Alive Magazine - Edition 09 - April 2021 by alivefrasercoast

WIDE BAY

alive

IVE

Magazine

Heroes Edition

Restoring dignity Selfless Bay women bring hope to the homeless Full story on page 4-5

Honour in the Auxiliary

DOING IT DUNGA STYLE

How did two sponges raise $570 in one hour?

Full story on page 10-11

Full story on page 8-9

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ISSUE 09 - APRIL 2021

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THERE’S A

hero

wise old May Parker (yes, I’m referring to the all-time classic original Spiderman movie here) once said there’s a hero in all of us, that keeps us honest, gives us strength, makes us noble, and finally allows us to die with pride. While it’s a cheesy line from what I would call a pretty awesome movie (Yep, I’m a Marvel tragic), but it does have some weight to it.

The beautiful humans that feature in this month’s hero edition show that a little bit of kindness and compassion really can go a long way.

No, they are not suiting up in spandex, swinging off buildings and beating up the bad guys of the world, but these Hervey Bay residents certainly are heroes in my eyes.

Our front cover stars Trish Hummerston and Josie Street would almost certainly give the shirts off their back to anyone in need. The local volunteers are bringing some dignity back into the lives of homeless people living on the Fraser Coast by providing them with the basic everyday essentials, like food and hygiene products, that most of us take for granted.

And they do this with funds made from collecting bottles and cans. Hats off to you girls!

We all know the saying that behind every good man there is a good woman, and that

IN ALL OF US

must be Esme Fay.

The 90-year-young Hervey Bay resident has been volunteering with RSL Women’s Auxiliary for more than 20 years, which is very much a tribute to her husband Vic’s time served in the Navy.

Esme and the auxiliary team are the volunteers behind every Anzac Day breakfast, crosses with poppies at Freedom Park and in the earlier days, raised funds for the Sub-Branch and the extension of the Bay RSL. There’s also a special tribute to the Rally for a Cause and Dunga Derby family. Rally for a Cause was started on the Fraser Coast in 2015 and since then the Dunga Derby car rally has raised over $1.3 million, which has gone back into the Fraser Coast community to provide support to over 106 local Fraser Coast families.

A recent Dunga-in-a-Day fundraiser, held by the Greased Monkey’s mechanics team, is just one of the many fine examples of the incredible work these teams do for the community.

Even the smallest acts of kindness can make someone’s day. Consider kindness before you speak, spread kindness that you have received, be mindful of how you treat others, be kind and set an example.

Email: info@alivemag.com.au Website: www.alivemag.com.au Editor KERRIE ALEXANDER editor@alivemag.com.au Deputy Editor LEANNE ESPOSITO Digital Editor LIZZIE MACAULAY Graphic Designer / Photographer JOY BUTLER Advertising Manager LOUISE HOLMES Ph: 0477 094 335 Advertising enquiry advertising@alivemag.com.au Published by Alive Magazine (ABN 20 904 521 774). All content 2020-2021 Alive Magazine, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission. All material sent to Alive Magazine whether solicited (or not) will not be returned. Unless otherwise agreed beforehand, all rights including copyright in such material is assigned to Alive Magazine upon receipt and Alive Magazine may use or sell such material in perpetuity without further consent or payment. All prices and information are correct at time of printing. For full terms and conditions of competitions contact Alive Magazine on info@alivemag.com.au.

You never know, you might just end up being someone’s hero too.

04 07 08 10 12 16 18

Cover Story The Profile Wise Words Community Connection Lizzie Learns to Local Artist Local Musician

04 12

Kerrie Alexander

21 22 24 25 29 30 32 33 34 36 37 38 41 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51

Health Hunter Fashion Breakdown Fitness Alcohol Reset Coach Smart Money Eco Living All About Food Skincare & Beauty My Garden Gate A Journey to Australia Ride Destination Self Love Home Project Parenting From the shed Outdoor Adventure The Big Catch Life Chat with Michelle Inspirations Kev’s Adventures Readers’ Gallery

Cover Sto r y

Kerrie Alexander

GUARDIANS OF THE HOMELESS

“THEY ARE HUMAN BEINGS; THEY MAY NOT HAVE A HOME, BUT THEY SHOULDN’T BE TREATED ANY DIFFERENTLY TO ANYBODY ELSE BECAUSE IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE, AT ANY TIME.” With tears in her eyes, Hervey Bay’s Trish Hummerston explained why she and her partner in crime, Josie Street, spend most of their days helping to restore dignity and give back basic human rights to the homeless. The two are not part of a charity, they are not government funded, nor do they have a band of volunteers behind them.

They are simply Trish and Josie Helping the Homeless; just two ladies with a heart of gold who just can’t turn a blind eye to those who have nothing, living on the streets with not even a blanket, toothbrush, shelter, or a cold bottle of water to drink from. Josie, who is a member of numerous charity organisations, was just walking past the community centre when a homeless man approached her for money. Instantly she went to whip out her purse and hand over the cash but thought better of it and walked away knowing there had to be something else she could do, especially with the number of residents in crisis on the rise and now calling “tent city” their home.

With the same passion for helping those in need, Josie approached Trish with the idea of reaching out to the homeless by putting together shower packs every Monday at the Arts and Crafts Hall in Bideford St. The two were buying the essentials to fill the bags out of their own pockets and very quickly realised that they would have to start fundraising if they were to make their vision a reality. What they did next no one expected, and they are now hilariously known to many of their friends and family as bin chicken and ibis.

Why, you ask?

Because when these two gorgeous women first started fundraising, they would go through bins all over the region to collect bottles and cans that could then be traded at the recycle centre.

“We were head down and bum up getting those cans from bins all over Hervey Bay,” Trish said with a laugh. “I didn’t understand the meaning of bin surfing until now because there’s some disgusting things in bins, but we are passionate about this and that’s why we do it.”

The first collection saw 400 cans and bottles loaded into the back of Josie’s Ford wagon and taken to the centre to earn them $40. They were over the moon with their efforts until they went for the first big shop to buy the backpacks needed, and essential items to fill them like a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, towel, shampoo, conditioner, roll on bug spray, face washer and baseball cap.

“With the $40 worth of cans, I thought how good this is, but the bubble burst really quickly because it didn’t go too far,” Trish said.

Since then, they have enlisted the help of family, friends, and local businesses to come on board to donate the recyclables to a drop-off point at 25 Honiton St in Torquay, and thankfully they no longer need to dive in bins.

It’s now one year on and the two have extended their volunteering to also host a continental breakfast for about five-10 homeless each Tuesday and Thursday at the back of the

Hervey Bay Community Centre.

The two lug trussell tables and chairs from the back of Josie’s wagon and set up a station with hand sanitizer and wet wipes for guests to have a quick wipe over, plus four types of cereal, fruit, fruit cups, toast, milk, tea, coffee, sandwiches and more.

Josie freezes water bottles, donated by the Hervey Bay RSL, before each breakfast so the guests can take away a cold drink of water for the day, and Trish boils two dozen eggs the night before ready to hand out for a protein fix. All funded from the cans and bottle trade, and a little from their own pocket. But they don’t mind. Trish said all the hard work is met with mountains of gratitude from the guests, especially those who have not eaten for days.

With no paperwork in sight, no referrals to aid agencies and absolutely no judgement, the ones that turn up each week have found an unmeasurable amount of trust in the wonderful women they refer to as “The Ladies”.

“We give them some to take so we know they have not only had breakfast, but they have also got lunch … some of them go days without eating,” Trish said with tears in her eyes.

...some of them go days without eating... “When we first started, we didn’t know how to approach them and we were a little bit scared, but now we are like a little family.

“They help us load and unload the car, the manners are amazing, and more and more people are coming because we have really connected with them all.

“If they don’t turn up, we get worries and we do go looking for them.”

They also buy tents and mats to give to those who genuinely need it. They also have a constant supply of backpacks in the back of each of their cars to those they just find on the street needing help.

Not long ago, Trish and Josie came across a young lady sleeping in her car at a local park. She hadn’t eaten for the three days and had no fuel to move along if anyone bothered her. Of course, they both dup deep out of their own pockets and bought the women a fuel voucher and a meal. “We can’t provide everyone with everything because our funding is coming from the bottles and cans, but we absolutely do our best,” Josie said.

There are of course varying circumstances to why these people have found themselves on the streets, but Trish and Josie say it’s of no concern to them.

income earners and vulnerable people finding it too competitive to get a roof over their head.

Josie and Trish know it’s only going to worsen and are calling on the community to lend a hand by making a donation of cash, bottles, cans and sanitary items, or donate a recycling cage to use as a drop-off point at the Community Centre in Charles St, Pialba. “There’s so much mental health issues out there too and these people are just being dumped with no one telling them where they can go to find help,” Trish said. “I’ve seen some of them come straight out of hospital with nowhere to go.” If they can raise further funds from the recycling efforts, the two would also like to install lockers for the homeless somewhere in the region so the little they do have, is kept safe.

“They basically have their life in their backpacks and if they have to leave them for some reason, like going to the doctor or something like that, it will be gone by the time they get back,” Josie said.

Josie and Trish say they are both in it for the long haul and if the homeless need their help, they will be there – “bin surfing” and all. “Unless we win lotto,” Trish said with a laugh.

“Yes, there’s alcohol and drugs involved in some of their situations, but we don’t judge, we don’t look at that, we just see the person standing in front of us needing help.

“Then we’ll just buy a big bit of land, build a big house and let them live there so they will never fear of being kicked out again.”

Queensland’s growing rental crisis has led to a spike in homelessness on the Fraser Coast recently, with lower

Anyone who would like to help can phone Trish on 0400 242 261 or Josie on 0408 827 917.

“We get some horrible things said to us about why we help them, but I will defend the homeless to the hilt … they are human beings that just need help.”

The absolute selflessness you see in these ladies is just so incredibly rare and the Fraser Coast community is a much better place because of them.

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The Profile Shaun Ryan

eople fall in love with MercedesBenz vehicles when they walk around a showroom and look at the modern features, luxury interior and superior design work. The vehicles almost sell themselves.

Cameron Bates is the General Sales Manager at Port City Autos, the only Mercedes-Benz dealership in the Wide Bay.

“It’s a job that is really rewarding and something I am really proud of,” he said. “It’s exciting, there is nothing quite like a Mercedes-Benz.” Cameron said a Mercedes-Benz is a dream car for many Australians and being able to help them get behind the wheel of the vehicle they’ve

FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR MERCEDES-BENZ AT PORT CITY AUTOS always wanted is the epitome of job satisfaction.

timeless feel about them, they are also looking at the road ahead.

