Alive Magazine - Edition 17 - December 2021

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DECEMBER 2021 EDITION #17

Summer Edition

360 degrees of community spirit Luke Strochnetter in the spotlight Full story on pages 14-15

ONLINE MAGAZINE - WWW.ALIVEMAG.COM.AU

OOH LA LA, IT’S MIRJETA!

Swimwear designer makes waves in the industry Full story on pages 05-07

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EDITOR’S WELCOME

I

t is an amazing feeling to pack away the jumpers and blankets in anticipation of a long hot summer.

There’s nothing better than waking up at 5am to see the sun shining.

It gets me up bright and early, which is a vast comparison to my lack of drive in winter when all you want to do is stay curled up in the blankets.

ONLINE MAGAZINE ON THE GO www.alivemag.com.au

Don’t forget to check out our columnist’s advice on everything from summer beauty and getting into shape, to where the fish are biting and festive finance.

THE ALIVE TEAM

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers, advertisers and columnists are very wonderful festive season and an incredible 2022!

It means the days of singlets, shorts and summer dresses are back, along with backyard barbecues and pool parties.

Editor KERRIE ALEXANDER editor@alivemag.com.au

Founder / Creative Director JOY BUTLER info@alivemag.com.au

Deputy Editor LEANNE ESPOSITO

Digital Editor LIZZIE MACAULAY

Advertising Manager LOUISE HOLMES advertising@alivemag.com.au Phone 0477 094 335

Advertising Executive DARREN STIMPSON darren@alivemag.com.au Phone 0408 122 050

Advertising Representative KAREN WHITE karen@alivemag.com.au Phone 0418 197 386

Head of Distribution JAMIE BUTLER Phone 0428 137 968

It is my absolute favourite time of the year!

The warmer weather also signals that fact, of course, that Santa is just a sleigh ride away.

But not before the annual Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight that will be staged on Saturday, December 11, at Seafront Oval.

We sat down with young entrepreneur and volunteer Luke Strochnetter who is a driving force behind this year’s carols.

The 20-year-old has done some incredible charitable work for the local community in his young life, which has been a privilege to highlight on our pages.

It’s also an exciting time of year for the thousands of visitors that flock to the Fraser Coast to enjoy world heritage-listed natural gems, unique diving experiences, and safe and secluded beaches.

In this edition, we pay homage to the guardians of Hervey Bay’s beautiful beaches - our surf lifesavers - who volunteer their time to ensure the safety of both visitors and locals alike.

Kerrie

All editorial and advertising in Alive Magazine publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibbility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Alive Magazine is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Feedback or suggestion?

Send to: info@alivemag.com.au

05 Dec FRASER COAST TOY RUN

When: Sunday, December 5, 7am to 3pm

Where: Leaves from the Brolga Theatre, Maryborough and travel through to Hervey Bay.

What: Hosted by the Independent Riders, the team raise funds for Act4Kids, MACE Wide Bay and Fraser Coast Family Networks.

Cost: Donation

11 Dec

PIALBA SCOUT GROUP CHRISTMAS TOMBOLA When: December 11, 9.30am

Where: Hervey House, Hervey Bay RSL

What: The Pialba Scout Group is holding a Christmas Tombola Fundraiser with raffles, giveaways, lucky door prize and hundreds of tombola prizes!

Cost: Tickets at the door.

11 Dec

HERVEY BAY RSL CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT When: Saturday, December 11, from 6pm-8pm.

Where: Seafront Oval, Pialba

What: The annual tradition of this family-friendly event returns to Seafront Oval. There will be both traditional and fun festive songs being performed by a combined community carols band.

There will be food vans, Glo Sticks for sale, a visit from Santa and a fireworks display to conclude the event. Families are encouraged to bring along a chair or picnic rug. Guests can bring along a picnic dinner if they choose. This is an alcohol and drug-free event.

Cost: Free

18 Dec AMBULANCE CHRISTMAS GOODS WHEEL When: Saturday, December 18 to January 8,

2022, (except Christmas Day).

Where: Scarness Stage, Esplanade.

What: With this annual tradition cancelled last year, the Local Abulance Committee is looking forward to the return of the goods wheel this year. There will be lots of prizes to choose from. The wheel has been spinning in Hervey Bay for more than 65 years and the funds raised buy lifesaving auxiliary patient care equipment for the Hervey Bay Ambulance Service.

Cost: Tickets available at the event.

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C O V E R ST O RY

by Leanne Esposito

MEET THE MISTRESS WITH THE MOSTESS BEHIND THE MIRJETA MOVEMENT

I

t’s time to cast off those shame shackles with a renewed carefree confidence and sashay your way into summer in some sexy swimwear

Summer. What’s not to love about the hottest season. The days get longer, the stars shine brighter, your hair gets lighter, the water gets warmer, the music gets louder and life truly does seem better.

It’s a time to live in the sunshine, swim in the sea and drink in the wild air. A time to truly feel alive. A time to shed those winter layers and free your body to enjoy the sensations of the natural surroundings.

It’s time to get the beach bod out for the sun god – right?

And now the projected collective groan of a thousand readers lamenting that last skinny latte and donut combo while fat shaming themselves is deafening. But why?

Let’s try to change our negative narratives. Let’s live the summer dream together. Love yourself. Be who you are. Your body it just your body.

Let me repeat – it’s time to truly feel alive!

Why not give it a go! Sure we come in all shapes and sizes with bits and bobs and bumps to boot - or big booty. No judgment here. And please don’t judge yourself.

Now could be your time to get into the thrill of summer for all the right reasons. Especially as there’s one amazing woman who knows how to adorn and drape a body, anybody’s body, with just the right pinch and cinch and fold of lavish fabric.

And in the case of swimwear, less is always more.

Meet local fashion designer Belinda Russo who has been breaking barriers and crossing international borders for the past two years with her swimwear range – Mirjeta.

The label means good life in Albanian and everything about the designs scream sophisticated European style. Her label is a tribute to her ancestry. There is not a hint of appropriation. You see Belinda’s mother is an Albanian Greek Australian and her father, Italian.

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Belinda is authentic in her creative imagination which stems from a career in design and an historical fashion flair. Her first collection of green and blue swimwear pieces was inspired by the colour of the mountains and ocean surrounding the Albanian Riviera.

When I first met Belinda in late 2019 her fashion start-up had just debuted in a runway extravaganza hosted by fashion guru Leah Harvey at a Melbourne Cup party, at what was then, the famous Coast Restaurant. Julia Paussa’s Coast was the place to be; where the local ladies shimmied and shook their frocks and fascinators while imbibing in bubbles and bonhomie.

I wrote of my impression of the Mirjeta’s designer and founder as an attractive woman with a vibrant persona, full of vim and vigour. I noted her luscious dark curls and wide smile which glowed like sunshine. I was impressed by her confident energy and eager creative passion. Belinda told me of her large dreams personally, and for our local population.

“In the future I’d like to do the Miami Swimwear Week where a bunch of designers from all around the world display their collections. It would really put Hervey Bay on the map,” she said.

Belinda impressed me as a go-getter. I called her a creative intellectual who was always thinking, doing, creating and connecting. She had shelved legal studies and shifted gears to a right brain design career.

So I was pleased to learn that even a pandemic couldn’t compromise her international plans for prominence.

Belinda may not have personally made the trip to Miami as Covid 19 squashed that event but her swimwear certainly has smashed the international barrier with the 2020 Lujeta collection selling out instantly.

One Mirjeta design has even adorned the display window of a New York Fashion House; another, the body of none other than drag queen Olivia Lux who was a contestant on Season 13 of RuPaul’s Drag Race. (Remember I said all shapes and sizes and bits and bobs.) That’s a fantastic international endorsement for Mirjeta as drag queens are serious about their fashion creed!

But how did this all happen when the whole world was in a global lockdown? How did Olivia Lux, Flying Solo the largest independent designer platform in the United States, or that woman from Dubai find a designer from little old Hervey Bay? The story is that we should never underestimate the power of the internet, Instagram or Facebook. Belinda is shrewd in the most positive way. Personally I believe that left brain is working just as hard as the right. Belinda explains how these promotional opportunities transpired and how she sees her work.

“The process is very complex. I start from an idea or inspiration from magazines or popular culture trends. I hand draw designs, go to an artist to create the look and then work with a pattern maker in Brisbane or overseas. I have been trying to keep it Australian made. I will then promote a sample.

“I worked so tirelessly with Mirjeta. It’s my passion. Especially getting noticed internationally.

With the new collection we are using recycled materials. The fabric is made from recycled bottles and it is so soft.

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“Flying Solo primarily sell independent designers and showcase people in the fashion industry. They did an Instagram live event which I would have loved to have attended.

They chose my designs from my first collection and the Albanian Riviera photoshoot.

“I’ve since had offers from premier retail agencies, in New York, Dubai and London,” she said.

Belinda is certainly tireless. Her men’s swimwear range Avni is undoubtedly a hit with its form fitting colourful designs, light years ahead of block coloured or branded budgie smugglers or boardies. They enhance the muscular male physique without being too tight or too loose. Like a goldilocks theme, they’re just right, in all the right places.

