Liverpool Plains #frontstepsproject 2020 | Local service

Liverpool Plains #frontstepsproject 2020

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25.01.2022 CELEBRATING 60 YEARS Spend 5 minutes with the Giandomenicos and even with social-distancing in place, youll feel like youve known them all your life. Their passion for plants, good food, books online and hardcopy- laughter and most of all their family is obvious, as is their generous spirit.... Almost half a century ago, Cecilia and Rocco Giandomenico swapped a 15ft Sydney frontage for 1206 acres on the Liverpool Plains. It was an unusual decision for the times, but we felt it would offer a better way of life for our children, and it certainly did, said the spritely Cecilia. Some years later, the duo moved onto acreage in Quirindi, and now in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic they feel its the best and safest place they could possibly be. Because of our ages 79 and 83 we are self-isolating, however, being on 5 acres we certainly dont feel shut in or cut-off. Rocco said he believes a country town is certainly a good place to be in the midst of a pandemic and especially in a friendly town like Quirindi. We feel very blessed that we have friends who shop for us and leave the shopping at the end of our driveway, Dr Saad does video conference and we are able to keep contact with all our friends and family through various technology applications such as Zoom and FaceTime and Instagram, said Rocco who added he was exceptionally grateful for the technology - especially when checking on his family in Italys worst area of the virus. Of course we miss having close contact with our children and with our grandchildren (we have 13 ) and miss being able to play with them and have them visit (our toy room is very empty without them) but we are grateful that we can have interaction via the various technologies, added a tech savvy Cecilia. This year, is a magic year for the couple who celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary. The duo and their families were looking forward to celebrating their anniversary on a cruise on the Majestic Princess. Although the cruise is booked for October, given the current worldwide pandemic and health regulations at this stage we are saying were not going even if it reopens, continued Cecilia. They are philosophical about the current Self Isolation guidelines. We can already see the positive outcomes on flattening the curve and while none of us know how long this will last, we feel blessed to live in a small town like Quirindi with a good community spirit, said Cecilia, who added If we do the right thing, and look out for each other we will weather the storm until the rainbow comes out again, so ring your neighbours and friends check they are okay and keep a smile on your face. Im giving this dynamic duo a massive cheer for their 60 years and I encourage you all to send them a huge hip-hip-horray post on this page as well! Thank you Cecilia and Rocco for inspiration. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography

24.01.2022 BIG CRAZY LOVE As a classically trained musician and an avid equestrian, Melissa Lowe has reached international success designing the music and choreography for dressage clients and their horses. I was in the process of designing and creating for the Australian team for the Tokyo Olympics, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, said Melissa who added All of my business is competition based so when lockdown happened my business came to a total standstill pretty much overnight....Continue reading

24.01.2022 HAPPY MOTHERS DAY Sharna Hughes has a fulfilled life, with her four beautiful children, plus working and studying. As an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse working casually between Eloura nursing home and Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital, Sharna has been spending some of her COVID-19 isolation time studying and submitting assignments through UNE Armidale as she works towards being a Registered Nurse (Bachelor of Nursing)....Continue reading

23.01.2022 ALWAYS GREAT CONVERSATION Almost 30 years ago Les Shaw completely cut off three of his fingers and thumb on his left hand with a docking saw. I must have gone into shock, as my family picked up my hand and took me to the hospital and I dont remember feeling any pain, said Les who added he was amazed by the skill of the doctors to stitch his hand back on. And, while thats a gruesome story, nothing, but kindness radiates from the joyful nearly 80-year-old Les, who still wal...Continue reading

23.01.2022 MADE WITH LOVE The Challenger family tree comprises a long line of community focussed families, including, Mannions, Sullings and Newcombes, so when the pandemic hit, the Challengers dug-deep and made a commitment to keep their business doors open to the public. We are doing our best as a family to keep the energy and fun going in Quirindi through our business, said Kerry, who runs the Tea and Coffee House with the assistance of her husband Chris, and their three childre...Continue reading

