Alive Magazine - Edition 34 - May 2023

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MAY 2023 EDITION #34

Crafters Edition

MASTER CRAFTERS

A heart for harps

Meet one of Australia’s last Luthiers

Maintaining a three generational legacy

Full story on pages 10-13

Full story on pages 04-09

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REGULAR HEALTH CHECKS COULD SAFE YOUR LIFE We are trusted quality healthcare, serving the community for 20 years.

Dr Benjamin Omowaire

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UPCOMING EVENTS

THE ALIVE TEAM Founder / Creative Director JOY BUTLER info@alivemag.com.au Editorial Team: LEANNE ESPOSITO KERRIE ALEXANDER LIZZIE MACAULAY RUSS BENNING KIM HARRIS Advertising Team: DARREN STIMPSON darren@alivemag.com.au KAREN WHITE karen@alivemag.com.au HELEN REKDALE helen@alivemag.com.au KIM HARRIS kim@alivemag.com.au BARB HARD barb@alivemag.com.au Head of Distribution JAMIE BUTLER

May 14

THE HERITAGE HANDMADE CHARITY MARKET When: May 14, 3pm-7pm

Where: MADCOTA Community Hub, 333 Alice Street, Maryborough

What: All stall holders fees go towards our 2 chosen local charities which are Forever Safe Pet Rescue & MADCOTA Community Hub. Forever Safe is based on the Fraser Coast and currently has alot of long term senior dogs in care who have high needs and vet bills, and MADCOTA runs community programs for Seniors & youth. The market is held on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 3-7pm and features all local handmade stalls as well as food stalls. You will find a wide variety of stalls and something for everyone from the kids to the grandparents.

MOTHER’S DAY CLASSIC When: Sunday, May 14 8:30am Where: Urangan Pier

What: It’s almost time to lace your running shoes and dust off your tutus – the Mother’s Day Classic will be returning once again! Did you know that 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Register today to raise much needed funds for breast cancer research.

Cost: www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/ register/mothers-day-classic-hervey-bay/ register

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.

Feedback or suggestion?

Send to: info@alivemag.com.au

SUNDAY HARVEST AT TERRA TRIBE FARM

FRASER COAST AGRICULTURE SHOW

Where: Terra Tribe Farm

What: one of the region’s most celebrated events. There is no disputing the ‘fun’ factor and healthy rivalry remains constant as people of all ages compete in over 40 different events from animal production to food preparation, creative arts to sporting challenges.

When: Sunday, May 21 from 10am What: Sunday Harvest kicks off at 10am, bring a plate to share of your home-made food, BYO drinks. You can also bring your handcrafted goods, veg, plants, seedlings to swap or barter.

Cost: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ sunday-harvest-at-terra-tribe-farmtickets-604574617957

When: Thursday, May 25 - Froday, May 26 Where: Maryborough Show Ground

Cost: Buy tickets online or at the gate: https://frasercoastagshow.com

MURAL OF THE MONTH - MARYBOROUGH MURAL TRAIL MILKING TIME MURAL

For eighty years, this building locally known as ‘The Butter Factory’ provided an essential service to Maryborough surrounds. The allotment was purchased by the Maryborough Co-Operative Dairy Association Ltd in 1901, a factory was built and production began in that year. In the early days, there were no milking machines on farms and farmers would be up before dawn to hand milk the cows in the paddocks. Cream and milk was loaded onto trucks in large cream cans and driven to the factory.

Once there, it was processed into milk, cream, AAAA butter and cheese – the latter was wrapped in brown paper. The factory also sold ice for ice chests.

SCAN TO SEE THE TRAIL MAP

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COV E R STORY

by Russ Benning

3 GENERATIONS OF PASSION “F

ind a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

We’ve probably all heard this Mark Twain quote, or at least a variation of it.

This month I believe I found the exact family this quote was written about.

Meet Chris White, the third generation of Maryborough crafters, White Woodworks.

I was greeted warmly and welcomed into the factory. It was somewhat labyrinthian in nature as I would discover during the tour; the first space mostly open with an enormous work bench littered with tools and projects. There was an element of time travel as I observed some of the large, industrial looking machinery.

“I’m the grandson,” he shared as we dove straight into the family business lineages.

Chris is one of six siblings and one half of the current line-up of brothers carrying on the family business.

Established by his Grandfather Jack White back in the 1940’s, the business was originally a construction company. A spree of arson in the nineties caused damage to numerous

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buildings in Maryborough, including the Town Hall itself. The White’s were commissioned for a lot of this work and this was a turning point for the business. Due to the high demand, it was a transition point to becoming primarily a joinery shop.

Chris was explaining to me the dynamic shift and his father’s involvement when a burst of loud machinery interrupted our conversation.

We turned to see, as if on cue, Brian (Chris’ father) had entered the area to work.

“That’ll be good for the recording,” he exclaimed.

“That’s my Dad by the way,” we laughed as Chris announced.

It was fantastic timing and as the conversation continued I was picking up that this was not just a job for these men. I was at times quite moved when Chris went into detail about one of the first memories he has of where trade meets family. Brian had built him a wooden truck that could store all of his Lego. Joking about how he was probably sick of having Lego everywhere.

“And that was pretty much it,” he said.

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Once he finished I could feel that he meant every word as he told me and that it was his experience which sealed the deal for him to go full steam ahead into this trade somewhat, craft, also hobby and ultimately the business.

