Adventist Church responds to NSW’s worst flooding in decades 7
Adventist Record | June 21, 2025 ISSN 0819-5633
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EDITOR’S NOTE: No pain, no . . . brain?
Juliana Muniz News editor
I’m not going to lie, I love my comfort zone. It’s the cosiest place, with its predictability and minimal stress.
Why did I come here again? Think, think! Oh, my memory is so bad sometimes. Okay, mental map . . . That’s right! I came here to turn the dishwasher on! What a relief. I think I might be in need of some B12—good for memory, right?
That’s a common monologue in my head. Maybe in yours, too. We’ve all experienced forgetting what we were planning to do on our way to do it or even the point we were about to make mid-sentence. When that happens, I always try my hardest to remember because, one, I feel it’s important to finish that thought or activity, and two, I have to prove to myself that, despite my irrational fear of experiencing a neurodegenerative decline in my 30s, I’m not really losing my memory.
As scary as brain health statistics around the world can look, for many of us who experience those momentary blanks, it’s not a matter of memory impairment or neurodegenerative decline. There’s a big chance that you might be under a lot of stress or haven’t been getting enough sleep— or you’re low in B12.
I’m quite interested in health, and brain health has been a topic I’ve been enjoying exploring lately. There’s nothing more empowering than learning how your body works and making informed decisions, even in our small daily choices.
One thing I have found quite interesting was learning about a group of people called super-agers. They are adults in the 65+ age group whose memory abilities are on par with those in their 20s. Scientists tried to find a common practice among this group, and what they all do differently from their peers who are not considered super-agers. They are constantly engaging in challenging activities. Some are competing in sports, others decided to learn to play the piano, learn a new language or even become technologically literate.
Specialists speculate that super-agers may share a willingness to endure discomfort in order to master a new skill in contrast with other individuals who might give up easily. Chief science officer for the Center for Law, Brain and Behaviour at Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett, adds, “They’re doing hard stuff that doesn’t always feel really good at the moment, and so their brains have to learn to adapt and flexibly bring that regulation back in line.”
The lesson here: uncertainty and discomfort are not all bad for us.
We see this concept at work when it comes to physical activity. The way we build muscle is to create stress through resistance—tiny tears that the body repairs, making the muscle stronger.
We also see this in our spiritual lives. When we choose to trust God and follow His will—even when it’s not what we feel like doing—that process grows our faith. James reinforced this idea: “The testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:3,4).
We live in a time and culture that prioritises feeling good, happy and comfortable. And I’m not going to lie, I love my comfort zone. It’s the cosiest place, with its predictability and minimal stress. But our comfort zone is not the best place for improving our lives—spiritually, physically or cognitively.
There is a lot to gain from persisting through challenges. I don’t mean we need to push ourselves to the verge of exhaustion or a mental breakdown—it’s important to identify and establish healthy limits. But as Dr Barrett put it, “Feeling bad doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. And it doesn’t mean you should stop working really hard. It means that you should get a drink of water, have a snack, get a hug and get back to it.”
In the fullness of time
Maveni Kaufononga Trans Pacific Union Mission president
“But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son” (Galatians 4:4).
There is something both comforting and challenging about those words— the fullness of time. In our fast-paced world, we often want answers now, change now, results now. But God operates differently. He doesn’t rush, delay or guess. He works with purpose, precision and perfect timing.
When God sent Jesus into the world, it wasn’t an accident or a last-minute rescue plan. It was deliberate. The Roman Empire had established roads and a common language. The Jewish people were longing for a Messiah. The timing—though it may not have looked ideal to many—was divine. It was the fullness of time.
This truth should speak peace into our lives and our work. Whether we’re waiting for direction, praying for change or moving forward in ministry, we can trust that God knows the exact moment to act. His timing is always better than ours.
There’s wisdom in the saying, “The right thing at the wrong time is the wrong thing.” You may have the right vision, the right passion, the right message—but if you move before God says “go”, you may miss His best. Timing matters.
In the church, in leadership, in our families and personal journeys, we must learn to wait on God’s timing. That doesn’t mean we sit idle. It means we prepare, pray, plan and stay faithful. God opens doors when the moment is right. And when He does, things fall into place with a clarity and peace that only He can provide.
Whatever season you’re in—waiting, moving, questioning—remember: God is never late. He is working behind the scenes in ways you can’t yet see. So keep trusting, keep praying and keep moving with Him.
In the fullness of His time, everything will come together just as it should.
Remote village receives first Adventist church
New Britain, PNG | Paul Bopalo
More than 300 Adventist Community Services (ACS) members from New Britain New Ireland Mission (NBNIM) have conducted a community outreach program at a remote village with no previous Adventist presence.
The ACS members travelled to Raigel village—an isolated community in the Sinivit Local Level Government area, where locals must travel up to three days to buy basic goods.
Themed “Jesus is all I need”, the outreach brought both spiritual and practical support. For the first time, an Adventist church was established in the village—built in just five days through the support of the PNG for Christ initiative, funded by the South Pacific Division. The new church was officially opened on May 25 by NBNIM president Pastor Andrew Opis, on land donated by village chief Herman Seneng.
“This is the first Adventist church in Raigel, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to bring the gospel and serve the community,” said Pastor Richard Koroi, NBNIM secretary. “People in remote areas like Raigel need our prayers and support.” He also thanked Chief Seneng and the SPD for the support.
Chief Seneng, who also donated the
land for a future pastor’s house, pledged to join the Adventist Church along with his family and clan. They attended the first Sabbath service with the ACS team on a campsite.
Alongside the church construction, the ACS team also led a variety of activities for the local community, including health education, life skills training and infrastructure development. Six ventilated improved pit toilets were built for the community, school and aid post. The team also sewed and gifted 96 school uniforms and shirts for seven teachers.
Daily programs included morning and evening worship, led by NBNIM directors Pastor Tangis Kurae and Pastor Jeffery Kamo, with morning prayer sessions facilitated by Minister Sandy Yambi. Dr Robert Wat and a team of professionals conducted the health presentations.
