QCWA Ruth magazine #37 - Summer 2021 by News Corp Custom Publishing

LIVE AN INSPIRED LIFE Supporting the work of the CountryQueenslandWomen’sAssociation BACK TO COUNTRYTHEWITH Laura Geitz Adding a healthy spin to your festive treats with QCWA Country Kitchens FIND EARTHLYGARDENVERITABLEAOFDELIGHTSATTHISMUDBRICKHOMERUTH SUMMER 2021 ISSUE 37 • AU$9.95 INC GST

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FEATURE: Back to the country with Laura FOOD: Tasty festive treats FASHION: Sorting facts from rubbery figures INSPIRING PEOPLE: Preserving QCWA history CRAFT: Make your own QCWA-blue cards HOUSE & GARDEN: Celebrating all things floral Garden of earthly delights TRAVEL & EVENTS: Events for summer The places we’ll go BOOKS: The child of your heart Great summer reads From Croatia to northern Qld HISTORY: Xmas crackers & giant grasshoppers QCWA: News from the branches767264626057544943403829158Contents PUBLISHED BY: News Corp Australia, Level 1/5 Keefe St, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350 in conjunction with Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), 11 Cleveland Street, Stones Corner, QLD 4120. Ruth magazine is published by News Corp Australia. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Ruth magazine undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the trade practices act or other laws, regulation or statutes. Further to the abovementioned, these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. MAGAZINE MANAGER: Erika Brayshaw EDITOR: Jessica Kramer DESIGN: Jeff Brown and Mark Stansall COVER IMAGE: Wayne Pratt Photography EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: 07 4690 9425 ADVERTISING ENQUIRES: 07 4690 9370 SUBSCRIPTIONS: isubscribe.com.au/ruth-magazine-subscription434985766 Subscribe to QCWA Ruth magazine! $31.80 for 12 months (4 editions) $63.60 for 24 months (8 editions) Subscribe online — iSubscribe.com.au/ruth-magazine-subscriptionvisit: 4 | Summer 2021

And now, I’m off to try Jo Zampieri’s Christmas cake from page 17. Have a great Christmas and stay safe!

Welcome to the Summer edition of Ruth magazine!

Welcome to both the final edition of Ruth for 2021 and the first edition for 2022! Summer is one of my favourite times of the year because of the uniqueness that the phrase above reflects: on one hand, we have closure and the opportunity to reflect on the year that’s been; on the other, we have a fresh new beginning and a handy line in the sand for creating new goals andAndaims.of course, we can’t ignore all the festivities summer brings with it: Christmas, New Year’s, Australia Day, and simply relaxed days at the beach and longer evenings.

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Roy has put together a fantastic quiz this edition with some tricky QCWA questions in anticipation of the anniversary year and celebrations in 2022, and Avril has also included some great book recommendations to keep you occupied during those balmy summer evenings.

Speaking of festivities, Country Kitchens have turned their attention to healthier Christmas treats this year, bringing you bliss balls, festive salads and Christmas cake that you can eat without worrying about all those additives! One of our festive traditions is to try a new salad for Christmas Day each year, so I’m especially keen to put the turkey and mango salad to the family taste-test. You can also get in the holiday spirit by making your own greeting cards: Ruth writer Avril Priem had a chat with cardmaker Nan Macdonald, who graciously shared her inspiration for QCWA-blue Christmas cards so you can celebrate Christmas and QCWA’s upcoming 100th anniversary at the same time. How clever! Unfortunately, I also have some sad news to share with you: Avril and our quizmaster Roy O’Reilly are finishing up with Ruth magazine this edition. Both have been writing for Ruth JESSICA KRAMER 2021

for years, their pieces widely read and enjoyed, and they will be sorely missed. From the whole extended magazine team, we wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

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special finds for Summer — and the latest QCWA news LOOK WHAT WE FOUND Ruth Fairfax OBE was the founding president of the QCWA. She was also a founding member of the CWAA. Her work to address issues affecting country women was tireless — we are proud to name this magazine in her honour.

A proper place for Santa snacks

Etsy: therusticatheart

Etsy: madebyclairelouise

WHO WAS RUTH?

MakesJaszzyJasmine,fromCambooya, is a young entrepreneur doing her bit for our planet. She is committed to reducing plastic and makes fabric face wipes, grocery and produce bags, beeswax wraps, crocheted shower puffs and more … Her Etsy shop is: JaszzyMakes Fantastic felt Is there anything cuter than felt imitations of delicious treats? Claire Louise’s handmade felt food, toys and garlands are perfect as a Christmas gift for the little one in your life, or simply as a nice textile change in your home decor.

Brisbane-based The Rustic at Heart specialises in bespoke laser engraving of timber and acrylic, as well as beautiful stationery, with an absolutely lovely collection of festive decorations and gifts. There are personalised tree decorations for baby’s first Christmas or a unique gift for the grandkids, wardrobe dividers for the fashionista in your life, DIY kits for the crafty cousin, or these fabulous snack boards for Santa’s milk and cookies on Christmas Eve.

Welcome Creek DesignThisBundabergfamily business makes eye-catching metal signs. The range includes house numbers, property names, garden and home décor and gifts. Metal is powder-coasted for a high-quality finish. Personalised or custom signs can also be designed. www.welcomecreekdesign.com.au Grow keepsandandcombiningCoastforgreetingyourcardsBrilliantforgiftsorjustalittlespecialsomethingyourself,SownSowwasfoundedontheSunshinewiththedreamtocreatesustainablegifts—founderMichelleBrady’sloveofdesigngardening.Fromflowerpressesandpop-uppotstogifttagscardscontainingseeds,it’stheperfectgiftthatongiving. sownsow.com Pots plentyaWhodoesn’tloveacute plant pot? My Little Dream Garden specialises in hand-painted ceramic pots that would be perfect for a Christmas gift or just because - why not get one for yourself as well? Etsy: MyLittleDreamGarden Welcome to Tina’s house Whether you’re just discovering the wonderful world of embroidery, returning after a stint away or a seasoned needlecrafter, Tina’s House Boutique has the pretty kit for you. Tina’s designs range from whimsical to modern, with a wide variety of embroidery stitches employed as well — and even a few punch-needle kits for good measure. 2021 Summer | 7

FeatureCOMINGHOMEAGAINLauraGeitz 8 | Summer 2021

2021 Summer | 9

“We’re less connected than we ever were and that causes stress on our systems,” says simplicity expert and author of Words by Alexandra Carlton Pictures courtesy of Wayne Pratt Photography, Peter Wallis, David Kelly, and Laura Geitz Former netball star Laura Geitz returns to her country roots in a familyfriendly, close-knit community on the outskirts of Brisbane

When former Australian netball captain Laura Geitz thinks back to her childhood growing up in the little Darling Downs town of Allora in southern Queensland she tends to think of three things: sport, fresh air and — especially — community.“Myearliest memories are of people calling in all the time for a cup of tea,” she says.

It’s a feeling that many of us would be thrilled to experience. More and more of us are becoming disillusioned with our increasingly fast-paced and disconnected lives. According to the Regional Australia Institute, one in five city dwellers yearn to move to the country. Many of us live with a gnawing feeling that all our technology and busy-ness isn’t making us happy.

“You always knew that if you ever needed a hand with something there were so many people you could rely on. That’s all I knew as a kid.” It’s something Laura says she struggled to find when she and her property executive husband Mark were based in Brisbane for work. It’s not that she didn’t like the city — and it was the right place for her considering the couple’s work commitments at the time — but she always knew it wasn’t where she wanted to stay forever. “It was a bit of a shock to be honest,” she says of her time in the inner city. “It felt claustrophobic. And every time I asked for help I always felt like I was putting people out.” That all changed when the family moved to the semi-rural outer Brisbane suburb of Brookfield, around 12 km from the CBD, in 2018. Now the couple and their sons Barney, 4 and Franky, 2 and daughter Billie Mae, nine months, are living the simple life dream in a classic five-bedroom, two bathroom Queenslander, along with a handful of chooks, a dog and a pony. The house was something they’d seen several times from the road, but it was behind a gated estate so they’d never viewed it up close. But when the opportunity arose to have a look around, Laura says she and Mark were completely silent. “I was like ‘Does this mean what I think it means?’ but I didn’t want to say anything!” remembers Laura with a laugh. “And then he said ‘I’m in love with it.’ And I said, ‘Me too!’”

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Today the kids spend their days digging holes and playing with sticks and collecting eggs, and have, as Laura says, “100 co-parents”, as all the families in the area play a part keeping an eye on each other’s broods. It’s the community Laura had been“There’scraving.areal small village feeling,” Laura says. “There are always social events happening, barbecues, that sort of thing. There’s been numerous times that I’ve driven Barney to school and we see kids riding their horses to school! So it’s a really, really cool vibe. “And it’s nice to be able to give your neighbour a dozen eggs, or if you’ve got pumpkins galore, here’s a pumpkin. I gave someone a pumpkin recently and it came back to me as pumpkin soup.”

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Though Laura is quick to emphasise that a back-to-basics change is the be-all and end-all. “I’m under no illusion that I’m living the perfect simplistic lifestyle — it’s still a madhouse!” she says of running round after three kids under five. “You don’t want to be around me at 5pm every day, believe me,” she says, laughing. But, she says, the semi-rural move has been the best thing for her family.

“When the busy-ness, the noise and the chaos go on for too long our health — mental and physical — starts to suffer.”

“I was desperate to give our children space. I want them to be able to make mud pies and get dirty and learn the responsibility of looking after animals. So coming to space felt like coming home to me,” she says. “I feel like I’ve come full circle.”

Author and simplicity expert Bronwen Sciortino says that even city dwellers, or people living in small spaces, can find ways to bring a sense of ‘simplicity’ into their lives, with enormous benefits. “You can live in the city and work in the corporate world and still enjoy a simple life,” she insists. It may be as easy as getting outside and standing next to a tree, which Sciortino says can reduce your stress levels by up to 20 per cent. She also suggests people make use of parks and other green spaces in their area.

“Even a 15-20 minute walk in your local green space will significantly support you. It creates endorphins which make you feel better. And when you feel better, life automatically feels simpler.”

‘Keep It Super Simple’ Bronwen Sciortino.

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“I love the fact that we’re always outside. Being a country girl I’ve always had that connection to nature and I feel happiest when I’m barefoot.”

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What better treasured gift for yourself or someone special than this fabulous reprint of the original 1959 QCWA Cookery Book? 180 pages of the same cherished Australian recipes, with many of the original homely hints, methods and comments. $1995JUST Postage Extra Love Baking? 1 THE QUEENSLAND COUNTRY WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION Recipes from the original 1959 QCWA Cookery Book These ‘collector edition’ copies are available from QCWA — call 07 3236 6419 to arrange postal delivery.

Recipes & pictures Contributed Tasty Treats FESTIVE With our warm weather and such a bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables to choose from, it is easy to add a healthy spin to your festive meals with our Country Kitchens approved recipes. 2021 Summer | 15

• Provide raw vegetable platters with hummus dip and you’ll be helping guests get their five serves of vegetables daily

Try these healthy tips for your Christmas entertaining. For more healthy inspiration visit: qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/recipes

• Freeze leftovers in portion sizes to use later

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• Avoid deep fried and battered foods

• Choose healthier options like lean proteins for skewers and meatballs

• Avoid over-catering and only bring out a couple of platters at a time

Christmas Tips

Often, we focus mainly on the protein component of festive meals, such as the ham or turkey. Providing a range of delicious and healthy side dishes is the perfect way to take your feast to the next level. Making sure your side dishes include plenty of fruit and vegetables adds variety and is an easy way to increase vegetable consumption.

Savvy party finger food Follow these simple tips and you will wow your guests with healthy finger food.

Plan your Christmas menu

Healthy cheese board Cheese and charcuterie boards are a favourite for gatherings during the Christmas season. Try health-a-sizing your cheese board with a few substitutes and additions. Simply swap store bought dip for homemade, add chopped vegetables and fruit, and use wholegrain crackers. Our beetroot and hummus dip is easy, colourful and deliciously healthy.

PrepServes: 15-20 time: 10 minutes (+24 hours soaking time) Cook time: 60-90 minutes minutes Fruit and veg: 1 ½ serves per portion Ingredients 1kg mixed dried fruit 500-750mL orange juice, no added sugar 1 cup wholemeal self-raising flour 1 cup self-raising flour 1 teaspoon all spice Method SOAK fruit overnight in 500mL of orange juice in the fridge. PREHEAT oven to 160°C conventional/140°C fan-forced. ADD flours to the fruit and juice mixture and stir until combined. POUR in more orange juice if the mixture is too dry. SPRINKLE in allspice and place mixture into a lined 20cm baking tin. BAKE in oven for 1-1½ hours or until a skewer comes out clean. What’s Great About It? This easy recipe shows that even Christmas cake can be health-a-sized! Making a few simple swaps such as half the flour for wholemeal flour, opting for a ‘no added sugar’ orange juice and removing the added sugars makes this cake the perfect treat this Christmas. Recipe courtesy of Jo Zampieri, Tewantin-Noosa Branch Jo Zampieri’s Christmas Cake 2021 Summer | 17

What’s Great About It? This salad is the perfect way to use up those turkey leftovers from Christmas dinner. It is just what you need after all those festive celebrations and is also light and fresh enough to be enjoyed on a hot summer’s day.

