AUTUMN 2015

A lifestyle magazine for Costco members NAPLAN tests PREP YOUR KIDS FOR SUCCESS Craft pressings BEYOND D’ARENBERG’S CELLAR DOOR Blue ribbon Black Angus THE ART OF GROWING A GREAT STEAK

CHINESE NEW YEAR Small business resolutions Celebrate new MAKE 2015 WORK FOR YOU beginnings 3491SPANCost1582005 2015-01-08T20:17:22+11:00

CONTENTS 12 36

08 ‘the sweet tasteof spain’ 33

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM US AT COSTCO! We are welcoming in the Chinese year of the goat. This gentle animal’s supposed influence brings peace and harmony, with a focus on family values and common sense. The goat also represents mental abilities and strategic thinking, which translates as using your head to make good choices – the kind of opportunity we like to offer our members. And now that we 16 25 have seven warehouses in five cities, including South Australia, we’re even better placed to do exactly that. In this issue of The Costco Connection we’ve rounded up 4 MEMBER CONNECTION 25 FOR YOUR HEALTH some of the best ideas to help you make the most of 2015, What’s going on at Costco Oral learning with health features, tips and useful information about starting the year on the right foot. We chat to a celebrated veterinarian 8 COVER FEATURE about the benefits of being a pet owner, ask a couple of 29 FOR YOUR TABLE education experts about how to prepare your kids if they Kung Hei Fat Choy Celebrate are sitting the NAPLAN tests this year, and explore the many 12 FEATURE traditions behind Chinese New Year celebrations and what’s on 33 WINE CONNECTION the menu. Blue ribbon Black Angus Pressed to impress Speaking of gourmet fare, we trace the journey of prime 16 SMALL BUSINESS Oakey Black Angus Reserve beef from paddock to plate, and 36 FOR YOUR HOME hear what one of Australia’s most colourful and celebrated New year, fresh start Pet subject winemakers, Chester Osborn from d’Arenberg, has to say 20 TECH CONNECTION about the creation process behind a top drop. 39 FOR YOUR FAMILY Lastly, we want to know what you think. Please share your Future phones Getting to know NAPLAN thoughts and comments, through [email protected] 22 BUYER’S PICKS or through the Tell Us What You Think area in the warehouses. 42 BUYER’S PICKS We’d love to hear from you! Phone it in What’s new

Managing Director Patrick Noone

Costco Wholesale Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 57 104 012 893). Head office: 17–21 Parramatta Road, Lidcombe NSW 2141. Postal address: PO Box 207, Regents Park DC NSW 2143. Phone (02) 9469 7999. Website: costco.com.au REGIONAL MARKETING MANAGER Kyla White MARKETING ASSISTANT Jenna Barnes ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES [email protected]

The Costco Connection is produced for Costco Wholesale Australia Pty Ltd by Pacific+ Publishing (ABN 80 101 323 791), GPO Box 7825, Sydney NSW 2001. PACIFIC+ PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Helen Morassut EDITOR Nicole Macdonald SUB-EDITOR Gillian Samuel ART DIRECTOR Tom Lau DESIGNER John Martin PROOFREADER Carrie Kablean PRODUCTION MANAGER Rosie Dimopoulos SP629 Costco 2015-01-09T16:43:32+11:00

MEMBER CONNECTION

products and flags new items, reflecting Nicole’s own experience of the warehouse. The “There’s a lot of Costco in our house,” she laughs. “I go weekly and do my main shop at Costco, and if I want something I go to Costco first.” Costco She says the range is what initially impressed her. “They have everything from homewares to toiletries, shoes to groceries mum and meat. I find the products are a lot better quality than we often get in Australia, This healthy which is always a bonus. We buy clothes lifestyle mother and shoes, Carter’s and OshKosh for the loves the quality kids, toys, and I buy clothes for myself – the and the choice. gymwear is really good.” Her sewing machine came from Costco Nicole Romano started her Costco Mum as well as her hallway runner. She says Facebook page after her brother introduced sometimes she’s surprised by what’s on her to the warehouse when it opened in offer. “We wanted to buy a recliner chair Canberra in 2011. “I didn’t know anything and couldn’t find one we liked. My husband about Costco,” she says. “He was a member said, ‘Let’s go to Costco,’ and there was the so he took me. The first thing he took me perfect chair. You can get a kitchen sink to see, first stop, was the diamonds and a there, a shower, a bathtub, flooring. $160,000 necklace!” “I love Costco. A lot of people buy things While she wasn’t in the market for the after seeing them on my page and I suggest necklace, Nicole did sign up as a member. products for them to check out as well.” “I remember buying goji berries that were The top five items always in Nicole’s $20 for a massive bag. I went, ‘It’s so cheap!’ trolley: Adelaide Hills Organic Triple Brie I also had to buy the Kirkland Signature cheese, Liddell’s lactose-free milk, eggs, toilet paper after my brother said, ‘This spinach and avocadoes – “such good quality is the best toilet paper ever’.” It’s now a and they’re really big!” fixture on Nicole’s shopping list. “It’s their third best seller,” she says. See what’s in Nicole’s trolley at Her Costco Mum page, which currently facebook.com/pages/Costco- has more than 13,700 likes, reviews Mum/491497024261906

Then ‘Like’ us on Facebook for info on warehouse Like what openings, special offers, book signings and special we do? guest visits. facebook.com/CostcoAustralia

Authentic, refreshing taste of Sicilian citrus fruits since 1932 Sanpellegrino’s authentic Italian sparkling fruit beverages take their inspiration from the glorious citrus fruits of the Mediterranean. Made with freshly squeezed, quality Sicilian fruit juice and no added preservatives, they contain the perfect balance of delicate bubbles and real fruit fl avour that gives them their unmistakable taste. Available in three delicious fl avours Limonata (the fi nest sun-ripened lemons), Aranciata Rossa (intense fl avour of Sicilian blood oranges) and Chinotto (Chinotto oranges, unique bitter citrus taste). AVAILABLE IN A CARTON OF FOUR SIX PACKS

Hot diggity dog Who doesn’t love a hot dog? They’re something of an Australian food-on-the-move institution. The Costco All Pork Hot Dog, supersized at 113 grams to satisfy the hungriest shopper, is boiled until tender and then nestled into a sesame seed bun. The garnishes are up to you. Want ketchup? Yup. And mustard? You bet. How about some gherkin relish? Be our guest and get yourself into a pickle at the self-service bar, where you can also top up your drink. This best-in-show dog costs a pocket-friendly $1.99 and comes with a 625 millilitre soda – with free refills. No wonder we sold over a million in Australia last year!

WWW.SANPELLEGRINOFRUITBEVERAGES.COM.AU 4 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 MEMBER CONNECTION

SHOPPING TIME GOT ANY Insider Costco gets super busy on weekends and holidays. Luckily, we stay open until late, SHOPPING Monday to Friday – it’s the perfect time TIPS OF The only vacuum with tips to shop without the crowds. For opening hours see costco.com.au YOUR No filters to wash or replace The Costco experience is OWN? different from shopping at COUPON MANIA No bags to buy and Costco regularly offers members SEND THEM TO other stores. Read on for additional savings throughout the year No loss of suction some hints to make the with special coupons that offer big [email protected] discounts from suppliers. When you most of your membership. AND YOU COULD BE PUBLISHED 54 Dyson Cinetic™ cyclones have rubber tips that vibrate sign up for membership, remember to IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF register your email address to receive at a high frequency. This dislodges dust, preventing THE COSTCO CONNECTION! these additional member savings. the aperture from clogging. They are so efficient at dust separation that no filter washing or replacement is required – meaning no loss of suction.

