North East Arnhem Land with Mon

Hi - Mon here!I've just released the trailer to a new series I've been working on. It's called Living with Mon and it explores some of the most interesting lifestyles out there.My favourite thing about this project was getting the opportunity to take some time and just have a chat with all these extraordinary people – some who had completely different views than my own, live polar opposite lifestyles – and I had the best time, and I feel like I really learnt a lot.So if you're keen to open your mind, step out of your shoes and take a stroll in someone else's – search Living with Mon wherever you get your podcasts. Episode 1 of Living with Mon will be dropping very shortly.I cannot wait to start this journey with you. CREDITSCreated by Monika O'HanlonFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/with.mon/ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hello! Mon here - just popping into your ears to tell you about a new project I'm about to release!In this weekly podcast, I speak with people from different religions and movements about what they believe happens when we die. This surprisingly upbeat series attempts to remove some of the fear of death - so we can embrace our mortality - together.CREDITSCreated by Monika O'HanlonFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/with.mon See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We have officially reached the 27th and FINAL episode of the podcast – for season 1 at least.Today we’re going to finish on a high with an inspiring young person – who is already doing remarkable things.Siena Stubbs is wise beyond her years. She has already accomplished more in her 17 spins around the sun than many will in a lifetime – but for her – she’s just living her life.Growing up in Yirrkala – an indigenous community about 18 kilometers from Nhulunbuy– Siena says she feels lucky to have been brought up with her Yolngu culture. She’s a published author and photographer and this year was nominated for a prestigious award. We sat down for a chat a few months ago – but since then Siena graduated from Nhulunbuy High School, and now for the first time in 13 years – she doesn’t know what the future will bring. Siena has this beautiful positive energy about her – and just from our conversation – her and her generation make me feel so much better about the future.Thank to everyone who has listened. To anyone who has rated or left a review, to everyone who has messaged me and stopped me on the street - thank you!To Gove FM – the tiny community radio station with a HUGE heart – thank you for letting me record in the studio. And thank you for employing me and allowing me to come home.And finally, to everyone who generously gave their free time and who shared their story. From the bottom of my heart – thank you! It was an absolute honor and a joy.This part of the world is just so special and is brimming with inspiring and incredible people. Hopefully we can continue to share your stories in the future, but for now - I wish you all a Merry Christmas, and here's to a wonderful new year.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Siena StubbsGrab a copy of Siena's book Our Birds, Nilimurrungu Wayin Malanynha here:https://www.booktopia.com.au/our-birds-siena-stubbs/book/9781925360981.htmlTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comOr visit our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

The SECOND last episode of season 1 is finally here

After a bit of a break we are back - which means the count down has officially begun! This is the third last episode of season 1 - and we're going out with a bang!Today long time local of Nhulunbuy, Ivor Alexander shares with us his story - which all began in Scotland. In this episode you’ll hear about his childhood, serving in the military, becoming a male nurse back in the 70's, meeting his lovely wife Linda, and the story of how they came up to North East Arnhem Land - expecting to stay for a year - and why they never left. Whether you live in this region or if you’re listening in from another part of the world – Ivor’s story is truly fascinating. So without further a do. Sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Ivor AlexanderThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comOr visit our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

In today’s society we often try to ignore and hide unpleasant and difficult situations. We want to come across as “fine” to the world. But it can be a dangerous and isolating cycle. Which is why my guest this week is extra special.Mareva Pearse had an idyllic childhood. She spent a number of her early years sailing the high seas with her family. Eventually they settled in this remote paradise which is North east Arnhem Land. But as life often pans out - things can get tricky and she was faced with a number of significant hurdles. Luckily for her resilience and with the support from her family – Mareva confronted these hurdles head on – and continues to do so.Something I really admire about Mareva is that she chooses to see the positive. Not only has she become stronger – her experiences inspired her to speak up about mental health publicly. She’s established a support group on Facebook and recently started her own radio show – right here on Gove FM.Mareva is just so passionate about helping people – it was an absolute honour to sit down with her for a chat. So kick back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.To join Mareva's Facebook support group searchMental Health Awareness with MarevaIf you or someone you know is struggling with mental health there are a number of local resources. Reach out - remember you are NEVER alone.- Top End Mental Health(08) 8987 0414- Optimal Lifestyle and Wellness- Outlook Psychology - Empowering Territorians- Nhulunbuy Police(08) 8987 1333There are various national organisations including:- Black Dog Institute- Beyond Blue- Lifeline- NACCHO Aboriginal Health Australia- Carers Australia- headspace- Support After Suicide, AustraliaThe podcast will be having a short break - but we will be back with new episodes in a few weeks