There’s nothing wrong with that but it is a very firm understanding within the men!

“So I always figure I’m pretty lucky to do this as a day to day job.

As we continued the tour of the factory I got more of an idea of what these guys do. There was a section for metal work, a section for pressing doors, a section for finishing timber and so on. We spoke about how the world has changed a lot especially in the last ten years and demand is shifting. For example, flush-ply doors that used to be pressed in-house that are now available to builders cheaper from warehouses and suppliers.

“If I didn’t do it Monday to Friday, I’d come out here Saturday and Sunday.

“It’s not really a job for me,” Chris said.

Again, I could feel how much he embodied these words. I had first-hand experience of the passion that drives this man and, could see in his eyes the story beyond his words. He shared that, like any family, there’s some head-butting that happens, and some generational disagreements.

He informed me that one example was the radio which is vehemently and perennially set to classical ABC radio.

Ultimately the sentiment was shared when Chris summed up working with his father.

“I appreciate every day I’ve been able to work with him. Dad’s taught me so much over the years,” he said.

There is some work that will never be replaced by big corporations and this is where I saw Chris’ eyes light up the most. I asked him what he likes to work on the most.

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“The jobs that let your mind wander,” he said.

This is where I got to truly understand the creativity and art form that comes into play with joinery.

Disappearing for a few moments, Chris returned with a finely finished coffin shaped box that he sat on the workbench. He began to explode out the sections to my amazement. I was watching him transform what turned out to be a completely custom, hand-built record player.

He confessed that hidden compartments were his favourite. On a bespoke job for a customer Chris creatively set up a game.

“If you can find the hidden compartment I’ll give you a discount,” he’d said.

Clearly Chris had done a masterful job and informed me that no discount was given. The hidden compartment only revealed after the game.

Restoring vintage furniture is another favourite of the White men. I enjoyed the concept of keeping such works of art in circulation, adding new and old parts to continue their journey, so to speak.

A form of Kintsugi (the Japanese art of putting broken pottery pieces back together with gold) of the wooden variety if you will. Strengthening them and making them more perfect in their imperfections.

As fate would have it, I really got the full family experience that day. Chris’ ten-year-old son Iggy called by the workshop while I was there and I got to meet three generations in one day.

I grinned to myself as I noticed they were both

wearing the same pair of black and white Converse shoes. Little details like that make me happy.

I was curious about whether the family business would extend to four generations and Chris answered.

“I would never force it on him but would be happy if he wanted to take over. If it’s still a thing when he’s older,” he said.

My heart was warmed hearing that Chris and Iggy had built their own version of the Lego truck together solidifying the family tradition.

Right before it was time for me to leave, Brian came past on his way out and I got to meet him personally.

“I hope you’ve enjoyed your tour. Not many people do it the way we do it,” he said.

I could feel the sense of pride in his words and I could only imagine what it must feel like to be a part of a generational legacy such as this.

I asked if Chris had any final thoughts or messages he’d like to share.

“Do a trade. If someone is thinking about it, I’d encourage them to do it. It’s been nothing but a great career for me and something I’ve thoroughly enjoyed doing,” he said.

For all the hard-work, blood, sweat and tears that have gone into the building and maintaining the family legacy, according to our opening quote, none of the White men have done a day’s work in their lives!

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C OMMU NITY CON N ECTI ON

by Kerrie Alexander

WORKSHOPPING

FOR MEN 10

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earing hammering, grinding, sanding and welding is common in most workshops but there’s one aspect of this particular shed that you won’t find anywhere else.

And that is camaraderie!

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As soon as you walk into the Hervey Bay Men’s Shed site in Nikenbah you can hear the blokes having a chat and a laugh while working on the day’s projects.

Men’s Shed is an Australia-wide communitybased, non-commercial organisation that is open to predominately retired men of all ages.

It’s a place where men can feel included, safe and if they feel the need, improve their health and wellbeing by letting loose in this version of a backyard shed – just much bigger!

They can just have a cuppa and a yarn if that’s all they’re looking for.

After sitting down to have a chat with member Alun Rogers and Vice President Ray Scarlett it was very clear the organisation is making a major difference in the lives of the 70 members.

They tell bad jokes, enjoy a light-hearted ribbing without anyone getting upset and can be themselves and work on whatever takes their fancy.

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“We don’t have any political correctness, we tell dirty jokes and that’s okay for us to do that here,” Ray said.

“No one gets offended and everyone can let their guard down.”

“We have some very skilled people.”

The friendships formed and the bonds made also go a long way towards alleviating or avoiding mental health issues that affect men.

Ray was kind enough to take us on a tour of the three massive sheds where the men were working on various projects.

Others just love coming along for the social aspect.

There were plenty of projects that members of the public had dropped off to be repaired or restored for a small fee, which goes back into the Men’s Shed operations.

“What we do here isn’t just about welding, sanding and building, it’s about comradeship.

Customers also arrived to collect a hand-made wooden toilet roll holder and wine rack that had been ordered, and also to have a quote prepared to build racks for their 4X4.

The members are from all walks of life from retired tradesmen like carpenters, metal workers, machine workers, welders, and retired managers and senior executives, to others who have downsized their homes and no longer have a shed of their own to keep tools or fix and build furniture.

