

Patient Homeschooling
Recently I was discussing the notion that a lot of parents have regarding homeschooling; “I don’t have the patience to home school”. Whilst it’s a nice thought that they feel we must have amazing patience, it’s not entirely accurate. I don’t know of a single family who chose to homeschool because they’re patient. What a lot of us have found is that through choosing this path we don’t need as much patience as we did with traditional schooling! Our children are no longer stress
The Top Ender
Mar 263 min read


Standing on the Shoulders
“Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we had music that reflected contemporary military service, as well as commemorating what happened in the past?”. This was the topic of conversation on Anzac Day 2023 in Newcastle, NSW, that sowed the seed for creating music that honours historical service while being relevant to currently serving ADF members and their families. Standing on the Shoulders was written in a flurry of inspiration after Anzac Day 2023, with the words and music seemin
The Top Ender
Mar 262 min read


5 Book Recommendations for Mother’s Day
AUTHOR: Nicola Fraietta - local writer and book enthusiast Wild Reverence by Rebecca Ross - omantic Fantasy Goddess, Matilda is both Underling and Skyward, possessing hidden powers that the other gods would ruthlessly kill to acquire. When Matilda forms a bond with Vincent, a mortal man, their fated romance forces them to face warring gods. Matilda must decide how much she will sacrifice for the man that she loves and to protect her secrets. This highly anticipated read is
The Top Ender
Mar 262 min read


Simple Strategies for Mental Wellness When Your Partner Is Away
Life has a way of piling on responsibilities, and when your partner is away for work, whether for days, weeks, or longer, the domestic and emotional load can feel overwhelming. From managing daily routines to caring for children and maintaining a home, the weight of “doing it all” can take a toll on your mental well-being. The good news? A few simple, intentional strategies can make a big difference in maintaining your mental health and household harmony. Embrace Imperfection
The Top Ender
Mar 243 min read


Micro-Courage, Micro-Joy, and the Power of Quiet Steps
AUTHOR: Peta Johansen - Co-Founder of Magnify Her "Fear is information. Joy is strategy. Gratitude is grounding. Micro-steps are progress. And when women rise together, everything magnifies." Two years ago, I walked into the largest room I’d ever been - over 400 women from 40 countries at the Forbes 30/50 Women’s Summit in Abu Dhabi. Leaders, visionaries, and trailblazers surrounded me, and I felt that familiar knot in my throat and churn in my stomach. Who am I to be here?
The Top Ender
Mar 123 min read


Thinking about starting a small business?
By Jemmah Lowry – Sew Good Baby After having kids, and while my husband was deployed overseas, I found myself looking for something else to fill my days. I started sewing and subsequently started my own small business! My business enabled me to continue to care for my children, with the flexibility of working from home, while allowing me to be creative doing something I loved, and giving me a sense of fulfillment that I was also contributing to the family financially. It
The Top Ender
Mar 123 min read


MEET ILLUSTRATOR JAN PURCELL
As the wife of an ADF member, Jan Purcell has focused on her love of illustrating while exploring the country. We stumbled across Jan’s amazing talent on social media, and we’re excited to share her story! When did you start illustrating? I loved drawing from a young age. This passion for art led me to study interior architecture at university, where I honed my ability to draw in granular detail. When I first met my husband, I had no connection or real understanding of th
The Top Ender
Feb 273 min read


Rediscovering the strength within; a Cowork Coplay program experience
by Michelle Jarrett TRIGGER WARNING: Please be aware that this story contains material dealing with suicide and suicidality that could be distressing for some people. If you need urgent or crisis support contact a 24/7 service that can help you, such as Open Arms 1800 011 046; Defence Member and Family Support Helpline 1800 624 608; or Lifeline 13 11 14. In the Top End, behind my husband’s Defence duties, Cowork Coplay held me through my hidden battle. Darwin is geographicall
The Top Ender
Feb 262 min read


Top tips for exploring your next career step
Making a career change or going back to paid work can feel challenging, but you’ve got this! Pull up a chair and a cool beverage, and check out these suggestions from Claire Harris, Director of Human Quotient Group. Be kind to yourself Making a change, thinking about what really matters now and considering your return to ‘the office’ (if you choose) can be fun! Celebrate your intentions and your progress to date. The Australian Blueprint for Career Development includes 12 key
The Top Ender
Jan 62 min read
