Hi,
If you remember the MYISA Magazine I used to publish many years ago then the stories on my new website will look familiar. It has been an effort getting the site up and running and I still have no idea what I am doing.
I hope you enjoy the stories and podcasts and if you've been along for the ride, I'm grateful for the company.
Feature Story
A RAY OF SUNSHINE
To those born and bred in a city it is an adventure to be remembered long after your youth fades. To outback communities it is a familiar story.
Meet Abbie Chandler, a young teacher throwing herself into life and lighting up those of the people around her.
This month's stories
“Who killed Slackie Maher”
Boxing was a main attraction in Mount Isa and many talented pugilists found their way to the city knowing there was a quid to be earned.
One such boxer was Ernest John “Slackie” Maher from Newcastle.
Follow the rugged fighter’s rise, fall, and mysterious murder in Depression-era Australia.
Prams, Politics and Paper Bags
One bank said no — she was a woman, the other said yes. Ann Garms built an empire, dined with premiers, and was in the room when $100,000 in a paper bag changed hands .
The Master
Bob Bax grew up in Mount Isa, where he began playing Rugby League. He moved to Brisbane and coached nine premierships in fifteen years, mentored Wayne Bennett, and when the Brisbane Rugby League Team of the Century was named Baxie was unanimously voted in as coach.
The Gregory GOS
Brandon Goldstein travelled from Melbourne to the Gregory because someone left a door ajar. Now he is putting them up all over the gulf.
A Final Note
Every story this month is really the same one — someone refusing to accept the hand they've been dealt, and quietly getting on with it anyway. I find that worth writing about. I hope you find it worth reading.
"The world isn't as bad as the news makes it. There are good people everywhere — you just have to know where to look."
Until next time,
James
Stories of people, place and perseverance
Click on episodes 1 or 2 below to listen.
