Blind Magic in Alice Springs

Episode 965 Honoring Queen Elizabeth II: A Weekend of Remembrance

Hi everyone, good evening from Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia. This is episode 965 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs and I am your host and presenter Murray Stewart.
May we never forget Queen Elizabeth II, in my view the greatest monarch of all time. I notice that some are calling this weekend in Australia the King's Birthday weekend. Not me. No, not me. As far as I'm concerned, this weekend will always be known as the Queen's Birthday weekend.
In fact, most importantly, in my mind, is the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, which, as I said, was on the 8th of September 2022. She was great for many, many reasons. She was an intellect. She was a great orator, and she served the Commonwealth with incredible dignity, with incredible energy. Her work ethic was beyond belief, performing her duties as Queen Elizabeth II almost up until her last breath. In fact, I think it was only the day before her death that she was seen performing her royal duties. What an amazing woman. What an incredible role model for all women and all girls of our modern times.
Yes, I have to say, this weekend for me should be known as the Queen Elizabeth II weekend. It should always be known as that. Because if it is known as that, we can hold her up for now and forever as being that wonderful role model for our women, for our girls, for the Commonwealth, for everybody. Because her dignity, her energy, her work ethic, her professionalism was beyond compare. Absolutely beyond compare. And we only have to look at what has begun to happen since her passing with some of the fracturing within the royal family. She held that family together. With sternness, but love and compassion for all of those in the royal family. I've got no doubt had she been alive today, the Harry and Megan situation would have been handled very, very differently. And wow, did she speak beautifully. As you know, I love the spoken word. And if you listen to her speeches, she had tremendous diction and a beautiful voice. Joyce, yes, she is one of the greatest women and one of the greatest people of our time, of my time. And she should always be remembered on this weekend in Australia.
No, I won't be calling it the King's Weekend anytime soon. No, it won't happen, not in my family and not for me. And I hope someone in government here in Australia is brave enough to ensure that that is enshrined in our calendar, that it is always known as the Queen's birthday weekend in recognition of Queen Elizabeth II, the greatest monarch of all time.
Okay, everyone, this has been episode 965, a Blind Magic Communications production.

Episode 964 Alice Springs: A Mystical Ghost Town During the Fink Desert Race

Welcome to episode 964 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, hosted by Murray Stewart. Today, we explore the mystical nature of Alice Springs, particularly during the renowned Fink Desert Race weekend.
Experience the surreal beauty of a deserted Alice Springs, as its residents flock to witness the grueling 470-kilometer off-road race. From empty streets to tranquil parks, Murray paints a vivid picture of a town transformed by this annual event.
Join us as we delve into the unique charm of Alice Springs, a town that becomes a ghost town each June, only to return to its vibrant self by Monday evening. Discover why there's no place quite like Alice Springs!

Episode 963 Embracing the Era: Finding Contentment in Growing Older

Hi, everyone. It's a very, very good afternoon from Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Central Australia. This is episode 963. It's Blind Magic in Alice Springs, and I am your host and presenter Murray Stewart.
Accepting who and what we are, in my view, is the key to happiness, which means it's the key to contentment, which is the greatest state of all. Because being content means that we are so happy to wake up each and every morning and confront the day.
I am learning to just accept the era of my life that I am in. That's right, accept. I'm 61 years of age and I am now in a process of accepting that I am growing older. The good news about age is that you do have qualities, new qualities, that you otherwise would not have had if you were granted a wish to be younger. Because with age, we do have additional wisdom and we can call on our experiences to not only pass on to others, but to enshrine within our own life.
Recently, I made a decision that I would never again climb up ladders because of the risks involved. I also made a decision that on a holiday coming up, I would not partake in bungee jumping that otherwise would have been on offer. It's very, very cold at night and in the morning in Central Australia, and I don't think it would be a wise decision for me, considering my health challenges, to do such a thing. It keeps me safe here at home not to challenge that as not climbing ladders keeps me safe, as not doing the bungee jumping keeps me safe. Am I forlorn about that? No, because I am accepting the era of my life.
Growing older is an inevitability for all of us. None of us are escaping the ageing process. So enjoy it. Accept it. Love it. And know that you are amazing because of your age. The things that you can do now because of your wisdom and your built-up experience, you could not have done when you were younger. So yes enjoy the brand new you the older person that is amazing who can do wonderful things albeit different things that's okay and it also allows you to have wonderful relationships with the younger folk in your life and you can be around for longer so they can enjoy the older person you are.
If you are content, if you are happy and you are amazing, then you are going to be around a lot longer. How beautiful is that? That is absolutely amazing, is it not? There is that song by Willie Nelson called Don't Let the Old Man In. Well, I'm afraid to say none of us, as I said, can prevent the aging process, but we can stand strong alongside wisdom. And in doing so, in becoming selective about the things that we can or perhaps cannot do, then we are going to live an amazing rest of our wonderful life. In fact, this is a new life within itself. Don't fight it. Enjoy it. Don't fight it. Enjoy it love it be amazing be incredible rejoice in your new found life.
That's exactly what I intend to do. Let go any angst, let go any reservations, let go any sadness. And in doing so, and in accepting the era of the life that I am in, I am determined to be amazing. I am determined to be incredible. And more importantly, I am determined to love this era of my life. And if I'm doing that, then I will be a better person for all of those around me. Everyone, my friends, my children, the community at large. I've got a lot more to contribute, folks. and I intend doing it. So if you're out there and you're trying to fight the inevitability of age, don't do that. Let it go. Accept, understand, and love the era of the life that you are now in. It actually is a brand new beginning. It's a different life, but it's a beautiful life. It's a wonderful life. Go forth and be amazing.
This has been episode 963, a Blind Magic Communications production.

