Politics 101 Q&A 2

Question: What is the difference between Queensland and other states' governments?

#KeepItReal #CommunityFirst #RegionalLife #fightingforyou #DisabilityAdvocacy #MentalHealthAdvocacy #InclusionMatters #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #DisabilityAdvocate

Sorry for the lack of posts this week.

Sharing from lived and ongoing experience means that at times fatigue, flare-ups, and unexpected challenges can arise. I truly appreciate your patience and support while I take some time to recover.

I’m currently working on creating a month’s worth of content in advance so that if I become unwell, my posting schedule can continue without disruption.

Thank you so much for bearing with me while I rest and recharge 🤍

Politics 101 Q&A

If my local member represents me why do we need sentors?

#SystemicChange #regional #KarenBoultonGorry #Bridge4Better #bridge4better #CommunityAdvocate #PolicyAndAdvocacy

I’m proud to share that this week, my new shared website has been completed for Karen Boulton-Gorry, Community Advocate and Bridge 4 Better, my policy and advocacy branch.

This website brings together my community advocacy work and my policy and campaigning focus in one place, making it easier to share updates, priorities, and opportunities to create positive change.

Thank you for your continued support.

Website:
https://karenboultoncommun.wixsite.com/bridge-for-better

#KarenBoultonGorry #Bridge4Better #CommunityAdvocate #PolicyAndAdvocacy #PositiveChange

This week in Wide Bay–Burnett: what matters and why👇

Floodwaters are easing in Bundaberg and nearby areas, but recovery is far from over. Around 240 homes and 120 businesses were inundated, recovery hubs are open, and some communities are still dealing with isolation, damage and safety risks.

Queensland has also released proposed new state electorate boundaries, with concerns that parts of the Fraser Coast, including Hervey Bay Hospital, could be moved into a different electorate. These changes are not final.

At the same time, fuel prices are rising fast. The national average is about 198c a litre, with some places well over $2, partly linked to conflict in the Middle East disrupting oil shipping and supply fears.

Queensland’s new protest law is already being tested, after police action at a Brisbane protest, sparking debate around free speech, hate speech and public safety.

And federally, David Littleproud has stepped down as Nationals leader, with Queensland Senator Matt Canavan taking over, the Coalition’s second federal leadership change in about a month.

The bigger picture: for regional Queensland, it all adds up to more pressure on everyday people from flood recovery and rising fuel costs to growing political uncertainty.

Politics 101: Senate VS House of Representatives!

Today we will be going of the basics of the Senate and how it is different to the House of Representatives and why it matters to you.

Thought leader: what it actually means + how you become one

I heard the term thought leader in a meeting last week and honestly… I had no clue what it meant.

Everyone nodded like it was obvious, so I did the classic thing: nodded too, went home, and looked it up.

Here’s the simple version:

A thought leader is someone people trust because they help others make sense of things.

Not because they’re loud.
Not because they’re popular.
Because when they speak, people leave clearer than before.

And this part matters:

Thought leadership isn’t a title you give yourself. It’s something other people give you over time, when you consistently show up with clarity, honesty, and useful ideas.

In community advocacy, that looks like:
• translating messy issues into plain English
• naming the real problem, not just the symptom
• using lived experience without pretending to speak for everyone
• backing your points with facts where you can
• giving people a practical next step

That’s why I’m focusing on it for Bridge 4 Better.

So many people care deeply about disability access, mental health, youth voice, and regional communities being left behind.

But a lot of people feel locked out because the system is written in “policy speak,” and the rules feel built for insiders.

I’ve seen both sides of that.

I’ve worked inside government as an Assistant Electorate Officer, and I’ve spent years in youth advisory and disability inclusion spaces.

What I’ve learned is this:

The people who explain the issue clearly, and show a pathway forward, are the ones who get heard.

So if you want to build thought leadership too, here’s what I’m using:

Pick your lane.
Choose one issue and stick with it long enough for people to trust you.

Be a translator, not a performer.
Explain it like you’re talking to a mate.

Bring a “what now?” every time.
Give people one real action they can take.

Protect your credibility.
Say what you know, back it where you can, and be willing to correct yourself.

Trust is the whole game.

If you’ve ever sat in a meeting and heard a word that made you think, wait… what does that even mean? drop it in the comments.

I’ll unpack it in plain English.

Today is International Women’s Day. It is a chance to recognise the strength, leadership and contribution of women in our lives and our communities.

To the women who inspire us, challenge us and make the world better every day, thank you.

Happy International Women’s Day. 💜

Politics 101 Part 2: Responsibility of each level of Government

Federal (Commonwealth) — Makes national laws; controls defence, foreign affairs, immigration; manages taxation, currency and trade; funds nationwide programs like Medicare and social security; overrides state law when validly inconsistent.

State/Territory — Runs core services: public hospitals, schools, police, courts and prisons; manages transport, roads and public housing frameworks; sets most planning, environment and resource rules; raises taxes like payroll tax and stamp duty; territories’ powers can be overridden by the Commonwealth.

Local (Councils) — Provides local services: waste, local roads, parks, libraries and community facilities; applies local planning schemes and assesses many developments; manages local health/amenity like food inspections and pets; funded mainly by rates, fees and grants; powers come from state/territory law.

#KarenBoultonGorry #PolicyInAction #InclusivePolicy #regionalqld #communityadvocacyandsocialpolicy #advocatelife #Politics101 #bridge4better

Environmental scans: what are they and why do they matter?

An environmental scan is a simple way to understand the world around your work so your planning is based on real community needs, not assumptions.
Think of it as a big picture check that helps you make good decisions. It is especially useful when you are building a strategic plan, strengthening governance, or setting up a new group or association.

My scan covers what is relevant to my sectors and roles and it can apply to a business, organisation, group, or community project. It looks at the context we operate in and what that means for priorities, partnerships, and practical action.
What an environmental scan typically includes: Place, People, Everyday pressures, Services and systems, Trends, risks, and opportunities.

What this looks like in practice, using my environmental scan:

Place: Where we operate, how far people travel, transport options, and how accessible everyday spaces are.

