Author: Sam

Port Douglas Creative Flow Writing Retreat


Or maybe about your knowledge on a specialist topic…

Or maybe your book will be used as a marketing tool for your business?

Whatever your reason for writing a book can be one of the most powerful process you will experience.

Writing helps you clarify your message, show your expertise, enable people to day dream through your story telling or capture a time in your life.

Interestingly, writing a book, like public speaking, is perceived to be  daunting and overwhelming, so many don’t take up the opportunity.

This will lead to lost sales, lost timing to bring out your message or an opportunity to leave your children a wonderful legacy. 

Instead of worrying about what might be, understand that you are not alone in feeling apprehensive.

I would like to take the fear out if the process and invite you to my Book Writing Blueprint Retreat so you can create your book with passion and joy.

Once your creative juices are warmed up and you are given the blueprint, you will be surprised how much of an author you are.

This process is best done away from “the every day distractions” so I invite you to my five day Book Writing Retreat in tropical Port Douglas this October. 

This is the outline for the upcoming Port Douglas retreat.

We start on Monday 17th October 2022 in the afternoon.

As long as you arrive mid afternoon you will be fine.

The retreat includes a call with me before hand to answer any questions you may have and a guide I have put together on what to expect.

This is the outline of the retreat program and is a guide only as some things may change when we are there.

Venue, Sheraton Port Douglas

Monday 17th October

Let the Creative Juices Flow

Port Douglas is an hours drive from Cairns.

Most hotels will offer a shuttle or your travel agent can assist with transport from Cairns airport to Port Douglas.

Once you have settled into your hotel, we will catch up at the the villa I have hand selected for our retreat (AKA the Creative Hub), on the magnificent property, Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas.

This is a small focused group so no need to arrive hours beforehand for an early registration & to secure a front seat but I do appreciate everyone arriving by 2pm.

I will be focused on each individual and my intention is for each person to achieve their book blueprint over the five days. 

This afternoon, after a mind blowing introduction to what is possible with your own book, we dive into letting go of the rational side of our brain and permit our creative side to flourish. 

The suppressed innovation, ideas, opportunities that lie within one’s own mind is surprising and is waiting for the invitation to surface.

We shall spend the afternoon in that process, in a relaxed safe, creative space, using art therapy techniques to unleash your deeper desires.

After time for a swim or pool cocktail, we head off to dinner at a local restaurant that serves amazing tropical and local foods. 

Great Food tonight

Tuesday 18th Discovery Day + Book Writing

Today is a big day of letting the creative juices flow into ideas.

Today you will discover why writing a book is the key to sending your message to the world and an insight the power book writing offers.

We will help you define your “why” and clarify your message.

You can explore what format to write, first person, observational or fictitious. We will discuss the pros and cons of an ebook or book intended to be published, or even a brochure. (Many find this day hugely beneficial for their business aswell).

Once you can see your avatar and audience I will show you how to write specifically to them. 

Then it’s pens down and off to the magic Daintree and Mossman Gorge.

Mossman Gorge

The afternoon is spent immersing yourself in nature, allowing the newly creative neuropaths ways to connect and settle. There is a time for a swim in the lush, warm waters of the Mossman Gorge and admire our first nations land, then head up to the Daintree River.

On the Daintree River we embark on a ecofriendly barge that explores the river and grooves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed river. Crocodiles, birds, fish and plant life are abundant in this part of the world. Have your camera ready.

After a relaxing trip home, we arrive back at the creative hub and you are free to relax and experience Port Douglas. Maybe try a paddle at Hemingsways Brewery?

Hemingway Brewery

Wednesday 19th Book Blueprint Revealed

Book titles

Today is the powerhouse day where I show you how to write your book with ease and enjoyment! 

That’s correct, the process of writing should and can be enjoyable.

I will show you the blueprint that has enabled me to write nine published books, with two best sellers.

We will discuss how to construct a book, logical chapters, brainstorm titles and even play with some covers.

This is a fun day and will leave you feeling inspired.

Join the group for a mocktail or cocktail by the pool before enjoying the night off to enjoy for your own leisure and exploring. 

