Alive Magazine - Edition 41 - December 2023

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DECEMBER 2023 EDITION #41

Celebration Edition

21 years of quirky family tradition

BORN TO ENTERTAIN

Spread the joy of Christmas in one single print

A celebration of life with Bronco Jensen

Full story on pages 12-15

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Full story on pages 04-07

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UPCOMING EVENTS

THE ALIVE TEAM Founder / Creative Director JOY BUTLER Editorial Team: KERRIE ALEXANDER CELINE LOUIE RUSS BENNING KIM HARRIS LEANNE ESPOSITO LIZZIE MACAULAY

Advertising Team: LOUISE HOLMES advertising@alivemag.com.au Phone: 0477 094 335 DARREN STIMPSON darren@alivemag.com.au Phone: 0408 122 050 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

HERVEY BAY CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT When: Saturday, 9 December 2023 at 4:30pm - 8pm Where: Seafront Oval, Pialba QLD

What: The much loved Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight are back! Presented by the Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Assocoisation. The program will be filled to the brim traditional carols, fun festive songs and of course, with a visit from a very special guest!! We will be finishing the night off with a spectacular fireworks finale. Throughout the night, we will also be highlighting how local community groups have been doing some amazing things throughout the year in our local community.

Cost: FREE

MARYBOROUGH CBD STREET PARTY

Where: Hervey Bay Community Centre

Where: Kent St and Adelaide St, Maryborough

What: Over 50 stalls selling wonderful local products including pebble craft, raffia baskets, keychains, jewelry, macrame and fabric bags, plants, t-shirts, activewear, baked goods, organic soaps, eggshell art, doggie coats, resin art, crystal lights, wildlife photography, candles, Christmas wreaths and trees and much much more!

Ticket: FREE Entry

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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What: This is a chance to sit down for a traditional Christmas meal, enjoy freshly prepared food, Christmas pudding, games and entertainment, and a visit from Santa himself!

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03

COV E R STOR Y

by Russ Benning

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WHAT A TIME TO BE

ALIVE! I

’ve spoken before about the chances of being born at all, and today I’d like to explore something I’ve been pondering a lot lately. The chances of being alive at all, in this period of time.

Human civilisation has been around for a microblip when considered against the history of our fine universe. Of that blip in time, our civilisation has evolved exponentially over the last century and indeed even the last decade.

I’m grateful for all the hard yards that came before me—bacteria to fish, fish to mammals and finally, mammals to smartphone-wielding androids.

Generally speaking we each possess a supercomputer in our hands with all of humankind’s knowledge at our literal fingertips. Our ability to learn anything we choose has never been so accessible.

Connecting with our loved ones from anywhere in the world has never been so easy. I’m reminded of science fiction movies from the 80’s portraying video calling technology and capturing imaginations. I remember thinking, “Wow! Only in the movies.”

Information and access to health services is at a historical, all-time high. Abundance and availability of quality foods also. Heck, these days you can have almost anything delivered to your doorstep!

It’s now possible for anyone to create a generous living from a plethora of online businesses. It’s a time where we can, with work and determination, become anything or anyone we want to be.

We’re on the cusp of the Artificial Intelligence revolution (this time let’s NOT reference the aforementioned SciFi movies for reference points on AI outcome) with untold advancements in potential quality of life improvements.

While we’re cusping, it seems that renewable energy is poised to become a significant part of our future, with ongoing introductions and advancements in this technological arena.

And if it all goes south for whatever reason, our guy Elon is paving the way for our interstellar future!

I realise, like anything, there are also cons to modern living and I will potentially explore this in another piece, but for today, we are focused on CELEBRATION!

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Unfortunately the years of driving trucks and buses, took a toll on his back, no longer able to drive on the island, he reminisces and shares.

“If I could still drive tours all day, sing at night and do woodwork on my days off I would.”

In his prime I assume his body was fueled by sun, sand and satisfaction because I have no idea when he would have had any time for sleep!

Later in the conversation we touched on where this gift came from and why he does it.

“Yeah I’ve always been like this, always the class clown.”

He shared a beautiful moment between himself and his grandfather quoting the latter.

I have the honour, this month, of introducing a man who truly embodies the notion of celebration into his life, not just in the work he does, but the way he lives his life.

Meet the iconic Bronco Jensen.

Currently, a freelance MC, running karaoke and trivia nights among other things, he also produces commissioned woodwork projects.

When I asked the question about his role in entertainment he comically replied, “What’s my offical job? I hold a microphone mate. In fact at one point I was thinking about changing my name to Mike (mic) Stand!”

His generous, yet not over indulgent, inclusion of “mate’s” in his vibrant vocabulary was a big part of what immediately put me at ease and continued to do so when meeting Bronco. Everyone feels welcome; everyone is included when Bronco has the floor.

Originally from Sydney, NSW, Bronco has been a proud Queenslander for almost 50 years. And to address the elephant in the room, yes, he even supports Queensland in the Origin!

A carpenter at the time, an industrial dispute in 1975 put thousands of labourers out of work, including Bronco. He took the opportunity to take a break up in Tin Can Bay which resulted in a likely story.

