20 Square Blocks Sat, 13 Jun 2026 04:49:47 -0400 http://www.20squareblocks.com en-au © 2026 20 Square Blocks no Ballarat VIC, Australia 7adc2582-607f-5963-a705-558dd5399879 Ben Plazzer episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) documentaries, Personal stories, Australia, Ballarat, life Ben Plazzer https://storage.buzzsprout.com/vu6evyl5lhlipvwsmx4v4vec6wxn?.jpg 20 Square Blocks http://www.20squareblocks.com 54: The Nightingale 54: The Nightingale Nick Prince received the prestigious Florence Nightingale Medal from the International Red Cross, recognising his 30 years of exceptional service as a nurse. The award honoured his dedication to providing healthcare in challenging environments, including armed conflicts and natural disasters. Nick became the first Australian male recipient of this esteemed international distinction.

]]> Nick Prince received the prestigious Florence Nightingale Medal from the International Red Cross, recognising his 30 years of exceptional service as a nurse. The award honoured his dedication to providing healthcare in challenging environments, including armed conflicts and natural disasters. Nick became the first Australian male recipient of this esteemed international distinction.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Nick Prince Buzzsprout-16494007 Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +1100 2504 Florence Nightingale Medal, International Red Cross, Nursing, Humanitarian work, south London, Croydon,Buddhas of Bamiyan, Al-Qaeda, Taliban, 6 1 full false 53: Life Inside the Botanical Gardens 53: Life Inside the Botanical Gardens Ian Rossiter shares his unique experiences living in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. From overseeing the gardens to managing dramatic events like major floods and vandalism of iconic statues, Ian recounts life in the Curator's Cottage, balancing work, family, and community responsibilities during his career with the City of Ballarat.

]]> Ian Rossiter shares his unique experiences living in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. From overseeing the gardens to managing dramatic events like major floods and vandalism of iconic statues, Ian recounts life in the Curator's Cottage, balancing work, family, and community responsibilities during his career with the City of Ballarat.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-15800511 Fri, 20 Sep 2024 15:00:00 +1000 1539 full false 52: Hiroshima POW Camp #9-B (Part 3) 52: Hiroshima POW Camp #9-B (Part 3) Today, we conclude the powerful story of Charles Edwards, a World War II soldier captured at Parit Sulong in Malaysia. In this episode, we follow his journey to Japan, where he was taken to the Ohama prison camp (Hiroshima POW Camp #9-B) which was operating as a coal mine outside Hiroshima. Still in captivity, Charles witnessed the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima—a moment that forever changed the course of history and his life.

]]> Today, we conclude the powerful story of Charles Edwards, a World War II soldier captured at Parit Sulong in Malaysia. In this episode, we follow his journey to Japan, where he was taken to the Ohama prison camp (Hiroshima POW Camp #9-B) which was operating as a coal mine outside Hiroshima. Still in captivity, Charles witnessed the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima—a moment that forever changed the course of history and his life.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Charles Edwards Buzzsprout-15612868 Tue, 20 Aug 2024 01:00:00 +1000 1307 Hiroshima, Prisoner of War, WW2, Charles Edwards 5 5 full false 51: Hellfire Pass (Part 2) 51: Hellfire Pass (Part 2) Part 2: Initially imprisoned in Pudu Jail, the remaining members of the 2/19th Battalion were allocated to external work parties. Charles Edwards found himself with the largest of these groups and was sent to work on the Burma-Thailand railway at Hellfire Pass.

]]> Part 2: Initially imprisoned in Pudu Jail, the remaining members of the 2/19th Battalion were allocated to external work parties. Charles Edwards found himself with the largest of these groups and was sent to work on the Burma-Thailand railway at Hellfire Pass.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Charles Edwards Buzzsprout-15130202 Sat, 20 Apr 2024 02:00:00 +1000 1952 Prisoner of War, Burma Thai Railway, Hellfire Pass, WW2 5 4 full true 50: The fall of Singapore (Part 1) 50: The fall of Singapore (Part 1) Charles Edwards was a Prisoner of War in World War 2 spending a total of 1301 days in captivity. His bloody yet compelling story is one of extreme courage, sacrifice and a lot of luck.

]]> Charles Edwards was a Prisoner of War in World War 2 spending a total of 1301 days in captivity. His bloody yet compelling story is one of extreme courage, sacrifice and a lot of luck.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-14559720 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +1100 1735 5 3 full true 49: Black Hill Rescue 49: Black Hill Rescue In 1998, twenty hours into an abduction case involving a 16-year-old girl, Sergeant Peter Anderson was alone, crawling through a 100 year-old mineshaft with a dodgy torch. As he moved ahead through the damp tunnel, he came across a roll of black tape, a shovel and a large roll of plastic. He now feared the worst possible outcome.

]]> In 1998, twenty hours into an abduction case involving a 16-year-old girl, Sergeant Peter Anderson was alone, crawling through a 100 year-old mineshaft with a dodgy torch. As he moved ahead through the damp tunnel, he came across a roll of black tape, a shovel and a large roll of plastic. He now feared the worst possible outcome.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/7c2a026d/49-black-hill-rescue Ben Plazzer / Sergeant Peter Anderson Buzzsprout-14381916 Sat, 20 Jan 2024 17:00:00 +1100 2092 Black Hill Mine, kidnapping, abduction, Sergeant Peter Anderson, 16-year old, Mr Pitt, Black Hill 5 2 full true 48: When We Had Trams 48: When We Had Trams Andrew Wallace has spent the last 20 years as a dedicated pathways co-ordinator helping students think about their future; but Andrew is also deeply passionate about the past. 

 Serving as a current member and former president of the Ballarat Historical Society, the group actively contributes to preserving and archiving local historical facts, reflecting their commitment to the community’s heritage.

