Bella magazine (issue 4) 2016 august (low res) by McPherson Media Group

Edition 4 — August 2016

to dance is to

live Riverine

Herald

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Contents

Issue 4, August 2016

10 16

On the cover 16

To dance is to live

Inside

7 Welcome 10

The change that changed a life

Our Steph’s the first — with the last word

When your home needs a House

Nailed it!

The art of being Beatrix

My life with depression — Mel’s story

And they both lived happily ever after …

Anyone for singles? Hardly

Childbirth — don’t worry, be calm

Child of the earth

Kylie and her remarkable repertoire

Brash or sage, it’s all full steam ahead

OSALON_ starts stepping up the show

The miracle industry delivers a big one

Style flair for this fair lady

Catch on to pulled-lamb tortilla

Tell me I am dreaming this nightmare

Bella editor Tyla Harrington tyla.harrington@riverineherald.com.au 5483 0509

Bella advertising executive Carly Richardson carly.richardson@riverineherald.com.au 5483 0535

Want more Bella? facebook.com/bellamagazineechuca Instagram — @bellamagazineechuca

70 Photography: Sitthixay Ditthavong Editorial design: Brendan Cain Advertising design: Bella Considine, Brendan Cain and Adele Dhillon COVER: Makeup by Willow Tree Beauty Lounge’s Samantha Morgan, hair by Jess O’Reilly from OSALON_. Model: Echuca’s Alex Vicary.

More program s coming soon for school-a ge children d !

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eisforemma

Welcome to Bella B

ELLA HAS BEEN named a finalist in the highly competitive PANPA advertising and marketing awards.

That is a credit to the Riverine Herald team and everyone involved in the publication — but is also a salute to the women of Echuca-Moama. Those legions of unsung stars who have filled our pages with their entertaining, emotional and evocative stories. And to those businesses who have supported us along the way, thank you. We couldn’t have produced this magazine without you. Bella will contest the best feature/supplement/native advertising environment in the community section. We are one of seven finalists with winners to be announced at a gala event in Sydney

on September 1.

are doing something right.

Granted we are against some tough competition but whether we win or lose, we have something to celebrate here.

You know you’re telling the right stories in the right way.

This month marks our fourth edition. From its low-key birth as a 62-page magazine, today Bella has matured to an 80-page highlight for our community. We’ve photographed an up-and-coming star under water, we’ve photographed what the creative women of Echuca-Moama can achieve when they put a makeup and hair brush in their hands, we’ve captured the determination of Edie Haley in the midst of her cycling journey, and now we’ve photographed a 13-year-old ballerina. And let me tell you, when you see a young dancer hold her head high as she is being snapped from every angle, you know you

LOVE QUOTES. I see them on social media all the time and find I can easily relate to them.

and why we do it and that’s what drives us to succeed — the struggle is real, but we do it for ourselves and our families regardless.

It’s funny how a few short words can give so much meaning and bring a smile to your face.

One local businesswoman who I am sure really understands this is Belinda Brasher, the new owner at Sage.

I saw this one and it reminded me of my Bella journey so far.

Be sure to check out her story in this edition of Bella. She’s living proof you can do anything and everything if you put your mind to it.

“You can do anything you put your heart, mind and soul into. Far more than you can imagine.” Many of us are busy working mums with so many things to juggle on a daily basis. I see this in the advertisers who are our partners, and I see it in the people I work with. We are all so passionate about what we do

You also don’t want to miss Jess O’Reilly’s story. Jess owns OSALON_, a thriving business here in Echuca with a reputation for delivering perfection. Again the prime example of working hard and chasing your dreams. I find these

And you know you’re blazing a bright path for the bigger and better editions to follow. This month we feature Echuca’s Beatrix Rowe and her dazzling eye for interior design; get the romantic tale of an Echuca couple who eloped to Paris and talk with Melanie Micalizzi about her battle with depression. That’s just for starters. And there’s still room for our regular recipe, columns and much more. So sit back and enjoy. We’ll see you again in October. Tyla Harrington Bella editor

women so inspirational and hope our Bella readers do too. Not only has Bella given us the chance to meet amazing people it’s also giving you the chance as a reader to meet them too. These are people who are putting their hearts, minds and souls into everything they do and achieving much more than they ever believed imaginable. Hard work, persistence and believing in yourself can and will pay off, even if it sometimes feels like it won’t. Just keeping going. See you in October — until then work hard and dream big. Carly Richardson Bella advertising executive

Carly Richardson and Tyla Harrington.

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The change that changed a life SOPHIE BALDWIN catches up with a mainstream healthcare provider who opted to become a traditional whole-care practitioner based on acupuncture and a range of associated treatments.

EALING IS SUZY MCCLEARY’S calling.

It began in the mainstream healthcare sector, as a nurse doling out pills and filling out paperwork; rushing from patient to patient. Until a chance visit to an acupuncturist for a numb finger became a life-changing moment that gave her the inspiration to first change course, and then her life.

“We were always taught in nursing school about the importance of holistic care, the importance of caring for all aspects of an individual,” Suzy said. “In reality I was doing anything but that, and I knew I needed to find something that would again fuel my passion for healthcare. “And I have certainly found it in Chinese medicine,” she said. Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical systems in the world, based on a process in which the body stimulates itself to heal. According to Chinese medicine when the body becomes unbalanced illness occurs — rebalancing the body through the stimulation of acupuncture points promotes healing. “Chinese medicine just resonated with me,” Suzy said. “From that very first moment — and that first needle — I was hooked and I have never looked back. “The smell, the herbs, the healing energy, I just knew I had found my passion.” After her initial visit for that numb finger, Suzy immediately enrolled in an acupuncture course, and is still studying. She completed her internship in Nanjing, at a combined western and Chinese medicine hospital, which she found an eye-opening experience. “The whole concept of Chinese medicine is heavily embraced over there and is very different to things here in Australia.” She is a firm believer in the importance of balance, as are the hundreds of people who file through her doors each year “I am just so lucky, I love my job. Being able to provide the tools for people to heal their own bodies is simply magical,” Suzy said.

clear up and relieving chronic and acute pain to name just a few gives me such a buzz.” Suzy has experienced firsthand the benefits of acupuncture herself which she used religiously when conceiving her first baby at 38 and her second at 41. “I believe we are all connected to our environment, the importance of balance and the need to look after our bodies, our minds and our spirits,” she said. “I am grateful to say I have two very healthy children, which I attribute directly to acupuncture and I have also used it personally with great success for headaches, strained ankle, muscle tightness and general stress relief. “Acupuncture has taught me and given me an unimaginable gift — the importance of nutrition and that you need to be your own advocate for looking after your body.” As women we are all familiar with the stresses of modern life. Many of us are working, raising families and rushing from one thing to another, some of us are even doing it on our own. We live in busy times. “Trying not to take on too much is not an easy task at the best of times as we try to balance home, family, self and work life. I am seeing more and more women coming to the clinic with adrenal fatigue, the symptoms of which include hormonal imbalance, weight gain, fatigue and depression. “Another major issue I see is the effects possessed foods and poor nutrition have on the health of not only adults but on our children. “The dramatic rise of asthma, allergies, food intolerances and autoimmune diseases are all related to diseases of the gut according to Chinese medicine.

“Seeing infertile women have babies, recurrent ear infections cease, skin conditions “Good nutrition has never been so important.”

Her personal journey into acupuncture has obviously been one of health and learning, but perhaps even more importantly, of reward, as Suzy takes great joy in healing the community. Through her clinic she offers mother/baby shiatsu classes, a full moon community acupuncture clinic (group acupuncture), accukids and a samurai shiatsu program. My own daughter was having trouble with glandular fever type symptoms and after a recommendation I took her for acupuncture. She was a bit uncertain about the whole idea but I am happy to report it worked for her — and she hasn’t looked back. Natural therapies such as acupuncture are becoming increasingly popular as people turn away from looking for an answer to their health woes in a script from their doctor and instead begin to embrace the healing powers within their own bodies, and a healthy lifestyle. n

Our Steph’s the first — with the last word Meet the au pair who now rubs shoulders with the beautiful people every day of her working week. DAVID CHAPMAN talks to the small-town girl who has hit it big in the big city.

TEPHANIE BENNETT IS a professional name dropper.

