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Your EASTER Experts GETAWAY TOP END LOCALS with TOP advice

DarwinLife Magazine March 2013

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DarwinLife Magazine March 2013

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YourEASTER

ExpertsGETAWAY

TOP END LOCALSwith

TOPadvice

“I am proud of what our team

has achieved at Darwin LNG. We have paved the way for the

energy industry up here.”

INPEX’s $34 billion Ichthys Project is about

more than oil and gas. It’s an investment in the

Darwin and Northern Territory communities

that everyone can share for decades to come.

For more information on the Ichthys Project,

please visit www.ichthysproject.com

“The Ichthys

Project has helped me build world- class skills.”

Adam Griffiths National Business Development Manager Top End Development Services

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 7

A group of 25 Territory high school students has

been given the unique opportunity of getting paid

while not only learning a trade, but finishing year 12

at the same time.

The school to work transition program is being

offered by Ichthys Project onshore construction

contractor, JKC Australia LNG Pty Ltd (JKC).

The ‘JKC School-Based Apprenticeship’ will see

the students working part of the week ‘on the tools’

and the rest completing their NT Certificate of

Education.

JKC Project Director for the Ichthys Project onshore

LNG facilities, John Bramley, said it was great to be

able to offer young Territorians this opportunity.

“JKC is providing the students with valuable life skills

and on the job training while working as first year

apprentices with the opportunity to gain the majority

of their trade qualifications on a world class LNG

facility,” Mr Bramley said.

JKC worked closely with Group Training Northern

Territory to design a program specifically for the

Ichthys Project.

“The program has been defined by the demand for

trades on the Ichthys Project onshore LNG facilities

in 2014, with consideration given to the National

and Northern Territory Skills Shortage lists,” Mr

Bramley said.

Group Training Northern Territory will employ the

students and place them with local host companies

depending on their chosen trade from the traditional

fields of boilermakers, carpenters, electricians,

plumbers and commercial cooks.

It is JKC’s intention that the second year of the

apprenticeship will see the students migrate to the

Ichthys Project onshore LNG facilities Blaydin Point

site and the accommodation village site in Howard

Springs, hosted by one of the project subcontractors.

Working on the Ichthys Project will provide the

young Territorians with the foundations of a

successful career and the exciting option of working

in their own ‘backyard’ as Darwin transitions into a

key centre for oil and gas operations.

P a v i n g t h e W a y F O R T H E F U T U R E

Less than one year into construction the Ichthys Project is already creating avenues for young locals to help lay the foundations of the Territory’s future.

The 25 successful students set to kick-start a career in their chosen trade.

Publishers/DirectorsLeasel Avila | [email protected] Collyer | [email protected] ManagerShaaron [email protected] | 0420643493Advertising ExecutiveBlair [email protected] | 0420 413 987KidsLife EditorJolene ReyesNT Life Sales Executives Andrew BarterCassie ValastroEditorial Enquiries [email protected] Enquiries [email protected] WritersMelinda BarlowKate WatsonPhotographersMark Hamilton(Cover) Mark Hamilton PhotographyMelinda BarlowJarryd Page, Glass AmbienceGraphic DesignersGil’s Graphic SolutionsA big thank you to Krys, Julius and PaoloWebsite www.darwinlifemag.comTwitter DarwinLifeMagFacebook DarwinLife MagazineOffice address2/48 Cavenagh Street (GPO Building)Darwin NT 0800

DarwinLife Magazine is published monthly by DarwinLife Pty Ltd. All material within the publication remainsthe property of the publishers unless permission isotherwise sought in writing. Those who makeadvertising placement and or supply editorial contentto Darwinlife magazine undertake to ensure allmaterial does not infringe copyright, trademark,defamation, libel, slander or title. The abovementioned patrons agree to indemnify the publishersagainst any investigations, claims or judgements.The views expressed in DarwinLife Magazine arethose of the contributors, and are not necessarily shared by the publication. DarwinLife P/L copyright MARCH 2013

ontents5DarwinLife & Home Expo 2013Book your stand now!

10 - 1Cover Story Tourism Top End

12 - 17Easter GetawaysLitchfield Tourist ParkLitchfield SafariCorroboree Park TavernCroc CoveEmerald SpringsGet Amongst It • Territory Wildlife Park

20 - 33 Wonder Women – celebrating International Womens DayEstelle Cornell – Allora Gardens NurseryThe Team at SproutHeather Haven – Territory Child CareJill Morris – Sky CityMichelle Auld – Darwin Dog SpaMichelle Hanton – LifelineDr Valerie Fletcher – by Zoe Marcham

35 - 39Arts & EntertainmentDarwin High – BraveAboriginal Art NTMukMuk Art GalleryDarwin Symphony OrchestraWhat’s OnDarwin Entertainment CentreTravel ExpoFlix in the Wet

40 - 47 Business & CommunityApps with Dr Iain WallerAngela LockwoodVolunteersPink CamouflageThe Big ShaveCaptovate

48 St Patricks Day

50 - 59Food & DrinkSeafood CouncilChef of the Month – at Thailicious

BellakayFoodies at the PrecinctEating Out with Jack Stephane – Hote Tamale

60 - 69Fashion, Health & BeautyFashion Style File – Bec ParishRetailer of the Month – Alfred’sWeddingsCellulite, finally an answer by Katie SullivanAgeing for the Ages by Dr Ash

70 - 78Sport & FitnessRiding the Functional Wave – by WesAnytime FitnessBlood Sweat & Fears – Register Now!Sports Medicine Australia – Kids and SportAthlete of the Month – Damien Smith

79 - 86Cruising, Travel & AdventureTest Drive – Nissan PulsarShannons Car of the MonthJack the SailorVietnamIndia Travels

87 - 110DarwinHomeFirst Home Buyers Guide10 Key Tips – Daniel HarrisTIOAussie Home LoansLand SurveysANZPeople’s Choice Credit UnionThe PracticeFirst Home Buyers – Haley RoddyReal Estate CentralMy First Home – Catriona McLaganHome Style File – Bec ParishFirst Garden – Michele ShuggBlackboys – Allora Gardens NurserySavings on Body Corporate Power by Bridget Edmunds

111-131

Jack AutasticDiarySpecial Feature – The SensesDr JackSue HydeTest DriveTechnology

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 9

Wow - where is this year going? Believe it or not, March sees us all planning our Easter

getaway, and this month Tourism Top End show us how to be a tourist in our own backyard.

With the four day Easter break, what better time to get out and explore what our own

unique Top End has to offer! So check out our Cover story and great Easter Getaway

ideas. March also marks the month of International Women’s Day and here at DarwinLife,

we are celebrating our own Wonder Women - great stories and achievements from some

of our un-sung heroes - Darwin women who have created their own slice of the pie. We

congratulate you! And while we are in the celebratory mood, let’s not forget St Patrick’s

Day. This year it falls on a Sunday, so check out the Food and Drink section, and settle in

for a Sunday session around town to toast St Patrick.

With the property boom in full swing, DarwinHome features a First Home Buyers Guide

this month, for those looking to purchase their first home. Who to talk to, How does it

work? What to do first. So why not hop off the rental treadmill and be part of the great

Aussie dream of owning your own home? We talk to the experts who can show you how.

While we are thinking about Home - lock in the DarwinLife and Home Expo into your

calendars - the weekend of June 1 and 2. This will be a Mega Expo - showcasing everything

for your home and lifestyle. And if you are a business owner wanting to promote your

products or services, then call 1300darwin to book your Stand - they’re selling fast!

And don’t forget to join Jolene in KidsLife this month as she explores “the senses”. Lots of

great stories and reading for our local mum’s and dads.

Have a magical March from all of us at the DarwinLife team!

Leasel & Lance

Shaaron Martin Blair Martin Cassie Valastro

MagicalM a r c h

10 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

DarwinLife | Cover Story - Tourism Top End

T O P E N DTourism

Many locals will have driven past the heritage listed old Reserve Bank building on the corner of Smith and Bennett streets in the city but how

many of you have ever been inside?

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 11

Cover Story - Tourism Top End | DarwinLife

Operating since 1975, Tourism Top End are the experts, for all your Top End travel

needs and the service they provide is free! The Information Centre is staffed with a team

of friendly consultants that are experienced and knowledgeable about every aspect of NT

travel – from day trips to 4WDriving to self-drive touring options.

There is so much to see and do in the Top End, sometimes knowing where to start can

be overwhelming. The consultants at the Visitor Information Centre can advise you on

attractions, guide you through accommodation options from caravan and camping sites

right through to boutique and luxury stays, and most importantly provide you with up to

the minute information about access to various locations that can be inaccessible after

heavy rains.

Tourism Top End looks after a vast and exciting footprint that starts south of Katherine

at Elliott and includes the Katherine River & Nitmiluk Gorge region, then extends

north to the Tiwi Islands, across to the Cobourg Peninsula and Arnhem Land, east to

Borroloola and the Queensland border and across the west to the Western Australian

border. Their coverage encompasses the Victoria River and Douglas Daly regions, as well

as Dundee Beach, the Cox Peninsula, Adelaide River, Batchelor and of course Litchfield,

and Kakadu National Parks. Most locals have only scratched the surface of the truly

magnificent wonders to be found right on our doorstep.

Many Top End locations are at their very best at this time of year and only those with

local knowledge can truly advise you on what’s happening. The Centre’s staff are

constantly in touch with their operators so can advise on where the rain’s been, what’s

flowing – rivers AND roads - and how to get there safely. For foreign visitors, there are

multi-lingual staff on site to assist and with almost 300 bookable products on offer, the

Visitor Information Centre is your one stop shop for bookings, touring advice and options,

car hire, accommodation, maps, planning tools, and more.

The on site facilities also make it a great venue to sketch out your plans. The Visitor

Information Centre is a large air-conditioned space, well located in the CBD with

hundreds of brochures and maps at your disposal. Why not spread out on one of the

tables, think through your plans and have a consultant within earshot to answer any

questions you may have. All the resources that you need are there, and the consultants can

make and take calls with operators on your behalf, and of course book it all for you once

you have made your plans.

You can of course find Tourism Top End online at www.tourismtopend.com au, check

out their facebook page, or follow them: @TourismTopEnd on Twitter. Social media is

a great way for people to interact and keep up with all the Top End events and travel

updates on what’s happening during the week.

From choosing wedding locations, to weekends away, to family seasonal holidays, and

school holiday activities, drop in to the Visitor Information Centre today and say hi to

the team who are welcoming and willing to help with all your Top End travel needs.

Also – with the Darwin Entertainment Centre box office closed on weekends - the Visitor

Information Centre is an easy drop in to buy your tickets to upcoming shows.

Opening hours are 8.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday and 9.00am to 3.00pm Saturday

and Sunday and the Visitor Information Centre is open 363 days a year – closing only on

Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Ph 1300 138 886E [email protected] www.tourismtopend.com.auCnr Bennett & Smith Streets, Darwin Cityfacebook.com/tourismtopend@tourismtopend

12 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

1. Cruise the Harbour at sunsetWith a harbour more than twice the size of Sydney’s why wouldn’t you want to take a cruise at sunset? Choose from an array of vessels including motorised and sailing options, dinner or canapés, BYO or bar facilities. Departing from Stokes Hill Wharf or Cullen Bay, this is a sensational way to enjoy time off and simply indulge.2. Explore our local nature parks & reservesWhen was the last time you visited Holmes Jungle Nature Park or even Charles Darwin Nature Park? Why not take a walk along Casuarina Coastal Reserve or enjoy a scenic drive to Fogg Dam Nature Reserve. These are just a few of our spectacular parks and reserves close to home that provide us with hours of satisfaction for the Easter break. A full list of Parks and Reserves can be found at Tourism Top End or by visiting www.tourismtopend.com.au. 3. Discover hidden gems in Kakadu National Park This place is simply breathtaking. Take a cruise along the intriguing Magela Creek system. Only available in the wet season this cruise takes in some amazing sights as you cruise through vast pristine paperbark forests. You’ll glide past lily pads, tall wet season grasses and through freshwater mangrove billabongs. With your expert guide, learn of local Aboriginal mythology, bush survival skills and traditional uses for many plants from the area. Or Put on your hiking boots and enjoy the serenity of the

Gubara pools – just remember to take your 4WD to navigate the road in! If you’re stuck for other ideas, pick up your free local Kakadu Park Guide from Tourism Top End which will become your bible for long weekend breaks.4. Chill out in the refreshing pools of LitchfieldOne of our top spots to visit is undoubtedly Litchfield National Park. Rather than heading out for just one day, why not stay a night or two and not have to worry about the drive home after the refreshing dip in the pools. This will give you plenty more time to explore other gems such as Green Ant Creek. Just remember to always check access after heavy rainfall.5. Work off your chocolate and get activeThere are so many ways to get active in the Top End this Easter. Try a round of golf in Jabiru or Katherine, take a bushwalk in many of the National Parks, rock-climb at Doctor’s Gully, or even a swim with crocs on Mitchell Street! Tourism Top End has plenty of ideas to get you active this Easter!6. Take to the airThere is no question about it…you have to experience the wonders of the Top End from the air at least once in your life! Whether it’s a scenic flight over the escarpments of Arnhem Land or the waterfalls of Kakadu, The Lost City from Cape Crawford or even all 13 gorges in Nitmiluk National Park - by plane or helicopter, they have to be seen to be believed.

Tourism Top End has some great Easter getaway ideas for you right here....

WHAT ARE YOUdoing this

EASTER?

DarwinLife | Easter Getaway Experts

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 13

litchf ieldtouristpark.com.au 08 8976 0070

14km past Batchelor near Litchfield National Park

Come on in, the water’s f ine!

What are you waiting for? The water temperature is perfect and the tourists

haven’t moved north yet. Saddle up your trusty steed and come on down.

Stay a night or two in air conditioned comfort at Litchfield Tourist Park. Choose

from a range of cabin options, take a dip in the pool and relax in the cafe which is

open daily for meals, cold drinks, icecream and espresso coffee.

With Litchfield National Park just next door, we are an ideal base to escape the

heat. Relax in landscaped gardens and natural bushland where cattle and horses

roam freely over the back fence and native birds and wildlife make their home.

L I T C H F I E L DTourist Park

14km past Batchelor near Litchfield National Park | Phone 08 8976 0070

litchfieldtouristpark.com.au

Kick off your spurs and dive into Litchfield. Swim all year round beneath spectacular waterfalls, enjoy a massage under cascading pools and explore the walking trails through native woodlands

and forests.

WANGI TOURIST PARK PTY LTD

ABN 64 087 622 688

Trading as

Ph 08 8978 2185 PO Box 124

W

E

SAFARI CAMPL I T C H F I E L D

SAFARI CAMPLitchfield

Easter Getaway Experts | DarwinLife

14 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Since opening its doors in July 2008, Crocosaurus Cove Darwin has set a new standard of interaction when it comes to the Top End’s most iconic reptiles, with thousands of people being thrilled & terrified by sharing the very environment of 5m + crocodiles right in the heart of the city.Four years on, the Cage of Death is still wowing people daily, however now with a new and more interactive experience.A brand new cylindrical design with improved viewing capabilities was introduced in May 2012 and dives will now include 15 minutes in the enclosure with one of these massive reptiles, while they are fed from our experienced reptile handlers from outside the enclosure.This experience encourages more movement from the crocodiles and ensures an up close and personal, face to

face encounter that must be seen to be believed!Operated by an over-head monorail and designed for 1 or 2 people per cage, the

Cage of Death has you suspended above the crocs before being lowered into the pen to get an up close and personal look at these amazing reptiles.Don’t miss the chance of getting 360 degree views of you and the crocs as our on-site photographers capture amazing images both inside and outside of the crocodile enclosures.Meet some of our

famous inhabitants, such as Chopper, Denzel, Houdini & Bess and be amazed by this unique, once in a lifetime experience.The Cage of Death operates 10 times per day, and participants can go it alone, or bring a friend.Prices include full day entry to Crocosaurus Cove.

CAGE OF

MARY RIVERWilderness Retreat & Caravan Park

Mary River Crossing Arnhem Highway,

Annaburroo, Via Humpty Doo.0836.

Just a short 75 min drive from Darwin, this

tranquil oasis is the spot to take a break

long or short and relax. The manicured

park land setting has comfortable

affordable accommodation in two styles,

all with air conditioning, ceiling fans, tea

& coffee making facilities, queen & single

bed and 5 with a queen, single and a set of

bunks for the family.

Spascious, camping & caravan powered

and unpowered grassy sites nestled among

the trees.

Spacious Camp kitchen allows for guests

to self-cater, with gas BBQ’s, electric stove

tops, microwave, toaster, kettle & large

fridge bring your own picnic gear or hire

some from the park.

Two swimming pools, one for exclusive

use of the Pool bungalows, and one in

front of the restaurant.

Restaurant and Bar open for Breakfast,

Lunch and Dinner.

Explore the Mary river on one of

our Self drive hire boats that are

available (seasonal) no licence

required and can carry up to 5

people.

Phone: 89788877

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.maryriverpark.com.au

Darwin’s ‘Best Kept Secret’

Ph: 08 8978 8877Email: [email protected]

Web: www.maryriverwildernessretreat.com.au

Wilderness Retreat & Caravan ParkM RARY iver

DarwinLife | Easter Getaway Experts

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 15

A full pub-style menu is served all day from 6am until 10pm – breakfast, lunch and dinner

– with the reef ‘n’ beef, mixed grill and Daly River barra clear local favourites. There are

daily specials too, as well as luscious desserts like lemon meringue pie and homemade ice

cream.

The Bar at Emerald Springs, is always full with everything from shooters to top-shelf

champagne. The boutique wine list is handpicked by Darwin wine connoisseur Tim

Story, with labels like Serafino and Goose Island. They happily take requests too, so if

you’d fancy a glass of Bombay Gin or your favourite wine for your stay, just ask and they’ll

get it for you. Bar opens from 10am until midnight.

You’ll find some of Emerald Springs’ best features when you step outside: the lily-covered

spring-fed lake, a pretty horseshoe garden and a grassy beer garden framed by colourful

heliconias and tropical foliage. Best of all is the enormous hardwood deck that juts out

over the lawn. It’s the perfect place for any function and a really beautiful spot to just relax

and enjoy a great meal and a cold drink.

The Bent Bull Bar And GrillIS THE SOCIAL HUB OF

Emerald Springs

BOOK AT THE ZEBRA ROCK MINE, DUNCAN RD. NTENQUIRIES ruth.a. [email protected] OR 0400767650

KimberleyS t o n e

Zebra Rock Mine, Gallery & Campground is a new family business open on Duncan Rd, near the WA/NT border.

Previously Zebra Rock has only been available in WA, however it has only recently beendiscovered that the Territory has a spectacular variety of Zebra stone types suitable for everything from large feature tables to eye-catching unique jewellery. All are on display and available for purchase from the on-site Gallery. This is now the only operating Zebra Rock mine in the world.Another hidden secret of the Territory is Kimberley Wetland Safaris, operating along the remote eastern side of Lake Argyle. This area of the lake has never before been accessed for tours. It is prolific in bird and wildlife, and each evening is host to a spectacular sunset. The Wildlife and Fishing Safaris are highly popular especially for those looking to experience something a little different. It is not uncommon

for visitors to return from one Safari and immediately book again for the following day. All Safaris are booked and depart daily from the Zebra Rock Mine.At only a 10 km drive from the Victoria Hwy all vehicles are able to access the Zebra Rock Mine, Gallery & Campground and Kimberley Wetland Safaris. The campground is in a relaxed bush setting with unpowered sites, clean toilets and showers and firewood provided. All guests are welcome to fossick in the creek for their own piece of Zebra Rock. With fresh scones, tea, coffee, fish & chips also available there is something for everyone. Opening Good Friday and open 7 days until end of September (cash only).For more information contact Ruth: [email protected] or 0400 767650.

The Ultimate Kimberly Wetland Safari2 - 8PM | $140 ADULT (SUNDAY ONLY)

Fishing Trips8 - 11AM | $80 ADULT

MorningWetland Safari8 - 11AM$70 ADULT | $30 CHILD

SunsetWetland Safari4 - 8PM | $80 ADULT

Birdwatching Safari7 - 11AM | $100 ADULT

All Tours NT Time

Easter Getaway Experts | DarwinLife

16 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

If you are looking for a fantastic family day out this Easter, or anytime really, then why not ‘Get Amongst’ our local wildlife, like the

Darwin Life team did this month, at the Territory Wildlife Park. An easy 45 minute drive from the centre of Darwin, the Park has been

the quintessential family destination for Top End residents and tourists alike over more than 2 decades and is truly delightful at this time

of year, as the tourists seek cooler destinations and the wet seasons brings the park to life, just for us locals.

TERRITORYGet Amongst It

W I L D L I F E PA R K

DarwinLife | Easter Getaway Experts

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 17

The park has 3 distinct habitats – Wetlands, Monsoon

Vine Forest and Woodland. The main road weaves

between these habitats and short leafy walking paths run

off into the bush, guiding you right through the very best

snapshots of Top End flora and fauna.

For those particularly steamy days, there is also a train

that runs all day with stops at all the major exhibits, and a

thoroughly entertaining driver!

There are discovery walks and talks, feeding sessions and

of course plenty of information to take in as the guides

reel off the most fascinating facts about animals living

right in our own backyards.

The Darwin Life team had a wonderful day, under

guidance of Park Services Manager Sam Gibson and his

friendly and expert team.

Shaaron

Our first port of call was the Birds of Prey arena. These

amazing birds were incredible, swooping and gliding

right above us, while the very well informed park ranger,

Anna, provided us with a wealth of knowledge on their

background, habits and homes within the Territory. They

seemed incredibly well trained and arrived on cue, and

had as much fun performing, as we did watching them.

The closer you got, the larger they seemed, and this live

show was a great way to start our leisurely tour of the Park.

Cassie

The wildlife park was awesome. Though many think it’s

just for kids, I found it fascinating, and a great place to be

for people of all ages. The lush, green surroundings and

the opportunity to get up close and personal with some

of Australia’s most interesting wildlife is not to be missed.

The cool tranquil surrounds of the aquarium are a great

chance to escape into another world as you wander below

giant stingrays and sawfish. You can get up close and

personal with massive barramundi, turtles and even a fully

grown salt water Crocodile.

Blair

When the Darwin Life team nominated me to feed a pool

full of whip rays, I’m not going to lie - I peed myself just

slightly. Getting in the water with barbed up, hungry whip

rays was not really my idea of a good time. But there I

was, ankle deep in the Oolloo Sandbar, nervously holding

out a couple of dead fish. As they silently drifted towards

me, and sucked the fish from my hand, I got the chance

to touch them. They felt rough on top and soft and silky

underneath, and it’s kind of nice when they swim over

your feet. It was a really amazing experience to get to

interact with them right there in the water.

