Smithfield State High School – Page 2

Bye Bye Smithfield High (25 November-1 December)

Published on November 25, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 25/11/85

Ugh! Maths wasn’t too bad, but I think it’ll be a miracle if I get over 60/70. Damn! It’s more likely I’ll get over 50 – well, what’s wrong with a high achievement?? [High Achievement is not enough for a high achiever, read perfectionist!] But history…. I dunno about that ‘un at all!! A pass, but not a good one, I don’t think. Strelitzias were given out today and in last session, everybody was signing everybodies. I don’t have the magazine, but Ms Hornibrook said if I brought my $5 in early tomorrow I could get one. Cor, it’s hot! Got a parcel from CHS. Got subject selection form, subject guide booklet CHS prospectus & letter. There’s a meeting on the 3rd of December for us [CAD art] kids. I’m definitely gonna go now cos Astia is. Oh, so sad: I don’t want this week to go fast [Last week of school/Year 10 = last week at Smithfield State High School]

Tuesday 26/11/85

I got the very last Strelitza today. Lucky, huh??!! AM BOILING!! MY EXAMS ARE OVER!! FINISHED!! Art was quite simple, BP was a bit harder. I would have passed in both I’m sure. Had to do the piccy for the girl’s uniform for Smithy 1986 Prospectus. Front & back view. Thrilling, huh?? [Well yes, Liss, give yourself some credit.] I will see it, though, cos Julia’ll get one. Lucy came round this arvy. We went to the park & talked. This boy (saints uniform) walked across & to the brick house behind. He must have been watching us, with, gasp, Neville cos’ when Luc & I rode up & round the street, I saw them sitting on the stone wall. We went to the school. Coming home, they WHISTLED SHAME!! Anyway, am boiling hot. And watching ANZACS (only one up) Will finish soon. Am worn out!! HOT

Wednesday 27/11/85

A Life in Words — inside the front cover of my Strelitzia

Watched last part of ANZACS. It was so sad. I don’t think I have ever cried as much as I did in that. [I still tear up quite readily if I think about or witness cruelty or others’ sadness. In fact, I have come to learn that sadness belies pretty much all of my negative moods; it’s pretty much my personal ‘root evil’.] Julia laughed at me, so I tried to laugh instead – but it [my choked laugh, I assume] ended up sounding like a sick dog!!! Today – er – 17/30 for my 3 englishes. 6½, 7 & 3½→ fail!! OH WELL!! 74/100 for Science. OH WELL!! and (YAY!!) 14/15, 8/10 + 11½/15 for German! Also 34½/50 for history – 22 for one assignment, 20½ for the other!!! Still need more people to sign my Strelitzia. Want Tim to, but he won’t: doesn’t know me well enough. OH WELL! Y’know The Saints guy from yesterday – well he walked across park again. But passing our house, he looked in. I looked out & he saw me & smiled. Got a cute smile. Also this morning, some YR9 girls at the busstop were throwing around things off this tree & got me! I said “do you mind?” & Ms Rebecca P mocked me. HOW CHILDISH

Thursday 28/11/85

Am soo tired. Can’t wait for tomorrow. Gonna be unreeeeal!! Green Is, then Lucy’s party! Can’t wait!! Art 58½/60. (Good fluke) & 53½/70 for maths. Am so relieved. Little happy but mostly relieved cos I got over 50. I wanted to Get between 58-65 but that was an impossible dream. Wore wrong shirt today wasn’t sprung luckily. Wagged bits of lessons. Pretty boring. Ben P actually spoke to me in BP (were (Fiona U, Ian, him & me) all talking about maths) He said “I got 29, Lissa” for mid semester test out of 30. [I considered him one of the popular guys] Coulda got him to sign my Strelitzia but chickened out. Y’know that Saints guy? He smokes→ saw him walking home again this arvy with a fag. Pity he’s quite a good looker. Sat on the stone wall again, I think to watch me cos when I looked after mum had shut the door & pulled down the blind, he was gone. Is 10:45. Am bugared.

Friday 29/11/85

170 people from Smithfield came when we’d only booked for 130. So Mr Van volunteered 10J & a few 10H’s to stay back in town & catch the fast boat at 10:30. We walked around town – Kim, Fran, Astia, Sharon D, Fi & me. Tried to buy Westcoast. [The most popular wine cooler on the market back then] Unsuccessful. Astia’s boyfriend Jamie (over 18) got us some Island Cooler. Yukky & more alcohol compared to Westcoast.. Baked on the boat. Was fun at Green Is. Swam, walked around & jumped (were pushed) off wharf!! Didn’t need to sun bake. Got red. not too burnt, but sore enough!! Didn’t see Tim at all till he left. Oh well. Got back off the fast boat (late one) about 5:15; rushed in town & caught bus home. Ready for Lucy’s; dressed & showered. Didn’t pack much for overnite. Party was [at this point I had to turn the page to continue the story…]

Saturday 30/11/85

unreeal, had over 15 cups of rum & wine punch + 3 or 4 cups of coke (2 of which had whiskey added) Mrs W. & Rod didn’t go out. Ben P & Richard came – I thought they, besides Harry & Jemima, were the life of the party. Wasn’t drunk – just relaxed. There was Ian, Wade, Skinner, Harry, his friend, Ben, Richard, Jay & Wayne & Sharon W, me, Lucy, Fi, Mim, Danäe, Colleen, Anna, Sally, Justine, Deyarne & Michelle H & Jay’s girlfriend Rebecca. I like Richard. Ben is nice but Jemima’s absolutely flipped over him. Sally thinks Richard likes Justine. Hope not. He hates me anyway & I can feel it. [You know what they say: the attributes & attitudes you find attractive & unattractive in others is actually a reflection of yourself? Well that there comment screams of Self Hate.] Got about 5 hrs sleep. Mucked around today at Lucy’s (Danäe went home early) Luc, Beka & Me lazed about until 4:30-5:00 Mum took us home. Slept a bit at home, felt little sick right now. Just VERY tired. Mim’s head over heels with Ben. He likes her, but not as much, mutually. Ian & Wade & Shane were bored I think. Wayne, Sharon, Deyarne & Michelle left early thank god. [Ah, what? Why thanks god I wonder? I don’t recall being averse to any of these people. Maybe too many popular people for me and I felt uncomfortable?] Gotta have more like that. I think even Harry enjoyed it. He was pisst!! Everyone came late around 9:00.

