Alive Magazine - Edition 36 - July 2023

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Magazine WIDE BAY

JULY 2023 EDITION #36

FRIENDS WITH THE LATVIANS Through the lens of an expat from Latvia Full story on pages 04-09

Dancing the dream

Jeanette Jordan dances around the world

Multicultural Edition

Full story on pages 14-17

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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

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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.

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COV E R STORY

by Russ Benning

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FROM LATVIA WITH LOVE H

ow well do you really know your friends?

When is the last time you sat down and listened to their story, prompted by a few intentional questions?

Well, that’s exactly what happened to me this month.

The email I received was giving me the brief as normal. I had to double take because it seemed so familiar to me…

I get a message shortly after telling me “it’s actually one of your friends and you know her well!”

Third message that day was from my friend and member of our local friend group (shout out the Epic Weirdos!), Baiba Grinberga. She had heard the news, was obviously excited and could’t wait for me to contact her to set up a time. I had to chuckle.

The opportunity and a giant penny-drop moment didn’t hit me until much later.

I arrive to her house and exchange the usual big hugs and pleasantries. We make our way out to her balcony, welcoming us with lovely nature views. I realise it’s the first time I’ve been there that hasn’t been either a photo-shoot, or a gathering of some description with others from our social group.

I spot two enormous, ceramic containers of some thick, white fluid, sitting in the sunlight. I go a little closer and ask Baiba what they are.

“Cheese!”, she replies.

It was a Latvian specialty, left to curdle in the sun. Upon further questioning it turned out she was hosting a traditional celebration that weekend for the local Latvian community, honouring the ‘Summer Solstice’ (Latvia is in the Northern Hemisphere).

This doesn’t surprise me at all! Baiba’s nickname in the group chat was fittingly, “Hostess with the Mostess”. She’s very well known for organising and going above and beyond with our gatherings. There’s never a hungry mouth or a dull moment when she is around. Oh, remind me to tell you about how hilariously out of hand our games of charades get when Baiba is running the show. For now I’ll just say that one little letter ‘p’ can make a monumental difference to a word one is trying—completely in vein—to act out! More on the hilarity of the language barrier later.

I love writing these articles, in no small part, due to my love of people and making new connections. It was a whole different experience to dedicate a solid session to ‘interview’ a friend I’ve known for so long and shared so many experiences with.

It was engrossing, hearing her speak about some of the differences between our cultures.

“In Latvia it’s very cold, so the families have to be very tight-knitted to survive. They rely on each other. Like, if you didn’t grow your potatoes, you’re dead. It’s very intense. But if your crop is weak and a sibling or a cousin’s crop is strong, you can exchange and everyone survives.

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“In Australia, it’s like you guys are all on holiday mode, like permanently. Everyone is very relaxed.”

It was quite beautiful for me to hear some highlights of my own country through the lens of an expat from abroad.

Baiba continues to share and in my head I paint a picture of some type of mystical, elven land.

She produces her phone to show me a video of a particular summer celebration and I see that I’m really not far off.

This particular event is a choir of 16 thousand people singing to a crowd of 30 thousand! Even more significant when you realise the entire population is just one and a half million people—roughly the population of Adelaide.

“Yeah, we like singing and dancing.”

Baiba, having been here for almost 14 years now, gets to enjoy both countries holidays. As we explore this notion, she shares that most of the holidays in Latvia are in summer. Continuing the theme of seasons, she went on to talk about how in Latvia, people rest a lot in winter and autumn (because of the extreme cold and the short, dark days). Moving to Queensland where the weather is quite enviable all year round, she noticed that she never got the rest here.

“It’s all go go go, all the time, all year round! It can be exhausting.”

I was interested and proud to hear some of the reasons Australia is such an attractive proposition to expats.

“I like that it’s young. There’s not so many cultural rules. It allows many cultures. You can make it here.

“Because it’s a young country it’s easier for foreigners to come here and establish themselves.

“Everyone fits here. Australia is alike a tapestry. It’s a hotpot (it took us a couple of tries to get the correct translation of this one!), all different ingredients.”

I had to pause and reflect on this. I knew this intellectually, but it was only when I heard it from someone—a friend at that—who had come here and added to our ‘hotpot’ that it really sunk in.

“You’re very lucky here” she added as if to read my mind.

“It’s very easy to make friends here. Especially in

“

In Australia, it’s like you guys are all on holiday mode, like permanently. Everyone is very relaxed.”

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Hervey Bay. A lot of people here, especially my age, haven’t been here their whole life. It makes it easier to approach them.”

She started doing it herself, then hired one to replace her when she was at work, now, Personal Maids has 25 staff.

She studied Geology in Latvia and completed her masters here in Brisbane. Now working as a supervisor in the mining industry, we laughed about how it is for a tall, blonde, foreign woman to work in the mines.

I loved our chat! I loved reconnecting and talking about things we probably wouldn’t usually have.

Being raised in a country where work is akin to survival, Baiba, as a result, has an outstanding work ethic.

“Yeah, it’s challenging. Especially for older men, Australian men, but yeah, I don’t let them walk over me. Especially when they first arrive, they have a few questions, haha. But I enjoy it. I enjoy working with men, they’re straight shooters.