This week we celebrate episode 23 of the podcast!Where do I even begin with today's guest? He’s a Dhimurru Ranger, father and a proud Yolngu man. He’s also an incredibly talented hip hop artist and uses his music to spread awareness on certain issues.His name is Guruguru Hick - AKA Bala G - and he’s a deadest legend.In this conversation he speaks about growing up in the big smoke – and feeling confused about where he fit in. We talk about his various jobs – including his current one which allows him to protect and look after the environment. He also speaks about his children, and his hopes and dreams not only for himself – but for our country.Earlier this year he started a band. They've already received various offers to play gigs interstate – and they haven’t even decided on a name yet. Keep your eyes and your ears peeled - exciting times ahead! Right now though sit back and relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Guruguru HickKeep up to date with his music on his artist Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/YolnguRepz/Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

On this week's episode of the podcast I had the pleasure of sitting down with the ever so lovely, Jessica Pitkin.Over a decade ago she made the move to Nhulunbuy with her husband Mal, and at the time their three children. She's now a mother of four boys and works in a male dominated industry. She says it herself - she was born to be around men.Jess has had an incredibly interesting and versatile career. From a stay at home mother, to working in a chemist, then taking a job at a primary school - to starting her own salad business. This eventually led her to truck driving - and now a self professed "Mother Trucker".Jess just has the best outlook on life and spreads her positive vibe wherever she goes.In this conversation we speak about her life, her jobs, her family - and the importance of having "you" time.She’s such a lovely human, so it was an absolute honour to have her on this week’s episode – of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.As usual a massive thank you needs to go out to Gove FM - without this community radio station - this podcast would not be possible ❤️CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Jessica PitkinThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

It's crazy how in one of the most remote parts of the country - you can meet some of the most talented and inspiring people you will ever come across. And in this episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon I speak with one such person.I was fortunate enough to sit down with Matt McLean. Now if that name isn't ringing any bells - he also goes by Aris - and in this conversation you'll find out why. He's a young hip hop artist from the region who's music is gaining attention around Australia and overseas. When he's not working on his own stuff - he often collaborates with other local up and coming emcees - helping them to achieve their own dreams. He's also a really talented self-taught videographer and genuinely a really nice guy. So for anyone looking for some inspiration - maybe something to push you in the right direction of pursuing a passion - this episode is definitely worth a listen.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Matt McLean - AKA ArisCheck out Matt's film clip for Innocent Kids hereFor business enquiries head to:www.arisrealtalk.comThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

This week marks episode 20 of the North East Arnhem Land with Mon podcast! Thank you to everyone who has rated, reviewed or sent in feedback - it has been such a pleasure to sit down with so many inspiring and colourful characters!Not everyone can say they've got two degrees under their belt - one with honors. Has a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice has worked in multiple positions in government. Who has been a General Manager of a corporation and is now the CEO of Developing East Arnhem Limited. And all of this at the ripe old age of 30. Jordy Bowman can.In this conversation Jordy shares with us what it was like growing up in The North Shore in Sydney. Her experience studying in New Zealand and her passion for Indigenous affairs - which stemmed from a year 6 school camp.In her younger years she may never have even considered living somewhere so small and remote, however after four and a half years in Nhulunbuy, Jordy has fallen in love with the place. She is passionate about helping to support and establish the region beyond mining.So sit back, relax and get ready for episode 20 of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Jordy BowmanTo learn more about Developing East Arnhem Limited head to their website athttp://www.developingeastarnhem.com.au/Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

HAPPY NAIDOC WEEK - Voice. Treaty. Truth. Let's work together on a shared future.This week's guest on the podcast is up and coming hip hop artist and dead set legend, Yama Banu - AKA Bala Baru.Yama grew up in the region writing lyrics but only recently pursued his passion seriously when he took part in The Real Talk Project.Coming from a Yolŋu and Torres Strait Islander background culture plays an extremely important role in his life.As he works as a Dhimurru ranger, he draws inspiration for his music from the environment.He may have only released one song so far - but he's currently working on new music and already has a number of gigs lined up. While speaking with him I could sense how motivated he is, and with his talent - it's obvious big things are coming Yama's way.So settle in for a chat about growing up in Arnhem Land, his passion for music and the significance of culture on this week's episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Yama Banu - AKA Bala BaruCheck out the North East Coasting film clip herePerformed & written by Bala Baru, Sir Dre, Yolŋu Thug, Gonybi & Aris.Produced by Arian Pearson.Directed, filmed & edited by Aris.Mixed & mastered by Aris.Available on:iTunes: http://bit.ly/balabaru-itunesAmazon: http://bit.ly/balabaru-amazonGoogle Play: http://bit.ly/balabaru-googleThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