Thursday 20th October Leveraging Your Book

GBR

Today we have a late start so you can further explore the region. Maybe organise a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, snorkel the Lowe Islands, or do a local fishing experience.

We start at 1pm today and launch straight into the power behind book writing.

I will introduce you to the potential once you become a book writer… that’s right, once you are a published author and the avenues it can take you on.

We hook up with a highly successful special guest who discusses how he has used his book to leverage a podcast series, run 5 day challenges and raise money for charity and higher purpose.

Join in the fun tonight as we dine at a local restaurant to celebrate our new connections and learnings.

Food Port Douglas 2

Friday 21st Media Activation Day

If it’s one thing I know really well that is how to get your message out to the world. 

Having featured on all the main TV stations, leading newspapers, radios and key interviews in magazines I can show you how to take your book to the next level.

You see, once you publish your book, you are an expert.

I will show you how this can be used to create speaking opportunities, media gigs, inspire your audience and more. 

Today is our last day and is incredibly mind opening for the entrepreneur or person who wants to leave a legacy.

The day finishes at lunch.

This will give you time to catch your plane or stay a little longer and really immerse yourself into what is going to be a ground breaking retreat for many.

The retreat is limited to seven people only.

Reserve your place NOW with a non refundable deposit.

This will book out. 

The cost for the retreat includes:

  • 5 days of coaching by me
  • My book blueprint to write your best seller
  • 1 afternoon of art innovation and creation
  • 2 Dinners, 2 lunches, 1 morning tea and 3 afternoon nibbles
  • 1 x pool side mocktail or cocktail
  • Bus tour to Mossman Gorge, Daintree River
  • Entry into Mossman Gorge
  • Daintree River Tour
  • My hottest tips for getting in the media, including TV, radio & print

The following is not included in the pricing:

  • Accommodation
  • Travel flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Alcohol
  • Additional water
  • Air port pick ups and drop offs
  • The cost is $4497 AUD

The retreat is loved by all whom attend and I would like to extend the same offerings to you.

BOOK and make a non-refundable $300 deposit.

*** EARLY BIRD special ***

Pay your deposit by 30th June 2022 and receive $500 off the price.

Instead of $4497 it’s only $3997!

After June 30th

Retreat costs are $4497

** There are only 7 spots on this very hands on, book writing retreat so book now ***

Please feel free to send me inquiries directly or any questions you may have to here.

To pay your non refundable deposit click here

OR to pay in full click here

Thank you

Pressing Matters – a Premium Tasmanian Wine

Set away from the main stretch of wines through Coal River, Tasmania but only thirty minutes from the heart of Hobart, is Pressing Matters.

A small vineyard set on the dry mountain side of Tea Tree.

The winery was established in 1986 and is one of the original in the area. With 54 gold medals and 37 trophies, these are some serious wines!

Wine judge and wine lovers, Greg and his wife Michelle have had the property for many years and wine tasting is by appointment only. Call the property here.

We are met by Michelle for our tasting and try all of their wines. They have three rieslings (which are particularly good in Tassie). They are names according to their residual content and unashamedly I like the 69 the best!

The 2018 Riesling R69 is a full yet delicate wine. It reminds me of the Jim Barry Riesling in so much that they both pull off the sweet factor as it is balanced with a depthy wine. It’s almost too nice though and one can forget it is alcoholic but I guess that can be said for all wines!

The Morningside range have been blended with their neighbouring vineyard to produce some very nice wines. The Morningside Pinot Noir doesn’t bounce my socks off as much as their own pure Pinot Noir but is definitely quaffable. The Cabernet is also a lovely drop with some earthern over tones but note as bold and grandiose as the Barossa Cabs we have come used to. I also like this one alot.

Definitely worth calling ahead to arrange a tasting especially if you like and know your wines. Michelle is very welcoming and feels more like a lost friend.

They have a wine club which looks pretty special too.

Super Yacht art works Monaco

Art on super yachts are breath taking!

One of the best places in the world to experience these mini art galleries is the Monaco Yacht Show, which is held annually in Sept in the sovereign principality.

Fringed along the Cote D’azure coast line, the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) is worth the annual pilgrimage for the incredible boats, latest in marine toys (single person underwater subs etc), art works and anything nautilus.

