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Darling Downs region of Queensland, Australia. This house, and the parcel of land of which it sits, has indeed provided a welcome sanctuary for my children and I over many years. I am grateful. Growing up in the city of Toowoomba (within the Darling Downs region of Queensland), I was fortunately exposed to community botanical gardens, National Parks, urban homesteading practices, frugal living, and a flourishing vegetable patch maintained by my parents. I also remember happily curled up on the lounge with my family in the evening so to watch the British TV series 'The Good Life' (starring Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal), which advocated societal benefits of permaculture practice, organic produce, and sustainable living while in-keeping with the Seasons. Throughout my life, I have strived to maintain a connection with nature whether it may be family camping trips, birdwatching field days, bush walks, or nature art journalling. I have regularly volunteered and participated in Citizen Science Projects, revegetation planting days, conservation fundraising, and wildlife protection campaigns. I have also spent some time volunteering as a Horse Handler for the Riding for the Disabled Association.

I have a permanent disability - a closed-head Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) which I obtained in 2004. Due to the severity of this injury, I had to quickly re-learn how to walk, talk, eat...and manage all of my Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) with little or no assistance. It has taken me a while to physically achieve these milestones, and even longer psychologically to cope and accept my 'new life' with a TBI. I must state that I have been extremely blessed to have two very helpful and supportive children, a loving family, and loyal steadfast friends who never left my side. I thank all these wonderful people that have shown unwavering encouragement and support throughout my recovery. 

Determined not to be defined by my disability, I created Stella Hacienda. This business has provided me with a wonderful opportunity to educate the public about Urban Homesteading; and help people reconnect and be nurtured by the therapeutic qualities of gardening, home cooking, and creative pursuits amongst nature.

I am a qualified....