Good Gabble Subscriptions Just Keep On Giving

* as published in October Good Gabble Newzine

 Making A Difference To Aussie Mick And His Koala Mates

 

 In 1973, Jean Starr from Port Macquarie became concerned at the heavy destruction of the habitat and began to care for Koala's she found sick and injured within the township. Other townsfolk joined her mission and the Port Macquarie Koala Preservation Society was founded. In 1986, this was changed to the Koala Preservation Society of NSW Inc.

  In 1975 a small Koala hospital was built at the Macquarie Nature Reserve site. Due to the demand of Koala patients a bigger hospital was soon required, being built in 1986. In 1990 the John Williamson wing was added. This was named after the Australian country singer who was so touched with the plight of the koala that he wrote the song  “Goodbye Blinky Bill”, with money from the sales of the record building the wing, a treatment ward, store rooms and an office.

    Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release are the 3R's on the minds of those who work at the Koala Hospital at Port Macquarie. Each year 200 – 300 Koala's find themselves resting in the peace and quiet of the John Williamson wing under the tender loving care of staff and volunteers. All this would not be possible without the sponsorship and donations of the community.

  Last month Good Gabble spent a day at the animal hospital and with the help of our subscribers has adopted Aussie Mick, an adorable white Koala.

   Aussie Mick is a mature 10 – 12 year old male Koala who first came to the hospital in August 2007 through a concerned police officer. When he arrived at the Koala Hospital staff found that he was suffering from the ocular form of chlamydial infection, a bacterium that can affect both the eyes and then urogenital tract of koalas.

   Named after the police offer who found him Mick is an angelic white Koala with a black nose, brown tips on his ears, brownish/grey tips on all his toes and soft brownish black pads on his feet. His coat has a waxy soft texture, unusual for a Koala, and is very thick. Although beautiful to touch and look at he certainly does not differ from any other male Koala were smell is concerned, having a strong pungent scent gland mixed with that lovely eucalypt aroma.

  When first admitted to the Koala Hospital both of Aussie Micks eyes were so bad that there was overgrowth of proliferative tissue that had actually covered both eyes. Surprisingly his body condition was very good so he had still been able to find food and remain as high in the trees as possible to prevent attack from wild dogs or dingos. Blinded by chlamydial infection, starvation and attack are the death of many of these Koalas.

  Once at the hospital Mick was placed in a high security enclosure to protect him and treated twice a day with antibiotic eye ointments. Mick then underwent eye surgery were the proliferative tissue from both eyes were removed. The transformation was immediate and it was discovered that Mick had the most beautiful pale yellow eyes, quiet different from the dark brown ones that normal Koalas have and very different to the red eyes of an albino.

   Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is open daily to the public free of charge. There is a daily tour at 3.00pm each day during which you can see Koalas being fed. We found this an amazing experience with our tour guide being very friendly, knowledgeable and more than willing to answer our questions. Our visit really opened our eyes to the plight of this native animal that is so very much taken for granted.

   For as little as $40 per year Good Gabble has been able to adopt Aussie Mick and help with his ongoing rehabilitation and care, and that of other Koalas. With our adoption we  received a certificate which we will continue to display with pride on behalf of all our subscribers. We also received a package of information on the care of Aussie Mick, a educational booklet on Koalas, a copy of the Koala Hospital Newsletter 'Gum tips', and stickers announcing our support. We will continue to receive updates on the health of Aussie Mick and the happenings at the hospital and will report this back to our readers as it arrives

  Without our subscribers this adoption would not have been possible. When you subscribe to Good Gabble you are doing more than supporting and receiving a Newzine that talks of positivity and hope, you are becoming part of a community that aims to make a change to the lives of many. As we travel we will continue to donate, sponsor and help as many organisations and individuals that we can.

 
  Further information on the Koala Hospital can be found at: www.koalahospital.org.au

article : Jennifer Deaves

Fresh air, fitness and a lot of fun

Centenary Tower Mt Gambier S.A

  0n 27 April 1904 Sir Samuel Way official opened Centenary Tower which is built on the highest point of Mt Gambier South Australia, 190 metres above sea level. Many years later, on 26 September 2010, the Good Gabble crew conquered the mountain to stand beside the tower and gaze at the amazing view.