“They sometimes make fun of my sayings or phrases.

It’s all in fun. They’re usually quite interested in my culture because it’s different.”

Not one to sit still, she also owns a cleaning business, that she started in the early days of the pandemic.

I didn’t know how much it had grown to be honest. I didn’t know half of the details of her current life. I knew almost nothing of her story before Australia and very little of the Latvian culture.

This was the penny-drop moment and from this, I decided I’m going to ‘Interview’ more of my close friends! I want to dedicate time to really learn more about them and their stories.

I’m grateful to have some pretty awesome people in my circle and I’m looking forward to learning more about them.

What about you? Is this something you’d like to prioritise in your own life?

How well do you really know your friends?

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C OMMU NITY CON N ECTI ON

by Kerrie Alexander

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SUPPORT IN SETTLEMENT S

ome people immigrate to Australia in search of work or economic opportunities, to join family, or to study.

Others move to escape conflict, persecution, terrorism, or human rights violations.

Whatever the reason is, moving to a new country can be extremely confronting especially leaving family and culture behind and learning the Aussie way of life.

Farzina William knows firsthand the challenges immigrants face when arriving in a country that is vastly different from hers.

The Hervey Bay resident was born in Fiji and lived in a small koro (village) with her siblings, uncles and aunts, and grandparents.

Fijian households are usually headed by a senior couple. The man is the primary breadwinner of the family unit and the woman generally supervises all other females in the house and disciplines the children.

Children often live with their parents past the age of independence, and marriage is patrilocal (with the daughter-in-law moving in with her husband’s family at marriage).

Farzina’s schooling, food, clothing, and general living expenses were all paid for by her family so learning to budget or be independent was a challenge.

“However, my mum and grandma taught lots of cooking, which was a blessing when I moved to Australia,” Farzina said.

“One other very important thing I was taught at home was how to save up, things like where to buy from, having a garden, altering your own clothes etc.”

Marriage was always going to be arranged, and the girls must be home by sunset each evening.

Failing school was also frowned upon.

The only technology Farzina had been exposed to before coming to Australia as a 19-year-old was

typing in a Word document.

Imagine leaving her culture in search of better education and coming to Australia without knowing how to use the internet, how pay bills, or simply be by herself.

“Coming to Australia and doing everything for myself was like ‘Oh wow’! I was homesick for quite a while,” Farzina said.

“Moving to Australia was my biggest dream to come and study but I was always going back to Fiji.

“Growing up in Fiji was massively different.”

Farzina could speak English well but learning about everyday living was tough.

“In Fiji, the food and bills are paid by your Elders.

They won’t take money off you.

“When I moved to Australia I was paying out of my own pocket and it was really hard.

“I could only work 20 hours a week as a sales assistant on my Visa while I was trying to study different courses and do different things, but that was only enough to cover my course fees and rent.

“When I go home now, I say to my family that I was spoilt rotten in Fiji,” she said with a laugh.

“I was very blessed to have a beautiful family and close relatives whose support I will cherish forever.”

Farzina started her education from scratch, starting with computer courses at TAFE and eventually earning a university degree to be a counsellor/social worker.

Now 27 years on, she met her Fijian husband, in Australia, and together they have created a home in Hervey Bay with their teenage son and daughter.

They also own and operate the very popular Hervey Bay Fish ‘n’ Grill/Taste of Fiji which boasts lots of Fiji-inspired menu items.

“Moving to Australia was my biggest dream to come and study but I was always going back to Fiji.

“I didn’t have a clue that I was going to meet my husband, and that changed my life!

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“

I do love Australia and the freedom of speech and the independence, especially for women.”

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Farzina and her team’s mission is to support a sense of belonging in a cohesive and harmonious community by providing Conversational English classes for migrants every Monday, a garden club, a migrant book club, and a Birri Bula Dhaanban (multicultural) Group, meeting and activity once a month.

CAMS also organise the popular monthly Culture Caf, showcasing a particular culture five times a year, offering a taste of their cuisine, entertainment, and information about their history.

It does help of course that Farzina can also fluently speak and write several Indian languages.

“I meet all sorts of different people from all different cultures who come from places with all sorts of rules and regulations.

“It reminds me every day that I have to follow my culture. I can’t just let it go.

“But I do love Australia and the freedom of speech and the independence, especially for women.

“My daughter was born in Queensland and my son was born in New South Wales and we love the Australian culture, but we will always be Fijians at heart.

“Our Favourite leisure time is watching rugby footy season where my son plays locally and of course cooking.

“It’s (restaurant) is a small place but we’re very proud of it.

It’s hard work mostly for my husband but very rewarding.

“We love it when customers walk in saying BULA with a big smile”.

By night, Farzina is using her passion to serve Fijian food at the restaurant but by day, she is using her extensive multicultural background to help others who were in her shoes when first coming to Australia.

Farzina said her exposure to the Western world and creating a life from scratch in Australia have been vital in her success as the CAMS project officer.

She now has the tools and experience to help those with employability, budgeting, and Visa applications, and connect people with the right resources to help with mental health and domestic violence issues.

