Alive Magazine - Edition 39 - October 2023

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• Acne and Rosacea

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• Wrinkles and fine lines

WOMEN IN STEM HIGH TEA

When: Saturday, 14 October 2023 at 10am

Where: Hervey Bay RSL

What: The High Tea is to recognise and award the winner of the Zonta Club of Hervey Bay Inc’s STEM Scholarship. Our guest speaker is Summer Presnell from Extended Vision Drones, who will talk about how the use of technology including drones in agriculture has opened up careers for women in agriculture. As well as raffle tickets for some awesome prizes.

Cost: $45 per person. Tickets purchase via Humanitix: https://events.humanitix.com/2023-stem-scholarship-high-tea/tickets or scan QR code above.

THE ALIVE TEAM

Founder / Creative Director

JOY BUTLER

Editorial Team:

LEANNE ESPOSITO

KERRIE ALEXANDER

LIZZIE MACAULAY

RUSS BENNING

KIM HARRIS

CELINE LOUIE

Advertising Team: LOUISE HOLMES advertising@alivemag.com.au

Phone: 0477 094 335

DARREN STIMPSON darren@alivemag.com.au

KAREN WHITE karen@alivemag.com.au

Phone: 0418 197 386

HELEN REKDALE helen@alivemag.com.au

KIM HARRIS kim@alivemag.com.au

BARB HARD barb@alivemag.com.au

Head of Distribution

JAMIE BUTLER

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

FOOD N GROOVE FRIDAYS

When: Friday, 6 October 2023 at 4pm - 9pm

Where: Seafront Oval, Hervey Bay

What: Food & Groove Fridays offer a delightful array of food trucks, entertainment, market stalls, and a well-stocked bar. In the heart of the of Hervey Bay at City Park in Pialba, it’s the perfect way to kick off your Friday afternoon.

October 13th: Brolga Theatre Riverstage, Maryborough

Ticket: FREE

OKTOBERFEST IN PARADISE

When: Saturday, 28 October 2023

Where: Hervey Bay Community Centre

What: On October 28th, we will be hosting the ultimate smorgasbord feast at Kingfisher Bay Resort on K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). So prepare your lederhosen, tighten your dirndls and unleash your inner bier-loving Bavarian!

Cost: Accommodated packages start from just $245 per person. Book now: www.kingfisherbay.com/oktoberfest

WEDDING INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

When: Sunday, 29 October 2023 10am - 1pm

Where: Brolga Theatre, Maryborough

What: This event aims to exhibit local wedding suppliers, all in one convenient location. It gives attendees the opportunity to meet suppliers face-to-face and see if they’re the right fit for their dream team. The supplier directory gives engaged couples to explore the fantastic local suppliers that the Fraser Coast has to offer.

Ticket: FREE

Advertise with us

by Kim Harris

THE LEGEND OF TANDORA

Fraser Coast cattle farmer Lindsay ‘Butch’ Titmarsh looks like your average farmer but it only takes a few minutes talking with Butch to realise that he is like no other.

75-year-old Butch is energetic – really energetic. His mind works quickly – enthusiasm evident in everything he talks about.

His body moves swifty – Butch bounces around understanding that time waits for no one.

environment situated on the junction of the Mary and Susan River’s between Maryborough and Hervey Bay. Mangrove scrub- First Nations Badtjala country.

The third-generation farmer has lived most of this life at Tandora Cattle Station, first as a child of Pioneers, then as a kid running around the paddocks shooting and fishing, later marrying Noela, the couple having 2 daughters and a son. These days Butch’s children are grownhis grandchildren roam and experiencing the adventure of life on the banks of the river like he did.

The same but so different. 75 years changes not only people but also the environment.

Titmarsh highlights the changes he has seen to the landscape of the riverbanks in his second book ‘Mary and Susan – Sister Rivers of the Fraser Coast’ published in 2014.

“South bank erosion nowadays can be attributed to the fact that river bed silting and mid-stream island growth has forced tidal currents, as well as flood waters, across to that southern bank where previously it did not flow as fast. Massive sand banks now occupy much of the centre of this mighty watercourse”.

Butch tells how his grandchildren run around the land more cautiously than he did as a boy, explaining freedom to explore and the sense of independence that builds courage. “Kids are different these days - technology plays a part in shaping their world both good and bad”. Butch isn’t against technology and knows it is vital to move with the times and tells that he uses his computer and phone everyday for business, research, and writing.

“75 articles published in the Maryborough Sun”. Butch is a legend round these parts.

Butch talks fast - almost like he is worried there won’t be enough time in this life to do and say all that he wants, but Butch has lived a life that is fuller than most people could even imagine, achieving distinction in multiple fields of the agricultural sector as well as the arts.

Not your average farmer.

Butch is an explorer of the Australian bushland, with endless thirst to learn and teach all that he discovers. He documents everything through photos and his massive body of writing.