“I came up for a two week holiday, three and a half years later, I went back to get the rest of my gear!”

Starting off doing odd jobs for a few weeks, Bronco met the owner of Sun Safari Tours and started doing half day tours around the area including the beautiful Rainbow Beach. He started doing some day tours to Fraser Island and that was the beginning of his legacy of a career on the island.

Calling Bronco Jensen ‘just’ a tour guide would be a criminal understatement. He basically wore all the hats, all the time.

A natural entertainer, he would pull out his guitar of an evening and perform to the guests, take care of maintenance, do supply runs, manage the stockroom etc.

A testament to his nature he added, “If you wanted to live a happy life over there, you helped. If you saw someone needed a hand, you just helped.”

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“Everyone was put on this earth for a purpose - and your purpose is to make people smile.”

His performing days started at age 9 when his mother took him to a tap dance class. He loved it and continued into high school. In true Bronco style he recollects a time when his mates ribbed him for dancing and said, “Have you seen the girls that dance?

They came to one of the shows and two of my mates signed up on the spot!”

Following this he went into theatre, discovered singing (and that he was naturally good at that too), which led into learning guitar and performing both solo and fronting bands.

One thing that surprised is the fact that when he’s not performing, he’s actually, that quiet guy that sits in the corner.

We laughed about it being like chefs that never cook at home or the mechanic who has the worst running car in town!

Put a mic in his hand and, “It just comes naturally mate. Having a whole room of people cracking up at something you just ad-libbed - you never get sick of that mate.”

Making people smile and laugh is worth more than money to Bronco, having frequently volunteered his time, talent and equipment to charities and such that simply can’t afford it but benefit greatly for having his gift of service.

As we reach the sunset end of this article I realise that a single article is not sufficient to truly capture Bronco’s story. I wince, realising how much joy, flavour and passion for life I had to cut for the word limit.

It was an absolute pleasure to meet Bronco Jensen and I look forward to once again, laughing and being captivated by his humour and tales in the future.

Knowing people like Bronco are out there, celebrating life and sharing it with the people, I say once again: What a time to be alive!

To reach out to Bronco or to book him for your next event, head to Tun A Fun Enterprises or email broncojensen@outlook.com.

For woodworking projects, head to R.A.G. Slab Furniture by Bronco Jensen on Facebook.

Having a whole room of people cracking up at something you just adlibbed - you never get sick of that mate.”

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C OMMU NITY CON N ECTI ON

by Kerrie Alexander

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SHINING BRIGHT FOR DELIGHT F

or over 25 years Geoff Arnell has come to blows with cable ties and endless lengths of tangled lights of various shapes and colours to create one of the most iconic Christmas displays in Hervey Bay and in his former hometown of Gympie.

However, he wouldn’t have it any other way!

Let me introduce you to the mastermind behind the home that has lit up 83 Murphy Street, on and off, for the past 17 years.

Crowds of at least 10,000 people from December 1 to Boxing Day have relished in the beauty of the lights and displays down the driveway, on the lawn, and in the home’s garage where the famous nativity scene is on show.

A different theme is set each year with a White Christmas stealing the show in 2022.

A massive snowman, reindeer, a dancing bear, Santa’s sleigh, stars, globes, Christmas trees and thousands of fairy lights shined bright.

Santa handed out over 4500 lolly pops to a very appreciative crowd of children and adults alike who all become part of community spirit at its finest.

So, what could make someone crazy enough to spend three months of the year on weekends and at night, building and painting his own props, hanging and connecting lights?

You can’t go on holidays because you must be home to switch on the lights every night.

Geoff often gets in trouble from his wife for

hijacking her beloved garden, lawn and every inch of spare shed space. Even the family caravan is choc-a-block full of lights and ornaments.

Geoff has even been known to drop 10kg thanks to being so focused on getting the display done he’s forgotten to eat. Plus, hanging lights on the roof in the sweltering Aussie summer heat is sure to shed a kilo or two.

His answer! The positives far outweigh the negatives. He does it because he simply loved looking at Christmas lights as a child and always wanted other people to feel the same joy at such a special time of year.

“I do really love doing it,” Geoff said, adding that it’s even more special now that he has grandchildren who love the lights and now pitch in to help with the setup.

“I just love the reaction I get and really enjoy seeing the same faces for those few months of the year.

“It’s just a really nice feeling.”

Geoff’s family in Gympie were renowned winners of the region’s light up competitions and when he was old enough to do it himself, he took over the tradition.

He started small by searching for used lights at local garage sales.

“My relatives did it for a long time and used to win the competition in Gympie regularly, so I decided I was going to do it with them.

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“Eventually I won Gympie three times and beat them as well,” he said with a laugh.

“Then it just kept growing from there.”

One of the biggest highlights, Geoff said, is seeing adults and children with disabilities finding a sense of calm in the spirit of the Christmas lights.

“Their faces just light up and I’ve been known to shed a few tears over things like that.

“It is just amazing what happens to them when they see the display.

“A few years ago, there was a little girl with her parents who carried her in, and she was just a trembling mess but she wanted to pat the dogs that were in the sleigh.

“The parents said they couldn’t put her in the sleigh because she would hurt the dogs.