Method HEAT a frypan over medium heat. Dry toast the sunflower and pumpkin seeds for five minutes or until golden. Set aside to cool. COMBINE mustard, honey, vinegar, olive oil and pepper in a small jug to make the dressing. COMBINE baby spinach, tomatoes and red onion in large salad bowl. SPRINKLE turkey meat, mango, cranberries and seeds on top of salad vegetables. DRIZZLE a small amount of dressing on salad and serve with remainder in small jug.

Turkey

Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team and Mango

FruitCookPrepServes: 6 time: 15 minutes time: 5-10 minutes andveg: 1 serveper portion Ingredients ½ cup sunflower and pumpkin seeds ¼ cup dijon mustard 1 tablespoon honey ¼ cup apple cider vinegar ¼ cup olive oil ½ teaspoon black pepper 5 cups baby spinach 200g cherry tomatoes, halved ½ red onion, thinly sliced 500g cooked turkey breast, sliced or shaved 1 large mango, sliced ½ cup dried cranberries

Salad 18 | Summer 2021

PrepServes: 16time: 20 minutes + chill time Cook time: 5 minutes Fruit and veg: ½ serve per portion Ingredients 350g sweet potato, peeled and grated ¼ cup water ⅓ cup dried apricots 3 cups almond meal 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 tablespoon skim sweetened condensed milk ⅓ cup desiccated coconut ⅓ cup pistachios, finely chopped ⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped Method

PLACE the sweet potato and water in a covered microwaveable bowl and steam on high for four minutes until soft. Drain and leave to cool. BLITZ apricots in a food processor for one to two seconds or until finely chopped.

COMBINE apricots, almond meal, cinnamon and condensed milk in a large bowl. Add cooled sweet potato and mix well until combined. BLITZ the pistachios until finely chopped. Transfer to a plate. BLITZ the cranberries until finely chopped. Transfer to a second plate. PLACE the coconut on a third plate. ROLL level tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture into balls, using washed and clean hands. ROLL one third of the balls in the pistachio, one third in the cranberry and the remaining third in the coconut.

STORE blitz balls in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to five days, or in the fridge for up to two weeks. What’s Great About It? Who knew sweet potato made such a great addition to snack balls? They add extra flavour and fibre while keeping them deliciously moist, stopping them from falling apart. These blitz balls make for the perfect festive treat with their stunning Christmas colours! of Judy Stubbs, Maleny Branch

Recipe courtesy

Festive Blitz Balls 2021 Summer | 19

FruitCookPrepServes: 4 time: 10 minutes time: 0 minutes andveg: 2 serves per portion Ingredients 2 oranges, zested and peeled (can be substituted with any citrus fruit) 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil ½ lemon, juiced Cracked black pepper 2 cups salad greens, washed ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped ¼ cup fresh dill leaves, chopped 300 g smoked salmon, torn into strips 2 avocados, stoned, peeled and diced Method CUT oranges into segments and set aside. MIX OIL, lemon juice, pepper and zest in a small bowl. Whisk well to combine. ADD SALAD greens, mint and dill to a large bowl. Pour over dressing and toss to coat. ARRANGE THE dressed salad leaves, salmon, avocado and oranges on serving plate. What’s Great About It? This is a light and zingy salad that is perfect for a summer lunch. The mint and dill give a fresh flavour to the salad and the orange can be replaced by other citrus fruit such a grapefruit, pomelo or blood orange. Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team Citrus and Salmon Salad 20 | Summer 2021

FruitCookPrepServes: 4 time: 20 minutes time: 30 minutes andveg: 3 serves per portion Ingredients 1 cup brown rice & quinoa mix 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 100g pancetta (can substitute left over Christmas ham) ½ butternut or kent pumpkin, cubed 1 apple, cut into matchsticks ½ cup spring onions, chopped ½ cup cup feta, salt reduced 4 cups spinach Dressing: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar ½ teaspoon honey Harvest Salad Method PREAHEAT oven to 200°C. DRIZZLE extra virgin olive oil onto diced pumpkin on large baking tray. Roast in oven for 30 minutes or until tender. DRY fry pancetta in small frypan until crispy, set aside. COMBINE dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together. COMBINE all ingredients into a large bowl. Drizzle with honey balsamic dressing to taste. What’s Great About It? This fresh and flavourful salad combines sweet fruit with savoury vegetables to celebrate the deliciousness of Christmas. It is colourful, easy to throw together, and filling. Substitute pancetta for leftover Christmas ham, or try adding shredded chicken or turkey for some extra protein and to make this salad a complete meal. Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team 2021Summer | 21

Incontinence eco Recipe for good health 22 | Summer 2021

Country Kitchens state program manager Meg O’Donnell said they were thrilled with this funding announcement.

HWQldABOVE:launch event — Left to right: Judy Nean, Director, HWQld, Robyn Littlewood, Chief Executive, HWQLD, Shelia Campbell, State President, QCWA, Colleen O’Rourke, Country Kitchens Facilitator QCWA Ipswich Branch, Caroline Lim Country Kitchens Facilitator QCWA Ipswich Branch, Gaylene Stack, Country Kitchens Division Convenor, West Moreton, Meg O’Donnell, QCWA Country Kitchens State Program Manager, Anna Voloschenko, Board Member, HWQld.

“It allows us to continue working with QCWA’s volunteer workforce, delivering our program activities directly into communities,” Ms O’Donnell said.

Connecting women who have the power to heal their communities

HWQld chief executive Dr Robyn Littlewood said the programs were aimed at prevention and creating sustainable health habits as the path forward. “Two in three Queensland adults and one in four Queensland children are living overweight or with obesity. We simply cannot afford for these figures to worsen,” Dr Littlewood said.

“Our team of dietitians and nutritionists provide a training PATHway and support to QCWA members who volunteer to become facilitators of the program,” she said. 2021

Empowering women through education and health is a priority for QCWA. The popular QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to develop their understanding of food and nutrition. Focused particularly on those living in rural, regional and remote locations, QCWA’s Country Kitchens program is now able to continue this critical work thanks to another three-year funding commitment from Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld).Thefunding is part of the recently announced $68 million investment to support community-based programs to improve Queenslanders’ health and wellbeing, with the QCWA’s Country Kitchens program one of six programs to receive additional funding to provide free and low-cost healthy lifestyle support to communities across the state.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Country Kitchens facilitators — Left to right: Dr Christine Reghenzani OAM, Marie Balch, Michelle Donohue, Christine King, Maria Keys, Sue Ranson, Gay Barrett, Sheila Campbell, QCWA State President, Barb McMillan and Victoria Nancarrow. their own communities bringing women and families together in promoting healthy lifestyles,” she said.

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QCWA state president Mrs Sheila Campbell thanked the team for the work they do. “Thank you to the Country Kitchens team and to our partners at Health and Wellbeing Queensland for enabling QCWA members in doing what they do so well: working in

A central part of the program is the creation of healthy recipes. QCWA members and the Country Kitchens team have created a raft of delicious healthy alternatives, or modifications to everyday recipes to show Queenslanders just how easy it is to make healthier choices. Since 2015, the program has been evolving, with more than 300 QCWA members completing one or more of the PATHway training modules, resulting in QCWA branches delivering more than 1700 community-based health promotion activities. If you need any more incentive to get involved, here are comments from two of the army of Country Kitchens facilitators.Samantha Harvey, QCWA Country Kitchens facilitator for Maryborough branch believes the program is a wonderful initiative that gives community members access to nutrition information and activities that may otherwise be out of reach. “The five key health messages that Country Kitchens convey are simple and achievable for everyday people,” Ms Harvey said.“Country Kitchens has the potential to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities in an accessible and inclusiveReinforcingway.”these observations is Tamara Stephensen, QCWA State Vice President, Central Region, and Country Kitchens facilitator for Howard branch: “I believe the Country Kitchens messages strike a chord in all our hearts - we all want our loved ones to be healthier, happier together and the program helps us see that even a small change can help everyone to do just that.”

“These are the benefits of our grass roots approach to training QCWA members and delivering activities directly into communities,” Ms O’Donnell said. To demonstrate how easy it is to make healthy choices and make healthier recipes with just a few tweaks, here are some Christmas favourites with a healthy twist. To learn more visit www.qcwacountrykitchens.com.au or sign up to our free Monthly Munch newsletter.

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“Country Kitchens facilitators run health promotion activities in their local communities and partner with organisations such as schools, local councils and a wide range of community groups.”Activities include static and interactive displays, healthy cooking demonstrations and hands-on nutrition workshops. Every Country Kitchens activity promotes one or more of the program’s five key messages: get more fruit and veg into your meals; cook at home; be aware of sugar in your drinks; check your portion size; and sit less, move more.

From 2023 Downlanders will have the opportunity to take the journey from Prep to Year 12. Boarding from Year 6. A journey from start to finish. A path from heart to hands. A bridge from town to Downlandscountry.

A bridge from town to country… It’s Thursday morning, 6.15am. Holly is standing in the early morning sun, leaning on a farm gate, watching cattle move slowly into Long Paddock. She gives the last heifer a gentle push and closes the gate. The air is crisp. The smells are rich. This is that blissful moment she enjoys most of all. It reminds her of home. For 90 years, Downlands College has provided a bridge from town to country for thousands of boarders who have called this place their home away from home. The place where they have found a second family.

OPEN DAY RegistrationsRegister now for your tour @www downlands.q Ours is a spirit of family and a spirit of true friendship , formed by kindness and understanding , by compassion and mutual forgiveness , by gentleness , humility and simplicity , by hospitality and a sense of humour . MSC Constitutions #32 Call today w w w . d o wnla n d s .qld .edu.au

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Over the years, family owned and operated, Avenue J Jewellery has become a favourite of both residents and visitors to the coast, with customers describing our collection as unique, elegant, bespoke, beautiful, exquisite, with an emphasis on quality. In offering both antique and modern jewellery, there is something in store for everyone.

Exquisite Antique & Modern Jewellery

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rubberyfactsSortingFashionfrom figures Sifting fake news from reality in the social media age is a challenge for all Words by Jane Milburn Images Contributed 2021 Summer | 29

A report on building criticaldata consumption in fashion no recognisablelonger

I’ve always wondered about figures attributing large amounts of water and chemicals to the production of cotton, and my scientific training made me wary of sharing these in my slow clothing advocacy work. I know the Australian industry has introduced water efficiency measures and some regions grow dryland (nonirrigated) cotton. Additionally, Australian growers use genetically modified seed and integrated pest management to minimize the need for insecticides. It seems the fashion industry is full of misinformation. People are fed the latest trends and treated like mushrooms, there’s endless greenwashing and a lack of transparency exacerbated by data kept behind paywalls. There’s even a ratings systems which ranks synthetic/plastic fibres like polyester that sheds microplastic particles as more sustainable than natural fibres.

It is therefore interesting to see a new report Cotton: a case study in misinformation developed by the Transformers Foundation which represent the denim supply chain and has the stated goal to help suppliers share their expertise and opinion on industry threats and solutions, brands and retailers to transform their jeans from a commodity into unique and valuable fashion, and consumers to choose the most environmentally-sound denim products and avoid greenwashing.Youcandownload the report at this link transformersfoundation.org/cotton-report-2021https://www.orread some direct quotes from the report below. “Fashion has a major misinformation problem. Half-truths, out-of-date information and shocking statistics stripped of context are widely circulated, from the notion that fashion is the second-most polluting industry to the idea that cotton is thirsty or that it consumes 25 percent of the world’s insecticides.Whilethere have been attempts to debunk fashion misinformation, we have not taken the problem seriously enough. Fashion misinformation is part of the same societywide information disorder destabilising democracies and undermining public trust. “This report aims to take a new approach, using the cotton

Fashion

Cotton:

Misinformation, untruths and conspiracy theories spread through social media are disrupting society — we’ve seen it play out in the storming of Capital Hill after the US election and incubating vaccine hesitancy in Australia from the miniscule risk of AstraZeneca side-effects. Sorting facts from gossip and innuendo was traditionally the role of journalists but erosion of conventional news outlets means journalists are thin on the ground and being substituted by spin doctors, social media influencers and activists.

