Tablelands Outdoor Recreation , Health and Wellbeing Expo
Garden Party at Back to the Bone in Irvinebank
The final presentation in a series of natural history and environmental talks in Watsonville will be conducted by Marijke Mulder from Costa Rica ( pictured below ). Marijke will deliver her talk , “ Eco-Tourism in Costa Rica ” at a Garden Party hosted by Back to the Bone Botanical Garden on Saturday 6 May . Marijke was born on Costa Rica ’ s idyllic Peninsula de Osa . After an education in Belgium she returned to Costa Rica , as a multi-linguist , setting up an English language school and other community projects , while working and studying for a degree in eco-tourism . This led to a position as general manager of Lapa Rios eco-lodge . All three of Marijke ’ s brothers work in eco-lodges in Costa Rica , and like their sister and grandparents , Steve and Marijke Hancock at Back to the Bone , they are passionate about promoting environmental awareness . In between work and study , Marijke has been travelling to far-flung countries , to research the impact of tourism on their social and natural environments . Marijke is proud of her country as a role model for sustainable tourism . In her presentation she will reveal the “ hidden jewel ” of Central America to interested nature-lovers . As with the preceding field days , the garden will be open from 10.00am till 4.00pm for exploration using the interpretive guide book , with the talk at midday . Entertainment will be provided by Ken Devine ’ s sensational band “ Klockwork .” Entry is by donation . See ad on page 8 for details .
Kuranda Icon Just Gorgeous Turns 25
It ’ s hard to believe this month Just Gorgeous will be 25 years old ! It all began as a small , recycled consignment clothing store , renting a small space from The Cafnec ’ s Green House Environment Shop in an old Queenslander located next door to the local butcher . During that time they operated a second small shop located next door to Monkey ’ s restaurant near the markets called New To You 2 . Once the old house , in its original location , was purchased by its current owner , the property developed to become part of a restaurant and Jill and Luke Melody were forced to look for a new , larger premise . It was then they negotiated to rescue and renovate the old Ngoonbi house , which had been condemned as a residence and destined to be demolished , in exchange for a long lease . Luke built a lovely verandah and renovated the building retaining the look of a lovely old Queenslander when the shop was closed . They maintained the property for 10 years until , once again , they needed to relocate as the lease was not offered for renewal . It looked like after 15 years of trading New To You might have to move to Cairns as no suitable location could be found in Kuranda . It was then a for sale sign appeared on one of the last remaining old Queensland houses on Coondoo Street . With help from the bank they were able to rescue and restore another old Coondoo Street house . Having evolved from second hand clothing to mostly new designer fashions and accessories , it seemed the time for a new name to go with their new location . As the most common words they were hearing from visitors was “ this is just gorgeous !“ they decided to rename the shop Just Gorgeous .
Just Gorgeous has become a bit of a Kuranda icon where visitors return year after year and locals can always count on friendly service and to find something unique for all occasions . Come and celebrate 25 years on May 27 . 25 % off storewide ! 16 Coondoo St , Kuranda . www . justgorgeous . net . au
Before and after restoration
Tablelands Outdoor Recreation , Health and Wellbeing Expo
FREE EVENT !
Saturday 6 May , 2017 9am - 3pm Merrilands Hall & Showgrounds Atherton
Join us for a fun & informative expo on all things health & wellbeing !
Family activities & come and try events
Great guest speakers covering topics such as mental health , drugs , wellbeing , goal setting , sport and recreation including State of Origin legend Shane Webcke
Lots of prizes to be won on the day , free face painting and a jumping castle for the kids !
Healthy food & drinks available
Attend exciting workshops on sport and recreation
More than 50 exhibitors showcasing health , community services & sport and recreational clubs visit www . trc . qld . gov . au
Supported by Queensland Mental Health Commission , Tablelands Regional Council , Tablelands Outdoor Recreation Association , Success with Attitude and Department of National Parks , Sport and Racing .