23.01.2022 MY COUNTRY DOROTHEA MACKELLAR The love of field and coppice Of green and shaded lanes, Of ordered woods and gardens Is running in your veins.... Strong love of grey-blue distance, Brown streams and soft, dim skies I know, but cannot share it, My love is otherwise. I love a sunburnt country, A land of sweeping plains, Of ragged mountain ranges, Of droughts and flooding rains. I love her far horizons, I love her jewel-sea, Her beauty and her terror The wide brown land for me! The stark white ring-barked forests, All tragic to the moon, The sapphire-misted mountains, The hot gold hush of noon, Green tangle of the brushes Where lithe lianas coil, And orchids deck the tree-tops, And ferns the warm dark soil. Core of my heart, my country! Her pitiless blue sky, When, sick at heart, around us We see the cattle die But then the grey clouds gather, And we can bless again The drumming of an army, The steady soaking rain. Core of my heart, my country! Land of the rainbow gold, For flood and fire and famine She pays us back threefold. Over the thirsty paddocks, Watch, after many days, The filmy veil of greenness That thickens as we gaze ... An opal-hearted country, A wilful, lavish land All you who have not loved her, You will not understand though Earth holds many splendours, Wherever I may die, I know to what brown country My homing thoughts will fly. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography Dorothea said it best... how fortunate we are in the Liverpool Plains region to have all this and more at our front door! As COVID-19 Health Restrictions lift to maximum 10 people outside in a public gathering - not at a private home - you can head outdoors with your loved ones and soak up some of the astounding natural beauty of our region.

23.01.2022 COUNTRY BRED Joel and Sam Taylor grew up on the land and appreciate every waking moment they get to spend on it. Their home is full of country commotion and action and the down to earth duo, like it that way. Joel is a full time shearer and when hes not shearing hes fencing. He brings home the bread and butter and Im very grateful and proud that he is classed as an essential worker in this time of unknown, said Sam, herself a banking professional. I work at the Commo...nwealth Bank in Quirindi and Im also grateful to be part of the essential service team. Their family is complete with daughters Maddison, nearly 9 and Charlotte, nearly 5, plus a plethora or horses, dogs and animals of all shapes and sizes. We are just a little family of country bred kids. Both Joel and I are from cattle/horse breeding families and we are truly blessed to live where we do and to have been brought up the way we have - our aim is to give the same opportunities to our girls. The last month in Australia has been an unusual and unsettling journey for all of us as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to swathe its way across the globe. Its been interesting to help the girls school from home and for us to work as well as all try to abide by the health laws, but, like everyone, we are doing our best for the greater good, continued Sam. If anything, the Taylor family say theyre really enjoying being able to be home as a family and appreciate the green grass and the water after suffering in the horrific drought. We literally have water...4 months ago we were paying for every drop of water, that included water for the house and water for all the livestock and pets, so the rain has been a relief and gives us the strength to face the pandemic. Its the small things the family enjoy; time together, their horses, animals and country way of life. There are so many unknowns around this pandemic for Australia, but, after being effected greatly by the severity of the drought, we know we are an extremely resilient country, continued Sam. A man of few words, Joel summed upI think, in these times people appreciate the small things, and we dont take for granted what we have, as we could be a lot worse off we have family, work, community, water and our health, we are still the lucky country. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography See more

22.01.2022 FATHER VIC St. Brigid’s Catholic Church, Parish Priest: Father Vic Ignacio, has been a member of the Quirindi community for some years now and was delighted when last year, he became a Citizen of Australia. I have been celebrating Mass every-day, offering prayers for people especially the sick and those who are infected by this virus, said Father Vic, when he nominated to be part of the LP #frontstepsproject.... Father Vic, who is cheerful and enjoys the local community said he hopes the positive reports on reduced COVID-19 cases will see restrictions on the number of people permitted in a gathering continue to rise with social distancing in place. We commenced Mass for 10 people on Saturday. Always enjoying a joke, Father Vic addedWe are using Holy Sanitiser instead of Holy Water at the moment. Father Vic, said he’s happy to have started to celebrate Mass in public again and hopes that things will return closer to normal. Even if we have problems in our society and our world today, I think we need the consolation of the Lord and that’s what I doI’m sure the Lord will continue to guide us through this time. Father Vic, who holds 6 services over a weekend, three on Saturday and three on Sunday, attending the areas he is Parish Priest for - Willow Tree, Werris Creek and Quirindi for services, says he lives by the saying Sometimes it is better to be kind than to be right. #frontstepsproject @sallyaldenphotography Thanks Father Vic for being part of the project, and for the work you do assisting those of faith while not something I follow I always enjoy having a chat with you and greatly appreciate you sharing your story with our community.

