Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

New Episode: Don’t Ignore the Signs — Bowel Cancer Awareness with Gerald Quigley In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about the importance of taking bowel cancer seriously—especially during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month. If you're aged 45 to 74, the Australian Government sends you a free test every two years. It's easy to use, quick t...

Passing the Brush: Walls That Speak – Art, Stories, and Message with Garth Jankovic In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Garth Jankovic, a Townsville-based artist who’s travelling through remote communities to teach mural-making from the ground up — and right now, he’s in Doomadgee, working alongside artists to pass on the skills, stories, and process of painting big. From designi...

Step Into the Spotlight — Empowering First Nations Women in Music with Vicki Gordon, Program Director, Australian Women in Music Awards In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Vicki Gordon to talk about the Queensland Regional and Remote Women’s Music Program, part of the Australian Women in Music Awards and Conference. This initiative is designed to uplift, support, and connect Firs...

Men's Health Starts Here — with Gerald Quigley In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ sits down with Gerald Quigley, Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, for an honest chat about men’s health—and why the hardest part is often taking that first step. Gerald reminds us that while many men put off going to the doctor, it's usually not until something serious forces us to act. But it doesn...

Delivering for the North — Budget Wins with David Kempton Member for Cook on funding, follow-through, and the future In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ catches up with David Kempton, Member for Cook, fresh from delivering on every one of his election promises—and he's got the budget outcomes to prove it. In this inspiring conversation, David outlines how this year’s state budget brings real,...

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ speaks with Stephen Wilson from Tolga, who shares a deeply personal and alarming story — the suspected baiting of his beloved dog. After finding signs of poisoning near Graham Road, Stephen rushed his dog to the vet. Thanks to urgent treatment, she pulled through — but the outcome could have been very different. Stephen's message to others is clear: Be aler...

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk about a vital yet often overlooked organ — the liver. This time, the focus is on fatty liver — a condition that affects many Australians and can often be improved with small, consistent changes. Gerald explains how the liver filters litres of blood every minute, and how the...

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to discuss a health issue that’s more common than most people realise — incontinence. Around 1 in 4 Australians experience some level of incontinence, which involves the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control.  Gerald shares advice on: What causes incontinence How t...

Saying Goodbye to Greg Reid — A Life of Impact on Air and Off with Gerry Pyne and Neville Reys In this emotional episode of Stars and Stories, MJ pays tribute to Greg Reid, former Black Star announcer and the beloved host of Talk Black, who has sadly passed away. MJ is joined by Gerry Pyne, Former General Manager of Black Star Radio, and Neville Reys, to reflect on Greg’s role in the early days of...

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 S...

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, fre...

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 th...

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 activiti...

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-bac...

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 ma...

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 person...

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 redu...

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 exp...

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, inclu...

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk about the importance of heart health—and the small, sustainable steps we can all take to live longer and live better. Gerald reminds us that while many Australians are living longer, the goal should be to enjoy those extra years in good health and with quality of...

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ and Gerald Quigley highlight the role of stress in heart disease.   Stress could be doing damage to your heart. Try this calming technique: Inhale for 4 seconds Hold for 4 seconds Exhale for 4 seconds Repeat It’s called box breathing—and it can help calm both heart and mind.   Listen now. ----more----   Stars and Stories Podcast   Broadcasting straight...

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, Gerald Quigley joins MJ to talk about recognising early signs of heart trouble.   Any chest pain needs to be investigated.   Pain down the left arm could signal angina—a warning your heart shouldn't be ignored.   Don’t take risks. See your doctor. ----more----   Stars and Stories Podcast Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black St...

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ and Gerald Quigley explore the impact of food on heart health. Eating more fruit and veggies supports a stronger heart. As Gerald says, “We call heart-healthy food a package of goodness.” Think fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains—it’s a simple recipe for better health. ----more----   Stars and Stories Podcast   Broadcasting straight from the...

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ chats with Gerald Quigley about everyday ways to protect your heart.   Just 30 minutes of walking a day can reduce your risk of a heart attack.   Make your exercise comfortable and enjoyable. The goal is regular, joyful movement—not punishment. ----more---- Stars and Stories Podcast Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star...

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, a practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk heart health. Want a stronger heart? Start with the basics: Eat heart-healthy foods Manage stress Quit smoking Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in check The best part? Many of these are manageable without medication. Start small. Your heart will tha...