SoWot Vol6 2024

Win a Playstation Portal!

From the Editor’s desk

Welcome to SoWot 6. In this issue, we continue to explore contemporary lifestyle, connecting the threads of iconic travel destinations, world-leading technology, big brand sport and the latest lifestyle trends.

We delve into the enormous industry that is the National Disability Insurance Scheme and examine its key focus in our aging population.

We check in with Australia’s newest sporting franchise, the Melbourne Mavericks, on their quest to conquer the Suncorp Super Netball competition in 2024.

From the mysteries of the planet we live on, to the technology that guides us through our day, SoWot is your passport to a world where finance, design, technology and adventure converge.

So, flip the pages, be inspired, and let the journey begin!

There’s always something for everyone here in the pages of SoWot, including the chance to win an amazing prize!

Readers Quiz issue 6:

For your chance to win an amazing , the all new handheld gateway to PS5, simply answer this question:

What is the northernmost point of Australia at the very tip of Cape York Called?

Good luck! To answer, click HERE

Mavericks by nature

Suncorp Super Netball’s newest team the Melbourne Mavericks is redefining the meaning of netball, by delivering a bold new brand that fans just can’t get enough of.

Being a Maverick means being a strongminded free spirit, it means being willing to test the limits and look good doing it, which is exactly what this club promised to do as they write themselves a new chapter in netball this season.

Owned by the Sports Entertainment Network (SEN), guided by former England coach Tracey Neville, and captained by the incredible Amy Parmenter, the Mavericks have a powerful leadership team behind them for their inaugural season in 2024.

This all-star side has proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with, as demonstrated by claiming some early wins in their first season.

Netball is one of the biggest team sports in Australia, however the culture and spirit of the great game has been declining in recent years. The Melbourne Mavericks seized the opportunity for change. Fighting to break the traditional conformities of netball, the Mavs aspire to bring back the spark and grit of the game. Most importantly, however, they aim to write a new narrative for netball.

Strutting into 2024

The Mavs are proudly sponsored by online tech and appliances store Snaffle, the home of bite-sized payments.

If there wasn’t already enough energy around the Mavericks’ home games, ‘The Snaffle Squad’ are bringing everyone to their feet. A dynamic breakdancing group, this squad is dazzling fans with their thrilling pre-game and interval routines.

Much like the Mavs themselves, the Snaffle Squad are not only there to support the athletes, but they also want to share the spotlight with fans as they introduce the ‘Snaffle Strut Cam’ which encourages the crowd to bust out their best moves as they have fun and dance along to the ‘Snaffle Strut.’

The partnership will also take to the airwaves with SEN’s live broadcasting of all Mavericks’ games, including the new and exciting ‘Snaffled It’ Intercept of the Year award!

Snaffle CMO, Paul Winslow, stated that the Mavericks willingness to “challenge the status quo and mix things up” was right in line with the ethos of Snaffle.

This progressive partnership is no doubt set to dance to their own beat this season! The Mavs aspire to leave a lasting legacy and aim to prove that anything and everything is possible if you work hard enough for it, having themselves come together in just six short months.

The Melbourne Mavericks are a team that work as relentlessly off the court as they do on it, to provide themselves, their fanbase, and netball with a culture as promising as their future.

Snaffle. Score. Strut!

The Melbourne Mavericks are strutting into the 2024 Super Netball season like nobody’s watching. They must shop at Snaffle!

To score the best brands in tech, appliances, furniture and more for bite-sized payments, just Snaffle it!

The ultimate Off-road challenge

Every year, as the dry season descends upon northern Australia, adventurers from across the country gear up for the ultimate off-road challenge: tackling the tracks and trails of Cape York. This rugged peninsula, nestled in the northeastern corner of Australia, is a land of contrasts, where beauty and treachery intertwine at every turn.

The journey through Cape York is a test of both skill and courage. Treacherous mud pits, steep inclines, and daunting river crossings are just a few of the obstacles that await intrepid travellers. Yet, it's precisely these challenges that make the adventure so rewarding. Each muddy bog conquered, and each rocky ascent mastered is a triumph of determination, offering a sense of accomplishment unlike any other.

Amidst the rugged terrain, Cape York reveals its stunning beauty. Ancient rainforests teem with wildlife, while pristine waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear pools.

