Family, Farewells & Finding Our Way Home

Blog Post No. 4, April 2026

It was fast approaching Easter when last we met, dear reader. I mentioned then that Bob and I had booked into a campsite about fifteen minutes from Jo and the girls, at Narrabeen Lake. It gave us the opportunity to invite family to gather with us, enjoy a bit of egg-hunting fun, and share a delicious picnic.  We were joined by long time family friends Bec, Mark and their three gorgeous children: what a joy! Jo and the girls had moved to a smaller apartment in the same block in Dee Why the week before, so life had been a little upside down for them—especially Jo. She dealt with it all brilliantly. We couldn’t be prouder.

We then had ten days before our final three shows in Victoria. We stayed with Fiona and Ian in Yatte Yattah for a few nights en route down the coast road and, with their guidance, chose Merimbula as our next port of call. What a beautiful spot it is. We found a gorgeous chalet-type place, only a few minutes’ walk from the beach, and enjoyed

walks, dips, cards, and fish and chips.

We then stayed inland, a bit closer to Melbourne, in a funky little town called Sale. The weather turned, the temperature dropped, and the rain came down. We found ourselves at the local cinema and watched Project Hail Mary—which I loved! I’m a fan of Ryan Gosling, but Rocky is quite the character. I haven’t read the book, but I thoroughly enjoyed the film.

Our final two nights were spent in Frankston so that we could visit our good friend Terry and see my sister’s brother- and sisters-in-law near Sandringham. All delightful and great fun.

While all of this was going on, Michael, up in Brisbane, was going through a very stressful time—one that Bob and I could relate to all too easily. Michael’s mum and dad had moved to a 24/7 care facility at the beginning of the tour in March, and while his mum was very happy in this new place, his lovely dad’s health began a steep decline.

We always knew this could be a possibility, and we had a Plan B in case Michael was unable to leave either of his parents in their time of need. Very soon, Hans was in hospice and receiving end-of-life care. For all that we would have loved to finish the tour together, it became painfully clear that this just wasn’t possible. We began the process of letting venues and promoters know what was happening and that, if they were happy with it, I would perform my solo show as an alternative. The first venue in Queenscliff opted to reschedule, but the two house concerts—one in Sandringham and the final one in Ballarat—were happy for me to perform on my own. I know Michael was deeply upset for many reasons, but it was the right thing to do.

As it turned out, after ten days in hospice, Hans left this world on Saturday morning, April 18th. Bless his sweet, kind, intelligent soul.

Michael and I had such wonderful gigs this year and enjoyed performing together more than ever. There’s a joy and ease between us that translates to the audience, and we just loved it. We hope to continue—perhaps next year. We’ll see..

On the night of what would have been our first Victoria show, we were unable to get a refund for the place we'd booked for me, Bob and Michael, so, despite the 130 KM round trip, Bob and I decided to visit Queenscliff, because we had accommodation for the night. Our place was pretty special - an old Victoria built house with fabulous living quarters and (my favourite bit!) a wonderful spa bath. While walking the streets of Queenscliff that afternoon, we bumped into two friends with Isle of Man connections: Gaynore and Steve! It was a delightful surprise until we all realised they hadn't had word the gig was cancelled and they'd come to see Collister&Fix! Oops! Turns out their

message had gone into a spam box. They recieved their refund - phew! And they were en route to Tasmania so they just enjoyed their own accommodationwith spa bath too! Nothing ventured nothing gained. We enjoyed the excited hugs we shared, none-the-less.

The first house concert (new to us) was in Sandringham, and our hosts, Anthony and Bernadette, were absolutely brilliant. Wonderful musicians themselves, with a wealth of creativity in the family, they open their home with great generosity and create a beautiful sense of community in everything they do. They were kind, open, and sympathetic to the situation, and made Bob and me feel like part of the family. I'd "borrowed" a projector from one of or granddaughters who'd gotten one each for Christmas, to watch movies in their rooms. I was very grateful to Father Christmas! The show went exceptionally well—everyone loved the videos, music, and storytelling. I especially loved their rousing renditions of “One Day Like This” into “Hey Jude”—fab-u-lous! Our accommodation was with a lovely woman called Jo, who looked after us with such kindness and genuine warmth. Thank you, Sandringham! We’ll be back with Michael as soon as possible.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4HuzTJ2Oig

And so, on to our final show, with our dear friends Pam and Alan in Ballarat—a Sunday afternoon performance in their beautiful home. Pam had already requested that I do half the show with Children of the Sea, so extending it into the full experience wasn’t a hard ask. Alan did a wonderful job pulling the technical requirements together. We used their widescreen TV for the videos, which worked perfectly, and he did a sterling job on sound too. While everyone missed Michael’s exceptional playing (me especially!), they completely understood the circumstances and showed nothing but love and sympathy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lPZ0aMSKCI

And then it was all over. Bob and I headed north straight after the performance. We stayed in Wangaratta at the same place we used in March, then hit the road early the following morning, arriving in Sydney by early evening. We were able to spend our last evening with Jo before boarding our first long-haul flight—which was so lovely (the evening with Jo, not the flight!). We all hate saying goodbye… but we’ll be back. By hook or by crook, we’ll have hugs galore again.