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industry as a lens through which to tackle misinformation. Most of the common claims about the cotton industry are inaccurate or highly misleading (from the idea that cotton is water-thirsty to the notion that it takes 20,000 litres of water to make a T-shirt and a pair of jeans). It is an ideal place to begin to unpack how misinformation operates.“Fashion misinformation is complicit in the same systems of misinformation breaking down public trust in our institutions and our trust in one Misinformation’sanother.impacts are becoming more catastrophic, linked to public inaction around climate change, the questioning of the 2020 US election results, the rise of authoritarianism, and the threat to democracy worldwide. Sharing half-truths about how much water cotton consumes or the fashion industry pollutes might seem innocent by comparison, but it is all part of the same information disorder with troubling shared consequences.“Thestakescouldn’t be higher. The $2.5 trillion fashion industry’s environmental impact grows every year, with only a temporary slowdown during the pandemic. It is crucial for industries and society to understand the best available data and context on the environmental, social and economic impact of different fibres and systems within fashion, so that best practices can be developed and implemented, industries can make informed choices, and farmers and other suppliers and makers can be rewarded for and incentivised to operate using more responsible practices that drive more positive impacts.”“Digital tools and social media networks make it possible to instantaneously share information that can quickly travel across theSocialInternet.media and more precisely the amplification of fake news stories on social networks are picked up and released through mainstream media. This pipeline has overpowered newspapers as a main way that new stories are discovered, and much of this information is moving too quickly to beExaggeratedvetted. claims and sensationalism (and algorithms that prioritise them) drive more likes, garner more followers, and reward users for spreading misinformation. But it’s not just social media that’s to blame.“Misinformation is also spread by private actors, namely companies who use deceptive marketing to describe their products or services as more sustainable than the competition or compared to an earlier iteration of their own business. This is known as greenwashing, and it’s a massive problem in fashion. In 2020, the European Commission analyzed 344 consumer product claims made online about sustainability, a quarter of which were made about clothing, fabric, and shoes. Almost half of all claims analyzed were flagged as possibly deceptive.”

The report indicates fashion as an industry has not been taken seriously and does not have independent or non-corporate groups scrutinising and analysing the sector. It has historically been dominated by creatives, and needs to build technical and scientific expertise.Whilewe do not have space to go into the misinformation about cotton here, you need to read the report for that detail and there is no single definitive figure for water usage due to the wide range of growing countries and situations. But this comment (pg72) stands out: Water is borrowed from the global water cycle. It can be moved, polluted, change forms, or returned from where it came, but it can’t be ‘used up.’ This means cotton can use water sustainably.

moodChristmasboost

Health 2021 Summer | 35

Health The festive season is here. As we celebrate the end of 2021 with friends and family, there’s no better way to feel good than to support local businesses 36 | Summer 2021

Running a business is an exciting and challenging rollercoaster. However, when you throw a pandemic into the mixture, as well as supply shortages, freight strikes, and postal delays, it can become pretty stressful.

Phone: 3720 9912 Email: info@thelegveindoctor.com I Website: www.thelegveindoctor.com What Do We Treat? ● Varicose Veins and Venous Ulcers ● Vein Recurrence Post Surgery ● Spider Veins Why Choose The Leg Vein Doctor? ● Modern non-surgical techniques. ● Minimal discomfort during procedures. ● No post-operative downtime. ● Personalised treatment plans with no hidden costs. ● Treatments available in Toowoomba and Brisbane. ● Experienced in offering full aftercare to rural and remote patients. ● Ultrasound examination included at initial consultation. ● Dr Kemp is a Phlebologist - we only treats leg veins. Lady aged 46 years with varicose veins in the left leg. Cause is great saphenous vein reux. Treatment: Endovenous laser ablation and Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy. Appearance at six months. 2021 Summer | 37

Words by Kirrily Schwarz Images Contributed it’s grown significantly. We’re a little apprehensive about Christmas, given the issues with couriers and delivery delays, but we’re hoping we can encourage customers to get in there early,” she tells Ruth. “We really live and die by the ups and downs of e-commerce.”Christmascan be a tricky time for mental health, for vendors and shoppers alike, so preparation is key.

“I started the business a couple of years ago and

Starting your shopping sooner rather than later will ensure your gifts are delivered in time, bypassing the stress of last-minute retail. On top of that, choosing to support small businesses is an undeniably good feeling. Every time you place an order with a local company, you know you’re making someone’s day. “Many customers prefer shopping locally, knowing they’re supporting a business from their community,” she says. “Plus there’s the convenience of being able to come and pick them up, see our workshop and meet the team. The fact that we manufacture here in Queensland is a really important part of our offering.”

This has been a year like none other and many Queensland business owners have overcome struggles.Someclosed their doors. Some paused trading because of lockdowns or border closures. Some seized new opportunities or pursued new passions. Some expanded so rapidly they experienced growingEdwinapains.Cameron runs a home decor company called I Heart Wall Art from Maleny, a town of 3700 people in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Her business employs four local people and trades online, selling gorgeous artworks, wallpapers, and decals that breathe life and colour into the homes of her customers.

Bouncing back to wellness

Health

The QCWA believe that people under severe stress need support, a friendly ear and some assistance to get through the hard times and not become overwhelmed by their current circumstances.Asawaytohelp individuals and communities get back on their feet, the QCWA have compiled some practical, achievable suggestions to promote a positive attitude towards. Keep in mind that because of their generic nature, not all of them will be relevant to everyone — and never be afraid of reaching out for professional help.

family, there are call centres like Lifeline and BeyondBlue, and they can often suggest others who may be able to help as well. Think positive This can be really hard, there’s no doubt about it, but your thought life can make a world of difference to your outlook andRememberfeelings. that just as it didn’t take mere minutes to get where you are today, it won’t fix itself overnight — don’t give up, and be patient and gentle with yourself. Each day has the potential to bring you closer to your goals and step up out of your problems; be open to what the day presents to you. At the end of each day, go over the day in your mind and note the things you achieved or did better at, or simply things that made you smile and write them down. You could also start a pinboard with positive quotes and photos that make you

Don’t make yourself feel guilty No matter your circumstances, someone somewhere will have been through something similar, so nothing is so bad that you can’t tell someone about it and/or get support. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your immediate circle of friends and

Words by QCWA Pictures Contributed Since 1922, the QCWA has been there to help rural, remote and regional Queenslanders through tough times, becoming renowned for practical, caring assistance to those in need

38 | Summer 2021

Take time to exercise: go for an early morning walk, get on that exercise bike, join a gym, take up yoga. Not only will you strengthen your body, you’ll get a dose of dopamine too. Also set some time aside just for you — even if it’s as little as 15 minutes. Relax and spoil yourself; invest in your selfcare.

Headspace (young people 12-25 years old) -

mental

This article is not provided by an official mental health intervention program and is designed to offer ideas for selfhelp as preliminary struggling with stress tough times. If you or someone you know is experiencing health call 1300 224 636 1800 187263 1800 650 890 1300 789 978

SANE Australia -

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smile, and hang it up in a space you see often. Have a laugh Laughter really is the best medicine, so try finding the funny side to things. Seek out people, items, movies, podcasts, etc that make you laugh. Singing can also be good in this regard — sing loud and often, even if you don’t do it well. Reach out for help If you are experiencing financial difficulties contact the company you owe the money to, as soon as you realise there will be a problem. They all have special arrangements they can make for people in need. The sooner you apply the easier it will be to make an arrangement to allow the debt to be paid off. All the banks, power suppliers, water boards, phone companies, and councils can make these arrangements — but you need to make the phone call to set it in motion. When dealing with a problem, try to find out as much as you can before deciding on a course of action. The internet can be a great help here, though occasionally, it’s more confusing. Think of someone who you admire and think “what would they do in this situation?” If you know them well enough to phone them and ask — do so (you don’t necessarily have to do what they say — it just adds to your knowledge and may offer another alternative). The old adage of “a problem shared is a problem halved” is often not far off the mark. So talk to someone — a friend, colleague, family member, Lifeline or Beyondblue. Take control If you wish for something you sit and wait for it to happen – but when you really want something you find a way to make it happen. Get creative — there is more than one way to achieve most things. See mistakes as learning experiences and remember that people often come into your life to teach you something. Be open to the lessons they present — sometimes it may just be how to deal with a difficult person. You can’t usually control what happens in your life, but you can control how you respond — decide you are going to make the most of what is thrown your way, and remember that most inspirational people in the world are the ones who overcame adversity. Focus on your wellbeing If you’re feeling down, often the last thing you feel like doing is looking after your own wellbeing, but this can actually really boost your mood and can be an excellent stress reliever.

issues, contact a professional or

the below helplines: Lifeline - 13 11 14 BeyondBlue -

response to

MensLine Australia -

and

PreservinghistoryQCWA Inspiring People 38 | Summer 2021

State Vice President Northern Region Christine Reghenzani OAM said the envisaged displays will be an inspiration to current members as the association sets new goals for its journey of the next 100 years. Christine is governance lead on the QCWA Executive Board and has been updating all policies in line with requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission. Her other passion is the history of the association and she jumped at the opportunity to be on the State Archives Team when this group was established by the State Executive Board in SeptemberFollowing2020.thesale of Ruth Fairfax House on Gregory Terrace, Spring Hill, the association’s archives were transferred to Heritage House in Ipswich. “We have such a rich history and the archive boxes are full of stories just waiting to be told. When I’m in Brisbane for a board meeting, which is at least six times a year, and other events, I always stay extra days to work in the QCWA Archives.”

Words by Jane Milburn Images Contributed

Celebrations of the Queensland Country Women’s Association 100th birthday in 2022 will include projects reflecting on the amazing work of the association’s pioneers.

Christine lives at Jaggan near Malanda on the Atherton Tablelands and applies her own rich history of a naval career, experience with other women’s organisations and research skills developed during postgraduate studies when working on the archives. “I left school when I finished Year 10 at the age of 15. Although I wanted to go on to complete further studies, Australia was heading into a recession so I took a job in the

“The WEL WA chapter closed down during the late 1990s. Due to my interest in women’s history, I took an active role in preparing the chapter’s records for the state archives. This experience as well as research skills developed while undertaking my PhD have placed me in a good position to help out with the QCWA archives,” Christine said. Any member interested in being part of the QCWA State Archives Team, or being a Friend of Heritage House, a facility open to all Queenslanders, can contact the State Secretary at secretary@qcwa.org.au.

Eleven years after Christine joined the WRANS, the Sex Discrimination Act (Cth) 1984 was introduced, opening up career paths for all Australian women. She said this was not an easy change for the Royal Australian Navy because women had never served at sea and it has taken more than 30 years for them to find their place in the service and rise through the ranks.Benefits of this transformative legislation echo throughout society today, including in the QCWA. Women from all walks of life join as members and share their extensive skills and career experience to promote the goals of the association. When she was 40, Christine realized her dream of further studies by completing a Bachelor of Arts undergraduate degree at Murdoch University while serving as Officer-inCharge of the Naval Communications Station at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia. Over the years, she has now completed several degrees and in 2006 was awarded a PhD in the field of women’s studies and history.

During her five years living in Western Australia, Christine joined the Women’s Electoral Lobby (WEL) which was founded in 1972 as a voice for women. WEL played a role in important changes, such as the introduction of equal pay for work of equal value, legislative reform, community education programs on issues such as equal opportunity, sexual harassment, domestic violence, drafting plus implementation of state antidiscrimination laws, federal sex discrimination legislation, and advocating for child care, abortion and family planning.

public service working at the State Government Insurance Office as a clerk-typist,” she said. Those were the days when limited careers were available to women, who were streamed into the traditional fields of education and nursing. Christine left the public service after three years due to a reorganisation, which saw women — only women — who did not have a Year 12 education, corralled into a typing pool, despite their previous roles. Instead of accepting a typing role, Christine joined the Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service (WRANS) in the belief it would offer her greater variety, opportunity and challenges. This belief turned into reality as she rose to the rank of Commander and is still serving in a part-time capacity today in the active naval reserves.

2021 Summer | 39

Nan has always had a passion for crafting. When she lived in Cairns and Innisfail, she enjoyed patchwork, quilting, embroidery, scrapbooking and making rag dolls. Shortly after moving to Brisbane, she received a beautiful thank you card that inspired her to take up card-making. She has spent the last 12 years designing cards and offering classes in her local community.“Ijustlove making cards,” says Nan. “Each year, I make them for family, friends, and members of the Logan VIEW Club that I belong to. “I hold three card-making classes — each class is held once a month. They are so popular and a few women have been coming along since the beginning.”

Nan Macdonald created these beautiful cards in blue to celebrate QCWA’s upcoming 100th anniversary, and to inspire you to make your own this Christmas.

