Zac Efron is coming to Australia

OMG – Zac Efron is coming to Australia. Is it wrong for a grown woman to have a little-bittie crush on Zac Efron (and why do I keep using his full name)?

I think it’s all part of a new syndrome which I will call they-are-so-good-looking-but-are-so-young-itis and it is sweeping Hollywood these days. Taylor Lautner or Daniel Radcliffe fall into this category as well, they are international stars and good looking to boot but it’s just a little bit wrong because they are well – so young.

Even though Zac Efron (there it is again) is now 22 in his earlier movies he was still a teenager so it still seems a bit wrong somehow.

Anyway I digress. The big news is he will be heading to Australia next month. Although there are no plans for Zac to head west, he will walk the red carpet and attend the Australian premiere of his new movie Charlie St. Cloud on Sunday 19th September in Sydney. Further details and location yet to be announced - so don't rush out and buy a plane ticket just yet.

Charlie St. Cloud is a big step for Zac as it is the first time he won't be featuring in a 'teen' style movie. This time he has a dramatic role playing Charlie a young man struggling with life after surviving a tragic accident. It releases to Australia cinemas on September 23.

Monday is cupcake day

Grab your favourite recipe, dust off your chef’s hat and get your mixer ready for the sweetest event of the year, Cupcake Day for the RSPCA.

On Monday 16 August, registered RSPCA Cupcake Cooks across Australia will descend on their schools, workplaces and social groups with batches of scrumptious homemade cupcakes to be exchanged for donations to the RSPCA.


Last year, the event raised $1.1 million to assist in the care and protection of Australia’s animals. This year RSPCA want to reach a target of
 $2.5 million. The cherry on top of the cupcake is that for every $100 raised online, you’ll receive one additional entry into the draw to win 2 Kymco scooters.

Whether you register as a Cupcake Cook or go into training as a Cupcake Eater – you’ll be supporting the 155,000 animals that the RSPCA cares for every year.

Find out more at www.rspcacupcakeday.com.au

Something to make you laugh

Need a bit of a mid-week giggle? Here it is. This is my husband's first contribution to the site. His boss bought this for the office so he recorded it on his phone and it has been a source of constant amusement ever since.

As someone who admits to being a massive fan of this song in its heyday - this just makes me laugh every time, particularly the head movements!

New ‘de-puffer’ from Clinique

I perpetually suffer from dark circles and under eye bags and have a plethora of products designed to treat this unsightly issue.

It’s also why I get excited any time there is a new product to test out! The latest is the Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage. Despite a ridiculously long product name, this looks like the next must-try.

Use the special ‘roller ball’ end to cool and massage the area under your eye. You can also use it either over or under makeup depending on your products and your preference.

Perth Bride Expo this weekend

Calling all brides-to-be! This Sunday Perth Bride magazine will be holding the Perth Bride Exhibition at the Hyatt Regency Perth.

Running from 9.30am until 5pm on Sunday – entry is $15 including a free copy of a previous issue of Perth Bride.

I went to a lot of wedding expos while I was planning my wedding and they are handy, particularly in the early staging of planning when you’re not really sure what you want. You are sure to come away with a few ideas and maybe even one or two confirmed suppliers.

Sneak preview Don't Be Afraid of the Dark

Advance warning - if you don't like scary movies - maybe don't watch this sneak preview trailer for Don't Be Afraid of the Dark. It did make me jump!

Those of you who are keen to see some snippets from the movie Katie Holmes was filming in Australia recently - check it out. It looks like a must see for horror-lovers! This definitely still an early peak though as we won't be seeing the full movie in WA until January 27, 2011.

Mimco releases sunglasses

Label Mimco has just released their first range of eyewear. The ones in this picture are uber-cute. Check them out for yourself at your local store or online here.  They are in stock now.

Cutest cupcake ever!

This has to be the cutest cupcake ever! Made by a Perth company Sugarbloom Cupcakes & Macaroons. Find out more on their blog http://sugarbloomcupcakes.blogspot.com/

Your chance to walk the red carpet

I love movies and I love celebrities, so no great surprise that I intent to almost obsessively enter a new competition that gives me a chance to meet celebrities on the red carpet!

If like me, the idea of walking the red carpet at a film premiere is your idea of heaven on earth, then make sure you buy a Events Cinemas movie ticket online or via your mobile before September 30. Seven people who do this will have the chance to win one of the below celebrity experiences.