22.01.2022 THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX The Goodwin family are embracing technology and time as part of their self-isolation. We are taking on new hobbies for ourselves and our kids. There are how to videos for everything online these days from drawing to sewing, Lego ideas and how to do trick shots with a soccer ball, said Tracy, Mum of Jack and Ella-Rose and wife of Dav - who is the Merchandise Manager at Pursehouse Rural in Quirindi. I work at the local newspaper, the Quirindi Advoc...ate, and Im able to work from home, continued Tracy. At the time of this LP frontsteppers going online the independently owned Quirindi Advocate had become a temporary victim of the pandemic with Fairfax announcing they were not able to print the paper - in the interim - due to a loss in advertising revenue making it unviable to print smaller publications - including those like the Advocate that commission Fairfax to do their printing. The local paper has since released a statement indicating they will be embracing online technology including social media, until a decision was made on the future of their printing. Jack, who, like his little sister Ella-Rose is a soccer fan is in his final year at the local Primary School. Jack was ecstatic earlier this year when he was announced in a well-deserved leadership role as a K-2 officer and is missing his leadership duties as well as his friends as he and Ella-Rose are Schooling from home' as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ella-Rose, who is also sporty and in Year 1 at the same local school as her brother is very social and bubbly and is missing her friends at this time. Both are desperately missing soccer as is Dav. Weve come to realise how much sport means to us when weve suddenly got all weekend at home and no sports to go to, continued Tracy. The family have been embracing self-isolation by playing games like UNO, cooking slices and scones, playing with Chewy and Luna (their adorable dogs) and going to the oval for a run. The kids grandparents all live out of town and are missing us especially as its holidays now and they usually either visit to babysit or Jack and Ella-Rose go to them for a mini getaway. While the rains across the region mean Dav is busy at work, the family are enjoying their time together and like to think outside the box when it comes to daily activities and learning new things. We take each day as it comes, try not to watch too much news, and we think of the big get together with friends and family well all have once this is over, concluded Dav. Thank you to the Goodwin family for being part of this project bringing joy and happiness to people across the region I cant wait to hear more about all the things you are learning. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography See more

21.01.2022 PASSION FOR THE DEVINE AND DELICIOUS Beth Dugan hails from a family of chefs and amazing cooks and says a flair for cooking is in her blood. I wanted to be a chef for as long as I can remember. My Dad is a chef and hes my greatest inspiration. I was originally from Walcha, trained to be a chef in Albury before moving to Walgett and now here to Quirindi....Continue reading

21.01.2022 WHAT A YEAR Sarah from Quirindi - and Jamie - who grew up in Gunnedah - met in Tamworth in 2016. At the time Jamie was a mustering pilot in the Northern Territory and Sarah was running her successful mobile GO GO ESPRESSO - coffee van business in Quirindi....Continue reading

20.01.2022 FROM 'FONZIES' WITH GRATITUDE Jason Chen grew up in the beautiful, tropical Fijian Islands, in the Capital - Suva City, before heading to Australia to study a Bachelor of Commerce in Sydney - where he met his wife, Sylvia. Most people are surprised when I say I grew up in Fiji, while my family background is Chinese, Im Fijian and my parents still live in Fiji. The girls and I cant wait to visit again once the pandemic and restrictions have lifted, said Jason, who added ...Continue reading

20.01.2022 FUN AT THE FOGARTY'S This week, Lou and Michael who moved to Quirindi in 2012 - celebrated their 9th wedding anniversary, and had a wonderful time surrounded by their four fabulous children at the family home they purchased in Quirindi 2.5 years ago. The family of six, includes: Oscar is 9 in June and in Year 3. Liam turned 5 in January and is in Kindergarten. Bonnie turns 3 in July, and Thomas is 1....Continue reading

19.01.2022 FATHER VIC St. Brigids Catholic Church, Parish Priest: Father Vic Ignacio, has been a member of the Quirindi community for some years now and was delighted when last year, he became a Citizen of Australia. I have been celebrating Mass every-day, offering prayers for people especially the sick and those who are infected by this virus, said Father Vic, when he nominated to be part of the LP #frontstepsproject.... Father Vic, who is cheerful and enjoys the local community said he hopes the positive reports on reduced COVID-19 cases will see restrictions on the number of people permitted in a gathering continue to rise with social distancing in place. We commenced Mass for 10 people on Saturday. Always enjoying a joke, Father Vic addedWe are using Holy Sanitiser instead of Holy Water at the moment. Father Vic, said hes happy to have started to celebrate Mass in public again and hopes that things will return closer to normal. Even if we have problems in our society and our world today, I think we need the consolation of the Lord and thats what I doIm sure the Lord will continue to guide us through this time. Father Vic, who holds 6 services over a weekend, three on Saturday and three on Sunday, attending the areas he is Parish Priest for - Willow Tree, Werris Creek and Quirindi for services, says he lives by the saying Sometimes it is better to be kind than to be right. #frontstepsproject @sallyaldenphotography Thanks Father Vic for being part of the project, and for the work you do assisting those of faith while not something I follow I always enjoy having a chat with you and greatly appreciate you sharing your story with our community.