]]> Andrew Wallace has spent the last 20 years as a dedicated pathways co-ordinator helping students think about their future; but Andrew is also deeply passionate about the past. 

 Serving as a current member and former president of the Ballarat Historical Society, the group actively contributes to preserving and archiving local historical facts, reflecting their commitment to the community’s heritage.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/7ad43461/ep-48-when-we-had-trams Ben Plazzer / Andrew Wallace Buzzsprout-14184641 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +1100 1531 Ballarat Historical Society, Norwich Plaza, Andrew Wallace, Victoria street McDonalds, Bridge Mall, Ballarat, 20 Square Blocks 5 1 full false 47: The Seagull That Soared 47: The Seagull That Soared David O’Neill’s Journey, is one woven with words. Crafting rhymes at the age of 15, he turned that skill into a thriving career in journalism and communication.  Now Dave is pursuing his dream of becoming a published author. He sat down and chatted with us about his first book "The Seagull that soared".

]]> David O’Neill’s Journey, is one woven with words. Crafting rhymes at the age of 15, he turned that skill into a thriving career in journalism and communication.  Now Dave is pursuing his dream of becoming a published author. He sat down and chatted with us about his first book "The Seagull that soared".

]]> Ben Plazzer / Dave O'Neill Buzzsprout-14111113 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:00:00 +1100 1622 Not the Comedian, The Seagull that soared, The Great Ocean Road, Lionel Messy, AFL 4 10 full false 46: Finding Femme 46: Finding Femme If you live in Ballarat, there’s a good chance you know Liana Emerson from somewhere. Maybe the Ballarat National Theatre? Winning this year’s Citizen of the year? Perhaps you know her from her band or possibly the tweed ride? Or maybe it’s from her personal style blog Finding Femme? There’s once thing for certain though …Liana knows herself. 

]]> If you live in Ballarat, there’s a good chance you know Liana Emerson from somewhere. Maybe the Ballarat National Theatre? Winning this year’s Citizen of the year? Perhaps you know her from her band or possibly the tweed ride? Or maybe it’s from her personal style blog Finding Femme? There’s once thing for certain though …Liana knows herself. 

]]> Ben Plazzer / Liana Emerson Buzzsprout-14034284 Fri, 20 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +1100 1669 Ballarat, Liana Emerson, Ballarat National Theatre, Ballarat Citizen of the year, Tweed ride, Finding Femme, Liana Skewes 4 9 full false 45: There and Back Again 45: There and Back Again Andrew Sutherland, a multi-talented individual, possessing a unique blend of skills while maintaining an unassuming demeanour. As a poet, playwright, author, singer and lecturer, he has spent the past two decades away from Ballarat, dedicating his time to teaching in China. Now, he has returned to his hometown, bringing with him a wealth of experiences and insights.

]]> Andrew Sutherland, a multi-talented individual, possessing a unique blend of skills while maintaining an unassuming demeanour. As a poet, playwright, author, singer and lecturer, he has spent the past two decades away from Ballarat, dedicating his time to teaching in China. Now, he has returned to his hometown, bringing with him a wealth of experiences and insights.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Andrew Sutherland Buzzsprout-13655391 Wed, 20 Sep 2023 23:00:00 +1000 1517 SARS, Poet, Apple of Discord, Peter Temple, China, Lockdown 4 8 full false 44: Another Realm 44: Another Realm Meet Ash Bedford, a distinctive personal trainer whose deep involvement in shamanic healing, sacred medicines, and yoga has not just helped him overcome personal struggles with depression but has also enriched him with invaluable insights to support others on their journey. 

]]> Meet Ash Bedford, a distinctive personal trainer whose deep involvement in shamanic healing, sacred medicines, and yoga has not just helped him overcome personal struggles with depression but has also enriched him with invaluable insights to support others on their journey. 

]]> Ben Plazzer / Ash Bedford Buzzsprout-13530716 Sun, 20 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +1000 1665 Shamanic Healing, Sacred Medicines, Yoga, Ash Bedford, Ballarat Health and Well Being Podcast, Zazen Fitness 4 7 full false 43: Timination 43: Timination Tim Sedgwick is an artist exploring different ways of expression, ideas and techniques in many forms through several artistic fields. “When I had secret birthday wishes, I wished I'd become an artist and create interesting things. My wish has come true. My dream came true. I am having so much fun.”  TIM SEDGWICK

]]> Tim Sedgwick is an artist exploring different ways of expression, ideas and techniques in many forms through several artistic fields. “When I had secret birthday wishes, I wished I'd become an artist and create interesting things. My wish has come true. My dream came true. I am having so much fun.”  TIM SEDGWICK

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/78bc8098/ep-43-timination Ben Plazzer / Tim Sedgwick Buzzsprout-13304463 Thu, 20 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +1000 1025 Tim Sedgwick, The Funky Turtles, Take your Medication, Amazing Animal Alphabet" Timination, aliens 4 6 full false 42: Work Life Balance 42: Work Life Balance Leigh Ericksen, the innovative mind behind Stoke Design, embarked on a remarkable venture in 2019 by founding a web and design studio. Fuelled by his desire to achieve a better work-life balance and spend quality time with his young family, Leigh was willing to do whatever it took to create a thriving business. I spoke to him about his journey and the invaluable lessons he learnt along the way.

