TRAVEL & LOCATION

OUR LATEST BLOG POSTS // Travel & Location

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Prescript Recruitment helps you find great places to work, whether you're a Doctor interested in a locum, full-time or part-time position.

Merry Christmas!

We hope you have a very Merry Christmas. Thank you for your encouragement and support during Prescript's first year.  We look forward to working with you in 2016!

Best wishes

James, Nicola and Ian.

P.S. We are open during the holiday season if you need us - 02 8399 5370 // radiology@prescript.com.au

Hervey Bay & Maryborough QLD - Location Report

WHAT
WHERE
HERVEY BAY & MARYBOROUGH

quintessential FRASER COAST

Here's an overview focused around the main towns of the Fraser Coast, Hervey Bay and Maryborough.

Situated around 290km North of Queensland’s state capital, Brisbane, the Fraser Coast and surrounds in the greater Wide Bay-Burnett region, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and discover some of Australia’s most prized natural wonders.

With its delightfully warm climate, pristine coastline and stunning scenery, the Fraser Coast is a perfect destination for those wanting some quintessential Australian beach-life and adventures on the water.

Hervey Bay and Maryborough are just 30km, or about 20 minutes drive apart making it easy to move between the two and the road through from Brisbane provides easy access. There are also flights depending on where you're traveling from.

HERVEY BAY

A relaxed town with a population of around 63,000, is a great base to stay, explore the town itself and relax into the many beach activities and café culture right there. From here, you can access what are without a doubt, the ‘must experience’ activities and destinations. There are plenty to choose from and luckily, very well resourced information available in regional tourism sites, to help you plan exactly what you want to do.

With over 40km of pristine beaches stretching out from it, Hervey Bay is the place to experience world class fishing; boating culture; water sports of every type - and the 'laid back' vibe that can give even the most over-worked city visitor the chance to change down a few gears and totally relax. If you like fresh seafood then you're in luck too!

MARYBOROUGH

Maryborough by contrast to Hervey Bay’s salty, beach-led lifestyle,  has a lovely change of pace into a historic, heritage town that offers a wonderful insight into colonial life and industry of days gone by.  The charming old port city of Maryborough was in the mid 1800s, a thriving port town second only to Sydney as Australia’s main immigration point for thousands of new settlers who flocked here. The original wharf district has now been converted to a heritage precinct, Portside which is another ‘must see’ to add onto the list.

One claim to fame loved by the locals, is the fact that Maryborough, named for the Mary River, is the birthplace of much loved Mary Poppins author, Pamela Travers.

A good way to explore the town is a peaceful wander around the historic streets with the old homes and pubs giving a glimpse into times gone by in some part of Australian history.

DON'T MISS...

We’ve selected just two special features of the surrounding region to feature. There are so many things to choose from, including all water sports, fishing and boating, but whale watching, and of course, a trip to the iconic Fraser Island had to be top of the list.

FRASER ISLAND

World Heritage-listed Fraser Island is surely one of the Earth’s ultimate islands. The incredible beaches accessible by boat and from the stunning 120km of beach highway have to be experienced to be believed. As do the astonishing coloured sands. And as if that’s not enough, you then have the cool of the towering, ancient rainforests to walk through plus over one hundred freshwater lakes to swim in including the iconic Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby.

Of course with all this to see, it’s ideal to dedicate at least a few days to the island. Accommodation on offer ranges from casual and low budget, right through to luxury eco lodges.

If you’re short on time however, even a day trip over from Hervey Bay will give you a taste of the beauty that is Fraser Island.

WHALE WATCHING

The Fraser Coast is recognized at the World Capital for whale watching. Seeing the magnificent humpback whales in close proximity from a boat and hearing all about them from well-educated staff is something not to be missed. There are all sorts of tours and packages to choose from so it’s worth having a browse to find one that suits your wishes.

Boats are well equipped and tours often include lunch or other refreshments. It’s a great family experience to have and a memorable one for anyone.

Don’t forget your camera!

EATING & DRINKING

Like many parts of Australia, there is a growing passion on the Fraser Coast for local, seasonal food and an emphasis on sustainable fishing and good practices for farming and looking after animals and land. It’s worth exploring seeking out the restaurants and cafes that live by these principals.

Here you can browse a comprehensive guide to cafes, restaurants and bars all over the Fraser Coast, find exactly what you want, whether it’s fine dining, chips on the wharf, or anything in between.

Farmers markets are always the places to find the best produce, artisan products, healthy food, indulgent treats and a offer a chance to interact and get to know some of the friendly locals.

This link to farming, food and produce, gives you a great overview of the locations and details for all the local markets.