Life skills training, including sewing, cooking and baking using traditional stone methods, were also conducted and more than 300 care packages containing essential items like soap, cooking oil and clothing were distributed to villagers.
The outreach concluded with one baptism and six people responding to an appeal.
Spanish church in Australia celebrates 50 years
Wetherill Park, NSW | Dan Carrasco
More than 500 members, leaders and guests gathered at Wetherill Park church from May 23 to 25 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church in Australia.
The weekend celebration featured worship services, musical performances, testimonies and reflections on five decades of ministry by Spanishspeaking congregations across the country. Themed “Thus far the Lord has helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12), the event highlighted the growth and legacy of a community that began with a small group of families in Sydney in 1975.
Greater Sydney Conference president Pastor Alban Matohiti led a prayer of thanksgiving, expressing gratitude for God’s guidance over the years and
praying for continued faith and mission into the future.
A musical highlight of the program was a performance by members of the original Spanish Singers, whose ministry in the early years of the church helped shape its worship culture. The event also honoured pioneers, including Pastor Ricardo Olivares, the first Spanish-speaking pastor ordained in the Australian Adventist Church.
“This 50-year celebration is a testimony of God’s providence and the enduring faith of our Spanish-speaking members,” said Pastor Jonathan Valls, who served as MC for the weekend.
The celebration concluded with a thanksgiving concert and a lunch.
The original Spanish Singers (now Endless Praise)
The ribbon-cutting at the new church opening ceremony.
The outreach concluded with a baptism.
Education mission reaffirmed at conference
Adventist education leaders from across New Zealand and Australia gathered in Adelaide for a landmark educational leaders conference centred on the theme “Flourishing Adventist Schools”.
Held from May 13-15, the event was a collaboration between Adventist Schools Australia (ASA) and the New Zealand Pacific Union Conference (NZPUC). It brought together around 250 senior education leaders, along with invitees from the South Pacific Division, Avondale University, Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM), Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM) and Laos.
The conference inspired mission-focused leadership, strengthened regional collaboration and equipped leaders to nurture Christ-centred learning communities across all areas of education.
A highlight of the conference was the recognition of long-serving education
professionals Rosalie McFarlane, Glen King and Rob Ellison, recognised for 43, 47 and 46 years of service respectively.
South Queensland Conference education director Jack Ryan and Australian Union Conference CFO Peter Cameron received Outstanding Service awards.
Special guests from PNGUM and TPUM were invited to attend for the first time. “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate. It was an inspiring experience for our team,” a PNGUM representative said.
“The conference affirmed the shared commitment of Adventist educators across the region,” said NZPUC education director Dan Carrasco.
ASA national director Dr Jean Carter concluded, “I praise Jesus for the opportunity for our educational leaders to come together from across the SPD in unity of purpose, vision and mission.”
Community health expo marks first for ELIA Wellness Summit
Sydney, NSW | Tracey Bridcutt
In a first for the ELIA Wellness Summit, a community health expo was held on May 17, offering free health screenings to the local public on the grounds of the Waitara community hall.
The ELIA Wellness Snapshot was an opportunity for summit attendees to connect with the wider community and promote health and wellbeing in practical ways. Free height, weight and BMI measurements, blood pressure and glucose checks, massages and medical consultations were offered, with dozens of people taking up the opportunity.
This year’s ELIA Wellness Summit, themed “Flourishing in a Challenging World”, was held on May 16-18 at the Clinical Education Centre, Sydney Adventist Hospital. About 200 people from across the South Pacific attended the event, which brought together international and local speakers, along with representatives from the Mexican Union in Chiapas and their lifestyle centre, Centro de Vida Sana.
Attendees enjoyed plant-based
meals, which were a fundraiser for the 10,000 Toes Campaign to support wellness hubs and adopt-a-wellness clinics. Practical workshops and evidence-based presentations explored how lifestyle medicine can prevent and reverse chronic and mental disease, foster healthy ageing and uplift spiritual wellbeing.
During the summit it was revealed that an updated CHIP program is being launched in early 2026—a partnership between Vitality Works and the ELIA Lifestyle Medicine Centre team.
New ELIA Wellness Hub branding was also unveiled—created to unite and strengthen the network of wellness hubs across Australia and New Zealand.
“Our goal is simple: to be the trusted place in the community for health, healing and hope. Let’s continue transforming lives—one hub, one heart, one healthy choice at a time,” said ELIA Wellness executive director Dr Geraldine Przybylko.
For more visit <eliawellness.com>.
Adelaide, SA |Kymberley McMurray/Dan Carrasco
Free massages were popular at the health expo.
During the event, Glen King, Rosalie McFarlane and Rob Ellison were recognised for more than 40 years of service.
Adventist Church responds to NSW’s worst flooding in decades
Cooranbong, NSW | Juliana Muniz
The Seventh-day Adventist Church has stepped up to support floodaffected communities across the mid-north coast of New South Wales, following the region’s worst flooding since 1984. After intense rainfall from May 21 to 25, roads were cut off, businesses lost stock and many farmers now face a long road to recovery.
Adventist properties were also affected by the floods. The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) office in Cooranbong temporarily closed after floodwaters reached the parking lot and inundated the resource room. Several schools—including Avondale School, Toronto Adventist School and Manning Adventist Bush School—were forced to close.
ADRA Australia quickly activated its national emergency plan, joining forces with Adventist Community Services (ACS) and volunteers to provide emergency relief. Financial assistance, clean-up crews, food hampers, hot meals and psychological first aid were offered to impacted residents.
“People have been especially thankful for the emotional support—it’s helping them process their strong emotions in these times of need,” said Eric Leichner, emergency management director for ADRA Australia. He visited Taree and nearby towns to assist with coordinating the response.
ADRA also helped deliver supplies to isolated areas and supported aged care units. One of the key local initiatives was the SouperVan in Wauchope, which served hot meals and provided space for connection and healing.
As floodwaters receded, a group of 30 ACS volunteers from across the South New South Wales Conference (SNSW) travelled north to support clean-up operations in some of the worst-hit towns, including Kempsey and Taree. Volunteers travelled in a six-vehicle convoy, bringing donated supplies including shovels, pressure washers, nappies, food and water.
