Innholdsfortegnelse for June 2019 i The Australian Women's Weekly

There are few great equalisers in life, but the birth of a baby is certainly one. Prince Harry was every new dad as he gushed in wide-eyed awe about the experience of watching his son come into the world. Any hint of guardedness with the media or royal formality fell away as he spoke from the heart of the seemingly miraculous feat he had just witnessed his wife perform. It made me recall fondly my own husband’s reaction when our daughter was born. The spontaneous tears of joy, and no doubt relief, from a man who had claimed to be physically unable to cry – a tear duct disorder apparently. How I wish he looked at me every day with the same wonderment he did that September morning three years…

Doris Day remembered WITH THE PASSING of the original American sweetheart, Doris Day, the world has lost a light, her friends said. Yet, the actress leaves behind a legacy of joy and compassion for the voiceless. The Calamity Jane star is best known for her musical talent and her comic timing in 1950s and ’60s classics opposite Rock Hudson and Cary Grant – her sunny persona entertained a generation. But later in life she devoted herself to animal rights. The CEO of the Doris Day Animal Foundation, Dr T. Robert Bashara, paid tribute to the late star, saying: “She was truly a voice for the voiceless among us, a bright and beautiful champion for the cause of animal welfare.” STARS PUT THE AMP IN CAMP Feathers, sequins and glitter, The…

Heading into the city on the ferry for this interview with Samantha Armytage, I get a call from my mum. “Just don’t make it about her weight,” she suggests, which is funny because several months earlier, when Sam was on the phone to her mum, Mrs (Elizabeth) Armytage advised the exact opposite. So here we are, at a cafe near the Seven Network’s studios in Sydney’s Martin Place, happily discussing Sam’s waistline, a national obsession that the popular breakfast television host has until now stewed, blued and even sued over. “Wow. A newspaper bullying a woman about her weight – I thought those days were gone!” she tweeted in 2014, after The Daily Telegraph ran a spread on her fashion mishaps. Then, of course, there was the time she set…

“I reacted to fame like an animal, I ran and hid from it.” On a sopping wet day in New York, Richard Gere walks into a simple but chic Italian eatery in Chelsea. Dressed for the rain with his collar up and cap on, he’s looking as inconspicuous as a stillsexy-at-69 Hollywood A-lister can manage. I am soaking and fractious and don’t want him to know that I was the hysterical, caffeine-deprived woman waiting at the bar. They show me to my table and I pretend that I wasn’t that woman. He sits down and looks at me quizzically. He’s got a great quizzical stare that looks right through you. He’s wearing his trademark rimless glasses. His platinum hair is flattened by the rain and cap, but it’s still full.…

Susie Porter howls with laughter as a stiff breeze demolishes the tent in which she’s trying to get changed, almost baring her fluoro pink knickers to a ute-load of passing tradies. “I should have known better than to wear these,” the Wentworth star chuckles, more mortified by her way-out choice of underwear than the sudden and untoward exposure (on a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Sydney’s most exclusive suburbs). She’s sunny, funny, gregarious, thoughtful and endlessly obliging, so it’s hard to imagine Susie has ever struggled with depression, a crippling lack of self-worth and a “destructive” love-hate relationship with alcohol. Yet, surprisingly, that darker side emerges in a candid, no-holds-barred chat on what turns out to be the award-winning actor’s ninth wedding anniversary. Marrying in her late thirties came as…

Genevieve Clay-Smith CEO of Bus Stop Films, 2015 Women of the Future winner “Listen to your gut; trust yourself.” Inclusive filmmaker Genevieve Clay-Smith is recalling the important lesson she learned establishing her not-for-profit venture, Bus Stop Films. Genevieve was entering an agreement with another organisation, but says things didn’t feel right. “Fast forward 18 months and it was really difficult,” she says. “If I could do it again, I’d have listened to my instinct and not jumped in so quickly.” Since then, Genevieve and Bus Stop have gone from strength to strength, making inclusive films for the last 10 years. It all began in 2009, when her film, Be My Brother, won the short film contest, Tropfest. “The crew included people with disabilities, and the lead actor had Down syndrome,”…

Actor Bernard Curry carries a shovelful of burning embers across the raw timber floorboards of the old family shack. The air is as cold inside as it is out, where there is nothing but silvery eucalyptus trees as far as the eye can see. His brother Stephen pauses in his detailed explanation of the heist movie he is developing to ask Bernie, as they call him, if he wants a beer. “Is it 12 o’clock yet?” “It’s 11.30.” “It’s 12 o’clock somewhere,” Andrew Curry chimes in. He twists the cap from a stubby and holds it out for Bernie who dumps the crackling coals into the hearth and leans the shovel up against the wall. Stephen Curry settles into a battered chair next to the fireplace that their father Neville…

