North East Arnhem Land with Mon

Hi - Mon here!I've just released the trailer to a new series I've been working on. It's called Living with Mon and it explores some of the most interesting lifestyles out there.My favourite thing about this project was getting the opportunity to take some time and just have a chat with all these extraordinary people – some who had completely different views than my own, live polar opposite lifestyles – and I had the best time, and I feel like I really learnt a lot.So if you’re keen to open your mind, step out of your shoes and take a stroll in someone else’s – search Living with Mon wherever you get your podcasts. Episode 1 of Living with Mon will be dropping very shortly.I cannot wait to start this journey with you. CREDITSCreated by Monika O'HanlonFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/with.mon/

We have officially reached the 27th and FINAL episode of the podcast – for season 1 at least.Today we’re going to finish on a high with an inspiring young person – who is already doing remarkable things.Siena Stubbs is wise beyond her years. She has already accomplished more in her 17 spins around the sun than many will in a lifetime – but for her – she’s just living her life.Growing up in Yirrkala – an indigenous community about 18 kilometers from Nhulunbuy– Siena says she feels lucky to have been brought up with her Yolngu culture. She’s a published author and photographer and this year was nominated for a prestigious award. We sat down for a chat a few months ago – but since then Siena graduated from Nhulunbuy High School, and now for the first time in 13 years – she doesn’t know what the future will bring. Siena has this beautiful positive energy about her – and just from our conversation – her and her generation make me feel so much better about the future.Thank to everyone who has listened. To anyone who has rated or left a review, to everyone who has messaged me and stopped me on the street - thank you!To Gove FM – the tiny community radio station with a HUGE heart – thank you for letting me record in the studio. And thank you for employing me and allowing me to come home.And finally, to everyone who generously gave their free time and who shared their story. From the bottom of my heart – thank you! It was an absolute honor and a joy.This part of the world is just so special and is brimming with inspiring and incredible people. Hopefully we can continue to share your stories in the future, but for now - I wish you all a Merry Christmas, and here's to a wonderful new year.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Siena StubbsGrab a copy of Siena's book Our Birds, Nilimurrungu Wayin Malanynha here:https://www.booktopia.com.au/our-birds-siena-stubbs/book/9781925360981.htmlTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comOr visit our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

The SECOND last episode of season 1 is finally here 🎊Hannah Fincham-Thomson LOVES the Top End. She was born and bred in Nhulunbuy and is now raising her own family here. She still says it’s just the best place to live - and I'm with her 100 per cent.In this conversation Hannah shares with us how her family ended up in the region and the hilarious stories from her childhood. She speaks about becoming a teacher and then realising she wanted to try her hand at business.Hannah also talks about what it's like to raise her own children here and her hopes for the future of North East Arnhem Land – post mining.I had an awesome time speaking with Hannah, as you’ll soon find out I was in stitches for a good chunk of the interview. But apart from her talent for telling funny stories – Hannah is a strong, determined and passionate woman who loves her HUGE family and her home dearly. Right now it's time to sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.Remember, if you like what you hear it'd be unreal if you could rate the podcast wherever you listened. Every review helps 💙CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Hannah Fincham-Thomson Check out Hannah's business at East Arnhem Real EstateThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comOr visit our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

After a bit of a break we are back - which means the count down has officially begun! This is the third last episode of season 1 - and we're going out with a bang!Today long time local of Nhulunbuy, Ivor Alexander shares with us his story - which all began in Scotland. In this episode you’ll hear about his childhood, serving in the military, becoming a male nurse back in the 70's, meeting his lovely wife Linda, and the story of how they came up to North East Arnhem Land - expecting to stay for a year - and why they never left. Whether you live in this region or if you’re listening in from another part of the world – Ivor’s story is truly fascinating. So without further a do. Sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Ivor AlexanderThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comOr visit our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

In today’s society we often try to ignore and hide unpleasant and difficult situations. We want to come across as “fine” to the world. But it can be a dangerous and isolating cycle. Which is why my guest this week is extra special.Mareva Pearse had an idyllic childhood. She spent a number of her early years sailing the high seas with her family. Eventually they settled in this remote paradise which is North east Arnhem Land. But as life often pans out - things can get tricky and she was faced with a number of significant hurdles. Luckily for her resilience and with the support from her family – Mareva confronted these hurdles head on – and continues to do so.Something I really admire about Mareva is that she chooses to see the positive. Not only has she become stronger – her experiences inspired her to speak up about mental health publicly. She’s established a support group on Facebook and recently started her own radio show – right here on Gove FM.Mareva is just so passionate about helping people – it was an absolute honour to sit down with her for a chat. So kick back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.To join Mareva's Facebook support group searchMental Health Awareness with MarevaIf you or someone you know is struggling with mental health there are a number of local resources. Reach out - remember you are NEVER alone.- Top End Mental Health(08) 8987 0414- Optimal Lifestyle and Wellness- Outlook Psychology - Empowering Territorians- Nhulunbuy Police(08) 8987 1333There are various national organisations including:-

This week we celebrate episode 23 of the podcast!Where do I even begin with today's guest? He’s a Dhimurru Ranger, father and a proud Yolngu man. He’s also an incredibly talented hip hop artist and uses his music to spread awareness on certain issues.His name is Guruguru Hick - AKA Bala G - and he’s a deadest legend.In this conversation he speaks about growing up in the big smoke – and feeling confused about where he fit in. We talk about his various jobs – including his current one which allows him to protect and look after the environment. He also speaks about his children, and his hopes and dreams not only for himself – but for our country.Earlier this year he started a band. They've already received various offers to play gigs interstate – and they haven’t even decided on a name yet. Keep your eyes and your ears peeled - exciting times ahead! Right now though sit back and relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Guruguru HickKeep up to date with his music on his artist Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/YolnguRepz/Thanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

On this week's episode of the podcast I had the pleasure of sitting down with the ever so lovely, Jessica Pitkin.Over a decade ago she made the move to Nhulunbuy with her husband Mal, and at the time their three children. She's now a mother of four boys and works in a male dominated industry. She says it herself - she was born to be around men.Jess has had an incredibly interesting and versatile career. From a stay at home mother, to working in a chemist, then taking a job at a primary school - to starting her own salad business. This eventually led her to truck driving - and now a self professed "Mother Trucker".Jess just has the best outlook on life and spreads her positive vibe wherever she goes.In this conversation we speak about her life, her jobs, her family - and the importance of having "you" time.She’s such a lovely human, so it was an absolute honour to have her on this week’s episode – of North East Arnhem Land with Mon.As usual a massive thank you needs to go out to Gove FM - without this community radio station - this podcast would not be possible ❤️CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Jessica PitkinThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/

It's crazy how in one of the most remote parts of the country - you can meet some of the most talented and inspiring people you will ever come across. And in this episode of North East Arnhem Land with Mon I speak with one such person.I was fortunate enough to sit down with Matt McLean. Now if that name isn't ringing any bells - he also goes by Aris - and in this conversation you'll find out why. He's a young hip hop artist from the region who's music is gaining attention around Australia and overseas. When he's not working on his own stuff - he often collaborates with other local up and coming emcees - helping them to achieve their own dreams. He's also a really talented self-taught videographer and genuinely a really nice guy. So for anyone looking for some inspiration - maybe something to push you in the right direction of pursuing a passion - this episode is definitely worth a listen.CreditsHost: Monika O'HanlonSpecial thanks to Matt McLean - AKA ArisCheck out Matt's film clip for Innocent Kids hereFor business enquiries head to:www.arisrealtalk.comThanks to Gove FMTo get in touch email monika_ohanlon@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon/