Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

Yarrabah Fun Run & Health Check — with Milton Mossman

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ chats with Milton Mossman about a fantastic community initiative happening in Yarrabah — a Fun Run and a Free Health Check campaign for young people aged 15 to 30.
For the next few weeks, all young people in Yarrabah are encouraged to:
✅ Get a free health check
✅ Come back for their results
✅ Stay strong, stay informed, and stay connected
Listen now on Stars and Stories to Yarrabah Fun Run & Health Check — with Milton Mossman

Bowel Cancer Screening Could Save Your Life — with Che Cockatoo-Collins

Bowel Cancer Screening Could Save Your Life — with Che Cockatoo-Collins
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by AFL legend Che Cockatoo-Collins to discuss the importance of bowel cancer screening.
Che shares a powerful message: "Encourage your loved ones, friends, and family aged 45 – 74 to stay healthy and strong by screening for Bowel Cancer every two years."
If you're over 45, free testing kits are available. It's quick, it's easy, and 90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated if found early.
This is about being here for your mob, your kids, your community—and giving yourself the best chance to live a long, strong life.
Listen to the episode now on Stars and Stories.
Learn more: indigenousbowelscreen.com.au or call 1800 627 701

Mareeba Lions Family Fun Metrogaine 2025 — with Tom Braes

Mareeba Lions Family Fun Metrogaine 2025 — with Tom Braes
Walk. Ride. Run. Solve clues. Raise funds.
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ chats with Tom Braes from the Lions Club of Mareeba about the upcoming Family Fun Metrogaine!
What to expect:
Solve clues, crack the map, and beat the field
Walk, ride, or run through interactive checkpoints
Prizes to be won + sausage sizzle and drinks at the finish line!
All funds raised support the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation and the Lions Medical Research Foundation.
It’s fun, it’s active, and it’s for a great cause.
Listen to the episode now on Stars and Stories

Health Check: Smoking — A Health and Wealth Hazard — with Gerald Quigley

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk about why smoking and vaping are both health and wealth hazards—and what support is out there to help people quit.
Gerald shares insights on Quit’s Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) program, which works to:
Encourage Community engagement in and support for local TIS activities
Increase Community understanding of the dangers of smoking and chewing tobacco and the links between tobacco and chronic disease, as well as the dangers of e-cigarettes and vaping
Increase awareness of the pathways to quitting among workers and Community leaders
Seek to reduce exposure to secondhand and thirdhand smoke and so much more
Whether you're ready to quit or want to support someone who is—there’s help available, and change is possible.
Listen now on Stars and Stories

Health Check: One More Way to Reduce the Risk of Dementia

In this episode, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, about dementia — a growing concern for many Australians and their families.
While there’s currently no effective cure for dementia, research shows that certain lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of it developing.
So, what’s Gerald’s latest trick?
Tune in to hear one simple, research-backed habit that could make a difference — plus some encouraging news for technology users.
As always, be sure to speak with your GP for advice that’s right for you.

From Discomfort to Control: Living Better with Crohn’s disease — with Gerald Quigley

From Discomfort to Control: Living Better with Crohn’s disease — with Gerald Quigley
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to explore the often misunderstood topic of gut health—with a special focus on Crohn’s disease.
Gerald shares key insights on:
Crohn’s disease
Common symptoms to look out for
Why early management is essential
And most importantly, the options available to help you manage it and regain quality of life
Whether you're living with Crohn’s or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a reminder that you are not without options—and help is out there.
Learn more at crohnscolitisfoundation.org
Listen now on Stars and Stories

Health Check: Managing Asthma with Gerald Quigley

In this episode, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, a practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to discuss asthma—a condition affecting approximately 2.7 million Australians.
In 2023, there were 474 asthma-related deaths in Australia, highlighting the importance of effective asthma management.
Is asthma preventable? Tune in to learn more.
And remember—always consult your GP for personalised medical advice.

Health Check: The Power of Movement for Irregular Heartbeats

In this episode, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, a practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk about irregular heart rhythms — and how to lower your risk if this is something that affects you.
While the symptoms can be unsettling, there are simple lifestyle changes that may help.
Gerald explains how regular brisk walking —  can support heart rhythm health and potentially reduce your risk over time.
Tune in for practical, natural ways to care for your heart and improve your overall wellbeing.
And remember — always speak to your GP for personalised medical advice.

Boodie Bloore: Running with Purpose

Boodie Bloore: Running with Purpose
In this feel-good episode, MJ chats with Boodie Bloore, who was diagnosed with epilepsy — but hasn’t let that stop him from chasing his goals.
Boodie shares his inspiring journey, including how he recently completed the 2025 Great Wheelbarrow Race. It’s a story of resilience, determination, and the power of support from family, friends, and community.
Can we expect to see Boodie back for the 2026 race?
Tune in to find out.

Wheelbarrow Winners & Big Chillagoe News, featuring MJ speaks with Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt

Get caught up in this jam-packed episode as MJ speaks with Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt about the excitement of this year’s Great Wheelbarrow Race.
Held each May, this iconic event sees teams push empty wheelbarrows along the Wheelbarrow Way from Mareeba to Chillagoe over three gruelling stages — all while raising money for charities and community groups.
Lenore shares highlights from the race, including a new social team
record set by a group of men from Vanuatu, who completed the course in 7 hours, 15 minutes, and 29 seconds.
Plus — big news for Chillagoe! The town has officially been named
as a finalists in the Top Tiny Tourism Town category (for populations under 1,500).
Listen now to hear how it all unfolded.