Our journey back was relatively pain-free. We stopped over for two nights at the Sama-Sama Hotel at Kuala Lumpur airport. It’s the best way to deal with an eight-hour flight followed by one of fourteen! A day by the pool? Yes please.

We arrived back on the island on Saturday afternoon and were met by one of my nephews, Ben, who drove us to Onchan, where we’re staying for the next little while at my sister and brother-in-law 's(Ben’s mum and dad) while they're in Australia visiting family.

Bob and I have had jet-lag colds for the past few days, but we’re starting to feel the right way up again. I’m typing this in the car, over-looking Fenella Beach, before meeting friends for a sauna and dip —I’m so ready for this! The cold might be a shock, but the heat will make everything right again. Swings and roundabouts! I have several sessions booked this week and into the weekend with Green Creek Hut Sauna - they're the best!!

Next month we’ll be in the UK for a few weeks, partly to see family and friends and partly to prepare with Dave Kelly for our tour in October—dates now up and running HERE.

I trust you’re all doing OK, despite the craziness. As I mentioned last month, we have to focus on the good as best we can—peace is an inside job.

As always, thanks for dropping by and keeping an eye on me—I deeply appreciate it. Till next time, stay well, be curious, and keep rising above the turbulence.

With love and gratitude,Christine x

From Amazing Grace to “What Was I Singing?”

Blog Post No. 3, March 2026

What a month! March was packed with fun, friends, family and fantastic shows with Michael Fix. Let’s catch you up.

When last we met, dear reader, Michael and I had just done our first two shows of the tour—Woy Woy and Gulgong, both fabulous. After those, we had a two-week gap before the next flurry, so Bob and I decided to take a trip to Victoria.

We took our time, stopping in Wangaratta for a few days, which was delightful. We stayed at a small caravan park and were upgraded from a room to a cabin—perfect. We explored the surrounding area, including a wonderful Middle Eastern café, The Fez in Myrtleford, where we had brunch on the first day. The next couple of days were spent

happily pootling.

We then made our way to Ballarat to stay with our lovely friends, Pam and Alan, stopping at Bendigo Cathedral en route to sing a verse of Amazing Grace—it would be rude not to!

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/7fbd78_b572ec452cd547539b99129ba3a92a0a/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

While with Pam and Alan, we met a wonderful woman, Melanie Ball, a travel writer for more than twenty-five years who, although semi-retired, is still an enthusiastic bushwalker. She also makes the most gorgeous Hat Art! She was the guest speaker at Pam’s bushwalking club that evening, and Bob and I were delighted to go along. The whole thing was a joy.

The following day, Pam drove us all over the place, pointing out spots of interest and wonder—forests, rivers, beautiful gold rush buildings, an old red-bricked factory, a garden centre, the Dementia Forest Walk, and a beautiful Begonia exhibition at the Botanic Gardens. A bit of a whirlwind, and a wonderful day.

When we left to wend our way back towards NSW and our next gigs, we headed to a gorgeous national park suggested by Mel and Pam—Koorooya. It was stunning: huge rounded boulders perched at impossible angles, tumbling through tall eucalyptus trees, overlooking a vast sweep of undulating hills. We loved it.

We stayed in Moama, which sits right next to Echuca across the Murray River, for a couple of nights. One very hot day (32°C!), we took a trip on a paddle steamer—built in 1935. Being out on the water was a balm. We stayed a couple of nights in Canberra after that, on yet another caravan park, and joy of joys we were able to catch up with Lisa Richards! She, me and Michael all met in 2015 at Steve Seaton's wonderful Winter Break. She's amazing!

Our next two gigs—Gloucester and Harrington—were both a treat in so many ways. Gloucester was a return visit, held in the Senior Citizens Hall. Originally organised by our dear friends Fran and Jim (who did a fabulous job promoting), the official promoters are now the team who manage the hall, with Charlie as our contact—she’s fab. What a night it was. The community spirit, enthusiasm and joy were off the charts. We’ll be back!