   The wind blew, chilling the bones and the grey clouds rolled in but the sun teased us with a ray of hope. As we left the car park we did not have the idea of conquering a steep climb in our mind, instead we had decided to take the dog for a walk along the bush path that runs below the tower enjoying a little piece of nature. It was too rough to take the pram and at only three years of age we were sure little Celeste would not be able to manage the climb and I was definitely not going to carry her. How wrong we were. Our little trooper just kept going and going.

  Our walk started of at a gentle pace as we smelt the wild flowers, studied the trees and discovered bugs. We laughed, listened and shared as we took in the fresh air and the relaxing feel the bush has to offer. As the road turned the bend we looked up in awe at what lay ahead of us. If there is a road to heaven then this was it, all the way to the tip of the clouds. As I turned ready to call defeat, being sure Celeste would not manage the climb, I felt a little hand grab mine and a voice call out with a giggle "come on mum".

Wildflowers

  Off she went. Up the path at full speed with me shaking my head wondering how I was going to do it. With the kids in front leading the way, the climb getting steeper as we went along and the laughter between us making walking harder, Celeste never missed a beat. When the going got tough she took my hand and 'helped mum' achieve the climb. At last the top we thought as we had a rest with a bottle of water and an amazing view. Ha! how wrong we were. There in front of us was the tower......way, way, way up there.......peaking out of the clouds. The song Stairway To Heaven rang through my mind as I peered at the many stairs that lead upward.

No Joke!

The stairway to heaven

A short break in mum's arms

  No rest for the wicked, off went Celeste, one step after the other with a goal in her mind. The steps took every bit of energy she had as her knees lifted to her chin to make the step up. Oh the enthusiasm of the young! We stopped occasionally, more for mum, and at one stage she did weaken and mum carried her a short distance but then off she went again. She was such a trooper that a stamp on the hand from the tour guide at the tower, an icy pole ice block and a lot of cuddles and praise had a smile across her face that was priceless.  And of course Samantha was there with her camera to record the event.

Our super trooper

  So how did we all feel at the end. Invigorated and alive but tired and aching. It is amazing how a bit of fresh air, fitness and fun can brighten your day. We ended our afternoon with fresh vegetables and apple on the bbq back at the caravan park.

   To be amongst family and to share the little things in life is one of the biggest pleasures we can have. To achieve a small goal, even if it was not initially in our mind, can build such a sense of self achievement and self worth and leave you glowing for days afterward. As natural learning home schoolers we find these are the events that we learn the most from. We may not realise it at the time but the learning stays with us and is recalled for many years afterwards. Today we not only learnt about nature, our surroundings, Australian history and did some reading but we learnt a lot about ourselves, our health, our ability and what is important to us.

Plaque of commemoration situated on side of the tower

  What they were thinking back in 1900 when they decided to build a tower on the mountain to commemorate the centenary of the sighting and naming of Mount Shank and Gambier is beyond me. I thought of those poor drought horses and men who worked to build the tower which stands almost 10 metres high and is set on a cement foundation with 60cm thick walls.  The red dolomite was collected from the local area and a team of horses carted it to the summit. It would not of been as it was today. The bush would have been denser and the terrain rougher. Today the steep winding staircase of the tower can be climbed for a small fee and is used to spot fires in the summer months. I am sure the view would be spectacular but I do wonder how many people have the energy to climb the staircase once they reach it. We surely didn't....... a goal to be achieved another day.

Sundial ( at Centenary Tower )

Valley Lake Mount Gambier

Cobdogla S.A. - Where smiles are plenty and all are welcome

* As published in issue 8 September Good Gabble Newzine

The Road To Positivity

Cobdogla S.A. - Where smiles are plenty and all are welcome.