Belinda is never one to rest. I caught her in the middle of prepping for the her 2021/22 Jipse collection photoshoot.

Call me curious but I had to ask why she believes Mirjeta is so appealing. Don’t get me wrong. I’m already a believer – I wrote it back in 2019. I said it now and I’ll say it again, she has me convinced. I believe in her fashion dream. I suppose I was looking for the motivation behind the dream.

“I believe it’s the concept and the story. That whole European vibe. Taking them (people) back to when we could travel.

Summer holidays in Europe. It’s always on my mind,” she said.

And it doesn’t stop there. It never does with Belinda. She is so hands on from the creation to the design. She draws inspiration from the Hervey Bay sunsets she enjoys on her afternoon walk along the Esplanade which inform and inspire her branding.

“I also work behind the scenes on the socials, the website and the graphic design. There is no outsourcing. It is all me. That way it is more personalised. Everything has been thought of down to the tissue paper. Even the beautiful gift box. The beautiful sticker.

I want my customers to experience the unboxing,” she said.

It is clear that Belinda cares. She wants her customers to enjoy the experience not just to buy an item. This is not fast fashion. I take my hat off to the detailed lengths she goes to ensure her authenticity and the personalisation of her brand.

But wait, there’s more. It doesn’t stop with some pretty boxes and bows!

Mirjeta’s new collection is now made from recycled materials.

Belinda’s environmental awareness will ensure her brand is sustainable into the future.

“With the new collection we are using recycled materials.

The fabric is made from recycled bottles and it is so soft. I am happy to be a part of the change. To be environmental and to look after the ocean and ocean animals,” she said.

Belinda certainly believes that summer, and her swimwear, should last forever. And maybe she’s right, because even when the tan fades those summer, sun and sand dreams may well last a lifetime.

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Voted Australia’s best Distillery, Winery or Brewery Experience,

the Bundaberg Rum Distillery is a genuine bucket list ticker that should be at the top of the list for true lovers of all things rum and fun.

Whether it’s a quick visit to Bundy R. Bear’s spiritual home, a journey deep into the beating heart of the Distillery, indulging in our famous selection of Royal Liqueurs or just taste testing some of the world’s best rum, a trip to Australia’s most awarded rum distillery is a total must when visiting Queensland.

So drop in and take your tastebuds for a rum inspired adventure at the spiritual home of a truly original Aussie icon.

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L I Z Z I E L E A R NS T O

by Lizzie Macaulay

LIZZIE LEARNS TO…

BLEND THE PERFECT RUM O

h, dear reader, how jealous you are going to be of me by the time I’m done telling you about my adventures this month…

There are so many experiences for this column that I’ve been looking forward to in the lead-up, but this one may just take the cake.

Enter: the fabulous Bundaberg Rum distillery.

I arrive at the iconic building – my first visit ever to the site – and immediately I’m greeted by the fabulous Paula.

It’s not long before I understand why we’ve been paired. Paula is not only the oracle of all things Bundy rum, she is deeply proud and passionate about what she does – who better to tell you the story of this tiny but mighty distillery?

Ok, realistically it’s not that tiny in stature, but my goodness, it’s incredible what a team of 32 staff can achieve on a global scale.

We tour through the public facing areas of the distillery and Paula takes me through the history of the brand, the awards, the reach, the fanatical collectors who simply live and breathe the Bundy brand (and who could blame them).

My favourite stop on the tour simply has to be the giant wall of Bundy bottles of all shapes, sizes and ages that tickles a particular symmetry appreciation spot in my brain.

We then head across to the restricted area where all the magic

truly takes place.

Behind the scenes there are several large buildings fit for various stages of the distilling process. These are all overshadowed by the looming presence of the sugar mill next door that supplies the molasses that goes into the rum.

I’m struck by the ingenuity of the collaborative spirit the businesses embody, working collectively to benefit absolutely everybody. Very progressive, no?!

We make it to our final destination nestled deep in the heart of the grounds.

It just looks like another building from the outside, but once you’re through the doors you’re into this moody, atmospheric space that is textural, intricate, well thought out and the perfect setting for what we’re about to do.

Laying out on a table are 5 small glasses of different rums from various barrels, a large A3 info sheet with flavour notes and space to write your own thoughts, and some sciencey-looking bits and bobs that I’ll tell you about shortly.

Paula describes the process that we’re about to undertake, and it’s about now that it truly hits me – I’m about to drink neat rum… It’s a bit scary.

Admittedly, rum is something I’ve only recently begun to get a taste for - I’ve always been a white spirits type of gal, so this

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09

experience is completely refreshing for my unrefined rum palate.

I think that actually helps rather than hinders, though.

I take my first sip and desperately try to remain cool as I keep my eye on the notes in front of me.

I’m supposed to be tasting sweet, dried fruit, oakiness, and I taste: rum.

Paula assures me this is quite common for the first of these five samples to need a second pass as this is the moment of your palate awakening.

I’m dubious but I press on.

And of course, as we move to the next glass, she’s absolutely right.

From the ‘port barrel’, I get hits of flavour beyond the rum – definitely cloves, possibly more. It’s just like a wine tasting (which I’m equally ineffectual at for the most part).

We move through each of the samples – the sherry barrel, the port barrel, the bourbon barrel, the scotch barrel and the heavy charred.

It’s fascinating to me how different three base ingredients can taste simply by changing the vessel it’s stored in.

Now for the science part…

As I decide on my favourites, I begin the process of blending.

I have 7mLs to get the flavour profile right, based on what I’ve tasted from the 5 samples.

I take the eye dropper and draw up varying amounts of this and of that until I have, to my tastes, the perfect blend.

We then get to scaling up – 7mLs becomes 700!

It’s quite something to see it all come together, especially as part of the experience, you get to take away 2 whole bottles of your signature blend.

We finalise the whole process with an elegant bronze seal and a personalised label. I couldn’t be more chuffed.

On the side I note they have a batch and bottle number so any time I like, I can order it again – the team have a database of the exact mix of anyone who’s taken on the blending experience.

Paula tells me that there’s a wide array of uses for these incredible bottles – from corporate gifts to collectors’ items – and it’s easy to see their value.

As we finish up and wander back to the entrance, Paula takes a detour to show off the most historic building that remains after the fires of the 1930’s – the molasses pit.

It’s warm, smells incredible and essentially looks like something you really shouldn’t dive into, but you really want to all the same.

All in all this Blend Your Own experience was incredibly impressive.

It’s rare enough to have a behind the scenes snoop into such a wellknown brand’s operations. It something else entirely to be able to completely customise part of that brand’s product to take home with you, and order whenever the urge takes you.

I may not have been a big rum drinker before this experience, but I honestly believe this process has changed my preferences.

Having this deep an insight has made a big impact!

Learn the art of blending Bundaberg Rum, pouring rich rum reserves straight from the barrels to craft your very own unique rum with a little help from our expert guides – and take home two personalised bottles of your new rum concoction!

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With enormous thanks to Paula, Scott and the entire Bundaberg Rum team for welcoming us to their fabulous space and sharing this experience with us. If you’d like to have your own rum blending experience, or visit the distillery for a tour, head to: www.bundabergrum.com.au to book.

(And as always, friends, drink responsibly.)

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TH E P ROF ILE

THE NATURAL CHOICE WITH FRASER COAST HERBALS

W

hen you walk through the doors of Fraser Coast Herbals in Maryborough you are greeted by more than just friendly staff.

The shop has a character of its own - with the smell of natural soaps, therapeutic grade oils, organic teas and herbal powders combining to create a calming atmosphere.

Cate Haynes and her partner Michael Archer opened Fraser Coast Herbals in the Heritage City to provide customers with a natural and alternative way to care for and look after their bodies.

“So many people who have visited our shop say its an absolute smell sensation when they come inside,” said Cate.

Fraser Coast Herbals, located at 152 Pallas Street, offers customers a full range of natural products to “treat almost anything.”

Cate, a qualified herbalist, described Fraser Coast Herbals as the place to go if you’re looking for herbal remedies and products.

The shop stocks a full range of natural products like therapeutic grade oils, organic teas, herbal powders, high-quality hemp oils, natural face creams and organic washing powders to name just a few.

“Everything is natural and we don’t stock retail brands,” she said.

by Shaun Ryan

“We’ve loved the move and it was a fantastic idea to come up here,” said Michael.

“We love the community spirit and there are really great people living here,” he continued.

Michael believes Fraser Coast Herbals appeals to people who want to try something different.

“Not everyone likes and wants to take prescription medication. So, we offer a more natural and alternative way of fixing your body,” he said.

“What we offer is an add on to other approaches that are already out there.”

Central to Fraser Coast Herbals’ business model is the use of an extensive health questionnaire.

Customers complete the questionnaire, which then helps Cate fully understand what they are struggling with and how best to treat it.

Whether you have gone down the natural or organic route before or want to try it for the first time, Cate and Michael said the best thing to do is to “just come on down and say hi.”

“Come and have a look at the products we stock and have a chat about how we can help you,” said Cate.