“My wife goes out at least two to three times a week for breakfast, morning tea or lunches and she’s in all these groups; women are really good at doing things like that, but most men aren’t,” Alun said.

“There are many men out there who aren’t leading very fulfilling lives and this could make a big difference,” Ray added.

“When you come here, we talk about things that are happening in our lives and if people need help, these guys turn up to help if needed.

“We form very strong bonds. Sometime all you need is a chat.

“The wives are often very appreciative as well,” he said with a laugh.

Ray came from a career in education and is a qualified chef who had never touched a wood lathe until he joined the men’s shed 18 months ago.

His late parents bequeathed him an old silky oak wood table that needed a full refurbishment and all the members with wood working skills were more than happy to teach Ray how to do it.

The table and chairs are now meticulously restored.

Alun gave welding a go for the first time on his arrival to the club but made a red-hot mess of it, but that’s okay.

You can come, try, mess up then be guided with support and no judgement.

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“I made a mess of it but next minute I had all the teachers in the world telling me how to do it,” he said with a laugh.

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The set-up of machinery and equipment is second to none with every tool imaginable, some bought and some donated, to get the job done. They could build just about anything!

There were also little treasures at every turn with some being made for not-for-profit organisations and charities and others as “freebies” for those who need it most.

It seems there’s no skill these guys don’t have.

Another invaluable service the members offer to the community is a free shed clean out for people who have lost their partner and have no clue what to do with their belongings.

“The lady over the road from me lost her husband and she rang the men’s shed to come out,” Alun said.

“There will be 4-6 guys turn up and clean out the whole lot.

“Some we will keep; some go to the tip and some we’ll keep for our big annual garage sale.

“It’s a great service and a win-win for everyone.”

If you are a bloke who has some time on his hands, is looking for some company with like-minded people instead of sitting at home alone on the couch, then pick up the phone and call the Hervey Bay Men’s Shed on 4325 3471.

You won’t regret it!

The Hervey Bay Men’s Shed is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8am to noon.

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13

HOME GRO W N

by Kerrie Alexander

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JOURNEY TO HARP MAKING LEGACY

A

fter some serious soul searching while on a solitary retreat in the Southern Highlands about 25 years ago, Brandden Lassells decided to do a full 360 degree turn on his career.

Born in the USA, the now Hervey Bay resident has a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and Town Planning, and a Master of Fine Arts degree.

His advanced studies include architecture with the likes of Paulo Soleri, furniture design with Wendell Castle and ceramics-sculpture with Frans Wildenhain.

His life experiences and career paths have varied from teaching at university level to building designercraftsman houses, to being a potter and furniture maker, to project manager of major construction projects in Sydney.

He migrated to Australia in the late 1980s as an adventure, fell in love with the country and subsequently become an Australian citizen.

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The 81-year-old has had a life full of very rewarding careers but at the time of his retreat he was still yearning for something more.

At a mature age, he found the harp and became intrigued by the design and many variations of the oldschool instrument.

“I was having some health issues at the time and I went there (retreat) and decided what I wanted to do with my life, and that was to build harps,” Brandden said.

Incredibly, he didn’t master the art of playing it but that’s okay, he didn’t need to.

Brandden sketched out some ideas on how to improve the sound through design and spent several months travelling around the world to train alongside other Luthiers.

“I was just fascinated by the sound of the harp,” Brandden said.

“I tried to play it but wasn’t all that good at it, but I

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thought I could make a better one.

“So, I set off around the world learning from other harp makers, sweeping floors, sanding, picking up anything I could learn.”

Brandden returned to Australia, hired a factory in Gosford NSW, and started building harps.

Word soon got out about the fantastic sound and fine craftsmanship of the harps that he produced.

Before long he had a waiting list and was selling worldwide based on this reputation.

“In my entire career of making harps I have never not had a waiting list,” he said.

“There was a three-year wait at one stage until I hired some people to help me.

“The biggest thing is the sound of them. I find the sound so rewarding and I just love getting them finished.

“Giving them to customers finished is very rewarding.”

Since the late nineties, he has made over 300 harps and is now only one of four professional Luthiers in Australia.

It takes around a month to build the instrument from start to finish and price can range anywhere from $2000 to $15,000 and more, depending on its build.

Brandden has trained a number of people over the years, some of whom went on to only do harp repairs, and others just found it too hard and gave up.

That was until a chance meeting with a young Gympie creative named Ziko Hart who had already developed his own style of African harp but was yet to master the art of other variations.

It was a match made in heaven and a relief for

Brandden who feared that he would never find another harp builder to carry on his legacy.

Ziko now works with Brandden three days a week at his Booral property where the shed and home are totally taken over by everything harps.

Brandden is one of very few people able to carry out repairs and restorations, and with a lack of mobility, he mostly looks after the administration side of the business.

Ziko spends from dusk to dawn in the shed creating these immaculate works of art, some of which are totally unique to the now Hervey Bay-based business.

“We are one of a few in the world that make the Cross Strung or Chromatic Harp, and the only ones to make a replica of a very early concert style Cross Strung harp.

“Everyone else said they couldn’t be made but we make them and ship them all over the world.”

The two have also developed a totally carbon fibre harp that only weighs about 6kg in comparison to a wood harp that would tip the scales to about 15kg.

“The carbon is more durable; the way we do it we get a good sound out of it. People are impressed with the sound we get out of it.

“We are the only one in Australia making a totally carbon fibre harp and there’s only one other person in the world that makes them.”

If you are in the market for a harp let Brandden and Ziko make your dream become a reality. They can supply classical pedal harps, a lever folk or Celtic harp or their custom-made carbon fibre harps or a readymade harp from other world-famous suppliers.

Visit harps.com.au to find out more.

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17

LOCAL MU SICI A N

u S g n i k n Si

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un

Who are your musical influences?

JP: Lyrically bands like Pierce the Veil and Bring Me the Horizon

Sound wise I’d definitely say we aim for more Joyce Manor, Violent Soho type of sound Who is your favourite musician?

Travis: Meg white. Definitely instrumentally inspiring. Hit hard and have fun. The emotions of your playing will come through the song What instruments do you play?

JP: Guitar and vocals Travis: Drums

Max: Talks to the babes If you could play any gig or venue, where would that be?

We’d love to play Falls or Splendour in the grass, I love the grounds of that festival and have had many memories there so it would be awesome to bring it full circle and play there with the band Do you write your own songs and where people can find you and your music?

Yeah I’ve been writing music since 2016, I’m a bit of a hobbit when it comes to writing, I’ll usually think of a cool chorus or a good guitar lead and go from there to show the band at practice but I’m definitely keen to start writing with them more Travis: Best place to find our music is live May 5th at the neighbourhood hive with Pity Vincent, Heat Stroke and Cheese On Bread OR our Spotify. @sinkingsunband on socials.

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LOCAL E V E NT

TICKETED SESSIONS UP FOR GRABS!

L

imited session tickets for the Relish Food & Wine Festival have been released online, offering special food and beverage options for locals and visitors to enjoy!

The ticketed sessions are a marked addition to the 10th annual 2023 Relish Food & Wine Festival which returns to Maryborough’s Queens Park and Portside precinct on Saturday 3rd June.

The sessions include 8 options plus an accommodation package for visitors and return bus transfers from Hervey Bay.

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• A curated 4 course long lunch with the fine dining Odyssey Bistro team with matching beverages.

• A “Matilda Gin” micro-distillery event at Portside Café & Restaurant including a Signature High Tea and beverage options.

• A 45-minute Hidden Sea Cruise aboard the Boat Club’s M.V. Amaroo. Live music, drinks and wine!

• A Twilight River Cruise (one way tour to Hervey Bay) on the Boat Club’s M.V. Amaroo to Hervey Bay. • Paint & Sip class with Annabel from Get Off Your Arts!

Materials, wine and step by step guide included!

• Pigs, Pots + Pinots with Fraser Coast’s celebrity chefs Dan and Steph. A three-course curated meal with matched refreshments.

• Pre-Order Cheese and Charcuterie by MAD Providore. Treat yourself to an arrangement of cheeses, charcuterie, antipasto, fruit & nuts to pair perfectly with your choice of beverages from one of the many pop-up bars.

• A Surf’n’Turf 2 course seated dining experience presented by Ricardo’s Italiano & Seafood Restaurant and The Low ‘n’ Slow BBQ Shack.

• A Return Bus Transfer from Hervey Bay with G & D Ross. Buses will depart from the Hervey Bay Transit Centre at 9.15am, 10.00am and 10.45am, returning at 4.00pm, 5.00pm and 5.30pm.

• Experience packages are also on offer for out-oftown visitors! Accommodation packages include a 3-night stay, daily breakfast, Relish admission and session tickets.

All ticketed sessions are strictly limited, secure your tickets today. General Admission – Adult $15 (PreSale) or $19 (Gate) / Child $10. For more information visit: https://relishfrasercoast.com.au/sessions/ Stay up to date with ticket information by liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ RelishFraserCoast

Presented by Fraser Coast Tourism & Events

Tickets on sale now!

• Return Bus Transfers – Hervey Bay • Odyssey Long Lunch

by Odyssey Bistro • Pigs Pots & Pinot by EAT @ Dan + Stephs • Surf’n’Turf Sesh by Ricardo’s Italiano & Seafood x Low’n’Slow BBQ Shack • Matilda Gin High Tea by Portside Café & Restaurant • Hidden Seas Cruise by Boat Club Adventure Cruises

Saturday 3 June 10am – 5pm Mary River Parklands & Queens Park Maryborough

• Twilight Cruise by Boat Club Adventure Cruises • Paint & Sip by Get Off Your Arts • Pre-Order Cheese and Charcuterie

by MAD Providore

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21

HOME PROJ ECT

by Kim Harris

T

CHICKEN SCRATCH PIN CUSHION

he CWA is a part of Australian culture, they are so much more than meets the eye - movers, shakers, and of course scone bakers.

Since 1922 the Country Women’s Association (CWA) have been meeting, crafting, cooking, quilting & quietly advocating for their communities. They run not for profit rather actively helping rural communities as well as city folk. During World War II the CWA would send Anzac biscuits and handmade items to the troops.

With around 220 branches across Queensland and 20,000 plus members Australia wide the CWA is part of Australia’s tapestry, supporting women and families for a century.

Formed in Queensland and New South Wales first then reaching out to all states & territories with the top priorities being health, combating isolation, community services and education.

