ASPIRING JOURNALIST SECURES RARE INTERVIEW WITH FORMER FIRST LADY
ASPIRING journalist Bhavani Bailey-Walters has secured herself a rare interview with international leader and America’s former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Approaching the final months of her masters degree in journalism Ms Bailey-Walters said the interview was a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
When Ms Bailey-Walters requires an interview she said she usually asks people who are promoting something – either a show, movie or book.
“I knew Michelle was touring with her new book Becoming and said to mum how cool it would be to interview her,” she said.
“My mum suggested I should try and see what happens.”
Ms Bailey-Walters said she looked up to Ms Obama like a role-model.
“I have looked up to Michelle for a long time,” she said.
“The work she does is inspiring.”
Ms Bailey-Walters said she began conducting interviews with residents around Mount Gambier and it progressed organically.
“It all just slowly progressed into national and then international,” she said.
“My highlights would have to be meeting my childhood heroine Julie Andrews, along with Hugh Jackman, Meryl Streep and Dame Judith Olivia Dench.
“Although the journey has been long and there have been some challenging moments I will be happy to finish my studies.”
Ms Bailey-Walters has interview over 50 international and national singers and actors.
“I would love to list them all but it would take too long,” she said.
“Celebrity interviews are fun but I also want to focus more on social justice journalism.
“I would love to give voices to those who do not have the opportunity.”
Lynne Johnston: Woohoo, congratulations, fantastic news. You go girl.
Jenny Cox: I look forward to hearing all about it. What an amazing opportunity for you.’
Pa Pa Hen: Awesome. Sounds good.
Gaynor Smith: That is awesome! Congratulations.
FORMER AFL FOOTBALLER GAVIN WANGANEEN VISITS THE REGION
AGED CARE LEADER BID FAREWELL
BOANDIK Crouch Street aged care facility has recently fair-welled long serving residential manager Rodney May after 17 years.
Boandik chief executive officer Gillian McGinty said Mr May fit the “Boandik culture” since day one.
“He always encouraged the team at Crouch Street to support each person to live as they chose,” she said.
“He inspired residents to maximise their independence and to continue their strong connections with the community.
“His friendly and approachable personality saw residents, staff and family members drop in frequently to say hello.”
Ms McGinty said he would always inform people of what was going on.
“He took time for everyone, even in his very busy position,” she said.
“Boandik has been very fortunate to have Rodney as a member of the senior management team.
“His contribution to developing the strategic direction of the organisation has ensured a continued focus on quality services for our clients.”
Ms McGinty and the Boandik staff thank Rodney for his contribution.
“We wish him a happy and healthy retirement with lots of cuddles from his granddaughters,” she said.
Bruce Wright: Boandik is a wonderful facility that Mount Gambier is justly proud of.
Katrina Davies Hutchesson: Thank you Rodney for helping after I had had my babies all those years ago in Penola and I know my Mum has always enjoyed working with you, .enjoy your retirement.
Sheelagh Bruce Baker: All the best for the future Rodney.
Bronwyn Nicholson: Happy retirement Rodney, you will be missed by everyone!
BUMPER LINE-UP BOOKED FOR COONAWARRA COMEDY SHOW
A BUMPER line-up of “crack-up” comedy performances is heading to the Limestone Coast this weekend.
After five sold-out Australian events, Grapes Of Mirth will kick off 2019 in Coonawarra.
Hosted by TV and radio star Merrick Watts, the audience will be entertained by a gala line-up of international comedians in support of the district’s wine region.
“We have tried to have a great balance of comedians with different performance styles that compliment each other well,” Merrick said.
“They each have a 20 to 25 minute set which aims to give a strong sharp showcase of their style.
“I think it’s a great mix of performers – like a mixed six pack of wine.”
Through great support, the event has been given access to a “giant” air-conditioned marquee on the Penola Racecourse protecting viewers from all elements on the day.
The event is strictly no bring your own with an array of food, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase on the day.
Tickets are on sale for the January 19 event and all include a souvenir glass and first pour of wine.
Makala Butler to Kellie Buck: We should all book together.
Cathryn Thoday to Meaghan Rice: Lets do it.
Belinda Rose to Carol McBain: Thinking about it, just need to see what Daniel wants to do for his birthday.
Jane Woosnam to Emma Hambour: We should go to this together (I’ll get a babysitter for the kids)