Episode 962 Embracing the AI Revolution: Solving Global Challenges

Hi everyone, away we go. This is episode 962 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs and I am your host and presenter Murray Stewart.Artificial intelligence. Yes, it's on everyone's lips at the moment. I have been discussing artificial intelligence with many of my friends. I truly believe that the era of artificial intelligence, the revolution that is, has the capacity to rid the world of many of our challenges, particularly when it comes to people with disabilities. And also in overcoming disease, perhaps ridding the world of disease, assisting in slowing down the aging process, resolving issues of loneliness.Yes, I think artificial intelligence will absolutely be the vehicle from which we can solve many of the world's challenges and problems. I already have seen the benefits of artificial intelligence. Even with this broadcast, I am using an artificial intelligence program and I trust and I hope that you believe that this has been very much to the broadcast's advantage. You are the judge of that. You absolutely are.But I do note that there is a lot of concern about the rapid growth of artificial intelligence. And I get that. I totally get that, particularly when technological advantages of any type are put in the hands of large corporates, then yeah, sure, greed might get in the way of the benefits that I've just outlined. But, you know, I have seen in my lifetime huge technological advancements going from black and white to colour television. Who could forget those days?Then there was the era of the computers. Yeah, the first computers. Wow. Compared to today's computers, they were enormous. They were huge. I remember at RMIT, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, the first computers were the size of a room. And now look what we have. We have incredible computers that you now can carry around with you and you can support on your lap. It's amazing what advancements there has been in that area. And of course, we have seen the advent of the internet. Which, despite some of the challenges, most definitely has brought us closer together. 100% it has. You can connect with people now all over the world just simply by opening up your computer and getting on the World Wide Web.Look what's happened with the telephones. oh yes who can remember the days of the uh you know the times when we had to dial a telephone and then of course there was the first mobile phones which were the size of a house brick and now they are as they are today beautiful sleek designs that can fit in your pocket and can connect you with the world. And of course, this has meant the launch of Siri technology, which means that people like me can use our voice to make phone calls, to send emails or text messages. It's incredible. It's amazing.So yes, all of these advancements have happened. and whilst it has presented us with challenges in the main it's certainly done me no harm in fact quite the reverse so my attitude is question everything but fear nothing question everything but fear nothing i have at my home a brand new vacuum cleaner mop which is driven by ai AI. Yes, it's a robot. It's amazing. And as I said, I'm using AI for these broadcasts, and it also has been amazing. It's writing descriptions and titles to perfection, reflecting perfectly the aims and objectives within these episodes. Absolutely brilliantly. couldn't write them better myself.Yes, there may have to be laws put into place to ensure our safety and to ensure that greed does not get in the way of these incredible possible advancements. But in general, I'm excited by the future. I am. The revelation or the revolution is on, oh yes, the revolution is on, so we might as well get on board. And maybe, just maybe, the problems and challenges in your world are about to be solved. Absolutely, maybe you're lonely. Maybe very soon there'll be the possibility of AI pets or AI partners. In fact, I do know that AI pets are already happening in places like Japan. Is this good? Well, I'll let you be the judge of that. But sure as hell, the problems that will emerge will not surely be greater than the problems of loneliness or of disability and disease, of incredible health challenges.So yes, look, let's, as I said, let's question everything but fear nothing. And indeed, there's a real prospect and possibility that we actually should not only embrace AI, but maybe if you're a young person, you can get involved, get involved in the AI industry and therefore assist in ensuring that AI does do what it's touted to do, and that is to meet and to fix and to resolve our many problems and challenges. It's boundless and endless and almost incredible as to what AI could do. The one thing I am certain of is over the next 20 years, the world is about to change in many very interesting and possibly amazing ways.So I repeat again, fear nothing, but question everything. That's it folks. This has been episode 962 of Blind Magic Communications production. Music.