“There is a huge focus on settlement, what services are here, and how to tap in to get those connections started.

“Mental health is a taboo subject for some cultures. Mental means mad in some cultures.

For the past five years Farzina has been the Project Officer for the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Action for a Multicultural Society (CAMS): Creating Culturally inclusive communities.

The initiative supports the multicultural community to have equitable access to services and programs that respond appropriately to their needs and to fully participate in and benefit from all aspects of life in Queensland.

“So, it’s very rewarding to help other migrants moving into the area who are looking for support, employment, and even help with their visas.”

“You can see that person is suffering and you have to find a way to help them.

“It is a very rewarding career! I love my job and the environment.

“I’m thankful for the entire team of staff and volunteers at work for the work they do and create an inclusive platform.

“I believe in respect, inclusion and equality… I can say where I work has it all.”

To find out more about CAMS email cams@hbnc.com.au or phone 4194 3000.

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HOME GRO W N

by Kerrie Alexander

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DANCING WITH LIFE

A

t just 13 years old Jeanette Jordan had opportunities at her feet that most teenagers could only dream of.

The Hervey Bay dancer devoted herself to training in the hopes of being chosen to represent Australia at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles.

In 2011, this selection is what put her success story in motion.

From the get-go a young Jeanette, who was born in the Philippines, was addicted to dancing in front of the TV to music and watching dance movies.

Her parents knew those moves were something special and encouraged their daughter to attend dance lessons.

After moving to Australia in 2004, Jeanette incorporated gymnastics into her routine coached by Stacey Van Der Wegan and became a star pupil at Hervey Bay’s Sparks Dance Centre under the watchful eye of owner Tina Sparks and mentor Keri McInerney.

It was here where she spent most of her time training in every kind of discipline including jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, hip hop, acrobatics and ballet.

“Once Sparks DC opened that’s when my career really started; Tina has been a big help,” Jeanette said.

“I was still so young when I was chosen to go to the championships and I won all these awards, started to get agent deals in America and a scholarship at Millennium Dance Complex. It was just crazy yet eye- opening.

“Because I was still so young, unfortunately I didn’t take the scholarship but that’s okay, I knew bigger things were coming.”

It was clear to Jeanette that a career as a professional dancer, acrobat and aerialist was what she wanted and dedicated her life too.

Her parents took her to several workshops and opportunities around Australia while also completing high school four days a week at Xavier Catholic College and dance training at least 30 hours a week.

“Mum and dad have been amazing since day one and I am so grateful for them.

“They have always been big believers in going for your dream and making sure it happens.”

Jeanette danced, went to school, became an assistant teacher at Sparks and completed her Certificate 3 in Dance.

“Tina’s training was very elite, and she was such a great support.”

Tina believes it’s imperative to mentor students to choose the best career path, while also looking after their mental health and well-being.

Jeanette is a testament to that training.

“We are all so very proud of her,” Tina said.

“Jeanette’s career has only just begun, and she has achieved so much and is working hard to make every moment count.

“We can’t wait to see where her career takes her next.”

Jeanette’s next great move was relocating to the Gold Coast to train at Dynamite Studios for a year of full time and complete her certifications while also performing in her first ever musical, Miss Saigon.

At the end of that year Jeanette, who is also a fantastic singer taught by her vocal coach Twila Whittingham, landed her first international contract in Singapore with Nickelodeon followed by a 13-month contract at a theme park in Dubai, being a dancer and stunt performer in the much- loved hit production of Step Up LIVE! “We opened a brand-new theme park and did the Step Up show, creating with the choreographer that worked with Channing Tatum.

“It was incredible to open that production.”

Jeanette was in high demand both internationally and in Australia where she travelled back and forth to various contracts, choreographing and teaching at studios all around the world.

The fierce and versatile dancer has performed as a cheerleader for the NBL’s Brisbane Bullets, worked on Disney Cruise Lines, Holland America Lines and most recently MSC Cruises.

Being a main stage performer in dream shows like Aladdin the Musical, Frozen and Believe are amongst some career highlights.

“That was a very special time for me,” Jeanette said.

“Dancing for Disney was a dream of mine so getting to dance those shows was very special.

“You have Mickey as your boss... how can you go wrong,” she said with a laugh.

“I feel free when I’m on stage. I can really express myself and showcase who I am and what I can do and it’s so rewarding when you see the audience smiling back at you.”

“I know I am fulfilling my role to make them happy and be entertained.” Jeanette was on the last day of this contract when Covid-19 was declared a pandemic and borders started to close.

It was time to head home.

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“We were the first batch of people to do two weeks of home quarantine in Australia.

“It was a scary time. We didn’t know how long everything was going to be closed for, the cruise industry shut down and we couldn’t even do live theatre.

“I was home for too long and got itchy feet. I had to get back overseas.”

An offer from Motiongate in Dubai saw Jeanette get back to work on the Step Up LIVE stage show once again.

This is where she met the love of her life and acrobat aerialist – Sergio!

“We started working and training together doing Aerial performances and we just hit it off.

“We did that for six months and came back to Australia to go back on the cruise ships.

“We now currently do duo acts together so we’re kind of a package deal now.

