Ruth spring 2015 web by Lotusflower

Blooming G o r ge o u s ❖ Be inspired by our ❖ Pregnancy stories ❖ Toowoomba spring gardens ❖ Delicious morning tea treats ❖ Craft ideas with ric-rac braid

❖ M A D E T O M E A S U R E FA S H I O N F E AT U R E – T H E B E ST O F B E S P O K E

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SPRING 2015

❖

LIVE AN INSPIRED LIFE

CONTENTS

Blooming Gorgeous 6. L O O K W H AT W E F O U N D 8. B L O O M I N G G O R G E O U S

40. R O B Y N ’ S B L O G – the QCWA President has had a busy few months travelling out west

62. T R AV E L B L O G with My

Travel Planner – Ainsley Hardie

42. I N M Y O W N W O R D S

64. D E S T I N AT I O N – Outback Tours with Travel West

43. M E A N D M Y C A R

66. Q U E E N S L A N D E V E N T S

45. FA S H I O N – Bespoke

68. T R AV E L D I R E C T O R Y

48. H O W T O W E A R

71. Q U E E N S L A N D B I R D S –

26. I N S P I R AT I O N A L PEOPLE

50. M I N D A N D B O D Y - The Language of Flowers

73. W E M E A N B U S I N E S S

26. B U S H B A B E O F O Z -

52. M I N D A N D B O D Y - Fresh

S TA R S

11. L A D I E S I N B L O O M –

being pregnant is a different experience for everyone

17. AT T H E TA B L E – When

friends pop round for a cuppa

25. W E L O V E … Aprons

GLASSES

Amanda Salisbury

Breath

28. N Q R I D I N G F O R T H E

55. D O M E S T I C G O D D E S S –

30. P R A W N T R A W L E R S

56. H O U S E A N D G A R D E N -

DISABLED

A N D S U P E R YA C H T S

32. B E G I N N E R G U I D E T O VA S E S

34. C R A F T -Ric Rac Garden 36. C R A F T - Beetroot Apron 39. T O U R T H E A R C H I V E S at Ruth Fairfax House

spring cleaning time

Paronella Park – a piece of Qld history

58. T H E C H R O N I C L E

GARDEN COMPETITION – learn from the experts

60. M O R N I N G G L O R I E S –

Queensland’s most famous clouds

spring guide

73. P E P P E R S A N D P O P 76. T R O P I C A L B L O O M S 79. W O M E N O F T H E W E AT H E R B U R E A U

80. C R O S S W O R D 81. R E C O M M E N D E D

R E A D I N G by QCWA Bayside Belles Book Group

82. J O I N T H E Q C W A 83. S U B S C R I B E T O R U T H

05 EDITOR’S NOTE

editor’s note

TO THE GARDEN AND BEYOND ... I do love spring and all its blooming blossoms. But there is so much more to spring in Queensland than flowers. ALLY MARTELL

hen I think of spring, I think of flowers – romantic, like our cover. But not all Queensland is a cottage garden! So in this edition of Ruth we have tried to capture the real essence of spring in Queensland. Our natural environment has some lovely surprises for us at this time of year: glorious sunsets in the far north, fascinating cloud formations around The Gulf, whales returning to the Southern Ocean along the coast and bird species visiting our gardens from the Pacific Islands and northern hemisphere. We hope you enjoy our stories about “blooming” – gardens as well as ladies. We know you’ll love our morning tea treats by clever food writer Alison Alexander. Our fashon pages feature made-to-measure businesses and craft is all about flowers and beetroot. Robyn’s Blog covers a special QCWA bus tour out west for members to see first-hand how regional communities are coping with the harsh realities of this ongoing drought. Have a look and dig deep for the QCWA’s Public Rural Crisis Fund. It’s making a difference where it really counts. Spring is a busy time for our rural communities. Wherever you live in our great state, here’s wishing you every success for the coming harvests, plantings and new stock. Do send us photos and let us know how you’re going. We love to receive your stories.

acknowledgements Editor: Ally Martell Design Yohanna Dent Cover art: Jane Bray Advertising Sales: Deb Hanfeld

Ev ery sale of Ruth magazine goes tow ards the w o rk of the QCWA

Advertising Enquiries: 07 46909310 Editorial Enquiries: 07 46909310 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 from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher; APN will not be liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.

SPECIAL FINDS FOR SPRING AND THE

LATEST QCWA NEWS

UPFRONT

LOOK WHAT WE FOUND

Very Swish

QCWA DIARY DATES ❖ QCWA State Conference will be held in Gympie October 27-30. ❖ QCWA Piecemakers’ Patchwork Work Shop November 15-16 at RFH on Gregory ...Live in and enjoy great company while learning new techniques. ❖ Associated Country Women of the World 28th Triennial Conference will be held from August 17-23, 2016 in Warwick, Coventry UK. Venue is the University of Warwick. ❖ For information on any of the above phone QCWA Head Office on (07) 3026 1220.

A s You T hink So Shall You Be …

Stylish and superb quality this raffia bag with leather tassel is $199.95 from Hickory Hill –

www.hickoryhillhome.com

Seeking stress relief? Adult colouring in books are all the rage at the moment. Combine your colouring with inspirational quotes and you have a great recipe for positive vibes. Design Originals Inspirational Quotes Colouring Book for Adults is US$9.97.

www.e-originals.com

HOWLIN G MO O N HEADP IEC E

Winner of the Howling Moon Headpiece by Mallow & Thyme. Go to the Ruth Facebook page to find out who our lucky winner is!

Dov ec o tes Dovecotes are so pretty in a spring garden and Mal Lyndon makes them to order. Contact Mal via email: malyndon@optusnet.com.au

Who was Ruth? Ruth Fairfax was the founding president of the Queensland Country Women’s Association. She was a truly inspirational and visionary woman who made a huge difference to the lives of country women around Australia. You can find out more about the work of Ruth Fairfax by visiting www.qcwa.org.au and click on the “About”tab. ❖ PICTURED: Ruth Fairfax with her son Vincent and husband J Hubert Fairfax on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary.

07 UPFRONT

EACH GIFT BOX CAN BE DELIVERED ANYWHERE IN AUSTRALIA – TO YOUR DOOR OR TO SURPRISE A BEAUTIFUL FRIEND

WIN A B UNCH OF TROPIC AL BLOOMS

Win one of three beautifully gift boxed packs of orchids valued at $79.95 each from Tropical Blooms in Far North Queensland. Each gift box includes 20 stems of orchids and matching foliage - you can view them on the website now www.tropicalblooms.com.au Choose either ‘Brights Range’, ‘Lights Range’ or “Blue Range’. Each gift box can be delivered anywhere in Australia – to your door or to surprise a beautiful friend. All you have to do to enter is write your name address and phone number on the back of an envelope addressed to Ruth Tropical Blooms Competition P.O. Box 40 Toowoomba 4350. The competition opens on 4 September 2015 and closes at 5pm on Friday 9 October 2015.Winning entries will be drawn at 9am on 12 October. Winners will be notified by phone. See full terms and conditions online at www.thechronicle.com.au

Jumble Culture by Tilly Fluf Bespoke bow ties in every colour combination made with beautiful quality fabrics. You can place orders for weddings, formals and black tie events. Visit the Jumble Culture Facebook page for more details.

Ha ppy Birthday SINGAPORE SLING TURNS 100

Originally called a “gin sling” this delicious and refreshing long cocktail was developed by Ngiam Tong Boon, a Hainanese bartender working at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel, Singapore. Don’t worry if you can’t get to Raffles to say “happy birthday” in person. Here’s the original recipe for you to celebrate at home:

THE SINGAPORE SLING

30ml Gin, 15ml Herring Cherry Liqueur, 7.5ml Cointreau, 7.5ml Dom Benedictine, 10ml Grenadine, A dash of Angostura Bitters, 120ml pineapple juice, 15ml lime juice and garnish with a slice of pineapple and cherry. Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes. Shake well – really well so that the pineapple juice foams. Strain into a highball glass. Garnish with pineapple and a cocktail cherry. Traditionally served at the Long Bar with roasted peanuts in their shells.

HOT TOPIC

“OCCASIONALLY IN LIFE THERE ARE MOMENTS OF UNUTTERABLE FULFILMENT ...

Blooming Gorgeous HAVING BABIES ... IT’S ALL ABOUT CHOICE

words VIRGINIA LAMBERT

very pregnancy and birth is unique. Yet all cohabit the universal theme that is the human experience. Across cultures, the conception of a new life signals for partners, family, friends and health service providers to join together in communal expectation. It can also prompt the mothers among us to reminisce about our own pregnancies and birth experiences – whether recent or long ago. Many will recall those precious moments and happily divulge the details at any given opportunity, while others will keep their memories private – confined within the heart. Forever protected. One person who has participated in hundreds of pregnancy and birth journeys and, subsequently, been

privy to all manner of sensitivities is Ros Beard – veteran midwife from the graduating class of 1974. For decades, Ros has skilfully helped clients aged from 14–45, many of whom are repeat families. It’s her passion and she doesn’t intend to slow down anytime soon. Keen to find the words that best describe how she feels doing what she does, Ros summons a nearby book for inspiration. And it eloquently delivers. Within its well-turned pages, the written words of Nobel laureate Martin Luther King Jr resonate with her own truth. “Occasionally in life there are those moments of unutterable fulfilment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words. Their

09 HOT TOPIC

❖ FAR LEFT: Makayla McIntosh with her own beautiful baby Albert. MIDDLE: Midwife Ros Beard sees her work as an absolute joy and privilege.

meanings can only be articulated by the inaudible language of the heart.” With pleasure, Ros reaffirms her lifetime work as “an absolute joy and privilege”. When asked if there has been an increase in the take-up of contemporary midwifery services, she quickly answers “yes” emphasising the “big change” is in the continuity, “women giving women choice”. “That’s what we’re all about.” Since opening its doors in November 2010, My Midwives Toowoomba has welcomed several hundred women into its programs and has established branches in other Australian states. Managing director and co-founder Makayla McIntosh says she and five others, including Liz Wilkes, Ros

Beard, Rebecca Denning, Hazel Matthieson and Theresa Walsh, started the service because of a national maternity reform underway at the time. “Part of the maternity reform was for a government policy to be introduced to allow midwives to practice in the community which is traditionally what has occurred.” As the first service to have midwives with Medicare item numbers, and the first in Australia to be given visiting access to a hospital, setting up My Midwives has been “a labour of love” for Makayla. An unmistakable love that carries visitors across the threshold of a charming timber Queenslander and into a special space – the one My Midwives staff and clients call their “home away from home”.

“Being pregnant finally helped me understand what my true relationship was with my body - meaning that it wasn't put on this earth to look good in a swimsuit”.

AMY ADAMS

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LIVE AN INSPIRED LIFE

11 HOT TOPIC

LADIES IN BLOOM AND A FLYING SUPERGRAN Four women with different perspectives on the miracle of birth ❖ Akol and Awut Alleu with their son Liai await their second baby.

words VIRGINIA LAMBERT

AW U T A L I E U

ITH a wide smile sweeping across her youthful face, 22-year-old Awut Alieu says being pregnant in Australia is different from being pregnant in Africa in one unexpected way. Here, Awut’s husband Akol helps out with the housework; an activity not tolerated by men in her home country of South Sudan, nor in Kenya – the birthplace of their 19-month-old son Liai. “He’s doing the laundry, the mopping and the vacuuming. He’s not allowing me to do anything,” says an excited Awut. Clearly, it’s a refreshing change for this young mother-to-be who is enjoying the support and attention it brings. Back at the start of February last year, the family of three settled together in Queensland after deciding to relocate to Australia. It was a decision not made lightly considering contact with family and friends in South Sudan would be limited to an occasional phone call due to poor communication infrastructure in the country. However, a year-and-half on, Awut and Akol’s desire to create a new life seems to have been fulfilled two-fold as they await, at the time of interview, the imminent birth of their second child. And although Awut hasn’t had her mother or sisters here to help her prepare, she has been attended to by an encouraging midwifery team and general practitioner, both ready by her side. With plummeting temperatures arrested at the front door, Awut glances outside and recalls an African belief

that, when it’s cold, pregnant women must wrap themselves up to keep the baby growing inside them warm. “If it is winter, you have to wear a lot of clothes to cover yourself because people believe that the air can go inside your stomach and make the baby sick.” Seeing her willowy, expectant frame snugly swaddled in a warm full-length garment, one senses all is well in Awut’s world.