People: Who lives in the region, changing demographics, disability and caring roles, and what inclusion looks like in real life.

Everyday pressures: Housing, cost of living, work and income realities, and the factors that can increase stress or exclusion.

Services and systems: What supports exist, where the gaps are, how easy it is to navigate systems, and where coordination could improve outcomes.

Trends, risks, and opportunities: Policy and funding changes, workforce pressures, emerging community priorities, climate and disaster impacts, and opportunities for partnerships and local initiatives.

Why it matters:
A scan helps you turn good intentions into clear, realistic priorities. It gives you a stronger reason for your focus areas, helps you explain decisions to others, and supports planning that is relevant, accountable, and grounded in lived experience.

#EnvironmentalScan #StrategicPlanning #CommunityAdvocacy #Inclusion #Accessibility #CommunityDevelopment #FraserCoast #HerveyBay #Maryborough #DisabilityInclusion #LocalLeadership #karenboultongorry #bridge4better

Queensland update on e-bikes and e-scooters 🚲🛴

A QLD Parliament inquiry is expected to recommend:
• No riding under-16
• Age 16 plus needs at least a car learner's licence

Not law yet. Recommendations only.

What happens next:
• Final report expected this week
• Government has up to 3 months to respond
• If supported, new rules and a transition period would follow

Why this matters:
• Could limit under 16 transport options
• Could add a new barrier for 16-plus riders who do not have a licence
• Costs may be about $106 plus time, internet, ID, and service centre travel
• Bigger impact for disabled people and regional communities if access and exemptions are not built in

If you rely on e-bikes or e-scooters, keep an eye on the report and be ready to share feedback when the response drops.

#Bridge4Better #Queensland #Ebike #Escooter #RoadSafety #TransportEquity #DisabilityAccess #RegionalQueensland

Politics 101.... Dont scroll!

We are here to teach you what you wish you knew but, were never taught. This is the first in the series. We are starting with the foundation and then we will get into the real issues.

Save this for election day, and follow for Part 2.
#Australia #AusPol #Civics #Voting #Election #Government #CivicEducation #Queensland #ACT

Alt text: Woman with pink glasses speaks to camera from a living room with display cabinets behind her; on-screen captions summarize her explanation of Australia’s three levels of government and who runs elections, ending with “Part 2” and her name/organization.

Website update!

I am working on some exciting updates and projects with the website, blog and formalising Bridge 4 Better and Karen Boulton-Gorry Community Advocate. Here is a little sneak peak.

I will be sharing more soon.....

#KarenBoultonGorry #Bridge4Better #BridgingVoicesBuildingChange #PolicyInPlainEnglish #CommunityAdvocacy #CommunityPower #SystemsChange #karenboultongorry #RegionalVoicesMatter #Advocacy #bridge4better #LivedExperience

Bridge 4 Better: Our 6 Pillars to Bridging voices, building change!

Picture a river sitting between people and opportunity.
Our 6 pillars are the steps to building a bridge across it, so people can move from barriers to belonging.

1) Equality + Equity (the foundation)
Equality is giving everyone the same thing, but it assumes we all start in the same spot.
Equity is giving people what they need to reach the same outcome, because some have been held back by the system.

2) Access + Inclusion (the build)
Access is getting onto the bridge, ramps, pathways, clear signs, and a way that people can actually use.
Inclusion is what happens after that, not just being in the room, but having your voice count and a real say in decisions.

3) Justice + Liberation (the destination)
Justice is fixing what caused the gap, changing rules, policies, and accountability so barriers don’t keep getting rebuilt.
Liberation is real freedom, where people aren’t controlled by barriers inside or out, and dignity and choice are the norm.

What drives the change:
Advocacy = the voice (speaking up, pushing decision-makers).
Activism = the action (organising, applying pressure, building solutions).

At Bridge 4 Better, we use advocacy, activism, and education to push for equity, grow that into justice, and keep liberation as the long-term goal, until the gap that needed a bridge doesn’t exist anymore.

#Bridge4Better #BridgingVoicesBuildingChange #Equity #Access #Inclusion #Justice #Liberation #Community #RegionalAustralia

Hot take: accessibility isn’t inclusion.
And a ramp doesn’t automatically mean people belong.

Here’s the plain-English difference:

Accessibility is being able to get in and use something.
Ramps, lifts, clear signs, captions, AUSLAN, accessible websites.
It’s the stuff that makes places, services, and tech usable.

Inclusion is what happens after you get in.
Being welcomed, respected, and involved not just present.
It means your voice has weight and you can actually influence what’s happening.

This is how I picture it:
Accessibility is the ramp into the building where the meeting is.
Inclusion is having a seat at the table in the meeting: being heard, not spoken over, not sidelined, not treated like an add on.

Too often, organisations stop at access. They tick the box, but people still don’t feel like they belong or that their voice carries weight.

At Bridge 4 Better, we’re about bridging voices and building change and that means pushing for inclusion, not just access.

Inclusion can start small:
Invite someone into the convo. Make space. Ask what they need. Then listen and let it shape the outcome.

Your turn: what do you see more of where you live access, inclusion, or both?

#Bridge4Better #Accessibility #Inclusion #DisabilityInclusion #RegionalQueensland #HerveyBay #FraserCoast #WideBay #CommunityAdvocacy #PolicyInPlainEnglish

Justice vs Liberation

Ever heard someone say, “We’ve got justice now, so we’re done”?
Not quite.

Justice is about making things fair inside the system.
It asks: Are the rules fair? Are decisions fair? Are outcomes fair?

Justice is what people are owed: safety, dignity, rights, access, and fair treatment. That can look like better laws, stronger policies, proper funding, removing barriers, and real accountability so harm doesn’t keep repeating.

Liberation goes deeper.
It’s about freedom from control and oppression, not just a “fairer” version of the same setup.
It asks: Who has the power? Who gets to decide? Who benefits, and who pays the price?

Liberation is when communities aren’t just included in systems that hurt them; they’re no longer trapped by them. It includes practical change (housing, wages, safety), and also cultural + psychological freedom: not having to shrink yourself, prove your worth, or live under constant judgment.