Butch is not one dimensional - published author, talented nature photographer, researcher, historian, botanists, native plant nurseryman, builder, tour operator, column writer, agricultural teacher, and farm stay host… but his day job is grazing 2000 head of Brahman cattle on rugged riverbank

Young Lindsay started St Helens Primary School with his sister – they were boarding away from home during the school week. It was a big change leaving the autonomy of the station to go sit in a classroom. Butch explains that it was difficult at first to find his way outside Tandora. “I would have preferred go fishing”.

Butch didn’t try that hard in school, he always knew he would end up working at the farm –without effort his grades were at the top end of his class in primary school. In High school all the focus was on an Industrial Course – he liked to build and work with Diesel machinery. In 1966 Tandora got its first Diesel motor, with around 33 today. A team of horses did all the heavy lifting when Butch was a child. “It was hard life for Mum and Dad” Butch explains.

“Mum worked harder than most men you will ever meet, and Dad was the same. Dad was a horseman”.

“Mum’s lineage was West African; our three times great Grandmother was a black slave on a coffee plantation back in 1803. Mum was built tough, it was in her veins”. Butch is undoubtedly proud.

Butch does make farming look fun - but the 75 year old says he gets frustrated when people say he is ‘lucky’ to have it all {Tandora}. “Not luck, but hard work”. There is no secret to the success of Lindsay Titmarsh it all comes from substantial, enduring effort.

In 1963 Butch left school and returned fulltime to the station where he meets his sweetheart. 1972 Butch marries his wife of 50 years Noela. They always have plenty to do and work 7 days a week at Tandora, continuing the family legacy together.

They are smart farmers who choose to work with the land – “you don’t over farm to exhaustion” We know drought will come and tough times – it’s part of the job. We work and prepare in the good periods of weather to protect us in the bad” Stupid to think some farmers aren’t prepared, they run the paddocks down, then the grass cannot hold any moisture”. Butch explained how on Tandora they understand the land and make sure it’s protected so it protects them.

“Out here we do things a bit different”

Butch knows that at Tandora they aren’t just cattle farmers, there is a responsibility and appreciation of

the land which goes beyond business.

The creatively and explorative nature is evident in everything at the homestead – a fallen tree trunk becomes a dramatic centrepiece in the living room, tyres constructed into a 11 metre tall flagpole in memorial of fallen police officers, the old water tank doubles as a star gazing platform.

Butch checks his GPS koala tracker and points… “They are over in that scrub” Tondara homes a colony of relocated rescue Koala; which have successfully bred. Meticulously curated collections of Tandora photos dating back over 100 years line the walls of the cottage. Seeds, butterflies, bugs, and machinery serve as a time capsule – beautifully presented like a piece of fine art. Tandora’s story is part of Fraser Coast history, the Titmarsh family have captured the journey. Butch shares the collection with enthusiasm: he speaks of the highs and lows of the farm with respect, knowing that with his family they have overcome much and created something unique and industrious. Butch has many side projects, countless stories of almost unbelievable adventures and a mind busting with new ideas to manifest.

Butch’s drive and enthusiasm for everything on Tandora even include the termites which he fondly explains that he has studied extensively and written about.

Butch loves to learn – Butch loves to teach.

When talking with Butch he seems interested in looking at a new face, trying to understand the mystery of what makes the person – he recognises everything and everyone has an interesting story that builds and changes with time, much like the river and Tandora.

Butch shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to work with the land- Son Glenn, and his grandsons do most of the cattle farming and heavy lifting these days…change is the only constant. Butch hopes to make a documentary series about Tandora sharing all the wonders he has discovered during a lifetime on this incredible living wonderland which he calls home.

by Kerrie Alexander

GROWING RESOURCES FOR THE FUTURE

When you meet a couple that base their farming business on good morals, ethics, honesty and sustainability you know that what you have come to see is going to be special.

John and Heidi are the founders of Virtue Farm in Booral where they have lived in their little piece of paradise for the past 24 years.

The two city slickers moved to the Fraser Coast more than 25 years ago in search of a more peaceful lifestyle where they could live a life of sustainability, leave a low carbon footprint and work with the community to create a better world.

A place where they can work with nature, not against it!

They found all that and more on their 33-acre property overlooking the magnificent K’gari (Fraser Island) in Booral.

The two originally only owned just over an acre with a classic Queenslander home but couldn’t pass up the opportunity to purchase the back 33 acres when it went up for auction a few years later.

It was all part of their long-term plan to expand from a backyard vegetable patch to a small, family owned and operated business establishing a diverse permaculture farm, incorporating a market garden and food forest. Everything grown is produced sustainably and free from chemicals.

The land includes 27 acres of remnant forest which can never be developed and has been registered with Land for Wildlife.

The forest is an oasis for bird life, koalas, echidnas, and a mob of about 40 kangaroos who have made themselves quite at home on the family’s acreage.

“When we turned up at the auction, we were the only

ones there and the owner wanted it sold, so we made an offer and got it,” John said.

“Everything just lined up for us. We have sat on our back verandah looking at that block for so many years and already had ideas and plans in place of what to do with it if we did own it.

“We bought it predominately because we wanted to stop the bush from being developed,” Heidi added.