]]> Leigh Ericksen, the innovative mind behind Stoke Design, embarked on a remarkable venture in 2019 by founding a web and design studio. Fuelled by his desire to achieve a better work-life balance and spend quality time with his young family, Leigh was willing to do whatever it took to create a thriving business. I spoke to him about his journey and the invaluable lessons he learnt along the way.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Leigh Ericksen Buzzsprout-13122513 Tue, 20 Jun 2023 18:00:00 +1000 1323 Stoke Design, Leigh Ericksen, Work life Balance, graphic design, Sebastopol, Ballarat, V-line 4 6 full false 41: AI 41: AI Written by AI:  In this episode, we delve into the intriguing realm of artificial intelligence, featuring professor Peter Vamplew, a highly esteemed authority in the field. It is with great pleasure that we welcome him as our guest on the 20 Square Blocks podcast. Together, we embark on a captivating expedition, venturing into the forefront of AI research, examining its far-reaching effects on society, and delving into the profound ethical dilemmas that emerge in this rapidly advancing domain. Prepare yourself for an enlightening experience as we navigate the enthralling landscape of artificial intelligence within the dynamic framework of our podcast.

]]> Written by AI:  In this episode, we delve into the intriguing realm of artificial intelligence, featuring professor Peter Vamplew, a highly esteemed authority in the field. It is with great pleasure that we welcome him as our guest on the 20 Square Blocks podcast. Together, we embark on a captivating expedition, venturing into the forefront of AI research, examining its far-reaching effects on society, and delving into the profound ethical dilemmas that emerge in this rapidly advancing domain. Prepare yourself for an enlightening experience as we navigate the enthralling landscape of artificial intelligence within the dynamic framework of our podcast.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/7bc19e95/41-ai Ben Plazzer / Professor Peter Vamplew Buzzsprout-12884404 Sat, 20 May 2023 17:00:00 +1000 1175 Peter Vamplew, AI, artificial intelligence, Chat GTP, Federation University, professor Peter Vamplew full false 40: Meditation 40: Meditation Michael Westlake is a master of creating soundscapes, carefully composing auditory experiences that transport audiences to other realms. Yet, amidst the symphony of his creative endeavours, he finds peace in the serene simplicity of silence, often finding solace in meditation to tap into his inner muse.
https://www.michaelwestlakemusic.com.au/

]]> Michael Westlake is a master of creating soundscapes, carefully composing auditory experiences that transport audiences to other realms. Yet, amidst the symphony of his creative endeavours, he finds peace in the serene simplicity of silence, often finding solace in meditation to tap into his inner muse.
https://www.michaelwestlakemusic.com.au/

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer / Michael Westlake Buzzsprout-12699580 Thu, 20 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +1000 1490 Music, Michael Westlake, Jazz, India, Franklin River Dam, Bob Brown, Anthony Warlow, Composer 4 4 full false 38: Black Hill 38: Black Hill Black Hill, once known by its indigenous name, Bowdun, is according to my guest a beautiful mess. And is it any wonder? 

For over 180 years the hill’s been mined, stripped bare, bashed about, reshaped and replanted with monterey pines.

It’s a place with a rich history if you know exactly where to look.






]]> Black Hill, once known by its indigenous name, Bowdun, is according to my guest a beautiful mess. And is it any wonder? 

For over 180 years the hill’s been mined, stripped bare, bashed about, reshaped and replanted with monterey pines.

It’s a place with a rich history if you know exactly where to look.






]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-12130696 Fri, 20 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +1100 1508 4 2 full false 37: Now You Can Eat Father Christmas 37: Now You Can Eat Father Christmas Roland Rocchiccioli was made for a life in theatre. With a career spanning 50 years, he worked on Broadway and The West End with legends like Ingrid Bergman and Debbie Reynolds.  He is a stage manager, actor, director, playwright, company manager and broadcaster. He has worked with the impresarios Harry M. Miller and Ken Brodziak on productions of The Rocky Horror Show, Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar. He’s worked on Broadway and The West End with luminaries like Ingrid Bergman, Debbie Reynolds and Googie Withers. 

]]> Roland Rocchiccioli was made for a life in theatre. With a career spanning 50 years, he worked on Broadway and The West End with legends like Ingrid Bergman and Debbie Reynolds.  He is a stage manager, actor, director, playwright, company manager and broadcaster. He has worked with the impresarios Harry M. Miller and Ken Brodziak on productions of The Rocky Horror Show, Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar. He’s worked on Broadway and The West End with luminaries like Ingrid Bergman, Debbie Reynolds and Googie Withers. 

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-11916538 Tue, 20 Dec 2022 19:00:00 +1100 1268 4 1 full true 36: Black Summer 36: Black Summer The Black Summer Bushfires tore through massive areas of Australian bushland in 2019 and 2020. As fires ripped through East Gippsland, 4000 people found themselves trapped in Mallacoota with no way out. Olisama  Gibson was one of them.

]]> The Black Summer Bushfires tore through massive areas of Australian bushland in 2019 and 2020. As fires ripped through East Gippsland, 4000 people found themselves trapped in Mallacoota with no way out. Olisama  Gibson was one of them.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Olisama Gibson Buzzsprout-11756319 Sun, 20 Nov 2022 22:00:00 +1100 1535 Ballarat, 20 Square blocks, Olisama Gibson, Black Summer Fires, Mallacoota 3 12 full false 35: Honk For Joe 35: Honk For Joe You might have heard of the global movement called "Extinction Rebellion". If not, Joe will fill you in on the details and let you know why groups like this are vital to our survival ...and keep us away from extinction.

]]> You might have heard of the global movement called "Extinction Rebellion". If not, Joe will fill you in on the details and let you know why groups like this are vital to our survival ...and keep us away from extinction.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer / Joe Boin Buzzsprout-11555979 Thu, 20 Oct 2022 22:00:00 +1100 1292 Ballarat, Extinction Rebellion, Protests, Joe Boin, Ben Plazzer, 20 Square blocks 3 10 full false 34: Going For It 34: Going For It Its not easy throwing caution to the wind and following your dreams.Although some may argue slugging away at a job you have zero passion for isn’t either. But at some point in our lives most of us find ourselves at this exact crossroads. Joe Baxter chatted to me about why he chose the path of most resistance.