On this week's episode I was so stoked to sit down with one of Australia's most exciting actors - Rarriwuy Hick.Originally from Dhalinybuy, a community 100km from Yirrkala, Rarriwuy grew up between Arnhem Land and Sydney. In this conversation she shares with us the struggles she faced at school in the city, and how looking at the big picture helped her find strength.Coming from a family of talented performers, including her mother Janet Munyarryun - a founding member of Bangarra Dance Theatre, Rarriwuy was destined for the lime light. She starred in a range of theatre productions before getting into television - most recently you might know her as inmate Ruby Mitchell from Wentworth.She has done so many amazing things in her short life - including starting the viral social media campaign #ourkidsbelongwithfamily.We sat down for a chat a few weeks ago, however Rarriwuy came into the Gove FM studio yesterday to fill us in on all the Logies goss - congrats to the Wentworth crew - so well deserved.It was an absolute honour to have Rarriwuy on the podcast, and apart from being ridiculously talented - she is genuinely a super nice human. Prepare to be inspired.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Rarriwuy HickCatch her on Wentworth as Ruby MitchellFollow Rarriwuy on Instagram @rarriwuyhickThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

On this week’s episode I was lucky enough to speak with the phenomenal storyteller and ridiculously talented (and hilarious) - Gerard Zochling.This guy wears many hats. He's a poet, artist, writer, family man, kitchen dancer and self-confessed hedonist. He's published a bunch of books and has lived an extraordinary life. His adventures have taken him around the country and overseas. However, he's been in the Northern Territory for a while now - and has called Nhulunbuy in North East Arnhem Land home for the past two years. He's a man who has never given up on his passions - he's never settled - something I admire him greatly for. So today I feel truly honoured to be able to share with you his story.Just be aware there is a bit of course language throughout this episode.Right now though, sit back and relax and enjoy the colourful journey which is the legendary Gerard Zochling's life.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Gerard ZochlingTo check out Gerard's books head tohttps://gerardzochling.wixsite.com/gedzochling/booksThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

Not everyone knows what they want to be when they grow up - even when they are grown up. But for Wendy Troe, it was always very clear. She was going to be a teacher.From a young age Wendy loved public speaking and was passionate about sharing knowledge.This episode was a particularly special one for me. I was lucky enough to have Wendy as my English teacher in high school. If you don't know her, or if you've never experienced Mrs Troe in her element - in this conversation you're about to get a small taste of just how fabulous she is. This is a woman who has inspired countless students to fall in love with all things reading and writing. Her impact is evident as many of her ex pupils continue to keep in touch - and still to this day cite Wendy as one of their favourite teachers of all time - and I'm happy to vouch for that. Because that's what she is. Through and through. Wendy was born to be an educator.It is an absolute honour that today I get to share with you the story of someone who has impacted my life greatly. The one, the only - Wendy Troe.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Wendy Troe To read some of Wendy's beautiful work head to her blog Gin in a Jam Jar at https://gininajamjarblog.wordpress.com/Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

When I think of iconic colourful characters from North East Arnhem Land - a number of people spring to mind - however - none more so than Eva Cantrell.Old Time Nhulunbuy residents will know Eva for her trademark fabulously decorated hats. For people newer to the area, you may recognise her from the markets - where she sells her photographs and beautifully hand made goods. But behind her creative exterior - Eva is SO much more. What she has experienced during her lifetime is truly remarkable. With various careers under her belt, Eva has done everything from pea picking to working in hotels and on fishing boats.This woman has affected countless lives of people who grew up in the region - myself included - and continues to effect the lives of young people - perhaps without them even knowing. Because without Eva Cantrell - there would be no skate park. Before every child owned an iphone and a computer, Eva created a space for young people to enjoy together.For years I wandered where this larger than life woman came from - and how she ended up in this tiny little remote town in North East Arnhem Land. Today I feel truly honoured that I get to share the absolutely incredible tale of the legendary Eva Cantrell. This is the story of the woman who could. Who did.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Eva CantrellThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