The Territory Wildlife Park is open 364 days a year

from 8.30am until 6pm. Why not take advantage of the

Territorian Pass? Just show proof of residency in the NT

to be eligible, buy the pass, and you’ll receive unlimited

access to the park for one year – a great solution for all

those school holidays and visiting relatives through the

year. Check their website www.territorywildlikepark.com.

au for more information.

P: 08 8988 7200F: 08 8988 7201 E: [email protected]

www.territorywildlifepark.com.au 960 Cox Peninsula Rd, Berry Springs

Easter Getaway Experts | DarwinLife

20 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

By Melinda Barlow

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 21

This year’s theme – ‘the gender agenda: gaining

momentum’ offers a positive focus to what historically

has been more about fighting than rejoicing. Women

have achieved a great deal over many decades and the

momentum continues to grow for women’s equality.

Women’s economic, political and social achievements

are to be celebrated and the position of women today

in many endeavors would have been unthinkable up

until only recently.

The future for women today is much brighter than a

century ago. Thanks to countless efforts and global

campaigning, women’s rights on voting, equal pay,

workplace equality, and gender discrimination in

general have advanced considerably.

Women still do not receive equal pay, and patriarchy

in the workplace is alive and well so the fight against

issues such as these continues. Women still struggle to

receive the same education opportunities and access to

appropriate health services, and incidences of violence

and abuse against women are consistently high.

However there is still a lot to be optimistic about

– especially in Darwin it seems. As DarwinLife

celebrates women throughout the month of March,

we had the opportunity to meet some pretty inspiring

characters and be reminded that there is much about

women that should be celebrated every day.

We spoke to small business owners, who took a risk and

hung out a shingle early in their careers and 3 decades

later are still going strong. Many of our women

are community leaders, volunteers, innovators and

entrepreneurs. We met bright young creative types,

who today appreciate the legacy women of previous

generations have created for them. We met working

mothers who actually do seem to have it all, and a

fabulous 90 year old Territorian who shared some

wonderful stories of Darwin’s history.

There is much talk about ‘the glass ceiling’ and how

women have to work that much harder to achieve

as much as men. What DarwinLife has discovered

however is that the Territory grows a different breed

of women. They roll up their sleeves and get on with

it. They are resourceful and hard working and it never

occurs to them that their gender might be an issue.

They toil away until the wee small hours then get up

to pack lunches and do school runs. They drive trucks

and bake cakes, go fishing and develop property. They

help and heal and soothe and problem solve, they

campaign and support and love and laugh.

Let’s hope on International Women’s day this year

they take a moment to reflect and realize just how

inspiring they are. The Territory would not be the

same without them.

The irony of International Women’s day is that the people it is supposed to celebrate –

women – are usually far too busy multi tasking and juggling to actually stop and enjoy

the recognition. Established in the early 1900’s, it has grown into a global celebration

with hundreds of events scheduled in dozens of countries on March 8th – International

Women’s Day. Australia is included and Darwin has community events planned throughout

March. There are breakfasts and art projects, networking events and award ceremonies

being held across the Territory.

22 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

“Dad was a truck driver, mum was a

truck driver, and I was a truck driver,”

says Estelle.

From hauling river sand on his own in

Mundubbera, country Queensland, her

father built a transport company with 24

semi-trailers.

“I definitely learnt my business skills

from Mum and Dad. That’s where I

learned that if you work hard enough,

long enough, eventually it will come to

you”.

But it wasn’t all about work. Estelle

remembers “a house full of love”.

“Every Friday night Mum would invite

friends over and we’d play the piano

and sing. There was always something

bubbling on the old wood stove for all to

enjoy.”

When Estelle was 21 she came to Darwin

for a holiday.

“I couldn’t believe what a young, friendly

town it was,” she says. She was working

the telephone exchange at the time

and immediately applied for a transfer.

Within a year she’d met her husband

Pete.

Pete had his own transport company,

Porky’s Pickups, and when he fell

seriously ill not long after they met,

Estelle’s trucking experience came to the

fore.

“He was unwell on and off for a lot of

years and it was nothing for me to do

my job at night and run Porky’s Pickups

during the day,” she says.

“I used to take the accounts to the hospital

to do with him. Then one weekend I took

him out of hospital and we got married.”

Thirty years and three children later, Pete

is fighting fit, running Darwin Container

Services and very active with children’s

charity Variety.

Along the way, the couple bought a

rundown plant nursery on two hectares

at Berrimah. As they cleaned up the site

for their own business, so many people

stopped to ask when they were reopening

the nursery that in 1995 they did just

that.

“I borrowed so much money from the

bank I didn’t know whether to be joyous

or physically sick,” Estelle says.

Compounding matters, “I thought you

just put stuff in the ground and it grew,”

she laughs. “I didn’t know about pests

and diseases!”

The nursery “didn’t make a penny for the

first five years” but by hiring experts and

studying horticulture, Estelle soon had it

turning a profit and winning awards.

Now, with a healthy husband, three

grown children (“my masterpieces”)

and such business success, you could

say the nursery has seen Estelle’s own

blossoming.

“Allora Gardens was inducted into the

National Nursery and Garden Industry

Hall of Fame in 2008 but my ultimate

was winning Telstra NT Businesswoman

of the Year and Commonwealth Bank

Business Owner of the Year in 2011,”

Estelle says.

“This, Allora Gardens Nursery, has

brought me from humble beginnings,

from physical and mental exhaustion,

to the greatest journey I ever could have

wished for in life,” she says.

“The important thing is to never give

up. Go round, go under, go through, but

never give up.”

Allora Gardens Nursery is hosting a day of fun to support the Leukaemia Foundation on March 17th from 11am to 5pm. There’ll be Devonshire teas and an auction so come along and see who’s getting their head shaved for a cause…

ALLORA GARDENS NURSERY

Allora Gardens Nursery (Estelle Cornell)

By: Kate Watson

ESTELLECornellIf ever someone embodied the saying

“Keep on truckin’,” it’s Estelle Cornell.

Stuart Highway, Berrimah NT 0828 Ph: (08) 8984 4006 www.alloragardensnursery.com.au

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 23

Special thanks to another super woman Bec, at Bec’s Costume Box | Shop 3/9 McKinnon Road Pinelands 0829 | P: 0428155585

SPROUTYou can feel the feminine energy as soon as you walk into Sprout’s large spacious offices in Smith St. DarwinLife sat with Creative Director Anya Lorimer and Graphic designer Ness Cotton to

talk about the team of wonder women at Sprout. As well as their plus one – Jeff.

A team full of women is not all about sharing

fashion tips and recipes; let’s acknowledge that

happens but avoid the clichés. This team of 14

women (and Jeff) is a powerhouse of inspiration

and productivity. Sprout started in 2001 with

two women and over the last 13 years has been

predominantly a female team. “It’s never been

a conscious choice but I guess in our industry,

attention to detail is so important. In my

experience women definitely have the advantage

where detail is concerned and they put a different

level of passion into what they do,” says Anya.

Ness agrees. “It’s something that’s happened

accidently but it works.” Not only does it work

but it actually empowers the agency to create in

ways that may be unexpected. Both women feel

there is a different creative energy that comes from

a predominantly female team. “The approach is

more holistic, and women seem to respond more

intuitively to client needs,” says Anya. “There just

isn’t that ‘job in job out’ mentality. We care about

what our clients want. It’s different interstate. I’ve

worked with predominantly male teams interstate.

The higher level creatives tend to be men. In

Darwin we’ve turned that on its head – we do

things differently in the Territory”.

Where there are women there are often children

and Sprout is no exception. Anya’s daughter Grace

was born in 2003 and 2 weeks later had her first day

in the office. General manager Kushla’s daughter

Tanja was 9 when her mum started at Sprout and

she has just headed off to uni to study what else

but graphic design at Australia’s premier design

college - RMIT. No coincidences there when she

grew up amongst such great role models, showing

her what a creative viable career looks like.

Not to be left out – Jeff ’s wife Julie is about to

have a baby. She now has a bigger support crew

than she could imagine and with the guidance of

the women from Sprout, Jeff may just become

husband of the year as the girls are encouraging

him to bring the baby to work!

Anya is clearly passionate about the importance

of finding the balance between work and family

commitments. “It’s really important we support

staff to have flexible arrangements. I don’t need

to have it explained to me – I totally get it. Women

CAN be wonder mums as well as wonder career

women but their workplace has to be engaged with

their needs to make this happen.”.

Anya is immensely proud of her team - Ness, Jess,

Hannah, Kushla, Andrea, Rachael, Carly, Bernie,

Christine, Tina, Lauren, Emma, and of course

their plus one – Jeff.

51 Smith Street Darwin 0800Ph: 8980 5700F: 8980 5701www.sprout.com.au

By: Melinda Barlow

24 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

After working as a locum in Darwin in the early

1980’s, Liz saw the potential the town offered and

made plans to return. Completing her Sports

Physiotherapy studies, Liz returned to Darwin

the following year and established Top End

Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic in a small

arcade in Smith St. It was an instant hit. “I was

busy from day one. With such an active and young

population, there was always a steady stream of

clients.”

Fast forward 5 years and her ever expanding

clientele led to the opening of another clinic in

Palmerston which she operated for 7 years before

selling it. In 1996, while raising her 2 young sons in

Humpty Doo, Liz started working part time from

the office in the local gym. Increasing demand

over the years resulted in the purchase of larger,

brighter premises across the road, catering to the

growing needs of the rural population.

Liz’s long term interest in holistic, complementary

medicine led her to study acupuncture in

Melbourne in 2000. This shift in focus resulted in

an expansion of the services she and her staff were

able to offer at both clinics and also led to the name

change in 2003 to ‘Top Health Physiotherapy and

Acupuncture’. “It’s been exciting to see the growth

and acceptance of acupuncture into mainstream

medicine over the years – by both patients and

doctors” Liz says, “and the results can be amazing!”

Liz is keen to point out that Top Health’s success

would not have occurred without the fantastic staff

that have worked with her. There are now five

other Physios working between the two clinics,

each with their own strong following. Along with

their Physiotherapy degrees, they have various

qualifications between them in acupuncture, dry

needling, naturopathy and the most recent staff

member is also a podiatrist!

With this depth of experience, a wide variety of

conditions are successfully treated at Top Health.

“We still see a lot of sports, spinal and work related

injuries, but are also able to help with medical

conditions like sinusitis, migraines, skin allergies,

depression and of course improve general well

being” Liz said. Top Health staff have a special

interest in caring for women’s health. This

includes menstrual disorders, fertility issues and

natal care such as morning sickness, maintenance

of pregnancy, oedema and induction of labour.

“The combination of naturopathy, acupuncture

and physiotherapy ensures the best care for our

clients”, said Liz.

It’s been 30 years since Liz opened the doors to her

first clinic, but it is obvious her enthusiasm has not

waned. “I love what I do” said Liz.

w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m /tophealthphysiotherapyacupuncture

There are many and varied qualities that go into the making of a Wonder Woman - stamina, patience, and resilience are up there. Longevity must certainly come into it too and Liz Elphick knows all about that. She certainly gets wonder woman credentials, having

singlehandedly raised children, launched businesses and sustained a successful career celebrating 30 years in business this month!

2/48 Woods St, DarwinPh: 8981 51241/16 Vereker St, Humpty DooPh: 8988 2987

T O P H E A L T H

Elphick L I ZCELEBRATING 30 YEARS

www.tophealth.com.au

By: Melinda Barlow

Havens

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 25

By: Melinda Barlow

Heather Heavens

Lucky for Darwin we have Heather

Havens. Arriving here from New

Zealand in 1984, Heather had

little idea she would someday be

calling herself a local. Now a proud

Territorian, she has invested almost 30

years of her life here, raising 3 of her

own children and 9 grandchildren, as

well as contributing to raising children

in our community as the Director of

Territory Child Care Group.

After building and operating a child

care centre in Palmerston for 5 years

in the late 1990’s, Heather and her

husband sold the business and shortly

after, Heather was convinced to apply

for the role as Director for Darwin

Family Day Care. When she took

on the position in 2002 there were

40 educators providing care around

Darwin. Under her guidance, that

number has now swelled to almost 95.

“We’ve added two programs since I

started - Murraya Children’s Centre

and Bees Creek Outside School

Hours Care to the organisation’s

portfolio. These developments have

really strengthened our offering and

our value has grown exponentially,”

says Heather. “The organization has

tripled in size since I started. Some

of that growth comes down to my

opportunism, but a lot is also due

to my love of people and my love of

business.”

Heather believes the values of TCCG

now are a direct reflection of her own.

The whole organization has an ethos

of sustainability and care for our world

and each other. “These are values I’ve

had for as long as I can remember. I

decided to implement these principles

into the organisation and believe they

are the foundation to our success”.

Heather is a passionate advocate for

the potential of the individual. One

of her values is to ensure all members

of her staff are given the opportunity

to reach their full potential. “I get

real satisfaction from seeing people

become successful. By encouraging

and supporting them to be the best

they can be, they are empowered to

improve their own lives, develop their

career and establish financial stability

for themselves and their family. This

is great for them, for our business and

great for the community.”

Whilst running TCCG, Heather is also

a committed voice for animal welfare

in the Top End. She has been involved

with Pet Expo for 7 years and for the

past 2 years has been Chairwoman.

She is also currently involved with

the NT Cat Association and is

Chairwoman there as well.

It’s hard to believe she has any spare

time but she does and she loves to

spend it gardening, with her home

featuring in last year’s Open Garden

Scheme. Heather is also a keen

cook and strangely enough – loves

housework.

With no sign of slowing down

anytime soon, Heather’s community

minded attitude is inspirational. Her

commitment to improving the daily

lives of people and animals through the

local church board, Early Childhood

Australia, TCCG, Pet Expo and NT

Cat Association is admirable. With all

this on her plate, what’s the thing she

values most – her family.

45 Malak Crescent, Malak NT 0812 Ph: 08 8920 0600 E: [email protected] www.territorychildcare.org.au

TERRITORY CHILD CARE GROUP

It takes more than just a strong maternal instinct to oversee the care of hundreds of children – it

takes a wonder woman.

HEATHER Havens

26 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Jill Morris is Business Development

Manager at SKYCITY and now after

4 years with the company, adds to this

role the position of Sales & Marketing

Manager for SKYCITY Darwin. Just 3

weeks in, Jill is relishing the challenges

that come with her new responsibilities.

“Looking after our major sponsorships

– V8 Supercars, Darwin Turf Club

and taking care of conference, event

and hotel sales has given me a good

understanding of the property and what

our customers expect. I understand our

brand and marketing strategy so this role

seemed like a natural progression”.

Jill now has an additional department

and another 7 direct reports to look

after but she is unfazed by the extra

load. “Double the work double the fun!

Darwin has been really great for my

career. I wouldn’t have had the same

career opportunities anywhere else.”

By anyone’s definition Jill has earned

local status. She has lived in Darwin

for nearly 30 years and wouldn’t be

anywhere else. Moving here in her late

teens ‘just for 12 months’, she had little

sense then of the direction her future

would take. She worked in finance and

insurance, hotels and event management.

That was followed up with 10 years in a

management role with Thomas Cook

Travel and 5 years with Tourism NT.

Her experience in the public sector was

good grounding for the private sector and

she is proud to now work for SKYCITY

Darwin.

“Generally speaking when you work in

sales and marketing roles it’s important

to be proud and passionate about the

product your promoting. It’s great to

work for a company that’s continually

reinvesting in its product to give our

customers a great experience. That’s

what its all about. That’s why my job

matters”.

The perception that Jill’s job is

glamorous is only half the story. There’s

a lot of hard work behind the scenes. Jill

manages a talented team of marketing

coordinators, graphic designers, sales

executives and business development

executives. With 12 people reporting

to her across different departments, it

takes real skill to keep everyone on target,

ensuring they are achieving the goals

of the organization as well as their own

goals.

“I’m now in a very fast paced and diverse

role. It changes every minute of the

day and no two days are ever the same.

I could be talking to a client about a

1000 guest gala awards dinner on the

lawns one minute, then discussing detail

of a TV commercial shoot for our new

restaurant Cove the next. Sometimes

exciting things pop up – like checking out

the latest Mercedes that we are looking

to purchase for our next major gaming

promotion, or sitting next to Pete Evans

from My Kitchen Rules for the Look

Good Feel Better fundraiser” where

incidentally almost $5000 was raised for

the charity.

“We opened our new resort last year,

and our new bar Lotus in late February,

as well as the new VIP gaming room

SKYROOM”. SKYCITY’s constant

reinvention means Jill Morris will be kept

on her toes for the rest of this year and

beyond.

Settling into a new role can be challenging, but even more so if you take your previous role with you.

Jill Morris

Gilruth Avenue, The Gardens, DarwinCasino 8943 8777 Hotel 8943 8888 Restaurants 8943 8940

Morris J ILLSKYCITY DARWIN

By: Melinda Barlow

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 27

But Michelle Auld’s navy training and determination

to excel has helped her become an internationally

trained and award-winning professional pet groomer.

Based in Darwin, Michelle’s business ‘Darwin Pet

Spa’ is taking local pet owners by storm as she elevates

pet grooming and styling to a new level.

Darwin Pet Spa is an award-winning pet grooming

business that provides services at an accredited

national and international standard. The home-

based salon offers professional grooming including

specialised colouring options, luxury pet spa

treatments and coat styling.

Michelle is one of only four Certified Feline Master

Groomers in Australia and the only one in the

Northern Territory after training in America under

the guidance of the National Cat Groomers Institute

of America.

A dedicated and internationally trained groomer,

Michelle been nominated as the Best Canine

Groomer of the Year in Australia awards for the

second year running after winning the title in 2012.

Michelle recently completed a Creative Pet Colouring

and Styling seminar run by fellow Certified Master

Dog Stylist Dawn Omboy, also known as the “Queen

of Colour”.

Michelle has always loved animals. At the tender age

of five she began looking after greyhounds alongside

her grandmother who bred and trained greyhounds

in Melbourne.

“I was there every school holidays, I used to help look

after the greyhounds and the pigeons that she bred,”

Michelle says. “My grandmother looked after lots of

animals she fostered from the local RSCPA so my love

for looking after animals started early.”

Michelle’s caring nature and sense of adventure led

her to join the Australian Navy and train as a medic,

including work in the emergency wards of some of

the busiest hospitals in Melbourne and alongside St

John Ambulance paramedics.

Michelle had her first taste of the Top End in 1998

when she was posted to HMAS Coonawarra in

Darwin as a petty officer medic in charge of the

medical centre. The often high-adrenalin job saw

her getting dropped onto vessels from planes during

Navy operations and she looked after sailors during

the East Timor crisis.

But as Michelle’s passion for the Navy was dwindling,

her heart was won over by Darwin and she discharged

from the Navy so she could stay in the Top End.

In 2000 Michelle and her husband David signed up

to a Muffin Break franchise in Casuarina and went on

to win Franchisee of the Year and Fast Food Retailer

of the Year. Michelle started helping out with her

mother-in-law’s dog grooming business in 2007, and

a year later, Darwin Pet Spa was born.

For Michelle, it is her dream come true.

“I love working with animals but I also get to meet lots

of interesting people,” Michelle says. “Whatever I do

I have to keep getting better at it.”

Taking charge of the health of sailors as an Australian Navy medic is a far cry from pampering pooches and pussycats.

FROM NAVY MEDIC TOPet Pampering

For more information please contact Michelle Auld at Darwin Pet Spa on 8985 5990 or 0411 140 043 or via email [email protected]

28 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

MICHELLE

Michelle Hanton, CEO of LifeLine Top

End is an innovator, internationalist and

inveterate volunteer. Born in Malaysia to

an English mother and Eurasian father,

Michelle spent most of her time growing

up in the Middle and Far East but has

called Australia home since 1981.

Volunteering was a way to meet people

and stay busy in a country where she

had few friends. Through volunteering

with St John Ambulance she also learned

new skills, which spurred her to gain

qualifications and eventually become a

fulltime ambulance officer in Darwin.

She took time off to have a family and

when she returned to work it was as her

own boss, running a swimwear boutique.

She went on to establish a gymwear

business exporting to Dubai, France,

USA and UK. This thrilling time came

to a sudden halt in 1997 when Michelle

was diagnosed with breast cancer.

The news forced a change of lifestyle

and a shift of focus but the can-do

attitude remained. Michelle studied

advocacy with the National Health and

Medical Research Council and became a

founding member of NT Breast Cancer

Voice.

Surely only someone with Michelle’s

unique mix of diverse experiences

could have come up with her next idea.

In 1998 she founded Dragons Abreast

Australia (www.dragonsabreast.com.

au), a national charity that raises breast

cancer awareness and provides support

to survivors through Chinese dragon

boat racing. So influential has it been that

in 2004 Michelle was the subject of an

ABC Australian Story episode titled “In

the Pink”, and was awarded Telstra NT

Businesswoman of the Year.

In 2007 Michelle decided the sense of

inclusion and personal empowerment

women thrived on through Dragons

Abreast should be extended to their

careers as well. So, in 2007 she established

Dragon Sisters (www.dragonsisters.com.

au), a “heavily female-oriented” personal

and business development consultancy

harnessing the expertise of international

professionals to help businesses and

individuals achieve their best.

In 2008 her services to women’s health

were recognised with a Medal of the

Order of Australia (OAM). Perhaps this

would be enough for many people, but

not Michelle, who in October last year

brought her formidable energy to the

role of CEO of LifeLine Top End, an

organisation that provides a telephone

crisis support service (13 11 14) and a

range of services including face-to-face

counselling, corporate stress busting,

and a mums’ club. Here Michelle says

the greatest challenge is helping the

organisation secure the resources to

continue these vital services.

“I mean not just the financial resources,”

Michelle says, “but also the staff and

volunteers.”

To anyone interested in volunteering, no

matter how little time or what kind of

skills they have, Michelle says: “Come in

and have a chat – we have lots of different

areas where we utilise volunteers. People

should never underestimate their value

or ability to contribute.”

Expo is open 9 am to 4pm and everyone is welcome. Admission by donation.Further details or to make an appointment with our Face to Face Counsellors

contact Lifeline Top End on 89 412365.Michelle Hanton, CEO of LifeLine Top End

By: Kate Watson

As LifeLine celebrates it’s 50th birthday in Australia, LifeLine Top End has a true wonder woman at the helm.

HantonLifeLine

Saturday 16th March at Darwin Convention Centre

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 29

You were born in Darwin in 1923. What do

you remember about those early days?

Oh, so much! There was the joy when refrigeration

arrived with manufactured ice creams. On special

occasions, we went to a café where ice-cream was

served in glass bowls with strawberry sauce and a

biscuit wafer. There was sitting on Lameroo Beach

watching the tide come in and fill the swimming

pool. There were the annual fancy dress balls and

the Christmas tree in the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall.

