Glenda matches people with books

Although the Mitchell Library does not contain the number of books found in libraries servicing larger populations, we do have a librarian who knows the individual interests of the people of Mitchell and surrounds. As a result, Glenda offers a unique service not often found in larger areas.

Ordering in books for particular people is something Glenda likes to do, then she offers them as surprise gifts of the mind. The latest -- for me -- was a recently published book about Charles Darwin, a subject I'm particularly interested in. Sometimes I'll wander into the library, my mind blank as to the fiction and I want to read, and I'll say to Glenda, "Can you recommend something?" And knowing me she'll choose a selection of books that I'm sure to enjoy. It is Glenda's ability and willingness to match people with books that makes her such an excellent librarian.

Barter system alive and well in Mitchell

In a community the size of Mitchell (around 900 people) giving and receiving cements feelings of belonging. A jar of home-made jam, a bunch of flowers, a pot plant -- anything and everything can be bartered.
With Doug's vegetable garden producing large quantities of chemical-free vegetables we have the pleasure of giving away cabbages, lettuces, rocket and broccoli. In return we are well-supplied with eggs and even snails, which are the food of choice for my 40-year-old stumpy-tailed lizard. Today we've given away spinach, snow peas and carrots and received a bunch of flowers, and the loan of a treasured book about botanical art in Australia.

My marimba 'buddy' and her boutique homeware store

Our Mitchell Marimba Band has around 16 members, with Joy Foott our teacher. Usually we play two people per marimba, with one playing mid and the other high. The three people who play bass have an instrument to themselves. Three parts (base, middle and high) make a whole, a coming together that produces the distinctive earthy beat of marimba music -- of Zimbabwean heritage.
My marimba 'buddy' is Krystal Kouvaras who owns and runs Lemon Pie, an upmarket gift shop next to the Mitchell Chemist. Krystal's aim is to give the people of this outback town fresh, exciting quality homeware and she succeeds admirably!

Aladdin's Cave of Artwork

Now that the Landmark Art Show has finished, we've had the pleasure of hanging four new pictures on our walls. All are photos that symbolise outback Queensland. My favourite won first prize and is the creation of Gigi Robertson of Westwood. The subject is six apostle birds cuddled up together along a wire fence.

The second photograph taken by Gigi is of galahs perched in a tree. Lachlan Robertson, Gigi's son, was highly commended for a head study of a goanna. It now has pride of place on our kitchen wall. The fourth photograph is the creation of Jenny Walker from Iwona, and is a stunning bulbous boab.

Like Aladdin's cave, the walls of our kitchen and eating area are a vibrant gallery of artwork reflecting our double life: outback Queensland and Phillip Island.

Snow White the egret symbolises peace

Snow White the egret has been part of my daily walk along the river for over four years. I've learned her favourite haunts, seen her in every sort of action and inaction. When the river began its run five days ago, she moved from her usual position near the bridge to the old crossing. Here she can catch more than her fill of fish as they're swept in the swirling water over the causeway. Always solitary, and full of elegance and grace, Snow White symbolises the peace and strength of this mighty river, the Maranoa.

My first e-book published today

Thanks to Qld Writers Centre I had my first e-book published today through the online publisher Smashwords. It was the monthly magazine of the Qld Writers Centre that gave me up-to-date info. on the latest digital technologies and how to tap into them. The fact that Doug and I (both of us find computer technology difficult) managed to create a digital book cover, convert my 16,500 word manuscript into the correct e-book format, and follow the online instructions is a credit to Tony our Mitchell computer expert, and the Smashword's guidelines. Inspired by my friend Janet Watt's dream and located on an island, Tsunami is an adventure story with strong animal and environmental themes. Writing is what I love to do, so please share this story among friends and family with children aged eight plus. 50 per cent is free, and for $4. 95 US you can read the rest. My main wish is that children -- the world over -- enjoy the story. Here's the link to my Smashwords author profile: http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/outbackwriter
Here's the link to my book page, where you can sample or purchase the book: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/24986

Frogs in ecstasy in Mitchell

The highest temperature measured at the Mitchell Post Office on Sunday was only 11.4°C which is 14 degrees below average. No wonder we were so cold. Today's 25° has triggered the most extraordinary growth of grasses, weeds and leaves. You can just about see the plants growing. So far this year Mitchell has had 900 mm (36 inches) of rain which is about 50% more than the yearly average -- and it's only September. The frogs are in ecstasy!