This incredible, year-round warm and sunny climate, teamed with the myriad of wonderful natural experiences on both land and sea, make it a pretty appealing place to come for a few days or more. See the links provided throughout this article further information to help you choose some ideal activities for you.

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Prescript can help great Doctors find great places to work (Locum or Permanent) in Hervey Bay & Maryborough. Interested?  Call me +61 0405429799 or email nicola@prescript.com.au - I'd love to hear from you.

Alternatively, click on the button below to 'register as a candidate', 'subscribe for updates' or 'request a call'. 

Wellbeing for Radiologists

HEALTHY RADIOLOGISTS

For those working in healthcare, specifically in this instance, radiologists, there can be a concerning contrast, or disconnect, between looking after other people whilst you’re at work; and looking after yourself and your family at home.

The term 'work-life balance' is regularly heard but what does it mean? And more specifically, what does it mean to you?

We are exploring this subject further at Prescript through talking to radiologists and other professionals in the field of wellbeing. From this, we will bring you inspirational examples of healthy work-life balance being demonstrated.  Our facilitation of open discussion is to capture and promote ideas on how we can all create and maintain a healthy, happy workplace and home.

Prescript Radiology Recruitment was founded on the principles of health and wellbeing.  This encompasses our radiologists; the imaging centres we partner with and by association, the patients you are caring for. Building our services around health and wellbeing was intuitive to us because it aligned with our own personal priorities too. When exploring this concept, it opened further thoughts on how we can have a positive influence on and provide assistance to radiologists. What are the markers for people for living at their best?

What seems logical but appears to be often overlooked is the following concept:

“‘When an individual feels valued, balanced, satisfied and inspired, they will bring the best of themselves into their world, seamlessly – into all their interactions in the workplace, home, community and their natural environment.’”

If we take each of these principles in turn, we are able to look at how, in the world of radiology, they can be applied and improved.

FEELING VALUED

Appreciation, thanks, gratitude shown for efforts made, all help to build a harmonious workplace where radiologists and other staff feel good about being there. A simple concept. Small actions make a big difference. Action? What about consciously voicing thanks to others for the likes of: stepping up to a challenging situation; for working with care; for a friendly face and a smile; for a positive attitude that brings a good energy to the room?

FEELING BALANCED

Knowing that you have your own best mix of variety and interesting challenges in life is important. When we are out of balance, feelings of insecurity, fear, overwhelm and discontent are commonly noted. Having time to relax, time to learn and time to contribute fully at work and home can give us that sense of purpose and balance which greatly contributes to wellbeing.

FEELING SATISFIED

When you do what you love, in the right environment, it’s remarkable how alive you feel, how you don’t feel tired, how content you feel, and generally just happy to be there - even with the normal difficult challenges, disappointments and things that happen in all our lives. Cultivating a good, resilient attitude can contribute incredibly to your feelings of satisfaction - Appreciating and building on the parts of life you want to grow is a concept we can all put into practice.

FEELING INSPIRED

What lights you up? What puts you in a state of being that feels your best self?  How does it feel when you’re engaged with someone or something where time passes in that “timeless” way? Connecting with things you’re passionate about feeds us. Do you find aspects of this in your work place and personal life to enjoy?

Our personal health, encompassing mental, emotional and physical wellbeing, must surely be a priority for us as individuals, as family members, as work and community teams and as employers. 

We look forward to bringing you inspiring accounts of people who have learned to thrive in their professional and personal environment and can so help others to do the same.  

Please contact us, Nicola Speer or James Hill at Prescript Radiology Recruitment. We would love to hear your views, advice and experiences in the greater radiology world.

Noosa - Location Report

Whatever way you relax, you'll find it in Noosa, the Relaxation Capital of Australia. Find out more at www.visitnoosa.com.au.

Quintessential Noosa

Noosa is a stylish and relaxed town on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.  Famous for its scenery, beaches and food, it makes a perfect location to have a break.

What To Do First?

Explore Hastings Street - it is the main street in Noosa - full of restaurants, bars, boutique shops and galleries.  By day, you will see surfers with their boards alongside smart shoppers with boat shoes & Panama hats.  By night, the street is lit with fairy lights hanging from the trees and the atmosphere feels very Mediterranean with people strolling from open-air bars to the beachside restaurants.

Where To Try?

There are so many great choices it's impossible to list them all here.  Two places that ought to be on your list are:

An elegant option - Sails Restaurant - modern Australian cuisine, beach views, great for a special lunch or dinner. 

