Ruth autumn 2017 web

L I V E A N I N S P I R E D L I F E .........................

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Supporting the wo work of the Queensland Country Women’s Association

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New Beginnings SOMETIMES WE DON’T HAVE A CHOICE

❖ WE LOVE WABI SABI ❖ FLOWERS YOU CAN EAT ❖ WARM UP WITH SOME EASY KNIT TING ❖ MAKE PRET T Y WASHI

RUTH AUTUMN 2017 ISSUE 18 ❖ AU$7.95 INC GST

EGGS FOR EASTER

Meet an inspirational chef, artists, designers, per fumers and photographers

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CONTENTS

05

INSIDE

10 Hot Topic: New Beginnings eg nn ngs – it s about gratitude

27 Inspiring teachers Dominique Rizzo and Clairy Laurence

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T ime to war m up p the needles

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56 Edible Flowers are back

Clairy Laurence’s ceramic pieces

32 Yvonne’s Wabi Sabi Designz

38 Meet artist Jandamarra

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Autumn 2017 8 16 25

30 42 46

Cover photo shoot at Branch View Hall Fashion

by Dogstar Page 30

Editor’s Welcome

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE EW beginnings – they’re not always planned and sometimes they are beyond our control. The key to successful starting over seems to be gratitude focussing on what you do have and not what you don’t have. We share the stories of four women who are making the most of their new beginnings – Zainabu a refugee from the Congo, Emily recovering from a head injury and first-time flatmates Bronya and Anne-Marie.

We also meet two inspiring teachers; chef Dominique Rizzo and ceramicist Clairy Laurence who demonstrate the generosity of spirit that is skill-sharing.

With cooler weather on the way, you’ll love our satisfying breakfast ideas thanks to QCWA Country Kitchens. And if you’re feeling creative have a go at our knitting, embroidery and washi paper projects.

Most importantly, take some time out to relax and be inspired by the amazing people featured throughout Ruth autumn 2017.

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Ally Cover: Gatton girl Maree Mitchell photographed by Theresa Hall at Branch View Hall, the home of QCWA Norwin Branch. Norwin Branch is turning 90 this year – sounds like a great opportunity to decorate the old hall and celebrate!

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Look What We Found We Love … Wabi Sabi Inspiring People who love to teach: Dominique Rizzo and Clairy Laurence Meet fashion photographer Theresa Hall Craft – Washing Eggs Mind Body Soul – Living with an Alcoholic Damask Perfumery Me and My Car We Should be Dancing The Village Heritage B & B Japanese Gardens in Blackwater Understanding Edible Flowers Birds Queensland Her Heart is in Nepal My Travel Planner Events Planner Madura Tea Estates Eromanga Dinosaur Museum Elysha Rei’s Cutting Edge Hire a Hall For the love of books Recommended Reading State Library Qld The Miracle Tree QCWA Halls Meet the New QCWA State President Crossword Puzzle

EVERY SALE OF RUTH MAGAZINE GOES TOWARDS THE WORK OF THE QCWA IN COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT QUEENSLAND

EDITOR: Ally Martell DESIGN: Yohanna Dent COVER IMAGE: Theresa Hall ADVERTISING SALES: Deb Hanfeld ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: 07 46909310 EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES: 07 46909400 EMAIL: ally.martell@thechronicle.com.au SUBSCRIPTIONS: 07 46909300 PUBLISHED BY: Toowoomba Newspapers Pty Ltd; 109 Neil Street, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 in conjunction with Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), 1st Floor, Ruth Fairfax House, 89-95 Gregory Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000 PRINTED BY: APN Print, 56 Kenilworth St. Warwick, QLD 4370. All material published in RUTH is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained within RUTH is given in good faith and obtained

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WELCOME ❖ CONTENTS

INSIDE

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08

UPFRONT

LOOK WHAT WE FOUND ..................................................................................

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Special finds for autumn and the latest QCWA news ........

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www.qcwa.org.au

QCWA Diary Dates

Who was Ruth?

❖ Queensland Women’s Week – March 6-12 throughout the state. Visit www.communities.qld.gov.au and follow the links for event listings.

❖ United Nations International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 ❖ Associated Country Women of the World: Women Walk the World is celebrated on April 29 ❖ QCWA Central Region Meeting: Moranbah May 8-11. Enquiries State Vice President Mrs Jan Street rjstreet@bigpond.com ❖ QCWA Northern Region Meeting: June 6-8 at the Shamrock Hotel Mackay.

Enquiries State Vice President Mrs Marie Baulch svpnorthernregion@ gmail.com ❖ Toowoomba Doll Bear and Craft Show: Saturday, May 20. 9am-3pm: St Paul's Lutheran Church Hall, Phillip St, Toowoomba. Adults $8, pensioners $6, children under 12 free. Doll competition, refreshments, multi draw raffle. Proceeds to QCWA. FOR MORE QCWA EVENTS GO TO WWW.QCWA.ORG.AU

These Boots… ... were made for walking and ... wearing with jeans, party dresses, shorts ANYTHING! Ariat’s new range of Western boots will hit the stores in March and we are in love with the Quickdraw Vent TEK in turquoise. www.ariat.com.au

Ruth Fairfax founded the QCWA 95 years ago. She was instrumental in forming CWAA (Country Women’s Association of Australia) and ACWW (Associated Country Women of the World). This quintessential country woman was to have a huge influence on communities throughout Australia. The organisation continues to follow her vision and words of wisdom. Find out more about her at www.qcwa.org.au

Swingers Swing from your veranda or a favourite tree! Hanging chairs come in singles and doubles. www.byronbayhangingchairs.com.au

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SO MANY BLOOMS TO CHOOSE FROM 09

Treloar Roses deliver plants all over Australia - even to remote places! Order a catalogue or check online for every kind of rose imaginable from Tea Roses, to Floribundas and David Austins as well as ground covers, climbers and standards.

We love their pink Wedding Bells pictured below. www.treloar roses.com.au

UPFRONT

Everything’s coming up roses

www.yenyenlo.wixsite.com

Yen Yen Lo Bells and Critters With personality-plus, these cute ceramic decorations are very collectable. We love the CWA ladies, children and Easter bunnies with a difference. Check out YenYenLo on Instagram.

www.parasolswithlove.com.au

If you’re travelling near Portland in Victoria, pop in and see the Treloar Rose Gardens

www.savethebilbyfund.com

Save the Bilby Buy Easter Bilbies this year and you’ll be doing your bit to protect an endangered Australian species. You have a choice of chocolate or soft toy Bilbies.

Pretty Protectors A parasol is an elegant way to protect your skin from the sun. Keep one in the car for those days when a hat just isn’t enough.

PERFECT FOR QUICK, EASY COCKTAILS

Ginger – QCWA primary product for 2017 Buderim Ginger’s new range of ginger beer – includes a dash of vodka or rum!

BUDERIM STRAWBERRY MULE: 2 strawberries muddled with 250ml Buderim Ginger Beer and Vodka. 20ml lemon juice.

Shake well and strain twice. Fill glass with crushed ice. Finish with fresh mint and slice of strawberry. Makes two large drinks.

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A New Beginning

FOR ZAINABU

HOT TOPIC

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The transition from Congo to Queensland made easier with a little help from MDA .................................................................................................

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words by ALLY MARTELL photos by BEV L ACEY

Zainabu and her son Abdul are grateful for their new life in Australia

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“AUSTRALIA IS SO DIFFERENT FROM WHAT I AM USED TO. PEOPLE ARE RESPECTFUL TO EACH OTHER HERE” 11

HOT TOPIC

Zainabu Bazamukunda and her son Abdul have settled in Toowoomba with the help of MDA.

he is just one person in a war torn and troubled population of 80 million Congolese. Zainabu Bazamukunda is one of the lucky ones. She escaped with her son to Uganda where she eventually qualified for settlement in Australia. With the help of independent multicultural organisation MDA Ltd, she has begun a new life in Toowoomba full of hope and opportunity.

May 19, 2016 is a date Zainabu will never forget. It was a Thursday and she slept through the night for the first time since she was a baby. An ordinary event that occurred in an ordinary house on a quiet Toowoomba street. It was the ordinariness that made deep restorative sleep possible because it was a world away from the terror she had left in Uganda.

Fear was the recurring theme in Zainabu’s experience of life. It left her on the day she arrived with her eight-year-old son at Brisbane International Airport. She was met by Diana Chananda, a settlement officer with not-for-profit settlement agency, MDA Ltd. “When I saw Diana’s smile, I knew we would be alright,” she said. “I felt special inside. She has made me strong in my life.”

It took three days for Zainabu to come to terms with her new house.

“I didn’t know if I liked it at first! It didn’t feel like mine.

But now I thank Diana because my house is perfect for me. It is near a supermarket, near the hospital and there is a bus stop so I can go to TAFE.” Fluent in French, Ugandan and Swahili, Zainabu didn’t speak a word of English. After just five months, her commitment to TAFE studies is evident and she is almost fluent. Her son, of course, has picked up his new language with ease.

Zainabu constantly marvels at the opportunities available to her in Australia. For example, she always

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PHOTO: BEV LACEY

thought driving a car would be impossible but after three months in Toowoomba she’ became a proud P-plater.

“My life is so good,” she said. “I am not crying all the time because now we have food, we know where we will sleep at night, my son can go to school and I don’t have to beg.

“I am saying ‘God, thank you’ for saving my life. Even if I die today, my son is here and he will be all right. He wants to be a doctor. In Uganda, he wouldn’t survive without me.

“Australia is so different from what I am used to. People are respectful to each other here,” she said. “When I go to the hospital, I am treated with respect, I am not pushed around. When I first saw doctors in short pants I laughed a little because in Africa that is considered very bad!

“I have friends here now and they are all nationalities – Aussies, Chinese, Indians – I am very lucky.”

Zainabu has only one concern about her new life in Australia and that is work.

“I would like to have a job but it is difficult to find. I could work as a housekeeper because I am very good at that. I could help with the house, the children and parties.

Or I might try and work as a foster parent for refugee children. But I must work.”

Tears well in her eyes as Zainabu clasps her hands in prayer: “I thank God and I thank the Australian Government because they saved me and they saved my son.

“Without this assistance, I couldn’t achieve my objective of obtaining a secure job, raising a family and becoming a good productive citizen. I can give back and I can help in the community too.”

Zainabu is grateful for the gift of a new life. We are grateful for the gift that is Zainabu and the richness she brings to our community.

EMILY’S GIFT

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HOT TOPIC

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A serious head injury forced Emily to rethink her whole life .................................................................................................

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words by ALLY MARTELL

Emily Martin shares her story of gratitude

Emily Martin's book and affirmation cards are raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

tarting over isn’t always something we do by choice – sometimes it is forced upon us by circumstance.

A head injury changed Emily Martin’s life forever but she found strength she didn’t know she had and her positive attitude resulted in an inspirational book that is raising money for charity.

Emily Martin knows first-hand that life doesn’t always go to plan. In the weak, pre-dawn light of a February morning, Emily left her husband Brad and three children sleeping as she set off on one of her regular rides with friends around St George in south-west Queensland.

The friends cycled in a pack formation and were used

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to keeping close. But somehow things got too close and a collision resulted in two cyclists down.

Emily was knocked out and received a crush and compound fracture of two vertebrae, a broken eye-socket, some soft tissue damage and brain injury.

The ambulance arrived and the Royal Flying Doctor Service took her to the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane where she was placed in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber.

“I spent the first two weeks between the neuro ward and high dependency ward,” she said. “And I have absolutely no memory of those two weeks.”

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❖ To find out more about Emily’s journey and to purchase a copy of her book visit www.thegift.net.au

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record what happened to her for her children. The process of putting pen to paper was made easier by technology.

“My eyesight was dodgy and my brain was fuzzy so Brad bought me voice-to-text software so I could speak into the computer and the words just flowed – I had no trouble writing the chapters.

A friend read her draft book and urged her to publish it.

“Jo Eady became my ‘project manager’ and she helped me with the structure of the chapters and the publishing process.

“She encouraged me to include all the little inspirational quotes that I’d always had all over my house – I didn’t know just how much I would need them one day.

“I really want to emphasise how lucky we are in Australia. We have a fantastic standard of health care. I was attended by an ambulance, flown by Royal Flying Doctor Service to one of the best hospitals where I spent six weeks in care and there was no charge. My husband calls it my six week, all-expenses-paid holiday!”

Through the sale of her book, The Gift, and cards, Emily is giving back to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Brain Injury Rehab Unit. Positive reviews from readers are encouraging and sales are going well.

“We are making money for them!” she said.

HOT TOPIC

After the doctors “sorted her out physically”, she was moved to the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Unit.

It was around this time her memory slowly returned but only on things she was emotionally connected with – such as her family. Thank goodness!

Emily even had to learn to walk again but this time dizziness and constant cramping made every step a struggle.

“Despite everything, I would look around at the other 26 patients in that unit and think ‘I am so lucky’,” she said. “It was this gratitude that continued and carried me through the tough times during that first year of recovery.

It helped me to find the strength I needed to keep going and keep improving.

“And the gratitude continues. Every day I’m grateful for how far I have come. I may not be able to have as many balls in the air as I used to, but I am slowly getting better.

I’m even driving again.

“I don’t cycle because my sight still isn’t good but hey, I can swim and run.”

Emily is also grateful for her rural community.

“In times of crisis, rural communities really know how to step up and I know I am lucky to live in this town.

“People made meals for us, mowed the lawn, looked after the children and drove me to appointments – I don’t know what I would have done without everyone’s help.

“I sometimes wonder if people get the same attention in a city suburb.”

Emily never saw herself as an author but she wanted to

LEAVING HOME

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HOT TOPIC

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Sharing a flat has opened up the world for these two women .................................................................................................

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words by MARY CASSIDY from Life Without Barriers

Both women are not afraid to do what makes them happy

Bronya and Anne-Marie.

ronya and Anne-Marie live in Toowoomba and are much like any other young house mates; they go to yoga, visit family and friends, have jobs and like to socialise. Flatting together is something their parents never thought possible for two girls growing up with disabilities.

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PHOTO: LIFE WITHOUT BARRIERS

Until five years ago, Bronya had lived in Dalby with her parents Heather and Colin. She went to disability support day programs at Life Without Barriers (LWB) and loved her part-time job at the Endeavour Foundation. Bronya wanted more independence and her parents encouraged her to learn new skills.

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“Both women are not afraid to do what makes them happy; they’ve achieved more than they originally dreamed and are proud of their accomplishments.”

Operations Manager at Life Without Barriers said: “Like any house share, it’s all about finding complementary personalities to create a successful arrangement, and Anne-Marie and Bronya have found just that.