What makes them even better? Most of them include a holiday and some even include shopping – be still my beating heart…

• The Other Guys – walk the red carpet at the Australian premiere on the Gold Coast and meet the film’s two stars Will Ferrell & Mark Wahlberg. All inclusive of flights & accommodation
• Tomorrow When The War Began – attend the NZ premiere, walk the red carpet and get a meet & greet with the cast. All inclusive of flights & accommodation
• Cats & Dogs The Revenge of Kitty Galore – VIP family trip to Warner Bros Movie World. All inclusive of flights, accommodation & limo transfers for Movie World
• The Last Airbender – Trip to Vietnam to explore where the film was shot together with exclusive earth, fire, wind & water themed experiences. All inclusive of flights &, accommodation
• Charlie St. Cloud – Walk the red carpet at the Australian premiere in Sydney and meet the film’s star Zac Efron. All inclusive of flights and accommodation
• Wall Street Money Never Sleeps - Walk the red carpet at the London premiere and meet & greet with the film’s stars. All inclusive of flights, accommodation, limo transfers & a $1000 wardrobe spend for the premiere
• Legends of The Guardian The Owls of Ga’Hoole – Family behind the scenes tour of animation studio and home of the film’s creators, Animal Logic. All inclusive of flights & accommodation

Me? I am gunning for The Other Guys and Wall Street Money Never Sleeps. the first for the celebs and the second for the trip to London and the shopping.

Don't forget Jeans for Genes day

Don't forget to wear jeans tomorrow to raise money for Jeans for Genes day - just make sure you make a donation or buy a badge to support this worthy cause. There are heaps of places you can get them from including Big W, Harvey Norman, Gloria Jean, Myer, JeansWest and Westpac.

It's a great cause so make sure you get behind it.
Find out more about the event or view the complete list of places to buy badges at www.jeansforgenes.org.au

marie claire turns 15 & an insight into Jackie Frank

A big congratulations this month to my favourite magazine - marie claire – who is celebrating its 15th birthday with the September issue on sale now. Not only does this issue have a whopping 426 pages, but if you buy it from the newsagent you will get a free Estee Lauder Pure Colour lipgloss ($42)! I have been busting to buy a red lipgloss so I can't wait to grab this one.

Even more importantly, you absolutely have to read the article by Nicky Briger (the editor of Who) about Jackie Frank (the editor of marie claire) up now on the website. I absolutely love, love, love this article – is hilarious particularly if you’ve worked in the media/magazines industry or if you think the whole industry is really live Devil Wears Prada. You can read the full article here but in the meanwhile here is a quick taste of some of my favourite lines:

She cries on a whim, belly laughs with gusto, takes the trolley from the waiters at yum cha, plays practical jokes and sits cross-legged on the floor, hitching up her frock to dangerous heights. She'll steal scraps of food off your desk, bellow your name across the hall (her dulcet tones can slice through concrete), and swear like a footballer.

Despite this anti-chic exterior, Jackie is a walking fashion encyclopedia and besties with hot-shot designers, stylists, supermodels and photographers the world over. When her imported stilettos went missing across the Atlantic two days before her wedding, she playfully screamed down the phone to the designer (in a mock-Asian accent), "Jimmy Choo, where my shoe?"

Jackie navigates fashion's many quirks like a pro. When a French stylist threw a tantrum and locked herself in the fashion cupboard, refusing to emerge unless Jackie reinstated a photo of a Gucci tote that had been cut from her story, Jackie phoned her in the closet and deftly coaxed her out, like some hostage scene from a Hollywood blockbuster. What's high drama to most is all in a day's work for Jackie.

Let me know what you think of the article and the new issue! While you're at it you might also want to check out the special birthday subscription offer they've got going on. I've been sitting on the fence about subscribing for a while (I love the free newsagent goodies too much) but with a full year’s subscription for $39.95, I whipped out my credit card so fast I gave myself whiplash. Find the offer online here.

New book from Devil Wears Prada author

Who could forget the Devil Wears Prada? Meryl Streep sashaying and pursuing her lips in a way guaranteed to make your whole body quiver with inferiority. I am sure my smart and knowledgeable readers will know that before the movie came the book from Lauren Weisberger and was rumoured to be about her experiences working with notorious Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

As well as Devil Wears Prada (the book is quite different from the movie by the way) Lauren has written several other books and her latest – Last Night at Chateau Marmont – has just been announced for an Aussie release date of September 1.

As someone who has read all her books (the last few before they were published) I am very, very excited about this release. I have already added this to my birthday wish list (October in case anyone was wondering).