LAUREN BUDDEN

AUREN Budden has her best friend to thank for the sisterly advice she gave leading up to the birth of her first born Millicent, or Millie as she is affectionately known. Following her friend’s delivery of a second child with the help of a midwife, Lauren’s friend told her how delighted she was with the experience. So, on the strength of her friend’s recommendation, Lauren made the decision to enlist a midwife for Millie’s birth and has done the same again for her current pregnancy. “My midwife Bec has been so accessible and it feels really comfortable having the same person around who understands you and your needs,” she said. “I remember phoning Bec when Millie was only a week old as I couldn’t get her to fall asleep. Soon after the conversation, a midwife arrived at my home and helped me nurse Millie to sleep.” The visit obviously left an indelible impression on Lauren who, at 36 weeks, beams with the trust she has placed in her choices.

HOT TOPIC

Having recently started maternity leave, the 30-year-old and her husband Matthew are gearing up for life to become a whole lot busier in the Budden household very soon. Until then, oodles of peppermint chocolates with creamy centres are sweetening the preparations. “I’m eating so much chocolate,” Lauren confesses. “Blocks of it. Especially when Millie goes to bed!” It’s a contrast from her pregnancy cravings with the two-year-old when dairy, particularly yoghurt, filled the craving. Early in both pregnancies, Lauren suffered with morning sickness. However, by 18 to 20 weeks things had settled down and she is now radiating a picture of health.

JENI BONELL

HE privilege of carrying a baby to grow into a person is what Jeni Bonell loves most about being pregnant. “I love newborns,” says Jeni. “There’s a sweetness about them.” It’s late in the evening and 46-year-old Jeni is generously offering her reflections on pregnancy and motherhood. With 16 offspring under her wing, seven daughters

and nine sons, she is well qualified to speak on both topics. First pregnant at age 19, Jeni went on to deliver babies through her 20s, 30s and 40s creating the large family she has today; an outcome that continues to amaze and delight her. “I had no inkling that we would grow a family this size. It’s just that I realised being pregnant and having babies was what made me happy. I consider motherhood a career. It really is a calling,” she said. Jeni acknowledges large families are not for everyone. In her words, “they require dedication.” “As we’ve gone along, it’s been fun for family members to see what my cravings would be with each pregnancy. “The children often talk about what foods they were grown on,” she enthuses. For those who love a statistic, Jeni has been married for 26 years, pregnant for 12 years and has endured five years of morning sickness, backaches and sleepless nights. While acknowledging pregnancy is “not an easy process by any means”, Jeni also concedes that age has brought its own challenges. As a consequence, and with the hope of adding to her brood, she seeks to maintain a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition, gentle exercise and a positive attitude as part of her daily routine.

13 HOT TOPIC

❖ FROM LEFT: Ray and Jeni Bonell; Lauren Budden; Nell and David Brooke.Four women of different ages with very different pregnancy experiences.

With five bundles of washing to load and some emails to be sent, all before Jeni’s bedtime at 1am, it’s timely for our conversation to end.

NELL BROOK

LYING is surely the swiftest way to move about when you live on the periphery of a desert with a thousand plus kilometres between you and the nearest major city. And, luckily, for channel country resident Nell Brook it’s a very familiar mode of transport. As a former South African Airways flight attendant, Nell had clocked up hundreds of hours of air travel before she arrived in Birdsville 41 years ago to marry David, the love of her life. It was there, a world away from international arrival and departure lounges, that Nell trained for her private pilot’s licence; a move that stood her in good stead to raise six children in the outback. Nell’s first pregnancy was twins, a boy and a girl. She says an ultrasound scan in Adelaide revealed the surprise. “Twins were completely unexpected, although my grandfather had a twin sister,” she said. Nell vividly remembers the moment when the wonder of it struck home.

“It was at a set of traffic lights where I had stopped on the way to my girlfriend’s house. I started giggling to myself and could not stop – it was a pretty weird emotion.” Another two sons and two daughters followed. During each of her five pregnancies, Nell relied on the Royal Flying Doctor Service for monthly check-ups in between specialist visits in the city. She says access to medical and obstetric services is one of the greatest challenges out west and was a major reason for choosing Adelaide to give birth. A week or two before the scheduled date, she would travel down to the city to “wait it out”, prior to David’s return in time for the new arrival. Only once did he miss a birth, the last one, due to fog. With each of Nell’s pregnancies came a much-anticipated three-month visit by her parents, a former doctor and nurse, from South Africa. “I felt really privileged to have them stay. It’s always nice to have your mum around,” she says. “Support is a great comfort when you’re having a baby.” Raised in a medical environment, Nell knew how things “went” with pregnancy back then. Now, at age 66, it seems like she’s got a handle on #coolgrandma too as her grandchildren buckle up beside her, ready for takeoff.

A RIVER OF INSPIRATION

INSPIRING PEOPLE

River’s mother finds a beautiful way to honour his memory through her art words ‘RIVER’S MUM’ JASMINE ARAS

❖ You can follow my journey on

www.flowriverflow.wordpress.com

As w e w a lked aw ay that day, I w alked tow ard the hope of a renew ed purpose

power and I concluded that if God in his wisdom didn’t bring him back to us, then it must have been for a good reason. A really good one. We always knew we would be starting a new chapter in our lives with River. So as we walked away that day, I walked toward the hope of a renewed purpose. I felt strongly I needed to do something special for him. I needed to pour my love into something. I pondered the options and remembered a dream from long ago parked on a shelf. It was time to bring it to life. So here I am, planning an art exhibition of my own work in memory of River and in celebration of him and mothers everywhere. The artwork will involve the mothers and babies from our antenatal classes; River’s friends. I can’t pretend it’s easy to look upon those beautiful babies and not miss my own terribly, but the hurt is outweighed by my awe at the beauty of it all: motherhood, creation and love. I have started a blog to track my progress in picking up a paintbrush again. I also use it to share my feelings as I process this first year. It’s for me primarily but also for others who need to be reminded it’s okay to cry. Alarmingly stillbirth is far more common than we think and a few months ago I discovered a charity called SANDS – (Stillbirth and Neo-Natal Death) which provides great support. Being in the presence of other women who have experienced stillbirth has given me courage and inspiration. My celebration of motherhood through this exhibition will hopefully raise money for SANDS. I hope it will become an annual event and maybe even global. My dad and step-mum, who live in Toowoomba, will be flying over for the exhibition. If I had a choice they would be coming to England to meet their grandchild. Instead a small dream is coming true; exhibiting alongside dad who is an artist too. I smile because it’s in honour of River. River brought a dream back alive by leaving in his place this gift of time and purpose. We may never understand why this had to happen, but I’m willing to have faith, to have hope and to keep my heart full of love. I’m a changed person whether I want to be or not. I look fondly upon my past life to a time when my heart wasn’t so broken. But I can never go back, and nor do I want to. I wonder why this event didn’t destroy my faith in God, but it has strengthened it. I admit I’ve never prayed so hard in my life. I’ve learned it’s okay to confront God seeking answers. I’ve learned feeling angry with the world is normal, it’s just not a place you want to be. I’ve learnt there are times you really need to take it one hour at a time; even a minute. I suppose the real message here is to let you know that the story continues. River’s life may have ended that day, but he has enriched and inspired ours in many ways. Therefore, his story hasn’t ended, and neither has ours. We will meet again and until then he will be a constant River of inspiration, as we always knew he would be.

15 IINSPIRING PEOPLE

HERE is something about being in your thirties, and married, which makes people ask questions about starting a family. There was a time when I could respond with a carefree smile and laugh. Now I pause, and wonder how to approach this. You see, we may look like we have no children yet, but in actual fact we do, it’s just that our baby went to Heaven too soon. Our son, River Ruzgar Emmanuel was stillborn on November 10 last year in England. I went for a routine check-up on the 7th as I was 10 days overdue. Everything was normal, as was the entire pregnancy. However the next morning, when we returned for another routine check, no heartbeat could be found. It was completely unexpected news. We were shocked and beyond devastated. I have tried many, many times to describe that moment in words, but whenever I get close I realise I do not want to relive it. I gave birth to him, naturally, two days later at 5.29pm and miraculously in a state of complete peace. We had so looked forward to meeting him, and that moment was finally here. As you can imagine, we thought he was completely beautiful. He was passed to me immediately, as he would have been if he’d been born alive, and I held him in wonder for as long as I could, inspecting his little features. He had inherited my husband’s nose exactly, and we admired him lovingly for the rest of the evening. I learnt soon enough he had been born with the cord wrapped tightly around his neck, though we will never know whether this was the exact cause of his death. It was strange to leave the hospital that night without our baby, but I knew we would be back. That thought got me through the night, as did my hope for a miracle. My husband Muti and I visited our son for three days. On the third day we made the decision we weren’t going to return. I took the baby car seat with us in hope of a miracle, but our baby lay cold and still, though so peaceful and beautiful. This little body I stared lovingly at was the body I’d given birth to, the one that had grown within me, but it wasn’t full of the life I had known. That life was in Heaven now, in a brand new little body. We decided to imagine him bouncing around as a little boy up there, smiling, cheeky and boisterous. He has Muti’s nose and my blonde hair, and he’s playing with other children gone too soon. We both cried as we felt it was time to leave him. We were strengthened by our belief he was safe and happy in Heaven, but I was still wishing for a miracle. I didn’t stop seeking that miracle until the day we stood at his graveside looking at the little mound of earth. I felt this is what mothers do; fight for their children right until the last possible moment. I had done everything within my

LLIVE AN INSPIRED LIFE

“If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO

recipes ALISON ALEXANDER pictures CLAUDIA BAXTER WITH FRANCES PIENAAR OF QCWA , MOGGILL BRANCH

The following recipes make “having a cuppa” a special event and will have your friends asking for more. Scones are everyone’s favourite and when made with buttermilk they have a delicious light texture. The recipe for the chocolate cake is very easy but a rich chocolate butter cream and raspberries transform it into a special occasion cake. Send out the invitations and gather family and friends for a special morning or afternoon tea.”

17 AT T H E TA B L E

WHEN FRIENDS POP ROUND FOR A CUPPA

AT T H E TA B L E

C h ocola te C a ke w i t h C hoco la te Bu t ter C rea m a nd R aspberri es 125G UNSALTED BUTTER, AT ROOM TEMPERATURE 2 EGGS 1 TEASPOON VANILLA EXTRACT OR PASTE 1 CUP CASTER SUGAR 1 1/3 CUPS SELF-RAISING FLOUR ½ CUP COCOA 2/3 CUP WATER 1 PUNNET RASPBERRIES 1 PACKET CHOCOLATE AND RASPBERRY CRUMBLE (OPTIONAL) 1/3 CUP ICING SUGAR CHOCOLATE BUTTER CREAM: 2 CUPS ICING SUGAR 4 TABLESPOONS COCOA 150G TABLESPOONS BUTTER, ROUGHLY CHOPPED Pre-heat oven to 180°C. Line base and sides of a 20cm cake tin. Place all cake ingredients in a bowl and using electric mixer beat on low speed for one minute to combine ingredients scraping down the sides of the bowl a couple of times. Continue beating at medium speed until the mixture is pale in colour – this will take about 4-5 minutes. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin, making sure it is free of air pockets. Bake in the oven for about 40 minutes or until the cake is cooked when a wooden skewer is inserted and comes out clean. Remove from the oven and rest for a few minutes before turning out of the tin onto a wire cooling rack. Allow to cool completely. Chocolate Butter Cream: Place icing sugar and cocoa in a food processor and process for 10 seconds. Add the butter and process until the mixture is smooth and evenly mixed. Using a spatula spread the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate butter cream. Sprinkle the chocolate and raspberry crumble over the top of the cake then cover with circles of raspberries. Finally dust the raspberries lightly with icing sugar.