Shanna Whan has the type of warm, country smile that makes you think of blue skies and wheat. She laughs easily and often, and as she tells her story, it is almost impossible to believe that five years ago she was convinced her life was over. The successful, well-dressed professional was fresh out of hope, and believed that, whether by accident or design, death would find her. “I’d go to the bottle shop and get two bottles of wine and think, I’ll stock up for the weekend. But then I would drink them in one hit,” Shanna, now 45, says. “I knew I was in trouble but I hadn’t yet accepted I was an alcoholic. I still thought that, to be an alcoholic, you had to be a homeless person…

Full, subtly shaped brows are well and truly a modern style staple. Along with a pair of luscious lashes, they have a natural framing and lifting effect. But as anyone who plucked to oblivion in the ’80s and ’90s knows (guilty), brows can become notoriously patchy. Frustratingly, even while continuing to sprout endless strays. It’s true that repeated plucking can inflict multiple micro traumas that can eventually lead to permanent hair loss. But let’s not be too quick to blame ourselves. If you notice the thick of your brow disappearing, it may be due to the same hormonal changes that cause thinning tresses around menopause. To fill the gap, so to speak, a dizzying array of daily groomers, pencils, powders, gels and ever-evolving mascaras has popped up. intent on regrowing…

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Eating for longevity This year, The Mediterranean Diet was crowned the best in the world by the US News & World Report, due to its proven ability to enhance longevity and prevent chronic illness such as heart disease and diabetes. With platters of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and nuts, lashings of olive oil, and a little lean meat and seafood, it’s a diet that doesn’t feel like a diet. Happily, it also allows moderate amounts of red wine. As head chef at aged-care provider Feros Care, Scott Falls also emphasises enjoyment when it comes to eating. “We follow Maggie Beer’s Appetite for Life philosophy, which is to ensure that as every person ages they continue to experience the joy of food,” he says. “One of the key things we do…

Recent studies have shown one essential amino acid, leucine, may help increase muscle protein synthesis and minimise muscle protein degradation. Studies have shown leucine-rich proteins (such as whey from dairy) are more effective at building muscle than equivalent quantities of proteins lower in leucine. To date, most studies have been performed in older adults, who are at increased risk of muscle loss and have a reduced response to the effects of dietary protein. Findings suggest a leucine dose of around 2-3 grams per meal may enhance muscle protein synthesis; however, research is ongoing to see whether this also results in improved muscle strength and functionality. Because the effect of leucine appears to be more pronounced in older adults with a low muscle mass, scientists are continuing to investigate if leucine…

Beef and lentil braise SERVES 4 (WITH LEFTOVERS) light olive oil spray, for cooking 1.2kg lean beef stir-fry strips 4 onions, chopped 4 sticks celery, chopped 4 large carrots, chopped 8 cloves garlic, sliced ½ cup rosemary leaves 900g drained, rinsed tinned lentils 3 litres salt-reduced beef stock 4 cups (120g) baby spinach leaves ½ cup small basil leaves 28g toasted flaked almonds 300g steamed green beans 1 Heat a very large saucepan or stockpot over high heat and lightly spray with olive oil. Add one-quarter of the beef strips and cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes or until browned. Transfer to a bowl. Lightly spray the pan again and, working in three more batches, repeat with the remaining beef. 2 Lightly spray the pan with olive oil and reduce the…

Cider-braised pork with apples SERVES 8 PREP AND COOK TIME 4 HOURS 1.8kg piece boneless pork neck, excess fat trimmed ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1 leek (350g), white part only, sliced thinly 2 teaspoons fennel seeds, crushed lightly 2 teaspoons coriander seeds, crushed lightly 2⅔ cups (660ml) apple cider 2 bay leaves 100g pancetta, chopped finely 4 medium (600g) red-skinned apples, cut crossways into 1cm thick rounds 1 Preheat oven to 160°C (140°C fan-forced). 2 Tie pork with kitchen string at 3cm intervals to form a compact shape; this helps the pork to cook evenly. 3 Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a 7 litre (28-cup) oval cast iron or other flameproof casserole dish over medium-high heat; cook pork, turning, for 8 minutes or until browned…