17.01.2022 A MAN OF MANY TALENTS Hes a vital member of the Rural Fire Service, an award winning artist, author, blogger, volunteer and Rodney Swansborough has been teaching at High Schools nationally since the1970s. After training at Sydney University, where he undertook of Diploma of Education, Mr Swansborough commenced teaching at Orara High School, Coffs Harbor in the early 70s and was invited to set up radio CHY-FM radio station with John Townsend, he was then appointed to the ra...Continue reading

17.01.2022 COLOURFUL KATE Shes as colourful and fun as her bright yellow front door. She has a genuine enthusiasm and is a real go-getter... and for Kate Figueria -who renovated her fabulous home in the heart of Currabubula - turning 40 in COVID-19 isolation proved fun-filled. When a convoy of cars resplendent in streamers and balloons bore her friends, birthday cake and gifts direct to her garden fence in joyful celebration last week, she was thrilled to bits. Kate who has an extens...ive veggie patch and makes a mean marmalade says this current worldwide situation has taught her many things. The most important being, to appreciate everything you have as it may one day not be there. Keep in touch with friends and family and actually have a real chat, said Kate, who continued, one of the best things she and others around her have learnt is to slow down and make priorities for the things you truly want to do - not just things you think you should be doing. Kate was given an Australian flag as a cape to wear during a Flight Centre global conference in which she was selected as one of the top consultants to represent Australia. I was proud to hang my flag out the front of my house for ANZAC DAY because it symbolised two reasons. Many of my Flight Centre friends (I havent been with the company for several years) have lost jobs during this epidemic, which is just debilitating to see, and proud to fly the flag for all those that served and continue to serve for our freedoms. She is fortunate to be able to work from home for a nation-wide logistics organisation, which she is fully embracing and is also loving her veggie gardens and DYI projects, plus providing many family and friends with veggies and herbs. Family is important to me because family is family.....no other people in your life will ever be as close. Having lived in Portugal for 4 years after University, then Newcastle for 6 years before returning to Currabubula, Kate thinks travelling gave her and open-mindedness and an understanding of different cultures and different types of people. While I appreciate all that the world has to offer, I feel as a nation we need to start preparing to travel our own beautiful country (when the pandemic is over) and being more self-sufficient in what we make and buy. For Kate, community is also important "I was raised here in Curra, Ive lived overseas and in the big cities but nothing compares to this little village with a cute creek out back and a massive heart. Wow what and adventure youve had so far Kate, and its always a blast spending time with you, even if it is with social distancing in place thanks for sharing your story, for the laughter and the fresh herbs and home-made marmalade. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography

15.01.2022 'LIGHT UP THE DAWN' Today, millions of Australians and New Zealanders across their countries and internationally stood in their driveways or on their balconies to commemorate ANZAC DAY 2020. The COVID -19 pandemic may have isolated us physically, but, we stood united as a nation as part of the Light up the Dawn project....Continue reading

15.01.2022 THANK YOU ANNIE for promoting my free project to support my community. https://www.fm929.com.au//front-steps-project-shares-joy-d

13.01.2022 HOPE OVER HEARTACHE Quirindi local, Shaen Fraser, loves adventure, good wine and the company of good friends. She also has the type of laugh that fills you to the brim with joy, which is a good thing... because she laughs a lot. Shaens also a Community Programs Coordinator with Cancer Council NSW and for her, the cancer world is a tough, but, rewarding world to work in. Supporting patients and carers when they need it most is the most rewarding thing you will ever do. But... there are tough days days when you feel like you just cant do enoughhowever, thankfully the rewarding days outweigh the tough days. 2007 was the year, Shaen and Max (dressed and Dougal the bear) were introduced to Cancer Council NSW (CCNSW) and Relay for Life. Shaen was the Chair of the local volunteer organising committee at the time and she was so impressed by the organisation (Cancer Council NSW) she joined them in 2008 as a staff member. While she has seen a lot of heartache and shouldered a lot of distress and heartbreak from others, including close family members of Max, Shaen has also seen a lot of hope, and its this hope that drives her to continue to make a difference. I will never stop doing everything I can to support those in need and I am just so thankful that my family and friends support me 100% in this. In these crazy times of CONVID-19 our world has changed so much but for cancer patients theirs hasnt they still need to attend their treatment and doctors appointments and CCNSW continues to transport them and to accommodate then when needed. But, like numerous Not For Profit organisations across the globe, almost all of their fundraising events/avenues are on hold which is just devastating for an organisation that relies on the community to raise funds for them. CCNSW is a community funded charity and right now we need our communities to keep on supporting those in need. As the Cancer Council can longer hold physical fundraising events, they have launched a new initiative, Hope at Home, by purchasing a hope bag and candle for $25 to display at your home on 29 April, you can share the hope and honour those impacted by cancer. see link below to find out more. Thanks Shaen and Max for sharing your passion and a part of your story and thank you for the amazing work you do, having lost a close and much loved family member to the dreaded C, I greatly appreciate all the Cancer Council does in advocacy, research, assistance and more. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography https://give.cancercouncil.com.au/hopeathome See more

