With Rowena Kissun From Kissun Clinics

Rowena Kissun, owner of Kissun Clinics has been offering her expertise in both Medical Science and Naturopathy for over 16 years in the Whitsundays. Her clinic services have expanded to Mackay, Sydney and Adelaide, with fully accessible services and testing now available over Telehealth and in laboratories throughout Australia.

Born and raised in country, NSW, Rowena studied Medical Sciences in Sydney (University of Western Sydney) and Herbal Medicine (Naturopathy) in Armidale (University of New England), followed by further study overseas. Integrating the science of the human body with functional pathology testing is Rowena’s forte. She has a keen interest in finding solutions that are natural, potent, scientifically verified and readily available, especially to her regional clients.      

Kissun Clinics employs two Naturopaths, an Acupuncturist, two Health Consultants and a Registered IV Nurse. The clinic also leases with two GP’s in both Brisbane and Adelaide.

Rowena’s ultimate goal is to investigate and understand the root cause of a person’s health concern. To do this involves thorough conversation, followed by pathology testing then a practical plan for the patient to follow.

Rowena, tell us about growing up, and how you got into Natural Medicine?

Growing up in a tiny town watching my mum and dad run medical centres and pharmacies in rural areas around Rylstone and Mudgee NSW had me immersed in healthcare since I was a baby. Intellectual curiosity about the human body led me to choosing a career in health care, but with a twist. I have a huge respect for health care practitioners from all modalities. Everything has its place. We need pharmaceuticals just as much as we need a healthy diet and access to good quality natural medicine. Healthcare can be very expensive, and it is wonderful to see clients aim to prevent illness by adopting healthy practices before illness occurs.

We would love to hear about your journey with Kissun Clinics and how it has evolved?

Having Kissun Clinics for over 16 years, I have watched natural medicine change so much. My education and experience allows me to wear numerous hats when I am listening to my patient’s story. My interest lay in learning more about oncology, hormone balance, chronic fatigue and the effect of the microbiome on a person’s health.

What’s the best health advice you have ever been given?

My parents are constantly giving me health advice, and it always centres around whole food eating, growing your own veggies and staying away from packaged food. I completely agree with them. I don’t believe in diets. When clients ask me how to eat healthy, we always go back to the basics that my parents follow to this day. By focusing on unprocessed, nourishing foods, you're giving your body the building blocks for optimal health and providing a shield against illness. Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants vital for cellular function and disease protection.

What is the most effective health product?

This might sound strange, but even though I work with prescriptive vitamins and IV nutrients which are both incredible, I would have to say the one thing I notice time and time again which benefits our health the most is our mindset. Achieving health goals is simply easier and more attainable when we start with a positive mindset. If you have the frame of mind that you are a victim of life’s circumstances, I believe this really makes things hard. I spend a lot of time in my office coaching my clients into believing that their body has an inherent ability to heal. The connection between mental and physical well-being is undeniable, and it is certainly something we should all think about, if we have a health issue we are trying to resolve.

https://www.kissunclinics.com

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Guan Wu

GDT Massage Studio

Meet Guan Wu, the visionary behind the sanctuary of relaxation and restoration that is GDT Massage Studio. Operating out of his home in Mackay, GDT Massage Studio has stood as a beacon of wellness and rejuvenation for nearly a decade. Originally hailing from Taiwan, Guan has called Mackay home for almost ten years, bringing with him a wealth of expertise and a passion for holistic healing.

Guan's journey into the world of massage therapy began in Rockhampton, where fate intervened through a friend's invitation to join the massage profession. What started as a year-long working holiday soon blossomed into a lifelong vocation. Fuelled by a desire to provide bespoke, personalised care, Guan ventured out on his own, establishing GDT Massage Studio from the comfort of his Mackay residence.

With over a decade of experience under his belt, Guan's commitment to excellence knows no bounds. His dedication to his craft shines through in every session, as he witnesses the transformative power of massage firsthand. Guan frequently embarks on journeys to major cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, enriching his repertoire with cutting-edge techniques and methodologies.

“I always try to do one or two courses on different techniques a year,” he shares. “The human body is so diverse, so that’s why I keep trying to learn more and more.”