Whole orange and passionfruit cake SERVES 10 PREP AND COOK TIME 1 HOUR 20 MINUTES (+ COOLING TIME) 2 small navel oranges (360g), halved ⅓ cup (55g) raw buckwheat 1 cup (160g) natural almonds 3 eggs ½ cup (175g) honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder ⅔ cup (185g) coconut yoghurt ORANGE PASSIONFRUIT SYRUP 1 large orange (300g) ½ cup (120g) passionfruit pulp 1 tablespoon honey 1 Place oranges in mixing bowl and cover with water; cook for 45 min/100°C/reverse/speed 2 or until very soft. Drain oranges in simmering basket; cool for 10 minutes. Dry mixing bowl. 2 Place buckwheat and almonds in mixing bowl; mill for 1 min/speed 10 into a flour. Tip into a bowl. 3 Return orange halves to mixing…

ARTLINE TRIO Be sure to never lose your whiteboard marker again thanks to the new range of Artline Trio magnetic whiteboard markers. With a unique magnet incorporated into the barrel, these bright and vibrant whiteboard markers will be at the ready for every meeting. Available in all Big W stores. RRP $9.99 approx. MYER CLEAN BEAUTY Join the clean beauty revolution! Discover our new, department store exclusive clean beauty brands. Mindfully created with the health of our bodies and environment in mind, our range includes cruelty-free and chemical-free formulas. Visit myer.com.au PAMPAS AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE PASTRY Want to make pies, tarts and pastries amazing? Make them with Pampas Puff Pastry. With golden flaky layers, it gives impressive and tasty results every time. RRP $5.50. Available at Woolworths, Coles, IGA and other…

LOYALTIES by Delphine de Vigan, Bloomsbury Theo, 12-and-a-half, sits in a school cupboard with classmate Mathis, as they neck vodka; Theo loving the moment the alcohol hits his stomach and numbs his mind. Every Friday he staggers under the weight of bags on the metro, to go from his father’s to his mother’s for the week. His father, who does not wash, clean or leave the apartment, begs him not to tell his mother he has lost his job. His mother is always angry the minute he arrives back. Teacher Helene is worried about Theo and asks the nurse to see him. She remembers cowering from her father, the telly blaring Wheel of Fortune, as he told the girl who hoped to become a teacher, “If you’re so clever, what’s…

Gemini MAY 22-JUN 22 When the Gemini new moon on June 3 delivers your once-a-year birthday present, set aside some quality self time to get clear about what you truly, madly, most deeply want. Not easy, with articulate Mercury and energetic Mars in your business zone pitching ideas, negotiating work terms and juggling earning with splurging, but you need focus this month. Keep others on board by staying on track, and avoid complicated arrangements with too many options. Mid-month Venus sashaying into your sign is super-friendly and electrically sexy, but try not to race ahead of yourself at the overstimulating June 17 full moon. Cancer JUN 23-JUL 23 Inspired by the moon of new beginnings on June 3, you will look less in the rear-view mirror, more forward towards a…

When’s the best time to book for a good deal? The earlier you book, the better deal you’re likely to get. Most cruise lines have sales when they release a new program – check in with Flight Centre to keep up to date so you can take advantage of reduced fares, reduced deposits and extras like onboard credits and included drinks packages. What should I look for when it comes to the ship? Don’t pick a ship based on itinerary and price alone. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, the last thing you want is to find yourself on a ship full of kids – which is likely to happen if you pick one packed with waterslides, ice-skating rinks, rock climbing walls and other family-friendly activities. Same goes if…

Antarctica  Ahoy all intrepid explorers! This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure which will have you regaling your friends for years to come with tales of The White Continent. While you can do a “sail by” the region in a larger ship, the most bragging rights-worthy way to do it is by departing Argentina’s Ushuaia – the southernmost city in the world – and sailing the great travel milestone of the Drake Passage. Whales, dolphins, seals, penguins and more abound, providing hours of entertainment, while towering icebergs will leave you in awe. You’ll also get an extensive education – and first-hand look – at the real effects of global warming, thanks to the experts on board. Get set for offshore adventures on Zodiac boats – the incredible sturdy inflatable rafts which…