   Cobdogla is a small country town that lies 219km north-east of Adelaide. An Aboriginal word meaning "land of plenty" it has a fascinating history. Much of the land  - from west of Overland Corner right through into New South Wales - was taken up under a pastoral lease in 1846 by John Chambers, who raised purebred horses for the police and military.

  Within a short time Overland Corner, on Cobdogla Station, became an important camping place for other overlanders and their cattle. Drovers would rest their stock and let them graze on the extensive and lush river flats before continuing the journey to Adelaide. This welcome restful feeling still hangs over the town of 'Cobby' today.

   We enjoyed our stay at Cobdogla Station Caravan park which is on the grounds of the original Cobdogla Station, owned by John Chambers and his brother James, who also owned other nearby stations.

 Today the caravan park is situated on 30 acres of land nestled on the backwaters adjacent to  the Murray River.  It is very picturesque with plenty to do and see.

   The last surviving relic of the Cobdogla Station homestead complex can be seen within the caravan park. Preserved by the Barmera Branch of National Trust SA the chimney signifies  the land that was taken up in by John Chambers, who was granted an occupational licence, “ on the River Murray and Lake Bonney”, before official surveys had been made. The extent of the run took in all the land contained within the Great Southern Bend of the Murray   between Overland Corner and the state border of New South Wales.  Chambers never resided on the land but installed James Trussel as the manager who served until 1895.

The Cobdogla run became noted for its fine horses which were raised from bloodstock imported by James Chambers. These horses were used by John McDouall Stuart on his Trans-Continental  Expedition in 1861 and in the subsequent construction of the Overland telegraph line to Darwin. They were also the progenitors of the South Australian Police Greys.

Over the years portions of the property were transferred to other landholders, including the Chaffey Brothers Irrigation settlement of Renmark.  The station was completely resumed in 1910 for the Cobdogla irrigation scheme.

  The last station homestead was situated near the northern boundary of the present caravan park and was demolished after the 1956 flood.

  The feeling within the town of Cobdogla is that of  a hearty welcome.  At all times we were made feel one of the family – from my initial contact with Cindy at the caravan park via telephone to the warm welcome upon arrival, right down to the day of departure, there was nothing but a smile and a friendly chat.

  The park currently has 8 permanent residence with many others choosing to have their  vans situated on the premises for annual use. Many other families visit year after year using the venue as their annual getaway.  The locals who reside permanently within the park are always ready for a chat and love nothing better to share their park experience and show you around.

  There was plenty to do on our stay with the park keeping the 'Station' feel about it. Within the park you will find a pony, sheep, alpacas, chickens, roosters, geese, emus and a kangaroo. The children enjoyed being introduced to the animals, hand feeding the alpacas and patting the chickens.  There are kayaks to hire in the warmer months and a playground to explore. Each afternoon a walk down to the lake  saw us  sit on the pontoon and watch the sun set as the swans and their signets bobbed freely amongst the trees.

Our experience at Cobdogla did not start and finish at the caravan park. A visit to the Cobby Trading Post General store, which is open 7 days, lead to the opening of a door of friendliness and warmth. We were yet again welcomed with a smile a mile long and a chatty disposition. Whilst in the store waiting for our order it was noted that this relationship was carried through to everyone who entered, local or visitor. Even better was that the hot chips, pie and coffee were a warm welcome on a cold day and the best we have had in a long time, proving that service with a smile does make your meal taste better.

  Cobdogla is a town which oozes positivity and friendliness. If you are ever in the area drop in and spend a day or two. A town that could be easily bypassed Cobby is a credit to itself.

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A gift that touched the heart

    Some Good Gabble readers may be aware that at the end of July I celebrated a birthday. At 40+ this is really no big event but a day that I spent quietly with my children who spoilt me rotten. My day was made even more special by all the messages I received from Good Gabble readers and Facebook friends. Messages of well wishes and love came through my computer throughout the day touching my heart. To all I say thank you. You made my day special and one that I will always remember. You also gave me hope and showed me why Good Gabble Newzine is needed and helped me focus on the reason we are here. With these well wishes I saw a community that is growing and spreading the positivity and love that this world needs. This community is what Good Gabble is all about.You are the inspiration and hope that keeps us going.