At GDT Massage Studio, the focus extends beyond mere relaxation. Guan's expertise lies in remedial massage, sports therapy, dry needling, cupping and the unique Graston technique. Indeed, Guan's dedication to his clients goes beyond the massage table. He takes pride in educating individuals about their bodies, empowering them to take control of their wellbeing.

“I focus on the parts of the body that need to be treated,” Guan affirms. “I educate my clients by explaining what I’m doing, why I’m doing it and what can cause such injuries or muscle discomfort.”

For many, GDT Massage Studio serves as a beacon of hope amidst the throes of pain and discomfort. Guan recounts the story of an elderly gentleman who entered his studio with a walking stick, burdened by knee and sciatica pain. “But when he walked out, he completely forgot his walking stick,” Guan recalls with a smile. “That excitement just makes me keep wanting to keep going and get better and better.”

Looking ahead, Guan envisions a future where GDT Massage Studio evolves into a comprehensive wellness centre, seamlessly integrating massage therapy, chiropractic care, and physiotherapy. As Guan embarks on his mission to transform GDT Massage Studio into a beacon of wellness innovation, he invites you to join him on this journey of healing and renewal.

Best business advice you've ever been given?

The best business advice I've received and implemented is to genuinely care for my clients, attentively listen to their needs, educate them on how to lead a pain-free life, and consistently value their feedback.

Secret recipe for success that first got you started?

Having a solid foundation in massage therapy techniques and an in-depth understanding of human anatomy enables the provision of top-quality services tailored to client needs. Consistently maintaining high standards of professionalism and ensuring every detail — from the treatment room's ambiance to the actual massage — meets these high standards is crucial. Being open to new methods, responsive to feedback, and staying updated with industry developments is essential for growth and adaptation. Additionally, cultivating strong relationships with clients and the local community can generate valuable referrals and encourage repeat business. These combined elements can be a fundamental recipe for successfully starting and expanding a business.

Your go-to mantra to keep you motivated?

"Stay curious, keep learning, and always strive to improve." This captures the essence of continuous growth and the pursuit of excellence, whether you're developing skills, building a business, or enhancing personal relationships.

https://www.facebook.com/gdtmassagestudioofficialpage/

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With Zenny Godden From Athletica

Super mum, dedicated fitness coach and passionate business owner, Zenny Godden continues to revolutionise Mackay’s female-only workout scene, carving out a niche market for all women who want to live well. With her 7-month-old daughter, Sylvie, in tow, Athletica founder Zenny isn't just a gym owner; she's a powerhouse of inspiration, seamlessly blending motherhood with entrepreneurial prowess.

Athletica isn't your average gym; it's a testament to Zenny's powerful passion for women's wellness, one punch or press-up at a time. Drawing on her legacy with Zenergy and Femnasium, Zenny re-branded Femnasium into Athletica in 2020 and created a new vibrant fitness hub where women of all walks of life gather to sweat, support, and thrive.

It’s a place where you'll feel the energy pulsating—a symphony of determination, camaraderie, and empowerment. Here, every kettlebell swing, every yoga pose, and every high-intensity interval echoes Zenny's mission: to sculpt not just bodies, but minds and spirits too.

She loves a laugh and will be the first to admit that she can be awkwardly goofy, but with the way she commands a class you’d never know she suffers from social anxiety.

With a firm belief that there's a gym for everyone, Zenny envisioned Athletica as more than just a place to work out, but also a community where women of all backgrounds and fitness levels can feel comfortable and empowered.

“I want people to know they can feel comfortable walking into Athletica,” she said.

“We all started somewhere and if I can help the next woman that walks through my door and help her leave feeling great about herself, then that’s what we’re about.”

The all-women environment fosters a sense of companionship and support, making it less intimidating for women to kickstart their fitness journey without fear of judgment.

Zenny's personal journey as a new mother, fuels her passion for supporting other women through every stage of life. Through her own experiences, she recognised the lack of resources and support for new mums in the fitness realm, which is why Zenny is committed to breaking down outdated beliefs surrounding pregnancy and postpartum fitness. Through Athletica's mums and bubs classes and nutritional guidance, Zenny empowers women both during and after pregnancy.

“I feel like there is a lot missing in this space and it’s one reason why I'm so passionate about our mums and bubs classes and helping women continue to train throughout their pregnancy,” Zenny said.