“When I see someone driving a Mercedes-Benz, I see someone who has worked hard and has been rewarded for that hard work.”

Safety is also paramount when driving, especially if you have your loved ones in your car with you.

“People in their private capacity want to drive a Mercedes-Benz and businesses are buying them as well. They have everything; safety, power, performance and reliability,” he said.

Cameron said businesses are also turning to Mercedes-Benz and the range of work vehicles they have at Port City Autos has something for everyone. Many businesses are after people movers and commercial vans.

While Mercedes-Benz vehicles have a

Cameron said their future was exciting, especially when it comes to new technologies being introduced to ensure vehicles were more fuel efficient and eco-friendly.

“When you get into a Mercedes, there is an expectation when it comes to safety. It delivers,” said Cameron.

You can find out more about your dream car at www.portcityautos.com. au. Dealerships are based in Hervey Bay and Maryborough.

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IN HONOUR THEY SERVE T

o honour God and Country, to show appreciation for those who offer their lives, seeking freedom for us and our children.

We pledge ourselves to this take without self-seeking, without prejudice, always remembering. We also serve. That is the admirable creed of the Hervey Bay RSL Women’s Auxiliary, whose members have worked tirelessly since 1929 to raise funds to look after ex-service men and women, and local charities.

Hervey Bay’s Esme Fay has been a volunteer with the local association for 20 years and at 90-years-young, is still a highly active member. The women of the Auxiliary are predominately members who have associations with defence force personnel.

For Esme, it’s honouring her husband Vic - a Navy man who was posted on the HMAS Sydney aircraft carrier for three years during the Korean war. The two met when they were young and like many proposals back in that day, the celebrations were short lived.

“We got engaged on his 21st birthday and he left the next week for Korea,” Esme said.

“He came back nine months later, one week before our wedding, so I had nine months to do everything on my own. But he did come back. “We had a nine-month engagement party without seeing each other,” said Vic with a cheeky grin. “All the planning was done through mail.”

They have now been married for 67 years.

The two worked and lived in Sydney for many years but made the move to Hervey Bay on retirement to be closer to Vic’s sister. The first order of business for Vic was signing up as a Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch member where he volunteered for many years as a pensions and welfare advocate. The saying goes that behind every great man is a great woman, and there is no doubt that’s Esme.

In honour of her husband, she has volunteered to help raise funds at the Auxiliary’s annual tombola and monthly raffles for

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many years, with thousands of dollars each year going to the Hervey Bay Special School, Hervey Bay Riding for the Disabled and the Hervey Bay Navy Cadets.

Esme said back in the earlier days, the ladies used to fundraise by catering for weddings and local community balls, with every meal cooked by the members.

Those funds then went to assisting the Hervey Bay RSL SubBranch in building their office and continuing their good work in the community. Now that the Sub-Branch is well established, the funds go to those local charities.

Gathering on Anzac Day to serve the men and women that so bravely fought for our country is a major highlight of Esme’s role with the Auxiliary, she said. “When I first signed up that was one of the first things I did, and it was wonderful,” Esme said.

“After the Dawn Service, all the service people would come back to the RSL and have their rum and breakfast.

“We used to go to the march and hand out the programs and poppies as people came to the cenotaph and as soon as the march was finished, we’d hot-foot it back to Hervey House to get ready to dish out all the food, and that was that.” The ladies are also very well-known for offering Fraser Coast residents the chance to add their own personal touch to Anzac Day services in Freedom Park each year.

In the lead up to April 25, the volunteers take turns in manning a Commemorative Crosses table in the foyer of the Hervey Bay RSL. Attached to each cross, which costs residents $2 to use for the day, is a red poppy and message card for people to write the name of the veteran and a brief message.

The crosses are then positioned in Freedom Park by auxiliary volunteers the night before and looked after by security services.

Esme said the sight of hundreds of crosses all lined up in front of the cenotaph is nothing short of spectacular. With Anzac Day services going ahead this year, the ladies will once again volunteer their time selling commemorative crosses.

“It’s important for me to do this each year because it’s a tradition, and if we can help others while doing it then that’s a bonus.”

To volunteer or find out more about the RSL Women’s Auxiliary, phone Trish on 0400 242 261.

if we can help others while doing it then that’s a bonus

HERVEY BAY ANZAC DAY SERVICE

The Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch will hold COVID safe Commemoration Services at the Light Horse War Memorial in Freedom Park, Pialba.

Due to ongoing restrictions, only ex-service personnel will take part in both marches this year. DAWN SERVICE: The Dawn Service march will leave the RSL Club at about 0515 hours and the service will start when the march has entered Freedom Park at about 0530 hours. MAIN SERVICE: The Main March will step-off from the RSL carpark at about 1000 (10am) hours and move to Freedom Park. The service will commence at 1030 hours. MARYBOROUGH ANZAC DAY SERVICE

DAWN SERVICE: Commences 0545 at Queens Park Cenotaph. MAIN SERVICE: Starts at 0930 (9.30 am) at Queens Park Cenotaph.

If you are feeling unwell, please stay at home. Residents are still welcome to pay their respects in their driveway should they choose to.

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MONKEYS AND SPONGES SOAK UP FUNDS FOR CHARITY W

ho would have thought that two fun-loving larrikins, a mini sponge brother and 43 cars could fundraise over $570 in just one hour!

That is exactly what the spirited Sponge Brothers did to raise funds for the Neeride Rural Fire Service while travelling through the area on a Dunga-in-A-Day event (a fun family version of the real four-day Dunga Derby) held last month.

The two vivacious Sponge Brothers, and their gorgeous little offsider, got all soaped up as they scrubbed the 43 Dunga Derby cars as they wound their way through the fire fighters’ car wash roadblock at Kia Ora school carpark. The Rural Fire Service guys and girls said they have never seen anything like it. Raising $570 is one hour is so much better than selling sausages all day, and a lot more fun!

It was all held as part of the day’s events – a fundraiser hosted by the Greased Monkey’s mechanics team, who raised $7200 on the day to help cover the costs of the getting new Dunga Derby Road Hog pace car on the road. Trevor Pronk from T& S Automotive - a Greased Monkeys team member - said the speedo-clad Sponge Brothers are funloving heroes who put themselves in the spotlight (a really big spotlight) all in the name of charity.

“These boys are big on laughs and love to help out when they can,” Trevor said. “To have one of the boys bring their five-year-old son along and help was awesome, the young fella had a great time.

“This is just another example of how great our community is and how very well Dunga Derby and Rally for a Cause provide a platform to allow these great things to happen.” It’s this type of generosity from the Dunga Derby family that has cemented them as one of the most-loved and possibly the biggest local-run charity in the region. Trevor and Sonia Pronk from T&S Automotive, along with Ross and Rebecca McLeod, Edward Sparks and Andrew Clough from Auto Electrical Solutions are the team behind the Greased Monkeys and the monkey magic.

These guys are responsible for keeping everyone’s cars on the road on the Dunga Derby. With this years’ event looking to have possibly 100 cars they definitely have their work cut out for them. This event, The Dunga In A Day, is designed to give other people a taste of the Dunga Derby without the need for a special car and having to take four days off.

Over the course of the day, 153 entrants were given a taste test of what the real derby would be like.

Com m un i ty Co nne ct i o n Special directions took cars on winding dirt tracks, back roads and some bitumen to the Fraser Coast Sporting Clays shooting range to try out Clay Target shooting and have morning tea.

Then off to the Theebine Pub via West Maryborough and Mungar for lunch and to the final stop of Rainbow Beach for dinner, live entertainment, and a camp out.

Kerrie Alexander

Trevor said it’s people like the Sponge Brothers and the hundreds of Dunga Derby entrants that spend months fundraising every year, who ensure local families and individuals with life-limiting medical conditions or are in need of help from a situation beyond their control get the help they need, when they need it.

Under the umbrella of the Rally for a Cause charity, the teams raised a record $260,000 last year and a massive $1.3 million since its inception in 2015. That money has since provided support over 100 local Fraser Coast families.

Rally for a Cause has provided much needed help in times of crisis for varying reasons over the last six years.

Recipients need to be nominated and then their situation is assessed by the committee and funds, services or help as required is organised. “Recipients are so thankful for some good news in such a worrying time and even a small amount can make a huge difference to a family,” Trevor said. “Guidelines set up by Rally For A Cause mean that all of the funds raised are donated back to the Fraser coast community, no money leaves our area and due to the great support of our Rally Partners most overheads are taken care of.

“This is just a great group of people from all levels of our community coming together to make a huge difference, and having a good time to boot!” The teams are now into the thick of their fundraising for the 7th annual Dunga Derby, which will be held from July 29 to August 1.

Road Hog

Follow all their fundraising events on the Dunga Derby by Rally for a Cause Facebook page or visit rallyforacause.org.au to donate.

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Lizzi e Learns To. . .

Lizzie Macaulay

LIZZIE LEARNS TO

t’s not every day you get to peek behind the curtain of an organisation that is truly, demonstrably, changing our region for the better.

Through my column over the last year, I have done some pretty interesting and varied things - all of which have enriched my life. But this month, I got to do one better. I got to enrich the lives of others (in whatever small part). My assignment this month was to help out at the low-cost supermarket that operates as a part of the We Care 2 program, and the New Life Christian Church.

‘Extra Choices Low Cost Food Support Centre’ exists to give assistance to more than 600 customers a week who find themselves on a pension or government benefit as their primary source of income. It is a hugely essential service and provides so much more than ‘food’ to its customers.

If I’m being completely truthful, I drive past this building every day, but I had no idea this service existed here, let alone the incredible impact for the region and beyond.

I arrived right on 8.30 and preparations were well under way for another busy day in the shop. The stock room out the back was bustling with smiling volunteers who were busily weighing, stacking and distributing the morning’s offerings that have been donated from local businesses and supermarkets, or purchased for resale at a reduced price. It’s a precision operation.

work.

After a briefing from We Care 2’s formidable operations manager, Jan Carlson, who knows all, sees all and, I suspect, is the beating heart of this incredible organisation, I’m set to

I stack shelves, label products and get things ship shape, although of course, it has to be said, it was already looking pretty ship shape to begin with, so I’m mostly just floating around. The doors open bang on 9am, and a flood of regulars stream through the door. They have their trolleys, and you can see each customer is keen to get through.

help

One of the wonders of this service has to be the sheer surprises that await the early birds here – random products tend to appear and disappear quickly as customers snaffle up new additions to the shelves – today’s rare treat was whole pavlovas, for instance! I’m struck as I speak to Jan, and the other members of the team at how important this service is. Not just in the sense that there is a resource for those who need it, but the impact beyond that, too.