“If we can’t show up in the hard times, we don’t have the right to be there in the good times,” said Kyle Morrison, ACS director for SNSW and interim director for NNSW.
Adventist local farmer and business owner Greg Manson expressed deep appreciation for the Church’s support. “I’d normally say I’m emotionally strong, but this time I was at my end. The support from ACS has been invaluable.” he said.
To support the response, visit <adra.org.au/project/disaster-response/>.
making headlines
Handwritten devotion
After searching for a new way to approach Bible study, Brazilian woman Eliana Selmer transcribed the Bible by hand twice over several years. Now she is the coordinator of a collective church project where more than 140 volunteers have transcribed the Bible together. The transcription is currently being illustrated, with blank spaces within the manuscript being filled with artwork.—SAD
Belief and belonging
In mid-May, the Family Ministries Department of the Mongolia Mission hosted a program for church members with non-Christian spouses. Under the theme “Welcome Home”, the event aimed to bring couples together, offering support to the church members and a warm welcome to their spouses.—NSD
Worldwide hope
Global Adventist leaders gathered recently in Dubai for the 2025 Network Leadership Conference—organised by Hope Channel International—to collaborate, connect and adopt a new digital strategy. The initiative to reach 1 billion people by 2030 was introduced and various partnerships and opportunities were discussed.—AR
Generation brain gain
While the prevalence of dementia increases with age, generations today are less likely to develop dementia compared with earlier generations. This is likely due to factors such as smoking bans and improved treatments for diabetes and heart disease. The reduced dementia risk is noted especially in women, presumably due to increased access to education in the mid-20th century.—The Guardian
Adventists assisted NSW communities ravaged by the floods.
Preparing to lead
An Ambassadors retreat was held at Sonoma English Church, New Britain New Ireland Mission, PNG, on May 24. The program brought young people together to work through their module one training booklet, facilitated by Ambassador leaders. The retreat focussed on the theme “Learning to lean on Jesus”. Speaker Delvina Benjamin challenged every Ambassador in Sonoma to “face the real world out there”. The program was held to complete the module one Ambassador workbook so students could then focus and prepare for their exams and the practicums. Ambassadors is a youth training program, developed for 16-20 year-olds, that follows Pathfinders and teaches Adventist young people leadership skills —Nathany Sam/Record Staff
Serving with purpose
More than 100 Community Champions from across New Zealand gathered recently at Te Ma¯hurehure Marae in Auckland for the 2025 “Equipped to Serve” Community Champions Conference. The weekend featured sessions on cultural awareness, health and wellbeing, strategic planning, communications and volunteer sustainability. Attendees also accessed health checks, a prayer and reflection space, and had time for connection. Participants shared testimonies and practical experiences of how their churches are serving their local areas. One attendee chose to be baptised during the weekend, and another expressed a desire to enter full-time ministry. The event was supported by the New Zealand Pacific Union Conference and North New Zealand Conference leadership —Plugin
Faith on campus
During Orientation Week on May 26, the Greater Sydney Conference’s (GSC) Public Campus Ministry team handed out literature and UP&GO drinks to students at the University of New South Wales’ Kensington campus. Representing the Adventist Students on Campus club, the team connected with students exploring faith—including some who came specifically looking for them. “One student quietly said, ‘Could I please have a Bible?’” shared GSC youth director Pastor Dejan Stojkovic. “A reminder that people are searching for something deeper—and God is always working.” —Record staff
Island baptism
Ten people were baptised at Kese village, Naviti Island (Fiji), following three weeks of public preaching by Samu Koro. The baptism was attended by church members and supporters from across the Yasawa group. Fiji Mission president Pastor Nasoni Lutunaliwa thanked local members for their commitment, and regional director Pastor Ralifo Varea encouraged further outreach across the Yasawa Islands —Fiji Mission staff
Health on the menu
The 10,000 Toes Campaign has launched a new catering initiative aimed at promoting healthy eating and reducing lifestyle-related diseases across the Pacific.
Named 10,000 Toes Kitchen, the new service was officially launched on May 29 with the support of leaders, presidents and staff from the Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM). The launch event highlighted the initiative’s focus on delivering nutritious, plant-based meals for community groups, wellness events and corporate settings.
“So many times we go to all these functions, and we see a lot of foods that really are not healthy and could be a breeding ground for NCDs [non-communicable diseases],” said 10,000 Toes regional ambassador George Kwong at the launch.
“So we are happy at the Trans Pacific Union Mission to be able to launch a new catering initiative where we are bringing all our peoples together, teaching them to cook healthy foods and also sending them out into various places where they can show and share their talents.”
The catering service will also be involved in cooking demonstrations and wellness events, supporting the 10,000 Toes Campaign’s broader goal of addressing chronic health challenges in the Pacific.
“Today is a very special day for us when we launch this new initiative in our journey to create health and wellness in our community,” said Mr Kwong.—Tracey Bridcutt
Led by faith
Adventurers at Sonoma Adventist College English Church (PNG) led out in a special World Adventurer Day program themed “Travel with Faith”. Twenty-three children and their leaders presented songs and a shared sermon, retelling the story of Naaman and the young maid who pointed him to healing. “The sermon was well presented, as each preacher shared different parts of the story, capturing the congregation’s attention,” said Pastor Julius Divu, acting principal of Sonoma. The program concluded with a message of hope: “One day we will travel with faith to heaven with other faith travellers,” said Adventurer Joanne Benjamin.—Garry Laukei/Record staff
Reconciled
Send info and photos to <news@record.net.au>
Ten students from Rongoe Adventist Primary School were baptised during a week-long Stewardship and Reconciliation camp meeting held at the school from May 11 to 17. More than 400 people gathered for the event, which brought together churches across the Emirau District (New Britain New Ireland Mission), PNG. District director Minister Damien Kelly led morning messages focused on stewardship, while New Ireland provincial area supervisor Pastor Paul Bopalo spoke during the evening sessions on the theme of reconciliation. The program also included training in church communication, the Adventist Church Management System (ACMS), discipleship retention and the 10,000 Toes health initiative. In addition to the baptisms, 36 individuals responded to an appeal. “Reconciliation will not end here,” said Minister Kelly. “We will continue this work.”—Paul Bopalo/ Juliana Muniz
BECOME A dementia friendly church
South Brisbane Seventh-day Adventist church was the first church in Australia of any denomination to be recognised by Dementia Australia as a dementiafriendly organisation.1
What is a dementia-friendly organisation and why would we want to become one?