For more information on Fraser Coast Herbals, head over to their Facebook page or click through to www. frasercoastherbals.com.au.

Cate and Michael are new to Maryborough, having moved to the region from New South Wales.

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H OME GROWN

by Kerrie Alexander

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Photo credit: Adelaide Watson Photography

ENGAGED WITH THE COMMUNITY W

hen other kids were out having fun with their mates, a then 12-year-old Luke Strochnetter would spend his weekends volunteering to create run sheets, and plan and seek sponsorship for community fundraisers.

It’s a hobby that paid off for the now 20-year-old who runs two very successful marketing and event businesses including 360 Degrees Marketing, and Occasions by the Bay; a pop-up picnic business offering luxe picnic & party setups on the Fraser Coast.

He’s also a part-time supervisor at The Bear restaurant.

“I love planning events because even though there is so much hard work involved, you get to see the end result and you get to see people enjoying themselves,” Luke said.

“That’s why I do it. Seeing kids laughing and adults singing along or enjoying themselves really fills my heart.

“I also love event management because the only thing that limits you is your imagination.”

While the success of this young entrepreneur is astonishing on its own, Luke’s volunteer work within the Fraser Coast is what makes him truly unique.

This generous young go-getter has an absolute heart of gold!

At 17, he packed his bags and travelled with eight members of the Bayside Christian Church to Africa where they helped build a community centre in a village in Uganda.

He described the experience as “life changing”.

“It was such an eye-opening experience to me and really opened my eyes to how lucky we are up here.

“Seeing how happy they are with so little, really stuck with me.

“It was an amazing experience and something that I will speak about for years and years to come.

“I think it is just important to use what we have to make a difference.

“People often say that they don’t have money or goods etc to donate, but we all have something we can bring to the table.”

Luke was a driving force behind Cancer Council’s Relay for Life for a number of years and raised over $10,000 for the cause.

“Everyone involved in Hervey Bay Relay for Life are just so kind-hearted and community minded.

“We used to do so many crazy and fun things to raise funds and it was just so special to be involved and be able to raise awareness and funds for a cause that seriously affects so many people.”

In 2020, Luke organized the Rockathon: Bushfire Relief Concert in Hervey Bay, which saw a 1000-strong crowd attend to raise much-needed funds for those affected by the Bushfires.

He managed the Afterglow: Youth Week Event in Hervey Bay in 2019, Bush and Beats in 2019, Hervey Bay Family Fun Day in 2018, and the Country Campout Weekend in 2017 and 2018, and proudly walked the Esplanade as a Baton Bearer as part of the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

He also assisted with running the 2019 annual Christmas carols and is this year a co-cordinator of the 2021 Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight, set to take place at Seafront Oval on Saturday, December 11.

Why? Simply to utilise his media and marketing skills to bring joy and love to others.

“I absolutely love Christmas and the true message behind it about Jesus being born.

“Christmas is such a special time and brings people together. I jumped at the opportunity to be involved with the Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight.

“It’s an honour to be able to help produce this event as it is such a loved event and tradition by the local community, and I just want to help out in every way I can to make sure this event continues for years to come.

“I can’t wait to sing and dance … off stage of course,” he said with a laugh.

Luke’s belief in helping his fellow neighbour has always been the driving force behind his commitment to volunteering.

Without charity events, not-for-profit groups and individuals just wouldn’t exist, he said.

“Fundraisers are vitally important to communities like ours and sometimes they are the main way organisations or individuals gets funding.

“If I can help out by organising and managing an event, I do and will.

“That is the small way I can help out important causes and give back. “These events are only so successful though because people jump onboard as volunteers, entertainers and sponsors.

“So many people work so hard to make our local events a reality.

“I love Hervey Bay because there are so many amazing community organisations, church groups, and events that give people the opportunity to serve our community and give back.

“We probably won’t change the world, but we can change the people’s lives in our world or sphere of influence.

“Whether little or large, every bit can make a difference.”

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WI S E WORDS

by Kerrie Alexander

A cause for comfort J

ust about every ward of the Hervey Bay Hospital has a cupboard full of wonderful and colourful handmade cotton drawstring bags filled with knitted teddy bear and overnight stay essentials for children.

The most amazing part, there’s just one single lady to thank for them.

Trish Hummerston was volunteering at the hospital in August 2016 when she noticed a great number of children looking anxious in the waiting room and throughout the hospital after being admitted.

Being the selfless, caring, and passionate volunteer that Trish is (she works for four other charities), her mind instantly went into overdrive, thinking how she could help put children at ease during their hospital stay, and give the parents some reprieve from some very apprehensive kids.

With a $500 donation from her son’s landscaping business,

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Comfort Kids Zone came to life.

“I would see so many children come up there with Mum, Dad, Nana or whoever, and I see how bored and anxious they were … sometimes they can be up there for a couple of hours,” Trish said.

“I knew I had to do something to help.”

Trish has since dug deep from her own pockets, coupled with an immense amount of fundraising to keep the project running.

Over 7900 material bags, that also double as library bags, have been handed out since the beginning, filled with a teddy, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and paste, soap, comb or brush and activity books and colouring in pencils for children admitted to A&E, Pathology, and Allied Health.

All children in the A&E waiting room also receive a bag with a teddy, activity book and colouring in pencils.

Trish said the heart-warming feedback from nursing staff and doctors at the hospital, and the smiles on the kids faces when

they see their bag of goodies, is the driving force behind her hard work.

Parents who often forget the essentials in the rush to get to hospital are also always incredibly grateful.

“The doctors and nurses just love the bags, especially the teddies, because they act as a distraction for the kids if they’re having any procedures or blood tests done.

“It’s like a show bag for the children … they often think that they can’t take them home but when I say, ‘yes darling, you can take them with you’, their faces light up.

“It’s makes such a big difference to any of the children that find themselves at the hospital for whatever reason. They cuddle those teddies like you wouldn’t believe.

“It really is important to me, and it’s a great service for the hospital and community and that’s the best thing about it. It gives me goose bumps just talking about it.”

It’s a service that Trish is determined to keep going but that can only happen with the assistance of the Fraser Coast community.

The project has received some incredible support over the years, including a $20,000 donation from the Fisherman’s Ball in 2018, and ongoing support from the Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants Program.

The teddies and the bags are also crafted and donated by the exceptionally talented ladies from the ‘A Touch of Craft’ group in Hervey Bay. However, even with this support, Covid restrictions over the past 18 months meant that fundraising came to a standstill and the not-for-profit charities funds started to dwindle.

Each bag costs about $18 to produce.

Trish is calling on the community to make a donation to the charity or even just donate wool, filling, ribbon, material, colouring books and pencils or hygiene essentials to help keep the service running.

“I’m passionate about the fact that most people in the region have children or grandchildren; we are one community and it’s nice to be able to give them a little bit of comfort when they go to hospital.

“It’s just so close to my heart and it would be such a shame if I couldn’t keep it going.

“I think it’s a wonderful service and so does the hospital but it’s becoming very expensive for me to keep up … but I just don’t want it to end.”

Anyone who would like to help can reach out to Trish on 0400 242 261.

We are one community and it’s nice to be able to give them a little bit of comfort when they go to hospital.

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17

C OM MUNI TY CONNECT I O N

by Kerrie Alexander

CHAMPIONS OF BAY’S BEACHES H

ervey Bay is well-known for its beautiful stretch of ocean front with calm waters that are a much-loved playground for thousands of visitors and locals alike.

However, where there is water, there is always risk!

That’s why it’s so important to have the Hervey Bay Surf Lifesaving Club members patrolling our beaches and keeping the community safe, said President Darren Everard.

Surf lifesavers are usually first on the scene for aquatic rescues, providing first aid and emergency care and educating the public about the dangers of the surf and our local waters.

The beach also acts as classroom for the hundreds of Nippers who sign on for the junior program each year.

The Nippers gain confidence by passing the tests of swimming, board riding, beach sprints, dolphin-diving, spotting a rip, having fun with new friends and discovering things about themselves.

All under the guidance of their age managers.

“Our main aim is to ensure we work towards Surf Life Saving Queensland’s aim of Zero Preventable Deaths on Queensland’s public water ways,” Darren said.

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“But for me as president, I am focused on two things; ensuring that the junior members of our club are given the opportunity to gain skills and confidence to assist them later in their lives and making sure that the Hervey Bay Surf Lifesaving Club has a sustainable and successful future as the guardians of our beach in Hervey Bay.” Surf Lifesaving is an iconic Australian institution that ensures the red and yellow flags go up for 33 weeks of the year on Saturday afternoons, all day Sunday and every public holiday.

To do that, Darren said more active patrolling members are needed to join the ranks.

The passionate president has been involved with the Bay club for over 20 years and in 12 years as a patrolling member, has clocked up over 1030 patrol hours spent standing between the flags, plus countless hours, undertaking water safety, bar and committee duties.

It takes a big commitment but, he said, the cause is well worth the effort.

“Personally, for me it is about the positive outcomes of being there to assist somebody when they get into trouble.