Environmentally, there’s a huge upside to finding a worthy home for products that would otherwise be wasted and end up in landfill. There is a huge sense of community felt by everyone involved – not just the customers, but the volunteers and staff, as well. The ripple effect of that is enormous. What does a sense of belonging do to a person who is otherwise feeling lonely, disenfranchised, separate from society? What happens to their worldview when they discover a caring community to embrace them and make them part of the ‘family’, so to speak. I can only imagine the positives here…

Finally, the big moment arrived – my turn to serve a customer!

I have to admit, I got a little nervous as I stepped up to the register, and wished I’d tried my hand at a local supermarket as a teenager… What if I pressed the wrong button?

What if I wasn’t smiling enough because I was concentrating? Ahh!

It’s possible, too, that I was overthinking it.

Thankfully, my gorgeous first customer, was patient, kind and full of banter that made me feel like I wasn’t completely useless and we got her safely out the door with an incredible array of goods. The rest of the morning went similarly, and I was so honoured to have been included in such a worthwhile undertaking – it may be an everyday occurrence to everyone else, but it was completely special to me. As I finished up at Extra Choices, the overwhelming feeling was gratitude.

For that fact of the place, for the reminder of the good in the world, and, for the smiling, dedicated faces I encountered at every turn. Extra Choices Low Cost Food Support Centre is open (via $5 annual membership) to Fraser Coast residents who are in receipt of government benefits, or are struggling to afford food. Open 9-2, Monday-Friday, you’ll find the We Care 2 Initiative and New Life Christian Church at 225 Main Street in Urraween. With many thanks to Jan, Tamara and the entire We Care 2 team.

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K’gari

updates from Fraser Island

Official opening of K’gari World Heritage Discovery Centre A new Interpretation Centre has launched on K’gari (Fraser Island), to enhance environmental awareness and conservation efforts on the world’s largest sand island. Located within Kingfisher Bay Resort, the K’gari World Heritage Discovery Centre officially opened on March 1st, and is free for all visitors to the island. The launch event commenced with a Butchulla Welcome to Country, joined by University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) representatives, with the official opening led by Fraser Coast Mayor, George Seymour. This initiative has been funded by USC and SeaLink Fraser Island; with Group General Manager David Hay saying it was a collective cultural endorsement for the destination, acknowledging support from the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation and Fraser Coast Council.

“We took it upon ourselves to develop this centre, ensuring visitors could have a greater understanding of Fraser Island’s profound environmental significance, and in turn, encouraging those to champion its preservation’, Mr Hay said. “We have a long-standing relationship with USC, as the majority of our Resort Rangers are graduates of the university; therefore, this project presents opportunities for further research”, he added. The Discovery Centre comprises a series of informative panels that were designed and curated by USC staff and students, detailing the complex ecosystems of this natural phenomena, that led to the island’s World Heritage listing back in 1992. Visitors can learn about the vegetation, such as rainforests growing from sand and pristine freshwater

lakes, paired with the unique wildlife that inhabit this diverse landscape.

sprouting from the charred Eucalypts is a remarkable sight”, said Mr Meyer.

The centre comprises content sourced from USC’s Research Archives, as well as imagery from the island’s resident photographer and tour guide, Peter Meyer.

Following a challenging year for the island destination, the March launch marked the exciting completion of Phase One of the Discovery Centre, with an additional four-step expansion planned. Mr Hay said the team are actively seeking funding to further develop the facility, with features including a range of interactive and immersive digital displays.

Having lived and worked on Fraser for over two decades, he has seen the island in many states and forms. Following the recent bushfire devastation, Peter ventured out to capture some images of the regeneration in the fire-affected areas. “I witnessed Mother Nature come alive, and her ability to tolerate, and even thrive after fire. Ferns emerging through the ash-covered leaves and new shoots

Not only will the Discovery Centre provide high quality interpretation for guests, it will offer an educational resource and versatile space for visiting schools or leisure groups.

Kingfisher Bay Resort is an award-winning eco resort, located along the western bay of Fraser Island. Offering ranger-guided activities, 4WD island tours, hotel rooms and family-friendly accommodation, it’s the perfect backto-nature experience for all ages. For more information or to book, visit kingfisherbay.com

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ART THAT WILL MAKE YOU BEAM F

or Maryborough artist April Spadina there is no better feeling than knowing her work is in a public space, sharing a message or simply making people smile. April has an incredible love and appreciation for the Heritage City.

While many people know Maryborough for its military and industrial history, it is also a thriving space for artists. “There is a massive creative family on the Fraser Coast, especially in Maryborough,” said April. “It is a diverse community that is engaging and very supportive of the arts.”

She said there was always an art workshop on the go somewhere in the city and many restaurants and cafés were more than happy to offer local talent a space to hang their work.

If Council wants to honour a person, business or event they often call on her to produce the concept drawing. “I sketch an idea in charcoal which is then given to sculptor to make it 3D.”

April always knew she wanted to study art after school and never wasted any time following her passion.

But she only really felt she was an artist after selling her first piece. “When someone was willing to pay money to have something I made hanging in their home, that’s when I knew.” You can keep up-to-date with April’s art projects on Instagram. Her handle is @aprilspadina.art.

“Art is really important for a community, it’s not just a hobbie. It’s a way to destress and socialise with people. It brings likeminded people together and helps you explore things you might never have thought you could do,” she explained. April specialises in charcoal drawings – and has a unique fascination with giraffes and primates.

“Giraffes are such expressive animals; they are gentle, beautiful creatures with massive eyes and eyelashes,” she said.

“And it’s so easy for us as people to relate to primates, especially orangutans.”

Drawing with charcoal will always have a special place in April’s heart, and studio, but it is not the only medium she is exploring. Watercolours offer April a more intimate experience.

“They’re really small pieces and I use them to capture beautiful settings that I come across. It could be of the boats on the Mary River, the scenery in Boonooroo or a small alley in the CBD,” she said.

She always has a watercolour set in her car in case the opportunity to capture a moment arises. But April’s public art works are the pieces that people might be more familiar with, even if they never knew she was integral to their design and production.

She contributed greatly to the Maryborough Story Bank and has been asked to produce numerous concept drawings for bronze sculpture projects in the city. “It’s just the coolest thing knowing my work is out there and being enjoyed by people,” April said.

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Local Mus i ci an

AL DAVIES

Have you always been musical?

MA K E A DAY O F I T B Y T H E MA R I N A

During my late teens, I committed myself to some private guitar lessons, which kick started my musical journey, meeting so many like-minded people, that motivated me to write and perform music, which is a very rewarding passion and career. What/who are your musical influences?

Currently, the amazing technique and music of John H Clarke, and many other musicians such as: Elias, Andrew Veivers, Rupert Boyd, and Tatyana Ryzhkova. An important earlier influence was finger-stylist, Tommy Emmanuelle. What/who are you listening to now?

I listen to a vast variety of music in my home, and go out when I can to see Live music around the area. At the moment, listening to Spanish guitarist John H Clarke. Favourite line from a song?

So, I am an Instrumentalist, writing and performing music with no lyrics. But I have a great respect for those who do. There are so many artists out there, that can join some meaningful words together. Australian artists Paul Kelly and John Williamson have some of the best lyrics of their songs. Do you still practise regularly?

Yes, most definitely! It is essential to practice prior to performing at a live venue. I always do what I call a “run-through” , a run through of my Repertoire, so it is fresh for my performance. This may take an hour or two, but is worthwhile.

Also practicing is great for your hand and eye coordination, and most importantly, for the “grey matter”, the brain! What instruments do you play?

I play the acoustic Classical Guitar, and have performed with the electric Guitar. Also have played the Saxophone, ( not so good these days!..) . Have been fooling around, and experimenting with the “Cigar box” guitar, lots of fun! What gig would you like to have been/gone to?

Probably, would have loved to have gone to see the Eagles, The Farewell Tour in Melbourne in 2015. I grew up listening to them, their harmonies and guitar work are a great learning curve for all musicians.

LIVE M TUE

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AND

C ine m a

I am very fortunate to have performed at some interesting Venues, but I have a passion to perform at an amphitheatre, that will showcase the raw and acoustic sound of the Guitar. Sidney Myer Music Bowl (Melbourne) would be a dream. Bucket list tick!

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BANANA BREAD W/ MAPLE BUTTER

Hea lt h H u nte r

Rhian Hunter

MAKES A WHOLE LOAF INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Cup Black Sesame Seeds (toasted) 4 Over Ripened Bananas 3/4-Cup Rice Malt Syrup 2 Cups Wholemeal Flour 1 tsp. Baking Soda 3 Cheggs 1/2 Cup Nuttelex (melted) 1/2-Cup Tahini 2 TBLS Black Sesame Seeds (toasted) TO SERVE: 1-2 TBLS Maple Butter *1/4-Cup Berries *4 Mint Leaves METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 180°C and grease a 10×5 loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Throw in sesame seeds and move around the pan to stick and distribute evenly, you want the pan to be lined with the seeds to form a crust.

2. In a large mixing bowl combine 3/4 Cup rice malt syrup, flour, baking soda and 2 TBLS of sesame seeds.

3. In another mixing bowl, mash the bananas and mix in the cheggs. 4. Add the egg and banana mixture to the other bowl and stir to combine, now add the melted butter and tahini, and stir until all ingredients are combined.

5. Pour the mixture into prepared pan and bake in the oven for 60 minutes, or until you can pull a clean knife from the center. (If the top starts to get too brown too quickly, cover with foil).. Remove from oven and allow cooling completely in the pan before slicing up.

6. Serve warmed with Maple Butter and a handful of berries and a few mint leaves. *OPTIONAL

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Fi tnes s

Josh Hoodless

HEROES IN SPORT & FITNESS WITH A TWIST With the theme of heroism this month, I wanted to share something with our readers that comes from the heart and doesn’t require scientific backup or statistical data.

have many heroes in our industry, but when I thought about it, all of these heroes get paid to be just that.

Some to kick a ball, lift a weight, train an athlete or others to win an Olympic gold medal. It’s their job. Don’t get me wrong, the heroes I WAS going to write about are truly inspirational and have sometimes defied all odds to become victorious, but at the end of the day they are just extremely good at their job. This article is about the unpaid heroes in fitness that inspire me the most on a daily basis - not just once a year in the grand final. These everyday heroes go unnoticed by everyone except just a few people that really matter.

These heroes to me are all the mothers, fathers and/or guardians who are full-time employees or business owners, full-time husbands or wives and very importantly full-

time parents. What makes them so special?