]]> Its not easy throwing caution to the wind and following your dreams.Although some may argue slugging away at a job you have zero passion for isn’t either. But at some point in our lives most of us find ourselves at this exact crossroads. Joe Baxter chatted to me about why he chose the path of most resistance.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-11365505 Tue, 20 Sep 2022 21:00:00 +1000 1448 3 10 full false 33: Grainery Lane - Part 3 33: Grainery Lane - Part 3 For this third and final episode on Grainery Lane, we chat to audio engineer, Rex Hardware. Rex taught at the school of mines by day, and at night Grainery Lane proved to be an ideal training ground for his students  as they worked on some of the earliest known live internet broadcasts, in the late 90s.


]]> For this third and final episode on Grainery Lane, we chat to audio engineer, Rex Hardware. Rex taught at the school of mines by day, and at night Grainery Lane proved to be an ideal training ground for his students  as they worked on some of the earliest known live internet broadcasts, in the late 90s.


]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/7b1bbdf4/grainery-lane-part-3 Ben Plazzer / Rex Hardware Buzzsprout-11169364 Sat, 20 Aug 2022 20:00:00 +1000 1422 Grainery Lane, Music, Kiri Smart, The Banana Lounge, The Grainery Ballarat, Hap Haywood, Rex Hardware, Grainery Lane Theatre, The Rat, Mick Trembath 3 9 full false 32: Grainery Lane - Part 2 32: Grainery Lane - Part 2 Hap Haywood is the definition of jack of all trades. The thing is, he’s actually pretty damn good at all of them. From fronting bands like The Dead Salesman to dipping his toe into the world of comedy to polishing symbols for the Screaming Jets. Hap and I chat about all of these things and how Grainery Lane intersected his world. 

]]> Hap Haywood is the definition of jack of all trades. The thing is, he’s actually pretty damn good at all of them. From fronting bands like The Dead Salesman to dipping his toe into the world of comedy to polishing symbols for the Screaming Jets. Hap and I chat about all of these things and how Grainery Lane intersected his world. 

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/7b4e7322/grainery-lane-part-2 Ben Plazzer / Hap Haywood Buzzsprout-10991721 Wed, 20 Jul 2022 19:00:00 +1000 2363 Music, Grainery Lane, RAW Comedy, The Dead Salesman, Mick Trembath, Kiri Smart, The Banana Lounge, The Grainery Ballarat, Hap Haywood, Rex Hardware, Grainery Lane Theatre, The Rat, Paddy O'Driscoll, 3 8 full false 31: Grainery Lane - Part 1 31: Grainery Lane - Part 1 In the vibrant post-punk era in Ballarat, The Grainery Lane Theatre was a bizarre and much loved institution running purely on  adrenaline, high levels of creativity and masses of love. Kiri Smart spoke to us about what the company was and why it was so important to artists of the city.

]]> In the vibrant post-punk era in Ballarat, The Grainery Lane Theatre was a bizarre and much loved institution running purely on  adrenaline, high levels of creativity and masses of love. Kiri Smart spoke to us about what the company was and why it was so important to artists of the city.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-10842514 Mon, 20 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +1000 1128 Grainery Lane, The Banana Lounge, The Grainery Ballarat, Kiri Smart, Hap Haywood, Rex Hardware, Grainery Lane Theatre, The Rat, Paddy O'Driscoll, 3 7 full false 30: Token White Guy 30: Token White Guy Seth Leslie, while very happily working in Robotics today, used to be a drug lord, an angry police officer and a best friend. In fact, as an actor he would be anything the call sheet would tell him to. Seth sat down with us and spoke about his time in Hong Kong, acting in an unknown language and dubbing for Japanese Anime.

]]> Seth Leslie, while very happily working in Robotics today, used to be a drug lord, an angry police officer and a best friend. In fact, as an actor he would be anything the call sheet would tell him to. Seth sat down with us and spoke about his time in Hong Kong, acting in an unknown language and dubbing for Japanese Anime.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/78a5a467/token-white-guy Ben Plazzer / Seth Leslie Buzzsprout-10665032 Fri, 20 May 2022 20:00:00 +1000 1833 Anime, Hong Kong, LA, Film, Astroboy, Manga, HKTVE, FTV, Actor, Cantonese, Seth Leslie, Gundam Build Fighters, Voice Over, Kamen Rider Fourze, Inazuma Eleven Go, Filming, TV series, Podcast, Dubbing cartoons 3 6 full false 29: Forty Seven Strings 29: Forty Seven Strings A musical journey with Dr Jacinta Dennett discussing her instrument of passion, the harp.

]]> A musical journey with Dr Jacinta Dennett discussing her instrument of passion, the harp.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/795db3f2/forty-seven-strings Ben Plazzer / Jacinta Dennett Buzzsprout-10471274 Wed, 20 Apr 2022 20:00:00 +1000 734 Jacinta Dennett, Fable, Harp 3 5 full false 28: A Quick Guide to Ballarat Horses 28: A Quick Guide to Ballarat Horses Graeme Quick is a researcher, historian and well rounded professional horseman. In fact he was recently awarded the James Stewart bequest for his Phd on social economic and cultural history of horses in Ballarat. 

Graeme gives us a unique look into Ballarat’s history, using his insight and knowledge to transport us back to 1832 to reveal just how the horse has shaped this city.

]]> Graeme Quick is a researcher, historian and well rounded professional horseman. In fact he was recently awarded the James Stewart bequest for his Phd on social economic and cultural history of horses in Ballarat. 