The Monaco Yacht Show is a fanciful array of beauty.

Beautiful people (seriously – good looking, incredibly dressed people), beautiful scenery (Porte de Monaco is special) and beautiful art works.

These are some of the amazing art pieces on some of the luxury yachts. Baring in mind many of these yachts house some of the world’s richest art collections.

art work
art work on My Dream Super Yacht

 

 

 

 

IMG_1869

 

 

 

Potager, Carool NSW

Potager is a delightful surprise hidden beyond the country suburb of Bilambil south of the Gold Coast.

Established in 2006 by Pete and Gareth with a grand vision to grow and source local food – served with exuberant intent. They nailed it!

Fast track to now and the vision lives on and is evident in every dish made and served. It’s a special part of the dream and the intent is certainly evident in the attention to detail, amazing menu and a relaxing venue.

Unfortunately one of the partners passed away in 2019 but everyone is happy and committed in his spirit.

On our visit we are met by a beautiful rustic home set amongst an enlivened field with a seductive edible garden.

The staff are all very competent and eager to say hello. The ethos of the restaurant/community is to support local including the staff.

The views over the valley are delightful and the wine list substantial.

We are with a few friends and cocktails are ordered.

For entree we share the fair game, wild venison carpaccio, pickled plum, mushroom, tarragon pesto, lemon myrtle cracker.

Wild venison carpaccio with pickled plum

My main course didn’t sound that much on the menu but was delicious with lots of subtle and Peruvian sudado de pescado(fish stew). Whilst the menu changes depending on what is in season and available the stew is always available. I will be going back for the fish stew for sure. Warming, nourishing and flavours full of the depth of the sea.

The fish stew is to die for

It is one of the dishes designed and kept as a tribute. I really rate the fish stew but would go so far as to recommend everything on the menu. My friends have the duck which melts in your mouth whilst my partner has local caught fish which was so well cooked.

Succulent duck

What I love most about Potager is the local grown vegetables used with every dish. It is like a blessing from the planet to your plate.

Thank you so much guys, we will be back again soon,

xx

The Hairy Arm – Shiraz

At first I wasn’t too sure about The Hairy Arm Shiraz outside of Sunbury, north west of Melbourne.

It is in the heavier Australian red style of wine but during the day I actually like this wine.

The aroma gets the thumbs up with its complex layers.

The wine is like a jam sandwhich that grandma used to make, comforting for the soul, reminiscent of childhook memories and delightful palate.

4.2/5

Watergate, Port Douglas

Situated right in town but feeling like an oasis set under the rainforest canopy is Watergate.

My friend had recommended it as one of her favourite restaurants in Port Douglas and it didn’t disappoint. The staff are awesome – David met us and was very amiable and informative then handed over to Jill.

The Watergate menu is great – not too much but enough to have a wide selection without boggling you down and making you go around in circles.

Offering an interesting selection of Australian fare with Asian influences we settle on the Crocodile Karaage, Lamb Ribs in Korean sauce, Tuna Tataki and Watergate salad.

We paired ours with a Tasmanian Freycinet Chardonnay. It is perfect for the climate and perfect with the food.

Crocodile Karaage

It was very quiet today and we were spoilt by the staff but try to book ahead for lunch or dinner.

I am sure you will be happy with the food and the bill at the end as it is not over the top expensive. Rating 4.2/5

Jericho Fume Blanc

This wine is interesting! Jericho Fume Blanc is a fun experiment for people to try. 

We sourced ours from Emmanuel’s Wine Shop in Kingscliffe.

This family owned winery have taken the Sauvignon Blanc grape into a French oak barrel and left it for a few months to infuse with the  flavours and essence of the Adelaide Hills.

I found the initial nose quite confronting and not that pleasant at all. Maybe a little like cat’s urine.

It is sweet tasting.

The floral aromas swing around on your tongue and coat the tip of your tongue with an interesting experience. I found the wine grew on me with further consumption but what wine doesn’t.

Overall, after sharing a bottle with my partner, we are giving this a 3.2/5. Vivino (click the link below) rate it as 3.9/5. 