Note: THE CHOCOLATE AND RASPBERRY CRUMBLE IS AVAILABLE FROM BURCH & PURCHESE SWEET STUDIO @ www.burchandpurchese.com

DAINTY AND DELICIOUS COCKTAIL SANDWICHES

DUSTED WITH ICING SUGAR APPLE FLAN CAKE

4 CUPS COOKED CHICKEN MEAT, FINELY SHREDDED 2 STICKS CELERY, VERY FINELY CHOPPED 3 TABLESPOONS ROASTED ALMOND SLIVERS 5 TABLESPOONS EGG MAYONNAISE 2 TEASPOONS FINELY GRATED LEMON ZEST 1 TABLESPOON EACH FINELY CHOPPED PARSLEY AND CHIVES SALT AND FRESHLY GROUND PEPPER TO TASTE 1 LOAF SLICED pretty! BROWN BREAD

So This sw eet treat will look beautiful on the tea table.

Combine chicken, celery, almonds, mayonnaise and seasoning in a mixing bowl. Lay out bread slices and spread a generous layer of the chicken filling on half of them. If preferred you can butter the other half of the slices. Place bread slices on top of the chicken covered slices and press gently. Cut off the crusts and then cut each sandwich in half. Arrange the sandwiches on a plate and keep covered until ready to serve.

Appl e Fl an Cak e

125G UNSALTED BUTTER, CUT INTO PIECES 125G CASTER SUGAR 2 EGGS 125G SELF-RAISING FLOUR 2 APPLES, PEELED, CORED, QUARTERED AND THINLY SLICED 1 TABLESPOON CASTER SUGAR

Pre-heat oven to 180째C. Lightly grease a 23cm square or round flan tin with a removable base. Place butter in a glass bowl and melt in the microwave for one minute. Using a whisk, stir in the sugar. Add eggs and stir again to mix in thoroughly. Add flour all at once and stir to combine but do not over beat the mixture. Pour mixture into the prepared tin and arrange apple slices on top. Sprinkle with caster sugar. Place in the oven for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and the cake is firm in the centre. Allow the cake to cool for five minutes before removing the sides of the tin. Dust with icing sugar just before serving.

Note: OTHER FRUITS CAN BE USED SUCH AS RASPBERRIES, APRICOTS, NECTARINES OR PLUMS.

19 AT T H E TA B L E

Ch ic k e n , Ce l e r y an d Roas t e d Al mon d Sandwic h e s

AT T H E TA B L E

B utterm i lk Scones 3 ½ CUPS SELF-RAISING FLOUR 2 TABLESPOONS CASTER SUGAR 60G BUTTER, ROUGHLY CHOPPED, AT ROOM TEMPERATURE 1½ CUPS BUTTERMILK 2 TABLESPOONS MILK

Pre-heat oven to 210˚C. Lightly grease a baking tray or line with baking paper. Combine flour and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add butter and rub in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the buttermilk using a bread and butter knife until the dough comes together. Turn out onto a floured work bench and knead lightly. Pat out the dough to 3cm thickness and cut out scones using a 5cm cutter. Place scones on prepared tray and brush lightly with a little milk before baking in the oven for about 12 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Remove scones from the oven and wrap in a tea towel to keep warm. Serve with whipped cream and jam.

Choc ol at e , Ha z e l n ut and Ras pb e r r y Fin anc ie rs 180G UNSALTED BUTTER, MELTED 1 ½ CUPS ICING SUGAR MIXTURE 1 CUP HAZELNUT MEAL ½ CUP PLAIN FLOUR ¼ CUP COCOA POWDER 5 EGG WHITES, LIGHTLY BEATEN 1 PUNNET FRESH RASPBERRIES Pre-heat oven to 190°C. Lightly grease 12 financiers or small cake moulds. Place butter in a small pan and melt over moderate heat until it is a deep golden colour. Set aside to cool. Place dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Add egg whites and butter and stir again until the mixture is smooth. Spoon evenly into financier moulds and top with raspberries. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until just firm to the touch. Remove from oven and allow to rest in moulds for five minutes before turning out onto a wire cake rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar before serving.

Note: ALMOND OR PECAN MEAL CAN REPLACE THE HAZELNUT MEAL.

21 AT T H E TA B L E

BUTTERMILK SCONES SERVED WITH JAM AND CREAM

CHOCOLATE, HAZELNUT AND RASPBERRY FINANCIERS

AT T H E TA B L E

CLASSIC GINGERNUTS WITH CREAMY CARAMEL FILLING

ORANGE AND COCONUT COOKIES THESE WON’T LAST LONG!

125G UNSALTED BUTTER ½ CUP DARK BROWN SUGAR 1/3 CUP TREACLE 1 TEASPOON VANILLA EXTRACT 1 EGG 2 CUPS PLAIN FLOUR 1 TEASPOON BI-CARBONATE OF SODA 2 ½ TEASPOONS GROUND GINGER 1/8 TEASPOON GROUND CLOVES ½ CUP DEMERARA SUGAR 150G BUTTER ½ CUP DARK BROWN SUGAR 1 TEASPOON VANILLA EXTRACT

Pre-heat oven to 180°C. Line biscuits trays with baking paper. Beat butter, brown sugar, treacle, vanilla and egg for five minutes. Sift flour, bi-carbonate of soda, ginger and cloves and fold in to the creamed mixture. Refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes. Roll teaspoonsful of mixture into balls. Place demerara sugar in a wide shallow bowl and roll the balls in the sugar to coat all over. Place the balls on the prepared trays, leaving room to spread. Bake biscuits for about 15 minutes or until they are firm to touch and slightly cracked. Remove from oven and cool on wire racks. Place butter, brown sugar and vanilla in food processor and process until smooth. Spread half the flat side of the biscuits with the caramel filling and top with the other half of the biscuits.

Note: BUNDA GINGA GROUND GINGER MADE BY ANTHONY REHBEIN, BUNDABERG WAS USED IN THIS RECIPE. www.bundaginga.com.au

Orange an d Coc onut Cook ie s 125G UNSALTED BUTTER ½ CUP CASTER SUGAR FINELY GRATED ZEST OF 2 ORANGES 1 EGG 1 ¼ CUPS SELF-RAISING FLOUR ½ CUP COCONUT

Pre-heat oven to 180°C. Line biscuits trays with baking paper. Cream the butter, sugar and orange zest until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until combined. Fold in the flour and coconut with a spoon until mixture is combined. Place teaspoonsful of mixture on the trays and bake for about 15 minutes or until the biscuits are light golden in colour. Remove biscuits from the trays and cool on wire racks. Store in well-sealed container.

23 AT T H E TA B L E

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WE LOVE ... APRONS statement in the kitchen. It’s not easy to find locally made aprons but we have sourced a variety we think you’d like to wear.

PRETTY, PLAIN OR PRACTICAL APRONS SAY A LOT ABOUT A COOK

All our aprons are available for purchase online: TOP FROM LEFT - Stagazey Pie Apron by Seasalt; Alice in Wonderland Apron by Ariella; Flamingo Pocket Apron by Annebel Trends. BOTTOM FROM LEFT – Sorbet Herringbone by Annabel Trends; Very Clever Apron with Sailing Ships by Seasalt; Very Clever Apron in Stripes by Seasalt. Foxy Apron by Ariella. SHOP ONLINE AT: Seasalt: www.seasaltcornwall.co.uk . Ariella Tailoring

www.ariella.com.au . Annabel Trends Gold Coast www.annabeltrends.com .

25 WE LOVE

Plain or pretty, vintage,funny or new, aprons can make quite a

INSPIRING PEOPLE

RIDING FOR THE DISABLED OFFERS A GREAT PROGRAM Working with horses improves self-esteem and social skills but above all - it’s great fun! words and pictures CLAIRE DUNNE

HE North Queensland Riding for the Disabled Association School (NQ RDA), is located on the beautiful Atherton Tableland. It’s a not-for-profit organisation that enables people with a disability to develop equestrian skills. NQ RDA coach Sheena Ferguson said the aim of the school was to “improve and enhance a person’s abilities”. “Working with horses improves self-esteem in the riders, as well as physical fitness, social interaction and therapy,” she said. “NQ RDA provides an opportunity to take part in sport, to be involved with animals, fitness and others with the same interests. Whether able-bodied or with

a disability, a love of horses unites.” If it takes a village to raise a child, then it must take similar amounts of support to enable NQ RDA to exist and thrive. Support from community and volunteers is an integral part of the group, and those who dedicate their time are true examples of what can be accomplished with teamwork and a variety of skills. Generally 20 volunteers are present at one time with rider numbers between 20 and 25. Classes are held weekly, with some of the more independent riders, riding on weekends. Why does NQ RDA coach Sheena Ferguson do it? “The challenge,” she says. “The satisfaction in working with the riders, in seeing

27 INSPIRING PEOPLE

their enjoyment and also the small achievements that are actually quite huge,” she added. Sheena knows the feeling of satisfaction from working with the riders, she experiences it all the time in the form of “verbal interaction from someone for the first time; eye contact with an autistic rider”. Some highlights for the North Queensland group in 2015 include taking riders to the State Championships and seeing them achieve goals they previously thought impossible. Activities include riders attending and competing at Special Olympics events, competing at the RDA State Championships and

national championships. A workshop for the NQ RDA is also on the cards for the riders and horses. The horses used for the riders with disabilities come from all over Australia. They start working in the riding school with experienced able-bodied riders, and then progress to beginners and then into the RDA schools. With the support of coaches, volunteers and the Atherton community, NQ RDA School will continue to thrive and develop opportunities for many more riders and their families.

❖ For more information about Riding for the Disabled go to www.rdaq.com.au

INSPIRING PEOPLE

BUSH BABE MEETS OUTBACK PAPARAZZI Amanda Salisbury runs the popular blog ‘Bush Babe of Oz’ and was a founding member of the Outback Paparazzi Facebook Page. She has built quite a following who appreciate her witty, insightful posts about life in the country. words CLAIRE DUNNE and AMANDA SALISBURY pictures AMANDA SALISBURY

ome is a beef cattle property in beautiful North Burnett, three hours from Bundaberg. Amanda and her husband Mark run Bimbadeen Brangus Stud and a commercial Brangus herd on rolling granite country.

YOU USED TO LIVE IN THE CITY - WHAT INSPIRED THE BUSH CHANGE?

Opportunity – we were given a chance to invest in the family business after our children were born. We had worked for a couple of decades in the city, but both had strong roots in the bush. I was a photojournalist and then a media advisor – my husband a system controller for a power company. Our first child was born with heart problems – a situation which shook us and made us take stock of our futures. Going from regular salaries to partners in a rural business was a huge gamble, but one which we felt would pay dividends – in terms of how we wanted to raise our little family.

HOW DO YOU FIND COUNTRY LIFE?

It’s been both better and harder than anticipated. I adore the space – the absolute luxury of space and the special moments of quiet in your own company that I never stop savouring. I love knowing we help feed the world – and that our animals enjoy the best care we can possibly provide them. We are lucky to have access to social media too – I cannot say I have EVER felt a moment of loneliness. Growing up in the bush, you know the limitations distance and cost inflict, but experiencing it as an adult is much more real. The health-care side of things is always an issue – one I don’t think we will ever stop battling really.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHILDREN’S SCHOOLING OPTIONS?

My son started at Rocky Grammar this year. It’s tough to have him so far away but he is enjoying the camaraderie of boarding school life, with mates from all sorts of places.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY IN THE SALISBURY HOUSE LOOK LIKE? Normally, my husband heads off early (sometimes with a contractor) to muster, fence, do waters while I get our daughter ready for school. After drop-off at the school bus, it’s either paperwork, housework or (depending on the season) out in the paddock (usually with camera in hand too) helping out. I am currently hand-feeding some of our weaner bulls – my favourite job!

PHOTOGRAPHY - WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT IT? WHAT DO YOU LIKE CAPTURING?

Anyone who knows me will tell you – my camera is a natural extension of my arm! Having been a photojournalist during my city years, it was natural to me to continue to capture the world around me with my Nikon. It’s almost a crime NOT to share it!

OUTBACK PAPARAZZI... HOW DID THAT COME TO BE SET UP?