The CWA isn’t just tea and scones- the association is actively lobbying government; compulsory seatbelts in vehicles, white lines on the edges of roads, flashing light signs in school zones are feathers in the hand knitted caps of the sisterhood. The Howard Branch is lobbying

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for increased ambulance funding, officers, vehicles and ways to reduce the long ambulance loading times that impact the quality of patient care.

The CWA supports the community and the community supports the CWA.

I reached out to the Howard branch to be part of our Crafters edition. The president invited Alive Magazine to a meeting and learn how to make a ‘Chicken Scratch Pin Cushion’.

My mother was a QCWA member of a SE Queensland branch. As a child I fondly remember the craft, the fund-raising raffles, slices and cakes. My inner child was hoping that a sugary country baked morning tea would be part of this Alive Magazine project. Acting Secretary Irene didn’t disappoint, sharing a freshly baked batch of Fudgy Butterscotch Bars.

Irene’s slice was next level CWA good. When asked how she made the bars Irene had a photocopy of the recipe right on hand, ready and tucked under her purse. I’m guessing this isn’t Irene’s first rodeo. I’d say requesting the recipe is customary within the CWA, an accolade, even better than a compliment.

Pam & I chatted while working on a chicken scratch pin cushion made of gingham fabric and lined with iron on backing to stiffen. Pam explained the steps of stitching the decorative pattern, sewing in the felt inserts (much like pages of a book) and binding the spine and edges in cord. Pam’s husband made cord out of speciality cotton with his cordless drill.

I asked how many hours went into making a pin cushion? Pam was reluctant to say, likely so as not to insult me. I guess that Pam might create one in an afternoon, however at my rate would take until Christmas!

email your local association.

Meet new people, learn new skills and become involved in your local community by joining Australia’s largest women’s organisation. Remember, the door is open, the kettle is on!

Howard QCWA meets 1st Wednesday each month at 9am at the Steely Street Hall.

Email: qcwahowardbranch@gmail.com

I can’t pretend I mastered the art of needlework in our short time together, but I can understand the allure of learning the delicate and repetitive needlework. I sense the practise would be meditative once mastered. Something like tuning out and allowing the muscle memory and rhythm of the stitch to take over, letting the mind to gently wander, but not too far, stitch mistakes are easily made and easily spotted, but fixed just as easy.

In this Alive Magazine DIY crafters edition, I won’t attempt to share the ‘how to’ like I normally do, rather point you in the direction of those who have perfected the skill with decades of patience and practice.

Pam facilitates the craft offerings at Howard QCWA, teaching quilting and needle work to the Fraser Coast and beyond. Pam’s talent for needlework is taking her to Far North Queensland next month to teach advanced speciality European stitches. If needlework is not your thing, Irene is teaching alcohol ink techniques.

If you would like to learn more about making a pin cushion, quilting, needlework or crafting at the QCWA - follow the Facebook page, attend a meeting, or

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23

C OU NTRY K ITCHE N S Recipe courtesy of Irene, QCWA Howard

FUDGY BUTTERSCOTCH BARS Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour 45 minutes Ingredients

1 packet (2 cups) sweet chocolate chips 2 tablespoons butter

1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 cup butter

2 1/4 cups firmly packed brown sugar 2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup cocnut

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts 1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla Method 1.

2.

3.

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Grease 15x10x1-inch baking pan. In medium saucepan; combine chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons butter and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over low heat until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth, stirring constantly.

Set aside.

In large saucepan, melt 1 cup butter over low heat.

Remove from heat. Add brown sugar and eggs. blend well. Add all remaining ingredients; mix well. Spread half of batter in greased pan. Drop chocolate mixture by tablespoonfuls over batter; carefully spread to cover. Drop reminding batter by teaspoonfuls over chocolate mixture. With tip of knife, swirl slightly to marble mixture.

Bake at 350°F for 25 to 35 minutes or until light golden brown and center is set. Cool 1 hour or until completely cooled. Cut into bars.

The QCWA Country Kitchens

Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA).

The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit qcwacountrykitchens.com.au

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S M A RT M O NEY

by Kodie Axelson

GET SAVVY AT TAX TIME W hen wanting to borrow money we need to be making an income. Banks assess your borrowing capacity based on how much money is coming in and going out. Whatever is left over (minus some much hated buffers) is what you have left for repayments on any additional money your looking to borrow. This is how they calculate how much money they will lend you. So this leads to my next point. You need to make money to borrow money. I have heard “my accountant is really good and keeps my income down so I pay no tax” countless times, and I shake my head. Everyone has a strategy and I hope that people are using the right one. Looking like you make no money is not necessarily a strategy. I’m all for paying less tax but in order to grow you will require funding in some way, shape or form.

Don’t shoot yourself in the foot with a deficit on your financials or tax return. Be a smart cookie!

A great way to reduce your taxable income is to use a noncash deduction like depreciation. When using depreciation as a strategy you can write off the value of the asset as a noncash deduction on your financials. A great way to reserve cashflow is

VEHICLE FINANCE

.

to finance an asset such as a car, excavator, truck, trailer etc. and utilise depreciation to reduce your tax bill. It’s like a double whammy! Reduce your tax bill, not have to pay for the asset in full and using the interest as a tax deduction. It’s actually a triple whammy!!

BOOM!!

Asset finance is a great way to access funds towards the purchase of any of the type of assets I noted above. The bank takes security over the asset so your business and your home etc, are all protected. It is a great way to access funding, increase cashflow and get a range of tax deductions because who loves saving money? Right?! There are many ways to reduce your tax so get crafty with your accountant.