“Thank God for me there has always been a positive outcome. God willing there will always be a rescue and never a recovery.

around the club and as we speak, we have a strong masters team forming, which is great.

“In a very short period, we had members assisting the family and the child was found.

Parents of Nippers can also play an integral part in their child’s success as a future guardian of the Bay’s beaches.

“On the weekend we had a report of a lost child before we had started patrol and we had a parent show up at the club asking for help, and we assisted.

“We are hoping our younger members will see our masters train and encourage their parents to get involved and sign up for their Bronze Medallion so we can grow our patrolling group and become more sustainable in this area.”

“The father was grateful, and he could not believe how fast we got involved.”

The Nippers program is currently full; however, applications will open next season on August 1 and close on August 30.

Darren said there are many opportunities for Fraser Coast residents to actively support the club.

“We would love to hear from members of the community who have a surf lifesaving background, and who are willing to comply with the modern requirements and give a little back so we can foster and create a surf club culture on a beach with our waves!

“We also encourage our patrolling members to get involved

“If you are a parent of one of our Nippers you are required to sign up for a task and assist … we want your children to see their parents involved and from my point of view I want the parent to invest in their children’s future.

“It will be the best investment a parent can make as it will benefit their child and family into the future.”

To find out more, visit the club’s website at herveybaysurfclub.com.au.

198 Walker Street, Maryborough . 0438141125 . hello@holabox.com.au

Christmas

HOLABOX.COM.AU

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19

LOCA L MUS I CI A N

CITY COUNCIL Have you guys always been musical?

Well the City Council lads all mainly started playing in high school. Carl picked up the bucket drums in year 12. Sambo found inspiration on guitar hero from the ripe age of 12. Arlen was sick after schoolies and had nothing else to do in bed.

Miah picked up the bass 4 months ago but has always had a creative side and soft spot for the guitar.

What/who are your musical influences?

Us lads have a huge influence from the Aussie rock scene.

For example the Chats, Skeggs, The Terry’s, Violents Soho and most importantly Taylor Swift.

What/who are you listening to right now?

Us boys are diverse and so is the music we listen to. If it’s fast and heavy we’ll most likely love it. Shoutout to Private Function, nothing gets you more pumped.

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Favourite line from a song?

The favourite lyrics from a song would be “Mountains come and go, but Aussie pub rock lives on forever”.

Do you practise regularly?

We have been together for a only about 4 months, since then we have tried to get back to the council homebase aka Sambos shed to practice once or twice a week. And by practice we mean come up with songs we think are funny the whole time.

What is each members roll?

Sambo is the lead guitarist who just rips it to shreds. Carl has a whack on the drums. (You’ve probably heard him from your house).

Jeremiah slaps the bass and blesses the microphone with his singing. Arlen jumps on the guitar aswell and has a strum, combined with some yelling and singing.

MA K E A DAY O F I T B Y T H E MA R I N A

If you could play any gig or venue, where would you play?

Well if we could play at any venue we were thinking Suncorp Stadium on Origin Game 3. Or maybe the bowlo on a hot stinking night in Maryborough.

What’s the meaning behind the name ‘City Council’ We saw it on the wall of Carl’s shed and it was a sign. We take about 200 breaks an hour and It takes 400 people to do one man’s job.

boatclub.com.au Phone: (07) 4128 9643 Information for members & guests.

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21

JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER

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

ARCH SUPPORT SANDALS & SLIDES MADE IN VIETNAM

Assorte d Style & Colours

C

aught in a beautiful time warp, Taylor Dunn has the ability to transform herself into someone else.

The young actor has gained a few feathers in her vintage cap and she hasn’t stopped yet, her latest role – Fraser Coast most recognised character, Mary Poppins!

Taylor discovered her love of acting at the tender age of seven, however it was when the sweet-natured fourteenyear-old captivated the audience playing a malicious character in her high school production of “Three Sisters” that her drama teacher strongly urged her to pursue an acting career. Taylor joined Hervey Bay’s Z-Pac Theatre and now, 11 years later, she is the theatre’s Vice President and has had numerous accomplishments including various acting roles, directing and even writing plays.

Vintage style is a strong part of Taylor’s persona and she is especially drawn to the romanticism of the 1930’s and 1940’s.

But it’s the strong femme fatale actresses that inspire her the most – Katharine Hepburn being a favourite.

In 2019 as fate would have it, Taylor was contacted by producers, anxious to fill a solo acting role with only 10 days left until opening day. The production was “Tea at 5”, a monologue of Katharine Hepburn’s life and Taylor was in her element.

A week and a half later, she stood back-stage behind the curtains, nervously preparing to step into the spotlight.

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

NEW TO LANGERS MADE IN SPAIN

She “left her anxiety having a nervous breakdown in the dressing room” and in that instant she became Hepburn.

Taylor can’t pinpoint the moment the nerves fall away, but it is without doubt they don’t follow her on to the stage - she is poised, focused and completely in character, although she believes it’s the nerves that keep her going – the adrenaline, the endorphins.

There’s really no time to think about nerves in Taylor’s busy life these days, she is currently furthering her studies with a creative internship at Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre Co in Brisbane, working as an Arts Ambassador for FCRC, teaching rock ‘n’ roll dance and writing her own version of the ancient Greek play “Medea”.

For Taylor, acting is a collective experience, an almost tribal connection between creatives and the audience that drives her forward and makes her evolve in her craft, with an insatiable hunger to perform in the Fraser Coast all the way to the UK and afar.

But today she adjusts her dainty hat, picks up her carpet bag, and opens her umbrella, and with a tilt of her chin and a glint in her eye, just like magic, she has transformed – Taylor Dunn is Mary Poppins.

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L O C A L ART IST

TAYLOR DUNN

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EE er H C cemb Y H Lmid De S E t

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DU N G A DERB Y

by Kerrie Alexander

TAMARA’S story

M

y name is Tamara and I would like to share a little bit of my story and how I became a recipient of a Dunga Derby grant that I am forever grateful for.

At the age of about 11 I was picking up my brother from day care with my mum. When I bent over to pick my brother up and one of his teachers asked my mum what was wrong with my back, as she could see a large protrusion of my spine.

Mum said I’m not sure, but we will go see the doctor and get it checked out. Off we went to the doctor and he sent me for scans of my back.

Once the scans came back the doctor diagnosed me with Scoliosis which is curvature of the spine. My doctor didn’t really know much about this condition so sent me to an Orthopaedic surgeon in Brisbane.

When we saw the Orthopaedic doctor in Brisbane the curvature of my spine was at 55 degrees.

At age 13, I had to have major spinal surgery to correct my scoliosis as the curve had moved to 95 degrees which was crushing my heart and lungs.

We had been told by the surgeon it could only go to 100 degrees before it kills you and it was the worst he had ever seen.

Apparently, scoliosis can be recorrected with a brace if caught early enough. They inserted two titanium rods, six screws and four hooks.

At the age of 15, I had to have another surgery as my rods in my spine had dislodged.

They re-did the surgery and shaved my right side of my ribs as this is what the doctor thought dislodged my rods. Also, while I was in surgery my right lung was not re-inflated back up properly, so I have trouble with my right lung on occasions.

While I was in surgery having my operation, I also lost my biological father to Leukaemia. This was a very difficult time for me as I could not say goodbye to him … he was on the other side of Brisbane in another hospital.

I’m now 34 years old and I have since had another scoliosis formed from where my rods end in my lower half of my back, down to my tailbone.

My current doctor is keeping an eye on it as there isn’t really much more they can do.

I’m on lots of medication that I need to take daily just to get out of bed. These help me complete simple daily tasks that we all take for granted.

I’m forever grateful to Dunga Derby and Rally for a Cause because they have helped me in more ways than one.

They paid for a years’ worth of treatment for my back, which I have on a weekly basis. I couldn’t afford this as I can only work so many hours a week now, with my health declining as I get older.

In October 2020 I was able to join my Dad “Reg” in his car #29 Fuddy Duddy’s on the four-day day annual Dunga Derby.

I wanted to go to see what it was all about and to thank everyone involved in this amazing cause.

I had such an amazing time that when we got back home, I said to Dad I want to do my own car now so I can help raise more funds to help this worthy cause.

I successfully entered a car and took three other people along for the journey in July-August 2021 this year.

We all had such a great time! So much so that we are going again in 2022. Dunga Derby and Rally for a Cause is like one big family.

I personally want to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved. It has made a huge difference to not only to my life but other recipient’s lives as well.

I am forever grateful and will never forget how Dunga Derby and Rally for a Cause has helped make my life that little bit easier.

Thank you for letting me share my story.

Tamara

To find out more about the charity and how you can help families like Tamara’s, head to www.rallyforacause.org.au or www.dungaderby.com.au. Find them on Facebook under 'Dunga Derby by Rally for a Cause'

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25

BEST COCKTAIL BARS IN THE REGION

Here at Alive, we’re tackling the serious issues this summer! And finding out just where to quench your thirst with the best tasting cocktail is high on our priority list. So, if you consider yourself a cocktail connosior, we recommend you make a stop and cool off at some of the best cocktail bars at the beautiful Wide Bay has to offer.