Sunday 1/12/85

Boy, have I had one social life; In the past 3 days + tomorrow!! Woke late this morning & did Xmas cards all day. Have so many! Went to Dianne & Kerry’s. Stayed for tea & watched video “Gremlins” UNREEAL. On the way there, saw Ben & Richard!! Almost flipped!! I dunno if they actually saw me but they watched the car all the way past!! Julia thinks Richard’s nice looking too! me; well, not so much looks, but; I dunno what attracts me!! Anyway, when I rang Fran (at Di & Kerry’s) she’d said they’d been to Erica’s. She’d (Fran) been at mim’s all day cos’ her mum had lunch with Mrs B) so she knew the story between Mim & Ben. She is going to Justine’s party now & Ben & Richard are supposed to, too. I’m worried that, if mima & Ben do hit it off, that Fi will get Richard. NO!! Anyway for the moment I don’t think Ben’s as flipped over mim as she is over him. But never can tell…!!! Is 10:15 now. Busy day tomorrow.

New White Sandshoes & Exams, Oh Exams (18-24 November)

Published on November 18, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 18/11/85

My throat isn’t too bad, now Just a lot of snot (not a runny nose – just full of snot. [That would be…solid opaque chunks I gather? As opposed to clear liquid? Nothing like a little detail!] Tania P. helped me understand how to do my Novel assignment so I have done ¾ of that tonight, as well as highlighting important points for my Shakespeare & Poetry Exams. Also started revising Astronomy in Science. Although is 10:30, feel as if I have achieved something tonight. Slept badly last nite. Woke at 3:30 this morning. Could not get to sleep again, once cos’ of my throat, so got up & started writing out history essay. Got some sandshoes this arvy, too. Gonna wear them to skool every day left this year. Also – is confirmed definitely yr10’s going to Green Island (so are CHS, & the St’s schools) was BROILING today [in?] general assembly.

Tuesday 19/11/85

It is now – oh – haven’t got my watch on. Anyway’s about 11:15. Can’t do my english (Shakespeare) won’t pass it. Definite fail. Have only done 1½ pages & it’s mostly plagarized Who cares?? (me, of course) Had german listening test – fail for certain, I’m sure! My new white sandshoes are very bright. Everyone (well, only Harry & Lucy) tried to dull them by standing on them. SHIITS!! Am no too tired will be in the morning tho. I hafta get up early. Study BP. Finish writing out History & English assign. (they’re due), then learn my crappy Shakespeare SHIT

Wednesday 20/11/85

10:30 now. Not as bad as last nite. Got my 2 History’s & 1 english handed in. I think I failed my BP exam. I didn’t look once (oh, well once) at my book. But english Shakespeare on the other hand I was pleased with. Although I hadn’t learnt it off by heart, I remembered almost everything & it even took 2 pages instead of the 1¼ I had done last night & I even left some things out & was only writing medium size HOPE I get a good mark after all that!! Worried about other english exams now. + science + german. Got 17/20 for my B.P assignment (½) only for presentation. Studied science tonite. Hope I do well in that, no in EVERYTHING!!

Thursday 21/11/85

Now 10:34. I am bugared. Got animal farm started this arvy cos’ did my Judith Wright in spare periods today (when I should have done German) but I think I’lll at least pass it – it was that hard. Reading part (worth more) was easiest. So in animal farm am gonna wake early to finish writing it out. Then must learn it a little & Judith Wright. then finish learning science. I feel I know all the content questions I just must keep a level head. Nana & Ruth coming around a lot lately. Anyway – going to ‘Verandah’s’ Restaurant for tea tomorrow night. [Verandah’s Restaurant was one of the top local restaurants back in the day. Although this visit was with my mum and her boyfriend, my dad had a business relationship with the owner so we often went there with him & my stepmother for the ‘special occasions’ like birthdays] I am tired. Think I will go to CHS – I must do something Different. Too dependant on this school.

Friday 22/11/85

Have not yet got my periods. that means Ill have ’em at Green Island. POOP! (unless I skip 1 or they come very late – cos’ they already are now.) [My handwriting becomes huge and messier from this point in this day’s entry. It doesn’t seem to relate to excessive emotion, at first…] Science – oh well – I’ll pass it. I suppose and english poetry I mucked up, but Animal Farm was good. Got 21 [here I cannot decipher what the hell I scrawled] 22 for my foreign policy History assignment Mr Van said. UNREAL!! Went to “Verandah’s” Restaurant for dinner: Felt sick. Did a shit & lots of farts. [hmm, pleasant.] Ate a lot especially, throughout the day. Am BOILED. Am shitty cos’ hafta stay at dad’s on weekend. Complained to mum & now Geoff’s shitty with me. Dickhead. am tired is 11:05

Saturday 23/11/85

Mum left for Yungaburra at about 2:30. I spend the day, not really studying much, but mucking about. I did do some study – but I have quite a bit more to do yet. Looks like I won’t get history done much, if, at all! Dad came at 5:30, spent the time watching TV, wanted an early nite but late dinner [my stepmother & father have always eaten late. Their standard mealtime is anywhere between 8 and 930pm] & shower & had to wash & dry up – Anthony washed so got to bed late. Hold on, my watch is in the kitchen…[assuming I went to get it]..is 11:02. So I must sleep in, at least a bit. Must study hard in maths & a little for history. Is hot. Have the fan on full bore!! In Jacki’s room. She moved out a while ago. Room is different now.

Sunday 24/11/85

Ended up not coming home until 4:00 or after (about 5:30) Did waste of time History today. Wasted the whole day. I am a little worried about History – but am having a major heart-attack about Maths. Will get up at 5:30 tomorrow & study like hell. Hope I do well…. I MUST do well. This is my last week at Smithfield. How sad. But I mustn’t become home-sick for it. I will make more friends at Cairns High. Haven’t got my periods yet. Hope I don’t get them Before Friday or goodbye Green Island!!! I don’t think I will (I’m hoping.) is HOT Heat is terrible. Am bugared.

Australian History, British Comedy & Breakdancing (15-21 April)

Published on June 22, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 15/4/85

First day back was long and boring. Fiona (& Tim) has a hair cut. Looks good (fiona’s I mean – I’ll have to get used to Tim’s. However, I don’t think I like him much anymore. Thinking about Sean again – dreamt about him last night!) Science was boring. Physics, I hate. [This attitude has changed, for sure.] English – Mr VS gave us till Wed to hand in extra work (got the book out at Big lunch) Maths was complicating. Doing surds again. HATE IT. History – started on WWI. German – more work & ‘picking’ Had to go to movie. National Trust thingo for Heritage Week. Saw 1st version of “The term of his natural life”, made 1927. Silent movie. Was alright.

Tuesday 16/4/85

Last night after movie, Beverly Hills Cop was screening. While tidying up, listened to it – sounds funny! Tonight was a late one. Rushed to get essay done & (unsuccessfully) got upset in the progress. Didn’t get it quite finished. Have part 4 to do & to write the essay out neatly! Science was boring!! PES was tiring, hot but fun. German got HW – picked on us again. History started WWI – dictation!! Art – watched video in library. BP – catchup lesson. While talking to Anna today, Matthew (that Yr 9 boy whose quite popular) told me (cos’ he was there last night) that his grandfather was the boy in the movie who was crying before jumping off the cliff.

Wednesday 17/4/85

Slept with mum last night. Needed comforting cos’ so upset about stupid essay questions. This morning was rushed. Got recreation (swimming at the beach) Was fun!! S’posed to do lifesaving etc, but Howy (our guide) says we can just laze ’round sunbake etc! [I wonder how this attitude would be received today? Blasé about sun care?] Shorter periods. Lucy caught bus – thought we had speech – we walked to mima’s. All went to shop – ate redskins – at home ready to go to another, smaller film night. Late nite, boring. Another spider

Thursday 18/4/85

Today was boring. Day 5 – had science; funny experiment, BP – new work. Actually got a break during double periods! (Never have, before with BP!) German – Westerweld was away!! Had big, fat relief teacher. Heapsa work – made a bracelet out of used staples!! Maths kinda understand & Eng – no essays left!! NO HW YIPPEE!! Don’t think I love Sean anymore. Nor Tim (not that I ever did.) I still they’re both hunks, but I don’t get too fidgety near Tim anymore. ‘Sarvy beat mum home. Nana came ’round. Went to Nin’s for tea – home early. Early-ish nite for once (last nite we all slept – very restlessly – in mum’s bed cos’ we made that gigantic spider sick ‘n’ Jules’n’I were scared it would drop on us in tha nite.

Friday 19/4/85

Today did nothing. Bag was very empty & light. No History HW, no art HW, learn for little maths test, no english HW, no pes HW, little BP ledger HW. Melissa Y’s last day at Smithfield today. Is going to live in Nambour. Got her hair permed. Looks terrific – s’posed to go to movies tonite, but didn’t. Went to Ben B’s Bday party at Balaclava Hotel. After, had cake at their house.

Saturday 20/4/85

Later nite last nite. Sleep around 12:30. Woke to find mum away. Was at Rusty’s Bazaar. Got muchHW done as possible – nearly all of it. Cleaned chest of drawers when dad came. Frantically packed in a silly costume for Roger’s party – the theme was “Faulty Towers & Monty Python”. Went as Sybil – all jewelled ‘n’ dressed up. Was orright. Home at 2:30.AM bugared. Watched 3½ videos – 2 dad rented “Breakdance” & “Beat Street” [we really are in the thick of the breakdancing era here] & Roger’s “Various Faulty Towers” & ½ of “The Meaning of Life”. At work all day beforehand.

Sunday 21/4/85

Woke early (damn it) Sat down and did Last of German HW – then learnt for maths. By that time it was 1:00. Anthony & Jaqui are coming tonight. that meant that we had to go home to mum at 1:00 (cos’ it’d be too hard 2 fit 4 kids in the flat.) They are starting Smithfield High tomorrow. Got home – mum’s car is pranged – some bloke backed into the left front side. Not too bad – but the bloke has to pay 4 it. At home, had to dress 4 BBQ at Geoff’s. Was alright. Yummy cheesecakes. Am tired. Is 9:45

Year 10 Begins (28 January-3 February)

Published on June 11, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 28/1/85

Boring day today. Wasn’t hot. A little rain. Poured last night. Woke 7:00. Watched cricket (day match) after playing records. Wrote out my thank-you notes. Didn’t eat too much. Will have a late night. Julia is gonna be rushed tomorrow because she’s staying at dad’s tonight. Experimented with make-up & also went over exercise plan for school days. School. What a depressing word. In Jodie’s letter I asked if she got Andrew’s or George’s (or both of their) autograph’s & if she did, she wouldn’t mind sending me Andrew’s? [My cousin must have seen Wham! in concert. Living in Sydney she had a lot more opportunity to see international acts. Cairns didn’t – and still doesn’t – manage to score many of those.] Haircut tomorrow. Last day Tomorrow. Why???

Tuesday 29/1/85

Well, this was it. My LAST DAY of Bliss!! I woke quite early & completed the (my) new exercise plan – an extract from an old Women’s Weekly. “Victoria Principal’s Lifetime Plan for keeping fit.” [Victoria Principal took over from Jane Fonda in the celebs-as-fitness-professionals game. She was best known for her role in the TV serial “Dallas” – which I wasn’t allowed to watch by the way] I started it yesterday & felt a little ill after it again, today. Julia came home, but was gone 10 mins later. She’s in 8b!! I woz in that in Year 8!! She has lots of friends with her – Katherine W, Melissa B, Brendan S, Andrew F & Yuri K. Today, I accompanied mother to town. Got my dolly & the Wham! poster!!!! Lazed in the arvy. Am a little worried about tomorrow

Wednesday 30/1/85

Wasn’t bad at all! No rush or panic or over-excitement when getting ready. I am in Form 10J with Fiona, Rebekah & Justine. Know why? All the above-average kids (or most of them) are in a our form. Yes, that’s Angela R, Natasha W & Rebecca P, too. I hate it in a way – we might get our “goody-goody” label back. [I don’t know whether ‘we’ actually were considered “goody-goodies” (geeks) by others, but this was my self perception, and I held this belief for most of my time at Smithfield High.] Also, I think Sean has left. wasn’t here & I didn’t hear his name called out (I don’t think) in the forms. Got Mr Van Slooten for form, english & history. Today was boring. Just talking (Mr VS) all day. Got home & relaxed. Early-ish night. early tea. Will ask Sharon M if Sean has gone.

Thursday 31/1/85

Today was hot. More boringness – ¾hr parade in the sun. Couldn’t see Sean. I think I do still like him, cause I miss seeing him around. Got Mr Howard for science again this year (in a way I’m glad) Ms Bowelles for PES. Mrs Anderson again for art (good.) Mr “Way” for maths. He’s funny. Ms Stevenson for BP – she can’t control our class. Mrs Westerwald for German again. Today Shelley D came up to me (us) & began talking (at first about my hair) I think she likes us or pitys us for being in a “special” form. Very early night cos’ nothing on TV. Wanna get a new bag, mine’s too big. Chaotic today – all grades were back.

Friday 1/2/85

Did ask Sharon today. She said she thinks Sean’s still on holidays. But she sounded positive!! Extra hot today. Am boiled right now! Will have to get all my books this weekend, as most of my teachers wanted to begin work today. In PES, started gymnastics – rolls! Forward, straddle, back rolls & I didn’t wear any bummies!! SHAME!! FLASHES!! [In case you missed my previous description, ‘bummies’ were a piece of athletic clothing for girls that actually looked similar to Bridget Jones’ giant undies, but not flesh-coloured. They were worn over underpants, but under your sports skirt – unless you were a true athlete in which case you wore them alone.] with nothing In period 5, had sports team meetings for swimming carnival. (Jules is also in Trinity!) I’m not in anything. I hate exposing my figure! When got home this arvy, mum wasn’t home. That got me cranky’n’since Jules has her periods, she’s hostile too, so we fought all arvy – really bad.

Saturday 2/2/85

BLUELIGHT TONIGHT!! Hope I see Sean! What will I wear? Ended up wearing (borrowing) Fi’s black’n’white striped jacket. With that, wore my black skirt & belt, white shoes & lime T-shirt. Lace in one pocket & lots of things cluttering my wrists (like Madonna.) Today read, before going shopping to get school books & other stuff. At home, covered my books & watched TV until went up to Fi’s to get her shirt. Got home & prepared for Bluelight. HATED this Bluelight, tho’ I saw Sean quite alot. (Thank God) Well poor Justine & I had to dance with these hoony guys which scared the bog outa me, then this guy Neville hangs around; likes me. I don’t like him – Beka does. I ended up lying, saying I had a boyfriend in Brisbane etc etc & that Beka liked him ALOT so he danced with her the rest of the night. Fi has a new boyfriend. Greg K. he’s nice, suits her! & Liam & Adam G. were almost bashed up!.. I didn’t like it at all.

Sunday 3/2/85

Today woke early-ish, set out to do HW & book covering, but found I kept thinking too much about last night (which made me sick) so I read all day, to keep me occupied. I hate it – I always attract the wrong guys. Ate quite little today, surprisingly. Is rainy & cool. Want to do my homework now, but also want to have an early night. I can’t wait for school, now. Want to see Sean & forget last night. SEAN!

Meeting the Future Step-Siblings (12-18 November)

Published on May 31, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 12/11/84

Sooo tired but I’m also so restless. Fi admitted she loves Jason P. Personally, I think they’d suit each other. Dad hosted the “Stefan Finalists Northern Zone Hairstyle Awards” so Leanne’s giving him, Julia & I free haircuts (we’re getting it done tomorrow for the presentation night.) She said we could look at books, choose what we’d like & she’d tell us whether it would suit us, how to keep it looking good etc. I’m sooo nervous. How’ll I get mine cut?? late nite.

Tuesday 13/11/84

PRESENTATION NIGHT. It was HOT. but fast. Had our rehearsal of walking up & receiving etc in periods 6 & 7. My haircut wasn’t too bad but Jules’ was great! (Leanne wasn’t there – called out of town on (bad) personal business.) Deep “V” cut short bob. → [see hand-drawn diagram… it’s the ‘rear view’ of Julia’s head, in case you’re baffled.] Concave cut. Mine’s neat too!

Wednesday 14/11/84

Boring, tiring day. Felt a bit sick. Had no dinner. Got whole english assignment completed. Went to speech – found it wasn’t on – finished for the year! I didn’t know!! My hair is spikey in the corner (of the fringe) & fat Julieanne walked past me & said to her friend “Look at her hair!” giggle-whisper-giggle, giggle. BITCH. but Anna loves it.

Thursday 15/11/84

Today was plain & boring. Nothing special to record except that it was BOILING hot & in art, took photos with our pinhole cardboard cameras. Is treadly. [These were pretty impressive! I still can’t believe we actually took photos with ‘cardboard boxes’. Also did the whole ‘dark room’ developing as well. Unfortunately I have forgotten the science behind it all now.]

Friday 16/11/84

Rushed day. Got exam timetable {mon, 3rd Dec = (1) Maths (2) Science (3) History // Tues 4th Dec = (1) nil (2) BP (3) nil//} Monday’s gonna be tough one. At home, vacuumed, showered & packed. Dad came & we went to Red Beret. After to Vic & Liz’s for tea. Fell asleep around 10:00. Got home around 2:00 though!

Saturday 17/11/84

Dozed til 8:00. Dressed & went shopping. Ate big vanilla slice – bee-u-ti-ful!! At work played on dad’s new ‘paper’ calculating machine. At flat, dad did housework, we did HW. When we got to Jenny’s (it’s a beautiful house) the kids weren’t there – Jules & I did some polishing. Anthony came first, then Jacki. (She’s a tart – reminds me of Kim M. but she is very nice.) Anthony is good-looking (but so different to what we expected) & small. Played video games, rode the trail bike & mucked around all nite. Got little sleep.

Sunday 18/11/84

Mucked around – played chess, video games etc. An hour after BBQ lunch, went to Mossman Gorge. Took Anthony, Sean K. & his friend Shane. Jenny, Jules & I didn’t swim but had fun. Lost the key on the track but luckily, Julia found it! [My sister was always the ‘eagle eye’ of our family.] After, went to pub, then had a shower before Keanes came & knocked over the water meter!! (Anthony was in the shower!!) Late, very late night.

A Dinner, a Fete & a Crook Neck (22-28 October)

Published on May 28, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 22/10/84

After yesterday, have to go strict on diet. Boring day. Mr Van Slooten picked on me (ALOT) today in History.

Tuesday 23/10/84

We’re all sooo tired: Hafta get used to summer again. Told Luc my idea of bringing alcohol to Justine’s party. She wants something exciting to happen too. Boring, plain ‘nothing’ kinda day. Fi went to sick room at little lunch & was sick all day. Hope she feels better in the morning.

Wednesday 24/10/84

Very boring day. still didn’t know what to wear until I had my bath. After speech, Fi, Lucy & I walked to the Freshy shops. Had fun at the German Dinner. Ate yummy tea & dessert UMAH! Walked up & down the street. On the bus on the way home the kids lit up a smoke & SHANE, WADE, IAN & EVERYONE ← (almost) smoked it. I couldn’t believe it. & still can’t. Anyway am tired so nite nite!

Thursday 25/10/84

Woke with a sore neck. Went to bus stop (in a shit). Decided to go back & kiss mum. Went back to bus stop, grabbed port & went to chiropractor. Made an appointment for this arvy. At school – BORING. Mum was late to pick me up from school so I got on the bus with Fi told bus driver & saw mum. Flashed headlights & I waved crazily. Dropped me off at Smithfield shops. Soon mum came. Lucky Julia saw me or she would have driven right past me & left me there. Got a little relief from chiropractor. Hafta go back tomorrow morning. At K-Mart, bought Justine’s prezzy – fluoro beads & Bangle (yellow.) Had a big row – no dinner. Am not hungry now.

Friday 26/10/84

At chiropractors, a few twists & cracks made me feel 99% relieved. Feel HEAPS better. Got back to school at 9:40. Am going to fete with mim & Fi. We’re taking them & Mrs D.’ll take us home. Matthew C. loves Fi. It started last Tues when him & Clayton peashot us. Then on ‘Matt’ has written MC 4 FD on blackboards, desks & winked & blown kisses at her. Poor girl. Tonite Clayton rang to ask Fi if she’d go with Chappo. [To ‘go with’ someone was the 80’s teen terminology for ‘date’ or ‘go out with’] Don’t blame her for saying NO!!! Melinda’s staying tonight.

Saturday 27/10/84

Good day. Woke 7:15 lazed around. Began vacuuming but mum finished it. After a small lunch, had a bath, dressed & went to Smithfield Fete. Boring this year but Justine, Angela & us made laughter & shared food & drink. Before mim had been at her school carwash. Met 2 boys who’d suit Fi & me. Stuart (for Fi) from Trinity Bay (rest unknown) & Peter (for me) from CHS, Gr 11, blonde spiky hair & funny laugh. Great to meet him, huh?! [Of course that didn’t happen, so to this day I have no idea who Peter is/was] Will 10hrs sleep 2night hopefully.

Sunday 28/10/84

Did sleep 10hrs! Great! Woke, had brekky, did ex’s, had shower & packed for dad’s. Went to Mulleys today instead. Roger is shifting. Moo & Nellie didn’t want to come, so Julia stayed there. Went to Roger’s & sunbaked (had no suncream – got a little burnt) Picked up Jules after went back to Roger’s (old) place. Stayed for tea. Broke diet (UMAH) Penwardens & many more came too. VERY LATE NITE!

The Rest of April 1984

Published on April 28, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Saturday 28 April

Didn’t get Fi as a partner for tennis but still won 2/3 games with my “assortment” of partners (one in our team was away so I had a different partner every game) Had no lunch, just junk food. Went to Fi’s at 3:30. Talked, then Fi, Stu, Brad & me went against Martin & Liam in a water fight. TREADLY!! Had hamburgers for tea. Finished my graffiti bag. ie the plastic case I covered in brands. I just put a string on & covered it in CONTACT!!

Sunday 29 April

Went to Fi’s, but she was at mima’s. Mima came back late yesterday, you see. Fiona got lots of presents. A shirt (for cleaning the pool & feeding cats) stickers, bubble gum, a rubik’s cube & sunglasses (which she bought out of Fi’s money) All I got was a pack of stickers. We played smurfs all day (pizza for lunch in between) Later, watched their holiday video. Went home. Early night.

Monday 30 April

DON’T WANNA GO TO SCHOOL!!!! I’m sick of it! Melissa was away today. Had to wear my black shoes for double science BLISTERS! Had an emu parade at 1:30 in Big Lunch. Shitty teachers – missed out on the rest of the break. Film in Science made me very sleepy. Everyone ran to the bus this arvy. But were sent back. Shitty Mr Gralton – we went last. Had meat pie for tea again.

26 April, 1984

Published on April 26, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Thursday 26/4/84

OH NO! SCHOOL AGAIN!! Got a postcard from mima today – she’s missing us. Haven’t got my new racer yet. Dad said they’re coming tomorrow, to Cairns. Got into trouble a lot about forgetting to get assessment sheets signed. Fi came around after (a pretty boring) school (day) to see if I’d gotten my bike yet. Talked. Couldn’t be bothered to do my HW. Made a bag out of that plastic case which I covered with “brands” (e.g: jag, Findus, Kleenex) Looks pretty good!!

April 1984 – “to date”

Published on April 17, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

The final ‘bulk’ post. Following this, posts will drop back to one entry per day, as is customary for me, and to correlate with current dates.

Sunday 1 April

Slept in, but got up to do Maths HW & joke Julia – sponge cake & lemon sauce was her breakfast of “bread & lemon spread”. She tasted a little bit & said, “that’s not lemon spread!” I said, “APRIL FOOL!” Went to mim’s to do HW, Fi’s for lunch (Martin’s girlfriend, Karen, was there & we teased them, UMAH!) Went & played some tennis, with Jay. (I did some really great serves!) Then we all cleaned mim’s pool; At 5:00 had a maths competition (in preparation for our maths exams, coming up in about a week). Went home at 6:00

Monday 2 April

Bad day at my schoolwork, but at lunch, they showed Michael Jackson’s ‘THRILLER’ (10c entry fee). Melissa C. paid for me. Mr Stevens said it was “experimental” ie “if it works, it will continue every week”. I’ll watch it again on Friday. Played tennis at the courts today. Pretty good playing from me! (Unbelievable!!!)

Tuesday 3 April

1st USA Jumbo came in at 7:15am, but we were still asleep. Today had a (hard) English Exam. Highest possible mark I’m able to get: 10/10; lowest ½/10 I hate those bus drivers who don’t even check now & then on the smokers. Cameron came to Mandy’s & Julia went beserk!!! I don’t think I love Shane anymore, but there’s one thing that drives me crazy – his brown eyes do it to me! They’re sexy! Really dark ‘LIQUID BROWN’.

Wednesday 4 April

SHANE’S BIRTHDAY. I still feel a little “OOMPH!” when I look at Shane. Physically 99% (the 1% being white as Snow White!) Mentally a dickhead! Dentist told me I’ll have to wear my brace about 3 more months! OH NO!! Tennis was fun – but I couldn’t return any serves or receives (cursed myself). Mima was going to a disco, so didn’t go to speech. She rang to ask if she could borrow my white double belt. I let her!! (Of course!

Thursday 5 April

Toni & me got driven to school today cause mum had to deliver some goods to the school. Wayne C, Michelle H & I missed out on an English test yesterday, so had to go to Library while the class marked theirs. Ate all my lunch at little lunch cause watched “GANDHI” (with Mr Addison’s class, too) in big lunch & periods 6 & 7. (Missed out on Science!!) Great movie. Didn’t get to see it all, though. There was a powder fight on the bus & Martin (& others) were sliding down the aisles knocking over people who were getting off. After, went to Simon St Park & played french cricket. Had tea & went to K-Mart. Julia got some jeans. Saw Trudi, Shane (with Todd T’s brother) Clare McK & Melinda S.

Friday 6 April

Maths Exam was quite easy, though I know I won’t get 100%. Didn’t have to do English listening test, cause we all had to do our Comprehension Test! Had to take model home today. Almost wrecked!! Free BP lesson today. Got a new WATCH!! It’s white digital with – time, alarm, seconds, date & hourly chime. Is water resistant to 100 feet. Went to mim’s. Ate lollies & lazed around. Watched the Logie Awards. GOOD!

Saturday 7 April

Tennis was good. Fi & me won 2/3 games! Had hot dogs for lunch, sunbaked for 15mins, did science HW, then went to mim’s. Helped clean her room then spent the rest of the day in the pool. Staying at Fi’s. Polly is staying here & she, Jules, Mum & Geoff are going to the drive-in.

Sunday 8 April

Did some good shots on the paper run! Mum, me, Jules, Fi, the Brewers & the Bankses (minus Pat) went on the Brewer’s yacht today. At first was hot, boring & no breeze, but things soon picked up. Anchored in a little bay for lunch. At home, did my HW, then went to see mima play in the Cairns Youth Orchestra, with Brewers & Fi. Was BORING!! (Not mima’s piece)

Monday 9 April

Kim, Tina, Melissa B & me got into trouble for being late to form class – no detention, luckily. Forgot to wear my PES uniform!! Mr Van Slooten didn’t blow me up about not doing my History HW. Had Ms Schmiemen today in BP Ms Chant was away. Did 2 experiments in Science (I nicked two paperclips & hung them on my earrings all day!) Didn’t get a seat on the bus. Early night. Am tired. Oh! Mim & Fi came around & we rode on the empty allotment, (where the flats are going) having races & lotsa TREADLY FUN!

Tuesday 10 April

Got maths mark 27/30!! Not bad!! English- 5/10!! Bad!! >Sigh<!! Did role play in double German. Shane clapped really loud after (probably not for me, but just to be stupid) Mulleys came for tea. Late night.

Wednesday 11 April

Julia went to a party last night and got in a tantrum when we picked her up saying we came “too early”. Got a seat on the bus, today. Begun perimeters in double Maths “OH NO!!” In Art, Mrs Anderson said she’ll collect our folders when we’ve completely finished this unit, ie next term sometime. I knew, when she showed me Natasha’s drawing of a cat, that she’d say “See how good it looks? Your dog would look better if you drew in the hair.” Did lots of improvisations in speech. No HW!! (Except speech!)

Thursday 12 April

Toni, Rebecca, Karen & I have formed a new Bus Stop!! (cause we got on at the bottom of New Cassowary St) Got my Science test back 15/25. 10 wrong. BAD. Patrick, on the bus, said to me out of the blue, “why don’t you get braces?” I said “I am”. He said “You shoulda gottem’ when you were two years old.” But he turned to talk to Martin before I could answer. Julia went to a Disco 7:30 to 10. I did some hairplaits for her. She said it was fun. (The disco)

Friday 13 April

Holidays tomorrow! FREE DRESS day! I wore my blue skirt, holey top, bangles, holey shoes, vinyl belt & white scarf. Took mum’s BIG white jumper. Spent $1.00 (Pimples!) Shane wore spunky Billabong shorts & black (sweat)shirt. Fi came to my place after. Had a thick shake, walked to Fi’s, then rode to shop. Bought meat then played “Follow the Leader” on bikes. Bought ice-blocks then went home.

