Episode 29 - Denise Houlihan: VISE Diaries. A life in the outback

Wando Vale resident Denise Houlihan truly embodies the spirit of Pioneering Women. Along with her husband Frank they worked together to provide and raise their children, promote love of the land and learning. Following Frank’s death Denise’s thirst and willingness to experience new horizons while assisting others was kindled by an advertisement for teachers to join School of the Air through Volunteers for Isolated Student Education {VISE}. A 6 week adventure / commitment to outback Queensland and later on Northern Territory became a 10 year love affair, despite the Cane Toad, pythons, dust and heat. Denise’s cultural awakening and sharing not only with the families but of the essence of the outback, its spectacular vastness and the kaleidoscope of cherished relationships and experiences are captured with humility and respect in her own handwritten diaries.Casterton Connections are thrilled to present a snippet of the 600 entries in Denise’s Diaries which with lyrical descriptions , heartwarming and generosity of spirit transport the listener into the private thoughts and writings entered creatively and diligently by this wonderful lady over the ten years.Vision Australia’s digitalizing of Denise’s Diaries are a testament to Denise Houlihan’s treasure chest of writings. Sit back , close your eyes and walk the journey with Denise as she not only shares her past joys but reminisces with interviewers Kane, Lois and Luke as her Diary treasures are unpacked.