Costco Australia members can take Pump advantage of the warehouse giant’s buying ability to benefit from very Tools in the box Costco Exclusive tools competitive petrol prices. Three it up types of fuel, Unleaded 91, Premium 98 and diesel, are available from the Adelaide warehouse in Kilburn, South Australia; North Lakes in

Queensland; Crossroads near Latest carbon fibre Mini tangle-free Swivel hard Stair tool. Combination Stubborn dirt Soft dusting brush. turbine head. turbine tool. floor tool. accessory tool. brush. Valued Valued at $49RRP. Liverpool, New South Wales; and the at $29RRP. Canberra fuel station that recently opened in December. Costco item # 33395 All Costco fuel stations are self-service for efficiency and convenience.

Kilburn Ideal for people with asthma and allergies. countdown Steers into difficult places.

Costco’s southernmost warehouse Radial cyclone™ technology has been remodelled to maximise suction and opening met with an enthusiastic expels cleaner air than any other cyclonic vacuum. Easily steer around furniture reception from Adelaide locals. with Dyson Ball™ technology.

“Opening day went off with a bang,” says Costco regional marketing manager Kyla White. Costco Adelaide officially opened the doors Australia Rob Liess and Adelaide “It means they understand the of its brand-new warehouse in Warehouse Manager Teri Moore Costco concept,” she says. “This is Tools in the box Costco Exclusive tool Kilburn at 8am on Wednesday 19 who all convened at the new site in our seventh warehouse in Australia November with about 100 members Churchill Road. and people know the Costco name already lined up to make an early “The warehouse filled up very now, even if they’ve never been in a start to shopping. One of them had quickly and by 10.30am the car park warehouse before. Secondly, word even arrived the day before to make was full,” Kyla says. of mouth has been building through

sure she was first through the doors She noted that people seemed our members and then there’s Combination Mattress tool. Stair tool. Combination Soft dusting brush. and found herself included in the in the know about the range of the pre-opening marketing. Our floor tool. accessory tool. Valued at $49RRP. ribbon cutting line-up! products available, with a big run Adelaide marketing team has been Other opening ceremony on the designer handbags and talking to local businesses for 10 to Costco item # 24985 luminaries included the South 2.36 metre-tall Costco teddy bears. 12 weeks. Australian Minister for Health Jack She said Adelaide locals were also “People see the building under Snelling and Costco’s managing savvy enough to have joined as construction, the logos go up and the director Patrick Noone, who both cut members beforehand and had their excitement builds. Since opening the ribbon, Director of Operations cards ready for opening day. day it’s been absolutely crazy.” Proudly supporting For more information visit dyson.com.au 6 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015

1201 Costco Ad_Autumn 2015_v7.indd 1 20/01/15 2:34 PM COVER FEATURE KUNG HEI FAT CHOY

F IS FOR FORTUNE

Given the importance of food in , it’s not surprising to see it’s also a key element of New Year celebrations. Such an auspicious occasion warrants weeks of feasting and culinary dishes steeped in tradition and each dish served is a homonym for a wish for the upcoming year. So before you dig in, understand what you’re eating and why. The on New Year’s Eve is a large, long affair involving several courses, and can include chicken, pork and . At the centre of the table is a communal hotpot, which remains simmering so ingredients that are added can be cooked. It symbolises the coming together of the family. The meal is made up of eight dishes, a number considered very lucky, unless there has been a death WORDS SARAH NORRIS in the family, where seven will be served. The phrase sheng means ‘increasing Australia’s Chinese community will mark the start of the prosperity year after year’ and relates to the lunar new year on 19 February and with it welcome in the Chinese word for rice cakes, or nian goa. Eating year of the goat. We consider what fortune we can expect these also celebrates the beginning of the rice and how to prepare for the month-long celebration. harvest that begins in spring. Dumplings shaped like pieces of money used in northern China are supposed to bring fortune to those who eat them. It’s believed that the more you icole Kidman, is lunisolar), it’s an is at the centre of all celebrations eat during this time, the more money you will make Michelangelo and Bruce occasion that lasts just over two weeks and rituals of the lunar year in the future. Willis are just some of the and includes a number of feasts, rituals celebrations. It’s there in the dragon Spring rolls are a dim sum dish and Nluminaries born in the and events far more complex and ceremonies, parades, markets and are named after the Spring Festival. Their shape year of the goat. And if there is any symbolic than a night of and the cacophony of fireworks that are and golden colour represent gold bars, a symbol truth to the character traits of the champagne cork popping. let off throughout the revelries. The of wealth. zodiac, then it would be right to say “Ritualism is very prevalent If you were customs continue in the home, too. When the Chinese New Year fish dish is served (it they are creative, compassionate, in lunar new year celebrations,” People hang paper cutting is typically steamed with soy sauce and ginger), polite and gentle. explains Minervini. “Red is a lucky born in the decorations and couplets – or strips of people say the equivalent to ‘May the year bring “It’s a really great sign,” says colour: giving red envelopes with following paper marked with the ‘Fú’ character prosperity’. Whole fish is preferred as it symbolises Gill Minervini, director of events either coins or notes inside is lunar years, (meaning prosperity) – on entrances unity, and the fish is never finished as leftovers for at the City of Sydney, which plays considered to be lucky, and draping you’re a for fortune and good luck. the next day signify that prosperity will overflow. host to the largest celebration of the the door of your house with red goat and it’s Food, of course, is also at the Uncut noodles are served as long as possible, lunar new year outside of mainland fabric is meant to bring luck. The day cornerstone of every get-together, representing long life. China. “It’s gentle, calm, creative, before the new year you should clean your time to especially the season’s most Chicken should feature on every Chinese New Year caring and wise. Just like the rabbit the house to sweep all of the evil shine: 1931, important event, the ‘reunion menu because it’s believed that no matter what your and the pig, the goat has some nice spirits away so you can let the good 1943, 1955, dinner’. It takes place on the eve of financial circumstances, everyone should be able to characteristics so I am hoping it’s luck come in.” 1967, 1979, the new year (18 February this year), afford it at this time of year. going to be a great year.” Warding off bad spirits and and is considered special because it Some make and serve a glutinous New Year cake Also known as the Spring Festival encouraging good fortune, 1991, 2003 is one of the only times all year that and give pieces to family members. It’s supposed to or lunar new year (because the happiness, longevity and wealth and 2015. the entire family comes together. increase prosperity year in and year out.

8 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 AUTUMN 2015 The Costco Connection 9 FULLPAGEADAU1570506 2015-01-07T06:02:56+11:00 Cost coRese142831221 - 1 2014- 10- 10T12: 26: 35+11: 00 FEATURE

THE PERFECT STEAK

Brush the meat with oil instead of adding oil to the pan. Ensure your cooking surface is hot – the meat should sizzle on contact. Cook on one side until moisture is visible on the top surface, turn once and cook to your preferred degree. Rest steaks for 2 to 4 minutes in a warm place before serving.

RARE Cook for a few minutes on one side (depending on thickness). Turn and cook until the steak feels very soft to the back of the tongs.

MEDIUM Cook on one side until moisture is visible on the top surface. Turn and cook on the second side until moisture is just visible. Continue to cook until steak feels springy to the back of the tongs.

WELL DONE Cook on one side until moisture appears on top surface. Turn and cook on second side until moisture reappears. Reduce heat slightly and continue to cook until steak feels very firm to the back of the tongs.

BLUEWORDS GILLIAN SAMUEL RIBBON

Costco’s meat counters offer a wide variety of cuts and portions all graded to Meat Standards Australia BLACK ANGUS requirements.