The popular mums and bubs class is where mothers can exercise freely with their little ones. Offering a creche service and the option to bring babies into the gym, Athletica supports mothers in prioritising their health and well-being without sacrificing time with their children.

“I believe we are the example we set for our children,” Zenny added.

Offering round-the-clock access, Athletica caters to your busy schedules, providing the flexibility needed to prioritise fitness amidst life's demands. With over 40 classes per week, including weights, HIIT, yoga and Pilates, Athletica has something for all levels of fitness enthusiasts.

Intertwined with her personal fitness endeavours, Zenny is also a qualified nutritionist and owner of Healthy Ambition. With this knowledge up her sleeve, it allows her to integrate nutrition education seamlessly into Athletica's offerings, providing women with a comprehensive approach to health and wellness all in one place.

Best business advice you've ever been given?

Stay persistent and patient: Building a successful business takes time, effort, and perseverance.

Secret recipe for success? 

I think the secret to my success in this industry and being able to make it a personally and financially rewarding career is being authentic, staying consistent in my message, and being flexible and compassionate. 

Athletica Fitness Centre

athleticamackay.com

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Terence Darby

PWR Station Strength & Recovery

Discover a place where every workout is a powerhouse session, fuelled by passion, strength, and a dash of sweat. Now only will you find power, but also peace, where rest and recovery just is as important as the resilient road to rock-hard abs.

Spearheading this fitness revolution is a powerhouse duo on a mission to supercharge the fitness scene; Terence Darby, affectionately known as Coach T, and his wife and business partner, Leonie Leonard. Together, they form the dynamic backbone of PWR Station Strength & Recovery, a fitness haven where strength meets recovery, and every rep counts towards a stronger, healthier you.

Terence's love affair with fitness began in high school, where he found refuge in the weight room, sculpting his physique and steering clear of the pitfalls that ensnared many of his peers like drugs and alcohol. Fast forward to today, and he's not just a fitness enthusiast—he's a powerhouse of motivation, guiding clients towards their fitness goals with unwavering dedication and a dash of humour.

Meanwhile, Leonie brings her expertise to the recovery side of the business, ensuring that every workout at PWR Station is balanced with proper recovery tools. Together, they offer a holistic approach to fitness, combining strength training with cutting-edge recovery services to optimise performance and help to prevent injury.

Terence and Leonie share a deep-rooted passion for health and wellness. With six children of their own, they understand the importance of setting a positive example and creating a supportive environment for their community to thrive.

“We have 6 children ages from 33 to 7,” Terence said.

All of our kids are active and have played sports - gymnastics, rugby league, basketball, dancing and just great people who make us proud every day.”

The couple also believe in switching off from the business to have a day of rest and recovery, with weekends reserved for family time.

“On Sunday’s we turn off our phones and switch off from being business owners.

“On the weekends we beach, fish, and enjoy the local area as well as clean house and do all the home things that need to be done.

“We both work long hours and fitting time in for our family on the weekend is a huge priority.”

Terence believes that working out isn’t just about fitness; it’s about transforming lives.

“We're passionate about improving health, happiness, and creating sustainable lifestyles for our clients,” he said.

“That's why we're dedicated to providing opportunity, knowledge, and unwavering support to help people not just survive, but thrive.”

Whether you're into group fitness, cardio, weights, or one-on-one sessions, Coach T is there to guide you every step of the way towards becoming a thriver in life.

At PWR Station, clients can expect a personalised approach to fitness, tailored to their unique goals and abilities.

After intense workouts, clients can indulge in PWR Recovery's comprehensive recovery amenities. From the soothing heat of the infrared sauna to the advanced technology of NormaTec boots and the revitalising effects of cryotherapy, every aspect is tailored to help clients relax, recover, and repair their bodies.

Whether you're sweating it out in a PT session or indulging in a restorative recovery treatment, one thing is certain, you'll leave feeling stronger, happier, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way.

Best Business advice you've ever been given?

“You don’t build a business, you build people and the business will follow.”

Secret recipe for success that first got you started?

“Take the risk and then keep on taking them.”

Your go-to mantra to keep you motivated?