   A week ago I received a card  that I was not expecting. This card came from a Good Gabble reader Kelly Azuma who has touched my heart in many ways since we met, she is truly an inspirational lady. It touched my heart in such a way that I felt a need to share it with all.

  The card Kelly sent was a lovely fun loving heart warming card with the quote "The most wasted of all days is that during which one has not laughed" Nicolas De Chamfort - simple, true and beautiful. Within the card Kelly had written me a message letting me know how much I mean to her, as she does to me. What touched me the most was the thought and time that had been put into this unexpected gift. Within the card were two coupons entitling me to a free coffee of my choice. Kelly had turned these coupons into small pockets which she had decorated with stickers. Within each pocket she had place enough money to cover a cup of coffee. Kelly, and most Good Gabble readers, would know I have a love ( or addiction as my kids say ) to coffee, this leading to me reviewing cafes as I travel. This gift was personal and touched my heart.

  Thank you Kelly, your friendship is cherished. You have shown all that such a simple gesture and a little of ones time and thought can touch another, making them smile and feel loved. I have shared my gift and story with many causing them to smile and spread the positivity.

A gift that touched the heart

Enjoying my coffee - thank you Kelly

Rows Upon Rows Of Strawberries

 


  There is something fulfilling and relaxing about walking down rows and rows of strawberries in a hot house. The smell tantalises your nose. The luscious red colour dances from the vines calling the taste buds.

  A visit to Ricardoe's Tomato's and Strawberries had us leaving with one and a half kilo's of strawberries picked by our own hands and a lot of photography. Suitable for the whole family Ricardoe's provides a bucket and a pair of scissors which creates an experience the kids will be talking about days later. It was nice to see families enjoying a day out together sharing a simple activity that is not only healthy for the body but also the mind.

   Ricardoe's boasts 5 varieties of strawberries that are grown using state of the art technology. With over 30'000 plants and 2 acres of greenhouses Ricardoe's pride themselves as being environmentally friendly. They also grow 8 varieties of tomatoes.

  The taste of Ricardoe's Strawberries is amazing. Luscious juicy and sweet, just the way nature intended. We purchased some of the gourmet chocolate dipping sauce from the Cafe Red that is on the premises and although this did take away the healthy aspect of our visit was absolutely divine and a great treat. Cafe Red not only provides visitors with the chance to purchase fresh produce, jams, chutneys and souvenirs but enhances the relaxed atmosphere with a chance to sit and enjoy a coffee, cake or meal.

  We enjoyed working our way along the rows and rows of strawberries, discussing how they are grown, the humidity factor and the experience. The plants are grown at various heights suitable for the young child and adult so there is no need to bend, great for the elderly.

  Entry to Ricardoe's is free with you only paying for what you pick or purchase at the Cafe. Situated 10 mins from the town centre of Port Macquarie NSW it is easy to find. We filled in a morning but your time at Ricardoe's can be as long or short as you wish to make it. Free guided farm tours are held 11am Monday to Friday.

  Voted Port Macquarie's 'Best Tourist Attraction', producing award winning preserve's and recommended by TV's Getaway we also highly recommend a visit to Ricardoe's.

  After leaving Ricardoe's we headed back toward town to the Sunday markets to pick up more local fresh produce and homemade cakes.

 

 

When The Old Becomes The New - Bordertown South Australia

The Road To Positivity

When The Old Becomes The New  - Bordertown South Australia

( as published in Good Gabble Newzine August 2010 )

  Today we live in a throw away world. As soon as we buy a piece of technology something better has replaced it so we throw it out and update. If something breaks we throw it out. When a building becomes outdated or no longer in use we knock it down, dump it to landfill and build another. 

  This was not the case in Bordertown South Australia in 1999 when the old police station was given a new lease of life as the Visitors Information Centre and Morning Loaf Bakery.