“We don’t want to sit here looking at houses and we don’t want the bush to be destroyed.

“It’s part of the Koala corridor and we want to preserve that.”

About six acres of land zoned rural was able to be cleared to make way for the vegetable patch, food forest and a council approved area for self-sustained caravans and vehicle campers to pull up, rest and enjoy the spectacular island views.

The couple have planted over 150 fruit trees with stone fruit, apples, lots of citrus fruits, macadamia nits, lemon myrtle, a range of cherry trees, paw paw, mangoes, avocados, and so much more.

In the vegetable patch there’s broccoli, silverbeet, celery, cabbage and everything else in between including lots of perennial greens and unknown and unusual plants that grow all year round.

There’s also 25 native beehives that were saved from the Northern River floods and re-homed by the Billion Bees Foundation.

“We sell our produce at the farm gate when people contact us or everyday with our campers,” Heidi said.

“It is community based so people know what we’re doing and they know we have fresh produce here.”

However, the growing is only a small part of what John and Heidi are trying to achieve.

Their hope is that by using the land as a building block for sustainability they can continue to spread the word through education, partnerships and homestays with the campers, volunteers and AirBnB guests staying on the ground floor of their home.

Heidi picks a small amount of sample produce each day to take around to the campers.

They choose and pay for only what they need so there’s no waste.

“We just want to share what we do here,” John said.

“The campers wander around the property and go through the veggie patch and food forest, and it’s just a matter of having a chat to them and providing them with some easy options to be sustainable.

“We provide them with compost bins and a Containers for Change recycling bin at the gate.”

The two would also love to see the Fraser Coast community become part of the solution by finding a way to re-purpose goods rather than only thinking that everything has a one-time use.

A few ways they are achieving this is by being a member of several local swap and sell Facebook pages where food and plant swaps are the norm, even if it is for the chooks or the pigs.

Local tree loppers know they can always drop woodchip in the back paddock to be used as mulch and to build soil, bins are left with neighbours who have horses to fill with manure, and old bricks and pavers local residents no longer want are turned into garden walls.

They use repurposed strawberry punnets that the community kindly donates to Replenish Refill - the zero-waste store on Torquay Rd, Pialba.

Gluts of fruits and vegetables are turned into jams, jellies, pickles, pesto and chutney.

“That’s all part of the model,” John said.

“As you develop you must find ways to use up what you have. We’re coming to a stage where we need to think about our rubbish because we’re generating so much of it.

“So many things are designed for single purpose use, and we can’t continue like that.

“We feed our chooks and we have other community members who have chickens and pigs so nothing goes to waste.

“The permaculture belief is that it’s important to share.”

John and Heidi both believe that if they can get anyone to grow even one thing, they have achieved a small step to making the world a better place.

“It’s just the future. Look at our backyard. It feels so natural to be like this. You get a good feeling,” John said.

“It’s a sense of happiness. It’s just different to sit at the dining room table with your friends and family and you’re eating food that has come from your back yard.”

John said anyone can start growing it’s just a matter of finding what suits you and your space.

“We found a permaculture model that suited us… it was something we could manage on weekends,” John said.

“We’ve been doing that for 15 years now. We knew we could build the soil, because there’s no soil here, so it’s just been trial and error to see what works.

“Anyone who wants to start can do it.

“Even if you live in a unit, you can just grow some herbs and think more sustainable.”

To find out more, visit the Virtue Farm Facebook page or website at virtuefarm.com.au

It’s a sense of happiness. It’s just different to sit at the dining room table with your friends and family and you’re eating food that has come from your back yard.”

by Kerrie Alexander

GRASS IS GREENER ON THE NEWTON SIDE

The saying goes that blood and business just don’t mix but the Newton family are one hundred percent an exception to that rule.

Many Fraser Coast residents have looked to the right at the white house on the hill while driving along Booral Road, which has been home to Peter and Christine Newton and their business, Bay Turf, since 1995.

However, those who then look to the left could be forgiven for wondering why another turf farmer would be so bold as to set up shop directly across the street.

Let’s just put all those rumours to rest and tell a story about the history behind two generations of farmers coming together to grow the largest turf farm on the Fraser Coast.

Peter and Christine have been in the turf industry since 1988 starting in Brisbane but now servicing the Wide Bay region for over 28 years.

They raised their two daughters, Tamara and Courteney, and their son Michael on the farm and while the girls went off to work in the city, Michael went to the mines.

However, it wasn’t long before the itch of wanting to get back to farming was too strong for Michael so he bought a mango and paw paw farm in Gladstone in 2009 and turned it into a thriving turf farm.

“We’ve got photos of Michael as a three-year-old unloading turf,” Christine said.

“It was only natural for Michael to follow in his father’s footsteps and open his own turf farm.

“Peter has a farming background and has grown numerous crops over the decades, including watermelon, lettuce, potatoes and pumpkins, but we found turf was the most rewarding.”

For a split-second Peter and Christine had thoughts of selling on their mind but Michael’s offer to return to Hervey Bay, buy the land across the road and merge the two businesses into the biggest turf farm on the Fraser Coast was too good to refuse. Retiring was off the cards and in 2021 Turfworks Group/Bay Turf was born.