Here’s why both matter:
Justice without liberation can still leave the same power sitting at the top. The system might look fairer on paper, but people can still be controlled through stigma, punishment, gatekeeping, or “rules that only work for some.”

Liberation without justice can feel too far away, because people still need real protections and support right now while bigger change is being built.

Easy way to remember it:
✅ Justice: make the system fair and accountable.
🔥 Liberation: make sure people aren’t controlled or harmed by the system at all.

Most movements need both: justice for urgent change now, and liberation so we don’t stop at small fixes that leave the root problem untouched.

#Justice #Liberation #Bridge4Better #BridgingVoicesBuildingChange #CommunityPower #SystemsChange

Equity vs Equality

Before anything changes, we’ve got to choose the right approach.
Equality is giving everyone the same thing. Sounds fair… but it assumes everyone starts from the same place.

Equity is giving people what they need to reach the same outcome. It recognises some people have been held back by the system.

You’ve probably seen those pics: the fence at the footy, everyone standing on the same box (some still can’t see), then different sized boxes (now they can), and finally no fence at all. Most of us get the idea, but we still push for equality over equity.

Another example is that video where kids line up for a race and get asked questions like: “Have you ever had to work to help pay bills?” “Gone without power?” “Had family stuff going on?” Then they look around and realise some kids have been pushed way back. Same race. Totally different starting line.
That’s why “same for everyone” can still be unfair.

And here’s the big myth: equity isn’t someone getting “more than you.” It’s someone getting what they need, so they can stand beside you, not behind or in front of you.

Living in regional Australia, you see this a lot. When services try to do things fairly, the comments can get nasty because people don’t always understand what equity means. Regional communities already face extra hurdles, but don’t always get extra support, and that can turn into frustration. I’ve felt that myself.

But equity isn’t about who deserves more or less.
It’s about recognising different needs, so we all get a real shot together.

#Equity #Equality #Bridge4Better #BridgingVoicesBuildingChange #RegionalAustralia #FairGo #CommunityStrong

A bridge doesn’t pretend the barrier isn’t there.
It admits the water is real… and then it builds a way through it.

Bridging Voices, Building Change!
Not just a tagline. A blueprint.

Think of driving over a big bridge in Brisbane or Sydney.
The water is still there, but access is possible anyway.

That’s what Bridge 4 Better is.

Because the water is the barrier: paperwork, stigma, distance, silence, systems not built for you. And in regional Queensland, those barriers stack up.

So when I say bridge, I mean two things:

1) We meet in the middle.
Not shouting across a gap and hoping someone listens. A bridge brings people close enough to understand each other and close enough to actually do something about it.

2) We make once-inaccessible places accessible.
Not by pretending the barrier is gone, but by building something strong enough to cross it: step by step, with a foundation that holds.

And that’s why Bridge 4 Better covers disability inclusion, youth, mental health, regional equity… and more.
Because access isn’t one issue. It’s the difference between being included and being left behind in services, transport, education, community, and everyday life.

Foundation first: you don’t pour concrete at the top. You start at the bottom. Before we go complex, we go clear. We start with the basics: plain-English education, civic confidence, and simple actions anyone can take. Then we build up: stories into submissions, questions into proposals, voices into campaigns.

Because a bridge that carries real weight has to be strong at the base before it reaches further. Because a bridge isn’t built for attention, it’s built so people can finally get across.

If politics didn’t affect your life, you wouldn’t notice it. But it does, every single day.

Politics isn’t the yelling you see on TV. It isn’t just politicians fighting. Politics is the system that decides how your daily life works, even when you don’t realise it.

It’s where the rules come from about speed limits, road laws, minimum wage, tax, superannuation, Medicare, public health, education, free kindy, disability support, housing, and the cost of living. These aren’t abstract ideas. They affect your pay, your health, your children, and your future. That is politics.

Politics is about priorities. The people in power decide what gets funded and what gets ignored. Those choices decide who gets support, who gets opportunity, and who gets left behind. That’s why politics is not distant. It is personal.

It shapes access to healthcare, education, transport, community services, employment protections, and disability access. Strong communities don’t happen by luck. They are built through decisions and those decisions come from politics.
Understanding politics isn’t about blindly picking sides. It’s about knowing what each group believes, what policies they support, and who those policies help. So you can vote for people who will fight for what helps you and your family. Voting is not just a habit. It is a tool. It is your voice.

Politics belongs to everyday people. You don’t need fancy language or a degree to be part of it. You only need to understand how decisions affect your life. Clear information builds confidence. Confidence helps people speak up. Stronger voices create change.

Everyone deserves to understand the system shaping their lives.

#Activism #Advocacy #PolicyInPlainEnglish #Bridge4Better #CommunityAdvocacy #RegionalQueensland #WideBay #Politics101 #karenboultongorry #LivedExperience #ExplainItSimply #RegionalAustralia #bridge4better #RegionalVoicesMatter #AccessForAll

Hot take: activism isn’t a dirty word. And advocacy isn’t useless just because it happens quietly. Bridge 4 Better is built for both, plus civic education.
Here’s the plain-English difference:

Advocacy = protecting rights and improving access, often inside systems. Think meetings, submissions, policy feedback, evidence, and practical solutions.

Activism = direct, visible action that creates public pressure when change stalls. Think campaigns, community organising, media, digital action, and peaceful demonstrations that drive accountability.

A line one of my colleagues said to me this week is:
“All activists are advocates, but not all advocates are activists.”
And this got me. same goal, different tools.

Also: activism isn’t chaos. It isn’t unethical behaviour or “people screaming for the sake of it.” Real activism can be respectful, community-led, and evidence-informed. It’s what helps force timelines, transparency, and follow-through when systems delay, deflect, or box-tick.

So what is Bridge 4 Better?
facts not noise. We’re not here to be politically “one way.” We’re community-first. We’re about outcomes: disability inclusion, youth, mental health, and regional equity. We translate community reality into decision-ready language, and translate policy decisions back into plain English so people can engage with confidence.
In short: we don’t just amplify voices.

