Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

A Career with Purpose in the Queensland Ambulance Service

In this episode, MJ speaks with Trent Jackson, Executive Manager of the Queensland Ambulance Service Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Safety Unit, about the pathways helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people build a career in paramedicine. Trent shares his own journey into the Queensland Ambulance Service, explains how the Indigenous Paramedic Program works, and highlights the scholarships and support available for those looking to make a difference in their communities. The conversation also explores the importance of employing local people to serve local communities and how culturally safe healthcare is helping create better outcomes across Queensland. Listen to the full conversation. ----more---- Stars and Stories Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star Radio brings a fresh twist to local radio with stories, music, and connections that matter. Powered by Queensland Remote Aboriginal Media (QRAM), we’re here to amplify voices, celebrate culture, and bring you the latest from Far North Queensland. Learn more: https://blackstarradio.com.au [https://blackstarradio.com.au/]

Keeping Families Together When It Matters Most

In this episode, MJ speaks with Natalie Gardner, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, about the vital support the organisation provides to families when a child needs specialist medical care. Natalie explains how the Townsville House gives families from Far North Queensland a place to stay close to the hospital, easing some of the pressure during what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives. The conversation also highlights the partnership with the Priors Creek Parklands opening, where fundraising efforts will help Ronald McDonald House continue supporting more than 1,500 Far North Queensland families each year. Listen to the full conversation. ----more---- Stars and Stories Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star Radio brings a fresh twist to local radio with stories, music, and connections that matter. Powered by Queensland Remote Aboriginal Media (QRAM), we’re here to amplify voices, celebrate culture, and bring you the latest from Far North Queensland. Learn more: https://blackstarradio.com.au [https://blackstarradio.com.au/]

What Makes a Fear Turn Into a Phobia?

In this episode, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about the difference between everyday fears and genuine phobias. From snakes and spiders to elevators and MRI machines, Gerald explains how phobias can trigger intense anxiety and physical reactions that go far beyond normal caution or concern. The conversation explores how phobias can affect work, relationships, and everyday life, as well as the importance of understanding personal triggers and seeking support when fear begins to limit opportunities or experiences. Gerald also shares why talking through these challenges and learning practical coping strategies can help people regain confidence and take back control. Listen now to the full conversation on Stars and Stories. ----more---- Stars and Stories Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star Radio brings a fresh twist to local radio with stories, music, and connections that matter. Powered by Queensland Remote Aboriginal Media (QRAM), we’re here to amplify voices, celebrate culture, and bring you the latest from Far North Queensland. Learn more: https://blackstarradio.com.au [https://blackstarradio.com.au/]   Meet Gerald Gerald Quigley is a practising Community Pharmacist, as well as an Accredited Herbalist. Gerald is a Pharmacist and Master Herbalist based in Melbourne. He is a media health commentator heard each week on many radio stations.    He is co-hosts the House of Wellness radio program heard each Sunday on the Nine Radio Network live across Australia.  Gerald is a Fellow of the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia and Fellow of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society.  Gerald’s passion is to empower each person to make sensible health decisions, and to continually maintain and improve their quality of life, especially as they age.  Contact: https://www.geraldquigley.com/contact [https://www.geraldquigley.com/contact]

Be Crocwise, Be Cancer Aware

Getting a health check could save your life. In this conversation with Black Star Radio's MJ, Trish from Gidgee Healing talks about the Be Crocwise, Be Cancer Aware campaign and why knowing your history, understanding your risks, and acting early are so important. Supported by rugby league legend Matt Bowen, the campaign encourages people to visit their local clinic, complete regular health checks, and never ignore the signs. The initiative also features limited-edition fishing shirts designed to spark conversations about cancer awareness and remind communities to stay on top of their health. From children's health checks through to adult screenings and 715 health assessments, the message is simple: know your risk, get checked, and look after yourself and your family. Listen to the full conversation on Stars and Stories. ----more---- Stars and Stories Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star Radio brings a fresh twist to local radio with stories, music, and connections that matter. Powered by Queensland Remote Aboriginal Media (QRAM), we’re here to amplify voices, celebrate culture, and bring you the latest from Far North Queensland. Learn more: https://blackstarradio.com.au [https://blackstarradio.com.au]

The Return of Diphtheria in Australia

The Return of Diphtheria in Australia In this episode, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about the return of diphtheria in Australia. Once considered largely eradicated, diphtheria is again making headlines, with cases on the rise and health authorities urging people to stay informed and ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Gerald explains what diphtheria is, how it spreads, the symptoms to watch for, and why vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness. He also discusses the difference between diphtheria and other infectious diseases making news around the world, helping put the risks into perspective. Listen now to the full conversation on Stars and Stories. ----more---- Stars and Stories Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star Radio brings a fresh twist to local radio with stories, music, and connections that matter. Powered by Queensland Remote Aboriginal Media (QRAM), we’re here to amplify voices, celebrate culture, and bring you the latest from Far North Queensland. Learn more: https://blackstarradio.com.au [https://blackstarradio.com.au/] Meet Gerald Gerald Quigley is a practising Community Pharmacist, as well as an Accredited Herbalist. Gerald is a Pharmacist and Master Herbalist based in Melbourne. He is a media health commentator heard each week on many radio stations.    He is co-hosts the House of Wellness radio program heard each Sunday on the Nine Radio Network live across Australia.  Gerald is a Fellow of the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia and Fellow of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society.  Gerald’s passion is to empower each person to make sensible health decisions, and to continually maintain and improve their quality of life, especially as they age.  Contact: https://www.geraldquigley.com/contact [https://www.geraldquigley.com/contact]