Gold Coast Acupuncturist and women's mentor.
Gold Coast Acupuncturist and women's mentor.
She’s a longtime Gold Coast gal passionate about women’s health and healing and Keri Krieger knows what’s up when it comes to looking after ourselves when it comes to times like these.
We sat down for a chat with Keri about how we can nurture our bodies and minds right now and how daily rituals can ease stress and support our health.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I have been on the Gold Coast since I moved here in ’92 from North QLD to do a creative arts degree.
What do you love most about living here?
I zipped back and forth between here and the UK for a few years and came back to Palm Beach in 2007. Have been in the area ever since. It’s a cliche, but the lifestyle (things are cliche for a reason right?). I loved living overseas and in theory having a “weekend in Paris” as an option but the day to day living doesn’t get any better than here; sunshine, sand between my toes and the ability to choose how much hustle I get involved in. I’m a tropical fish at heart.
Talk to us about acupuncture, how did you get into it and why do you love it?
Acupuncture is an amazing ancient health care practice that has integrated it’s way very successfully into our modern-day health care system. Fine needles (we need a different word but we don’t have one in English) are inserted into points on the body that correlate with the meridian system. Think roadways on the external body that relate to all the internal organs. These pathways let us access and influence our internal organ health. Acupuncture is both an Art and a Science and I think that is where some confusion can occur. There is so much that modern Science has recently been able to quantify with peer reviewed articles around IVF, pain management and Oncology. But there’s the art to it as well that looks at us humans as an interconnected part of our natural habitat taking into account our emotional and mental wellbeing. It sounds crazy to say sticking tiny pins in your arms or legs can support anxiety but again there is much clinical data to support this.
Things are a little wild in the world right now, what’s your take on how people are feeling?
Wow there’s alot happening right now. What I am seeing is that in amongst it all we’re realising that we are allowed to be full spectrum people. That you can be anxious about the world in general and be specifically happy about a lovely moment that you had. And that we need to be more resourceful and creative about how we live our lives. People are hopeful and worried at the same time which can feel confusing. I know in other communities things have been much much harder, we live in a very privileged area but what I’m seeing in my day to day is a level of gratitude and determination to be kind and support others. There has been so many hard wake up calls this year and it’s a challenge on everyones nervous system but what I hope continues is an awareness of the interconnectedness of all of us. And I’ve definitely found at Nuwa that we’ve been treating al the usual things (the clinic specialises in IVF, fertility and pregnancy support) but I started working there just in time to see a huge increase in the women booking in to help their stress levels and experience of anxiety.
How can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture is working with our nervous systems and now more than ever, we need practices, tools and support to down regulate that hectic feeling of always being on alert and in fight or flight.
You’re also a mentor for women, what do you offer women?
I’m about mentoring women in business to succeed on their terms and to really know what those terms are. I’m all about supporting women to get deeply in touch with how they can operate their business best according to their values and needs. I’ve had clients that on paper were and are incredibly successful. Running those classic 6/7 figure business’ that we all hear about yet they were doing it in such a way that they had abandoned themselves, were feeling discontent, disconnected and tired. This of course affects everything else in your life, including your health and the actual business in the end. So what I offer is usually a very person specific deep dive into their limiting beliefs and behaviours and how that’s currently playing out in their world. It’s a life overhaul theres’ not other way to describe it. I love the immersion and the outcomes that are possible. I love seeing these women come out the other side in full bloom!
You love a ritual, what are some things we can incorporate into our days to ease the stress or daily life right now?
Everything can be a ritual if there’s some attention or presence to it. I created a laundry champagne ritual the other day when we came home from a long weekend away. Book ending your day with ritual pauses is really helpful (try something other than wine). Having an actual cup of tea (none of us need more coffee) while leaving a long winded voice note to someone we miss first thing is a lovely moment of connection. Five minutes of dancing to your favourite song when you get home is a wonderful way to shake off the day. Ditto goes for singing loudly on the way home in the car! Going outside to look at the stars in the backyard for ten minutes before bed. Setting an alarm at night to dim the lights and turn off the screens. At the end of a hard day or week, writing down all the things that were challenging then setting fire to them (safely). This is acknowledging and releasing. I take EVERY excuse to celebrate (see laundry above), obviously it doesn’t need alcohol. A candle lit dinner isn’t just for a special romantic occasion. A new pot plant that you water and talk to every day is truely a fun companion. Let your imagination go wild.
What would you say is the most important thing we can do for our mental health?