Her average day involves mixing it with stars of film and music — and then telling her readers what they are up to. It’s a heady world, and a world away from your average day in a small Victorian country town — such as Echuca. But this former small-town country girl from, by pure coincidence, Echuca, simply loves life in the fast lane. It’s all part of her role on the entertainment and lifestyle team at Brisbane’s CourierMail, where the 28-year-old spends her time catching up with actors, rock stars, models and other famous faces to get the goss on what’s happening in the world of the glitterati. Whether it’s at a bar opening or a racing carnival, a premiere or a bit of private eye work, Stephanie will be there working the crowd to get the story to feed the public’s insatiable appetite for more information on their favourite celebrities. “It’s a lot of fun. I have to pinch myself sometimes because it just doesn’t feel like a real job,” Stephanie told Bella. Along with her glam gang — colleagues Kris Crane and Kristy Symonds — Stephanie tracks down celebrity gossip for the Q Confidential column, appearing daily in Brisbane’s only daily. “People call us with tips and send us emails,” Stephanie said. “We also have record labels, TV networks and film studios telling us who’s in town and available for interviews. “You get the inside word on who won The Bachelor and we go on sets to see TV and movies being filmed.” One of those movies Stephanie has just got her ‘all areas’ pass for is the latest Marvel Comics adaptation Thor: Ragnarok starring Chris Hemsworth and Cate Blanchett and being filmed on the Gold Coast. She will also spend a day on the set of the mini-series about the life of Australian

The Q Confidential team of (from left) Kris Crane and Stephanie Bennett with Aussie rock star Bernard Fanning and Nova radio host Georgie Ingham-Myers. comedian/actor Paul Hogan — with Josh Lawson stepping into those very big shoes. It adds to an already impressive list of famous names Stephanie has interviewed in her three-and-a-half years with Q Confidential. This includes Aussie rock giants Powderfinger, hip hop artist 360 and actor Guy Pearce as well as Miss Universe Australia representatives Jennifer Hawkins, Jesinta Campbell and Rachael Finch and international supermodel Megan Gale. “One of the great people I’ve interviewed was Dannii Minogue,” Stephanie said. “She was really lovely and delightful. Growing up knowing who she was, getting the chance to interview her was pretty cool. “Guy Pearce was another one who was generous with his time and happy to chat about different things.” Stephanie Bennett was born and raised in Echuca and attended Echuca High School. But her path into the media was far from conventional.

After secondary school she went to RMIT in Melbourne to undertake media studies but one year into the course she left for Sweden to work as an au pair. She was overseas for 12 months before returning to Echuca where she worked in retail. But her interest in media wouldn’t go away and prompted her to apply for entry to a journalism course at Jschool in Brisbane (set up in 2001, Jschool is an independent college offering journalism education and training). “I’d always thought about doing that (journalism),” Stephanie said. “I liked the idea of talking to people and hearing their stories. “I like writing and communicating and watching the news and reading the news … I get a lot of enjoyment out of that.” Stephanie was only back at the school for another 12 months before she was offered a spot on the cadet program at the Courier-Mail.

“

IT’S A LOT OF FUN. I HAVE TO PINCH MYSELF SOMETIMES BECAUSE IT JUST DOESN’T FEEL LIKE A REAL JOB.

”

“So I started in 2013 as a cadet on all different rounds before joining the entertainment and lifestyle team and I’ve been here ever since.” Stephanie said one of the best aspects of her job was variety. “I also do a radio show with Kris on Nova called Nova Confidential. We have a lot of musicians come in for interviews and it’s a lot of fun, it keeps things nice and busy for me. It makes the weeks go quick.” A normal day starts at 9 am when the Q Confidential crew gather together a list of stories to discuss at the morning conference. “We spend a lot of time on social media — Instagram and Twitter — and it all comes together.” The Q Confidential team work until the paper’s ready to print but Stephanie said they were flexible with their work hours, usually leaving the office by 6 pm – 6.30 pm. “We have events we can go to in the evenings and there’s a lot of functions — but I’m still waiting to go to the Logies.” Her eye for celebrity style and fashion has often seen her be invited to be a judge at the prestigious Brisbane Racing Carnival’s Fashions on the Field events. Another big part of her job is attending music festivals, such as the Falls Festival and Splendour in the Grass, where she makes the most of her access-all-areas backstage passes. With so much going on, it’s not too hard to see why Stephanie enjoys her work. She lives in the inner Brisbane suburb of New Farm, on the Brisbane River, with her boyfriend Chris — and only a five-minute drive from the Courier-Mail building. “It’s pretty warm and sunny up here. I’ve lived here for a few years now and there’s always bars and restaurants opening. There’s a lot of buzz around and it’s a great place to live.” Sounds like a great place to work as well. For a girl from a little country town that’s also on a river. n

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To dance is to live TYLA HARRINGTON catches up with an Echuca teenager who is sacrificing so much for her shot at a career not just in dance, but in ballet.

LEX VICARY MIGHT only be 13 but she is on the dancefloor at least 25 hours a week. Soon it will be more if she can take the next big step. Literally.

Alex, also a student at Jacqui Kornmann’s i-Dance studio in High St, will audition for a spot on August 1. “I am nervous,” she admitted. “I have a lot of French words to practice before I audition,” she laughed.

Her mother Belinda shares those nerves, Because the diminutive barely-teen is about but also knows her daughter has a bright to audition for the Victorian College of Arts Secondary School — one of the world’s fore- future in dancing. most, and sought-after, dance schools. “Dancing is just what she does,” she said. If she is going to cut it in the bigtime world “She doesn’t get it from me. I’m certainly not a dancer but she has it. of ballet there are few better chances than this. The St Joseph’s student is dedicated to owning the stage. “I started when I was four,” Alex said. “Mum put me in classes. I had a break for one year but besides that I’ve been dancing ever since.” VCASS offers an intensive and comprehensive dance course based on the incredibly artistic, physical and emotional demands of classical ballet.

“And I still get nervous when she does solo concerts. “I remember once, when she was younger, the music stopped playing but she just kept dancing. Everyone in the crowd started clapping to the music and she finished her routine. “I love watching her dance.” Dance, though, is the window dressing. The real life of a dancer is spent stretching at the barre, training in the gym, and

>>>

>>> performing the fundamental positions of ballet — over and over and over. Muscles will ache, bodies will get injured, minds exhausted — and then the hard work will start. Much of Alex’s 25 hours of dance is done at i-Dance, which has become her dance family. A family that has also helped her find a love for contemporary and jazz dance as well. “I just love to dance,” Alex said. Marilyn Monroe once noted if you give a woman the right shoes she can conquer the world. Alex has a dream, and she’s dreaming on her feet. She might not yet be a woman but she certainly has the right shoes. “Even if we do have to keep replacing them,” her mother laughed. Bella was sent to the printers before Alex’s audition on August 1. n

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OUR PURPOSE What are we about?

Girl on Fire is proud to be hosting wellness sessions for mothers and their teenage daughters. We aim for the sessions to help our girls to be the very best they can be and encourage the same in others.

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Our wellbeing sessions will essentially discuss self awareness, self improvement, self acceptance and resilience for teenage girls. I am hoping it will start a conversation between mothers and their daughters to provide some food for thought and discussion points for home.

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The staff at Echuca Travel Centre are committed to helping you get the most out of your holiday by helping you find the right itinerary for your family, offering real advice from our own experiences travelling with children or visiting a certain destination and settling any concerns you may have. We are your local point of contact and your tour and river cruise specialists. Call or visit the friendly staff at Echuca Travel Centre and start raising travellers — they will thank you for it!

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When your home needs a House I

T’S LIKE HAVING your own interior designer at your beck and call.

When you need those bits of bling and zing, those things that truly make your house sing, drop into House and meet Margret Holmes and her team. Because boy, have these girls got some gear for you. And Margret, who has been store manager for the past two-and-a-half years, really know her stuff. As Australia’s largest independent retailer of quality home and kitchenware products, there is nothing you won’t be able to find. “We have virtually anything you need for rejuvenating your home, or setting it up from the word go,” Margret said. “We also have a huge range of quality knives, saucepans and everything cooking related.” Which is a good thing considering the obsession of people with reality cooking shows, such as MasterChef and My Kitchen Rules. “Shows which I have to say have really improved our sales,” Margret said. When it comes to their products, House prides itself on market leading quality brands, such as Baccarat and Kitchen Aid. “The better quality brands keep the heat better, cook better and don’t use as much power and they’re so much easier to clean,” Margret said.

“But the prices are still so reasonable.” With such an extensive range of kitchenware, cookware, bakeware, glassware, tableware and appliances, House is also the perfect place for wedding gifts. That is why Margret is urging couples to organise a gift registry at the store. “Weddings in Echuca are huge and we have so many practical, useful and beautiful gifts to suit every style,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity for young people to get some good quality products when starting their lives together.” House will give you a set of cards to include with your invitations advising your guests you have booked with the gift registry, making it so easy for them to select one of the gifts listed from your personal register. Which House will give the final touch — a professional wrap with a bow on top, something on which Margret and her team pride themselves. “We are big on customer service,” she said. “I really enjoy being at the front of house and dealing with everyone as they come in.” Margret also recommended joining the House VIP Club so they could enjoy a variety of benefits, including rewards, exclusive promotions, competitions and events and access to new and exciting recipes, cooking tips and tricks. Whichever way you look at it, House is there to help make your home. n

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Nailed it!

Don’t make your fingertips do the working Style guru LANA MURPHY gets a few good tips about her fingertips on how one of our most overlooked assets can take on a colourful character all of their own.

ERE AT BELLA HQ we like to think we have an idea or two about selfgrooming. Whether we enjoy it or not, like a lot of women we spend time each week taming tousled locks, treating problem skin, shaving or waxing and sometimes — if we’re feeling brave — even attempting contouring. But how often do you tend to your nails? Really tend to your nails.

The part of our body we so often neglect is also the one most people see; typing at the computer, shaking hands, paying for our groceries. We use them every day but our fingertips don’t get nearly enough love. Moama’s Bodyline Beauty director Michelle Pumpa said ideally women should care for their nails once a week. “That doesn’t mean doing outrageous nail

art every time,” she said. “But you should give them a bit of love. “Keep them healthy and shiny and don’t underestimate a good set of nails.” Who knows, it could go as far as landing you a new job. But before we start going all Lily Allen with our pointers, it’s important to nail the basics.

STEP 1: PREPARE THE NAIL If you skip this step, there’s not much point attempting the others, Michelle said. “Oil naturally builds up on the nail and it’s important to remove this before painting otherwise the colour won’t stick,” she said. Use a wide, flat file to lightly buff the surface of the nail and shape it. Hold the file strictly horizontally for a square nail shape or go with the flow for a more natural look. “Don’t forget to use a cuticle stick (which you can buy from most beauty shops for a few dollars) to gently push back your cuticles. “This gives you more nail to work with, looks better and makes your manicure last longer.”

STEP 2: APPLY BASE COAT Before you start this step, wash your hands with soap to remove any germs, but don’t moisturise; you will undo all your hard work. Apply a clear base coat to the nail. This avoids yellowing and gives a foundation to help colour adhere, whether you’re using gel or regular polish. “The saying is ‘don’t flood your brush’,” Michelle said. “That’s the number one mistake people make when doing their nails at home, they’re too generous with the polish, keep it simple and use a minimal amount, you can always build from there.”

STEP 3: APPLY COLOUR Michelle said the key to applying colour was painting with long, careful strokes. “Don’t focus on coverage on the first coast,” she said. “Just focus on the structure — cover the whole nail and go right up to the cuticle but not touching it. “Your second coat is where the colour payoff happens.” An industry secret for longer lasting nails? “Use the tip of the brush to swipe the free edge of the nail,” Michelle said. “It encapsulates the whole nail, you only need to do it once but it prevents chipping.”

STEP 4: APPLY TOP COAT Where you prefer fast-drying, ultra-shining or a strengthening top coat, ensure your nails are completely dry before this final step. “This is the finishing touch, you only need one layer,” Michelle said. It locks in your hard work and ensures a healthy shine. Baby pink is the go-to every day colour for 2016. If it’s not Cake Pop by OPI it’s Essie’s Fiji or (as we’re using in this tutorial) Hello Dolly by Colour Me Pretty. Light pinks and beiges suit almost every skin tone and are professional and playful at the same time. If you’re yellow-toned, try to avoid yellow colours and opt for deep warmer shades like burgundy. Pink and brown skin tones suit most colours. Once nails are completely dry, you can apply fancy detail with polish, diamantes, stickers and more. Michelle said this was her favourite part, but sometimes art was best left to the professionals. “Your choices and creativity are endless,” she said. “You should be very careful not to knock your nails for at least half an hour regardless, if you take care in the beginning you won’t need to worry about them for the next week.” Michelle specialises in nail care and art at Bodyline Beauty. You can book an appointment on 0438 897 820. n

The team at Hakkas hair design would like to welcome their new beauty therapist Di. Di is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday for all your beauty needs (normal salon hours apply). The beauty room is freshly renovated, with makeup and skin care by Artdeco and tanning products by Oztan.

Book your appointment today!

Hakkas Hair Design 157 Hare Street, Echuca Phone: 03 5482 3434 Email: info@hakkas.com.au Website: www.hakkas.com.au

A special event requires a truly unique location. Junction lets you create your own unique environment and atmosphere. Whether it’s the vibrant space of the Cocktail Lounge, the relaxed Wine Room, one of our various outdoor locations or a seat at one of our tables – there is a space for everyone to enjoy our selection of premium beverages and quality food.

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info@junctionmoama.com.au 1800 806 777

Limited dates are available for your Christmas function. Contact our team to enquire or make a booking.

The art of being Beatrix When it comes to the inside running with Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smart set, or coming home to put some serious gloss on a major commercial renovation LANA MURPHY discovers the girl everyone turns to is Beatrix Rowe. >>>

>>>

HERE WAS NEVER much doubt Beatrix Rowe would be artistic.

But even she didn’t realise how far it would take her. From art class at St Joseph’s College all the way to her kitchen bench in Elsternwick. It was a brave move to the big city, where her refined skill set and a killer work ethic eventually led to the opening of her own studio in St Kilda; the capital’s design mecca. With a team of four — including former Echuca woman Cassie James Herrick — at the helm of Beatrix Rowe Interior Design, Rowe has achieved huge success in the interior design world and is now one of Melbourne’s most sought-after designers. Specialising in large-scale, high-end restorations and extensions, Rowe developed her skills working with John Wardle Architects and then the Hecker Phelan and Guthrie studio — now Hecker Guthrie — before launching her own business in 2004. “At first it was just me at home, working from the kitchen bench putting in, oh, I don’t even know how many hours,” Rowe remembered. “But after a few years Cassie, another local girl, came down to do work experience with me and it just grew from there. “The whole development has been very organic; as projects increased so did the need for a design studio but I do prefer to keep the team small so we can develop personal relationships with clients. “It’s so important to get to know the client so we may collect intimate and insightful details about how they live. “It’s the little things that can make all the difference.” It’s Rowe’s attention to detail and care — all the little things — that set her apart, landing her huge contracts, not just in Melbourne but also her hometown, including the design of Echuca’s own American Hotel in partnership with Brandrick Architects. “We took a detailed brief from Dean (Oberin, owner) and through collaboration tried to capture the essence of what is so great about the American’s history,” she said. “What makes a pub pubby? “I had to think about that and was determined to feature the rawness of surrounding red gums, to capture the context of the location. “And that’s what is so special about this place, the location; the river, the land.” Even though she’s climbed through the

harsh urban ranks of Melbourne design, it’s clear Rowe was spawned by a bush childhood.

It’s her origin that peeks through her warm, natural-element-heavy, environmentally-inspired work.

Maybe it’s her beaming, sun-kissed face traced with only the finest lines telling tales of a storylike childhood by the Murray River.

And of course the work ethic bestowed upon her by an English-born art-teacher mother (spawned from London’s 1960’s art schools) and a workhorse father.

It could be her kind disposition and caring temperament. Or her love of all things timber. Mostly it’s her nature. Her soul. That’s something you can’t fake. Something she has above all the rest.

“I’d describe our work as natural contemporary,” she said. “Timeless, warm, using natural materials like timber and stone and valuing the detail in the joinery. “Jobs are tailored to each client but we definitely have an aesthetic.”

An aesthetic which fits perfectly with the American Hotel’s grungy, earthy, contemporary style. A place she returns to often to enjoy. “It was an extensive renovation, completely gutted,” Rowe said. “There was a big focus on getting the material and lighting right, which we did. “The best part is seeing it being used in the way we were expecting, it’s certainly one of my favourite places in Echuca. “There’s no point designing something if people aren’t going to use it.” That, Rowe says, is what drives her to keep creating. “We make spaces for people to play out their lives; they need to be usable, functional, for real people. “That’s why having a close relationship with clients is so important, you’ve got to find someone with the right fit for you.” Today, her clients are largely repeat users; overjoyed with their last job, or referred. But every project is different, Rowe said. “I think my favourite part about this work is the diversity of the days, weeks and years,” she said. “I enjoy every part of the process. “But the best bit by far is seeing the efforts of your work and thinking ‘we created this, it’s ours’ it’s amazing.” n

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My life with depression – Mel’s story Depression is a hunter, stalks you from the darkness in the corners of your mind, and when it strikes it can pull you into the abyss from where escape is not an easy battle. Wife, mother and businesswoman Melanie Micalizzi has been brave enough, determined enough, to tell her story to SOPHIE BALDWIN.

EL MICALIZZI WAS pregnant with her second child yet in the midst of this joy found herself on her couch, tightly curled in the foetal position and hyperventilating. In the midst of this frightening decline Mel knew the depression that had stalked her through her teens and into her 20s was back — and she could no longer hide it, or hide from it.

Depression is a battle many women fight, and often a battle fought in silence and solitude. Mel is one of an alarming number of women struck down before, during and after pregnancy but unlike most of them, she is one willing to share her story in the hope she can help someone else, anyone else, in a similar situation. If you have been affected by it, or suffered from it, depression can be a dark, lonely and isolating place. Which was exactly where Mel found herself as a 16-year-old. “Back in the ‘90s depression wasn’t very well understood by individuals and it certainly wasn’t something widely discussed,” Mel said. “I was lucky I had a close relationship with my parents, especially my mum, and that was one of the things that helped me get through,” she said. “I can remember being an emotional wreck, teary and isolating myself. I lacked motivation and struggled to get myself to school, and through life.”

During the next few years Mel worked her way through many different medications with varying degrees of success — and varying side effects, from forgetfulness and lethargy to disassociation.

When it was time for baby number three Mel continued taking medication, but at 30 weeks she was struck down again. A change in medication was prescribed, it worked and she has been on the same tablets ever since.

But by 24 she had had enough of mainstream medication, stopped it altogether Best of all though, she is coping and going and turned to alternative therapies includ- along well. ing a naturopath, chiropractor, counselling “I am still hoping one day I won’t have to be and plenty of exercise. on any medication, but for now it keeps me “I was well for four years and managed to in a good place and if it helps me be a better maintain myself by being consistent with wife and mother for the time being then so these therapies. be it.

“I had my first son Marlon in 2011 and remem- “I have just had to accept that is where my ber even then the doctor saying to my life is now.” husband Johnny to ‘keep an eye on her’ With her track record Mel is something of because of my history. an emotional time bomb, never knowing if, or when, the darkness will reach out for her. “Marlon never slept but I managed to get through things and life was pretty good,” “Sometimes you don’t have to have anything she said. to be sad about, depression just is. It wasn’t until Mel got pregnant with her second son Luca that her depression struck again.

“It’s a chemical imbalance and I have had to accept that at this stage of my life, I need medication to help me get through.”

“Because I hadn’t been on any medication for a few years I guess I was stubborn, and I became ‘anti’ antidepressants.

Mel said the support of her husband has also been unwavering and has helped her get through these tough times.

“I was pregnant and breast feeding and medi- “I am lucky I have had such great support cation was the last thing I thought I needed, from family and friends and that really but by the time I got help I was borderline helps,” Mel said. psychotic and in a pretty crappy place.” “It can be hard to reach out for help someSo despite all the success of embracing the times but I can only hope that by speaking alternative, a reluctant Mel went back on out about my story I might be able to help medication, began counselling and gradu- someone else in a similar situation who thinks maybe they are alone.” n ally got her life back.

“

BECAUSE I HADN’T BEEN ON ANY MEDICATION FOR A FEW YEARS I GUESS I WAS STUBBORN, AND I BECAME ‘ANTI’ ANTIDEPRESSANTS.

”

Mel Micalizzi with her son Jude.

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BUILD AND TONE YOUR LEGS

FOR SUMMER A great circuit to build toned and shapely thighs and more. Get started with a minimum of equipment required. Go through one complete circuit without any rest. Take a short break before you start your next circuit and repeat 3–5 times depending on your ability.

Goblet Squat (20–25 reps) Grab some weight (anything will do), start with your feet wider than your shoulders toes slightly pointed out, push your hips back and down towards the floor keeping your chest and eyes up. Push your heels into the floor as you rise and engage your gluteals, and work hard to keep your knees and toes lined up.

Curtsy Lunge (10–12 reps each legs) Starting a neutral position with your feet shoulder width apart, step backwards on a 45 degree angle across your body and lower yourself down into a lunge position. Keep your front knee and toe lined up before pushing off your back foot to rise back to the starting position. Use your arm to keep your balance, stable and slow is the way to go.

Box Jumps (10–12 reps) Start with your knees slightly bent, swing your arms back and then drive them forward to jump onto your platform. Landing in a squat position. Stand up tall before stepping back down to start your next jump. Start with a small height before adding in the difficulty. This is a fast movement to get your heart racing.

Swiss Ball Hamstring Curl (5–10 reps) Laying on your back with your heels on the ball, start by lifting your bottom/butt/ backside off the ground. Drawing your belly in and engage your pelvic floor. Slowly roll the ball in towards your body, working hard to keep your body in the starting position off the floor. Once your knees hit 90 degrees, slowly roll the ball away from your body and repeat. This is a tough exercise, start small and build your repetitions.

One-legged Squat (10–15 each leg) (advanced) Make sure you can hold on to something that can support your weight. We are using a TRX suspension trainer but a simple rope will do the job. Start with one foot lifted in front of you, push your hips back and down towards the floor, your arms extend out in front as you drop down. Stop your butt at the top of the knee (as you get more confident try to move deeper). Push your heel into the ground as you rise and use your arms only to assist.

Lateral Lunge (15–20 each leg) Starting with your feet under hips take a long step to the side, push your hips back and move your weight over the stepping foot, keeping your chest up. Lower yourself until your stepping leg reaches 90 degrees, the knee and toe stay lined up. Push off with your heel as you move your weight back to the starting position. Repeat on the same leg before moving on to the other side.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT ECHUCA WAR MEMORIAL AND AQUATIC CENTRE (03) 5480 2994

“

OUR CELEBRANT HAD MY BOUQUET, AND FLOWERS TO PUT IN MY HAIR. THERE WAS THE CEREMONY, WE SAID OUR VOWS AND WE KISSED.

” 38

And they both lived happily ever after … It’s not called the City of Love without reason. And what could be more romantic than young lovers eloping there, to be married under its most famous monument. >>>

>>>

NCE IN A while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy

tale.

Such as the beautiful bride to be, and her Prince Charming, taking flight to the City of Love; where they are married under the Eiffel Tower. And plan to live happily ever after. And that’s exactly what Echuca’s Tammy Ritchie and James Mackenzie-Ross did on May 15 — they eloped to Paris Everything was, Tammy said, perfect. “It was magical and unforgettable,” she said. “I kept thinking something was going to go wrong but it didn’t. It really was a fairy tale day. “I couldn’t do it (marry) any other way. “Everything was — and still is — so surreal. I remember it all like it was yesterday." Tammy’s fairy tale saw her and James turn everything upside down. The wedding was booked first. And then James proposed. They were married in France. And then had their hens’ and bucks’ parties. Tammy said it was a modern love story that actually started as a joke. “We had organised a holiday in the middle of last year, and when I told my mum, as a joke she said ‘why don’t you just get married in Paris’. “A couple of weeks later James and I were talking about it and we started Googling packages in Paris. “In September/October last year we booked the holiday and put down a deposit for the wedding. “Then we just had to keep our lips sealed.” Which was a lot harder than they thought, especially considering the pair live with Tammy’s parents.

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“We were really intent on keeping it a secret because we wanted it to be a surprise for everyone,” she said. “It was very hard to not tell my mum when my dress came, that’s for sure.” In March James dropped a knee and proposed to Tammy on a beach in Warrnambool. “I obviously knew it was coming at some stage before April but had to act like it was a big surprise to family and friends.” Eventually Tammy and James jetted across the world and May 15 arrived — the couple’s big day. “I had my hair and makeup done. We had to get ready in the same room but it didn’t really bother us,” Tammy said. “A BMW picked us up from the hotel and drove us to a spot under the Eifel Tower. When we stepped out we were already

being photographed. “Our celebrant had my bouquet, and flowers to put in my hair. There was the ceremony, we said our vows and we kissed. “Then we got back into the car and drove around Paris for a four-hour photography tour.” As for Tammy’s dress, the one she kept hidden? “I got it from eBay,” she laughed. “I knew what I wanted, searched for it, and there it was.”

“So when they did we had dinner with mine and James’ parents. They were all so happy for us, it was beautiful. “I was a little bit anxious about it so that was a big relief. “We come from big families. I’m one of eight and James is one of six. We just thought eloping would be an alternative. It was less stressful and we didn’t have to worry about what others think.” Having been there and now done it, what would the couple say to others thinking about eloping?

After the photography tour the newlyweds “Just do it,” James said. “You won’t regret it.” were dropped at the hotel — then continued the rest of their holiday (now their honey- Tammy said she had been in love with Paris since she was a little girl — now Paris has moon) around Europe and the UK. been in love with her and her husband. “When we got home we decided to wait until the photos arrived to tell everyone,” It is, and always will be, her fairy tale come true. n Tammy said.

Congratulations Bella You are a superb celebration of the women who help shape our rural and regional communities. We are reminded that when a woman is empowered the whole community benefits. www.peterwalsh.org.au peterwalshmp peterwalshmp Peter Walsh MP 466 High St, Echuca Ph 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906 Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office & Communications Budget.

Something for everyone at EWMAC GROUP FITNESS

Over 35 diverse classes per week including: Body Step, Body Pump, Body Balance and Body Attack.

FULLY EQUIPPED HEALTH CLUB

Extensive cardio and strength training equipment. Qualified trainers to develop personalised programs. All shapes and sizes welcome!

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Six classes a week including gentle and high intensity options.

FULL FIGURED FITNESS

Female, small group, eight-week program. Two sessions a week at varied locations. Fully qualified instructor. Meet your weight loss and fitness goals!

PERSONAL TRAINING

Various options available to help meet your potential. Qualified and experienced instructors to keep you motivated.

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Gym, group fitness and water programs for people over 60. Great social environment.

SWIMMING

Fully heated pool facilities and steam room. Learn-to-swim programs to suit all ages and abilities.

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Personalised exercise programs for secondary school students. Includes health club, group fitness and pool access.

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Contact EWMAC or visit our website for more information: Corner of High and Service Streets, Echuca, 3564 Phone: (03) 5480 2994 Website: www.campaspeaquatics.com.au

Anyone for singles? Hardly Getting up every day is just the start of an ordeal for newish single mother SOPHIE BALDWIN that can prove a battle for everything — from sanity to fashion sense, not to mention that prolapse.

