Great tips and glad tidings for 2024Living Gems homeowners have plenty to look forward to in their wonderful, active communities. As the bells ring in a brand-new year, a few share their wisdom and hope for the next 12 months. “Most years our resolution is to lose weight but this year we’re looking forward to our latest challenge, having volunteered to work in the bar when our new Country Club opens. It’s a great way to meet people and we want to meet as many as possible.” Irene and Larry Clifford, Amber by Living Gems “We’d like to travel more in 2024. There are plenty of places in Australia that we haven’t seen and some we have that we’d like to go back to. We have two trips already planned.” Lance and Aileen Cause, Living Gems Caboolture Riverfront “We’re looking forward to our new Country Club and being able to socialise more with everyone. With all the fabulous new facilities, we also plan to exercise...

They say variety is the spice of life, and this is certainly the case when it comes to serving up a healthy meal for the family after over-indulging over the holiday season.Chef Matt Conquest recommends his chimichurri steak recipe which he describes as not only tantalisingly scrumptious but also easy to make. It adds a fresh finish to your steak and the ingredients work well with chicken and fish too, making the dish ideal for several variations.You can serve it with grilled corn and greens, or you can use it in a beef taco or a soft tortilla or, alternatively, eat it off the barbecue plate on its own.A quality cut of meat always works best so select a good rib fillet, porterhouse or T-bone for the best flavour. The chimichurri mix can be made the day before to allow the flavours to develop and come together. Ingredients 4 x 300g rib fillet steak 1 cup fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped 1/4 cup chopped...

Five design tips to get your alfresco summer readyAs the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, what better time to give your Living Gems alfresco space a fresh, summery makeover.Living Gems Manager of Interior Design Jennifer Kyle has curated her top five tips to help you make the most of your alfresco area and create an oasis that's perfect for sipping cocktails, hosting brunches, or simply unwinding under the summer sky. 1. Create a green paradise Add lush greenery to your alfresco space to infuse life and vibrancy. Hanging plants, potted herbs, and vertical gardens can transform even the smallest nooks into a green paradise. Make use of wall-mounted planters and railing hooks to maximise vertical space, and don't forget to water your plants to keep them flourishing throughout the summer. 2. Set the mood with lighting Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere for summer evenings. From floor lamps and hurricane lanterns to garden bollards and candles,...

White Christmas trifle is a delightful dessert that's perfect for the holiday season. Chef Matt Conquest shares his tried and true recipe for this easy to make and oh-so-delicious festive favourite. This trifle can be made in individual glasses or made in a trifle stand for all to enjoy. Ingredients (Serves 4-6) For the White Christmas layer: 200g white chocolate, chopped 2 cups Rice Bubbles 1 cup desiccated coconut 1 cup mixed dried fruit, such as raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots 395g can sweetened condensed milk For the trifle layers: 1 litre of vanilla custard 1 pack of your favourite jelly 1 cup heavy cream, whipped 500g of sponge cake 1 pack mini marshmallows Fresh berries, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, for the layers and garnish For the top Additional whipped cream Toasted coconut flakes Mini marshmallows Ferrero Rocher, chocolate and coconut varieties White chocolate shavingsMethod Start by making the White Christmas layer:In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Bubbles, desiccated coconut, mixed dried fruit. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval...