All Episodes

Join MJ and our resident Pharmacist and Master Herbalist, Gerald Quigley, as they explore the vital role of the thyroid gland. Discover how this small gland impacts energy levels, weight, mood, and heart health. Gerald shares tips on recognising thyroid imbalances and the importance of getting it checked. Tune in for practical advice on supporting your thyroid for better overall well-being.
Got a question for Gerald Quigley? Get in touch:
The House of Wellness | Your home for health and wellbeing

MJ sits down with our resident Pharmacist and Master Herbalist, Gerald Quigley, to talk about how safe online shopping is when purchasing your vitamins and other pharmacy goods.
Catch Gerald over at the House of Wellness:
The House of Wellness | Your home for health and wellbeing

MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, Pharmacist, Master Herbalist, and Black Star's wellness guru, about getting vaccinated. Gerald's joint qualifications give him a unique holistic view of health and he was become well known for his practical advice for both men and women across a variety of health topics.Remember, for personalised guidance, always consult your Doctor or Pharmacist.

In this compelling episode, MJ sits down with Leo Hede, the National Service Manager for Kids Helpline, to discuss the critical role the helpline plays in supporting young Australians. With Kids Helpline counsellors responding to an astounding 122,356 calls in 2023, Leo sheds light on the prevalent issues of emotional wellbeing, mental health, and suicide-related concerns among the youth. The conversation also delves into the significant 161% increase over the past five years in outreach from First Nations and Torres Strait Islander communities, highlighting the evolving needs and challenges faced by these groups. Join us for an insightful discussion on the state of youth mental health and the vital support Kids Helpline provides.
If you need to talk to someone, reach out to the Kid's Helpline. No problem is too big or too small, and
they operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800

Tackling Toads: MJ sits down with Jamie Love from Lockhart River Shire Council to discuss a creative solution to the cane toad problem - a toad-busting bounty!
With kids enthusiastically joining the effort, earning $1.50 per toad, it's not just about pest control, but also about fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship. Tune in to hear how this initiative is making a difference.

Join MJ as he talks with Andrew Laskary from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute about their recent trip to Thursday Island, Bamaga, Cape York, and Cairns.
Andrew shares the highlights of their Regional Education Program, designed in partnership with the Department of Education to bring science education to kids in regional Queensland.
Tune in for the adventures, challenges, and inspiring moments from their journey empowering young minds with scientific curiosity.

MJ welcomes Harley Mann, Artistic Director of THE DRY, a forthcoming show at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.
Produced by Circa Cairns, this contemporary circus ensemble showcases THE DRY as the second installment in a series of captivating encounters between the body and Country. Drawing inspiration from regional Queensland's sun-soaked landscape, THE DRY embodies the raw spirit of the parched land and its vibrant people.
With elite skill, cultural knowledge, and a touch of sass, this production promises to revitalise circus performance, offering audiences a unique experience inspired by the beauty and essence of the dry season.
Join MJ as he chats with Harley Mann about the magic behind this extraordinary blend of art, culture, and performance.
Circa Cairns (@circa_cairns) • Instagram photos and videos

Exploring Depression & Antidepressants: MJ chats with Gerald Quigley, Pharmacist, Master Herbalist, and Black Star's wellness guru.
Gerald's joint qualifications give him a unique holistic view of health and he was become well known for his practical advice for both men and women across a variety of health topics.
Remember, for personalised guidance, always consult your Doctor or Pharmacist.

MJ talks to Dr Allison Hempenstall about how to protect yourself from common respiratory conditions that can arise with the annual cold and flu season.
Allison is an ACRRM Registrar currently working on Thursday Island in the Torres Straits. Her interests include public health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, tropical medicine and medical education. During her time as a registrar committee member she is looking forward to advocating for ACRRM registrars to ensure high quality rural and remote medical education. She regularly writes for the FOAM blog Island Doctors. You can find Allison on Twitter @Dr_Hempenstall.

Join MJ and Gerald in this short chat on "Health Matters" as they talk about something super important: looking after yourself.
They break down why it's crucial to ask your doctor about cancer checks, especially if cancer runs in your family.
With easy-to-understand tips, they show you how speaking up for your health can make a big difference. Tune in for a friendly reminder that your well-being comes first!
Got a question for Gerald? Send it through his confidential form: Contact – Gerald Quigley

Bob Pacey, the celebrated bush poet, captivates
audiences with his stirring performances and sharp wit. As the reigning Queensland EKKA Virtual Bush Poetry Champion, Bob evokes laughter and tears with his poetry about outback life.
Black Star Radio’s Michael (MJ) Bailey has a chat with Bob about International World Poetry Day. It’s an interesting yarn.

In this episode, MJ catches up with Gina Hogan, CEO of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation. With its extensive reach across FNQLD, the Foundation is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join their Purple Power team. Listen in to learn about their latest initiatives and how you can contribute to making a positive impact in your community!
FNQHF | Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation

Welcome to today's podcast episode, where we shed light on the importance of Vitamin D with the insightful Gerald Quigley. Did you know that a staggering 17% of Queenslanders are deficient in this vital nutrient?
Join us as Gerald shares invaluable tips on how to boost your Vitamin D levels, not only through sun exposure but also from other crucial sources. Discover how Vitamin D impacts sleep, mood, bone density, brain health, and so much more.
Got a question for Gerald? Send it through his confidential form: Contact – Gerald Quigley

Introducing our new Black
Star radio announcers in Lockhart River!
Black Star welcomes your new voices of Lockhart River - Greg Pascoe, Krystal Dean, and Simon Butcher.
Tune into 107.7 FM locally for great music and the latest news and announcements direct from community.
A big THANK YOU to Mark for travelling to spend the week teaching radio training to our talented new presenters. Also, Jamie Love from Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council for helping make this happen!

Welcome to "Reef on the Radio," where we dive deep into the wonders and challenges facing the Great Barrier Reef.
MJ had the privledge of speaking with Dr. Roger Beeden, Chief Scientist at the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
As a dedicated Reef Guardian and proud member of the team entrusted with safeguarding this natural wonder, Dr. Beeden brings a wealth of knowledge while preserving the world's largest coral reef ecosystem!
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (@gbrmarinepark)