Episode 961 From Dreams to Reality: The Journey of a Myotherapist

Welcome to episode 961 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, hosted by Murray Stewart. On a crisp morning in Alice Springs, Murray shares his inspiring journey from a factory worker to a successful myotherapist. Despite the challenges of being totally blind and battling insomnia, Murray turned his dream into reality through determination and passion.In this episode, Murray reflects on the influence of his childhood role model, Hans Wild, and his bold decision to leave a dead-end job in Brisbane to pursue his passion in Melbourne. He offers valuable advice to young listeners on the importance of following their dreams and connecting with industry professionals.Join Murray as he discusses the therapeutic benefits of tactile therapy, his innovative dry massage techniques, and his ongoing commitment to helping others achieve their goals. Whether you're interested in myotherapy or seeking inspiration to follow your own dreams, this episode is a must-listen.

Honoring the Heroes of D-Day: A Call to Revive Traditional Values

Welcome to episode 960 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, hosted by Murray Stewart. In this special episode, we commemorate the bravery of the soldiers who landed on the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1945. Their courage changed the course of history, allowing us to enjoy the freedoms and prosperity we have today.As we remember these heroic men, Murray reflects on the current state of our society and the importance of traditional values in shaping strong, honorable citizens. He advocates for a return to family values, national service, and a renewed commitment to Christian principles to build a new generation of fine young men and women.Join us in this heartfelt tribute to the past and a hopeful vision for the future, where the strength of our families and the integrity of our citizens remain the foundation of our great nation.

Episode 959 The Heart of Alice Springs: Stories of Resilience and Community

Good afternoon from Alice Springs, Northern Territory! In this episode of "Blind Magic in Alice Springs," host Murray Stewart delves into the fascinating stories of the people who call this unique town home. Episode 959 shines a light on the individuals who have chosen to move to the heart of Australia's driest continent, each with their own compelling reasons.Discover why Alice Springs attracts such a diverse and eclectic mix of residents, many of whom are in the process of rebuilding their lives. Murray explores how these personal journeys contribute to the town's strong sense of community and culture of acceptance. Whether they come from interstate or overseas, the people of Alice Springs form a tight-knit family, united by their shared experiences and mutual support.Join us as we celebrate the resilience, diversity, and unity of Alice Springs, and learn what makes this town a truly remarkable place to live. This episode is brought to you by Blind Magic Communications.

Episode 958 The Qualities of Blindness: Strengths, Challenges, and Relationships

Good morning from Alice Springs, Central Australia! I'm Murray Stewart, your host, and this is episode 958 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs. In today's episode, we delve into the unique qualities that totally blind individuals bring to relationships.
We explore the strong opinions and verbal communication skills that are often a hallmark of those living with total blindness. These traits stem from a lifelong fight for equality and the necessity to excel beyond the norm. Being descriptive and tactile in communication is key to fostering strong, supportive relationships with blind individuals.
Through personal anecdotes, we discuss the importance of mutual learning and the enriching experiences that can come from such relationships. We also highlight the simple yet effective ways to improve interactions with vision-impaired individuals, ensuring inclusivity and respect.
Join us as we uncover the strengths and challenges faced by the blind community and the incredible contributions they make to the world.

Episode 957 Discovering the Unique Charms of Alice Springs

Hi everyone, it's a big hello from your presenter and host, Murray Stewart. In this episode, we dive into the truly unique aspects of Alice Springs, the things that make this town stand out from the rest of the world. From the distinct sound of the Arinda people's language to the massive road trains navigating the Stuart Highway, Alice Springs offers a sensory experience like no other.
We also explore the local culture, including the camping lifestyle and the surprising habit of being late for dinner. Learn why patience is a virtue here, as residents often wait for goods to arrive from down south. Discover how the dry climate affects everything from the water quality to static electricity, and why bringing moisturizer is a must for visitors.
Join me, Murray Stewart, as we uncover the special qualities that define Alice Springs, the outback capital of Australia. This is episode 957 of Blind Magic Communication.

Episode 956 The Power of Your Voice: Communicate Effectively in Any Situation

Hi everyone, good morning from Alice Springs, Central Australia. It's Murray Stewart again, your host and presenter. Welcome to episode 956 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs.
In this quintessential Blind Magic episode, we delve into the power of your voice. I have spoken previously about the unique qualities that blind people bring to the world, and today, we focus on how to harness the power of your voice to communicate effectively.
As an athletics coach preparing to speak to a group of parents, I discuss the importance of choosing the right voice for the occasion. Learn how to project your voice from your throat or your chest, depending on the context and environment, to ensure your message is conveyed accurately, powerfully, and compellingly.
Join me as I demonstrate techniques for voice modulation and share tips on how to practice and test your voice before delivering a speech. Whether you're speaking at a formal event or a casual dinner, discover how to use your voice as a powerful tool to connect with your audience.
For more information or to access my voice training workshop, contact me at bridgeovermurrayatbigpond.com or text me at 0407-256-428.
This has been episode 956 of Blind Magic Communications. Thank you for listening.