Arts

Words and photos by Avril Priem

The ConnectionCard 40 | Summer 2021

Nan is a consultant for Kaszazz, an Australian company that sells card-making and scrapbooking paraphernalia and some of her original designs have featured in their catalogues. “Crafting together brings such joy and camaraderie. However, after our very social morning teas I do have to round everyone up to re-focus on card-making,” laughs Nan. Greeting card revival Collectively, Australians are posting fewer greeting cards each year. According to Australia Post, the volume of domestic addressed letters has reduced by half over the last ten years. Despite ubiquitous email, text and social media messages, sending paper cards is still ‘a thing’ in this digital age. Screen fatigue is setting in; we want to get away from technology —

A search of ‘greeting cards’ in the Australian online craft market Madeit reveals around 600, and in Etsy, about 45,000 are on offer in Australia. Today, cards are personalised, quirkier, and have less prose. The Australian Greeting Card Association identifies current favourites: photographs, especially sepia and black-and-white; 3-dimensional, such as origami or pop-ups; and the perennial favourite,“Flowersflowers.andall things Australiana are popular in my classes,” adds Nan. Unlike e-greetings, an ink-on-paper card expresses more than the sentiments inside: it conveys the sender is not only thinking of you — whatever the occasion — but that you are worthy of receiving a real card. “And receiving a handcrafted, handwritten card is a most heart-warming gesture,” says Nan. Branch, Sketchy Emu, Sketchy

Flowering Gum,

for a Youngerchange.people, who are revelling in retro or looking for the personal touch, are sparking a paper card revival. Microentrepreneurs, especially digital artists and illustrators as well as traditional paper crafters, are selling their niche cards, not through bricks-and-mortar shops, but online.

Santa Hat & Merry Christmas sentiments • Star punch, silver sequins & glitter Never a Christmas morning Never an old year ends But someone thinks of someone — Old days, old times, old friends. Author unknown 2021 Summer | 41

Sketchy Kookaburra,

Card materials Nan used products from Kaszazz: • White cardstock • Textured cardstock in Marine • Distress inkpad in Blueprint Sketch • Distress embossing inkpad & embossing powder in Silver • Die cut Merry Christmas • Stamps: Eucalypt

Join us! Become a member now! You can become a full member or a supporter member (Supporter membership is for those women who want to support the QCWA but can’t commit to regular meetings) There’s sure to be a QCWA branch near you. Contact us today for more information on becoming a Branch Member or Supporter and Friend Member. QCWA State Office: secretary@qcwa.org.au | www.qcwa.org.au | (07) 3236 6419 QCWA MEMBERSHIPS Branch Membership Fee Membership period One year $72.59 1 July 2021 — 30 June 2022 Supporter and Friend Membership Fee Membership period One year $95.00 One calendar year from date of joining Members of the Queensland Country Women’s Association have been coming together since 1922 to provide friendship, inspiration and a voice on issues that affect communities, women and families. You can make a difference too. For fun,inspirationfriendship,and joy What we do: • Advocacy — QCWA provides a voice for women on serious issues relevant to families, communities, rural life and education. • Distributing Public Rural Crisis Fund — hands-on help to Queenslanders affected by floods, droughts and fires. • Fundraising for good causes — local, national and international. There’s sure to be a QCWA branch near you. • Workshops and classes to upskill and inspire — arts and crafts, music, cookery, public speaking, meetings. • Improving the health of Queenslanders through Country Kitchens — a joint project with Queensland Health. • Holiday accommodation — we own and manage holiday accommodation throughout the state.

Gardening Celebratingallthings floral PAUL AND NOELA RUBB’S AWARD-WINNING GARDEN. 2021 Summer | 43

PAUL AND NOELA RUBB, OF HADEN, HAVE BEEN ENTERING THE CHRONICLE GARDEN COMPETITION FOR MANY YEARS. SHIRLEY MUNDT TOOK OUT REGIONAL RESERVE CHAMPION FOR HER WELLCAMP GARDEN. 44 | Summer 2021

BOB AND VAL FORD ARE COMPETITION VETERANS WITH A LITERALLY WINNING FORMULA. LEISA ROSSIGNOL AND HUSBAND SERGE SUBMITTED THEIR GARDEN FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR INTO THE COMPETITION, WINNING CITY GRAND CHAMPION. 2021 Summer | 45

Bringing thousands of visitors to Toowoomba each year, the competition has become deeply ingrained in the fabric of the city.Even last year, when COVID-19 prevented the traditional format of the competition from taking place, gardeners opened their gardens virtually with the option to donate to charity.Andthis year, the Carnival of Flowers - previously taking place over a fortnight - opened for a full month for the first time to roaring success.

Words by Jessica Kramer Images by Bev Lacey

In 1949, after the war, The Chronicle Garden Competition was held to lift the spirits of residents and to brighten the look of the town. It was so popular that it got more than 50 entrants the following year, prompting the foundation of the Carnival of Flowers and earning Toowoomba the title of ‘Garden City’.

out the

Each year, the regional Queensland city of Toowoomba has a festival showcasing local gardens with this year making history as it was elongated to a month-long celebration

The entrants are a passionate bunch, with many of them having entered for decades. Names like Beh, Swenson, Lloyd, Conquest, Hultgren, and many others became synonymous with the competition and its development.

This year’s veteran entrants included David and Gay Kearey, who had entered the competition for the last 37 years, and Ruby Brunner who entered the competition for the 35th year in a Thisrow.year’s City Reserve Champions, Bob and Val Ford, have been entering the competition for 31 years themselves, and Regional Grand Champions Paul and Noela Rubb have 10 years under their belt in their current Haden property. “I’ve always enjoying gardening,” Noela said, explaining that she was inspired by the couple’s neighbour Lorna in their old property to enter The Chronicle Garden Competition initially. “Lorna always used to garden for Carnival time and we visited over the years, and thought ‘I’d like to do that too! We could do that!’,” Noela said. It’s teamwork that makes Paul and Noela’s garden come together year after year. Noela sits down and works

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Haden experiences harsh conditions regularly, so the Rubbs have to cater their garden to suit. “We get frost so I have to stick with hardy things,” Noela said.“We copped two really hard frosts in July so we had to pick up after that, but we have a lot of colour in this garden. Even though we’ve cut back on annuals this year, there’s still a lot of colour and it lifts people’s spirits when they’re walking through.”Forgarden veteran Bob Ford, who won City Reserve Champion this year alongside his wife Val, it’s the people visiting that makes all the work worth it.

Leisa Rossignol, who won City Grand Champion this year, is relatively new to the competition in comparison, but she’s been gardening for around 30 years. “I had my first garden in the mid-80s and at different properties over the years,” she said. “I’ve always loved creating a lovely home wherever I go, and gardening is part of that.” Her cottage-style garden is a sight to be seen, with colourful blooms and leafy produce abounding. “My garden is in French potagers style, and I love that oldfashioned cottage style of plants.”

Last year saw supply issues due to the pandemic, but Leisa had a positive outlook: “It was a great thing, because it meant other people were getting out in the garden,” she said.

“I feel like Carnival gardens are a great thing, and I’ve always loved being able to go around and see them, but for me it’s sharing that backyard garden for people to take away inspiration and what they can do in their own yards, and sharing the joy and peace a garden can bring.”

Bob and Val entered for the first time in 1991 upon the encouragement of some good friends and won their first second prize. Since then, the couple have only missed one year in achieving an award. “I try to stick to the old style garden,” Bob explained of his winning formula. “A backdrop of large trees, midground of shrubs, conifers and maples, with pops of colour between. People really come to see how we can grow these colourful things; anyone can have green hedges, so I’ve stuck with the colours over the years and people love it.”

“People just want to be in a garden, and it’s lovely to share it. For me, it’s about being able to share that garden with people and jogging their memories with experiences.

annuals to order, but most of it is simply being out in the garden.“There’s no great plan, we just start and see how it comes together,” she said. This method is what brings the natural look to their garden. The other difference is how the couple put windbreaks around the house first and placed the garden in between - lending the overall garden a look of ‘rooms’. “You can’t see the garden all from the one point, you have to wander around,” Paul said. “There’s lots of ‘rooms’ in it, with pathways around all the garden beds. The front has three, four, the back has more, and you can walk over a bridge into another room.”

“My favourite part of entering is that it puts Toowoomba on the map, as well as meeting all different people of all different nationalities,” Bob said. “[The visitors] appreciate what the home gardens do, it’s free, and they can come as many times as they like.”

Another point of pride was his impeccable lawn. “When this year’s judge got out of the car, she thought I’d used fake grass,” Bob laughed. “It’s been a good year for the lawn, with all the rain.”

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House Garden of DelightsEarthly 2021 Summer | 49

50 | Summer 2021

Words by Avril Priem Pictures by Samuel Freeman

As well as being owner/builders and raising four boys, the couple started growing herbs to sell at local markets and then opened their home-based nursery to the public displaying the pots on old pallets raised on bricks. “We were the original 70s hippies who hand-built a mud brick home, recycled or repurposed items, and grew our own herbs and veggies,” says Sandra. A passion for herbs Growing up, Sandra appreciated bountiful gardens and developed an interest in herbs. “When I was young, we’d visit my grandma who lived in Chinchilla. Down the road, Aunty Maud and Uncle Ozzie had a wonderful garden — flowers, fruit trees, veggies and chooks. I realised you could actually grow Glimpsed from the driveway, the clay-toned brick house with its salvaged window frames and stained glass harmonises beautifully with the leafy landscape. Sandra and Mick Nanka built their mudbrick home, firstly by hand, and then later, using a brick press. That was 30 years ago. “We got the soil on our property tested and approved, then started to puddle the clay soil to make mud bricks. We moved in when we had a roof, one wall, but no kitchen or bathroom to speak of. It was mid-winter and slow-going. Plus we had three young boys who rode their scooters through the house!” laughs“Luckily,Sandra.afew friends and Mick’s dad, who’s a perfectionist, lent a hand. And it’s still not quite finished but it’s home and we love it. We really should finish it so we can enjoy it fully!”

LOVAGE SANDRA NANKA

“My knowledge of herbs progressed with reading and attending workshops but essentially by growing, using and experimenting. Much later, I completed formal studies in herbalism and naturopathy. I believe wholeheartedly in the power of herbs to provide nutrition, and to heal and strengthen the body.” Herb profusion

The early days flourished and today Mudbrick Herb Cottage has a pretty herb garden and pots of seedlings at the front to delight customers, and a nursery out the back.“Our inspiration to open a nursery and have many different types of herbs came from visits to the old Pennyroyal Herb Farm in Bundaberg and the Nambour herb farm of the late herbalist, Isabell Shipard, now under the stewardship of her daughter and son-inlaw,” says Sandra. Sandra and Mick grow your common garden-variety herbs — parsley, sage, rosemary

PERENNIAL NASTURTIUMSCORIANDER 2021 Summer | 51

food! I have fond memories of sitting around a big table and having afternoon teas with homemade goodies — scones, biscuits, jams … “I had my first cup of herbal tea in the 70s. I was about 15, in a bit of a tizz, and a friend’s mum gave me a cup of chamomile tea. It soothed me and I was smitten from the first“Mysip.love of cooking with herbs came from my mum who was a good cook and adventurous with basil, oregano and chives back when they were regarded as a novelty.“When my boys were younger, I would give them sage and thyme tea for tonsillitis and echinacea tincture for colds during winter.

and thyme — but also nearly 400 other cottage, culinary and medicinal herbs including 25 varieties of chilli, 21 types of basil and mint, and 17 kinds of thyme. There are also Asian plants such as Okinawa spinach and galangal, and Australian natives like sea purslane and rosella.

Perennial coriander True coriander can be a bit huffy to grow but this serrated leaf plant is easy. Chop finely and add to Thai or Malaysian curries.

The morning I visit Mudbrick Herb Cottage, Sandra and I sit at a table on the lawn and enjoy a pot of herbal tea; the rosella gives a rosy hue, the lemon verbena a tangy kick, and the spearmint, a hint of mint. Delicious and nutritious. There are no formal symmetrical herb circles here; just a profusion of foliage and aromatic herbs, bees in blossoms, flitting dragonflies and carolling magpies … a veritable garden of earthly delights.

AFRICAN BLUE BASIL JEKKA’STHYME DISPLAY OF OLD IRONS 52 | Summer 2021

Sandra’s top picks African blue basil Adored by bees, this perennial basil has a sweet aniseed flavour. Jekka’s thyme A hardy tasty thyme that pairs well with chicken, mushrooms and baked vegetables. Lovage Celery taste without the stalks and stringy bits. Adds zing to soups and salads. Mushroom plant Crunchy mushroom-flavoured leaves delicious in salads, omelettes, and quiches.

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MACRAME CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS

December 2, 4-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 18-19

This could be the perfect early Christmas present for a loved one, or simply attend to treat yourself. With both a 12.151.30pm and 1.45-3pm session each Saturday, guests will learn how to make two different cocktails each time — from classics to funky modern beverages and all in between.

INDIGENOUS WELLBEING CONFERENCE

HIGH CHEESE AT THE LAWN CELLAR

What’s better than retail therapy? Gin therapy, of course! Take your pick of time and date and get ready to relax with your own bespoke G&T and nibbles. Each guest will select four gins from the menu and receive ice and tonic water while feasting on brie, sheep’s milk cheese, gin-poached apple, and more.