“I am very lucky that I am doing this with my partner now.

“We are trying to create our own acts and perform as a couple only. “They say we’re a power couple,” she said with a laugh.

Jeanette’s career has taken her to almost every country in the world. She has met some life-long friends and experienced a myriad of different cultures.

“I just love it! It’s great waking up to a new place every morning and the people you meet too are so wonderful.

“I get paid to do what I love... travelling and dancing!”

It does, however, come with sacrifices.

“It’s so great to have these contracts and I love the life but sometimes you do miss big events.

“You’re not home for Christmas, birthdays and friend’s weddings. My brother and his partner just had a baby and I wasn’t there for that.

“I am very lucky that I am doing this with my partner now though. He’s a great support and makes it that bit easier to be away.”

Jeanette’s advice to aspiring artists is to work hard and don’t give up on your dreams.

Every time you get a ‘no’ be sure to get back up and fight harder for the first ‘yes’.

“Being a dancer, there are so many ‘no’s’ before you get that ‘yes’.

“You need to have thick skin in this industry and the drive to get yourself to your dream.

“At the start I did so many cruise ship auditions and they said we love your style and look but you’re too short. I couldn’t do anything about my height,” she said with a laugh.

“That used to get me down but once I changed my mindset and just kept going and kept training, eventually I got that ‘yes!’.

“Ever since the Dubai contract the work has been consistent and often comes from recommendations.

“Not only is it just about getting your name out there but also being consistent within yourself, your training and finding new inspirations.”

Like and follow Jeanette on Instagram, Facebook and www.jeanettejoffical.com

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DIVINE TIMING A

fter many years of hard work, Kerry Pool from Lychee Divine is thrilled to introduce her first skincare product, which marks the beginning of their product line. As the only manufacturer of Lychee Polyphenol in Australia, John and Kerry take great pride in their achievement.

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A potent skincare cream - it is the first piece in a premium full skin care range exclusive to Lychee Divine with a cleanser, serum, and hair care to follow in coming months.

John and Kerry take pride in their quest to be Australia’s sole manufacturer of Lychee Polyphenol – a potent extract derived from the Lychee seed harvested from their ever-expanding award-winning Lychee Farm, Estate & Winery.

Each year John and Kerry enter their various lines in prestigious competitions to ensure that their range is up there with the best Australia has to offer. By doing this it benchmarks their products to ensure they are on the right track.

Coming from one of the largest active Lychee Farm’s in Australia they take the tradition and responsibility to heart.

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HONOURING HERVEY BAY’S HUMPACKS

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L O C A L E VENT

F

raser Coast’s visiting humpbacks whales are on their way!

It’s just weeks away from the 2023 Whale Watching season and Fraser Coast tourism and Events is ready to celebrate!

Each year from July to October thousands of humpbacks journey into Hervey Bay’s sheltered waters where they stop and play for up to two weeks at a time, taking a wellearned break on their southern migration.

To honour these amazing mammals and welcome them back to our shores, Fraser Coast Tourism and Events presents the 2023 Hervey Bay Whale Festival.

“This year, we reached out to the community on social media to gather valuable feedback to help create a fun filled program for the 2023 event. As a result, we have changed some site locations and broken the festival into individual events and precincts, offering different opportunities to event attendees, with the main collaboration of the Whale Festival being held from Friday August 4 to Sunday August 6.” said Events Manager Chelsea Larner Simpson.

Showcasing much loved and traditional elements of the yearly festival, this year’s event celebrates the exciting return of The Blessing of the Fleet! On hiatus last year, the Blessing returns to Hervey Bay’s Marina on Saturday July 15 to coincide with the official launch of the Hervey Bay Whale season.

A family fun ‘Marina Party’, The Blessing event showcases Hervey Bay’s whale watching fleet in the hub of Fraser Coast’s Marine Mecca. Festival goers can enjoy a range of fun-filled activities suitable for all ages, from food stalls to live music, a live jet-pack performance and concluding with the traditional procession of the Whale Fleet to celebrate the humpbacks’ return.

“Fraser Coast Tourism and Events is so pleased to bring the Blessing of the Fleet back to the Fraser Coast! The concept of a Blessing is a centuries old tradition, believed to have originated in Mediterranean fishing communities and the idea is to ensure a safe and prosperous season for all vessels, and we certainly wish our local tourism operators a safe and prosperous year“ said Events Manager Chelsea Larner Simpson.

For more information on the 2023 Hervey Bay Whale Festival follow @frasercoastevents on Facebook and Instagram and visit the website: https:// herveybaywhalefestival.com.au/ The Hervey Bay Whale Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and features on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar.