The following afternoon, we played a new venue for us—Harrington Memorial Hall—promoted by the wonderful Margaret and Maurice, who had never done anything like this before. The hall is lovely, filled with light and polished wooden floors. The audience was small but perfectly formed, and made their appreciation very clear. As I like to say, appreciation is always appreciated. We’d love to play there again.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMf--es4Hzo

After a couple of nights at a caravan site near the ocean in Manning Point, we stayed with our gorgeous friend Nikki in Lemon Tree Passage. Nikki had asked me to do a solo show at her clinic, Natural Lore, in Newcastle. I was delighted—and excited to perform those songs for the first time in Australia. Two dear friends—one from the UK, one from Oz—came along, which made it even more special. Thank you, Gerri and Lauren! The whole event was a joy, and I hope we can do more next year.

We had a few gorgeous days staying in Woy Woy once again. Our fabulous friends Ina and Michael Fine allowed us to stay at "the cottage" in their magical garden, while they were away for a few days. We took the opportunity to take the ferry from Ettalong to Palm Beach (where Home And Away is filmed). We then took a bus to Dee Why, had brunch with Jo who then drove us back to the ferry at Palm Beach. It was a complete delight!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUjD9jynjNM

Wollongong was our next duo gig, at the Illawarra Folk Club. We were supported by our dear friend Desley Taylor, a talented singer-songwriter and gifted painter. She was due to perform with her musical partner, but unfortunately she was unwell, so Desley went solo—and was wonderful. Michael and I weren’t too shabby either! Another gorgeous gig.

Michael flew back to Brisbane after the show, and Bob and I began the trek north for four consecutive shows in Queensland. The drive was long, hot and a bit dusty. We had a couple of nights in Ballina—a new place for us—which was sweet, before heading on to stay with Michael’s friends, Nonie and Tim, who very kindly hosted us.

We arrived the night before our first concert and were treated to a gorgeous Middle Eastern mezze-style dinner, sitting out on the deck overlooking their wild and wonderful garden. It’s one of the many joys of travelling and performing like this—meeting kind, generous people along the way who so often become friends.

Our first show was at Stretton Garden Retirement Village, just ten minutes from where Michael lives. Until recently, his parents lived there, and Bill—Sue’s father—still does. Once again, the enthusiasm and appreciation in the room made for a special night.

Next was Upper Brookfield Hall, a short drive from Nonie and Tim’s. A gorgeous community space, built in 1934, with a lovely atmosphere. It was also the scene of my most ridiculous brain-fade of the tour (so far!). The second half begins with Late in the Evening by Paul Simon. I sang the first line—“The first thing I remember…”—and then… nothing. Completely blank. So I said, “I can’t remember what I’m supposed to remember!” Luckily, the audience found it funny, and once we’d all stopped laughing, I picked it up without a hitch. Another great gig.

Next up was Beachmere Retirement Resort. We played there last year when I was unwell and not singing at my best—though everyone was wonderfully kind. It was such a relief to return feeling well and able to give it my all. This time it was a stonking show, with huge applause and heartfelt appreciation. I felt I’d made amends—and so did they. Phew.

Our final Queensland show was at The Barn, Draper, promoted by Shez Wright, who first hosted Michael and me back in 2016. This afternoon concert took place in a fabulous venue, though sadly it will be the last music event there (apparently the local council isn’t keen on such things!). It was a special one—Nonie and Tim were there, along with my gorgeous friend Steph and her mate Mark. Steph and I speak weekly but only manage a hug about once a year, so that was precious. There were also many friends from Winter Break, where Michael and I first met. The response was incredible—a long, standing ovation. Thank you, Draper!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRmuFR43_EA

And that was that.

We drove back to NSW via the highland plateau, through Glen Innes, stopping in Armidale along the way. From there we took Thunderbolts Way, travelling through glorious autumn colours under a bright blue sky. Gorgeous.

We had another couple of nights with Nikki in Lemon Tree Passage, and we’re now happily ensconced at a caravan site near Jo and the girls, enjoying a lovely family Easter gathering.

I hope you are well and thriving, despite the turbulence all around. We must focus on love, and the beauty in nature and in each other. Peace will come if we harbour it within.

Thanks, as always for stopping by. I really do appreciate you!

Until next time, when we will be back top side — stay well, be curious, and keep rising above the turbulence.

Mists, Music and sixteen years

Bog Post No. 2 – February 2026

Sweet reader,

I hope you are well — finding comfort in one another, in the small everyday things that hold us together, and solace in the natural world. The outer world is… disturbing, to say the least. I hope you’ll allow me, here, to bring a little light into the darkness.