A relaxed, but trendy option - Miss Moneypenny's - lovely outside decking area.  Serves cocktails and very tasty pizzas.

Beaches

Noosa Main Beach is right by Hastings Street and is patrolled all year round.  Great location to learn how to surf or just to relax on the beach.  If you want to explore you must visit Noosa National Park.   Its entrance is right by the end of the beach and the walk to Hell's Gates rewards you with great views.

Romance

Bring your own bottle of wine and catch a sunset cruise.  Ice bucket and glasses provided, you can cruise the river & canals.  A very relaxing way to start your evening and see some places that are only accessible by water.

“We make it, bake it, grow it, sew it”.   

Only a 20 minute drive away, Eumundi Markets are open every Wednesday & Saturday and definitely worth visiting.  Their ethos is “we make it, bake it, grow it, sew it” and you'll find individual stalls selling paintings, jewellery, furniture and also great food.

What's On?

Noosa has a full calendar of things to do - from a Surf Festival to a Jazz Festival with everything in-between!  The Visit Noosa website is brilliant for an overview of things you need to know about what's happening in Noosa.

How to get there

It's easy! Sunshine Coast Airport is a 30 minute drive and has regular direct Sydney/Melbourne flights OR you can arrive via Brisbane Airport. There are lots of shuttle buses available if you don't want to drive.

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About Prescript Recruitment

For more information, a great place to start is www.prescript.com.au

You'll find information about our locum and permanent recruitment services for doctors, hospitals and practices.  You'll also find links to our blogs, location reports and other resources.

1300 755 498 // contact@prescript.com.au

ROAST ORGANIC CAULIFLOWER, CUMIN & CORIANDER SOUP

HEALTHY

DELICIOUS

FOOD

ENJOY THE COMING WINTER DAYS WITH OUR

ROAST ORGANIC CAULIFLOWER, CUMIN & CORIANDER SOUP

I’ve long said that soup is one of the major benefits of cold, winter weather. This one is a winner and so easy. It’s beautiful as an entree to a winter dinner. Served in a larger bowl, it becomes a hearty lunch, with crusty toast or warm flat bread,

The velvet-smooth roasted cauliflower soup, with the Middle Eastern spices of cumin and coriander is healthy too. Finish it with a sprinkling of za-artar,  a spoonful of fresh, organic yoghurt, fresh thyme and a drizzle of stunning organic Moroccan argan oil from Colour of Maroc, or organic extra virgin olive oil.

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ROAST ORGANIC CAULIFLOWER, CUMIN & CORIANDER SOUP RECIPE

Ingredients - For 4 servings

1 large organic cauliflower

2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, finely diced

5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

1 teaspoon of ground coriander

1 teaspoon of cumin powder

2 tablespoons of butter or coconut oil

5 cups of filtered water, or good quality vegetable or chicken stock

50 grams of Parmesan rind (optional)

Sea salt and pepper

To finish the soup:

Organic plain yoghurt

Extra Parmesan to grate or shave over

Za-atar spice mix

Sprigs of fresh thyme

Organic argan oil – or extra virgin olive oil

Turn oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

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Cut the cauliflower into even sized florets. Toss in olive oil to coat, season with sea salt and pepper. Roast for about 30 minutes or until golden.

In a large, heavy based saucepan, gently cook the onion and garlic in butter or coconut oil until soft. Add the cumin and coriander and allow to toast slightly without burning. Add the water or stock, Parmesan rind and the cauliflower. Simmer for about 20 minutes.

Take off the heat, remove the Parmesan rind and blend in batches until velvet smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Reheat gently to serve. Ladle into bowls.

Top with a spoonful of yoghurt, a sprinkle of za-artar, some thyme leaves and a good drizzle of argan or extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle over the Parmesan if using for a more cheese-rich soup.

We hope you enjoy the warming recipe for this soup. Coming up over winter, we’ll share other recipes and would love to hear your favourites too.

Thank you,

Nicola

Hobart - Tasmania - Location Report

WHAT

WHERE

HOBART

Hobart Harbour - Tasmania

QUINTESSENTIAL HOBART

Don’t be fooled into thinking that Tasmania, or Tassie, as it’s affectionately known, is in any way insignificant in comparison to its colossal landmass next door, being mainland Australia.

Tassie is like a highly concentrated dose of quality in one compact and highly intriguing package.

Hobart - what a city to behold.  It is ideally situated on the edge of the harbour. Houses and the centre of the city hug the coast and continue up the undulating hills behind, meaning many homes have wonderful views out over the sparkling bay. It’s easy to hark back to days when early European settlers were building houses, pubs and commercial spaces in this prime site. Many of those lovely old sandstone houses remain in Hobart so a walk around the pretty streets is essential.