If you haven’t read any of Lauren’s books yet definitely grab Everyone Worth Knowing definitely my favourite. It goes inside the insane world of high-profile PR.

About her new book:
Two college sweethearts are living a happy, rather ordinary life in New York but there’s a slight twist — she’s the breadwinner, supporting her musician boyfriend. Until the tables are turned when he’s discovered by a Sony exec and their worlds are turned upside down.

Soon they are holidaying in the Hamptons, adorning the cover of Vanity Fair and attending every glitzy party in town — all the while his career is reaching new, dizzying heights. 

But the trappings of this elite lifestyle mean our heroine must face the wrath of the US press.


One final note – I also discovered Lauren is also on blogspot! Check out her blog at www.laurenweisberger.blogspot.com

Wanna be a PFF model?

Ever wanted the chance to strut your stuff on the catwalk? Well the Perth Fashion Festival and Carillon City are giving you that chance.

Be one of 15 real WA women to appear on the catwalk with Australia's most well-known plus size model Natalie Wakeling in a special fashion show of real women in Fashion Central (aka Forest Chase).

Entries are open to all women, the only restriction is you must be 18 years and over. If you're chosen you'll also receive a session with renowned fashion stylist Des Eddy (the man is a genius), a professional photo shoot, modeling workshops and VIP tickets to a Perth Fashion Festival event.

Register yourself here: www.carilloncity.com.au

I heart this skirt

Hussy has just released their new season range, including this really adorable skirt. It is oh so stylish and you could wear it in so many ways! Personally, I'd wear it to work over opaques, on the weekend with a singlet or out on the town with something spangly and sparkly.

The bad news is they don't have a store in Perth yet, but you can place an order by phone 02 9280 1610 or by email info@hussy.com.au

By the way in case you are wondering, Hussy do not pay me to wax lyrical about their skirts. It is just one of the many privileges or being a blogger. Enjoy!

See a movie & help kids with cancer

Amalgamated Holdings Limited (AHL) is hosting an exclusive charity preview screenings of Universal Pictures 3D animated comedy adventure, Despicable Me to raise money for Camp Quality.  

You can be one of the first in WA to see the film at Event Cinemas Innaloo on Sunday 29 August at 11am.

AHL Managing Director David Seargeant says the previews are part of AHL’s commitment to give back to the community. “We are delighted to again team up with Camp Quality to help raise much needed funds for children living with cancer and their families,” he says.

“This will be the third consecutive year we have held the screenings in support of Camp Quality and we’ve got no doubt Despicable Me will deliver because laughter is the best medicine.”

From the creators of hit family movies Ice Age and Horton Hears A Who, Despicable Me is a 3D animated comedy adventure for the whole family featuring the voice talent of Steve Carell. It is the story of the world’s greatest villain who finds his greatest challenge in three little girls called Margo, Edith and Agnes. 
Watch the trailer below for more about the film - it does look hilarious!

Tickets for the special screenings go on sale on 29 July and proceeds will go directly to Camp Quality. All tickets are $12, and can be purchased online at www.eventcinemas.com.au or at cinema box offices.

Big change for Spring in the Valley

I don’t think you could live in WA and not know about Spring in the Valley but the big news is this year’s event is getting a much-needed face lift. Instead of hordes of teenagers/twenty somethings descending on the valley by the bus load for one weekend of drinking and debauchery the festival will be spread out over a whole month.

Hopefully this move will help make the event more couple and family-friendly as the trouble-makers won’t all be in the one place at the one time (last year I saw four young men in a row urinating on a wall - blurggh!). Fingers crossed this new step will do the trick.

At the very least, it should also make it much easier to get in (venues often have to close their doors due to number restrictions) and to be able to go along to events, enjoy fantastic food and in general enjoy more of what the valley has to offer. Even better, October has five weekends in which to enjoy it.

As the event gets closer more info will be available online at www.springinthevalley2010.com.au 

Stylish kit for stylish bubs

How can you not love a designer baby clothing label called SOOKIbaby? If you’re a stylish mamma (or aunt or friend) who has been hanging out with a line of retro chic goodies for your little lad or lady then you’ve found it.

Can you just imagine your little boy in a shirt that says ‘hanging with my gnomies’ or ‘my future is so bright I gotta wear shades’? These are so cute I am cursing the fact most of my friends have daughters. Perhaps I can buy them anyone - I am sure someone will pop out a  boy sooner or later! Not that the little ladies miss out, these little frilly knickers and Parisian-style outfits are adorable as well.