Graeme gives us a unique look into Ballarat’s history, using his insight and knowledge to transport us back to 1832 to reveal just how the horse has shaped this city.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Graeme Quick Buzzsprout-10331150 Sun, 20 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +1100 2321 Ballarat, Horses, 1831, Black Beauty, Graeme Quick, Ben Plazzer, 20 Square blocks 3 3 full false 27: Fine Art 27: Fine Art Lily Mae Martin is a visual artist who graduated from the Victorian College of the Arts in 2008 with a Bachelor of Fine Art majoring in Drawing. I spoke to Lily about scholarships, Tasmania and her Waterloo paintings which came during a time when she changed her direction in life to aged care.  

]]> Lily Mae Martin is a visual artist who graduated from the Victorian College of the Arts in 2008 with a Bachelor of Fine Art majoring in Drawing. I spoke to Lily about scholarships, Tasmania and her Waterloo paintings which came during a time when she changed her direction in life to aged care.  

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/774e47ed/fine-art Ben Plazzer / Lily Mae Martin Buzzsprout-10108227 Sun, 20 Feb 2022 23:00:00 +1100 1140 Lily Mae Martin, VCA, Victorian College of the Arts, Bachelor of Fine Art, Queenstown, Tasmania, Waterloo paintings, Aged care 3 3 full false 26: Dungeons and Dragons 26: Dungeons and Dragons If you’re a fan of board games, Dungeons and Dragons or just your average computer nerd, then you’d probably love GUF. Mark Carter, one of the owners and founders of GUF tells us about growing up in the 80’s, writing computer games and getting kidnapped in Kashmir.

]]> If you’re a fan of board games, Dungeons and Dragons or just your average computer nerd, then you’d probably love GUF. Mark Carter, one of the owners and founders of GUF tells us about growing up in the 80’s, writing computer games and getting kidnapped in Kashmir.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/4c7cae15/dungeons-and-dragons Ben Plazzer / Mark Carter Buzzsprout-9919812 Thu, 20 Jan 2022 23:00:00 +1100 1900 Dungeons and Dragons, D&D, AD&D, C64, High Seas, GUF, Mark Carter, Ballarat, Computer games, Kidnapped in Kashmir, Kashmir. 3 2 full false 25: I Killed Santa 25: I Killed Santa I don't know much about 13 year olds....although I guess a long time ago I was one.  I was interested to know what goes on in the mind of a teen in the twenty twenties and, being this time of year,  see what they have to say about Christmas. 

]]> I don't know much about 13 year olds....although I guess a long time ago I was one.  I was interested to know what goes on in the mind of a teen in the twenty twenties and, being this time of year,  see what they have to say about Christmas. 

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-9752979 Mon, 20 Dec 2021 23:00:00 +1100 942 3 1 full false 24: Its Always 4.45 at the Bridge Mall 24: Its Always 4.45 at the Bridge Mall What does Lady Di, a broken clock and Billy the dog have in common? The Bridge Mall of course! With over 100 stores, many multi generational, "The Bridge" has been the heart of Ballarat since the early 80's. I spoke with Germaine Davey (the General Manager of the Bridge Mall Business Association) and some of the locals store holders about their love of the Mall.

]]> What does Lady Di, a broken clock and Billy the dog have in common? The Bridge Mall of course! With over 100 stores, many multi generational, "The Bridge" has been the heart of Ballarat since the early 80's. I spoke with Germaine Davey (the General Manager of the Bridge Mall Business Association) and some of the locals store holders about their love of the Mall.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Germaine Davey Buzzsprout-9581797 Sat, 20 Nov 2021 20:00:00 +1100 1244 Bridge Mall, Ballarat Mall, Lady Di, Norwich Plaza, 4.45, Billy the dog, The Bridge Ballarat, Ballarat 2 24 full false 23: Changes 23: Changes We all go through changes in life. Sometimes they impact us positively….other times - not so much. Jason Wakefield is a rehabilitation nurse at the Queen Elizabeth hospital and he witness changes in his patients everyday. However he has been through some rather big changes in his life and came by to share his story.

]]> We all go through changes in life. Sometimes they impact us positively….other times - not so much. Jason Wakefield is a rehabilitation nurse at the Queen Elizabeth hospital and he witness changes in his patients everyday. However he has been through some rather big changes in his life and came by to share his story.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Jason Wakefield Buzzsprout-9394840 Wed, 20 Oct 2021 22:00:00 +1100 907 2 23 full false 22: The Brumbies 22: The Brumbies Chasing bears, taming wild horses  or riding with Bruce Springsteen through the Victorian High County. All in a day for this third generation Australian Horseman.

]]> Chasing bears, taming wild horses  or riding with Bruce Springsteen through the Victorian High County. All in a day for this third generation Australian Horseman.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/4ad554fc/the-brumbies Ben Plazzer / Clay Baird Buzzsprout-9226609 Mon, 20 Sep 2021 23:00:00 +1000 1725 Horses, Brumbies, Victorian High County, The Man From Snowy River, The Snowy Mountains, Australian Brumby challenge, Mount Bogong, 9/11, Banjo Patterson, Bruce Springsteen, Clay Baird, Bogong Horseback Adventures 2 22 full false 21: Humanness 21: Humanness What do you think the purpose of being a human is?   
a) To  live stress-free and happy   
b) To push the boundaries of humankind   
c) To live a full life   
d) Other

]]> What do you think the purpose of being a human is?   
a) To  live stress-free and happy   
b) To push the boundaries of humankind   
c) To live a full life   
d) Other

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/4ba7d778/humanness Ben Plazzer / Dr Leandra Brady-Walker Buzzsprout-9058852 Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:00:00 +1000 1175 Humanness, Chiropractor, Soldier's Hill, Human, Witches, ghosts, entities, Ballarat, witch doctor, energy 2 21 full false 20: Student Politics 20: Student Politics I’ve heard it said that the desire to become a politician should in itself prevent you from ever becoming one.