“I encouraged them to give it a go so she hopped in the sleigh and patted those dogs like a normal kid would. The shaking stopped and the parents started crying. It was amazing!

“I’ve also got families in the bay that I met when the children were young and now, they are bringing their kids.

“That’s why I still do it.”

Sadly, the Murphy Street house is now only on the Light Up map every two years after the Fraser Coast Regional Council axed the Light Up the Fraser Coast Competition six years ago.

Geoff said when you put in months of hard yakka to create something special for the community, it’s nice to be recognised for it.

His display has won the ‘Best Lights Display Category’ eight times.

“I did put suggestions to council that they were

running it all wrong because they only ever gave out first place and while it’s nice to win, it would also be nice to award second, third and highly commended to reward more people for their efforts.

“Now it’s just addresses on a map and I take offence to that when I go to so much trouble.

“It would be nice if they can recognise that people want it back.”

It’s often the case that visitors from overseas have never seen anything like it in their country and live stream the display to their families and friends all over the world.

Busloads of people from around the Fraser Coast, Gympie, Gin Gin and Bundaberg and beyond all stop to take delight in it.

But there’s always one question on their lips.

Who is the winner?

“It’s widespread these days with live streaming all over the world on the internet and Facebook.

“A lot of people ask, ‘who won’ and when you tell them there’s no competition, they can’t believe it!

“I estimate about 10,000 people come through each year. It’s a big drawcard for Hervey Bay.”

If all goes well with his upcoming knee construction, Geoff said the display will be back in 2024 regardless of whether council come back on board.

“I’ll just have to see if I can still get up ladders or not but it’s still a year away, so I think we’ll be okay.”

While you can’t see the display in real life in 2023 you can still get into the Christmas spirit by watching drone footage of the display from last year under 83 Murphy Street Christmas Lights 2022 on YouTube.

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11

HOME GROW N

by Kerrie Alexander

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LIGHTS, CAMERA, IMAGINATION I

t’s been 21 years since a baby photo of An Butler appeared on the front of the family Christmas card.

It’s no surprise that it was fabulous because it was designed by Alive’s fearless leader, photographer, graphic designer and all-round talent Joy Butler.

Add in the love of her life - her husband Jamie and their youngest daughter Livi and you have a talent pool of Christmas card ‘actors’.

They have sweltered through winter costumes in summer, been blown away by (photoshop) bombs, wrapped in toilet paper, stuck behind bars and so many more hilarious photos that are usually accompanied by an even more rib-tickling pun!

The quirky and fun family tradition of making a family Christmas card each year started all those years ago to spread the joy of Christmas, stay connected with family and tell a story of the Butler’s year in one single print.

In a world where today’s society is commandeered by social media and electronic devices, it’s a heartwarming notion to think the Butler’s family in Hong Kong and England, and a select few good friends, open their letter box to find this special gift each year.

“We want to spread joy, but in a different way,” Joy said.

“It’s not a normal Christmas card that people throw out after the holidays.

“It’s something special that our friends and family can keep, and everyone keeps up with what we look like too.”

However, these seasonal greetings are more than just a cute photo and cliché message.

The photo tells a story about the year that has passed with varying scenes of joy, sorrow, love and adventure and each message is personally handwritten by the family.

2017 was a tough year for the family with the loss of their beloved granddad coupled with other tough times.

That year’s card is like a scene out of Die Hard with the family walking away in sync from an explosion that ‘blew up’ that year.

It took about 15 takes to get it just right.

“It was a really shitty year, so we wanted to see it out with a bit of humour so I photoshopped a bomb in there.

“We blew up 2017,” Joy said with a laugh.

“We don’t want to have just a Christmassy theme.

It has to tell a story.”

Other favourites were the year of Covid in 2020 when not a roll of toilet paper could be found in the supermarkets but could be seen wrapped around

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the Butler’s in the hilarious photo recap of what was a tumultuous year for everyone.

As was the year of lockdown, with a Home Alone theme taking centre stage that year.

Another was a ‘cracker’ year with Joy pulling a cracker, An cracking up laughing, Livi eating a cracker and cheeky Jamie (pun totally intended) showing some crack.

2022 was the year of the ‘photo booth’, capturing memories with An before she left the nest to make new adventures of her own.

“There was a lot of love in last year’s card with a photo booth theme,” Joy said.

“We knew we weren’t going to see her for a while, so we did a really loving family scene.”

Every member of the family has their reasons behind why they love coming together for the fun project each year.

It’s all about the memories for Jamie.

“My memory is not that good and looking at the cards always reminds me of each year,” he said.

“It’s really special.”

Joy loves letting her creative and artistic flair out of the box to create something super fun and special.

“I like the production side of it, from planning to shooting.

“It’s a big family project together with lots of teamwork. It’s the experience for me as well.”

An is all about the love! She recalls coming together with the family this month for a slightly heated discussion about what this year’s theme would be.

“I love the way we are all together when we choose it.

“Last year was the photobooth and I got to choose

the theme and set it up and it was so much fun.

“I just love it when we are all together.”

Livi said she just loves being a part of all the creativity.

“I’m always excited to give the cards out to my friends so I can see their reactions and laugh along with them at the funny themes.