We connect them to the rooms where decisions are made, and help turn shared problems into shared solutions so communities and decision-makers can meet in the middle, then move forward together.

We work in two lanes:
Systemic advocacy: submissions • meetings • evidence • solutions
Activism: campaigns • voices • media • accountability

Your turn: are you more advocacy, activism, or both right now? What should we break down next?

#Bridge4Better #CommunityAdvocacy #Activism #Advocacy #CivicEducation #PolicyInPlainEnglish #RegionalQueensland

🌟 Rethinking Disability, Strength, and Leadership

What if I told you that meltdowns don’t make me less professional they make me a stronger leader?

For years, I was scared to admit this truth: I still have autistic meltdowns. I worried that if people saw the fatigue, the overwhelm, the moments of struggle, they’d decide I was incompetent, unprofessional, or “less than.”

But here’s what I’ve learned... the opposite is true.

My record, resilience, and work ethic speak for themselves. Living with disability doesn’t make me less capable; it forces me to work harder, adapt quicker, and show up with authenticity every single day

💡 And here’s the lesson: setbacks are not failure. Theyy are teaching moments.

Every meltdown, every pause and every challenge has taught me something new: how to grow, how to reset, how to build resilience that strengthens both my work and my leadership. What I once saw as “weakness” has become the foundation of my strength.

That’s why I admire Ali France, Federal Member for Dickson, the first woman in Australian parliament to openly share her disability. She proves that authenticity isn’t a liability. It’s a superpower.

So when I share my story, the meltdowns, the fatigue, the brain fog, it’s not to confess inadequacy. It’s to show that leadership isn’t about having it all together. It’s about resilience, honesty, and the courage to stand fully as yourself.

👉 Disability doesn’t make us less, it makes us more.
More resilient. More authentic. More unstoppable.

That is leadership.

✨ What about you? Have you had a setback that became a teaching moment? I’d love to hear your story.

Hervey Bay Is Growing Fast, So Why Do Services Still Feel Behind?

I grew up in Maryborough and now live in Hervey Bay. Watching this region evolve has been exciting. There is more development, more families moving in, busier roads, and a stronger sense that the community is expanding in real time. But alongside that growth is something that’s becoming harder to ignore: demand is rising faster than the services people need to live well.

Hervey Bay is changing in ways that feel increasingly “city-like,” yet access to essential supports still reflects the constraints we usually associate with regional living. This isn’t a complaint about growth, it's a question about whether planning is actually keeping pace with what that growth requires.

Across the wider Wide Bay–Burnett, publicly available community data often highlight a mix of factors that shape service demand: a relatively older population, higher levels of chronic disease and disability compared with many metropolitan areas, and education and literacy challenges for some parts of the community. Those realities don’t stay on paper, they increase reliance on primary care, allied health, disability supports, and coordinated services that help people stay well and independent.

This is why I keep coming back to the idea of what “regional” actually means. People often ask whether Hervey Bay should still be classified as regional because it’s growing so quickly. I think the better test is access: can you get consistent primary care without weeks of waiting? Can you see a specialist without months of delay or long-distance travel? Can you access mental health support that is timely and ongoing? Do disability and allied health services offer real options, or only whatever happens to be available? Are education supports resourced to match student needs?

Labels matter because they shape funding models, workforce planning, and infrastructure decisions. If classification is based mainly on population size or distance, it can miss the lived reality of whether services are actually accessible.

If you live in Hervey Bay, Maryborough, or anywhere in the Wide Bay-Burnett, where are you seeing the biggest gaps right now?

What happens the day after Christmas and New Year’s in Australia?

After Christmas Day, as the shops open for Boxing Day, the hot cross buns appear at the local shops. But something else looms in the air.
By late January and into early February, the confetti has long been swept away. People are back at work, kids are back at school, and budgets are being recalculated. Business owners and retailers know exactly why: the New Year price increase has landed.

The 1st of January every year marks a milestone for shop owners... price increases.

For some, the rise is small. For others, it’s severe. Either way, the message is clear: shrinkflation and inflation keep creeping in, pushed by national and multi-national companies.

So here’s my call to action: Support local where we can. And where we can’t, let’s not be quiet. Talk about it. Question it. Notice it. Because if we shrug and say nothing, it only becomes easier for it to keep happening.

#fightingforyou #CommunityAdvocate #RegionalLife #Bridge4Better #DisabilityAdvocacy #BringOn2026 #CommunityFirst #bridge4better #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #RegionalAustralia #communityadvocacyandsocialpolicy communityadvocacy

Too many organisations across business, government, and the non-profit sector consult lived experience communities, use what’s shared to shape programs and decisions, and then don’t remunerate the people who made that work possible. But when they seek other expertise legal advice, clinical advice, strategic advice, subject-matter consultants they budget for it. That double standard needs to end.

If it’s work that would normally be paid, then it should be paid at the same rate. Not “a voucher.” Not “exposure.” Not “a thank you.” Wages or Remuneration.

Personal example: If a board or business seeks out an expert in their field for advice, they typically pay them because expertise is valued. Yet paying lived experience expertise still isn’t the norm, even though it directly improves services, outcomes, and accountability.

Societal example: We also see this in everyday employment. A person with Down syndrome can be doing the same job like cleaning tables in a café as someone without a disability, but too often they’re not paid award wages. Same work, different value placed on the worker. That’s discrimination, not “support.”

I hate that this is even a conversation we still have to push. I used to believe I wasn’t worth being paid that my knowledge wasn’t “professional enough.” That wasn’t true then, and it isn’t true now.

I’m very fortunate to work with some incredible organisations that do pay and remunerate lived experience experts. But not everyone is there yet.

Having disabilities and mental health challenges does not make us less. We may not always be able to contribute in a standard 9–5 way, but we still contribute and when our contribution helps organisations do better, it deserves the same respect as any other expertise: pay, fair rates, and proper recognition.

If you can budget for consultants, you can budget for lived experience.