Before I get too far ahead of myself, let me remind you that we spent most of February in Bali, at the most gorgeous little hideaway retreat. Puri Arsa is tucked into the heart of a small village on Jalan Tegal Temu, near Tanah Lot on Bali’s western coast. The owner, Made Arsa, is a delightful, kind and generous man, and the two young women who cared for us during our stay couldn’t have been more gracious.

We spent much of our time simply resting in this beautiful place. I continued my funny little art pieces, edited a book I wrote over twelve years ago, kept up my daily writing practice, and read — a lot. We ventured out twice with two fellow guests, Sabine and Andreas from Germany. Sharing a taxi, we explored Lake Batur, the volcanic crater lake in Kintamani. Though the nearby volcano hid behind low cloud, it was beautiful nonetheless. We also visited a water temple and later enjoyed a fabulous meal at Liap Liap Folk in Ubud — a gem Bob and I discovered last year.

REEL HERE !

A week later, the four of us returned to Ubud simply for the atmosphere. On both visits, the rain was our almost constant companion. It hardly mattered. The air was warm, the scenery lush, and the swirling mists lent everything an added layer of mystery.

Bob and I celebrated our sixteenth wedding anniversary on February 13th. We marked the day with a special brunch at Lily By The Sea, a gorgeous beachside restaurant a few kilometres from Puri Arsa. Naturally, I revisited the infamous fifty-five seconds of wedding hilarity that still makes us laugh out loud. Sixteen years married, twenty-six

together — laughter is the glue that makes even the hardest times bearable.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSIlf2YOi6M

Our time in Bali was deeply restorative, but eventually it was time to re-enter our usual — still delightful — lives. We flew into Sydney on February 22nd, stayed overnight near the airport, and picked up a rental car the next morning. After visiting Jo for a gorgeous hug in Dee Why, we colletced CDs and stage clothes for the tour, and headed ninety minutes north to Woy Woy.

Ina and Michael Fine have run The Troubadour Folk Club on the Central Coast for many years. They are generous, enthusiastic music lovers and community builders par excellence. We stayed in their little cottage at the top of their garden while we reacclimatised, enjoying good food and even better company until Michael Fix arrived the day before our first show on February 26th.

It had been about ten months since Michael and I last played together, but you wouldn’t have known it. We slipped straight back into that sweet performance space where everything flows. Our first show, at the Everglades Club — promoted by The Troubadour Folk Club — was a roaring success. With over a hundred people in attendance, including some of our favourite faces and the rest of Hat Trick (the fabulous Aussie band Michael has long played with), it was a memorable night. Mary Mahony joined us on fiddle for Paul Simon’s Late in the Evening — always a joy when fellow musicians add their magic. Thank you, Mary!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uA4dhe4LfLE

Our heartfelt thanks, too, to Ina and Michael for their beautiful hosting and for creating such a special evening for everyone. Until next time!

Our second show took us to a new venue: the Prince’s Opera House Theatre in Gulgong, NSW. It was a four-hour drive from Woy Woy (thank you, Bob — you’re the best!), and we arrived with just enough time for a quick S.C.A.N. — Senior Citizens After Nap!

This concert was lovingly organised by our dear friends Pu-Yu and Craig, who moved to Gulgong from Tuggerah a few years ago. Once again, we were reminded how fortunate we are to be surrounded by such capable, generous community builders. We were looked after royally and welcomed by a wonderful crowd in that beautiful old theatre, their enthusiasm infectious from the first note.

Pu-Yu is an exceptional flautist and pianist, and Craig a wonderful drummer. In Tuggerah they ran the highly successful Intuition School of Music and hope to recreate it in Gulgong. We were thrilled to have them join us on Forever Autumn— what an honour.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5hqHlTcegc

I think it’s safe to say we’ll be returning as soon as possible. Thank you, Pu-Yu and Craig — and to all those gorgeous audience members who expressed their appreciation so warmly. We are very blessed.

After dropping Michael at Sydney Airport yesterday — March 1st already! — Bob and I are now heading to Victoria to spend time with friends before returning to the NSW coast for our next run of shows in Lansdowne, Gloucester and Harrington on March 13th, 14th and 15th. Perhaps we’ll see you there?

Between now and the next blog post, there will be a plethora of Collister & Fix shows to share.

Until then, dear sweet reader — stay well, be curious and keep rising above the turbulence. And remember, keep hope alive and peace in your heart. Know that you are loved and appreciated.

With love and gratitude, as always,

Christine x