Cartoon capers, pop art and Euro chic are just some of the designer’s inspiration for this adorable range that blends vibrant prints, fantasy characters and quirky designs. From gnomes to break-dancing sparrows and Shar Pei wrinkle dogs – these outfits are going to have your funky monkeys dancing in their nappies.

Founder, co-owner and SOOKIbaby designer Dijana Dotur says: “I like to think of SOOKIbaby as being quirky and cool. This season’s collection is a blend of all my favourite things. A mix of fantasy, vintage and retro blended with modern and contemporary looks. Spring summer is whimsical and fun with styles for all tastes.”

So where did Dijana get her inspiration for this uber-cool collection for the nappy set? She studied at the prestigious Whitehouse School of Fashion as well as being a mother of three herself. You can buy SOOKIbaby from Myer or from one of the outlets listed below. Or head online to www.sookibaby.com.au.

Keshi Kids - Broome, Kids Cove - Kalamunda, Lily - Cloverdale, Little Leisure – Dunsborough, My Baby Rocks - www.mybabyrocks.com.au, Stylish Bubs – Karratha, The Bees Knees Kids – Carramar.

Movie review: Killers

While our screens were once overwhelmed by the numbers of romcoms (romantic comedies) released, we are now seeing a definite new trend for a new genre – romantic action. Think Mr & Mrs Smith, Date Night, even the Get Smart remake – there has been tons of them and I have to say, I am generally a fan.

I was excited to be invited on Monday to the WA premiere of the latest romantic action (dare I say romaction?) starring Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigel. The movie was Killers and I have to say it wasn’t the best film in this genre that I have seen but there was definitely some value for the ladies in the audience – Ashton walking around for long periods of time with no shirt. He. Got. Buff. Wow. Almost worth the ticket admission just for that.Watch the trailer below to see a sneak preview of what I mean.

Overall though if you are looking for some light entertainment where you can completely switch off your brain then this is worth a look. If you’re not a fan of this genre to start with though – maybe wait for the DVD.

The cliff notes version of the story is that Ashton plays a CIA assassin who has become somewhat jaded with his profession so when he meets Katherine’s ditsy but beautiful character in Nice (that’s in the south of France people) they fall in love and Ashton chucks his career in for a normal life in suburbia. That is until someone puts a contract into play against Ashton and the action hits high gear.

The Perth Fashion Festival kicks off

The Perth Fashion Festival is back and to kick it off they've launched their new website at www.perthfashionfestival.com.au. I love the site this year although I am finding the events pages a little tough to read.

What I really want to know, what do all the stylish women of Perth think about the Perth Fashion Festival? It is very different from the festivals held over east and overseas and I'd love to hear what you think.

The illustrated guide to chickens

In case you haven't noticed, I like to keep my readers up to date with the latest and greatest book releases but this one takes the cake.

Run, do not walk, to buy .... wait for it... The Illustrated Guide to Chickens. I am NOT KIDDING. This new release book was so important it garnered it's very own personal promotional push and made me laugh so hard I nearly fell off my wheelie office chair.

So what can you expect from this thrilling new look into the secret world of chickens? According to the promo: "This book covers the 100 most familiar chicken breeds in Europe and North America. The breed profiles are written in an engaging style that covers the history of each breed, the main characteristics, and how to look after them. Each breed is illustrated with delightful paintings by the author. The illustrations also detail comb types, feather markings, colours and other significant characteristics."

It gets better the forward of the book is written by no less than His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. Yup.

If you are one of the many thousands of people rushing out to find out more about the humble chicken this book is available from www.allenandunwin.com and is $23.99. Love it!

Cook a roast while camping - seriously!

I have to admit when I first saw this picture, I thought it was some kind of new cutting edge turntable for the ‘unce unce’ generation (oh my lord, did I really say that - now I feel so very old).

In actual fact, this is the latest toy gadget for gourmets everywhere. It seems after being spoiled by months of MasterChef, Australian’s are no longer content with a billy, a camp oven or even the old barbeque and instead want all the comfort of home whenever they travel.

As a result Omega have released this new portable induction cooktop, which will have you whipping up a stir fry for the whole family – even if you’re in the middle of the Nullaboor.

If that's not enough you could invest in a ‘mini kitchen’, which is a multifunctional oven/grill/microwave in which you can successfully roast a chicken. Seriously – haven’t you always wanted to roast a chicken while camping? I wouldn’t know, my idea of roughing it is a hotel room without a spa bath.