“I feel proud that I’m part of such a creative and funny family.”

The setting for this year’s card was a hot topic at the interview table with a hint of an ‘adventure’ theme but still a debate on how to go about it.

“This year, An has been travelling, Livi is going to Newcastle and we’re thinking about more adventures in our van.

“Every year is a more and more intense debate, especially between An and I,” Joy laughed.

Once the card project is done and dusted the family will come together to enjoy their other family traditions like grandma’s trifle, putting the tree up on December 1 and buying one thoughtful and practical gift each.

Christmas dinner is also a time for family.

“We don’t have a big celebration because we are a small family but we all love coming together for Christmas dinner,” Jamie said.

“Family is definitely the major focus with the card just being a great tradition.”

Joy encourages other families to give the card making a go. All you need is an idea, a camera and a Big W with greeting card printing close by.

Christmas cards don’t come cheap these days, especially if you are looking for something more than just a basic print and cheesy sentiment!

Making your own is not only more fun but it can create a lifetime of wonderful memories to look back on, just like the Butler family.

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L O C A L A RT IST

by Celine Louie

CHANNELLING MY INNER ARTIST WITH

FIONA RIMA BERRIDGE T

here are the arty folk of this world, those who can effortlessly transform a plain canvas into beautiful art, and then there are those not-so-arty folk that look at pictures drawn by five year olds with great envy.

I certainly fall into the latter category.

So to be completely honest, being asked to experience a painting lesson with Fiona Rima of Rima Art did leave me a little concerned.

My most recent drawing experience was only a few months back playing a family game of Pictionary. I drew the first card; ‘Squirrel’ was my prompt.

Too easy, I’ve got this, I thought with confidence.

From that moment on the game went downhill fast. I proceeded to draw an egg shaped being, with a beak, human hands and boot shaped feet, standing beside a tree; madly indicating that the half human- half monster ‘egg thing’ I had drawn runs up trees.

Obviously we didn’t win that round, and the tears of laughter flowed for a while after that.

I was left to wonder if adding a fluffy tail to my beaked egg would have helped.

So as I cautiously stepped into Fiona’s amazingly organised art studio, the walls adorned with just some of her impressive art work, I was quick to bring her up to speed on my not-so creative side. Surprisingly this didn’t seem to faze her, but we decided that rather than drawing animals, we might start by drawing something much simpler, like a flower.

Scrolling through the image gallery on her phone, it was clear that Fiona lives and breathes art. There were hundreds of close-up photos of flowers, many just from her garden. I really admired the way she took the time to stop and appreciate the simple things we easily walk past and take for granted. Clearly she views the world from an artist’s perspective.

We selected a cosmos flower to sketch and

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paint, simple beauty with eight symmetrical pink petals, and a lovely bold yellow centre. My confidence started to grow, and I felt I was in good hands.

was shown how to blend different colours accentuating the shadows and undulations of the petals, and thanks to her expert advice, the odd whoopsy was quickly fixed.

Now you may think, that a simple flower such as the cosmos would only require two colours- pink and yellow, but in actual fact we ended up selecting nine different coloured pastels in order to achieve the contrast and detail required to bring this flower to life.

Fiona was warm and engaging but most of all so encouraging, we had many laughs during the session as her down to earth nature quickly made me feel at home in her studio. Thanks to her guidance the finished product was way beyond anything I thought I was capable of creating, and my confidence certainly grew.

It was so nice to tap into that long forgotten creative side of myself.

Given my painting (dis)ability, she suggested we use pan pastels- they come in little tubs of loose powder and are applied using a little foam brush pad. Very forgiving, she assured me. I breathed yet another sigh of relief.

As we were a little time poor that day, Fiona quickly sketched the outline. I relaxed some more, colouring-in seemed appropriate for my current skill-set.

Before I knew it I was wearing special two-fingered art gloves, had the brush in my hand and was being gently guided by Fiona, cheering squad in tow, working my way around the petals of the flower.

With long, gentle brush strokes outward from the centre, the petals miraculously started coming to life. I

Once I got into the swing of it all, my mind started to relax and I really enjoyed the creative process. I realised that without being shown the techniques, I shouldn’t be so hard to judge my drawing ability. Perhaps there was a little artiness hidden in me after all!

So whether you feel a little despondent about art, or are a budding artist keen to learn more, I really encourage you to tap into your own creative side. Fiona will be starting up art classes in the New Year for people of all ages, you can get in touch with her at ... I hope to see you there!

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SMART MONE Y

by Kodie Axelson

@cofinancecompany

THE CHRISTMAS BREAK DOESN’T HAVE TO BE COSTLY

T

he Christmas break is such a celebratory time. Parties, gatherings, holidays, presents, food and drinks. There is a lot of money floating out of the door in this time. It can be quite an expensive period. A lot of families have kids home for 6 to 7 weeks. It’s a long time and it’s a lot of money. If you’re anything like me, you’re working and managing a household and trying to keep your kids occupied whilst you do “all the things.”