“They’re great friends who have learned from each other and the staff and families have noticed a huge difference in their outlooks since they moved in,” she said.

Anne-Marie’s father Pat says he’s never seen Bronya so happy.

“Bronya has traditionally been more cautious in new situations and can become withdrawn, but being around Anne-Marie has brought her out of her shell; she no longer needs as much support around the home and is polite and confident in situations where she’d previously have become upset.

“Both women are not afraid to do what makes them happy; they’ve achieved more than they originally dreamed and are rightly proud of their accomplishments.”

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HOT TOPIC

So after a disability support program in Dalby, she moved to Toowoomba to take part in the LWB Transitional Respite Program. The program supports people as they learn the life skills required for independent living such as shopping, cooking, hygiene and building community relationships. After the 12-week program, Bronya’s confidence grew and a year later she moved into a house managed by LWB. The house is set up as independent accommodation for people with disabilities and has capacity for staff to live in from time to time. In the beginning Bronya felt more comfortable with staff being there with her. She has gradually become used to the space and her autonomy so staff are not there as often.

This year Anne-Marie joined Bronya as her housemate, and they have settled in well together. Anne-Marie also attended the Transitional Respite Program, which gave her an idea of what to expect in advance.

Anne-Marie also works at Endeavour Foundation and has a member of staff to assist throughout the week where necessary. She is known at work for her thoughtful attitude, kindness and infectious laugh.

Both women have very different personalities but have become friends who, rather than looking to LWB for support, help each other in small and meaningful ways in their daily lives. They share their love for dancing and going out for dinner, their passion for and commitment to their jobs and their sense of pride in their home.

Caroline Pedersen, Disability and Aged Care

❖ If you want to know more about Life Without Barriers Disability Services, go to www.lwb.org.au

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WE LOVE

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WE LOVE

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Wabi-Sabi is the Japanese aesthetic described as “beauty that is imperfect, impermanent and incomplete”. It is often seen in nature and through the seasons. We like to think there’s a bit of Wabi-Sabi in Ruth magazine! ....................................................................................

If you’d like to know more about the aesthetic of wabi-sabi this is the book for you: Wabi-sabi for artists, designers, poets and philosophers

by Leonard Koren. www.leonardkoren.com

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Ruth visited Kazuyo’s Collection in Boundary Street, West End to find samples of Wabi-Sabi in store: above right traditional rice basket, raku pottery and at left a perfectly imperfect etching.

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AT THE TABLE

At the

TABLE ......................................

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recipes by QCWA COUNTRY KITCHENS styling by Shannon Deutrom photos by CATHY TAYLOR ......................................

CHIA PORRIDGE GO TO PAGE 18 FOR RECIPE

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Rise and shine with a choice of fabulous brekkie ideas

Breakfast, the most important meal of your day whether it is in the mor ning when you’re awake for a typical day or in the middle of night if you’re a shift worker. To break the ‘fast’ the period of time the body has gone without nourishment due to sleep.

Gearing up for the day ahead with a healthy meal provides nourishment for all the inter nal bodily systems you want to ensure you can embrace those new beginnings.

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Chia Porridge ❖ 3 TABLESPOON CHIA SEEDS ❖ 1⁄2 CUP WARM WATER ❖ 1⁄4 CUP LOW FAT MILK, OR LOW FAT COCONUT MILK ❖ 1 TEASPOON CINNAMON TOPPING ❖ 1⁄2 APPLE, GRATED ❖ 1⁄2 BANANA, MASHED ❖ 30G WALNUTS, ROUGHLY CHOPPED ❖ OR 1 CUP OF CANNED FRUIT IN NATURAL JUICE

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Serves 2 ❖ Preparation time 10 minutes + over night resting ❖ Cooking time 10 minute

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AT THE TABLE

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P L A C E chia seeds in a bowl, add warm water and allow to stand for at least 30 minutes, mix in milk and leave in refrigerator overnight. Chia seeds will swell S E R V E cold with fresh fruit and sprinkle of nuts and yoghurt, or S E R V E hot, cooking in microwave for 1 minute with canned fruit and yoghurt.

Courtesy of MAY HAMPTON , Palmwoods Branch

Try this yummy shake for a super quick and satisfying breakfast on the go.

Breakfast Shake Serves 1 ❖ Preparation time 5 minutes ❖ Cooking time 0 minutes ❖ 1 CUP SKIM MILK ❖ 1 EGG ❖ 1 TEASPOON PSYLLIUM HUSKS ❖ 1 TABLESPOON RICE BRAN ❖ 1 BANANA, FROZEN ❖ 1 TEASPOON VANILLA

B L E N D all ingredients for 2 minutes, serve immediately Courtesy of JUDY SPENCER , Gladstone Branch

SHAKE IT UP FOR BREAKFAST

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Serves 2 ❖ Preparation time 20 minutes + cooling time ❖ Cooking time 0 minutes ❖ 1 CUP COOKED PORRIDGE, COOLED ❖ 1⁄2 CUP NATURAL YOGHURT, REDUCED FAT ❖ 2 CUPS FRUIT SALAD, STRAWBERRIES, SLICED BANANA, BLUEBERRIES, RASPBERRIES, HONEY DEW, ROCK MELON

C O O K porridge in a normal way and cool A D D yoghurt to porridge and mix to make it creamy L AY E R the oats and fruit in a parfait glass starting with the oats S E RV E chilled Courtesy of MAY HAMPTON , Palmwoods Branch

A PARFAIT FOR BREAKFAST? HOW POSITIVELY DECADENT

AT THE TABLE

Cold Oat Parfait

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AT THE TABLE

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LOOK GOOD - THEY TASTE PRET TY AMAZING TOO CAPSICUM: NATURE’S EGG RINGS DON’T JUST

Breakfast Eggs Serves 4 ❖ Preparation time 10 minutes ❖ Cooking time 15 minutes ❖ 1 LARGE RED CAPSICUM, DE-SEEDED AND CUT INTO 1CM RINGS ❖ 4 EGGS ❖ 4 CUPS SPINACH OR ASPARAGUS SHOOTS ❖ 4 SLICES WHOLEGRAIN BREAD, TOASTED ❖ 1 TABLESPOON CHIVES, CHOPPED OR PAPRIKA TO SPRINKLE

H E AT a frypan over a medium heat and lightly spray with olive oil.

P L A C E the capsicum rings in the frypan and crack an egg into the centre.

C O O K to taste.

A D D spinach to a separate frypan and cook until just wilted.

S E R V E with toast and sprinkle eggs with chives.

Courtesy of MEG TRIMBLE , Freshwater Branch

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AT THE TABLE

Savoury Baked Beans Serves 6 ❖ Preparation time 15 minutes ❖ Cooking time 10 minutes ❖ 1 MEDIUM TOMATO, CHOPPED ❖ 1⁄2 BROWN ONION, DICED ❖ 1⁄2 SMALL ZUCCHINI, DICED ❖ 1 CARROT, DICED ❖ 400G CAN BAKED BEANS ❖ 1 TABLESPOON FRESH THYME, CHOPPED ❖ 1 TABLESPOON FRESH PARSLEY, CHOPPED ❖ 1⁄4 CUP LOW FAT CHEESE, GRATED ❖ 1 CUP BABY SPINACH

A D D tomato, onion, zucchini, carrot, baked beans and thyme to a medium saucepan, cook over medium heat for 10 minutes until carrot is tender.

M I X in the parsley, cheese and baby spinach and serve.

Courtesy of MELISSA STEVENSON , Chinchilla Branch

MAKE A BIG BATCH OF BEANS AND KEEP SERVINGS IN THE FREEZER FOR CHILLY MORNINGS

WITH HOME MADE MUESLI ON HAND YOU’LL NEVER GO HUNGRY

Muesli Serves 10 ❖ Preparation time 5 minutes ❖ Cooking time 0 minutes ❖ 500G ROLLED OATS ❖ 1 1 ⁄ 2 CUPS OAT BRAN ❖ 1 CUP SULTANAS ❖ 1⁄3 CUP PEPITA SEEDS ❖ 1⁄3 CUP SUNFLOWER SEEDS to serve ❖ ½ CUP FRESH FRUIT PER PORTION

C O M B I N E all ingredients and mix well S T O R E In a sealed container S E RV E with fresh fruit and low fat milk or yoghurt Courtesy of JUDY STUBBS , Maleny Branch

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PERFECT FOR A LIGHT BREAKFAST

❖ ⁄2 MEDIUM RED ONION, CHOPPED ❖ 1⁄2 SMALL ZUCCHINI, CHOPPED ❖ 3 BROCCOLINI STALKS OR 3 BROCCOLI FLORETS, CHOPPED ❖ 1 TABLESPOON FRESH PARSLEY, CHOPPED ❖ 1 EGG ❖ 1 CUP BABY SPINACH

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Stir Fry Breakfast 1

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AT THE TABLE

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Serves 1 ❖ Preparation time 5 minutes ❖ Cooking time 10 minutes

H E AT onion, zucchini and broccolini/broccoli in a little water until just tender, over medium heat A D D parsley, egg and baby spinach until egg is cooked. Alternatively, mix egg and parsley separately and cook in shallow pan, remove to cool and rest for 1-2 minutes, roll and slice in strips and serve over the stir-fried vegetables.

Courtesy of MELISSA STEVENSON , Chinchilla Branch

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Courtesy of PATSY CARROLL, Chinchilla branch

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❖ 1 CUP WHOLEMEAL SELF-RAISING FLOUR ❖ 1 CUP LOW-FAT MILK ❖ 1 EGG ❖ 1 PEAR, GRATED ❖ 2 BANANAS, CHOPPED ❖ 1 CUP STRAWBERRIES, CHOPPED ❖ 4 TABLESPOON NATURAL LOW-FAT YOGHURT

Serves 4 ❖ Preparation time: 10 minutes ❖ Cooking time: 15 minutes

W H I S K flour, milk and egg in a mixing bowl until smooth.

G R AT E in the pear, then stir through with a spoon.

WA R M a large non-stick pan over a medium heat.

A D D the batter, a spoonful at a time, to the hot pan.

WAT C H the surface of the pancake. When bubbles form and the edges begin to look dry, gently lift one edge of the pancake to check for colour. When golden, it’s ready to flip.

A F T E R flipping, continue cooking for a few more minutes until pancakes are cooked through.

S E R V E with banana and strawberries and finish with a tablespoon of yoghurt.

Serve these delicious pancakes with fresh fruit and a dollop of yoghurt

A TREAT FOR BREAKFAST

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AT THE TABLE

Pear pancakes with fruit salad

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The Generosity of

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..................................................................................

INSPIRING PEOPLE

TEACHING â?– ..................................................................................

Dominique Rizzo and Clairy Laurence ..................................................................................

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Chef Dominique Rizzo in her garden

In this edition of Ruth we are privileged to feature two inspirational ladies: chef Dominique Rizzo and ceramicist Clairy Laurence. Two clever, creative women who are happy to share their knowledge and skills with others.

Teaching is such an act of generosity. As Dominique and Clairy inspire others they are helping to create healthier, happier, more creative communities.

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INSPIRING PEOPLE

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DOMINIQUE RIZZO ...............................................................................

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Chef and owner of Putia Fine Foods, Dominique is forever sharing her knowledge and skills ...............................................................................

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Dominique is always busy creating healthy recipes to share Chef Dominique Rizzo (left) and Daniel Boller of Eileys Restaurant give a cooking demonstration at the Hampton Festival.

PHOTO: KEVIN FARMER

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THE CREATIVE SOUL:

I grew up in the Brisbane suburb of Rosalie with a huge park right down the road. We knew all the kids who lived around our area so we were always out playing at the park and creating wonderful adventures. We had a great back yard too with lots of hiding places. I loved to play dress ups and shops and just get lost in the back yard. We also lived on a hill so I have great memories of riding go-carts and bikes up and down this wild hill with a very sharp corner.

I love painting and anything creative and of course food and anything to do with food including sourcing ingredients, developing recipes, styling and photographing food.

THE LOVE OF GOOD FOOD: I have always been interested in food. I suppose it came from overseas trips with my family and also travels to Sicily to visit my father’s family. I grew up surrounded by wonderful cooks and amazing food. I enjoyed cooking as a young girl – particularly baking which I feel is a great place to start when you are young

LIFE CHOICES: Teaching is a wonderful part of my life and I feel if I wasn’t a chef, I would be a teacher. Alternatively, I could see myself living by the beach working in a beautiful organic store surrounded by fresh, whole and organic foods. I’m also a tour leader – just part-time at the moment. To be able to live my life travelling to wonderful places sharing great food would be my ultimate dream.

Silk Waterfall Jacket

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INSPIRING PEOPLE

GROWING UP:

GIVING: I have always felt that my passion and skill for cooking is a gift that should be used to help others. It’s important to me to be involved with and supporting different charities as it fulfils me in a different way and helps me stay in touch with various communities.

ON THE QCWA: I love everything about it! The ladies have always supported the RNA Royal Queensland cooking stage and are an absolute delight to work with. I love hearing their stories and also have so much admiration and respect for the work they do. I am very passionate about supporting the QCWA and giving them a platform to showcase the great work that they do and also to inspire others to join. It’s an added bonus that I pick up so many little cooking tips and tricks from the ladies too! ❖ For fabulous recipes and information about demonstrations and tours with Dominique visit: www.dominiquerizzo.com

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INSPIRING PEOPLE

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Inspired by the classic 1950s Wedgewood Cabbage Ware, Clairy has developed her own playful tableware based on the naturally irregular shapes of vegetables. PHOTOS: CLAIRY LAURENCE

SHARING THE MAGIC .......................................................

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Clairy Laurence’s whimsical ceramic pieces look like they are on a journey of their own .................................

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lairy Laurence is one of those fabulously generous artists who love to share their knowledge with beginners. The Brisbane-based ceramicist is a busy mum and a successful exhibiting artist who still finds time to help others achieve their creative goals.

With their sweet, dreamy faces, Clairy Laurence’s “Wayfarers” look like classic storybook illustrations in 3D. Look a little closer and you’ll see these works of art are on a journey, like Clairy and like each of us.

“They’re eccentric figurative sculptures, each one completely hand-made and one-off,” says Clairy.

“They all have their own personalities, making them total individuals. In a way, they’re a reflection of me, they’re on a spiritual journey and so am I.” Clairy’s ceramics journey probably began before she was born into a dynasty of artists. Her grandfather came from Holland in the 1950s and began the Kitty Art Pottery in Brisbane. Her mother Kitty Breeden is also a ceramicist and her sister is a painter.