If you’ve talked to a Costco member, you’ve probably heard them rave about our steak. Members know they’ll get the highest quality at terrific value. We talked to the team responsible for creating that quality...

he story of your Angus The grains are steam flaked, just and feeds for six menus including The cuts, which range quicker you cool it down the less Reserve steak involves a like muesli, which makes them easier THE the Black Angus combination. “We from ribs to roasts to chance there is of any microbial cast of experts in animal for the cattle to digest, Fenwicke COSTCO check our rations and feed each steaks, including the growth,” Gleeson explains. CONNECTION Thusbandry, nutrition, food explains. The animals weigh around month for pesticides, chemical impressive tomahawk, Throughout the process the cattle handling and hygiene, before it 450 kilograms when they arrive and residues and heavy metals and also are vacuum packed are kept calm and humanely treated, arrives sizzling on your plate. gain a minimum of half a kilo a day on Look out for Costco’s do a full nutrient profile,” he says. and transported in which also contributes to the quality “We make muesli for cattle,” their grain regime. “What we get is minimum 150 day “Same for the water to ensure there accredited refrigerated of the final product. cracks Whyalla Beef feedlot general better marbling, pearly white fat and grain fed Oakey Angus are no contaminants.” containers to arrive The meat is graded according to manager Chris Fenwicke. That’s cherry red meat. The texture and the Reserve beef in the The animals are kept outdoors on Costco shelves in Meat Standards Australia measures: meat department of perfect condition. because Oakey Angus Reserve flavour are functions of the genetics your local Costco in shaded paddocks and fed every ossification (physical maturity) for age grain fed beef comes from specially of the cattle and the feed,” he says. warehouse. morning and evening. Their diet is and 2+ for fat marbling. Wet ageing, selected purebred Black Angus Angus cattle, he adds, have been monitored every day by a dietician Beef Exports general manager at NH where the meat is aged in a vacuum- cattle that have been on a special bred over the years to produce who also checks the quantity the Foods Pat Gleeson. “We’re recognised sealed bag to retain its moisture, diet for a minimum of 150 days. tender, full-flavoured meat. Whyalla cattle are eating. “They’re treated as one of the most state-of-the-art further improves eating quality. The Whyalla livestock buying Beef has been in the feedlot business better than most people,” Fenwicke facilities in the world and our highly The cuts, which range from ribs team sources young animals – aged since 1988. says with a grin. trained team is supported by an to roasts to steaks, including the a year to 18 months – from farms He is justifiably proud of the on-site laboratory which continually impressive tomahawk, are vacuum in New South Wales, Victoria and Full house operation. The whole system is checks and tests the product.” packed and transported in accredited Queensland. The prime cattle are Not surprisingly the kitchen operates ISO9001 accredited for quality and refrigerated containers to arrive on submitted to physical soundness on an industrial scale. “With 750 ISO2200 accredited for hazard Scientific process Costco shelves in perfect condition. and health checks, then transported head coming in each week and on control and food safety, as well as for Rigorous checks ensure contact All that’s left for a member to do to the Queensland feedlot where feed for 22 weeks we have 16,500 at occupational health and safety and surfaces are free from microbial is choose their preferred cut of beef they go on the nutritionist-designed any one time,” Fenwicke says. “We’ve environmental management. contamination and the meat is and take it home to cook. The proof diet made up of wheat, barley, corn, had as many as 50,000 in the feedlot.” The same high standards are under active refrigeration within of all the time and expertise that has roughage such as silage and hay, The Whyalla feed mill produces applied to processing the meat from 40 minutes and reduced to 1 degree gone into producing Oakey Angus with molasses to mix it all together. 750 tonnes daily of different rations the Black Angus cattle, says Oakey Celsius within 24 hours. “The Reserve is in the eating!

12 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 CPF15304Cos15151226 2015-01-15T12:41:29+11:00

OPTICAL Our Optical Department features ahuge selection of designer frames, alarge selection of contact lenses, and the latest in designer sunglasses, all at aterrific value. Whether you’rebuying glasses or tyres you can trust Costco to have unbeatable quality and value. Youwill see aclear difference!

SERVICES: •Comprehensive 30 minute eye •Screening for diabetic eye disease, health and vision exam cataracts and macular degeneration •Binocular vision assessment •Children’s vision assessment •Vision prescription assessment •Contact lens consultation •Comprehensive eye examination •Dry eye assessment •Vision field testing •Emergency appointments •Glaucoma check

Call to book an eye test with one of our qualified optometrists. See www.costco.com.au for contact information.

HERE TO HELP At Costco, we believe in helping you save money on everything you buy –even those items that don’t go in ashopping trolley.

80239_COSTCO_A4 _Optical_Ad.indd 1 14/01/2015 11:36 am SMALL BUSINESS New Year, fresh start

Say it with us now – 2015 will be the year you whip your business into shape. Corporate t’s the start of a new year. The “Sales and cash flow are constant The new year is also a good time expert Blythe Rowe shares her top three New dawn of 2015. The shopping- things to focus on, of course, without to invest in your development as Year’s mantras that small businesses can use centre Santas are gone, the carols them businesses crumble,” Rowe a business owner, whether that is have faded and the tinsel has been says. “I do believe, though, the key is developing leadership skills, sales to steer themselves to success. I removed, leaving sticky tape residue to really try and think bigger picture. skills or technological skills. A on all manner of surfaces, from your Fast-forward six to 12 months and particular area to pay attention to WORDS JANA ROOSE business’s front window to your own visualise what you want the business is how you can grow your business forehead (yes, it was a manic end to achieve, then backtrack from without outlaying cost – social to the year). there. What could be possible?” media is what we’re talking about Now small business owners After identifying where you want here. Don’t be afraid to fire up have to fire up their enterprises to be, the next step is taking action. Instagram and Facebook accounts, again, possibly when they are most “Plan and strategise for at least the and remember that retail customers depleted. Blythe Rowe has heard the next 90 to 120 day period. Why 90 to respond to visuals so post good exasperated sighs – and it’s a sound 120 days? The market is so dynamic pictures at least a few times a week. that happens to fuel her engines. now that sometimes longer plans can “Christmas is one of the busiest become less relevant,” she says. Short- Mantra 3 times of the year and everyone has term goal-setting also makes your I will treat failure as learning and been working their butts off,” she goals more achievable and allows you not let it paralyse me says. “The challenge is how do we to re-evaluate a few times throughout So your Instagram account has only MAKE SOCIAL MEDIA WORK FOR YOU ramp it up again? How do we get the year. 14 followers and your staff still won’t everyone out of holiday mode and tuck their shirts in. Let’s call on an old “Social media can be an amazing tool for giving back on track for the new year?” Mantra 2 proverb here: Be not afraid of growing phenomenal value to clients, which starts to generate According to Rowe, making New I will commit to the development slowly, be afraid only of standing still. raving fans who then go on to do the promoting Year’s resolutions for your business of myself and my team to grow Give new ideas time to work and keep for you,” says Rowe. “It’s not just about selling or can be subject to the same naivety as the business giving them your ultimate effort to promoting, but about first building a connection and telling yourself each January, ‘Never Small business owners can get so make them successful – they haven’t then going on to make an offer.” again will I binge-eat a pack of Tim stuck in the constant day-to-day failed until you give up on them. As an example, creating an Instagram account Tams’ or ‘No really, this is actually the doing that they put growth and The best way to move on from a can be one of the most valuable ways for a café or year I will learn French’. She believes development on the backburner. tough year and steer your business catering business to connect with customers. Learn it’s more realistic to have mantras. Jumping into January and picking up towards success is the most obvious: how to take visually appealing photos of your shop where you left off is not the way to go. get your customers excited. “Make space and products (look to the internet for tips), Mantra 1 First off, communicate with them feel really, really special,” use trending hashtags (#nomnom #snackattack) I will focus on the future and on your team. “Business owners can says Rowe. “Us humans love to feel and, most importantly, let your customers know you being optimistic, always underestimate the importance connected and special. Offer them have an Instagram account so they can engage, post “We small business owners can be our of inspiring action in their team,” real value – perhaps a fun New Year’s photos and tag your business. own biggest barrier to our success, says Rowe. “They just get back to promotion – and then supersede their The time it takes to learn how to use Instagram through our limited thinking,” ‘business as usual’ and hope that expectations. Give them more value BLYTHE ROWE well will pay off numerous times over. The next says Rowe. “Always remember, our everyone is on board.” than they expected. This can be in the In 2011, after a 13-year time you initiate a promotion or new product your thoughts and beliefs will determine Rowe recommends calling a littlest way, it does not have to cost career in senior HR followers will be immediately in the know and excited our actions – or inaction – sometimes meeting with your team and letting you lots of money.” leadership, Costco about coming in. in our own businesses.” them know this year will be even Consider an upgrade, free or member Blythe To see a few small businesses who are doing it What is usually going through a bigger and better than the last. faster delivery, an extra point on Rowe started a small right, take a look at: Two Little Pigs (@two_little_pigs), small business owner’s mind at this Outline what you want to achieve; a loyalty card or a personal touch. business of her Mr Sparrow (@mrsparrowshop), Finn Café (@ time of year is short-term focused and if your staff knows where they’re Exceeding expectations is one fast own, using her vast experience to help finncafe), Poppy’s Catering (@poppyscatering) or often through a negative lens. They’re headed and what they can do to get way to get your customers excited other businesses tidy Daisy’s Milk Bar (@daisysmilkbar). thinking about two things, sales and the business there it will be much about your business and in turn up their acts for both cash flow, and wondering where they smoother sailing with the whole team set you up for a record-breaking 12 happiness and profit. will come from. having a sense of purpose. months of success. See blytherowe.com