It can become costly, really quickly. I feel like I am jumping into mum mode in this article but here goes… Holidays are hard. There’s a lot of balls in the air. It’s a long time to keep your kidlets occupied especially if you are working through all or some of the period. It can also be hard to keep your costs down. When you’re juggling a lot, you can sometimes become complacent about the cost of the food you’re buying whilst you’re out and about or the activities you’re doing. I’m throwing out some tips on some things I do myself that may help others in their pursuit for sanity and living within their means in the holidays.

Families Band together!!! The more the merrier. If you have friends or family with kids why not help each other out and have play dates where one of you get a day out and the other takes the whole gang. It’s a win win and saves cost on daycare or trying to organise a day out with the kids that may potentially cost you a bunch. When they have a different crew to play with, they generally find things to do themselves and keep each other occupied.

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.

Have a baking day. I’m not going to lie I am not a baker. My daughter however loves baking so she takes charge of the baking and will do this with her brothers cooking brownies, muffins and cookies. They can then snack on those for the next week/day/hour whatever timeframe fits their food consumption. This not only gives them an activity to do but it also saves a lot of money on buying prepackaged snack foods. If you’re feeling adventurous have them cook a meal that you can eat for dinner one night that will save you from buying take away food on that night you don’t want to cook. My middle son has spaghetti Bolognese down pat and that is his dinner meal he will cook for us as a family. Let’s face it, food is becoming a massive expense for families these days! Any little saving here is effective and this one is a double whammy! Save on food and keep the gang occupied!

Make use of our outdoor areas we have here on the Fraser Coast. We have Wetside, the Maryborough waterpark, the pump track, the beach, the walking track on the esplanade. Go and use them to your advantage. Help a mate out and take their kids with you. Make it an outing for your kids and their friends and they’ll have a ball. Take a packed lunch, a bunch of fruit and some water bottles and you’re set for hours of fun on end.

Keep it simple and cost effective. If you can work location independent, you may be able to sneak in some work time whilst the kids are having fun.

I take the kids and their cousins to the park and set up my laptop in the boot of my car and watch

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them play whilst I knock out emails and work.

They kick footies and soccer balls for hours and I get some of the workload done. Again. Win Win at no cost.

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When it comes to presents try to be mindful.

There is so much over consumption of “things.”

Allow yourself to let it be more about the giving and the gratitude. Do a family Kris Kringle.

Let the kids join in and buy a family member their present. Let it be meaningful and give them control within a budget. They will get the autonomy of choosing a gift for someone they love, whilst getting a lesson in budgeting.

They will also get the satisfaction of giving at Christmas. We all know how good it feels to give so let’s take some focus off the receiving and save some money in the meantime. Their character will thank you for it when they’re older.

I hope some of these ideas may help someone have more fun in the silly season and save some dosh. Disclaimer: Feel free to change them up in relation to your dynamic.

4 year olds should not be in charge of an independent baking day. By all means if you feel this will work, go hard. I however do not.

Each to their own. As long as it is safe, money saving and ends in smiles I am all for it.

Happy Holidays all! Stay safe!

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21

FASHION

by Kate Manley

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS 1.

2.

A

s another year comes to an end, of all the events to celebrate, the countdown is now on to Christmas Day.

Surrounding the big day are all sorts of plans including, of course, gift giving, Christmas tree decorating, advent calendars, family reunions, holidays either at home or away, parties, booking in for lunch or arranging a table at home, and most of all, what to wear!

For this ‘Most wonderful time of the year’, why not consider dressing in a very special fabric that is perfect as the weather gets warmer.

It is also the most feminine, floaty, sensuous, light and luxurious natural fibre that there is.

Of course I’m talking about pure silk - made from the cocoons of the domesticated silk moth - a process that is just astonishing to me.

Suffice to say, we have such a vast range of garments in store, from tiny little sleeveless singlet tops through skirts, midi and maxi dresses. And although this filmy soft fabric appears very delicate, it is surprisingly hard wearing and easy to hand wash. Just add a few drops of Softly to cool water, swish around, then rinse in cold water, absorb excess water with a towel and hang the garment to dry. Simples!

Enjoy this holiday time with friends and family, rejoice in the reason for the season and have a very Merry Christmas.

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23

STYLE IT

by Amanda Shaw

@styleit.byvictoria

Happier Ageing, ®

In your own home, on your own terms.

From caregiving to 24/7 nursing, our talent is caring.

We are always hiring.

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STYLING TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME READY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON 1.

Decorate the home with festive cheer

• Start with a theme and colour reference.

• Choose either a real tree for a festive scent or an artificial tree

• Decorate the outside yard or porch with outdoor lanterns to create the mood 2.

3.

Create a Christmas playlist

• Nothing like listening to some old favourites Make an entertainment box

• Movie suggestion cards • Board games

• Holiday reads that you just can’t get to throughout the year 4.

Create a cosy atmosphere

• This year there is a great selection of festive cushions and fabulous bed linen if you are feeling adventurous.

• A light weight throw & new door mat are always a great addition to make your home feel that extra bit festive.

5.

A new holiday scent

• OMG so many beautiful scents available at the moment - you could have a different one going each week.

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25

THE W AV E RIDER

by Celine Louie

W

CELEBRATING OUR EVOLUTION

hether you know it or not, you have changed more in the past three years than you have ever changed in your entire lifetime. A huge inner shift is occurring within all of us, moving us into the next stage of this evolutionary game.