“Don’t focus on the big end goal, focus on the smaller steps to get there and have fun celebrating the wins along the way.”

Powerstationmackay.com.au

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With EvoPrime Fitness

Fitness is a lifestyle choice where mobility is regained, newfound strength is explored, and your physical performance is matched only by a feeling of empowerment. At EvoPrime Fitness, the art of movement is reshaping what to expect from your exercise routine. Their unique health and fitness studio focuses on high quality movement, longevity, anti-ageing, wellness and vitality by introducing a training framework that includes the whole human.

Dedicated to people ‘who don’t like gyms’, EvoPrime offers a private and personalised service that allows for discretion, promotes self-belief and makes incredible transformations come true. By following a custom-designed fitness plan just three times a week, major life changes have occurred – injuries are healed and movement is restored.

Husband and wife team, Matt and Ash Lade, are the driving force behind this ground-breaking local fitness offering. They both bring their individual experiences to the genesis of this program which started back at the business’ inception in 2014. A keen rugby league player, Matt broke his ankle just two weeks before a grand final and was told he may never play again. The founder of EvoPrime, Jan Hutnan, asked him to follow a specific plan and by doing so, Matt was able to make a full recovery in time for the start of the next season.

Meanwhile, Ash has her own story to share. A self-confessed gym-junkie, she was heading to the gym seven days a week, but never getting the results she craved. Upon meeting Jan, Ash followed his program and when she reduced her workout to three times a week, the results were incredible. In fact, they compelled Ash to follow her own dreams of becoming a Personal Trainer and pursuing a career in fitness. She joined forces with Jan and has been operating the business for the past nine years. In 2019, Matt and Ash decided to officially purchase EvoPrime, and have not looked back since.

“It’s not just about performance, it’s about longevity,” said Matt. “We meet people who have been everywhere – to doctors and physios – and they’re not getting the relief or the results. By teaching them the tools to do it themselves, we give them accountability and growth.”

“That’s our big thing – we teach people to work smarter not harder,” added Ash. “We teach our clients everything they need to know so they can do it at home, they can keep progressing and use what they’ve learnt as maintenance, so they build daily habits.”

“We meet people who can’t reach down and tie their own shoelaces or haven’t been able to jump up a step for years – they are amazed how quickly they can re-learn these skills – the only reason people can’t do these things is because they’ve stopped doing them!”

Matt and Ash teach with a holistic approach, they train the connective tissue, the nervous system, the brain function – the whole framework to create space in the body where mobility, strength and dynamic performance thrive.

Offering intimate group classes with a maximum of 10 participants, EvoPrime provide three tiers of club memberships, each with their own level of assistance. Choose between a Personalised Trainer and dedicated progress plan or go for the slightly less structured lifestyle classes. There is something for everyone at EvoPrime. They also offer life coaching and are proud suppliers of DoTerra.

Operating from their brand-new dedicated training studio at 1064 Shute Harbour Road at Mt Marlow, Matt and Ash’s dream of transcending the way we do fitness has come true, and they invite you to join them in this journey.

Best thing about working together?

We are so different, Ash is more about education and I am more about the practical side.

Worst thing about working together?

Also, that we are so different!

evoprimefitness.com.au

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With Hayley And Paul From Airlie Health Hub

The purity of nature, the goodness of the garden and the simplicity of supplying fresh, healthy organic produce. The natural cycle of our precious planet seems to work best with the authentic flow of ethically sourced produce, and this growing trend captures a spirit of consumerism that humbles its origins and connects with the land.

Two individuals who are bringing us ‘back to scratch’ and re-setting the way we shop are Hayley and Paul Moran. This inspiring local couple have, for the past two and a half years, been steadily nurturing a community of people who like to shop with meaning and show care in the way they consume everyday items. Airlie Health Hub has encouraged people to ask where products come from, consider how they are sourced and learn how they impact the world around them. By doing so, they have created both a vibrant health food shop and a growing movement of deeply caring consumers.

Hayley recalls growing up in the Sunshine Coast where she was fortunate to live in an area of primary producers, “the milkman lived down the road, when we wanted honey, we went to the honey lady and it was never about supermarkets, it was all about supporting the small businesses and going to Farmer’s Markets.”