In a dementia-friendly community, people living with dementia and their family care partners are respected, supported and empowered. Dementia-friendly communities are vital to reduce the risk of social isolation of people living with dementia and support them to remain engaged for as long as possible, empowering them to continue using their innate skills and those developed through life experience. A dementiafriendly organisation helps the broader community become more dementia friendly.
The motivation for us to become dementia friendly—in fact, all of our efforts to make our church better for those with disabilities, and other community support activities that we do— stems from Jesus’ story of the sheep and the goats. Our conversion and
walk with God are evidenced by how we treat those who are less fortunate than us (Matthew 25:31-46).
This is the motivation behind my passion to see our Adventist churches, conferences, schools and other organisations become more dementia friendly; and as a light and example to other places of worship, whatever denomination or religion.
What are we currently doing and planning?
Our church currently has people living with dementia and their family care partners involved in the church music program. One of our worship teams consists of people living with dementia and a family care partner. Other roles in our church that people with dementia fill include: a member of the cashier team; part of the child safety team; and signing off for the board on risk assessments.
Having a person with dementia performing these important roles is possible because we support them. Not all people with dementia would be able to perform these roles—in fact many without dementia may not have the necessary skills. However, if people living with dementia have
these God-given skills, we believe in encouraging them to continue contributing to our church ministry, with any support required, for as long as possible.
We are currently looking at improving our built environment to make it safer for people with dementia. We’ve added larger signs for toilet visibility. We are gradually changing the font size in our overheads for singing, to make it easier for people with dementia to read. We’re endeavouring to eliminate or mark any trip hazards, for instance adding visibility tape in doorways coming from the breezeway at a slightly different height. We have introduced male and female greeters so that someone of the same sex is available to take people to the toilet if they are confused about where to go.
We have plans well underway to provide fortnightly dementia support sessions for people living with dementia and their family care partners. We will include singing, craft and other activities. Other long-term plans are to help our congregation, including children and youth, understand more about dementia; and to formally offer support to family care partners.
What steps did we take to become an officially recognised dementiafriendly organisation?
We started by having our church board become Dementia Friends. I attended the beginning of an online board meeting and presented the Dementia Friend session. It is great to have people in the church body interested in helping those with dementia and their family care partners. However, you’ll get a more effective result if the church board is committed. The Dementia Friend session involves watching a 15-minute video developed by Dementia Australia. People come away from watching it more aware of how living with dementia impacts a person’s life, and it allows you to walk in their shoes. Several board members at this session became passionate about helping people with dementia.
The first activity we did as a church was to organise a dementia awareness program on a Sabbath afternoon open to the community. I asked the community development officer for Dementia-Friendly Communities Program, Queensland, to assist me with this. I also asked two dementia advocate couples from the community who I knew. The program was well attended by church members and many from the community (some who travelled significant distances).
I also presented a dementia awareness workshop series in the afternoon adult workshops at the South Queensland Big Camp in 2022 and by request again in 2023.
In 2022, I did this in conjunction with another church member who was then working for Dementia Australia. I also invited the Queensland Dementia-Friendly Communities Program coordinator. In 2023, I had several of the previous year attendees and some South Brisbane Adventist church members, who were former family care partners of people with dementia, assisting me.
The Queensland DementiaFriendly Communities coordinator was so impressed with what we were doing that she talked about
it with her interstate equivalents. This led to the establishment of a bimonthly Dementia Friendly Church Network which recently morphed into the Dementia Friendly Faith Network, open to people of all faith backgrounds who want to make their places of worship dementia friendly. At our meetings we support each other and exchange ideas about what has worked for us.
Our next step was to do an environmental audit of our church building looking for ways we can improve it to make it safer for people living with dementia. The audit team included a person living with dementia and a family care partner. We are gradually implementing the improvements identified. Permanent improvements will be done when modifications are needed such as replacing toilet seats with coloured ones when renovations are undertaken. However, improvements can be made cheaply in the meantime, eg laminated printed toilet signs and coloured contact panels behind toilets for visibility. Depth perception is one of the challenges facing people living with dementia— these coloured contrast panels behind toilets and visibility tape across doorways help with this.
A lot of difficulties can be mitigated by church members becoming more dementia aware and supporting each other. For example, we have congregation members keyed up when we divide for foot washing to invite a person living with dementia who may seem confused by taking them to the correct location.
What can you do to make your church or organisation more dementia friendly?
Dementia-friendly organisations are as unique as their own community. What you choose to do should reflect the needs of the community where you are located, the church and its building. That being said, no community is exempt from having dementia within it. What we have done and are doing are examples you could
follow, but you may choose other things if you find they are better for your local church and community.
I believe all churches should start by having church board members becoming Dementia Friends. This can help set the tone for the church.2
Any church programs will need to be approved by the board or a business meeting, and this is easier if the board is committed.
It would be good to see other Adventist churches and organisations recognised as dementia friendly. In addition to the South Brisbane Adventist church, an Anglican church in South Australia, a Catholic Boys school and an Australian university have been awarded dementia-friendly status. The Lutheran Synod in South Australia has agreed to become more dementia friendly.
Even if this formal recognition is not the route you want to take, Jesus’ command in Matthew 25 strongly implies that we should do what we can to make our churches more dementia friendly.
1. This is our profile on the Dementia Australia website: <dementia.org.au/get-involved/ dementia-friendly-communities/dementia-friendly-community-groups/south-brisbane>.
2. For Australia, contact your Dementia Friendly Communities Program state representative to find a Dementia Friend host who can run this program for you. Email <DementiaFriendly@ dementia.org.au>. This program can be run in person or online. New Zealand has a similar Dementia Friend program run through Alzheimer’s New Zealand. Both have an online program which may be available if you are outside these two countries, and have an internet connection.