You have an important role to play. You are not here by chance. Embrace that.

As we shift and change within ourselves, as we become better people and see life from a broader perspective, so our outer world changes accordingly, reflecting the expanding love and deeper awareness that emanates out of us.

We are here to shift the outdated paradigms that have kept us constricted for generations; we are here to create a more beautiful world. Change is good.

It may seem scary watching everything around us crumble, the systems that have held us in place with fear and coercion scream louder- they don’t want things to change. But it is too late, our world has already changed in such huge ways that we can’t ever be put back into our little boxes, we have seen and experienced too much. It has stirred an inner strength and knowing within us that can’t ever be reversed now, for growth is the only way forward.

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Caught between the old and the new is uncomfortable and unsettling isn’t it? For up to this point, we only knew the ways of the old world, little ants numbly going between work and home, doing as they were told. Back then life appeared so simple, but now, deep down we know that there is so much more to this life than the material world. A new world is dawning and we my friends, will be the first ones to step into it.

We have been put here with the strength and the know-how to get through this phase. As we open the new door and tentatively step inside, regardless of the unknown, we must continue to follow our hearts and tune into our divine selves.

Let’s celebrate the powerful beings we all are.

Let’s celebrate that we made the cut to be here at this time, living through a time of incredible earth changes. There will come a time when we will look back on these days and see the beauty that was born from such a harrowing time. Stay strong, believe and live each day like the new world is already here.

Let’s make 2024 the year we all step up and into our power, living a life of the truest authenticity, united with a shared purpose; to create a better world.

Now, let’s all celebrate!

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27

H E LPING HANDS

by Hayley Godfrey

M

A POSITIVE TURN FOR JORDAN

oving is daunting for anyone. But for one young man, moving from the familiar to the unknown was terrifying.

Jordan Lamb is a bright young man who loves playing video games, watching movies, going to the gym and spending time with his dogs, Milly, and Poppy, but his main passion is anything and everything to do with computers.

Jordan’s life was greatly impacted when a vaccine reaction at 18 months left him with autism, developmental delays and anxiety. This made learning difficult with areas of his brain heightened such as visual memory, while other parts were severely impacted. Therefore, most of his learning had to be done by repetition and persistence.

So, to move towns, to move states, to leave everything he knew, everything that was familiar and recognisable, including his community, and move into the unknown, was terrifying and de-stabilising.

But due to the death of Jordan’s grandfather in 2021, Jordan’s parents, Mick and Di Lamb, decided that a change was needed. The family had been holidaying at Toogoom for the past 7 years and loved it so much they decided to make it their home. Making the big move of selling their home and business of 38 years in Byron Bay, the Lambs made the huge shift in the hope of a better life for them and more opportunities for Jordan.

But this gigantic move and all that it involved, affected Jordan greatly.

Thriving on the familiar, his world was thrown into turmoil. Whilst waiting for their businesses to sell, the Lamb family moved into temporary accommodation.

This all should have gone smoothly, but two weeks later the area of Northern NSW was devastated by floods and their plans were thrown into chaos.

The family were unable to stay where they had originally planned. But luckily, they had moved most of their furniture and precious belongings up to their future home in Toogoom, all safe and sound, or so they thought. A water pipe burst at their new home, flooding it and their belongings.

“I lost my bed, my desk, some clothes, and lots of my computer gear and monitors,” said Jordan.

This was devastating and delayed the family’s move as the new house now had to be repaired.

So, with everything that happened, it took seven months and four moves but finally the Lamb family arrived in Toogoom.

Now to the mammoth task of making Hervey Bay their home.

Since the NDIS is nationwide, Jordan was

28

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supported in his move, but everything was new. New connections, new relationships, new supports, and support workers had to be found.

All this takes time to be established, time to make the connections. ” We were so hopeful that this move would be positive for Jordan,” his Mum said, “There is just so much more opportunity here in a city as large as Hervey Bay than the small town that we have moved from.” One area that his parents were very keen to explore was the opportunities regarding Jordans love of computers.

But for Jordan, moving meant meeting new people, exploring unfamiliar places, new roads to learn and remember, and all this left him feeling lost with nothing being familiar.

Even the number of traffic lights in Hervey Bay was so daunting. To go from a town with none to having them on every corner was overwhelming.

In Jordan’s words, “There are 6 sets of traffic lights just to reach Woolies and come home again.”

As the weeks went by, there were so many changes that his anxiety increased and along with the homesickness, feelings of sadness and loss, he found it all too overwhelming that towards the end of 2022,

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after such a hard year he reached the point where his thoughts turned really dark.

With intervention from his family, the support of his NDIS psychologist and meeting Mike Radic from Fraser Coast Counselling, Jordan’s life made a positive turn.

Mike had an established gaming / counselling group where he does a fabulous job of mentoring young adults. With Mike’s help, Jordan was given a direction and this change led to him starting to build a new life here in Hervey Bay.

Mike also started Jordan into a work placement program where he could pursue his love of computers.

Jordan now links with Andrew from Hervey Bay Church of Christ and Lance from Fraser Coast TESS,. who are partners for the work placement program.