It was an idea born naturally last year, through chats with some online friends – rural-based social-media-savvy chicks who have a passion for showcasing the great things about bush life. The core Outback Paparazzi group includes best-selling WA author Fleur McDonald and photographer Ann Britton. It’s the response from readers of all walks of life and from all corners of the globe which really keeps it going. People who live in cities visit and get a little dose of the bush.

❖ Join Amanda at: Blog: www.bushbabeofoz.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BushBabeofOz Twitter: https://twitter.com/BushBabeofOz Outback Paparazzi: https://www.facebook.com/outbackpaparazzi

29 INSPIRING PEOPLE

Amanda also produces a bush calendar annually – with $2 from each going to charities close to her heart: HeartKids Australia and breast cancer research. BB of Oz calendar: http://bushbabeof oz.com/calendar -orders/

INSPIRING PEOPLE

❖ From beach parties to big catches, it’s a busy, action packed life for a seasoned boatie like Shona Smith.

PRAWN TRAWLERS TO YACHTS to consider a similar path. words CLAIRE DUNNE

OST of Shona Smith’s working life has been spent on or around water. Her years working on prawn trawlers and sailing on super yachts that travelled the world gave her the abilities and focus to teach others her skills. These experiences helped form a direction and career but also gave her years of freedom and adventure. “Prawning attracts all types of women”, she explains, and she encountered many working for different reasons, “from travellers who work a season and move on, to professional women who need a break”. “The age group is varied, too; I’ve met cooks as young as 17 holding their own among burly fishermen and middle aged women who are quite at home on trawlers.” Shona grew up on a remote sheep and cattle station in New Zealand and first went to sea at 26 years of age. A Kiwi friend, also living in Australia at the time, invited her to work from Port Hedland in WA as a cook on a prawn trawler. It was the start of a long love affair with the ocean. “I would say the best thing about working on the prawn trawlers was that it gave me a love of the ocean,

something I never knew I had,” she said. She has held a commercial WA (Master Class V) ticket for 25 years and during that time worked aboard many vessels as full time crew (sail and motor) both in Australia and abroad in varying capacities. Her years prawn trawling were a time of freedom and exploration. “I loved being on the ocean,” Shona says, “and seeing dolphins, visiting remote islands and communities such as Groote Eylandt.” Taking time off in crocodile territory didn’t faze the crews; beach barbecues and cook ups of fresh seafood – bugs, scallops, fish and of course, prawns – were common events, “even when we could see crocodile tracks on the beach.“ It wasn’t all beach barbecues and ocean sunsets. Work would mean being away from home for months at a time. Shona remembers working 42 hours straight in her last trawling season. “A good sense of humour helps,” she said. Wildlife brought up in the nets was sure to keep you on your toes; flicking sea snakes back into the ocean, winching huge sharks overboard and watching out for stinging cobblers that Shona rated 10 out of 10 on the pain scale. There were dangerous elements that challenged the crew and their ability to work together. A passing boat might become hooked on your vessel and when that happened it was essential to keep the boat level to detach. “Heavy weather can be a bit scary. Sometimes the swell and waves were so big that the entire wheelhouse would go under water.” Further ocean adventures had Shona working and skippering superyachts, a lifestyle that she would recommend to any female. “I saw so many wonderful countries and islands in my 10 years over there, plus we always had world class chefs, for the guests obviously, but they also fed the crew.” “I know the Caribbean Islands very well as have visited most of them several times. I used to love the lifestyle down there. We’d stay about four months and then head back to Europe.” Now living in Perth, Shona’s focus is on helping people get onto the water, through her own business, SeaSmart Skipper Training, offering courses for both the experienced and inexperienced in boating. A keen skipper and woman of the ocean, Shona would love for others to share similar experiences she had, of “parties on remote islands in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Sunset or sunrise watch where you might see a lone gooney bird flying around. Watching playful dolphins ride our bow wave. The many different characters I met.” ❖ Shona’s training school http://seasmartskippertraining.com.au

INSPIRING PEOPLE

Shona Smith has seen it all in half a lifetime at sea. Now she wants to encourage others

BEGINNER GUIDE TO VASES

GET CREATIVE WITH FLOWERS

Different flowers need different vases to show their beauty to best effect. Here are some helpful hints on what goes with what

O, THE man of your dreams sends you a dozen long stemmed roses. Yay! But do you have a vase that can display them with full romantic effect? (Buckets and old jars really won’t do.) If you love having cut flowers in your home then you will need to match them to the right vases.

R O U N D A N D S Q U A R E VA S E S

They are fabulously versatile. A clear round or square vase will be perfect for mixed bunches as well as solid bunches of tulips, hydrangeas, rhododendrons and lilacs. Add in greenery such as ferns or ivy for effect.

L O N G VA S E S

For long stemmed flowers such as roses, gladioli, carnations, chrysanthemums, sunflowers, rhododendrons and tropical blooms like heliconia, bird of paradise and ginger.

B U D VA S E S

Everyone needs a selection of bud vases for perfect single blooms, shorter stems and small sprigs such as orchids, roses, carnations, freesias, daffodils,

marigolds, pansies, baby’s breath. They look lovely on a tray, dressing table or in a powder room. Group them to make a special effect.

S M A L L VA S E S

For little flowers like violets, grape hyacinth or lily of the valley and baby’s breath.

BOWLS

Flat or deep, bowls are great for displaying flower heads like daisies, hibiscus, camellias, frangipani. You want to people to look down on the bowl so place it on a low table or step. You can add herbs as well for fragrance.

C L E A R VA S E S

Shows off flower stems and makes the bunch seem taller; make sure the water is always clean and clear; you can add features to the water i.e. coloured beads, pebbles etc.

PAT T E R N E D VA S E S

You should either match or contrast the flowers with the colours on the vase.

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Stitch a Spring Garden

WITH RIC RAC BRAID

CRAFT

We show you how to make a bright spring garden ... all without getting your hands dirty patterns JENNI STEWART of QCWA Townsville samples LEONI LEE-ARCHER and PEGGY FREYLING of QCWA Toowoomba photos by BEV LACEY and Nev Madsen

OU can sew a spring garden quickly and easily using ric rac braid. Once you know the techniques for each flower you can be as creative as any gardener. Experiment with bunches, bouquets, cottage gardens and flowering trees. Use your work to create a picture, book cover, bag decorations and cushions.

L E AV E S A N D STEMS

Use baby ric rac for stems or regular ric rac folded in half and stitched to make a tube. For large leaves use 50cm jumbo ric rac in shade of green. For smaller leaves use regular width ric rac. Cut a “w” from the ric rac. Stitch together to form a ring. With the same thread, run stitches around the upper edge of the ring. Draw up tight and sew at the centre. Make as many as you need and stitch to the stems.

L AV E N D E R

For each flower you will need 75 cm regular width ric rac in light lavender. Run a running stitch through the centre of the ric rac. Draw threads up tight so they gather until flower measures 16cm. Pin on either side of the stem keeping the gather flat, stitch into place.

ROSES

To make three roses you will need 2m of regular width ric rac in a rose colour. Fold ric rac in half lengthways and interlock by hooking the “v” together. Cut into three same lengths, stitch ends so they do not come undone. Take one length and coil it tightly together for about 4-5 wraps, put a stitch to hold it together then

coil to the end of the length. Tuck the end under the coil stitch to hold in place and with your finger push the centre of the flower up a little bit then stitch the bottom of the flower together.

SUNFLOWER

For one flower 50cm jumbo rick rac in a yellow colour. For the centre, 12cm baby ric rac in brown – or use a button. Cut a piece of jumbo ric rac so the points are an even number. Stitch in one point and out the next along the upper edge building points onto the needle as you go. Pull threads up tight then stitch ends together. Cut off threads. This is the outer petals. Repeat process with baby ric rac to make the inner circle. Stitch the brown centre in place on the yellow.

H O L LY H O C K S

Each flower needs 12cm of regular ric rac in a shade of pink. Cut 6 points of ric rac with ends in a downwards direction. Stitch together to form a ring. Cut away excess at seam. With the same thread stitch into each outer upper point inside the ring. Draw up tight and stitch together. Stitch each hollyhock onto the stem. Use beads for centres.

DAISY

To make eight daisies you will need 50cm regular ric rac. Cut four points of ric rac with ends in an upwards direction. Fold in half then stitch to form a ring. Cut away seam allowance. With the same thread stitch lower points together and pull tight. Stitch your daisies in a group and use little beads as centres.

35 CRAFT

Once you hav e the techniques, you can create a garden or bouquet of your choice

CCRAFT

Beetroot APRON

& POT HOLDER

EACH year the QCWA celebrates a special vegetable and 2015 is the year of the Beetroot. A super nutritious food, Beetroot is grown widely in Queensland. To celebrate the Queensland Beetroot, craft lady Jenni Stewart from QCWA Townsville has designed a special apron and potholder pattern for you to create and enjoy. design and words JENNI STEWART QCWA Townsville pictures by NEV MADSEN

MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS:

❖ 1 metre beetroot coloured fabric ❖ 1 metre beetroot coloured fabric for lining ❖ Half metre green fabric for leaves ❖ Half metre green fabric for leaves lining ❖ Half metre iron on wadding “640” ❖ 2 metres bias binding 25mm in green ❖ Matching threads

NOTE: U S E 1 0 0 % C O T T O N FA B R I C S I F P O S S I B L E . Please read all instructions before beginning.

BEETROOT APRON

Place right sides together, place the pattern pieces along the fold of the fabric and cut from fabric and lining fabric. Put right sides together and sew around the edge of the pattern approx 7mm in from edge. Leave open where needed. Turn out the right way and press with iron. Now gather to edge and sew the bias binding on to the top edge of the apron.

LEAVES FOR APRON AND POT HOLDER

Iron wadding to wrong side of lining fabric first. On wrong side of leaf fabric, trace the leaves on to the fabric and then put right sides together. Sew around the shape of the leaves: three large, two small. Cut into the curves so they turn easily, cut where the line is on the pattern to turn the leaves to the right side. Press with iron. Top stitch the leaves then sew the leaves onto the beetroot.

POT HOLDER

Iron wadding to wrong side of lining fabric first with right sides together. Sew around the shape leaving open at the top, turn out the right way and press. Cut 10cm from the green bias binding and put in the top of the beetroot. Sew the opening closed. Now you can sew the leaves to the pot holder and shade the side of the beetroot with stitching if you wish. ❖ Our model Kristy Hayes looks great in this very stylish Beetroot Apron with matching pot holder.

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The history of the QCWA is intertwined with the history of Queensland. The stories behind the many fascinating items held at QCWA archives bring that history to life. words ALLY MARTELL

pictures by DON HILDRED

BADGED CHINA

Used from the 1920s, many styles have been marked with the QCWA blue badge.

hilst Mrs Mylne’s words (at right) certainly strike a chord with anyone who has been involved with the organisation, QCWA Archivist Norma Lovelace (above) is doing her best to ensure that the “outline” is coloured in with as much memorabilia and imagery as possible. Here is a small sample of what you will find at QCWA archives. We’ll share more with you in future.

The QC WA’s …. “real life is made up of many small acts and words and much patient work, which no-one ever knows about except those to whom they have meant

so much. Our history is only outlined in our reports; it is f illed in with a great invisible picture of life and work and thought, to which each one of us can add her own little bit of colour and line…”

STATE PRESIDENT MRS KATHLEEN MYLNE,

AUGUST 1930

QUEEN MARY’S DOLL

This tiny doll was dressed in clothes knitted by Her Majesty Queen Mary in the 1930s. It was offered for sale at the Sandringham Women’s Institute bazaar for 2/6 where it was purchased by First World War hero Miss Sylvia Corner OBE. She took it with her on a world tour and at the end of her tour she raffled the doll and QCWA Wonglepong Branch was the lucky winner. ❖ The QCWA archives are located in Ruth Fairfax House on Brisbane’s Gregory Terrace. Members and non-members are welcome to visit the rooms by appointment. Tour groups are also welcome. Phone Norma Lovelace on (07) 3026 1220

39 FROM THE ARCHIVES

TAKE A TOUR OF THE QCWA ARCHIVES

Crisis fund gives household support

THE PREZ BLOGS

MEMBERS TAKE TREK TO SEE EFFECTS OF THE DROUGHT THE QCWA urges women of all ages in Queensland to join them in their quest to help as many communities as possible, in both big and small ways. The association also needs numbers to give it strength when lobbying.