Along the rugged coastline, turquoise waters meet golden sand beaches, creating a landscape of unparalleled natural splendour. For nature lovers and photographers alike, Cape York offers endless opportunities to immerse oneself in the breathtaking beauty of the Australian wilderness.

But Cape York is more than just a landscape - it's a tapestry woven with the threads of indigenous culture and heritage. The region is home to several indigenous communities, whose traditions and way of life have been shaped by millennia of living in harmony with the land. Interacting with these communities offers travellers a unique insight into Australia's rich indigenous culture, from traditional hunting techniques to the significance of Dreamtime stories. It's an opportunity to learn and appreciate the deep connection between the land and its people - a connection that has endured for countless generations.

Eliot Falls in remote Cape York Peninsula, far northern Australia.

For those planning to embark on a Cape York 4x4 adventure, preparation is key. Adequate vehicle maintenance, essential supplies, and a thorough understanding of the region's challenges are essential. Additionally, it's crucial to respect the fragile ecosystem and indigenous heritage of Cape York, leaving no trace of your passage and treating the land and its people with the utmost respect.

In the realm of 4x4 adventures, few experiences compare to the thrill of tackling the tracks and trails of Cape York Peninsula. From its rugged terrain to its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Cape York offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of the Australian wilderness.

So, gear up, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare to embark on the off-road journey of a lifetime. As the Cape York season beckons, the call of the wild awaits.

Unleash the adventure

The very tip of Cape York, known as Pajinka

River crossing in remote Cape York Peninsula, far northern Australia.

Sam's creek in remote Cape York Peninsula, far northern Australia.

Bringing support to the front line

The NDIS story

One decade on, Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a landmark initiative aimed at transforming the lives of people with disabilities, is changing the game.

Launched in 2013, the NDIS represents a paradigm shift in disability support, emphasising individual choice, empowerment and lifelong assistance. As the scheme continues to evolve, it's imperative to delve into its impact, challenges and future innovations.

The NDIS embodies a departure from the traditional welfare model by focusing on person-centred care. Under this framework, individuals with disabilities are provided with tailored support packages, enabling them to access services that align with their unique needs and goals. Whether it's health care, employment assistance, housing or community participation, the NDIS aims to enhance the quality of life for participants across all aspects.

Central to the NDIS ethos is this empowerment of participants. By granting them greater control over their funding and support services, the scheme fosters autonomy and selfdetermination. Participants can choose their service providers, decide on the types of assistance they require, and actively engage in the planning process. This shift from a paternalistic approach to a collaborative partnership empowers individuals to shape their own futures.

One of the primary objectives of the NDIS is to address the systemic inequalities faced by people with disabilities. By providing equitable access to essential services and supports, regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic status, the scheme aims to level the playing field. This commitment to social justice underscores Australia's dedication to inclusivity and diversity.

One such essential service is housing. In fact, the NDIS has spurred a house building surge, transforming the disability accommodation landscape. With the NDIS now funding tailored housing solutions, demand has surged for accessible homes, encouraging innovative designs and construction methods. This has led to a boom in specialised housing projects and the certification of the specialised service providers required to bring these projects to life.

Architects and builders are collaborating to meet diverse accessibility needs, creating smart homes and adaptable dwellings that empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and comfortably. The NDIS's impact extends beyond care to redefine the very infrastructure of inclusive living.

The NDIS has been in the news for a lot of the wrong reasons of late, with a focus on the ever-expanding budget requirements – it is the third largest program of government expenditure – and the question of quality and standards of service providers.

In April 2023, Minister for the NDIS, Bill Shorten expressed the need for ‘systemic reform of the entire disability support ecosystem’ and outlined 6 priority areas for reform:

• improving the NDIA workforce

• supporting longer-term planning

• addressing spiralling expenses

• improving the Supported Independent Living program

• eliminating unethical practices by service providers

• increasing community and mainstream supports for people with disabilities.

Strengthening the scheme's infrastructure, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing workforce capacity are crucial steps towards ensuring its long-term viability. Moreover, fostering greater collaboration between government agencies, expert service providers, and advocacy groups can facilitate a more cohesive and responsive disability support system.

