Annie in wonderland

 Going on a day trip with a group through the NDIS is an exciting opportunity to explore new places and connect with others. However, it's crucial to remember that being part of a group also comes with responsibilities, especially when it comes to respecting the people around you. Whether you're new to NDIS group outings or a seasoned participant, here are some key guidelines to ensure everyone has an enjoyable and respectful experience. 1. Turn Up on Time Punctuality is a simple yet essential way to show respect for others. Arriving on time not only shows that you value the time of your support workers and fellow participants but also helps ensure the day runs smoothly. Late arrivals can cause delays, affecting the entire group and possibly shortening the time you have to enjoy the planned activities. 2. Personal Hygiene Matters Before heading out, make sure you've taken care of your personal hygiene. Having a shower and wearing clean clothes are basic courtesies that make...

Hello, everyone! I wanted to take a moment to update you on what’s been happening in my life lately. A lot has been going on, and I’ve been reflecting on some of the changes, challenges, and growth I’ve experienced. ### Embracing Change and Finding Stability Over the past few months, I’ve been navigating significant changes in my routine and support structure. One of the biggest adjustments has been finding stability in my day-to-day life. As many of you know, living in a Supported Independent Living (SIL) home comes with its own set of challenges. I’ve learned that having a stable roster and a well-mapped-out day, week, and month is crucial for my sense of safety and well-being. When everything is predictable, it’s easier to relax and focus on personal growth. After all, if I don’t feel safe at home, where will I ever feel truly safe? ### Improving Health and Setting Boundaries I’m happy to report that my health has been getting better. It’s been a long journey, but I’m seeing positiv...

 Hi everyone, I've been reflecting a lot on the recent NDIS changes. As I went through the list, I found myself torn between thinking some cuts seem reasonable and questioning why certain things are being removed. On one hand, I see the need to reduce waste within the NDIA system, but on the other hand, some of these cuts are concerning. For those who are higher-functioning, caregivers legally responsible for someone with a disability, or providers, it's important to give feedback. We need to refocus on what is reasonable and necessary. Our taxes aren't unlimited, and it makes sense to remove items that lack scientific evidence of effectiveness. However, person-centered care should remain a priority. Some services, like certain health treatments, could be funded by the health department. If you want something like getting your nails done, that should be paid for out of pocket—just like everyone else. There are various ways to earn money, whether through a job, running a bus...

 Thought: if sound can make people sick, or mentally unwell. As I live next door to a person who had a mental illness triggered by sound and not in the "it's mildly upsetting to me" but a really severe case of a sweet person with an intellectual disability to a person with behaviors of concern. Could it make you well? I haven’t really looked any further, but I think this is what a lot of new-age and alternative healers are looking at with their meditations. Research shows that certain sounds can indeed have a negative impact on health. For example, low-frequency noise and infrasound have been linked to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. This phenomenon, known as the "nocebo effect," is when negative expectations of harmless sounds cause adverse symptoms. Additionally, some sounds can make people very sick, such as in the case of Havana Syndrome, where the physical vibrations of sound caused severe health issues in individuals. But when they say ...

  Australia's Overlooked Role in Nuclear History I was recently watching a Netflix documentary on the Manhattan Project, and it got me thinking. As an Australian, it's striking how often our own contributions to nuclear history and global conflicts are overlooked. While the documentary focused on the U.S. efforts, it made me wonder if producers at Netflix or other U.S.-based production companies are even aware of Australia's role in World War II, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and our significant involvement in nuclear testing. Australia played a crucial role in World War II, not just on the front lines but also as a testing ground for nuclear technologies. The British conducted nuclear tests on Australian soil, with sites like Maralinga becoming infamous. Yet, these projects are seldom mentioned in mainstream media. Instead, the narrative is dominated by stories from the U.S. and Europe. One often overlooked fact is that there were more bombs dropped on Darwin than on Pearl Har...

This post is going to be a bit different. I’m not going to polish it with ChatGPT; instead, I'm using it to ensure I'm not breaching privacy or unintentionally being offensive. Here are the books I want to read, including some older ones, along with YouTubers who discuss these topics from different political perspectives. ### Books I Plan to Read: 1. **Freakonomics** by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner 2. **12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos** by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson 3. **The Gulag Archipelago** by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn 4. **Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies** by Jared Diamond 5. **How the Girl Guides Won the War** by Janie Hampton 6. **Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media** by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky 7. **Exodus: A Memoir** by Deborah Feldman 8. **The Trap** by David Icke (Read with a critical mind) 9. **Sweet Poison: Why Sugar Makes Us Fat** by David Gillespie 10. **Tracking the White Salamander: The Story o...

In an era dominated by digital information, media literacy is more crucial than ever. Understanding the differences between legacy media and new media, recognizing satire, navigating cancel culture, and being aware of media ownership and bias can help individuals make informed decisions and stay true to their beliefs. This blog post delves into these topics, offering insights on how to be a savvy media consumer. #### Legacy Media vs. New Media **Legacy Media:** Legacy media refers to traditional forms of media such as newspapers, television, and radio. These media outlets have been around for decades and are often characterized by: 1. **Gatekeeping:** Information is filtered through editors and producers, ensuring content meets certain standards. 2. **Credibility:** Established reputations often lend credibility to legacy media. 3. **Slower Pace:** News cycles are slower, with daily or weekly updates. 4. **Limited Interaction:** Audience engagement is minimal, typically limited to lett...

Discovering JD Duggan Park: A Family-Friendly Oasis in Toowoomba Nestled in the heart of Toowoomba, JD Duggian Park is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and cultural heritage. This blog post will guide you through the park's highlights, including the enchanting Butterfly Walk, family-friendly amenities, and the rich Indigenous history that adds depth to its charm. Whether planning a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a photo expedition, JD Duggan Park has something for everyone. Accessibility: A Park for All One of the standout features of JD Duggian Park is its commitment to accessibility. The park's design ensures that people of all abilities can enjoy its serene environment. Here are some key accessibility features: Paved Pathways: The park boasts well-maintained, paved pathways that are wheelchair and stroller-friendly. These paths wind through the park, making it easy for visitors to explore without encountering obstacles. Accessib...

 Nestled on the eastern outskirts of Toowoomba, Redwood Park offers visitors an escape into nature with its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and extensive walking trails. This 243-hectare park is a gem for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the serenity of the Australian bush. In this blog post, we'll delve into what you can expect when visiting Redwood Park, where the walking trails connect, what to bring, how to plan for emergencies, the wildlife you might encounter, and the efforts of the Friends of the Escarpment. What to Expect at Redwood Park Redwood Park is renowned for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. As you enter the park, you'll be greeted by a canopy of towering eucalyptus trees and an understory teeming with native plants. The park's varied topography includes steep slopes, gullies, and ridges, offering a range of experiences from tranquil strolls to challenging hikes. After some rain, the park transforms into a lush, ve...

Nestled in the heart of Toowoomba, Newtown Park is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of history, beauty, and accessibility. As the home of the State Rose Garden, it showcases a stunning array of roses in full bloom, making it a paradise for flower enthusiasts and photographers alike. The park's rich history adds to its charm. During World War II, Newtown Park played a significant role, serving various wartime purposes. The building now used by Friends of the Rose Garden served as a guide hut until the 90s, reflecting the park's long association with the Girl Guides movement. Founded in 1910 by Lord Baden-Powell, the Girl Guides aimed to provide girls with opportunities to develop practical skills, leadership, and a sense of community. This movement quickly spread worldwide, including Australia, where it became an integral part of many girls' lives. Today, visitors can discover a hidden memorial dedicated to the animals that served in the war, a poignant reminder o...