EING A SINGLE mum is tough, anyone in the sisterhood knows that, and I take my hat off to those of you who have been doing it for longer than me. Some days it is long, so long.

And some days you try hard just to keep your shit together when all you really want to do is put your fist through the wall or cry for hours. When there is only one of you and you are working, running a free taxi service, attempting to keep a clean house, chop wood (who knew that could be so therapeutic?) and train for a half ironman (I crave the solitude), hours become precious and tempers can, alright, do get a little ragged. And I have older kids. I cannot imagine how hard it would be if I was the sole person responsible for feeding and dressing and simply maintaining young children on top of the rest. At least (in theory) my girls can do that, although sometimes I look at my 18-yearold and I think ‘My God, are you really going to wear that out?’ And for the love of God, couldn’t either of you just cook me dinner — just one night out of 100? I love my eldest daughter’s individuality, really, I do. But some days her commitment to that takes even me by surprise. Apparently glitter in your eyebrows is acceptable, so too are bells in your hair or

ripped jeans barely held together by a stylishly tenuous thread.

c) It has overnight made me feel old, so very, very old.

So ripped they wouldn’t keep you warm on a summer’s day, let alone at a Saturday night party in the dead of winter.

On the positive side having help with the driving will be great, and could also possibly help my speeding fine count, especially when I recently got two in one day.

But at the same time where would I be without my two beautiful girls? They keep me entertained for sure, they make me laugh, they can make me cry, but never, ever, is there a time that I would ever want to be without them.

“

AND FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, COULDN’T EITHER OF YOU JUST COOK ME DINNER — JUST ONE NIGHT OUT OF 100?

”

They support me, they keep me real and they don’t mind telling me if they think I need to pull my head in, even though that can at times go down like a lead balloon. My eldest turned 18 recently which has given me the following (in any order you care to choose): a) Anxiety — she can legally drink in a pub. b) Stress she will hit the road and get her license soon.

I mean seriously, why does all the great stuff have to happen to me, arrgghh? My mum is always telling me ‘Sophie, you need to slow down’ and like all good mums I am sure she is right. Unless you are running a race, then that is really crap advice. Last month I Ran the Gap in the Grampians just because I thought I might have a crack at a trail run (tip: always read the fine print). I thought a 21 km trail run was just that, a skip around a hilly track. I didn’t realise I had signed up for 530 m mountain peak climb that would dislodge my internal organs as I ran down the other side. Next time I see the advice ‘not recommended for your first run’ I may just listen, although it probably would have helped if I had read that before I signed up, not two weeks into my post-race recovery, amid real concerns I may need a medical opinion about a prolapse. Suffice to say I didn’t come last, there is definitely room for (a lot of) improvement and my glasses will be involved with the next entry form I sign — for any race. n

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Everything Gluten Free

Charmour offers a wide range of quality charms and occasion jewellery, call in to Echuca Treasure House to see our range in store.

chuca Treasure House 230 Hare St, Echuca Ph: 5480 6334 Like us on facebook for special offers

SPECIAL DEALS! 2 person P.T. 8 sessions $300pp SAVE $100!

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‘Check US out’ 2 weeks of UNLIMITED Classes for $50. A great way for new participants to try out our classes and get a feel of what we offer at Chick fit. ‘ALL classes are suited for ALL fitness levels.’

A WOMAN is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform. A Ladies/Girls only studio. * Kids gloves is unisex.

Chick Fit timetable. PRICES Casual $10: 10-visit pass, $90: 8-week unlimited pass $220

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CHICK FIT embraces those who feel like fitness misfits. We want YOU to fit! /chicksfitnesskicks Phone Emma 0400 152 394 41 Mundarra Rd, Echuca

We are a child and baby friendly studio

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a calm beginning to your baby’s life.

Calmbirth® is an inspirational childbirth education program designed to guide expectant parents through their labour and birth. Calmbirth Educators in your area: Linda Corby Ph. 0488 211 056 | Robyn Moore Ph. 0437 742 142

For further information or to enrol in a class, For further information or to enrol in a class, please visit calmbirth.com.au For further informationplease or to enrol a class, please visit calmbirth.com.au visitincalmbirth.com.au

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Your conveyancing and property law professionals

“We can help you with all aspects of conveyancing and property law in both Victoria and NSW”

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Legal Secretary

At Dianne Williams Pty, we can assist you with all types of property law matters including residential and commercial conveyancing, farm and water transfers, leasing, wills, powers of attorney, deceased estates. As buying or selling a home is likely to be one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make, it is important that you use an experienced professional that you can trust. Our focus on property helps us provide you with cost-effective quality solicitor conveyancing services. Our clients appreciate our professional, personalised and value-for-money legal services. Contact us today and experience the difference.

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Robyn Moore, Brooke Shields with her son and Linda Corby.

Childbirth — don’t worry, be calm T

HEY SAY GIVING birth is the equivalent of fracturing 20 bones.

But all at the same time. Ouch. Most women would agree the pain can be unbearable. And surely most would also raise their eyebrows if they heard the words calm and birth in the same sentence. But that is the mission of two Echuca midwives, Robin Moore and Linda Corby, who recently started offering childbirth classes for expecting women. Evidence shows 45 per cent of women who attend Calmbirth classes require no pain relief — compared to an average of one in 10 who will need it.

The Calmbirth program has been especially designed to guide couples during the prenatal period, and provide the knowledge and skills they need to avoid unnecessary interventions and experience a calm and confident birth. It gives couples the confidence to work with the birth as it unfolds and to avoid unnecessary interventions.

Of those who were surveyed after attending a course, 45.4 per cent used no analgesia, and a further 29.4 per cent used only gas. “We teach women the skills they need to remain calm even when their birth doesn’t go the way they imagined,” Robin said. Brook Shields’ birth didn’t go the way she had planned.

Robin and Linda — both mothers themselves — say they know what it is like to have a birth experience that isn’t calm.

She was induced.

But now, armed with the knowledge they have, they say childbirth can be one of life’s most empowering experiences.

But fortunately she also had classes with Robin and was able to have a pleasant experience.

“Couples simply need the practical skills and confidence to do it their way — but somewhere along the way too many women learn to connect childbirth with fear, anxiety and trauma,” Linda said.

“I think it impacted massively to have those classes,” Brook said.

“We also know that while more than half the women we work with say they felt anxious, frightened or very frightened before attend- “It doesn’t have to be like that. ing a Calmbirth course, afterwards just 2.6 “From years of clinical experiences I know per cent felt that way,” Robin said. expectant mothers who learn skills to relax and trust the process of childbirth are more “Women tell us that attending the course likely to feel calm and confident and less helped them transition from feeling fearful likely to need intervention.” and experiencing lack of control to gaining confidence in themselves and their ability to give birth.”

as it unfolds and to avoid unnecessary interventions.

Calmbirth aims to give couples the knowledge and confidence to work with the birth

“I only used the TENS machine and a little bit of gas at the end. “I am a midwife as well so I have seen what other women go through. I just found the classes to be very helpful.” The two-day course — which is not associated with Echuca Regional Health — can be arranged by appointment. For more information visit www.calmbirth.com.au or phone Robin on 0437 742 142 or Linda on 0488 211 056. n

Child of the earth Wendy McDonald turned to her art as a buffer against the pain of drought and has used it to transition from farm labourer to a one-woman enterprise. NATALIE DURRANT caught up with the rise and rise of this gifted artist.

RTIST WENDY MCDONALD has turned her dream into a reality.

Although on this particular day, for the mother of two, that reality has taken on a nightmarish overtone. She is in the middle of finishing artwork for an upcoming exhibition; daughter Maggie is on school holidays, son Archie is home sick and she has to get across to Bunnaloo for a parent-teacher interview (66 km round trip) — before a quick swing past Shepparton to collect art supplies for Maggie’s Year 12 project (another 180 km round trip). “But the beauty is that I can still work from home,” she gestures around, her arm encompassing paintings leaning against the wall and sketch books on the rustic farm kitchen table. “Archie might be sick now, but Maggie already has been. “Yesterday, we were mustering and loading sheep. “But I can still paint from home,” she insists. Home is Wendy and Peter’s 400 ha Caldwell property Glencoe, nestled between Barham and Moama. “I have been painting seriously for 10 years, but I have done drawings and paintings my whole life,” Wendy says. “It’s a little strange because everybody in my family is a musician; I am the only one who paints and draws. “Lots of people have the talent and can do it but are not necessarily driven to do it. I can vividly remember drawing as a child and being totally absorbed in it. “It’s also about having the courage to take it to the next level. I credit South West Arts, under the helm of Nina O’Brien-Heir, for giving me the confidence to step up and take myself to a more professional level. “She was really proactive with trying to engage in local artists and use South West Arts initiatives and scholarships.” In 2006, Wendy was one of those scholarship recipients, which took her to a summer camp with a professional artist in Wagga Wagga.

“It really opened my eyes to the possibilities of what I could do as a professional, and how to take my work seriously,” she says.

Wendy’s hard work was rewarded earlier this year when she opened an exhibition at Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery.