Dutch Courage Officers’ Mess, 51 Alfred St, Brisbane

Tickets are $55 from Eventbrite.

December 6 Pullman Cairns International, 17 Abbott St, Cairns

The Lawn, 44 Ferry St, Kangaroo Point Brought to you by Church Mouse Cheese, this twist on high tea is the perfect relaxed event for the cheese lover in your life. Taking place from 11am to 1pm on both dates, guests will enjoy cheesy treats from arancini balls to cheese scones to the classic platter. Tickets start from $85 and can be booked via Eventbrite.

Learn how to make Christmas decorations using macrame techniques with this workshop hosted by Heartfull Box from 10am to 12pm. Suitable for all skill levels, attendees will leave the class with a bauble, tree and star and a toolkit of knots and techniques. Tickets are $50 at heatfullbox.com.au

December 4

WORKSHOP

QCWA Hall, 9 School Rd, Yeronga

54 | Summer 2021

December 4, 11, and 18 Dutch Courage Officers’ Mess, 51 Alfred St, Brisbane

At the 2021 Indigenous Wellbeing Conference, you will discover the latest Indigenous-led, grassroot programs and projects taking place around the nation and across the seas. You will learn how to implement practical evidence-based research into your service, and gain a greater understanding of Indigenous protocols, practices, and considerations. Book your place at iwc.anzmh.asn.au

COCKTAIL MASTER CLASS

DECEMBER 2021

GIN THERAPY

Tickets are $39 and can be booked via Eventrbrite.

December 12 and 19

SUMMER EVENTS 2021 244126ththththnd

JANUARY 2022

January 26 CHRISTMAS PUBLIC HOLIDAYS December 27-28 NEW YEARS EVE AT PULLMAN December 31 Coco’s Kitchen + Bar, 17 Abbott St, Cairns Ring in the new year in style with three offerings over two seating times, so you can sit back and enjoy the evening without all the work of entertaining at home. Pick from three-, four- or five-hour packages with beverages and artisan charcuterie and cheeses, or enjoy a seafood buffet with live entertainment at 5.307.30pm or 8.30pm to late. Prices start from $64 to $130 depending on the package. 55

THAI COOKING CLASS

January 3 BUSINESS NETWORKING ONE-DAY TRAINING January 4 Venue TBC, Cairns Do you find yourself at business events, realising you have no idea how to productively network? This training day will solve that problem as you discover how to effectively combine faceto-face and online approaches and create your own strategy that will grow your network. This Mangates course will begin at 9am; for more details visit mangates.com

2021 Summer |

LOVE ME AGAIN MARKET

January 23 Morningside School of Arts, 590 Wynnum Rd, Morningside Discover your next look for a fraction of the price at Brisbane’s own pre-loved fashion market. The market hosts hundreds of new and preloved clothing pieces, shoes and accessories from local fashion lovers. Grab a coffee from the on-site baristas and start shopping from 8am to 12pm. Entry is free.

NEW YEAR’S DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY

SUMMER EVENTS 2021

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AUSTRALIA DAY

January 8 Spicers Tamarind Retreat, 88 Obi Lane South, Maleny Have you always wanted to try cooking your own rich, aromatic and spicy Thai dishes? From 11am to 3pm you can join this class to master the secrets of combining simple ingredients to produce fresh punchy flavours that will surprise the palate. The chef will demonstrate cooking methods from both the north and south of Thailand in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Tickets are $225 from Eventbrite.

February 14 NATIVE BEE KEEPING WORKSHOP

Tickets are $165 from tankspa.com.au

February 5, 12, 19, and 26 457 Bli Bli Rd, Bli Bli

SUMMER EVENTS 2021 115262514thththth—th—

The Queensland Major Contractor Association is celebrating outstanding work and leadership from the contracting, engineering, consulting, government and industry sectors with a long lunch. Held from 12pm to 4pm, the afternoon will feature entertainment, networking opportunities and a three-course meal and drinks.

February 26 Spicers Clovelly Estate, 38-68 Balmoral Rd, Montville

Enjoy creating your own botanical candle with this three-hour workshop set on a stunning 40-acre farm in picturesque Bli Bli. Participants will enjoy a glass of wine and gourmet tasting platter while learning about fragrances, wax selection, moulds, and the history of candlemaking before you craft your very own using botanicals from the farm.

Tickets start from $170 via qmca.com.au

ARTISAN CANDLE MAKING

Does Australian or French wine go better with The Long Apron's award winning cuisine? You can decide at our Australia Vs France wine lunch. Hosted by Travis from Joval Wine Group, guests will taste both country's wines side by side to compare the difference in their method of wine making and how they compare to the menu. Cost is $195 per person via Eventbrite and includes a three course lunch with |

QMCA INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE AWARDS LUNCHEON

February 11 Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, cnr Merivale and Glenelg streets, South Brisbane

VALENTINE’S DAY

February 25 Millen Farm, 2204 Mount Samson Rd, Samford Valley Learn all about our native pollinators with this session. Hosted at Millen Farm from 9am to 12pm, you will gain knowledge through practical experience and photographic slideshows, learning how to divide hives, extract honey, and use the bees for pollinating your garden. Native bee expert Dr Tim Heard will be leading the workshop.

AUSTRALIA VS FRANCE WINE LUNCH

FEBRUARYwine. 2022 56

Summer 2021

Iremember

travel

Hipster cafes serve quality coffee and incredible food between vintage shops and souvenir stands. A wander down the famous boardwalk is truly a sensory experience. As an avid traveller, I had no idea that it would be my last memory on foreign soil for more than 18 months. The good news is that, for those itching to travel overseas again like me, that the borders are finally opening. The Prime Minister has confirmed his plan for travel to resume as vaccination rates hit 80 per cent.

WE’LLPLACESGO BANFF NATIONAL PARK, CANADA CALL DIRECT OR CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR FANTASTIC DEALS LOOKING FOR A SUNSHINE ALEXANDRAHOLIDAY?COASTONTHEPACIFICMOOLOOLABA Phone Free call 1800 800 999 Emailwww.alexandraonthepaciﬁinfo@alexandraonthepaciﬁc.comc.com 2021 Summer | 57

Words by Kirrily Schwarz Pictures Contributed Australians have always been an intrepid bunch. With international holidays soon to be a reality once again, the only question is where we should go first? my last international flight like it was yesterday. It was February 22, 2020, and I returned home to Australia after a few weeks gallivanting around the United States, skiing in Montana and Utah. The trip home included a full-day layover in Los Angeles. After arriving at LAX Airport, I got an Uber and headed straight for Venice Beach, a destination I’d seen only in the movies, and spent the day exploring. The sensation of sun on my skin after weeks in the snow was magical. So too was the scent of salt on the breeze, the sight of palm fronds swaying in the breeze, and the sound of waves gently making landfall. Don’t get me wrong: Venice Beach isn’t a tropical paradise. It’s loud. It’s colourful. It’s a little weird, but in a good way. It’s the kind of place where muscle-bound folk work-out at an open-air gym next to a guy playing an electric guitar in his car. It’s normal to see authentic tacos being sold next to tattoo parlours as people of all ages whiz by on skateboards.

Japan

The best thing about travelling to Japan in winter is visiting an onsen. These are natural hot springs which pop up all over the country and are often developed to include bathing facilities and traditional inns. It’s one of the most relaxing experiences you will ever have. Sure, the dash from the bathhouse to the water is frigid, but once you’re in the water, IN SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE FAMILY FIJI 312 557

WOMAN

Canada There’s nothing like Canada in the winter. Fresh snowfall makes everything look perfect, gently muffling sounds and sparkling like glitter under twinkling street lights. The hospitality is warm and there’s no shortage of hot chocolates or pancakes with maple syrup and bacon. Fly direct to Vancouver and head for the Rockies, where the crisp mountain air presents the ultimate getaway from the heat (or the rain) for a few weeks. Fiji Australians have long had a love affair with the Fijian Islands, for good reason. The idyllic beaches, lush rainforests, colourful reefs, fruity cocktails, and bustling marine life mean there’s something for everyone. Fly to Nadi and treat your family to a resort-style escape, take your hubby for a romantic experience at one of the luxurious eco-resorts, or sail the seas on a short cruise. Just don’t forget to pack your togs.

HOLIDAY,

Escape to Cairns Tropical North Queensland QCWA Holiday Units offers 1 and 2 Bedroom fully self-contained units catering for singles, couples and families — plus we have everything you need to make your Cairns holiday enjoyable and stress free. Our Cairns Units are located just two blocks from the Cairns Esplanade and easy walking distance to the Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Business District. Restaurants, entertainment and shops are just a stroll away. Fully Air-Conditioned QCWA HOLIDAY UNITS, CAIRNS 258 Grafton Street, Cairns Phone: 0740

enquiries@qcwaholidayunits.com www.qcwaholidayunits.com for a truly memorable holiday that won’t break your budget 58 | Summer 2021

So where will we be allowed to travel? The government hasn’t yet announced its plans. However, Qantas — our national carrier — has indicated that flights to lowrisk countries are expected to start from mid-December. Vaccinated travellers will be able to leave and return as they please, with significantly reduced quarantine requirements on arrival at home. Here’s where we can expect to go first.

United States Ahh, the U S of A. We’ve come full circle. There is so much to see in America. Every state is different. Every city is different.

United Kingdom

TOWER BRIDGE, LONDON CITYHONGSKYLINE,KONG ROAD TRIP, NEW ZEALAND 22 Fully Self Contained Holiday Units 2 disability accessible units • 1 & 2 bedroom units / full kitchen 14 Units with ABSOLUTE Beachfront Phone: (07) 4771 4718 E: kissingpoint@qcwanduc.org.au W: qcwaaccommodationtownsville.org.au KISSING POINT UNITS COME & STAY @ THE CWA BY THE SEA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED 10% MEMBER DISCOUNT 5% DISCOUNT MORE THAN 7 DAYS STAY BUDGET PRICED ACCOMMODATION IN A GREAT LOCATION CALL TODAY OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO MAKE A BOOKING TOWNSVILLE Our piece of paradise facebook.com/qcwa.accommodationtownsville 2021 Summer | 59

your muscles will unwind and your worries will float away in the steam.

How do you describe the feeling of being in London for

the first time? Or the second? Or the third? It was the writer Samuel Johnson who famously said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life”. It’s true. No matter how many times you visit this city, you’ll never truly understand it, because it changes all the time. The key to getting the most out of it? Walk everywhere. Lose yourself and see what you find.

There are sub-cultures and micro-cultures everywhere you turn. Perhaps the best place to start after such a long period behind closed borders is a road-trip along the California coast. Our summer is their winter, but the sunshine is endless. Bonus points if you do the trip in a red convertible Mustang.

Hong Kong is a little behind the other destinations and is expected to be open to Australians from February. It’s perhaps the world’s best shopping destination, with everything from high-end designer stores to bustling local markets. For those who love the rush of a big metropolis, you’ll find everything you need on one island: culture, entertainment, food, scenery, and even hiking. Head to Kowloon Peak for the best views. New Zealand Our relationship with New Zealand has been on-again/ off-again of late, but we always love an excuse to visit our Kiwi cousins. There’s no better way to experience Aotearoa in the summer than with a road-trip, so you can fit as much as possible into your trip. Visit the North Island for gorgeous beaches and fun cities, head to the South Island for big mountains and bucket-list adventures, or do both for a holiday you won’t forget. Singapore The most important thing you need to know about Singapore is this: laksa. It’s a noodle dish that comes in a rich coconut soup — generally spicy, although you can always ask for the tourist version. This island city is renowned for its beautiful hotels, stunning gardens, excellent shopping, and yes, amazing food. It’s the perfect solution for those looking for a cultural fix without spending too much time on a plane.

Hong Kong

book reviews 60 | Summer 2021

The voyage wasn’t over then, however, with the adoption needing to be legalised through the Romanian justice system before Adele flew back to New Zealand for the final adoption papers before arriving home in Australia.

Because of the nature of international adoptions at the time, and the ill-timed news breaking about illegal adoptions from Romania shortly after Adele returned home with her daughter, she faced rumours about the nature of Loredana’s adoption and wanted to set the record straight. “I felt I needed to write the book to respond to criticism that ofchildTheyourheart

Words by Jessica Kramer Images by Contributed From New Zealand to Australia, from Australia to Romania, this is one incredible story of finding your children ADELE RICKERBY SIGNING HER BOOK AT THE BOOK TREE, TOOWOOMBA.

orphanage since she was a week old, writing in The Promise I Kept that the infant’s gaze seemed to say “Finally you have arrived. I have been expecting you, waiting for you”.

