RUOK?
The Community Flower Studio hosts an RUOK? Week Pop-up stall every September, creating a space to foster meaningful conversations. But do you know the story behind RUOK? Day? In 2009, Gavin Larkin initiated this National Day of Action to honour his father, who tragically died by suicide in 1995. The aftermath left his family and friends in deep grief and grappling with unanswerable questions. Gavin’s mission was to spare other families from enduring the same pain. Here are some ways you can check-in. This is a special report on Connecting Young Australians conducted by YouthInsight for RUOK? 2022.
ASK RUOK? ANY Day
This year, CFS has introduced a new ‘Wellbeing Kit’ designed to help you continue the conversation after asking the simple yet powerful question, “Are you OK?” The kit includes a stem of vibrant yellow Dancing Lady Orchids—known for their joyful presence and vase life of up to three weeks with proper care. Flowers, after all, speak the universal language of TLC (Tender Loving Care).
The kit also features an RUOK? wristband, a Smiley Stress Ball, a set of DIY Origami Lucky Stars with full instructions and a QR code to a YouTube tutorial, some comforting chocolates, and two packs of Post-it Notes—one for jotting down positive emotions (and why you are feeling that way) and another for expressing the more challenging ones. We’re offering this Wellbeing Kit at cost to encourage everyone to reach out and ask, “Are you OK?”
Choose from two options: the Deluxe Fishbowl ($28) or the Standard Box ($18). You can pick up your kit at our Willoughby Nursery, or we can deliver it to you (delivery fees apply). Available from Fri 13th Sept 2024. If you have any questions, please reach out to Bibi via email (communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com).
WHAT’S ON in September 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.
Career Development Workshop Part B on Sat 7 September
at Chatswood Dougherty Community Centre (1:45 – 4 pm). Free for young people (15 – 39 yr) and the young at heart. In this workshop, you will learn:
1. How to prepare for your job interview,
2. Gain hands-on practice with interview skills,
3. Ask questions to IMPRESS the interviewers (when given the opportunity at the end)
The facilitators, experienced employment recruiters, will share their tips on what employers are looking for, based on real-life experiences gained through years of helping people find fulfilling jobs.
Laughter Yoga Spring Program
CFS’ fortnightly Laughter Yoga Spring Program will commence on Tues 10th Sept to coincide with RUOK? Week. Laugh till you Drop! Health benefits of Laughter Yoga includes: lifting your mood, improving physical health, connecting socially & facing Challenge 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.
RUOK? Week Pop-up Stall on Sat 14 Sept.
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 bunch of Yellow Blooms to ‘Petal-it-Forward’.
Floral Arrangement Made Easy (FAME) Workshop on Sat 21 Sept. It is part of the Willoughby Council’s EMERGE Festival.
Put your creative hat on and arrange a hand-tied bouquet out of flowers fresh from Flemington Flower Market. Flowers speak the language of LOVE – be it expressing admirations or sympathy. Dr. Bibiana Chan will share her passion of flower arranging and the health benefits of getting close to Nature! Once you got the hang of it, you will be able to make your loved ones the happy recipients of a beautiful bouquet. Table Centre Piece for special occasions will be demonstrated too. Click here to register.
Bushwalk of the Month, Sun 29 Sept, Freshwater to North Curl Curl Beach
The coastal walk from Freshwater Beach to South Curl Curl Beach is very scenic with blue sky and big waves along a rocky coastline between the 2 beaches. You will see from a distance the full view of Sydney’s famous Manly Beach. With some luck, you may find sea creatures enjoying the swimming in rock pools created by the last high tide. Take off your shoes and take a mindfulness walk on the sand from South Curl Curl Life Saving Club to North Curl Curl Beach! Embrace Nature and boost your mental well-being. Length: approximately 3.5 km one way. 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.
Reflections on Past Events
I recently attended the TheMHS (The Mental Health Service) 2024 Conference, held at the end of August, with the theme “Finding Common Ground.” One of the symposiums, titled “The Invisible Village,” featured a presentation that explored how tragedies like the Bondi Junction Stabbing might have been prevented. The presenter highlighted significant gaps in services, emphasizing that if the government and various communities could collaborate more effectively—supporting housing, employment, social connections, and timely mental health services—such incidents could be avoided.
