With the support of Open Minds Bundaberg, Laurinda cruised the humpback highway in September, achieving her goal of witnessing the playful mammals in their natural habitat.
Laurinda loves whales and was delighted to catch a glimpse of the creatures during their annual migration to Queensland.
“It was a fantastic experience,” said Laurinda. “They were so beautiful.”
A rare sighting of a mother whale with two calves in tow was a highlight of the day.
“Usually they only have one calf,” said Laurinda.
“The captain said it was really unusual.”
Laurinda was accompanied by Open Minds support worker Louisa, who was thrilled to see her cross whale watching off the bucket list.
“Laurinda was over the moon to have such a great view,” said Louisa.
“She had a grin from ear to ear all day, which was lovely to see.”
Laurinda lives with PTSD and requires support to access the community – but that hasn’t stopped her from achieving her goals, especially with Louisa by her side.
The pair recently spent two nights on the Sunshine Coast, eating scones from the Ginger Factory and visiting the Caloundra RSL.
Laurinda said Louisa brings sunshine to her life.
“She cares about how I’m feeling and helps me through the troubles I have,” said Laurinda.
“When I have a down day, she helps me to rise above it.”
They hope to go on another holiday together soon.
Laurinda is from Caloundra originally and, while she misses it, Bundaberg feels a bit more like home with support from Open Minds.
Each fortnight she goes to karaoke to sing her favourite songs How Deep Is Your Love or Jive Talkin’ by the Bee Gees.
“I wish I could be a superstar,” said Laurinda.
The team at Open Minds thinks Laurinda IS a superstar.
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