These parents are leading by example in many ways. Not just teaching their child to be a humble and kind person in our society but also how to be active, fit and healthy. These extremely busy (who’s not busy these days?) parents find the time to go to the gym, go for a run, play sport, stretch, eat healthy, or all of the above.

These parents are MY heroes because they are finding time to show our future generation how to respect and look after their bodies without getting paid a cent. Many of these parents attend our Fitness Centre and now their children want to come as well. Some of the parents I know are out playing touch football or racing in triathlons and their children are joining up because they want to be like Mum and Dad.

Let’s face it, it’s a tough ask to reverse the amount of overweight Australians, we are getting fatter and even lazier. The last article outlined the massive decline in activity levels and incline in obesity in this country. Child obesity is getting even worse!

Parents play a massive part in deciding the health of our nation. I feel children absorb the behaviours and attitudes of whoever is raising them. There’s a big difference between telling a child to be fit and healthy AND, them watching you BE fit and healthy. Who is going to listen to a broke financial advisor? Not me. If your child knows that you go to the gym to exercise it’s more likely they will think that’s just normal behaviour. Cooking and eating fresh healthy meals - normal behaviour. If your child watches you scrolling for hours on social media while eating junk food they will think that’s normal behaviour. Parents that I come in to contact with every week who are positively leading by example are my heroes. If they are reading this article, they know who they are.

A lot of these positive role models are also racing all over town to get their kids to training and competitions on the weekends. Making sure our future generation is accessing different sports and physical activities is also a big part of it. Our community needs more of these parenting heroes!

Alcoh o l Re se t Coach

SURVIVING AND THRIVING Have you heard of the sailor Clare Francis, who had such a tough time on her first Atlantic race that she forgot to eat, and when she went on deck to greet the press boats as she approached New York, her pants fell down? Being cool-headed, she just scooped them up and carried on sailing, one handed. Approaching a major shipping lane, in front of the world’s press. She was one of my heroes when I was growing up.

A ballet dancer and economist by training (what a combination), she sailed and raced across the Atlantic several times, and was the first woman to skipper a boat in the Whitbread Round The World Race in the chauvinistic 70s.

I came across one of her books in my mum’s stash and was entranced by her tales of doing well in what was traditionally a male dominated area, where women are supposed to cook food and serve beer – whilst looking pretty and showing some leg - not navigate and strategize and generally kick ass. I loved that. I loved the combination of doing something so amazingly physically and mentally challenging and flouting convention at the same time. I found more heroes as I grew up. Tania Aebi, the American 18-year-old,

whose dad bet her she couldn’t sail round the world alone. So, she did.

Kay Cottee, the first woman (and Australian!) to sail non-stop around the world in the 80s. Amelia Earhart, the first female to fly solo across the Atlantic. Rosie Swale-Pope who ran, walked, and sailed around the world, wrote such entertaining books about her adventures and is still going strong in her 70s.

And Jessica Watson, the young Australian who I saw give a talk in the Whitsundays, and who made me cry with her humility, grace, and kindness. You can kinda see a theme, right? “Hero” and “Adventurer” were interchangeable for me for the longest time.

But when I started working with women who wanted to stop drinking, something seismic shifted for me.

I worked with Sarah, whose taught high-needs kids every day, then went home to an empty house because her husband worked away, plus they couldn’t have children.

That combination of super busy and super lonely made her cry inside. I worked with Anna, who didn’t start drinking until 9pm every night, and then would drink a whole bottle, every night.

The reason she didn’t start until 9pm was because that was when she’d fed everyone and tidied up, and got her severely disabled son into bed

Annabel Stewart

Alcohol Reset Coach www.annabelstewart.com.au

for the night and also spoken to her daughter, who was in hospital with her premature baby whose lungs weren’t working.

I worked with Jess, a highly successful lawyer in her 50s, who had grown up with driven parents who taught her that love was conditional upon achievement and who didn’t know how to stop. Or to be kind to herself. Or make the sadness go away.

I looked at my friends, who manage families, jobs, households, love, heartbreak, loss, grief, food shopping, failures, triumphs and quite often the school lunches too … every single day. And sometimes they have support, and sometimes they do it all alone. Then they go to bed and get up and do it all over again. Come hell or high water, they get on with it, every day, over and over. We’re surrounded by them. We don’t see them, because we just see our mates and our colleagues. But they’re hiding in plain sight. Surviving and even thriving in a world that is tough to many. So, here’s to you; the doers and the survivors. The ones without capes. As Robert Downey Junior, who’s now a poster boy for living a fantastic life without booze, said: “I think that we all do heroic things. But hero is not a noun, it’s a verb.” I see you, doer of amazing things. You’re my hero.

Pro perty

WHAT’S HAPPENED IN THE LAST 30 DAYS ….

A critical part of any home rental experience is being comfortable with, and having trust in the agent.

I have been client of Vision Property Management since September 2016. The staff are friendly, supportive and do their job professionally. Vision Property Management is the number one service for local people.

Claire and her wonderful staff surpassed all my expectations! Professional throughout every aspect. They were respectful, considerate, prompt, fair and friendly.

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“VISIONS STATS - WE KNOW OUR NUMBERS“ Vacancy rate - With the high demand putting pressure on the rental market we are currently sitting on Zero vacancies.

Average days on market – We are securing tenants in less than three days with most properties achieving up to 20 applications before it even hits internet marketing. In the last 30 days we have had over 200 applications come into our office and we have only been able to home 15 family’s due to our office now sitting on zero vacancy.

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RENTERS NIGHTMARE

Hervey Bays’ rental market has consistently maintained a vacancy rate of below 1% for over 6 months now. This has resulted in huge pressure being put on local residents struggling to find rental accommodation. The combination of the sales market in the area booming, and with many people migrating North from Victoria and NSW, has left many tenants, some of whom have been in a rental property for over a decade, unable to find anywhere to move. This difficultly to securing housing has been caused by the sheer number of people applying for each rental property. Even applicants who have great references and tenant histories are struggling, and some have even resorted to offering 4 weeks and even up to 6 months rent upfront to try motivate their application to be accepted. Some property managers have even had applicants offer to pay their whole lease term up front.

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Development in the area has also exploded with help of the QLD HomeBuilder Grant which gave new home builders an extra $25000. This has resulted in many people are only renting while their new homes are being built in one of the numerous developments sites popping up around Hervey Bay. However, with builders being booked up for the next 12 – 18 months, we shouldn’t see any easing of the pressure on the rental housing market in the near future.

INVESTORS DELIGHT

The increased demand of rental properties has seen a significant rise in return for investors with rents increasing across the board between 10 – 20 percent over the last 12 months. Any potential investors or existing owner looking for more information can contact me directly on 0499 700 233, and I will be happy to assist with any advice.

 12/53 TORQUAY ROAD, HERVEY BAY  07 4124 0282  INFO@VISIONPROPERTYHB.COM.AU HERVEYBAYPROPERTYMANAGEMENT  @VISIONPROPERTYMANAGEMENTHB

www.visionpropertyhb.com.au

Graeme Bailey Phone: 0499 700 233 Email: graeme@visionpropertyhb.com.au

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BE YOUR OWN MONEY HERO

veryone has their own challenges and their own experiences that can steer their finances in one direction or another. There may be a break down in relationship equating to a split of assets and liabilities. There may be a death in a family that may reduce its income from two streams down to one. In my field there are no two identical situations between one person and another. Because of this, I believe everyone should gain a foundation of financial knowledge that they can call on when making a that will impact their future finances. I gained the foundation of my money knowledge when I was 16 from reading one of the most influential finance books “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki. I recommend everyone read this book to gather a better understanding of the foundation of your finances and your mindset around money. When you do not have a basic understanding of your cashflow or asset position it can be difficult to know what way to turn when faced with a financial challenge.

There are two main players in the finance game: profit and loss and balance sheet. Most will think this only applies to business, but it most certainly can be applied to personal finances. In the same way cashflow (or a lack of it) can break a business it can also break your personal finances. Your incomings and outgoings in a report is called your profit and loss. A personal P&L is essentially your budget. While a budget is more so a plan, a profit and loss is an actual report of money that has come in and gone out. The amount left over is classed as your surplus funds. If you have no money left over after expenses, then you are running your profit and loss into a negative position. This is a big red flag.

It means you are spending more money than you are earning. This is very dangerous territory because you do not

VEHICLE FINANCE

Sm a r t Mo ney

Kodie Axelsen

cofinancecompany

have an asset attached the debt that you could potentially sell to pay off, so the only way to get out of it is to spend years paying it down. If you continue to live outside your means you will get further and further into debt and chances are you will refinance that personal loan over a longer term to reduce its repayments and continue the lifestyle you cannot afford. Let me be clear that this is increasing the total end cost of that once small loan to be a huge dent in your financial position. Refinancing personal loans should not be done without speaking to a reputable finance professional so they can give you the right advice.

than today to start to gain knowledge and think about how you want to your life to be and how you plan to get there. This is a very general explanation of how a report of your financial position works but I hope you can use this is a basis to further your knowledge. Be the Hero of your own Wealth! I guarantee once the light bulb goes off, you will never look back. Happy investing guys and remember if you ever have a question around finances please don’t ever hesitate to give me a call!

Your balance sheet is a report based on your assets; cash, property, shares etc. and liabilities; home loans, credit cards, personal loans etc. The figure at the bottom of this report states your NET asset position. As stated above, people with negative cashflow will generally deteriorate their NET asset position as they are going into debt without gaining an asset. There are such things as good debt and bad debt. Good debt can be used to increase your asset position such as an investment home loan where you use the debt to gain yourself an asset and therefore increase your NET asset position. This is the general indicator of your wealth. Over time as you purchase assets and reduce your debt you increase your NET asset position which increases your wealth and forms part of your retirement strategy. End game… Use good debt to buy assets that generate income. More income allows you to buy more assets which in turn increases your asset position and your overall wealth. BOOM! Hello financial freedom! I hope this small amount of information leads you to gain more knowledge on how to build your financial position. After all, no one wants to have to work for the rest of their lives. There is no better time

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Eco L i vi ng

Ingrid Gorissen

HERO INTERIORS: CONNECTED, INVITING, INSPIRATIONAL A Hero in Design could be you, if you dare to follow your instincts and inspiration.

Not necessarily following a trend but looking at you! Who are you and how do you like others to see and feel you? Your likes, needs and your family lifestyle…

love it when people are able to tell their story through their homes. It can be a colour story, a travel or cultural show, a food and wine journey, statements in shapes and forms, creating spaces that tell a story, your story. Sometimes you just need the guidance to bring it all together so balance and harmony will merge, and it will unlock a home’s full potential, aesthetically and practically.

