Au Design
Business in Scenic Rim

DAVID KENNEDY David Kennedy spent a quarter of a century traveling the world and working in the oilfield industry before settling down back in his native Australia. Sometimes it's just nice to get out, take a few pictures and get some fresh air, she says. However, Daniela modestly shies away from praise. The striking images Daniela produces have been described as a skillful mix of art, colour and light. I use ambient light and have captured some beautiful colours, explains Daniela. I particularly enjoy night photography and time-lapse shots where a picture is taken over the span of 45 minutes to one hour. In the North Gorge area of the island we normally see turtles, manta rays and dolphins, Daniela says. It is not too far away and is a fantastic place to see and photograph wildlife. At the moment, Stradbrooke Island is my favourite spot. When we have a short break, I love going to the beach. However, whenever she finds the time, Daniela loves to look at life through the lens of a camera. Here Daniela can indulge her love of gardening and nature as she tends to the grounds and to her beloved chickens as well as to the administration side of the business. Their Witches Falls Cottages property consists of several romantic cottages set in a sun dappled rainforest location. Nowadays most of Daniela's time is spent running the couple's successful accommodation business in Australia's Gold Coast Hinterland. It's very rewarding to form something with your hands and to have a beautiful end product that others admire and are proud to own. DANIELA KURATLI Swiss-born Daniela Kuratli's life changed forever the day David Kennedy walked into her office in St. Gallen. Little did she know then, that this chance meeting would lead her to a new life half way across the world in Australia. Whether I am polishing a coaster or adding detail to a silver pendant, I find the creation process very satisfying. His organic, earthy coasters are the result and are evocative of this sunburned country, of the trees that shade it and the richness of its soil. David decided to make something that embodied the key elements of Australia. Didgeridoos that were probably made in Indonesia and stuffed koalas made in China didn't appeal and I realized there was a market for high quality Australian souvenirs. My inspiration to create these exclusive coasters came at a time when I was searching for a typically Australian gift for a client, explains David. Using granite, Mother of Pearl and native timbers such as Queensland Maple and Silky Oak and often adding accents of gold and silver, David cuts and polishes one of a kind coaster sets. From his Studio at Witches Falls Cottages, David creates exquisite gold and silver jewellery as well as unique coaster s made from natural Australian materials. Now based on Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast's hinterland with partner Daniela, David divides his time between running a successful accommodation business and crafting unique jewellery and gift items. (more).