Unfortunately this advice isn’t often heeded.

My guest today (who remains anonymous for obvious reasons) talks about politics being an addictive, lowbrow games full of dirt sheets, sabotage and backstabbing. 

All in the life of university student politics.

]]> I’ve heard it said that the desire to become a politician should in itself prevent you from ever becoming one.

Unfortunately this advice isn’t often heeded.

My guest today (who remains anonymous for obvious reasons) talks about politics being an addictive, lowbrow games full of dirt sheets, sabotage and backstabbing. 

All in the life of university student politics.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/ Ben Plazzer / Anonymous Buzzsprout-8893082 Tue, 20 Jul 2021 23:00:00 +1000 2344 Ballarat, Ballarat University, Politics, Anonymous, Labour Party, Dirt Sheets, Postal Votes, Electoral commissionDivide and conquer, 2 20 full false 19: Identity 19: Identity Coming from South America, Guillermo Guzzoni arrived in Australia 11 years ago without knowing anyone ...or any english. When he decided to stay, he started to question who he was. I had a chat to him about the challenges of moving to a new country, redefining yourself and reestablishing your identity.

]]> Coming from South America, Guillermo Guzzoni arrived in Australia 11 years ago without knowing anyone ...or any english. When he decided to stay, he started to question who he was. I had a chat to him about the challenges of moving to a new country, redefining yourself and reestablishing your identity.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/4a87ecd2/identity Ben Plazzer / Guillermo Guzzoni Buzzsprout-8731427 Sun, 20 Jun 2021 18:00:00 +1000 1247 South America, Chile, Argentina, Ballarat, Identity, Who am I? 2 19 full false 18: Anthropology 18: Anthropology Papua New Guinea used to be  known to Australians as "The last frontier", a premium destination in the 1970's before it separated, gaining it's full independence. Janice Newton, an accomplished anthropologist who often visited the country from 1970 - 1979, reflects back on some of the key moments that shaped her life.

]]> Papua New Guinea used to be  known to Australians as "The last frontier", a premium destination in the 1970's before it separated, gaining it's full independence. Janice Newton, an accomplished anthropologist who often visited the country from 1970 - 1979, reflects back on some of the key moments that shaped her life.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Janice Newton Buzzsprout-8555677 Thu, 20 May 2021 23:00:00 +1000 1363 Papua New Guinea, Anthropology, Angora, PNG, Ballarat, BBC test tone, Janice Newton 2 18 full false 17: Ghosts 17: Ghosts WARNING: If you believe in ghosts and want to continue this belief...perhaps skip this episode. Dr David Waldron will drop some logic that may make you re-examine your beliefs.

Two blocks South East lives Dr David Waldron. He is a folklorist and historian with a particular focus on the development of urban legends and popular folklore as a response to traumatic community experiences. David tells us about some of the ghosts in Victoria like the mysterious woman’s face that appears in bath lane; or the terrible true story of Mabel Ambrose who was found by two boys in a box in the Yarra River near the Chapel Street bridge; and the indigenous Gunditjmara man's ghost from Portland in 1876. 

As you will find it's not necessarily the creepy stories that David is interested in, but the intersection of folklore and popular culture that reflect out dark past....and what that means.

Also last year I made a short documentary under Ballarat’ Mechanic's institute with David for the Ballarat Heritage weekend. You view this at https://vimeo.com/420587165

]]> WARNING: If you believe in ghosts and want to continue this belief...perhaps skip this episode. Dr David Waldron will drop some logic that may make you re-examine your beliefs.

Two blocks South East lives Dr David Waldron. He is a folklorist and historian with a particular focus on the development of urban legends and popular folklore as a response to traumatic community experiences. David tells us about some of the ghosts in Victoria like the mysterious woman’s face that appears in bath lane; or the terrible true story of Mabel Ambrose who was found by two boys in a box in the Yarra River near the Chapel Street bridge; and the indigenous Gunditjmara man's ghost from Portland in 1876. 

As you will find it's not necessarily the creepy stories that David is interested in, but the intersection of folklore and popular culture that reflect out dark past....and what that means.

Also last year I made a short documentary under Ballarat’ Mechanic's institute with David for the Ballarat Heritage weekend. You view this at https://vimeo.com/420587165

]]> http://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer / David Waldron Buzzsprout-8367624 Tue, 20 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +1000 1224 Ghosts, Mabel Ambrose, Ballarat Ghosts, 2 17 full false 16: Falun Dafa 16: Falun Dafa In 2001 a group of tourists from all over the world gathered in Tiananmen Square seemingly to take a photo ….but they had other intentions. Unveiling a yellow flag they started a protest. Emblazoned on this flag were just three words  - Truth, Compassion, Tolerance. Seemingly from nowhere, vans and police quickly enveloped the group, arresting them. What were they protesting you might ask? Falun Dafa!

]]> In 2001 a group of tourists from all over the world gathered in Tiananmen Square seemingly to take a photo ….but they had other intentions. Unveiling a yellow flag they started a protest. Emblazoned on this flag were just three words  - Truth, Compassion, Tolerance. Seemingly from nowhere, vans and police quickly enveloped the group, arresting them. What were they protesting you might ask? Falun Dafa!

]]> http://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer / Emma Hall Buzzsprout-8176346 Sat, 20 Mar 2021 23:00:00 +1100 1153 Falun Gong, Falun Dafa, Ballarat, China, Banned, protest, protesting 2 16 full false 15: Ancient Voices 15: Ancient Voices Barry Gilson is a proud Wadawurrung man, a traditional custodian of Ballarat and surrounding areas. He is a poet, a story teller and my local postie.

He is also a respected singer songwriter and specialises in bringing back the ancient language of his people through his music.

]]> Barry Gilson is a proud Wadawurrung man, a traditional custodian of Ballarat and surrounding areas. He is a poet, a story teller and my local postie.