When building and/or designing your home or rooms to renovate, your working relationship with your designer is critical. Over-involvement can limit the designer’s ability to deliver the best solutions.

Under-involvement can give you a home that doesn’t satisfactorily meet your brief. Just know that most designers are perfectionists, so you are in good hands!

I questioned my life/career choice for a long time as my heart said, I should do something to help people and be part of creating a better world. I love beautiful things. Not necessarily in money value, but more in personal depth and connection. Feeling good is in your surroundings, your friends, your home and connection with nature.

I know, I have found all of this in what I do. I help people to trust themselves in their design choices, by working together with them, transforming their homes into a heaven for themselves, their families and friends. Take the kitchen as an example:

If you like cooking and/or entertaining, the kitchen has to be the hero of your home. It may seem obvious, but it is

surprising how many kitchens haven’t been designed with the end user in mind.

Is yours a ‘family roast’” kind of kitchen or a luxurious show-style gallery kitchen? Do you see yourself and family cooking cupcakes and comfort food or are you more of a glam entertaining take-away person? To design the perfect kitchen, you need to think about what you are cooking and how you like to work in your kitchen. To design the perfect cooking space, you need to think about how, what and with whom you cook. This determines how much space you need to pass each other, which and what size of appliances, how much storage is required and how to arrange your floorplan.

Are butlers’ pantries really just fashionable or… as others are saying: “an ever-wanted essential space for storage, food prep and storage of kitchen serving items”? Butlers pantries will take up space and are you willing to give up these square meters to the ‘unseen’ or do you want it to be part of the open, connected floorplan?

Hidden ‘kitchens’ might not be ideal for everyone but are for others and as space cost money, it again depends on you and your style of home living. Hero design is about seeing the big picture as much as looking at the details. For me, a good design needs to be connected, inviting, inspirational and working with our beautiful climate in mind.

“Home is where the heart is and just follow your heart, to create YOUR Heartfelt Home”.

BUILDING, RENOVATING AND DESIGNING QUALITY HOMES TO CO-EXIST WITH THE ENVIRONMENT.

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All a b ou t fo o d

Shaun Ryan

ood food makes people happy.

That is the motivation for Shona Wood and James Candy, owners and operators of Spit Roast Fraser Coast.

The mobile catering service focuses on weddings, parties and other functions and events across the region.

While more active on the Fraser Coast, Shona and James said they have also expanded to include events as far away as Gympie and Bundaberg.

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER THAN A GOOD ROAST

“We want to make things as easy as possible for our clients on the day,” said James. “People don’t want to spend their time worrying and stressing over food when they are hosting friends, family and colleagues,” he said. “That’s where we step in,” explained Shona.

The company offers a range of spit roast options, including food preparation, cooking, serving and cleaning up afterwards.

James said it was important that people are able to actually enjoy their own events, especially weddings, parties and functions. “It’s all about them on the day, we want to make people happy and serve great, locally sourced food,” he said. Spit Roast Fraser Coast only selects the best quality meat from local suppliers.

“I have a great relationship with my butcher and we only serve the best beef, chicken, lamb and pork. For example, we use premium quality rump for our beef roasts. It cooks better and tastes great,” he said. James and Shona said business was picking up again after restrictions around social gathering started to ease.

And we all know that the sound and smell of a roast cooking slowly and to perfection is the best way to get people together.

James and Shona are no strangers to the game, with James having worked in restaurants and pubs for more than 20 years. “We enjoy what we do and making people happy,” he said.

“Also, most importantly, James thanks Sue and Ian from the Grand Hotel Howard for their support in getting our business started”.

You can make your event a success by reaching out to Spit Roast Fraser Coast on Facebook or by calling 0497 786 348.

WEDDINGS BIRTHDAYS X'MAS BREAK-UP DIVORCE CHRISTENING Professional, friendly, family owned and operated, serving you and your guests high quality service and locally sourced food.

Service anywhere between Gympie and Bundaberg

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 find us on

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I EXFOLIATE?

S k i n Care and B eau ty

Abby Blanke

SerenitySkinSpa1

his is one of the most posed questions I get in the salon.

Often clients say; “Oh my cleanser has granules in it. I feel dry or flaky all the time so I exfoliate every day!”

Hearing that does make me cry a little on the inside.

Our skin is magic! I love the way our skin talks and communicates with itself, making sure everything works in perfect harmony. Think about baby or children’s skin for example. It doesn’t need to be exfoliated, especially every day! If you are noticing flakiness or roughness on your skin, NO you don’t need to scrub. Your skin actually needs OIL, a good quality Essential Fatty Acid (Omega 3 & 6).

When our skin is in perfect harmony with itself, you barely need exfoliate. The right amount of water and oil and your skin will naturally exfoliate itself. See, told you our skin is magic!

It can be very hard to get this combination of water and oil perfect all the time, all year around. So many things in our environment can really play havoc on keeping the balance right. So here are my top tips for exfoliating and how often:

If you are feeling rough, try a good oil first. Jadea Skin Barrier Repair or O Cosmedics Activating Youth Balm. They are our top sellers for this very reason. They have just the right amount of EFA’s. The roughness will be gone in a matter of days, if that! If you like to exfoliate using a super fine granule then try this once or twice a week. Exfoliating Cleanser from O is great and smells amazing! Some granules can be too rough and can cause micro tears in the skin, leading to stress mode, creating redness and sometimes even more breakouts. Who wants that?

Use a fruit enzyme where possible. Fruit enzymes are my favourite. Our body naturally creates enzymes to help break down the skin cells. This is like giving it a helping hand via fruit. Your skin recognises the enzymes as part of the exfoliation process and therefore creates no inflammation or undue stress. (Winner!) 3 in 1 Fruit Peel by O is my go to. And sometimes I will mix it with exfoliating Cleanser for a little kick once a fortnight! Don’t exfoliate. Yep, I said it! Instead, use great quality skin care and come see your skin therapist once a month to look after you and your skin. This will mean you have one less thing to have to worry about at home. I call that a huge win!

If you have any questions or not sure if your are using the right scrub/ exfoliant for your skin. Come and have a chat to one of our skin therapists. We would love to help you.

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My Garden Gate

Krisy Goodwin

www.facebook.com/relaxonriver

IT’S TIME TO

SE QLD Growing Season is finally here!! This past March I was busy sowing seeds into punnets, lovingly tucked onto benches in my greenhouse where I would rush out every morning to excitedly see what has popped up!

It’s always a thrill to see the first stirrings of life in those pots.

The little seedlings I’ve lovingly cared for in March are now ready for planting. The hero of plants for me in my veggie garden is the tomato. I always sow way too many of every colour, shape and variety. But they never go to waste, put on sandwiches, tomato dishes and preserved sauces. What will be your hero this growing season?

It’s not too late to get some seeds going now, raising your own seedlings isn’t difficult, you get much better variety in catalogues or off the shelf and it’s much more economical (as in, you get many more seeds for your money in a packet than you would in a punnet of seedlings). It’s very rewarding, too, having grown vegetables from seed to plate.

What you need to sow seeds indoors or in a greenhouse

• Receptacle e.g., punnets, plastic cups or butter containers with holes drilled in the bottom, egg cartons or cardboard trays.

• G ood quality seed raising mix or mix your own by mixing 2 parts compost, 2 parts coir and 1 part perlite. • Seeds from a reliable stockist. • Water spray bottle

• G reenhouse or plastic or wooden cover for your trays till they germinate. This is to retain moisture and warmth. • Liquid fertiliser half strength

• Note: Some seeds can be soaked overnight for quicker germination e.g., those with wrinkly hard coats like beetroot, silverbeet or large seeds like peas, corn, beans and pumpkin. • F ill your seed receptacles with seed raising mix, making sure to tamp down the soil gently to remove any air

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bloom pockets. Leave enough room for your seeds.

• P ut your seeds on the top of the soil and cover with soil to the depth as per the instructions on the seed packet. It’s best to plant 2 or 3 seeds per cell or 1 square inch. Onions and leeks and be sprinkled liberally over the surface.

• S pray well with water and cover in plastic, glass or a piece of wood if you haven’t got a greenhouse and place in a warm spot, outdoors in the green house or indoors in a warm spot. Never let the seed surface dry out!

• O nce the seeds have germinated uncover and keep moist, but not wet, in a cool sunny area. Spray weekly with a weak solution of liquid feed. Thin out if needed using a small pair of scissors or gently pulling out the weaker plants leaving the strong ones to grow. • O nce your seedlings have two true leaves you can start ‘hardening off’ two weeks before your seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Place your seedlings in the morning sun for half an hour, increase by half an hour every day until planting out in beds.

• S ome seeds are better directly sown into beds, these include, beetroot, carrots, peas, beans, melons, radish, spinach and squash.

Pretty much anything can be grown at this time of year, get yourselves out there and give it a go, be your own hero! It’s good for your health and soul.

A seed neither fears light nor darkness, but uses both to grow.” - Matshona Dhliwayo

A Jour n ey to Aus trali a

Rose B.

CHAPTER THREE: THE FINAL MOVE

y Christmas 1968 Mum and Dad were in Rubyvale sapphire mining.

I had always thought of a sapphire as just a blue stone but there is much more to it than that. You have to hold a stone up to the light and look at it from all angles. If it is all blue, with no imperfections, you have a very good one but until it is cut you can never be absolutely sure… When my Mum and Dad had originally arrived, Dad had got himself a miner’s licence and pegged out his claim; that was all you had to do back then. They had set the caravan up next to a rather large hole and that was that! It would have been May 1970 that my lad and our two small children all piled into our old car and set off for Rubyvale to join them.

We also took our dog with us, a labrador called Sally and her job was to take a walk around the camp each night checking for snakes and nasty creepy crawlies. She also got very good at finding trapdoor spider holes. My dad would pour kerosene down the hole and my lad would whop the spider with a shovel when it came out!

We visited my parents in Hervey Bay for the first time around 1975. I fell in love with the place from the word go.

By hook or by crook, this was where we were going to end up… and so we did!

We visited the region every year, including some amazing trips to Fraser Island (now K’gari). In early August 1986 we packed up shop in Armidale, sold the house and finally moved to Hervey Bay, where we have been ever since.

Our children have their own families now, including children that are wonderfully talented and accomplished in the things that they love most. Hervey Bay has, and always will, hold a special place in all of our hearts. I am forever grateful that fate (and the occasional caravan holiday) has brought us all together here.

When it was time for mum and dad to leave Rubyvale, we left too. It just wasn’t the place for two little kids, what with all the giant holes in the ground and all.

We made our way back to Armidale via a brief stint on the Gold Coast. By 1974, we’d been in Australia for 10 years.