Wrapping my arms tightly around Mum, the pair of us laughed aloud as a thoughtful tourist offered to take our photo while we jostled for a prized position in front of the Trevi Fountain. Smiling for the camera, tears filled our eyes, as we wanted to hold onto this moment of pure joy that had bookended our family adventure from Athens to Rome. “Thank you my darling,” Mum whispered into my ear. “Thank you Mummo … ” I replied, before we started to cry. Gazing at the sculpture of Oceanus pulled by a chariot of sea horses, the beautiful, deep blue blur of the past eight days rushed through me. Mum, my two sisters; Harriet and Claudia, and I had been journeying onboard the Viking Jupiter, for its ‘Journey to…

It was two years ago at 10.30pm when I fell down a train station escalator after missing a step. There at the bottom was my angel, Natalie. I was bleeding from the nose and she quickly came to help, waiting with me until the ambulance came. She sat with me at the hospital and held my hand as I had a few stitches. She stayed with me until 2am, even though she had to go to work the next day and was a complete stranger. My husband was away in the USA so she knew I was alone. We have remained friends and I will never forget her kindness, I had God above and my angel below. I was truly blessed. Kathy Hegarty from Paddington, NSW, will receive a $250…

PRIDE & PREGNANCY A glowing Keira Knightley is pregnant with her second child. The Atonement star and her husband, James Righton, already have a daughter, Edie, four. BIG LITTLE PROJECT The duo behind Big Little Lies are teaming up again, with Nicole Kidman to produce and star in an adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s latest book, Nine Perfect Strangers. YES, PRIME MINISTER Congratulations to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who will wed her partner, Clarke Gayford, after he proposed over the Easter long weekend.…

When Ronni Kahn first arrived in Australia, she thought she’d come to the promised land. “And I still think that,” Ronni smiles. At 17 she had run from the heartache of apartheid in South Africa to join a kibbutz in Israel. The smart, creatively inclined teenager was full of Zionist idealism, searching for a place where people could be genuinely equal and for a while she thought she’d found it. Ronni married young, had two children and joined the collective dream while also studying at university. Yet her zeal didn’t last. Ronni’s need for individualism got in the way of the kibbutz ethos, and as her eldest approached the witching age of 14 when he would have been registered for mandatory military service in a country riven with conflict, she…

1997 WELCOME TO WOOP WOOP Susie plays a sex kitten in this effervescent romp in the outback. 1999 TWO HANDS When she joined forces with a young Heath Ledger in the heist comedy, she received an AFI nomination. 2000 BETTER THAN SEX Getting cosy and a little raunchy with David Wenham in a romantic comedy. 2014 PUBERTY BLUES In a TV remake of the iconic 1981 movie, she teamed up with actor Dan Wyllie. 2018 WENTWORTH Looking sharp in her favourite role to date, as crime matriarch Marie Winter in the Logie Award-winning series inspired by the 1980s program Prisoner.…

When you walk into a room you want it to feel instantly welcoming. Give yourself the gift of a freshly fragranced home with Glade® Sense & Spray® , the only automatic freshener in the Australian market with smart motion sensor technology. The attractive new design with gold accents blends seamlessly into your home decor and lets you add your favourite fragrance from the Glade® Sense & Spray® range. It automatically releases a burst of fragrance with essential oils into the air when you pass by, or you can simply press the boost button for a refreshing burst. It’s an uplifting and effortless way to set a mood and a scent you’ll love coming home to, every day. SOOTHE THE SENSES Choose your favourite fragrance from Sheer Vanilla Embrace® , Hawaiian Breeze® , Pomegranate…

“These guys get out there and stomp and throw themselves around.” In a small community hall in South Hobart, the final dress rehearsal for a physically demanding contemporary dance tour is taking place. It’s a gruelling session, run by seasoned choreographer Kelly Drummond Cawthon who takes an almost impish delight in pushing her dancers to the limits. But instead of a sea of long-limbed 20-somethings lithely going through the motions, the talented performers effortlessly leaping, bounding and even cartwheeling across the floor are in their 50s, 60s and 70s. And many in this number only began their professional dancing careers quite recently, after joining Tasmania’s revolutionary Mature Artists Dance Experience Company (MADE). The company was formed back in 2005 with a promise of something different – no student under the…

STYLIST’S TIP Make your sweater the statement, wear with a simple bottom half.…

Imagine a single supplement that can help promote skin firmness, radiance and elasticity. Nature’s Way Beauty Rosehip tablets contain rosehip extract and collagen to help enhance skin firmness, improve skin elasticity and help enhance skin health from the inside out. The antioxidants in Nature’s Way Beauty Rosehip help reduce free radicals formed in the body to help decrease free radical damage to body cells. Formulated with grapeseed extract, vitamin C, vitamin E and biotin. This beauty blend is specially formulated to support skin elasticity and helps enhance skin firmness, skin healing and skin regeneration. Nature’s Way Beauty Rosehip with added collagen to help promote skin firmness, improve skin elasticity and help enhance skin health. WHY ROSEHIP? Rosehip has been traditionally used in many cultures around the world for herbal teas,…