Through both programs and his dedicated new support worker, Sean, Jordan’s whole world has changed. His life has opened up, giving him a new sense of purpose and most importantly, a sense of belonging. As his confidence lifts, so does his happiness. He’s learning to communicate better and learning to work as part of a team. With all the new experiences he’s being exposed to, it’s pushing him outside his comfort zone as he’s learning new skills.

“For Jordan or anyone, it’s about finding that niche in life where you fit in and belong. We are just so grateful that Jordan is finding his at last.” Jordan’s parents said.

Mike Radic has taken it one step further by arranging a work experience opportunity for Jordan at a computer store in Hervey Bay. This is to help Jordan realise his dream of working with computers and earning ‘real money’. For the past few weeks, Jordan has been working with Ian from Wide Bay Computer Services. Ian has been impressed with Jordan’s knowledge and amazed that he has learned so much without any formal computer training. He is keen to continue working with Jordan and is even talking about paying him for his work.

The Lamb family are counting their blessings as they sit around the table this Christmas. From floods to flourishing the New Year is looking bright. Embraced and welcomed by the Toogoom community, the Lamb family are well on their way to building the a new life that they’d hoped for. They are very grateful to all the wonderful and caring people that they have met and continue to meet, as they build their new lives here in the Hervey Bay. Jordan is now settling in, he’s happy and looking forward to 2024 and many more walks with his dogs along beautiful Toogoom Beach.

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29

THE B IG CA TCH

by Andrew Chorley

I

SUMMER IS HERE

t’s that time of year again Summer is here and so is the festive season. If you are on the water this festive season stay safe, check your safety gear, along with the weather and conditions before planning your trip out on our beautiful waters.

BURRUM RIVER

In the Burrum mangrove jacks have been the main target species for lure anglers. Prawn imitations are always popular along with 4 inch paddle tails slow rolled through the snags. Live baits are also very effective with live herring, mullet and whiting getting the results. A few nice flathead have come from the mid reaches on soft plastics and whole pilchards.

LOCAL REEFS

The local reefs have produced sweetlip, blackall and golden trevally of late. Big tides will get them going with the tide changes critical. This week on the smaller tides the bite will not be as intense with lightly rigged fresh baits getting good results. Queenfish can be found around the islands with poppers and small soft plastics working well.

PLATYPUS BAY

Working the schools on the surface has produced spotted mackerel, golden trevally, grunter and spanish

mackerel. Metal slugs worked at high speed have been effective on the spotted mackerel.

URANGAN PIER

Pencil squid have been in good numbers off the Pier with the best results at night. Golden trevally, broad bar mackerel, jew and flathead have also been reported coming in off the Pier.

WIDE GROUNDS

Recent weather has limited access to the wide grounds with the odd day here and there allowing crews to venture out. Sharks are a problem out there with plenty of fish being lost to sharks. Moving around can help, after a good fish has been landed moving on is the best way to manage the problem. Sweetlip, coral trout, hussar, parrot and pelagics like yellow fin tuna, spotted mackerel and spanish mackerel have been reported out wide through the southern gutters area.

SANDY STRAITS

In the Straits grunter, GT’s, threadfin salmon and whiting have been reported. The salmon have been best in the lower reaches of the Mary River with soft vibes, gold bombers and soft plastics getting results. If you are after a few reef fish try the ledges around the western side of Fraser Island for sweetlip, parrot, backall and cod.

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Travelling Angler Rowland from the USA with a solid cobia caught along Kgari ‘s western beaches

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31

THE 6TH SE NSE

by Michelle Robinson Bach. Counselling.

Dip. Clinical Hypnotherapy

SPIRITS AND GHOSTS

ARE THEY THE SAME?

A

big welcome to December’s edition of The 6th Sense. In this column I explore some of the questions mystically minded readers may have about the spiritual realms. This month’s topic is no exception. I’m discussing the difference between a spirit and a ghost. It may surprise you to learn that there is a difference.

About thirty years ago, my husband and I bought an old Queenslander in Hervey Bay. What we didn’t know was that although appearing vacant, the house was occupied by the spirit of a man who had died tragically in the 1960s.

How did I know this?

Although prior to living in this home I didn’t know I could sense and feel spirits, it didn’t take long before this gentleman made his presence known. I heard him, felt him, and twice I saw him - once on the bunk beds in my children’s room and once in our car. He was wearing an RAAF pilot’s uniform and smiled at me. Can you imagine my shock when my research revealed that a previous owner of ‘my’ home had been an RAAF pilot, killed later in his life while flying a small plane in a storm?

Being naive to spiritual matters back then, I assumed my house was haunted. However, that was my lack of understanding. Fortunately, I met wiser people through a spiritualist church and learned that a spirit is simply the energy of a person who continues to ‘live’ once their body has died. This man was every bit as intelligent as when he was alive and had simply chosen to remain (or perhaps visit) his home after he was killed. He meant no harm. It seems that when lives are taken suddenly, spirits may take some time before they are comfortable to cross over to the spirit world.

However, eventually, they are guided to the safety and love of their new spiritual home.

