism Vic / Roberto Seba

    Snake by Sidney Nolan, 1972, was the original centrepiece of Hobarts MONA museum.

  • outtahere

    16

    (Brunswick) for wood-fired pizzas. The kids will love the quirky flavours on offer at Gelato Messina in Smith Street, Fitzroy their only problem will be choosing which ones to have.

    Winter means snow, and if the kids are keen to learn to ski, Falls Creek is the perfect destination. The slopes are gentle and most accommodation is ski-in, ski-out, so getting the kids to the runs is easy.

    Its great to learn to ski (and snowboard) at a young age. At Falls Creek kids as young as three years old can get started at the Snowclub 4 Kids, which teaches them basic skiing skills while taking them off your hands for the day so you can also enjoy the slopes. Children aged from 12 weeks to five years can be cared for at the resorts childcare centre. Make sure you end the day with a warm donut or two at the base of the Falls

    Express lift to get them home.Check into one of the many apartment

    hotels and self-cater the FoodWorks supermarket should have everything you need. Skiing definitely exhausts the kids, so eating in will save you from some tired tantrums. But if you need a night away from the pans, try The Man hotel or The Gully Bar & Restaurant (by the Three Blue Ducks team from Sydney) for family-friendly fare.

    The slopes at Falls Creek are gentle and most accommodation is ski-in, ski-out, so its easy with kids.

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    Take your matesGet away from it all and off the beaten track to South Australias Flinders Ranges. Full of awesome 4WD tracks, ranging from easy to advanced, its a 540-million-year-old landscape crammed with history and natural beauty, making this an unforgettable and classic Australian journey.

    Skytrek, a spectacular track in the heart of the ranges, is known as a 4WD rite of passage in these parts. You and your mates will enjoy the rugged rocky ranges, starting out at Willow Springs Station, a 28,000-hectare sheep property just north of Wilpena Pound (five hours north of Adelaide), and continuing for six thrilling hours.

    In the north of the state there are plenty of 4WD tracks to explore in and around the Simpson Desert, including the Strzelecki, Birdsville and Oodnadatta tracks.

    Or, for something cooler, what better place to be with your mates in

    winter than in Thredbo, carving it up on the slopes. A six-hour drive from Sydney or Melbourne, Thredbo has everything you need for an awesome skiing or snowboarding weekend. Book an apartment in the village or stay in nearby Jindabyne for a little less coin.

    Thredbo has terrain to suit everyone. Beginners can learn on the gentle slope of Friday Flat, stepping it up a gear at the Cruiser intermediate area, while the advanced can have a crack at some of the most advanced terrain in the country.

    After hours, Thredbo kicks off. Grab a drink at The Pub Bar and Bistro to get your night started or maybe catch a game while you enjoy bar snacks at Berntis Tapas Bar & Grill. After a day on the slopes youll be starving at House of Ullr Bar & Grill you can cook your own steak; or try Al Fresco Pizzeria for casual Italian dining with BYO. All roads lead to the Keller Bar after hours, where you can enjoy live music while you swap big powder stories.

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    making it a great spot to hit with your mates.

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    Imag

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    Arm

    idale

    Tour

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  • destination

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    Traditionally the halfway stop on the road trip between Sydney and Brisbane, the vibrant city of Armidale is worth checking out as a destination in its own right. Rochelle Tubb explores.

  • destination

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    o it looks like the cats out of the bag. A recent survey by Australian Traveller magazine confirmed what many residents

    of the countrys highest city already know: Armidale is a great place to visit.So great, in fact, that readers voted it number three among Australias hottest travel destinations in 2014, after the Kimberley and the Top End. Thats an amazing accolade for this unassuming, cosmopolitan little city buried in the beauty of the New England region.

    Now that the secrets out, Armidale can expect an influx of curious travellers wanting to know just how and why this

    inland city made it to such lofty heights on the hottest destination list, beating places like the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Victorias food regions and the entire state of Tasmania.

    Brothers Nick and Josh Oxley, who own and operate the popular Goldfish Bowl bakery caf in Armidale, were taken aback when they heard the results of the survey, but having been brought up in the city, they are huge advocates of what they claim is the untapped potential of the area.

    The area has so much natural beauty, says Nick, whose caf arguably makes the best coffee in town (roasted

    on the premises), along with organic wood-fired sourdough bread, and tasty wood-fired pizzas on Fridays.

    Armidale has a great, diverse community and culture. Its not just a rural community theres so much more to it than that.

    Traditionally known as the halfway stop between Sydney and Brisbane, Armidale has come of age in recent years and now offers visitors a bustling arts community, a plethora of arts events, and a thriving food industry in addition to classic architecture and beautiful natural scenery. Not to mention National Parks aplenty.

    Armidale has a great, diverse community and culture. Its not just a rural community theres so much more to it than that.

    Clockwise from top left: Autumn in Armidale is an explosion of colour; Dangar Street in downtown Armidale; Goldfish Bowl

    bakery caf make tasty wood-fired pizzas on Fridays.

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    Its bumper to bumper on the humpback highway from June to October!

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  • In-flight entertainment, Straddie style.

    David Biddulph, Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre.

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  • destination

    24

    Natural beautySome of the most popular attractions in the New England area are the picturesque national parks with extensive stretches of gorge wilderness. Visitors should take the trek to Point Lookout in the New England National Park, where they can look out across the untamed wilderness to the Bellingen Valley and the Pacific Ocean. An amazing view on a clear day. And when it is raining, there are some stunning waterfalls to discover in the region. The Wollomombi Falls, reached via Waterfall Way, east of Armidale, are the highest waterfalls in New South Wales and make for spectacular viewing when in full flow.

    Food and wineA passion for local produce and an eclectic dining scene has taken off in Armidale over recent years. Theres an abundance of modern cafs offering all sorts of treats, from delicious pastries and fresh bread (Goldfish Bowl), to arguably the best blueberry pancakes youll ever taste (Fresh@110). Fortunately, much of the food grown here finds its way from pasture to plate and on to the tables of local eateries. There are also pubs galore offering great modern pub food (Whitebull Hotel) or hearty traditional country fare (The St Kilda Hotel). From casual family

    restaurants, cafs, clubs and pubs, to fine-dining restaurants and cellar door establishments, theres a diverse choice of dining options and types of cuisine.

    Arts and musicMusic, both classical and contemporary, contributes enormously to the citys cultural vibrancy and the University of New Englands (UNE) distinguished music department has a history of international significance. The heritage-listed Old Teachers College is home to the New England Conservatorium and the UNE music department, which support the Armidale Symphony Orchestra, Armidale Youth Orchestra, Fiori Musicali and many choral and other musical groups.

    Theres always something inspirational going on in the regions museums and galleries and on any number of stages and screens. Whether its outdoor theatre, classical opera or music concerts such as A Day on the Green, rarely does a weekend go by without an event worth attending.

    The New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) is an enjoyable and inspiring place for visitors of all ages to spend a couple of hours.

    The museum is the custodian of about 5000 works of art, including the Howard Hinton, Chandler Coventry and NERAM collections.

    Above from top: Gara Gorge Walk in Oxley Wild Rivers NP; Ebor Falls on the Guy Fawkes River; Booloominbah a late Victorian mansion at the Uni of New England.

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