ELL, after the winter we have experienced this year, it is so refreshing to be able to experience the new life of spring. Nature is such a mystery that it knows which trees and plants to flower at all these different times. This is an awakening time when we shed all those winter blues and look forward to the colour and spectacle of spring. Some members of the Queensland Country Women’s Association were awakened recently to the harsh reality of drought affecting communities in western Queensland. Thirty-three members travelled to Winton via Roma, Emerald, Barcaldine, Ilfracombe and Longreach to meet with communities and see first-hand just how these communities are coping. “Fun Over Fifty Tours and Travel” was very generous and donated the use of a beautiful gold bus, which made the trip very comfortable. The QCWA has a crisis fund which assists the community with household support. Application forms were distributed in all towns during the trip. The fund receives some generous donations from the community and our members also fundraise to assist. We are always grateful to those wishing to assist us with donations. Last year we realised the impact of “stuff” on those at the other end receiving it. It is only natural that we all have the urge to go to the cupboard and give away what we no longer want to

wear or use – we want to help. However, it is very difficult to decide who should receive this “stuff”. QCWA has adopted the mantra “please send money not stuff”. By sending money it enables the shopkeepers in these towns to continue their business. We need those shops to still be open when the drought breaks. We are currently assisting those struggling families with grocery vouchers and paying some accounts to get them through this time of no income. While a struggling family is spending its voucher or store credit, it is helping the second family – namely the shopkeeper. We are very proud of our efforts to assist our communities in Queensland and as each branch (and we have 258 of them ) showcases its achievements at annual meetings this year, it confirms the need for such a long-standing, trusted organisation to exist. We need every woman in Queensland to join us – to assist us in helping all our communities in both big and small ways. We need numbers to give us strength when we lobby governments with our communities’ concerns. So do join us – look for a branch near you and awaken your interest in the community you live in. Form a new branch in your area and be part of this 93-year-old tradition of service to communities in all parts of Queensland.

41 THE PREZ BLOGS

â?&#x2013; CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Gearing up for the regional meeting in Rockhampton. QCWA members undertook an extensive tour out west to see first-hand the effect of the current drought. Members celebrating the English Midlands with a Jane Austen Day in Toowoomba. Enjoying a visit to Longreach are (from left) State Vice Presidents Maria and Jan with Pioneer DVP Carol. QCWA ladies enjoy hospitality by Emerald branch

IN MY WORDS

LUCY & THE TOMATOES Emily Wilson is very fond of her black-naped Sussock hen called Lucy who has proven to be a great help in the veggie patch. words EMILY WILSON

❖ Emily Wilson lives on a property near Tambo.

s an English girl who grew up on the outskirts of rainy Manchester, finding myself in the outback town of Tambo in south west Queensland, wasn’t so much “fish out of water”, it was more, “whale beached in the Sahara Desert”. Despite growing up in a house with a large garden, I most definitely didn’t inherit my mother’s green thumb. I very much took the green grass, and the plentiful rainfall, for granted with very little thought of the care needed to tend it. As a child I once spent 2 weeks watering a plastic pot plant. Here in Tambo, my unsuccessful efforts to grow my own garden have been repeated causes of mirth for my Favourite Aussie Dude. I drowned my herb garden, I scorched my lime tree, I dropped my baby tomatoes before I planted them – they never recovered. I planted a frangipani which started off great, until it was admired by a poddy steer which broke in to the house yard and devoured every shoot. My attempts at growing a lawn resulted in a carpet of award winning burrs and record-breaking prickles. I was never to make it as a member of the local garden club. But where I failed in skills I made up for it in determination and some really good luck. With the help of ‘Lucy’, the black-naped Sussock hen, I managed the impossible. We have about 9 or 10 hens. At one stage we had nearly 30 due to a rather enthusiastic rooster and the clever hiding of eggs from the hens. Typically Lucy (mummy hen) would disappear then reappear a couple of weeks later with a handful of fluffy yellow chicks from under the ride-on lawn mower…we never had the heart to do anything about it. We did eventually get rid of the

rooster. The hens are really quiet – especially Lucy. We let them out most days and they follow me back to the garden to see what goodies they can find. Lucy, she is usually the leader of the flock, heading straight for the door to beg for fresh scraps. I’m sometimes guilty of throwing bread out to them… As much as Lucy likes bread, she loves salad – and her favourite is definitely fresh tomatoes. I have even been known to hand feed her cherry tomatoes on rare occasions. In the throttle of the searing heat last Christmas, during the ravishing drought, when everything else was either dying or dead, I was trying to water what was left of the herb garden or the burr patch or dirt that I was aiming (fruitlessly) to turn into malleable soil. The soaring mercury reached 470C and the bore water reached 420C and therefore I was actually cooking the poor plants I was ironically trying to save. In the midst of all this - amongst the varying degrees of sunburnt brown foliage, suddenly there was a peak of green. A hint of a tinge. Life amongst death. As I peered in for a closer look, I couldn’t believe it. In all my efforts to keep the main part of the front garden alive, I’d neglected the back and ironically by doing so where I’d thrown the salad scraps to Lucy I’d managed to accidentally grow not one but three beautiful, perfect cherry tomato plants. Whether she just hadn’t eaten the seeds or whether she’d digested them first remains unknown. What we do know, is that they fruits were delicious albeit a couple that were within Lucy’s reach – (I put it down to her tending the bugs). Which just goes to show, that my chicken is a much better gardener than me. I wonder if I can get her to plant me some roses this year…?

43 ME AND MY CAR

W h e t h e r t h e y a re c o s i e d u p a t h o m e o r ra c i n g a ro u n d t h e M t Pa n o ra m a t ra c k a t B a t h u rs t , B e v Au l b u r y e n j o y s s p e n d i n g t i m e w i t h h e r d e a r f r i e n d Pe a rl - t h e 1 9 6 1 C a d i l l a c C o u p e d e V i l l e .

LIFE WITH PEARL IS ABOUT SMILES PER MILES Words ALLY MARTELL

meticulously restored 1961 Cadillac Coupe de Ville in Fontana Rose is never going to be just a “car”. It’s 19ft long for a start! To Bev and Jim Aulbury of Toowoomba, their Pearl is one of the family and she is treated like a princess. Bev Aulbury’s daily routine includes morning coffee with a special friend called Pearl. She walks to the backyard where she visits Pearl in her bedroom (it’s not a garage OK?). Pearl’s room is styled up as a 1950s diner complete with Cadillac Bar and Elvis memorabilia. Pearl is vision of supreme elegance. Sleek and shiny with cream interior and a cloud of soft fur on the back dash. She looks very content. “I talk to her and say ‘good morning darling, did you sleep well’,” Bev laughs. “There’s a heart beating in there you know, she’s almost human.” Pearl has been an adored member of the Aulbury

picture NEV MADSEN

family for ten years now. “She loves getting out and about, meeting people and tarting it up,” said Bev. “She is so pink, so shiny and so beautiful, she draws a lot of attention wherever we go. Bev and Jim make an effort to share Pearl and take her to events all over Australia. “I have an album full of photos from the Parkes Elvis Festival – everyone wanted to be photographed with Pearl. And they really love it when we say ‘have a seat’. “At night she lights up so she is still beautiful even when she is sitting in a dark car park.” But Pearl isn’t only about looks. She showed Bev her sporty side during a recent spin around the Mount Panorama track at Bathurst. Bev is happy to care for Pearl. She cleans her engine, she polishes her and keeps every centimetre shining ready for their next special outing.

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Our spring fashion feature is all about “made to measure”. We feature some talented Queensland women who have earned a loyal following in everything from lingerie to race wear. ABOUT: Tegan Crisafulli and Trish Bellero provide a bespoke service dressing some of the smartest women in Queensland. PRODUCT RANGE: Tegan is a Gold Coast-based Milliner (recently relocated from Townsville) who has established a reputation among those who dare to be different but still ladylike. Tegan works closely with Trish Bellero of Townsville label Bellero Designs to create bespoke race wear, bridal, formal and special occasion women’s wear. All Bellero pieces are original.

M i l l i n e r Te ga n Crisafulli and d e s i g n e r Tr i s h B e l l e ro c o m b i n e their talents

ORDERING: Trish and Tegan have a proven method of creating race day outfits. Clients are shown a selection of sketches accompanied by corresponding quality fabric samples.

❖ CONTACT DETAILS: ❖ Trish Bellero. Bellero Designs. 0418 882609 or tribel27@bigpond.com ❖ Tegan Crisafulli. Tegan Crisafulli Millinery. 0421043427 or info@tegancrisafulli.com.au

45 FA S H I O N

THE BUSINESS OF BESPOKE

FA S H I O N

Dynamic duo, Tegan Crisafulli and Trish Bellero hav e earned a fine reputation for stylish racew ear around all the smartest Qld tracks.

SHIRTS AND SKIRTS

MISH AND MESH CLOTHING

QUALITY WOMEN’S CLASSIC COUNTRY CLOTHING AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

CUTE HATS, PRETTY COTTON GARMENTS

Julie Schefe: J & K Creations

Julie Schefe operates a home-based business in Toowoomba where she designs and manufactures a range of clothing, using quality fabrics such as cottons, cotton blends and linen/cotton mix. She adds new pieces to the range constantly as she purchases only small amounts of each fabric. Product range: Julie’s range of garments includes shirts – with different length sleeves, skirts and unlined jackets in sizes 10–20 and 8–22 in some styles. Orders can take around two weeks. Contact Julie Schefe on (07) 4635 0018 or 0419 775 425, jkcreations55@bigpond.com.

LINGERIE Linda’s Lingerie

BRA SPECIALIST

After 20 years in the business there isn’t much Linda doesn’t know about fitting bras for all body shapes. And she means ALL body shapes. Linda custom makes new bras and is an expert at repairing or remodelling existing bras. Fittings are required and usually done in the privacy and comfort of Linda’s home. She stocks a range of designs but she can also replicate a favourite bra that you own. Linda uses good quality fabrics including 100% cotton and 100% wool. She can also make bras without elastic for those who are sensitive to elastics. Contact Linda Jobson at www.lindaslingerie.com.au or on 0402 990 159.

By Margherita Caruana

Margherita began making garments for friends going on cruises. They wanted cool and comfortable cotton garments that are easy to pack, wash and iron. Flowing tunic dresses are modelled a little on the PNG “Mary’s Blouse” which is so practical for hot tropical climates. She uses the best quality Liberty and Italian cottons and each is trimmed individually to suit. Her cloche hats are a favourite with travellers because they are easy to pack, warm and they do have a protective brim. Her felt hats are popular for picnic race days. Mish and Mesh can be found at markets and festivals around south-east Queensland. Have a look at the Facebook page to see where Marguerite will be setting up next. Marguerite will make garments to order. Allow two weeks for most garments.

BEACH BUDDYS By Debbie Budd

CUSTOM MADE SWIMWEAR TO SUIT EVERYBODY

Many women dread the idea of purchasing a new swimsuit. Beach Buddys’ made-to-measure service will ensure you love everything about your new togs. Debbie has a small swimwear shop in Agnes Water where she also makes swimwear on the premises. Her patterns are in sizes 8 to 24, which can be changed to suit each person depending on bust size, body length and so on. Bottoms range from skimpy Brazil bottoms to Debbie’s best-selling Enid which is very full bottom in sizes 6 to 26. Debbie regularly posts her swimwear all around Australia and all over the world. Contact her on (07) 4974 7055, 0428 747 055 or beachbuddys @bigpond.com. Website: www.beachbuddys.com.au

FA S H I O N

MADE TO MEASURE

FA S H I O N

HOW TO WEAR ... GLASSES Choosing the right pair of glasses is a huge decision. Glasses need to complement your colouring, your face shape, the clothes you wear and your personality. That’s a big ask for such a small item! The important thing is that you find a pair that you actually enjoy wearing. Treat them like your best accessory and consider investing in a few different styles.