“Sometimes it just takes someone you respect in the field, who has the confidence in you, to help with that transition.”

“The Swan Hill exhibition was extremely well received,” Wendy says. “It is really good to have a regional gallery, a regional gallery which builds its collections and allows people to exhibit without that commercial pressure.”

Jo Bertini and Elisabeth Cummings have also been instrumental in helping Wendy experiment with her own style. “Meeting them and talking to them, they gave me the confidence to stretch myself and develop my own style.”

Wendy’s passion for art was tempered by Year 12 studies where she was put off by the formal process of producing art to a formula for assessments.

Wendy describes her work as contemporary, semi-abstract painting, with elements of the naïve.

So she decided to study education at university with a sub-major in psychology.

“You work with what you know and then, it’s almost like you develop your own process of shorthand, like that,” she nods at my frantic note-taking. “So when I paint a landscape, it’s my shorthand of the landscape you can see. I start with sketches and then take things down to their essential elements and then transform them. “But my still-lifes have symbolism. That chair,” she indicates a picture hanging over the old Aga, “represents people, family, the community.

Teaching at primary schools, Wendy quickly discovered nobody wanted to teach creative arts — so she put her hand up and found herself naturally falling back into the artistic world. In the mid-’90s Wendy and husband Peter bought their own farm and she gave up fulltime teaching to manage the farm while Peter worked off farm contracting. However, about 10 years ago, during the middle of the drought and with Maggie starting high school, Wendy decided it was time to go back to teaching in town. But fate stepped in.

“In my still-lifes, the foliage is of local plants, “I needed to go back to work because of the things that grow in the paddocks or in my drought situation and then, after waiting so orchard. It all has to have some sort of long, we were lucky enough to welcome meaning or else it doesn’t have a resonance.” Archie into the world. >>>

“

I FIND THERE IS SUCH A PARALLEL BETWEEN ART AND FARMING. YOU ARE DRIVEN TO DO IT BECAUSE YOU LOVE IT AND, IF YOU MAKE SOME MONEY FROM IT, THAT’S GREAT BUT IT’S NOT WHY YOU DO IT.

”

>>> “After waiting so long (12 years) for Archie, there was no way I was going to put him into crèche, so we looked at converting the old cottage on the farm into a studio.”

Anna Walker and Matilda Julian are two who have visited Glencoe. “With the students and sales of my paintings, I don’t have to get a job in town now.”

The first will be an exhibition in Sydney in November, followed by another Sydney firm, Design House, which is also well known for its contemporary furniture, housing Wendy’s work for a Christmas show.

Archie was eight months old when Wendy started running art classes from the studio. These include weekly lessons with children, as well as adults, one-day workshops and two-three-day art camps, with the artists able to stay in the studio. She also offers residency to artists who are able to live and work at the studio.

“I find there is such a parallel between art and farming. You are driven to do it because you love it and, if you make some money from it, that’s great but it’s not why you do it.”

And while Wendy is delighted to be stretching her audience and market, she also confesses to being “really nervous” because for all artists there is always that inherent risk.

“It’s wonderful that people are able to come here and work and then we also get to show them what we do here on the farm too. And I learn just as much from them as they do from me.”

The future is looking bright and, with the Swan Hill exhibition and a week-long exhibition at Echuca library in July, Wendy now has her sights set on three exhibitions later in the year.

Because when you go on show there is nowhere to hide — you, your name and your work are out there and you are vulnerable to every opinion coming through the door. n

And clearly living on the land and living to paint are the two base forces helping drive Wendy.

Lauriston Press in Kyneton will also showcase Wendy’s work at Christmas.

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What causes cervical cancer? Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most common link in cervical cancers. Over 99% of all cervical cancers are related to infection with HPV. HPV can lay dormant for many years and may present as a problem 10 to 20 years after initial infection. 80% of women will have been exposed to HPV at some time in their life. Smoking is also another risk factor for cervical cancer. The majority of women who have been exposed to HPV don’t get cancer; it depends on the type of HPV virus that they have been exposed to. There are over 50 types of HPV virus that affect the genital area. It is important that even if you have had the HPV vaccination (commonly known as Gardasil®) that you still have regular cervical screens to detect cell change. The vaccination only protects from two of the most common forms of HPV that have been associated with cancer and two of the warts virus strains. When I was completing my training to become a cervical screen provider in early 2011, the sexual health clinics in Melbourne were already reporting a significant reduction in presentations of patients with the warts virus. The benefits of vaccination were being seen. Please see your GP for anything abnormal for you. • vaginal bleeding between periods. • menstrual bleeding that is longer or heavier than usual. • bleeding after intercourse. • pain during intercourse. • unusual vaginal discharge. • vaginal bleeding after menopause. • excessive tiredness. • leg pain or swelling. • low back pain. Where to go on the net? HPV Vaccine: www.hpvvaccine.org.au Family Planning Victoria: www.fpv.org.au Pap Screen Victoria: www.papscreen.org.au Cancer Council Australia: www.cancer.org.au

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Kylie and her remarkable repertoire For a small woman Kylie has a big impact on her adopted home of Echuca-Moama. ANDREW MOLE caught up with one of the busiest people in town and discovered the human dynamo is just getting started. >>>

>>>

LMOST EVERYONE KNOWS Kylie.

Particularly when they are lurching into another day, shuffling towards breakfast or finally in the car, headed for another day at the factory. From north of Mathoura to way south of Rochy, from Kerang to Kyabram, Kylie has become an almost indispensable part of the morning.

It just wouldn’t seem right to try and start yours any other way than tuning into Kylie in the Morning, that bubbly voice on Edge 102.5FM radio.

“

IF I WASN’T DOING SOMETHING ELSE I RECKON I WOULD GO STIR CRAZY LOCKED AWAY BEHIND A MICROPHONE.

”

But as well as we think we know Kylie; because we start every working day with her, if you stop and consider it for a minute we don’t really know her all that well. For example, what’s her last name? Stevenson. Is she a blonde or brunette? Brunette. How old is she? We know, but can’t tell you. And how tall is she? Not very. Once you get behind the microphone and really get to know the real Kylie you’ll find a fascinating story of a woman who has had more life and career changes than you have had hot dinners. And she is always planning and/or keeping a sharp eye out for new ventures and challenges for the years ahead. She has worked in the health industry, real estate, radio stations the length and breadth of the country, Victoria police office of Integrity specialising in bugging — she can’t tell us who, what, where, how or why but said it was fascinating. And, if you didn’t know, is also an accredited wedding celebrant (you can find her on Facebook at theweddingwoman). “But I have always loved radio, from when I was a little kid,” Kylie confessed at the Pakenham St studio she rules every morning. “I would climb this big tree in the backyard of my grandmother’s house and pretend to be a radio announcer — and the leaves would be my records. “Aagh! Did I say records? God, that really ages you doesn’t it,” she laughed. “But as much as I dreamt of being in radio I actually started working as an executive assistant in the health industry, first in Bendigo and then transferred to Warrnambool.” A move which finally got her back on track as they say in radio. She did a Certificate of Commercial Radio and got a placement at Warrnambool’s 3YB (or 3 Why Bother in local speak).

“They must have heard something they liked because they gave me a job and I was there for the next two years,” Kylie said.

Paterson to be even closer to her mother and finally into the same house as her health continued to decline.

“Then it was 3BA in Ballarat, a few stops with ACE Radio and Coffs Harbour with StarFM.”

“There wasn’t much room for radio at that time, although I did work locally in real estate, as my mother needed all my attention, right up until she died,” she said.

Where she was headhunted by Canberra’s MixFM where she partnered a breakfast show called Kylie and Mark (“I couldn’t stand him, he was such a narcissist”). It was such a letdown after her success as Kylie and Alex with StarFM. But none of it mattered when Kylie’s mother became seriously ill. She moved back to Melbourne, then Cape

Kylie kept dabbling here and there but could never resist the pull of radio and after checking out Jock’s Journal — a radio employment site — she landed the job at Edge and arrived in Echuca. Where rain, hail or shine she is in the studio every day by 5.30 am, getting organised to

go live 30 minutes later and be the voice of the region for the next four hours.

there is still a very blokey approach by the people in power.

At times she misses having an on-air partner, loves chatting to anyone who cares to ring up and would like to get more of a finger on the pulse of the twin towns.

“In Echuca I also reckon I already do about 10 weddings a year right now and am also training to become a funeral celebrant,” she said.

“It’s not easy to get out and about — when I am not on-air I am also doing some real estate. If I wasn’t doing something else I reckon I would go stir crazy locked away behind a microphone. “I love working in regional towns, I’ve lived in Melbourne and don’t want to go and work in city radio, it’s too nasty, too unstable and

Hang on, funerals?

real estate, but I am keeping a tight lid on that just now — don’t want anyone pipping me at the post,” she laughed. There is something irrepressible about this feisty little machine. She loves work, loves working hard and is prepared to take a punt on her own ability to get a new job done.