When she arrived in Airlie Beach 16 years ago, she was amazed to see this culture did not exist here in the Whitsundays. Determined to enact change within her own community she waited patiently until the time was right to create the dream of bringing fresh organic produce to the community.

Meeting Paul 11 years ago while they both worked in tourism, the couple have been married for five years and now love nothing more than running the business together. They take pride in forming friendships with local suppliers and they frequently head out to local farms where they enjoy interacting with the animals and helping to pull beautiful fresh produce out of the ground. These incredible local supplies are then brought straight to Airlie Health Hub where they are placed directly onto the shelves.

“Most of our customers who buy the food also know the farmers, as we always say ‘know your farmer, know your food’ – everyone can see where it comes from and who grows it,” explains Paul.

Excited to be welcoming in a new season of fresh produce such as local melons, pumpkins, capsicums and mushrooms, Paul and Hayley are humbled to help educate as well as change the way people choose to purchase their food and general household items. Inside their Cannonvale store, customers are welcomed into a fresh, bright and invigorating setting where every item has been carefully displayed to look both appealing and easy to browse. Organic pastas, grains, rice, flours and other dry goods are stored in clear class jars and customers are encouraged to bring their own jars or paper bag to fill up their own supplies.

At the heart of the store is the abundant fresh organic produce, a colourful centrepiece with the season’s ripest and most flavoursome fruit and veggies. To the back of the stores lies the pantry items and chemical free cleaning products. And to the side, you will find the popular Coffee Bar which serves organic coffee and locally sourced milk.

Embodying the culture of their business, Paul and Hayley are passionate advocates who love nothing more than to chat with customers and inspire a conscious community of healthy individuals who are all drawn to their central hub.

Airlie Health Hub: 157/159 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale

Phone: 4903 2604

How do you work best as a couple:

We work as a team doing it Hayley’s way!

Best part of the job?

The beautiful friends we’ve met along the way and building a community.

fb: Airlie Health Hub - Organic Bulk foods

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Jaymee and Chris Anderson

Jamaica Blue, Caneland Central

Coffee enthusiasts and food connoisseurs, rejoice!

The highly anticipated return of Jamaica Blue to Caneland Central Shopping Centre is just around the corner, with the grand re-opening set for June 7th, 2024. Situated in its familiar spot downstairs from Snap Fitness, the cafe promises to deliver a fresh wave of flavours and experiences to those who love to sip and savour.

The dynamic duo bringing Jamaica Blue back to Canelands is Chris and Jaymee Anderson, the caffeinated crusaders with a passion for quality coffee as rich as their love story.

Chris and Jaymee's story began with a chance meeting orchestrated by mutual friends in 2011. Since then, their bond has only grown stronger. Now, celebrating six years of marriage with two adorable children in tow, they're not just partners in life but also in business, ready to brew success with Jamaica Blue's grand re-opening.

Growing up in Moranbah and working in mining and health, the couple had been searching for an opportunity for a fresh start where they could turn a passion into a career.

“Owning a cafe was something we always wanted to do,” Jaymee said.

“We’ve always loved the Jamaica Blue brand, the coffee and food and the Caneland cafe was our favourite spot.

“We had already decided to purchase a Jamaica Blue at another location when the Caneland cafe became available, and everything just fell into place.”

Amidst the buzz of the re-opening, there's plenty to look forward to. From a delicious Hot N’ Spicy menu running this quarter to an enticing loyalty program, Jamaica Blue is pulling out all the stops to make this occasion memorable. When you register online, with every $30 spent customers can enjoy a complimentary coffee and, wait for it, a slice of cake during their birthday month!

But it's not just about the treats; the revamped cafe boasts a modern contemporary aesthetic, blending clean lines, bold prints, and calming colours to create an inviting ambience. The outdoor seating area also provides an additional haven for patrons, ensuring there's always room available to unwind and relish their favourite brew.

Outside of their shared love for coffee, Chris, with his background as an ex-QRL Referee, has made a lasting impact on the field, dedicating years from high school until 2018 to the sport. In 2018, his contributions were honoured with The Chris Anderson Award for Junior Referee of the Year, in recognition of his dedication.