16 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 AUTUMN 2015 The Costco Connection 17 I’M A CORDLESS PHONE WITH ALL THE SMARTS The Panasonic KX-TG7893AZS digital cordless phone interacts with your Smartphone to keep you connected.

HEARING AID Welcome to one of our newest departments Link to Mobile Mobile Phone USB Charger Port –The Hearing Aid Centre Make and receive mobile phone calls through your Simply charge your mobile phone through the handy cordless handset via Bluetooth anywhere in your USB port located on the base unit. Hearing aid technology is smarter than ever and Costco is proud to offer significant savings on the latest features, home or office. brands and styles. But we do morethanfit you with ahearing aid, we’ll teach you how to incorporate all of the new technology and capabilities into your everyday life. Each hearing aid purchase comes with the service and value you expect from Costco. Key Finder (included) Noise Reduction Easily locate your keys or other items that are often The Noise Reduction feature reduces unwanted Product demonstrations, hearing tests to determine if your loss may be helped by hearing aids and follow up misplaced using your handset LCD screen and Key background noise for clearer calls. appointments arefree. Finder beeper alert.

Call your nearestwarehouse to arrange an appointment. See www.costco.com.au for contact information. Advanced Answering Machine Conveniently receive message alerts from your And many more amazing features... answering machine on your mobile phone.

HERE TO HELP At Costco, we believe in helping you save money on everything FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.PANASONIC.COM.AU you buy –even those items that don’t go in ashopping trolley.

80242_COSTCO_A4 _Hearing Ad.indd 1 15/01/2015 10:09 am TECH CONNECTION MORE THAN JUST A BIG SCREEN

FUTURE Battery life, storage capacity, screen size, speed, compatibility and desirable extra features should all be top of mind when smartphone shopping. PHONES WORDS ALEX KIDMAN

uying a new smartphone easy to see at a glance what emails, doesn’t have high storage on board can be a tricky business missed calls and messages are sitting it should have expandable capacity,” because there are so many waiting to be actioned.” says Jackson. Bmodels and specifications If a larger phone doesn’t suit you “Costco members should be to choose from. According to the Samsung Galaxy S5 might be excited about the Samsung Galaxy Costco Australia technology buyer more your taste. “It’s a standout for Note 4, Motorola Moto G second Rhys Jackson, there are a few key its embedded pedometer that tracks generation and the latest trend in factors you should keep in mind how many steps you’ve walked, along technology, the Samsung wearable for any smartphone purchase with its heart rate monitor and IP67 Gear Fit.” you’re considering. water and dust-proof rating. It’s a “Battery life is still the key,” he good choice if you’re someone who Future phones RHYS JACKSON says, because it’s what keeps your enjoys outdoor activities,” he says. Today’s smartphones are clever smartphone ticking along no matter Want a pure Android experience? devices but Jackson predicts the Rhys Jackson is Costco what it is you use your device for. Then consider the best is yet to come. Australia’s technology buyer, as well as “Consumers want a reliable Motorola Moto G, We can assume handling the toys, phone that can do more than make which combines THE that processors will gaming and seasonal calls and send messages. Mobile “super-fast 3G COSTCO continue to get faster departments. He’s phone usage is more than voice calls performance with dual CONNECTION and screens will get worked for Costco since these days. Consumers use mobile SIM compatibility”, better, although maybe late 2008, starting before the first Australian Amazing viewing experience with a 5.7” Quad HD Super AMOLED display phones to write emails, take photos Jackson advises. If additional storage not that much bigger warehouse opened in or videos, pair to Bluetooth devices, A dual SIM phone space or battery life than the current large Melbourne’s Docklands. True multi-tasking ability watch movies, use as MP3 players, lets you choose the are required, Costco screen devices. He is passionate about play games and download new apps,” network or phone offers SanDisk Micro SD “We’re already home theatre electronics cards up to 128GB, and he explains. number you want to seeing features like and surround sound, Great shots from every angle with a 16MP front camera with OIS and a 3.7MP portable battery packs an area he’s pursued front camera with wide angle selfie mode take and make calls on, up to 12000mAh. fingerprint scanners to throughout his career. Dream screen so you can have one unlock your phone or “Right now there’s new technology business number and even facial recognition, allowing for larger and clearer one personal one in along with wireless charging,” he screen displays, as you’ll find in the the same phone, or simply save says, “but maybe one day we’ll have Samsung Galaxy Note 4,” he says. on better call or data rates across smartphones with virtual keyboards “The Note 4’s 16 megapixel camera multiple networks. projected onto desk surfaces or takes incredibly crisp pictures that If you’re buying a new phone be a small pocket phone with larger appear fantastically on its 5.7-inch sure to check its onboard storage screen-image holographics screen. A larger screen size makes it capacity too. “It’s a given that if it projected above the phone.”

20 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 Uniden_CostCoMag_ad 2015-01-13T08:33:45+11:00

BUYER’S PICKS

PANASONIC KX-TG7893/AZS Cordless phone with three handsets Panasonic’s DECT-compatible cordless telephone PHONE IT IN system integrates via Bluetooth to your mobile phone, The Ultimate Smart Home Phone WORDS ALEX KIDMAN which means you can use it to make and receive If you’re in the market for a phone or phone accessory, mobile calls from your home connection, leaving Make Calls and Answer your Mobile with Bluetooth we’ve rounded up some of the latest products with your mobile phone where reception is best, placed on charge. It also features a USB port for convenient standout features. mobile phone charging. With three handsets it’s easy to While it Charges via the inbuilt USB Charge Port. cover your entire home so you never miss that vital call. SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 4 Item No. 33426 Large-screen smartphones are pretty common these days but there’s nothing ordinary about Samsung’s premium Galaxy Note 4, from the QHD 5.7-inch display screen to the 16 megapixel camera for pin-sharp photos every time. The S Pen stylus has been refined, making it easier to not only jot down notes but also select and copy onscreen items, making the Note 4 the only device you need to carry. Costco members can also benefit from the bundled Bluetooth headset that makes taking and making calls easy. Item No. 33229