In these days of social media, support and community groups for adoptive parents are going strong. As little as 10-15 years ago, unless you happened to have a friend already who was also going through the adoption process, it was much harder to find other parents going through the sameNow,circumstances.however,isa completely different story — and it’s thanks to these strong online communities that the term ‘the child of your heart’ has been coined. Adele Rickerby, author of The Promise I Kept, explains the term with visible feeling: a biological child is born of your body, but an adopted child is born of your heart. It was a long journey that united Adele with the child of her heart in Romania 30 years ago, and was the catalyst for writing her memoir. “I kept a diary when I was in Romania, and I wanted to keep the historical context, the family of origin context. I would wake up in the morning with whole sentences in my head and the pressure would get so great that I would have to write them down,” she explains. While many people may have a rosy picture of adoption, Adele and Loredana’s journey was far from easy. Adele had traveled halfway around the world to Romania, alone in an impoverished country recently torn apart by the revolution, confronted with the living conditions of families and of children abandoned in overflowing, understaffed orphanages.

Not flesh of my flesh Nor bone of my bone, But still miraculously my own. Never forget for a single minute, You didn’t grow under my heart, But in it. Poem by Fleur Conkling Heyliger IN ROMANIA, COUNTRY ADELE WHERE IN ROMANIA

2021 Summer | 61

It wasn’t an easy book to write, but Adele describes the process as therapeutic all the same. “It was hard to write the first time, hard to write the second time.“But it was like when I was in Romania and I had to get on the train alone — it didn’t feel like I was being brave at the time; I didn’t really think about it, there was this real sense of urgency so I just did it,” she says. Adele’s book can be purchased from The Book Tree in Toowoomba, Queensland, by visiting either in-person or via thebooktree.com.au, or online via Book Depository, Amazon, and Waterstones.November

The Promise I Kept was originally published in 2013, but a recent reprint has seen it regain popularity once again.

I had done an illegal adoption or had ‘bought’ Loredana from her birth mother,” Adele says. “Health issues forced me to retire early, but also gave me the opportunity to write my memoir.”

AT DANA’S 30TH, DECEMBER 2020 THE NEIGHBOURHOOD NEAR

“I regretted not putting photos in the original version of the book, and I had seen iconic photojournalist Tom Szalay’s photos in journals and magazines. He collated photos of Romania for me and added some personal ones.”

ADELE STAYED

is Adoption Awareness Month, which was originally founded in Australia by the organisation Adopt Change. For more information on the month and how you can raise awareness, visit adoptchange.org.au

THE

FOLK STILL USE HORSE AND CART FOR TRANSPORTATION LOREDANA AND

A determined Lara McIntyre leads the townsfolk of Bridgefield to save their store and post office from out-of-town buyers. Lara is dismayed when she overhears some of their trendy ideas such as painting the bluestone white and switching from homemade pies to smashed avo! This is Maya’s third novel about the lively McIntyre clan (Penny’s story in Wildflower Ridge and Angie’s story in Bottlebrush Creek). Lara is the strongest of the sisters but wary of any romance with Toby, the new journo in town. Immersing yourself in the country characters and spirit of Bridgefield is a delight. Just the thing to while away some summer hours. After her book came out, Maya went on a whistlestop tour of Queensland: “Our first stop was a visit to the Toowoomba library. The first in-person event for Magpie’s Bend was in Chinchilla, a lovely little library with a big heart. Then on to Dalby, Proston (with their fabulous CWA catering), Kingaroy and Gympie. Unfortunately lockdown had us heading home early, and my events with Lockyer Valley and Brisbane libraries were held online instead of in-person. “We were thrilled with the warm, Queensland welcome and hope to return to launch Rosella Hill, the fourth and final instalment of the McIntyre sisters in June 2022.”

book

MURDERER:THEARECKONING

HOUSEBLOSSOMATTHURSDAYSORANGE

SOPHIE GREEN Cairns 1993: three women from different generations meet at a beginners’ yoga class. Yoga opens your heart, says Sandrine the teacher — and so it does. Slowly and unexpectedly, friendships are forged, confidences shared, and truths in their lives revealed. Descriptions of the yoga class are so realistic — straight out of the playbook of Sophie Green who is a yoga teacher herself. Funny, moving, uplifting.

MY FATHER

It started when Denise became infatuated with a Fremantle Prison inmate she was tutoring. It ended six years later when she fled at midnight with 2-year-old Nina to escape his controlling, volatile behaviour. When Nina was 26, she uncovered her father’s crimes online. “I was drowning under the weight of my father’s violence,” she says. In this dual narrative, mother and daughter describe their perspectives of events and try to come to terms with the past. Raw and courageous.

62 | Summer 2021

WITH THE PAST NINA YOUNG AND DENISE YOUNG

READINGSUMMERRelaxinthegardenwitha great read

Words by Avril Priem and Alice Williams Images ContributedBENDMAGPIE’Sreviews

MAYA LINNELL

CURROWAN: THE STORY OF A FIRE AND A COMMUNITY DURING AUSTRALIA’S WORST SUMMER BRONWYN ADCOCK

2021 Summer | 63

Bronwyn also shares the stories of many others from her community - what they saw, thought and felt, and the questions raised in the aftermath. Why were resources so few that many faced the flames alone? Why was there back-burning on a day of extreme fire danger?

OUR ISLAND BY CHILDRENTHE OF GUNUNA WITH ALISON LESTER AND makeinspireandIsland’soffeaturesHONEYELIZABETHDelightfularttheanimalsMorningtonearth,seasky.Suretochildrentotheirownwax-resist pictures during the summer holidays. When you purchase this book, a percentage of sales go to MI State School to help fund community art projects.

LET’S CHANGE THE WORLD! ZERO WASTE AND SLOW FASHION MEGAN ANDERSON, GENNA CAMPTON AND CAROLYN ANG Let’s Change the World is a brilliant new series of board books targeted at babies and toddlers to encourage creative play while exploring global issues in an uplifting way.One of the three creators, illustrator Genna Campton said, “It began as a way for the three of us to channel our creativity into something positive during the beginning of the pandemic. I’m based in Vancouver, Megan in Melbourne and Carolyn in London so there were plenty of late night and early morning Zoom calls in the making of these books.”“Thefirst two books in the series focus on Slow Fashion and Zero Waste. From little things, big things grow, right?”

HOW TO END A STORY: DIARIES 1995-1998

HELEN

of the messy, painful, dark side of love, of betrayal, anger and sadness. But, as always, Garner’s sharp insights and rendering of the human condition is funny, shrewd and careful to show the light side of what makes a life with her accounts of friendship, motherhood, nature and creative work.

This is an incredibly moving insider’s account of The Currowan fire, one of the most terrifying episodes of Australia’s Black Summer. Ignited by a lightning strike and growing to engulf the New South Wales South Coast, it burned for seventy-four days, consuming nearly 5000 square kilometres of land, destroying over 500ofAdcockWriterhomes.Bronwyntellsthestoryfleeingtheinferno with her children when her husband, fighting at the front, rings with a plea for help before his phone goes dead, leaving her to fear the worst.

THE BOOK AUSTRALIANOFTREES

INGA SIMPSON & ALICIA ROGERSONCaptivatingdescriptions and paintings of 15 trees — from the bunya pine and Morton Bay fig to the Queensland bottle tree. On her website, artist Alicia Rogerson offers free printables of Australian birdlife to colour in. A creative wind-down activity for children after a tree-spotting walk.

personalhonestlyconsumedambitiouslivingherenoughaboutaroundmarriagefightingisthirdGarner’siconicAvailableGARNERfromNovember,AussiewriterHelenhighlyanticipatedvolumeofjournalsanaccountofawomantoholdontoathat’sfallingaparther.Shespeakscandidlytryingtofindspacetonurtureowncreativitywhilewithapowerfullywriterwhoisbyhiswork.Inherartfullyandwordeddiariespaintsaportrait

From Croatia to Northern Queensland

Publishing her mother’s story has been a whirlwind for author Debra Gavranich, who began writing initially to share the tale with family Words by Jessica Kramer Images Contributed

Growing up on a sugar cane farm in Cassowary Valley, Debra Gavranich knew her mother was different to the other people in the area; her parent’s love story unusual in the community.Arrivingfrom an island off the coast of then-Yugoslavia via ship in 1952, Marija met her husband Laddie for the first time, having married by proxy back home at age 18. Laddie had left Croatia at a young age in the 1920s with his family to live in Australia, and at 27-years-old he wrote to the village searching for a wife.

It was Marija’s chance to escape the traumatised post-war country and live away from the poverty and despair of her BlatoHowever,home.it wasn’t all joy immediately, with a hostile fatherin-law, remote living conditions in the midst of cane fields in tropical Queensland, and a husband she’d only exchanged letters and a photo with. The couple’s youngest daughter, Debra, recalls how much the local branch of QCWA helped her mother settle into a community and gain support from fellow women. “QCWA was very much part of her life — in a little town like Mossman, that was how she became part of society,” Debra says.“She was very involved with the church and loved charity

BLATO DEBRA GAVRANICH books 64 | Summer 2021

tuck me into bed instead.” Debra remembers hearing of the peg and tissue competitions the group would have in the 1960s, the commitment her mother showed to the association, and how lovely it was for her mother to have English-speaking friends that were fellow wives and mothers. “The bonds are really important, the female-to-female bonds, through QCWA. Women could lean on other females within it to help with their family and spouse relationships,” she says.While Marija passed away after a battle with cancer at age 64, family and friends still hold dear memories. “Mum had a zest for life,” Debra says. “She didn’t tell a lot of stories about the war back in Croatia,

MARIJA WITH HER

For someone who was originally writing the book just for family, putting the stories and records together on paper before Marija’s friends and family also passed on, the journey since publication has been a joyous whirlwind.“Thebook was released on August 1, and I went to Brisbane for a week to do three or four events and will be going back next week to do another one. The launches in Cairns and Mossman were postponed because of lockdown, so they are happening in a couple of “Iweekends.lostmyvoice last weekend because of all the talking I was doing!” she laughs.

she couldn’t watch war movies because it was too hard, too hurtful.”

“There’s been lots of radio interviews as well — four with the ABC including a Conversations podcast, which so many people have listened to.” The Girl Who Left has also been immensely popular with book clubs. “There’s about 12 book clubs doing it now,” Debra muses. “I think it’s so popular with them because it’s about a strong woman. I’ve had a lot of people come to me and send me messages since publication, telling their stories. I got a message from a lovely Chinese lady the other day, whose mother was a Chinese proxy bride.“People can identify with the story, and I’m blown away by the readership it’s had.” DAUGHTER

To write the book on her mother’s life, Debra ended up talking to her aunt and uncle about what it was like to live in Croatia during the war, as well as other people in Mossman who remembered what Marija was like when she first arrived in Australia. “It was probably five years of researching all up,” Debra recalls. “It was hard to write apolitically because there’s still a lot of hurt.” It would seem Debra’s caution has paid off, however, with The Girl Who Left spreading like wildfire within Australia and internationally, including Marija’s original home of Blato. “I researched in a Croatian library so I sent a finished copy of the book over to them, but they wanted to host a proper book launch! “In August we had a huge launch; I think almost the entire village was there, all dressed to the “Theynines.Zoomed me in on a huge screen — it was 4.30am our time so when I found out how large my face was on that screen, I was so glad I’d put on lipstick and looked half decent!” she laughs. “They had an interpreter because I can speak Croatian but not fluently, and our cousin did a speech on behalf of the family.”

DEBRA THE GAVRANICH FAMILY MARIJA AND LADDIE MARIJA 2021 Summer | 65

the author loses that sort of control — but my family found a Croatian publisher over there so they are in talks with our Australian publisher now.”

One question Debra is consistently asked by her family and friends in Croatia is when a Croatian translation of the book is coming. “I had a translator in mind when I was going to self-publish the book, but when you sign a contract with a publishing company

Words by Avril Priem Images by Jaime Dormer and Avril Priem

THE WELLSHOT HOTEL 66 | Summer 2021

Doing a jigsaw can be both maddening and elating, but who can resist stopping by an unfinished puzzle on the dining table to add a bit here and there? One new small Queensland business is powering ahead manufacturing unique jigsaw puzzles. Jaime Dormer is the business savvy behind QPuzzles. As a professional photographer, Jaime has an eye for capturing striking images — from Australian landscapes such as Craig’s Hut in the Victorian High Country to quaint Queensland country pubs like Augathella, Birdsville, Hebel, Nindigully, Rudd’s and theJaime’sWellshot.pub images make for impressive jigsaw puzzles.Other renowned Australian photographers Jigsaw puzzles have surged in popularity over the past two years. Stayat-homes looking for a pastime to do solo or collaboratively — and one that s-t-r-e-t-c-h-e-s the brain — have discovered jigsaws.

Business

Pieces of Australia PUB

THE NINDIGULLY

Too right! Jaime is excited about his next jigsaw series — Australia’s stunning grain silo art.“I am working with the copyright owners and grain corporations to arrange a licensing agreement so that some monies go back into those communities that own the silos.”