Jaymee is all about spreading awareness for Spina Bifida and throwing awesome small parties. Plus, she's a total bookworm, finding joy in getting lost in a good read. And when footy season rolls around, she's lucky her whole family backs the Broncos too, so there's no clashing over teams!

As the grand re-opening of Jamaica Blue draws near, Chris and Jaymee are not just serving coffee; they're crafting an experience, one that resonates with their shared values of community, quality, and warmth.

So mark your calendars and prepare your palates, because the return of Jamaica Blue is set to be a brew-tiful affair that's not to be missed!

Best thing about working with each other?

“Getting to spend more time with each other in a different capacity to home life.”

Most challenging thing about working together?  

“We’re about to find out!”

Top tip for a peaceful work life with your partner?  

“Communication!”

Jamaicablue.com.au

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With Nicolette and Brett Henman

From Just Joinery and Creative Edge Cabinetry

Top quality craftmanship and creative outcomes are the pride of Brett and Nicolette Henman, the dynamic duo behind Just Joinery and Creative Edge Cabinetry. Both small, family-owned businesses aim to assist clients in creating their dream kitchens, bathrooms, custom cabinetry and all furniture and solid timber needs. Brett and Nicolette and the team are able to assist clients from design to installation, their story of two businesses serving as a testament to resilience, passion, and a commitment to excellence.

The genesis of their entrepreneurial venture began over three decades ago with Just Joinery, a testament to Mackay's rich timber craftsmanship. Brett had completed his joinery apprenticeship with the business and when it came up for sale in 2009, the couple purchased the business and embraced its legacy, infusing it with their vision and expertise. Specialising in bespoke solid timber work, from majestic staircases to intricate custom furniture, Just Joinery epitomises elegance and timeless craftsmanship.

However, recognising the need to cater to diverse markets, the couple ventured into new horizons with Creative Edge Cabinetry about five years ago. Specialising in kitchen, bathroom and laundry cabinetry, Creative Edge Cabinetry brings together functionality and aesthetics, offering affordable solutions tailored to modern living.

The synergy between Brett's mastery as a joiner and Nicolette's background in interior design is the cornerstone of their success. Nicolette praises Brett's craftsmanship, while she spearheads the creativity, design and client interactions. Theirs is a partnership grounded in a shared commitment to delivering excellence and ensuring client satisfaction.

It's this personal touch, this dedication to understanding and realising clients' dreams, that sets Just Joinery and Creative Edge Cabinetry apart. The vision of both businesses is bolstered by a dedicated team consisting of joiners, cabinetmakers and office staff who all share Brett and Nicolette’s commitment to a high level of finish. It’s these company-wide values and the talented tradespeople and team members that hold them that make both businesses as successful as they are.

As they look towards the future, the couple envisions steady growth and expansion, guided by their unwavering commitment to excellence. For them, success isn't just about business—it's about building a legacy of craftsmanship, creativity, and community.

Best thing about working with each other?

Nicolette:  Being able to liaise and come up with solutions for clients together.

Most challenging thing about working together?

Nicolette: Separating work from home life.

Top tip for a peaceful work life with your partner?

Nicolette: Respect each other’s roles and viewpoint.

www.creativeedgecabinetry.com.au

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The Deli Nook

Patrice and Simon Zarzecki

Highschool sweethearts and power couple, Patrice and Simon ventured into their entrepreneurial journey together in 2016 when they introduced grazing table and platter boxes to the Mackay region with the inception of Plattered Up.

Specialising in all thing's platter, Plattered Up quickly gained popularity, with customers often enquiring about the local availability of the items featured in their creations.

Recognising an opportunity to broaden their horizons, the couple embraced the challenge and launched The Deli Nook in 2019. Building on their expertise in crafting delicious cheese platters, meats and accompaniments, they infused their passion into every aspect of the deli's offerings. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction shaped The Deli Nook's evolution, as they listened attentively to feedback and fine-tuned their selections to cater to diverse tastes.

The Deli Nook quickly became a haven for food enthusiasts seeking quality and variety. With a menu centred around their favourite flavours and a dedication to serving exceptional coffee, the deli flourished, drawing in customers eager to indulge in a culinary experience that was both familiar and extraordinary. Through their dedication and willingness to embrace change, the couple transformed The Deli Nook into a beloved community gathering space, where lovers of gourmet food and coffee catch up and enjoy all things delicious.