Strategise now so you can leap into a new financial year with the best set of figures you could possibly have. Once 30th June hits your options are over. Don’t waste any time! Reconcile your accountants, book a meeting and get on top of what your options are.

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25

FASHION

by Kate Manley 1.

FABULOUS FASHION CRAFTSPEOPLE

O

f all the crafts, dressmaking is perhaps the most intimidating of all!

Not only does it involve a reasonably high level of skill, there’s machinery, fabrics, patterns and design prowess to consider. From just hemming say, a straightforward garment such as a scarf, to the most intricately embroidered and details dress; it’s astonishing just what an accomplished and proficient seamstress can produce!

2.

So this month we are emphasising these extraordinarily talented individuals who have fabricated the exquisitely beautiful pure silk garments featured on these pages.

And, in-point-of-fact, pure silk, in itself, is such a wonderful, soft, lightweight, shimmering, luxurious textile. Incredibly, a filament, which is then woven into the silk fabric we enjoy today.

We hope by having an awareness of such intricacies you will have a new appreciation for the talented craftspeople who are globally involved in the fashion industry.

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A visit to Brow Republic and Lash Bar is more than just a treatment, it’s an experience and will leave you feeling like a Queen!

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3.

4.

5.

6.

1.

2.

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Pure silk tunic featuring grey watercolour pattern and lace trimmed sleeves. With mixed metal in silver, longer length necklace.

Two piece, forest green pure silk shirt with matching cami. With boho string & tortoiseshell, mid-length necklace.

Pale pink, pure silk dress featuring sequinned v-neck & lace trimmed sleeves. With Natural, plaited wood, short length necklace.

Grey white watercolour dress with embroidery overlay, woven into the pure silk. With Freshwater pearls with dragonfly necklace.

Pale pink pure silk 3/4 sleeve top with sequin and beige embroidery. With Handmade star/tassel, adjustable necklace.

Pale pink, gratuated to grey pure silk with stretch jersey hip band. With Silver balls, mixed metal, short length necklace.

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27

THE W AV E RIDER

WEAVING OUR JOURNEY

by Celine Louie

L

ife, what an interwoven jumble of twists and turns it is.

We have the ability to craft our lives in any way we choose. Some choose to craft a simple pattern, whilst others choose a more adventurous path, but the beauty of life is that every pattern no matter the complexity is beautiful in its own way.

As young sailors we are often taught to believe that life is just one straight line, but we soon learn otherwise as we find and connect with our inner compass that helps us choose to navigate our own paths in the best way we see fit. Whilst it’s nice to aim for a destination, you can be sure that you will encounter a freak wave or two along the way that will have you re-set your course.

There are times when we forget to check our inner compass, instead being swept away with the stronger currents, but life has a certain way of giving us a nudge when we stray off course, and it is at those darker points in our journey when we are tossed overboard and feel the power of those waves crashing over us, that we desperately reach for that long forgotten inner compass and hold onto it tightly, knowing that it will help guide us back to the safety of our vessels. No sailor is immune to being thrown overboard and it is in those harrowing times that we gain the skills to be better sailors for the seas ahead.

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So my sailor friends, check your inner compasses often. Look around at your surroundings and observe the feelings you get. Life is beautiful and it is our birthright to experience love and happiness in the everyday. Staying true to ourselves will ensure we stay on course, living with integrity the ultimate answer to being a proficient sailor. Are you on the right course?

Let us not forget that at times we may encounter obstacles that appear to be in the way, but upon further inspection, turn out to be small islands of refuge that provide us with a whole new map to sailing the oceans ahead. Yes my sailor friends, when we look out at our vast oceans not all is as it may seem and that only adds to the beauty of sailing this incredible journey.

So stay true to your course, focus on your own compass and allow it to weave and guide you to create the best life for YOU, for it is only when we reach our final resting place, that we have the opportunity to stop, turn around and admire what a beautiful, unique life pattern we have created with our endless twists and turns.

Sail on my friends!

S K I N C A RE

by Kirsty Chenery

THE CRAFT OF THE BEAUTY THERAPIST L

ike all careers that involve being a therapist of some kind, beauty therapy is a craft unto itself. It takes years to become experienced and it’s definitely not a job for everyone!

The top requirements of being a successful beauty therapist are probably not what you would imagine.

Excellent customer service skills, being a good listener, being able to work with multiple personality types and spending hours upon hours a day giving your undivided attention, care and energy to clients are character traits and service skills you must possess. Of course, you must possess skill in multiple areas of the actual craft as well!

We love our jobs here at Mineral Earth and take our craft seriously. We love looking after people, caring for every person who walks through our door and we get a massive kick out of relaxing, de-stressing and making every guest feel beautiful, special and worthy of having some time out for self-care.

We have some beautiful packages for Mother’s Day coming up in May and we can’t wait to look after the special person in your life (or you!) very soon. Pop onto our website and check out our packages or visit the spa and purchase a beautifully wrapped voucher.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of our beautiful Mummas out there!

ALL I WANT FOR Spend $150 or over on a Gift Vouchers and receive a

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29

OTHERS MAKE, WE CREATE

NOT JUST PIZZA

WINTER FISHING IS UPON US!

W

e are now seeing a change in season and May will start to see some cool mornings with south westerly winds. This cooling down of temps will bring the water down and our winter species will start to move around.