15 July & 3–6 August, Hervey Bay

PROGRAM INCLUDES • Blessing of the Fleet • Creating Waves • Twilight Swing

• City and Sea Celebrations including City Park Discovery Pod, Parade of Lights & Funtime Amusement Seafront Spectacular • Paddle Out for Whales

herveybaywhalefestival.com.au

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COU NTRY K IT CH EN

Recipe courtesy of Heather Seigmeier, Warra Branch

STEAK & VEGETABLE CASSEROLE Serves: 6 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 ½ hours 2 ½ serves per portion Ingredients 750g steak, fat trimmed, diced 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 large onion, diced 3 carrots, diced 2 celery sticks, diced 2 capsicums (red or green), sliced 4 medium potatoes, roughly chopped 2 tablespoons plain flour 150mL water Marinade ½ cup water 500mL beef stock, reduced salt 3 teaspoons soy sauce, reduced salt 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon sherry Method COMBINE marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add steak and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

PREHEAT oven to 180oC. HEAT oil in large saucepan or ovenproof pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and celery, cooking gently until onion begins to caramelize. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

REMOVE steak from marinade and add to pot, cooking for 5 minutes or until brown on all sides. ADD cooked onion mixture back to the pot, along with capsicum, potatoes and marinade liquid.

COMBINE flour and a small amount of water in a bowl to form a smooth paste. Add remaining water, mixing to create a smooth slurry. Add to pot, stirring to avoid lumps.

PLACE lid on pot and bake in oven for 1 ½ hours.

SERVE with steamed greens.

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Become a ‘Suncarer’ Become a ‘Suncarer’ and go home every day knowing you have made a positive difference.

Suncare offers challenging and rewarding roles across a number of positons and we’re hiring now!

At Suncare we are committed to making people’s lives better. We are a leading provider of in-home care and health services that enable our customers to live safely and happily at home.

Visit careers.suncare.org.au, or email Suncare at hr@suncare.org.au or call the team on 1800 786 227 to find out more.

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S M A RT M O NEY

by Kodie Axelson

HERE WE GO AGAIN! I

can’t believe it that is another financial year down!

I hope everyone had a great year! We are post COVID now and businesses are getting back on their feet and finding their new ‘normal’ whatever that may look like. As a business owner we are used to peaks and troughs and challenges coming our way.

COVID however was quite a hit to many businesses and definitely not called for. Were you prepared for such challenging times? I’m not sure what amount of preparation we can have for a global pandemic, but it begs the question are you prepared for change?

How prepared are you for a major change or shift in your business? How prepared can you be? The first issue off the bat will generally be cashflow. Can you sustain a downturn and do you have enough funds in the bank to float your business for at least a few months. To mitigate the risk of cashflow issues I find it a great money management tool to have a GST account and a profit account. This can be broken down further into additional accounts, but I find at a minimum these accounts are a must. Transfer your desired profit margin from your account every week or at most every month along with your BAS commitment. This will leave you with the remining funds to operate the business for the coming month. It is a great red flag if your funds

left do not float you through the entire month. This is an indicator that your profit margin is down for the month, and it is also a great driver to motivate you to increase your sales. Another little tool is to have your profit account with a different bank, so those funds do not feel available to you.

Another trick I find helpful is to process your BAS monthly. This makes you aware of any downturn or red flags straight away rather than 3 months later.

Reconciling monthly will give you an accurate profit & loss statement on a monthly basis. This is great for reporting and managing cashflow. You’re then reflecting on your business position monthly rather than quarterly giving yourself time to adjust where you need to, if you need to.

These tips are the smallest yet most beneficial moves I believe make a big difference to small business management. Small business is the backbone of the country and with the hits you have all received in the last few years I hope these couple of pointers will help you through the years to come. There are many unknowns in business ownership but if it were easy everyone would be doing it.

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25

FASHION

by Kate Manley

F

MULTICULTURAL MIX 1.

raser Coast population stands at 115,000, an increase of 35,000 in just the last 15 years.

In this vibrant region you will find an interesting mix of ancestry; in the main, English and Australian, then Scottish, Irish, German, Indigenous Australian, Italian, Dutch, Indian, Filipino and Kiwis.

Each of these cultures and backgrounds bring a rich heritage which they pass on through creative ventures such as multicultural clubs, restaurants, events and of course fashion.

Whilst fashion trends are largely influenced by the catwalks of Europe, in Hervey Bay local Queensland designers are showcased in most upmarket stores; earrings to full clothing ranges.

This creativity is an exciting development as buyers are keen to know how and where products are sourced.

This month, we have a range of ethnic influenced fashions selected from our collections designed and made in Italy. These garments stand out because of the textures of the fabrics as well as obvious print designs.

In addition, some stunning vintage jewellery pieces from Morocco.

1.

Striped 100% cotton textured shirt with gathered sleeves.

3.

100% cotton African print maxi-dress with webbing belt.

2.

4.

5.

2.

Linen and cotton Boho ethnic stripe jacket with hood.

Butterfly sleeved maxi-dress in fine cotton striped textured fabric.

4 x vintage Moroccan necklaces and 4 x vintage earrings, also from Morocco.

e b a b f l e s r Treat you Phone: (07) 4128 2452

Brow Treatments

Lash Treatments

Lip Blush Tattoo

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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browrepublicandlashbar.com.au Stockland Shopping Centre, 6 Central Ave, Urraween

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ARTIST

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Pop Culture Festival

July 15th - 16th Maryborough State High School Cosplay Competition Pop Culture Icons The Cosplayers Ball Market Stalls & Games Maryborough State High School will be hosting the award winning Fraser Coast Region Pop Culture Expo in July 2023. This is a celebration of popular culture, games and gaming, cosplay and much more and we would love you to be a part of it!