Mum and Dad had sold the sapphire mine. They had pegged it out, worked it out and then sold it for a nice little profit. They then set off for a trip around Australia… Pretty quickly, they wound up in Hervey Bay. I think my dad fell in love with the place instantly and for once it was his own idea that they stay, with no argument from mum. !n 1974, Hervey Bay was no more than a little fishing village. It didn’t even have a real supermarket. My dad would take his rod and reel down to the beach or on the jetty and fish for hours.

He didn’t make friends easily, mainly because he was a stubborn old so and so, but he met a bloke on the beach one day and they became firm friends. He moved the caravan to this friend’s back yard and settled down to a bit of serious fishing. Do you have an extraordinary immigration story to tell? If so, we would love to hear from you. Please email your details to info@alivemag.com.au.

DRESS ME WILD Fashion Forward

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Phone 0409 266 966

HEAD OVER WHEELS IN LOVE

wning a classic car is about the experience, style, exclusivity, and craftsmanship, all of which are universal and timeless to those motoring enthusiasts who share this immensely popular passion. For Janet Moy, owning her 1929 Ford Roadster is all that, plus the bonus of an incredible love story intertwined with her adoration of a rumbling V8.

Living in Toowoomba at the time, Janet and her late husband Peter had always been into their cars, with a 1966 Mustang in the shed and a Roadster on the wish list.

It was on Peter’s bucket list to drive a Roadster in the prestigious Cooly Rocks On Festival in Coolangatta, and after being diagnosed with terminal liver cancer, he did just that. The car was bought in 2012 from an owner on the Gold Coast who had spent three years building it up to the excellent condition it’s in today with a C4 auto, 351 Windsor motor, a timeless British Racing Green colour, and white vinyl interior. “I said to Pete, if you can find one at a reasonable price then let’s buy one … of course he had already found one and bought it,” she said with a laugh.

“He drove it in the big parade, and he was the first cab off the rank behind the (escort) police car with a massive, big smile on his face; it was just amazing! “We stayed at Coolangatta for 13 days for the festival, went home and three weeks later he was gone.”

R i de

Kerrie Alexander

Being on her own, Janet toyed with the idea of selling the hot rod but couldn’t bring herself to part with it.

Cruising has also been made more comfortable with a new suspension fitted by Leigh.

As a self-confessed social butterfly, Janet quickly found friendship in the like-minded members of the Wide Bay Rodders Custom Car Club, including Leigh Moy who instantly impressed with his 1970 white Chevelle.

“I like to do my own thing, but we have the best of both worlds too. We’ve got the Chev if it’s raining and then if it’s a fine day, we’ll take the roadster.

A year later, after her son Chris rebuilt the engine, she decided it was time for a sea change and moved to a home in Toogoom that the couple had built.

“I was just going to get rid of the Roadster after I lost Peter, but I thought the only way I’m going to meet people was by joining the club because it wasn’t going to happen at my age by going to the RSL,” she laughed. After a couple of club meets the two bonded over their passion for cars, they were married three years ago, and the rest is history. As it turns out, Leigh was also the supervisor of the site when the house at Toogoom was built. “It was just meant to be.

“See, it’s never too late to find love … I wasn’t going to get hitched again but look what happened. “That’s Des’ fault,” she said with a laugh, pointing the finger at club member Des Batton who played master match maker between the two. Janet and Leigh are active members of the club and often take their own cars to meets, leaving Janet with the freedom to just get in her hot rod and drive.

“I like to have my own car. It’s something a little different and it’s so cool to drive with the wind in your hair and the sun on your head,” Janet said.

“We’re just living the dream, driving our cars and having some fun.”

The Roadster has been a popular pick with judges at car shows around the region including six trophies at Childers in 2016 and two in 2017, and People’s Choice at the Independent Riders show in 2018.

A humble Janet is no trophy hunter but said it’s nice that her ride is appreciated for the awesome classic that it is. “It’s not the best rod in the world, there’s so many beautiful cars out there but I have won a lot of trophies and that’s just a bonus.

“It’s a labour of love. You spend a lot of money on these things but at the end of the day it’s just more about the fun of it. “You don’t think about all that when you’re driving it. I just love it.” Local car enthusiasts will no doubt see both Janet and Leigh cruising the Esplanade this month for the Wide Bay Rodders May in the Wide Bay Car Show, which will run from April 30 to May 3. Be sure to give them a wave! May in the Wide Bay

The four-day motoring event is hosted by the Wide Bay Rodders who have about 250 members in their club. Hundreds of cars will be spotted cruising around the region over the course of the weekend. Here’s what you need to know: When: April 30 to May 3.

Where: There will be an Esplanade Cruise on Saturday afternoon to early evening, with the public invited to line the streets and give a wave. This will be followed by a Show ‘n’ Shine on Sunday at the Seagulls Rugby League grounds, Bideford St, Torquay. Entrants in the car show must arrive between 7-9am.

There will be a canteen run by Older Men Unlimited, a coffee van on site and a jumping castle for the kids. Cost: Entry into the show is $10. Entry for the public is $5 per person or $20 a family. Proceeds go to local charities.

For more information, visit the Wide Bay Rodders Facebook page.

D es ti nati o ns

Brooke Wilson

www.frasercoasttravel.com.au

COMMEMORA AUSSIE SOLDIER ULTIMATE SACR

ith ANZAC Day fast approaching, it is a time of reflection and honouring those who have fought for our country, so it only seems right to approach this piece with a commemorative nature. For any patriotic Australian, it is a rite of passage to journey to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

First opened in 1941 to honour our armed forces, the memorial is made up of three sections – the Commemorative Area, the Memorial Galleries, and the Research Centre. From the moment you walk up the front steps, through the entry foyer, and into the Commemorative Courtyard, you will be overwhelmed and humbled by the sheer magnitude of the Rolls of Honour flanking both sides of the courtyard. Set in bronze plating, the Rolls of Honour have over a hundred thousand names of soldiers since 1885 who have died serving their country in war.

Many visitors insert poppies into the wall next to the names of those significant to them. Set in the centre of the courtyard lies the Eternal Flame and the Pool of Reflection, both designed to encourage a contemplative atmosphere.

Directly ahead as you walk in, and impossible to miss, is the

Hall of Memory, a monumental structure positioned at the end of the courtyard. Topped by a dome of copper, it houses the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier, as a reminder of those the nation has lost to war. Further inside the building, you will find the galleries and museum area, with sections dedicated to World War I, World War II, Colonial Conflicts, and more.

Each gallery depicts Australia’s involvement in these conflicts, from their campaigns, to what it was like on the front line, to the equipment and machinery used.

Visitors to the memorial can also choose to trace their family history and ancestors at the Research Centre. It is a dedicated facility to assist research by providing access to non-digitised materials. The memorial backs onto the Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, which is home to the Remembrance Nature Park and the Mount Ainslie Lookout. Those looking for a little different perspective, from the summit you can look back down over the memorial, and all the way to Parliament House.

Considered Canberra’s number one attraction for a reason, the Australian War Memorial as a place of reflection and remembrance is definitely a must do for anyone visiting the country’s capital.

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BANKSIA SEAFOOD & GRILL

ervey Bay’s newest dining experience is up and running.

Banksia Seafood and Grill officially opened to the public on Saturday, March 20.

The restaurant is owned and run by husband-and-wife team, Saul Collins and Aleeca Waterman.

Saul and Aleeca said they were happy to know Banksia would be breathing new life into the city’s food scene. Just a stone’s throw from the ocean, Saul said their emphasis would be on cooking locally caught seafood “of the highest quality.” “We want to serve real food that is fresh and sourced right here,” explained Saul.

He said the atmosphere within Banksia was relaxed but exuded excellence and an expectation of the highest standard. “We offer people fine dining in a setting that is relaxed and welcoming of families,” he said. “We’re definitely not pretentious.”

The restaurant spills out onto the sidewalk where comfortable seating and an extended awning adds to the relaxed atmosphere. “I couldn’t think of a better place to sit and sip on a rosé,” said Saul.

The head chef is no stranger to the Hervey Bay food scene, having previously worked at several popular restaurants in town. “I have a good following here in Hervey Bay and we’re just encouraging people to come down, say hi and enjoy a meal,” he said. From an aesthetics perspective, Banksia has adopted a Hampton style interior. The large glass windows and white

exterior walls also give the area a fresh feel. “We’re in such a great location,” said Saul.

Banksia can be found on the Charlton Esplanade, just up from Denmans Camp Road in the old Hoolihans building.

Speaking on the growing foodie scene in Hervey Bay, Saul said having several top-quality restaurants was great for the city. He said such venues help put Hervey Bay on the map, offer something special to locals and attract visitors to the area. Healthy competition also ensures standards remain high.

“Hervey Bay will prosper if the food scene continues to thrive,” Saul said.

You can find more information on Banksia Seafood and Grill on Facebook. Its handle is @BanksiaSeafoodGrill.

Bookings: www.banksiaseafoodgrill.com.au Phone: 4325 4095 381 Esplanade, Torquay, Hervey Bay Open Wed - Sun: Lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner 5.30pm - 9.30pm

n e p o ow

WHAT MAKES A HERO?

S e l f- Love

Telaine Feeney

eroes are understated.

Few would call themselves heroes as they are doing something, they have no choice about doing. They struggle to accept that title as they feel discouraged, tired, and overwhelmed. They are those around us who make sacrifices for others. They are not the sportsman on TV sprouting their sponsorship breakfast cereals. They are not the politicians on social media hash-tagging their virtuous deeds.

What do you think of when you picture a hero? For me it is the willingness to make a sacrifice for the benefit of others. The ‘small’ people in our community. Those fighting terminal diseases while still trying to ease the burden on their loved ones. Single parents denying themselves clothing and meals to give their children a great education. Adult children who put their lives on hold to care for sick parents. We tend to forget the everyday heroes.

We idolize people we ‘follow’. Those who by career or media idolism we look up too. We see politicians and sports stars as ‘heroes’, when, in reality, it’s those in careers that help others that are heroes. Heroism is not choosing a career; it is the choices you make as a person. Its your values. A politician for example might start a foundation, raise community awareness, and fundraise. That is an admirable act. BUT…

It is not heroism.

Now if that same politician decided to help someone else, with personal sacrifice attached – say, they donated an organ, knowing there was no reward or gain … that is heroism. And there lies the foundation for everyday heroes.

Heroes are the those around us who face challenges, but do not let them define who they are. They grow from the experience and help others. They are patient through the changes, they show humility in sharing their weaknesses, they believe in themselves and persevere through thankless challenges. We all can be heroic.