The family and their team of nine staff have earned a reputation for supplying quality turf and providing first-rate before, during and after-care service that only comes from decades of experience and knowledge in the turf industry. Michael has also got a Diploma in Horticulture and Sports Turf Management to back this up.

The business now boasts 200 acres under turf with

six variations of grass that is meticulously cared for.

“It’s a real science behind getting it just right. The boys work all hours of the day and night to make sure their grass is the best,” Christine said.

“Even of an afternoon if they are out taking the kids for a walk, the two of them will be looking out for weeds… they are both very pedantic on quality control.

“The consistent high-quality of turf is advertising too; we have had people live here a long time who are getting their turf from us a second or third time, so you always want to make sure they get the same quality, every time!”

Peter and Michael have attended many national and international seminars and conferences over the years and in 2012, Michael was elected as one of the Future Leaders of the turf industry.

He won a scholarship to study best practice methods of turf production in the United States, and currently serves as a board member of the Queensland Turf Producers Association.

Christine said the team are always looking at the new, best and different grasses to offer customers including the new range of picture-perfect TAHOMA-31.

Turfworks is only one of two turf farms growing and selling the hybrid Bermuda couch in Queensland.

It’s been a hot seller for the past two years because of its high drought resistance, being tolerant of shady corners of the backyard, withstanding the cold, and it greens-up earlier in spring than any other Bermuda variety.

That’s not to say that the Sir Walter Buffalo, Empire Zoysia, Zoysia Matrella, Zoysia Japonica and the wintergreen couch are any less effective in bringing your yard to life.

Christine said growing is a lengthy process, but the result is well worth the effort.

“We regularly rotate the paddocks to maintain a high-quality yield in the turf. This involves ploughing the paddock to alleviate compaction built up over time and put oxygen back into the soil, then we amend the soil profile to create the perfect soil structure for planting.

“ We get a local contractor with a GPS tractor in to laser level the paddock and then it’s ready for planting.

CUT FRESH

FROM THE HERVEY BAY FARM

EVERYDAY AND DELIVERED TO YOU

DELIVER FROM GLADSTONE TO BRISBANE

Lawnshop /Showroom: 20 Hebblewhite Rd

Nikenbah, Hervey Bay

Contact us today: 07 4124 4207

www.turfworksgroup.com.au

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Junior Excellence Academy

Our high school excellence program is designed specifically for students in years 7 - 9 to provide students with a rigorous and stimulating academic experience that will prepare them for success in high school and beyond.

At the Junior Excellence Academy, we believe that every student has the potential to excel. That's why we offer a curriculum that is both challenging and engaging, with a focus on STEM subjects, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Our teachers are highly qualified and dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential.

In addition to our academic program, we also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music and drama programs, and clubs for students with specific interests. These activities not only provide students with the opportunity to explore their passions, but also help them develop important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management. Our academy students will be encouraged to broaden their interests and challenge themselves in a wide variety of academic competitions and extracurricular activities.

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Are you looking for a program that will challenge and inspire your child to reach their full potential?

Peter and Michael go over the nursery stock with a fine-tooth comb and handpick which section to cut so that the best quality stock is used for planting,” Christine said.

If there is a big rain event prior to enough plant growth covering the paddock, all the hard work can be undone as strong running water creates gullies and the paddock then becomes unlevel and unable to be harvested. So, the timing of planting is very important.

The expansion of the business has not only seen a growth in acreage, but Michael has also added extra services that have been well received by the Fraser Coast.

The new location at 20 Hebblewhite Road, Nikenbah, across the road from the original farm, boasts a new drive-through shed with an onsite lawn shop and “try before you buy” turf plot displays showing all of the turf varieties.

They offer a measure and quote service to advise of what varieties would best suit the customers yard and will deliver to the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gympie, Maryborough, Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Yeppoon.

“We can do whatever you want,” Michael said. “You

can drive through and pick it up, we can deliver it and lay it for you; there’s heaps of different options.”

Michael also added stolonizing and sports field rejuvenation to the long list of the turf-related services.

He had the mammoth task of constructing and turfing the grounds at the Fraser Coast Sports Precinct but he says that’s all part of the job.

“We lay about ¾ of everything we cut… no one likes to lay their own turf.

“It’s a great variety of work, every day is a different challenge and when that’s your office, I think that’s pretty cool.”

The big question is, how do the family get on working together 24/7?

“We’ve been working together since 2009 and I don’t think we’ve ever had any big arguments just some constructive conversations,” Michael said.

“Peter has been doing it for so long but is very happy for Michael to take over the running of the business,” Christine added.

“He’s so much better at the office and talking to the customers, where Peter likes to work behind the scenes, and I think that’s why it works.”

Dirt N Diesel

How did you meet and decide to make music together?

We all met at a local pub in Maryborough where Ryan, Paul and Kai were playing at the time. It was there that we came together as a band and saw the need for country rock in the wide bay area. Since then, we’ve been playing for ten months.

What’s the story behind your band’s name?

We came up with a variety of names to start but we wanted a name that was ‘in your face’ and ‘memorable’ that suited our high energy shows.

What other artists or bands do you draw inspiration from?

The obvious one would be Luke Combs but there are many others who are up there on the charts who we get inspiration from as well.

Do you write your own songs and where can people find your music?

We perform two of our own songs currently and have got a few to add as time goes on. At the moment we’re working on that. Very soon we’ll be dropping our first album on all streaming platforms.

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Facebook: Dirt N Diesel

by Nicole Cornish

COME ALIVE AT THE HIVE

Hervey Bay locals and members of the band Harding’s House, Robbie Harding, Nicole Cornish and Shane Cornish, have been very busy since the reopening of venues and the uplift in the Australian independent music scene after coronavirus.

First featured in Alive Magazine back in 2021, prior to their gig as opening act for homegrown Australian, internationally renowned artists Bootleg Rascal, Harding’s House have been hard at work ever since. A family affair, Nicole and Robbie are siblings who grew up playing guitar and singing together. Their harmonies are a standout feature of their act, as is the unique, edgy, and exciting percussion brought by Nicole’s husband Shane Cornish. Their songs are usually hard hitting, each one unique, exploring themes such as grief, empowerment, mental health, addiction and other deeply felt facts of life.

In the past several months, Harding’s House have landed gigs across the Fraser Coast with a focus on showcasing their original music. They have also been focused for the last year on writing and recording more original music from the heart.

After recording several demos in Nicole and Robbie’s parent’s home studio, the band have now commenced recording sessions in a professional Brisbane studio to prepare for their next single, then album release.

Playing in venues such as King’s Beach Tavern in Caloundra and Faith Night Club in Fortitude Valley,

Harding’s House have picked up several new followers and connections. The band have now set their sights on organising events here in the Fraser Coast to showcase original music, including both local artists and those from the big smoke in their lineup!

“The Fraser Coast has a very active music scene, which is fabulous! But the reality is, not every musician wants to play cover gigs all the time, and not every music fan wants to hear that” says Nicole, who has taken on the role of formal band manager and spokesperson as Harding’s House gets busier with commitments both locally and further towards the state’s capital.

“With the recent growth of Hervey Bay, we want to bring more cool acts to town for the local community that we know and love, as well as make our mark as a band who creates positive opportunities and a supportive culture for local upcoming, original artists.”

The first event of this kind will be held on Saturday October 28th at the Neighbourhood Hive and will be headlined by Sunshine Coast indie-rock band Owls of Neptune, who are quickly cementing their names in the Queensland music scene.

When asked how they feel to be coming to Hervey Bay for their debut performance, Owls of Neptune had this to say: “Being asked to come to Hervey Bay to headline this show is a real treat for us. We met Harding‘s House at Passport to Airlie competition here in the Sunshine Coast and loved their music and the dedication they showed to travel for their music. We share the same commitment for our originals and we

Harding’s House

are super keen to travel to the beautiful Hervey Bay to showcase our material. We look forward to connecting with the locals and appreciate all the venues and people supporting live original music. It’s going to be a great night!”

Come Alive @ The Hive: Hervey Bay’s Indie-Rock Extravaganza will also showcase a local soloist to open the night, so there is sure to be something for everyone at this all-ages event.

This is a ticketed event costing $20 per person or $15 for concession. Children under 12 have free entry when attending with an adult.

Link to tickets can be found on the Facebook page: Come Alive @ The Hive: Hervey Bay’s Indie-Rock Extravaganza, an event by Harding’s House. It will be a very intimate night of original music, band merchandise giveaways and special guests. BYO drinks & snacks. Light meals available for purchase, more details to come.

Harding’s House are also excited to be making their Food and Groove debut on November 3rd 2023, and encourage all local music fans to show support for the growing local scene. You can keep up to date with all things Harding’s House by following them on Facebook, or getting in touch via hardingshousemusic.com

Opening act - Riley Mcintyre

Owls of Neptune

by Kate Manley

FARM STAYS FOR EVERYONE

Whilst I have never ventured into the realm of a farm stay getaway, the theme of this month’s edition piqued my interest. And how surprised and excited was I to discover a whole wealth of wonderful farm holidays not that far away here in Queensland.

From luxe accomodation to camping out under the stars, you can get back to nature and experience farm life by getting up close and personal with some of the animals; helping milk the cows, feeding goats, or alpacas, or miniature donkeys, some baby doll sheep or cute fluffy chickens. Or take a trail ride on horseback to take in the spectacular countryside and glorious wide open sunsets.

By embracing rural life for a few days (or longer) you will find a plethora of wonderful dining experiences, meals that specialise in farm to fork using the freshest local and organic produce. Some iconic restaurants and vineyards are situated either in the farm stay environs or in one of the nearby local towns.

So whether you go as a big family group with all the kids, or are just taking time out from your busy city lifestyle, a farm stay should definitely be on your bucket list.