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #theregions #KeepItReal #LivedExperience

🚋 Melbourne’s Accessibility Gap: A Reality Check 🚋

At Bridge4Better, we focus on identifying barriers and supporting practical changes that create a more accessible future. Melbourne offers a lot, but there are still significant accessibility gaps that affect day-to-day mobility and independence.

Trams: Many City Circle/free trams were difficult to access due to distance from the curb, steps at entry, and limited low-floor options. In practice, only occasional services were suitable for mobility aids. Progress is occurring, but coverage and consistency remain an issue.

Public attitudes: Accessibility isn’t only infrastructure: it’s also community behaviour. Offering a seat or assistance can make a meaningful difference for people using walking aids or managing limited mobility.

Shopping centres: Some centres had lifts that only serviced selected floors, requiring long detours to find accessible routes. Narrow walkways and congested layouts can also create unnecessary obstacles.

Accessibility isn’t a privilege, it’s a right. Melbourne has an opportunity to improve how accessible design is planned, delivered, and maintained.

Have you experienced accessibility barriers in public spaces? Share what you’ve noticed, what worked, what didn’t, and what you’d like to see changed.

#AccessibilityMatters #InclusionNow #PublicTransportForAll #EqualAccess #DisabilityAwareness #LivedExperience #Bridge4Better #melbourneeats

✨ Have you ever lost sight of your purpose?

At Bridge4Better, we’re focused on creating practical change and contributing to a better future. Over time, it’s easy for organisations and communities to get busy with activity and lose clarity on the reason behind the work. Re-centering on purpose helps keep decisions consistent, priorities aligned, and outcomes measurable.

Here’s the core point: a “why” is not just a statement but, a direction. When the purpose is clear, it improves how we design solutions, communicate priorities, and maintain accountability.

And it applies directly to how we approach systems and decision-making:

✏️ Policy without emotion is paperwork.
✏️ Business without emotion is profit without purpose.
✏️ Leadership without emotion is power without people.

At Bridge4Better, we support approaches that balance evidence, responsibility, and human impact so initiatives aren’t only well-written, but also workable and relevant to the people they affect.

So we’ll ask: 👉 What’s your “why”?
👉 What principles guide how you act on it?

Because clear purpose, applied consistently, is how change becomes sustainable.

Politics 101 🎓

I’m launching Politics 101: aka the stuff we were NEVER taught but somehow we’re expected to understand?? 😭📚

I’m starting with the basics… but I want this series to answer what you actually want to know.

I’m making a quick survey (link below), but for now:
👇 Drop your questions in the comments like:
• Who actually does what (local vs state vs federal)?
• How does a law even become a law?
• What does the budget change for real?
• How do you contact an MP and get a reply?
• How do submissions work?
• What happens after “consultation”?

No question is “stupid”. If it’s confusing, it belongs in Politics 101.

✅ Send your questions here: https://forms.gle/GJRnrjDdrQhx8rgr6
Or DM me if you’d rather send it privately.

Let’s build this together and make politics make sense.

#Bridge4Better #Politics101 #PolicyInPlainEnglish #ExplainItSimply #RegionalQueensland #HerveyBay #FraserCoast #WideBay

The Face Behind Bridge 4 Better (And Why I Built It)

This is for the people who read every headline and the people who’ve switched off.

I’m Karen Boulton-Gorry, founder of Bridge 4 Better.

I started this because I keep hearing the same things, over and over:
“I don’t vote because it’s overwhelming.”
“I don’t understand any of it.”
“It doesn’t affect me anyway.”

And on the other end:
“Politicians are idiots.”
“They never do anything for everyday Aussies.”
“They word it in a way that makes no sense… but it affects me.”

Then the one that hits hardest:
“I want to make a change. I want them to understand how this affects us. But I don’t know how.”
That’s exactly why I created Bridge 4 Better.

This page comes from 8 years across community sectors, politics, advocacy, lived-experience groups, and volunteering, backed by my education and ongoing learning in this space. I’ve been lucky to have support networks and access to knowledge, but I also know how hard it is to find the right information, training, and pathways when you’re starting out.

So I’m building a place where it’s all easier to access.

Here you’ll get:
✅ Politics 101
✅ Policy explained in plain English
✅ Major political events and world news: what it actually means for real life
✅ Resources, training, and pathways to take action
✅ Community voices that turn into real advocacy

If you’ve ever felt locked out of the system, you belong here.

Drop a comment or DM:
What do you want explained first?

#Bridge4Better #Politics101 #PolicyInPlainEnglish #HerveyBay #FraserCoast #WideBay #RegionalQueensland #DisabilityInclusion #MentalHealth #YouthVoice #karenboultongorry

Introducing Bridge 4 Better and what we’re building in 2026.

If you’ve ever felt like politics is a closed club with confusing language, hidden processes, and decisions made “somewhere else”… you’re not alone.

Bridge 4 Better exists to change that.
We’re a lived-experience-led community advocacy platform based on the Fraser Coast, working across Wide Bay–Burnett and stepping into state and federal spaces whenever decisions affect our region.

Our focus is simple: turn everyday community realities into practical policy change, without tokenism, without gatekeeping, and without leaving regional people behind.

What you’ll see here
1) Politics 101: the things you were never taught (but need to know).
How government works, how decisions get made, who’s responsible for what, and how you can have a say, explained clearly.

2) Policy explained in plain English.
We’ll break down policies, reforms, announcements and proposals so you can actually understand:
• what the decision is
• who it affects
• what it means in real life
• what your options are (and what actions you can take)

3) Major political events, with real context.
Budgets, elections, inquiries, reforms, big announcements... we’ll cover what happened, why it matters, and what comes next, through a regional lens.

4) “If you could change ONE realistic thing in government…”
This is our core community series. We’ll ask people directly, film responses, identify themes, and turn those answers into tangible proposals and campaigns.

What we care about
Disability access, Youth voice, Mental health, Regional equity.
We back evidence with lived experience, and we’re serious about inclusion that changes outcomes, not tokenism.