“Yes, it might sound a bit of a shift but I think But when asked what she thought was her there is a changing attitude to the way funerals are conducted, I see them increas- greatest achievement to date she does not hesitate. ingly becoming more of a celebration, an occasion, and I like to think I would be able “The best thing I have ever done as a human to do that really well,” Kylie said. being was to go and live with my mother in the last year of her life.” n “I am also cooking up another project, with

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Brash or sage, it’s all full steam ahead Bookkeeper, wife, mother, farmer and now fashionista. IVY WISE tries to keep up with the pace of Belinda Brasher to find out about her latest venture.

ELINDA BRASHER HAS jumped feet first into the deepest end she could possibly find.

“We will still have the same amazing brands and styles but just a broader range of sizing,” she said.

And she’s loving it.

“Women who have a curvier figure want to wear nice clothes and look stylish too.”

For the past decade Belinda has run her own bookkeeping business. In April she gave birth to her third son.

Sage prides itself on stocking limited items and more than 10 good quality brands.

Then in June, obviously with some unex- “We refuse to buy in bulk,” Belinda said. pected spare time on her hands, she bought, “Echuca is so small and if you’re going to a and relaunched, Sage, a clothing boutique. wedding or function, you don’t want to be wearing the same thing as someone else.” “I just thought ‘why not’?” Belinda admitted. “You’ve just got to put yourself out there, and throw yourself into the deep end.” Born in Tongala, growing up in Echuca and now on a dairy farm with her husband and three young boys this self-confessed ‘busy’ mum is finally prepared to admit she might have her hands full. “It’s been a challenge, and I will still face more, but I will just take it as it comes.” Sage opened in Pakenham St three years ago, stocking women’s clothing, accessories, shoes and home decor.

Belinda also has to keep up with the fashion trends and with spring and summer just around the corner, next season’s stock has already been ordered. “We’re so excited for the coming months’ orders to arrive and can’t wait to see our customers wearing them,” she said. Although Belinda is no stranger to the retail business, managing a water ski shop several years ago, the fashion world is somewhat different.

“I’ve always liked fashion,” she said. “I loved the shop, the clothes and the prod“This is something new for me, but the uct,” Belinda said. support I have had from my family, friends “It’s unique. I love the raw and rustic nature and everyone has been amazing as well as of the handmade fixtures and fittings and having my very supportive staff member the brands and styles we have fit so well. Brooke. “We have everything from every day casual to wedding and ball outfits. “There is something for everyone.” In saying that, she stocks sizes 6–16 after listening to customer feedback.

“It’s been risky, high pressure and extremely chaotic with a lot of second guessing, but I wouldn’t change a thing.” Sage is open 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday. n

“

YOU’VE JUST GOT TO PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE, AND THROW YOURSELF INTO THE DEEP END.

”

Sleep. Are you getting enough? What is sleep apnoea? When you have sleep apnoea, air stops flowing to your lungs for 10 seconds or longer — that is, you actually stop breathing. Sensing you have stopped breathing, a control centre in your brain triggers you to wake up just enough to take a breath. Then you fall back to sleep and the cycle begins again. In some people this can happen over 30 times every hour even though you may not remember waking up. As you can imagine, constantly being triggered back into breathing, hour after hour, night after night, can put a strain on your body. You may feel very tired day after day yet not realise that you’ve been waking up so many times at night as a result of having sleep apnoea.

Normal, open airway

Partially closed airway

Closed airway during an apnea

What are the symptoms of sleep apnoea? The first and most common sign of sleep apnoea is usually observed by your partner: snoring. In addition to snoring, they might also tell you that you make gasping or choking sounds while you’re asleep. You might notice some other symptoms too such as: • Constant tiredness

• Weight gain

• Poor concentration

• Lack of energy

• Morning headaches

• Forgetfulness

• Depressed mood

• Sexual dysfunction

• Night sweats

• Frequent urination at night

Sleep apnoea treatment options There are four common sleep apnoea treatment options: 1. Positive airway pressure therapy (non-invasive) CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) delivers constant airflow to people while they sleep. CPAP is often referred to as “the gold standard” treatment option and is the most commonly prescribed. APAP (automatic positive airway pressure) automatically varies its air pressure throughout the night in response to a person’s needs, making treatment more comfortable. 2. Oral appliance therapy (non-invasive) A mandibular repositioning device (MRD) is a custom-fitted mouthpiece that holds your jaw in a forward position while you sleep to expand the space behind your tongue. This helps keep your upper airway open, preventing apnoea and snoring.

3. Surgery (invasive) There are several surgical procedures that can improve the exact area of obstruction in patients’ upper respiratory tracts. As with all invasive surgical procedures, there is the risk of negative side effects. 4. Weight loss In some patients with milder forms of sleep apnoea, losing weight can help reduce apnoea and alleviate their symptoms.

Before choosing a sleep apnoea treatment option, talk with the sleep specialist at Coburn and Reid Pharmacy. The severity of your sleep apnoea, your current physical condition and medical history will help determine the best plan for you. Brent Coburn and Steve Reid

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OSALON_ starts stepping up the show Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is big business at any time — but MBFW in downtown New York is the biggest of them all. IVY WISE talks with an Echuca hairdressing star about her role there a few weeks from now.

CHUCA HAIRDRESSER JESS O’REILLY has been given the entrée to one of the world’s premier fashion extravaganzas.

the clients to being involved with editorial “I love when I have free rein and the client work, shoots and hopefully a few shows,” trusts you to do whatever you want. she said. “I also love where colour is going. There On Manhattan’s Lower East Side the “I’m looking forward to doing editorial work, aren’t so many rules, it’s more artistic and and working alongside Dale and the PRèMA individual, it’s purely creative. OSALON_ owner will be part of the team and gaining experience in the fashion Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in September. “We now have incredible products like side of things.” Olaplex, allowing colourists to push hair to And not just any part — she will be working new limits. with one of the biggest names in the busi- One of the most sought-after hair stylists in the industry, Dale has styled celebrities ness, renowned fashion hair stylist Dale “It’s advancing all the time. It’s fun now, like including Cate Blanchett, Miranda Otto, Delaporte of PRèMA. anything goes.” David Wenham, Ruby Rose and Kimbra. Last year Jess was one of 10 Australian And Jess isn’t standing still with her busistylists who travelled to New York to help “His work is next level and different … he’s ness either and is already in the process of doing things no-one in the industry has create masterpieces for the high-profile launching her own line of OSALON_ hair done before,” Jess said. runway show Tome. care products. “He’s a big player in the industry. I’m so While there she met legendary hair and “I’m currently working with a biochemist to excited.” beauty entrepreneur Francesco Ruggerino create a luxury OSALON_ Haircare range,” PRèMA is also the official hair director for and Delaporte. she said. The Voice. “I reached out to Dale’s team and asked if It will consist of 24 premium products, Hairdressing is the only thing Jess has ever there would be work at the salon for me this including shampoos, conditioners and stylwanted to do. year,” she said. ing products. Getting the nod of approval, Jess will spend three high-pressure weeks working at the salon and although she’s not sure what her role will be she’s just delighted to be there on the inside. “I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing, anything from running the floor, servicing

Starting her career in Melbourne 12 years ago, the 30-year-old has worked her way up — doing just about every style there is. Her styles range from sleek, soft and super polished up-dos, to cornrows and the more edgy, fashion forward styles. “I just love the artistic side,” she said.

And if that wasn’t enough, Jess is also busy selecting professional skincare and makeup ranges in preparation to launch her OSALON_ beauty room so she can offer complementary beauty services. “It will be high-end luxury beauty that complements what I do,” she said.n

“

I’M CURRENTLY WORKING WITH A BIOCHEMIST TO CREATE A LUXURY OSALON_ HAIRCARE RANGE.

”

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The miracle industry delivers a big one TYLA HARRINGTON meets a woman who turned to the cutting edge of medical research to find a cure for the nightmare no-one else could even diagnose.

OCHESTER’S CAROL WEST was waiting for a miracle.

From her hips to her legs, across her lower back and through the sciatic area her pain was relentless. She was miserable; wanting and waiting for something, anything, to make a difference. And when it finally came it would be the cutting edge of stem cell treatment. “There were many long driving trips where I suffered in pain. Everyday life was miserable,” she said. “I would even fall without reason. “I consulted a doctor for the back pain and was told it was a cold in my back, and then it was sacroiliac. That was very exciting I thought, until I learnt everyone has a sacroiliac.” Several bone density tests indicated density 15 years younger than her age so a skeletal cause was ruled out. Carol always treated it as muscular.

“Basically how it works is they draw adipose (fatty) tissue, treat it centrifugally and then inject it into the area of need. “It regenerates not only the local area but also any area of body in need. “When the doctor explained how he removes the fat cells I asked if he could suck out a few extra. I thought everyone would ask the same thing.” After processing, a few million stem cells were administered intravenously. And a few million more were injected into the groin. “Apparently there is generally much pain in the recovery which I have not experienced,” Carol said. “I did check with the clinic to make sure it didn’t mean it wasn’t working but they told me they present the worst case scenario just in case.” That’s when she started to notice the changes.