Burrum River

Out the front winter whiting can be found from Woodgate to Toogoom during May with the back end of the month producing better numbers. Live yabbies are a great bait but having some squid handy for when they come on thick is a great trick to save a few yabbies for when they get a little more fussy. A little wider longtail and mac tuna can be found around the 8 mile with live baits working well for those fishing the reef. If you are out casting zman streakz are always a great lure choice. In the river the jacks and barra have slowed up. Targeting species like bream, whiting and flathead will see best results in the river over the cooler months.

Wide Grounds

Coral trout, cod, squire, hussar, Moses perch and sweetlip will be likely targets through May with the coral trout usually being in good numbers. Tuna can still be found out wide along with some big Spanish mackerel.

Platypus Bay

Tuna has been the main game at present with longtail and mac tuna being caught right through Platypus Bay. The bottom fishing has been hard due to the constant presence of sharks. A few scarlets, squire, sweetlip and blackall can be found on the reefs with 1 or 2 fish off a reef being about all until the sharks turn up. Working under the tuna schools has produced golden trevally, bludger trevally and school mackerel.

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Hervey Bay Fly and Sportfishing

www.herveybaysportfishing.com.au

T H E B I G C ATCH

by Andrew Chorley

Beau with a quality spin ish mackerel , Spanish mackerel will be on the chew right through may

Local Reefs

The local reef scene is seeing its usual seasonal changes. Broad bar and school mackerel have moved in and around some of the reefs particularly ones holding some bait. Spinning metal spoons has seen results. Squire have been active with mostly small stuff around so far with not many reports of snapper yet. For winter whiting fish all the grounds off Toogoom, Point Vernon and Dundowran have produced a few early season fish. We should see an increase in numbers as we get closer to winter. Tiger squid will be another option for those looking for a tasty feed. Working the rocky points and weed beds around the bay is the best way to find a few squid. Coral trout have still been about with anglers doing best on live pike and prawn imitation lures.

Sandy Strait

The straits this time of year can produce some good catches of bream. The creeks along the western side of Fraser Island can provide some fun luring for them on soft plastics and hard body lures. Sight fishing bream as

they work the mangrove edges can be very rewarding.

Other species like flathead and grunter are also a welcome by catch. For whiting anglers night time tides seem to be almost the only way to get a good feed at the moment. Whiting numbers have been down over the past few years and have become very wary on the flats. Live yabbies and worms have been the best baits and if you are going to do a night fish don’t forget the insect repellent. Mud crabs should be good even with the cooler temps after a few good wet seasons and may be well worth the effort. In the Mary River system blue and thredfin salmon have been reported coming from the Mary and Susan rivers along with grunter, bream, flathead and whiting.

Urangan Pier

The Pier has been fishing well at times with big longtail tuna, queenfish, broad bar mackerel and golden trevally reported. Live baits have been working well with the odd broad bar also falling to a metal spoon. In the first channel bream and flathead have been the main catches along with a few whiting.

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FITNE SS

by Amy Notley

BABY SWADDLE STRETCHES All you need is a towel or in my case a baby swaddle was perfect for these at home yoga stretches.

1.

2.

1. Sit in easy pose or kneeling if that’s more comfortable for you. Drawing the navel to the spine to keep the core activated and lengthen all the way up the spine as you draw the shoulders down and back. Start with the arms stretched out ahead, taking grip of your towel or swaddle firmly. As you take a deep breath in through the nose start to move the arms upwards until they’re above head. On the exhale reach the arms behind the back making a full circle. Repeat from the back, inhaling on your way up to the sky and exhaling on your way forward and down towards the ground. This stretch will help promote shoulder mobility.

2. Come to standing. Bring the towel or swaddle to the arch of the foot and press down firmly keeping the knee up towards the chest. You may want to extend the stretch by bringing the leg out ahead until it starts to straighten. This stretch will help release through the foot and hamstrings.

3. For a deeper less balance orientated variation of the above hamstring stretch, lay on the ground and bring the towel or swaddle under the arch of the foot. Draw the navel towards the spine and relax the shoulder blades onto the mat.

Stretch one leg at a time towards the sky until the leg is as straight as possible for your body. Microbend the knee to ensure you don’t hyperextend the leg.

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L I FE C H A T WI T H M I C H ELLE

by Michelle Robinson Bach. Counselling.

Dip. Clinical Hypnotherapy

EXPRESS YOURSELF W

elcome to Life Chat. I hope that May is unfolding into a very positive month for you.

I was counselling a client via Zoom this week, and her insights got me thinking about the importance of expressing ourselves.

This is a theme that has come up time and again when I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, low confidence and a host of other challenges. When they discover a way to express their thoughts and feelings, it’s like an internal pressure valve releases, at least for a while.

My recent client has been struggling with a range of significant issues, including uncertain and stressful work, a breakdown in her relationship with her partner, relocation to a new rental home and the death of a cherished elderly dog. The resulting grief and stress have understandably weighed heavily on her, making her feel withdrawn, anxious, lonely and sad. Since my client does not live in our region, there is no risk of disclosing her identity by sharing her story.