Clairy officially began working as a ceramicist in 1983 when she was apprenticed to Locust Pottery. She graduated from TAFE in studio ceramics and went on to study Art Therapy at MIECAT. She worked for 10 years as an arts supervisor at a community-based organisation.

It’s probably here that she developed the generosity of spirit that shines through her work.

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❖ Clairy’s next solo exhibition will be at the fabulous Paperboat Press Gallery in Ashgrove, Brisbane. www.paperboatpress.com

Ceramic Classes Ceramic Classes with Clairy run in six week blocks for three hours per week in Brisbane. You can join in on a Friday morning from 9.30 until 12.30 or every Saturday from 9.30am – 12.30 and 2pm to 5pm. Find out more at www.clairylaurence.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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THERESA HALL .................................................................................................

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Photographer’s brief to celebrate ‘new beginnings’ .................................................................................................

or fashion photographer Theresa Hall, it’s all about bringing the pictures inside her head into reality. And what’s inside her head is definitely “out there”.

After 15 years in photography, she still loves storytelling and the challenge of an outdoor fashion shoot. So we gave her both!

The brief for this autumn 2017 edition was about new beginnings and Theresa helped us tell the QCWA’s story of an old organisation enjoying a resurgence of new young members.

We found the perfect location at the Branch View Hall near Cecil Plains. It’s the home of QCWA Norwin Branch which is celebrating 90 years this year.

“We wanted to create a modern ‘prairie’ look for the autumn edition,” Theresa said. “The hall at Norwin is

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❖ ................................................................................................ perfect because its isolated and surrounded in sweeping plains and crops.

“We chose contemporary, layering garments from Dog Star and put them with this season’s funky hair and bold make-up. Then we put the model in a traditional country setting to create contrast.

“The story is simple – young women from all walks of life, city and country, are getting involved with the QCWA – the stereotype is changing.”

“It was a great shoot with gorgeous golden light.

However, being summer it was quite hot and the flies were unbelievable – I had to Photoshop a few would-be stars out of the pictures!” ❖ You can see more of Theresa’s work at www.theresahallphoto.com.au

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PHOTOGRAPHY

“The story is simple – young women from all walks of life are getting involved with the QCWA “

PHOTO: THERESA HALL

Incredible garments provided by Dogstar in Brisbane.

Dogstar is a flattering and timeless label created by renowned Japanese fashion designer Masayo Yasuki. www.dogstar.com.au

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New Life to

FASHION

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VINTAGE KIMONOS .................................................................................................

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Wabi-Sabi philosophy creates a new twist on fashion .................................................................................................

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words ALLY MARTELL

The word kimono literally means “clothing”, and up until the mid 19th century it was the form of dress worn by everyone in Japan.

ABOVE LEFT: HOMEWARES MADE FROM RECYCLED KIMONO FABRIC ABOVE : ❖ Ladies’ Samurai jacket designed by Wabi Sabi Designs. PHOTO: YVONNE WINGROVE CENTRE LEFT: ❖ Heather Wingrove and her sister Yvonne with a range of items made from vintage Japanese fabric. PHOTO: LEE CONSTABLE

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HEATHER PASSED AWAY IN SEPTEMBER 2016 BUT HER SPIRIT WILL ALWAYS BE VERY MUCH PART OF WABI SABI DESIGNZ

The fabric makes a huge statement so we keep the garments simple, just shift dresses and plain black dresses with feature panels. We make a lot of dresses from light weight Yukata cottons which are perfect for our Queensland climate. grant to learn pattern making so the sisters could develop their sketches into garments.

“We created a whole range of garments including women’s Samurai jackets based on original patterns – yes, women were Samurais in Japan too – but they had only three flanges on each shoulder whereas the men’s jacket has six.

“The fabric makes a huge statement so we keep the garments simple, just shift dresses and plain black dresses with feature panels. We make a lot of dresses from light weight Yukata cottons which are perfect for our Queensland climate.”

The ladies sell their pieces online, at Artspace Gallery in Mackay and also at the annual Rock, Paper Scissors markets in Mackay.

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FASHION

abi Sabi Designz – From something old and worn, something new and beautiful emerges.

The romance, tradition and beauty of Japanese kimono fabric is legendary. It’s no surprise then that a piece of Omeshi silk brought together sisters Heather and Yvonne to share a dream that became a business when they needed it most.

It was a tough time for the Mackay-based sisters: Heather had endured 12 months of chemotherapy and was finally in remission while Yvonne had been made redundant from her job.

They shared a passion for sewing, inherited from their mother. But when Heather brought home some vintage Omeshi kimono silk, they also shared an epiphany.

“It’s simply exquisite,” said Yvonne. “Vintage Meisen, Cherimen and Kinsha silks are so beautiful we just knew we could create something special. We decided to buy it in bulk and make table runners and cushion covers to sell.

“Silk obi fabric is traditionally used for the waist ties on a kimono. The fabric bolts are quite narrow so they are perfect for table runners.”

As the fabrics arrived from Japan their creativity flowed and their designs started to get more complicated.

Yvonne was awarded a Regional Arts Development Fund

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Wild Rose

BESPOKE BANDANAS

FASHION

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Emma Hacon hopes her scarves bring a ‘tickle of love’ .................................................................................................

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words by BELINDA MACARTNEY and EMMA HACON

photos by EMMA HACON

This small square of cotton has a practical use; keeping the sun, dust and flies away when working outside Emma Hacon of Gleeson Station and WildRose Trader

razier Emma Hacon, from Gleeson Station, Cloncurry usually has her eyes fixed on far horizons scanning for rain-bearing clouds, a vehicle in the dust, or her husband Will to arrive home safely in his chopper.

But more recently, Emma shifted her focus closer to the house paddock.

Emma says it was the simple demand and supply model that led her to turn a daily ritual into an idea for a business proposition. Bush-born and bred, Emma has a

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PHOTO: EMMA HACON

keen sense of what is needed to get the job done.

With most days spent outside in the unrelenting climate of the Southern Gulf country, there is one small item that is part of her daily routine. Think jeans, work-shirt, boots, hat and a water bottle – then tie on a bandana and Emma is ready for anything the day might bring.

This small square of cotton has a very practical use; mostly keeping the sun, dust and flies away when working outside with stock. But sometimes it’s used as a

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Q HOW DID YOU GET STARTED? I had been thinking about WildRose for a while. Then one day I went into town with a jobs list but found I had to wait for a motor to be fixed. It seemed like the right time to pop into the sewing shop. Half an hour later I walked out with an overlocker and a quick lesson on using it under my belt!

Q WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR MATERIALS? I definitely want to create a home-grown product so I purchase within Australia. Sometimes I manage to sneak

I’m heading back to the city soon with my WildRose bandana tucked safely into my bag. Not to fend off flies and dust or wipe away any tears… but to remind me of how the smallest things can make a big difference. I’m also taking a reminder of all the inspiring, creative young women living and working in rural Australia. BM

into a fabric shop but more often than not I order from some really cute internet sites.

Q WHAT DO YOU SEE FOR WR DOWN THE TRACK? I hope that each time a “wild rose” ties on her scarf she feels a little tickle of the love it was made with; I hope she remembers to embrace her girliness at the same time as she gets the job done and I hope that it brings a little extra sunshine to her day! ❖ WildRose Trader facebook page – message for orders. Bandanas are $20 ea.

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FASHION

bandage, or to wipe a child’s messy face or dry a small tear. Emma struggled to find bandanas commercially available in the fine cotton that would meet all these needs. And she found she was not alone.

Simply put, supply did not meet demand.

So WildRose was launched. Before long, there were orders from eager clients from all around the state, including orders for half-size bandanas for children.

In a cottage spare bedroom crowded with boxes of fabric, threads, twines, cards and the all-important overlocker, squares of raw edged cotton are turned into the WildRose bespoke product. And it doesn’t stop there… finished orders are lovingly wrapped and tagged with an encouraging quote, hand-written by their maker.

It was in this creative space that I spoke to Emma about her business venture, Wild Rose.

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Coming of Age WEDDINGS

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PRESTON PEAK 15 YEARS ON

Hundreds of couples from throughout Australia have chosen Preston Peak to celebrate their weddings

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Memories made at Preston Peak Weddings.

PHOTOS: DAN VONHOFF; SALT STUDIOS; MATT EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHY; TALL TIMBERS STUDIO. NEXT PAGE PHOTO: LOREN HAYNE.

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WEDDINGS

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Have a (Preston) Peak experience on your wedding day .................................................................................................

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words by SHANA ROGERS

s we drove up the long driveway at Preston Peak Winery Function Centre, the views opened up before us sweeping across the valley to Tabletop Mountain and into the blue beyond.

With its established gardens, avenue of autumn colour and glass pavilion, we realised how Preston Peak had really come of age.

Over the past 15 years, gardens have flourished and buildings have settled into their hilltop perch. In that time hundreds of couples from throughout Australia have chosen Preston Peak to celebrate their weddings.

Executive chef and director Rick Osborne met us and gave us a tour of the grounds including some exciting recent additions.

“We want to make every couple feel special – after all they have chosen to spend the most important day of their lives at Preston Peak. With our new enhancements we think we’ve created a venue that does that and much more,” said Rick.

Additions include the sweet little Bridal Cottage just metres from the Wedding Tree Pavilion. It’s a stylish private place where brides and their attendants can relax

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and prepare for the day of their dreams.

Huge garden beds aren’t just decorative. They’re filled with edible flowers, herbs and fresh vegetables ready for Rick’s famous culinary talents.

The Cellar Door, with its rustic hewn timber still features bottle-lined walls and roaring fireplace but it’s the dazzling new Swarovski crystal chandelier that takes centre stage.

The downstairs space, filled with the energy of so many happy celebrations, now seats 150 guests. And the ever-popular backyard still has lawn games and giant chess while the wisteria arbour remains popular in spring for photos and the bridal couple’s first dance.

Preston Peak Winery truly has come of age – and it’s ready to delight the next generation of happy couples – including us!

Preston Peak Winery Function Centre 430 Preston Boundary Rd, Preston, Qld 4352 (10 minutes south of Toowoomba). www.prestonpeakfunctions.com.au.

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Jandamarra, of Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Warung descent, has many stories to share

Peaceful

VOICE FOR UNITY .................................................................................................

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Meet Sunshine Coast Artist Jandamarra Cadd .................................................................................................

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words by ANGEL A NORVAL

AINTING enables Jandamarra Cadd to be a peaceful voice for unity while also expressing his creativity and storytelling.

From a challenging childhood to Archibald Prize finalist, Jandamarra, a Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Warung descendent, is an inspiration with many stories to tell.

Vibrant and expressive, Jandamarra’s portraits are emotive and insightful mediums bridging the storytelling gap between Aboriginal and mainstream Australia.

First introduced to art at the age of 15, Jandamarra’s style is a unique blend of traditional Aboriginal art techniques along with his own signature contemporary portraiture.

For the young artist, he felt a recognition of something that had always been within, and it provided an avenue of expression and connection to himself, his culture and his emotions.

“I guess you could describe my work as a fusion of Aboriginal art, portraiture and contemporary due to the use of colour, traditional Aboriginal art techniques and

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hyperrealism,” he said.

“My work has definitely changed and focused over the years because originally I created traditional typographical work based on cultural storytelling,” he said.

“Then I worked on surrealistic landscapes before creating a portrait of my nieces to portray their essence of innocence and joy.”

From that point, he was hooked on portraiture, not only capturing the physical likeness of his subjects but their essence as well.

As an artist, Jandamarra realises that the simplest response is from within.

He is inspired by people, their courage, resilience and stories – but when he puts paintbrush to canvas it is a devotional experience of personal expression.

For Jandamarra, his goal is to reflect humanity to viewers, for them to be reminded of that which is real to all people in the hope they will see less of what separates and more of what connects us to each other.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Artworks from Jandamarra Cadd’s exhibition, Sunshine Coast and the artist with his entry in the Archibald Prize.

This ability to move his audience has resulted in Jandamarra’s recognition for several respected awards.

Asked which one meant the most to him, Jandamarra said being a finalist in the Archibald Prize was an incredible experience, but getting the People’s Choice Award in the Black Swan as well as the Sunshine Coast Art Prize was definitely heart-warming.

He said for him to know that people loved and supported his work inspired him to continue.

Jandamarra feels strongly that indigenous artists need more recognition for their skills.

“I feel that all people should be recognised for their devotion and talent, however the path for indigenous artists is usually much harder, so if there are ways for them to be seen where they otherwise wouldn’t have, I think that’s a great thing.”

However, he does admit the artist’s journey is trying at times, especially if you choose to make a career from it.

“Society holds artists in high esteem as they lift the spirit of the collective, but when it comes to honouring

them financially so they can maintain living and continue to reinvest back into their work, they are often undervalued and expected to do things for free or give their paintings or prints away, often to a ‘good cause’.

“Yet this same expectation is not placed on others,” he said.

“So the general way of thinking about artists has to change or the creative benchmark for the collective well-being will lower, as so many will be forced to throw their heart and soul by the wayside just to survive.

“Deepest gratitude to those who see the value of what we artists are doing to support visual narratives.”

Jandamarra is working on a new collection of works for a solo exhibition in 2018.

While not much can be revealed now, it is an amazing concept and will surprise and amaze even his most devoted followers. ❖ For more information on Jandamarra Cadd visit www.jandamarrasart.com.

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A LOVE OF HOME SWEET HOME INSPIRES JOY IN GENTLE DOMESTIC ARTS

SEW LOVELY .................................................................................................

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A story of homeschooling, travelling, sewing and faith .................................................................................................

words by ALLY MARTELL

Pictures supplied by JENNY REYNOLDS

enny Reynolds has lived all over Australia. She home-schooled her children from the coast to the outback, east to west and right up the centre.

Since teaching herself to embroider in 2005, wherever she went, Jenny stitched. Her passion for designing beautiful embroidery and applique patterns has led to a website, highly successful blog and stitchery club.

“We’ve lived all over Australia, a dream we had when we married 25 years ago – why travel overseas when we can see our own country in all its beauty.

“My husband, Mark, is a teacher so it was easy to pull up stakes every year or two and travel,” she said. “It was an incredible time but the kids grow up you know and you need to stop eventually.

“We settled in Charters Towers in 2009, then moved to Townsville in 2012 and have been here ever since. Looks like regional North Queensland is where our roots are growing deep.”

Regardless of where she lives, Jenny has customers all over the world. But they don’t buy kits or paper patterns.

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“I’m a PDF pattern gal and I sell worldwide from my dining table,” Jenny said. “It all began at the tail end of home schooling when I was wondering ‘what next’? A few free designs on my blog and then a few to sell and it grew from there.