Cavenagh Street was then Chinatown, a bustling

business area. Many people still wore Chinese-

style clothes and hair styles and the storekeepers

used the abacus to tot up the bill. The Chinese

had market gardens on the outskirts of the town

and a knock at the back door would reveal a

Chinese man complete with a shoulder pole from

which was suspended two large cane baskets full of

tropical fruits and vegetables.

My father was a builder. He built Lyons Cottage

on the Esplanade for the Manager of the British

Australian Telegraph in the days when Darwin

was the only telegraph link with the rest of the

world. He also built most of the business premises

in pre-war Smith Street. He used to tell me that

I could do anything that I set my mind to. I have

never forgotten his words.

There were no secondary schools in Darwin, so I

was sent south to boarding school on the monthly

boat that operated between Singapore and

Melbourne. We only came home once a year and,

of course, the monthly boat did not fit in with our

school year so we often had to wait for the next

boat. I would miss weeks of schooling, which was

not good for my education.

Despite the interruptions to your

education, you have obtained an impressive

number of academic achievements. What

sparked your interest in history?

While at school in Darwin I had been taught

British history and I could recite the Kings and

Queens of England by heart, but I knew nothing

about the history of the Northern Territory so

I decided that I should remedy the situation. I

wrote my thesis for my Master’s degree on mining

in the Northern Territory between 1901 and

1910. This was a fascinating period. Although

it was extremely isolated in those days, there

was none the less a strong sense of hope for a

bright and prosperous future. My Doctorate

was titled ‘Nineteenth Century Railways and the

Constitutional Conventions’. I am interested

in the events that led to the decision in 1911 to

transfer administrative responsibility for the

Northern Territory from South Australia to the

Commonwealth.

Many people are impressed by your

intellect and memory. They say “Val never

misses a trick” and “she is as sharp as a

tack”. What are your secrets for keeping

mentally alert?

Despite all the inconveniences of old age, I

continue to live a busy and rewarding life with my

family in Darwin. I enjoy reading and keeping

up to date with current affairs. I am busy at the

moment doing research for my latest book and I

love my weekly sessions of bridge. I am proud of

both of my children. I was lucky to recently attend

the ceremonial sitting to welcome my daughter,

Judith Kelly, as a Judge of the Supreme Court. I

consider myself fortunate.

You arenevertoo old…

Dr Valerie Fletcher is a remarkable Territorian. On the eve of her 90th birthday, she is living proof that one is never too old to embark on a new project. She has always had a love of history and at the age

of 70, she completed her Masters Degree and at 80 years of age, she was awarded her Doctorate from Queensland University. Val recently talked to me about her life and achievements.

Zoe

Mar

cham

30 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

1/48 Woods St, Darwin 0800 | Ph 08 8981 7431E [email protected] | E [email protected]

•Plumbers•Data entry

clerks •Engineers• Clericalstaff

•Civil labourers•Scribes•Riggers• Scaffolders•Concreterswww.aarecruit.com.au

Available now and work ready

Many Northern Territory small to medium businesses

are facing the dilemma of either not having enough

workers or the right skill sets to support contracts they

have won with major projects, or they have lost many

of their own workers to these major projects and can’t

maintain existing local work commitments.

It’s been a dismal Wet, and the run-off doesn’t look

good; so this year many fishos will have to work

harder, travel further, and use better resources to catch

that elusive prize fish. Just like fishing, SME’s will find

it harder this year to retain and find good quality

employees. The traditional technics of attracting

these people, such as waiting for them to walk through

the front door or apply to a local newspaper advert,

isn’t going to be as easy as it has in the past because of

the changes in this current labour market and more

opportunities are arising at a rapid rate.

SME’s will need to look at better online search

options, flexible working arrangements, better salary

packaging, contingency planning and using local

professional recruiters to get their vital workforce that

understand the Darwin environment. Just like using

a professional Fishing Guide, professional Recruiters

can save you time, save you money, and importantly,

find you the right person. Recruitment professionals

have extensive networks across Australia and across

the World; they can quickly cut through resume’s,

shortlisting, interviews, Referees checks, and final

contract negotiations.

Let All Aspects do all the hard work for you! Being

a local agency we have continue contact with local

people and interstate interest who are ready for

a career change. This is one area that is a concern

for SME that if they did attract talent there may

be a cost factor with relocating them and with the

housing situation creates another obstacle for people

to immediately settle into new roles. All Aspects

Recruitment ensure that they talk through the full

processes with candidates and given them an open

and transparent discussion of what it is like to reside

in the tropics. Ensuring the whole family is happy

creates a happy employee.

March in the Top End is typically associated with the Wet Season run-off and great Barra fishing. But this year it will also be the time when many NT Small Medium Enterprises (SME’s) will be fishing for employees as we

move into the “peak employment” year of the Inpex project.

FOR EMPLOYEESFishing

BraveheartsOver the past century Women of the Northern Territory have demonstrated tenacity strength and intelligence in the force of extreme weather conditions,

living situations, limited resources and solidarity.

They join their sisters from all around the world to

celebrate the recognition of women in our society.

Women who demonstrate multi-tasking by holding down

busy jobs/businesses, having children, helping friends,

supporting life partners, community and the list goes on!

Biznorth enjoys celebrating International Women’s day

so we have a free event Bravehearts which will be held

Wednesday 6 March at Biznorth starting at 6pm, where

you will hear from some wonderful Territory women.

Annette Gillanders will interview Top End Physio and

Acupuncture Centre founder Elizabeth Elphick, who

has been quickly growing and expanding her business

in Darwin City and Humpty Doo. We congratulate Liz

as this year she celebrates 30 years of being in business.

Another Darwin woman who is resilient and forthright

in her industry is Dianne Davis. She like Liz has 30 years

of Top End Business and her knowledge of the Real

Estate Industry is extensive and colourful.

Annette will also be interviewing Dimity Pastrikos,

Girl Friday. Wouldn’t we all love a Girl Friday? Well

Dimity can be yours for a fee. This unique idea draws

on Dimity’s love of organisation, tidiness and ensuring

that every little detail is covered. Annette is going to ask

Dimity how she does it, how she manages to get it all

done, and what the challenges are when standing out in

business.

Our event will close with the strings of, “close your

eyes and I will kiss you…” in our ears. Debbie Neat is

a woman of many talents; she pops up at the feet and

hands of many as she operates Neats Pedi Medi. Her

gorgeous face will greet you at Top End Physio and

Acupuncture and you will see her write to the NT News

about her beloved dogs or she will be rescuing a fur baby.

But what many may not know is that in the past Debbie

Neat was Debbie Hancock as a member of Young Talent

Time from 1976 – 1979.

We will be hearing her story of working on a national

show that we grew up with in our hearts and formative

years.

So please join us at Biznorth 18/119 Reichardt Road,

Winnellie on Wednesday 6 March at 6pm for this

deliberation of wonderful women at Bravehearts.

It’s a FREE event so please phone Tahlia on 08 8947

0409 or email [email protected]

Seats are limited and there are prizes to be won and

wonderful women to meet.

Celebrating Women

Annette GillandersTeacher Inspirator Coach Biznorth – the hive of business knowledgeP 8947 0409www.biznorth.com.au

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 31

32 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Bronwyn Clee [email protected]

Bronwyn Clee is a nerdy Nona who is nuts about navigating social networks and creative conflict resolution, empowering women and caring for community. Volunteering at Nightcliff UC Op Shop keeps her feet planted firmly on the ground even when the spirit of writing knocks her over and gives her wings to fly. Go to www.bronwynclee.com to find out more.

Ian Schafer of Deep Focus, says “Innovation needs to be

part of your culture. Consumers are transforming faster

than we are, and if we don’t catch up, we’re in trouble.”

Currently in Australia we have 11,784,460 Facebook

users, 2,200,000 on Twitter and 2,400,000 on LinkedIn.

Navigating social networks isn’t just about online

engagement, and while profiling your business online is

crucial so to is nurturing relationships both on and offline.

I agree with Mr Schafer, and given the facts around

natural disasters, peak oil and our changing climate,

we need to pay attention to what it would mean to our

business if we no longer had internet access.

Have you got your contacts details backed up somewhere

safe that doesn’t rely on power? Get your heart rate up and

imagine having to go without power for a month. Natural

disaster damages interstate recently raised exactly these

kinds of challenges for lots of our loved ones. Could you

business survive this kind of crisis? Cloud filing such as

Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, Evernote etc are worth

the investment for peace of mind.

Find out more about Cultural Change Management

Consultant, Bronwyn Clee at www.bronwynclee.com.

How reliant are you onT E C H N O L O G Y ?

Using your passion to define purpose, pwand parameters is where I left off last month, hinting at mind mapping as a handy tool. My current favourite app Simple Minds+ is mobile device friendly and syncs to Dropbox my preferred cloud filing

platform.

Join us this International Women’s Day to celebrate the achievements of Territory women.

Community groups are holding events across the Territory

on 8 March, and everyone is welcome to come.

There will be an International Women’s Day Walk on

Saturday 9 March in Darwin, art projects and networking

events in Katherine, launches and openings in Alice Springs

and celebrations and award ceremonies in numerous

Territory communities.

This is all made possible through the Northern Territory

Government’s International Women’s Day grant program.

Also on 9 March from 9.30am, the Minster for Women’s

Policy will host an International Women’s Day reception

in the Great Hall of Parliament House. At this event the

Minister will outline the new direction for women’s policy

in the Northern Territory.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day

is ‘The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum’, which

recognises that while much has been achieved to secure

equal rights for women, there is still more to be done.

It is about celebrating what has been achieved so far, but

also focussing on what needs to happen to achieve further

progress towards gender equality in the Northern Territory.

To find out what events are on near you,

visit www.women.nt.gov.au

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

Wo m e n ’ s D a y8 MARCH 2013

NT

AlisonHucksFRCSA, CAHRIPrincipal, Avant

Most people in business recognise the need for confidentiality in their workplace and in the work the do. Some companies have a structure to support confidentiality while others (most often

smaller companies) rely on informal measures.

Confidential!

Workplace confidentiality covers employee records;

work planned and undertaken; security; commercial

agreements; business plans | financials; strategies,

concepts etc, etc.

A great place to start is with employee contracts –

include a confidentiality clause. For some businesses

dealing with high levels of personal information of

others would benefit from a confidentiality agreement

in conjunction with the employee contract.

It’s important of course to establish key levels of

authority for HR activities and record keeping.

Whatever HR system you use whether electronic,

manual, or both, ensure it’s secure with only those with

authority having access.

Ultimately, for confidentiality to be taken seriously

within a business, it needs to be part of the workplace

culture and that comes from the top. Business

owners, managers, need to highlight and promote the

importance of confidentiality.

As mentioned, ensure confidentiality and its importance

is incorporated into:

• employee contracts

• induction | onboarding program

• employee training

• team meetings.

When you and your team fully appreciate and

understand what confidentiality is in your business and

apply appropriate steps to protect both individual and

commercial confidentiality you significantly mitigate

a risk to your business. By making confidentiality part

of your workplace culture you up the ante and this is

important given the rise of technology and the pace of

business in today’s working world.

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 33

Kerry Nissan 8980 8010 | 15-27 Stuart Hwy | Stuart ParkLMVD033

THE ALL-NEW 2013 NISSAN PATROLThe most powerful and most technologically advanced 4x4 in its class, is finally here. Welcome to a new age in off road vehicles, where capability, technology, safety, luxury and comfort are all seamlessly fused together in one class defying 4x4. Welcome to the future. Welcome to the all-new Nissan Patrol. Visit nissan.com.au/newpatrol today. Nissan. Innovation that excites.

IN 4X4 HISTORY IS HERE.

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 35

“Panu”22nd Feb – 11th April 2013

A retrospective exhibition of works by Indigenous artist Lorna Fencer Naparrula will open at Muk Muk Fine Art in Smith St on February 22nd. ‘Panu’ is an exhibition showcasing Lorna’s diverse styles and interpretations of her dreaming stories or Jukurrpa. This body of work has been held in collection for approximately 10 years and many works have never been exhibited publically before.Lorna Fencer Naparrula was born in the 1920s in the Tanami Desert in Central Australia. In 1949 Lorna Naparrula and many Warlpiri people were forcibly transported to the government settlement of Lajamanu. Nevertheless Lorna maintained and strengthened her cultural identity through ceremonial activity and art and was among one of the first to take up acrylic painting at the Lajamanu School in 1986. Sadly Lorna passed away in 2006.A senior custodian of several dreaming stories, Lorna portrayed her culture and her country through symbols and vibrant expressive colour.The exhibition will open at Muk Muk Fine Art Gallery, 51 Smith St, Friday 22nd February and will run until 11th April. To view the exhibition online visit www.mukmuk.com.For enquiries please contact 8953 6333 or email [email protected]

Lorna Fencer Naparrula

Aboriginal Art NT is dedicated to promoting Aboriginal Artists from the Arnhemland region and supporting their culture through their natural ability to tell stories using various methods of art and craft.

Located at the Nightcliff Markets

7 Pavonia Place, Nightcliff Ph 8948 1115E [email protected] www.aboriginalartnt.com.au

We now offer Pandanus Weaving ClassesLearn the traditional art of weaving that has been handed down through the families of Yolngu women all over the Arnhem Land Region for thousands of years. For workshop details call Gaelene on 0447 526 730

Arts & Entertainment | DarwinLife

36 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Whats

• Friday 29th March - Good Friday• Saturday 30th March - Easter

• Sunday 31st March - Easter Sunday• Monday 1st April - Easter Monday

23 March (Saturday) 2013

Switch off your lights from

8:30pm to 9:30pm to send a

message about climate change.

Normally held each year on

the last Saturday in March.

Hundreds of millions of people, businesses and governments around the world unite each year to support the largest environmental event in history – Earth Hour.More than 7,000 cities and towns in 152 countries and territories switched off their lights for Earth Hour 2012, sending a powerful message for action to save the planet. This year, more than 200,000 individuals accepting I Will If You Will challenges on YouTube to turn their symbolic action for the planet into an ongoing commitment to a sustainable future.

L O N G W E E K E N D

Darwin High School, SLIDE and SRA Information Technology present BRAVE – a thought provoking new work that tackles the challenging issues of bullying through innovative dance theatre interwoven with a powerful soundscape and multi-media. The cast of 27 performers ranging in age from 8 through to 40 are testament to the talents of local dance practitioners and this exceptional

production sends the message “Everyone has the right to live, work, study and play in an environment free from bullying, harassment, discrimination and violence.” This is a must see performance event.WHEN: June 14th, 15th and 16th @ 7pm.WHERE: Darwin High School Amphitheatre. Bullocky Point, Darwin.Cost: $10 and $30 FamilyBook now on 89991254 or via Email: [email protected]

Come down to the Darwin Waterfront and experience Irish culture this St Patrick’s day including traditional Irish dancing at 11:30am and 6pm. Enjoy the friendly hospitality of the Waterfront restaurants open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

AT THE WATERFRONT

EASTER

EARTH HOUR

ST PATRICK’S DAY

Our community, our orchestra$38 Full, $30 Concession, $10 Child under 18

Tickets available through dso.org.au

Saturday 16th March 20138.00pm, Charles Darwin University Theatre

Conductor: Stephen Pevely, DSO Resident Conductor

BRAVE

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 37

ENCHANTED MOMENTSHoliday Inn | The Esplanade4-7pm Saturday, 2nd March,10am-3pm | Sunday 3rd MarchFor further information phone 8984 3336

THE DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

THE UMBILICAL BROTHERS DON’T EXPLAIN

The magic of Ireland continues in March with the beautiful musical stylings of Irish singer-songwriter, Damien Dempsey.Darwin Entertainment CentreThe Studio, 8:00pm, Sat 26th MarchFor further information regarding what’s on at the Darwin Entertainment Centre, please phone the Box Office on 8980 3333

Drawing on a wide range of musical influences, from spirituals to Depression-era blues, from ragtime to traditional jazz; their sound evokes the rich musical heritage of their New Orleans home. The band has gained a loyal following through their distinctive sound, their commitment to reviving long lost songs, and their barnstorming live performances.The Railway Club 7:30pm | Wed 6th March

DAMIEN DEMPSEY’S

AT THE RAILWAY CLUB

WEDDING EXPO

TUBA SKINNY

AFTERWORKPERKS

ALMIGHTY LOVE TOUR

The Umbilical Brothers are a global comedy phenomenon, and they are playing one night only Darwin with their hilarious new show, Don’t Explain.Darwin Entertainment CentreThe Playhouse, 8:00pm, Sat 23rd March

If you’re looking for an excuse to celebrate the end of the working week - grab your colleagues and head to Sandbar for After Work Perks every Friday!Gather a group of 5 work colleagues, register by email and Sandbar will help you kick off the evening with a complimentary Mezze platter and $20 bar tab.Register by 4pm Friday Email your name, company name and phone number to [email protected] your group and confirmation email at the door between 4.30pm and 6pm Relax and enjoy!*Bookings are limited. Offer valid Friday only.

On EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL DEALSPRESENTATIONS BY EXPERTS PLAN & BOOK ON THE DAY

FREEENTRY

All your travel needs under one roof:

airfares accommodation

cruises coach tours

travel insurance and much more.

Sunday 10 March 9am – 3pm

Darwin Convention Centre

For further information visit travelexpo.net.au

Scan this QR code with your smartphone or tablet for more details.

Travel Expo is organised and conducted by Flight Centre Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Flight Centre, Escape Travel, Cruiseabout, Student Flights and Intrepid My Adventure Store. NT Lic No. 008. EOP51719_100x290_DWN

38 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

The Magicof Ireland…St. Patrick’s Day is an enchanted time - a day to begin transforming winter’s dreams into summer’s magic. So say the Irish.

And enchantment is what you will find at

The Centre this St Patrick’s Day with the

indomitable Irish talent of Finbar Furey

in The Playhouse, and ice-cold Guinness

on the DEC!

Finbar first leapt to prominence as

member of the legendary band The

Furey’s whose many worldwide hits

include ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’.

Known as the ‘Prince of Pipers’, the

accomplished singer / songwriter /

banjoist / guitarist / flautist / tin whistler

has been charming audiences solo since

the 90s.

The magic of Ireland continues on

March 23 with the beautiful musical

stylings of Irish singer-songwriter,

Damien Dempsey.

Damien has won numerous accolades

both on home soil and around the

world, including Best Irish Male and

Best Traditional Folk Award, as well as 3

Platinum albums.

Touring to promote his newest album

Almighty Love, Damien brings to the

Top End his unique blend of reggae,

rock and folk fused with traditional Irish

music.

Born from his working class Dublin roots,

his music is profoundly shaped by his

childhood experiences as well as other

artists who share his egalitarian outlook

including Bob Marley, Christy Moore,

Luke Kelly, Shane Macgowan and Elvis

Presley.

Damien has become the voice of a nation

and he’s bringing it to The Centre this

March.

Hear it!

Book now at yourcentre.com.au

DarwinLife | Arts & Entertainment

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 39

Holy Motors (MA15+) 116mDirected by Leo Caraux, France

Showing 10 Mar at 3.30pm & 17 Mar at 5.30pm

From dawn to dusk, a few hours in the life of Monsieur Oscar, a shadowy character who journeys

from one life to the next. He is, in turn, captain of industry, assassin, beggar, monster, family

man... He seems to be playing roles, plunging headlong into each part - but where are the

cameras?

Jo Nesbo’s Jackpot (MA15+) 86mDirected by Magnus Martens, Sweden

Showing 3 Mar at 5.30pm & 17 Mar at 3.30pm

At a plastic Christmas tree factory in Norway, three dangerous ex-cons and their supervisor

win 1.7 million kroner on the pools. As friendships quickly dissolve, guns are loaded, knives are

sharpened. With the winning jackpot at stake, no one can be trusted, as no one wants to share.

Searching for Sugar Man (M) 86mDirected by Malik Benjelloul, South Africa

Showing 10 Mar at 5.45pm & 24 Mar at 3.30pm

Searching for Sugar Man tells the incredible true story of Rodriguez, the greatest ‘70s rock icon

who never was. His first recorded album bombed and the singer disappeared into obscurity amid

rumours of a gruesome on-stage suicide. But a bootleg recording found its way into apartheid

South Africa and, over the next two decades, he became a phenomenon. The film follows the

story of two South African fans who set out to find out what really happened to their hero.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to escape the hot and humid weather – there’s nothing better than relaxing in an air conditioned cinema on a Sunday afternoon. The Darwin Film Society is screening its annual Flix in the Wet program on Sunday afternoons at Birch, Carroll & Coyle Cinemas, Darwin. You’ll be able to see unique Australian and International films. See the full program at www.deckchaircinema.com.au – here’s some of the films on offer:

FLIXIN THE

WET1

2

3

Arts / Entertainment & DarwinLife

40 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

A lot of my clients complain about paperwork to me. I listen as

they bang on about BS regulations, nanny states and bureaucracy!

Then I ask them what the real problem is: we have to do all this

paperwork and it takes too much time! It's the same thing over

and over again.

iAuditor (available on the AppStore) started life a safety audit

tool, but it has become so much more than that.

Imagine a place where you could build the checklist into a smart

form template that could be emailed to the end user. Imagine if

that report could have video, photo and docs attached! Imagine

that you could take a previously created template and edit it to

suit you.

You can have:

• yes/no questions

• Scaled responses

• Written info

• Pictures can be attached

• Videos can be attached

Basically, if you need to collect repetitious information then this

App rocks! And then you just email it to its final destination.

If your a builder, a contractor, a bureaucrat, a banker, a market

researcher, a teacher, a consultant or a medical practitioner, or

just need to collect a lot of information, then you will find a way

to make this App work for you.

The Developers have a great support website and the amount of

templates available for free use is large and growing.

Check out the video: http://store.safetyculture.com.au/iauditor/

Dr Iain Waller is a Management Consultant who runs Nakara Consulting. He seeks out and uses a variety of apps on his iPad2.radicalinnovation.com.au

How to do paperwork audits and checklists on the go!

DarwinLife | Business & Community

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 41

Angela LockwoodT: @angelockwoodF: Angela LockwoodLinked in: Angela Lockwood

“Injecting energy into people and business”.

Celebrate theMILESTONESWhen we stop to look at what we achieve in a day it is often quite remarkable. The conversations we have, the amount of work we do, the relationships built, the quality of our output, the energy we invest and the solutions we find all take time and energy; 2 valuable commodities we do not have much of in today’s world. Yet we still want to achieve so much and make continual

movement in our lives and in the lives of others.

Yet day in day out we see a society full of people

unfulfilled, looking for more and feeling under valued.

Have you ever found yourself singing the happy song

when your little treasure eats a mouthful of broccoli?

How about a bear hug when they took their first step

or going out for ice cream when they stayed in bed?

What about publicly acknowledging the hard work of a

colleague with a morning tea?