If these new products have you running for the nearest electrical retailer - than here are the key details. The hot plate retails for $149 and the Mini Kitchen for $449. Stockist details are available at  www.omegaappliances.com.au or by calling 9478 0466.

The best place to get a coffee

I have a confession to make, I do not drink coffee. Horrifying I know - particularly for someone who works in the media, but there you have it. I did read with interest however the articles in The West the other day about how Perth has some of the most expensive coffee prices in Australia (read some of it here).

It seemed quite timely that consumer body CHOICE has just completed a study into the best chain stores for coffee in Australia. To cut to the chase when it came to beans Michel's Patisserie came out trumps while beans from Starbucks and Gloria Jeans received the lowest scores. You can view the full article from CHOICE at www.choice.com.au/coffeechain.

Interesting fact: A four-year study of Melbourne coffee drinkers showed chain outlets are preferred by young females and people born overseas. By contrast, independent cafes are preferred by Australian-born customers and are popular with older coffee drinkers.

What do you think? Are you one of those people who can't get through the day without an intravenous drip of coffee or like me do you see a remarkable similarity between drinking coffee and hot water with dirt?

Q&A director screening in Nedlands

The screenwriter of a film about love, loss and betrayal, Nadia Tass, will be in Perth to discuss her latest film Matching Jack on Sunday 22 August at Windsor Cinema in Nedlands.

Following the screening at 3pm, Nadia will take part in a special Q&A forum in the cinema. Matching Jack is the story of a woman who discovers that her child is seriously ill and her husband has been unfaithful for years. Marisa goes on a bizarre search in attempt to turn her husband’s serial affairs into a positive - an illegitimate child could save her son’s life.

Directing her first feature film, Malcolm in 1986, Nadia has gone on to be an influential and prominent name in Australian cinema with films including Rikky and Pete, The Big Steal, Mr Reliable and Amy  which received 23 international awards. As well as working in Australia cinema, Nadia has also directed a wealth of US films including Pure Luck and features for Disney.

Tickets for the special Q&A screening are available now from the cinema or www.lunapalace.com.au.  $15.50 adult, $11.00 concession.

Congratulations Tinker Bell winners!

Congratulations to Seraphim, Karen, Sam and Peti-Maree for winning family passes to see the new Tinker Bell film this weekend. Please forward your name and postal address to wastyle@live.com so your tickets can be posted to you!

I'm reading: Air Kisses by Zoe Foster

There's nothing quite like getting a new book and even more so if you had to order it online and wait patiently for it to be delivered but hazaah!! today is the day and my copy of Air Kisses by Zoë Foster has just arrived.

I am sure you've already got the message by now that I am obsessed stalker-like fascinated really interested in the work of some of Australia's high profile magazine personalities so if anything it's more of a surprise that I haven't bought this book earlier.

For those of you who haven't heard of Zoë Foster, she was a beauty and lfestyle editor at Cosmo before she took on the role of beauty director at Harper’s BAZAAR. She was also the author of beauty blog bible fruitybeauty and is now the editor-at-large of primped.com.au. She also writes fiction in her spare time (who really has that much spare time?!?!) and this is her first book.

When art goes mad

This stunning bovine (aptly named Miss Beau Vine) just raised $8,750 at the CowParade Charity Auction. I have to ask, where would you keep her?

As much as I support charity events of any kind, I can't imagine finding space for this particular piece of art in my living room.

Win tickets to the Tinker Bell movie

Attention to all of WA’s stylish mums! If you’d like to take the family to see a special sneak preview of Disney’s Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue all you need to do is comment on this post and tell us why you deserve to win.

Make sure you comment before 5pm (WST) on Monday July 26 for your chance to win one of five passes, each valid for four people to attend the special preview screening at Event Cinemas Innaloo (formerly Greater Union) in WA on Sunday August 1. The winners will be announced here on Tuesday.

My first experience of Bikram Yoga

When a friend invited me to try a Bikram Yoga class last Saturday, I have to admit I was really nervous. For those of you who don’t know anything about Bikram Yoga it is basically a 90-minute yoga class which takes place in a room heated continuously to 40 degrees.

As someone who hides inside on the couch with the aircon full blast when the temperature hits 35, it was a big mental challenge. I have to admit there were times I thought I was going to die, where I had to fight the overwhelming urge to run screaming from the room in to the now welcoming winter air, but I persevered.

So what was it like? It was hot. It was very very hot. I don’t sweat when I exercise, but I think their estimates that you lose around 1.5 litres per class is about right. I actually had sweat drip of my forehead mid-pose (sorry maybe too much sharing). Not to mention the fact I spent a good portion of the day in the bathroom after attempting to drink the three litres of water recommended before undertaking a class (definitely too much sharing).