13.01.2022 CHASE YOUR DREAMS Their love story started in March 1993, when two 14-year-olds, Cecily and Steve first began dating in High School, fast forward nearly three decades and the Sharp family have created a full deck of cards anyone would be delighted to hold. Cecily, formerly in customer service at the Quirindi Pharmacy, is now an essential worker as a Customer Banking Specialist at Commonwealth Bank. Steve, known across the Liverpool Plains for his passion and skill on the so...Continue reading

10.01.2022 ASHLEIGH AND EVIE in the middle of the every changing pandemic rulings, many of us are finding sanctuary in the simple things, like walking in the rain with your loved ones. And for Quirindi locals, Ashleigh and Evie, they enjoy doing just that. Ashleigh, who is an essential worker in Aged Care in the local nursing home, has been an employee there for the past 6 years and is currently studying a Diploma of nursing.... I love my job and love looking after the generation who made it possible to live a happy and healthy life that we all live today. The emotional effects of COVID-19 that I have seen in some individuals has been extremely difficult to deal with, said Ashleigh who added, Being away from family is very difficult and I pride myself in doing the best I can to ensure that anyone I know is doing OK mentally and physically. As a first time mother with a two year old daughter beautiful and spirited Evie - Ashleigh has found having to be in isolation very hard. Evie has not been able to see her friends at Day Care or her educator or our friends. Its been really hard for her. Like the majority of us, Ashleigh has never had to experience a pandemic before and says she is incredibly lucky to have amazing friends and family to help her through these trying times. As a parent I have learnt to do a lot more arts and craft with my daughter. We also spend our time playing outside and keeping active when we can, watching Disney movies from when I was a child together as well as modern day Disney movies. The duo are also embracing technology and enjoy being able to FaceTime family and for Evie to be able to see her cousins, aunties, uncles and grandparents. This means a lot to us as we are extremely family orientated. The dedicated care worker says the community spirit with rallying around and supporting one another and our local businesses has inspired her. Our communities are sticking together in these extremely difficult times and it just shows how small towns unite in strength and support each other. Thank you Ashleigh and Evie for sharing your story and best wishes with full time work, full time motherhood and full on study, Ashleigh youre an inspiration! Thank you for the laughter Evie and keep being cheeky. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography

10.01.2022 HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS As you head past the changing Autumn trees to the home of the Trousdale family nestled near picturesque Nundle, a feeling of peace warmly embraces your heart. Theres a sense of wonder, freedom and creativity that comes from a family truly in touch with their natural environment. The Trousdales Megan, Duncan, Cormac and Gryff - have been self-isolating due to the COVID-19 pandemic at home for nearly six weeks. This has meant closing our shop, ...Continue reading

08.01.2022 TALENT RUNS IN THE FAMILY Theres a LOT of talent in the Burr family and for twins, Alex and Max a little bit of brotherly rivalry never goes astray. They compete over everything, but theyre also fiercely loyal to one-another, said mother Teree, who works in the Tourism and Events Industry for an International Luxury Hotel Group - and has done so for the same company for over 12 years from her picturesque home office located on the outskirts of pristine Nundle....Continue reading

08.01.2022 PREPARING FOR ANZAC DAY 2020 Today, President of the Quirindi RSL Sub Branch and 23 of his fellow Sub Branch members were recipients of an ANZAC DAY Breakfast pack, completed with a Rum Toddies (Tucking into rum and milk is part and parcel of Anzac Day), courtesy of the Quirindi RSL Branch. Representatives from the Club, Rechelle Robinson (Administration Quirindi RSL) and Tina Allan (Secretary/Manager Quirindi RSL) and the Board of Directors form the Club, came up with the in...itiative to visit the Sub Branch Members to take each a breakfast tray so they can cook their own breakfast tomorrow morning - as the Club is closed due to the COVID1-19 pandemic and members and the public are unable to attend the annual ANZAC DAY Breakfast. ANZAC DAY is our favourite day of the year, with breakfast, lunch and two-up and we celebrate together and listen to memories being told. We miss all our community and our members and our staff and we cant wait until the doors open again, commented a dedicated Tina. Doug Hawkins on behalf of the Sub Branch thanked the club for the initiative and congratulated Rochelle and Tina for the idea and taking time to personally deliver the breakfast packs. Its a magnificent gesture and we will be thinking of them tomorrow, said Doug Hawkins, who encouraged the public to participate in the Light up the Dawn mini-services tomorrow morning from 5.30am. Coronavirus restrictions, mean Australia's Anzac Day services have all been called off this year. In true Aussie Spirit this has inspired a push for us to mark our own commemorations at home, to pay our respects while keeping safe from the virus. RSLs around the country encouraging people to head outside and Light up the Dawn with mini-services in their driveways, at their front gates or on their verandas. The ABC will show a Dawn Service from the Australian War Memorial from 5.30am. You can also watch live on the RSL NSW Facebook page. One traditional recitation on Anzac Day is the Ode, the fourth stanza of the poem For the fallen by Laurence Binyon (18691943). They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. LEST WE FORGET Thank you to the Quirindi RSL Club for your caring actions today, its actions like this make make me proud to be part of such a caring community. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography

07.01.2022 IN A GENTLE WAY An artist and a musician traversed the globe in a time before COVID-19 for seven years the duo adventured as a pair and last year they became husband and wife. Emily + Andrew and their beloved fur babyPuss.. have made Quirindi their home.... We travelled the world together and moved to Quirindi for another adventure, said the enigmatic educator, Emily. Andrew runs local events and also manages the Royal Theatre Quirindi (currently in hibernation due to COVID-19). Im busy doing the million things that I never had time to before, streamlining systems, future project planning and helping in other areas at work, said Andrew who loves running, tennis, music, playing the drums and teaching himself guitar. Emily, a Teacher at several local schools, is also studying and works in community arts and loves yoga, art and cooking. COVID-19 has affected us socially more than anything, we love playing tennis and having dinner with friends and hosting family at our home when they come to visit. Em is missing running her classes which isnt a possibility during the pandemic, commented Andrew. The duo are much adored members of the community and enjoy living in Quirindi for the beautiful community and the gorgeous friends theyve made. Weve been offered opportunities here that would be hard to come by anywhere else. We share art and music with the community and it brings us a lot of joy, said Emily. Even during COVID-19 Em has been sharing lessons with her primary students online, but, says Its just not the same. The current situation has taught the duo to slow down and enjoy creating and spending time together while they arent running off to events and to teach classes every other day. We have loved seeing our beautiful community take care of each other during time, it has just reinforced that this really is a special place to live, concluded Emily. In a gentle way, you can shake the world. Mahatma Gandhi #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography Ohhhh you two what can I say delicious with a twist of divine.. loved capturing your love..! Thank you for sharing.

07.01.2022 EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY Carol Lalor and her family came from Sydney to the Liverpool Plains region, 40 years ago to enable her children to grown up in the fresh air and friendly communities offered in the country. I previously owned and managed hairdressing salons in Quirindi and Werris Creek, Im still working as a Marriage Celebrant, of course being very careful to observe social distancing, said Carol, who lives in a divine cottage in Quirindi with her adorable dog, Olive ...or Ollie as shes called. The enforced social isolation has been great for Carols technology skills as she now conducts meetings with couples on FaceTime and Zoom. Some couples have actually taken advantage of the isolation rules and decided to get married quietly now to avoid some of the big wedding issues, interestingly its liberated people in some ways. Carol, who was really busy before COVID-19 with her work and other volunteer commitments, says shes enjoying the restrictions of isolation as its slowed her down in regards to travel. Ive cleaned out my shed and Im working my way through cupboards and more, Im also doing lots of cooking and eating unfortunately, joked Carol, who has a passion for cooking, reading and knitting. Im missing my children and grandchildren very much but Im very grateful to technology as it keeps us connected. Im also missing lunches and teas out and Im getting a bit sick of my own cooking every meal. Carol has been reading to her grandsons in Sydney every night for the last couple of years using books she downloads from the free app on the library. Its the loveliest feeling to be connected as they fall asleep and then I suddenly I realise Ive been reading to myself for the last 5 mins. Then it takes another 5 mins the next night to work out what they missed. For Carol, its very comforting to live in a small town like Quirindi as she feels safe and even sitting on the front porch watching the world go by, theres always a wave and smile of acknowledgement. A quote that I like to live by is Only worry about things you can have some control over and let everything else go! said Carol who enjoys the Liverpool Plains region and all it has to offer in regards to natural beauty and wonder. We are so fortunate to live where we do. Thank you Carol and Ollie for your time and for sharing your COVID-19 journey so far. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography

07.01.2022 WHITE ORCHIDS AND SURPRISES What do you get your wife for your 40th wedding anniversary in the middle of social isolation due to a pandemic?? You surprise her with flowers and arrange a photographer to be there to capture her surprise but not just any flowers....Continue reading

07.01.2022 FREYA AND SHELLY Freya is joyous, active and social and although shes only three, she says she misses her time at preschool as well as her swimming and music groups - due to the pandemic - but loves getting on the phone and face-timing with her family including her grandparents. Things havent changed too much for me, as I am a stay at home mum, which I feel very fortunate to be able to do. I think its harder for Freya, just having me to socialise with as shes really acti...Continue reading