“I have an online stitchery club now and it’s also PDF. I send out six new stitchery designs every month to my members around the world. Visit Elefantz on Facebook or Instagram and you too will bedelighted with Jenny’s pretty posts. She refers to her work as “gentle domesticity”, harking back to a time when ladies enjoyed quiet moments concentrating on intricate handiwork.

“But what I love most is my blog and connecting with women. These homemakers – whether they work outside the home or choose to stay at home full-time – have a love for sewing, cooking, family and the gentle domestic arts.

“In fact this year I’ve been sharing a free block of the month on my blog, Gentle Domesticity, that has been hugely popular so I’m following on with a similar free set

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Pretty pieces designed by Jenny Reynolds, of Elefantz Designs

JENNY AND HER HUSBAND HOME SCHOOLED THEIR CHILDREN ALL OVER AUSTRALIA

of designs in 2017 called The Love of Home.

“I started a Facebook group a few months back with the gentle domesticity theme and already it has over 1000 members. There’s a heartbeat of women out there who love the home and the common thing I hear from them is that they’ve been waiting for someone to give them ‘permission’ to love being homemakers again.

“Who says you can’t choose to stay home and love it?

“Who says you can’t work and be a contented domestic goddess too?” ❖ To visit Jenny’s website, blog and stitchery club go to www.elefantz.com.

JENNY HAS VERY KINDLY GIVEN RUTH READERS A FREE PDF PATTERN FOR A PRETTY DESIGN AVAILABLE AT www.qcwa.org.au Jenny Reynolds is designing patterns from her new home base in Townsville PHOTO: JENNY REYNOLDS

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Japanese Washi Paper is available online and in good craft shops

Crafty fun in time for

EASTER .....................................................................................................

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Japanese washi paper eggs make gorgeous Easter decorations .................................................................................................

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words and pictures by JESSICA KRAMER

ONCE YOU’VE MASTERED WASHI PAPER EGGS YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO STOP AT ONE

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tep aside from the usual painted or dyed eggs this year with these easy-to-make washi paper eggs.

You may wish to blow your own eggs (as I have done), or use pre-purchased wood or foam eggs found at craft stores during Easter.

Use PVA or another white craft glue and thin down in a small bowl with an equal amount of water.

Tear the Japanese washi paper into pieces – make sure none of the pieces are any larger than a 5 cent coin or they won’t stick to the egg properly.

Briefly place a piece of torn paper into the glue solution then smooth on to the egg.

Repeat until the egg is completely covered, then leave to dry.

Once completely dry, paint the egg with clear vanish.

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Egg blowing 1. Pierce a whole at each end of the egg using a pin, making one hole slightly larger than the other.

2. Holding the egg over a bowl, blow into the smaller hole firmly yet gently until all yolk and white is removed.

3. Wash the egg gently, then leave to dry overnight.

❖ You’ll find a range of gorgeous washi paper as well as origami paper available online from www.japancrafts.com.au

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Once you’ve masted washi paper eggs, you won’t be able to stop at one

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Easy knitting

PROJECT FOR AUTUMN

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Supporting Australian wool and woollen mills .................................................................................................

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Patter ns by BENDIGO WOOLLEN MILLS Knitted samples by LOUISE GULL

Bendigo Woollen Mills sells SHEEP’S WOOL as well as alpaca, mohair, angora, silk and cotton yarn.

ITH the cooler weather upon us it’s time to get those knitting needles clicking again.

Scarves are an easy starter for the season and Bendigo Woollen Mills in Victoria is happy to share these patterns with Ruth readers.

Bendigo Woollen Mills is primarily a mail-order business which is how they keep costs down. You can buy several types of sheep wool products as well as yarn made from alpaca, mohair, angora, silk and cotton. For more patterns and ideas go to: www.bendigowoollenmills.com.au

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SCARVES ARE EASY PROJECTS TO GET YOU BACK INTO KNIT TING 45

APPROX LENGTH: 140cm

APPROX LENGTH: 130cm

APPROX WIDTH: 17cm

APPROX WIDTH: 21cm

BENDIGO YARN REQUIREMENTS X 200GMS: 4ply Luxury – one ball ACCESSORIES: One pair knitting needles 4.00mm

SCARF: ❖ Using 4.00mm needles, cast on 41 sts.

2ND AND 4TH ROWS: K1, *P7, K1, rep from * to end.

3RD ROW: P1, *K2, yon, sl 1, K2tog, Psso, yon, K2, P1, rep from * to end. ❖ Rep these four rows until scarf measures approximately 140cm.

TO FINISH: Cast off loosely. Sew in any loose ends.

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1ST ROW: P1, *K2tog, yon, K3, yon, sl 1, K1, psso, P1, rep from * to end.

CRAFT

Check Scarf ........................

Angel Scarf

BENDIGO YARN REQUIREMENTS X 200GMS: 8ply Classic, Rustic, Luxury, Moorland – one ball ACCESSORIES: One pair 4.00mm knitting needles

SCARF: ❖ Using 4.00mm needles cast on 35 sts.

1ST ROW (RIGHT SIDE): K5, *P5, K5, rep from * to end.

2ND ROW: P5, *K5, P5, rep from * to end. ❖ Rep the last 2 rows once more then the 1st row again.

6TH ROW: K5, *P5, K5, rep from * to end.

7TH ROW: As 2nd row. ❖ Rep the last 2 rows once more then 6th row again. ❖ Rep these 10 rows until the scarf measures approximately 130 cm.

TO FINISH: Cast off loosely. Sew in any loose ends.

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SPECIAL

Fantastic March Special

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Living with an

ALCOHOLIC

MIND BODY AND SOUL

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❖ .................................................................................................

Stop making excuses and start seeking treatment .................................................................................................

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Words by Nicky Baker of Sunrise Way, Toowoomba

Addiction is a disease that requires professional treatment plans

t’s a harsh reality for some. They cannot forge ahead with their lives because every day revolves around a partner, parent or child who has an issue with alcohol.

Understandably, there are feelings of fear – fear that the situation won’t ever change and feelings of frustration – frustration about why they can’t ‘just stop’! Unfortunately, the nature of addiction/abuse (or whatever you want to call it), means it’s not that easy.

No one has to deal with the situation alone. There are many professional therapists and organisations available

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to help if you ask. However, an important point to remember is that it is up to the alcoholic him or herself, to make the decision to stop drinking and accept professional treatment in order to do so.

Nicky Baker is the Clinical Coordinator at Sunrise Way, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in Toowoomba.

Years of experience with all types of addicts have given her a unique and personal insight into how families are affected. Nicky offers the following to help partners and families of addicts:

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DON’T BE AN ENABLER:

No matter what you say or do, your loved one is going to have that drink, you are not to blame. Some alcoholics do blame others for their use – it’s easier to do that than address their addiction and issues that underlie it. When this happens, do not blame yourself. If someone is an alcoholic, nothing is going to get in the way of their drinking.

Never cover for your loved one, no matter how many times they ask, this enables them to stay in their dependence. Do not at any time be drawn into making excuses for absences, or downplaying your loved one’s use. Some people have sought help only once they realise no one is enabling them any more.

HELP IS THERE: DON’T TAKE IT PERSONALLY: If an alcoholic lies to you and breaks their promises, don’t take it personally; this is just another part and parcel of the problem.

YOU CAN’T CHANGE THEM: At no time, no matter how often you try, will you be able to make your loved one stop drinking. You may think there is something you can do to make them stop but the reality is, even your loved one cannot control their drinking. Professional treatment is the only way.

ALCOHOLISM IS A DISEASE:

YOU DESERVE TO LIVE A BETTER LIFE: Though there is little you can do to help your loved one to make change until they are ready, you can stop letting their drinking dominate your thoughts and your life. It is okay to make good choices for your own peace of mind, social and emotional wellbeing. It’s okay to live your life the way you want to and find joy in doing so. ❖ If you are troubled by the drinking of someone close to you, please call Helpline: 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). For information about Sunrise Way visit the website www.sunriseway.com.au

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Alcohol dependence is a chronic and progressive disease that can be fatal. If you’re not a health care professional or a substance abuse counsellor, your role as the person who loves an alcoholic, is to be clear on one thing: it is their responsibility to accept help and work to a treatment plan, not yours.

After covering up your loved one’s dependence for many years, not talking about “the problem”, it may be frightening to think of reaching out for help for yourself, whether it be Al-Anon or other self-help groups in your area. But this is where you may be able to find solutions and also some comfort for yourself.

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MIND BODY AND SOUL

IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT:

Legal advice wherever YOU are

MONTVILLE

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Relax In Your Own Private Retreat Picture yourself sipping champagne on your own private verandah overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Enjoy a peaceful and private environment, take a walk through the rainforest or enjoy a good book.

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If it’s a peaceful stay free from the outside world in your own private rain forest retreat then consider us.

Montville Ocean View Cottages Andy & Kai | 549 Palmwoods-Montville Rd, Montville Ph: 5457 3030 | www.montvilleoceanviewcottages.com.au

Call us today for all your legal needs 07 4992 2722

www.wrightclarkesolicitors.com.au

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MIND BODY AND SOUL

48

Jonathon can recreate almost any fragrance from the past

The Art of

PERFUMERY

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❖ .................................................................................................

From classic fragrances to wet-dog smell, it’s all in a day’s .................................................................................................

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Words by ALTHEA MARTELL

o be a perfumer is to be an artist. They use their fine sense of smell and in-depth knowledge of fragrance to convey abstract concepts, moods and aesthetics to our olfactory senses.

I asked perfumer Jonathon Midgley of Damask Perfumery in Brisbane what a QCWA fragrance might be like. He laughed at first, then went quiet and then lit up with enthusiasm as he started to formulate a smell in his mind that would embody the very essence of the organisation.

“A top note of lavender (Tasmanian of course), boronia because it’s like the breath of an angel, sandalwood and then something very Australian, mimosa perhaps ....” and with flashing eyes and a big smile he described the picture in his mind with fragrances.

Jonathon is the artist and his partner Gabi Ivers is the compounder who does the measuring and mixing of formulas. Their laboratory is a pantry for the nose and in it they create fragrances for commercial cleaners, hair and body care and of course individual signature scents. It is mostly serious work requiring fastidious attention to

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detail. But every now and then, a request arrives to truly test Jonathon’s nose.

“Sealife Sydney Aquarium has a dugong display for children,” said Gabi.

“The children push the model dugong’s tummy and he burps. They wanted us to create an authentic dugong breath smell to emanate from the display.

“We didn’t know what a dugong’s breath smelt like but apparently it is like a seal’s breath so we visited Underwater World on the Sunshine Coast for the purpose of smelling Groucho the seal’s breath! I still have a vision of Jonathon kneeling next to this enormous seal and sniffing its mouth every time it barked!”

And there it is on the shelf, a dark brown apothecary bottle carefully named Dugong Breath standing right next to the bottle marked Dugong Flatus – you guessed it, same display at the aquarium.

“A courier arrived one day with a package of dugong poo for me to create a similar odour – all in a day’s work!” said Jonathon. “Poor Gabi accidentally sprayed some on herself and she smelt worse than the dynamic lifter

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MIND BODY AND SOUL

THIS PAGE: A selection of Damask fragrances and apothecary bottles; Gabi at work. PREVIOUS PAGE: Damask Perfumery Jonathon Midgely and Gabi Ivers. PHOTOS: SIMON HALL

section at Bunnings!”

Then there was the human blood smell to accompany a particularly gruesome theatre production, a wet dog smell for an artist’s installation in Sydney, a mangrove smell for a Museum of Brisbane display and the smell of wheat, oats and chaff for the National Horse Museum in Canberra.

Jonathon said fragrances worked on a subliminal level and could be used to attract people or turn them away.

“We make sprays of fresh coffee and cakes for real estate agents and then we also make a skunk smell that can be used to deter vandals from derelict buildings – it is so awful and so strong we have to keep it in a special container.”

Jonathon’s passion for perfume began in New Zealand more than 40 years ago where he trained with a master perfumer.

“There are no formal training courses and you have to do a lot of your own research and learning. I am a member of IFRA (International Fragrance Association) based in Geneva and I’m grateful for their guidance.”

Jonathon has an extraordinary knowledge of the history of perfumes and can recreate almost any fragrance from the past.

“The 16th and 17th centuries had a very different aesthetic, for example, Queen Elizabeth the First favoured a perfume based on pure ambergris,” he said. “I am often asked to recreate perfumes that are no longer available to buy and I’ve also been making signature fragrances for individual customers for up to 15 years.

“People frequently request ‘all natural’ fragrances but I have to tell you that some of the natural ingredients traditionally used in perfumes are revolting! Real musk comes from a musk deer’s abdomen, another kind comes from the anal glands of a civet and ambergris is a waxy substance regurgitated by a whale! Thankfully the synthetic versions of these ingredients are easily obtained and great to work with!” ❖ If you’d like your own signature fragrance created, visit www.damaskperfumery.com.au or the Damask Perfumery Facebook page.

THE ROLLS, THE BENTLEY, AND US

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ME AND MY CAR

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Joining a classic car club provides lots of social opportunities .................................................................................................

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Ian and Sue Maitland’s 1957 Bentley.

ike a 1950s movie star, Sue Maitland sinks into the leather passenger seat of her perfectly polished convertible Bentley. With the wind in her hair and the sun on her face, she basks in the passing scenery. Next to her is husband Ian, ever watchful, eyes fixed on the road, ears tuned to the engine. It’s a regular weekend drive for the Maitlands.

“Shall we take the Rolls-Royce or the Bentley?” is a common question in the Maitland house. You see, Ian and Sue are a little spoiled for choice when it comes to weekend drives; there’s the 1957 Bentley Drophead Coupe or the 1935 Rolls-Royce 20/25.

Ian reckons owning a classic car and joining a car club is a fabulous hobby for couples.

“We joined the Queensland Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club and take part in monthly outings and ‘monthly carpark capers’ (early morning breakfast runs) around south-east Queensland,” he said. “They’re a great group of people, very social and helpful. We both love the club for different reasons: I get to tinker with cars

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PHOTO: IAN MAITLAND

and talk to other car enthusiasts and Sue loves the social get-togethers, the drives and all the different wineries, restaurants and points of interest we visit.”

In its day the Rolls-Royce 20/25 was considered a baby next to the Phantom 2, but at 4.5m long it’s not exactly nippy. Fewer than 4000 of the cars were made so they are very special indeed. Ian and Sue’s Rolls-Royce is even more special because it has been in Ian’s family since his father bought it for $2750 in 1975.

Ian and Sue first ‘met’ their type of Bentley in 1988.