Sleep. Sleep is THE thing to prioritise. No caffeine after midday, dial down the sugar, no screens in bed, ear plugs, eye mask, do whatever you have to! A breathing / meditation practice, this can be as simple as five slow deep breathes in and out at points in your day. Time in nature. Journalling, you don’t need to be a writer to get those feelings down and out of your head. A small team of close humans you can be honest with, this includes professional help. Never feel bad about asking for help, we need our village.
How does the rest of the year look for you?
The rest of the year looks full and varied just how I like it. I have a big writing project to put a dent in. A summer garden to get growing and a new position out at Eden Health Retreat to dive into alongside my ongoing practice at Nuwa Natural Health. Let’s see though if 2020 will continue to laugh at our plans! I used to do quite a bit of travel for work but I am enjoying this close to home life.
Tell us some of your favourites on the Coast:
Restaurant for dinner: We love popping over the hill to Caracara in Tugan for tacos and margaritas.
Coffee spot: I have been a devotee at The Dust Temple since the very beginning. Just a bike ride around the corner from home.
Cafe for breakfast: Saltwater for the local group catch up, Caribou for their B&E rolls and Barefoot Barista because I moved to Palmy when Dean & Liz opened and it feels like going home (for their haloumi zucchini fritters).
How does your weekend usually look: I’m so excited for these warmer weekends that are slow and sunny. A local walk along Currumbin Creek, A bike ride along the beach to Kirra. Reading on the deck in the sun with the pup and the bloke. Meals with friends, just the good simple things.
Lauren Kate is a facialist, maybe not a term you’ve heard before, but now you have. Lauren opened her boutique facial clinic The Facialist (I see what you did there) in Miami in 2017 offering eager Gold Coast faces essential, clinical and luxury facials and well, she’s had a steady following ever since. In fact, Lauren is in such high demand, she is currently on the hunt for a new location to expand her popular business (when things return to normal). We caught up with Lauren to get the down-low on how we can look after our skin at home…
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I am South Australian born but the Gold Coast has been my home for 20 years.
What do you love most about the Goldie?
The landscape, the Gold Coast has incredible beaches and just a stonesthrow inland, a backdrop of valleys and rainforests, one of the most beautiful destinations in the world!
Tell us about The Facialist.
The idea for The Facialist was born when I was teaching skin science, I would see students come through my classes, learning about the skin and performing clinical treatments that they may not be able to afford to have themselves.
The Facialist is a space for all ages, all genders and all skin conditions where the emphasis is on skin health and self love, not sales goals. A beautiful space where you can have top notch treatments, delivered by advanced skilled therapists at a price that doesn’t make your eyes water. Whether it is a clinical corrective treatment or much needed me-time you seek, we have you covered.
What’s a good routine that I should get into for looking after my skin at home?
Keep it simple, Cleanse, Treat, Hydrate, Protect. Cleanse daily to remove pollutants and cellular waste, treat individual skin concerns with a select serum, hydrate with a moisturiser to correct and maintain the skin barrier and protect with SPF! A good Facialist can help you tailor your skin care products to meet your skin health needs.
Are there any food or drinks that play with your skin that we should limit/avoid? And are there any that are beneficial?
Absolutely! Foods rich in Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin C, E & EFA’s are my favourite big players when it comes to skin, think dark leafy greens like spinach, nuts, seeds, avocados, mangos, lemons and bananas to name a few. And to limit, alcohol and sugar. Alcohol can cause facial flushing, pruritus, impared immunity and disrupted skin barrier function, and excess sugar attacks the skin’s collagen and elastin and has a causative link to acne.
I got sunburnt (oops), what should I do to not peel?
Sunburn is skin cells in trauma, the ‘peel’ that follows is the skin’s way of shedding dead, dying and damaged cells from your body. It’s best to let your skin handle this but you can speed up the healing with cool compresses and gentle soothing moisturisers such as aloe vera.
I’m starting to get some fine lines, what can I do?
Ditch the sugar and the sunshine! Excess sugar sabotages skin in a process called glycation, basically hijacking the beautiful proteins in your skin and causing them to become rigid, the UV Radiation from our sun attacks these same proteins. Skincare products containing Retinoids, a form of Vitamin A, are a great idea to throw into your night-time skin routine, Retinoids work to combat damage to the skin’s proteins and promote new collagen production, treating pesky fine lines and wrinkles.
Should I exfoliate?