The celebrity stylist “I’ve learned that yes, hair does become less tolerant as we age,” says Miranda Kerr’s hairstylist, David Keough, pointing to years of stress from colouring and heat-styling, combined with natural textural changes that come with age. “The one thing I always recommend is a great hair mask to sleep in. You smooth it through your hair, wrap it all up in a hair towel and warm it with your dryer so the treatment sinks in,” he says. David’s clients are also treated to dreamy scalp massages, “using a repairing, soothing oil or a little coconut oil.” Using a holistic approach, David is big on supporting hair from the inside, too. “Bone broth, packed with collagen, is great for your hair and perfect for drinking hot or adding…

Q I’ve heard laser eye surgery may not be safe. Should I reconsider? J.M., WA. Laser is used for correction of short and long-sightedness, astigmatism and to treat glaucoma. Any surgery has potential complications. Laser eye surgery can result in dry eyes, under-or-overcorrection or vision loss. Ask your eye specialist to outline the benefits and potential risks before your procedure. Q No matter how much I drink, I always feel thirsty. I’ve tried coconut water, smoothies and Hydralyte. What else can I do? P.T., Qld. Anyone with excessive thirst (polydipsia) and excessive urination should be investigated for diabetes. Other causes include diabetes insipidus, where the body is unable to regulate urine volume because the brain doesn’t produce enough of the hormone vasopressin, or the kidneys are unable to respond. See…

Soft-boiled with zesty spinach Soft-boil 2 large eggs, then peel and halve lengthways. Meanwhile, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a small frying pan over medium heat, add 1 cup (30g) baby spinach leaves and cook for 1 minute or until just wilted. Remove the pan from the heat and stir through 1/4 cup small basil leaves and the finely grated zest and juice of ½ small lemon. Season to taste with freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm on toast with the soft-boiled eggs, sprinkled with ½ cup (40g) grated parmesan. Scrambled in a mushroom cup Preheat the oven grill to high. Grill 1 large field mushroom for 5 minutes, turning once. Place on the toast on a serving plate and fill with 40g crumbled cheddar. Meanwhile, scramble 2 large…

BREAKFAST 60g high-fibre breakfast cereal served with 150ml low-fat milk, 200g low-fat yoghurt topped with 7g slivered almonds, 100ml low-fat milk (in coffee or tea) LUNCH 1 slice wholegrain bread (40g), 2 cups garden salad dressed with vinegar and 1 teaspoon olive oil, 100g chicken (raw weight before cooking; it will weigh approximately 20 per cent less after cooking) DINNER 150g fish (raw weight), grilled, served with mixed vegetables stir-fried with ginger, Asian herbs, 1 cup cooked brown rice, 1 teaspoon oil, soy sauce SNACKS 150g fresh fruit salad, apple with 1 tablespoon peanut butter, banana smoothie made with 1 banana and 1 cup (250ml) low-fat milk…

Dark chocolate croissant pudding SERVES 10 PREP AND COOK TIME 1 HOUR 10 MINUTES (+ STANDING TIME) ½ cup (80g) sultanas ¼ cup (60ml) Grand Marnier 3 x 240g pack of 4 croissants 80g butter, softened 200g dark chocolate, chopped finely 3 eggs 2 egg yolks ⅓ cup (75g) caster sugar 3 cups (750ml) milk 300ml pouring cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon orange rind 2 teaspoons icing sugar 1 Preheat oven to 160°C (140°C fan-forced). Grease a shallow 2.5 litre (10-cup) ovenproof baking dish. 2 Place sultanas and Grand Marnier in a small bowl; stand for 10 minutes or until the sultanas have absorbed most of the liquid. 3 Split croissants in half; using 60g of the butter, spread on the cut sides. Sprinkle three-quarters of the chocolate…