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Banksia SEAFOOD & GRILL

The Banksia Team believes, Summer is for soaking in the sunshine, chilling with friends and sipping fresh flavours on your lips...

Take a moment to enjoy your escape right on the Fraser Coast Esplanade, relax on the breezy outdoor lounges and order our new favourite cocktail “The French Orchard”.

Created with summer fruit liqueurs shaken to a frothy cream layer the with a delicate raspberry dust, this is fast becoming our unsurpassed favourite taste at Banksia Seafood and Grill.

While the stars of today are the cocktails, take time to discover why our local guests return to Banksia... crisp wines, icy beers and fresh cocktails are served with a smile while our dedicated kitchen team has created a menu filled with perfectly cooked local Seafood, Steaks and nibbles to explore. Walk in anytime for drinks at our Outdoor Lounges and Bar, for guests wishing to dine in bookings are greatly recommended.

Shop 4, 381 Charlton Esplanade

www.banksiaseafoodgrill.com.au

Enzo's

(07) 4325 4095

ON THE BEACH

Step away from the hustle and bustle of Hervey Bay’s tourist strip and into the unique and relaxed atmosphere that only Enzo’s on the Beach can offer.

Our experienced and passionate team are continually designing exquisite cocktails that are beyond compare. One of which is our ever popular, Grapes of Wrath. This speciality grape sour is made with Butterly pea flower syrup, passionfruit and grape liquors and zesty lime, definitely designed to satisfy your sweet summer needs with a lime citrus kick.

We offer an extensive and unique range of gins, tequila and many other spirits in our collection. Come in and taste our Grapes of Wrath creation whilst over looking the gleaming waters of Scarness Beach, watching the famous Hervey Bay sunsets.

351a The Esplanade, Scarness QLD 4655

(07) 4124 6375 info@enzosonthebeach.com.au

Bert ’s RESTAURANT & BAR

Bert’s Restaurant & Bar is located in Bundaberg’s CBD, on Bourbong Street near the Moncrieff theatre, a space that oozes an understated warmth, classic character and spirit of the 1920’s. Be prepared for some seriously impressive cocktail creations and an amazing visit on each occasion.

Cameron, Bert’s Mixologist is a creative soul, sharply dressed and clearly passionate about his craft. Whether it’s a classic drop, or a personally prepared cocktail, a Bert’s experience won’t disappoint! It’s a place that prides itself in bringing local farm fresh produce including strawberries, berries, citrus, ginger and quirky garnishes to life in a menu full of our regions most talked about and on trend cocktails.

Celebrate the reason for this season with one of Bert’s cocktails of the month. A ‘Bert’s Bon Bon’ is a cocktail that is a tantalizing surprise, bringing together Sloe Gin, Elderflower liqueur, Limoncello, Lemon and Rose Water; a great start to your journey of discovery at Bert’s Restaurant & Bar Bundaberg. discoverberts.com.au

163 Bourbong St, Bundaberg (07) 4326 4000

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27

White is right S

tepping officially into the summer of 2021-22, this month we’re featuring all things white.

outfit.

Whilst many books are written on using only shades of white for home decor, not many would choose an all-white

Of course, white is the easiest shade to combine with absolutely any colour. But, wearing all white can often evoke a sense of freshness, purity and peacefulness.

The tradition of white dresses for brides is associated with a sense of innocence, a new beginning or fresh start.

By way of celebrating the festive season, we’ve added some gold accessories to immediately give you that winning edge of luxury and sophistication. Wishing you all a very merry ‘White Christmas’.

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FA SH IO N

by Kate Manley

LEFT: 1. Patterned ruffle shortsleeve blouse 2. Casual flexi waist white cotton pants 3. Gold glitter flats 4. Gold double dangling circles earrings 5. Gold leather clutch with strap RIGHT: 1. White lace dreamy maxi dress 2. Silky white leisure top 3. Silk white shoulder knots singlet top 4. Gold leather-like belt 5. Bronze triple hoops earrings 6. Gold multi-chain and beads necklace

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FURNITURE SPECIALIST

REFRESH WITH A SUMMER SPRITZ With the summer season now in full swing, venues are filling with customers out to enjoy the festive season and celebrate the end of the year. We have noted that postCOVID restrictions, patrons have a newfound love for drinking cocktails.

Sales have significantly increased across local venues, which is consistent with feedback from other parts of Queensland.

With this in mind it seems fitting for me to discuss a few delicious summer cocktails to sample locally. When I think of summer there is one style of drink that immediately comes to mind and brings with it a nostalgia of past holidays, celebrations and festivities. The style of cocktail I refer to is the spritz.

The spritz has changed over time, from its beginnings in the 1800s in the Veneto region in Italy where parts of the region were controlled by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Visitors and soldiers from other parts of the empire were said to have found Italian wines too strong and so lightened them with a splash (‘spritz’ in German) of water. The modern spritz has evolved to be a flavouring component, sparkling wine and a spritz of soda.

A L L A B OUT F O O D

by Scott Thompson and Jason England

various times of day and different stages of dining.

Our cocktails menu is small; however, we do change things up every few months.

The spritz you will find at Odyssey is another variation on the classic cocktail. Here we are mixing Brookies slow gin, watermelon, sparkling wine, mint, cucumber and of course a spritz of soda. Our summer approach to an afternoon cocktail makes this drink perfect for sitting in our newly added outdoor area and unwinding for a busy week or weekend.

The warm summer months are here, and we trust this has given you some inspiration about future options to explore when you’re out and about in Hervey Bay. Make sure you drop by our venue and tell us about the memorable Spritz based drinks you have sampled. You never know, you could inspire us to create a future cocktail for our venue.

The most common form of spritz that you may be familiar with is the Aperol Spritz. This spritz is by far the most enjoyed worldwide. It consists of Aperol, Prosecco and a spritz of soda. This low alcohol drink is commonly consumed on warm afternoons and is often enjoyed with the accompaniment of snacks. When I think it time to enjoy an Aperol spritz there is one venue in Hervey Bay that always comes to mind, Enzo’s on the Beach is a perfect location to sit back, enjoy the view and watch the world go by. Whether it’s with a group of friends or a quiet reflective drink, Enzo’s ticks all the boxes.

Further on down the Esplanade, is one of the newest cocktail bars to our town, 19XO Wine and Cocktail. Behind the bar you will find an impressive selection of spirits and wines, a creative and original cocktails list, and a fabulous mullet on venue manager Timo. Timo has a passion for crafting unique and original drinks for his patrons to enjoy. He’s created a variation on the classic spritz cocktail, mixing Japanese gin, rose and green tea and topping with sparkling Umeshe (Japanese plum wine). This spritz is fresh and a little fruity, perfect for a sunny afternoon or pre-dinner drink.

Back here at Odyssey Bistro we like to focus our cocktail list on utilizing Australian spirits and ingredients as often as possible. At Odyssey we have a variety of cocktails, perfect for

www.odysseybistro.com.au

REFLECTING ALL THAT WE DEEPLY APPRECIATE ABOUT FOOD, DRINK, SERVICE AND ATMOSPHERE.

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31

ECO L I VI NG

A WOW-WORTHY HOME

by Ingrid Gorissen

S

ummertime is upon us! And as our days stretch longer, the sun shines brighter and hotter, and our sunscreen stash gets a refresh, we’re celebrating the warmth, fun and beauty of the summer season.

While we may not be able to jet off on a holiday just yet, it might be the perfect time to look with a designer’s eye at your home and start on that makeover that you have been longing to do, but not knowing where to start.

Are you ready to dress your home up for a summery staycation or just for that “happy and healthy” living feeling all around?

Your home is your heart, reflecting you and your family’s life.

Here are some great tips for creating your very own dream home: 1. Just make a start and don’t be overwhelmed by the thought of decorating your whole house at once. Relax and take one room at a time. You will see that once you start, the rest will flow as you will get more and more into the swing of your ideas.

2. Create a style file and tear photo’s out of your favourite

Pialba Place 32

(Big W Entrance),

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magazines; Collect ideas, colour swatches and anything that inspires you. Trust me, all the bits and pieces will come together to reveal a lot about the style and colours you’ll be happy to live with.

3. Suit your lifestyle: If you are a lover of casual entertaining and relaxing living, a formal decorating style won’t work for you. Choose a look that is easy, compliments and enhances the way you live your home and this will be an absolute joy for you to be in.

4. Work with neutrals: Keep the bright colours and flashy patterns for accessories. A neutral colour palette gives the flexibility to change or adapt your basic look to keep up to date as match evolving tastes.

5. Remember the classics: Buy big ticket items such as lounge suites in classic, timeless shapes and neutral fabrics. You’ll want these pieces to be with you for many years to come, so they need to be versatile unless you are confident and know which bold colour you like and, in that case, have the Big item as the centre accent piece and create a neutral space around it so it pops out and makes a statemen!

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“Your home is your heart, reflecting you and your family’s life.”

6. Inject colour and personality: Giving your home an individual touch is most important as they create your personality and happiness. Easy creating an inviting atmosphere designers items are cushions, throws, rugs, plants and artwork. These can be easily changed to achieve a variety of looks without breaking the bank.