Yes, but don’t overdo it. Skin cells naturally exfoliate themselves but as we age the process slows down, this can contribute to congestion and leave your skin looking dull. How often you should exfoliate and what with, comes down to your individual skin condition, it’s always best to reach out to your Facialist to make sure your exfoliant is right for you.
What’s the best option for getting rid of blemishes?
This is a tricky one, the cause and condition of the skin are important factors, there are tons of quick fixes however they may resolve the blemish temporarily but don’t treat the underlying cause. The best option? Call us.
My skin looks dull and lifeless, anything I can use around the house to look fresh again?
The best thing you can use around the house are your own hands! A gentle home facial massage will give you back your glow. Massage has many benefits, it will help to improve circulation, simulate cellular turnover, aid lymphatics and relax muscles, leaving your skin more radiant. Take care not to pull, it should be gentle with flowing strokes upward and from the centre.
What do you think is a must-have item for your skin?
SPF! Enjoy the sunshine, but do so safely. I prefer a good physical sunscreen.
(there is more on our blog on this topic: protection or poison)
What’s your best piece of beauty advice?
Your skin is a reflection of your internal health and wellbeing, diet and lifestyle have huge implications on your skin health, regular facials and a good skin care routine are only part of the picture. My favourite beauty advice is to ‘Feed your Face’. What are you eating, what aren’t you eating, are you getting enough?
Tell us your favourites on the Gold Coast:
Coffee spot: Hide N Seek
Café for breakfast: Caffeine Kings
Restaurant for dinner: The North Room
If we were asked to name some of the world’s most-loved culinary combinations, tacos and tequila would be at the very top of that list. Well pretty much any Mexi-eats and all of the salty, mouthwatering margaritas we can get our hands on, to be specific.
Luckily, we have once again been blessed with our foodie dreams coming true thanks to a brand new Mexican eatery and tequila bar by the name of Caracara Cantina.
The newbie opened last week in the space that was formerly home to Hidden Wine Bar and Café and it’s the work of two people who gave us beloved Burleigh bar, Lockwood. Brenden Yeo and Zac Wright opened the secretive speakeasy almost exactly two years ago and now they’ve launched an equally impressive space into the Tugun dining scene.
Caracara is made up of two sections – the first, at the front, is a sweet shade of peach with white wooden tables and cactuses of all shapes and sizes strewn throughout. Perfection.
At the back, the tequila bar is moody and lowlit bringing the Lockwood vibes we know and love with quite the impressive array of tequila stacked on bar shelves. Both high tables and corner spaces are made for intimate, late-into-the-night chats soaked with quality tequila. The best kind.
The menu starts with tasty, flavour-packed dishes like Spiced Bean Dip, Padron Pepper, Ceviche and Charred Corn Cob and each is an absolute must-try.
Moving onto tacos, they’re the authentic, charred, melt-in-your-mouth variety with options like Spiced Pumpkin, Caracara beans, Pulled Pork or Fish and we recommend eating at least one of each, they’re all that good.
Of course, there’s a Giant Burrito and a Roasted Sweet Potato Salad made up of a whole, oven-baked sweet potato and topped with a fresh herb and chilli salad, corn salsa and salsa verde. Much delight.
As you’d imagine (having no doubt visited Lockwood many a time), the cocktail list is a special one with five margarita varieties including the Classic, Breakfast, Tommy’s, Chilli and Coconut.
There’s also a couple of tipples that include both tequila and lager and we’re obviously big fans of those.
If you’re keen to get involved in both tacos and tequila tastings, we suggest a Mexi-feast at the front (accompanied by a margie or two to warm you up), then an after-party in the back bar where the good times will definitely be rolling.
It’s happy days for Tugun Gold Coasters, Caracara is going to be an absolute hit.
LOCATION: 455 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
HOURS: Open 5pm until late Wednesday to Saturday and midday until late Sunday
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Over the past couple of years Palm Beach (or Palmy as it’s affectionately known) has well and truly been embracing it’s new found cool kid status.
While we can’t pinpoint the exact moment it officially transformed to ‘it’ suburb, lucky locals have been living large of late, with the emergence of all the beachside haunts to frolic between (though they do have to compete a little more for parking these days).
While in years gone by, the only thing reliably making Palmy a ‘must stop’ destination was a quiet-ish (albeit stunning) beach, and the high chance of catching a red on the way through. With an influx of laidback eateries, noteworthy restaurants, swanky bars and luxe boutiques popping up left right and centre, there’s never any shortage of things to do. These days, we can think of at least 19 epic reasons that make this buzzing suburb THE place to be.
