Let’s Talk About It
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT is the theme for this year’s Mental Health Month. The Community Flower Studio will host a special “Petal-it-Forward’ Pop-up Stall” on Sat 12th Oct to encourage people to ‘start a conversation with a beautiful Joyce’s Choice Rose Bouquet’. This bouquet conveys an important message not only to show some TLC (Tender-Loving-Care) to a loved one but also to commemorate a valued member Joyce who left us last Nov.
Mental Health Month – Let’s Talk About It!
In NSW, Mental Health Month is observed annually throughout October.
This year’s theme, “Let’s Talk About It,” prompts us all to reflect on our mental health challenges, regardless of whether we encountered mental ill-health or not. It emphasises the importance of maintaining good mental health in our daily lives. There is no shame in taking a pro-active approach to seeking professional help or contacting other community programs (e.g. Community Flower Studio’s Creative Workshops) when necessary to avoid reaching a crisis point.
WHAT’S ON in Oct – Dec 2024?
Youth Mentoring Program
Dr Bibiana Chan, CF, and other CFS members in various professions are available to mentor young people, share their work experiences. Topics covered: study skills, time management, goal setting, getting motivated, write a resume that stands out of the crowd, job interviewing skills and assertive communication, etc.
If would like to refer any young people (12 – 30 year) whom you recently started a ‘RUOK?’ conversation to our FREE Youth Mental Health Program, please contact Dr Bibi via email: communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com or call 0412-613-073.
Laughter Yoga Spring Program
CFS’ Laughter Yoga Spring Program will run fortnightly on Tues until 3rd Dec. The classes in Oct are 8th and 22th. “Laughter is the Best Medicine!” Join us and talk to our regulars. Why not make it your goal to ‘laugh for no reason except for better health’! Health benefits of Laughter Yoga includes: lifting your mood, improving physical health, connecting socially & managing life challenges with laughter. Each session runs for about 45 min. of laughter, gentle exercise and dancing (suits various fitness – sitting down is OK) and 15 min. informal chat & refreshment. Places are limited, click here to register.
Special Petal-it-Forward Pop-up Stall on Sat 12 Oct.
CFS’ usual Pop-up Stall on the 2nd Sat of the month outside Little Giant Roaster Cafe. Come and meet our friendly volunteers and grab a Joyce’s Choice Rose Bouquet to ‘Petal-it-Forward’ and one to keep for the rest of Mental Health Month. LET’S TALK ABOUT IT!
Bushwalk of the Month, Sun 27 Oct, Lane Cove National Park
We’ll meet at the end of Fidden’s Wharf Rd which is the pedestrian entrance to Lane Cove National Park. Follow the steps to descend to an oval and then turn right to the start of the track. This track will take us to the famous Lane Cove River. There are many wild animals which called this park home. You may have close encounters of wallabies, brush turkeys, kookaburras, ducks and wild rabbits. There are many picnic tables under the shade for visitors to the park to enjoy their food while observing the magic found in Nature. There is a historical site which reveals the lives of early settlers in the area. We will retrace our footpath and back to Fidden’s Wharf Rd.
This group will leave at 10:05 am (the latest). If you are late, follow the track to catch-up with the group to the start of the track. Click here to register.
All the information about the past and future walks can be found here. program. The scenery along the walks is great.
Flower Crown Workshop
A hand-made gift is usually much appreciated by the recipient. It is not the value of the gift that matters, it is the thought and effort put into making it. This Flower Crown will sure bring joy (or tears) to a loved one or a dear friend. Indulge in the vibrant colours and textures of the raw materials Silk flowers are used in this workshop. You can apply the skills learnt to fresh flowers. You will also learnt how to dried flowers and leaves for making flower crowns. Click here to register.
Self-Compassion Workshop
You’re a carer if you provide unpaid care and support to family members and/or friends with a disability, mental illness, chronic health issue, or an older person with care needs. Having been a young carer to my CALD parents since childhood, I understand the experiences of being a carer and how we had to place our own needs last while supporting others. Carers quietly support those in our communities. We need to look after ourselves too, to ensure we can take care of our loved ones. Improving self-compassion in people with caring roles helps improve mental health and wellbeing and reduces burn-out and stress.
The first introductory workshop is on Friday, October 25th, 11am-12pm. Please click here to register. Please also register with Carer Gateway. Give them a call. It takes 5-10 mins to be registered, and you can access various well-being, social, and financial support. For more information, click here.
Resin Art Workshop on Sat 16th Nov.
Unleash your creative talent! Sign up today to join us for a fun-filled Resin Art Workshop! It will cover:
A brief discussion on the 8 elements of design.
The safe handling of resin mixtures to achieve maximum results.
How to practise ‘mindfulness’ during the resin art creation process?
A brief discussion on the workshop experience and how creativity can help maintain our mental wellbeing.
