Candles Capture Local Scenti-ments 

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Written By Sally Eberhardtv

Our favourite smells remind us of happy times.  

Take a deep breath of sea air and instantly feel calmer and happier as the scent evokes memories of carefree days at the beach. The science behind this phenomenon is that smell, emotions and memories are intrinsically linked as they are processed by the same parts of the brain. 

Scarborough resident Shirlee Green said she loved the smell of the ocean breeze and seaweed on her daily walks and wanted to capture that fragrance to share with others. She found candles scented with essential oils to be the perfect vehicle and her business Starfish Scarborough was born. 

Shirlee said that understanding the effects of scent-linked memories can help us use them to positively affect our daily lives. 

“Our range of candles isn’t just about illumination, it’s about curating experiences,” she said. 

“The locally-inspired fragrance range now includes Scarborough, Redcliffe, Newport, Woody Point, North Lakes and Moreton Bay with Margate coming soon. Each is a unique blend to transport you to a place of positive emotions and well-being.”

A Local Business with a Scent-sational Success Story

The business idea was inspired when Shirlee experienced the calmness and creativity of candle-making in 2022. A few months later, she wanted to honour a close family member and decided the perfect way was to light a candle.  

Shirlee said selling candles to others was the next step, but it wasn’t until she created the location-scented range that business really took off. 

“I launched these location candles and diffusers at Redcliffe Easter Markets this year and was amazed at how popular they were with tourists and locals alike,” she said. 

“We offer refills of candle jars and diffusers. Refill – not landfill. 

“We also help other businesses transform their corporate gifts into an unforgettable experience with their own signature fragrance.” 

Starfish Scarborough recently won a 2024 Moreton Bay Local Business Award and was a finalist in the Redcliffe Chamber of Commerce 2024 awards.  

These nature-inspired candles and diffusers have the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy and make a beautiful gift for yourself or others. For more information, visit starfishscarborough.com.au or Starfish Scarborough Facebook page. 

Make it a scent-sational Christmas this year and support local!

Read more stories from our Redcliffe Guide print magazine here: