In this issue

I recently found myself in a perturbing situation when I attended a local network function. The room was a bit stuffy upon entry, and I thought nothing of it at the time. About an hour into the meeting I began to feel intense discomfort – I was very nauseous with an excruciating headache building. I needed fresh air! Once outside, I felt better and the uneasy symptoms gradually dissipated.

I’m still not sure the reason for my sudden discomfort, but when I Googled the symptoms I came across ‘sick building syndrome’, a condition where people in buildings can experience acute health- or comfort related effects. Spiralling further into Google brought me to the use of indoor plants to help clear the air of toxic gases, and improve air quality - hence the related article. As a result of my research I acquired plants for our home and office and we are already reaping the benefits. What an easy solution to a healthier lifestyle.

The City of Cockburn has seen a lot of changes recently. Merise spoke to Councillor Chamonix Terblanche about the new initiatives and improvements.

Tess travelled inland, and this time she visited the renowned Wave Rock near Hyden, WA. Admire the beauty of this awesome rock face captured in pictures, and read more about the unique rock formation on page 6.

Have you ever heard of ‘rock-hunting’? These ‘rocks’ are actually small in size, and rather like stones. Learn how to participate in this inexpensive state-wide hobby that brings joy and develops creativity. I hope you will join this wonderful initiative.

Happy reading!
Until next time,
Suzette

Merise Magazine Description:

Merise is a digital family magazine initiated in 2011 to encourage and assist others, as well as to offer advice in facing the challenges of settling and integrating into our new community together. We talk openly about the different aspects of our lives that are under strain through the migration process – from helping our kids adjust to their new school environments, to leaving our parents behind and to changes in the dynamics of our personal relationships.

We provide valuable information about financial and visa requirements, encouraging specialists in various fields to submit articles on topics which we feel may be beneficial to our readers. Merise captures the beauty of our new countries by featuring different geographical areas in Australia and New Zealand, thereby giving would-be migrants or readers who are planning holidays or an interstate move, a better understanding of what to expect in their new domain.

Merise will become a friend to you and your family.

The ascending aircraft in the Logo is symbolic of our desire to reach for the stars. Even the name itself has meaning. By dividing the word ‘Merise e’ in two, it becomes ‘Me rise ’, accentuating our aspiration for life improvement. Merise embodies support and friendship and is such an essence in our lives that we feel inclined to personify the magazine. Merise is who we are.

It is important for Merise to support ‘her’ friends, not merely those who have recently arrived, but all expats in Australia and New Zealand who have left their home countries to find new direction ‘Down Under’.

Merise lends a hand in almost every way. Like anyone who has been through the immigration process and experienced it first hand, Merise is thoroughly aware of difficulties that may arise for both newcomers as well as experienced expats and knows how to help overcome, or should we say “survive”, these difficulties.

Merise explores different avenues and is vivacious and enthusiastic, living life to the full and is always on the lookout for new challenges and encounters. Merise's experiences and pleasures are shared with her friends, always encouraging and inspiring them.

Merise is fully bilingual and has English- as well as Afrikaans-speaking readers with whom time and information is equally shared.

It’s not that easy to find a friend as special as Merise . . .

Both versions of the English and Afrikaans editions of Merise are available on www.merisemag.com.