Rejoicing in the achievements and hard work of others

is a natural behavior and social expectation. So why

don’t we celebrate our own achievements? It is a

perceived lack of time and energy. Just as the joy of

the moment is starting to diminish we are moving onto

the next challenge and we are wanting to do it quickly.

To generate positive momentum and minimise the

effect of energy and productivity plateaus in our lives

a simple pat on your own back plays big dividends.

Turning off your phone to share a dinner out with your

family, buying yourself lunch, going for a walk along

the beach or just taking a breath to enjoy your success

allows you to focus on what you have achieved. This

acknowledgement will ensure the longevity of your

successes. Plus, it makes the hard work worthwhile.

Angela

Be Recognised Be Rewarded Be Skilled Be the Best

2013

NOMINATE NOW!

Sponsored by

Are you completing or have you recently completed an apprenticeship, traineeship or Certificate or Diploma qualification? Nominate now for the 2013 NT Training Awards! Win a share in cash prizes and represent the NT at the Australian Training Awards in Perth.

Nominations are also open for trainers, training providers, employers and small businesses.

Visit www.trainingawards.nt.gov.au or call Jayne Gray on 0401 119 742 for further information.

Nominations close Wednesday 1 May 2013.Celebrate your excellence in vocational education and training!

Business & Community | DarwinLife

42 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Evelyn O’LoughlinChief Executive Officer, VSA&NT

Most young people volunteer for

short term projects, and particularly

for organisations closely aligned

with their interests and values. The

environment, human rights, sport,

the arts, community services and

animal welfare all have young and

enthusiastic volunteers making an

invaluable contribution to their

community ... and future employers

are impressed with young people

who give their time to help others.

Apart from making a difference to

the lives of others, volunteering can

grow a young person’s confidence

as involvement in a volunteer

organisation can be rigorous and

demanding and provides real

experience with solid training. It can

also test a person’s interests, to ‘try

before they buy,’ and helps young

people discover whether or not they

are suited to a particular field of

work before they commit to years of

study and significant expenditure.

Engaging Generation Y as

volunteers by ‘buddying them up’

to pair with other more experienced

volunteers or skilled people is an

effective way of introducing young

people to volunteering.

We should recognise the meaningful

contribution young people make by

freely sharing their time and skills

for the betterment of our society, as

we know that the enthusiasm and

input they bring to organisations

in need is invaluable. And these are

the people who are also more likely

to continue their willing community

involvement into adulthood.

Volunteering SA&NT, is the peak

body, representing volunteers and

volunteer-involving organisations in

South Australia and the Northern

Territory, and there are over 13,000

positions currently posted at www.

volunteeringsa-nt.org.au. These

positions cover almost every aspect

of life; from acting as a tourism

guide, mentoring, tutoring, helping

the needy and underprivileged, the

sick, elderly or disabled, through to

sharing computer skills, protecting

the environment and providing

support to new migrants. Many of

these vacancies are in organisations

that rely heavily on volunteers for

vital support … so think about

volunteering today!

Volunteering - A Life Experience

FREEWi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available free at Darwin, Palmerston and Casuarina bus interchanges, and on fi ve Darwin Bus Service buses.

Passengers with Wi-Fi enabled devices will be able to use the technology on buses identifi ed by onboard stickers as Wi-Fi equipped.

For more information visit www.transport.nt.gov.au

GET ON GET CONNECTED

DarwinLife | Business & Community

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 43

2 13CHARITYDINNERpresents

Thursday 21 March 20126:30pm$110 per person or $200 for two

Il Lido RestaurantDARWIN WATERFRONT PRECINCT WHARF ONE,F3/19 KITCHENER DR, DARWIN NT 0800 DRESS – COCKTAIL 3 COURSE DINNER – UNLIMITED SPONSORED BEER AND WINE - ENTERTAINMENT – TRIVIA WITH PRIZES – SILENT AUCTION – SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS – MC (CHANNEL 10 PERSONALITY ALICE BURTON) The OneSight Foundation is a non-profit charity that provides free eye care and eyewear to people throughout the Northern Territory and Australia. OneSight is committed to helping Australians see more clearly through clinics, research and education programs. Your generous donations make this possible. PRIZES TO BE WON.

cBusiness Solutions

FOR MORE INFORMATION TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR TO DONATE ITEMS PLEASE CONTACT STEPHANIE ON

8941 1577 OR

0405 526 220

Open E

vent

Celebrates

9am - 4pm | Saturday, 16 March

Darwin Convention Centre

Community Expo

For more information call 89 412365

For crisis support call 13 11 14

Business & Community | DarwinLife

44 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

PinkCAMOUFLAGE

BANG! BANG!I was very interested to hear the other day that an Australian Military man had written into a news program explaining that there isn’t enough funding for

Military training.

Lack of funds isn’t a new complaint,

nor is it unique to the Military. It’s been

the road block for many organisations

I’m sure. However, surely consequences

vary substantially from organisation

to organisation. You may be thinking

decreased staffing, professional

development cuts, or perhaps the

complimentary morning tea is no

longer available in the staff room. But if

I was to tell you the consequence for the

Military meant our men at times during

training were required to simulate gun

noises by yelling “BANG BANG”,

would you believe me?? Well going by

this news item, it’s apparently the case.

When my man goes off to training

out bush I think big, strong, rough and

tough… definitely not “BANG BANG”.

This apparently might extend at times

to simulating an automatic firearm at

night in the bush by flicking a torch on

and off. I’m definitely not mocking the

Military, I’m sure you will all agree they

should be held in the highest regard and

we are thankful for the work that they

do. But when it comes to going to bed

at night, perhaps we should switch the

bathroom light on and off a few times,

followed by when the lights are out, yell

a few “BANG BANG’s”, preparing our

men for thier next bush exercise.

mornings

with mel & greg

Join us online at www.mix1049.com.au and through our new (DAB+) Digital Radio

DarwinLife | Business & Community

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 45

BIGSHAVE

the

Territorians from all walks of life are being challenged to help change the lives of people with blood cancer this 14 – 17 March by taking part in the World’s Greatest Shave, one of Australia’s biggest fundraisers.The challenge to ‘be brave and shave’ is expected to see more than 150,000 people get sponsored to shave or colour their hair to raise funds for research and to care for Australians with blood cancer. In the Northern Territory, the goal is to raise more than $250,000.“Every day, around 31 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma,” said Simon Matthias, General Manager of the Leukaemia Foundation in the NT.“Blood cancer is devastating. In acute cases, treatment can begin within 24 hours of diagnosis. For those living in regional areas, it can mean leaving work, school and family and relocating to the city, adding to the shock and emotional turmoil.”“The World’s Greatest Shave is the Leukaemia Foundation’s most important fundraiser, providing vital funds to help lessen the impact for people affected by blood cancer.”“Money raised also supports vital ongoing blood cancer research. Research is improving survival rates, but blood cancer is still Australia’s biggest cancer killer after lung cancer, claiming a life every two hours.”

Simon says that those who decide to shave are also helping to normalise baldness, which can be one of the most distressing side-effects of cancer treatment.The World’s Greatest Shave will be seeing a number of public shave events happening across the Territory, including:Friday 15 March: Shenannigan’s Irish Pub Main Shave Event, 69 Mitchell Street, Darwin. Lots of fun from 4pm onwards, including shaves and colours. Saturday 16 March: AFL NT Shave Event at TIO Stadium for the NFL Grand Final. Fifty cents from every ticket will go to the Leukaemia Foundation. There will be a World’s Greatest Shave colour and shave station operating all day and great half time entertainment with a celebrity head shave.Sunday 17 March: Precinct at Darwin Waterfront Public Shave. Enjoy the family friendly public shave event on the waterfront from 12pm onwards. Entertainment for the whole family, including face painting, jumping castle and lots of shaves and colours.Money raised from the World’s Greatest Shave will go towards supporting Territorian blood cancer patients and their families, including those who must often travel great distances for vital treatment. This includes the construction of a specialised Patient Village currently being built in Adelaide, which will

be a ‘home-away-from-home’ for Territorians patients and their families. Comprising of 15 fully furnished apartments with state of the art support facilities, the Village will allow regional patients and families to stay together for as long as they need it whilst having hospital treatment in Adelaide, completely free of charge. The Village is due for completion in December this year, adding to the comprehensive free services provided by the Leukaemia Foundation.Last year, thousands of people accessed the Foundation’s free services, including information, emotional support, financial support, transport to and from treatment and accommodation.Since it began in 1998, Australians have raised over $138 million through the World’s Greatest Shave, with funds channelled into the Leukaemia Foundation’s Vision to Cure and Mission to Care.“What better way to show your Aussie spirit of mateship then helping others with a few laughs along the way,” said Simon. “The sooner people sign up, the more money they can potentially raise.”

Heads all across the Territory will be transformed with head shaves and colours this March for the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave!

Sign up for the World’s Greatest Shave

now at worldsgreatestshave.com, or by

calling 1800 500 088.

Business & Community | DarwinLife

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 47

The answer is that responsive websites, apps and m.sites are all different from each other, and each has their own special place in delivering quality user experiences on mobile devices. The trick is understanding what these differences are, what they mean for the experience you deliver, and therefore which is the best option to achieve your specific goals. Let’s start with a quick recap of responsive web design. This approach allows you to deliver the exact same content as your normal website (in fact, it is your normal website) but in a way that responds fluidly to the device size of the viewer, so the layout automatically changes to present the site in a more usable way for laptops, tablets and smartphones as required. What doesn’t change with responsive is the depth and breadth of content, it just presents your entire website in a more usable way for the device. Responsive websites are great for when there aren’t any task specific actions required through your website, just a means of creating a more user friendly browsing experience. A few great responsive examples that Captovate has delivered include fitzgeraldcoast.com.au, coordinate.org.au, wilderness.com.au and niptuckmagazine.com. Ok, so if responsive sites are so great, why have an m.site?An m.site is basically a cut down version of your normal website (usually prefixed with an ‘m.’ in the URL, hence the name) which has a different design, to fit within the dimensions and navigation patterns of a small

smartphone screen. It’s different to a responsive site, because it only draws specific content from your flagship website and structures it exclusively for mobile devices. An m.site is great when your users will only access your website on their smartphone to perform context-specific tasks. Classic examples are m.sites for airlines like Jetstar, and banking, like the one we created for TIO. These m.sites allow the business to display content from the main website (so no extra work in updating two sets of content), but limits the actions and navigation to only those that are mobile relevant, such as checking in online or logging in to online banking, plus a few other key features.But if m.sites are designed for mobile task-specific purposes, why create an app?Well, the official technical difference between an m.site and an app is that an app has ‘native’ (whether that’s native to apple (iOS), android or windows devices) features that actually utilises the interactions and technology that’s ¬built-in to that specific device. For example, if you create an app for iPhones or iPads, it must make use of features that are unique to Apple, like the ‘swipe’ or ‘pinch’ gesture interactions, the camera, accelerometer or GPS functionality. The aim being that interaction with a native app is far superior to a standard browsing experience, delivering a much faster, smoother and more intuitive experience to users on that particular device. A great example of a native apps we created is the SecureNT app that utilises inbuilt GPS functionality

to show local emergency shelters and other key information at times when power cuts make the mobile phone a critical source of updates and advice. Also, our Darwin International Airport app lets users quickly navigate through key information they need while in the terminal, such as live arrivals and departures updates. Spend some time checking out the examples we’ve mentioned here, and you’ll quickly get a feel for how different technology platforms deliver different user experience, and each has different management and business implications behind it. So now the only question left to ask, is which one is right for you?

Apps, mobile sites and responsive websites; spot the difference

We’ve been exploring the growth of mobile web for some time now, and in the past couple of issues we’ve introduced you to the wonderful new world of responsive web design. But what about apps? Is there still a place for mobile apps in a post-responsive world? And where

do mobile sites (m.sites) fit in? In fact, what’s the difference between all of these anyway?

Director, Captovatewww.captovate.com.au

Michael Hawkes

Business & Community | DarwinLife

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 49

Celebrated every year on March 17th - the

date recorded as the day St Patrick died -

the majority of revelers know nothing of

what they are actually celebrating. The

myth and legend of St Patrick and why

the day exists, seem superfluous in the

face of the opportunity for drinking and

merriment. Guinness sells over 5 million

pints a day, worldwide, in a normal week,

yet St Pat’s Day sees that almost triple to

13 million pints. On a single day!

All for a saint who supposedly got rid of

snakes that were never there, and who

was not Irish. An aristocratic Englishman

who was sent away as a slave to tend sheep

in the cold bleak mountains of Ireland,

Patrick as he was known then, found

religion whilst suffering as a slave and

after escaping, made a quick visit home

to see the family. Once there, he realised

his destiny was to bring Christianity to

Ireland so he returned, got ordained as a

priest and began to spread the holy word.

St Patrick is said to have used the three

leaves of the shamrock to explain the holy

trinity of the Father, Son and the Holy

Spirit to the Irish, and experienced great

hardship in doing so. His commitment

to this message, and the importance

of religion to Irish culture, is why the

Shamrock is so often associated with

Ireland, when in fact these small three

leafed plants can be found all over the

world.

St Patrick’s Day falls during the Christian

season of lent, and is celebrated by the

Roman Catholic Church in Ireland. Their

activities of course pale into insignificance

against the sea of green taking over cities

around the world as parades and street

parties dominate and everyone wishes they

were Irish.

This inevitably includes Darwin, who’s

Irish population in recent years has

increased considerably. With an influx

of Irish workers in trades, hospitality and

tourism, the numbers will only increase as

major projects start to develop over the

next five years. So it’s only fitting that

we prepare ourselves for the new arrivals

by graciously celebrating their national

holiday - eating their wholesome stew and

drinking their creamy pints of Guinness.

We are blessed this year to see St Patricks

Day fall on a Sunday so expect your

favourite Darwin Irish pubs to be bursting

at the seams on March 17th. This is one

Sunday session you won’t forget. There

are a host of activities being held at

venues across Darwin, so why not dig out

your best green shirt and get on down to

your favourite Irish pub – because on St

Patrick’s Day, everybody gets to be Irish.

It seems wherever you go in the world; you’ll inevitably stumble across the Irish. I read somewhere once that Ireland is the only country with the majority of its population living outside of its borders. Little wonder then that St Patrick’s Day is one of the

most widely celebrated holidays in the world.

ST PATRICK’S DAY

Food & Drink | DarwinLife

50 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

ChefMONTHOF THE

WHAT IS YOUR NAME?

Annop Chaonaphai but

everyone calls me Tum.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

Chainat, Thailand

HOW LONG HAVE YOU

BEEN IN DARWIN?

I have lived in Darwin for 5

years.

WHY DID YOU WANT TO

BECOME A CHEF?

I love to eat and I love to cook.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU

BEEN A CHEF?

I have been a chef for 11 years

WHERE DID YOU DO

YOUR TRAINING?

I had on the job training

in many of the hotels and

restaurants in Thailand.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE

MOST ABOUT COOKING

FOR PEOPLE?

I love to see people happy with

my food.

WHERE ARE YOU

CURRENTLY WORKING?

I am currently working at

Thailicious Restaurant.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE

MENU?

Most of the dishes at

Thailicious are Thai. We cook

them fresh with Thai herbs

and Thai ingredients, you can

really taste the flavours. Some

dishes are also a fusion of

Chinese and Thai. We make a

Chinese dish and add a bit of

Thai ingredients to it, leaving it

with a nice balanced taste.

WHAT IS YOUR

SIGNATURE DISH THERE?

The exotic seafood, and the

Pork belly dishes, which is a

best seller by a long way.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE

MOST ABOUT THE

TERRITORY LIFESTYLE?

I love Darwin because it’s a

quiet place, away from the

big cities. The air is fresh,

everything is green, no traffic

jams, everyone is easy going

and people are very friendly.

A N N O PCHAONAPHAI

DarwinLife | Food & Drink

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 53

The Territory is home to some of the

best seafood Australia has to offer. Our

tourism brochures are full of images of

our iconic Barramundi and Mud Crab,

sunset cruises, markets and seafood

restaurants.

So how do our local restaurants and

Territorians get their pick of the freshest,

highest quality local seafood? In short:

local knowledge. Knowledge of what fish

are caught here, where they are unloaded,

where they are sold and when they are

available.

Here’s my local knowledge tip for you,

check out our Support NT Caught

website www.supportntcaught.com.au

for a list of local retailers and restaurants

that sell local produce and be confident

that the seafood you’re about to purchase

comes from clean sustainable local waters

and will directly support local businesses.

The Northern Territory Seafood Council

commenced an online survey to assist

in better understanding Territorian’s

sentiment and opinion of the local

seafood industry; we are inviting local

Darwin residents to ‘have their say on NT

seafood.

Whether you’re a lover of seafood or

just purchase seafood for that special

occasion, we want to hear from you.

We all know how important fishing is

for recreation; we want to know how

important it is to Territorian’s to buy NT

seafood.

The survey can be completed online and

we look forward to hearing feedback from

the community on NT seafood. Not only

do Territorians get to have their say, but

they can also opt to go in the draw for a

dining voucher at Hanuman’s Restaurant

once they complete the survey.

The survey will be completed annually

for three years to track the Territory’s

preferences to NT seafood and the

effectiveness of seafood labelling laws.

Rob Fish Chairman Northern Territory Seafood Council

To complete the survey, go to: www.comedge.com.au/ntseafood or scan the QR code

www.supportntcaught.com.au

NT SEAFOODHave your say on

Darwin does not have a seafood hub like the Sydney Fish Markets, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find some of the freshest seafood in Australia caught and

sold right here.

Food & Drink | DarwinLife

54 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

LET ’S D O

B O O K 6 O R M O R EC O M P L I M E N T A R YB E V E R A G E O N A R R I V A L

2 HOUR FREE PARKINGBOOKINGS ESSENT IAL | MARCH ONLY

IL LIDOL U N C H

Darwin Waterfront | P 8941 0900www.illidodarwin.com.au

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 55

Food and Drink | DarwinLife

Bellakay Indonesian restaurant has only been open for a few months but the secret is out and the locals are queuing.

Bellakay INDONESIAN RESTAURANT

Mama Sania has been cooking up a storm and Bellakay

offers a great selection of delicious authentic Indonesian

dishes. Prepared fresh daily, all sauces, pastes and bases

are made from scratch using fresh ingredients, then

mixed with quality seafood, beef, lamb or vegetables to

feed the hungry lunchtime crowds.

Located right in the heart of the CBD, in Centrepoint

arcade, Bellakay has seating inside as well as outside in

the arcade if you like to watch the world go by on your

lunch break. Offering a base of fried or steamed rice

plus three main dish choices, to eat in or takeaway, the

hardest thing is choosing!

Tender and fragrant dry beef with thinly sliced potatoes,

fresh crispy steamed vegetables, chicken curry as well as

a variety of soup and seafood dishes are available. But

who can go past Balado! This rich traditional Javanese

sauce is made from a finely chopped mixture of garlic,

chilli, ginger, galangal, candlenut, tomato and onion.

The sauce is carefully made and simmered to one side

while fish or prawns are half cooked in the wok. The

Balado sauce is added to finish off the cooking and the

result is gently spiced aromatic Balado fish or Balado

prawns. Mama Sania also makes Balado eggplant by

steaming sections of the fruit then grilling them with

lashings of Balado sauce on top.

Owner Faizal Poulter has been thrilled with the support

they have received so far. “It’s great to see so many

locals coming in to eat my mother’s cooking. If you

haven’t been in yet, drop by for a ginger coffee or an

iced chendol and check out our menu”.

Bellakay Restaurant opens Monday to Saturday from

11am. Bellakay can also create a catering package for

your special function. A variety of menus are available

and prices vary depending on package. Maximum 200

people.

Salamat datang Bellakay!

For more information call Faizal on 0401 187 944. Shop M4 Centre Point Arcade, Smith Street Mall.

Where are you havinglunch today?

BUNKERS BISTRO$10 DAILY LUNCH

SPECIALS12:00pm - 2:30pm

27 Cavenagh St ree t , Darwin C i ty 08 8981 5437In format ion for Members and the i r Bon i f ide V is i to rs

56 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Saint Mary’sFootball, Social & Sporting Club

Whether it’s a Wedding, Christmas Function or Family Affair, why not call us to hire our fantastic function room areas. (indoor and out)

Licensed for 380 peopleBBQ & Outdoor Area with poolCatering availableFully licensed bar and bistro, with Keno, Pokies and Austar

ARE YOU PLANNING A FUNCTION?

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR NEXT FUNCTION CALL 08 89279900Abala Road, Marrara | [email protected]

DarwinLife | Food & Drink

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 57

This month we visit The Precinct, a fancy new hybrid restaurant/pub down at the Waterfront. The menu we’d describe as modern pub grub

with a big lashing of fancy – the word “confit” is used no less than three times on the menu.

The entrée confit of pork belly with red onion and pale ale jam I can

only describe as epic. It’s got a delicately crunchy exterior with a succulent

interior.

As for the main, one look and I knew the crispy pork knuckle with

colcannon potato and beer jus was destined for my stomach. Not a very

pretty face but the crackling on this baby is out of this world and the meat

is neither too dry nor too fatty, making it a pretty good flavourful cut of

meat.

We liked The Precinct so much we went back a week later to check out the

bar area where you still have access to the restaurant menu.

We love sweet potato to bits so the braised lamb shanks with sweet potato

and parsnip crisps got the nod. We were wondering why the waitress had

such huge biceps; clearly it’s from carrying big plates of this stuff from the

kitchen every night. The shanks were super tender and falling apart whilst

the sweet potato and sauce rocked the house.

There are 44 beers on tap too, but that would require another visit to

properly review…

For more food reviews, check out www.darwinfoodies.com.au

The PrecinctBreaking the rules

Food & Drink | DarwinLife

58 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Huiru Teoh | Accredited Practising Dietitian | Nutrition NT

Breakfast fuels our body by replenishing our glucose supply and providing us with energy and nutrients to start the day. Whilst most of us are aware of the importance of breakfast, it is a meal that many skip. If you are one of the many people who often give breakfast a miss, try to slowly introduce breakfast into your diet. Aim to include breakfast a couple of times a week, then work your way up to making it a daily routine. If time is an issue, go for quick choices that do not need much preparation. There are many great and easy options to choose from, such as high-fibre cereals and breads, reduced fat dairy, fruits and lean protein.Bread products such as toasts, English muffins and crumpets make an excellent choice for breakfast, especially when you choose the wholegrain/wholemeal varieties. Not only are they rich in fibre and nutrients, they also help you feel satisfied for longer after eating. However care should be taken when adding toppings as they can add extra teaspoons of fat and sugar onto the otherwise healthy bread products. A good way to

control the amount you use is to measure them with a teaspoon before you spread. Try the following suggestions for a quick and easy breakfast:• Toasted raisin bread or fruit loaf, with a thin scrape of margarine, Philadelphia Extra Light Cream Cheese or 100% fruit spread, e.g. St. Dalfour• Toasted fruit or with a scrape of low fat ricotta cheese and 100% fruit spread, e.g. St. Dalfour• Chopped fresh or tinned fruits (in natural juice) with low fat yoghurt• High-fibre cereals or muesli with low fat milk or yoghurt• Slice of wholegrain toast topped with reduced fat cheese, sliced tomato and cracked pepper.If you prefer a warm breakfast or have a bit more time to prepare, try some the following suggestions:• Toasted wholegrain bread with poached eggs and cracked pepper• Toasted wholegrain crumpet topped with a mini can of baked beans • Toasted wholegrain bread with grilled tomato, reduced fat cheese and cracked pepper.