Facebook: @FraserPopMaryborough

Instagram: @fraserpopfestival

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L O C A L E VENT

FRASER POP:

UNLEASHING THE ULTIMATE EXTRAVAGANZA ON THE FRASER COAST! Get Ready for a Weekend Packed with Thrills, Chills, and Endless Fun!

A

re you ready for the most epic event to hit the Fraser Coast? The students and staff at Maryborough State High School are excited to bring you the annual Fraser Pop Festival; back and bigger than ever!

Mark your calendars for July 14th, 15th, and 16th, because this action-packed extravaganza promises to be an unforgettable experience for all! Fraser Pop is the ultimate celebration of pop culture, bringing together enthusiasts from across the region for a weekend filled with thrills, excitement, and a touch of the extraordinary. Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey through the realms of fantasy, adventure and imagination.

Cosplay enthusiasts, rejoice! Fraser Pop is your ultimate playground. Get ready to unleash your creativity and transform into your favourite characters from movies, anime, comics, and video games. Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, this event offers a platform to showcase your talent, meet fellow enthusiasts, and revel in the vibrant energy of the cosplay community.

But that’s just the beginning! Fraser Pop is known for its unique and diverse activities that cater to all tastes and interests. Are you ready to put your zombie survival skills to the test? Join the Zombie Hunt on Friday night 14 July, an adrenaline-pumping adventure where you’ll navigate through a post-apocalyptic world filled with hordes of the undead. Gather your courage, grab your weapons, and fight your way to survival. It’s a heart-pounding experience that will leave you breathless and wanting more.

On Saturday night from 6pm, don your finest attire and step into the enchanting world of the Fraser Pop Ball. This magical evening will transport you to a place where elegance meets fantasy. Experience the glamour and opulence as you dance the night away amidst a breath-taking setting filled with dazzling lights, exquisite decorations, and live performances by the Soul Men that will leave you in awe.

The fun doesn’t stop there! The regular weekend

schedule boasts an array of vendors, food vans, and exhibitors that will cater to your every desire. From rare collectibles to artist merchandise, you’ll find a treasure trove of pop culture memorabilia that will make your heart skip a beat. You can also indulge your taste buds in a diverse range of culinary delights from the food vans offering mouth-watering treats from around the world.

There’s something to satisfy every craving!

Did someone say special guests? Chris Kunde and the cosplay collective will be joined by feature guests Matt Doran, Nathan Jones and John Jarrett; all popular figures from the screen and stage. Joining these stars will be the talented prop designer Sanit Klanchanuan, animator and cartoonist Dean Rankin, special effects make-up artist Cara Sawtell and former NBL basketballer (and part time wookie) Michael Kingma. Stars galore!

In addition to the exciting line-up, Fraser Pop has surprises planned at every turn. This year the format is bigger and more diverse than ever. The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is back, the Obi-Wan Light Sabre Academy is back, The Cosplay Competition is back but in addition, Sunday will see a car show and parade presented by Wide Bay Rodders to entice enthusiasts from all forms of pop culture. This year the festival will be a true celebration of all things pop culture.

Fraser Pop promises an experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So, gather your friends, bring your family, and immerse yourself in the excitement of this sensational event on the Fraser Coast. With each passing year, Fraser Pop continues to grow, captivating audiences and becoming the highlight of the region’s calendar.

Don’t miss out on the event of the year! Fraser Pop is waiting to transport you to a world where fantasy meets reality, dreams become tangible, and memories are made. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure on the Fraser Coast - Fraser Pop awaits!

FraserPop is the largest community-run Pop Culture Expo in the country. Only a gold coin donation for entry – July 15-16 10:00am-3:00pm Alive Magazine Wide Bay |

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OTHERS MAKE, WE CREATE

NOT JUST PIZZA

BREAD AND BUTTER SPECIES T

he winter season is in full swing with many winter species being on the hit list for local anglers.

Winter sees some of our best weather we get here on the Fraser Coast. With generally calm seas and blue skies it makes for some great boating conditions. Bread and butter species such as bream whiting and flathead are a great go to if you’re looking to head on the water and after some inshore fishing. For those looking to go further afield snapper is a favourite target species for the Bay and offshore anglers this time of year. We have a closed season starting from 14 July on snapper so get in early and make the most of the short season we now have.

Let’s take a look at what’s biting on the Fraser Coast.

Hervey Bay Fly and Sportfishing

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T H E B I G C ATCH

by Andrew Chorley

Brynn Lack with a solid Coral Trout.

Burrum

Over the bigger tides sand whiting in the Burrum will be a great target species. The Burrum can produce big whiting year-round. Switched on anglers explore the night tides for the best results. Bream also will be active through July and are a regular capture when targeting whiting. Grunter, snapper, school mackerel and golden trevally have been reported out the front on the Burrum 8 mile and there has been winter whiting also out from Woodgate.

Offshore

Winter is the best time for crews to head offshore. Lately some great captures have come from grounds further away from the popular areas. Up towards Lady Elliot has been popular for anglers chasing red emperor and mixed reef fish. While the weather needs to be kind the rewards can be worth the effort. Closer to home the gutters have fished okay for coral trout, sweetlip, cod and scarlets.