CLARE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ❖ Dark eggplant Versace ❖ Fun blue and pink La Matta ❖ Invisible look Pro Design ❖ Classic square shape Michael Kors ❖ Aviator Sunglasses Ray-Ban

YOU NEED:

❖ A conservative pair for work and day-to-day ❖ A pair to match classic black and white fashion ❖ A pair for brown shades – suggest tortoise shell ❖ Something elegant for evenings or black tie events ❖ A fun, colourful pair that really shows your personality.

KRISTY

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ❖ Black and gold Burberry ❖ Blue Vogue ❖ Red and orange Dolce and Gabbana ❖ Kaos Sunglasses Michael Kors

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ❖ Rectangular Emporio Armani ❖ Simple black Vogue ❖ Tortoise shell Vogue ❖ Funky leopard trim La Matta ❖ Sungalsses Burberry

SHANNON SMITH’S TIPS FOR CHOOSING GLASSES: ❖ Most important of all – you just have to like them!

TENNIELLE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ❖ Green/blue Vogue ❖ Metallic Rim Vogue ❖ Purple and pink Pro Design ❖ Neutral chocolate with red sides Vogue ❖ Sunglasses Vogue

❖ The top of your glasses can either hide or enhance your eyebrow line. ❖ Be careful with matching earrings to glasses – if the glasses have bling already, dangly earrings could be too much. ❖ The current fashion trend is larger frames which doesn’t necessarily suit everyone. You have to ignore some trends and go with what suits your features. ❖ Sunglasses are currently big - think Jacqui O styles.

49 FA S H I O N

VANESSA

Thank goodness there i s a fantastic v a riety of glasses currently on the market. We visited Shannon Smith at Outlook Eye Centre i n Toow oomba to try on a few different looks.

SAY IT WITH

flowers

GET CREATIVE WITH FLOWERS

Floriography enjoyed a renewed and romantic popularity during Victorian times but the symbolism of flowers has been around for centuries words ALLY MARTELL

efore Snap Chat and SMS, young people in the Victorian era sent covert messages to each other using floriography – the “language of flowers”. They would send these messages via posies called “tussie-mussies” which were filled with coded messages. Whilst floriography certainly enjoyed a renewed and romantic popularity during Victorian times, the symbolism of flowers has been around for centuries, featuring in the art and literature of many ancient civilisations.

I F Y O U ’ D L I K E T O “ S AY I T WITH FLOWERS” VIA A LITTLE CODED “TUSSIE-MUSSIE”, HERE ARE A FEW HELPFUL HINTS:

❖ First figure out your message and which flowers will convey it. ❖ You’ll need a central flower, filler flowers and herbs such as lavender, baby’s breath, rosemary, ivy, mint and violets. Large leaves for framing the outside of your bouquet might include lamb’s ears, scented rose geranium leaves or violet leaves. ❖ You will also need floral tape, scissors, a paper or lace doily and thin satin ribbon. Don’t forget to include a small gift card to list the flowers and their meanings. ❖ Arrange the flowers and leaves in a small bunch – about 10cm in diameter. Use the lace doily as a wrap around the outside and tie the posy together with ribbon.

YOU MIGHT NEED TO ACQUIRE A F L O R I O G R A P H I C A L D I C T I O N A RY F O R L O N G O R C O M P L I C AT E D MESSAGES BUT HERE ARE A FEW SIMPLE FLOWER MEANINGS TO G E T Y O U S TA R T E D :

❖ Baby’s breath – everlasting love, pure of heart ❖ Camellia – my destiny is in your hands ❖ Carnation – fascination, devotion, I’ll never forget you ❖ Carnation (yellow) – rejection ❖ Daffodil – unrequited love, respect, chivalry ❖ Daisy – innocence, loyal love, beauty ❖ Dandelion – faithfulness, happiness, love’s oracle ❖ Gardenia – You’re lovely, secret love, purity ❖ Geranium – true friend, ❖ Geranium (rose) – you are my preference ❖ Ginger – strength ❖ Gladioli – generosity, I’m sincere, flower of gladiators (really?) ❖ Hibiscus – consumed by love, delicate beauty ❖ Honeysuckle – the bond of love – I love you ❖ Hyacinth (purple) – please forgive me ❖ Hyacinth (yellow) – jealousy ❖ Hydrangea – thank you for understanding ❖ Iris (yellow) – passion ❖ Jonquil – desire, love me ❖ Lilac (white) – first feelings of love ❖ Lily of the Valley – sweet, happy, humility ❖ Marigold – affection ❖ Nasturtium – conquest in battle ❖ Orchid – love, beauty, refinement, many children ❖ Pansy – merriment, happy thoughts of you ❖ Peony – happy marriage, compassion, shyness ❖ Ranunculus – I am dazzled by your charms ❖ Rhododendron – beware I am dangerous ❖ Rose – romantic love, wedding bells ❖ Sweetpea – goodbye, thank you for a lovely time ❖ Tansy – I declare war against you ❖ Tiger lily – wealth, pride ❖ Tulip – perfect lover ❖ Zinnia – thinking of an absent friend Herbs and Leaves: ❖ Basil – best wishes ❖ Borage – courage ❖ Ivy – dependence ❖ Parsley – festivity, knowledge ❖ Rosemary – remembrance, commitment ❖ Sage – wisdom

GET CREATIVE WITH FLOWERS

up close

MIND AND BODY

AND PERSONAL Bad breath can be socially crippling. Don’t just cover up with another sugary mint – let’s get serious about fixing the problem once and for all!

BAD BREATH IS CAUSED BY BACTERIA IT CAN BE AFFECTED BY DENTAL CONDITIONS, SMOKING AND YOUR DIET YOUR DENTIST WILL KNOW THE BEST PLAN OF ACTION FOR YOU

words ALLY MARTELL with advice by WESTRIDGE DENTAL TOOWOOMBA

ou can spend a fortune on how you look but if you have bad breath – that is all people will remember about you. Bad breath can be crippling socially and negatively affect self-esteem. Don’t just cover up bad breath with a sugary mint, let’s get serious about fixing the problem once and for all!

W H AT I S B A D B R E AT H ?

Called Halitosis, bad breath is caused by bacteria that live in your mouth, throat and sinuses. It can be a mild temporary condition caused by the food you eat, dehydration and your overall health or it can be a serious chronic condition signalling infection, tooth decay, dry mouth, gum disease and poor oral hygiene.

MAIN CAUSES OF HALITOSIS

Only your dentist will know what’s causing your bad breath and how to treat it which is why it’s so important to keep those regular check-ups. But here are some typical causes: ❖ Dental factors – such as periodontitis (gum infection), decayed teeth and generally poor oral hygiene. ❖ Dry mouth – caused by medicines, alcohol, stress or a medical condition. ❖ Smoking – which starves the mouth of oxygen. ❖ Foods - such as coffee, alcohol, onions, garlic or cauliflower which induce temporary halitosis. Less common causes of halitosis include: ❖ Acid and bile reflux from the stomach. ❖ Ketoacidosis from high protein diet.

H O W T O T R E AT H A L I T O S I S :

There is no one treatment for halitosis. The treatment will depend on what is causing the problem. If you suspect you have bad breath here’s a good place to start: ❖ Maintain good daily oral hygiene, including regular correct brushing, flossing and tongue cleaning. ❖ Maintain regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning treatments by dental hygienist. ❖ Avoid dehydration. ❖ Some mouthwashes, lozenges and toothpastes can assist in fighting temporary Halitosis – ask us which are the most suitable for you. ❖ Foods that help reduce bad breath ❖ Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva and

loosen food particles. ❖ Eat raw foods high in Vitamin C ie. capsicum, broccoli, apples and oranges. ❖ Take Vitamin D to help reduce sulphurous mouth bacteria – it can be found in fortified yogurt and some calcium supplements. ❖ Take probiotic supplements to balance stomach and gut flora. ❖ Chew specific deodorizing herbs and spices such as parsley, cloves, star anise and fennel.

MIND AND BODY

❖ Post-nasal discharge – possibly due to chronic sinusitis. ❖ Kidney failure, various carcinomas, metabolic dysfunctions, and biochemical disorders.

THINGS TO REMEMBER

❖ Halitosis is caused by sulphur-producing bacteria in the tongue, throat and sinuses. ❖ The major causes include dry mouth, certain foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene and a coated tongue. ❖ The treatment of halitosis will depend on the underlying cause. Effective treatment of halitosis may require a lifestyle change such as giving up smoking and reducing certain foods and drinks. ❖ Talk to your dentist if you have any concerns about your breath.

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Ask Ruth

Somehow the warmer weather inspires a little more enthusiasm with regard to cleaning the house. Humans have been “spring cleaning” for centuries without the toxic bombardment of modern cleaning products. There’s a natural solution to every household task and according to Ruth’s Domestic Goddess Marg Baildon, everyone in your house will be better for it.

CLEANING ESSENTIALS:

Vinegar: Cuts grease and soap scum, dissolves mineral deposits and is reputed to kill 99% of bacteria 82% mould and a percentage of viruses. Baking soda: Cleans, deodorises and scours Borax: Cleans, deodorises & disinfects Olive oil: Conditions woodwork. Essential oils: They not only add fragrance to your home they have extraordinary anti-bacterial qualities against nasties like -- E coli, listeria, salmonella mould and some can even inhibit the spread of human pathogens, such as influenza and pneumonia. My favourite oils for cleaning the house are cheap and widely available: lavender, tea tree, lemon, orange and peppermint. These are available at health food, grocery stores and pharmacies. Concentrated oils are natural but take care not to get them in your eyes or on skin.

ALL-PURPOSE CLEANING SPRAY

1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 20 drops of lavender oil, 20 drops of orange oil and 5 drops of rosemary oil. Mix in spray bottle with 1 cup of warm water and use to clean surfaces in your kitchen.

GLASS CLEANER

1/4 cup of vinegar, 4 cups of water 1 teaspoon of lavender oil. Add to spray bottle and shake well.

WOODEN FLOOR AND FURNITURE POLISH 4 ltrs of hot water, 3/4 cup of virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of lemon oil, mix well and use.

TO DISINFECT AND CLEAN FLOORS.

4 ltrs hot water, 1/4 cup of borax, 1 teaspoon of orange oil, 1 teaspoon of lavender oil. Mix well and you will have the most divine smelling home (after cleaning of course).

BATHROOM SCRUBBING POWDER

1 cup of baking soda, 1 cup of borax, 1 cup of salt, 20 drops of peppermint oil. Mix well and sprinkle on bathroom surfaces to scour and disinfect.

TOILET BOWL CLEANER

1/4 cup of baking soda, 1 cup of vinegar, tea tree oil. Pour around sides of bowl and allow to sit for at least 15 minutes, scrub then flush.

ROOM SPRAY

Add 40 drops of your favourite essential oils to water in a spray bottle and shake.

ELIMINATE ANIMAL URINE & THE SMELLS IT LEAVES

Orange oil is absolutely miraculous for this! Add 1 teaspoon to 1 ltr of hot water and 1/4 cup of vinegar. Wash the entire area – the smell will then be undetectable. Gather your essential oils over a period of time. Some may seem a little expensive at first but remember you only use a small amount so they will last for quite a while. It will be well worth it! Happy cleaning and enjoy the beautiful aroma of your lovely clean home.

SPRING CLEANING IS MUCH NICER WHEN EVERYTHING SMELLS BEAUTIFUL

DOMESTIC GODDESS

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN ... LET’S GET SPRING CLEANING!

HOUSE AND GARDEN

â?&#x2013; Breathtakingly beautiful, Paronella Park is a dream come true for the visionary Jose and Margarita Paronella pictured here in the 1930s.

ARONELLA Park is one of the most beautiful tropical gardens in Queensland and an incredible piece of the state’s history. Built on a dream 100 years ago, it is now a popular tourist destination, wedding venue and photographer’s paradise. A visit should be on every Queenslander’s bucket list. In 1914 Jose Paronella’s dream was to build a castle and garden for the enjoyment of the people of Mena Creek in Far North Queensland. Set on 5ha beside Mena Creek Falls, Paronella Park finally opened in 1935. It features Jose’s castle, picnic area, tennis courts, bridges and tunnel all nestled among 7,500 tropical plants and lush rainforest. After Jose’s death in 1948 Paronella Park went into slow decline. Cyclones and fires damaged the buildings and garden. Current owners Mark and Judy Evans purchased the Park in 1993 and developed a plan to put it back on the map. They see the Park as a work of art and focus on its preservation and maintenance.