Saturday 14 April

Bad day at tennis. Lost all 3 games and hurt my bum. Standing with my legs crossed, began falling back. My legs wouldn’t “un-cross” & I landed HARD on my tailbone. Fi & Beka came to Westcourt after (cause mum had to sell raffle tickets). Fi came for lunch, went to her house; lay under a sprinkler. Went to the shop, got my gear & got to bed 11:00 at Fi’s

Sunday 15 April

Did paper run again. Was UNREAL! Got $4, but spent 55c when Fi, me, Stu, Brad, his mum & Mrs D. went to the Kuranda Markets. Was great! Saw a studded (black) leather belt $15. Good?! Fi got a dress which she’s gonna wear to town tomorrow. Scones for lunch. Went under the sprinkler again, then played chasey games with Stu & Brad. Home at 5pm. Jodie C-S. is staying tonight. (Julia’s friend.)

Monday 16 April

WENT TO TOWN!! Was fun!! I wore my greeny-blue dress: Toni came with us. Overcast, then rainy. Bought my sleepers NEAT!! Asked about my pinafore at Rockman’s. They’ve ordered more!! The lady wrote up a “hold” for me. SIZE 8 WHITE! Home at 3:00. Lazed & fooled around. Latish night – 9:30 (about)

Tuesday 17 April

Stuart did go on the bus tour, so I couldn’t get his seat. Instead, saw “BMX Bandits” with Toni, Angela & Helen R. (sister) Was TREADLY! Wore white jumper, blue skirt, mauve stockings, white shoes hair rag & earrings. AM: vacuumed, washed & dried dishes, wiped benches made beds & put away. At movie saw Beka (who was very snobby), Justine, Deyanne H. & Kim G. At home mucked around. Ears are still good!

March 1984

Published on April 16, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Thursday 1 March

Late night last night. Slow day today. Maybe going late night shopping. On the bus, it was boring as ever. This week has gone so slow!! Went late nite for ½ hour. The black belt I saw is gone, but there are two others I like (both black) $10 or $20 or in City Girl a double wrap belt $20.

Friday 2 March

Good day. Got 17/20 for English essay (Insurance claim) Handed in my letter one. At tennis, mim, fi & me couldn’t beat Toni & them to the courts so we all played together. Was fun. When the others went, they left a bottle so we went & refunded it. [Better recycling initiatives in the ‘politically incorrect’ 80’s? Take me back there please] The shop was closed but the snack bar was open. The lady said we could refund if we bought something. Bought 2 10c bubblegums. We got free fats frogs (but fi got a ‘Wiz’) They were damaged so she gave them to us. When I came home dad was here and I told them about riding to tennis lessons in the morning. They both wouldn’t let me. We brawled about it & still aren’t on good terms. I’m minding my business and mum’s minding her.

Saturday 3 March

Made up with mum after she rang Mrs B. and arranged to pick up everyone. Had fun! Was in their group (lied that I had taken lessons years ago) Anyhow, did okay. After had a swim at mim’s. Beka was snotty about something. Had a picnic lunch at my place when Beka left. Then made 2 cakes. After, dressed up and walked around the streets with ‘Thriller’ blaring from the tape recorder which fi carried; mim skated & I carried a basket. Teased hair’n’everything!! Looked TERRIFIC!! They’re sleeping here.

Sunday 4 March

Recorded a make-believe radio station & did HW. The we dressed the same as yesterday and walked to the shop in the rain by the longest route. Ran into Martin & Shane. They teased but we know they’d be too gutless to do anything similar. After lunch did HW, had a water fight & played games. Early night.

Monday 5 March

Boring school day. Have decided what to wear to our disco but I can’t work out colour coordination. Early night.

Tuesday 6 March

On the news & in the papers, Brian D. (Fi’s Dad) fell off his boat at 10:00pm, while the crew slept. He was fixing nets on the ‘prowler’ when a giant wave knocked him over. In the water for 6½hrs, he was lucky no sharks were nearby.

Wednesday 7 March

Mossman Sports Day. At school am doing tennis but today, we had to go temporarily into other groups. I played Fi in ‘Touch Footy’. The last two periods were ‘fun’ versions of maths’n’history. //Fi’s dad is alright & on his way back to Cairns. Toni was away today. Think she wagged it.

Thursday 8 March

Toni is away today too. BOG!! Went late nite. Found a great pair of grey jeans but they were stretch jeans – I don’t want to show off my fat legs. On our way home, went to the Food Barn. I bought their special – 4 chocolate bars for $1!! [Hilarious. Complaining about fat legs in one sentence followed by 4 chocolate bars in the next..insanity!]

Friday 9 March

Toni came today. My english model is unreal!! Used crushed velvet for the floor and walls. Floor, chocolate brown; Walls, beige. Ate my last chocolate bar for big lunch. Went to Julia’s disco. Shane said he wasn’t ‘gonna go’, but he did (because I was, I think) At disco (mim came) Brendan said Shane loves me & that I should “try him tonight”. I don’t know whether to believe him or not!!

Saturday 10 March

Got into group 3 (out of 4) with mim, fi & beka but was put down when they went up again. [tennis fixtures] I’m not going back again, EVER. PM: made more things for my english model and started my “Cairns Colours My World” Banner. 4CA are holding this competition to celebrate the Opening of the International Airport. Celebration week is from 17.3.4 to the 26.3.84 Pay $5 & you get paint & canvas supplied. 17 & over win $250. 16 & under win $250. 250 paintings will be chosen & hung in the streets of Cairns. Anyway after, went to mim’s, made up another radio station & slept at Fi’s.

Sunday 11 March

Got to sleep at 2:00 last night. Mim & I had a laughing fit & made up ~~some~~, mistake, millions of silly riddles (some good) Eg: [Q] What do you call a mashed up Chinaman? [A] Custard! Ha, ha!! Slept until 10am then played hospitals, made patty cakes (with sickly sweet mock cream) PM: Helped fi make her disco outfit then swam at mim’s. At home, started painting banner. I was meant to take my brace off at 4AM but slept in & therefore gained 6½HRS. [Because I knew there’d be times I’d want to go out in public when I should technically be wearing the brace, I became extremely disciplined in recording (& ‘accruing’) time so that I could afford to have those special occasions ‘off’.]