To that end, this month we’ve assembled a collection of farm stay essential dressing; casual, comfortable and rustic with dresses that are classically floaty, flouncy and feminine. Yee-haw!

3. Sleeveless tan coloured cotton dress, patchwork crocheted top and layer maxi skirt, black and white webbing belt.

4. Patterned olive, tan and white, 100% cotton, shoe string strap dress with double rope belt and olive crocheted cotton blend bolero cardigan.

1. Rust check cotton oversized shirt with taupe jersey knit pants, webbing belt, leather cross body bag and woven hat.

2. Tie front, elastic waist, cotton blend jeans teamed with white, embroidered, 100% cotton shirt with gathered frill front.

5. Beige stretch shorts teamed with frilled cap sleeve, tie front shirt, 100% cotton long sleeved jumper and beige cotton woven sun hat.

1. 2.

SEASONAL FINANCES. WHO KNEW IT WAS A THING!

If you’re a Fraser Coast local, you would probably know a farmer or two. Our regional area was made up of farming land until the growth of the town took over. When I moved here from Adelaide I lived on my Aunty and Uncles cattle farm. It was still a fitting scene for me having come from working at an organic barramundi farm, but a very different landscape. I came from water to drought struck land. Farming is an industry that is very much driven by passion. It is hard work and long laborious hours. It’s an unforgiving industry and one that is dependent on such an uncontrollable element such as the weather.

In my field I deal with many agriculture clients and their businesses. The position of their business is dependent on many variables, a lot of which can’t be controlled. This can lead to unforeseen cashflow issues and declining financial positions. Farming can however be a lucrative business. The upkeep and continued development of the land can increase its value when sold. It’s a tough business to sustain. There are however ways to improve your businesses

cashflow whilst growing our asset base and productivity within your business.

Equipment financing can be a great option for farmers to purchase assets to grow their business and keep their cash flowing. You can access finance for the purchase of tractors, dozers, cars, motorbikes, 4 wheelers, and even cattle. What is even more suited to this industry is the seasonal payments available to support your cashflow in the offseason. This allows you to prepare your business for busy times ahead and reserve your cash for the quiet times. It is a very beneficial structure for a business of this nature and replaces the need to pay monthly repayments. Seasonal payments can help preserve your cashflow for the Running of the business and take the stress away in the down times.

If you’re running a farm and are looking for new equipment, please contact me so you can move forward with the right advice. Given what I’m told lately about the weather or lack thereof, your cashflow needs you!

Let’s talk!

by Amanda Shaw

Like to know more?

Contact us for design details.

Outdoor Rug

It’s always nice to have something under your feet - we like to choose a rug that is easy to sweep off, doesn’t trap the dirt or sand and as well as waterproof.

Bar Cart/ Serving Trolley

A good bar trolley should have at least two tiers, has sturdy wheels and a good handle in order for it to be versatile to cater for all seasons of living.

Also plenty of room to fit an ice bucket, glasses, garnishes, and a grazing plate, or when used as a morning or afternoon tea station.

Coffee Table

A large square shape coffee table (if you have the space) allows you to have enough room for a grazing plater and a place for your guests to put their cups or glasses down.

Comfortable Seating

This can be an outdoor lounge, armchairs or dining chairs. If you have the space consider adding a daybed or a hammock.

Cushions

We can never have too many cushions, and make sure they are in different sizes too.

by Rhian Hunter

HEALTHY FATS

Diet and proper nutrition plays a key role in our health and can especially be helpful in increasing progesterone naturally. There are also a number of lifestyle modifications that you can make to also help increase progesterone.

Incorporating healthy fats should be top priority.

Progesterone and other sex hormones are synthesised from protein, fat, and cholesterol. If the body doesn’t obtain enough of these nutrients from the diet, hormone production can be affected. Therefore, individuals who follow a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet may experience symptoms of low oestrogen or progesterone.

For optimal hormone production, your body requires a consistent intake of healthy fats.

So, what types of fats are considered “healthy?”

In general, fats that are found in natural foods like mackerel, olives and ghee are good for you, while those found only in manufactured, processed foods are harmful to your health. Namely, you should avoid trans fats, found in hydrogenated and partially-hydrogenated oils, and used in your processed and packaged foods; these contribute to a number of health problems.

It’s important to include both saturated and unsaturated fats in your diet. You can find these fats in a variety of whole foods. Animal products like butter, ghee, goat’s cheese, and meat are good sources of saturated fats, while coconut oil also contains them. Fatty fish like salmon, nuts, olives, avocado, and flaxseed are all great sources of unsaturated fats.

Along with healthy fats; there are some other key foods and lifestyle modifications you can easily incorporate into your day to help boost progesterone.

Nuts & Seeds

They are excellent sources of zinc, a mineral that plays a vital role in regulating the production of folliclestimulating hormone (FSH) during the first half of the menstrual cycle. Most nuts and seeds are rich in magnesium, which is another important nutrient for balancing the menstrual cycle.

Dark Chocolate (70% or higher) / Cacao

Consuming dark chocolate in moderation, may offer a boost to hormone health. It’s also a great souce of magnesium.