The NDIS represents a landmark achievement in Australia's social welfare landscape, heralding a new era of inclusion and empowerment for people with disabilities. While the scheme has encountered obstacles along the way, its underlying principles of choice, autonomy, and equality remain steadfast. By harnessing the collective efforts of stakeholders and embracing innovation, Australia can continue to uphold the principles of the NDIS and pave the way for a more inclusive landscape.

When it comes to complexities of NDIS projects, Local Expert is your one-stop shop for a diverse range of certified service providers. From the moment you submit a quote request, to the moment our Local Expert team completes your job, we take care of everything.

Walking in wilderness: A Journey of self-discovery

In a world pulsating with noise, finding moments of tranquillity becomes a precious pursuit. For Sally Kyle, the remedy lies in the rhythmic cadence of walking, a practice that not only invigorates her body but also nourishes her soul. We sat down with Sally, to relive the memories of her favourite journeys in nature.

"For me the inspiration is wanting to place yourself in an environment that nurtures both mental health and physical wellbeing and has the ability to connect to nature and find the

SALLY KYLE Nature Lover | Hiker

Her journey into the world of hiking started modestly, with tentative steps along well-trodden paths. "I began walking with groups," she recalls. "There was comfort in the camaraderie, in the shared silence punctuated by the crunch of leaves beneath our feet."

Sally shared that in larger groups there’s a lot of conversation and that by personality, she is an introvert.

“If I’m going to get myself to a destination, I want to be present in the moment. You need to be present for the physicality of it, so that you are focused on the environment, watching terrain and acknowledging safety - but you also want to be present because you’ve made the commitment to get there, to appreciate the wilderness.”

“I have distinct memories of seeing a dingo on a track and thinking, you’re in your natural habitat, I’m in your space, what a privilege for me to be here”.

As we talk, it’s obvious that Sally's passion for hiking is palpable. She recalls that Covid was a precursor to people of thinking ‘how do I get out of the house and exercise?’ and a lot of people saw hiking as a ‘free’ activity.

“In essence it’s free but you need a lot of safety equipment and you need to educate yourself on the environmental safety,” she adds.

It can be difficult to gain access the more popular tracks around Australia. There are a lot of entities developing walks but it will cost you to be on a track. Each year, countless numbers of hikers happily pay for experiences like ‘3 Capes Track’ in Tasmania, at a cost $400 to $500 dollars for a 3-day walk because the track is a safe, well-managed environment with accommodation available along the way.

But as hiking grows in popularity, so too does the need for responsible stewardship. "When we enter these pristine wilderness areas, we become custodians of their beauty," Sally emphasises. "It's our duty to tread lightly, to leave nothing behind but footprints."

“If you were doing one of the great walks, say Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, from O’Reillys to Binna Burra, you have to carry everything with you, and what you take in, you must take out,” says Sally.

"On other hikes such as 3 Capes, which is very curated, it’s a very nice walk for even the novice walker. But you have to carry all your food, and do your own cooking, but anything left over you can leave at the last hut for others,” she adds.

“One day on a walk, two dogs came up the track, and I was in a national park! They turned out to be biodiversity tracking dogs. They were up there chasing a particular plant in order to report back as to what that plant was doing in this rainforest. The park management of those environments is very special and it’s our privilege to walk there,” Sally remarks.

As our conversation draws to a close, Sally's gaze drifts to the horizon, where the promise of new adventures beckons. "There's always another trail to explore," she says with a smile. "And as long as there are paths to tread, my journey will continue, one step at a time."

THE REVOLUTION

In a world perpetually spinning with the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of respite is paramount to maintaining our well-being. Enter the blossoming trend of wellness getaways – immersive retreats designed to reset, recharge, and restore the mind, body, and spirit. From secluded mountain sanctuaries to serene coastal escapes, these havens offer a host of benefits beyond the typical holiday.

Wellness tourism has experienced a meteoric rise in recent years, fuelled by a growing societal awareness of the importance of self-care and holistic health. No longer content with mere sightseeing and relaxation, travellers are seeking experiences that nourish their entire being. As a result, wellness getaways have evolved from niche offerings to mainstream destinations, catering to a diverse array of interests and preferences.