After what seemed like hours, but was most likely only 30 minutes, I started feeling light headed and had to sit out for a few poses. I actually think my decision to sit out for five was a welcome one to others as several people followed by lead. I struggled to get back to my feet as I felt I was light-headed but soon the class moved to poses that were mainly in a seated or lying down position and this helped get me back in the game.

I found a lot of the poses very difficult to achieve, but the way the class was run everyone was encouraged to try as best they could and do what they could. I found that really positive and I didn’t feel anyone was pushed beyond their own abilities.

So did I enjoy it? I have to say no, that while I was doing it I didn’t enjoy it but I did find the benefits noticeable. I was able to stretch far further than I could normally and I felt I had a challenging workout – both physically and mentally. I have never been a sweaty person, but I have to confess it was pouring off me within minutes (By the way I chose a picture of what I think everyone looks like after the class instead of a glam yoga pic).

So would I do it again? Tentatively I am saying yes, I think I will give it another go this weekend. Although I found the class a mental challenge, I had the best nights sleep of my life afterwards and I have found myself feeling calmer and more relaxed since. These are very good things for me.
I will keep you posted of the experiences after class two. They say it gets easier each time, so keep your fingers crossed for me!

Share your experiences with Bikram Yoga Perth. Did you love it or hate it or like me are you somewhere on the fence?

Men don't understand postnatal depression

Post-natal depression, like most forms of depression, is a topic few people talk about. Beyondblue the national depression initiative has discovered men actually know very little about Postnatal Depression (PND).

According to the new study, fifty per cent of men believe women get postnatal depression because they have unrealistic expectations of motherhood and 25 per cent of men believe having PND is a normal part of having a baby. A whopping 28 per cent of men think that PND will go away as the baby gets older compared to 17 per cent of women.

Likewise 24 per cent of men believe that looking after a baby comes naturally to women, while only 14 per cent of women thought this was true.

Deputy CEO of beyondblue Dr Nicole Highet says the recent research indicates men need more information about mental illness during pregnancy and after the birth of the baby – especially ante- and postnatal depression and anxiety.

Depression and anxiety are not a ‘normal’ part of parenthood, they are illnesses – but with the right treatment, most people recover.

To help address this issue beyond blue and Ngala have launched a booklet HeyDad – Fatherhood – first 12 months, aimed at increasing awareness around issues new parents are likely to face.

“This booklet will get critical information to new dads during this important stage of their lives – the advice and practical tips are invaluable. New parents often get used to the symptoms and signs of depression and anxiety - such as lack of sleep, irritability and the inability to cope – and too often it’s put down to the ‘baby blues’ and treated as if it’s a normal part of parenthood,” Nicole says.

Ngala CEO Rae Walter adds: “The whole family is affected when one member of the family has depression or anxiety. Ngala encourages parents to seek support and work as a team to minimise the impact on their children.

“Early brain development, changes in relationships, the importance of attachment, play, sleep and breastfeeding are all issues that fathers may not have explored before the birth and this booklet provides a ‘toolkit’ to help new families manage change.”

Find out more about the booklet here.

It really worries me that there has been two major studies released this week showing how widespread and misunderstood depression and mental illness can be. Have you experienced a mental illness in your life and if so how did you deal with it?

Get your bronze on

If you’re like me and the sun does nothing but turn your skin into sunburn, you can’t go past a good bronzer. On August 8 Elizabeth Arden are releasing a new range including a mineral bronzer called Pure Finish Mineral Bronzing Powder.

It is available in medium and (for a limited time) deep and includes a mini folding kabuki brush that fits into the compact. 7.7g $68.00

Winifred & Bance turns three

Inglewood vintage purveyors Winifred & Bance are celebrating their third birthday. The business was first launched in 2007, when vintage lover Delilah Carter decided to share her passion with the stylish residents of Perth.

If you love the feminine silhouettes of the 1950s, have a penchant for the drama and glamour of the 1980s or are passionate about 1990s grunge, you have to check out Winifred & Bance.

To celebrate their birthday the store at 850 Beaufort Street, Inglewood will be having a birthday sale from next Tuesday (July 27) until Saturday, July 31 with up to 50% off some items. www.winifredandbance.com

92.9 announces radio telethon

We are all familiar with the annual telethon that takes over the TV for one weekend every year, but now it’s taking to airways with a new partnership between 92.9 and Telethon.