Spanish mackerel are also a target species offshore with live baits being the most effective.

Local Reefs

Snapper are also worth targeting on the inshore reefs as they move into the bay. Soft plastics, live and dead baits all work on the local snapper population. Jew, blackall, sweetlip, cod and coral trout have also been caught on the local reefs.

Sandy Strait

The Sandy Straits can see ultra clear conditions through winter so dropping your line and leader class will give you the edge in the clear water. Bream, whiting and flathead are all abundant at present with the flats, creek mouths, and creeks the best areas to find these species at present. A few grunter have also been taken in the creeks along with blue and threadfin salmon. In the Mary River threadfin have been coming from the upper reaches on trolled minnows and vibes worked through the schools. In the lower reaches of the Mary, jew will be a good target particularly around River Heads.

Platypus Bay

Recent years have seen less snapper than usual in Platypus Bay, but the trek up the island is still worth a look. Float lining baits for snapper in a burley trail is effective along with working yakka schools with soft plastics. Big longtail tuna can also be present gorging on yakka and are often a bycatch when chasing snapper. Golden trevally have also been present and can turn up anywhere up there at times, as the schools work through the bay. Keeping an eye on the sounder for big groups of fish is usually an indicator of a shoal of our famous goldens moving through.

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I NSPIRATIONS

by Alison Dunlop

JULY INSPIRATION

I believe the essence of Multicultural is the sharing of knowledge, and working harmoniously together for the greater good of all.

The below affirmation embodies this essence, but with a Spiritual spin!

Affirmation: My mind, body and spirit are working harmoniously together.

Capricorn Dec 22 -Jan 19

Cancer June 21- July 22

You are urged this month to stop, listen, and benefit from either the wisdom of others or your own inner wisdom. Wisdom may come to you from a thought , feeling or a knowing.

Either way, trust what you receive and act accordingly, and it will work out for your highest good.

I’m feeling life has been pretty busy for you, Cancer. I can practically hear the mind chatter. I feel your body and mind is feeling weary. This means, this month, it is time for rest. Your body is screaming out to recharge! Without rest, your body will start to burn out. Find time for a bit of rest and relaxation. Your body will thank you for it.

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

This month, I see there is hope on the horizon for you. Even though you may have endured a challenging, or slow journey of late, know you have got control of the steering wheel. Release any guilt or stuckness you have accumulated along the way and go for it. Don’t forget to enjoy yourself along the way.

Is there a situation or burden you have been carrying around for way too long, Pisces? Kangaroo intuition suggests that perhaps it’s time to let the situation go, and leave it to manage itself. You have done a super job of managing this situation so far, however, it is now time to allow others around you to grow.

Do not allow yourself to be swayed by the different perspectives of others this month, instead be encouraged! Everyone’s beliefs are shaped by their own experiences and society. Do what you believe is right for you, and trust your instincts. Just because your thoughts may be different to others, does not mean you are wrong.

Loyalty is highlighted this month Taurus.

Perhaps look where your loyalties lie, or are those around you being loyal. Most of all, the question is, are you being loyal to yourself. Being loyal to yourself is a true mark of self- respect. Remember you are indeed worthy, so let that loyalty guide you.

Breathe Gemini. You are being guided to find contentment this month. Your life purpose, put simply, is to be happy.

No amount of material objects or career aspirations can take the place of longlasting pure contentment. This is a reminder for you to heart connect regularly.

True contentment does not contain words, it just requires appreciation.

Alison Dunlop Kinesiologist. Find out more at: www.alisondunlopkinesiology.com.au (Cards drawn from Aboriginal Healing Oracle by Mel Brown)

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This month Leo, you are being encouraged to honour your own integrity. By all means, ask advice from others, but only you honestly know what is right for you in your life. You are also being reminded that our journey on earth, not only shapes us, but it also offers us experiences from which we grow from. Trust in your journey, Leo!

Be the seeker of truth this month Virgo.

What truth are you seeking??Just follow that gut feeling. Also I feel lately that you’re feeling like an outsider somehow.

Just check how you are speaking to yourself, or others around you. Remember words have impact, so communicate with love always.

Be aware of what’s around you this month.

Open your eyes, not to see the worst in people, but quite the opposite. Trust and look for the positive around you. There is also the possibility that someone around you may need some extra support. It may be time to take them under your wing.

Have you been concerned with your own importance of late? This month be open to other’s beliefs and stories. Even though you may have a differing point of view,there is wisdom in being flexible.and listening to others opinions.

Being able to look at two different points of view and making an informed decision is admirable and ensures growth. Perhaps you may be called on to offer some thoughts.

Time for an honesty check this month Sagittarius. This means making choices and decisions that align with your values. In other words, do what feels right to you! We are often swayed by what others think, which is not always best for us. So be brave, you have got this!

T H E WA V E RIDER

by Celine Louie

THE TAPESTRY OF LIFE A

s we emerge out of the womb our woven tapestry of life is first created, a single thread links us to our mother, a second thread connects us to our father, and so the weaving has begun, linking in and out, never alone, always connected.