BREAKFASTBreakfast refers to the first meal of the day, an important one as it breaks our fasting period which starts since our last meal the

previous day.

DarwinLife | Food & Drink

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 59

RESTAURANT NAME: HOT TAMALEADDRESS: DARWIN WATER FRONTPHONE: 8981 5471STYLE/CUISINE: MODERN MEXICANLICENCE: TEQUILA BAR – COCKTAILS ($13 - $15) | TEQUILA ($7.00 - $22.00)AUSTRALIAN AND IMPORTED BEERS ($5.00 - $9.50) | AUSTRALIAN AND NZ WINES (GLASS $7.00 - $11.00) | BOTTLE ($34.00 - $75.00)ATMOSPHERE: A welcoming, casual; yet extremely friendly staff.SOUND LEVEL: Modern lounge ; perfect for an enjoyable night with friends..HOUSE SPECIALTIES: Chunky Guacamole.Barramundi CevicheVEGETARIAN OPTIONS: as on menu. Also Gluten free dishes available

CHIILDRENS MENU: Including Kids Nacho’s ($10)PRICE RANGE: STARTERS: $8.00 -$13.00 TOSTADA’S $14.00 QUESADILLAS: $15 TACOS: $8:00 - $23.00 ENSALALADA: $22.00 - $23.00 BURRITO’S: $22.00 NACHO’S: $15.00 DESSERT: $12.00HOURS: MON. – SUN. 11.30AM – LATERESERVATIONS: RECOMMENDED AT WEEKENDS.CREDIT CARDS: YESWHEELCHAIR ACCESS: YESPARKING: CARPARK AVAILABLEOVERALL RATING: Excellent

Eating OUT

While perusing the menu, begin with a

serving of the Chunky Guacamole ($13).

A house specialty and deservedly so; as

it is creamy, fresh and chunky. Perfect for

sharing; as it a generous serving and comes

corn chips and salsa.

A must starter is the Barramundi Ceviche

($14). Perfectly cooked local barramundi

in fresh lime juice; delicate flavours,

accompanied by a fresh relish of avocado

and cucumber on a crisp Tostada.

We chose the Burrito Bowl ($22) as our

main. This was no ordinary salad; as it

included Mexican Pinto beans, Queso

Freso, Coriander, Mexican rice, house

Guacamole, Margarita dressing and a

generous serving of superbly marinated

beef. A healthy choice and a real winner!

The menu includes Quesadillas ($15), Tacos

($8 - $23), Ensalada ($20- $22), Burritos

($22). Variety, quality and choices to satisfy

the most discerning Mexican food lover.

Leave room for the Postres – desserts !

Please order both and share!

Banana & Mango Chimichanga. ($12)The

menu description of Banana & Mango

encased in a flour Tortilla fried to perfection

and served with King Island Cream & Agave

Nectar, does not do this superb dessert

justice. The light, crisp tortilla is dusted in

cinnamon/sugar; as you cut through this

casing you discover a subtle caramelized

banana and mango centre; together with

the King Island cream.Yum!.

Both David and Alain have collaborated

to bring Darwin a truly exceptional dining

experience. They are both dedicated to

serving authentic Mexican cuisine, using

the freshest, local produce at affordable

prices.

BY JACK STEPHANE

Great Authentic Mexican FoodFantastic Tequila Cocktails and more

Terrific views over Darwin Waterfront Precinct

HOT TAMALE

Added to this combination are David Robinson, owner / manager and proud sommelier and keeper of Australia’s largest collection of tequilas; together with internationally highly experienced Mexican head chef, Alain Rodriguez.

Poor | Average | Good | Very Good | Excellent

RATINGS KEY:

Food & Drink | DarwinLife

60 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Item

s com

piled

by

Reb

ecca

Par

ish 1. Billion Dollar Babes Maxi from Pink Hill | 2. Elk Warm Cream Resin Ring $33 from Elecated | 3. Kosheen

Frankie Flats $149 from Stomp Shoes | 4. Marcs Leather Hanne Satchel $179 marcs.com.au | 5. Elk Warm Cream Resin Ring $33 from Elecated | 6. Marcs Jersey Shirt $119 | 7. Seafolly Lucia Bow Front

Bandeau $89.95 & Mini Frill Hipster $69.95 from Splash on Knuckey.jpg

F A S H I O NStyleFile

12

5

67

3

4

Introduce timeless elegance into your abode for a French Provincial feel.

Crisp CHIC

DarwinLife | Fashion, Health & Beauty

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 61

Celebrating their 38th year of trading this year, Alfred’s was originally opened in Smith Street, just after Cyclone Tracy. The history begins well before that however, in the late 1800’s, when Chinese pioneer William Chin Gong came to town amidst gold rush fever. With such a burgeoning new community needing supplies, he instead started a general store in Cavenagh Street and called it Sun Cheong Loong.Over time he acquired the whole block and his entire family lived and worked there, selling a variety of things from Chinese goods to salty plums. After the war his sons, one of whom was called Alfred, began to run his second store – WG Chin and Sons. Just a few decades later Cyclone Tracy tore through Darwin. Afterwards, the Smith street store was divided into 4 separate businesses, one of which was a gift store operated by Alfred and his sons Stanley and Frank. Alfred’s was born! History replayed in 2002 when larger premises became available in Knuckey Street, and Stanley Chin and his wife Trish decided to relocate to prime street frontage in Knuckey Street – right where Stanley’s grandfather’s emporium once stood. The

Chins give the credit for their longevity to their customers. “We’ve survived this long only on the strength of enthusiastic local support. With great support, we’ve retained some local customers for the duration of our time in business”. With friendly staff and a gift wrapping service all year round, they try to give their customers a sensory experience that they could not get online. Stanley and Trish also believe in supporting local businesses – if they don’t stock something a customer is looking for, they will send them to someone who does. Trish explains “independently owned shops are so important to the retail fabric of our city so we encourage everyone to support our local stores”. With competitive pricing and exclusive products, as well as some fun novelty items, the staff at Alfred’s have a very happy job – helping people find special gifts for people they care about. Alfred’s has an eclectic and diverse range of products from all over the world. They are a proud stockist of the Italian designed Mywalit products. Made from the finest soft Japanese nappa leather, Alfred’s have the largest range in the NT. Also stocking precision engineered Lamy pens from Germany, quality

ceramics from Japan, Matrioska nesting dolls hand made in Russia and Korean eel skin wallets and bags, Alfred’s of course make sure they have some home grown stock as well. From tuned wind chimes made from Australian hardwoods, to a beautiful range of Australian made bath and pamper products and the much coveted FLATOUTbear range of luxurious Australian sheepskin bears.But Alfred’s is most well known for stocking the most comprehensive range of top quality knives and steels in the Territory. Stanley’s passion for knives means that he can offer excellent advice and competitive prices to keen fishermen and cooks. “I’m very happy to advise people on the best knives for their requirements, and more importantly how they should take care of them to keep them sharp and to look after them for the long term”.Oh and the other thing they sell - salty plums. Just like Stanley’s grandfather did. So drop into Alfred’s and say hi to Stanley, Trish and the team, and support Darwin business.

RetailerOF THE MONTH

Alfred’s is a familiar name to many Darwin locals, but few will know the fascinating history behind the Chin family and this Darwin retail institution.

a Darwin institution!Alfred’s

ALFRED’S 3/20 Knuckey Street Darwin City

Fashion, Health & Beauty | DarwinLife

Let my images tell your

story.— with Mark Hamilton

Photography

A picture tells a thousand words

Hamilton Photography NT | Ph (08) 8927 8085 | M 0427206412 | E [email protected]

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 63

Their team of bridal consultants, seamstresses and retail staff strive to help you achieve your individual look by defining your unique style and personality. INSTORE they carry a wide selection of gowns from both Australian and overseas designers. They pride themselves on keeping gowns affordable without sacrificing quality.Specialising in all your attire needs for Bridal and formalwear enables them to bring your vision to reality. The Just Formals team are dedicated in the pursuit of making your special day exactly how you picture it should be. They go to extraordinary lengths to bring to fruition your ideas for your wedding day, school formal or any formal occasion while making the choices easy and the experience fun. At Just Formals they understand when you visit them, your

event is, in most cases, one of significance, marking a milestone in your lifetime, therefore needs to be given that special touch to make it your best event ever.So if you are planning that special occassion, why not give Lyn and her staff a call.

Lyn and the staff at Just Formals are in the business of YOU.

Just aFORMALITY

Just Formals 8981 2830

Fashion, Health & Beauty | DarwinLife

64 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Laser Permanent Hair Reduction at Territory Laser Clinic is:Fast • Effective • SafePain-free • Affordable

Ph (08) 89 844 110 | A Suite 28, 119 Reichardt Road Winnellie NT 0820E [email protected] | W www.territorylaserclinic.com.au

At TLC we use the industry’s premier laser for removing hair; the state-of-the-art Candela GentleLase Pro-U Laser. Candela lasers deliver superior results which can result in less treatments required. It has a fast pulse rate which means less time in the treatment room. Candela lasers are the only hair reduction laser with a special cooling system. Milliseconds prior to the laser pulse, the skin receives a cooling burst of cryogen. This ensures adequate protection of the epidermis and maximizes comfort during the procedure. Most patients are amazed at how pain-free this laser treatment is, plus there is no need to use messy gels. Patients will experience a reduction in hair after every treatment. Due to the fact

that TLC is the only clinic in the Territory with a Candela laser, I encourage you to come and experience the difference.

Laser Hair Reduction Specials for March:MALE: Full Back (Incl. Shoulders) $400 | Full Front (Chest & Abdomen) $400

FEMALE: Full Leg (Incl. Feet) $530 | Lower Leg (Incl. Knees & Feet) $270

These offers end 31st March 2013. Book your free consultation now.• Offeringallaspectsofhairdesignforbothladiesandmen.• Colorspecialist.• Personalisedcuttingtogetyourperfectlook.

Shop 10 / 24 Cavenagh street | 08 8942 0870

With nearly 10 years in the industry, Shari has

moved around, starting her apprenticeship in

Mackay, Qld, with a company that trained like

robots until each basic cut was perfected. “This

is who I have to thank for the fundamental

hairdressing skills I have today, but at the time

I wanted more creation and knew I had to

head elsewhere for more variety,” Shari says.

“Receiving the rest of my training in Melbourne,

I was lucky to be in the right job at the right

time and was trained and educated by an

international guru of the trade, Gavin Drane.

He was imported from England after leading the

Tony & Guy training crew for 11 years. Working

in Toorak gave me fantastic opportunities that

had me looking after tv personalities and offered

a wide variety of client experience.”

“Weddings weren’t seasonal in the southern

states and were all year round. With a variety

of different backgrounds and cultures, this

kept my work very interesting, creative and

new, with bridal parties from 3 people to 30

people.”

Shari then took a sea change and worked

tutoring stylists nationally for a few years, only

to realise her passion for the industry was to

work one on one with clients on the salon floor,

and ultimately “her own” salon floor. That

drive and passion has allowed Shari to now live

the dream, right here in Darwin.

“The beauty industry if forever changing

which is one of the highlights.” says Shari.

“Being able to work with a different face in

the chair each day and wanting something

different from the client before, allows me to be

creative and get to know my clients personally."

“Fashion has really gone down the road of

being individual. We are no longer following

each other or the stars like we did with ‘the

Victoria Beckham concave bob’. These days it’s

much more about expressing yourself through

your own style, personality and lifestyle.”

“Darwin is a very unique spot. The people

here are wonderful and there is a sense of

sophisticated quirkiness to the style desired by

a lot of clients. I am loving having my salon

in a city that gives you clientele with requests

from the beautiful basics, to the more out of

the square creative hair.” So why not give

Shari a call, and welcome her to town.

Shari has just opened a new salon in the city called Shari’s Hair and Beauty Boutique. All aspects of hair design are offered, as well as brow design, facial waxing and tinting.

HAIRBEAUTY

and

DarwinLife | Fashion, Health & Beauty

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 65

Laser Permanent Hair Reduction at Territory Laser Clinic is:Fast • Effective • SafePain-free • Affordable

Ph (08) 89 844 110 | A Suite 28, 119 Reichardt Road Winnellie NT 0820E [email protected] | W www.territorylaserclinic.com.au

At TLC we use the industry’s premier laser for removing hair; the state-of-the-art Candela GentleLase Pro-U Laser. Candela lasers deliver superior results which can result in less treatments required. It has a fast pulse rate which means less time in the treatment room. Candela lasers are the only hair reduction laser with a special cooling system. Milliseconds prior to the laser pulse, the skin receives a cooling burst of cryogen. This ensures adequate protection of the epidermis and maximizes comfort during the procedure. Most patients are amazed at how pain-free this laser treatment is, plus there is no need to use messy gels. Patients will experience a reduction in hair after every treatment. Due to the fact

that TLC is the only clinic in the Territory with a Candela laser, I encourage you to come and experience the difference.

Laser Hair Reduction Specials for March:MALE: Full Back (Incl. Shoulders) $400 | Full Front (Chest & Abdomen) $400

FEMALE: Full Leg (Incl. Feet) $530 | Lower Leg (Incl. Knees & Feet) $270

These offers end 31st March 2013. Book your free consultation now.

66 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Poor gut function is related to diverse disorders such as depression, food intolerances, fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis and even obesity. How can this be? In the case of depression, research has found that around 70% of the ‘feel good hormone’ serotonin is made in the gut. Fatigue can be related to poor absorption of nutrients in the gut particularly B12 and iron. Damage to the wall of the intestine otherwise known as “leaky gut” can trigger the immune system which can produce a cascade of health issues. Meanwhile an abnormal level of hydrochloric acid is linked to problems such as fatigue, rosacea and bloating.Gut function is complex and most problems require more attention than simply taking a probiotic. By doing a faecal Functional Pathology test, your naturopath can design a treatment program based around your

pathology results. Such a test will reveal the levels of things needed for good gut function such as adequate hydrochloric acid, good gut bacteria, pancreatic enzymes and bile. It can also reveal the presence of unwanted problems such as a yeast overgrowth, various parasites or bacteria that contribute to diarrhoea or other gut symptoms. Inadequately digestedfats, proteins & carbohydrates can also be detected.For a naturopath, treating the gut is not just about helping you to get rid of unpleasant symptoms, but also about correcting problems that can affect your health long term. After all, prevention is always better than a cure. Call Vivienne on 89810047 to find out how to achieve good gut health and avoid those embarrassing moments.

We all know that gut problems can bring about some embarrassing moments with the noisy or aromatic release of unwanted gas from the upper or lower end. But on a more serious note, these symptoms can be an indication of poor digestion which

can increase the risk of numerous short and long term health problems.

GOOD DIGESTIVEfunction– are your embarrassing moments a warning of long term health problems?

Vivienne Savill is an Author, Naturopath and Nurse who runs a natural health clinic in Darwin. For more information visit www. bodymindsoulhealth. com.au If you have a Question for Viv, email [email protected]

Karlie Goetze Makeup Artist Beauty Therapist M 0412 649 [email protected] www.karlieg.com

Eyebrows are responsible for framing the whole face which makes it a very important facial feature to maintain! Tweezers are a must-have item in your bathroom cabinet for general eyebrow maintenance or tidying up between waxing.

• Tweeze your eyebrows before bedtime

that way any redness or swelling can subside

overnight.

• Tweeze right after a shower as the heat from

the shower helps loosen hair follicles making

tweezing easier and less painful.

• When tweezing make sure to tweeze each

of the hairs singly and as close to the root as

possible – attacking a big clump in one go is

not only more painful but you can end up just

breaking the hair at the surface rather than

removing the whole follicle.

• Your eyebrow should start right above the

inner corner of your eye, peak at the outer

corner of your iris and curve down towards

the end of your eye.

• To set your eyebrows in place use a gel and

comb it through upward and outward.

• Tweeze your eyebrows in the direction of

the hair growth, it will be less painful and look

more natural when finished.

• After tweezing you can use cold wet tea bags

to soothe the skin around your eyebrows.

• Use slant-edge tweezers for better precision.

To determine your ideal brow shape, try using this easy technique:

• Align a straight edge (ie. edge of tweezers

or a cuticle stick) from your nostril to your

forehead – this tells you where your eyebrows

should start.

• Now angle the straight edge from the nostril

over the edge of the pupil – this is where the

arch of your eyebrow should peak.

• Finally angle the straight edge from the

nostril to the outside of the eye – this is where

your eyebrows should end.

If you alter your hair colour lighter or darker

don’t forget to change your eyebrow shade

accordingly. This can be done by lightening

them with bleach or a darker tint - however

I’d highly recommend seeing a beautician for

colour alterations.

You can also darken eyebrows by using an

eyebrow pencil. Hold the pencil vertically

and gently sweep in short strokes through

the brow starting from the outer edge and

work inwards – that way the hairs pick up the

colour without an obvious pencil line.

TOPTWEEZING tips

to shaving, waxing and ingrown hairs FOREVER

Shop 4/44 Cavenagh Street, Darwin (Cnr Edmund and Litchfield Streets, opposite post office boxes)Phone 8981 5557 www.thehairfreecentre.com [email protected]

Say goodbye

Before

Immediately after 1st treatment

one week after 1st treatment

one week after 2nd treatment

Before

After

Tattfree vs Laser> Laseronlyaddressesasmallamountof

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How does it work?> WeusetheexclusiveTattfreetattoo

removalsystem.

> Thisprocesswilltakeaseriesoftreatmentsdependingonthesizeofthetattoo.

> Fortheaveragesizetattooyouwillneedapproximately4treatments.

> Thetreatmentsaredesignedtoremovethepigmentedareasofyourtattoo.

> Tattfreeusesaproprietaryfluidtobringthetattoopigmenttothesurfaceintheformofascab.

> Oncethescabfallsoffthereisnomorepigmentandtheunderlyingskinisclear.

What is the process?> Thetattooedareasarelightlyabradedwitha

specialhandpiecesimilartotheoneusedinyouroriginaltattoosession.

> Theprocessisvirtuallypainlessandifyouhavealowpaintoleranceatopicalanaestheticcanbeappliedtominimisediscomfort.

> Treatmenttimesareapproximately30minutes,duringwhichsmallcirclesarecreatedoverthesurfaceofyourtattoo.

> Weleavesmallspacesinbetweenthecircleswhichwillbetreatedinsubsequentsessions.Thespacingstrategyhelpswiththehealingprocessandminimisesthechancesofscarring.

> Timebetweensessionsisusuallyeighttotenweeks.

Introducing...

www.tattfree.com.au

DarwinLife | Fashion, Health & Beauty

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 67

to shaving, waxing and ingrown hairs FOREVER

Shop 4/44 Cavenagh Street, Darwin (Cnr Edmund and Litchfield Streets, opposite post office boxes)Phone 8981 5557 www.thehairfreecentre.com [email protected]

Say goodbye

Before

Immediately after 1st treatment

one week after 1st treatment

one week after 2nd treatment

Before

After

Tattfree vs Laser> Laseronlyaddressesasmallamountof

pigmentcolours.

> Tattfreetattooremovalavoidsthesepotentialrisksandaddressesallpigmentcolours,generallyinfewertreatmentsandatasubstantiallylowercost.

How does it work?> WeusetheexclusiveTattfreetattoo

removalsystem.

> Thisprocesswilltakeaseriesoftreatmentsdependingonthesizeofthetattoo.

> Fortheaveragesizetattooyouwillneedapproximately4treatments.

> Thetreatmentsaredesignedtoremovethepigmentedareasofyourtattoo.

> Tattfreeusesaproprietaryfluidtobringthetattoopigmenttothesurfaceintheformofascab.

> Oncethescabfallsoffthereisnomorepigmentandtheunderlyingskinisclear.

What is the process?> Thetattooedareasarelightlyabradedwitha

specialhandpiecesimilartotheoneusedinyouroriginaltattoosession.

> Theprocessisvirtuallypainlessandifyouhavealowpaintoleranceatopicalanaestheticcanbeappliedtominimisediscomfort.

> Treatmenttimesareapproximately30minutes,duringwhichsmallcirclesarecreatedoverthesurfaceofyourtattoo.

> Weleavesmallspacesinbetweenthecircleswhichwillbetreatedinsubsequentsessions.Thespacingstrategyhelpswiththehealingprocessandminimisesthechancesofscarring.

> Timebetweensessionsisusuallyeighttotenweeks.

Introducing...

www.tattfree.com.au

68 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

For the second year in a row,

Med Contour has WON the

best non-invasive, body shaping

device in the USA compared

to all other fat and cellulite

reduction technology in the

world! And we now proudly

offer it alongside CoolSculpting

in Darwin at Advanced Body

Image. ABI is the only clinic

in Australia to offer the rare

combination of award winning

body sculpting technology

in the one location. Med

Contour has a unique patented

handpiece that uses two angled

transmitters to emit ultrasound

waves at frequencies modulated

between 20-60kHz. The

vacuum suction lifts the skin

and allows the transmitters to

specifically target cellulite and

fat. The ultrasound causes the

cavitation effect by producing

micro bubbles which expand

and contract rapidly until the

bubbles explode. The explosion

damages and ruptures the walls

of the fat cells which release

their fatty liquids. Once the

fatty liquids are released, your

vascular and lymphatic systems

move them through your body

to be processed by the liver. The

liver processes this fat through

normal metabolic procedures

to be removed from your

body naturally. The lymphatic

drainage handpiece is used to

promote faster processing of

the fatty liquids through your

lymphatic system. Results are

often seen after one treatment

and treatments take about one

hour. For a detailed consultation

phone Advanced Body Image.

20s: Realisation

Your 20s is probably the most

crucial age for your skin. Luckily

your skin is still healthy, soft and

your collagen production is still

efficient. Unfortunately it won’t be

like this forever and the realisation

that you have to look after your

skin will impact on how it looks in

the future. The first thing you want

is to start with a simple skincare

routine comprising a gentle

cleanser, moisturiser and vitamin C

gel at night as an anti-oxidant. The

second thing is to apply sunscreen

to your face, chest and arms

everyday to combat harmful UVA

and UVB rays. If you suffer from

acne or any other skin condition

now is the time to address it, as

your skin will recover faster and

better when you are younger.