He is also a respected singer songwriter and specialises in bringing back the ancient language of his people through his music.

]]> http://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-7962304 Sat, 20 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +1100 975 Wadawurrung, Barry Gilson, Ballarat, Traditional custodians, Traditional owners, Yarrowee river, Yaramlock 2 15 full false 14: Philosophy 14: Philosophy You know when you’ve had one of those nights, where in the early hours of the morning you find yourself pondering the big questions of life ... until it does your head in? Now imagine if your entire life was doing exactly that. I sat down with Ben Numquam a PHD candidate studying philosophy at federation University.

At the end of the show I mention the Podcast 'The Volume knob: The Songs that saved your life'. The host, Keith Serry', spoke to me about the song 'Pore Jud Is Dead' which was actually a song that nearly ended my life. Keith's podcast is a weekly exploration of personal storytelling through song and I hope you will have a listen and binge all of the episodes as I did. You can find it at volumeknob.net or search for 'The Volume Knob' on your favourite podcasting program.

]]> You know when you’ve had one of those nights, where in the early hours of the morning you find yourself pondering the big questions of life ... until it does your head in? Now imagine if your entire life was doing exactly that. I sat down with Ben Numquam a PHD candidate studying philosophy at federation University.

At the end of the show I mention the Podcast 'The Volume knob: The Songs that saved your life'. The host, Keith Serry', spoke to me about the song 'Pore Jud Is Dead' which was actually a song that nearly ended my life. Keith's podcast is a weekly exploration of personal storytelling through song and I hope you will have a listen and binge all of the episodes as I did. You can find it at volumeknob.net or search for 'The Volume Knob' on your favourite podcasting program.

]]> https://www.20squareblocks.com/podcast/episode/4c305d83/philosophy Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-7390579 Wed, 20 Jan 2021 23:00:00 +1100 1299 Philosophy, The Simulation Theory, Oklahoma, The Volume knob 2 2 full false 13: Christmas 13: Christmas Merv Romeo spent 16 years performing rock n’ roll Christmas carols on his front porch and became an icon of the Ballarat Christmas scene. I spoke to him about where the tradition came from, what it meant to locals and visitors alike and what it meant to him.

]]> Merv Romeo spent 16 years performing rock n’ roll Christmas carols on his front porch and became an icon of the Ballarat Christmas scene. I spoke to him about where the tradition came from, what it meant to locals and visitors alike and what it meant to him.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Merv Romeo Buzzsprout-6930641 Sun, 20 Dec 2020 20:00:00 +1100 1257 Merv Romeo, Christmas, Country Music, Ballarat, Traditions, Liver Failure, Winter Wonderland 2 13 full false 12: The Gardens 12: The Gardens Gardens provide us many things - flowers, fruit, weeds and at certain points in our lives, free therapy. I spoke with Kim Nolan, a member of the Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens about what the garden means to her and how, when we're at our most vulnerable, a beautiful garden can offer a peace and tranquility to help us to heal.

]]> Gardens provide us many things - flowers, fruit, weeds and at certain points in our lives, free therapy. I spoke with Kim Nolan, a member of the Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens about what the garden means to her and how, when we're at our most vulnerable, a beautiful garden can offer a peace and tranquility to help us to heal.

]]> http://www.20squareblocks.com Ben Plazzer / Kim Nolan Buzzsprout-6462172 Fri, 20 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +1100 939 Ballarat, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Chronic Fatigue 1 12 full false 11: Sometimes You Won't 11: Sometimes You Won't What happens when things start to go wrong -  all around you? I sat down with Chris and Lucy Frith and spoke about when they met, when they got married and how when things started to crumble, they  reevaluated and swivelled.

]]> What happens when things start to go wrong -  all around you? I sat down with Chris and Lucy Frith and spoke about when they met, when they got married and how when things started to crumble, they  reevaluated and swivelled.

]]> Ben Plazzer, Chris Frith, Lucy Frith Buzzsprout-5978224 Tue, 20 Oct 2020 23:00:00 +1100 1119 Ballarat, permaculture, sustainability, identity 1 11 full false 10: The Funky Turtles 10: The Funky Turtles Moving from the UK to Australia in the mid 1960’s, an aspiring young drummer found himself living in Melbourne during the hey day of sharpies, rockers & mods. Geoff Hassall chatted to me about his love of music and what led to an unexpected yet possibly the most fulfilling chapter in his music career.

]]> Moving from the UK to Australia in the mid 1960’s, an aspiring young drummer found himself living in Melbourne during the hey day of sharpies, rockers & mods. Geoff Hassall chatted to me about his love of music and what led to an unexpected yet possibly the most fulfilling chapter in his music career.

]]> Ben Plazzer, Geoff Hassell, The Funky Turtles Buzzsprout-5517832 Sun, 20 Sep 2020 23:00:00 +1000 1114 Ballarat, Drummer, Geoff Hassall, Daddy Cool, Ross Hannaford, Lucky Dog, The Funky Turtles 1 10 full false 09: The Comfort of Strangers 09: The Comfort of Strangers Ask anyone what Ballarat is known for and you’d probably hear gold, amazing architecture, freezing cold weather and pubs.

Torquil Neilson, a former film and tv actor, spoke to me about hanging up his actors hat, moving to Ballarat and opening an intimate bar 'The Comfort of Strangers' and how this decision changed his life.

http://thecomfortofstrangers.com

]]> Ask anyone what Ballarat is known for and you’d probably hear gold, amazing architecture, freezing cold weather and pubs.