What sets The Deli Nook apart is its unique model, shaped by the couple's love for food and their customers' preferences. Unlike traditional cafes, The Deli Nook is a place to get that hamper or gift for your foodie friend, grab a huge deli sandwich, pick up a lunchbox platter to take back to the office, order a grazing table or catering for your next occasion, or just enjoy a coffee and cronut and watch the world go by.  Uniquely, they also have ready-made platter boxes in store, to take home or to a friend's place for drinks.

Beyond platters, The Deli Nook serves as what they like to call a ‘foodie haven’, offering gourmet hampers with specialty deli items, the best cheeses and deli items from Australia and around the world, platter boards, cheese knives, cookbooks and more. Corporate gifting is also a significant aspect of their business, with customised hampers tailored to suit clients' requirements.

The couple describe their establishment as quirky, fun and above all, a community hub.

The Deli Nook invites you to not only stop by for coffee, but engage in conversations, share stories and build connections with an enveloped sense of belonging.

“We love to hear about your day, how the kids are going, what restaurants you tried on your last getaway and we’re here to make a happy place where people feel comfortable to relax and enjoy great food, great coffee and great company.”

For Patrice and Simon, The Deli Nook is more than just a business, it's a labour of love aimed at creating memorable experiences and fostering connections within their community. By prioritising quality food, excellent coffee and genuine hospitality, they've succeeded in crafting a welcoming space where customers feel valued and at home.

Pop in today and enjoy take away at its most gourmet!

Best thing about working with each other?

Patrice - You have a deep understanding of your partners daily opportunities and challenges and have the ability to help them and share the load.

Simon - Knowing that all of our achievements we’ve done together.

Most challenging thing about working together?

Patrice - Leaving work at work – I’m the worst at this!

Simon - Knowing if Patrice has a tape measure or clipboard in her hand, it means work for me.

Top tip for a peaceful work life with your partner?

Patrice - Don’t try to run every part of the business together, find your separate strength areas and work to them.

Simon - Respect your partner’s decisions in their area/s of the business and support them.  If you don’t believe in them who will?

platteredup.com.au

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Chris and Tammy Laval

Mackay City Property

Tammy and Chris Laval’s story is one of serendipity and shared adventures. Meeting on the idyllic island of Moorea, Tahiti, they forged a connection that would endure through various twists and turns.

“Our love story is pretty special given we met in one of the most beautiful places on Earth,” Chris said.

“We were both working for the same company in Moorea and my office was right across the hallway from where Tammy’s was.”

Their drive for adventure took them to Bangkok, where they embraced new roles in an International School, exploring life and love in the vibrant city. Later, they reunited in New Caledonia, navigating odd jobs and uncertainties before deciding to make Australia their permanent home.

Arriving in the Whitsundays, they climbed the corporate ladder together, but with the arrival of their children and changes in the hospitality industry, they made the pivotal decision to return to Mackay. Chris embarked on a new career path by joining Tammy’s father in real estate in a partnership role. He later grew it into a large franchise before taking it solo with Tammy re-joining him as a working mother. A year later they welcomed Sandra Macklin as a business partner.

Their collective efforts have established Mackay City Property as a formidable force in the local real estate landscape, renowned for delivering quality personalised service.

Tammy said that their client testimonials speak volumes, with the Property Management Team earning the prestigious No. 1 status in Mackay on RateMyAgent.

“Additionally, the combined efforts of the sales and rental teams have propelled Mackay City Property to become the highest-reviewed real estate agency in Google rankings,” she added.

Chris said the business thrives on the foundation of trust, integrity, and genuine relationships that have been cultivated over the years.

“It's not just about turning a profit; it's about providing a sustainable career path and a secure future for our team,” he said.

“In an ever-changing market, we've weathered tough times by remaining honest, professional, and respectful of our clients' needs. Adaptation and continuous improvement are at the core of our ethos, ensuring that we always strive to deliver excellence in everything we do."

Chris, once a seafarer hailing from an island, found solace in the depths of nature when he traded his maritime adventures for a camera. Photography became his new passion, leading him to remote corners of the region to capture the raw beauty of wildlife. Recently, during a family campover in Eungella, Chris had an encounter with a platypus, capturing the playful creature on film as it rolled and scratched on a riverside rock—a moment akin to witnessing a scene from a David Attenborough documentary come to life.