The allure of wellness getaways lies in their ability to provide a multifaceted approach to self-improvement and wellbeing. Wellness retreats typically offer a variety of activities such as yoga, meditation, hiking, and spa treatments, all aimed at rejuvenating the body and promoting physical health. Whether it's detoxifying through organic cuisine or engaging in outdoor adventures, participants are encouraged to reconnect with their bodies and adopt healthy lifestyle habits.

In today's hyper-connected world, mental health has emerged as a priority for us all. Wellness getaways provide a sanctuary for mental rejuvenation, offering workshops, mindfulness practices, and holistic therapies to help guests unwind and find inner peace. By disconnecting from technology and immersing themselves in nature, guests can alleviate stress, anxiety and burnout, fostering a sense of clarity and emotional balance.

Many wellness retreats incorporate elements of spirituality and personal growth, allowing participants to explore their innermost selves and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Whether through guided meditation, spiritual rituals, or introspective workshops, guests are encouraged to embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-transformation, tapping into their innate wisdom and intuition.

One of the most profound aspects of a wellness getaway is the sense of community and connection fostered among participants. Bonding over shared experiences and common goals, guests often form deep and meaningful connections that extend beyond the confines of the retreat. This sense of belonging and support can be incredibly empowering, providing a source of inspiration and motivation long after the retreat has ended.

Wellness retreats have the power to inspire and empower individuals to make positive changes in their lives. Whether it's adopting healthier habits, pursuing passions, or prioritising self-care, participants often leave feeling revitalised and motivated to live more authentically and consciously.

As the demand for wellness tourism continues to soar, the future of the wellness industry itself looks bright and promising. As travellers increasingly prioritise experiences that nourish the mind, body, and soul, the wellness industry is poised to innovate and evolve, offering transformative treatments that inspire, heal, and uplift. Guests return home ready to embrace the holistic principles of wellness and sense of community and connection that these transformative retreats engender, sparking the popularity of preventative self care by expert chiropractic and remedial massage therapists.

Take the pain out of finding the perfect Gold Coast health care practitioner. Call the local experts, Madison Healthstyle at Robina. From assessment to total wellbeing, our team is here to create your pain free future.

The rising tide called CPI

Call it whatever you like. The Consumer Price Index, or more appropriately the Cost of Living Index. It’s the most common indicator of inflation but at the coal face we call home, it’s the ever-increasing cost of just existing. So is it out of control in 2024?

Whether it’s the humble necessities of food and housing to the luxuries of leisure and entertainment, the price tags attached to our basic needs have been steadily ballooning over the years.

Cast your mind back a decade, or perhaps even just a few years, and you'll likely recall a time when the Aussie dollar stretched a little further. Rent was reasonable, groceries were affordable, and leisure activities were within reach for many. However, the winds of change have swept through the economic landscape, leaving in their wake a trail of escalating costs.

Take housing, for instance. Once viewed as a cornerstone of stability and security, home ownership now stands as an elusive dream for many Australians, particularly in our larger cities where property prices have skyrocketed since the pandemic. Renters find themselves grappling with exorbitant monthly payments that devour an everlarger slice of their income.

Meanwhile, the grocery bill seems to swell with each passing trip to the supermarket. The cost of essential items has risen, leaving families to tighten their belts and make tough choices about where to allocate their limited resources.

The ripple effect of these rising expenses extends far beyond the realm of mere dollars and cents. Financial stress permeates households, straining relationships and eroding quality of life. For those on fixed incomes or low-wage earners, the burden can be crushing, forcing difficult trade-offs between basic necessities and other essential expenses, such as healthcare or education.

The spectre of inequality looms large.. The gap between the haves and the have-nots widens as the cost of entry to a comfortable existence becomes increasingly prohibitive for those on the lower rungs of the socioeconomic ladder. Amidst these turbulent economic currents, it can be tempting to feel overwhelmed and adrift. However, there are strategies that individuals and families can employ to weather the storm and safeguard their financial well-being.

Establishing a budget and sticking to it can provide a sense of control amidst uncertainty. By tracking expenses and identifying areas where savings can be made, individuals can better manage their finances and mitigate the impact of rising costs. Look to control your monthly costs. Many of the important items you need in life like technology, appliances and furniture can be purchased through a regulated monthly line of credit like a digital wallet. You apply once and receive a weekly amount that you can afford to spend on those essentials, which leaves your cash in your pocket for living life and taking care of the family.