If you want to join the Dementia Friendly Faith Network you can email: <Liz.Withall@ dementia.org.au>. More information (Australia): <dementia.org.au/get-involved/dementia-friendly-communities/become-dementia-friend>, (New Zealand): <alzheimers.org.nz/explore/dementia-friendly-nz/become-a-dementia-friend/>.
Juanita Hughes trained Dementia Friend, member South Brisbane church, Queensland.
a selfless teacher
Kevin Warwakai sacrificed to teach without pay for a people he loves.
In 2023, Mr Warwakai began serving as a missionary teacher in Kaspeke—a small and remote village tucked deep within the Crown Prince Range, in Evo, Torau Constituency, central Bougainville. The decision he made changed his life. He chose to help the community start a school, with the blessing of his wife and two children, who he had to leave for a time, to serve the people of Kaspeke. His wife taught at the nearby Konuku Seventh-day Adventist Primary School.
Kaspeke is home to nearly 40 families and more than 400 children of school age. Yet, there is no formal school, no road linking the area and no government services. The people live traditionally, and the village is only accessible by a six to seven-hour walk from the nearest main road. Many children aged 7 to 16 have never had the opportunity to attend school.
In 2020, the first Seventh-day Adventist missionaries reached Kaspeke
through border evangelism, led by the Nasioi and South Nasioi youth groups. The community’s greatest need was evidently clear—education. Responding to this, dedicated young people from Nasi, members of the Konuku Seventh-day Adventist church, built three simple classrooms from bush materials. For the next two years after the construction of the facilities, no teachers arrived. That’s when Mr Warwakai stepped in.
When he arrived in 2023, he was warmly welcomed. He began teaching 80 children—bright, curious and full of potential. Despite limited resources, their passion for learning was inspiring. He found joy not only in teaching but in living among them: eating the meals they shared, wearing their traditional styles and visiting families every Sabbath with a fellow missionary Peter Kerry.
With support from JNT, a local business in Arawa chipped in with donations of books and learning materials that made a huge difference. By the end of the year, they had made great strides in basic literacy
and learning. But the real impact was in the relationships—the sense of community, shared purpose and hope. This paved the way for evangelism efforts, where church planting is soon to be realised.
Unfortunately, after serving this community for a year, Bougainville’s government education board posted him to South Bougainville. Mr Warwakai says this broke his heart. “The children, their families and the mission in Kaspeke are still very close to my heart,” he said.
Kaspeke still needs our prayers, our presence and our support. Please remember this Christian community in your prayers. If you or your church are able to help through resources, donations or mission visits, your support will go a long way in keeping this light burning. Together, we can continue to bring hope and education to the children of Kaspeke, bringing the Adventist message to these people.
Telly
Orekavala church pastor, Bougainville, Papua New Guinea.
verses that will help you to find peace
In a world that is increasingly polarised and where a number of prominent international conflicts are raging, peace is needed more than ever. May these verses serve as a reminder that Jesus is the Prince of Peace and can be our source of peace.
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
James 3:18
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Philippians 4:6,7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Isaiah 54:10
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Romans 14:17-19
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
Matthew 11:28-30
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
MOTH EATEN SOULS:
Almost 10 years ago, I painted an artwork titled “Moth-eaten”. It featured large acrylic portraits of elderly individuals, with holes torn into the canvas at their temples so that the canvas looked as though it had been eaten by moths.
The piece was an attempt to highlight the trapped existence of individuals who suffer from dementia.
The primary feature of the portraits were the eyes. Focused on the viewer, the eyes were designed to be piercing while expressing a sorrowful desperation that begged viewers for help. But the tattered, frayed holes around their temples betrayed their lost ability to access their most cherished memories. The individuals depicted were “moth-eaten”; destroyed by a force outside of their control slowly tattering their minds and lives.
For those whose loved ones are developing dementia, they begin to lose their loved one while they are still alive as their memories fade and their recognition of family and friends becomes fragmented, temporarily lucid and transient. Dementia is truly a devastating condition.
Dementia refers to a group of conditions characterised by gradual impairment of brain function, which may impact not only memory, but also speech, cognition, personality,
Dementia, Alzheimer’s and your health
behaviour and mobility. Dementia is a significant, progressive and growing health concern in Australia, being the second leading cause of death in Australia (the top among women) and accounting for almost 10 per cent of all deaths nationwide.1 Not only this, but dementia is the leading cause of burden of disease in Australia.1 The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimated that the number of people with dementia will increase by 88 per cent by 2054.2
There are many forms of dementia, with the most common being Alzheimer’s disease—a degenerative brain disease caused by nerve cell death, resulting in brain shrinkage. The experiences of people with dementia can be highly varied, particularly in relation to the stage of the dementia’s onset. Dementia naturally triggers an array of difficult emotions, such as fear, anger, anxiety, confusion and loss.
Something which is less commonly discussed when it comes to dementia is that it is not recognised as an inevitable or normal part of the ageing process. It has been seen in people under 65 (known as younger or “early” onset dementia), and even in children (known as childhood dementia).2 If it is not a normal part of ageing, what then
causes dementia? Being an overarching disease encompassing many different types, dementia can result from various factors, including strokes, trauma, brain injury, infections, nutritional deficiencies and malfunctioning protein systems.3 Lifestyle choices and health conditions such as smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, hearing loss, poor diet, depression and diabetes have also been linked to an increased risk of developing dementia. There is currently no cure for dementia, however there are recognised measures which are protective against developing it, including high levels of education, physical activity and social engagement.1
In recent years, advancements in research have brought new insights regarding our understanding of dementia, specifically Alzheimer’s. A strong correlation has been discovered between insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s, with Alzheimer’s being proposed to be “Type 3 diabetes”. In fact, individuals with Type 2 diabetes have a 50-65 per cent increased risk of suffering from Alzheimer’s.1
“Type 3 diabetes” is an unofficial term used by some researchers to describe the theory that Alzheimer’s disease is caused by a type of insulin resistance and insulin-like growth factor dysfunction that occurs specifically in the brain.4 Being a new field of discovery, more research is needed to further understand the link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
But what is currently known is that diabetes and insulin resistance are considered significant risk factors for vascular dementia.4 Insulin acts like a key which enables glucose to enter the body’s cells from the bloodstream to fuel cell activity. Around 20 per cent of the body’s glucose supply is used to fuel brain cell activity, including concentration, memory, decision-making, alertness, organisation, personality, speaking, motor skills, self-monitoring and inhibition of behaviour (to name a few).5 Insulin resistance causes the body to become less sensitive to insulin, resulting in less glucose being able to enter the cells. In Type 3 diabetes, the proposed mechanism of the theory is that insulin resistance starves neurons of glucose.6 It is believed that this results in a progressive reduction in memory, reasoning, and judgement—characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease.6
There are many proponents who are speaking up about the benefits of healthy eating and lifestyle choices on preventing and reducing the risk of developing non-communicable diseases like Alzheimer’s. Many of the messages which are being shared include eating more vegetables, reducing sugar intake, increasing exercise and increasing Omega 3 intake.7 In particular, a number of scientists recommend eating vegetables at the beginning of meals to line the intestinal walls with fibre to slow the absorption of glucose into the system.8
Why am I going on about all this scientific mumbo-jumbo? Because our Seventh-day Adventist Church has an incredible health message, which for 100 years has been sharing about the importance of diet and exercise for managing wellbeing and slowing the ageing process. Modern
research is revealing that these are incredibly valuable for preventing the onset of disease, including dementia.
For those who already suffer from dementia, this research almost seems to be too little, too late. And it must be emphasised that while diet may help protect, the causes of dementia cannot be solely attributed to diet, as many causes of dementia largely remain a mystery.
But the question I do want to ask is: what is our church doing for those already suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s? What, if anything, can be done?
It is easy enough to look out for oneself and one’s own health concerns. But to look out for others is what we are called to do as followers of Jesus. This is our greatest ministry.
Each one of us is a masterpiece created by God (Ephesians 2:10; Psalm 139:13-16). Unfortunately, some of these masterpieces are becoming “moth-eaten” and are slowly disappearing with little that can be done to cure this problem. But although their ability to recognise loved ones may be fading and their memory may be declining, they are still children of God who have capacity for love. They still have eyes to see, hearts to feel and hands that want to be held.
Are we as churches offering spaces which are dementia friendly and safe for those with failing memories? Are we being intentional about visiting those in our communities who are in aged care institutions and nursing homes whose lives and experiences are shrinking every day? Are we checking in on families who have loved ones suffering from this disease?
I invite you today: more than just looking after our own health, as important as it is, to also look out for those already suffering from disease and dementia, and to find ways to care for those who need it most.
6. Meng X, et al (2025). “Type 3 diabetes and metabolic reprogramming of brain neurons: Causes and therapeutic strategies”. Molecular Medicine, 31, 61. <doi.org/10.1186/s10020-025-01101-z>.
7. Wei BZ, Li L, Dong CW, Tan CC, “Alzheimer’s Disease neuroimaging initiative”; Xu W. “The relationship of Omega-3 fatty acids with Dementia and cognitive decline: evidence from prospective cohort studies of supplementation, dietary intake, and blood markers.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2023 Jun;117(6):1096-1109.
8. “Eating vegetables first regardless of eating speed has a significant reducing effect on postprandial blood glucose and insulin in young healthy women: randomised controlled cross-over study.” Nutrients, 15(5), 1174. <https://doi.org/10.3390/nu1505117>.
Olivia Fairfax assistant editor, Adventist Record
the weeping prophet
I’m always fascinated by the unfolding narratives of the Old Testament, the role of each character and how our covenant-keeping God operates. There are days when I visualise each story, whether it’s a journey, a battlefield or something as simple as a family gathering. Jeremiah is one of the books we perhaps miss when thinking about the “big stories” of the Old Testament. Apart from being known as a major prophet and the fact that Jeremiah 29:11 is a popularly quoted text, it is important to note that Jeremiah was one of those individuals who personally experienced the exile of Judah to Babylon.
Jeremiah was called to ministry under the reign of the last kings of Judah: mainly Kings Josiah (627 BC), Jehoiakim (609-598 BC) and Zedekiah (587 BC). He started his prophetic work as the Assyrian Empire was collapsing and the Babylonians were gaining power. King Josiah’s attempt to intervene in this power shift, led to his untimely death and Judah becoming subject to Egypt. Jehoahaz briefly became king, only to be replaced by Jehoiakim, who switched allegiances from Egypt to Babylon. Jehoiakim’s eventual rebellion against Babylon resulted in his death and the appointment of his brother Jehoiachin, followed by Zedekiah as king. Zedekiah’s ineffective rule and failed escape from Jerusalem led to the city’s destruction and his capture by the Babylonians. This was the political status of Judah when Jeremiah performed his prophetic duties. Like other prophets, the Lord specifically revealed a
future plan to Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5).
Jeremiah argued his inability to speak due to his youth, yet the Lord encouraged him: “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ for you shall go to all whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,” says the LORD (Jeremiah 1:7,8). In this affirmation, God used strong verbs to express the vast responsibility appointed to Jeremiah: to root out and pull down, to destroy and throw down, to build and plant (Jeremiah 1:10). In this verse, and throughout his book, we find a similar message of great judgement paired with a glimpse of hope for the nation.
A broken covenant
The first 24 chapters of the Book of Jeremiah outline a series of sermons. In these sermons, Jeremiah proclaims judgement, imminent invasion and doom upon the nation of Judah. Judah has broken their covenant with God through the worship of idols, moral corruption and social injustices. This is evident in Jeremiah’s temple sermon (chapter 7). We find Judah worshipping Canaanite gods, burning incense to Baal and “walking after other gods” (Jeremiah 7:9). The streets of Jerusalem are filled with women, children and fathers kindling fires to offer baked cakes to the “queen of heaven” as they pour drink
offerings to other gods (Jeremiah 7:18). Corruption grew among the people. While worshipping God inside the temple, they oppressed strangers, the fatherless and widows to the extent of shedding innocent blood outside the temple (Jeremiah 7:6). Within the city, God witnessed theft, murder, adultery and false witness. Such practices of social injustice were clear violations of the Torah and the Commandments of God (Jeremiah 7:9).
