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What if your life took an unexpected turn and you found yourself deeply embedded in a small town's heartbeat? Join us as John Snelling, a remarkable figure in Boorowa, shares his compelling journey from the bustling streets of Sydney and the linguistic charm of Norfolk Island to the warm embrace of rural life. An executive teacher by profession and a community leader by passion, John's story is interwoven with the legacy of his late wife, Jo, whose artistic endeavours have profoundly shaped the cultural landscape of Boorowa. Together, they have become pillars of the community, championing initiatives like the Arts and Crafts Cooperative and the Historical Society. Through their lens, we celebrate community milestones and the essence of building a legacy in a town grounded in heritage and shared stories.

As the conversation unfolds, we uncover the dynamic tapestry of Boorowa—a community where horses and cairn terriers are lovingly bred, where businesses thrive through collaboration, and where unsung heroes are finally given their due recognition. John shares personal anecdotes that capture the vibrant spirit of small-town life, from the camaraderie of the Boorowa Business Chamber to the heartfelt celebrations of Australia Day. We explore the transformative power of community engagement, shining a light on individuals like Laurie Poole, who have quietly yet profoundly contributed to the town's fabric. Through John's tales, we witness how interconnected lives breathe life into rural living, making it a rich, shared experience.

Our episode closes with a heartfelt reflection on the vital role of storytelling and volunteerism in preserving Boorowa’s history. John's stories of being a school disciplinarian, creatively handling a broken cane, and his enduring involvement with the Australia Day Committee illustrate his deep commitment to community service. We delve into the efforts to capture Boorowa’s essence through local media and initiatives, underscoring the importance of documenting history before it's lost to time. As we honour John's contributions and his welcoming nature, we are reminded of the town's fortune to have him as a beloved cornerstone—a testament to the enduring spirit of community, resilience, and shared legacy.

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The commercialization of mental health initiatives is a pressing issue that can no longer be ignored. What if businesses are more focused on publicity than genuine support? We take a hard look at R U OK Day, exploring how symbolic gestures fall short and why it's crucial to foster real, year-round conversations about mental health. This episode doesn't just stop at critique; we also arm you with vital mental health resources available in Australia, ensuring anyone in need knows exactly where to find help.

Lifeline Australia – Available 24/7 for crisis support and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14 or chat online at lifeline.org.au.

Beyond Blue – Offering support for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. You can call them on 1300 22 4636 or visit beyondblue.org.au for online chat and resources.

Headspace – Specifically for young people aged 12-25 who need help with mental health, work, or study. Visit headspace.org.au or find a local Headspace centre.

Suicide Call Back Service – Providing immediate support for anyone at risk of suicide. Call them on 1300 659 467 or chat online at suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

Get ready for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Boorowa Irish Woolfest with the festival's chair, Susan Corcoran. Ever wondered what it takes to transition a community event committee? Susan shares insights on the change from a 355 council committee to an advisory role, assuring us that operations remain as robust as ever. We delve into the rich history and meticulous planning of Woolfest, from entertainment and accommodation to sponsorships. Discover how this 26-year-old celebration of Irish heritage and Merino wool comes to life through year-round dedication and coordination.

As we shift gears, Susan and I unpack the vibrant festivities lined up for the Woolfest and Boorowa Festival Season. From the intricate journey of wool and educational demos to the quick shear event and working dog showcases, attendees are promised an immersive experience. But that's not all—join us in celebrating Irish culture with poetry sessions, quirky competitions, and lively musical acts. And if you're looking for more, the Boorowa Festival Season has plenty in store, including the Harden kite festival, twilight festival, and cherry festival. Mark your calendars for October 6th; you won't want to miss this!

https://irishwoolfest.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-Boorowa-Irish-Woolfest_Program-1-1.pdf

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Ever wondered how you can make a real impact in your local community? On this episode of "This is Boorowa," we bring you a comprehensive guide to Hilltops' upcoming local government elections, scheduled for September 14th. We're breaking down the election process, where 11 councillors will be elected from 16 candidates, and a pivotal referendum that could reduce the number of councillors from 11 to 9. Although our original guest Darren Williams couldn't join us due to a medical procedure, we're focusing on the strategies for a balanced council and the significance of your vote. Plus, catch the details on "Meet the Candidates" sessions to help you make an informed choice.

We're also diving into why this election is crucial for smaller towns like Borough and Harden. Discover how reducing the number of councillors could impact representation for these areas and why your vote is more important than ever. We encourage you to participate in upcoming sessions to engage directly with the candidates and voice your concerns. Additionally, stay informed with updates on local issues like rail trail funding and new development applications. Join us as we discuss our commitment to holding elected officials accountable and ensuring your community's needs are met.

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