Palm Beach’s café game just levelled up with ’94, a matcha haven by Ahmet Taskin. Blending Japanese café vibes with vintage bar aesthetics, it’s serving up house-made syrups, killer matcha creations, and next-level toasties. More than just great sips and snacks, it’s a community hub with plans for running and swimming clubs. Basically, if you’re in Palmy, you need to be here.
Where: 1114 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Rolling into the former Scottish Prince space, Cadillac Supper Club is bringing vintage vibes, moody lighting, and next-level eats to Palm Beach. The brainchild of Bar Evelyn’s Mark Catsburg and Nick Stanton, this spot opened in August 2024, but has recently reimagined itself as an Italo-American pizzeria and bar, serving up wood-fired pizzas alongside its classic dishes. Add in a stacked wine list, top-tier cocktails (hello, Cadillac Classic Martini), and vinyl-spinning DJs on weekends, and you’ve got your new favourite late-night haunt.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
The Gold Coast is home to many an impressive farmers market and one of our absolute favourites can be found in Palmy on Saturday mornings. From 6am at Palm Beach Currumbin High School you’ll find fresh local produce, artisan foods, specialty coffee, epic doughnuts, flowers, dog treats, the lot. The perfect way to spend a weekend morning.
Where: Thrower Drive, Palm Beach
Overcoming the momentary temptation to leave this one out (in hopes of greedily keeping more of those highly coveted tables all for ourselves) – but no list about epic Palmy spots would be complete with such a glaring omission. Dishing up authentic Mexican eats, the menu is short but sweet, sticking only to their specialities with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Any day featuring beachside, street-style tacos like the zesty Birria Beef (complete with signature consommé to dip), and a coconut marg (because marg) is a very bueno day indeed.
Where: 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Tallebudgera Surf Club has undergone a $12 million renovation, transforming it into a must-visit spot this summer. The upgraded venue offers everything from Bean Surfing Beach Café with coffee and breakfast classics, to a vibrant Sports Bar and an ocean-view Restaurant & Café serving fresh dishes like Lobster Tacos and Seafood Platters. There’s also a killer drinks menu, fun cocktails like the Tallebudgera Thunder, and a Gelato Bar with 12 flavours to cool off. Plus, every purchase supports local lifesavers, making it a win-win for beach lovers.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Those with little ones will attest to the fact that the Pirate Park is up there with the best on the Coast. Located right near the water, the park far exceeds anything you ever got to play on as a kid with a pirate ship stuck in the sand and upended wine barrels perfect for all day climbing. If you don’t have any babes, Dune Café is close by as is the sparkling ocean and a dog beach on Currumbin Creek that’s always good for a laugh.
Where: 945 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach (on the left before the Currumbin Creek bridge)
No doubt you’ve already set foot inside The Collective more than once and why wouldn’t you with five restaurants to choose from? Open for lunch and dinner, you can stay all day and, as it’s a communal dining setting, you’re bound to make some new friends along the way. So, if you’re in the mood for pizza and tacos, head to The Collective, order both and wash it all down with a cocktail at the rooftop bar.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
It’s every local boho babe’s dream come true. Opened in 2013, White Bohemian stocks all your favourite hippy-esque labels including GD brand Kivari, Byron Bay cult-fave labels SPELL and Arnhem. These guys were one of the first to bring us the magic of the laid-back luxe aesthetic before the #boho trend took over the world (and our wallets), so we trust them and their epic curation of all things effortless style endlessly. There’s homewares too so, you know, prepare to spend up.
Where: Cnr Seventh Avenue and Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
It goes without saying that if you’ve ever driven through Palm Beach, you’ve definitely laid eyes on Balboa Italian. The beautifully appointed double-storey brick building is in a class of its own serving classic Italian dishes with modern interpretations and the freshest of flavours. It’s worth a visit just to experience the fitout, complete with overhead Vespa and exposed brick walls. The cocktails are unique and the wine selection varied. It’s all good to be honest, get down there.
Where:1069 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Bringing mid-century charm and top-tier coffee to Palmy, Bantr is the new go-to for specialty sips, delicious eats, and a side of banter. Run by longtime locals Dean and Susan Olarenshaw, this laid-back spot serves up All Press Coffee, a TikTok-approved Strawberry Matcha, and crowd-favourite dishes like their famous Breakfast Burrito. With a vibrant atmosphere and a giant Samuel L. Jackson mural watching over your caffeine fix, bantR is where great coffee meets good vibes.