On this week's episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon we were lucky enough to speak with Baykali Ganambarr.Although he was born in Alice Springs, at a young age Baykali moved with his family to Galiwin'ku - an island off Arnhem Land.For over six years Baykali has been travelling the world with DJUKI MALA - an Indigenous dance group who rose to fame in 2007 after a video of them performing to Zorba the Greek went viral.He's also one of the lead actors in the upcoming feature film, The Nightingale - written and directed by The Babadook's Jennifer Kent. Without giving too much away he may or may not have won a prestigious award at the Venice Film Festival last year - but you'll have to listen to find out (or google his name).In this conversation we speak about Baykali's childhood, the importance of family, his love of performing and his passion for sharing his culture to the world.This guy really is the epitome of a superstar and is an incredible role model - big things are sure to come his way. I know I say this a lot, but if you are looking to be inspired today, this episode is not to be missed.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Baykali Ganambarr You can check out a sneak peak of his upcoming film The Nightingale here Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

Karen Hill - or Kaz - isn't your average assistant principle. She's also the drummer of the popular group Papa Said - and an ex-member from the early 90's nationally acclaimed all girl punk rock band, Bleach.Originally from Sydney, Kaz has called North East Arnhem Land home for nearly 10 years - and it doesn't look like she's going anywhere soon.In this conversation Kaz shares with us what it was like to be told "no" when it came to playing certain instruments and even career options when she was growing up - just because she was born female.We speak about about her two passions - firstly her music - what inspires her, what tour life was like and how she ended up on ABC's Recovery hosted by Dylan Lewis. Secondly, she opens up about her love for working with young people.Kaz is a dead set legend and has an incredible story. So sit back, relax and get ready for the 13th episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Karen HillCheck out Bleach on ABC's Recovery hereThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

Where do you even begin with a guy like Blue Douglas? He's lived in the region since he was 12 months old - and he certainly has some stories to tell!In this conversation Blue shares with us what it was like growing up in Nhulunbuy back in the 70's. The adventures - which include him being a makeshift bird handler on the set of a movie and escaping grumpy buffaloes. He speaks about his ballroom dancing career and how he ran the debutante ball for years - countless teenagers in town have him to thank for learning The Pride of Erin. He also shares with us the story behind meeting the love of his life - Evelyn.He has been an important member of the Nhulunbuy community and one this is for sure - he LOVES this region.So sit back, relax and enjoy a true Blue yarn by one of our local legends.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Blue DouglasCheck out his businesses Roaming Flames and Arafura MeatsThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

In modern times, a couple's wedding day is renowned as being one of the most stressful and memorable experiences of their life.So when it's time to get hitched it is vital the person running the show is creating a ceremony that suits and caters to you and your partner's every need - and who better to do this than Sharon Norris.A Brissy girl at heart, Sharon moved to Nhulunbuy in North East Arnhem Land in 2013 - and has been in the marriage celebrant game for roughly 15 years. With around 330 weddings under her belt - she's officiated everything from Klingon ceremonies to pirate nuptials - Sharon Norris has seen it all.In this conversation Sharon shares with us what it takes to become a marriage celebrant, how she got into the industry and some of her more memorable marriages. If you're interested in how it all works, or perhaps you are planning on getting married in the near future - this episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon could be all the inspiration you need to plan your special day.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Sharon Norris To buy Sharon's books you can click here Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

“I grew up thinking about where I belonged in the world”Figuring out where you fit in on this Earth can be tricky - and when your parents come from different cultures with different backgrounds - it can make it that much more confusing.Arian Pearson has a Yolŋu mother and a white father. He was born and raised in Nhulunbuy until his teen years. Like many parents in the region, Arian's father's sent him to boarding school to try and give him the best education possible. However, although Arian describes his time at the school based in Queensland as "amazing" - his yearning to reconnect with culture eventually brought him back to his remote hometown.In this conversation Arian speaks about his strong connection with the land, his incredible career in music and his passion for community development. He also shares with us how he met his German wife - who he recently married in Europe.Arian was a member of the hugely popular nine piece band, East Journey - who was once described by America's Rolling Stone magazine as "explosive". The young musician is now a producer at The Mulka Project and helps other local artists follow their dreams as well as helping to preserve Yolŋu culture.With a passion for community development and sustainable tourism, Arian is also currently the Chairman at Lirrwi Tourism.He has big dreams and there is no doubt in our minds that Arian Pearson will achieve every single one of them.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Arian PearsonThe mission of The Mulka Project is to sustain and protect Yolŋu cultural knowledge in Northeast Arnhem Land under the leadership of community members. The Mulka production house and archive is managed by Yolŋu law, governance and culture. Lirrwi Tourism is an Aboriginal owned and Accredited Tourism Business in North East Arnhem Land, operating day tours, and multi-day tours, spending time with the Yolŋu people, living and working on their traditional homelands.Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