They then saved and waited until one became available for sale. They finally bought it from Western Australia in 2010.

“We were looking for something a bit more classic and fun for weekend drives,” Sue said. “The Bentley is perfect.”

It was a coach built by Roger Fry in the style of H.J. Mulliner. Based in Western Australia, R. Fry and Son are regarded as Australian experts in coach-building.

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You should be

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❖ ...................................

And enjoying the health benefits of dance classes near you. .............

❖ ............

ancing is so good for us! Whether you choose ballroom, tap, Irish, line or rock’n’roll, dancing is exercise, it’s social and it’s mentally stimulating.

If you’re looking for a type of dance that is vibrant, energetic and diverse, guaranteed to lift the spirit and leave you smiling, try Bollywood dancing. It’s spectacular for physical and mental well-being, and a wonderful way to experience the diverse Indian culture.

Do some Googling and find a dance class near you. If you can’t make a weekly commitment, ask your nearest dance school about intensives and special programs.

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www.bollywoodbrisbane.com.au

MIND BODY AND SOUL

DANCING

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IMAGE COURTESY OF BOLLYWOOD BRISBANE.

Rediscover Your Senses

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Explore | Rejuvenate | Relax | Sleep | Celebrate

15 Bowman Road, Blackbutt Qld 4306 Phone : 07 4170 0395 Email : julie_terry@wiikirriretreat.com.au Website : www.wiikirriretreat.com.au

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HOUSE AND GARDEN

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The Village Heritage B&B was very much part of the history of old Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast.

Giving New Life to a

GRACIOUS OLD HOME AT MUDGEERABA .................................................................................................

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Modern bed and breakfast takes pride of place in historic town .................................................................................................

words by AVRIL PRIEM

pictures by FOTO FORCE and historic images courtesy JOHN OXLEY LIBRARY BRISBANE

n a city not known for its historic homes, one Queenslander in the Gold Coast suburb of Mudgeeraba has retained its heritage charm and encored as a bed and breakfast establishment.

Owners Liz Van Boxel and Richard Gardner, bought 65 Railway St in late 2015 and by early 2016 The Village Heritage B&B opened its doors to guests.

“I’ve always loved this house,” said Liz. “We used to drive by and I’d say that it would make a delightful B&B.” “I grew up in a bed and breakfast. My nan and my mum each had a B&B in Worcester, England. I also refurbished and ran my own Victorian-era B&B.” Liz’s business experience, Richard’s skills as a chef,

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and the home for sale at the right time, all converged into the perfect opportunity.

AGED BEAUTY Beautiful heritage features of the house have been preserved – oiled colonial pine walls, timber floorboards, a pedestal arch, an open fireplace, and windows with dimpled coloured glass panels.

“The last two owners really looked after it,” said Liz. “We added B&B essentials – ensuites, ducted air-conditioning, wi-fi, and in each room, a television, fridge, and tea kettle.”

The three bedrooms pay homage to the history and

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pioneers of Mudgeeraba.

THE ANDREWS ROOM

THE STARKEY ROOM The name pays tribute to the Starkey family who lived a couple of doors down. William Starkey built his house around 1920 and it still stands today. William’s grandfather, George, arrived from Yorkshire, England in 1862. Coincidentally, Richard hails from Yorkshire.

❖ www.mudgeerababnb.com.au ❖ To experience the history of Mudgeeraba and surrounds, visit the Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum open Sundays 10am to 2pm. www.gchheritagemuseum.org.au

THE RAILWAY ROOM

Take a virtual tour of the Mudgeeraba Heritage

This ground-level room gives a nod to the South Coast railway that ran a passenger and goods train from

Walk, created by Gold Coast City Libraries, through www.historypin.org

Independence When You Want it, Support When You Need it.

• Large 2 bedroom air conditioned units • Choice of plans • 24 hour emergency call buttons • Community centre for the residents’ use

Wabi Sabi Designz ‘Samurai Jacket’ Creating and designing unique pieces from Japanese vintage kimono and obi silks, wool and cotton.

• Shops, doctors and large variety of recreational clubs within minutes of the village

Homewares .....................................

Women’s Clothing .....................................

Accessories

• Taxi service available • Bus to Toowoomba – leaves from right outside the village

• Beautiful landscaped gardens • Friendly secure lifestyle

The Grange Country Villas Phone Diane and Doug on 4693 3734

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17 Short St Pittsworth

‘from something old and worn, something new and beautiful emerges’ www.wabisabidesignz.com

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HOUSE AND GARDEN

The name honours the prominent and well-respected Andrews family. Isaac Rankin Andrews, an Irish lad of 14, came to Australia in 1864. He acquired large land selections in the Mudgeeraba district and built the house in the early 1920s.

Marie Wylie (née Wintle), 87, grew up in Mudgeeraba and recalls her family: “My grandfather was Isaac Rankin Andrews. Grandpa and Grandma Grace had 12 children.

Uncle Bob managed the S. R. Andrews’ general store.

Uncle Bill ran the butcher’s shop and he and Aunty Lil lived across the road at 65 Railway St. I remember the house was beautiful inside. I have some crockery that belonged to them. My aunties – Bessie, Jessie and Evie Andrews – lived next door. Their old home is still there today.”

Brisbane to Tweed Heads from 1885 to 1964. The line reached Mudgeeraba in 1903 and the township grew to service the local timbergetting, dairying and farming families.

French doors from both upstairs bedrooms open to the verandah that captures the breeze and a view to the hinterland hills. Through trees, you can glimpse the Mudgeeraba and Springbrook Memorial Hall, originally built in 1922 then rebuilt after a fire in 1993.

The hall was the hub of social activities — dances on Friday nights, Paget’s Travelling Picture Show on Saturday nights (two bob to get in and a bag of boiled peanuts for threepence), and on Sundays, mass for the Catholic congregation.

Liz and Richard offer something different on the Gold Coast. “Our B&B guests appreciate and adore the heritage elegance and ambiance. We also host special occasions such as dinner parties or high teas. We just love it here,” beamed Liz.

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Japanese Gardens at Blackwater.

PHOTO: ANDREA FERRIS

Escape into the tranquility of a Japanese garden

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Japanese Garden,

â?– .................................................................................................

Symbolism and calmness feature in this relaxing environment .................................................................................................

â?– ................................................................................................

words and images by ANDREA FERRIS

ust about every regional town in Australia has a special garden worth visiting. In this edition we take a look at the Japanese Garden in Blackwater.

While there may not be a carpet of autumnal leaves and the remnants of cherry blossoms, this Japanese garden is no less beautiful in its adaptation of the extremes of the Central Queensland climate.

The garden is a living symbol of harmony and friendship between the cities of Blackwater in Australia and Fujisawa in Japan.

The garden features many traditional styles, such white gravel and stones to denote water flowing from a waterfall and the placement of the rocks to symbolise planets in space.

The lanterns represent various facets of life; the pond is

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The garden is a living symbol of harmony and friendship between the cities of Blackwater in Australia and Fujisawa in Japan.

an integral feature of any Japanese garden and an Azumaya (sitting house) is for tea ceremonies or just relaxing to be with one with nature.

The gardens are maintained by Central Highlands Regional Council and are open daily.

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Coolum Beach, Sunshine Coast Queensland Phone: 5446 3888 Email: enquiries@clubbcoolum.com.au www.clubbcoolum.com.au

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HOUSE AND GARDEN

BLACKWATER

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HOUSE AND GARDEN

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A tour group inspecting the Pretty Produce on Lamb Island, owned and run by Simone Jelley.

PHOTO: ALLY MARTELL

Pretty Produce’s floral high tea is visually sensational!

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Pretty Produce

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Take a tour and tea with a difference on Lamb Island .................................................................................................

❖ ................................................................................................

Althea Martell

dible flowers are back in the kitchen creating wow-factor in salads and desserts, breakfast bowls and seafood platters. You’re going to be seeing and eating a lot more thanks to primary producers like Pretty Produce.

Pretty Produce on Lamb Island in Brisbane’s Moreton Bay is an organic grower of edible flowers, weeds and herbs for the high-end restaurant trade.

Owner Simone Jelley is constantly learning about growing the plants, their flavours, cooking uses and nutritional benefits.

People have been eating flowers and weeds for centuries, passing knowledge and recipes down through generations. Somehow this knowledge has been overlooked. Simone and her colleagues have taken up the mantle, happy to pass on their knowledge

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PRETTY FABULOUS!

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to anyone interested to ask.

Each month garden groups and foodies visit Pretty Produce to tour the gardens and experience a sensational high-graze tea made of colourful and intriguing ingredients.

QCWA Country Kitchens team leader Fiona McKenzie and I recently enjoyed an adventure to Lamb Island with a tour of Pretty Produce. In this instance, it’s true to say a picture tells a thousand words: The tour and tea is around $40 pp and worth every cent. The product range and garden is seasonal so expect it to change. Visit the website for more information: www.prettyproduce.com.au. ❖ Note: please, don’t eat from your own garden unless you know for certain it is safe to do so.

DALBY REMOVAL HOMES

SELECT CARAVANS PTY LTD

We purchase & sell homes for removal.

Specialising in Queenslander & Colonial Homes.

Receive our New House Alert emails!

Simply head to our website and fill in your details to receive emails about houses you may be interested in.

Ph: (07)4669 6162 www.dalbyremovalhomes.com.au ww.facebook.comdalbyremovalhomes/

Tel: 07 4669 6162 We purchase and sell homes for removal Specialising in Queenslander and Colonial homes

For bookings or enquiries please contact owner/manager Kristine Smiley.

FOR QUALITY CARAVANS AND SPARE PARTS ETC

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Hayden Dalby House

· Stylish air conditioned rooms · Long or short term stays · Private ensuite, TV & bar fridge · Shared living area and kitchen · Designated smoking areas • Hayden House is located in the quiet area of Dalby.

10 Eyers St, Toowoomba Ph. 4634 7877 Fax. 4634 1997

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Throughout Asia, Europe and the Mediterranean, food has been prepared with the addition of edible flowers as relishes and flavour enhancers to both sweet and savoury dishes

Floral Feast

FOR THE SENSES ..................................................

❖ ..................................................

People have been eating flowers for thousands of years. It’s a tradition passed on by each generation. The key is to know which flowers are edible and which are not.

Words by Fiona McKenzie ............................

❖ ............................

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Culinary Use

Scientific Name

Flavour & Aroma

Chrysanthemums

Petals in tea and leaves in stir fries: slightly bitter

Dendranthema X Grandiflorum

Rose Petals Rosa Spp.

Nasturtium Tropaeolum Majus

Zucchini Flower Curcubita Spp.

Saffron, Safflower Carthamus Tinctorius

Borage Borago Officinalis

dible flowers improve the appearance, taste, smell and aesthetic value of food. They also contain valuable antioxidants and therefore add nutritional value.

Throughout Asia, Europe and the Mediterranean, food has been prepared with the addition of edible flowers as relishes and flavour enhancers to both sweet and savoury dishes. For example, many varieties of roses were used in ancient Rome when cooking puree or omelettes.

Calendula officinalis was used in salads in medieval France and many cultures still use saffron from the crocus flower as a yellow colouring agent.

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FLOWERS CAN BE DIVIDED INTO THREE MAJOR COMPONENTS THAT AFFECT HUMAN NUTRITION 1. Pollen is rich in amino acids and carbohydrates and lipids (fats), carotenoids, flavonoids, eg kaempferol and quercetin (antioxidants).

2. Nectar, usually a sweet liquid that contains a mixture of sugars, amino acids, lipids, organic acids, phenolic substances, alkaloids and terpenoids.

3. Petals and other parts of flowers. These may be an important source of the above nutrients as well as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (eg gallic acid, carotenoids and anthocyanins).

Roses, for example, are used in fragrant waters, vinegars, conserves and jams and are candied, crystallised and used fresh or dried. The use of colourful flowers as food decoration is absolutely charming and on trend.

However, not all flowers are edible and care must be taken to ensure at all times food is safe to eat. Flowers must be carefully identified, free from pesticides, herbicides and organic or inorganic waste and fertiliser.

Children should be taught from an early age not to eat randomly from any garden.

The following short list provides some examples of flowers and their common use in recipes.

Violet Viola Tricolor

Dandelion Taraxacum Officinale

Begonia Begonia Tuberhybrida

Tea, syrups, baking, pastry: sweet, aromatic Caper substitute: mild flavour Stuffed with ricotta cheese and deep fried in batter: mild flavour Colouring bright yellow: bitter In salads and added to gin & tonic or pimms cup: cucumber Sprinkled in sugar and used to decorate cakes: sweet Tea and as salad greens: bitter Sprinkled in salads or served with seafood: lemon or citrus

Agastache Foeniculum Or Rugosa

With fruit salad and in tea: anise or strong licorice

Hollyhock

Slightly bitter

Anise Hyssop, Korean Mint

Alcea Rosea

Chive Allium Schoenoprasum

Sprinkled on salads or to decorate hors d’ouevres: onion

Allium Tuberosum

Sprinkled on salads: garlic, onion

English Chamomile

Tea: sweet apple

Garlic Chive

Anthemis Nobilis

Hibiscus Hibiscus Roas-Sinensis

Lavender Lavandula Angustifolia

In champagne and salads: citrus/cranberry Ice creams and cakes: floral

Pelargonium Spp.

Tea and in cakes and puddings: rose or lemon, mild

Lilac

Cakes and puddings: lilac

Scented Geranium

Syringa Vulgaris

Bergamot

Tea: orange

Monarda Didyma

Be careful in selecting flowers to eat. If in doubt - don’t!

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HAOTUTSH EEA N TA D BGLAER D E N

Common name

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Living on the

MARGINS

BIRDS QUEENSLAND

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Discover some of our less ‘extrovert’ species of birds .................................................................................................

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words and pictures by JILL AND IAN BROWN of Birds Queensland

ivers, lakes and swamps have their share of conspicuous birds. Pelicans sail on the open water, or fish in synchronised teams. Ducks dive or dabble; cormorants pursue their prey under water then sit in the sun to dry their wings. Swamphens and moorhens patrol the shores foraging for food. Lakes and streams also provide homes for many much less conspicuous birds.

These may not be as familiar, but they are equally beautifully patterned and adapted to their particular niche in the environment.

Most of these species occur almost anywhere in Queensland. They depend on water and can move long distances when rainfall provides their preferred environment. Although all can fly, they are almost always

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seen on the ground, or on floating weeds.

They are all vulnerable to disturbance and clearing of reeds and long grasses along the shores. Since most are ground nesting, to both native predators such as snakes and large lizards and to introduced threats such as cats, dogs and foxes. Rubbish and pollution also threaten their precarious habitat.

