Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

In this episode, MJ chats with Chisa Hasegawa from the Cape York Weekly about her passion for Japanese taiko drumming and the Cairns group, Drum Infinity Mugendai, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
Chisa talks about the group's journey since forming in 2016, the powerful sounds of traditional Japanese drumming and the special anniversary concert featuring current and former members, local performers and professional taiko artist Ryuji Hamada from Taikoz.
Ryuji will join the group on stage to perform Blue, a song he composed for Drum Infinity Mugendai in 2025.
The free concert takes place at Edge Hill State School on Saturday, 31 October, with doors opening at 3.30pm and performances starting at 4pm.
There's also an opportunity to try taiko drumming for yourself at a workshop on Sunday at Cairns Brass. Bookings are required.
Listen to the full conversation.

In this episode of Stars and Stories, Lauren Grace speaks with award-winning journalist and author Dan Bourchier about his book, The Elders.
Dan shares how the book grew from a series of interviews with Elders during the Voice referendum, and why he wanted to make sure their stories and perspectives were heard. He reflects on the trust built through years of journalism, the deeply personal moments shared during the interviews, and the stories that have stayed with him.
From the experiences of the Stolen Generations to the wisdom of community leaders, Dan explores the importance of understanding our shared history, preserving cultural knowledge and listening to the people who have so much to teach us.
Get your copy of The Elders here.

Herberton Jacaranda Festival: A Weekend of Purple, Music and Family Fun
In this episode, MJ chats with Ros about Herberton's Jacaranda Festival and the weekend of celebrations planned for the town.
Ros talks about the jacaranda trees bursting into purple flowers, Saturday's family fun day on Grace Street, local performers, Tin Town Market and the best dressed in purple competition.
There's also free entry to the mining museum, a chance to try your hand at gold panning, and plenty of activities for the whole family.
And the celebrations continue on Sunday at the railway station, with a special 120th birthday celebration and a steampunk theme.
Listen to the full conversation.

Skin Sores or a Sore Throat? Here's Why You Should Get Them Checked
In this episode, MJ speaks with Dr Allison Hempenstall, Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer, about an outbreak of Acute Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis (APSGN) at the Injinoo community in the Northern Peninsula Area. Four cases of APSGN have been confirmed to date.
Dr Allison explains the Symptoms to look out for which are skin sores, itch from scabies, or a sore throat. A puffy face and limbs, or sometimes reddish to dark urine.
Any children found to have skin sores or sore throats will be offered a simple course of antibiotics to prevent them developing APSGN.
She also outlines the signs parents should look out for, including puffy eyes or feet and dark, cola-coloured urine, and discusses plans for public health teams to visit schools and homes to check children's skin and help identify infections.
Listen to the full conversation.

What can you do now to prepare for cyclone and flood season, before a warning is issued?
Get Ready Queensland Ambassador Johnathan Thurston joins MJ to talk about his recent visit to Far North Queensland communities still recovering from cyclones and floods, and why getting prepared now can make a difference when disaster strikes.
JT shares practical advice on emergency supplies, staying up to date with local weather warnings and checking in on neighbours who might need a hand.
He also talks footy with MJ, reflecting on the North Queensland Cowboys' season and looking ahead to next year.
Listen to the full conversation.

In this episode, MJ speaks with Rex O’Rourke, Chief Executive of the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, about the new $35.4 million Pormpuraaw Primary Healthcare Centre.
Rex explains what the new facility offers, including a resuscitation room, treatment room, X-ray and ultrasound facilities, and six consultation rooms for local and visiting health services.
He also discusses the next stage of the project, which includes plans for a culturally safe morgue, landscaping and artwork developed with local community members.
The community is invited to a public viewing on Wednesday, 14 October, from 11.30am, at the clinic’s main entrance on Yalu Street. There will be traditional dancing, lunch and an opportunity to meet the team.
Listen to the full conversation.