A tour of the premises of Jaime’s ecofriendly business is interesting. Highquality jigsaw cardboard is imported from The Netherlands and a sleek 6m x 5m printer, using water-based inks, prints crisp, high-definition images for puzzles ranging from 25 to 1000 pieces. Before printing, the cardboard is rolled through a machine that Jaime ingeniously invented based on granny’s wringer washer. “Two rollers slightly curve the cardboard so it lies flat and doesn’t ‘head crash’ into the printer,” explains Jaime.

Ken Duncan and Scott Leggo, and Indigenous painter Lionel Phillips, are also transforming their artworks into jigsaws so more people can enjoy them. And, if you’re proud of one of your photographs, QPuzzles can create a one-of-a-kind jigsaw for your family, friends or fundraiser. So, is Jaime a dissectologist (a person who enjoys assembling jigsaw puzzles)? “I used to do jigsaws often but I’m now too busy making them. I do enjoy seeing them completed. Because I photographed most of our stock, they’re records of my travels and have a special place in my life.”

Photographic pub crawls “I’ve travelled Queensland many times, and I love the old country pubs,” says“They’reJaime.unique, full of character, iconic memorabilia and local stories. Pubs are the hubs of a community, a living part of our history, and with my camera I want to catch their quintessential character before they all disappear. And they do disappear — closures, fires, gentrification … “I’ve met some funny characters and seen some wild things over the years. “At the Logan Hotel in Victoria, the publican’s Shetland pony used to come into the bar every Sunday arvo to down a schooner!“AttheAugathella pub, I met a fella called Joe, one of the three sons of Didy ‘Smiley’ Creevey. The Smiley story was made into the 1956 movie filmed in Augathella.“I’vealso explored the intriguing underground rooms of the Railway Hotel in Ravenswood and seen the whopping 1.2kg hamburger at Nindigully.”Truetallyarns?

Behind the scenes

AUGATHELLA HOTEL RUDD’S PUB THE BIRDSVILLE PUB 2021 Summer | 67

It starts in many pieces yet finishes complete, To find and fit the bits is a Herculean feat.

With time and patience, the finished board Is, indeed, a triumphant reward.

JAIME DORMER 68 | Summer 2021

The more you look, the more you find; It’s a bendy workout for your mind!

“And the silk satin matte finish on the jigsaw means there’s no glare from overhead lights as you assemble your puzzle.” After printing, it’s off to a hydraulic press that punches out the pieces using various dies. The cut puzzle is then ‘busted up’ into individual pieces and funnelled into a bagging machine. Lastly, it’s boxed and shrink-wrapped ready for transport.“We’vehad a few escapee pieces. A couple of customers reported missing bits after they had assembled their puzzle. We couldn’t work out why until we realised that static electricity from the dry winter air occasionally caused pieces to cling to the sides of the machines. “We are wiser so it’s rarely an issue now,” says Jaime. A bendy workout for your mind Jaime agrees that building a jigsaw has many benefits — socially, mentally, and educationally. “The left-hand, logical, methodical side of your brain works in unison with the right-hand creative, intuitive side to match and complete the order of pieces,” says Jaime. Working diligently on a jigsaw puzzle requires concentration, problem-solving and short-term memory skills. And when you are ‘in the zone’, it can be meditative and calming. The revival of jigsaw puzzles is fascinating — perhaps it’s to do with the reassurance that comes when order is restored from chaos, and that triumphant feeling when the last piece clicks into place. All the many reasons to get yourself a jigsaw puzzle!

PRINTING JIGSAW PUZZLE BOARDS STACK OF JIGSAW PUZZLE BOXES LIONEL PHILLIPS’ ARTWORK AS JIGSAWS 2021 Summer | 69

A century of QCWA LOTTIE HASTIE FROM TOLGA BRANCH LOTTIE HASTIE History 70 | Summer 2021

Images Contributed Mrs Lottie Hastie OAM has been a member of the Queensland Country Women’s Association since she was 23-years-old, and recently celebrated her 100th birthday at the Tolga branch

Secretary/Treasurer Miss Gladys Neary offered to carry on in her position, and the voyage began. As a 23-year-old I had never been in any organisation before. After a month we had 25 new members. Some previous members re-joined, but several walked away. We started off with no money and as Tolga was only a small town, we were unsure what we would do. The soldiers said if we ran dances they would help. A man who was retired from Innisfail had organised many garden parties and other fundraising functions and offered his help, so we carried on and money finally began to trickle in. We continued the night-time cups of tea until the soldiers left the district.Therest room was badly in need of lots of repairs. The men got in and offered to help with repairs. Whatever was offered as a chance to raise funds, we did. The members were very keen. Mrs Ingram had to leave the Tablelands after her husband returned from the war as they needed to move to Cairns so he could find light work, and the new president was Mrs Taylor. After six months of me joining, the Secretary left as she had a permanent job, and guess who was asked to take over her role? Me! I had no experience of committees but was willing to learn so I became the new Branch Secretary/Treasurer. I carried on for many years in the role because back then there was no limit on years in office, which wasn’t always a good thing. We catered weddings, hall rentals were good, so money came in. Mrs Ingram had put it out there that one day we would need new rooms. By then I was Branch President and the branch decided we should apply for a grant for this upgrade. We were offered the catering at the Tolga Races and that brought in a lot of money. We took every catering job offered and soon had a substantial bank balance. At the same time Townsville were building the first units at Kissing Point so the branch sent them $1000 towards that. All my life – 77 years – I have been a member of QCWA, and I have never regretted giving up other things for QCWA. My husband was a great supporter. He helped wherever he could, as did the other husbands, so we were well on the way to getting our new building. When my children came home from school and saw cooking on the table they would always say: “Don’t touch those cakes, they’re for CWA”; everything was always CWA. My mother was a member until she passed at age 91. We lost a few members in the later years, which is always sad. In those early years it was very different to what it is today, we would visit one another’s homes and were like a big family. I am sad to think what is happening to the QCWA of today, it is simply not the same. My QCWA travels have taken me to many places including New Zealand, Tasmania, Darwin, South Australia and Victoria and the South Sea Islands. I have many wonderful friends in CWA, and I am still able to do some things, but I’m slower. In 1968 I lost my husband (I was 60) and had 12 months to sit and think about what I would do. My children were married and in 1969 nominations were called for the position of SVP Northern Region. In those days it was a statewide vote – not like today – but the region still covered Mackay north.

I had not long been in the role of SVP when the rest of the executive were going to the world conference, but I hadn’t nominated as I wasn’t a state officer at the time when nominations were called. Anyhow, the State President came to me and said: “Lottie, you are it, you are the Acting State President while we are all out of the country.” I thought ‘goodness me, I hope nothing happens!’. Everything went smoothly.It’sbeen a wonderful journey, but I couldn’t have done any of it without the help of my family and the members of QCWA. Imagine yourself as a 23-year-old who has never been involved in any organisation to go as far as I have. My mum (also a QCWA member) and my husband both looked after my two-year-old son when I had to do things for QCWA. My husband was very community minded as well, so was very understanding.Itrustandadmire the work all members are doing and am glad to count them as my friends. It’s much harder today as there are so many more charities looking to raise funds. I thank everyone who has helped me from 23 to 100 years with my QCWA journey. Many have passed on but are never forgotten. I also thank my family for all their support. I lost my husband at an early age, but QCWA helped me through those difficult years.

Mrs Daisy Ingram said she would take on the presidency if Mrs Ethel Wieland and I were willing to join. I was very eager to join.

I was asked to stand, and I did, but I knew the other lady who was also standing had much more experience than me and I said if I didn’t get the vote, I wasn’t worried. Anyhow, I forgot all about it until one night I received a phone call from the State President who said: “How’s my new SVP?” My reply was “What are you talking about?” She said: “You’re it, you won.” I was so shocked; I couldn’t believe it.

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During the war years, a small group of ladies served meals for the soldiers camped in the area. For threepence they received a cup of tea and either a sandwich, sausage roll or a piece of cake. Soldiers really enjoyed these nights. They were held in the QCWA Rest Rooms.

The five state officers became best of friends even though we were from all parts of the state and different walks of life. I feel that becoming State Vice President was the highlight of my 77 years, because I never thought I would win that vote.

Transcribed by Lesley Mackney from an audio interview with Lottie Hastie

State President Miss Palmer attended a meeting in Tolga along with the State Secretary and State Treasurer and said if they couldn’t get a committee, the branch would have to close.

CRACKERSCHRISTMAS AND

History

For many of us, the beach is synonymous with a sweltering hot Queensland Christmas. In 1934 The Queenslander published an image of Santa Claus in togs catching a wave on an inflatable reindeer, seemingly about to collide with an unsuspecting bather. Published from 1866 to 1939, The Queenslander was the weekly summary and literary edition of the Brisbane Courier (now The Courier Mail). The Queenslander’s cover art was always eye-catching and often captured the mood of the times. This cover was illustrated by regular artist Ian McBain.

FRONT COVER OF THE QUEENSLANDER, 20 DECEMBER, 1934 72 | Summer 2021

Words by Reuben Hillier Images by State Library of Queensland A Queensland Christmas is like no other. As a specialist librarian at State Library I get to see some pretty amazing things, including fun and quirky momentos from the past This holiday season I have unearthed some yuletide treats from our collections for Ruth readers. Explore our website (slq. qld.gov.au) to discover more magical festive moments from our past. Happy holidays! GIANT GRASSHOPPERS

Christmas catalogues have long been used to encourage eager shoppers to spend up big during the festive season. All of Queensland’s major department stores distributed them annually, often with beautiful seasonal illustrations. Here we have the 1958 Christmas catalogue of F. Tritton Pty Ltd, Brisbane makers and suppliers of home furnishings and “makers of happy homes”. This cover really sums up the fever pitch excitement of children prior to the big day. And that mid-century carpet is quite special as well.

In the early 20th century it was quite the norm for businesses and government departments to send out an annual Christmas card adorned with a staff photograph. Here we have the moustachioed men of Brisbane Tramways wishing “… a happy Christmas and a Bright New Year”. There doesn’t appear to be much Christmas cheer among this lot though, however they do look very sharp in their uniforms, complete with pocket watch chains and foreign legion caps.

SOVEREIGN YULETIDE CRACKERS BY MORROWS OF BRISBANE (32369). F. TRITTON PTY LTD CHRISTMAS CATALOGUE 1958.

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PORTRAIT OF BRISBANE TRAMWAY EMPLOYEES CAPTIONED WITH CHRISTMAS GREETINGS, CA 1910, LAIDLAW FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHS (32463).

Crackers (or bon-bons) are another Christmas standard. Once upon a time they were even manufactured locally. This (partially used) box of yuletide crackers was made in Brisbane in the 1930s by Morrows of North Quay, manufacturers of fine chocolates and confections. At this stage Morrows were the only company in Australia still making Christmas crackers. Five remain of an original 12. A label on the side of the box tells us they contain toys, trinkets and riddles. I guess no one will find out what is in these ones as we need to preserve them just the way they are for future generations.

Department stores have employed many strategies to lure Christmas shoppers through their doors including elaborate window displays, pantomimes, giant-sized Christmas decorations and street parades. Here we see a massive crowd overflowing onto the streets of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley in order to catch a glimpse of the annual McWhirters’ Christmas Parade, circa 1940. The tram tracks can be seen beneath their feet swinging in and out of Brunswick Street, half a century before it was closed off to make the mall. The McWhirters’ building is just out of shot to the left, no doubt adorned with all kinds of colourful Christmas paraphernalia.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT THE FORNI FAMILY HOME IN ASHGROVE, 2005, 4KQ CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMPETITION PHOTOGRAPHS (32593).

LARGE CROWDS GATHERED TO WATCH THE CHRISTMAS PARADE IN BRUNSWICK STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY, BRISBANE, PHOTOGRAPHIC NEGATIVES OF EARLY BRISBANE BUSINESSES (32259).

Since the earliest days of electricity, Christmas lights have always been a big deal (the first were actually strung up in 1882). However, in the last few decades such lights have really been taken to another level. Suburban households have elevated Christmas decoration to a competitive sport. For the last 35 years radio station 4KQ has awarded annual prizes for the best Christmas lights in Brisbane. Between 2003 and 2008 Garry Taylor was the official photographer for the competition and some highlights from this period are now preserved in the State Library collection. This impressively illuminated house in Ashgrove, complete with Santa Claus arriving in a UFO, is a repeat entrant and prizewinner. Afine example of the ludicrous humour that regularly infused company Christmas cards is this 1941 effort by bakery and confectionary company C. H. Watson & Co. Just slightly off-topic, the picture side of the card shows five super-sized grasshoppers superimposed onto a photograph of an ordinary shooting scene. The result is not much to do with bread or Christmas, rather it looks like a still from a 1950s monster movie. Nevertheless, I’m sure this ridiculous stroke of cut-and-paste genius entertained the staff to no end.