Decorate with objects and photos that are special to you and your family to reflect your personality.

7. Create a budget for decorating: When building or renovating it is easy to forget to allocate a portion of your budget to furniture and decorator pieces and so not realise the full potential of your project as soon as you finish construction.

Think ahead and you won’t be left with a beautiful space but illfitting or even, no furniture at all.

8. Decorate to scale:

9. Truly, spaces emerge when your house is decorated to scale.

By that I mean the furniture and decorator pieces need to be in proportion to the size of the room. Choose pieces that complement the size and you’ll have a seriously stylish look.

Lift and separate: Add a rug to define the various zones and highlight the areas you wish to draw attention to. Rugs provide warmth, colour and texture to a room as well as catching it from a design point of view.

You help your eyes to focus into an area instead, drawing attention to, instead of not knowing where to look.

10. Add some wow factor: Give your home the final touch of WOW factor with pieces such as large vases, pendant, plants, artwork to create the maximum impact without clutter. * Always remember to never be afraid to ask for help.

Your dream home could be just a small step away from being decorated just the way you want it!

Yours in happy designing, Ingrid

2021

Fraser Coast's Best in Trade & Manufacturing and The Verena Fletcher Award

BUILDING, RENOVATING AND DESIGNING QUALITY HOMES TO CO-EXIST WITH THE ENVIRONMENT.

PHONE: 0417 067 592 EMAIL: INGRID@VIVEREHOMES.COM.AU VIVEREHOMES.COM.AU Alive Magazine Wide Bay |

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33

HE A L TH HUNTER

by Rhian Hunter

O

OH SUMMER

h summer; the heat, the long days of bright sun, the sharp intensity, and the transformative nature of the season and a New Year.

Like each of the seasons, summer arrives with its own distinct personality.

Depending on your constitution, Summer may either increase your internal sense of harmony, or it may aggravate one of your innate tendencies, either you chase an endless summer or you’re someone who can’t wait for it to end.

Enter the season of Pitta; our hot-natured (pitta dominant) individuals will feel hotter than most, usually to the point of discomfort as the heat of summer intensifies, while someone who is vata dominant and feels challenged by the cold will relish the warmth of summer.

One of the fundamental principles of Ayurveda is that our habits, routines, and dietary choices should ebb and flow with the seasons, and in doing so the seasons need not be an intrinsic source of fluctuating dread, and bliss.

If you are unsure of your individual constitution, there are many quizzes you can take online that will help you determine it.

In Ayurveda, it is said that like increases like, and that opposites create balance.

This is why summertime stirs up something different in each of us.

Our primary focus through the summer months should be to keep pitta balanced by staying cool, mellowing intensity with relaxation, and grounding our energy.

It’s important to note, that summer also has some distinctly vata characteristics, so you’ll also want to stay hydrated, foster stability, and balance vata’s natural expansiveness and mobility with quiet, restful activities.

The following recommendations are appropriate for most people during the summer.

• Toward the end of Spring, your body may already be naturally craving smaller meals, and lighter foods such as fresh fruit and salads. This is because the Agni (digestive fire) a strong source of internal heat disperses in order to keep us cool.

• Most people find it easier to rise early in the morning during the Summer months. This is a natural and beneficial rhythm to embrace. Early morning is also the best time for exercise, avoid exercising during the heat of the day, especially from 10am –2pm • Start your day with garshana (dry body brushing) and abhyanga (self-massage) with a soothing and cooling oil like coconut, avocado or jojoba, and spritzing yourself all over with rosewater.

• Dress in light, breathable clothing made of cotton, linen or

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silk, and favour colours and shades that counter warmth like whites, greys, purples and greens.

• Spend time outside but protect yourself by wearing sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat. If you are outside during the heat of the day, wear sunscreen and try to stay in the shade.

• When you experience a lull in energy in the afternoon, it’s more likely the heat causing it than the extra calories you consumed over the festive season, so take this as your permission slip to have a nana nap. Then you can enjoy those summer nights either by the beach or catching up with loved ones all refreshed.

• Allow your exercise routine to be guided by relaxed effort: move gently, fluidly, and gracefully, keeping the breath stable. Cultivate a calm inner awareness rather than pushing yourself to maximum capacity with precision and sharp muscular effort.

• And for my yogi’s out there: Since our solar plexus tends to hold heat, favour yoga poses that massage, strengthen, and wring out the abdominal region such as: -Cobra

-Cat/Cow -Boat

-Side Stretches -Twists

• Self-reflecting, yin (cooling) poses and are also very beneficial during the pitta season, and some of these include: -Child’s Pose

-Forward Folds

-Moon Salutations

Always end your practice, no matter how small it is, with a few moments in Savasana (corpse pose).

In terms of dietary choices, the good news is, summer is a time to favour the sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes, and relish in cool, liquid, even slightly oily foods. Go easy on unripened fruits, aged cheese, and warming spices, and avoid spicy foods altogether.

The following foods will serve you well this season:

Adzuki beans, apples, avocados, avocado oil artichokes, asparagus, barley, basil, basmati rice, brown rice, berries, beet greens, black beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cardamom, cauliflower, cherries, chicken, chickpeas, celery, chard, coconut, collard greens, coriander, crab, cranberries, cucumbers, dill, fennel, freshwater fish, grapes, green beans, green peas, kale, lettuce, lemons, limes, mangoes, maple syrup melons, mint, mung beans, olives, olive oil, okra, parsley, potatoes, pears, pineapples, plums, pomegranates, prawns, soy beans/soy products, split peas turkey, watercress, zucchini.

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by Rhian Hunter

INGREDIENTS: 500g Crab Meat 3 TBLS Golden Soya Mayonnaise 1 Green Capsicum, diced finely 1/2 Bunch Coriander, chopped very fine 1/4 Bunch Mint, chopped very fine Juice + Zest of a Lemon Salt + Pepper, to taste TO SERVE:

1. 2 Baby Cos Lettuce Gems

2. Chopped Shallots, optional 3. Sprinkle Paprika, optional

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GET READY FOR NEW STOCK ARRIVING DAILY

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SK I N C ARE

by Abby Blanke

SLIP, SLOP, SLAP FOR PROTECTION W

ell, Summer is on our doorstep and I am loving it! My favorite thing about summer is finishing work and its still daylight, the warm breeze in the air the smell of a BBQ when coming home. To me, it just feels happy. Summer is Happy!

in the morning. If you feel like you may need some more nourishment a little bit of rosehip oil mixed in will help.

Cleanser: During summer we need to add a little more kick to our cleanser like lactic acid or maybe some enzymes.

Last but not least and really it should be an everyday rain, hail, shine kind of thing.

With the longer days and higher humidity, we need to look at what we are using in our skincare to make sure we keep our natural glow.

What this does is help sloth away the dead skin cells. As summer warms up we tend have a little more on our skin whether it be sunscreen or sweat from the day, the lactic acid or enzyme gets down a little deeper and helps with a cleaner feel.

Replace your night moisture with your day (as long as it doesn’t have SPF in it). I am a big believer that your moisturizer is designed for your skin type and serums help “correct” your concerns.

But if your using a day and night moisturizer think about switching to a lighter moisturiser at night. During summer the skin is not needing the heavy nourishment, and as a result, you can feel like your cream will either be all over your pillow when you wake up or just feel super greasy

Antioxidants like Vitamin C are ridiculously important in summer as vitamin C helps give your skin cells strength and act as like an umbrella to stop any pigmentation from entering. The sun’s UV radiation breaks down our levels of Vitamin C and we need to replace it daily. The use of a serum every morning will help top up your skins natural levels.

Use a physical sunblock!

Zinc and Titanium Dioxide are the only two ingredients that stop UVB, burning ray and UVA, aging ray. It’s the UVA that causes the most damage and ages our skin the fastest.

It has to go on every single day as a non-negotiable.

The sun is the number one aging factor in Queensland skins. For all the hard work you put in making sure you cleanse, apply serums and moisturise won’t mean anything if your skin is constantly being damaged by UVA. Queensland’s number 1 aging factor is the sun!

We are naturally an outdoors style lifestyle and I love it.

But to keep your skin in top health sun protection is the most important thing you can do.

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SM A RT MO NEY

by Kodie Axelsen

BUDGET LIKE A BOSS!

S

ummer is my most favourite time of year!

will chip away at it then set up direct debits that match your pay cycle for expenses such as your phone bill, rates, electricity and any other ongoing expenses.

It’s also one of the busiest times of the year with end of year break ups, Christmas and that loooong school holiday break!

Set up accounts and budget for one off expenses like Christmas presents.

With all of these events and time for activities you can find yourself outlaying endless funds and before you know it, it gets away from you.

These are the tricky ones that come up, surprise us and leave us accessing facilities like Afterpay and Zippay that are now treated as credit facilities. The biggest thing to be aware of is your income and your expenses. It’s the time to learn these and understand what is affordable for you to reduce the chances of living beyond your means.

The best way to tackle overspending is to budget your funds for upcoming expenses.