#Bridge4Better #Politics101 #PolicyInPlainEnglish #RegionalQueensland #FraserCoast #WideBay #DisabilityInclusion #MentalHealth #YouthVoice #HealthEquity

Being invited isn’t inclusion if there’s no power, pay, or follow-through.

A lot of organisations are getting better at the optics of inclusion: panels, advisory groups, listening sessions, consultations.

But being “at the table” means very little if the agenda is already decided and the outcome is basically locked.

Tokenism often looks like: last-minute invites, vague roles, unpaid “feedback,” and silence after the meeting. People are asked to share lived experience, then left without clarity on what changed if anything.

If the group exists mainly for optics, that isn’t inclusion...it’s reputational risk management.

Real inclusion is shared power. It looks like:
• Clear purpose (what decisions are actually on the table)
• Early involvement (before solutions are drafted)
• Accessible processes (so participation is real)
• Paid participation (expertise is compensated)
• Decision-making influence (not just comments in a doc)
• Transparent follow-through (what changed, and why)

If you want lived experience to shape outcomes: share power, pay people, and show what changed.
Let's Bridge 4 Better. Bridging Voices, Building Change.

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Choose where you want to go:

Work with Karen Boulton-Gorry - Community advocate:

If you want a speaker/MC, workshops, advisory support, or local advocacy and campaigning that leads to measurable outcomes. start here

Bridge 4 Better - Advocacy, activism & civic education:

Simple English policy and politics, Politics (Civics) 101, “how to” advocacy tools, campaigns, and blog updates you can follow and join.

Come with me to the Mary Easter Scavenger Hunt 🐣

On Saturday we had our 2026 Mary Easter Scavenger Hunt where there were over 400 kids and 800 attendees.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MakingTheInvisibleVisible

Happy Birthday Dad 🎂🎉

I thank God everyday that he gave me two amazing parents. I am blessed beyond compare.

Endometriosis Awareness Month 💛

Endometriosis is more than “just bad period pain.” It’s a chronic condition that can affect every part of life: physically, emotionally, and mentally. For so many people, the journey to diagnosis and proper support can take years of being dismissed or not believed.

Awareness matters because earlier recognition, better education, and stronger support systems can change lives. No one should have to suffer in silence or feel like their pain isn’t real.

If you’re living with endometriosis or unexplained pelvic pain, you deserve to be heard, supported, and taken seriously. Keep advocating for yourself and others, your experience is valid.

Let’s continue to push for better research, care, and understanding 💛

#EndometriosisAwareness #EndoWarrior #chronicillnessawareness #ChronicIllnessAwareness

Self-Harm Awareness Month 🤍

When I was in Year 9, someone very close to me was struggling with self-harm. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what they were going through, but I did see how much pain they were carrying, and how hard it was for them to find the right support.

That experience has stayed with me and is a big reason I care so deeply about advocating for better mental health support for young people today. No one should feel like they have to cope alone, and asking for help is a brave and important step.

If you or someone you know is struggling, there are people who want to listen and help.

📞 Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7)
📞 Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (ages 5–25, 24/7)
📞 Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

You matter. Your story matters. Support is out there 🤍
#SelfHarmAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #youarenotalone🌻

Wedding bells 🔔

What a privilege to celebrate Madi and James Butler on the weekend. It was a privilege to attend their elopement after party.

So special to see family again ❤️

#wifelife #KarenBoultonGorry #bridge4better #everydayaussie #theregions #travel

Weekend Brisbane Trip

I have just arrived safely home after a weekend in Brisbane for a family wedding and some bestie catch up time.

Now for the rest and recovery. Brb 🤣🤣🤣

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #wifelife #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy

Let's go, Matildas ! Best of luck for tonight @katrinagorry10! We will be watching and cheering you on from home. You got this Girl! ⚽ 🦘 💚 💛

Got My Ancestry DNA Results

I did the Ancestry DNA tests to find out a bit more of my heritage. What was pretty cool was the chromosomal breakdown that shoes where you got parts of your DNA from. While it is not 100% accurate, it was still super intriguing. We may have even found out where my Genetic micro-deletion comes from.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #regionalqld

When you dont fit in the mold people want you to.

Living in a world that isn't designed for me or by people like me brings some challenges. I share this today, my own experiences hoping it will help somone eles feel seen and know there not alone.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience

Neurodiversity Celbration Week!

This year's theme is turning Awareness into action.

As a proud neurodivergent women I am celebrating this week by seeting boundaries and making space for myself.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry

Happy 30th Birthday to the most amazing Hubby and the Love of my life.

I Thank God everyday for sending Eden to me. We are not perfect but, we are perfectly imperfect for each other. This man loves me through the wins and the loses. He carers for me on my bad days and goes on adventures with me on the Good days.

We are always learning and growing together and just doing life together. I couldn’t imagine anyone eles I would rather be doing it with. Happy 30th @gozza_7!

He is My Home, My Penguin, Forever and Always Amen!

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #wifelife #theregions #regionalqld #KeepItReal

EmpowerHer Women's Week Event Highlights

Just received the official event photography and wanted to share some of my favourites.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience

Enzo's and friends

The past weekend we had a few friends come to celebrate my husbands 30th Birthday a little early. It was super special having my bestie @supertiggergal and Jason Mayweather here.

After Eden's Birthday dinner Saturday night we had brunch at Enzos sunday and what a beautiful veiw and company. it's super important to have time out and catch up.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #wifelife #karenboultongorry #theregions #advocatelife #regional #FraserCoastPride

Zonta Women's Week Brunch

Last Sunday I attened the @zontaherveybay Women's week brunch. We were from Viki Cole & Kristen Nicolsen from @peggysplacesafehaven a safe place for women & children fleaing domestic and family violence. Their work is fundamental in ending gender based violence.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange

Women's Week EmpowerHer Event!

Last Friday I had the Privilege of Speaking at the @communitycarefdn EmpowerHer Event at the Maryborough Services Club.