Advocating for Mackay’s city heart, Tammy has immersed herself in community placemaking through her involvement with MKY City Heart Collective. She has taken the lead in coordinating the Bee Mindful Mural, set to be installed in the 7th Laneway of the City Heart, coinciding with World Bee Day, bringing art to public spaces, and fostering a sense of identity and belonging within the community.

"For me, it's about more than just painting murals; it's about transforming urban spaces into vibrant hubs of creativity and connection,” she said.

“Now that I've had a taste of what and how that can be achieved, I'd like to see more done.”

Best thing about working with each other?

Chris: “Being in a family business together is cool.

“You build something more than just a family, you also build a legacy.  

Most challenging thing about working together?  

Tammy: “Like any relationship, when there is disharmony, how you both move on from that, is the tester, and defining where your work-life balance sits is essential.  

“Add to that, having to adapt to life's challenges and changes, how you navigate that balance is the challenge and reward.”

Top tip for a peaceful work life with your partner?  

Chris: “Focus not just on building, but nourishing, the relationship and take plenty of time off as a couple.  

“Running a family business is taxing on time, make sure you always check in with each other making sure it’s really what you both want.  Re-evaluate and adjust if necessary.  At the end of the day, the most important aspect is each other, never lose sight of it.

Mackaycityproperty.com.au

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Frank Attard and Nadine Becker

Once upon a time, in the bustling realm of business in Mackay, there existed a tale as old as time – the story of a beauty and a beast of industry. In this enchanting fairytale, two proprietors, Nadine Becker and Frank Attard, each reign over their own kingdoms of commerce.

Nadine, the enchantress of elegance, presides over Ella Bache, a salon renowned for its indulgent offerings and meticulous attention to detail. From the ethereal glow of laser treatments to the delicate skill of designer brows and lashes, Nadine's realm is a haven of relaxation and refinement. Nadine herself is preparing to study the fine art of brow tattooing adding to the magical menagerie of beauty treatments available.

Meanwhile, across the enchanted lands of Paget, Frank stands as the formidable guardian of Key Solutions Group. A titan in the field of innovation and ingenuity, Key Solutions reigns supreme as the cornerstone of engineering excellence. With its mighty facilities in Mackay boasting colossal crane capacities and sprawling laydown areas to test major equipment, Key Solutions stands ready to conquer any challenge that crosses its path.

Evolving over the years to meet the needs of its clients, KSG acquired Ralph Builders last year to form KSG Civil & Construction to complement the business’ existing engineering, structural and mechanical capabilities. KSG has also merged recently with Mackay Electrical to form KSG Electrical. In parallel, the emergence of augmented reality, AI and robotics has seen KSG implement a number of cutting-edge processes. The arrival of welding robots will increase productivity and give the KSG team advanced skills.

So, how did it come to be that a beast of industry and a Queen of beauty fell in love?

We sat down with the couple to find out!

How did you meet?

“I used to work in the car industry,” Nadine said.

“He took me for a coffee and a walk we chatted for what felt like minutes but was in fact hours.”

With your businesses being in very different industries, what commonalities do you talk about?

“All of our organisations are driven by solid relationships and community involvement,” Frank said.

“We also will talk about ideas to innovate whether it be in Beauty or Industry.”

We hear you are getting married soon, any hints on location?

Nadine laughed, “Sorry family and friends, no spoiler alerts!

“We are looking forward to having a beautiful relaxed day with our children, family and close friends.

“Marrying my best friend will truly be beautiful no matter where or how.”

Outside of business talk, what other passions do you share?

“Our children,” Frank said, “We both love supporting them, being around them and their interests.

“We also love to get to the beach and reef and do some fishing with the family. Nadine and I also go to the gym together daily.”

Tell us a bit about your family?

Frank is the oldest of 7, I myself am the youngest of 7 - and in our family, we have 7 children,” Nadine said.

“We are a very close family we have been so lucky to have such beautiful kind and hard-working kids. We really are so blessed.

Ellabache.com.au

Keysolgroup.com.au

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