In the face of soaring living costs, exploring alternative housing options such as co-living arrangements may offer a more affordable alternative to traditional home ownership or renting.

The tide of living expenses shows no signs of abating, presenting a formidable challenge for individuals and societies alike. By seeking out solutions like a digital e-wallet which controls your spending, we can chart a course towards a brighter, more inclusive future where the promise of prosperity is within reach for all.

"The cost of living isn't just measured in dollars and cents; it's the currency of sacrifices, dreams, and the moments we trade for survival."

WalletPay

WalletPay

PLAYSTATION VS XBOX CLASH OF THE

In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, two giants stand at the forefront, commanding legions of dedicated fans and pushing the boundaries of entertainment. Microsoft's Xbox Series X and Sony's PlayStation 5 have ignited a fierce rivalry, each vying for dominance in the gaming sphere. As the dust settles from their highly anticipated releases, we compare their specs, features and exclusive games.

At the heart of these gaming console behemoths is powerful hardware engineered to deliver unparalleled gaming experiences. The Xbox Series X boasts an impressive custom AMD Zen 2 processor and RDNA 2 GPU, delivering 12 teraflops of processing power. This translates to stunning 4K visuals, with the capability of reaching up to 120 frames per second for butterysmooth gameplay.

The rival PlayStation 5 is no slouch in the performance department. Armed with its custom AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2-based GPU, the PS5 offers 10.28 teraflops of computing power. While slightly lower than its Xbox counterpart, the PS5 compensates with its innovative SSD storage, drastically reducing loading times and allowing for seamless immersion in game worlds. A pivotal factor that sways gamers' loyalties often lies in the exclusive game titles each platform offers.

Xbox Series X boasts an impressive array of exclusives, including the highly anticipated "Halo Infinite," the adrenaline-pumping "Gears of War 5," and the mysterious odyssey of "Starfield." These titles, alongside the expansive library of Xbox Game Pass, firmly establish Xbox's following.

On the other hand, Sony's PlayStation 5 showcases its popularity with a captivating lineup of exclusives, solidifying its reputation as a storytelling powerhouse. From the mythic saga of "God of War: Ragnarök" to the haunting journey of "Demon's Souls" and the emotional rollercoaster of "The Last of Us," PS5 delivers a diverse range of experiences that exemplify the platform's excellence. Each exclusive title is a testament to PlayStation's commitment to crafting unforgettable narratives and immersive gameplay adventures.

But the innovation doesn't stop there. Xbox Cloud Gaming, formerly known as Project xCloud, takes gaming to the next level by allowing players to stream their favourite Xbox Game Pass titles directly to their Xbox Series X console, mobile devices, or PC. This means gamers can dive into their favourite games anytime, anywhere, without the need for extensive downloads or installations.

Whether you're at home or on the go, Xbox Cloud Gaming ensures that the gaming experience is always within reach.

Over on planet Sony, the PlayStation 5 introduced the revolutionary Dual Sense controller, leveraging haptic feedback and adaptive triggers to immerse players in games like never before. The PS5's user interface prioritises speed and accessibility, streamlining the gaming experience and empowering players to dive straight into their favourite titles. The platform’s recent introduction of the PS5 Portal, a handheld gateway to the mothership console, allows users to play their favourite games over home wifi, without a television.

In the ongoing battle of Xbox versus PlayStation, the fight for gaming supremacy rages. While both platforms offer compelling features, exclusive titles, and unmatched performance, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference and gaming priorities. Whether you're drawn to the raw power and versatility of the Xbox Series X or captivated by the immersive experiences and exclusive titles of the PlayStation 5, one thing is certain –the future of gaming has never looked brighter. So, pick your side and grab your controller... it’s game on!

Revolutionising finance

The Leasepath story

In the world of finance, inefficiencies were rampant, particularly in the process of originating new deals. It was a cumbersome, manual endeavour that left both finance companies and their customers frustrated.

The goal was simple yet ambitious: to make the process seamless, fast, and less intrusive for customers.

Leasepath embarked on its mission armed with a novel approach: integrating customer relationship management (CRM) with finance origination. Leveraging the emerging Microsoft Dynamics ecosystem, Leasepath forged ahead where others hesitated.