30s: Restore

This is often when women start

to lose elasticity in their skin

and it feels drier and less supple.

Accordingly you start to notice

fine lines and wrinkles. Anti-

wrinkle injections such as Botox

can assist in making these lines less

obvious. To get the best results,

anti-wrinkle injections should be

used as a preventative measure

ideally before deep lines develop.

Also incorporate a night cream

with peptides into your regime

to stimulate collagen production;

for example VI Derm’s Advanced

Firming Lotion ™.

40s: Rejuvenate

Your 40s is usually when sun

damage, photo aging and loss of

volume start to show.

It is time to discuss dermal fillers

to rejuvenate the tissues and put a

little volume back into the lips and

maybe attend to the more stubborn

fine lines. Time also to consider

measures to stimulate the skin to

produce more collagen and thus

volume and lustre.

50s+: Replace

This when you want to replace

that lost ‘volume’ in the face.

Recontouring the cheeks with filler,

attending to the lips and treating

the damaged skin more specifically,

are a few of the common things to

consider.

These are just ideas and guidelines

to taking care over the years so that

you emerge into maturity looking

radiant and feeling good about

yourself.

This month’s contribution has

been provided in conjunction with

Kristina Kyriacou who is a Health

and Beauty columnist with her own

popular blog. http://kkristinak.

blogspot.com.au/

Katy SullivanLaser expertwww.advancedbodyimage.com.au89856088

CELLULITEfinally there’s an answer

Yes finally there is a treatment that offers guaranteed results for cellulite and body contouring, it’s called Med Contour.

Dr Ash Sankarayya1/53 Ross Smith Avenue ParapPh: 8981 5227 [email protected]

Ageing In order to look after your skin you must first understand it. Whether you are 20 or 50, you need to take care of your skin as good quality skin is the starting point of facial beauty. We

have called it the 4 R’s but the principles are what count:

FOR THE

A G E S

DarwinLife | Fashion, Health & Beauty

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 69

Territory Ultrasound is a locally owned and operated medical radiology practice situated in the Humpty Doo Central complex. We offer a

superior radiology service with highly trained and experienced staff, using the most technologically

advanced equipment to date.

Email: [email protected] Box 619 Humpty Doo NT 0836

Shop 3/12 Vereker StreetHumpty Doo NT 0835

Ph: (08) 8988 3582Fax: (08) 8988 9183

(Off Freds Pass Rd)

Abdominal & Pelvic Ultrasounds

Obstetric Ultrasounds• First Trimester• Nuchal Translucency• Morphology

Vascular Ultrasounds• Carotids• Leg arteries• DVT studies• Varicose vein studies

Musculoskeletal Ultrasounds (includes)• Shoulders • Groins• Knees• Ankles• Hands

Small Parts Ultrasounds• Breasts• Thyroid• Testes

General X-Ray

Referral Required

I have always wanted to be a part of Shave for a Cure but it never seemed to be the right time. Over the past few years I have lost close friends to cancer and it made me realise there is never a “right time”.

Cancer does not discriminate; it does

not care if you are a good person,

young or old or what you have

achieved.

By participating in the Shave for a

Cure 2013 I hope that I can make a

small difference to providing the much

needed funding and support to ease

the strain and suffering it causes and

ultimately save someone’s life.

Since we have moved to Darwin, I

realised I don’t need all this hair. It just

sticks to the back of your neck on a

hot day - which is most days! Selfishly

I kept it long until our wedding last

July. Two months later we found out

my husband was being deployed to

Afghanistan. Not being one to be

upstaged I thought he can’t have all

the fun, so I made the commitment to

do something equally crazy and shave

my long luscious red locks off for an

almighty cause.

I have set myself a huge target. Might

as well aim for the stars! So with your

help, support and donations hopefully

I can reach my massive goal of $10,000

and all this hair will be no more.

I’m not saying it’s going to be pretty –

in fact, I’m pretty nervous about it all

and my wingnuts will be on full display

– no more hiding behind the mane.

Sunscreen will have to be applied to

the top of my head as well as the rest

of this untanned pale, white as a ghost

skin, which will be weird and a first!

People might look at me funny, maybe

talk about me and probably even

laugh. My natural unique coloured

hair will be sent to the wig makers for

cancer patients to wear when their

own has fallen out.

All this I will happily sacrifice to help

make a difference.

Why am I

Bianca FraserE: frasershave2013

doing this?

Fashion, Health & Beauty | DarwinLife

70 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

The current trend is what many people refer to as “

functional training “, a method of training that revolves

around movements that mimmick things we do in

everyday life.

Sounds good right?

I recently had the good fortune to bear witness to a self

proclaimed Functional Guru from our southern states,

conducts a seminar on exercises of a functional nature.

What I saw was 20 or so people doing what could only be

described as “aerobics with weights”.

Just because some guys thought it up, doesn’t make it

functional.

If we delve deeper into the topic, certain elements of

everyday life start to form trends, with each trend being

associated with a specific movement pattern.

Two of these pattern dominate the field. Squatting and

deadlifting, aka picking up something heavy and moving

it around. Now I know what your thinking, how many

times is this guy going to mention deadlifting in his

articles???....

In my mind, the best form of functional training is

picking something up a moving it around.

Enter the Farmers Walk.

Here’s the deal, get something in each hand, whether it

be two Kettlebells, two barbells, two weight plates, water

containers, a trap bar, and walk for 20-40 meters. Done.

Repeat for a few rounds and hey presto! Your riding the

functional wave too.....

So simple, but so effective!

Without a doubt I have seen the most strength and muscle

gains in clients when using the Farmers Walks regularly.

The trick is to slowly increase the weight your picking

up, so you keep challenging your body to adapt and get

stronger. There are volumes of geeky type stuff to back

this sort of training up. But as always, the best way to

learn is to get in and give it a go.

Stay strong,

Wes

Wez InnesNorthern Kettlebells Cert III Fitness InstructorPersonal Trainer & Level 2 Kettlebell Instructor0409 592 070

riding the

The fitness industry always has and always will be subject to different trends.

“ F U N C T I O N A L ”wave..

Adam Gulla Self Defence instructor(Krav Maga) www.kravmagadarwin.com.au

The fight or flight response is an

important part of human nature. This

is especially true in situations where you

are confronted or need to defend yourself.

The fight or flight response is controlled

by your autonomic nervous system, it is

a built in survival mechanism. The fight

response will have you stay and deal with a

confrontation, whereas the flight response

will see you leave or run away.

In some cases leaving an aggressive

situation may not be viable. You may be

backed up against a wall with no other

option. In this case most people find it

difficult to deal with the extra stress and

adrenalin being pumped through their

bodies. Many people freeze because they

are in so much shock. The best way to deal

with the shock of an attack or threatening

situation comes down to being in control:

• Be aware of your emotional state

• Keep relaxed and increase deep

breathing

• Diffuse the situation

• Be prepared and anticipate outcomes

• Be firm and confident within yourself

If you develop confidence you will be able

to deal with most situations and conflict -

being attacked is very abnormal for most

people unless you work within certain

environments. When you are confronted

with aggression it can be very frightening

and people often experience a state of

shock. It can be potentially life threatening

to freeze under the stress leaving you

unable to deal with the situation.

Self-defence classes are one of the best

ways to be prepared for confrontation –

whether it is physical or verbal aggression.

In Krav Maga I teach people with pressure

drills to put them into some degree of

shock to simulate a realistic situation. If

you train in this environment consistently

and learn to adapt, you will be able to deal

with shock in the real world.

Krav Maga is a modern day reality-based

self-defence system. Adam is the founder

of Krav Maga Darwin.

For more information, visit

www.kravmagadarwin.com.au.

Being a martial artist, many people ask me how to improve their immediate reactions when dealing with confrontation.Flight Response

The Fight Or

DarwinLife | Sport & Fitness

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 71

Throw in a few hours of TV a day and we reduce it even further.

Add to that the neck and back pain we experience in sitting.

One of the most destructive positions for our spine is sitting.

Yet how many hours do you spend seated for work and leisure

time??

Quick tips to relieve back pain:

1. Set up your base. Consider your lower back position first.

2. Your lower back should feel comfortably supported by your

chair. You shouldn’t feel like you’re slumping or having to work

hard to hold up your back. If you do, try to alter your position in

the chair or your lower back support so that you have a comfortable

supportive pressure in place.

3. Think about your shoulders. Where are your shoulders? Are

they rounded forward? If forward gently draw them back and

open up your chest

4. Where is your chin/neck. Make sure your chin is tucked in.

You shouldn’t feel the need to poke your neck forward to look at

the screen.

5. Get up and move! Make sure you take a break from your desk

every hour, stand up and have a stretch. Even the tightest deadline

isn’t worth developing spinal pain. It can wait for a minute.

STANDING WORKSTATIONS ARE GOING TO BECOME

A WAY OF THE FUTURE!!

Physiotherapists are well trained in the management of postural

related spinal pain and can help set you on the right track. The

physiotherapists at Territory Sportsmedicine are readily available

to assess and treat spinal pain

New year’s resolutions can be hard to make (and hard to keep!)

but this is one new year’s resolution that you can achieve – and

we’ll help you get there.

MAKE 2013 A YEAR TO:

THINK TALL, SIT TALL and STAND TALL – your body will

thank you for it.

TO SIT OR NOT TO SIT

According to a study in the British Medical Journal if we sit for more than 3 hours a day we reduce our life expectancy by 2 years.

that is the question.

Karen SchneiderSports PhysiotherapistTerritory Sportsmedicine

Well how much is your health worth?

How much would you pay to look in the mirror every day and be happy with what you

see?

Whatever your goal, Personal Training can help you achieve it. You will get results that

you could never or maybe more accurately would never get on your own.

Lets be honest, most people have a goal to lose weight. You join a gym for a month

and you don’t get results so you give up. You don’t look in the mirror anymore , you

wear the clothes that are too small for you and you definitely don’t go shopping for a

swimsuit.

What if you could change your life? I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, but that’s why

you need help. -And that’s where personal trainers come in.

With a qualified personal trainer, you can achieve anything. You will work harder, have

great support and be more motivated.

So come down to Anytime Fitness, meet our personal trainers -Lara and Gosia, and

start getting the results you want.

The fear of looking at yourself in the mirror will be a thing of the past.

Anytime Fitness Stuart Park

The BEST investment you will EVER make

- seems like an unnecessary extravagance?P E R S O N A L T R A I N I N G

Sport & Fitness | DarwinLife

72 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Principle Partner TelevisionSponsors

Details:10km / 21km / Elite Registrations + wicked after partyLake Bennett | 4th & 5th May 2013

Register

www.bsfnt.com.auEnter promo code: Darwinlife

Are you Territory Tough? Prove it!

Hahn SuperDry Blood Sweat & Fears Fitness Challenge

Lake Bennett, 4th & 5th May 2013.

With obstacle based fitness challenges fast becoming the latest International fitness craze, Blood Sweat and

Fears have partnered with Hahn SuperDry to bring Territorians their very own Fitness Challenge. Hahn

SuperDry Blood Sweat & Fears offers both a 10km and half marathon (21km) fitness challenge scattered

with obstacles that are designed to test both physical and mental limitations. The inaugural Hahn SuperDry

Blood, Sweat & Fears will take place at Lake Bennett, which on most days is a tranquil and serene location

but on the 4th & 5th of May, Lake Bennett will come alive with thousands of people ready to embark on their

quest to ‘fear nothing and conquer the Territory’.

When asked if Hahn SuperDry Blood, Sweat & Fears will be a test of your toughness and fitness, the answer

is simple and really depends on your characterization of tough. In the words of Bill Cosby “In order to

succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure”.

Exclusive DarwinLife offer:Discounted registration + FREE spectator & Afterparty Pass

10km $115 (value $165) | 21km $150 (value $205)

*To book the DarwinLife offer enter Darwinlife into the promotion code section on the registration page.

Valid for new registrations only, offer available 31st March 2013 or until sold out, non refundable & non transferable.

Blood Sweat & Fears

The 10km (Band Aid Bumps & Bruises)For people who are feeling put off by the words ‘Ultimate Fitness Challenge’ or ‘Adventure Race’ this is the course for you. You will cover 11 obstacles varying in difficulty which are designed to test your limitations in a much safer and supportive environment. You will find yourself scrambling over tyre piles, mounting walls and leaping into water, swimming through ice baths, propelling through mud and getting a few electric shocks to keep you moving – sounds like a great way to spend an afternoon, right?The 10km course is NOT a timed race but purely a personal quest, so think more along the lines to complete and not so much to compete. It is designed for an exciting and inovative way to encourage people to take part in some outdoor recreation. If all else fails, walk the course and you will still be completed within three hours just in time for the Hahn SuperDry After Party.

The Half Marathon (21.6km)This course is designed to test every part of your physical and mental grit, not to mention determination to finish. You will encounter 20 obstacles and cross six ridges while navigating your way through the harsh Territory Terrain. If you choose a specialised category such as the Battle of the Force Defence Challenge, Fitness Frenzy for gyms and sports teams or the Elite Challenge which offer cash prizes of upto $5,000, you will be timed and you will be pushed. Should you choose to take part in the standard entry then there is no rush, do this at your own pace and focus on finishing.You will tackle all the 10km obstacles plus gut busters, fire runs, tunnel crawls and a few MYSTERY OBSTACLES along the track that you are unable to train for. The mystery obstacles add an elements of surprise which will have you talking about the Hahn

SuperDry Blood, Sweat & Fears for years to come. While this is not for the faint hearted, if you have a zest for life and a ‘never say die attitude’ you will be able to complete this course and enjoy the sensation of a lifetime in being able to say you are truly Territory Tough!

After Party & CampingThe celebration starts as soon as you cross the finish line and are handed an ice cold Hahn SuperDry. Spend the afternoon comparing battle wounds and victory stories while rocking out to a selection of local and interstate bands. Don’t miss out on any of the Hahn SuperDry Blood, Sweat & Fears action, book your campsite now. Camping spaces are limited.

SpectatorsDon’t want to do the distance but still want to come along, register as a spectator to cheer on or laugh at your partner, family or friends attempting to combat the obstacles. All spectators are required to register and must sign a waiver.

Want the adrenalin rush of a lifetime and be amongst thousands of Territorians taking part in what will be Darwin’s newest major event, take advantage of the exclusive DarwinLife offer. We strongly believe ‘Fear Breeds Heroes’ so to find out more information, get training tips, look at the course map or take advantage of the special DarwinLife offer visit www.bsfnt.com.au. Stay upto date www.facebook.com/bloodsweatfears

DarwinLife | Sport & Fitness

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 73

Principle Partner TelevisionSponsors

Details:10km / 21km / Elite Registrations + wicked after partyLake Bennett | 4th & 5th May 2013

Register

www.bsfnt.com.auEnter promo code: Darwinlife

Are you Territory Tough? Prove it!

Hahn SuperDry Blood Sweat & Fears Fitness Challenge

Lake Bennett, 4th & 5th May 2013.

With obstacle based fitness challenges fast becoming the latest International fitness craze, Blood Sweat and

Fears have partnered with Hahn SuperDry to bring Territorians their very own Fitness Challenge. Hahn

SuperDry Blood Sweat & Fears offers both a 10km and half marathon (21km) fitness challenge scattered

with obstacles that are designed to test both physical and mental limitations. The inaugural Hahn SuperDry

Blood, Sweat & Fears will take place at Lake Bennett, which on most days is a tranquil and serene location

but on the 4th & 5th of May, Lake Bennett will come alive with thousands of people ready to embark on their

quest to ‘fear nothing and conquer the Territory’.

When asked if Hahn SuperDry Blood, Sweat & Fears will be a test of your toughness and fitness, the answer

is simple and really depends on your characterization of tough. In the words of Bill Cosby “In order to

succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure”.

Exclusive DarwinLife offer:Discounted registration + FREE spectator & Afterparty Pass

10km $115 (value $165) | 21km $150 (value $205)

*To book the DarwinLife offer enter Darwinlife into the promotion code section on the registration page.

Valid for new registrations only, offer available 31st March 2013 or until sold out, non refundable & non transferable.

Blood Sweat & Fears

The 10km (Band Aid Bumps & Bruises)For people who are feeling put off by the words ‘Ultimate Fitness Challenge’ or ‘Adventure Race’ this is the course for you. You will cover 11 obstacles varying in difficulty which are designed to test your limitations in a much safer and supportive environment. You will find yourself scrambling over tyre piles, mounting walls and leaping into water, swimming through ice baths, propelling through mud and getting a few electric shocks to keep you moving – sounds like a great way to spend an afternoon, right?The 10km course is NOT a timed race but purely a personal quest, so think more along the lines to complete and not so much to compete. It is designed for an exciting and inovative way to encourage people to take part in some outdoor recreation. If all else fails, walk the course and you will still be completed within three hours just in time for the Hahn SuperDry After Party.

The Half Marathon (21.6km)This course is designed to test every part of your physical and mental grit, not to mention determination to finish. You will encounter 20 obstacles and cross six ridges while navigating your way through the harsh Territory Terrain. If you choose a specialised category such as the Battle of the Force Defence Challenge, Fitness Frenzy for gyms and sports teams or the Elite Challenge which offer cash prizes of upto $5,000, you will be timed and you will be pushed. Should you choose to take part in the standard entry then there is no rush, do this at your own pace and focus on finishing.You will tackle all the 10km obstacles plus gut busters, fire runs, tunnel crawls and a few MYSTERY OBSTACLES along the track that you are unable to train for. The mystery obstacles add an elements of surprise which will have you talking about the Hahn

SuperDry Blood, Sweat & Fears for years to come. While this is not for the faint hearted, if you have a zest for life and a ‘never say die attitude’ you will be able to complete this course and enjoy the sensation of a lifetime in being able to say you are truly Territory Tough!

After Party & CampingThe celebration starts as soon as you cross the finish line and are handed an ice cold Hahn SuperDry. Spend the afternoon comparing battle wounds and victory stories while rocking out to a selection of local and interstate bands. Don’t miss out on any of the Hahn SuperDry Blood, Sweat & Fears action, book your campsite now. Camping spaces are limited.

SpectatorsDon’t want to do the distance but still want to come along, register as a spectator to cheer on or laugh at your partner, family or friends attempting to combat the obstacles. All spectators are required to register and must sign a waiver.

Want the adrenalin rush of a lifetime and be amongst thousands of Territorians taking part in what will be Darwin’s newest major event, take advantage of the exclusive DarwinLife offer. We strongly believe ‘Fear Breeds Heroes’ so to find out more information, get training tips, look at the course map or take advantage of the special DarwinLife offer visit www.bsfnt.com.au. Stay upto date www.facebook.com/bloodsweatfears

Sport & Fitness | DarwinLife

74 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

This study concluded that patients treated with Chiropractic care in conjugation with

Medical care demonstrated a significant decrease in pain and improved physical function

when compared to the use of Medical care alone. Within Australia, serving military

personal are unable to access Chiropractic services on base and therefore if a patient

wants to see a Chiropractor they have to do so on their own accord and pay for the

care off base. Some patients over the years have been worried that they are doing the

wrong thing by seeking care outside the base and are concerned that if it is found out

that they have sought care elsewhere that this would be frowned upon. This has always

concerned me, as a health practitioner the goal is always to return the patient to their

optimal function as quickly as possible whilst using any means available. To discourage

the use of a proven form of treatment that is effective in treating a common issue in young

serving men and women is counterproductive.

The CAA NT would like to encourage more freedom of choice for people serving in the

armed forces and to encourage more cooperation and co-management of spinal pain

cases between medical military personal and local CAA Chiropractors.

*Adding Chiropractic manipulative therapy to standard medical care for patients with

acute low back pain: The results of a pragmatic randomised comparative effectiveness

study. SPINE (Phila Pa 1976) 2012 Oct 10 (E-version ahead of print)

WORKING TOGETHER

freedom of choice

Marc CovaB.Sc. M.Chiro| CAA (NT) President5/5 Keith Lane Fannie Bay08 89414033About the Chiropractors’ Association of AustraliaThe Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (National) Limited (CAA) is the peak body representing chiropractors. An underlying principle of chiropractic is “healthy spine, healthier life”. By offering expert, drug-free spinal health care and lifestyle advice, chiropractors help Australians lead and maintain healthy lives. With more than 2,700 members, the CAA is the largest chiropractic health body in Australia, and coordinates its efforts with its eight autonomous CAA state and territory organisations.

This month I’d like to draw attention to a recent study from the Journal of Spine that compared the treatment of 2 groups of military personal between the ages of 18-35 with low back pain*.

AND

DarwinLife | Sport & Fitness

Did they want to be an organ and tissue donor …

Organ and tissue donors

can transform lives

Q:

Would you know the answer?Discover the facts about organ donation, make a

decision and tell your loved ones.

www.donatelife.gov.au

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 75

Sport & Fitness | DarwinLife

Safety • Prevention • AdviceLeading the Northern Territory in Safer Sport Practices, providing quality advice, training, injury prevention and professional services to the sporting community.

Training courses for February and March:10 Mar - NT Spinal Management Course (Darwin)13 Mar - NT Strength and Conditioning (Darwin)15 Mar - Level One Sports Trainer (Alice Springs)

For more training course availability visit: www.nt.sma.org.auFor helpful factsheets and other resources visit: www.sma.org.au/resources/

Contact: Neilia or EllaPh (08) 89815362 or email: [email protected]

• Gear Up – make sure you child and others

on the team have the appropriate safety

equipment: Correctly fitted sports shoes, mouth

guards, helmets, knee pads, hats, sunscreen, or

whatever is appropriate to your sport.

• Warm Up – get those little bodies ready

for activity! Preparing the musculo-skeletal

system and increasing circulation and body

temperature prior to activity can prevent

injury.

• Drink Up – Exercise in the Darwin climate

can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Make sure your children have plenty of cool

(not icy) water, drink before, during and after

the game. And continue drinking throughout

the day to replace lost fluid. Make sure all

children have their own water bottle and keep

them filled.

• Fix Up – Have a trained Sports First Aider

or Accredited Sports Trainer at every game.

One per team is ideal, but the more the better.

If one is busy treating an injury, you need a

second person to resume coverage of the

match. Ask your club, who is looking after

injury prevention and first aid. Make sure you

have first aid supplies on hand at all games.

• Step Up– Get involved, become a Sports First

Aider or Sports Trainer. If you are watching

your kids play anyway, you may as well be a

team resource, be available to provide first

aid and injury prevention for the team. It’s a

small investment for a great return. Recruit a

few parents, get trained and share the fun of

ensuring Smart Play for your kids!

If you would like further information, printed

resources or advice on how to provide a SAFE

SPORTING ENVIRONMENT, contact your

local branch of Sports Medicine Australia.

With the new sporting seasons starting and increased children’s participation in Sport across the NT, it’s time for our sporting community to review their safety measures in junior sport.It’s also a great time for parents to consider how they can make sure their children enjoy Smart Play: a sporting environment that is fair and fun, and also as SAFE as possible.