Juran Adams is a lot of things. She's probably most widely known as a musician - but did you know she is a mother of two and a wife? That she's an artist, entrepreneur and an ex Mormon?That she took a chance on love and found herself in an Indigenous community thousands of kilometres from where she'd been living in Perth - and even further away from her family in New Zealand?That she liked her old job but didn't love it. So instead of settling she started her own business and can now work from wherever she likes - whenever she likes.In this conversation Mon speaks with Juran about growing up in a religion she says she "never quite fit in to". We talk about her gorgeous family, what it's like to live remote, the new business and of course - her beautiful music.Find out how this super woman manages to do it all on this week's episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Juran AdamsYou can check out her graphic design business, JUCA Designs hereTo keep up to date with Juran's music endeavours click hereThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email:monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

Robert "Bob" Smith is a retired clergyman who spent much of his working life as an army and emergency services chaplain.Originally from the UK, Bob found himself on a boat to Australia a few days shy of his 16th birthday.He had only been to church a handful of times before a near drowning incident saw him drawn to religion. Since then he spent many years in the military, has written a number of books and is a proud family man.Bob and his wife Marilyn found their way up to North East Arnhem Land in 2016. He was offered to work for three months as a fill-in minister at the Uniting Church. The couple loved it so much they returned in 2017 and again in 2018 when this interview took place.What I loved about this conversation was Bob's openness - accepting people for who they are and their own beliefs. He is warm and genuine and if you like a good story - this episode is definitely worth a listen.NOTE: There was a bit of construction going on near the studio so you will hear occasional drill noises.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Bob Smith You can buy Bob's books, "Blow the Wind Southerly" and "Black the Night and Wild the Sea" on Amazon - or for more information head to his Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/pg/vincentsmithauthor/Thanks to Gove FMGET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

Where do you begin with someone whose list of accomplishments run nearly as long as their years roaming the planet?To put it simply, Elena Wangurra is truly inspiring.She was born at Gove District Hospital to an Italian mother and an Indigenous father. In this conversation Elena opens up about her experiences of living between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous worlds. She shares how studying at the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts in Brisbane gave her the opportunity for cultural exchange. It also opened her eyes to social and political issues which would plant the seed for future endeavors. Elena is a performer and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the Australian entertainment industry including Jessica Mauboy and Deborah Mailman. Right now she's on tour in Canada and the US with the genre defying Hot Brown Honey - a group who create theatre to challenge boundaries and embrace resilience.On top of all of this Elena has also established a female empowerment initiative called Queen Mode. She aims to help young girls achieve their dreams as well as raising consciousness to affect social change.Elena speaks about her goals of contributing positively to the world from her perspective - as a proud Triestina-Warramirri woman.Whether you're looking for inspiration, another point of view - or simply an interesting tale of how a young girl from North East Arnhem Land grew up to empower the next generation - this episode is worth a listen.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Elena WangurraYou can check out her female empowerment program, Queen Mode here.Also have a look at the incredible work Hot Brown Honey does, they're defiantly shattering preconceptions in an explosion of colour, culture and controversy.Thanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com

"We don't see people on their best day, we usually see people on the worst day of their life."Growing up on a sheep and cattle station, Daniel Whitfield Jones is no stranger to hard work. His upbringing in the Outback combined with his time at a regimented boarding school has ingrained his disciplined and strong work ethic. So it was inevitable he would eventually enlist in the military.In this episode Dan shares with us his experiences from serving overseas, the struggles which he and many ex service personnel face, and how the upcoming arrival of his first child saw him leave his dream of becoming a career soldier. Letting go of a job you've worked years to reach as well as the financial stress of a baby on the way is no easy feat. To make matters harder, although he had a lot of life experience - Dan had nothing on paper which made him professionally employable. What he did have was a desire to continue to protect the community - naturally the police force became the next obvious choice. Since then, Dan and his family have been moving around the country for his work - which eventually lead them here to Nhulunbuy.Police often get a negative wrap - there is no denying there are "bad apples" out there. However in life I believe/hope the good out number the bad - and after getting to know Dan, or Senior Sergeant Daniel Whitfield Jones over the past year, I personally feel confident we've got the good guys working on our side.It was an absolute pleasure to have Dan come in for a chat. He speaks honestly about his experiences and touches on a lot of important subjects. This conversation really opened my eyes on a lot of things. I hope you get as much out of it as I did.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Daniel Whitfield Jones Thanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com