Room For A Stranger by Melanie Cheng, Text Meg Hughes will never forget the pockmarked face and cold blue eyes “with a hint of crazy” that stared out of the pitch black before the ghoulish intruder turned on his heels and fled. The 75-year-old was in her sheepskin slippers and dressing gown, alone in her home with Atticus, her African grey parrot, her only defender, and she was utterly terrified. When the police apprehended the man later, they discovered a switchblade in his sneakers. Although she’d lived in her family home since she was a little girl, Meg now feels unsafe; a vulnerable old woman. So, she gamely embraces “homeshare”. In return for lodgings and work around the house, Meg welcomes Andy into her life. Author Melanie Cheng was inspired…

A TREE IN THE HOUSE by Annabelle Hickson, Hardie Grant Books Annabelle Hickson moved from the city to a pecan farm in NSW’s Dumaresq Valley to embrace the natural world. This book, ostensibly about flower arranging, reveals Annabelle’s creative spirit, her brilliant photographic skills and celebrates rural life. Dive in to wonder at her inspiring floral arrangements and then follow the simple guides so that you can create them yourself. Pure joy! Loving Sylvie by Elizabeth Smither, Allen & Unwin It is Sylvie’s wedding day and grandfather Kit rows her across the lake to make her vows. Kit had reserved boat eight, freshly painted, but the boy rents him leaky number seven. As Sylvie, swan-like, accepts the dampening of her wedding dress, we dive divinely into…

Alison Almost 28 years and counting. I have been married now for well over half my life. True, compared to my parents-in-law, who just clicked over 57 years, it’s still early days. Yet with divorce rates on an incline, the longevity of our marriage is something I am really proud of. Have our 28 years been the cliché, ‘happily married’? What even is ‘happily married’? For many, it’s the idea that fights are non-existent, sex is plentiful and you want to be together every minute. If this is your marriage, congratu-bloody-lations! May at the end of your lives you fall asleep in each other’s arms, take your last breath and be buried together. For the rest of us, or at least for me and Cam, there are times when we…

Japan It may be a tiny island country, but Japan packs culture into every inch, making it one of the hottest places to cruise in recent years. The traditional villages, temples and ancient customs are as fascinating as the delicious food, unique entertainment and shopping districts in buzzing cities. While April to May is perennially busy, thanks to the celebrated cherry blossom season, you don’t need to limit yourself to such a short time frame. October heralds an equally delightful natural display, with autumn spectaculars to rival those of Canada and New England. And the summer months of August bring plenty of festivals and celebrations – including Japan’s largest firework display, the Kumano Fireworks Festival. Princess Cruises have been sailing in the region since 2013 and offer a variety of…

New Zealand If you thought the incredible sweeping vistas shown in blockbuster franchise The Lord of the Rings were all CGI, you clearly haven’t been to New Zealand. One of the most breathtaking – and diverse – countries in the world, our Antipodean neighbour is a cruise-lover’s dream as not only are you able to take in the beautiful coastal landscapes from the best vantage point, but the ports of call are packed with a rich cultural life, both traditional Mãori and contemporary. Cruising also offers you a chance to take in both the North and South Islands which, while equally beautiful, are distinctly unique and offer a wealth of fun-filled shore adventures. Because it’s not all about taking in the view, the land of the long white cloud also…

A REAL ROLE MODEL What a joy to read your article about June Dally Watkins and her family (Miss Dally’s Girls, AWW, May). I had the pleasure to work for June back in 1963 as a young woman of 18. She was a true ‘lady’ in every sense of the word and an amazing role model for me and so many others. We kept in touch over the years, she attended my wedding in 1965 and I occasionally returned and worked for her over the years when she was in between secretaries. She is truly amazing for her age, but I think helping so many people over the years in so many ways has helped her to achieve all these things at the grand old age of 92! D. Symonds,…

When Marion Barter boarded a flight to London in June 1997, it was for a year-long sabbatical, the big adventure. All her life she had wanted to go on the Orient Express and now she was on her way. She had left her job, sold her house, she was cashed up, she was free. She was going to visit all the places Jane Austen lived, she excitedly told a friend two days before she left. But those who loved her would never see her again. When she vanished, Marion left behind a trail of bewildering behaviour, unanswered questions and a mystery that only deepens with the passing years. In her last months in Australia, Marion had been keeping secrets – secrets that throw any investigation into her disappearance into disarray.…

To support OzHarvest, you could volunteer on an OzHarvest van – I did and was astounded. In one day on just one van, which visited Woolworths and Aldi stores, as well as cafes, we gathered 700kg of food, including 500kg of fruit and veg. If you have a business that could donate food, OzHarvest would love to hear from you, too. You could also consider making a financial donation. For every dollar donated, OzHarvest can supply two meals to people in need.Visit www.ozharvest.org.…