S P O R T SM E D I C I N EA U S T R A L I A

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 77

MONTHOF THEAthle t eSport & Fitness | DarwinLife

D A M I E NSMITH

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PLAYING FOOTBALL? I have been playing football on and off since I was about 12 and being a Territorian I have grown up around the game, with my family always being involved with the Southern Districts (Crocs) Football Club. It has been in the past 3 years where I really excelled and started taking the game more seriously, playing division 2 for the Crocs.WHY DO YOU PLAY?Footy has always been in the family, my dad, pop, uncles and cousins have always played, so I guess it runs in the family. It’s a great way to stay in shape plus I enjoy the explosive exercise and the fact that it’s a contact sport. Football, like most sports is a very social game and the Southern Districts crew are very friendly and welcoming. There is never a dull moment with them on, or off the field.CAN YOU TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT THE GAME? It is a fast-paced game with 18 players a side and the main objective is to score more points than your opponent, you do this by kicking the football through the goal posts. It is extremely thrilling when you have the ball as there are 18 other players on the field that will do pretty much

anything to get the ball off you. WHAT SKILLS SHOULD ADVANCED FOOTBALL PLAYERS POSSESS?Advanced football players have to show a high level of commitment to improve their skills and if they lack the commitment they won’t improve. Professional football players need to be switched on, focused,fit and willing to put their body on the line, to come out on top.CAN ANYBODY PLAY?Anybody can play but it all comes down to how committed they are and how much they want to improve their game. If you are committed to learning and improving, the skills and fitness comes with it. HOW CAN PEOPLE GET INVOLVED? People can get involved by going down to their local club during pre-season, this is normally (with Southern Districts) late August early September and filling out a registration form. HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE AFTER A GOOD GAME? After a good game, whether we have won or not, it is always good to sit down with a cold drink and show support to the other leagues (Division 1 and Premier League), playing on the same day.

21 Years Old

78 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Don’t wait in line - Go onlineRenew your NT vehicle registration at:

If your vehicle needs an inspectionfollow these steps:

www.mvr.nt.gov.au

It’s Easy!

STEP 1

Get your vehicle inspectedby an authorised inspector

(your mechanic).

For a list of authorised inspectors visit:www.mvr.nt.gov.au/inspections

STEP 2Email inspection report to [email protected]

You will receive anemail from MVR to

confi rm receipt.or

Fax your inspection report to 8941 0260.

Allow one working day for processing and

then proceed.

STEP 3

Go online and renew your registration at

www.mvr.nt.gov.au

DarwinLife | Sport & Fitness

INDIANissanTEST DRIVE

PULSARTHE

Travels

80 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

D R I V ET e s t

Its sophisticated contemporary design gives it a

distinctive appearance, with clean lines and a sporty

city feel. As I drove around the CBD, from one

meeting to another, I found my adaption to this

vehicle almost seamless and suddenly my day seemed

that much easier.

The interior is spacious and luxurious, with

comfortable leather seats, dual climate control, and

what seems to be a noiseless cabin. There’s plenty

of legroom in front and back and a massive boot

in the rear. Push button engine start is a new car

development I love, I just have to remember where I

put the keys! My favourite discovery though was the

electric folding mirrors. It felt very space age to see

them gently retract as the car is turned off, then fold

out like tiny wings as the engine starts. I was also

thrilled to discover the push button mirror adjustment

– no more relying on the passenger for ‘up, left, more

left, down, up, right…’.

The innovative Bluetooth® audio system allowed me

to safely answer calls, and music was faded in and out

graciously when the phone was in use. I could also

keep one eye on my playlist via the colour display

screen. This full colour satellite navigation screen was

a joy to use and a luxurious extra for me, as navigating

around greater Darwin is a big part of my work.

With simple entry and fast response, it was a dream

to be able to concentrate on the road rather than on

remembering directions.

It took me a few reverse parks before I remembered

I had a reverse view camera and once I’d worked out

what line went where, I was parking like a pro. The

sunroof is an added feature that gives the car that

little something extra you would not expect from a

car in this class.

The Pulsar Ti gives an incredibly smooth ride, and

it’s safety first with air bags all over the place, a multi

function steering wheel and cruise control.

I tried to think who this car would suit best and

realized it was really a multi purpose car. It would

easily make the transition from sporty city run about,

to family car, to self drive touring vehicle. The fuel

economy is great and the spacious interior supports

many functions. It’s elegant exterior lends itself to

a professional life, and gives it that extra level of

comfort and style to shuttle a family around town in.

This car has been 7 years in the making and it has

been well worth the wait. It’s a luxury car at a

surprisingly affordable price. Available at Kerry

Nissan, Stuart Highway, Stuart Park. Phone them on

8980 8010 – or go in in and see the Nissan Team!

Pulsar ST Manual starts at $20,990* Driveaway.

*This is the maximum recommended driveaway

price for Pulsar ST manual models ordered between

1 February and 31 March, and delivered by 31 March

2013, including dealer delivery and statutory charges.

Metallic paint $495 extra.

There are multiple joys that come with driving a brand new car - the smell, the spotless interior, and the single digits on the odometer to name a few, but all that new car seduction only goes so far. I did recently have the pleasure however of driving the new Nissan Pulsar Ti around Darwin for 2 days and I was very reluctant to give it back.

Nissan PULSAR Ti

DarwinLife | Cruising, Travel & Adventure

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 83

MONTHOF THECARShannon’s

Cruising, Travel & Adventure | DarwinLife

WHAT IS YOUR NAME?

Peter John Woodhead

VEHICLE COLOUR, BRAND AND

YEAR?

Black, A-Model Ford, 1928.

WHAT WAS THE CONDITION WHEN

YOU FIRST PURCHASED IT?

I found it in a barn over 40 years ago. I have

had to do a bit of work to it but it’s all been

worth it. – It’s such a neat little car to drive.

WHAT MODIFICATIONS HAVE YOU

DONE?

It now has a 283 chev in it, 4 speed gear

box, quick change gears and repainted.

It also has a lot of rare parts on it that

you cannot buy these days such as genuine

wire wheels.

ARE THERE ANY INTERESTING

FACTS ABOUT THE CAR?

Larry O’Toole once said, “The best car ever

built.”

HAS IT WON ANY AWARDS?

It’s won plenty of awards.

Top Car at Shannons car show, Best pre- 68

and numerous awards in Brisbane just to

name a few.

WHAT DOES THE WIFE SAY?

She is my wife. - haha

84 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

JackTHE SAILOR

The weather during the wet season is not really conducive to cruising in tropical waters around Darwin so yachties need something to do on weekends, an alternative to housework and

gardening: The Dinah Beach Wet Season Series.

The Dinah Beach Cruising Yacht Association conducts yacht races at fortnightly

intervals during the wet season. The series has been running for 30 years and

is popular with racing and cruising sailors alike. Racing is held on weekends

generally when the tide has least movement (neap tides) and starts off Stokes Hill

Wharf on Sundays at 1.25pm.

The sight of 30 or more yachts on the water makes for a pleasant sight for those

Darwinians heading down to Stokes Hill Wharf for Sunday afternoon meals or

refreshments.

At the time of writing this article there were still four races remaining to complete

the current series. So if you’re looking for something to do on a Sunday afternoon

when tides are neap, head down to Stokes Hill Wharf and enjoy refreshments

while watching the yachts.

yachts competing in the Dinah Beach Cruising Yacht Association Wet Season Series

DINAH BEACH

WET SEASON SERIESCruising Yacht Association

DarwinLife | Cruising & Travel, Adventure

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 85

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Vietnam'sAs you stroll through the streets of ancient Hoi An, with all the other tourists, you

can be forgiven to think you are on a film set. A world heritage listed site, Hoi

An ancient town provides a colourful and serene glimpse into old Vietnam. But

for those with a keen eye, if you can spot the doorway of a traditional merchant

house, be sure to step inside. Leaving the lacquered plates and paper lanterns

behind, you will find yourself immersed in the real Vietnam as you stroll through

the narrow halls and stairways, and feel the cool breeze. Much needed respite

from the hustle and bustle of sightseers and souvenirs.

Hoi AnBy Melinda Barlow

Cruising, Travel, & Adventure | DarwinLife

86 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Volunteering at the Millennium Elephant

Orphanage in Kegalle, Sri Lanka, was an

unforgettable experience. Being in such close

proximity to these magnificent creatures and

getting to clean, feed and play with them

everyday was incredibly rewarding; we were

each assigned to care for our own elephant and

we learnt so much about the mannerisms and

personalities of each animal. I was assigned

to Pooja, the first elephant to be born in

captivity in Sri Lanka and a playful only child;

my partner Brett was assigned to his strong

willed matriarchal mother, Laxshmi. Our days

were spent bathing our elephants in the river,

creating toys for the elephants to play with, and

yes; cleaning and counting their soccer ball

sized dungs. It was all in a day’s work being an

honorary elephant minder, or “mahout” as we

were called, and I felt a real bond to my young

elephant.

Compared to India, Sri Lanka is quieter,

greener and much less chaotic, which was a

welcomed change. The food is just as spicy

(which I must admit I am growing to really

enjoy) and whilst the main fare is still rice and

curry, it has it’s own Sri Lankan style and we

soon became hooked.

On our first weekend off duty, we headed to

the nearby city of Kandy to visit the Temple

of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the esteemed home

of Buddha’s very own tooth. We were also

lucky enough to be in town for the Kandy

Esala Perahera, the largest elephant procession

in Asia. This 10-day annual event has to be

seen to be believed; each night more than 50

magnificent tusked elephants are adorned with

cloth and jewels and marched through the

streets of Kandy, amidst a flurry of dancers,

fire-blowers, and beauty queens. We sat amidst

the locals and scored front row seats to this

loud, colorful and extravagant parade. One of

our very own elephants from the orphanage

was featured in the Perahera - which is a

massive honor for an elephant - and we scored

huge points with our local friends when the

elephant’s mahout recognized us and stopped

for a pat.

After the Perahera festivities, it was back to

work; but this time we are headed to the city of

Galle to volunteer teaching English to Buddhist

monk kids. Should be another interesting

experience in this captivating country.

After wrapping up almost 6 months touring South India, we decided it was time for a change. So we said goodbye to India

and promised we’d be back; then within days we were knee deep in a soggy wet elephant’s bed, collecting and counting elephant dung. We had wanted a change; and Sri Lanka sure delivered.

Written by Belinda ValeRead all about our adventures on my blog: www.belletakesontheworld.com

INDIAtravelsLaxshmi the elephant bathing in the river

at the elephant orphanage

elephants in the Perahera procession (parade)

DarwinLife | Cruising & Travel, Adventure

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 87

HOME

guideHOME BUYERSF I R S T

what you need to knowGARDEN

First

DarwinLife | First Home Buyers Guide

Buying your first home can be a daunting process especially when there is so

much you need to know before you begin your search. Before you start looking

for property or land, you need to make sure you know your financial options

inside out. It’s common for first homebuyers to start looking at houses, fall in

love with a property then find out too late they can’t afford it.

So save yourself the disappointment and do

your research first. What costs are involved?

Do you have a thorough understanding of

expenses such as insurances, rates, and body

corporate fees? How much can you afford to

borrow realistically and still maintain some

normality in your lifestyle?

It’s important to shop around, ask lots of

questions and think about what you are

prepared to commit to financially. Go talk to

your preferred finance provider or advisor. Do

you know what ‘borrowing capacity’ is? This

is how much finance would be available to you

based on your current and projected financial

position.

Are you eligible for the First Home Owner

Grant (FHOG)? The detail of this changed last

year with the change of government in the NT

and grant amounts increased from $7000 to

$25,000 for first homebuyers purchasing newly

constructed homes, or $12,000 for purchases

of established property. With removal of the

stamp duty payment, the application process

has become much simpler and overall has been

a well received adjustment. NT homebuyers

have been taking advantage of the new grant

scheme in greater numbers than previous years

as it offers them a more flexible solution than

what was on offer before.

Once you have secured your financial position,

you can start the fun part – the shopping! It’s

really important to find an agent you can trust.

Find someone who you can work with, who

speaks your language. Your agent must listen

to you and support your choices, but also have

the skill to guide you with their experience and

knowledge in areas you are unsure of. Don’t

be afraid to talk to a number of agents to find

the one that fits you best. You may meet with

every agent in town initially but once you find

the right one there will be no turning back.

Keep in mind that a good agent can not only

assist you with your first home purchase but

also stand by you for future purchases and sales

throughout your property investment lifespan.

Once you find the property you love there are

more details to consider. Is the location right?

Has the property been built to code? Is there

evidence of white ants for example (a big

problem in the NT)? These are important

issues to address and a good agent will advise

you and recommend skilled building surveyors

and pest inspectors.

Now is a great time for Top End first

homebuyers to get into the market. Interest

rates are low, and the grant offers an attractive

boost to your prospects. Keep these few simple

points in mind and your first step into the

property market can only be a success.

FirstHOMEBUYERS GUIDE

By Melinda Barlow

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 89

First Home Buyers Guide | DarwinLife

90 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

1. Crunch the numbers (use the assistance of an expert if necessary)Make sure you have an accurate and detailed budget which

takes into account all expenses associated with property purchase,

including stamp duty, council rates, and other fees.

2. Do not stretch yourself to your limitMake sure you fully understand the impact of your regular

spending levels on your new budget, and allow room for

interest rates to rise or for some unforeseen additional spending.

3. Make changes to your lifestyleA mortgage is a big commitment and you may have to make

changes to your regular spending practices if you are to meet

your repayments with ease.

4. Take the time to consider a variety of product alternativesThink very carefully about the product offerings and how this

relates to you and your spending habits. We are very lucky in the NT

that there are a number of products on the market for first home buyers.

It’s important that you find a product that best suits your needs.

5. Consider optionsSuch as an offset account to help you repay the loan faster and

avoid the very expensive costs associated with long term debt.

6. Back to basicsManaging a home loan is a big commitment, and it's

important to be realistic about what you agree to borrow and

what you can afford.

7. If you are in trouble, ask for helpIf you do not think you can keep meeting your mortgage

payments, contact your lender immediately. Do not wait until

your lender is forced to be involved in facilitating a solution. In many

cases, a proactive solution can be negotiated if your lender is given the

opportunity to work with you. At the end of the day most lenders would

rather try to help you through your short-term issues and keep you in

your home.

8. If refinancing, do your homeworkIf you opt to refinance your mortgage after a few years, make

sure that the product best suits you and your needs, and that

you are aware of the fine print.

9. Do your groundworkWhether you're buying your first home or lining up the next

investment property, the right groundwork is essential for

ensuring success in the property market.

10. Can I invest in property?Contrary to what you may believe, purchasing an

investment property is well within the reach of most

first home buyers.

Daniel Harris Director of Real Estate

Central Projects

10 KEY T IPSF O R F I R S T H O M Ebuyers

Purchasing an investment property can be a great stepping stone for first

home buyers to build personal wealth sooner rather than later.

First homebuyers are faced with a myriad of misconceptions when thinking

about entering the property market - the foremost being that an investment

property is only an option for seasoned investors.

The truth is that property investment is as much of a reality for first time

buyers as it is for veteran investors.

What's more, the rental return for an investment property is factored in

to a lender's calculations when evaluating a borrower's ability to service a

loan. While in the early stages rentals may not meet mortgage repayments,

government tax incentives may initially offer a rebate on any shortfall.

DarwinLife | First Home Buyers Guide

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 91

First Home Buyers Guide | DarwinLife

Julie Timms

Q. What advantage does TIO offer over other lenders?A. TIO provides a local service

that is second to none. TIO has the

knowledge of the NT Property Market

that comes from 34 years of operating

in the Territory. Our local lenders are

always accessible. We can come to you

to arrange your home loan, at home or

work, at a time that suits.

Q. What kind of expertise can TIO offer me as a First Home Buyer in the Territory?A. TIO home lenders are experts

in the NT Property Market; with

strong lending experience and local

knowledge. We are here to assist our

First Home Buyers throughout the

entire home buying process.

Q. How do the TIO home loan products benefit First Home Buyers?A. TIO realises that for First Home

Buyers saving for a deposit can

sometimes be difficult, especially with

the cost of living in the Territory. To

match this we offer First Home Buyers

a low deposit home loan with the added

option of using a family member to

act as a guarantor towards the deposit

on their new home. Our options are

designed to give first home buyers some

extra help when entering the property

market for the first time.

Q. How long does the TIO loan approval process usually take? A. The TIO home loan application

approval process is fast; every home

loan application is approved and

assessed in the Territory. We realise

how competitive the property market

is and the significance of having fast

approval in the buying process; it can

be the make or break in securing your

dream property. We can conditionally

approve a loan within 48 hours if we

have all the relevant paper work to

support the loan application.

Q. What kinds of things do I need to consider when applying for my first home loan?A. It’s important to show you can

manage your money! Try to have

at least 5 percent of your planned

purchase price saved as a deposit.

Clear any credit card debt and set up

automatic payments into a savings

account. Do your research and make

sure you know what extra costs you

may be up for – legal costs, inspections

and council rates for example.

Q. How does a First Home Buyer take advantage of their First Home Owners Grant (FHOG)?A. The FHOG is a great boost to your

deposit, but can also be used as back

up for the associated costs of buying a

home, such as inspections, insurances

or conveyancing fees.

Q. What happens next, after I have purchased my new home?

A. You will need to insure your biggest

asset. At TIO we provide home

insurance as part of our Home Loan

packages; this means our customers

enjoy the safety of knowing that we

will insure their biggest asset for most

Territory conditions.

Visit a TIO branch Call 1300 301 833www.tiofi.com.au

THE LOCALTIO is the Territory’s own home lender. On behalf of First Home Buyers, Darwin Life asked TIO what they can offer

NT residents planning on making their first entry into the property market.

Lenders

Call 1300 301 833 to arrange an appointment with one our home loan experts today.

92 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

PERTH + KARRATHA + PORT HEDLAND + DARWIN + MACKAY + GLADSTONE

Darwin Office: Unit 26 / 119 Reichardt Rd, Winnellie NT 0821 T 08 8984 4078

www.landsurveys.net.au

Specialising in• EARTHWORKS• CIVIL CONCRETE • STRUCTURAL MECHANICAL • MINING• LASER SCANNING• UAV MAPPING

For over 15 years Land Surveys has been providing innovative solutions, knowledge and experience to the Construction and Resource industries throughout Australia.

YOUR PARTNER IN MINING & CIVIL

DarwinLife | First Home Buyers Guide

Consulting out of the Gwelo Developments showroom, Jayne Stout has rejoined Aussie, working alongside Jim Downs from Real Estate Investors Network (REIN). Jim hosts weekly Oil and Gas Seminars aimed at educating people on the impact the Inpex site and other major projects coming to Darwin is having on the Darwin Property Market. “I feel it’s important when making a financial decision to surround yourself with a team of professionals that you can trust, that will deliver and look after you even when the purchase is complete. As a local resident I understand how important that is for Darwin people, and for that reason I work closely with REIN & Gwelo as they both, like Aussie, have well respected and long standing reputations among the Darwin community”.Jayne understands the NT property market having lived in Darwin for the past 30 years and having 13yrs experience in the finance industry under her belt she is well experienced to assist those looking at purchasing their first home. Jayne is passionate about meeting people and finding the way to turn

their home ownership dreams into a reality. As an Aussie broker, Jayne has access to provide clients hundreds of home loan options, accessible through a panel of 16 lenders including the Big 4 banks. “The major benefit of going through a mortgage broker for finance is that I am here to work with you, to find the discounts and the lender that suits your needs.”With the current changes to the NT First Home Owners Grant, it’s now more important than ever to use a professional in the field to get the right advice straight up and avoid disappointment. Jayne is here to ensure your experience is as stress free as possible and that you are correctly guided through the process and have continued contact and support. Contact Jayne today to find out how you can get into your own home sooner!

A U S S I EMortgage Broker

You may have heard of Aussie Home Loans by an infamous slogan “At Aussie, we’ll save you” – 21 years on, that is exactly what an Aussie Mortgage Broker strives to do!

Ph 0431 546 031E [email protected]

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 93

First Home Buyers Guide | DarwinLife

Finding the right lender can be overwhelming,

but ANZ can make the choice simpler, offering

flexible features on some of their home loans. Save

yourself some time by trusting the experience of

independent specialists, and know that ANZ is an

excellent choice.

With 5 branches – Darwin, Parap, Winnellie,

Casuarina and Palmerston, and convenient mobile

lenders that will come to you, ANZ is committed

to providing personalised service to Territorians to

help ensure your first home buying experience is a

positive one. Each of their Top End branches has

experienced lenders on site who can help you to

understand how much you can borrow based on

your current level of income. You could walk away

today with a borrowing estimate, giving you peace

of mind to start searching for your dream home.

All customers have the opportunity to sit down with

ANZ’s Personal Bankers to have an A-Z review®.

The A-Z review® looks at your current banking

arrangements and provides an understanding

of your current and future financial goals so that

the correct loan product could be tailored to your

individual needs. The A-Z review® is available

to everyone; from customers looking to purchase

vacant land, a property for investment purposes

or a first home, to those simply upgrading or

renovating.

ANZ’s Personal Bankers can provide information

on how much you will need to have saved to

purchase your dream property and calculate how

long it may take you to reach that goal. They can

also discuss the importance of protecting your

income and being able to maintain a comfortable

lifestyle in the event that something unfortunate

was to happen. Major life events can have a

devastating impact - if you were unable to work

for an extended period, you could have peace of

mind knowing you could continue to meet your

loan repayments.

Customers can borrow up to a maximum of 95%

of property purchase price however conditions

do apply. Where a customer borrows more than

80% of property purchase price, lenders mortgage

insurance will apply and is usually added to the

loan amount.

Their experienced lenders can assist First Home

Buyers to apply for the First Home Owners Grant

and are there to help you understand the purchasing

or construction process from start to finish. They

can calculate all stamp duty and government fees

applicable to your purchase and often these fees

can be included in the loan amount.

So head down to your nearest ANZ branch today

and spend some time with your ANZ Personal

Banker to help make your dreams to own your first

home a reality.

ANZAs Australia’s Home Lender of the Year* in 2012, you could look no further than ANZ to help you

make your plans real. Their award winning credentials could make them the ideal partner as you begin your journey into home ownership for the first time.