In our most recent session, she told me that she is feeling a little better. She has discovered an art class and has been attending it on Friday nights. Painting had always been an interest, though she hadn’t attempted to previously develop her skills. She is finding that when focused on her art, immersing herself in colour and the movement of her brush, she feels happy. She has also formed a new female friendship within the group and catches up with this woman for coffee and chats. On a daily basis, she once again notices the beauty in nature and feels grateful for the blessings in her life. That’s progress.

Science tells us that it is unhelpful psychologically and physically to hold on to harmful emotions and thoughts.

Intense feelings of anger, stress, anxiety, resentment and guilt interfere with our digestive, nervous, autonomic and muscular-skeletal systems as well as our ability to produce the positive hormones we need for happiness.

Deep feelings of sadness, loneliness, grief and low selfworth have similarly unhelpful health effects.

When we find a way to release some of these feelings, we give ourselves a chance to recalibrate and see life more positively. How we do this must be right for each of us.

I like to explore with clients what their interests or passions might have been when they were younger or more well. Did they have a yearning to draw or paint? Did they love to dance? How about singing, or learning a new craft? Perhaps they prefer to walk on the beach and talk aloud, write their feelings in a journal or create poetry?

The possibilities are limitless, but the aim is to express what needs to ‘come out’ so there is a clear space for positive feelings. This must happen without judgement or guilt. Everything we feel exists for a reason. Do not deny this part of you – give it a channel through which it is explored and expressed. Be a friend to yourself.

Whether you are looking for a general boost or are interested in lifting your spirits, consider adding your preferred style of self-expression to your routine. It’s certainly helped me. I joined a singing group and receive enormous pleasure from releasing my feelings through song.

See you next month.

Remember, if you would like to stay connected with me to receive positive tips for life each morning, feel welcome to join my free Facebook group “Your Intuitive Gifts At Work.” Here is a direct link where you can join my group https://www.facebook.com/groups/ yourintuitivegiftsatwork

www.facebook.com/groups/yourintuitivegiftsatwork

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33

I NSPIRATIONS

MAY INSPIRATION

by Alison Dunlop

May is a great time to get your craft on? By craft I actually mean colour. Did you know different colours affect our moods. Go crazy with paint, or your wardrobe!! Dress for success and wear red. Chill out with blue. Feel joy and confident by surrounding yourself with yellow or orange.

Find balance with green, and make a mother’s day card with pink. It symbolises love!

Capricorn Dec 22 -Jan 19

Cancer June 21- July 22

May is a positive, productive month for you Capricorn. While previously, you have possibly procrastinated, you are now getting the green light with any projects you may have had planned. Good on you, you are being rewarded for your efforts!

Family and friendships are highlighted for you this month, Cancer. If you have been feeling some sort of pressure, turn to those that mean the most to you, for guidance.

May is also a good time to make time for family. Life is short, make the effort to connect.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Leo July 23 - Aug 22

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

Aries Mar 21 - April 19

Libra Sept - 23 - Oct 23

Taurus April 20 - May 20

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 21

Gemini May 21 - June 20

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21

Time to surrender your fears, and let go of what you can’t control. Know that if you have put the effort in, you have done all that you can do. You can’t do any more than your best. Look forward to better times this month.

May, for you Pisces, is a good month to check your bearings. Rushing decisions may hinder you. So, regroup, centre yourself, and get yourself organised, to take off!!!! Also, a reminder to have patience and stay true to you. Good luck!

May could be the month for you to reconnect with old friends and/or make new connections. In the past you may have felt like you don’t belong, I feel this is about to change. Also a good month to make a commitment to self!

May is a positive month for you Taurus!

Time to pack up your troubles, and smile, smile, smile! I feel you are truly taking off and finding your freedom. Don’t be surprised if some travel plans also pop up!

Enjoy!

Synchronicities ahead for you this month.

If you have been experiencing doubt in any way, take the road which feels right to you. If you heart connect with this, you will be guided to be on the right path. Trust.

Leo, it is time to armour up, and take control of a certain situation. Taking hold of the steering wheel can be scary, but you have got this! Confront your fears, and move forward with confidence.

What a fun month it will be this month.

Allow your inner child to come out and play. Be creative, start a hobby, or do something on your bucket list. Things are aligning for self expression. Also, surround yourself with the colour orange.

The energy of oranges feels so good and uplifting!

Something tells me you have been hiding yourself away. It is time to be true to you. Let go of the need to be perfect, or the need to keep others happy. When you push your own needs and desires aside, you will likely feel stressed, conflicted, and possibly trapped.

Do what is right for you. Walk away from a situation if you need too.

Stop procrastinating Scorpio. It is time to finish all those unfinished jobs and tie up loose ends, before starting any new projects.

Trust in the fact, that you do not need to have the end result figured out.. Trust and let your barriers down. You’ve got this!

This month is highlighted for you to cruise along and go with the flow. It is possible you may encounter some challenges or delays. Take a step back, centre yourself and breathe. Trust that you are divinely guided, so ride the wave because it will soon pass.

Just keep swimming!

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

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RE A DE RS ’ G ALLERY

Crossword of the month

MARYBOROUGH URBAN SKETCHERS

Maryborough - by David Probyn We are the Maryborough Qld chapter of Urban Sketchers!

The Urban Sketchers mission is to raise the artistic, storytelling and educational value of on-location drawing, promoting its practice and connecting people around the world who draw on location where they live and travel.

“See the world, one building at a time”.

More info please go to our Facebook group: Urban Sketchers Maryborough Qld

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