In recent years, Hobart has seen a mass of high quality culinary enterprises spring forth and flourish. Food lovers, professional chefs and those passionate about farming and life on the land have found the produce that can be grown, the freedom of lifestyle and community enthusiasm for things gourmet to be magnetic.

HUNGRY?

Food really isn’t far from any experience in Hobart. The choice of cafes and restaurants is extraordinary and those wishing to experience authentic, lovingly cooked food using the best of local, seasonal produce, dairy products, meat and seafood will be delighted.

You won’t go thirsty either.  Tasmania has a highly respected wine industry with stunning vineyards dotted around the island.  Restaurants in Hobart itself are generally avid supporters of the local wine industry and very beautifully showcase Tasmanian wine, matched with food of the region.

A favourite is Garagistes, chef Luke Burgess is a master of seasonal eating and his food reflects the best of local and celebrates the essence of Tasmania.

The Urbanist has a pretty fantastic overview, follow their recommendations and then just follow your ‘food radar’ to narrow down your favourites.

For something special, check out Agrarian Kitchen. Chef and food writer, Rodney Dunn has developed a dream cooking school and farm where guests come for inspired, paddock to plate style cooking, sharing and eating. Details on their beautiful website – warning – book ahead to save disappointment of missing out!

GETTING IN THE SPIRIT

If you like a wee dram of something stronger, Tasmania also have a thriving spirits industry with distilleries producing some premium spirits.

Breweries in Tasmania too are boutique, delightful and open for tours as well as tastings and just enjoying a good beer with some local delicacies.

SALAMANCA MARKET

Saturday morning in Hobart is when Salamanca Place fires into life. With a vibrant market featuring over 300 stalls, here you will find everything good, local, tasty, intriguing, beautiful and artisan.

Salamanca Market Produce

WALK, CYCLE, PADDLE, SAIL AND EXPLORE

If you like the great outdoors, you’ll strike gold in Tasmania. As well as strolling the fascinating streets of Hobart, a jaunt or two out of town is highly recommended, even if you’re only there for a few days.

For the more rugged adventurers, overnight hikes take you into absolutely stunning, pristine wilderness and there are both mountainous and coastal options.

Being an island means lots of coastline and of course, this is fully celebrated in Tasmania. Everything from kayaking, to fishing, to sailing on a chartered yacht is on offer. Check out Discover Tasmania for ideas on where to find your ideal adventure.

CULTURE AND ARTS

We’ve focused on the culinary arts but Hobart cannot be overlooked for an impressive concentration of visual arts. There are lovely little galleries to explore all over Hobart.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery are a must see. Housed in Tasmania’s oldest building, you will see a wonderfully curated collection of Aboriginal and colonial arts, relics and natural wonders.

The wild card in the cultural experience scene, has to be the now famous MONA. Situated twelve kilometres North of Hobart, the most exciting option for getting there is, we think, a cruise up the Derwent River.  MONA is a dramatic offering with three floors to explore. Lonely Planet report that the “$75-million museum has been described by philanthropist owner David Walsh as ‘a subversive adult Disneyland’. Ancient antiquities are showcased next to contemporary works: sexy, provocative, disturbing and deeply engaging.”

While you’re at MONA, it would seem a pity not to call in at the magnificent winery, Moorilla. You can engage in some wine tasting or perhaps enjoy a Moo Brew beer tasting. There is also a stunningly situated restaurant, The Source, upstairs for a perfect lunch.

WAIT, THERE’S MORE

We’ll be featuring location guides from other great spots in Tasmania but just as a starter:

Launceston – a stunning town, Tasmania’s second largest to Hobart, situated perfectly on the harbour that’s dotted with yachts and fishing boats. Lovely restaurants; spectacular scenery; great community, and the gateway to activities in this region of the island.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Here are some great links to help you plan a trip to Hobart and the rest of Tasmania.

Discover Tasmania

Lonely Planet Hobart

Salamanca Market

The Urban List - Where to Eat Hobart

Trip Advisor - Restaurants in Hobart

Gourmet Traveller - Happening Hobart

Food Tourist - A Food Lover's Guide to Tasmania 

Cooking Classes at the Agrarian Kitchen

 

TEMPTED?

Prescript has partnered with some great places to work in Tasmania.  Come & Locum for a week or two and let us help organise everything on your behalf.  You might love it so much that you want to make the move more permanent!

Call me +61 405 429 799 or email nicola@prescript.com.au

To register with Prescript, request a call or subscribe for updates, please click below.