Darwin 08 89823510Casuarina 08 89277900Palmerston 08 89322467Parap 08 89814841Winnellie 08 89843364

Disclaimers: * Money magazine Home Lender of the Year 2012This is an advertorial for ANZ. All applications for credit are subjected to ANZ’s normal credit approval criteria. Term and conditions, fees and charges and eligibility criteria apply. Please also note that this does not take into account your personal circumstances. A-Z Review® is a registered trademark of Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522. Australian Credit Licence Number 234527

94 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

DarwinLife | First Home Buyers Guide

The Northern region is served by two People’s Choice mobile home loan advisers, Tommi Husband and Huyen Tran who are both experienced banking industry professionals.Tommi has been in the industry for 25 years backed by a Diploma in Mortgage Broking. Huyen has been in the banking industry for five years holding a Diploma in Financial Services and Mortgage Brokering. She is also a full member of the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia.As well as the products currently on offer at People’s Choice, Tommi and Huyen will also offer a select portfolio from a full panel of lenders including Australian First Mortgage, ING, Suncorp, Adelaide Bank, Latrobe and Liberty.“Not only will I find the home loan that is right for you, I’ll also assist

you every step of the way from application to settlement of your loan,” said Tommi.“I’m not just your lender but your guide through the process from start to finish.”Huyen says the benefit of having the panel of lenders gives the customer greater choice. “It’s not about buying a house but about buying your home. I can compare and assess home loan options, ensuring we find the loan that is right for you.”Where it is feasible, Tommi and Huyen will travel to the customer to discuss their needs and match them with the most suitable home loan. People’s Choice offer loans with fixed and variable interest rates, line of credit, low doc loans, bridging loans, construction loans, Lite home loans and home loan packages.People’s Choice offer a unique 40-

year loan term for first home buyers and can take family guarantees or use the equity in family members’ home to avoid paying lender’s mortgage insurance.Additionally, the Credit Union can offer insurance at competitive rates for motor vehicles, buildings, income protection and landlords.For more information, visit peopleschoicecu.com.au or contact Tommi Husband on 0408 226 120 or [email protected] Tran can be contacted on 0409 276 031 or [email protected].

C r e d i t U n i o n

Topic Where When Time

Looking to get into your own home sooner?

Quest Palmerston 18 The Boulevard, Palmerston Wednesday, 20 March 5.45pm for 6pm - 7.30pm

How to invest in property properly.

Rydges Darwin Airport Resort 1 Henry Wrigley Drive, Marrara Thursday, 21 March 5.45pm for 6pm - 7.30pm

People’s ChoiceFrom first home owners to seasoned investors, People’s Choice Credit Union has been offering a broad range of quality home loan products to residents of the Palmerston and Darwin region for many years.

People’s Choice Credit Union Mobile Home Loan Advisers, Tommi Husband and Huyen Tran for the Palmerston and Darwin region.

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 95

After arriving in Sydney in 1968, he was employed

as a building designer. Patrick then moved to

Darwin in 1980 where he worked in housing and

construction with the commonwealth government.

He was ready for a change so in 1995, decided to

start his own business – The Practice. Wanting

a more constructive avenue for his own creative

expression, he went out on his own and has now

established himself as a recognized name in the

Territory with a loyal client base and a trusted

following of repeat business.

“Being self employed gives one the opportunity to

be more expressive in their work and have more

opportunities to meet the client and relate to their

personal residential design requirements.”

The Practice is the ideal starting point for first

homebuyers who want to personalise their property

by building a home rather than just a house.

The Practice has many years of hands on

experience in residential renovations and new

residential design. It is important to guide First

Home Buyers and home buyers in general so they

can achieve their dream and provide total living

satisfaction, happiness and prosperity.

Patrick enjoys meeting and working with people

in the conceptual design stage of the residential

project and believes this is often the most exciting

stage in the development of a project.

“Being totally consumed and passionate about

your design work allows one to engage in long and

productive hours of design - it’s common for me

to burn the candle into the late hours of the night.

I am continually learning new computer programs

and drawing applications to stay with the pace at

which this profession is moving. The enthusiasm for

innovative homes and building products and ideas

also means I have to be reading and researching

new concepts constantly”.

The Practice has won national building awards

for previous design works and Patrick himself, has

lectured at Darwin Community College in Interior

Design and also Charles Darwin University in

Residential Drafting.

The prime considerations in the first client contact

and the client conceptual design stage are positive

client understanding and communication, as well

as focusing on energy conservation and innovative

design. These are important considerations for

every first home buyer and the Practice is well

placed to guide new home owners through their

first home.

For more information,

contact Patrick Flynn at The Practice on

08 8927 6193 or email to [email protected]

THE PRACTICEPatrick Flynn

RESIDENCE ELEVATION

RESIDENCE ELEVATION

RESIDENCE ELEVATION

RESIDENCE ELEVATION

GARDEN PERGOLA

Patrick was educated and raised in Preston, (Toronto) in Ontario, Canada and attended Ryerson University. He graduated with a Diploma of Interior Design as well as an

Architectural Technology Certificate with honours.

First Home Buyers Guide | DarwinLife

IDEAL PROPERTIESf o r t h e 1 s t t i m e h o m e b u y e r

For more info contact Paul on 0421 060 838

Paul HeronResidential Sales Agent

The best value inner suburb unit in Darwin

Shun HattonResidential Sales Agent

O’Donoghues First National Real Estate

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 97

Buying your first house is a liberating experience. Nearly 2 years on from buying my little place I still sit and gaze in astonishment at the little patch of

grass that I own.

I’d like to share some tips to make the move into your new home as stress free as possible:

1. Clean everything at your old place before packing. I threw

everything into a box and hoped for the best – It didn’t work

out well. Cleaning and clearing out old possessions before

you pack and move into your new home puts you weeks

ahead during move-in. Be strong and try to rid yourself of your old stuff,

This is the perfect time to start over so pare down your accumulated

possessions and have a lawn sale, auction it off on eBay or donate it to

charity. You’ll be surprised at what you won’t miss.

2. Start with the bedroom not the obvious areas like the

kitchen and lounge room. Most people start with the areas

visitors will see first but you will be spending almost a third

of your time in your bedroom and it’s the first place you

will need to use once you have done the hard part of physically moving

in so it makes sense to get this as comfy as possible.

3. Don’t try to buy everything all at once. Live in your new

home for at least a few months before you make any

significant purchases. How you think you’re going to

use the house and how you actually live in the house are

commonly two different things. As you settle into the house you will

notice how you use each area and be better equipped to plan each space

to be functional as well as visually attractive.

4. When buying new items resist the urge to match everything.

Matching sets are the easy way out – Don’t fall into that

trap! Be creative and mix and match items to create a

more personal space that reflects your personality. Your

first priority when adding furniture to a room should be the proportion,

scale and balance of your furniture and accessories within that room.

Solve practical problems inexpensively where you can and save your

money for future renovations once you have settled in.

5. Don’t try to do too much all at once. I ran around in circles

at Bunning’s for weeks and now I still have unopened paint

tins, stacks of tiles and curtains heaped up in the cupboard

that I decided I didn’t like because I tried to change

everything in the first week.

Keep calm and enjoy the process of creating your first ‘home sweet

home’.

First HomeBuyers

Haley RoddyLady Darwin Designwww.ladydarwin.com.au

DarwinLife | First Home Buyers Guide

E V E N I N GFIRST HOME BUYERS

Are you looking to buy your first home?It can be a daunting process.

The team at Real Estate Central understand this and can help guide you in the right direction.

Choosing the right home comes down to knowing what you need, what you can afford and what’s available when you’re ready to buy.

Our First Home Buyers information evening will have a panel of experts on hand to explain the process of buying and answer any questions you may have.

With the recent changes to government incentives for First Home Buyers and a thriving local economy there has never been a better time to step foot into the top end property market.

This is a FREE service to anyone interested in attending, but there’s limited seats available so please register to guarantee your spot.

When: Tuesday 26th March at 6pmWhere: Real Estate Central Office, 3/70 Cavenagh St, Darwin

Please email [email protected] to register your details or phone Abbeyon 0412211674 for more details

• Inspecting a property - what to look for• Finance options - what can you afford• Signing a Contract of Sale - legal implications• Government Incentives - First Home Owners Grant & Home Build access Loans• Showcase some affordable buying opportunities in Darwin & Palmerston

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 99

When buying your very first home you experience a gamut of absolutely surreal moments and very mundane moments. There are times of terror and of utter excitement.

As I walked through the door of my home, finally

mine, it really didn’t sink in. It had been such a

long wait, with several temporary lodgings in the

preceding months and all my belongings stuffed

into storage while I waited for my tenants’ lease to

expire. After so long imagining this day, it seemed

so unreal. And then there was the power to be

connected, the locks to be changed, the furniture

ordered months previously to be delivered and

the moving. I was just too busy to take it all in.

But a couple of weeks later I at last had that

beautiful moment where I turned the key in the

lock and my stomach flipped and heart warmed

with the knowledge settling on me that this was

my house. My house, which was very quickly

turning into a home.

Not long after, I found myself feeling terrified. I

didn’t know anything about interior design and

ALL of the decisions to do with the renovations

were mine. It was my money being spent so if I

made a mistake, it was all mine. I couldn’t call the

landlord to fix anything that broke. I stood in a

line one day with five different, yet all seemingly

off-white, paint samples wondering how my

life had taken such a monumental change in

direction. Just six months before, I was footloose

and fancy free with no intentions of being a

homeowner. Subconsciously my savings account

would have eventually become a home deposit,

but that was a plan for years from now.

I was however one of the lucky few to have

leapt at the NT Government’s first home buyers

scheme with little hesitation. It was too good an

opportunity to let pass by. After the banalities of

filling out forms and answering questions I hadn’t

before contemplated, I had approval.

My approach to home buying over the next 6-8

weeks had been my usual highly organised and

coordinated method. Step one: buy the Saturday

paper early. Step two: make breakfast and coffee

and scan through for anything in my price range

and in a suburb I could contemplate living in.

Step three: schedule the open homes by viewing

time and location. Step four: hit the road with

notebook and pen at the ready. A word to the

wise: don’t ever judge a house by its newspaper

or online photo. You need to see, feel, hear

and smell it for yourself ! Oh and eyeball the

neighbours, their yards, their children and their

cars. This is one of those times to be judgmental

in the name of self-preservation.

For a person who had previously run their life by

instinct and feeling, I made a relatively calculated

decision with my home purchase. I didn’t walk in

and “just know it was for me”. I just liked it. And

I saw the potential to change and modernise it to

make it somewhere I, and maybe in the future

renters, would be very happy to live.

I have to say that I’m feeling more and more

comfortable, content and just plain delighted in

my home. As the first coat of blue paint dries on

my feature wall, it becomes a bold testament to

the fact that this house is mine. And I couldn’t

be gladder!

Catriona McLagan

B U Y I N GHome

First Home Buyers Guide | DarwinLife

644 Stuart Highway Berrimah NT 0828 Tel: (08) 8922 4111

Home comforts…The smell of dinner cooking when you walk in the doorFresh towels straight from the dryerClean sheets on your bedA cup of tea in the afternoonPutting your feet up after a long day at work...

Harvey Norman Darwin and Janda understand these simple pleasures.

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 101

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Home | DarwinLife

102 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 103

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Home | DarwinLife

104 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

Michele ShuggExecutive OfficerNursery & Garden Industry NTP: 08 8983 3233

Your first garden will usually come with

a brand new home in the middle of it.

While most of us have left the nest with

a basic understanding of vacuuming,

wiping benches and generally tidying

up around the house, not so many of

us leave home understanding how to

maintain a garden.

Most first garden buyers fall into the

young and extremely busy category.

You may be single and working hard

on forging a career path, you may be

a couple expecting your first child, or

planning a family, or you may be a

family of several already. Whatever your

situation you may not have the time or

the inclination to get into a garden. It is

important that your garden suits the level

of input you are able to provide.

Make sure you have an automatic

irrigation system installed. It will save you

a fortune because you will be able to fine

tune your watering to suit your garden’s

requirements. Approximately 30% of

water wasted in a house is wasted in the

garden! Don’t fall into that trap! Ensure

you get some instruction on how to set

and adjust your automatic controller –

they are easier to use than your average

TV remote control! Look for our free

publication ‘Waterwise Gardening in the

Top End’, available from any NGINT

member.

Take a walk around your new garden

and photograph any plants that you are

not familiar with. Take your photos, or

samples into your local Garden Centre to

have them identified and to get advice on

how to look after them as they grow and

develop into a mature garden. Plants are

fickle things and will turn up their toes

for no apparent reason. Don’t despair; all

gardeners expect to lose a few along the

way. Garden Centres can provide advice

on hardy and useful plants for amateurs,

and pick up a free ‘What Is That Weed’

booklet while you’re there.

A brand new lawn will also require some

special attention until it is established. A

freshly sown lawn will require watering

several times a day to start with as the

germinating seeds must not be allowed

to dry out or they will die. Don’t water

for too long or you will wash your seeds

away.

Your new garden is likely to be fairly

simple if it is part of a house land

package. This means you will be able to

grow in knowledge as your garden grows

and if you feel inclined, to diversify

into home grown vegetables and fruits,

collectable plants, and other botanic

delights, tailoring your garden to suit

your lifestyle. You may like to contact

a landscape designer or contractor for

some assistance.

Most importantly, if the style of your

garden suits your lifestyle you will have

time to enjoy it. In a sensational climate

like ours, even when it rains it’s magic to

be outdoors. Your garden can become

another room, or two, or more!

For more information about getting help

with your new garden please contact

the Nursery and Garden Industry NT –

89833233. [email protected]

Well, I hate to say it, but there’s no such thing as a no maintenance garden.

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March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 105

Estelle CornellManaging Director - Allora GardensStuart Highway Berrimah NT 0828Ph: (08) 8984 4006 www.alloragardensnursery.com.au

The trunk takes a decade to form initially as it is composed of a mass

of old leaf bases held together by a natural resin. It is then a further

20 years or more before the mass of thin, linear leaves rises above

it. From then on, it grows only about 1-2cm (0.4-0.8in) in height per

year. We have observed plants which have taken 27 years to grow 30

centimetres (one foot).

Caring for your Blackboy

Plants of approximately 1-2 metres require about 30-50 litres of

water per week. Reduce this amount by 50% if the plant is in clay

soil.

2 .Add a slow release fertilizer every 3-4 months to stimulate foliage

and root growth. This plant as with most Australian native plants

prefers a fertilizer mix containing trace elements, but with low

phosphorus (P) content.

3. Fallen debris from surrounding trees should be removed from the

plant foliage to help prevent fungal infestation.

4. Apply pesticide to foliage as required. For scale insects, spray the

foliage with white oil.

5. If the leaves become dry or brown trim off 1/3 to ½ of the foliage

to encourage new growth.

Xanthorrhoea australis

BLACKBOYThese remarkable plants have a lifespan of 600 years but are

very slow-growing.

Home | DarwinLife

106 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

DarwinLife | Home

MASSIVE SAVINGS ONBody Corporate Power Bills

On completion of the audits the results were astounding. COOLmob found that large-inner city complexes could achieve an accumulated savings of up to half a million dollars over 10 years by becoming more energy efficient. Even small complexes could save up to $50,000 over 10 years in reduced energy bills. Of most concern was the fact that recently constructed buildings are still using old technologies and inefficient design principles. We are seeing: • over lit areas;• inefficient globes;• excessive lighting hours (in areas which have

good natural lighting);• areas with very minimal or no natural

ventilation (such as lobbies);• non energy efficient pool pumps;• car park exhaust systems running 24 hours a

day when they only need at certain times;• no shading, false walls or insulating paint used

on external walls;

• air conditioning boxes fitted in locations receiving direct sunlight;

• large areas of exposed hard surfaces reflecting heat and light into individual units and creating heat sinks.

It seems that unless there is regulation to make developers install energy efficient fittings, many are going to install the cheapest technologies. Unfortunately, then it is up to the Body Corporates to come up with the money to retrofit their buildings with energy efficient fittings.How can a Body Corporate save on energy bills?Body Corporate energy bills will reduce once retrofitting projects are in place for current buildings. Retrofitting projects include: • changing car park and fire stair lighting to

either Chamaeleon LED lights or LED tubes;• Use timers or sensors on communal lighting;• use LED flood lights for security lighting

instead of metal halide;• de-lamping of podium lighting to remove one

globe from each;• replace all halogen down lights with LED

down lights;• ventilate lobbies by opening windows or using

fans;• replace existing pool pumps with energy

efficient pumps;• install carbon monoxide sensors to regulate

car park exhaust fans;• shade hard surfaces that retain and reflect

heat;• paint roofs and exterior walls with heat

reflective paint or fit false walls;COOLmob will continue to lobby for energy efficient design to be implemented into new buildings and will work with body corporate groups to identify opportunities to save power. COOLmob would like to thank the N.T Environment Grants 2012 for funding this project.- by Bridget Edmunds

*Based on 473 customer surveys conducted between October and November 2012. Electrical Contractors Numbers: 73948 QLD, 231933C NSW INF4742A

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COOLmob has been working with Body Corporate groups to find energy saving opportunities in apartment complexes. All apartments involved in the project had very high power bills due to inefficient design and

fit-outs when constructed.

Car park lighting on during the day when there is enough natural lighting. This Body Corporate could turn lights off that are close to roller doors and windows during the day

An apartment complex that is using natural shading and louvers to cool and ventilate the lobbies, providing comfort to residents

108 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

First NationalHAS LANDLORDS

Australians continue to invest in property as a proven path to long-term financial security and the summer months bring increased rental relocation activity, particularly in the early months of the new year. However, many landlords and property investors neglect to protect their valuable asset by

taking out appropriate insurance cover.

“It is important for landlords to realise the

cover they need should extend beyond the

normal building insurance policy, which does

not cover things like willful damage to their

property, failure to pay rent, or claims made

against them by their tenant,” O’Donoghues

First National Real Estate principal, Jeremy

O’Donoghue said.

“Summer is always a busy time in the rental

market as tenants find it more convenient to

move at the start of the school year, and, the

holiday letting market also produces increased

interest.

“Landlord protection policies differ widely,

but at O’Donoghues First National Real

Estate we can help landlords find the right

insurance policy for them. Some, for instance,

are designed to be used in conjunction with a

typical home and contents or strata title policy,

while others are more comprehensive. We

also help our tenants find contents insurance,

which can be challenging for those living in a

shared household.”

According to industry research, less than half

of all self-managing landlords have specific

landlord insurance, even though three out of

five recognise a bond is not sufficient to cover

most incidents with tenants.

Landlords who use real estate agents to

manage their relationship with tenants face

fewer problems than those who self-manage

their investment properties.

“We make sure appropriate rental agreements

are in place, screen potential tenants and

check their references, regularly inspect

properties and ensure maximum returns are

achieved for each of our rental properties.

“We have leading edge systems and best

practice procedures in place to ensure vacant

properties are marketed correctly, and

maintained in optimal rental condition.

“We can provide clients with documentation

to support tax depreciation claims and

arrange regular value appraisals and asset

management reports to maximise their

investment potential.

“In essence, we put you first by making

sure you and your investment are properly

covered, and, that your tenants are kept happy

in a properly maintained home.”

For further information contact:

Jeremy O’DonoghuePrincipal, O’Donoghues First National Real Estate on 8942 8942

C O V E R E D

DarwinLife | Home

March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine 109

110 March 2013 | DarwinLife Magazine

kidslifEfacebook.com/kidslifemag March 2013

This issue we discoverThe SensesX-box vs Wii

Music forChildrenLiving withAutism

We strive to enrich our families, our partners, and our people by supporting the highest standard of education and care for children through professional development, resources, recognition and advocacy.

Our Ongoing Mission

Murraya Children’s CentreMurraya Children’s Centre is an innovative early learning centre catering for children two to five years old.

Darwin Family Day CareDarwin Family Day Care is a professional home-based early childhood education and care service operating in the Northern Territory for over 35 years.

Outside School Hours Care and Vacation CareBees Creek School Outside Hours School Care and Vacation Program welcomes all new families to our service.

45 Malak Cres, Malak NT 0812PO Box 43120, Casuarina NT 0811 Ph (08) 8920 0600 | F (08) 8920 0622E [email protected] www.territorychildcare.org.au

A UNIQUESENIOR COLLEGEThe Essington School Darwin made history three

years ago when it opened the doors of its senior

secondary college on Charles Darwin University’s

Casuarina campus.

School Principal, David Cannon, said: “The extension of The Essington School Darwin’s educational

programs to include a senior secondary program at Charles Darwin University provides a seamless

educational pathway for students from preschool through to university at the same school, a first in

Australia,”

This was also to be only the second time in Australia that an independent senior college has been

immersed into a university campus. Some senior secondary schools in capital cities have links with

universities but are located separately to the university.

The Essington School Darwin’s unique senior college, The Essington International Senior College,

Charles Darwin University, is a result of a partnership between the school and Charles Darwin

University. The Senior College is based in a building on the Casuarina campus and using the

university’s specialist learning facilities.

Mr Cannon said, “The Senior College provides a smooth transition for students from senior secondary

to post- secondary and university studies.”

The College is now well established after opening in 2011 with Year 11. It extended to Year 12 in 2012

and is now preparing its second group of Year 12 students for the NT Certificate of Education and

Training (NTCET).

The College would focus on international standards, experiences and links with international schools

in Asia.While students study the NT Certificate of Education and Training, they are able to extend their

educational programs and begin studying university subjects in Year 12. Students also have access to

the wide range of Vocational Education and Training programs offered at the university.

“As a result of their experience of university life in Years 11 and 12, students will be in a much better

position to make the informed decisions they need for their careers and study pathways”, Mr. Cannon

said.The Senior College occupies a building at the entrance to the Casuarina campus of Charles Darwin

University. Students use university facilities including the library, sporting and recreation facilities,

science and computing laboratories, and technology facilities. An Academy of Excellence Program,

including Vacation Schools, provides extension programs for students.

Enrolment places are limited and early applications are recommended. A number of partial and

full General Excellence and Academic Excellence Scholarships are available for 2014. For further

information, please contact The Essington School Darwin on Phone: 8985 0100.

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Opening Hours:Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm

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Tel: 8927 9077

Career in Early Childhood Opportunity!Darwin Family Day Care

Can you provide a warm, secure, family-focussed environment for children?Do you want to earn a healthy income from home?Are you enthusiastic, hard working, reliable and genuinely enjoy caring for children?Do you want to be at home with your family and have a rewarding career as a professional carer with Darwin Family Day Care?We have a career opportunity for you!Darwin Family Day Care is a member of Family Day Care Australia. We are a quality home-based childcare service in Darwin, Palmerston and the rural area. Darwin Family Day Care provides flexible, quality, small group care for children in a home environment.

If you are interested in becoming a part of our Territory Child Care Group team, Darwin Family Day Care will guide you through setting up your home based child care service and provide you with ongoing training and support.

Like Darwin Family Day Care on Facebook to...Get an insight on personal experiences from our passionate and dedicated educators.Find out about our training, guidance and support opportunities.Chat one-on-one with a professional member of Territory Child Care Group.Or contact us on Ph (08) 8920 0600 | Email [email protected]

*Excludes certain menu items. Phone 8943 8940 for reservations and further details.