Click here to register online. Special family package for the young and young@heart!
End of Year Celebration at Kyiv Social on Sat 21 Dec
CFS received a generous donation to treat our young members (workshops and laughter yoga co-facilitators and those completed their Social Services with CFS as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Awards or equivalent) for an End of Year Lunch at the Kyiv Social of ‘Plate it Forward’ – a social enterprise which gives free meals to those in need and provides training for refugees in the catering industry. The CFS committee has chosen the set menu: with every set menu ordered, Plate-it-Forward donate meals to those in need – one in Sydney and one in Ukraine. When we feed you, you feed two! If you would like to join Team CFS to say thank you to our young members who volunteer their time to serve the community, please contact Bibi (communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com)
Reflections on Past Events
Mental Health Matters Community Initiative Awards Ceremony
by Dr Bibiana Chan
Thank you to everyone who believed in me—you know who you are! Without your practical and emotional support, the Community Flower Studio wouldn’t be one of the three finalists for the 2024 Mental Health Matters Community Initiative Award. As someone with lived experience, this forms an important part of my recovery journey.
Five years ago, when I filled in seven names to start a social enterprise, I never imagined the Community Flower Studio (CFS) would grow into a registered charity, helping youth learn life skills and find meaningful employment. Attending our workshops to arrange a bouquet or mindfully paint a rose is not just art—it is nourishing for our mental health.
At CFS, we create a safe space where young people can express themselves without judgment. As I often say, “There is no right or wrong in creating art—what others see as ‘wrong’ becomes your unique style.” Our youth flourish through mentorship and leadership training, and I am proud to witness their growth. This honour belongs to all of us—thank you.
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Moon Festival Fundraising Concert
CFS was commissioned to provide five Thank you Bouquets for the incredible performers at the Moon Festival Fundraising Concert (by Eastwood Chinese Senior Citizen Club). Bibi created five huge presentation bouquets featuring roses and blooms of succulents complemented by Native Geraldton Wax buds and Burgundy Cordyline leaves. CFS offers very competitive quotes for events, especially for our collaborators. Shoot Bibi an email for your next event: communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com
Empower the Community with Flowers – the Story of CFS
Presentation at UNSW Centre of Social Impact by Bibi and Jaydon (a member of the CFS Youth Action Group) on 18th Sept.
The Community Flower Studio (CFS) is chosen as a ‘case study’ for 150 graduate and post-graduate students for the ‘Social Entrepreneurship Course’. Bibi brought along some of CFS’ best sellers to showcase the social enterprise arm of CFS while Jaydon shared his CFS journey. Students will submit a marketing strategy plan to help CFS reach out to more young people. Bibi will return in Oct for 2 more lectures to discuss the student’s proposed plans.
FAME (Floral Arrangements Made Easy) Workshop Slideshow
By Andrew Gebert
RUOK Pop-up Stall
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If you feel like supporting youth mental health, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to CFS. Your support will help young people learn life skills and find meaningful employment.
Michelle Benson published in LinkedIn an article entitled “𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿? “She is referring to the term “non-profit” which is a tax reference, that unfortunately grew legs and became a label.
Bibiana Chan responded, “Absolutely. Perhaps a better terminology is ‘For-Purpose’. The Community Flower Studio is a youth-focused charity with a mission to help youth learn life skills and find meaningful employment. Your generous donations are tax-deductible.”
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Download the Return & Earn App onto your phone and nominate ‘Petal-it-Forward’ as the charity campaign for your refund to go. An anonymous sponsor will match the amount donated, so your contribution will be doubled!
Good news!!!
As of 1st Oct 2024, we raised $450.5 A total of $450.5 donation was made by our anonymous sponsor to support our ‘PETAL-IT-FORWARD’ CAMPAIGN. If you have contacts with any primary or secondary schools, please contact Bibi. We would like to invite them to nominate CFS as their charity partner. It is always easier to engage with the school administration if you know somebody!
Your generous donations are much appreciated. The Community Flower Studio is a charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission (ACNC). Donations of over $2 will receive tax deductions. Please kindly make a donation to the Community Flower Studio (CFS) by direct debit. Our NAB account details are as follows: BSB No.: 082-212, Acc No.: 729-933-729
There are many ways to support CFS: become a member or contribute to the columns here. I’m always looking for a great recipe passed down from generation to generation. If you have a story to share, either write a short piece around 250 words or shoot us some photos. If there is a book or a movie you want to write a review, the CFS e-Newsletter will be happy to share with our e-Newsletter subscribers. Contact Bibi on communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com
If you would like to purchase a DIY Succulent Terrarium Kit for a loved one or a friend as a present, order online here ! This is also a ‘Succulents in Colour-Sand Glass’ DIY Kit which comes with a youth-approved instruction sheet and a QR code to the YouTube clip of previous workshops. Available here. You can also purchase a DIY Flower Kit from our online shop, click Flower Crown
Flower of the Month
Dendrobium Orchid
By Bibi
Dendrobium Orchids, often called Singapore Orchids, belong to one of the largest orchid genera, with over 1,400 species! These orchids are relatively easy to care for and are cherished for their vibrant, long-lasting flowers. From my experience, blooms on cut stems can last 2 to 5 weeks in a vase (if taken care of properly), with purple varieties tending to last the longest. I often wonder about the origins of the flowers we see in the market, and there’s no better place to admire Singapore Orchids than the National Orchid Garden Singapore.
As indoor plants, Dendrobium Orchids thrive in bright, indirect light. Position them near a window but out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the leaves. They prefer temperatures between 18-29°C (65-85°F) and humidity levels of 50-70%. Water thoroughly once the top inch of soil is dry—typically every 7-10 days—and ensure good drainage, as they shouldn’t sit in waterlogged soil. Mist occasionally in dry climates to maintain humidity. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer, reducing feeding during winter dormancy. Repot every 2-3 years or when the orchid outgrows its pot, using a well-draining orchid mix. I hosted a Phalaenopsis Orchids Repotting Workshop in August 2023, and I’m thrilled that the orchid I repotted has just sprouted a new spike of beautiful blooms!
Fun Facts: The name “Dendrobium” comes from the Greek words for “tree” (dendron) and “life” (bios), referring to their growth habit of living on trees.
These orchids are not only ornamental but also used in traditional Chinese medicine for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
They symbolize unity, prosperity, and endurance, making them popular gifts for special occasions.
In 2015, a variety of Dendrobium orchids from Singapore was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) for an experiment led by Singaporean researchers. This study explored how plants adapt and grow in microgravity, which could help support future long-duration space missions. Read more here.
In 2021, US Vice President Kamala Harris received a spray of orchids named in her honor during her visit to Singapore. The orchid, Papilionanda Kamala Harris, was part of Singapore’s tradition of orchid diplomacy – sharing multicultural heritage with global leaders in their VIP Garden.
Note: Panda Diplomacy (Gifting a pair of Endangered Chinese Panda to countries outside of Panda’s natural habitat) is well-known. It is interesting to learn about ‘Singapore’s Orchid Diplomacy’.
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Plant of the Month
Nandina domestica
by Bibi
Nandina Domestica also known as Sacred Bamboo, is a versatile and ornamental evergreen shrub, though it’s not related to actual bamboo. Native to East Asia, it is admired for its year-round beauty, with feathery foliage that changes colour throughout the seasons and clusters of bright red berries in winter..
Nandina thrives in a range of conditions, making it easy to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil but is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Water young plants regularly, but once established, Nandina is drought-tolerant. Minimal pruning is needed, though trimming back the tallest canes in late winter encourages fresh growth and keeps the plant full. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. It’s also deer-resistant and relatively pest-free, making it an ideal low-maintenance addition to any garden. If growing in containers, ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Fun Facts:
Symbolism: In Japanese and Chinese cultures, Nandina is associated with good luck, protection, and warding off misfortune. It’s often planted near doorways to bring positive energy.
Color Transitions: The foliage changes throughout the year, starting as bronze in spring, turning green in summer, and finally becoming red or purple in fall and winter.
Toxic Berries: While the red berries of Nandina are visually attractive, they contain toxic compounds harmful to birds, pets, and humans. Birds generally avoid the berries due to their toxicity, so they’re not typically a reliable food source in winter.
Compact Varieties: Several dwarf varieties have been developed, making Nandina suitable for small gardens or containers.
Watch this YouTube clip to learn how to propagate Sacred Bamboo.
A career in Plant Grower!
If you are curious about what it is like to be a Sacred Bamboo grower, this YouTube clip is for you.
For a limited time only, ‘Pregnant Onion’ is available for sale at the CFS Flower Shop.
Recipe of the Month
Pickles By Wing C.
Ingredients:
Glass Jar for pickling
2 cucumbers
1 carrot
1 tsp sea salt
1 cup Rice Vinegar
1 cup sugar ( we use Raw Sugar )
2 slices ginger
Instructions:
Peel carrot and wash the cucumbers. Slice everything into approx. 2 inch lengths by 1/4 inch thickness. If you have metallic cookie cutter, you may cut the carrot into cute shapes. Try ‘craving’ your own shapes if you don’t have any cookie cutters. Put into large bowl with salt and toss. Let stand for at least 1/2 hour. Drain off extruded water until dry as possible.
Place one of the ginger slices on bottom. Pack the vegetables into your pickling jar in alternating patterns or whatever you like. Put the other ginger slice on top. Mix the sugar into the vinegar in a bowl and stir until the sugar is melted. Pour over vegetables until covered. Pour in a bit more vinegar to top up if necessary. You may heat the vinegar mixture in low heat.