What set Leasepath apart was its commitment to tailor solutions to the unique needs of each finance company. While offering a standard, out-of-the-box solution, Leasepath ensures that every customer can customise the platform to fit their workflow seamlessly.

The secret lay in its advanced technology. Updates and enhancements can be integrated without disrupting customer configurations - a real game changer.

In Australia, Leasepath's collaboration with businesses under the Aspire42 umbrella marked another milestone in its journey. What began as a small project with MyMates Finance blossomed into a comprehensive partnership, transforming finance origination and back-office operations.

Chief Executive Officer, Jeffrey Bilbrey

Now the team is here again working on WalletPay, another ground-breaking business for the group.

CEO Jeff Bilbery says the “The number 1 feedback the market gives us is, 'finance can be intimidating' so we made it a user friendly digital experience.”

“Everything is behind the scenes and customers don’t feel it. It makes the process really easy. The process is really fast and less intrusive to the customer applying for credit,” he added. "We developed an entire finance origination capability on top of the CRM as if it were one solution. Microsoft came to us and said ‘Hey, no one else is doing that’ and that’s because we have to build everything from scratch”.

“The fact is that we now have an award winning solution for finance originations,” says Jeff.

Over the years, Leasepath built out the entire back office, to collect loan or lease payments, do customer service, send invoices. When Leasepath forge a new client relationship, the first is always a discovery phase.

Asking about the business, about the financial products offered, business partners, their ecosystem.

“That entire process allows us to ask the questions about where the configuration is in our system and how we will do the configuration,” says Jeff.”

“In the US just last year, we won the best award in our industry, which is not an award for us, but for our customers. The largest industry organisation in the US gives out one annual award to one company that wins what’s called the technology finance award. Our customer won that award last year for the best new origination platform.”

“For us, the great thing is that many customers are truly self sufficient and can handle the system themselves, because it’s so configurable that they don’t need to do any coding changes. One of the marks of success is when the customers don’t need us anymore but are just using the software!” Jeff concluded.

Business finance is our business.

In The Fast Lane to Fame!

What started as a childhood fascination with motorsport, fuelled by a family legacy of racing enthusiasts, is now a thrilling reality for young motorhead, Lucy Sidwell. In an exclusive conversation, SoWot attempts to find what drives Lucy’s passion for burning rubber on the tracks.

Q: Hi Lucy, Motorsport must take up a lot of your time, but what do you do between seasons?

A: Well, right now, I'm balancing the thrill of Hyundai Excel's Lanotec state series racing with the challenges of tackling my VCE studies in year 11, so my life can get pretty packed with things to do.

Q: What inspired you to start racing?

A: It all began with a spark ignited by my dad, a lifelong racing enthusiast. He introduced me to the heart-pounding world of go-karting, and I loved everything about it, from the huge crowd of people to the adrenaline pumping races. He even made me my own little electric one when I was about 3 years old, and I would race it around the basketball courts nearby, so I was always around motorsport.

Q: How did you start your racing journey?

A: I started around the end of 2019, where I raced go-karts for a few years. Then, a good friend of ours offered me an opportunity to race Formula Vee. I leaped at that chance and now, here I am, steering my own Hyundai Excel, chasing dreams on the track for the past three months.

"My focus right now is on seizing every opportunity and clinching a top ten finish this year."

Q: So, what is Formula Vee?

A: Well, for starters it's a super fun class! The cars are open wheel, single seaters that use a 1600cc Volkswagen engine. It's more cost-friendly compared to other classes like formula Ford, but the racing is super competitive. I learned lots during my time in that class and had a bunch of fun, I mean, you can go nearly 200klm/ph on some of the fatser tracks

Lucy Sidwell @Sidwell_32

Q: After going from go-karting to Hyundai racing, do you plan to continue up the ranks towards the big V8s, or do you have another goal in mind?

A: While the dream of reaching Supercars is always in the back of my mind, my focus right now is on seizing every opportunity and clinching a top ten finish this year. Beyond that, whether I'm behind the wheel or working behind the scenes, I'm excited to see where this journey takes me, one lap at a time.

Q: What obstacles do you face in your career, and how do you handle them?