June Oscar was still a babe in arms when her father, a white pastoralist called Bob Skuthorp, came knocking on her mother Mona’s door and told her to pack her things and go. As he drove June and Mona into town, he explained that his wife, Pat, had got wind of his philandering, and his new offspring, and was out looking for them. Brooking Springs Station – 200,000 hectares of rich rolling grassland, wooded hills and towering cliffs on the Fitzroy River – is Bunuba country. After their land was stolen by European settlers, June’s family, like many Bunuba people, found work on the properties that sprung up across the Kimberley. When June was born, her mother lived in the “blacks’ camp” at Brooking Springs and worked at the homestead.…

Growing up in Muswellbrook in the Hunter region of NSW, Molly Miller didn’t want to head down the path women in the area typically followed – studying at uni, or becoming a hairdresser or childcare worker. “I wanted to do something outdoors and hands-on,” says Molly. During a mining industry presentation at school, Molly realised a career as a tradie was also an option. One of the speakers, a mechanic, was a woman. “It was awesome to see her talking about her job,” says Molly. “It was something different a girl could do.” When a family friend, a qualified electrician, did all the wiring for the home she was building, Molly was impressed. “I thought that was cool,” says Molly. “She inspired me to get into the trade. And she…

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STYLIST’S TIP Pair with knee-high boots for a fresh, feminine look.…

“When I wash my face in the shower, I use the Lancer Polish… it’s the best scrub I’ve found because it really stimulates the skin.”Victoria Beckham Known as the dermatologist to the stars, Dr Lancer’s Beverly Hills practice has offered the most star-worthy beauty treatments for over a decade. Men and women around the world have witnessed his ability to turn back the clock on aging skin, using scientific research and a theory known as the ‘The Lancer Method® ’. While most skin care regimes treat the dermis, which is the layer of skin beneath the surface that acts as the centre for renewal and repair, this one is different. Dr Lancer discovered that many of these products don’t actually penetrate the dermis skin layer and as a result, don’t…

Haruharu Created paraben and chemical-free, and then fermented with honey containing rich proteins and minerals that repair the skin naturally. These green tea ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin for a powerful moisturising effect. Wonder Honey Green Aqua Bomb Cream, $47.60; myer.com.au Vida Glow This 100% natural marine collagen helps to restore the body’s natural collagen reserve giving you healthy hair, radiant skin and strong nails. Made with purity in mind, it’s also free from synthetics, parabens and non-GMO. Natural Marine Collagen, $59.95; myer.com.au Inika A luxurious formula made from 100% plant-derived and natural ingredients. This vegan and cruelty-free product provides lash length, volume and span while maintaining the Clean Beauty Ethos. Long Lash Mascara, $49; myer.com.au Asarai Vegan, cruelty-free and without parabens, sulphates, colours or fragrance, the Earth Tones…

There are many changes that come with advanced age. However, one that often goes unrecognised is the decline in muscle mass and strength. It is unclear when it begins, but likely after the age of 40, our skeletal muscle mass decreases by 3-8 per cent every decade. After the age of 60 it decreases by 10-15 per cent per decade, or 1-1.5 per cent every year. This rate of muscle decline can vary between individuals, but is exacerbated by a sedentary lifestyle, a low dietary protein intake, obesity and potentially genetics. At the same time as our muscle mass decreases, the fat content in our muscles increases, further contributing to poor muscle function, loss of strength and frailty. This age-related loss of muscle mass, both in quantity and quality (i.e.…

Chicken noodle salad Layer in order the finely grated zest and juice of 1 large lemon, ¼ teaspoon sesame oil; 30g rice vermicelli, soaked, broken into 5cm lengths; 1 small zucchini, coarsely grated; 1 tomato, chopped; 100g cooked chicken breast fillet, sliced; 1 long red chilli, seeded and chopped; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; ¼ cup coriander leaves and 7g finely chopped toasted peanuts. Egg and pasta salad Layer in order ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar; ½ cup (80g) cooked small elbow macaroni; 1 small Lebanese cucumber, sliced; ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup (15g) baby rocket leaves; 2 large hard-boiled eggs, halved; 1/3 cup small basil leaves and 7g toasted pine nuts.…