They are a wonderful and subtle part of our rich avian heritage. It is well worth watching quietly beside a vegetated creek in the early morning or late afternoon – catching glimpses of them is very rewarding. ❖ Find out more about birds in your area by visiting www.birdsqueensland.org.au.

BUFF-BANDED RAIL

The buff-banded rail is often comfortable around people

Perhaps the most familiar of the margin-dwellers is the buff-banded rail. It is an attractive bird, about 30cm in length. It feeds along the edge of swamps and dams, and even out onto wet grassland. While they are normally shy, they very quickly become tame. On some of the Barrier Reef islands, they forage through the dining rooms and seem unafraid of people. Recently, we were standing in a bird hide not far from Brisbane, and one wandered in and checked around our feet for crumbs which may have been dropped by hungry birdwatchers! Their diet consists mainly of insects and other small prey. I have seen one carefully pick insects from a low spider’s web – even the spider may have been at risk!

COMB-CRESTED JACANA

COMB-CRESTED JACANA Comb-crested jacanas are small birds that spend most of their lives foraging on floating vegetation in lakes and wetlands. Their enormous feet enable them to wander about on lily-pads and other floating plants while they pursue their tiny prey, but they are ill-equipped to forage on mud or grassy verges. Their bright red combs stand out above their smart markings. They actually nest out on the floating vegetation, and the tiny chicks hatch with the characteristic long toes. From then on, they forage for themselves, and can sometimes be seen wandering fearlessly across the lily pads, straying far from parental supervision. In case of danger, parents can gather eggs or even chicks under their wings to remove them from harm.

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SPOTLESS CRAKE

SPOTLESS CRAKE

The rare black-backed bitterns are one of the most difficult birds to spot

BLACK-BACKED BITTERN This elegant little chap is a male black-backed bittern, until recently called a little bittern. Black-backed bitterns are perhaps the most difficult to see of the birds mentioned here. They occur around lakes and streams along the east coast of Queensland around both fresh and brackish or even saline water, but not west of the ranges. They are about 30cm long, and very secretive.

They closely resemble some of the larger bitterns and herons in shape. Despite their shyness, we have seen them several times in Brisbane, and have even seen them with young in a wetland in a heavily urban area.

BAILLON’S CRAKE

BAILLON’S CRAKE Baillon’s crake is a beautifully marked little bird about the same size as a house sparrow. They forage on open mud at the margins of lakes and streams, and sometimes, as in this case, wander out across floating vegetation in search of small snails, crustaceans and insects.

We have watched them scurrying across the floating weeds following a cormorant or a duck that was hunting below.

Presumably the risks beneath the weeds send some small creatures to the surface for shelter, so they become easy prey for a watchful crake.

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HBIRDS QUEENSLAND

This little spotless crake is only marginally larger than the baillon’s, but is at least as cryptic. Its dark colours suit its shady home under the grasses and reeds. Its bright red eye and legs provide contrast, and it has some barring under its tail, which is seen when it does the characteristic crake tail-flick. It occurs almost everywhere in Queensland, again depending on conditions, except for the arid inland.

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The Song

IN HER HEART

C O U N T R Y O F S T U D Y F O R 2 017

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❖ .................................................................................................

How one woman is working to support orphans in Nepal .................................................................................................

Nepal: QCWA Country of Study for 2017

❖ ................................................................................................

.. I AM MERELY THEIR VOICE .. I AM MERELY THEIR WITNESS ... IF I SHARE FROM MY HEART ... THEIR STORIES MAY REACH AND TOUCH THE HEARTS OF OTHERS ... MOYALIA TOKMAK

Moyalia Tokmak loves spending time with the children in Nepal.

ver since she was a little girl growing up in south-east Queensland Moyalia Tokmak felt her destiny was to help others. When and where she would be called upon remained a mystery until the 2015 earthquake in Nepal when she was found her calling.

The first time Moyalia met the orphans was at their little school in Thankot, a four-hour drive from Kathmandu: a basic building, dusty and in need of repair. Dressed in identical green uniforms, they sat obediently in a row with straight backs, hands clasped in the Ganesha Mudra.

Their deep brown eyes fixed in wonder at the vision of this beautiful woman who would save them.

Without her and without any sort of education, these children, like thousands of others, would most likely be drawn into the sex or slave trade for survival. Moyalia brought hope.

“I know it’s only 12,” Moyalia says with tears brimming.

“I know there are thousands of children just like them but I have met these 12 and I have looked into their eyes and I

E

PHOTO: MOYALIA TOKMAK

will be there for them forever.

“To help them is the song in my heart.”

Looking back, Moyalia now realises that Nepal kept appearing in her life and had always been her destiny.

In 2015 she was the driving force behind Goodwill Village that raised money to rebuild a school in Satyadevi, in the Dharding Province, close to the epicentre of the earthquake. With the infrastructure project successfully completed, Moyalia reached out to the people.

The staff at Thankot School and Orphanage asked to meet Moyalia and told the children that an angel was coming to change their lives.

“Me an angel?” she laughed. “They had gathered leaves and flowers from around the village to make posies which they gave me with such pride as if they were jewels and I kept them until the day I left for Australia.”

Moyalia’s special 12 are aged between three and 16 years. Three girls and nine boys of different castes.

“They call me ‘mum’ and even though I can’t be with

.

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C O U N T R Y O F S T U D Y F O R 2 017

If you would like to help the orphans of Thankot through fundraising or actually volunteering in Nepal, contact Moyalia Tokmak – moyalia@goodwillvillage.org.

them on a daily basis, they are never out of my thoughts. I see my role as looking after the bigger picture for them.

“Their life is so full of work – they have vegetable gardens and grow a lot of their own food. I want them to know they are free to dream and to achieve. What was taken from them in their early years can be restored one thousand fold.

“These children don’t dream like western children do,” she said. “They dream of going to school so they can be doctors, teachers and army captains and give back to their village.”

Moyalia said the children of Thankot were greatly encouraged just knowing people out in the world could “see” them.

“Just knowing that somewhere in the world people are keeping an eye out for them is incredibly comforting.

They know they are not invisible any more.”

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T R AV E L B L O G

66

ped in Athens is stee HARDIE OS: AINSLEY history. PHOT

Get ready to lead a richer life with adventures and new experiences across the globe

History, art, cu

lture and fash

ion calls from

Rome

ENRICHING

.................................................................................................

❖ .................................................................................................

T ravel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer .................................................................................................

❖ ................................................................................................

words and Images by AINSLEY HARDIE

Dear Ruth WHETHER sampling delicacies at a small marketplace in Sicily, standing in a church that worships cured meats in Paris, drinking local craft beers in San Francisco and finding the perfect coffee in Melbourne or visiting Kronosaurus Kor ner in Richmond Queensland – travel allows us to learn and understand the world around us and how others live in it. Through travel we create beautiful images on which to reflect when we need to go to a happy place. Smells and sounds evoke memories from far off lands like chestnuts roasting on street cor ners, passing cattle trucks, church bells resonating through a midday rush or the silence in our vast outback. We marvel at food straight from the farm or cooked fresh at a local market. These lessons make us rich, they help us grow and they inspire us. Inevitably they leave us wanting more. Most important of all, travel makes us appreciate home and helps us feel grateful for what we have.

Until next time, Ainsley

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T R AV E L B L O G

A WORLD OF ADVENTURE AWAITS AT HOME AND OVERSEAS

ery.

Dubrovnik offers spectacular scen

Meet the l ocals with Urban es Adventure With Urban adven adv ntures, you are promised the BEST.DAY.EVER. In the past few months I have been lucky enough to have three BEST.DAY.EVER moments on two continents and in three distinctly different cities.

Urban Adventures is about a new style of travel experience for those who want to get off the beaten path and really connect with a destination. From a couple of hours to a whole day Urban Adventures tours take travellers to interesting places to meet locals, and really see what makes a place tick. Urban Adventures are available in more than 150 cities worldwide. I have experienced a beer tour in San Francisco, a food tour through the streets of Palermo and a behind-the-scenes local tour through the streets of Paris learning how to become Parisian. For more information visit www.urbanadventures.com or speak to the team at My Personal Travel Planner.

During the Christmas period last year clients experienced Christmases from the Canadian Rockies to a tiny Swiss village. One family spent Christmas above the Arctic Circle in Finland near Santa’s village. Sporting events are always popular for travellers too. There’s horse racing at Melbourne Cup or the Kentucky Derby, Grand Prix events across the globe, Grand Slam Tennis, US Golf Masters along with ice hockey, basketball, baseball and grid iron games in the US. Have you ever dreamt of watching the Chuck Wagon races at the Calgary Stampede or taking in the Edinburgh Tattoo? Talk to the team at My Personal Travel Planner to find out more. ❖ To find out more about these holiday destinations contact Ainsley at My Personal Travel Planner

Festivals and special events Visiting places during festivals and special events allows travellers to immerse in local customs. Christmas is a perfect example. I spent Christmas in Europe last year and loved walking through Christmas markets, eating and drinking festive fare. We had so much fun as a family gathering our Christmas Day feast from the markets in Paris.

❖ For more information on any of these travel inspirations, call My Personal Travel Planner ❖ 07 4637 8235 ❖ www.mypersonaltravelplanner.com.au

.

EVENTS

QUEENSLAND CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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Queensland Events for March, April and May ALISON ALEXANDER AND CELEBRIT Y CHEF MAT T GOLINSKI AT FELTON FOOD

SPECIAL EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

FESTIVAL: ON MARCH 25

P H OT O : K E V I N FA R M E R

MARCH 23–28

Feast of the Senses Innisfail www.feastofthesenses.com.au

MARCH 25

Felton Food Festival

25

www.feltonfoodfestival.org.au

APRIL 12–16

Gladstone Harbour Festival www.gladstonefestival.com

PERFORMANCES

14 APRIL

APRIL 22 – MAY 14

Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race

Once in Royal David’s City

Starts at 11am www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au

Redcliffe Sails Festival

PLAYHOUSE THEATRE QPAC MAY 15–19

The Village

Suttons Beach www.sailsfestival.com.au

LA BOITE, ROUNDHOUSE THEATRE, KELVIN GROVE

Bluewater Festival Sandgate

Collaboration with refugee settlement agency MDA, sharing real stories from our refugee community. www.laboite.com.au

www.bluewaterfestival.com.au

MAY 25 – JUNE 3 13 TO 17 APRIL

Roma - Easter in the Country

Lady Beatle

www.easterinthecountryroma.com.au

Starring Naomi Price this is a modern memory play set to the soundtrack of Beatles biggest hits.

28 MAY

MAY 5–13

Goomeri Pumpkin Festival www.goomeripumpkinfestival.com.au

14

BLACK JACK IN THE 2016 BRISBANE TO GLADSTONE YACHT RACE: STARTS APRIL 14 .

P H OT O M I K E R I C H A R D S

Qld Ballet – Swan Lake LYRIC THEATRE QPAC MAY 25 – JUNE 3

Opera Queensland – The Pearl Fishers LYRIC THEATRE QPAC APRIL 1

Qld Symphony Orchestra – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone BRISBANE CONVENTION CENTRE

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QUEENSLAND CALENDAR OF EVENTS

22

ONCE IN ROYAL DAVID'S CITY

P H OT O : Q T C

STARTS APRIL 22

NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA NOW UNTIL APRIL 17, 2017.

Versailles – T reasures from the Palace Includes a variety of lectures, tours and special events. www.nga.gov.au

DATES TO REMEMBER

25

LA BOITE LADY BEATLE: STARTS MAY 25

❖ Easter is Friday 14 to Monday 17 April. ❖ Anzac Day is Tuesday 25 April ❖ May Day is Monday 1 May.

AGRICULTURAL SHOWS ❖ To find out dates for all Queensland agricultural shows go to www.queenslandshows.com.au ❖ And in New South Wales www.agshowsnsw.org.au

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DESTINATION

70

The lush Tweed Valley is perfect for growing a delicious brew

Michael and Norma Grant-Cook established Madura in 1978.

PHOTO: MADURA TEA

TEA PARADISE .......................................................................................................................

❖ .......................................................................................................................

Take a tour of Madura Tea Estates and learn more about your favourite cuppa .................................................................................................

words by AVRIL PRIEM

icture a tea plantation surrounded by undulating countryside, the cultivated landscape unrolling like a bolt of green velvet. This scene could be in the highlands of Sri Lanka but it’s in the lush Tweed Valley of northern New South Wales.

Madura Tea Estates, near Murwillumbah, is one of only a few Australian tea plantations.

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❖ ................................................................................................ pictures from MADURA TEA

Three years after seeds from Tanzania were planted, the first hand-plucked leaves were ready for market.

Mechanised harvesting was introduced in 1984 when Murwillumbah engineering firm Fletchers built a multi-purpose harvesting machine.

In 1992, Michael and Norma retired and sold the farm to their accountants, who still own and manage the business along with two other Tweed Valley families.

EARLY DAYS Michael and Norma Grant-Cook established Madura in 1978. Michael’s father and grandfather were English tea planters in Ceylon. On his family’s estate, Michael learned the husbandry of tea and then, later on, trained in the art and science of tea tasting.

With his expertise, he established and managed a tea plantation in Papua New Guinea from 1964 to 1970, and later helped design the Nerada tea factory in north Queensland.

His passion for tea continued when he bought old dairy pastures at Clothiers Creek, just outside Murwillumbah, with a dream to grow tea and create an Australianinternational blend that was fresh and flavoursome.

CULTIVATING CAMELLIA At Madura Tea Estates, a guided tour introduces visitors to the cultivation and processing of tea.

Out in the tea gardens, 250,000 Camellia assamica (Indian) and Camellia sinensis (Chinese) flourish. Hedges are kept at about 1m for easy harvesting, which occurs from October to June. Only leaf buds and young pale-green leaves are gathered.

Inside the compact factory, a faint, sweet fragrance fills the air, huge brown bags bulge with tea, and whirring machinery churns out almost 750,000 tea bags a day.

Visitors see how the freshly picked crop goes through the stages of processing – withering, crushing and

.

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DESTINATION

Mildura Tea Estate near Murwillumbah remains one of the few tea plantations in Australia.

curling, oxidising, drying, sorting and packaging.

Oxidising transforms – almost magically – green leaves into the black tea we know and love, with its robust flavour and ironbark honey colour.

Green tea skips oxidisation and so retains its delicate, fresh-leaf taste.

The finished black tea is blended with quality selections from other tea-growing nations to quench Australia’s desire for a ‘nice cuppa’.

Amazingly, the time from leaf pick to packet is about 24 hours.

TEA TASTING Madura’s professional tea taster is Michael Sales.