In contrast to a spirit, (which has personality, communication skills and intelligence), a ghost is just energy that is somehow trapped in time. It’s an apparition that rarely changes. A ghost is seen in the same places, doing the same things, wearing the same clothes, and perhaps making the same sounds. It has no life. A ghostly encounter is like a movie scene replayed over and over, and often involves a traumatic experience. I believe that in the vast majority of cases, the spirit (which still lives) is long gone. Afterall, why would someone who had suffered in a mental asylum or prison choose to remain there once they have died? It makes no sense. While the energy of pain and suffering can be trapped in such places, and show up as a ‘haunting’, it’s my view that the spirit moves on to happier circumstances.

I hope you’ve enjoyed our discussion this month.

Please remember that the views expressed in this column are only mine and I encourage you to hold your own beliefs.

Should you genuinely wish to communicate with your loved ones who have passed over, Mette is a compassionate and talented Hervey Bay medium who feels honoured to connect her clients with their loved ones in spirit. I found her mediumship to be excellent. You can find Mette on her Facebook page, Souls Connect. She offers readings through Zoom.

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 in an oracle card reading, 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

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C O U N T RY K ITCHENS Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens Team

BEETROOT HUMMUS Serves: 8

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 10-12 minutes ½ serve per portion Ingredients

1 large beetroot, leaves and roots removed

Method

MICROWAVE beetroot on high in a bowl with lid for 10-12 minutes. Slip skin off cooked beetroot.

ADD beetroot, chickpeas, cumin, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, garlic and stock powder to food processor and blend until smooth.

400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

SERVE with a sprinkle of sweet paprika and a variety of vegetable sticks.

1 lemon, juiced

Alternative method:

½ teaspoon cumin powder 1 tablespoon tahini

2 tablespoons olive oil

225g canned beetroot, drained of juice works just as well.

2 cloves garlic

½ teaspoon vegetable stock powder Sweet paprika, to serve

Vegetable sticks, to serve

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33

I NSPIRATIONS

by Alison Dunlop

DECEMBER INSPIRATION

Festive season is meant to be a fun time of year!!! So make it enjoyable, and share the good vibes!! Keep things in perspective and always keep your thoughts and actions positive. Enjoy your family and friends but don’t forget to check in on those that are less fortunate, and alone.

Capricorn Dec 22 -Jan 19 December brings some positive change, and new opportunities for you Capricorn.

This in itself will revitalise you with renewed hope, and will set you up in good stead for 2024. It will be good for you to start a new chapter. Enjoy this change.

Look for peace in your life this month, Cancer.

Christmas time may bring added conflict and strife, so be on the lookout for that. Try not to get caught up in other people’s battles. Hold your head high, you don’t need the drama.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Leo July 23 - Aug 22

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

Be careful this month Aquarius, and watch what you say. Xmas, family gatherings and alcohol could be a potential recipe for social disaster., so tread carefully and mindfully respect others. Go easy on the drinking and surround yourself with good people, and positive energy.

December is a good time for you to reflect on the year that was. Set up some goals for 2024 because you can make all the good stuff happen! How exciting, what do you wish for?

Have a think about it, because you can manifest this!

December is a good time to possibly show some restraint and self control. Walk away from any drama, pause and take a big deep breath. Allow your mind and emotions time to reset. When you step back, you allow yourself to see the big picture.

Wow Virgo, the cards indicate recognition for some work you have been putting a lot of effort into. How exciting!!! I believe all your achievements have the potential to reach fruition. Well done, be proud of your hard work.

Aries Mar 21 - April 19

Libra Sept - 23 - Oct 23

Taurus April 20 - May 20

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 21

Embrace your uniqueness Aries. What is so special about December? It is that you are totally blossoming! It’s almost like you have done the tough yards this year, and you are shedding your old cocoon to be the beautiful butterfly. Own it!

Have you heard of the song, he’s got the whole world in his hands? This song is relevant for you this month. You can hang on to hurts from the past, or you can release these hurts and allow yourself to heal. December is a great opportunity lor you to regain your happiness.

Gemini May 21 - June 20

December is looking like it could be a wild and abundant time for you, Gemini.

Honestly, lady luck and fun times seem to be bestowed on you. Enjoy the ride, and share positivity, because life doesn’t get any better!

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

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Cancer June 21- July 22

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A little bit of calm your farm is indicated in the cards this month Libra. Take a reality check, are your self expectations too high?

Whatever the situation is, release all guilt and stress, and just know you have done all you can in regards to this. Let it go, and feel relief!

Time to heart connect Scorpio, and feel your own inner light and power! Let guilt go, because you are important. Find that inner strength and do whatever sets your heart free. The time has come to honour you, and say no if something doesn’t sit right.

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21

If you have some time Sagittarius, look to declutter and spring clean your house.

Whether there are jobs to do at home, or some decluttering required in your mental and or your emotional home, you will feel so much better to start the new year with a new positivity.

RE A DE RS ’ G ALLERY

Crossword of the month

MARYBOROUGH URBAN SKETCHERS

Pam Boardman - Maryborough Government Building 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 on our Facebook group (Meet 1st Sunday monthly): Urban Sketchers Maryborough Qld

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