To do those things that feel impossible. We can act beyond ourselves to help others doing things we think we are incapable of doing… until we are tested.

We can be noble and choose the importance of what is ‘right’ over self-preservation and what is easy. So, let us not lose belief in the realism of heroes. Let us strive to be one.

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RECYCLE HERO MATERIAL: Oil drum

Form ply Scrap piece timber Sander Screws Paint

ero defined in the dictionary, “a person noted for courageous acts or nobility of character”.

Recycled defined in the dictionary, “to treat or process (used or waste materials) so as to make suitable for reuse”. Combine the two as recycle hero, and we can start to feel good about reusing items around us that can sometimes have a better use than what they were first intended for. This months edition of the magazine sees us in the shed (bat cave) recycling drums to create high stool tables.

Oil drums or ‘juice concentrate’ drums which we purchased, can be recycled in many ways. By adding a timber top of your choice to the drum lid and “KAPOW! “ instant table.

Once you decide on what timber your going to use for the top, we were lucky enough to recycle some form ply and ply wood left over from a previous mission.

Next step is to make a circle stencil. Using a scrap piece to timer and two screws drilled in each end at 450mm apart making a 900mm diameter top. Scratching the circle as a guide to follow when using a jig saw to cut the circle out. Sanding and rounding the top edge with a router gives it a nice finish. By screwing further scrap pieces on the under side of the table top and fixing the lid to these, the ring latch can be attached when the lid is placed back on the drum.

A coat of paint to your liking and “BAM” pull up a stool and enjoy a Black Manhattan. Examples can be found with our good friends at The Good Place in Stocklands and at Crafty Cargo Taphouse at The Junction on Truro.

Parenti ng

Amanda Coop

“I

’VE already taken the bins out,” my hubby said as he saw me heading towards the door with a bag of rubbish. “My hero,” I replied. “Bin Toad is still alive and well.”

I’d been told by Mr 5 that we should stop calling Bin Toad that.

“It’s not a very nice name,” he informed me when he heard me referring to the ugly critter that had taken up residence under our wheelie bin. “Well, he’s a big disgusting cane toad, who lives under a bin,” I explained. “So, I don’t know if he really needs a nice name.” “It just doesn’t sound cute,” Mr 5 persisted. “Can’t we just call him Geoffrey?”

“Well, he is absolutely not cute,” I said, “but sure.”

So, and my apologies to all the human Geoffreys out there, we now have a cane toad named Geoffrey who lurks under our wheelie bin. I’m never going to kill Geoffrey, not

COURAGE IN ALL FORMS

because now that he’s got a name I’m developing affection for him, but because I’m petrified of cane toads.

Possibly irrationally so, but I can’t help it. I can barely bring myself to walk past a dead one, let alone a healthy hopping specimen like Geoffrey.

Was it too much to refer to the hubs as a hero for allowing me to avoid another interaction with Bin T– er – Geoffrey? Probably, after all it’s not quite the same as dodging bullets on the front line of a war or dragging an unconscious housefire victim to safety.

I doubt future generations will stop and observe a minute’s silence to show their gratitude for my hubby’s toad-busting style. But he is a bit of a hero to our family, working almost around the clock since he became the sole breadwinner last year to keep us fed and clothed and subscribed to Netflix. If a hero is someone who shows courage and strength of character during great adversity, then my mum is the other hero in my life.

No, not for putting up with me under the same roof for 18 years, but for picking herself up and carrying on when she became widowed at the age of 30 with two kids under 4 and one more on the way.

About a year later her youngest brother, my uncle, died in a freak work accident. As a child who was too young to remember any details, and even when I became a teenager, I had no real appreciation of just how awful it must have been for her. Only as an adult and now a parent has it dawned on me the strength she must have needed to provide the relatively normal childhood we, and our subsequent extra two siblings, had. She has dealt with so much but she’s a never-ending well of patience. She doesn’t complain about her lot in life even though others seem to whine about every trivial issue.

And did I mention she also had to put up with me under the same roof for 18 years? Yep, she’s a hero, alright.

From t he she d

SELFLESS EVERYDAY DEEDS ON BEHALF OF HUMANITY.

David Everett

or all the heroes around us it’s hard to actually match the word with anyone I have known. I have had the pleasure and honour of knowing many good people who have performed selfless, brave and sometimes downright wonderful actions. But heroic, that I’m not really sure about. Certainly I have read of them; the truly heroic people whose actions are just that - courageous, selfless, and without the thought of what it could mean to them after the fact. I have long been associated with people for whom, across all types of media, their job grants them the title of hero. In fact, I have spent the last 20 plus years working in positions that seem to come with the title or descriptor of hero.

As a Paramedic I faced some absolutely horrible situations and then did it all again the next shift. I controlled, talked to, or took down violent or confused individuals to stop them from hurting themselves or others. This was all in amongst a myriad of day to day, ho hum, activities. Never once did I think of myself as a hero. And to this day, I still don’t see any reason for myself (or the occupation in general) to be given the title of hero. That’s not to diminish the job, or others professions like it. It’s hard, often thankless, results in long term health issues, and definitely isn’t family or socially friendly. But it’s something we could somehow do and enjoy doing it, so we just did it.

I grew up feasting on comics at every opportunity. So I very much know what a fantastical hero is, and how to recognise one in the wild. Tights and a cape obviously make them easier to spot. (Though I am with Edna Mode on the subject of capes. Those unwieldy pieces of fabric are seriously contrary to safe practice). In my younger years this voracious reading of comics no doubt skewed my thoughts on what makes a hero. Chances are it skewed my mind more towards violent actions in the protection of another. But as I’ve matured I have come to see heroes and heroic actions in a different light.

I think we are surrounded by heroes. Small heroes. Quiet heroes. Heroes who don’t even know that they are heroes, and wouldn’t even think of themselves as that even after it’s been pointed out. Heroics don’t require big actions, they just require action. Perhaps I’m being sentimental or maybe it’s my personal backlash against the overuse of the title ‘hero’ in the media. I so love and respect the everyday heroes more than others, because as I’ve been writing this I’ve started to redefine my personal definition of a hero. I recognise that a hero is measured by the receiver of the action, not by the observer or doer. My idea of a hero is someone who interrupts their own activity to push someone’s shopping trolley out to their car. Saying ‘that’s not on’ to a friend making racist or sexist comments. Crossing the floor of parliament.

Turning up at 3am because your friend needs your help. Giving blood when you don’t have the time spare.

Or taking the low paid job because having you there makes a genuine difference.

These are the sort of actions that really mean something to me.

I definitely hold strong criteria to define an action or person as heroic. However, what I have learnt is that heroics exists across a spectrum, and it is not up to us to define an action as ‘heroic’. Rather, it is what an action means to the person for whom it is performed.

Outdo o r Adventu re

Steven Barnard

I had planned for a week of outdoor adventure amongst the bush, with no power, no running water and best of all no noises from cars and city life. I gathered as much information as I possibly could about where I planned on going, which ended up being a location west of Tenterfield in New South Wales..

I spoke to locals, found maps through Google and got consent from landowners to explore. Understanding maps and knowing how to read topography is something I was taught at a young age and the mates I take on trips appreciate this skill. It makes scouting new land a lot easier. Our hiking bags took a lot of thought and care to pack, essentials like food and water for our week ahead, but also survival tools, first aid kits, snake bite kits and electrolyte tablets … these are all life savers if I was to be injured, fall ill or become lost.

When we had driven to the spot to begin our bush trip it was a new moon, which means it was a very black night. We thought that it might be best to just set up base camp and sleep for a few hours. At first light, we got up and found our

NATURE IS MY CHAMPION

bearings, ran through our maps and decided what way we could explore for that day, while setting clear intentions on where we would break and when we would head back to camp.

Having a mate with me really is important. It keeps you grounded and also having a yarn can make the trip really fun. Our first day hike went well but really drained up both, we ambitiously trekked to the highest point available to us, which was more climbing then walking and a real workout on the body!

A few hours passed by and we finally made it, wow, it was worth the effort to get there! A natural spring, spectacular views, wildlife and our days goals reached.

On our way up we took our time to embrace and enjoy what was around us. We took note of all the different types of bugs, plants and animals around us.

With some study and knowledge you can learn what you can and cannot eat around you, which will save your life! One thing I learnt is that baby ferns, before they unfurl are an excellent source of vitamin C.

After some rest and unforgetable site seeing we decided to head back down to

camp via the agreed path.

We took slow intentional steps through the dense bush area as we had some very steep paths to accomplish, and one small mistake could lead to a bad situation. Another reason we kept quiet was not to spook the wildlife, to catch a glimpse of animals in their element is truly breathtaking. Time stands still when you are out there amongst it.

Wearing the correct gear is important, we both wore a pair of “Gaiters” which helped prevent snake bite penetration and also kept our feet dry. Visible clothing is recommended. After a few days exploring and learning the area we hoped to encounter some deer that some locals had mentioned were breeding ferrel in the area.

Unfortunately not enough rain had fallen and the creeks had run dry for some time so the deer were not around. Our last few days left and a little more ground covered, I’ve learned to appreciate what’s around me, what we can make of it, how we can use it to be our saviour, nature is my hero. What or who is your hero?

BREAK OUT THE RAIN DANCE

ill we see the much-needed rain this month?

It has been a dry start to 2021, certainly the worst that I can remember.

So why do we need a good drop of H2O? Because the rain will help our rivers get a push of fresh water, which will trigger the estuary species to do their thing and hopefully find our bait, hook, line, and sinker! In the meantime, here’s where you can head to try your luck. Burrum

The hot muggy weather has been great for barra and jacks, with lure anglers doing well in the mid-reaches. Offshore, the Burrum 8-Mile has produced a few good sweetlip. School and spotted mackerel are also coming off the reef, with pilchards working well.

Mac and longtail tuna can be found on the Four-Mile. Try casting a line out the front using small slugs. Wide Grounds

The Wide Grounds have fished well for big coral trout, sweetlip, cod, hussar, moses perch, cobia and mixed trevally.

Areas to have a look for a tasty feed are the southern and northern gutters and the 25-Fathom hole. Over break sea spit, if the weather allows over the coming weeks, will also be worth a look.

With less chance of coming across the tax man (sharks), it’s worth the journey. Crews have reported Spanish mackerel, wahoo and mixed reef fish from out there. Local Reefs

The local shallow reefs are still fishing well for coral trout and sweetlip. Using a range of techniques has been successful from trolling, casting lures and fresh and live baits all working well. Golden trevally, blackall, sweetlip, cod and trout have also been reported on the deeper reefs.