Close jar and put in the fridge overnight. It’s ready to eat the next day but the flavour will improve as time goes by.
We just add vegetables to the jar as it empties, remembering to salt it first to draw out the moisture, topping up with fresh rice vinegar/sugar mix as needed. Constant Chinese pickle fix!
This recipe is inspired by this article.
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Book Review
By Kim Wilkins
FRENCH BRAID- By Anne Tyler
This is one of the recent books by Anne Tyler, acclaimed American novelist, who has written 24 novels, has won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction, been a finalist on 2 other occasions, and has won numerous other literary awards.
Despite the pedigree I did not like this book. It traces the history of a mythical American family from Baltimore, the Garretts, from the 1950s to the present. The title suggests that like a French braid, which leaves its mark or style in your hair , your family leaves similar marks and you cannot escape your upbringing. To me that is stating the obvious.
Thus, we jump from when the parents, Robin ( the male) and Mercy have 3 young children and follow them until these children themselves are grandparents. We follow their spouses, partners, children, sons and daughters in law and so on. Every member of an ever increasing clan gets their turn in the book’s spotlight.
I did not empathise with any of the characters and as the family grew the characterisation of the newer generations became shallower. There was not much of a plot to speak of and, although some scenes were amusing, overall it was difficult to finish reading.
The author obviously has a legion of fans so I might read another to see if I can find out what the appeal is. As to this book, I can only say that it’s a good cure for insomnia.
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From the Desk of Bibi
Notes from Raising Resilient Teens Forum
by Dr Bibiana Chan
As someone who was once a teenager, a single mother raising a teenage son, and someone with lived experience of clinical depression, I felt uniquely positioned to share insights on raising resilient teens.
I emphasized to the audience that there is absolutely no shame in facing mental health challenges. In today’s world, the cost-of-living crisis, the transition back to in-person learning post-COVID, and frequent extreme weather events are just some of the stressors impacting daily life. According to a recent report by Monash University: the top three issues identified by young people as needing immediate action remained similar to previous years:
affordable housing (nominated by 73% of young Australians);
employment opportunities for young people (52%) and
climate change (40%).
However, these pressures affect not only teens but everyone.
During the forum, I held up the two pages of notes I took while listening to the youth panel. I wanted to show the young speakers that I was truly hearing them. I commended Pete* and Cathy* for their courage in publicly sharing their mental health journeys. Their lived experiences and advice to parents on connecting with their teenagers were invaluable. It saves parents the time and effort of trial and error. Continue reading here.
*Names have been changed for privacy.
Subscriber’s Corner
My First Bushwalk with Bibi
by Karen G.
The most interesting part of the bushwalk was walking by the cannon and receiving guidance from Bibi. I also found the flowers fascinating, along with the explanations about different parts of the environment. The overall organization of the bushwalk was very good; from pick-up to drop-off, everything was well planned. The bushwalk was enjoyable and made for a great walk. The planned activities, like learning about Australia’s Marine Defense history along the track, were also fantastic. It’s a great way to start a Sunday morning with some exercise, incredible scenery, and beautiful views. Plus, you get bits of information to learn during the journey.
Challenging Myself and Gaining Insights
by McKayla T.
This term, I attended a SECNA meeting to represent Community Flower Studio. SECNA, or the Social Enterprise Council for NSW and ACT, is the main role of SECNA, which provides community and advocacy for social enterprises in NSW and ACT, led by all types of social enterprises from both states. SECNA defines social enterprises as “a business that puts people and planet first” that “trade[s] like any other business but exist specifically to make the world a better place”. I have been to one meeting, and since then, the organisation has grown, especially with additional funding from the government.
This event allowed social enterprises to hold discussions amongst themselves, where we could relate to each other’s triumphs and struggles. One of the challenges was pushing myself out of my comfort zone and talking to people I didn’t know. Although this was nerve-wracking, I used the strength of public speaking I had developed as a workshop facilitator. This allowed me to gain perspectives on issues of global significance as each social enterprise dealt with these problems on local, national or international levels. Continue reading here.
COMMUNITY FLOWER STUDIO LOGO EXPLAINED
Community: CFS is a community to support young people facing mental health challenges.
Creative: CFS hosts events to unleash young people s creative talents.
Resource: CFS provides members with resources to enhance their wellbeing.
Support: CFS offers support to members to develop their potential.
Growth: CFS fosters a growth mindset which is helpful in dealing with challenges.
Recovery: CFS sees recovery as achievable and a journey to cherish.
CONTACT US
Email: Communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.communityflowerstudio.org Mobile: 0412 613 073
Like us on Facebook:Community Flower Studio Inc. Instagram: communityflowerstudio
Address: 10-12 Clanwilliam St., Willoughby, 2068, NSW, Australia.