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C. H. WATSON & CO. CHRISTMAS CARD (32413).

STAFF OF LEUTENEGGER PTY LTD AT A CHRISTMAS PARTY, THELMA TERRY (NEE NEDEN) AND LEUTENEGGERS PTY LTD CHRISTMAS PARTY PHOTOGRAPHS. FAMILY FILMS 1956-88 (30192).

STRAIT ISLANDS COLOUR TRANSPARENCIES (29829).

Every family has their particular Christmas rituals. The home movies of the Bennett family provide us with an intimate portrait of their own yuletide traditions. These 16mm films, shot diligently by Sir Arnold Bennett QC over three decades, paint a wonderful picture of mid-century, inner-city Brisbane family life. Every year, the ever-expanding Bennett family gathered for Christmas at the family home in Auchenflower. Part of their Christmas routine was to decorate a huge Christmas tree together, which they then proceeded to march around single file. Another ritual was to gather in the yard to show off their freshly unwrapped presents (as shown in this still).

Santa Claus flying into Birdsville on the Flying Doctor plane in 1960 must have been peak excitement for the local kids. It was enough to get them dressed up in their Sunday best to meet him at the dusty airstrip. This wonderful colour slide was taken by (Flying) Doctor Peter Godbolt while working for the service in western Queensland. The complete absence of any features in the background really highlights the isolation of the Birdsville community, which no doubt in turn emphasised the excitement for this special visitor. Another longstanding festive season tradition is the Christmas work party. Here we have the smiling staff of Leutenegger Pty Ltd, a millinery company based in Charlotte Street, Brisbane. The employees appear to have been given a break from hat-making and cleared out the workshop for a staff party. A few hat stands and mannequins on the far wall are the only nod to their usual business. Leutenegger Pty Ltd have put on quite a good spread for staff who seem to be having a fun time. They even splashed out on some streamers. This photograph comes from the collection Thelma Terry (nee Neden), who worked for the firm and may well be one of those pictured.

BIRDSVILLE CHILDREN GREETING SANTA CLAUS WHO ARRIVED IN THE ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR AIRCRAFT, BIRDSVILLE, QUEENSLAND, CA. 1960, BIRDSVILLE, NORTH QUEENSLAND AND TORRES

BENNETT

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The Tolga QCWA Hall is a focal point of the community with regular rental throughout the year. Working bees are held to ensure presentation of the facility as well as cleanliness. A gaming fund grant has seen the hall floor sanded and polished, roofline air extractors installed and the erection of a new fence. A further grant from The Mt Emerald Wind Farm Company has provided a new stick vacuum cleaner with no cords, ensuring userThesafety.branch is looking forward to the QCWA Centenary 2022. Merry Christmas!

Words and Images Contributed

Mt Molloy Mt Molloy barbeque breakfast

The next generation help out at Mt Molloy QCWA branch, with associate member and local Year 9 student Tegan Keough now a regular volunteer at the sausage sizzle held each month as part of the Mt Molloy Community Market. Treasurer Eileen Ross said that like many small branches, Mt Molloy has struggled for members as well as individuals prepared to take on executive positions. However the branch continues to do a power of volunteer work, in supporting and feeding the community at many local events and fundraisers.

Mt Molloy treasurer Eileen Ross and associate member Tegan Keough 76 | Summer 2021

Mt Molloy new members Barbara Stevens and Michelle Stevens with Darcy Milburn

Dr Christine Reghenzani OAM State Vice President — Northern Region Hello from Jan Ryan of Tolga branch

News from the branches

What has your branch been up to? Send your news to rutheditorial@news.com.au

The many QCWA branches around the state have been busy this quarter!

Members of Tolga Branch conduct a stall in the Merriland Hall at the Atherton Lions Club Markets on the second Sunday of each month, selling potted plants, all manner of handcrafted Items and their famous biscuits, slices and cakes. The cookery is the most popular, selling out very quickly. Each Monday night is craft night, with supper included, and each Wednesday afternoon craft is craft afternoon with afternoon tea. Both are very well attended, with lots of laughs and a lot of stitching happening. The members have been invited to demonstrate craft at the local ‘SWELL’ (Senior Women Enjoying Later Life) Club in Atherton, and the Tolga ladies have also undertaken making domestic violence care packages for women in this most distressing situation.

Tolga Soon after the August SEB meeting was completed online, I represented QCWA at the Victory in the Pacific 76th commemorative service at Rocky Creek War Memorial Park, north of Atherton. Tolga Branch played an integral role in supporting the staff (approximately 2000) and patients (approximately 60,000) of the largest military field hospital in the Southern Hemisphere during WWII — reminiscent of the line in our motto, Service to the Country. Here I am at one of the plaques acknowledging those who served.

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The year was 1939. I was the youngest of three little girls. Our father was a well-borer and we were camped at Bawnduggie in a tent. It was coming on Christmas and there was little money for food, so no toys or presents for the little girls.

The Mayor arrives with plenty of Christmas cheer and an enthusiastic band of high schoolers help with serving meals. We sometimes sing. We sometimes dance. We sometimes tell jokes and read poems. Santa comes. Our most senior of seniors cuts the cake. Most importantly we are together!

Current dilemmas for the branch are ageing membership and the $10,000 annual cost involved in upkeep and running of its heritage-listed hall which sits on a Crown Land Health Reserve.

Malanda Malanda craft mornings

Christmas Spirit by Olive Shooter

It is too late for Christmas in July but not too early to start planning for Christmas in December.

Jeanette and Graham LawlerKevin Hafey cutting the cake Therese Sargood and Hazel Rogers

Tambo QCWA has a long record of providing a Christmas luncheon for the senior citizens of our small community. This is made possible through branch support, many acts of kindness and “quiet donations”. All seniors (those over 60 and prepared to admit it) are invited to join the fun and festivities. It has become noisier and rowdy in recent times with the influx of young members and many small children. The day before the luncheon, members have a busy day preparing food and decorating. The plum pudding cook has already worked her magic. A local champion cook has provided an excellent Christmas cake. Someone always gets a little excited with the sherry for the trifles and the multi draw table is loaded with goodies.

Kaylene Adams and Lyndsay Ingram

On Christmas morning a farmer sang out at the tent, that his milking machine engine wouldn’t start and he had heard that Dad was good with engines, so he wondered if Dad could help. Dad went and started the engine, and when he got back, he had three Lucky Stockings that the farmer’s wife had given him for us. My mother never forgot a kindness shown and she told us this story over and over, until the day she died. I don’t think she realised that the milking machine was probably in order and it was the Christmas spirit shining in the kindness of those caring people. Kindness is shining all around us. We have a lot to be thankful for and I hope everyone experiences the Christmas spirit as we did!

The Thursday morning craft sessions at Malanda QCWA Hall are open to all and attract many local women who are not necessarily members, as well as members from other Tableland branches. They gather to have fun, spend time with like-minded women, and to share and learn new craft skills.

Tambo A note from Tambo branch

Recently on a Facebook page someone saw my picture and asked ‘who is she?’ Well, I’m a wife to Roy; a mum to three boys, Dave, Matt and Drew; Gran to Rayne and Madison and a passionate member of an organisation, that organisation being QCWA — so in a nutshell that’s me. As I close my blog I am reminded that the start of summer is fast approaching; a time to relax and take time to share with families. COVID has certainly made time like this more special for those separated by lockdowns and border closures.

QCWA PRESIDENT’SSTATEBLOG

QCWA is all about friendship and if you are new to an area, it is a great way to meet people.

Sheila Campbell State President Introducing Queensland Country Women’s Association’s new president Sheila Campbell

Well done to members at branch and division level who have held many meetings online, to branches who have continued to support their communities with events such as scone day, morning teas, ‘Cuppas and Chats’ computer workshops for members and locals, many market days in their local areas, craft mornings — the list is endless. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those members that have encouraged me to take on this role as state president, a role I knew would not be easy; but then I’ve always been open to a challenge, I’m not afraid to ask questions of others when I don’t know the answer and I’m certainly not afraid to make decisions on behalf of our members, whether it be at branch, division or government level.As to the future of QCWA I refer to the words of our founder Ruth Fairfax, words written to members in 1922 and just as relevant today: “I feel that in writing this address, which I want to be very helpful, I am writing it to women of Queensland in the past, present and future and I want it to be to every woman, for the Association stands to all points throughout Queensland.Itisindeed an Association for us all to be proud of, for it has meant so much to so many, bringing happiness to many lives, usefulness to others and, above all, has taught so many of us the true meaning of ‘service’.”

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Twenty-five years ago that’s what I did. I joined QCWA in Pioneer Division, the Seaforth branch; my introduction to an organisation that fosters friendship and encourages and empowers women of all ages to broaden their horizons, whether it be learning new crafts or taking on roles at branch, division and later at a state level. My first role was as International Officer, an opportunity to travel the world from my armchair, to learn about ACWW and the role they play in our organisation. The year 2004 saw a tree change for our family life, a time to move closer to medical help: the tiny town of Jandowae on the Western Plains, our new home; a change of branch, Cooranga North in the Maranoa Division; the chance to make new friends. During my time in QCWA I’ve been able to see the growth of branches in metropolitan areas of our great state, the launch of RUTH magazine whilst a member of the state executive board, Country Kitchens from an idea to reality, and the Public Rural Crisis Fund that has assisted many fellow Queenslanders during times of flood, fires and drought and continues to support those in need. Whilst COVID still seems to be playing a major role in our QCWA happenings, it’s good to go over what we have accomplished this past year as we approach our annual conference to be held in Gladstone. This year has boasted successful region conferences held in Bowen, Helensvale, Longreach and Charleville, a successful and well attended International Conference held in Longreach, the sale of Ruth Fairfax House #3 and the purchase of our new office at Stones Corner RFH #4, bursary presentations to 15 successful applicants, and Heritage House now the home of our archives thanks to the hard work of Christine King and her band of workers.

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by Quiz Master — Roy O’Reilly —

The name of the perfume created by the QCWA to mark its 95th anniversary in 2017 was (a) 1922 (b) 1932 (c) 1942? Who is the only living person depicted on Australian banknotes? How old was Japan’s Kokono Hiraki when she won a silver medal for skateboarding at this year’s Olympics (a) 12 (b) 14 (c) 16? The letters QR, the code used to record attendance at a venue during the COVID pandemic, stand for what? The QCWA colours are (a) maroon and silver (b) royal blue and silver (c) maroon and royal blue? The name of the popular Eastman Kodak camera launched in 1900 was the (a) Bluey (b) Brownie (c) Greenie? Sex and the City star John Corbett and which star of the 1979 movie 10 recently married after dating for almost two Whichdecades?Shakespeare play begins with an elderly king declaring that he will divide his kingdom amongst his three daughters with the largest share going to the one who loves him the most? Appearing on the cover of Vogue Hong Kong Tokyo’s July 2021 digital issue was which Japanese tennis star wearing sparkling oversized earrings shaped liked tennis racquets? As part of the 2019 Queensland Day celebrations, which award recognised the QCWA’s outstanding contribution to the community over many decades?

From 1928 to 1935, which Australian food spread was rebranded as Parwill? Which song was written by John Lennon to honour his mother who died in 1958 at the age of 44 (a) Julia (b) Julianna (c) Juliette? Which Queensland federal electorate is named after the founder of the QCWA (a) Fairfax (b) Murdoch (c) Packer?

Name the only Australian location in Time magazine’s 2021 list of The World’s 100 Greatest (a)PlacesGold Coast (b) Melbourne (c) Margaret River. Tranquillum House was the setting for a ten-day retreat at which nine strangers discover secrets about each other in which recent TV miniseries starring Nicole Kidman?

Sydney’sbedspread”?new international airport at Badgery’s Creek will be named after which pioneer aviator? Which real-life brothers played brothers Jack and Frank Baker in the 1989 movie The Fabulous Baker Boys? The QCWA headquarters are in which Brisbane suburb (a) Kangaroo Point (b) Stones Corner (c) Woolloongabba? ANSWERS 1. (a) 1922. 2. Queen Elizabeth II. 3. (a) 12. 4. Quick Response. 5. (b) royal blue and silver. 6. (b) Brownie. 7. Bo Derek. 8. King Lear. 9. Naomi Osaka. 10. Queensland Greats Award. 11. (a) Gold Coast. 12. Nine Perfect Strangers. 13. Vegemite. 14. (a) Julia. 15. (a) Fairfax. (Ruth Fairfax). 16. Queen Elizabeth II. 17. Julia Gillard. 18. Nancy-Bird Walton. 19. Jeff, Beau Bridges. 20. Stones Corner.

10213456789 20121113141516171819 SUMMER QUIZ

Name the ill-fated native American lover of the title character in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic poem The Song of Hiawatha. Which Australian prime minister’s jacket was described as looking like “a cheap motel

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