We begin by inheriting the deep history experienced by the generations that have come before us, both the beauty and the trauma passed down through the ages- running through our blood; it defines the essence of us.

As the threads continue to weave this intricate tapestry, family traditions are passed on to us. How we celebrate milestones, the foods we eat and the clothes we wear- simply living day to day we effortlessly inherit the stories of our ancestors- they become a part of us, layer upon layer, weaving us to the past and creating new threads linking us to the future.

But this woven tapestry of connection doesn’t stop there, for as we grow we weave and intertwine ourselves with so many who cross our paths. For some the thread of connection may only be short, for others a little longer and then there are the deepest of connections that weave in and out of our story until the day we pass. No matter the length, they all come with meaning, adding colour and experiences to our ever-growing tapestry.

We live our lives seeking these connections, for what is having food, water and shelter, if we have no one to share the sunrise and sunsets? So we travel through

life looking for others to connect with, weaving and intertwining ourselves with those who share the same passions- whether it be through food, culture, religion, sport or simply how we view the world.

Experiencing life through the shared experiences of another, we feel deeper empathy and understanding, softening us to the flaws of those around us, knowing that in our humanness we all have faults and we all deserve to be treated with gentle kindness.

So my friends, go about your days with compassion for each of your fellow humans. Look for those common threads, for we all have something to share with one another. Whilst for some the connection is found right at the surface, for others it takes a little more digging- don’t give up, for deep down we are all one and the same, all living with so much joy and suffering.

In a world filled with ever-increasing division, connect tightly to one another for the threads that bind us get stronger as we do. It is this strength that builds a strong net of support, securely holding one another together in times of turmoil, protecting us from falling through the cracks, for we were never made to go through it alone.

Step forward into the light of each day asking yourself how you can make someone else’s day better. Weave your thread into the hearts of others, and allow theirs to weave back into yours, for what would this world be, without the ability to share it with all of those around you?

THE POWER OF YOUR BREATH EMBARK ON A JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY AND WELL-BEING

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33

LIFE CHAT W ITH M I CH EL LE

by Michelle Robinson Bach. Counselling.

Dip. Clinical Hypnotherapy

W

HOW TIMES HAVE CHANGED

elcome to Life Chat. I hope that you’re having a great month, despite the chilly weather.

I was reflecting last night that winter has been the perfect opportunity to explore some tummy and heart warming foods in place of the salads I favoured in summer. Is there anything as nurturing on a cold night as a tasty lasagna, a spicy curry, a casserole brimming with veges and pulses, a tongue tingling laksa…? I could go on but I’m sure your taste buds understand my question.

attended last year, parents who were born in countries other than Australia were invited to bring traditional food for sharing. Naturally, the teachers discussed options beforehand to make sure the food was appropriate for allergy sufferers and the age group. However, this aspect of the program created interest for the children as well as a better understanding of people who originated from backgrounds different from their own. They learned about the ingredients of the foods offered and were able to taste what their classmates typically ate at home.

Once or twice a year, my parents took my brother and me to the restaurant which was adjacent to a local motel, for ‘Chinese’. The special occasion might have been a family birthday or to celebrate family who were visiting, but these events were a novelty. Each visit to the restaurant was predictable. My parents knew what they liked and ordered those dishes time and again. Mum loved honey prawns and chicken with cashews. Dad always favoured sweet dishes like Mongolian lamb and battered sweet and sour pork. A large serving of fried rice was guaranteed.

I am glad that times have changed since I was young.

Opportunities to gain a glimpse into cultures and traditions that are different from our own are now available to most of us. When it comes down to it, we Australians may come from diverse backgrounds, but the blood that courses through all our veins is the same colour. My hope is that with a greater understanding of each other, compassion, respect and wisdom may follow.

How my opportunities to enjoy food have changed since I grew up in the country town of Childers during the 1960s and 70s.

That was as exotic as my exposure to multicultural cuisine was until I moved to Brisbane to attend university in 1976. In Brisbane, and especially on campus, a world full of different cultures opened before my eyes. It was wonderful.

Moving forward in time to the present day, I am glad that kids are being immersed in the richness of multicultural experiences. At the kindergarten my granddaughter www.facebook.com/groups/yourintuitivegiftsatwork

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At the same kindergarten, the after-school program offered afternoon tea. One day when I enquired, Emelia told me in a matter-of-fact voice that she’d had curried chicken and rice. I’m not sure how I would have responded to an afternoon tea of curry as a five-yearold, but my granddaughter didn’t blink.

Have a wonderful 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 www.facebook.com/groups/ yourintuitivegiftsatwork

RE A DE RS ’ G ALLERY

Crossword of the month

MARYBOROUGH URBAN SKETCHERS

150th Anniversary Commemoration Celebrations 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

Last month’s solution

RECLINE YOU DESERVE IT Ask box office for more details Starts Jul 8th

128 Boat Harbour Drive, Pialba

Starts Jul 20th

Starts Jul 20th

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35

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1-day & multi-day 4WD tours Daily departures ex-Hervey Bay and Rainbow Beach Award-winning local guides TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of Queensland Experience

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