  You may wonder what is so unusual about taking an old building and using it for a different purpose. In Bordertown it is all about the way you do it.

  Standing in Tolmer Park looking across at the doorway of the Visitors Information Centre you look at what seems an ordinary modern building that is aesthetically pleasing, blending with the surrounding environment. It is not until you are inside and ‘really looking’ that you see how one piece of architecture blends into another.

  Chris Mackerel, of the Visitors Information Centre, soon pointed out that the centre I was standing in was the old police station that was closed in 1964. As she took me through the door into the bakery she suggested I turn around. It was only then I saw something that I had overlooked many times. In front of me was the entrance to the old police station in its original condition. The penny dropped, so to say, and I now looked at the large building from a different perspective. This was not two business's in one building but two buildings in one. A very old, standard built government building had been left as part of history but given a new lease of life.

Inside Morning Loaf Bakery - internal entry into Visitors Information Centre

  

  There was no need for landfill when developing the larger building as the old police station was left complete, with the new being built around it. Chris pointed out that the front counter of the information centre was the lounge room of the police house and that the bathroom is still used as the bathroom.

   When the police station closed a new, more modern building was erected across the road. The old police station was then used as housing for police officers until 1999. In 2000 the new building was officially opened as a bakery and visitors information centre. The bakery is privately owned with the visitors information centre being administered by council.

  Tolmer park, named after police inspector Alexander Tolmer who was in charge of the gold escorts from the Victorian Goldfields to Adelaide, has also been cleverly developed considering all aspects of the environment. A joint venture between local government, private enterprise and state government, the old police cells have been converted to the public toilets and recycled natural timber has been used for tables and chairs.

Old jail cells converted to public toilets

  Throughout the park old wares and bric-a-brac are given a new lease of life as they become pieces of artwork within the environment. The stream that runs through the land has been left and utilised adding appeal to the park. A bridge was built to allow access from a carpark to the information centre. Ducks happily swim about, as visitors enjoy the well needed break sitting on the provided bench seats.

 Bordertown is a town that seems to pride itself on history and its environment, caring for the old, looking after the new and protecting what they have. When the new highway was put through and a large hole was left in the ground, a dam was constructed to form a recreation lake. The Institute hall, built in 1909 was redeveloped in 1982 to form the library and theatre with the seats in the theatre being the original seats from Adelaide's Majestic Theatre. Historic Clayton Farm, 3 kms out of town, is the home of the Bordertown and District Agricultural Museum. Bordertown is also famous as the birthplace of Bob Hawke, former Australian Prime Minister. A bust of Bob Hawke can be seen outside the council offices. Venture indoors and you can view the Bob Hawke gallery.

  If ever in Bordertown I recommend you stop and look around at a town where everything old soon becomes new again.

article Jennifer Deaves

Bob Hawke - Former Australian Prime Minister

A Little Birdie Told Me So!

   Over the last few weeks we have been staying at Lake Bonney Caravan park, spending our days glancing across at the lake, watching the mist roll in of a morning and the sun set of an evening. The nights have been cool  and ,except for a few wet days, the days has been pleasant.

  As we sit and work, lolling our days writing articles, meeting people and making new friends, I have had the pleasure of a conversation with a newly made friend of the feathered variety. Each day we are visited, at no particular time and often on numerous occasions, by a beautiful wild bird who is never shy at coming forward. Each day he sits next to me and listens to what I have to say as I speak softly, asking his opinion on the daily happenings. He is willing to take bread and offerings out of my hand, flying off and returning when the supply runs dry. He sits upon the edge of the dogs water and happily drinks having not a care in the world. Of a morning I lay in bed and listen as he sings me his chorus whilst standing on the tent rope. I am never sure if this is a call of  "get up you lazy bugger I want to eat" or a call meant to calm me and help me start my day. Either way I have been pleased to have shared two weeks with my feathered friend and feel honoured to have been shown trust and companionship.

   His friendship has been one that will stay in all of our minds for a long time to come and has shown us that it is the little things in life that count.........even the feathered ones.