Harissa snapper and potatoes with cheat’s tapenade SERVES 4 PREP AND COOK TIME 25 MINUTES 1kg or 8 medium potatoes, scrubbed 1 tablespoon harissa paste ⅓ cup (80ml) extra virgin olive oil 4 x 180g snapper fillets, skin-on, pin-boned 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley leaves 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon rind ½ small clove garlic ¼ cup (45g) pitted Sicilian olives ¼ cup dill sprigs 1 lemon, cut into wedges mixed tomatoes, for serving 1 Prick potato skins all over. Place potatoes directly on the microwave plate. Cook on HIGH, for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway, or until softened slightly. Remove from microwave and cut into wedges. 2 Preheat oven to 240°C (220°C fan-forced). Grease and line 2 oven trays with baking paper. 3 Transfer potatoes to one tray; toss with half…

The other roast potato When roasting Australian sweet potato, simply scrub the skins under cold water and pat dry. Cut in half lengthways and place in a roasting pan with 6 cloves of garlic and 6 sprigs of thyme. Drizzle liberally with extra virgin olive oil and season with sea salt flakes and freshly ground pepper. Roast at 220°C (200°C fan-forced) for 30 minutes or until browned. Fry and bake Grapeseed is a versatile choice of oil for cooking. Its high smoke point means you can fry at high temperatures (especially home-made chips) with no smoke, and it’s also neutral flavoured so it’s perfect for baking cakes. Azalea grapeseed oil is high in Omega 3 and 6, and low in cholesterol. See azaleaoils.com.au. Freezer heroes Keeping a smart stocked freezer…

Q: Is it possible to make icing sugar? Sometimes I run out at the last minute or only need a little. J. Hodgson, Collector, NSW. A: Yes – put 150g granulated sugar in a strong blender or spice grinder with 2 teaspoons cornflour and pulse till finely powdered. You can leave out the cornflour but the icing sugar will clump if kept for any time. SHARE your DOMESTIC SECRETS Send your handy hints or questions to: Home Hints, The Australian Women’s Weekly, GPO Box 4178, Sydney, NSW 2001, or email openline@bauer-media.com.au. We pay $75 for the reader’s prize hint each month.…

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 TRAINS by Monisha Rajesh, Bloomsbury Five years ago, Rajesh had made her 80th train journey across India for her 2012 book Around India in 80 Trains. As she prepared to say goodbye to London for seven months, she was about to double that length – a traverse of almost twice the circumference of the earth, from the mighty heights of Tibet’s Qinghai railway to a Belmond British Pullman to wheel her back to the frosted leaves of the Kent countryside, for this her new book. When fiancé Jem looked at her map – “There are some pretty hairy places under those pins” – he went for the ride. For those of us less brave, this is the wonderful way to go! THE LIBRARY OF ICE…

Chances are you don’t know how much superannuation you have right now. Not only that, but you probably don’t know how much you will need on retirement. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. According to a 2018 survey commissioned by comparison site finder.com.au, only 42 per cent of Australians know their super balance. And, according to research by investment company MLC, of those who do know, 60 per cent of us don’t think it will be enough to retire on. So how much super will you need? According to the Australian Superannuation Fund Association’s Retirement Standard, to have a “comfortable” retirement, single people need $545,000 in retirement savings; couples will need $640,000. For women, who generally outlive men, an adequate superannuation balance is particularly important. Unfortunately, taking time out to raise…

January Cambodia and Vietnam With slightly cooler and drier weather, it’s a great time to explore the Mekong River. Take in temples, palaces and pagodas, and bustling markets while learning the history of the two contrasting countries. Wendy Wu Tours offers tours and cruises in this region, visit wendywutours. com.au for more info. February South America An incredibly varied region which takes in everything from nature lovers’ paradise The Galapagos Islands to the wilds of the Amazon, the cities of Santiago, Buenos Aires and more. But one thing is universal: you’ll need to travel in the dry season – which ends this month. March Mexico and the Caribbean You’ll have more sun, less rain and calmer seas from mid-January to April and, now the Christmas rush is done, fewer crowds. Warm…

The Caribbean Sunseekers have flocked to the Caribbean for decades, so it’s almost a given that this is the world’s most popular region for cruises. With all-year-round warm weather (although September and October are the most likely months for major tropical storms), and beaches as far as the eye can see, the islands are tailor-made for this kind of travel – they’re geographically spaced out so that you can arrive at a new port every morning. This means you can explore all the best spots without the hassle of flights, check-ins and constant unpacking. It also makes it a far more cost-effective way to see the region. You can also find a plethora of things to see and do. With a strong colonial heritage – be it British, Spanish, Dutch…