I had the Honour of speaking alongside two of the Fraser Coasters Wheelchair Basketball Women's and Jo from @livewellwithvisionloss. These women were absolutely incredible and inspiring. The level of achievement from these women at a national and international level just blows my mind.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #HiddenDisabilitiesSunflower #Maryborough #RegionalPride #DisabilityAdvocate #InclusionMatters #BreakTheStigma #Changemakers #Inspiration #EmergingLeaders

Hervey Bay Interagency Meeting

After HB_DING Networking breakfast we had the interagency meeting. This is a meeting for all the different sectors to come together find out what is new and how they can work together to support community.

During this we got to share about our work with the newly incorporated Fraser Coast Advocacy and Inclusion Inc. during this time we shared how we started as DIG under APM communities and then how we became an independent incorporated body. Finally, we shared what are plans are now and how we are going to be doing lived experience systemic advocacy and grassroots leadership in the region.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #regionalqld #FraserCoastPride #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #InclusivePolicy #DisabilitySupport #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #RegionalAustralia #CommunityImpact #RegionalPride #HerveyBay #DisabilityAdvocate #InclusionMatters #BreakTheStigma

HB_DING Networking breakfast

Last week I had the privilege of attending the HB_DING Networking breakfast. The HB_DING networking meetings are for Care Sector Service Providers and Organisations to come together and share what’s new and what services they provide with the group.

I learnt a lot about what is provided in the community and how we can support the community together. I am looking forward to working with the members on projects and advocacy.

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #everydayaussie #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #FraserCoastPride #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #InclusivePolicy #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #DisabilityAdvocate

University is back in full swing 🎓

This week is the 2nd week of Trimester one for me. This means classes, assignments and a lot of reading.

I am super excited beacusee I'm in my final Trimester of my Diploma of Political Science and International Relations. That means in July I will be graduating and then will be apply for RPL from my social work classes for the Diploma in Human Services. This will be the end of 3 years of study leading to 3 qualifications and a whole lot of lived experience.

Hopeful and excited for the milestones coming this year.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #study

Fraser Coast Advocacy And Inclusion Inc. (FCAI Inc.)

I can officially share that I am apart of a newly incorporated association called Fraser Coast Advocacy And Inclusion Inc. (FCAI Inc.). A local association by People With Disabilities (PWD) for PWD. Aiming to break down the systemic barriers and create a more acesible and inclusive region.

I have the privilege of being one of two Vice Presidents for this incredible group. We have started the work on our foundations and I can't wait to share with you all the amazing things we want to achieve.

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #KeepItReal #MentalHealthAdvocacy #LivedExperience #SystemicChange #InclusivePolicy #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #Accessibility #DisabilityAdvocate #BreakTheStigma

EmpowerHer Women's Week event Tonight!

When: 6pm-8pm
Where: Maryborough Services Club

I will be one of four speakers tonight. Sharing f my personal story of turning pain into Purpose and lived experience into action. I will be doing a fun intractive demonstration too. Be there or Be square.

Ticket link: https://events.humanitix.com/empowerher-networking-and-mentorship-night?fbclid=IwdGRjcAQW9UtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeu65q3AU0-5klfj3WfwkWOMbGPg5E7LAHUAdRKjD26cm3pSHwagqkDy-77jc_aem_SpIdwYvDGnMJJNt4YTNxUA

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #regionalqld #theregions #disabilityadvocate

New business cards!

I am super excited to share my first ever professional business cards. I am super keen to share what I have been working on behind the scenes with you over the coming weeks.

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #RegionalAustralia #CommunityImpact #DisabilityAdvocate #InclusionMatters #BreakTheStigma

Fraser Coast Young Professionals Mentorship Program Launch

On Thursday last week, I had the privilege of attending the @frasercoastyoungprofessionals Mentorship programs Launch in conjunction with the Fraser Coast Property Industry Association.

It was exciting to see professionals of all ages working together with a common goal of building the next generation up.

This program is for Young professionals to be mentored and for professionals to be mentors. If you are interested in either they want you.

To find out more head to the Fraser Coast Young Professionals page taged in this post.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #regionalqld #regional #LivedExperience #fcyp

6 Meetings One Day Fighting For Everyday Aussies

Today, I have had 6 meetings. This ranged from grassroots community organisations to national policy and governance discussions. This is one of the parts I love about my role. I get to work in systemic (root or big issue) advocacy while also, working at the ground level.

Working at the ground level means that I never lose sight of who these policies impact and why change needs to happen. While, working at the policy level reminds me that without changes in policy the social barriers will continue to impact everyday people.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #InclusivePolicy #Grateful #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #RegionalAustralia #CommunityImpact #DisabilityAdvocate #InclusionMatters #BreakTheStigma #Changemakers #WisdomSharing

Speaking @ EmpowerHer Event This Friday

Free Tickets Avalible For Women

This Friday I will be one of three keynote speakers @communitycarefdn EmpowerHer Women's week event. I had the privilege of meeting Jess the CEO last week. She will be the MC for the event.

I am honoured and excited for Friday. If you would love to come along to a Women's week event where you will here from amazing women, connect with women and even here from me come along.

Free tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/empowerher-networking-and-mentorship-night?fbclid=IwZnRzaAQM8C9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeu65q3AU0-5klfj3WfwkWOMbGPg5E7LAHUAdRKjD26cm3pSHwagqkDy-77jc_aem_SpIdwYvDGnMJJNt4YTNxUA

#speaker #bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #CommunityAdvocacy #regionalqld #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MakingTheInvisibleVisible

A first for the Fraser Coast region!

On the weekend @tonesandi brought her full show to the Maryborough Showgrounds. She sold 10, 000 tickets and had one of her biggest shows ever. Making this not only a first for our region but, a milestone performance her as well.

@enewmanmusic had the privilege of being the opening act for the evening. A local artist who had an outstanding performance 👏. She did an incredible job performing in front of her biggest crowd ever.

@illyal Was the second performance of the night supporting his littlest sister Tones. How special to have him there, coming stright from Adelaide the night before. He brought the hype and the beats.

Tones and the team did well at handling a medical emergency and getting so many people into the event. For the first ever event like this here and pulled together in two weeks it was incredible. There is definitely room for improvement in the future. However, We thought it was a wonderful evening.