Message of hope
Although Jeremiah was tasked to deliver a message of great judgement upon Judah, there was a glimpse of hope. Despite their rebellion, Jeremiah prophesied that the land they now inhabited (the Promised Land) would be desolate and that God’s servant (Babylon) would rule them for 70 years (Jeremiah 25:9,11). However, after 70 years had passed, God would punish Babylon for its iniquities (Jeremiah 25:12). This same affirmation appears in Jeremiah’s letter to those taken captive to Babylon in chapter 29: “For thus says the LORD, after 70 years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform my good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place” (Jeremiah 29:10). This was the hope that Jeremiah shared with the nation of Judah: that despite their disobedience God would still deliver them.
Rejection of Jeremiah
I can’t quite imagine how Jeremiah felt when he and his message were rejected by priests and prophets, even facing threats: “You will surely die” (Jeremiah 26:8). Let’s state the facts: Jeremiah’s message was not easily welcomed by the nation. His writings, which warned the nation, were destroyed by King Jehoiakim (Jeremiah 36:25). He was imprisoned and thrown into a dungeon by King Zedekiah (Jeremiah 38:6), and finally taken with force by a group of Israelites to Egypt to escape the Babylonians (Jeremiah 43).
Express your desires
God listens when we express our most profound concerns. Upon announcing the doom of the nation, Jeremiah expressed anguish; he wore sackclothes and wished his head was a spring of water and his eyes a fountain of tears that he might weep day and night for the slain of his people (Jeremiah 9:1,2). I recall my final few days in high school. I had informed my mum of the graduation program weeks earlier and expressed my desire that her presence mattered to me as her eldest son.
She responded, “It’s okay, we are here for you.”
I found myself sitting in the last row of the hall, glancing at the parents cheerfully supporting their children. I sank into my chair. I was graduating as the best student in the Year 13 group, along with other achievements. But I felt alone.
That night, I snuck out of the dormitory and sat under a coconut tree, pouring my heart to God until I could no longer feel my face. I was interrupted by a still, small voice that night: “Look up to the skies.” Blinded by tears, I wiped my face and saw thousands upon thousands of stars. The voice whispered, “That’s how much I love you.”
God listens when we express our most profound concerns. He cares about our feelings and all that we can bring to the altar.
Jeremiah’s unpopular ministry (Jeremiah 20:7-18)
Have members walked out of your church? Is anyone attending weekly prayer meetings? Jeremiah complained that he was deceived by God. He wished not to mention God anymore, as he felt weary and mocked from all sides. However, he acknowledged that God was with him and would fight for him, for God tests the righteous. When ministry and life seem at their worst, many people question God’s authority and His plans, while some consider quitting. Interestingly, the more Jeremiah dwelt on his disappointment and unpopularity, the more convinced he became of God’s assurance in his life. Jeremiah teaches that when the road is unclear and narrow, we shouldn’t turn back or march forward blindly. Instead, we should pause, grapple with our existing problems and seek God’s will. When clarity comes, we can continue our march. It is always best to make decisions when our conscience is clear and at rest with God.
Hope in a dark world (Jeremiah 29)
When God spoke to Jeremiah concerning the siege of Babylon, Jeremiah cried out in anguish because he was concerned for his people. We cannot forget that the God we serve is a covenant-keeping God: “For I know the thoughts I think toward you,” says the LORD, “thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).”
Early graduation morning, I approached my teacher and told her of Mum’s inability to be present.
This was the message of Jeremiah to Judah: that despite the many times they had wronged God, God still had them on His mind. He offered peace, a future and hope in the midst of captivity. That promise extends to us today through Christ. He offers peace, a future and hope to anyone who is in captivity. And to the many who have experienced this hope personally, may we remember the work of Jeremiah. A vessel of hope to the nation—irrespective of our youth and inability to speak—for God will put His word in our mouth.
Jordan Weatherall
Born in Fiji, currently working as an English teacher missionary for TPUM in East Java, West Indonesia.
Tips for eating seasonally this winter
Sanitarium dietitian Eliza Baird shares her tips for eating seasonally, to help keep your health on track during the colder months with a vibrant range of high quality, nutrient packed plant foods.
By eating seasonally, you ensure you get the best quality and the best value fruits and vegetables for all your favourite hearty winter meals.
Fruits
Apples: Apples are the classic go-anywhere fresh snack, and when winter comes around there’s a wide range available to suit all tastes. They’re also delicious in classic comfort foods such as apple crumble, which you can make in tasty wholegrain varieties. Don’t worry about peeling apples when you use them in cooking; you’ll save some time and the skin gives your recipe a boost of fibre.
Oranges, lemons and limes: There aren’t many more refreshing things to eat than a fresh, juicy orange. When we think of oranges we often think of desserts, but they’re also great for bringing a burst of flavour to salads and savoury side dishes. The vitamin C they contain also helps with the absorption of iron from plant foods like spinach, so grab one for a sweet finish to your plant-based meal that also boosts your iron intake.
Vegetables
Those cold winter days are a great time for soup, so it’s good news that the best soup veggies are in season.
Carrots, pumpkin, leeks, turnips, sweet potato: These are all perfect in soups, either as the star of the recipe or as part of a delicious mixed vegetable variety. Soups can be a great way of making sure you’re getting your serves of healthy, high fibre veggies and fluid in at the same time during the winter cold and flu season.
Broccoli, silverbeet, spinach: Steamed broccoli with slivered almonds is a simple but delicious side dish, while leafy greens like silverbeet and spinach are tasty lightly steamed or sauteed with some fragrant garlic. Spinach and silverbeet are great sources of iron when eaten in a meal with a good source of vitamin C, while broccoli is high in fibre and a source of protein, making it filling while being low in kilojoules.
Carrots, turnips, parsnips, pumpkin broccoli, cauliflower: You can fill out casseroles, bolognese, curries and pies with these vegetables—all inexpensive, tasty and healthy ingredients that will help reach your five daily serves of vegetables without even thinking about it. By swapping in more vegetables for the meat traditionally used in these meals you can raise the fibre content and lower the kilojoule and saturated fat content, turning them into heart healthy winter warmers that can also help with weight management.