BRACKETRON Universal smartphone holder – two pack UNIDEN XDECT8115+1 IMPROVED It’s unsafe to use your mobile Cordless phone with two handsets VOICE CLARITY No.No. while driving, not to mention illegal. Uniden’s XDECT8115+1 cordless phone incorporates with HD Sound∞ No matter what brand your handset is Bluetooth for mobile pairing and sharing of 1 SELLING or its size, a Bracketron’s smartphone holder contact lists, as well as USB charging of your allows you to secure your smartphone in place mobile when you’re BRAND for hands-free use, whether you’re answering a call or not using it. following your phone’s inbuilt GPS. Speaking of Item No. 923498 power, the XDECT8115+1 also features WESTERN DIGITAL MY CLOUD 6TB blackout Desktop hard drive protection Storage space on your smartphone is at a with a charged WORKSS DURINGG USB CHARGING premium, which limits your music and movie handset that BLACKOUTSS† PORT ON BASE choices on the go. Western Digital’s provides Connect your smartphone My Cloud 6TB desktop drive lets power to the to charge you store an incredible amount of phone base, content from your PC that you leaving your can also share through an communication DOWNLOAD PHONEBOOK online cloud link to your lines open even from the Mobile Phones smartphone, meaning if the powerlines your favourite music are down. and movies are only Item No. 33503 a click away. Item No. 33546 XDECT 8115+1 MOTOROLA MOTO G SAMSUNG GALAXY S5 Second generation The Galaxy S5 offers a mid-sized Android Motorola’s Moto G comes with experience with a lot of integrated the latest version of the Android technology that makes it ideal for active operating system and none of users, from the heart rate sensor that the clutter of apps that other tracks your health to the fingerprint smartphones have pre-installed. sensor for easy unlocking and payments. It’s a highly affordable phone for It’s both water and dust proof, giving it even the most budget-stretched Grab one instore today! excellent durability, and its 5.1-inch buyer and its dual SIM ability display screen gives you plenty of space allows you to mix work and For additional information visit: to review photos from its ultra-quick pleasure or simply budget for UNIDEN.COM.AU or call 1300 366 895 16MP rear camera. the best calling deals. SCAN TO DISCOVER iPhone & USB cable not included Item No. 30637 Item No. 33237

22 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 18653_OB_Costco_Con 2015-01-12T09:05:57+11:00

FOR YOUR HEALTH

NEW�YEAR��NEW�SMILE� WITH�THE�ORAL-B�RANGE trong teeth and healthy gums do more than make for a winning smile. The health of NEW�YEAR�RESOLUTIONS�ARE�EASY�TO�KEEP�WITH�THE�ORAL-B�RANGE� your mouth protects against tooth decay, Sgum disease, bad breath and tooth loss. The secret to a healthy mouth is simple: a healthy diet and regular brushing and flossing. Is your new year resolution to keep your health Australian Dental Association oral health committee member and Brisbane-based dentist on top? A key important part of a healthy Derek Lewis says brushing twice a day with lifestyle is your oral health – by removing fluoridated toothpaste is vital. “Fluoride is essential to having strong teeth,” he says. “It plaque from your teeth with proper brushing protects and strengthens the enamel.” Lewis says although there is fluoride in the and fl ossing, you are lowering your risk for water in most parts of Australia, which helps our teeth to stay strong, using a fluoridated toothpaste developing oral care issues including cavities. twice a day gives our teeth a low-dose fluoride The Oral-B range is a simple solution to treatment. “Fluoride toothpaste stays in the mouth, soaks into the teeth and protects them.” keeping your smile healthy and bright with a Everyday care range of toothpaste, brushing, fl ossing and The most important aspect of brushing is whitening solutions. Available at Costco now. removing plaque from the teeth. Plaque: the

ORAL LEARNING Good habits for oral health start at home with proper hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups.

WORDS VIRGINIA MILLEN

AUTUMN 2015 The Costco Connection 25 0115COSTCOFu1581551 2015-01-08T16:07:32+11:00

FOR YOUR HEALTH

Squeeze a pea-sized blob Brush gently using circular Brush all the surfaces of of toothpaste onto a soft motions. If you brush too your teeth paying special bristled brush. hard it can harm your gums. attention to where the tooth meets the gum. This is where plaque builds up.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Can oral health affect your overall health? Lewis says research has shown a close relationship between diabetes and gum health. “Some research shows improving the state of your mouth, and particularly the gums, helps with blood sugar control,” he says. “And it works the Remember to brush behind Keep brushing for at other way. If patients get their blood sugars under your front teeth using the tip least two minutes. Repeat control it can help their gums.” of the toothbrush. morning and night.

soft, sticky film that builds up on teeth, However, brushing is not the only who do not regularly brush, floss or see their producing acid which eats holes in teeth. requirement. “Although it is a bit tricky dentist. “The cause of bad breath and gum It can also lead to an infection in the gums, and takes some time, flossing removes disease is ; it’s germs in the mouth,” called periodontal disease, which can cause plaque from in between the teeth where says Lewis. “The fewer germs you have, the the gums to detach from the teeth. “Plaque the toothbrush can’t reach,” Lewis says. healthier your mouth will be and the fresher looks like food but it’s actually a collection of People who find flossing very difficult your breath will be.” bacteria,” Lewis says. or have large gaps between their Tooth discolouration can While using a hard-bristled toothbrush teeth can try interproximal be caused by some foods, tea, may seem like the most effective way to brushes. “They are like little THE coffee, wine or tobacco stains, or COSTCO remove plaque, Lewis says this is not the case. bottlebrushes, little tiny CONNECTION internal staining which can result “Because the bristles aren’t flexible they don’t brushes are also very effective from an impact to the tooth or get between the teeth and underneath the in cleaning between the teeth,” taking antibiotics as a child. gums efficiently to clean,” he says. “Running he says. All Costco warehouses around every tooth is a little gutter and, while Mouthwash should be used stock a wide range of Starting young it looks like the gum is tightly attached, the on the advice of your dentist. “If oral hygiene products Children should start having top part of the gum isn’t actually attached. You you are having trouble cleaning including toothbrushes, dental checks early. “The time toothpaste, floss and need the bristles to be flexible to get into that.” a certain area of your teeth and for the first check-up should be mouthwash varieties. But it’s not just the bristles’ flexibility there is always plaque building around their first birthday. It’s a that is important. Lewis adds that hard up, then perhaps a mouthwash good time for a chat with Mum toothbrushes can actually contribute to tooth might be of benefit,” Lewis says. and Dad about getting good habits in place,” abrasion, causing teeth to yellow. “A hard A visit to the dentist every six to 12 months Lewis advises. toothbrush will actually wear the enamel of is a good habit to get into because dentists can Children should be supervised while the teeth away which exposes dentine, the pick up on decay, tooth damage or any signs of brushing their teeth until they are between inside part of the tooth,” he says. gum disease or infection early. This will help seven and nine years old, as before then they Dentine can be very sensitive to cold and avoid the need for fillings, which weaken the don’t have the fine motor skills and the focus sweet foods, and it is yellow so the harder you structure of the tooth. Lewis says people with and concentration to do it properly. brush the more yellow your teeth become. ongoing gum or tooth problems should see According to Lewis, the most important “We’re not trying to clean mud off army boots their dentist more frequently. aspect of dental care is diet. “The number or anything, we’re just trying to get a thin film one thing for stopping decay is diet, far and of plaque off teeth and a soft toothbrush with Oral nasties away,” he says. “Brushing and oral hygiene a gentle technique is all that is needed there,” Plaque build-up, tooth decay, gum disease and are important but having a really good diet is he assures. bad breath are more likely to occur in people critical to having healthy teeth.”