If you like trying different wines give it a go but maybe hold back on the case until you decide definitively whether you like it or not. 

You can orders your below. Click on the shop now.

Maman Burleigh Heads

Maman has just opened in Burleigh Heads and sometimes Saturdays and trips to the hardware shop end up as random days discovering new restaurants.

This is one of those Saturdays and this is our Maman discovery.

After an organic shop at the Burleigh Markets we are in search of flowers and find ourselves wandering along the streets of Burleigh Heads. It’s a hot day that rapid morphs to a winters day due to a sudden cold front and storm hitting Burleigh.

It’s lunch time and I spot (almost) a hole in the wall.

Entrance to Maman is via Justin Lane.

It’s exciting as it is new, bright and decked out in a Greek theme.

Being in Greece last year I totally resonate with the decor, the all white outfits the staff are wearing and the contrasting blues set against white.

It feel fresh, modern and exciting.

I wish I could say the food was as great at the atmosphere but unfortunately it is lacking.

My partner and I both foodies, restaurant owners and nutritionists would be giving this an overall rating of 3/5.

The ambience and space would be 4.3/5, but the food really lets it down. Maybe it will catch up as flavours are really nailed and food improves.

You can book on their site here.

Hartvest Newrybar, NSW

The paddock to plate, garden to plate philosophy of Harvest, saw it booked out for Oprah and her entourage in 2010 when she visited. 

Since then, this once bakery, cafe has become a destination. 

Now days the main highway bypasses the town and it’s probably best to put the address into your maps and understand you’ll be weaving a little bit through the country side before arriving. 

You won’t be disappointed. 

The township of Nearby is quiticential of most Australian towns in the northern rivers of New South Wales; a pub, a garage and a milk bar. Harvest has certainly put the town on the map and now the town boasts an art and homeware collective, an antique shop and a few other places to drift in and out of.

We didn’t make a booking (I strongly recommend you do) so we sat on the balcony. It was a rainy cold winter’s day but fortunately the heater on the deck and the food distracted from the cool.

We weren’t necessarily after a big long lunch, so settled on the carrots (grown on site) roasted in the oven with …

Totally delicious.

For main, I chose a burger which was OK. The produce was locally sourced but not abundant. I get it, it’s a fine dining restaruant. 

My partner had the eye fillet which was also wonderful but served as it. You really need to order sides.

I was a little bit disappointed with the menu on this day but apparently it changes regularly depending on the seasonal foods and produce available. 

To be fair we didn’t have a booking, the place was pumping with people streaming in regularly and was clearly very popular. 

The gardens are uplifting and worth strolling through, as much of the product served inside is from their own garden. A fully functioning bakery is out the back and you can see the guys in action as well as having their own bee hives.

The importance of bees and pollination of crops a very topical conversation piece in the Northern Rivers. On this ocassion food was 4/5, service 5/5. WE will be back to see if we can give them the 10/10.

Bookings a must. 

Balboa Italian, Palm Beach

You know when you hear mixed revues about a restaurant, rather than inspire it tends to make you pause to race there? This was my response to Balboa. A silly trap that I have fallen into before  which only has lead to denial of a wonderful Italian restaurant boasting very good food.

The purpose built Balboa Italian situated on the Gold Coast Highway in Palm Beach opened only a few years ago.  

Sporting a healthy clientele and return customers because of their pizzas, (they look amazing), the pasta (apparently the gnocchi is to die for) and the al la carte.

I was super impressed by the table service which in a country like Australia is often lacking. 

We order an Italian chardonnay – I’m not sure that is was a true chardonnay but a delicate light white, more like a chablis from France. Perfect for our meal.

Scallops for entree which were delicious, light and tasty.

The calamari salad also delicious and could be a meal in its own right. Light, tasty healthy. 

For mains we share the lamb shoulder which is delicately served on a bed of puree, beans and tomatoes.

We accompany this with the house made potato chips and aolii and broccolini.

The cocktails are wonderful and my partner orders an old fashion which is served with the smoke trapped inside the glass.

I can highly recommend it. Service 5/5, food 5/5 overall 10/10.

Bookings are a must.