Life Worth Listening

Deebee Bishop is a singer-songwriter based in the Nambucca Valley of NSW, best known for his roots in folk music, though his work spans a range of genres. A seasoned performer with a warm, engaging stage presence, clearly enjoying the moment as much as his audience.Writing songs since the early 1980s, Deebee has stayed true to his craft, continuing to tour and share original material despite the challenges of an often unforgiving music industry. Beyond his own performances, he is also dedicated to mentoring young people aspiring to careers in the performing arts, offering guidance and inspiration to the next generation of creatives.  Deebee was kind enough to talk with me about his journey so far. 

Rob McRea grew up in the NSW Central Coast Town of Woy Woy, where, at 16 years old, he entered a talent quest and sang 'All Shook Up' by Elvis Presley.  He would pick up second place in that talent quest and would eventually become a full time Elvis Presley tribute artist. What is it about Elvis that has an everlasting global appeal and what was it like to make a living impersonating him?  Rob McRea was kind enough to chat with me and tell his story. 

Michael Ettelson is a Stock and Station Agent on the NSW's Mid North Coast. Although city born and bred, he overtly supports those on the land in rural Australia. He is a motivating force behind the Macksville Show as he considers country shows are critically important to country regions, such as the one in which he lives, the Nambucca Valley. Michael turned his back on life in the city and traded in his suit and tie for a cowboy hat and boots and in this chat with him, we hear why. 

Jill Ashley is the CEO of an organisation called ShoreTrack. Their mission is to advance social and public welfare by looking after the wellbeing of disadvantaged, disengaged, high risk and vulnerable young people experiencing multiple challenges.   She has been a high school teacher, a counsellor, had a range of roles with  TAFE , has worked in management and sales, and has even ran an Indoor Sports Centre. Along the way she decided that she could make a positive impact on young  people who might just need a little assistance, in a relevant and meaningful way and ShoreTrack was born.

Caz Rhodes is a published author, a public historian, a playwright and a fascinating lady who compares herself with Tarots Fool, willing to take the leap into what interests her and see how it turns out.  Caz was kind enough to share her story with me and she does indeed live a life worth listening. 

David has been a Mayor of a City in Victoria, Australia, and continues his service to the community as a councillor on the Nambucca Valley Council. David recently entered the race for Mayor of the Nambucca Valley and, although unsuccessful, he continues as a Councillor as well as a range of other roles based on service to the community.