During the Q&A session, I shared that it was the Bondi Junction tragedy that led me to this conference. I firmly believe that it takes an entire community to support individuals facing mental health challenges. I asked the presenters how they envisioned implementing ‘Social Prescriptions’ as a part of this communal support. Disappointedly, none of the presenters addressed my question. Another attendee also inquired about social prescriptions, and the response pointed out that the UK experience was far from ideal, the system was oversubscribed, and there was a need for more thorough planning, particularly in training ‘social prescribing link workers’ to support patients effectively. If there is a ‘will’, these barriers can be overcome.
As the founder of the Community Flower Studio, this symposium has further fueled my commitment to advocate for more non-clinical, community-based mental health services. On the last day, I attended a session where a presenter shared a positive experience of social prescriptions in the City of Whittlesea, Victoria. Given Melbourne’s experience as the city with the longest COVID-19 lockdown in the world, there was a realization of the importance of offering mental health services outside traditional frameworks. It was fortunate that sufficient government funding was allocated for this pilot project. I obtained the PowerPoint slides from this session (with permission) and plan to share them with the Invisible Village presenters to help us ‘Find a Common Ground!’
***********************
Bushwalk of the Month – Bradley’s Head to Cliftons Garden (Photo credits: Andrew G.)
CFS Bushwalk of the August was a jam-packed journey of nature, Australia’s defense history, literature (learnt the origin of the word ‘loophole’), arts, marine science (seahorse hotels) and human connections. Check out this slide show of photos shot by Andrew G. Click here to view an Instagram Reel of this event.
*********************
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.”
********************************************
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 3rd Sept 2024, we raised $437 A total of $437 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
Dancing Lady Orchid
By Bibi
Oncidium orchids, also commonly known as “Dancing Lady” orchids, are known for their vibrant colors and uniquely shaped flowers. This makes them very popular with orchid enthusiasts.
However, they are more particular about care than many other types of orchid. They require lots of light, and you should take extra care when choosing a potting mix or repotting an Oncidium, due to their relatively fine roots.
Oncidiums grow in the wild, primarily in jungles of Central and South America, and the West Indies. You can find them growing high in the Andes, and in the Amazon rainforest. Watch this YouTube clip of Dancing Lady Orchids in its natural habitat.
Care Instructions for Dancing Lady Orchids
Pruning: After flowering, cut the spent flower spikes to encourage new growth.
Light: Dancing Lady Orchids thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature: Maintain a warm environment with temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). They prefer a slight drop in temperature at night.
Watering: Water thoroughly, allowing the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Humidity: These orchids prefer high humidity (50-70%). Use a humidity tray or mist the plant regularly to maintain moisture levels.
Fertilizing: Feed every 2-4 weeks with a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilization, especially during the dormant period.
Potting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a well-draining orchid mix, like bark or sphagnum moss.
A comprehensive video on Dancing Lady Orchid Care.
********
For a limited time only, ‘Pregnant Onion’ is available for sale at the CFS Flower Shop.
Plant of the Month
Elkhorn Fern
by Bibi
The Elkhorn Fern, scientifically known as Nephrolepis Exaltata. ‘Elkhorn,’ is a captivating fern species cherished for its lush foliage and distinctive characteristics. Hailing from the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, this fern has gained popularity as a versatile and resilient houseplant, adding a touch of green elegance to indoor spaces.
Fun Facts:
1. Distinctive Foliage: Ekihorn Ferns are recognized by their gracefully arching fronds, characterized by finely serrated, deep green leaflets. The feathery appearance of the foliage contributes to its appeal as an ornamental plant.
2. Air-Purifying Qualities: Beyond its aesthetic charm, the Ekihorn Fern is celebrated for its air-purifying abilities. It efficiently filters indoor air pollutants, promoting a healthier living environment.
3. Adaptability: This fern is well-suited to various lighting conditions, thriving in both bright, indirect light and partial shade. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for indoor spaces with different light levels.
Take an incredible journey through this Elkhorn Fern ‘Jungle’.
Care Instructions:
1. Light: Elkhorn Ferns prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can scorch their delicate fronds.
2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between watering sessions. These ferns appreciate high humidity, so consider misting the leaves regularly.
3. Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a temperature range between 15-24°C (60-75°F) and high humidity levels. If indoor air is dry, consider placing a humidity tray near the plant or using a room humidifier.
4. Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and a touch of sand is suitable.
5. Fertilization: Feed the Elkhorn Fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or eliminate fertilization during the dormant period in fall and winter.
Note: I learnt from this YouTube Clip and mounted 3 Elkhorn Fern Pups. You may give it a go too!
Recipe of the Month
Roasted Lemon Garlic Kalettes By Melissa L.