In many ways we’re lucky to have access to a wide variety of fruits and veggies all year around, but there’s a lot to be gained by eating seasonally. By knowing what to look out for, you can get the best quality produce at the cheapest prices. And by choosing seasonal produce, you can avoid getting stuck in a food rut.
Check out our Sanitarium Seasonal Eating Guide to see what’s in season now, learn nutrition facts and discover yummy, healthy recipes at <sanitarium.com>.
Conversations
Lucky Country
It was fantastic to see Adventist leaders putting their voice behind the call to increase Australian aid (“Adventists join election call on Australian aid”, May 3). We are often so preoccupied protecting our own rights and beliefs that we neglect others.
I agree we are the Lucky Country, in a position to support ourselves and our neighbours. We are so fortunate it’s not a matter of either or, we can afford to do both.
Congratulations to Micah Australia and our leaders at the Australian Union Conference and ADRA. Let’s keep looking across the socio-political agenda and find more opportunities to be generous to the needy and honour our Maker (Proverbs 14:11).
Roger Meany, Qld
Enough ink
Oh, how Janet Tung’s comment about “fine print” (“Darker font”, Conversations, May 17) resonated with us! Please, we beg you—if you have so much ink that you can colour an entire A4 page, surely you could spare a little to ensure that the type used in Adventist Record is actually
readable by those who give a cheer for the paper edition given to them on Sabbath.
Yes, the younger generation probably read the articles online or “in-phone”, but for those of us who have been addicted to reading the Record each Sabbath for at least 70 years, please—enlarge the font.
Heather Hagen, via email
Editor’s note: We have heard you! In my recent response to the letter you mention, I assured that the font size had not changed (as I was informed by my designer).
On further investigation, it was discovered that we had bumped up the font size for features etc in a recent re-design, however, at some point soon after it reverted back. So this issue and the previous one, should have slightly bigger font. We hope it helps our valued readers!
Gospel impact
I, too, am a descendant of Joseph Hare, my great-great-grandfather (“The unmarked grave”, Feature, May 31). I am pleased to know that the gravesite of his son William will be acknowledged with a commemorative
plaque. His untimely death when only 44 years old was so unfortunate, and this project by his descendants is appreciated.
Eric Hare was my great-uncle and I had the pleasure of meeting him in person twice, once as a child and again as an adult. His father was Pastor Robert Hare, my greatgrandfather, and Joseph Hare’s eighth child. Robert’s youngest child, Enid, married Len Wilkinson; they were my paternal grandparents. Like Eric Hare, they too dedicated many years to mission work, serving in Fiji for 13 years. It was there that my father, Ray Wilkinson, was born. The passion for mission service continued through Ray and, along with his wife Ruth, they served in education work in various capacities and settings in the Pacific for almost four decades.
Several more descendants of Joseph Hare have worked for the Seventhday Adventist Church throughout the world. He would be so proud of them and the impact they have made, and continue to make, in spreading the gospel.
Gwen Wilkinson Sleight, via Facebook
Obituaries
BRADFORD, Carolyn Faye (nee Davey), born 22.5.1939 in Adelaide, SA; died 28.6.24 in Cooranbong, NSW, aged 85 years. She was the eldest of five sisters. Faye was predeceased by her husband, Dr Graeme Bradford in 2016. She is survived by her children, Linley and Lorin, and their families. She and her beloved husband shared a devoted and enduring partnership together in church ministry all over Australia and New Zealand. Throughout the years Faye was appreciated as a music teacher and admired for her garden, creativity, tenacity and resourcefulness and for a life joyfully lived. She is greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her family, her sisters and her many friends, especially those at Wyee church. Special thanks to the nurses at Avondale House, Cooranbong for their tender care.
FAIRFOUL, Robert William (Bob), born 13.12.1939 in Hamilton, NSW; died 27.5.24 at Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, WA. He is survived by his wife, Pam (Rossmoyne); children, Andrew, Sean and Claire, Deane and Trina (all of Perth); and grandchildren, Poppy, Luella, Emily and Louis. He was employed with the SHF company in various roles in NSW, Tasmania and Western Australia until his retirement in 1998. Bob faithfully supported the church throughout his life. He now rests awaiting Jesus’ soon return. Max Souradeth
LAWSON, Pastor David Edward, born 29.9.1934 in Rockhampton, Qld; died 2.4.25 in Cleveland. He is survived by his wife, Fern; daughters, Kaylene and Jenny and her husband, Steven Eager; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was a pastor, evangelist, administrator, writer, keen and royal-appointed photographer and mentor across the world. He
will be greatly missed by his family and his community. His life was marked by a deep commitment to ministry, a love for storytelling and a heart for people.
Richie Reid, Stephen Bews MOALA, Yvonne Fanny (nee Petersen), born 3.11.1948 on Taveuni, Fiji; died 21.4.25 in Hornsby, NSW. She is survived by her husband, Daniel; children, Simon, Gavin, Nicholas and Catherine; daughters-in-law, Tasi and Lesieli (all of Hornsby Shire); and grandchildren, Abigail, Eli, Eden, Hayley and Daniel. She was awarded the San Hospital’s longest-serving night duty midwife, with 34 years of service.
Tony Moala
MORRISON, Spencer Gavin, born 8.5.1937 in Kyogle, NSW; died 31.12.24 in Boronia Heights, Qld. In 1965 he married Delma, who predeceased him in 2022. Spencer is survived by his daughters, Liesl Hales and Angela; son, Guy; and eight grandchildren (all of Brisbane). He was the youngest son of Don and Mary and grew up in Kyogle, working on the family farm. After some time in Melbourne and New Zealand, he returned to buy a farm near Kyogle next to his parents. He later moved to Cooranbong, working for the SHF. He started in trucks, driving both local and interstate until age 80. He was a friend to all and loved cricket and football. Spencer’s greatest wish was to see his family again in the eternal happiness of heaven.
Adam Cinzio
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abn 59 093 117 689 vol 130 no 12
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