Overall, the event was amazing and we hope that this region will get more events like this.

#everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #communityadvocacy

Event planning & Grant applications

Working on an exciting project with a local community group for a youth week. We have just submitted our grant applications. 🤞 Hoping we will be successful in this.

Looking forward to share this exciting event with you all.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #regionalqld #youngpeople #CommunityImpact #Maryborough #CommunityEvent

Date Nights and Record Breaking 🤣

Recently, Eden and I have been having out with another couple and going to TimeZone. A few weekends ago, Eden and I vered the couple on this new game and not only beat them but, broke the record at the time. Now, thats cool and all but, I bet your asking what is the point Karen?

Well, this game required throwing balls into the squares and my condition means I have terrible cordination. When playing a few if the games through the night, I actually got the balls into their hoops or holes. This was a massive progression for me. I have been doing Physio and OT to work on these skills but, finally seeing the progress was pretty awesome.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #wifelife #CommunityAdvocacy #regionalqld #KeepItReal #MentalHealthAdvocacy #LivedExperience #FriendshipVibes #DisabilitySupport #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #MentalHealthAwareness #Accessibility

Crafting afternoons

One of my favourite memories growing up was crafting with my mum on school holidays and weekends. I hated the words arts and crafts beacuse I was never good at the stereotypical art done in school. However, I enjoyed crafting. often crafting required following process, procedures and patterns which I founds joy in.

Recently, I was chatting to mum while she was doing some beading and asked if I could join like when I was younger. The result this cute little bookmark. In my mind it depicts a few of my most recent reads from The pumkin Spice cafe to ACOTAR.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #theregions #LocalLove #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MakingTheInvisibleVisible

Tired of broken mental health systems?

I have recently joined Youth Unmuted a place where. a crew of 15–25 year olds are speaking up, standing together, and actually changing things.

100% free. Real impact. Your voice included.

Ready to make a difference? Join now! 🔥

Scan the QR Code or DM Me to find out more!

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MentalHealthAdvocacy #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #BreakTheStigma

Local meetings fighting for our region 💪

Last week I attended the Bi-monthly meeting of the Fraser Coast Regional Council Inclusive Access Advisory Committee. A lot of what we discuss is confidential at this stage but, what I can share is that I am advocating for you. I can share that we have just started to discuss two upcoming projects that will be incredibly helpful to help acess much loved locations.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #theregions #LocalLove #FraserCoastPride #KeepItReal #SystemicChange #LivedExperience #MakingTheInvisibleVisible

Valentines Day ❤️

Such a lovley day yesterday spending our first Valentine’s as a married couple snuggled up watching our latest binge watch Fringe. We spoiled each other and took the day to relax and recharge.

Blessed to have @gozza_7 by my side supporting me every step of the way.

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #regionalqld #wifelife

Quantum of the seas Vs Voyager of the seas 🌊 🛳

Royal cruising is something special no matter what ship you are on. However, there maybe a ship better for you. Check out what the main differences are in this vedio.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #travel

Day 4: The last day

As the cruise Diaries come to an end thank you for watching. I will be sharing one more about the difference between the Quantum and Voyager ships.

#bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #travel

Drive safe in the wet weather and remember if it's flooded forget it.

Cruise Diaries Day 3: Airlie Beach ⛱️ 😎

Day 3 a lot of sun and some sunburn.... but an enjoyable adventure.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #travel #AccessibleTravel

Honeymoon suprise ❤️

Thanks to V for our beautiful love heart swan towl animal.

#karenboultongorry #wifelife #travel

Cruise Diaries Acessability and room changes 🌊🛳

After waking up after the first night I was in a lot of pain. Lucky our room attendant V worked some magic and got us a mattresses topper.

#DisabilityAdvocacy #bridge4better #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #everydayaussie #travel #AccessibleTravel

Cruise Diaries Day 2 🌊🛳

Day two was a sea day with lots of relaxation and warmth.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #travel #LivedExperience #AccessibleTravel #MakingTheInvisibleVisible

Cruise Diaries Day 1, closing 🛳

An overveiw of acessability in the theatres including the ice skating theatre 🎥.

#KarenBoultonGorry #bridge4better #everydayaussie #karenboultongorry #travel #regional #KeepItReal #LivedExperience #AccessibleTravel #MakingTheInvisibleVisible

Cruise life means freedom

For me going on cruises, being around people who don't know me and I dont know if ao freeing. It allows me to be fun, silly and adventurous. On land I tend to stick in my comfort zone though I am pushing that more and more. Where on a cruise I get to let all the weight of social expectations drop, the masking drops and I get to find things out about myself.
#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #travel #KeepItReal #LivedExperience #AccessibleTravel #MakingTheInvisibleVisible #HiddenDisabilitiesSunflower

Meetings & Lunch a win, win!

Last Saturday I had the privilege of meeting with the Fraser Coast Suicide Prevention Networking Committee. I have recently joined as a member having seen the need for awareness, training and support when it comes to this topic.

While, there was many notable issues on the agenda, one of the things I appreciated most was the stories. My first meeting was another's last offical meeting as they were moving away. I got to hear about the Founding of the group and hear how far it has come. It was a privilege to hear these stories and it is an honour to be joining them fighting for such a notable cause.

#bridge4better #everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #theregions #advocatelife #regionalqld #KeepItReal #MentalHealthAdvocacy #LivedExperience #SuicidePrevention

Book Bedazzaling 📖

Getting out of one's comfort zone can be challenging. To my suprise, I found a new hobby. Before, I went on the cruise I booked in for Book Beadazling at @fables_and_froth_aus.

I Bedazzled Wandering Wild by my favourite Australian Author @lynettenoni. I have a Hyperlapse snippet of the process I will share soon.

Thank you Fables and Froth for a wonderful afternoon 😊

#everydayaussie #KarenBoultonGorry #karenboultongorry #CommunityAdvocacy #advocatelife #regionalqld #ReadersCommunity #BookRecommendations #BookSeries #regionalcitylife #regional #TouristInMyTown #KeepItReal #Grateful #HerveyBay

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