He also grew up on a tea plantation and worked at the same tea estate in Papua New Guinea as Michael Grant-Cook (but at a different time) before arriving at Madura.

He uses his finely-tuned senses to test the aroma, colour and taste of brewed tea samples, but also to feel and hear the sound of dried tea leaves.

“I look for the reddish sheen of properly-dried leaves

PHOTO: MADURA TEA

and listen for a sharp crackle when I crush a handful,” said Michael.

MADURA FIRSTS Madura is proud of its environmentally-conscious practices and the many ‘firsts’ it has achieved – producing and marketing green tea in Australia in 1984, introducing biodegradable pyramid-shaped tea bags and pioneering vacuum-sealed foil packets for leaf tea.

The company is particularly proud of receiving annual consumer preference awards, from 2012 to 2015, edging out well-known supermarket brands that are all overseas owned.

Today, Madura sells more than 20 varieties of tea – black, green, white, chai and organic teas and herbal tisanes.

In Tamil, an official language of Sri Lanka, ‘madura’ means ‘paradise’. Madura Tea Estates is certainly a paradise for tea devotees. ❖ For information on Madura teas or tours, phone (02) 6670 6000 or visit www.madura.com.au

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DESTINATION

72

A Home

FOR COOPER .................................................................................................

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It’s hard to believe Queensland was once a cool climate place with an inland sea and forests of conifers, ferns and cycads. Admittedly it was 90 million years ago in the Cretaceous Period when dinosaurs like Cooper roared and gnashed around the Outback. .................................................................................................

❖ ................................................................................................

words by WENDY GROVES , member QCWA, Eromanga Branch and photos courtesy of EROMANGA NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

ABOVE: Museum staff offer hands-on tours. LEFT: At the dig site. PHOTOS: ROBYN MACKENZIE, CONTRIBUTED.

A generalised titanosaur similar to Cooper by Paleo artist Audrey Autchin. A tall human would come up to its knees.

AST forward to 2004, when a 14-year-old boy called Sandy Mackenzie was mustering sheep on his family’s property when he spotted an unusual looking rock. Sandy showed his dad, who then took it to the Queensland Museum for identification.

And there began the most exciting archaeological

F

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Exciting Plans in 2017 THE museum will begin an educational program for school groups to experience first hand the excitement of an archaeological dig: uncovering, preparing and displaying dinosaur and megafauna fossils. Hands-on tours at the museum introduce the giants of the dinosaur and megafauna world and an understanding of the importance of the collection. Participation in dinosaur and megafauna digs will be offered and a tag-a-long tour to the dinosaur dig site will also be arranged. ❖ Onsite accommodation will be available for participants in programs. Details on packages and programs are available on the website www.enhm.com.au or contact the Eromanga Natural History Museum on 4656 3084.

GETTING THERE: Eromanga Natural History Museum is in south-west Queensland’s Channel Country, one hour’s drive from Quilpie or three hours from Charleville. The museum is possible thanks to the generosity of the local community, Quilpie Shire Council, State and Federal governments and the Cooper Basin resource companies of Santos, Beach Energy and IOR Energy.

St Margaret’s PRE-PREP - YEAR 12

BOARDING YEARS 5-12

Interviewing now for 2018 to 2020 entry From Athol Station to Womblebank, and Allandale to Whitwell, the daughters of rural and remote Australia are at the very heart of the St Margaret’s boarding story.

Discover why St Margaret’s has been the first choice in boarding for generations of outback families for more than 120 years.

www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au • T: (07) 3862 0777 • E: admissions@stmargarets.qld.edu.au 11 Petrie Street Ascot QLD 4007 St Margaret’s School Council Ltd ABN: 69069684019 CRICOS Code: 00511K

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T R AV E L A N D E V E N T S

exploration of south-west Queensland.

The Eromanga Natural History Museum was built to house the remains of “Cooper” the largest dinosaur ever found in Australia. A new species, approximately 25-30m long, it is in the top 10 largest dinosaurs in the world, nicknamed after Cooper Creek and the Cooper Basin where it was discovered in 2004.

Cooper’s remains was one of eight other dinosaurs discovered so far from only a couple of the many known sites. Large fossils from “Kenny” the diprotodon, an extinct marsupial bear, and other exciting megafauna fossils from ancient mud springs at Eulo are also being prepared, conserved and interpreted.

Queensland Museum has trained staff and volunteers in the process of collection, excavation, preparation and management of the significant natural history collections from this south-west Queensland area. This enabled the establishment of a bona fide regional based museum to house, research and manage this internationally significant collection.

A visit to the Eromanga Natural History Museum highlights the incredibly diverse natural history of the area with local guides who are passionate about these wonderful finds and delighted to pass on their knowledge.

With the opening of a new visitor destination in the Quilpie Shire, economic benefits flowed, including direct employment for six locals. Future stages of the museum could also mean more employment opportunities.

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WE MEAN BUSINESS

74

“Paper-cutting is a medium I favour for both its folklore quality and its unforgiving, yet satisfying, nature

Celebrate good times With the wedding and functions specialists

At THE CELLAR we take pride in ensuring you receive exceptional customer service and advice. Our experienced staff offer guidance in selecting the range of beverages you would like to serve and recommend the required quantities. If you are looking for professional and reliable service and the best prices, please give us a call.

• WEDDING AND FUNCTION EXPERTS • FREE WINE GLASS HIRE* • FREE LOCAL DELIVERY* • PROFESSIONAL WINE ADVICE • PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE* • FULL RETURNS POLICY* * Some conditions apply

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59-65 River Street Ph 02 6686 2162 4 Lawson Street Ph 02 6685 6455

43 Byron Street Ph 02 6687 1262 90 Jonson Street Ph 02 6685 6455

.................................................................................................

❖ .................................................................................................

Elysha Rei creates stunning artworks from paper .................................................................................................

❖ ................................................................................................

ou could be forgiven for thinking Artisan Gallery (in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley) has a new leadlight window. But look closer and you’ll see it’s made from paper.

Elysha Rei is a Brisbane-based artist who works in many mediums but she has a particular passion and talent for paper cutting.

“Paper-cutting is a contemporary art medium of expression that I favour for both its folklore quality and its unforgiving, yet satisfying, nature,” she said. “Without the ability to erase lines or paint over a mistake, cutting paper forces me to trust my decisions. It makes me invest in my designs with

Y

The Kings Counsel paper cut window at Artisan Gallery in Fortitude Valley. PHOTO: ELYSHA REI

conviction. I relish the challenge of creating artworks through paper-cutting that are visually captivating as well as structurally refined.”

With Japanese and Australian family heritage, Elysha has a fascination with the Asian aesthetic and you’ll see that influence in her work.

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WE MEAN BUSINESS

CUTTING EDGE

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❖ Whilst Elysha is an exhibiting artist who has displayed work all over the world, she does, from time-to-time, hold workshops in paper cutting. To find out more visit her website: www.elysharei.com

6516927ah

Built As Tough As The Women Who Drive Them.

HORSEPOWER YOU CAN RELY ON! See your local Mahindra Dealer for prices.

www.mahindra.com.au

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WE MEAN BUSINESS

76

HALLS FOR HIRE .................................................................................................

❖ .................................................................................................

Go country for your next event and help support a local hall .................................................................................................

❖ ................................................................................................

Hiring an old hall can save money and create a unique adventure for your guests.

BLANK CANVAS: An empty hall is a blank canvas and can have structural elements that provide lots of options for decoration. PHOTO: AMEY ROSENTHAL

.

THINK VINTAGE STYLE WHEN PLANNING YOUR NEXT FUNCTION

Make it easy for guests A wedding at a country hall is really a destination wedding. Sort out the logistics and make it easy for people to get there and everything will flow. For example hire buses for guests to and from the nearest town.

Think structure first then decoration A wedding in a community hall is a great alternative to a marquee wedding. An empty hall is a blank canvas just like an empty marquee but the hall has structural elements that provide lots of options such as archways, picture rails, exposed beams and staging. Many commercial venues have rules about hanging things whereas halls usually have lots of existing hooks and hanging options.

Catering Because halls were traditionally built for functions their kitchens are usually well set up for catering and include sinks, benches, ovens, urns, cups, saucers and sometimes even serving platters.

Let’s Get Loud Parties in urban areas have to wind down after 10pm but a country hall is a bit more flexible especially if it’s in an isolated location.

WE MEAN BUSINESS

LANNING a party? Think about hiring an old hall and you’ll not only save money while supporting a community group but you’ll also be creating a unique adventure for your guests. We spoke to event stylist Amey Rosenthal, creative director and founder of The Perfect Party Co about the pros and cons of hosting a special event - such as a wedding - in a community hall.

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77

Bump in and out Depending how busy the hall hire is, you often have a day or two to bump in for a big event. And pack up is the same. This is great when you’re doing a lot of the decorations yourself – it means you have time.

T reasures I’ve found all sorts of treasure in old halls that can be incorporated in the decoration and theming – everything from old flags to bingo wheels and silver platters to massive vases. Such treasures provide character. ❖ Have a look at some of Amy’s work at www.theperfectpartyco.com.au

Byron Bay Ballooning Come and join us on one of our magnificent sunrise flights over the Byron Hinterland...

A romantic adventure of a lifetime

byronbayballooning.com.au

6516927ai

call 1300 889 660

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A Love of Books

FROM BABINDA TO BRISBANE

WE MEAN BUSINESS

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She’s a professional reader, award-winning bookseller and a respected literary judge .................................................................................................

❖ ................................................................................................

words by FIONA STAGER owner of Avid Reader in West End

LEFT: Fiona Stager PHOTO: TAMMY LAW

BELOW: Fiona Stager with good friend Eleri Morgan-Thomas.

FAR BELOW: Fiona and Eleri judging the Babinda Cake Competition.

If you’re looking for a good book, about anything, just ask Fiona Stager

iona Stager grew up in the picturesque sugar town of Babinda, 60km south of Cairns.

As a child, she was a ravenous reader. As an adult she never goes hungry because she owns a bookshop (with cafe!). She is the driving force behind one of Brisbane’s most exciting literary hubs at Avid Reader and Where the Wild Things Are in West End. We asked Fiona to share some thoughts about life in Queensland and about books:

F

WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT GROWING UP IN BABINDA? I grew up on a cane farm just outside Babinda and with my siblings we had the run of the farm and all the hills and creeks. Babinda is a very multicultural area with a strong Aboriginal community and I now realise what a rich and formative experience this was for me. Also, as the wettest

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place in Australia, there were plenty of rainy weekends which I spent reading and reading. Babinda is very much the place that made me.

I loved all the Magic Faraway books by Enid Blyton. One of the nuns read I am David by Anne Holm and I still remember how affected I was by the story. I loved Gene Stratton-Porter’s Girl from the Limberlost. I read Joan Lingard’s Belfast books, Judith Kerr’s When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit and other powerful anti-war stories, which gave me a strong sense of social justice.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN WEST END? When I first came to West End almost 30 years ago it felt like a small country town but with all the advantages of a city. It was multicultural like Babinda but with lots of exciting share houses. Everyone walked everywhere, shopped locally and neighbours knew each other. While it has certainly changed, I still love walking the streets and chatting with people. There is still a strong sense of community here.

YOUR STAFF ARE AMAZING! WHAT’S THE SECRET TO KEEPING THEM HAPPY? They are great, aren’t they? Many of them are published writers and talented artists and musicians. We are very supportive of their other pursuits and we feel very lucky to have such a wonderful, talented, clever group who love matching the right book to the right reader.

THE WORLD NEEDS MORE BOOKS ABOUT ...

WHICH NOVELS EMBRACE THE TRUE QUEENSLAND SPIRIT?

And by people of colour and diverse life experience. We certainly need more books by Muslim writers to be translated in English. I believe by reading we can walk in the shoes of others and that helps make us more empathetic.

We are so fortunate to have many wonderful Queensland writers. One of my favourites for 2016 is Just Not Black

❖ www.avidreader.com.au

CWA HOUSE OAKEY Aged Care Facilities in quiet country surroundings Take advantage of our 38 Years of caring service “CWA House maintains a home-like environment for country people, and coming through the front door is very much like walking into a welcoming sun room”.

CWA HOUSE is a QCWA-run aged care facility providing individual services to the needs of 40 residents.

• Individual bedrooms, some with ensuite, spacious living and dining rooms, tastefully furnished.

• Accommodation and Personal Care Services • Provision for secure dementia support • 24 hour service with nurse call system • Resident-focused activities

Thank You

• Accreditation from the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency • Built up gardens for resident use • Registered nurses on staff • Home-cooked meals • Wheelchair access • Respite Care

We would like to thank all our volunteers for all their 38 years of hard work and dedicated effort.

CWA House is located at 21 Cherry Street, Oakey Phone: 07 4691 1130 | www.cwahouse.com.au | supervisor@cwahouse.com.au

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WE MEAN BUSINESS

YOUR FAVOURITE CHILDHOOD BOOKS WERE ...

and White by Lesley and Tammy Williams. Lesley grew up in Cherbourg and this book is a conversation between mother and daughter. Together they have written a memoir which is moving, illuminating and powerful.

Some of my favourite classics are The Delinquents by Criena Rohan and Jean Devanny’s Sugar Heaven.

Contemporary writers such as Matthew Condon, Mary-Rose MacColl, Nick Earls, Susan Johnson, Patrick Holland and children’s writers like Samantha Wheeler capture the diversity of the very different lives of us Queenslanders.

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RECOMMENDED READING

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Recommended reading for

AUTUMN .................................................................................................

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Second World War tragedies to mid-life crises .................................................................................................

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by AVID READER 193 Boundary Street, West End

fascinating story that sheds new light on a largely forgotten but desperate battle fought on Australian territory. The Australian Government, unable to reinforce its small garrison, abandoned more than 1500 Australian soldiers and civilians as “hostages to fortune” in the face of the relentless Japanese advance. Set against the romantic, dramatic and ultimately tragic backdrop of Rabaul in WWII, this is a wholly intriguing narrative of Australian history, military conflict and volcanology, woven together with the story of one ordinary but doomed Australian family.

the human story of our attempts to control rain.

“Too much and yet not nearly enough, rain is a conversation we share, and this is a book for everyone who has ever experienced it.”

Line of fire

by Ian Townsend The little known and intriguing Second World War story of an eleven-year-old Australian schoolboy who was shot by the Japanese in Rabaul in 1942 as a suspected spy. A compelling story of spies, volcanoes, history and war.

In May 1942, in the town of Rabaul in the ... sheds new Australian light on a largely territory of forgotten battle New Guinea, fought on five Australian Australian civilians were taken by territory.

Japanese soldiers to a pit at the base of a volcano and executed as spies.

A mother, her brother, her husband, her friend and her 11-year-old son.

Acclaimed author and award-winning science journalist Ian Townsend has uncovered a

Get your sh*t together

Rain: a natural and cultural history

by Cynthia Barnett Cynthia Barnett’s Rain begins four billion years ago with the torrents that filled the oceans, and builds to the storms of climate change. It weaves together science – the true shape of a raindrop, the mysteries of coloured rains – with

by Sarah Knight Bestselling anti-guru Sarah Knight reveals how to stop whining and start winning!

Sarah Knight’s first book, internationally bestselling The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F**k may have transformed your life.

Now it’s time to take one further step along the road to mental decluttering; to stop whining and to start winning. In short, it’s time to Get Your Sh*t Together!

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A Hundred Small Lessons

by Ashley Hay A lyrical novel of two mothers from different generations and how their lives converge in one hot, wet summer.

When Elsie Gormley falls and is forced to leave her Brisbane home of 62 years, Lucy Kiss and her family move in, with their new life: new house, new city, new baby.

In her nearby nursing home, Elsie revisits the span of her life. Her memories of marriage, motherhood, love and death are intertwined with her old house, whose rooms seem to breathe Elsie’s secrets into Lucy.

Through one hot, wet Brisbane summer, seven lives – and two different slices of time – wind along with the flow of the river, as two families chart the ways in which we come into each other’s stories, and the unexpected ripples that flow out from those chance encounters.

Swimming Lessons

by Claire Fuller Ingrid writes letters to her husband Gil about their life together. But instead of giving them to him, she hides each in the thousands of books Gil has collected. Despite their two daughters, despite their beautiful but dilapidated house by the sea, despite Gil’s talent as a writer, their marriage has been troubled. When Ingrid has written her final letter she disappears from a Dorset beach.

Twelve years later her adult daughter Flora comes home to look

after her injured father. Secretly, Flora has never believed that her mother is dead, and she starts asking questions, without realising that the answers she’s looking for are hidden in the books that surround her.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies

Mischling

by Affinity Konar It’s 1944 when twin sisters arrive at Auschwitz with their mother and grandfather. Pearl and Stasha Zagorski take refuge in their identical natures, comforting themselves with the private language and shared games of their childhood.

As part of the experimental population of twins known as Mengele’s Zoo, the girls experience privileges and horrors unknown to others, and they find themselves changed, stripped of the personalities they once shared, their identities altered by the

by John Boyne Cyril Avery is not a real Avery or at least that’s what his adoptive parents tell him. And he never will be. But if he isn’t a real Avery, then who is he? Born out of wedlock to a teenage girl cast out from her rural Irish community and adopted by a well-to-do if eccentric Dublin couple via the intervention of a hunchbacked nun, Cyril is adrift in the world, anchored only tenuously by his heartfelt friendship with the infinitely more glamorous and dangerous Julian Woodbead.

At the mercy of fortune and coincidence, he will spend a lifetime coming to know himself and where he came from, and over his three score years and ten, will struggle to discover an identity, a home, a country and much more.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies is a novel to make you laugh and cry while reminding us all of the redemptive power of the human spirit.

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RECOMMENDED READING

burdens of guilt and pain.

At a concert orchestrated by Mengele, Pearl disappears. Stasha grieves for her twin, but clings to the possibility that Pearl remains alive. When the camp is liberated by the Red Army, she and her companion Feliks – a boy bent on vengeance for his own lost twin – travel through Poland’s devastation.

As the young survivors discover what has become of the world, they must try to imagine a future within it.

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Libraries are changing

HAVE YOU VISITED YOURS LATELY?

RECOMMENDED READING

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These days there’s a lot more to local libraries than just books .................................................................................................

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words and images by DEB MILES , executive manager of Regional Partnerships at the State Library of Queensland

State Library of Qld staff love to get into the spirit of things. Here they are raising money for the RSPCA. PHOTO: STATE LIBRARY QLD A cup of tea and chat with a robot at State Library Qld. PHOTO: STATE LIBRARY QLD

Find out about workshops, book clubs and craft groups at your local library

Local libraries have lots of amazing activities for children of all ages. PHOTO: STATE LIBRARY QLD

n case you haven’t noticed - libraries have changed!

They offer so much more than just books. That humble building on your street corner is now an exciting hub full of interesting things to do – a safe space for the whole

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community to learn, play, create and relax.

The 340 libraries across Queensland range from tiny branches open a few hours each week, to huge venues in town centres, some of them combined with swimming

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TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL

❖ make a Japanese washi paper necklace ❖ attend a Conservation Clinic about preserving and storing books, artwork, family heirlooms, films or photographs ❖ visit our Business Studio and learn from entrepreneurs ❖ let your child/grandchild participate in holiday programs ❖ or check out an exhibition

marketing to community development.

The beauty of libraries is that they provide so much to so many. Recent research by the State Library of Queensland found that using libraries as creative spaces supported health and wellbeing, cultural and economic development, community participation and educational attainment. For example, one case study featured a young woman studying multimedia design who used her library’s 3D printer to prototype her designs. Another older library user learned how to scan and save precious photos onto her computer. She learned new skills and at the same time enjoyed meeting new people.

So, if you haven’t been to your library for a while – check it out … you might be surprised!

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RECOMMENDED READING

pools or museums and galleries. Some libraries are the community’s lifeblood, vital places for locals to connect and learn; some out west provide a service for tourists or travellers to access free Wi-Fi or even borrow books for their journey.

In more and more libraries, you can learn how to use the latest technology – from the humble iPad to the latest in robotics. Some libraries host movie or craft nights, others help you research your family tree; some do story time with dogs, let you meet your favourite authors, or are simply open for you to pop in and browse through the latest books, magazines, DVDs or CDs. Parents often make special use of libraries, as they provide a fabulous venue to get together with other parents at story times or kiddies craft sessions or borrowing books, DVDs, and toys for their children. As a student, I went to libraries to be focused and quiet (and for the air-con!). Now I go to pick up the latest cookery, craft or gardening books, plus a few audio books to keep me entertained while I drive.

I trained as a social worker and wouldn’t have imagined working in a library, however, both professions share similar values such as supporting the development of skills confidence, being welcoming and inclusive, community engagement and developing a sense of belonging.

Libraries employ a diverse group of staff with a mixture of skills – not just librarians. We love talented folk who can run workshops from bee keeping to bunting and

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HISTORY

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What a tree!

THE MIRACLE OF THE GUTTA PERCHA .................................................................................................

â?– .................................................................................................

About 200 years ago the gutta percha tree was considered something of a miracle. Not only did it provide wood, but it also gave a plastic-like sap that allowed for all sorts of technological advancements in everything from communications to golf and dentistry. .................................................................................................

â?– ................................................................................................

words by LYN BAT TLE

From wood carving to underwater cables and modern dentistry

Left: This frame is carved from the distinctive dark gutta percha wood. It was popular for carving frames, buttons and hair sets in the 19th and early 20th centuries and many pieces can be found in antique shops. Centre: Gutta percha sticks are still used for root canal treatment in modern dentistry. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

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Note: the Australian Excoecaria parvifolia is sometimes called gutta

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percha but it does not share any of the

HISTORY

n its native Malay, the gutta percha (Palaquium gutta) is named for its remarkable sap: “Getah perca” translates as “percha sap”. Malay communities had been using it for centuries to make knife handles, but when Europeans discovered its thermoplastic properties in the early 1800s, its uses multiplied. The latex softens when heated, then sets when cooled, and was superior to rubber at that time.

As one of the first plastic materials of the 19th century it was used to make picture frames, inkstands, buttons, pistol grips, shoe soles, waterproof clothing and decorative furniture.

It even revolutionised the game of golf. Early golf balls were made of wood, leather and feathers using a complex and expensive process. In 1848, balls were made from gutta percha, cheaply and quickly shaped in a mould and known as a “guttie”. It was also noticed that nicks made older balls more aerodynamic, and so began the process of marking “dimples” on new balls!

Perhaps its most important use was as an insulator to seal undersea telegraph cables. Its unique property of “inertness” meant it did not react with the transmission wires. A wrapping of gutta percha in the many layers surrounding the conductor protected it from the marine environment and made transcontinental communication possible.

The demand for undersea cable took its toll, with thousands of trees felled to produce the required amount of latex. Unlike rubber, which can be sustainably

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useful properties of the Malaysian species. Its white latex sap is poisonous and protects foliage from grazing animals but its timber is still popular with woodworkers. harvested from individual trees for decades, gutta percha harvesting destroys the entire tree.

Eventually, synthetic plastics took over from gutta percha and these days one of the few places you will find it in use is at your local dental clinic. Its “inertness” makes it perfect for surgery.

Many people are allergic to latex rubber but gutta percha can safely be left inside the human body. Yes, inside! Next time you have a root-canal treatment, ask your dentist to show you the little sticks they use to fill the empty space inside the root canal. Once the nerve has been removed, the gutta percha stick is heated so it softens and spreads to perfectly fit the root cavity. Once cooled, it becomes a firm and flexible filler. No better synthetic substitute has yet been developed.

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Q C WA

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HIRE A HALL

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and do your bit to help preserve a great Australian tradition .................................................................................................

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You can help the QCWA by hiring a hall for your next event

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Q C WA

QCWA halls availabe for hire from left: Gayndah, Eumundi and Eton

hroughout Australian history the local hall was the epicentre of every community. It’s where folks held parties, meetings and of course Saturday night dances where countless young couples first met, first danced and where they first kissed.

For many years the QCWA was responsible for fundraising to build and maintain halls throughout Queensland – more than 200 altogether.

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These days, rising costs and changing compliance laws mean that the halls are becoming more challenging to manage for small groups of volunteers.

You can help the QCWA by hiring one of its halls for your next celebration, work party, meeting, workshop or training day.

Visit www.qcwa.org.au to find out about halls in your area or phone State Office on 3026 1220.

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Laybys Welcome

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Meet the new state president

JOY COULSON

Q C WA B L O G

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Supporting women through fun and friendship .................................................................................................

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

QCWA state president Joy Coulson

FAMILY: Joy is married to Bob and together they have a big, energetic, extended family including two sons, one daughter, 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A LOVE OF AFRICA: Born in Durban, Joy grew up in Rhodesia, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. It was a sad and troubled time in the region’s history when terrorism was an everyday threat.

The Australian immigration process took four years and the Coulsons finally arrived in Sydney in 1979. Seventeen years ago they moved to Cooroy, on the Sunshine Coast.

PHOTO: AIDAN COULSON

supporter of the QCWA Young Leader Program and looks forward to building it up to ensure valuable outcomes for young members across the state.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS Work, family and scouts aside, Joy loves family camping holidays, canoeing and all crafts especially crochet.

QCWA Joy joined QCWA 17 years ago and has served as branch president, state vice-president 2012–2014 and state liaison officer for young leaders 2014–2016.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2017 HARD WORK PAYS OFF: Joy likes to be busy and has worked throughout her life for big companies including American Express, Marks & Spencer and the Royal Lifeboat Association in administration, stock control and retail.

HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE: The scouting movement has been a huge part of Joy’s life. She was a girl guide from the age of 11 and a cub instructor from 16. She later served as Nambour District Commissioner of Scouts. Understandably Joy is a big

Joy is on the board of the Country Women’s Association of Australia where she will work with other states to help maintain the excellent work of CWAs throughout the country. She will also attend the Associated Country Women of the World South Pacific conference in New Zealand later this year.

But, most of all, she is looking forward to meeting members and learning about each region. She acknowledges there are challenges to keep QCWA strong and ensure it is always relevant to women and communities throughout Queensland.

! s u Join

Photo courtesy of Antola Trading

What we do:

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.

• 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.

You can make a difference too.

There’s sure to be a QCWA branch near you - and if there isn’t, we can help you start one.

For fun, friendship, inspiration and joy

Becom a

• 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.

e ber n w!

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.)

I’d like to join this Branch: .............................................................................

Full member One year branch membership .................... $48.00 (1 July to 30 June) Half year branch membership .................... $27.00 Supporter member

Name .......................................................................................

Address .................................................................................... .............................................. State ............ Postcode ..............

Phone .......................................................................................

Email ........................................................................................

Please charge my: Card #

Visa

Mastercard

Expiry Date:.............................................................................

Cardholder’s name:...................................................................

One year supporter membership ............... $60.00 Three years supporter membership ..........$165.00

Signature...................................................... Date...................

Send your application to: QCWA, 89-95 Gregory Tce, Brisbane Qld 4000. Please make cheques payable to QCWA. For more info, call our State Office 07 3026 1220 or visit our website: www.qcwa.org.au

NB: Credit card payments incur a $2.50 charge.

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Autumn

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GREY MATTERS

CROSSWORD .....................................................................

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by DOUG HENDRY of The Puzzle Company ...............................................

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Test your mind power with new puzzle

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Across

Down

5. Edible internal organs of an animal (5)

1. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5)

8. Tropical tree in tidal swamps (8)

2. Sense of anxiety or remorse (5) .................

9. Soup of meat or vegetable stock, with barley (5) 10. Petrol in the US (8) 11. Part of wall under sloping roof (5) 14. Chop or cut (3) 17. Blue plant dye (6) 18. Reproductive body (3) 20. Mix by pressing (5) 24. African animal (8) 25. Skin disease of furry animals caused by mites (5)

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16. Largest island of Japan (6)

26. Plant genus that includes cabbage, swede, turnip and mustard (8) 27. Intensive aerial bombing (5) ........................................

3. Dwarf-like creature in Scandinavian folklore (5) 4. Tree-lined street (6) 6. 1976 hit for Abba (8) 7. Archaic word for a contradiction in terms (8) 12. Most south-westerly county of England (8) 13. Edible snail (8) 14. Shade of colour (3) 15. Artificial head of hair (3) 19. Structure supporting a space rocket for launching (6) 21. Carl ____, German optician, manufacturer of lenses, microscopes and field glasses (5) 22. Swivelled wheeled undercarriage of a rail vehicle (5) 23. Himalayan country (5)

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Zeiss, 22. Bogie, 23. Nepal.

Brassica, 27. Blitz. Down: 1. Omega, 2. Angst, 3. Troll, 4. Avenue, 6. Fernando, 7. Antilogy, 12. Cornwall, 13. Escargot, 14. Hue, 15. Wig, 19. Gantry, 21.

Across: 5. Offal, 8. Mangrove, 9. Broth, 10. Gasoline, 11. Gable, 14. Hew, 16. Honshu, 17. Indigo, 18. Egg, 20. Knead, 24. Antelope, 25. Mange, 26.

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