57 HOUSE AND GARDEN

PARONELLA PARK - A BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF QUEENSLAND HISTORY

❖ Paronella Park has received multiple Queensland tourism and heritage awards and is a National Trust listed property. Read more about the fascinating history of Paronella Park at www.paronellapark.com.au.

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SPRING GARDEN

With so many great ideas at ev ery address, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; l l b e inspired to get busy in your own garden.

THE CHRONICLE GARDEN COMPETITION, TOOWOOMBA

pictures THE CHRONICLE PHOTOGRAPHIC TEAM

59 SPRING GARDEN

Spring GARDENS

OW in its 67th year, The Chronicle Garden Competition is one of Australia’s longest running, richest and most respected garden competitions. It’s also one of the few competitions which allows the public to tour home garden entries for 10 days, free of charge. The competition is open to residential, businesses, schools, places of worship, clubs and community organisations. There are categories for large, small, floral, cottage, drought resistant, edible and creative gardens. Some gardeners have been proudly entering their gardens for more than 35 years. As you’ll see from the pictures, there are loads of great garden ideas to be learned from these very talented entrants and they are always happy to stop and have a chat. ❖ Visit The Chronicle Garden Competition from 18 to 27 September during Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. For more information phone The Chronicle on 4690 9300. Pictures shown here are of John and Heather McGuinn’s garden.

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THE WONDER OF NATURE

BEST VIEWS OF MORNING GLORY CLOUDS - SAVANNAH AVIATION

FOR information on Morning Glories, scenic tours, special charter, aerial photography and accommodation Burketown, contact Savannah Aviation. Owner Paul Poole is the president of the Australian branch of the Cloud Appreciation Society. Savannah Aviation can give you the very best views of the Morning Glory Clouds (when they are around). For more information on (07) 4745 5177 or savair@bigpond.com

MORNING GLORIES

Majestic cloud formations draw weather and flying enthusiasts to Burketown each spring to experience this natural beauty first hand pictures LYN AND TEX BATTLE

UEENSLAND’S Morning Glory cloud formations are famous all over the world. Dramatic in appearance the tube-shaped clouds can stretch more than 1000km long, reach up to 2km high and travel up to 60km per hour. They occur regularly in the Queensland Gulf country around Burketown from September through to November and attract cloud enthusiasts and gliders from far and wide. Whilst Roll Clouds are not exclusive to Australia, the Morning Glories are known as the largest and most spectacular

of the kind in the world. What causes the formation of a Roll Cloud? Vertical columns of warmer air surge up the middle of storm clouds, while cooler air sinks downwards around them – helped along by all the falling rain and hail. In certain conditions, this sinking air can hit the ground in such a violent way that it causes a solitary wave of air to advance ahead of the storm. In the middle of this advancing wave of air, a roll cloud can occasionally appear, rotating as it travels.

❖ For more information about cloud formations visit www.cloudappreciationsociety.org . Founded in the UK in 2005, the society now has 33,000 members around the world including 2500 Australian members.

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T R AV E L B L O G

SPRING INTO SOME NEW TRAVEL ADVENTURES words AINSLEY HARDIE

Dear Ruth Since I became a parent, I have blossomed as a traveller. I learned from my mistakes (such as the consequences of checking the nappy bag with your luggage) to become a seasoned traveller who can enjoy all the world has to offer – even with husband and kids in tow. One Italian spring we travelled as a family to Rome. Watching the girls embrace new tastes, sounds, language, history and culture is one of my fondest memories. A favourite photograph from this holiday is spring blossom in bloom at the Roman Forum. Something so new and innocent in the midst of 2000-year-old ruins captures how I feel about travelling with children. No matter the destination, children bring something new to an old world. Spring is a great time to travel – in any country. There are iconic spring events on many a travel bucket list including a few that I’m sharing with you now. Until next edition. Ainsley Hardie ❖ Need a taste of travel before the next edition of Ruth? Visit www.mptpontheroad.com

63 T R AV E L B L O G

CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW AND KEUKENHOF TULIP FESTIVAL

Backroads Touring Company provides small group escorted tours throughout Europe with departures timed to include special events. Seven-day and 11-day tours focus on the Chelsea Garden Show. Departing in May, the tours visit gardens and homes throughout London, Kent and Hampshire before spending a full day at the Chelsea Flower Show. Have you ever dreamed of tiptoeing through the tulips? On April 6 or 27 you can visit the Keukenhof Tulip Festival as part of Backroads Benelux tour through the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany. See a carpet of more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in a rainbow of colours. www.backroads.com

SPRING RACING CARNIVAL

My Personal Travel Planner can get you right into the action of Melbourne Cup at Flemington. You can travel to Melbourne by cruise ship and enjoy a fully escorted tour, or you can arrange your own itinerary so you can enjoy marvellous Melbourne at your own pace.

JOIN ME IN ITALY

We have a few places left on our Tour of the Hill Towns of Umbria and Tuscany. Join me, Ainsley Hardie, on this small personal group tour departing Rome on April 23, 2016 for 10 nights.

CRUISING FOR CHRISTMAS

Wondering how to make Christmas easy this year? Let us take the hassle out of your Christmas planning. We will make sure the beds are made, food is cooked and served and that there is a range of activities for all ages. The best part is everyone gets a holiday – even mum! There are several Christmas and New Year cruises departing from Brisbane and Sydney to destinations in the South Pacific and New Zealand.

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

travelplanner.com.au

PA C K Y O U R B A G

EXPLORING QUEENSLAND’S OUTBACK pictures GRAHAM AND DEB REID

WITH ITS ROLLING RED DESERT DUNES, W I L D P I O N E E R I N G H I S T O RY A N D F R I E N D LY CHARACTERS, QUEENSLAND’S OUTBACK I S WA I T I N G T O B E E X P L O R E D . B U T I T ’ S N O T E A S Y F O R E V E RY O N E T O G E T A R O U N D O U T T H E R E . L U C K I LY T H E R E ’ S A C O M PA N Y T H AT S P E C I A L I S E S I N P E R S O N A L I S E D OUTBACK TOURS TO SUIT THE NEEDS OF THE INDIVIDUAL. FROM 4WD TOURS FOR T W O P E O P L E O R TA G - A L O N G S , T O S M A L L GROUP AIR CHARTERS, SCENIC FLIGHTS AND MORE, GRAHAM AND DEBBIE REID OF T R AV E L W E S T K N O W H O W T O G E T P E O P L E AROUND QUEENSLAND’S OUTBACK. Y O U ’ R E S U R E T O B E I N S P I R E D B Y T R AV E L WEST’S PHOTOS FROM RECENT TRIPS.

FOR THOSE who like to venture further with their 4WD, the seven day Motel Accommodated 4WD Tag Along Tour is perfect. Drive in a convoy (maximum five cars) to destinations such as Birdsville, Innamincka and the Corner Country, Simpson Desert and the Burke & Wills Dig Tree at Cooper Creek. The driving is not extreme and assistance is provided by experienced guides. ❖ www.travelwest.com.au ❖ www.charlevillecaravanpark.com.au

❖ Big Red Sand Hill in the Simpson Desert; Birds on Birdsville Billabong in Outback Queensland; Bronnie’s damper looks pretty good; Charleville Bush Caravan Park; Cooper Creek near Windorah; Group at Birdsville Pub; Wildflowers near Cameron Corner.

65 PA C K Y O U R B A G

Some tours leave from Charleville Bush Caravan Park which is the newest park in Charleville offering sparkling clean amenities, great laundry facilities and spacious powered sites. Spend some time relaxing and listen to interesting and informative talks by Graham, experiment with camp oven cooking and even enjoy some damper round the campfire! The Park is open from Easter until the end of October.

S E E I T, D O I T

Queensland Calendar TOOWOOMBA CHRONICLE GARDEN COMPETITION

A major drawcard of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, when home owners, businesses and community groups welcome visitors to tour their beautiful spring gardens. From traditional and floral to cottage, Australian native and edible, there are gardens to please everyone. Entry is free to each and every garden. Organised tours are available. ❖ W H E R E : In and around Toowoomba ❖ M O R E :

www.thechronicle.com.au

SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER

SOCIAL TWILIGHT SAILING ❖ WHERE: at Airlie Point, Airlie Beach ❖ WHEN: weekly

throughout September, October and November ❖ MORE: www.whitsunday sailingclub.com.au

SEPTEMBER 6, OCTOBER 4, NOVEMBER 1

SEPTEMBER 3 – 6

THE HANDMADE EXPO MARKET

Including “Tastings on Hastings” ❖ WHERE: Festival Village, Lions Park, Noosa, Sunshine Coast ❖ MORE: www.noosajazz.com.au

❖ WHERE: Morayfield Sports and Events Centre, Brisbane ❖ MORE: www.thehand madeexpo.com.au

NOOSA JA ZZ FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 4 – OCTOBER 4

SEPTEMBER 5 – 2 6

SEPTEMBER 10 – 1 2

MAGNETIC ISL AND BAY DAYZ FESTIVAL

BRISBANE FESTIVAL

L AIDLEY SPRING FESTIVAL

❖ WHERE: In and around the island ❖ MORE: www.whatsonmagnetic island.com.au

❖ WHERE: Throughout Brisbane ❖ MORE: www.brisbanefestival.com.au

SEPTEMBER 11

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

SWELL SCULPTURE FESTIVAL

GOURMET IN GUNDY

❖ WHERE: Currumbin Beach, Gold Coast ❖ MORE: www.swellsculpture.com.au

❖ WHERE: Goondiwindi Community Cultural Centre, Goondiwindi ❖ MORE: www.goondiwindi.qld.au

❖ WHERE: Das Neumann Haus, Laidley ❖ MORE: www.luvyalockyer.com.au

SEPTEMBER 13 – N OVEMBER 7

GOLD COAST MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL ❖ WHERE: Evandale Parklands, Gold Coast ❖ MORE: www.goldcoastcultural festival.org

67 SEPTEMBER 18 – 2 7

CAPRICORN FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

TOOWOOMBA CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS

❖ WHERE: Main focus on the banks of the Fitzroy River at Farnborough Rd but also in and around Rockhampton ❖ MORE: www.capricorn foodandwine.com.au

❖ WHERE: In and around Toowoomba ❖ MORE: www.tcof.com.au

❖ WHERE: Michael Unwin Wines, Beaufort ❖ MORE: www.michaelunwin wines.com.au

SEPTEMBER 25 TO 27

OCTOBER 2 – 4

OCTOBER 8 – 1 1

WALL ABY CREEK FESTIVAL – FNQ

THE REAL FOOD REVOLUTION

❖ WHERE: Home Rule Rainforest Lodge, Rossville Via, Cooktown, Rossville ❖ MORE: www.wallaby creekfestival.org.au

❖ WHERE: Pullman Cairns International, Cairns ❖ MORE: www.therealfood revolution.com.au

OCTOBER 8 – 1 1

OCTOBER 10

REEF FEAST

BUNDY SWAP MEET & MARKET

❖ WHERE: Palm Cove and Cairns, Far North Qld ❖ MORE: www.reeffeast.com.au

❖ WHERE: Bundaberg Recreation Precinct (opp airport) ❖ MORE: www.bagararotary.net.au

TAPAS SUNDAY

BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL GARDEN SHOW ❖ WHERE: Pine Rivers Park – Brisbane ❖ MORE: www.brisbanegarden show.com.au

OCTOBER 11

HATS, HEELS AND HIGH TEA – HUGHENDEN ❖ WHERE: Diggers Entertainment Centre, Brodie Street, Hughenden

ICONIC BAND 10CC WILL BRING OCTOBER 31

DECADES FESTIVAL

THE HOUSE DOWN AT THE DECADES FESTIVAL

❖ WHERE: Pine Rivers Park,

NOVEMBER 5 – 8

AIRLIE BEACH FESTIVAL OF MUSIC ❖ WHERE: at 17 venues around Airlie Beach ❖ MORE:

Strathpine Brisbane ❖ MORE:

www.airliebeach festivalofmusic.com.au

www.decadesfestival.com.au

NOVEMBER 7 – 8

NOVEMBER 20 – 2 2

NOVEMBER 27 – 2 9

BONJOUR FRENCH FESTIVAL

ROMA R ACES

1770 MUSIC FESTIVAL

❖ WHERE: Roma Turf Club ❖ MORE:

❖ WHERE: Discovery Coast

❖ WHERE: Southport

Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast ❖ MORE: www.bonjourfrench festival.com.au

www.romaraces.org.au

Sport and Recreation Grounds, Agnes Water ❖ MORE:

www.1770musicfestival.com

S E E I T, D O I T

SEPTEMBER 20

SEPTEMBER 18 – 2 0

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71 B I R D WAT C H N G

❖ CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ❖ Olive Backed Oriole by JUDY

LEITCH

❖ Leaden Fly Catcher by

ROSS MONKS ❖ Channel Bill Cuckoo by IAN

HINRICHSEN

SPRING WINGS ARE IN THE AIR Just as the arrival of spring signifies a change in air temperature, so it heralds a change in the composition of avifauna. After the cool winter months, when our muddy shores and beaches seem so bereft of birds, the sudden appearance of small- to medium-sized brown birds is a welcome sight. words RICHARD NOSKE of Birds Queensland

he Russians have arrived! Holders of the Guinness Book of World Records’ accolade for travel in the natural world, these shorebirds travel up to 25,000km every year. Though some of these birds arrive on Queensland’s shores in August, the bulk of birds touch down in September, and immediately start feeding to make up for the weeks they have been on the wing, over the oceans, unable to eat. Dual citizens of Australia and Russia, they spend more time here, only returning to the north to nest on the sub-Arctic tundra during summer. Away from the coast, the eucalypt forests are also undergoing the changeover from autumn–winter migrants to spring–summer migrants. Mixed-species flocks, comprising large numbers of silvereyes, and smaller numbers of spotted pardalotes, golden whistlers, grey fantails and rose robins from southern Australia fade away, to be replaced by sacred Kingfishers, Spangled Drongos, Olive-backed Orioles and Leaden Flycatchers, that have spent their winters in the tropical north, the Kingfisher reaching as far as Indonesia. However not all winter migrants disappear from Queensland. Some migrate south, others move to higher altitudes to establish breeding territories in the cooler mountains. Thus, Grey Fantails, Golden Whistlers and Spotted Pardalotes, scarce or absent in the lowlands by September, suddenly become abundant at higher elevations of the Great Divide.

September and October also see the arrival of Cuckoos, several of which have spent the winter in Papua New Guinea. They will be looking for mates and host nests in which to lay their eggs, as these birds are brood parasites, taking no part in the care of their eggs or young. The Brush Cuckoo, with its characteristic song of descending notes, seeks Fantails and Flycatchers, while the Little Bronze Cuckoo is a specialist, only parasitizing the nests of Gerygone Warblers, which build domeshaped nests. Koels, advertising their presence with their distinctive, monotonous “coo-ee”, exploit the nests of Noisy Friarbirds, Magpie, Larks or Figbirds. The huge Channel-billed Cuckoo, with its raucous growling calls, mostly seeks nests of Torresian Crows and Pied Currawongs which are large enough to care for its chicks. Thus spring is the time for mating and nesting for most bush birds. Several honeyeater species, such as the Brown, White-throated and Blue-faced Honeyeaters, breed through the winter and spring, obtaining energy from leaf-sucking lerps and nectar. However, because of nest robbers, such as Currawongs and Orioles, they may have to build three or four nests before they are successful. By November, these birds have finished breeding, while those starting in spring may continue into the warmer months. Come summer, with the first rains, a different suite of species will gear up to breed.

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73 WE MEAN BUSINESS

❖ October is the beginning of the Padron Pepper harvest for Maya, Vivi and Richard Mohan of Midyim Produce on the Sunshine Coast

THE PEPPERS AND THE POP SINGERS Fried in olive oil and served with salt, Padron Peppers are a staple at any Spanish tapas table. Originally from the municipality of Padron in Galicia, these delicious peppers found their way to a Sunshine Coast farm twelve years ago where they are a much-loved part of the Mohan family. words ALLY MARTELL pictures JOHN MCCUTCHEON and NICHOLAS FALCONER

HEN ex-Sydney lawyers Richard Mohan and Margie Cronin first tasted a Pimiento de Padron in Spain 13 years ago, they were instantly hooked but couldn’t see then how peppers were to become a big part of their futures. Years later, a move to the Sunshine Coast and the purchase of a few hundred hectares at Connondale brought back pepper memories and their pepper business Midyim Eco Produce began. What sort of background should an organic pepper farmer have? Well, Richard studied law and became a musician and sound engineer while Margie is a highly skilled lawyer and multiple award-winning poet who writes under the name of M.T.C. Cronin. Along with singer-songwriting daughters Maya and Vivi, the family is a well-oiled machine when it comes to

harvest and sales. “The pepper season starts in late October,” said Richard. “We all work at farmers markets including the Noosa and West End Farmers Markets during this time. I also have a really good one-on-one relationship with our restaurant customers and they just love the quality and flavour of our product because we grow them as they are traditionally grown, 100 per cent organic.” Maya and Vivi are the backbone of the sales team and their efforts have been justly rewarded. They do love their peppers but their real love is their band “L.U.V”. “The girls formed a band a few years ago and their goal was to sell enough peppers to pay for their first sound recording,” said Richard. “And they have done it. Their first single is called ‘Take Me to the Sea’.

❖ You can find out more about Padron Peppers at www.midyimeco.com.au and M.T.C. Cronin at www.poetrylibrary.edu.au/poets/cronin-m-t-c and you can listen to LUV’s first single on Youtube or visit www.luvtheband.com T U RN T O PAGE 75 FOR SOME RECIPES FOR PADRON PEPPERS

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recipe courtesy of MIDYIM ECO PRODUCE COOKING TIME: approx. 5-6 min.

INGREDIENTS

Whole organic peppers, organic olive oil, medium coarse salt.

T R A D I T I O N A L P R E PA R AT I O N

Put a few tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan to heat. Fry the peppers over a high heat until blistered (your choice: some like them well blistered, others slightly). Pour onto a plate and sprinkle with the salt. Pick up pepper by the stem and eat the whole thing. Enjoy with a friend, and especially with a beer or a glass of wine. Try and pick which one will be the hot one!

Variations

❖ Spanish sherry vinegar splashed over after cooking and salting ❖ Stuff peppers with cheese (salty feta, blue, etc) and bake ❖ Batter raw peppers and deep fry. ❖ www.midyimeco.com.au

75 WE MEAN BUSINESS

PIMIENTOS DE PADRÓN

TROPICAL BLOOMS

76 WE MEAN BUSINESS

Escaping the cold weather and daily commute, a Sydney couple left successful careers behind to set up a new life for their family and grow a thriving business in FNQ words ALLY MARTELL

❖ Jason and Allison Nealon with their children on the family farm.

❖ Jason and Allison recently launched a “do-it-yourself” flower arranging line for people who want to arrange their own flowers for special events. www.orchidflowers.com.au ❖ www.tropicalblooms.com.au

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“We put our heads down and worked at our new life. We had to explore the region, meet people, find a family doctor, connect with the community and we had to learn everything about the cut flower industry. It was a huge challenge but the staff were fantastic and virtually ran the place for six months while we were learning.” A move to the country will always generate a few yarns and the Nealons can now entertain Sydney friends with a story or two about the local wildlife. “We had no idea about farming issues and we certainly didn’t anticipate having to deal with feral pigs. We had to trap 40 pigs on the property because they were damaging new growth. That was quite an experience for a couple of city slickers.” Once they learned the ropes, Jason and Allison were able to use their professional expertise and get the business where they wanted it – which has led to a healthy 30 per cent growth each year. Tropical Blooms features a few hectares of open flower beds as well as a large area under shade. They grow classic tropical flowers like heliconias, costus, different types of ginger and the spectacular Beehive Ginger as well as tropical foliage for florists. Orchids are another side to the business and the Nealons import an impressive range of blooms from throughout Asia. They deliver flower arrangements or individual pieces door-to-door all over Australia from orders taken on the website.

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77 WE MEAN BUSINESS

hree years ago anyone would have thought Jason and Allison Nealon had it all – a successful life in a happy Sydney bubble. They had high powered careers in media and communications, an enviable lifestyle in the leafy suburbs and a growing family. But the Nealons wanted more – and they found it in Far North Queensland. When Jason and Allison Nealon upped sticks and moved from Sydney to the picturesque Mulgrave Valley, just 15 minutes south of Cairns, their friends were divided. “One half thought we were completely mad and the other half were so jealous and wished they had the courage for change,” Jason said. Although it was all an incredible adventure, the Nealons’ move from Sydney was a thoroughly planned business decision. “We had been searching all over Australia to find the right business,” Jason said. “We didn’t know exactly what we were looking for, but we knew all the things we didn’t want, like cold weather and commuting.” Tropical Blooms ticked all the boxes. It had been running successfully for 25 years, included a house on the farm, great staff and no weekend work. “I love waking up in the morning knowing my office is a few metres away and that I don’t have to face Sydney peak hour traffic,” Jason said. He admitted the first 12 months were pretty tough.

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79 INSPIRING WOMEN

THE WEATHER WOMEN How a group of pioneers brought equality to Australian meteorology by ROSA SERRATORE, Chief Librarian, National Meteorological Library

ifty years ago, seven young forecasters made history when they graduated from the Bureau of Meteorology’s Central Training School in Melbourne. There was little to set them apart in the group of smiling young professionals who qualified from the Bureau’s ‘Met course’ on 30 April 1965, but for one important fact: they were women. The seven pioneers were not the first women to become professional meteorologists in Australia—that honour had fallen to Barbara Florence Daniel four years earlier. But today, the legacy of these women lives on, in an organisation that recognises and celebrates the expertise and achievements of women in diverse roles throughout its varied business areas and geographical locations.

IN THE BEGINNING

Women were first employed in specialist roles by the Bureau during the Second World War. In May 1941, seven members of the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) began working at the Bureau’s Frosterly Building in Carlton, where they were employed in the Central Forecasting Room (CFR) on teleprinting and coding duties. In fact, the CFR was mostly staffed by the WAAAF; the only men were the supervising meteorologist and his assistant. A few of these women were promoted to observer and forecaster roles before the war ended. But in accordance with the government rules of the day, all women had to resign once they were married. The number of women employed by the Bureau has grown significantly in the intervening years, with women now comprising 29.5% of the agency’s total workforce. Last year, women completed 1617 courses at the Bureau’s Training Centre. Of the 23 employees who completed the 2014 Met course, nine were women. This year, the proportion should be even higher: of the 20 employees enrolled, 11 are women.

❖ BOM Engineering Technician Cathie Young at work in Antarctica.

IN PIONEERS’ FOOTSTEPS

Women throughout Australia have played a prominent role among the army of volunteer observers who have served the Bureau during its 107-year history. In 1985, Mrs Jennie Bedser received an Excellence Award for an extraordinary 64 years of rainfall observations at Prestwood, North Queensland, between 1915 and 1979. She took over recording rainfall from her father, Edward Green, in 1915 – although from 1915 to 1919 it is believed that her observations were recorded in her father’s name. Recently, long-term Bureau employee Dr Sue Barrell broke new ground when she was appointed as the agency’s Deputy Director of Observations and Infrastructure – becoming the first female meteorologist to join the Bureau’s senior executive team. More opportunities are now opening up for women across the Bureau, as it seeks to improve gender balance among employees. There are now significant numbers of women in several sections of the agency, from weather forecasting and human resources to communications and climate information – a situation that would have been unthinkable 50 years ago. Here at Ruth we are delighted to be working with the Bureau of Meteorology to bring you more stories about Queensland women who work in weather.

❖ You can read the article in full at: http://media.bom.gov.au/social/blog/748/the-weather-womenhow-a-group-of-pioneers-brought-equality-to-australian-meteorology/