The breakfast team will be choosing a vital piece of equipment that PMH needs and encouraging listeners to help raise the funds. Once the funds have been raised a new piece of equipment will be selected and the process will begin again.

Telethon General Manager Steve Mummery says he is excited about the project. “To have Lisa, Baz, Sam and in fact the entire team who work at 92.9 behind this project says so much about their commitment to being part of the Perth community.”

Austereo General Manager Linda Wayman said: “This is an important and unique project for the 92.9 team and we know our listeners will embrace the opportunity to be a part of the Kids Appeal.”
If you want to make a donation you can call the Kids Appeal Team Phone Room on 9382 0192 or go online at www.929.com.au.

Frightening figures on mental disorders

One in four young Australians aged 16–24 years had a mental disorder in 2007, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. I find these statistics terrifying, particularly in regards to the lack of help sought for these conditions.

Anxiety disorders are the most common, affecting 15% of young people, with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder the most commonly experienced anxiety disorder (8%).  Substance use disorders affected 13% of young people with harmful use of alcohol the most common substance use disorder (9%).

Around 6% of young people had an affective disorder with bipolar affective disorder and depression (3% each) the most common affective disorders.

Almost one-third of young women had a mental health disorder compared with around one-quarter of young men. Young women were more likely to have anxiety or affective disorders while substance use disorders were more common among young men.

Young people with a mental disorder were more than five times as likely as those without mental disorders to use illicit drugs or misuse legal drugs; twice as likely to be current smokers and around 1.5 times more likely to drink alcohol at least weekly.

Around 17% of young people with a mental disorder had a severe level of impairment, with the remainder having a mild or moderate level of impairment.

While the prevalence of mental illness is relatively high in young people, they have a relatively low use of mental health services. Just less than a quarter of young people with a mental disorder had used mental health services in the previous year. General practitioners were the service most frequently accessed by young people with a mental disorder (15%) followed by psychologists (10%).

Of young people that did not access services, most (85%) did not feel that they had a need for any type of assistance.Young people with a Substance Use Disorder were the least likely to use mental health services.

I'm at a loss here, what do you say to statistics like these? If you or your loved one suffers from a mental disorder - don't be too afraid to seek help. There are people who can help from your GP to a range of dedicated mental health practitioners. www.beyondblue.org.au

Celebrating 100 posts of WA Style

Although this is technically the 101st post, I wanted to take this moment to celebrate reaching this pivotal first milestone. I hope you have been enjoying WA Style and will keep sticking with us for the next 100 posts and beyond. If you like the site, I hope you will show your support by becoming a follower by clicking on the icon on the right hand side of the page and by commenting on the articles. Don't forget to tell all your friends about us as well!

I choo choo choose you!

After my post on Saturday about Net-a-porter I confess I went a bit nuts myself with their sale and I thought I'd share a few of my purchases with you. I have to say I was impressed that after ordering Saturday night everything arrived safe and sound (and beautifully packaged) yesterday. Not bad for shipping from London to Perth! Now I just have to find somewhere to wear them...

Upcoming release: The Last Airbender

I saw a trailer the other day for upcoming movie The Last Airbender and I had to wonder, why I haven’t heard a lot more about this film? The fact it is coming to us from M. Night Shyamalan, is almost enough in itself to normally guarantee a barrage of press.

Due to release in Perth September 16, this film does look like a bit of a deviation from M.Night’s usual scary topics but it is still firmly bedded in the supernatural. The movie is set in a world where nations are divided into air, water, earth and fire and the denizens are able to manipulate these elements to their own needs. When a war breaks out one young man, Aang, discovers he is the last person left who can manipulate all the elements and sets out to save his war-ravaged nation. Check out the trailer posted above.

This does seem like a very different film for M.Night so I am reserving my opinion until I see it. What do you think of the trailer. Hit or miss?

Bananas slimming friend or fattening foe?

Did bananas in pyjamas lull us all into a false sense of security as children? Are bananas actually contributing to the battle of the bulge or are they as healthy as the industry would have us believe?

I have seen the banana get a bad wrap in a lot of health magazines of late and it seems a lot of us are confused as to whether bananas are good or bad for us, so I did a little investigation.

According to www.calorieking.com.au - my go to source to check out the good and bad of my food choices – a medium sized banana (170g with the skin on) has 99 calories and contains just .1g of total fat. However, it also contains 21.8 grams of carbohydrates. On the plus side it contains 12% of a recommended daily intake of dietary fibre.