Where: 1389 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
A somewhat secret cocktail bar, tucked away on the Gold Coast Hwy, Suga specialises in rum and good times and if you’re keen on either or both of those you should absolutely get down there. They have an impressive cocktail menu plus plenty of epic wines (pet nats, yes please) and beers so no matter what, you’re gonna love it.
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Launching a cafe in a hip and happening suburb surrounded by competition stiffer than a morning espresso is not for the faint of heart – but ever since they branched out from their OG Tugun location, locals and weary travellers alike have unanimously agreed it’s always a good day for Good Day Coffee Palm Beach. Friendly faces serving Blackboard coffee and other staples like pastries and goat’s fetta laden smashed avo toast – we could easily eat and drink here every day. The epitome of simple eats, and great coffee, done well.
Where: 1073 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Found upstairs in a sunlit space oozing chill vibes is Ritual Yoga & Pilates. Owned by sisters Rose and Sophie, Ritual is a favourite amongst both Palm Beach locals and those who reside in surrounding suburbs. If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation (or a solid sweat session), Ritual is calling your name.
Where: 9b Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach
Bringing big flavour and even bigger vibes to Palmy, Madame V is the newest hotspot from acclaimed Gold Coast chef Daniel Ridgeway. Expect a menu packed with modern Asian-inspired delights, from Sticky Pork Ribs to Spicy Beef Tenderloin, plus a must-try Yum Cha Sunday featuring all the dumpling goodness your heart desires. The cocktails are just as bold—think yuzu-infused whisky sips and sake-spiked tropical creations. Whether it’s a casual bite, a private dining experience, or an all-out Yum Cha feast, Madame V is the place to be.
Where: 6 Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach
Freshly made bagels with a variety of savoury and sweet options, from classic cream cheese spreads to loaded pulled pork and decadent S’mores French Toast Bagels. It’s the perfect spot for a pre-beach breakfast or post-pilates pick-me-up. The UE Bagels Reuben is elite. Winning gold at the Olympics level elite. With a relaxed, industrial vibe, this café offers both street-side and indoor seating to enjoy your bagels and their signature UE Brew Coffee Blend. Open daily from 6am (or until sold out), it’s a must-visit for any bagel lover!
Where: 5/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach
As we’ve probably already well established by this point, us Gold Coasters are big suckers for a cute fit-out. It’s hard to tell if it’s the perfectly peachy-pink interiors, or the Italian aromas wafting from the kitchen that keep us coming back to Toro’s Pizza like moths to a flame. And spoiler alert: it’s definitely the latter, since there are few smells that compare to that of a freshly baked, still bubbling wood-fired pizza. Carbs, cheese, more cheese, and BYO – this place is what Italian dreams are made of.
Where: Shop 7/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach
Sporting a sunny new facade with striped yellow awnings and nautical touches, Neptune Kiosk is the perfect spot to grab a coffee and snack by the water. The kiosk now boasts an expanded space, including a dedicated pick-up window for quicker service. Alongside Marvell Street coffee, you can enjoy fresh juices, smoothies, ice creams, and sweet treats like fresh cinnamon donuts alongside oozy cookies and pastries from Custard Canteen. Open daily from 5:30 am, it’s the ideal stop for creekside caffeine and bites.
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Early risers, rejoice! Mylk Well serves up top-notch brews and all-day eats from 5am daily. Brought to life by hospitality pros Sophia Buntine and Victoria Macbain (formerly of Commune), this sleek Scandi-inspired spot dishes out everything from Kimchi Toasties to Chilli Scrambled Sourdough, alongside Coffee Supreme creations that’ll keep you buzzing. Whether you’re after a killer House Hash Benny, a Green Tea Soba Noodle Salad, or just a perfect iced latte, Mylk Well has you covered. Safe to say, Palmy locals will be milking this one for all it’s worth.
Where: 1134 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Step inside this boutique hideaway, and you’ll be grinning like, well… you know who. What’s old is new again at this six-room motel, a nostalgic mid-century dream decked out with retro furnishings and a colour palette straight from the ‘60s—think tangerine oranges, teal blues, and pistachio greens. Whether you pick the Queen Room or the Bungalow, both are madly impressive. Tucked away on the buzzing Palm Beach strip yet hidden in plain sight, just follow the neon glow and cactus-lined walls—you’ll know you’ve arrived.
Where: 1005 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Words by Belinda Symons