Ingredients:
- 200 g of Kalettes
- 1/2 lemon (cut into wedges)
- 3-5 garlic cloves (skin on)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Everything bagel seasoning
Optional: 3-4 black garlic (fermented garlic) cloves
Methods:
1. Preheat oven to 210 degrees celsius.
2. Place Kalettes, lemon wedges and garlic cloves on baking tray.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, and add pepper and salt.
4. Bake for 23 minutes or until florets are crispy. Turn Kalettes half way during baking.
5. Using baked lemon, squeeze over broccoli.
6. Add everything bagel seasoning and bake for 2 more minutes.
7. Garnish with black garlic for a sweeter taste.
***************************
I had the pleasure to view the amazing floral display at the Fleurs de Villes Sydney 2024 at Calyx, Royal Botanical Garden.
Book Review
By Kim Wilkins
HELLO BEAUTIFUL BY Ann Napolitano
This is the story of William Waters, a withdrawn and introspective young man, who marries the strong willed Julia Padavano, the eldest of 4 close sisters. William does not realise that he has married the whole family and that the rest of his life is entwined with these women.
In short chapters, which I like, we see the story from the view of William, Julia and her sister, Sylvie. It is one of the most beautiful novels that I have read in sometime. All the characters are complex individuals and to read the novel is to live with these people in a a way few authors are capable of doing.
Ann Napolitano has written 4 novels and this one, published last year, in 384 excellent pages, has sold over 1 million copies. It is a New York Times best seller. It is a complex tale of family relations, friendship and self doubt. We see how someone’s experiences in
childhood remain with them in their later years.
As I read, I kept thinking that a particular personal trait, positive or negative, reminds me of myself or those of an acquaintance. It emphasises the importance of companionship and human support in our lives. There is a lot of sadness but it is so emotional uplifting. It emphasises the importance of not maintaining grudges and of maintaining friendships and family.
Family sagas are very common but this is one of the highest
quality. I loved this book. A must read.
****************************
*********************************************************************************************
From the Desk of Bibi
Learning Life skills that aren’t taught at school
by Dr Bibiana Chan
I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you: through my work with CFS, our Youth Mentoring Program has been shortlisted for this year’s Mental Health Matters Awards in the Community Initiative category! When I received the good news from WayAhead (the organization behind these awards), I couldn’t help but feel like I’d already won an Olympic gold medal. That’s exactly what I wrote in the subject line of the email I sent to our CFS committee members and consultants.
This recognition, whether or not CFS ultimately wins the award, feels like a perfect 5th birthday present for TEAM CFS! I still remember the early days vividly. The original Flower Studio Think Tank piloted our first pop-up stall on Federal Parliament election day in May 2019. We handed out 100 surveys to voters, asking about their flower-purchasing habits—how often they bought flowers for themselves or as gifts. The positive feedback from that pilot encouraged me to fill out all the necessary paperwork and officially start this journey as ‘Community Flower Studio,’ complete with a new logo. In Sept. 2019, we hosted our first official pop-up stall at Willoughby United Church’s Spring Fair.
Fast forward to Sept 2024, and as I reflect on the past five years, I’m proud to say that CFS has achieved exactly what we set out to do—help young people learn life skills and find meaningful employment! The various activities we offer provide our youth with valuable opportunities to gain practical skills, including leadership, in a safe and supportive environment. Here are some recent examples: continue reading here.
Subscriber’s Corner
Reflections on “The Real Cost of a Rose“
by Bec Humphris
As a florist, I’ve had many people reach out to me about this article and tonight watching foreign correspondent. It’s heartbreaking and sadly, not new as I came to learn researching for my business plan, completing the SUSTAINABLE FLORISTRY NETWORK foundations course and from fierce advocates for an end to modern slavery The Freedom Hub.
As the article highlights, consumers have significant power. Here’s some considerations to help:
🧐Ask questions🙋🏻♀️
As Dr Jill Timms, Expert Advisor to the Sustainable Floristry Network, explains:
“If you are going to buy imported flowers, they can try to support farms committed to work & environmental welfare. Transparency is a big challenge to this and something we are working to improve but asking questions about provenance and certifications can help get the message through that consumers do care about these issues in relation to their flowers, just as many do about food or clothes.”
Whether you’re shopping at your local florist or online, here’s some questions you may wish to consider asking:
Where does this flower come from?
Are there any certifications in place?
What packaging did it come in (a lot of this is removed by the florist between the market and getting to you)
Is it artificially dyed?
What material do you use to construct and package your arrangements?
If something doesn’t sit right, you can always see if a substitute can be provided or if they can source further information. 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.