A great way to budget is to use separate bank accounts.

Give them their own names and you can break them down as much or as little as you like.

Budgeting reduces stress in times of financial need. There are many options out there to help from budgeting apps to spreadsheets. The biggest hurdle is sticking to your guns. As always, yell out if you need a helping hand!

This is a great way to make sure you have adequate funds for your financial needs when they come due.

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ADVERTORI A L

SPLITTERS FARM J

ust an hour and a half north of Hervey Bay, on the outskirts of Bundaberg lies a hidden gem, Splitters Farm. In its short 4-year history this 160-acre bushland sanctuary has provided a haven for over 400 rescue animals. It’s a school holidays must-see if you’re in the Wide Bay region. They’ve run ‘Meet the Animals’ Tours daily which started a few years ago to supplement the cost of taking in so many mouths to feed.

Animals like Billy the Kid, who has been with the Splitters Team for approximately a year now “he’s just a big gentle giant” Owner Carly Clark says of the 8-year-old Steer who came into her possession because of drought. “He was hand raised and the heartbreaking truth is, that most of the animals have been loved at some point. While we do take in the council confiscated, neglected, and abused ones, the reality is, that most of the animals we are gifted are the result of relationships breakups or people who simply can’t afford to pay for vet bills.

We are in the unique and wonderful position of being able to provide health, love and kindness to an animal who has a rough trot, and they are happy to love you back 10-fold. That’s the awesome thing about animals, there is no hidden agenda,

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no malice, what you see is what you get, and we have a lot to learn from them.”

Bundaberg’s Doctor Dolittle Carly Clark says the transformation of Splitters Farm from a dump in 2017 to a pristine and tranquil farm has been quite the evolution “there wasn’t one fence worth salvaging and we spent many of the last few years cleaning up the property after the previous owners had let it go to rack-n-ruin”.

What they have created is not just a sanctuary for unwanted animals but a place where the family can entertain, educate, and inspire others by being on the farm and at one with its natural surrounds “we swim in the dam, make damper, feed the barramundi and involve the guests in collecting eggs or tasting honey straight from the hive. It is about reconnecting with loved ones over simple pleasures.”

The property was recognised as Bundaberg’s Best Tourism Accommodation of the Year this year in the Business Excellence Awards and boasts a caravan park offering gloriously green grassed campsites as well as a more luxurious option with a 5-star farm stay experience Creekside in one of eight luxury safari tents.

The two bedroom ‘glamping’ accommodation features a balcony overlooking Splitters Creek, an indoor and outdoor kitchen, fridge, king beds, luxurious bath robes, private bathroom, air-conditioning and many more creature comforts including hot baked bread daily and a continental breakfast featuring produce from local farms.

Splitters Farm is open to the public 7-days a week for day tours, VIP picnics and facility hire. To book a tour or see their accommodation options please visit splittersfarm.com.au or call 4159 9348.

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DE STI N A TIO N

by Brooke Wilson

MOTHER NATURE’S PLAYGROUND

PORT DOUGLAS

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h summer! Just a simple word that brings forth thoughts of warm, balmy nights, fresh breezes, and sitting by a pool with a cold drink in hand, surrounded by family and friends.

What better way to enjoy this idyllic time than with a getaway to tropical North Queensland’s Port Douglas?

North of Cairns’ busy hub and nestled between stunning beaches and the lush Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas dubs itself ‘the gateway to Mother Nature’s playground’ and it’s easy to see why.

The town’s proximity to the Great Barrier Reef makes it the perfect base for exploring the huge variety of sea life that call the reef home.

You can enjoy a trip out into the heart of the reef on board the local Quicksilver catamaran, where passengers can choose to take full advantage of the snorkeling, scuba diving, and even ocean walking on offer, getting up close and personal with the aquatic ‘locals’.

If you prefer to keep your hair dry, you can instead appreciate the beauty of the reef from their underwater observatory.

It would be remiss to be in Port Douglas and not head to Kuranda. The world-famous cableway glides up over the rainforest to the historic village, where you can spend the day wandering the Butterfly Sanctuary, Koala Gardens, or even just kicking back in one of their many tea houses and cafes.

Afterwards, head back down the mountain on board the Scenic Railway, experiencing the breathtaking rainforest up close and personal.

Perhaps one of the most appealing drawcards of Port Douglas is that through its laidback lifestyle that oozes charm and relaxation, it makes it the perfect destination for those wanting to unwind and do as little as possible.

Start the day with a late breakfast at the plethora of cafes and restaurants.

Afterwards, wander the main street poking around the boutique stores, and on Sundays, head down to the local markets.

Later, nab a spot on 4-Mile Beach to laze the rest of the day away, paddling in the crystal-clear waters and basking in the tropical paradise. Doesn’t that just sound divine?

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43

T HE BI G CA TCH

by Andrew Chorley

CATCH A FESTIVE FEAST

Hervey Bay Fly and Sportfishing

www.herveybaysportfishing.com.au

44

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Ollie with a snapper caught off Arch Cliffs

S

eafood is a staple part of Christmas lunch for many and there’s nothing better than heading out and catching your very own local seafood.

Pelagics are out in force. Keep a look out for the birds and you shouldn’t be too far away from the action!

In the rivers, concentrate your efforts on targeting species like grunter, threadfin salmon, mangrove jack, bream, whiting and flathead.

All the best for the festive season and please stay safe on the water. Merry Christmas!

Burrum

Out the Burrum working the mouth of the river for queenfish, trevally and flathead have been productive.

Whiting fisherman have seen a few good catches over the bigger tides. The flats out the front have been producing some good specimens on live yabbies. Out on the 8-Mile, blackall, school mackerel and golden trevally have been reported.

Local Reefs

Blackall, cod, sweetlip and trevally have been reported on the local reefs.

Fishing the shallow reefs has been very productive with grunter, sweetlip and cod coming from the reefs off Point Vernon and around Big Woody Island.

Queenfish and GT’s have been taking surface lures around the rocky points with early morning and late afternoon being the best time to target them on the surface.

Platypus Bay

In Platypus Bay mackerel have been the main target for most. Other species about are mac and longtail tuna, scarlets, blackall and golden trevally.

Urangan Pier

Off the Urangan Pier, big GT’s have been a target species for those wanting a trophy fish.

OTHERS MAKE WE CREATE

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES

School mackerel, queenfish and golden trevally have also been reported.

Whiting have responded to the dirty water in the first channel and have been a good target on the early tides.

Sandy Strait

Salmon can still be found in the upper reaches and will continue to hang around up there until we see some really good rain.

Flathead and grunter can be found in the mid-reaches with soft plastics working best.

The ledges have been fishing well in the straits with grunter, mangrove jacks, school jew, cod and sweetlip being reported.

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45

PA RENTI NG

by Amanda Coop

SUMMER MEANS SIZZLE “Mummy,” says Mr 6, laying his hand lightly on my bare shoulder.

“Do you think it’s a good idea to be wearing a singlet? You’re going to get sunburnt.”

Aside from the fact that he’s adorable and thoughtful, it also occurs to me that he’s very sensible. I guess that makes one of us.

Unfortunately, with the arrival of summer days again, it’s almost time for my annual tradition.

Sadly, it’s not a very festive one, although one such fiasco did result in me sharing a distinct resemblance with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer a couple of years ago.

It’s about this time of year I usually acquire a horribly painful and embarrassing sunburn. I wouldn’t say it’s my favourite holiday tradition, but one that seems to have stuck, nonetheless.

When the kids were younger, I was guilty of lathering them up with sunscreen, packing their hats, long sleeves, etcetera, and then running out the door without a thought as to my own sun safety.

Probably not a completely uncommon occurrence for parents of young kids. Now they’re old enough to mostly sort themselves out I’ve started to pick up my game – but it hasn’t helped much.

The fateful Rudolph event took place when I was fully sunscreened up but spending a couple of hours in the aquatic centre pool was never going to end well for me.

I was there with the kids, who thought I was making excuses when I told them I needed to get out because I could feel myself getting burnt.

When I emerged with a nose that glowed brighter than anything Santa Claus has ever had up front of his sleigh, not to mention the tell-tale sunglasses tan, they realised I was serious.

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By then all I could do was go home and make pained sounds while continually spraying my swollen face with cooling spray and avoiding the outside world for the next couple of weeks.

OK, avoiding the outside world wasn’t all bad but the damage I sustained probably was. I’m not kidding about my face being swollen.

Last year I took Miss 10 to a playdate at a local park.

Determined to learn my lesson and be more responsible, I had sleeves, a hat and sunscreen.

I sat under the cover of a barbecue shelter for two hours and came home sunburnt. Definitely not Rudolph level sunburnt, but still very red and painful and causing hubby to ask why I wasn’t wearing sunscreen.

You can imagine how that conversation went over since I was, in fact, wearing sunscreen and was also a little hot, bothered and touchy by that stage.

Miss 10 had sunscreen and a hat and was in the sun for those two hours. She went home fine. Now obviously I’m glad she didn’t go home looking like a beet (or worse, me) but it does make me wonder to what lengths I need to go to avoid the sun’s damaging rays.