So what does this mean? In comparison a medium sized orange (230g with the skin on) has just 68 calories, contains .2g of fat and 13g of carbohydrates with 16% RDI of dietary fibre. A 170g apple has 83 calories, contains 0 fat and 18g of carbohydrates with 16% RDI of dietary fibre.

So really the outcome is if you are on a strict calorie or carbohydrate controlled diet an apple or orange is better than a banana, but despite its creamy texture bananas really aren’t the source of all evil. Interesting though they actually do have about the same number of calories as a Tim Tam – although naturally the Tim Tam has 25 times the amount of fat… a shame really.

On behalf of the Australian Banana Industry accredited nutritionist Glenn Cardwell says: “Bananas don’t make you fat. In fact, bananas contain virtually no fat. They contain protein, and are packed with a variety of other nutrients including carbohydrate for energy, fibre, vitamin C, and the wonderful B group vitamins such as folate and vitamin B6.

“A ripe banana will have some fruit sugar, but it comes with plenty of fibre and essential nutrients. The sugar in fruit is not unhealthy or fattening because fruit, especially bananas, are one of the most filling foods you can eat.

“Sugar needs to be kept in perspective. Sugar, in sensible amounts, is not bad; it’s an energy source. Many processed foods can be singled out as not good for you because they contain high levels of sugar. But for most people, having small amounts of sugar is not harmful, and naturally occurring sugar in fruit is part of a nutritious diet.”

So that’s that then. No need to shield your children’s eyes from the horror of bananas dancing around in their nightwear. Like most things, bananas are healthy in moderation.

Breaking news: Zara heads down under

You will have to forgive me for using the words 'down under' in a headline, but I am just so darn excited I can't help it. I just heard the exciting news that the boutique that has long turned European women into doyens of modestly-priced style is coming to Australia.

Next year Zara will be hitting our shores and I am keeping my fingers, toes and knees crossed that a store will hit Perth as part of that first rollout.

In case you've never been lucky enough to head to Europe and experience Zara yourself, it is essentially the shop packed with all the latest on trend fashions and must have staple pieces but much, much cheaper.

The funny thing is I came across this glorious news when reading mainstream media articles about Zara being set to 'murder' Australian fashion. Really? Since when is the chance to buy reasonably priced good quality black pants the death of Aussie business? I can't see it myself, I think a bit of healthy competition and a bit more variety on the shopping front can only be a good thing. Read more about the 'death' of Aussie fashion here.

What do you think? Do you think the opening of Zara is the best news you've heard all year or is it the end of Australian fashion as we know it. Comment away people, don't be shy!

* Image from zara.com 

Big high five for toys for sick kids

I wish I had known about this fantastic project when they were still accepting donations, but at least I can give these guys a good pat on the back for their success now. Children at Princess Margaret Hospital will think Christmas has come early on Friday when Hoyts and ToyBox International give them a huge delivery of brand new toys.

Spending most of their time in hospital means that days can get monotonous and tiresome for kids at PMH, many of whom can’t leave their beds to visit activity rooms. To brighten their days, West Australians showed just how generous they are and donated more than 300 toys to the Appeal that ran from June 7 – July 11.

I am not quite sure about the method of presentation though. Renae Wauhop and Lia Tapper, who placed second and third in the Miss Universe Australia Crowning Ceremony in Sydney last month, will be the ones delivering the toys. Is this meant to be an extra gift for all the young lads coped up in hospital?

Sorry, shouldn’t knock anything to do with giving toys to sick kids. As Renae herself says: “These kids spend most of their time in hospital, so if we can put a smile on their faces with some brand new toys, it makes a world of difference.”

Love at first bite

On Amazon Twilight fans can now buy Love at First Bite an 'unofficial' Twilight cookbook. I am not quite sure what to say about this one... don't they know vampires don't eat?

Here's the blurb from Amazon: "Brimming with mouthwatering recipes, brace yourselves, and bring your very best table manners, and appetites. Don't forget your forks. Beautiful Bella Swan will be serving up some scrumptious delights to satisfy even the pickiest, puritan "vegetarian" vampires.

"Intertwined in the pages of Love At First Bite, The Unofficial Twilight Cookbook, you will find Bell's Lasagna, Harry's Famous Fish Fry, Mushroom Raviolis, Red Velvet Cake, Blushing Bella Punch, and much more."

Oh dear. It's even been written by Gina 'Meyers'. It seems this book has definitely found a market though as Amazon is now showing this item as sold out. If you do want to order you can do so here or here. What do you think - has this taken the Twilight craze just a little bit too far?