Turkey, Chicken, Eggs & Livers

Protein’s building blocks - amino acids - play a cruical role in the synthesis of hormones like progesterone within the body.

Oats

Oats have a higher protein content than many other grains. They contain all nine essential amino acids required by the body for optimal function and hormone synthesis.

ASSAM CHICKEN CURRY

Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team

Serves: 4

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

2 ½ serves per portion

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 stalk of lemongrass, mashed

500 g chicken thigh, sliced into 2 cm strips

50 g of tamarind paste

2 chicken stock cubes, reduced salt

2 cups water

½ cup pineapple, diced, fresh or tinned

4 tomatoes, quartered

1 carrot, sliced

1 cup green beans, halved

Spice paste

3 red chillies, deseeded

10 shallots, peeled and sliced

4 cloves of garlic

2 cm knob of turmeric, sliced

½ teaspoon dried shrimp paste (belacan)

1 tablespoon ground coriander

Method

1. MAKE a spice paste by grinding all the spice mix ingredients in a mortar and pestle or a high-speed blender. Set aside.

2. HEAT oil in a large saucepan. Fry lemongrass for 10-20 seconds then add the spice paste. Fry over medium-low heat until fragrant (1-2 minutes).

3. ADD chicken slices to the saucepan and cook to seal.

4. MEANWHILE mix the tamarind paste and stock cube with the water.

5. POUR the tamarind mixture over the sealed chicken and bring to the boil.

6. ADD pineapple, tomato, carrot and green beans and cook until chicken is cooked through and the green beans are tender (5-6 minutes).

7. SERVE with brown rice.

Lychee Cider Sparkling Wines Lychee Liqueur

Lychee Condiments

Cheese Platter

Lychee Skincare Lychee Iced Drinks

Devonshire Tea

Lychee Icecreams

In this much too busy world we tend to wear way too many hats- often stacked so high up on our heads that we forget that we are in fact only one person- and life itself, should be much simpler than we allow it to be.

These days, the rush of our modern way of living often prevents us from seeing the bigger picturelet us be reminded that not so long ago we lived a very different life- our sense of connection was strong, as we navigated life working together as one community. Extended families and neighbours worked together to share the everyday living chores from sun-up to sun-down. Those many hats were shared around evenly to spread the load- our heads were much lighter then.

Of recent times there has been a strong focus on becoming self-sufficient, a mean feat in itself, made almost unachievable given the amount of hats already balanced so precariously on our overloaded heads!

But there is so much pleasure to be found in the garden, and if ever we needed to find a place to slow down, feeling the moist earth between our fingers and immersing ourselves in nature is the perfect medicine needed in this messy chaotic world we find ourselves in.

The good news is self-sufficiency is achievable by us all, regardless of the colour of our thumbs or the knowledge that we start with, for we all come armed with the ability to do better in some avenues of life than others- and therein lies the key to self-sufficiency.

By changing the definition of ‘self’, and extending it out to those that surround us- friends, neighbours and family, we bring ourselves back to the village mentality, for we too have the ability to support ourselves and others by working together as one.

Whilst some have the ability to grow the most abundant gardens, let’s remember to take our hats off to those that are slightly less adept, for even if your strength lies in magically sprouting gluts of un-intended tomatoes in your suburban compost bin, or your brown thumb gives rise to a brute strength that can swing a shovel like there’s no tomorrow, you too can be part of the selfsufficient village- for it is a community open to all, no matter how green (or brown) your thumb may be. You just need to join.

So rather than adding another hat to our overloaded heads, let’s all gather our communities and meet under the communal Farmers Hat, harnessing our strengths and tapping into our human nature that dictates that we do best by sharing and working alongside one another, for we wear enough other hats in our daily lives already.

As our stack of hats get higher and higher, perhaps this is a good time for us all to evaluate which ones we really need to wear on our heads and which ones we are willing to share, rather than waiting for them all to come toppling down from the pressures of trying to do it all alone.

Nice hat, by the way, can I wear it too?

by Michelle Robinson Bach. Counselling. Dip. Clinical Hypnotherapy

CAN YOU TRUST YOUR INTUITION?

Welcome to the first edition of our new column, The 6th Sense. It replaces Life Chat which I have enjoyed sharing with you for the past three years. Why is the column called The 6th Sense?

My passion is exploring the aspects of life that exist beyond our human form and physical senses. While we are aware of the 5 senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste, interwoven with these is another group of abilities, collectively called The 6th Sense. These inner, subtle senses create our intuition, as well as our ability to connect with spiritual loved ones and guides, healing energies, symbolic dreams and much more.

This column will never tell you what to believe, because everyone’s spiritual path is their own. However, I’ll share what I’ve learned during the 35 years of my quest to understand our inner spiritual nature and how the Universe (God, the Source, Divine Light etc) communicates with us. We’ll delve into topics such as how psychics receive their information, the aura and chakras, near death experiences, soul lessons and life paths, spirits and ghosts, mediumship and dreams.