Sitting inside in air-conditioned comfort sounds good to me, but the pesky thing about chasing your kids off electronic devices is that they then often want to do something that requires us venturing into the outside world – a place that isn’t kind to those who have descended from vampires (this also explains a lot about my love of daytime naps).

I’ve come up with a solution that shouldn’t be embarrassing at all for the children – I’m simply going to suit up in some beekeeping garb (thanks to a lovely friend for that idea) to protect my highly sensitive skin.

I guess if the kids don’t want to be seen with me looking like a complete weirdo, they might opt instead to just hang out in the air-conditioning … wouldn’t that be a shame?

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47

LIFE CHA T WI TH MI CH E L L E

by Michelle Robinson Bach. Counselling.

Dip. Clinical Hypnotherapy

T

2022.

TOP TIPS FOR A POSITIVE CHRISTMAS

he festive season approaches. Soon the experiences that create the collage of our Christmas-memories will take their place beside similar collages from previous Christmases, and time will flow forward into

With that in mind, I have decided to focus this month’s column or my top three tips for creating a positive Christmas.

I know this is a big ask. It’s been a tough year in so many ways, especially if you are experiencing forced separation from loved ones, financial uncertainty, relationship destruction, loss, and any of the other challenges that provoke major life stress.

It’s not easy to face the Christmas season with a jolly, “Ho Ho Ho,” when your heart is aching for that special person you haven’t been able to hold close for a long time. I completely understand. I’m in that boat with you.

However, with that said, there are steps you can take to enjoy this time, even though your ‘ideal’ scenario may be flawed. I’ll share my top three tips below and, of course, you will try or discard them as you choose.

Tip 1: Set Some Personal Boundaries

It might seem strange to include boundary-setting in guidelines for a positive Christmas, but too often we get pushed into doing something we know won’t end well.

When there are Christmas histories of particular and predictable family members stirring up trouble, or stomachchurning memories of forced and uncomfortable Christmas gatherings, then boundaries are your friend. You have the right to decide how, where, with whom, and for how long you will expose yourself to stressful behaviour.

So do it.

Draw that line in the sand now that defines your willingness to participate in any event or gathering that you know will stress you out. If you feel sick just thinking about a Christmas occasion, then you’ll know what I am talking about. Be as reasonable as you can, and also, look after yourself. Set some boundaries so that arguments don’t ruin the day.

Make sure your wellbeing remains intact.

trustyourintuition.com

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Tip 2: Respond. Don’t React.

The Christmas period is often emotionally charged.

We place all our hopes into something we really want to happen, and then, for many reasons, plans change.

Our hopes feel dashed. This is especially the case when we have been anticipating visits from loved ones or planning a holiday we so badly need.

Naturally, the easiest thing to do when we feel disappointed is to react with anger, blame, frustration, and dismay.

I understand. However, if we let these emotions dwell inside us, they feed on each other, merge together, and like a hungry giant, just keep growing.

Soon there’s a lot more than our original disappointment that seems terrible. The whole world looks grey.

When we choose to respond, we take the time to feel disappointed but do not wallow in the feelings long term.

We keep our internal compass level with the horizon and make the best of the choices we have with what is left. We look for ways we can still create some happiness, and we take them. That helps not only us but also others with whom we share our lives.

Tip 3: Look for Little Blessings

Perhaps my favourite tip is the easiest to follow. Look for the small blessings in your life and feel gratitude. Don’t let the world-climate or other people’s bad weather affect your mood. Stay mindful of every kindness you receive and know that in offering kindness to others, you receive the pleasure of feeling good about yourself.

I like to ask myself, “What would Love do?” and then try to steer myself in that direction. It saves me from getting distracted by stress and reorients me towards the simple truth that I can choose to find beauty even in a difficult day.

Wishing you a joyous Summer.

See you next year.

Blessings, Michelle

DECEMBER inspiration

I N SP I RAT IO NS

by Alison Dunlop

Alison’s Guidance this Month:

I just love Summer and the holiday season! It is my absolute favourite. Here are some Summer adjectives I just love: Alive, free, beach, swimming, ice cream, zinc, sunnies, laughter, vacation, relaxation. Enjoy your break and see you next year x

Capricorn Dec 22 -Jan 19

Cancer June 21- July 22

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Leo

Don’t let others drag you down with their negativity this month. Instead, try surrounding yourself with positivity. Be your amazing self, because It is your time to shine!

Time for some long overdue nourishment of self Aquarius. Also, be wary of overindulging in holiday treats this month. Dietary balance is indicated, so remember to also balance your diet with healthy options.

Time for a bit of rest and relaxation, to find your calm, Cancer. This month’s card highlights communication, so be sure to be open and honest, when communicating, so you are not misunderstood. You can’t go wrong , if you communicate from the heart.

July 23 - Aug 22

You are encouraged this month to remain authentic to yourself. Be particularly aware of people who are not truthful, and of situations that don’t seem quite right.

Trust your own instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Virgo

Aug 23 - Sept 22

Pisces, it is your time to embrace new opportunities. If opportunity knocks, grab it with both hands, as it will have a favourable outcome.

This month you are on a winning streak, Virgo! Keep moving forward, because success is imminent for you. Stay confident, because everything you touch turns to gold! Enjoy!

Aries Mar 21 - April 19

Libra

Sept - 23 - Oct 23

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20

December is the time to listen to your body, rest and recharge! Family, and home are also highlighted this month, so spend some time nurturing yourself and loved ones. It will be appreciated.

Take a stand Libra! It is your time to stand up for what you believe in. You have suppressed how you feel for too long.

Grab the steering wheel, and take back control. Your inner strength is growing all the time. You can do this!

Taurus

Scorpio

April 20 - May 20

Check in on life balance this month Taurus. This month’s card suggests it could be easy for the scales to tip in the wrong direction. Eat and drink in moderation, and don’t forget to recharge those batteries. You may be in need of rest.

Gemini May 21 - June 20

Blessings will be bestowed on you this month, Gemini. Remember, you are supported in your ventures. So surrender all your worries, because the universe has your back. Enjoy a great month!

Oct 24 - Nov 21

Take advantage of any holidays, by spring cleaning your physical, and mental house Scorpio. This month is perfect to get your life back in order.

So get organised, and release what no longer serves. Positive times ahead!

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 When you get the opportunity, hug those who are important in your life, including yourself. This time of year can get so busy, and this card indicates it is time for nurturing. Enjoy a break if you can, and put your feet up, after all, you deserve it!

Alison Dunlop Kinesiologist. Find out more at: www.alisondunlopkinesiology.com.au (Cards drawn from The Modern Oracle of Essential Oils by Katy-K.)

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49

LOCAL A TTRA CTI ON

M

TRAIL ETCHED IN AUSTRALIA’S HISTORY

aryborough’s much-loved Mural Trail will be remembered for generations to come with details of the works set to be filed with the State Library of Queensland.

From small beginnings in 2015, Maryborough now has 39 murals and installations throughout the Central Business District, arranged into a trail to attract both tourists and locals.

The murals are a community project driven by local businesswomen, Elizabeth Lowrie and Deborah Hannam, and tell the quirky and serious stories of the city’s colourful past.

“This is another major achievement for the project, and our community, Maryborough businesses and our volunteers,” Deborah said.

“The mural project is now completing its 39th Mural and has reached the critical mass necessary to attract major numbers of tourists to the city.

“We modelled our project on Chemainus in Canada and Sheffield in Tasmania who attract 600,000 and 200,000 visitors respectively each year.

“As well as winning Silver for the Best Street Art Trail in the Australian Street Art Awards early this year, the Mural Trail will form part of Australia’s electronic historical record.”

Elizabeth said the State Library of Queensland was building a comprehensive collection of Queensland publications to ensure the preservation of Maryborough’s heritage, including online publications and websites of lasting significance.

“They recently requested to include our Maryborough Mural Project Website in PANDORA, Australia’s web archive,” she said.

“MMP granted permission - this means that our trail will be

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kept for perpetuity as part of Australia’s historical record - a fantastic achievement for Maryborough.”

PANDORA was established by the National Library of Australia in 1996 to enable the capture of, and long-term access to Australian online publications.

The State Library cooperates with the National Library in order to build and preserve a comprehensive collection of Australian online publications.

State Library’s brief is to enhance the Queensland presence in this national archive.

The project is asking everyone in the community to “Talk it up and do the trail.” To get behind Maryborough and help by: • becoming a volunteer, we have vacancies for admin officer, grants officer, tour guides, lighting coordinator and trail publicity; • increase the city’s exposure by sharing our site to their business and personal contacts on their Facebook page, through email and also group SMS etc – ask their personal or business contacts to also share;

• be an informal ambassador and advertise our murals and the city when you travel; • walk the trail and if you have visitors be sure to take them on the trail; • share your trail photos on #maryboroughmuralproject #visitfrasercoast # The Maryborough Mural Project Trail is an easy, Covidfriendly, 2km walk around Maryborough’s CBD.

Visit our website or Facebook page for details or drop into the Maryborough City Hall Visitor’s Centre for a self-guided map.

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