26 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 Illustrations courtesy of the Australian Dental Association Inc. ada.org.au 69875st eggl es_cost c - 1 2015- 01- 15T10: 28: 35+11: 00

FOR YOUR TABLE Celebrate the

Chan’s Yum Cha at Home Chinese Prawn Hargow dumpling noodle soup INGREDIENTS 1.5L chicken stock 2 cups water 2 tbs soy sauce 3cm ginger, peeled and finely sliced 12 pieces Chan’s Yum Cha at Home Prawn Hargow New Year! 1 packet egg noodles 2 carrots, julienned 1 bunch bok choy, roughly shredded

KB’s Green Curry METHOD Prawn Dumplings 1. Place the stock, water, soy sauce and ginger in a pot and bring to the boil. KB’s Green Curry Prawn 2. Add noodles and Prawn Hargow and cook for 5 minutes. Dumplings use only the 3. Add carrots and bok choy, then simmer gently for 5 minutes. best quality ingredients. Serve hot as a quick and delicious lunch or dinner. These deliciously tasty dumplings are perfect Item No. 14763 for entertaining – your guests will ask for more every time. Item No. 33857

Serve dumplings with a simple Asian slaw: 1. T o make the slaw, combine ½ a shredded Chinese cabbage, 2 thinly sliced spring onions, 1 deseeded and sliced long red chilli, ¼ cup coriander leaves, ½ cup bean sprouts, 8 halved cherry tomatoes and 1 diced Lebanese cucumber in a large bowl. 2. To make the dressing, place 2 tbs olive oil, 1 tbs fresh lime juice, ½ tsp sesame oil and ½ tsp fish sauce in a screw-top jar. Shake to combine, then dress the slaw and serve.

Slow cooked abalone with ginger, lemongrass and cream INSTRUCTIONS 1. Thaw the abalone and rinse it under cold fresh water. See ausab.com.au/about-abalone/ preparation 2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large non-stick pan over medium heat, then add the garlic, ginger, lemongrass and spring onions and cook for 2 minutes. 3. Reduce the heat, add the abalone meat side down and cover with lid. Cook on low heat for 20 minutes. The abalone will release juices into the pan. Continue cooking until juices reduce. Once the abalone is cooked remove it from pan. Save stock mixture for the sauce. 4. Gently remove the abalone meat and gut from shell. Wash the shells and set aside for later. Remove the gut/gonad (the green or white portion of the gut) and the mouth from meat, discarding the mouth and reserving 3 to 4 guts for the sauce. 5. Add abalone guts to the pan with reserved stock mixture. Stir to combine over a medium heat. INGREDIENTS Add white wine, using a wooden spoon to break 4 x 100g Ausab frozen abalone whole 10cm piece of lemongrass, up the abalone guts. Simmer and reduce by in shell finely sliced half then add cream, stirring to combine. Strain 1 tbs olive oil 3 spring onion bulbs, finely chopped sauce through a fine sieve. 20g butter 125ml white wine 6. Evenly slice cooked abalone meat and arrange 3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely sliced 180ml cooking cream in the shells. Pour sauce over abalone and serve 50g ginger, peeled and finely sliced Freshly ground black pepper with freshly cracked black pepper.

AUTUMN 2015 The Costco Connection 29 costco2elco15131315 2015-01-13T13:34:52+11:00

FOR YOUR TABLE Dodoni Feta

Whole baked salmon with salad and lime  METHOD 1. Remove salmon from the refrigerator half an hour Greek before baking. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towel. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. Put a length of wide heavy-duty foil onto a large flat  baking tray, ensuring that the foil is at least twice as CucumberC long as the salmon. Brush the foil with oil and place the salmon onto the foil. Fill the cavity with spring onions, sliced lime, a handful of coriander and the peppercorns. Bring the edges of the foil up then pour over the white wine. Wrap the salmon in the foil, DillD carefully crimping the edges together to seal. 3. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until nearly cooked. Turn the oven off and leave wrapped salmon in the oven for a further 30 minutes with the door slightly ajar. 4. Place the tamarind purée into a bowl with 150ml of water and stir to combine. Add the palm sugar, ground cumin, chilli, soy sauce, ginger and a INGREDIENTS tablespoon of finely chopped coriander. 1x 2–3 kg whole salmon* ½ tsp ground cumin 5. Place the capsicum, snowpeas and mint into a bowl 1 tbs olive oil 2 large red chillies, seeded and and toss to combine. 3 spring onions, sliced finely sliced 6. Undo the foil and transfer salmon to a serving dish. on the diagonal 1 tsp soy sauce Peel away the skin from the top, leaving the skin on 1 lime, sliced 1 heaped tbs finely grated ginger the head and tail intact, then spoon over the tamarind 1 bunch coriander 1 red capsicum, julienned dressing. Decorate with salad and lime quarters. 8 peppercorns 1 yellow capsicum, julienned ⅓ cup white wine 100g snow peas, finely sliced 3 tbs tamarind purée ½ cup fresh mint leaves *Please note that whole salmon is available for sale at Costco Seafood 1 tbs finely grated palm sugar 3 limes, quartered Roadshows only. Item No. 13083 NO. 6 Dodoni Feta Shanghai Streets Soup Dumplings & tzatziki dip

Item No. 29120

Shanghai Streets Soup Dumplings are simple to prepare. Line a steamer with baking paper and fill base with boiling water. Place soup dumplings on the baking paper and steam for 8–10 minutes. Allow to cool for 1 minute.

For a truly authentic taste, serve with a delicious dipping The Foodsmiths Pork Belly Buns DIY Kit sauce. Simply combine ¼ cup black vinegar, ¼ cup soy sauce and 1 tsp sesame oil with a pinch of peeled, Bring one of the world’s most popular dishes to life at home in julienned ginger. Yum! three easy steps. Entertain your family and guests with a DIY kit that contains everything you need to make 20 delicious pork belly buns. Item No. 30805 Garlic GreekG yogurt Step 1: Mouthwatering pork Place pork belly on a baking tray in the oven for 14–16 minutes, or pan-fry for 2–3 minutes each side, until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 75°C. Step 2: Beautiful buns Microwave buns for 1–2 minutes, or steam for 3–5 minutes, then allow to stand for 1 minute. Step 3: Easy assembly Open bun and drizzle with pork belly sauce. Place a slice of pork dodoni.feta dodoni_feta belly in the bun and top with 2–3 slices of cucumber pickle. All that’s left for you to do is enjoy! For fun and easy recipes head to

30 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 www.dodoni.com.au/creations TIB5505-TibaldiCost 2015-01-09T15:38:58+11:00

WINE CONNECTION

Chester (left) and his father That’s Summer BBQ’s, ‘dArry’ Osborn watching a ferment being foot trodden. That’s Tibaldi

PRESSED No Summer BBQ is complete, without some TO IMPRESS Tibaldi Gourmet Sausages.

It’s recognisable for its red-striped label, but it’s what’s in the bottle that makes Available in four fantastic fl avours all made D’Arenberg one of Australia’s great wine producers.

using premium Australian meat and locally WORDS SARAH NORRIS

sourced fresh herbs. hester Osborn has a (with an 1860 press) for pressing Gourmet Traveller Wine made penchant for a loud shirt both white and red grapes. Osborn him a finalist for winemaker of the and for doing things his believes it’s gentler and produces year in 2008, saying: “Osborn’s • Wagyu Beef with Fresh Sage & Parsley • Pork with Lemongrass, Fresh Mint & Coriander Cown way. So much so a cleaner juice. “The way we make wines have an individual voice that that D’Arenberg is one of the only our wines is certainly unique,” he resonates across the undulating ANTON RAMSHAK • Lamb with Rosemary, Fresh Mint & Lemon Zest • Pork Chipolata Lightly Seasoned large-scale wineries in the world to says proudly. and peaceful landscape of McLaren still crush grapes by foot. “We foot It’s certainly paid off. Accolades Vale… Osborn is a Renaissance man. Anton Ramshak has press,” says the fourth generation have been heaped on the winery “His love of people and the been Costco’s national liquor buyer and in- family winemaker. “I don’t know over the years, beginning in the structural extends to architecture house wines, drinks anyone else who does that.” 1970s when it first gained national and figurative and abstract art. and spirits expert for Since taking over the D’Arenberg and international attention under Diversity of interest, personal the past six years. He family winery in 1983 from his dArry’s direction. conviction and leadership make developed a love for father Francis ‘dArry’ Osborn, It’s been named one of the Chester Osborn one of our wine over a 13-year Chester has been committed to top 100 wineries in the world great winemakers.” stint at Australian Leisure and Hospitality employing traditional handcrafted by United States Wine & Spirits Group where he had winemaking techniques that aren’t Magazine countless times and Terroir Fleurieu a number of roles used by many producers. In fact, local and international wine Established in 1912, D’Arenberg is a including retail liquor D’Arenberg is the only winery in writers have called Osborn one one-hour drive south of Adelaide in manager, state liquor Australia to still use the labour- of Australia’s more creative and the picturesque McLaren Vale on the operations manager intensive basket pressing process imaginative winemakers. Fleurieu Peninsula. and finally national liquor buyer. 03 9541 1500 [email protected] www.tibaldi.com.au www.facebook.com/TibaldiAustralia