Let’s begin with an understanding of our intuition and how it works.

Everyone can develop their intuition. In fact, your intuition is already guiding you even if you are unaware of it.

Whenever you have a ‘gut feeling’ about something or someone that turns out to be right, that’s your intuition at work. You don’t know on a conscious level why you feel the way you do, and yet your inner radar is spot on. Sometimes, you can even sense what’s going to happen before it occurs, or you know someone is in trouble before they tell you. Perhaps you get the urge to text

them and check they are ok, discovering that they are unwell.

Your intuition speaks to you through your strongest psychic sense. Most often this involves sensing or feeling. The relevant energy centre (or chakra) for sensing and feeling sits within the solar plexus. Hence, you may feel uneasy in your stomach when something doesn’t feel right. Sometimes, the feeling is so strong that you just ‘know’ information as clearly as if someone had told you. This is because you are receiving and interpreting energy without being consciously aware of it. Empaths have a strong connection to their intuition, and this allows them to tune into what others are feeling.

I’ll discuss each of the psychic senses in another column, but the question I want to raise now is, ‘Can you trust your intuition?’

Many students have asked how they can discern the difference between their intuition and imagination. There is no easy answer. While every person can improve the accuracy of their intuition, it takes time and practice. Anxiety or any strong emotion can block or distort intuition. Intuition works best when we are not already influenced by our feelings. Anxiety makes experiences feel wrong even when they are not, and strong desires may persuade us that what we want is good for us, even when it is not. Regular meditation to calm and still a busy mind is the first step to allowing your intuition to flourish.

Until next time, 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

THE POWER OF YOUR BREATH

OCTOBER INSPIRATION

On the farm, in Spring time, seeds are planted, as it is a time of renewal and rebirth. As with us, Spring represents growth and transformation. What a great time to put some new ideas together, and nurture our potential!

Capricorn

Dec 22 -Jan 19

Have you been looking for a career change Capricorn? October sees some sort of change. If this change is work related, make sure your resume is up to date. On a different note, I’m feeling you are being called to put pen to paper, perhaps this simply is about reaching out to friends, or a calling to journal your thoughts.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

I feel October is a new chapter of some sort for you Aquarius, and thank goodness for that. I am feeling in the past, you may have been following in someone else’s lane, but you are now on your own track. In fact, you have the potential of becoming a trail blazer, so watch out for that one!

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20

You are particularly being drawn to bring something into focus this month. Perhaps for you, you may need to focus on something you have been putting off. This could be exercise, getting an eye checkup, more self-care, or for students you could be being reminded to hit the books. It’s time to get motivated with this!

Aries Mar 21 - April 19

I’m feeling patience is not your thing Aries. October, however you need to slow down. If you rush into decisions, you will have a tendency to be bogged down. My advice, surrender, and allow things to run their course. If you take a pause, I feel all will turn out successfully for you.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

Watch the bull headedness this month

Taurus. Something tells me you may be stuck in your ways? You could be given, an opportunity to change your perspective, and look at things with a more positive light. Just go with this, life can be very enjoyable this month!

Gemini May 21 - June 20

Something tells me Gemini, that you may be indecisive or unclear on direction this month. Do not allow yourself to be bogged down in this, as this will only frustrate and drain you. Perhaps, you have to trust the universe on this one, or even yourself. Pause, and breathe - what does your intuition say? If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Cancer June 21- July 22

Watch for overwhelm this month Cancer. I feel you may have lots of things on the go, or many things to put together. My advice, take it one step at a time. Rome was not built in a day! If it helps, write a list or plan your day. Please take it easy on yourself, and give yourself permission to rest when you need too.

Leo July 23 - Aug 22

October is looking like a whirl wind month for you Leo. Things could be very busy for you, and this could lead you to a bit of exhaustion if you are not getting enough rest/sleep. A good strategy to keep your aura intact , is to place yourself in a golden or divine bubble. This will help prevent your energy from being drained.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

Armour up Virgo, and confront those fears! Fear of the unknown, fear of change, and/or fear of not being good enough could be stopping you from moving forward, and reaching your potential. You have got the goods, so flick those fears away, and forge ahead. You have got this!

Libra Sept - 23 - Oct 23

Opportunity strikes this month, Libra, but is it too good to be true? Weigh up all the facts, and remember to check in on your intuition too. I want to say, be aware if you are focussing too much on the negative, because it might just be a good opportunity and in your best interest. Good luck!

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 21

Is it time for some more self-care Scorpio? I am thinking you may be putting yourself in the shadows somehow. Does that ring true for you? Be kind to yourself, and allow yourself to breathe some fresh air. You are worth it, and you had better believe it! So treat yourself by buying a new outfit, or get your hair coloured! Stand proud!

Sagittarius

Nov 22 - Dec 21

Like Scorpio, you could be particularly hard on yourself this month. So like the song says, you can buy yourself flowers! On another note, perhaps you may need to make peace with others or a situation. Honestly, being upset only stresses you, so release this hurt to the universe. You will feel so much better.

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

by Alison Dunlop

Kirsty

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

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