Torquil Neilson, a former film and tv actor, spoke to me about hanging up his actors hat, moving to Ballarat and opening an intimate bar 'The Comfort of Strangers' and how this decision changed his life.

http://thecomfortofstrangers.com

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-5075771 Thu, 20 Aug 2020 22:00:00 +1000 1270 Ballarat, Pubs, The Comfort of Strangers, Torquil Neilson, Van Dieman's Land, The Secret Life of Us 1 9 full false 08: Truth Hurts 08: Truth Hurts Katrina Hill is a talented performing artist, events manager, podcaster and registered celebrant. But more than that, as many of her friends can attest, Katrina is a truth seeker both on and off the stage.

]]> Katrina Hill is a talented performing artist, events manager, podcaster and registered celebrant. But more than that, as many of her friends can attest, Katrina is a truth seeker both on and off the stage.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-4637981 Mon, 20 Jul 2020 20:00:00 +1000 1099 Ballarat, Katrina Hill, abuse, Performing artist, Sovereign Hill 1 8 full false 07: Principal 07: Principal Ghosts, Ned Kelly and Eureka are all a part of Dana Street Primary school’s history. I sat down with Paul Nolan, the former principal and asked him to tell us about his time there and what he learnt about it’s 160 year history. Find out about how, when locking up the school one night, he took a photograph of a ghost that scared the living daylights out of him and his teachers.

]]> Ghosts, Ned Kelly and Eureka are all a part of Dana Street Primary school’s history. I sat down with Paul Nolan, the former principal and asked him to tell us about his time there and what he learnt about it’s 160 year history. Find out about how, when locking up the school one night, he took a photograph of a ghost that scared the living daylights out of him and his teachers.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-4247837 Sat, 20 Jun 2020 17:00:00 +1000 1195 Ballarat, Dana Street primary school, ghosts, school ghosts, state school 1 7 full false 06: The Mechanics' Institute 06: The Mechanics' Institute The Mechanics Institute's building in Ballarat, perhaps by design, has a feeling of exclusivity and although I walk past it almost every day, I never knew what went on inside. So one day I went in to find out.

]]> The Mechanics Institute's building in Ballarat, perhaps by design, has a feeling of exclusivity and although I walk past it almost every day, I never knew what went on inside. So one day I went in to find out.

]]> http://The Mechanics' Institute, Ballarat, Ballaarat, Secret Tunnels, Minerva Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-3840458 Wed, 20 May 2020 22:00:00 +1000 1072 1 6 full false 05: Rite of Passage 05: Rite of Passage Several months ago, before we were all locked down, I spoke with Trav Munro.  Trav is an inspirational youth educator, life coach and motivational speaker. In our conversation we explored his upbringing, his relationship with his father and his Rite of Passage program that he designed for Fathers and Sons.

]]> Several months ago, before we were all locked down, I spoke with Trav Munro.  Trav is an inspirational youth educator, life coach and motivational speaker. In our conversation we explored his upbringing, his relationship with his father and his Rite of Passage program that he designed for Fathers and Sons.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-3426544 Mon, 20 Apr 2020 14:00:00 +1000 933 1 5 full false 04: Century Old Audio 04: Century Old Audio Why do we collect things? Some use it to relax, others for the thrill of the hunt. Then there are those that use it as a way to keep the past alive.

]]> Why do we collect things? Some use it to relax, others for the thrill of the hunt. Then there are those that use it as a way to keep the past alive.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-3055996 Fri, 20 Mar 2020 01:00:00 +1100 965 1 4 full false 03: Comedy 03: Comedy Comedy Ballarat has been going for just a few years and is enjoying the spoils of smart, honest and often gut-busting local comedy. This month we spoke with local comedian Crystal Rae. Tassie bred, she worked her way from Hobart Radio before moving to the mainland and finding her way into the world of stand-up. In this episode we also spoke with other local comedians such as Jamie Josephs, Josh Arthur and Leasa Kaitoa moments before they took the step from the greenroom to the stage.

]]> Comedy Ballarat has been going for just a few years and is enjoying the spoils of smart, honest and often gut-busting local comedy. This month we spoke with local comedian Crystal Rae. Tassie bred, she worked her way from Hobart Radio before moving to the mainland and finding her way into the world of stand-up. In this episode we also spoke with other local comedians such as Jamie Josephs, Josh Arthur and Leasa Kaitoa moments before they took the step from the greenroom to the stage.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-2785666 Thu, 20 Feb 2020 07:00:00 +1100 752 Ballarat, Comedy, The Main Bar, Stand-up, comedians 1 3 full false 02: Lakeside 02: Lakeside In 1996, following the closure of many psychiatric hospitals around the country, Ballarat’s own asylum, the Lakeside Mental Hospital closed its doors. Ballarat’s mental asylum was the home to many patients during this time but also the staff.

]]> In 1996, following the closure of many psychiatric hospitals around the country, Ballarat’s own asylum, the Lakeside Mental Hospital closed its doors. Ballarat’s mental asylum was the home to many patients during this time but also the staff.

]]> Ben Plazzer Buzzsprout-2529451 Mon, 20 Jan 2020 11:00:00 +1100 791 Ballarat, Lakeside, Mental Asylum, Mental hospital 1 2 full false 01: The Yarrowee 01: The Yarrowee Through the centre of Ballarat flows the Yarrowee. Not many people know it’s there because it harbours many a disguise such as a trickling stream, a junction, and a dangerous storm water drain travelling through underground tunnels and popping out the other-side like nothing happened.

]]> Through the centre of Ballarat flows the Yarrowee. Not many people know it’s there because it harbours many a disguise such as a trickling stream, a junction, and a dangerous storm water drain travelling through underground tunnels and popping out the other-side like nothing happened.

]]> Ben Plazzer / Hedley Thomson, Merv Romeo Buzzsprout-2292500 Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:00:00 +1100 747 Yarrowee, River, catchment, Central Highlands, Victoria, Goldrush 1 1 full false