AUTUMN 2015 The Costco Connection 33 WINE CONNECTION

As a wine region it’s also one of the most and length. “That means the style of wine we According to Ramshak, the name ‘Dead geologically diverse and is influenced by its produce is a cross between European and Arm’ comes from a vine disease that can unique interactions between geology, soil, Australian,” Osborn explains. “We capture be common in old vineyards. “The disease elevation, slope, aspect, rainfall and macro- the ripeness of Australian wines but also the slowly reduces one of the ‘arms’ of the vines CAKE &DELI climatic differences. Many argue it’s Australia’s minerality, length, elegance and structure of to dead wood, which helps the other ‘arm’ most consistent wine region – a claim Osborn European wine.” of the vine to produce small volumes of Take the fuss out of your next event. Costco members can order custom backs, although he acknowledges he may be a Among its 150 premium quality wines incredibly concentrated and highly flavoured little biased. “It is the perfect environment for Costco stocks the 2010 grapes,” he explains. birthday cakes and deli platters online. Sponge cake designs include soccer, growing grapes. You have the sea on one side D’Arenberg The Dead Arm Ramshak says winemaker clown, princess and more. Choose your platter from Prawn, Hye Roller, and the mountain range on the other. That Shiraz; 2009 The Sticks and THE tasting notes are available on all means the days are not too hot and the nights Stones tempranillo, grenache, COSTCO Costco wines to assist members Chicken Wing and Sandwich Platter.See www.costco.com.au for details CONNECTION aren’t too cold. We have mild winters, autumns tinta cao and souzao; and a in making an informed decision, * and springs, which means we don’t get frost three-bottle red wine gift pack. but as a rule there is a lot to like and to place orders. and, because of this moderate climate, a lot of “The Dead Arm Shiraz is the Look for the red and about D’Arenberg wines. varieties work here.” flagship wine for D’Arenberg white d’Arenberg “The winery was one of Pre-order now for all your party needs. It’s particularly good for north and and The Sticks and Stones label in the liquor the first quality Australian department of southern Rhone red grape varieties like continually rates highly,” says your local Costco producers we contacted shiraz, grenache, mourvèdre, and whites like Anton Ramshak, Costco’s warehouse. Note, wine before our first warehouse marsanne, roussane and viognier. “But it’s national liquor buyer and is not available at all opened back in 2009. We also very good for Bordeaux varieties like in-house wines, drinks and Costco locations. source premium quality wines cabernets, petit verdot, cabernet franc and spirits expert. “Both wines from all over the world that big merlots,” Osborn says. drink exceptionally well now, deliver members high quality however, The Sticks and Stones will only and great value, and D’Arenberg delivers Winning wines improve with cellaring up to 15 years and on both fronts.” The D’Arenberg philosophy is to make wines The Dead Arm Shiraz 2010 will improve He adds, “For anyone considering starting that have great fragrance, fruit palate texture with age for up to at least 20 years.” a wine cellar, it should be top of the list.”

*48 hoursnotice is required forall orders

HERE TO HELP At Costco, we believe in helping you save money on everything you buy –even those items that don’t go in ashopping trolley. 34 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015

80243_COSTCO_A4 Cake_Deli_Ad.indd 1 14/01/2015 4:00 pm FOR YOUR HOME Pet subject TYRE CENTRE Stop by the Tyre Centrefor professional installation of brand-name tyres while you shop. Youwill enjoy our low warehouse prices on the tyres of your choice including balancing and installation. Whether you drive acar,taxi, or van, you will find the right tyres for your vehicle –ataprice that won’t drive you away! Because your time is valuable.

While you shop, leave your vehicle with our Tyre Centre, whereweprovide: Bondi Vet Dr Chris Brown shares some of his wisdom about •TyreInstallation, balancing and rotation the real benefits of owning a pet, and some important points •Nitrogen tyreinflation to consider when you’re choosing a four-legged companion. •Flat repair •Special order tyres

Costco has awide range of Michelin, BFGoodrich and Bridgestone tyres to t feels like in the last 10 years a working dog like a border collie quite relaxed and are more than choose from. Pricing includes free balancing, disposal, installation, life-time we’ve really moved from pets or even a real go-getter like a Jack happy with just an easy walk around just being guard dogs or mouse- Russell. If you’re more of a water the block. tyrerotation, free nitrogen fill and refills. catching cats to having a deeper baby then try a golden retriever or Dogs love being outside for all the Nitrogen is non-combustible, non-flammable, non-corrosive and is safe when I used in tyres. It has alarger molecule size than oxygen and helps stabilise a emotional purpose. They give us Labrador or even a crossbreed like a new sights, smells and opportunities affection, make us feel less lonely groodle or labradoodle. These guys for exercise. You can’t help but get tyre’s inflation pressure. Oxygen escapes from atyrethree to four times faster and, if you believe the research, crave water like a surfer craves swell. caught up in their enthusiasm. But than nitrogen. Maximise your vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency and eltyr ife make us healthier, fitter and less If getting a sweat up really isn’t importantly, they make us so much by purchasing your tyres filled with nitrogen at Costco. prone to illness. But personally I your style, there are also pets that more social. We end up visiting think they show us how to be happy. are perfect for you. places and talking DR CHRIS BROWN How the simple things in life like a (Interestingly enough, to people we’d never Presenter, author and sleep in the sun or a run in the park dogs don’t actually sweat THE normally engage with. can be the greatest pleasures in life! to cool down. They don’t COSTCO In fact, not only are animal ambassador CONNECTION (Assistance Dogs I always find each individual have sweat glands!) pets great personal Australia and other has a very unique relationship with For the more relaxed trainers, they’re also organisations) Dr Chris their pet. For some people they’re of us out there, cats can Our pet roadshow great matchmakers! Brown’s Bondi Vet show just a backyard accessory that runs be the perfect lazy pet. will be visiting all Just remember has won audiences in some occasional ‘security’ work and They’re happy in their warehouses from mid- that the most the United Kingdom, February and during Europe, Scandinavia, is nice to pat when they’re feeling own company and don’t March. Dog kennels, pet important exercise Thailand, Brazil and the that way inclined. But for others – crave exercise. They’re beds and tasty treats for for your pet often Ukraine. Along with his me included – they’re fully fledged more likely to create your furry friends are isn’t with a leash. media career Chris is family members who eat, sleep and their own activities with just some of the exciting Exercising their mind a surfer and practising exercise at the same time as their a burn around the house items we have on is just as important as vet, with a family that slightly less hairy counterparts. or backyard. offer. Check your local their muscles. After includes Rusty the dog warehouse for details. and Milky the albino The names of these kinds of pets In the canine world all, pets get bored budgerigar. are the giveaway. Rather than being cavalier King Charles and may suffer from called Spot, Tiger or Red, they’re spaniels, pugs, cavoodles (cavalier separation anxiety if their mind is given ‘people’ names like Max, x poodle), miniature dachshunds able to focus on the fact their best Jesse, Chloe and Zoe, that suit and miniature schnauzers measure friend is far away from them at work. their human status! up pretty well. Surprisingly, an So just like you do for your human You should always choose pets ex-racing greyhound could also be a partners, try to have some quality HERE TO HELP that enjoy a similar lifestyle to your good option. Despite their running time together where it’s just the two own. So if you love running, go for reputation, these guys are actually of you. At Costco, we believe in helping you save money on everything you buy –even those items that don’t go in ashopping trolley. 36 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015