What were you doing during your teen years? Did you already know what you wanted to do with your future? For Serina O'Connor it was pretty obvious - music was in her blood. She may be young, but this talented singer songwriter is well on her way to establishing herself within the Australian music scene. She's already played a number of gigs which even the most esteemed artists would be envious of - and right now she is studying at the Aboriginal Centre for Performing Arts in Brisbane. Although she is well on her way to fulfilling her dreams, it hasn't always been easy. Serina overcame severe bullying in her younger years, and later she was forced to grow up when her father was involved in a serious accident. However none of this held her down as the young musician started using her creativity as an outlet. One of Serina's goals in life is to use her music as a means to inspire her generation to love more. One things is for sure - big things are yet to come for this talented artist .CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Serina O'Connor Thanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com

"What happens when you lock a lion in a cage? It get's hungry." These are Stuart Yiwarr McGrath's words. After 15 years of living in poverty he was hungry for success - so he followed his dreams. Stuart is currently in his second year of a Bachelor of Nursing - his first which he did remotely while working full time and being a father. When he graduates he will be the first ever Yolngu registered nurse.At 28 years of age he has already lived many different lives. From his nomadic upbringing in remote indigenous communities in this region, to schooling in Canberra, living in Santa Teresa and studying in Darwin. These experiences have given Stuart a special insight which many people in Australia, and the world - are oblivious to. His drive to help his community and give his two young daughters the best opportunities in life is truly inspiring. He has big dreams, one of which is making steps towards closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. He is a natural leader and without a doubt, Stuart is destined for great things.CreditsHost: Monika O’HanlonThanks to special guest Stuart Yiwarr McGrathThanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com

Can you imagine growing up between two worlds? To become a mother at a young age having just lost two of the most important people in your life?Georgina Gellett can - but despite these challenges, she has overcome them to become an inspiring young leader in her community.As a proud Yolngu woman the land of her ancestors is sacred. It provides nourishment and shelter. As a bush doctor it is a place of spirituality and healing - and as a ranger, she has taken on the responsibility to protect it. For her daughter - and for the generations to come.During this podcast Georgina invites us into her world - which just so happens to be stuck between two.NOTE: To simplify, Georgina describes the two moieties which all Yolngu people in North East Arnhem Land belong to as Ying and Yang. The correct terms are Dhuwa and Yirritja. Children belong to the same moiety as their father.You can read more about Yolngu culture through the links below:http://www.dhimurru.com.au/yolngu-culture.htmlhttps://www.yyf.com.au/pages/?ParentPageID=2&PageID=104CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonThanks to special guest Georgina GellettThanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com

For Phil, life started on a Tempe Downs station about 200 km south-west of Alice Springs. Having lived in numerous parts of Australia, he is what you call, a 'professional nomad'. He's worked in film, radio, television. He's written books and has been part of national campaigns. From picking water melons in Kununurra to collecting crocodile eggs in Arnhem Land - there isn't many jobs this guy hasn't done.He's a phenomenal storyteller, so sit back and relax - and let Phil take you on a journey of a life well lived.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Phil O'BrienClick here to buy Phil's compilation CD, Songs For the CorrugationFollow Phil's journey hereThanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com

WARNING - this episode could be triggering for some listeners.Growing up in the North East Arnhem Land, Sandy felt very much at home at one of her regular fishing spots. However, one slight slip up saw her, and her families lives change forever.Sandy shares her incredible story of survival - and how her loved ones ultimately saved her life in one of the most horrific accidents imaginable. Her strength and courage, as well as her openness to share what happened to her proves Sandy Laverty is not a victim. She is a survivor.CreditsHost: Monika O’HanlonThanks to special guest Sandy LavertyThanks to Gove FMhttps://www.facebook.com/govefm/https://www.instagram.com/govefm/GET IN TOUCHPhone: 0490 688 023Email: monika_ohanlon@hotmail.com