“The pain started to go away,” Carol said “I believe healing of body, mind and spirit enabled me to relieve a lot of discomfort,” “My shoulder would always give me grief but has since been pain free. she said. “But while travelling to Europe my husband Lawrie was concerned when the discomfort caused me to limp.”

“Since Ross River my feet had been very sensitive when bare so I had to sleep with socks on.

So after the trip she went back to the doctor.

“One night the socks slipped off my feet and I didn’t have to put them on again.

“Blood tests indicated I was unbelievably healthy for my age, except for severe “I hadn’t been comfortable in bare feet for arthritic erosion in my left hip and deterio- 30 years. ration of symphysis pubis,” she said. “And in February I realised my face was “I was not at all keen on having a hip replace- normal. ment so I waited for a miracle. “The impact of Bell’s Palsy six years ago “Then in early January a friend mentioned had caused minor tightness, squinty two people in Rochester had stem cell eyes and occasional dribbles. But that all treatment at Macquarie Stem Cell Clinic in disappeared.” Sydney. Carol said while she understood why some “So I called them and they both indicated people were reserved about stem cell treattheir delight with the outcome.” ment, for her it was the best thing she could have done. The next Carol knew she was booked in for an appointment. Her life has gone from daily nightmare to a And $10,000 later she had the treatment. life — and she is loving every minute of it. n

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What can the Salt Cave help me with? It is perfect for people with respiratory and lung problems as you can inhale the dry salt aerosol particles deep into your lungs and it will help relieve inflammation and loosen congestion which will make it easier for you to breath. It is also wonderful for people with skin conditions and it can help relieve itchiness, rashes or flaking because the salt cleanses the dermis of infection, inflammation and irritation.

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Fantastic range of gifts available at Echuca Newsagency Did you know we can help you out with your CityLink/EastLink passes, account payments and top-ups? VIC/NSW fishing licences also now available, come in and see our friendly staff Gift vouchers and lay-bys welcome

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Style flair for this fair lady In Echuca-Moama there are two major days at which to trot out the glad rags and our style queen LANA MURPHY caught up with one woman who does it better than most.

AHYNA HEENAN HAS no qualms admitting she’s a girl on a budget.

The only time you’ll find her in a high-end store is if it’s Boxing Day, or possibly a mid-year sale frenzy. Otherwise it’s online at addresses such as Asos and Boohoo, or traipsing her way through the always-handy opportunity shops. “There’s just no reason to spend so much money,” the Shepparton-based hairdresser and makeup artist said. “A little thought and styling goes a long way and you can make anything look high-end.

“But I don’t get further than the top 20 because I’m not a size six,” she laughed. “I’m proud of my shape, no apologies.” The savvy stylist is yet to determine what’s next on her list but there’s no doubt she’ll conquer more competitions. “I love competing, I love the process involved in planning an outfit, the atmosphere on the day,” she said. “Dressing up and feeling good is one of the best things about being a woman — and we’re all beautiful.” n

“And if you know your stuff you can buy designer at a great price.” She proved this on May 29 at the Echuca Cup when she took the title of Lady of the Day at the annual Fashions on the Field competition. Dressed in a structured red peplum dress, black long-sleeved lace top, black blazer and classic accessories, Dahyna said she went for a “Chanel-inspired Spanish look”. And it paid off. Bella judges Carly Richardson and Vanessa Brewis joined OSALON_ owner Jess O’Reilly and beauty therapists Tayla Lowry and Kourtney King to rate Dahyna’s look the best. “She was the most put together,” Bella advertising executive Carly said. “Everything was thought through, planned and really stylish, perfect for winter. “The hand-made hat scored extra points too.” Dahyna was taught by her milliner grandmother to sew and create stunning headpieces. She’s used those skills to create magnificent looks at 25 fashion competitions in the past three years, and every look is different. “I sell the items when I’m finished with them,” she said. “The girls in Queensland usually snap them up because there’s a big racing industry there. “I’ve got to constantly keep my look updated and unique.” She’s had good runs at Melbourne’s most prestigious Spring Carnival fashion plate — Oaks Day.

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Fashion is what you buy… Style is what you do with it… Book your appointment with Sari today for all the latest fashion from the comfort of her beautiful home based boutique. Sari Batson p: 0429 856 841 e: sari.batson@hotmail.com f: www.facebook.com/pinkzebraboutiqueechuca

Catch on to pulled-lamb tortilla

OHNNY & LYLE head chef Brendan Wright knows the right way to cook.

It helps that he has an appreciation for fine dining combined with a love for experimenting. But when it comes to the popular High St café it’s the relaxed atmosphere, hearty meals, tasty treats and in-house roasted coffee that has Brendan calling it home. “I’ve been the head chef since its inception almost three years ago,” he said. Brendan started his apprenticeship at the Golden Vine Hotel in Bendigo 10 years ago before moving to Echuca in 2011. This is one of his favourite dishes.

Pulled-lamb tortilla Lamb Ingredients: • 1.7 kg lamb shoulder on the bone • 2 tbls fresh thyme leaves (washed and finely cut) • 1 sprig rosemary (washed and finely cut) • 1 lemon (zested and juiced) • 4 garlic cloves (peeled) • 1 tbls paprika • 1 tbls cumin seeds • 1 tsp caraway seeds • 3 tbls olive oil • 1 tsp sea salt • Black pepper Method: • Preheat oven to 140°C (for fan forced oven). • Place lamb in a large roasting tray and set aside. • Place the garlic, paprika, sea salt, cumin and caraway seeds in a pestle and mortar and lightly crush. Add the oil, lemon zest and fresh herbs and work to a paste. • Beat in the lemon juice; add a generous grinding of black pepper and stir to combine. • Rub the paste over the lamb; add 100 ml of water to tray. Roast in the oven for 40 minutes. Baste the lamb with the cooking juices; cover the tray with aluminium foil. Return to the oven and continue roasting for three hours, basting the meat every hour. • Remove the tray from the oven and skim the fat off the cooking juices. Cover the meat with foil and leave to rest for 10 minutes. • Pull the meat from the bone with a fork, and roughly shred. Toss through with cooking liquid.

Pumpkin hummus Ingredients: • 2x 400 g canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) • 500 g roasted pumpkin • 3 garlic cloves (crushed and finely chopped) • 1 tsp cumin • 1 lemon (juiced) • 1 tbls sesame oil • 1/2 cup water • Salt and pepper to taste

To serve: • Wrap tortillas in aluminium foil and place in a pre-heated, 180°C oven for 10 minutes until warmed through. • Build your tortilla as desired.

Method: • Combine all ingredients in a food processor, and blitz until smooth. • Adjust seasoning.

Salad Ingredients: • 150 g baby spinach • 1 large carrot (shredded) • 75 g pomegranate arils • Olive oil (to dress) • Meredith goats cheese (one square per plate) • 1 tbls sesame seeds (for garnish) • Salt and pepper to taste

Thirty Something

Tell me I am dreaming this nightmare S

O ANOTHER OF my inner circle has decided to abandon the sisterhood of independence and get married.

and wearing slippers.

The bride — at 37 — is also pregnant.

Instead I discovered the matron is up the duff.

Just.

This always terrifies me, on so many levels.

At 36 she is having a baby.

First, and always foremost, as soon as my mother hears I am flying to Adelaide for a bridal shower you can almost speak the words for her: “Oh, her mother must be so delighted, having waited so long she probably thought she would never see her little girl in white”.

God, I groaned, it won’t take long for this to get back to mother will it?

White? Well I could have set my dear mum straight there, probably my mate’s mum too.

Even that gives me the jitters. No, not the night out, but matron. That’s what you get labelled if you are married and are to be the number one bridesmaid. Matron. I expected a little old woman, bent by age

Even Sunday dinner with the oldies would have to be better than this.

A girl?

By the time we had got through the stupid games, handed over the wedding goodies and got geared up to go out, I could not believe how many dropped off.

Bloody hell, she’s barely 12 weeks pregnant. “Yes,” she confided. “When you are an older mother they run all these extra tests, and one of them lets you know the baby’s sex”.

What on earth is she talking about?

So it was off to Adelaide where about 25 of us were gathering at the matron of honour’s home before setting out for the night.

I just wanted to go home.

Then said pregnant buddy informs me she is having a girl.

Older?

But as always I bit my tongue, suffered the inevitable moaning and moved on.

No-one knew except the 25 of us — and everyone we told on Facebook, Instagram and the phone in the next 30 seconds.

So the whole day, and promise of the night to come, was a bust. How more become?

depressing

could

anything

Well plenty, as it turned out, because as one after the other of the old gang gathered I discovered I must have missed a few things living in the fast lane on the east coast. Half were married, half of those divorced, three were already on their second marriages.

Babysitters, husbands, even boyfriends, expecting them home, helping with homework, kids with colds, I just wanted to put my hands over my ears and scream. Who were these people? If whatever they have is contagious I may just shoot myself. None of us ever wanted to grow up and be like this — these are the very people we laughed at when we were young. Hang on, I am young. I want to be young forever, I never want to be 40, I love being 30 something. Someone get me out of here. n

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