80250_COSTCO_A4 _Tyre_Ad.indd 1 15/01/2015 10:34 am 01125Hershe15150837 2015-01-15T09:04:06+11:00

FOR YOUR FAMILY

WORDS SARAH MARINOS Getting to know Every year, thousands of primary and high school students across Australia sit the NAPLAN tests. Here’s what you need to know. NAPLAN n mid-May around one million students so children are surrounded by familiar faces children aren’t penalised for their results. around the country will take part in the and sit their NAPLAN tests in a familiar place. Instead the focus is to provide schools, National Assessment Program – Literacy The tests are multiple choice or require short teachers and parents with feedback on a Iand Numeracy. More commonly known written answers. In tests to assess writing child’s progress and on teaching programs, as NAPLAN, the tests help measure essential skills longer answers are required. Tests and NAPLAN is only one part of how schools literacy skills such as reading, writing, spelling usually last 40 to 50 minutes. assess a child’s educational development. and grammar, and numeracy skills including measurement and algebra. What NAPLAN does What do the results mean? So, before the tests begin, what do you “NAPLAN was introduced to provide parents A child’s individual performance for each need to know about NAPLAN? with information about their children’s test is shown on a national achievement achievements in literacy and numeracy,” says scale that has 10 bands. One band shows the How it works Norm Hart, president of the Australian Primary national minimum standard at each year level NAPLAN tests are for students in Years 3 Principals Association. “It allows them to and a result in this band shows a child has and 5 in primary school, and in years 7 and compare their children’s test results with the reached the basic literacy and numeracy skills 9 in high school. Both government and non- test results of students of similar age in their expected for their year. government schools take part. school, state or territory and Australia wide.” Parents receive a NAPLAN report that Tests are held at a child’s school and are But it’s important to remember that shows how their child has performed organised by the school’s usual teaching staff NAPLAN tests are not ‘pass or fail’ tests and compared to the national average, which

AUTUMN 2015 The Costco Connection 39 DECXXXCostco1581727 2015-01-08T17:32:55+11:00

FOR YOUR FAMILY

KIDS’ LEARNING AIDS

School Zone Learning Pack for Preschool Share fun educational activities with your preschooler using this learning pack for three to five year olds. The pack includes six coloured marker pens, more than 70 cute stickers and packs of Go Fish game cards, Three-Letter Words puzzle cards and Colours, Shapes & More flash cards, along with a giant pad, all packaged up in a ‘big kid’ school satchel. Item No. 34030

School Zone Learning can highlight learning areas where a child may some need Pack for Kindergarten help. “Parents should discuss their children’s NAPLAN Let’s play school! This educational scores with the classroom teacher, particularly where there activities pack is designed for play is a discrepancy between the NAPLAN results and the with four to six year olds to foster achievements indicated on the child’s recent report cards,” basic numeracy, comprehension and says Hart. reading skills. It includes six coloured marker pens, more than 70 fun stickers How do schools use the results? and packs of Numbers from 0 to 25, NAPLAN helps schools see how different education programs Picture Words and Alphabet Fun flash cards, along with a giant are working and where improvements can be made. pad, packed up in a handy satchel. Item No. 34030 “NAPLAN results are useful for schools when considering the effectiveness of their programs,” says Hart. “If most of the School Zone students in the school answer a particular question incorrectly NAPLAN-Style Workbook it is possible the school’s curriculum program is not placing Complete Year 3 sufficient emphasis on that topic.” Prepare your kids to achieve the best Government and educational bodies also use NAPLAN possible NAPLAN results by giving scores to identify schools that might require additional needs- them a head start they will enjoy. This based funding. workbook is packed with fun exercises and practice tests that will help your How can you help your child? kids improve their skills in an informal Schools help children by familiarising them with the test setting, without stress, while moving environment and by getting them used to different types through beginner, medium and of exams, such as multiple choice and shorter and longer advanced levels of learning. Item No. 33717 writing tasks, says Nerina Pretlove, director of the Australian Professional Teachers’ Council. School Zone “Primary schools help young students with the technical NAPLAN-Style Workbook aspects of the test, for example, how to fill out the answers or Complete Year 5 correct an error,” adds Hart. “Teachers also provide advice This workbook helps kids get a grip about managing time during tests which are designed to place on reading, numeracy, language students under time pressure. Effective primary schools conventions and writing through 16 resist the temptation to modify what they teach or how they NAPLAN practice tests based on the teach as a result of NAPLAN. Instead they provide a rich, Australian Year 5 curriculum, with well-taught curriculum as the best preparation for students correct answers supplied. The tests to demonstrate mastery of the material.” progress through stepped beginner, Pretlove says parents can support their child by regularly medium and advanced levels and reading to them and with them. “Let them see you reading and are presented with engaging colour have conversations with them about what they are reading,” she illustrations and easy-to-read text, says, “and involve them in decisions that use numeracy, such as printed on quality paper. Item No. 33717 calculating change, buying things and in do-it-yourself projects.” Parents can find sample NAPLAN questions and a sample School Zone writing task on the National Assessment Program (NAP) NAPLAN-Style Workbook website at nap.edu.au Complete Year 7 If your child is stressed, “Remain calm and reassure them Covering the scope of all four Year 7 that this is just another part of schooling,” says Pretlove. NAPLAN tests for numeracy, language “Speak positively about the results by saying things such as, conventions, reading and writing, this ‘This is what you can do. Let’s see what we can do to help you workbook includes exercises and 16 build new skills in this or that area’.” Reassuring children that practice tests, progressing through you only expect them to do their best is also helpful. beginner, medium and advanced “Remind children that NAPLAN is a test for every student levels, and eight pages of rewards in their year level in Australia, so they shouldn’t panic if they stickers to help provide positive encounter something for the first time in the test,” advises feedback and keep your seventh Hart. “Suggest a visit to the toilet and a drink of water at the grader motivated. Item No. 33717 bubblers before the test. Hydrated and relaxed bodies always perform better in testing situations.”

40 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015 BUYER’S PICKS WHAT’S NEW We’ve made a commitment to our members to turn your shopping experience into a treasure hunt. You never know what gems you might find at your local warehouse…

Winning pass Calling all snow bunnies! Members who shop at Auburn, Crossroads and Canberra can buy a two-day Perisher ski pass with lift lessons included, at a great Costco price. March – September

© © Music to your ears Having a piano in your home is an open invitation to creativity and joy, and a wonderful resource for gifted youngsters. Auburn members can see the range of Gospel pianos: kids’, upright, digital and – if you have the floor space – © Little marvels even grand pianos. February Talk about pot luck! Bonsai trees © are miniature works of art, grown in attractive ceramic pots. These botanical wonders are an investment for your home. Costco is happy to announce its amazing-value bonsai trees and pots roadshow is coming to all warehouses. February – April Premium protection You can’t ask for better quality than Bollé when it comes to snow gear. Now in time for next season Costco is offering Bollé helmets and goggles as well as kids’ sets. Available from all New warehouses except North Lakes. Mid February onwards in 2015! Best to Cook up a storm hand With over 30 years of German quality and craftsmanship, Buy now and ski later. Woll cookware is made to last. Each piece is hand cast Or run, rock climb or from high-grade mountain bike in cold aluminium weather. These men’s alloy and fitted and women’s Head with a solid E titanium base in G multi-sport gloves are G HUNT thin and breathable, elegant modern with silicone rubber designs. Look webbing on the palms out for the V range in all A to ensure you never lose your grip, and Sensatec technology RIE BOX warehouses. TY so wearers can operate touch screen devices. Available from all warehouses except North Lakes. Mid February onwards February – April ®Registered Trademark. ©Mars, 2014.

42 The Costco Connection AUTUMN 2015

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