06.01.2022 KINDNESS IN CURRABUBULA For Kathy and Wayne (absent from pics) Smith, the COVID-19 lockdown of their business in March occurred on the 5th anniversary of them purchasing the Currabubula Pub and Cafe At the time, we were left feeling absolutely devastatedwe had a five-year-plan when we purchased the Pub and worked enjoyable, yet hard and long hours, to get the pub to a good turnover, said Kathy. The duo were on the brink of retiring in their bus and travelling around Austr...Continue reading

06.01.2022 ROBBIES RANDOM RURAL Robbie Marheine grew up the eldest of four children in the middle of the South Island of New Zealand near the township of Kingsdom. We spent 1 day-per-week inside learning skills like cooking including my Mums fabulous fudge ironing and more, the other days of the week we were outdoors learning on the farm with Dad, said Robbie....Continue reading

06.01.2022 IDYLLIC TREE CHANGE There’s a sense of community and an aura of natural style about the Bradford family. Nick and Kylie purchased the Nundle Woollen Mill in 2007, and loved it so much they moved permanently with their young son, Zac from Sydney to Nundle in 2013....Continue reading

05.01.2022 MAGESTIC OLD ROCKLEIGH Amidst the noise and chaos of Tamworth Country Music Festival a romance was born, when Tracy sold Rick some Blowes Menswear clothing, and Rick asked her on a date. We went out that night and we have been inseparable ever since, said Rick who was previously in the Navy and had a long career serving in Mine Warfare, including in the Middle East....Continue reading

05.01.2022 LIFES AN ADVENTURE Growing up on Albemarle Station an 80,000 acre sheep and cattle property near Broken Hill in the Western Division of NSW, gave Susie Caskey pictured here with her dog Bella - and her siblings a sense of freedom and responsibility only few ever get to experience. There were rules and regulations and plenty of jobs and plenty of work, but life was simpler. We all learnt to drive at a very young age. Because if there was an accident in one of the far pad...Continue reading

05.01.2022 CARTOON COMMUNICATIONS You may not her know her in person, but, youre sure to recognise her distinctive style, acerbic wit and astute visual commentary - Marie Warbys' cartoon communications have been gracing the pages of the Quirindi Advocate newspaper for a staggering 32 years Marie started with Advocate when train-loving editor and larrikin Joe Court, led the way. Cartooning since she was a kid; when others her age were playing sport, youd find Marie up a tree cartoon...ing whatever was around her - or in detention at school for drawing her teachers with horns and pitchforks. I enjoy cartooning .. particularly editorial cartooning because I reckon I know everything there is to know in the world ... plus I love the way people would rather read the actual news in the one humorous sentence combined with a cartoon than read the whole article, adds a dry humoured Marie. When creating cartoons she says her mind runs free .. but, in true Method Actor style if Marie is drawing a sad, angry, happy or emotional cartoon she can take on those very same moods during and for a time after completing them (I would have loved to have seen her mood on creating this cartoon!) Marie and family - made up of husband, Sunny Warby a truckie, a dog - 'D4' (D for dog) and cat 'C4' (C for cat) all who worship the ground that I walk on"... for many years loved living on their property at picturesque Wallabadah, until the savage and extreme drought conditions meant they had to head to the big smoke for income. The drought of a few years back broke us and we came to Sydney (where we still live) .. purely for the money ... we always vowed to go back one day but we never have. Because in reality the lifestyle is certainly in the, bush but the money is in Sydney .. and unfortunately everyone's lives are governed by money! The Quirindi area will always remain magic, for Marie, not just because of its natural beauty .. but because it's people are fair dinkum, hard-working and honest .. and with that honesty I always enjoyed many very rowdy debates that occurred way into the night at my favourite watering hole the mighty Marshall McMahon Pub at Wallabadah, she said. During the pandemic, Marie is working harder than ever. Im getting Repetitive Strain Injury from so many cartooning jobs requested from groups, businesses and organisations who want to keep their employees in a light-hearted frame of mind during this very serious time. Thank you Marie for being a cheerleader of my LP Frontsteps project, for the wonderful discussions we have had over the years and most of all for the decades of insight, revelation and introspection your talents have offered our communities, and while the local paper is not being printed at present due to the flow on effects of the COVID-19 (but hopes to back) its great to hear that your skill is being shared with and enjoyed by many. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography

04.01.2022 HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY Sharna Hughes has a fulfilled life, with her four beautiful children, plus working and studying. As an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse working casually between Eloura nursing home and Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital, Sharna has been spending some of her COVID-19 isolation time studying and submitting assignments through UNE Armidale as she works towards being a Registered Nurse (Bachelor of Nursing)....Continue reading

03.01.2022 HAPPY PARENTS HAPPY KIDS Quirindi resident, Ame Bennett has been a family day-care educator for the past 5 years and is thankful to all her families for their ongoing support of her business through the COVID-19 pandemic. Im lucky to have wonderful kids who make me smile. Ive been hit hard in my sector and I do struggle some days, but, I also know there are a lot of people doing it tough and I am very grateful we live in such a supportive community," said Ame. Ames househ...old is busy with her day care business, plus her own two children Faith and Jack, their dog, Pepper and cat, Poh and especially during the school holidays, their days are full. I love all the things we do together and having the kids home fills my heart. Even if all they talk about it flyable rideable pets on Roblox - (online game), she jokes. The Bennetts are taking a positive approach to the social isolation currently in place by focusing on whats important which is family. We have camped out the in backyard, played board games, been biking and walking around our beautiful town and spent true quality time together. Ame said she loves where she lives as people have a positive and helpful attitude. We live on the main road to Tamworth, so we see families walking, scooting, riding bikes and enjoying time together, which gives us a great sense of community. For Ame, working with kids is a gift and a lifestyle she loves. Kids self-esteem is really vital at the moment and its important that we understand that they too are going through so much change. Its about positively communicating with your kids as it builds their self-esteem, concluded Ame. Happy parents happy children. Thank you for the fun photos, inclusive of four-legged photobombers.. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography See more

03.01.2022 MINE - YOURS - OURS Its a mixed, noisy and happy bunch at the Lawlor household for Kim and Terry. Set, on the outskirts of Quirindi, amongst the breathtaking scenery of the Liverpool Plains, the Lawlor home is a sanctuary....Continue reading

03.01.2022 ADD A DASH OF HUMOUR For many households, the family unity of Easter still hangs in the Autumn air amidst the haze of isolation. Including the Faulkners, whose positive focus combined with a dash of humour - and good dose of health and fitness has seen them face the current situation head on. For the youngest, Liam - who is undertaking his HSC - the current situation means some social and personal milestones may not be celebrated in the traditional way. While this may be ...confronting to many, Liam, who is also a school leader as Vice Captain at Quirindi High School is taking it one day at a time - supported online by his teachers and peers and in person by his dad, Warren, mum, Deb and older brother, Corey. Im focussing every day on staying on-track with my studies and supporting my peers, said Liam who also has a traineeship with local business, Tamarang Engineering and uses sport or riding his motorbike as a way of relaxing. Warren, also enjoys sports and is still actively involved in a wide variety of sports club across the community. The boys enjoy heading outdoors to play cricket, soccer, golf or tennis, said Deb who has an eye for fashion and is embracing technology as a way of dealing with social isolation in the current pandemic. Previously we would have travelled often to visit family and friends, so now were Skyping or Face-Timing with family and friends in Australia and beyond. Instead of going to exercise classes, Deb now attends the classes online with her trainer and group who used to once physically attend them. The trending fashion has become a whole lot more relaxed - pyjamas are a very relaxed form of fashion right? she jokes before adding that laughter is a great medicine. Corey - always an avid reader, is relishing in the fact that theres no limit to how many books he can read while confined to the house. Hes up to 15 books and counting, said Deb. As the closing of factories in China - due to COVID-19 - has resulted in reduced pollution and clearer skies, and residents in the north of India are seeing the Himalayan mountain range - for the first time in 30 years - the Faulkner family are seeing this current situation as an opportunity to reflect on the old, adapt and modify for the future and support their community where they can. We are all about supporting each other and our wellbeing as a whole community as we move forward through this time, concluded Deb. Thank you Faulkner family for having fun with your photoshoot and embracing the positives. It was a pleasure to capture your joy. Stay on path with your studies Laim - we are all cheering for you. #frontstepsproject Sally Alden Photography See more

03.01.2022 IDYLLIC TREE CHANGE Theres a sense of community and an aura of natural style about the Bradford family. Nick and Kylie purchased the Nundle Woollen Mill in 2007, and loved it so much they moved permanently with their young son, Zac from Sydney to Nundle in 2013....Continue reading

01.01.2022 POSITIVITY FROM PETS - post a photo of YOUR PET in the comments! The vet clinic in Quirindi has been looking after and caring for an array of our friends from farm animals, companion animals, to wildlife and everything in between, for some 40 years. David Frith Senior Vet, at the clinic said, that like the majority of businesses, the pandemic has had an effect, on the Quirindi Veterinary Clinic - which has definitely been quieter through this period....Continue reading