Eumundi Voice Magazine

Eumundi Voice

20 hours ago

The persecution of women in positions of authority as witches has a long history. This is the subject of local historian and author Debra Parish’s new book, Prophet and Witches: Witchcraft, Gender and Politics. Set in the turbulent context of 17th-century civil war England, Debra’s book brings to life the stories of several hundred brave women who pushed boundaries as they claimed spiritual authority as visionary prophets. It was also a time of increased fear and persecution of witches. The danger for these outspoken women was that as spiritual instruments or prophets, they also risked being accused of witchcraft.
The visionary trance, often lasting for weeks, days or months was crucial for establishing the female prophet’s spiritual authority and reputation. However, although several of these women achieved status and power for their visionary performances ... To continue reading, please click here: issuu.com/eumundivoice/docs/eumundi_voice_issue_151/29 ... See MoreSee Less

Eumundi Voice

2 days ago

When Noosa Hinterland resident Liz Stapleton received a call in July telling her that her beloved Springer Spaniel Winston had gone missing while she was in Sydney, she immediately flew home.
It didn't stay a solo search for long. Word travelled fast: neighbours who barely knew the Stapletons delivered flyers, strangers shared Winston's photo on social media, and local businesses put posters in their windows. The search became a community cause – dozens of people combing paddocks and bushland, united in the hope of bringing a favourite dog home.
“We even used a thermal drone over bushland at night to look for signs of heat from animals,” said Liz.
No one knew wild dogs moved through those same paddocks – it wasn't something anyone feared. The hinterland is home, the place where a dog might wander off and be found again, tail wagging and a little muddy.
For 10 days, the search continued. What it uncovered isn’t really the point here – some endings are best left for grieving hearts. What stayed was the memory of how quickly people show up for a stranger’s grief, and how far they will walk for a dog they’ve never patted.
“So many dog owners followed Winston's journey and reached out through Facebook. I wanted to say thank you to this special community,” said Liz.
Determined to honour Winston's memory, Liz channelled her grief into a creative project. As a writer and artist, she teamed up with neighbour and publisher Jonette George, of independent publishing house Sunday Press. Liz met Jonette while they were both searching for Winston.
The result is The Adventures of Winston and Maggie, a chapter book for young readers featuring 6 hinterland adventures shared by 2 cheeky spaniel siblings. Liz wrote and illustrated the book with 7 paintings and 9 drawings inspired by Winston.
Proceeds from the book will support Sunshine Coast 4 Paws Animal Rescue Inc, a volunteer-run charity that helps rehome homeless dogs and cats.
Described by Jonette as “a coffee-table edition suitable for dog-loving adults and kids alike”, the special fabric-covered book is now available for pre-order through Sunday Press, with free pick-up available at Lake Macdonald or postage options available. Visit: sundaypress.com.au. ... See MoreSee Less