It’s been a great year for larger coral trout with specimens to 6kg reported from some local grounds. Urangan Pier

Spanish mackerel have been taken off the Urangan Pier with some big fish being reported. Queenfish, golden trevally and grey mackerel have also been caught in the second channel.

Whiting will be a good target on the bigger tides this week with live yabbies working well. Bream, flathead and gar have also been caught in the shallows off the pier. Platypus Bay

Th e B i g Catch

Andrew Chorley

School mackerel, queenfish and the odd spotted mackerel can be found around the schools with metals and soft plastics spun up from the bottom getting results. Scarletts, sweetlip and blackall have been reported on the reefs. Sandy Straits

Mangrove jacks have been fishing well in the strait, with the creeks on the island, and down Poona and Maroom way also fishing well. Prawn imitations and live baits work best on the jacks with the last of the runout tide fishing the best.

Whiting, grunter, flathead and bream have been caught around the flats of Frasers west coast and with the new moon tides, the flats should fish well.

In the Mary River, salmon have been scattered some bigger rain events should help congregate them on the drains on the runout tide.

Barra have been caught in the upper reaches of the Mary with trolling hardbodies a deadly technique when exploring new ground. Other catches in the Mary have been blue salmon, pikey bream, cod, flathead and grunter.

Tuna have been the focus in Platypus Bay with longtail and mac tuna schools present.

Nick from Brisbane had fun reeling in this solid coral trout caught while out on the water with Hervey Bay Fly and Sportfishing.

Hervey Bay Fly and Sportfishing www.herveybaysportfishing.com.au

Life Chat wi th M i chelle

Michelle Robinson Bach. Counselling. Dip. Clinical Hypnotherapy

his month’s column focuses on a very special relationship – the one we have with our kids. I use the phrase ‘our kids’ loosely, because as well as our children, I include in this cohort grandkids, step-kids, nieces, nephews and any child with whom you have a close relationship. How old that child is really doesn’t matter. I think that most parents understand that parenting or grandparenting goes on forever and secretly we’re very glad it does. The incredible thing about being someone special to a young child, is that the child adores us so easily and profoundly. From the moment I told my 3 year old granddaughter, Emilia, that Poppy and I would be visiting her in Brisbane, she announced to all kinds of people and at very random times (like mid-stroke during a swimming lesson) that “Ma Ma and Poppy are coming to see me soon!” I imagine that’s no mean feat when your swimming style is essentially vertical and opening your mouth invites a torrent of pool water. Having just returned from this

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THE HEROES OUR KIDS DESERVE

visit, I have been reflecting on the honour with we were treated. Emilia’s trust that we could do no wrong, and her uncensored affection in hugs and proclamations of her love, demonstrated to me the responsibility and privilege that comes with loving a young child.

Our kids look for role-models during their formative years. There are plenty of perfect but fake rolemodels in the collage of cartoons available on television. However, how realistic are any of these cartoon super-heroes, and why should our kids need to admire a 2D imitation of the real thing? Their bar for excellence isn’t set so high. They delight in the gift of our time when we fully engage with their interests (minus messages, minus games, minus phonecalls that show we are only half involved). They respond to our less than perfect selves with enthusiasm and glee. All we need to do is be in life, with them. Fully, in their life, with them. They don’t care if we can’t save the world or beat the baddie with our ray-gun. They don’t even care if we get puffed and fall over from the exertion

of chasing them around. I was amazed at how long the old backyard game, ‘What’s the time Mr. Wolf?’ delighted Emilia. As long as I growled, “Dinnertime!” as she snuck up on me and I chased her for ten steps or so, she was hysterical with laughter. It was enough. When I think of heroes, I know there are many Australians who are worthy of the title. Those who are publicly recognized for their courage, as well as the many who are unrecognized, deserve our respect and admiration. Along parallel lines, I have found myself reflecting on how little our young ones expect from us in return for their esteem. We have the opportunity to be their real-life heroes. We don’t need to pretend to be perfect, or hide our challenges. Kids don’t need us to offer them anything apart from our love, our patience, our time, and our efforts to be the best we can be. In a hurried world, I know this is very hard at times, but that doesn’t mean we should stop striving. Our kids are worthy of that. Perhaps, you feel the same way.

APRIL inspiration

Alison’s Guidance this Month:

ou can be your own Hero!! Give negativity the flick, and choose a life full of positivity and joy!

When you are full of joy, you are also full of determination, and feel invincible. Seek your joy, follow your heart, and you will find all the determination you need to achieve your dreams.

Capricorn

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Aquarius, are you a student? It might be time to hit the books. This month is also a time to stop procrastinating and focus. If you are signing a contract – please check the fine print before signing.

Pisces

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Romance could be in the air this month! April could be the month to work not only on your relationship with your partner, but also the relationship with yourself. Time to feel good and heart connect.

Aries

Mar 21 - April 19

Time is ticking this month Aries. If you have been meaning to do something, now is the right time to get started. Alarm bells are ringing. Just do it!

Taurus

April 20 - May 20

Have you been burning the candle at both ends? Time for a break? Grab some beach vibes. Take the weekend off work and allow your body to rest. You will be more creative and more efficient after a recharge.

Gemini

Alison Dunlop

Cancer

June 21- July 22

You are so blessed this month. You can make it all happen. Muster up that confidence and believe in yourself, after all you’ve got divine support! Trust that.

Dec 22 -Jan 19

How Awesome! April will be a great month for you. Surround yourself with colour, and do things that make you truly happy! Watch out for an excuse to have a celebration!

Aquarius

I n spi rat i o ns

May 21 - June 20

Leo

July 23 - Aug 22

: There may be a focus on a male this month, whether it be a father, son or partner. This card may also be an indication that April is the month to look at your yang or masculine side. It might be a good time to look at things from a more logical, less sensitive perspective.

Virgo

Aug 23 - Sept 22

Have you have been feeling out on a limb Virgo, or maybe a little bit restless? You are being encouraged this month to stay put and not make any rash decisions. Put those decisions on hold and just be. It is safe to do so.

Libra

Sept - 23 - Oct 23

Libra, you are a restless soul. Have you been finding you want things to happen ASAP? Time to slow it down and breathe. Take time to smell the roses so to speak. Have patience and know all will work out how it should. Trust that.

Scorpio

Oct 24 - Nov 21

Be on the look out for a windfall this month! Good fortune is shining on you. Remember you attract what you put out, so keep your thoughts positive, and reap the rewards.

Sagittarius

Nov 22 - Dec 21

There may be a focus on a female figure this month. This could be mum, sister, daughter or partner. This card also suggests you may need to focus on your yin or female side. Perhaps you need to show your sensitive side or be more nurturing towards yourself.

This month, tread carefully with any decisions you make. It is possible something or a situation you have had your heart set on, is not quite right for you. Don’t lose heart, something better is around the corner.

Alison Dunlop Kinesiologist. Find out more at: www.alisondunlopkinesiology.com.au (Cards drawn from The Modern Oracle of Essential Oils by Katy-K)

Kev ’s Adventu res

@KevsAdventures Kevin

DOG HEROES

I’ve been looking forward to this issue. There are so many amazing puppers and people out there being heroes every single day in so many big and small ways that I couldn’t wait to share some of them with you.

The heroes that you see here are all part of their own humancanine teams. These relationships are built on trust earned over time with lots of good times spent together creating those bonds and also bravery and courage on all sides as they learn how to support each other in navigating challenging situations. Check out Max and Hartley hanging out at the dog park. Max is an almost 4 year old Australian Kelpie and Hartley is his 7-year old most awesome human. What a gorgeous smiley team they make! They would bring joy to anyone they encounter just by existing.

There is only one thing us working dogs love more than being someone’s side-kick and that is having an important job to do. This makes Hartley and Max make the perfect team. Hartley helped Max learn about the world and how to perform the tasks he needs to do for his Assistance Dog certification. Max has a few super powers and magic tricks that he uses to support Hartley when they are out and about in environments that could easily become overwhelming and he is always wholeheartedly there for Hartley whenever he needs a judgement-free friend and a bit of unconditional love. Hartley also protects Max by educating people about how to behave around Assistance Dogs. He takes great pride in letting people know that: • Max has an important job to do and he mustn’t be distracted; • They must always address the handler and not the dog; and, • Not be offended if they are not able to stop for a chat.

• Any human that protects their furry-friends that well is definitely a hero in my opinion.

Border Collie, Gypsy, is an assistance dog too, she has been specifically trained as a PTSD service dog to support a true hero, veteran William (Bill) Simeon. Bill served as an SAS soldier in the British army in Kenya, Malaya and Korea. Having lived my whole 5-years of life here in Hervey Bay I can’t even imagine the conditions and experiences that Bill went through in service to his country so I imagine it would be quite an honour for Gypsy to be able to provide support and service to him now. They both love being each other’s constant companions, especially

when Bill visits hospital as Gypsy gets to be there for Bill as well as brightening the day of all the other patients and staff in the hospital too.

I would also like to introduce you to my fellow Therapy Dog graduates Monnie and her human Janeen Greaves. We went to Dog Therapy school together back in 2018 where we did our Human-Canine Team Training. Since then Toby has joined their team and together all three of them have established the PAWS program at Aldridge State High School. They’ve been improving the attendance, engagement, inclusion and emotional learning at the school as well as improving staff and student wellbeing. They live to bring even the smallest moments of peace or joy to a person’s day. That’s a massive paw-print they are leaving on the hearts and minds of the whole Aldridge community.

Monnie and Toby say that Janeen is their true hero though – she is the one that has tirelessly trained them both for the past 5 years with consistent day-to-day reinforcement in preparation for their therapy dog work each week. She ensures they are feeling confident, happy and safe wherever they go and with whoever they are spending time with. She is that one that grooms them every week and ensure they are in peak-performance for everybody’s safety and for the specific conditions and situations they work in. You see, us therapy dogs, rely heavily on that human-canine partnership that we have established to do our therapy dog work, we wouldn’t be able to stay as calm and present in order to connect and bring joy to all the humans we encounter if we don’t have our trusted human nearby looking out for us.

Being a Therapy Dog is quite a different role to Assistance Dogs isn’t it – it’s important they stay connected to their one person for their human to feel comfortable being out into the world – whereas us Therapy Dogs have our one person that supports us to go out and connect with lots of different people in particular situations. You can see why Hartley has his work cut-out for him in educating people about the difference! I hope we’ve been able to help him out a little today on his mission to create awareness about the difference between Assistance Dogs and other dogs. Stay courageously you!

Love, Kev.

Reade rs’ G alle r y

Crosswords of the month

PET OF THE MONTH

Introducing Alive Magazine’s security officer Chewy the chocolate labrador.

Last month’s solution

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