A: In my career, especially in go-karting, I've encountered gender biases that made it challenging to be taken seriously as a female racer. There were times when my opinions and thoughts were overlooked, and I'm still facing some of those challenges today. However, I try to just let it go. They can think what they want, I’m here to do my job and put forward on the track. That’s where I do my talking.

Q: I’m sure it’s easier to do that knowing your father is behind you as your manager, right?

A: Having my dad as my manager is like having a trusted copilot on this wild ride. Sure, we face our fair share of ups and downs, but knowing he's always in my corner makes all the difference. Sharing this journey with my family is a blessing I wouldn't trade for anything.

Q: What kind of sponsorship opportunities have you had with your career?

A: I've had numerous people approach me, curious about the large, red ‘Snaffle’ logo across the side of my car, and what it represents. It's been incredibly rewarding to share their mission and purpose with others. The level of interest and engagement about their online store has been truly remarkable.

Q: Where can fans follow your progress?

A: For all the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses, hop on over to my Instagram (@Sidwell_32). And don't forget to catch the action of the Lanotec state series on Blend Line TV during race weekends.

Supporting the roof of the world

Home to eight of the world’s top ten mountains, the landlocked Asian country of Nepal has a real claim to being on top of the world; geographically at least. When it comes to GDP, per capita income or levels of education, its position on the world ladder leaves a lot more to be desired.

Life can be challenging for the inhabitants of a country that produced the Sherpas and the Gurkhas, and those challenges were magnified in 2015 when the country was hit by an earthquake that flattened villages and left hundreds of thousands of Nepalis homeless.

It was in the aftermath of this event that two of the founders of The Nepal Initiative met. Suman Khadka is a dedicated to improving the social and economic condition of poor, needy people and he was the man on the ground when Paul Winslow accompanied a friend who had raised funds to provide food for those hit hardest by the earthquake.

On the back of a formative experience delivering food to remote areas the pair stayed in touch.

James Dauman first visited Nepal in 2010 and has been involved in several charitable initiatives since then, from libraries to education projects. James and Paul had originally met on a soccer pitch in Bali and as they looked at ways to offer more support to the country it made sense to join forces, and thus The Nepal Initiative was born with a mission: “To bring positive transformation in the lives of Nepalese people and enhance the country through projects aimed at improving health, education, environment and other basic requirements.”

The Nepal Initiative founders James and Charlotte Dauman (with Leila Dauman) and Hannah Badi.

In the intervening years The Nepal Initiative, now complemented with James’s wife Charlotte Dauman, has raised tens of thousands of dollars in Australia, Singapore, UK and the UAE towards various initiatives including building schools and supporting education initiatives.

Just as importantly, it has forged links with organisations in Nepal, such as Lighthouse Foundation Nepal (LHFN) (www. lhfn.org.np) and Himalayan Entrepreneur Resources to support their work. It is through the latter two organisations that The Nepal Initiative has found a specific focus for its current fundraising activities.

Hannah Badi is the founder of Himalayan Entrepreneur Resources and her story is extraordinary. She is a child of the Badi community, the lowest tier of the ‘untouchables’, the bottom Nepal’s caste system. Historically the Badi community made ends meet as travelling entertainers, but as TV and radio became prevalent this avenue gradually closed. Now, its primary business is prostitution.

The birth of a female is welcomed by a family in the Badi community as a future breadwinner. Upon reaching puberty, they are expected to start working as a prostitute and many are trafficked against their will to brothels in India and within Nepal itself. They are encouraged not to marry as this would end their ability to bring money into the family. It is a vicious circle that too many cannot see a way of breaking.

Thankfully, help is at hand in the form of organisations like LHFN, which rescues kids from this life and show them another way through education and opportunity. Hannah Badi is one of those lucky people, the first girl rescued by LHFN, and is now dedicated to returning the goodwill through her own charitable initiatives. Find out more about Hannah’s story at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnmueFFrsjM

The Nepal Initiative now focuses all its fundraising on funding the housing, education, health and food for the children studying in Kathmandu with LHFN and offering them a future that would otherwise have been inconceivable, whilst also investigating what opportunities may come after school to ensure they can make the most of that future.

For more information on The Nepal Initiative see www.thenepalinitiative.com.