Monday 12 March

I have a feeling this is gonna be one P*A*C*K*E*D week!! I haven’t done my english model or the essay yet! UM-AAAH! Boring School Day. Went clothes shopping today (for disco) Bought an ESPRIT shirt (white & aqua green) earrings (Sportsgirl; red’n’white) black dog collar, white mesh’n’buttons, lilac stockings & blue socks. I couldn’t get any shoe colour – OH NO!!

Tuesday 13 March

Am excited about the disco. About the shoe colour, both mum & Nana tried to get it today but ….alas, NO. What shall I do???

Wednesday 14 March

Up early. I haven’t finished my english yet – HEAVENS!! Kept my bag (of disco clothes) in my locker all day. Coloured my shoes with black & white shoe polish. Worked quite well. Disco was unreal!! After rushing out of speech to Fi’s, hurredly dressed & left. Shane didn’t go. I almost won best dressed but Rebecca P. beat me. (Bitch) Naah!

Thursday 15 March

Pretty hectic day! Got to bed 11:30 last night. Woke at 5 this morning, but did get my english done. Mum wrote a (lie) note, so that I can hand the model in on Monday. At lunch did German research. Is due tomorrow. Also, banner is due Sunday now because not enough entrants, lucky, huh? On bus Martin & Patrick kept saying Shane had a crush on me. I don’t believe them.

Friday 16 March

In history, Mr Van Slooten & Mr Addison have decided to join their classes together & have an Asian day. Good, eh? That means I’ll be with Shane most of the day! I think Shane likes me. He keeps pulling my hair gently on the bus!! Melinda is sleeping tonight

Saturday 17 March

Today went with mum to see some of her clients, then browsed in town. Found this beautiful dress – a skirt with straps (like braces) attached (a pinafore) It’s really neat & suits me well. Gotta save $25. Spent the rest of the day on my banner. Am now finished. Looks unreal!! Julia is staying at Dad’s tonight

Sunday 18 March

Went to Mulleys this arvy! Came home at 9:30. Also, finished my english model at 6:00. Looks fantastic with little telephones’n’everything. UNREEAL! Julia came home & told us that Roger & Leonie are splitting up. Today ate so much cake! UMAH!!

Monday 19 March

Got driven to school because of my model. Toni came with me. Lotsa people saw it & liked it. I’m proud of myself!! Tried to finish German tonight. Mum’ll just have to wake me up early to get it done. Lucy went home today; felt sick. Everyone was in a weird mood today!!!!

Tuesday 20 March

Funny (weird) day today. I don’t think I love Shane anymore, i.e. I’m not sure; I do but I don’t. Early to bus stop. Had science test – quite easy! Also watched Thorn Birds Ch3 in the mini-series was unreal. BP test on Thurs. Began netball in P.E.S.

cast-of-the-thorn-birds-3 — ‘The Thorn Birds’ was the first (Australian) mini-series I can recall being allowed to watch

Wednesday 21 March

Bad girl today, wore wrong shoes, ring & necklace; forgot hat. Want to get my haircut (short bob with flicked fringe – to suit my round face) tomorrow night Good time on bus. Asked Ms Chant about test prepare sheet; still don’t get it. “Flashback” costs $13.50, OH NO!! Had 50c to spend today.

Thursday 22 March

Mr Mahony’s (dd Yr 7 teacher) birthday today!! BP test was EASY!! When I went late-night shopping, beautiful pinafore was gone; only red or blue left. PITY. At lunchtime we made a long grass rope (from grass roots) about 15m long! Angela came on bus this arvy. Tony WHOOPS!! Toni said we’ll go to the First bus stop on the corner of Down St & Kamerunga Rd in the morning

Friday 23 March

Today got really tired at lunch. Got my english assignment back – 19/20 VHA or A. My model will be displayed in the library!! Took a book out for Nin called “In the Wet” by Neville Shute. Began 1st chapter. Sounds good! (I’ve found some really good books in our school library!) After school Jules & me had a water fight. She is staying at Dad’s. No one noticed my haircut (because it wasn’t that short after all). Toni, Angela, Rebecca & me went to the first bus stop. No big deal! Mum & I watched the (funny) movie.

Saturday 24 March

Very boring day today. Went to town in the morning. Got “Flashback” & new felt pens. Drew all day. Rang Fi but she wasn’t there. She & mima rode to tennis & were at Elisia’s, doing some project. Mum & I are going to see “Never Say Never Again” & “Yellowbeard” at the Drive-In.

Sunday 25 March

Remember when my last band broke? (Well, it was Wed, 22/2) Well today the other one broke off. Stupid, stuffed things! Only 10 days till it comes off! Mima slept at Fi’s Today I was upset about them being together all the time; leaving me out. But we went to the International Airport & looked about. A man told us we weren’t supposed to be there so we left, as the police were “on their way”.

Monday 26 March

English Demonstration today. Did it on how to & how not to eat SPAGHETTI & SOUP!! Went off well – I forgot a few things but got 16/20!! Also today, took out yesterday’s hurt on Fiona, saying she “didn’t go to the Bluelight [disco] because Jemima wasn’t allowed.” She said, “that’s not a nice thing to say.” I said “but it’s true.” We didn’t speak again for the rest of the day.

Tuesday 27 March

Watched the last of ‘Thorn Birds’, tonight. Was sad – only watched ½. Fi & I sorted everything out today. The last two weekends were “groggy weekends”. They “didn’t want me being bored” with them. Toni & I almost missed the bus. Were at the drain/Gina’s house when Toni saw the bus coming. We ran like Hell! I have also officially declared I no more love Shane.

Wednesday 28 March

I think I do still love Shane a very little bit, but I also see Kristian L. (just a VERY weeny bit) Shane is still ranked no.1 on a friendship (male) list. Got up late (7:10) Toni told me about ‘Thorn Birds’. Ralph & Dane died, Meg, her mum & Jussy made up & lived together. Sport day today. Played tennis. Had Rebekah as my partner. Was in a BAD mood. (Speech was good) During dinner, there were 5 blowies (blow flies) zooming around, which got me mad, and then, when we got back from the shop, Julia shut my foot in the door!!

Thursday 29 March

Raining & overcast. Lucy, Karen & I want to go in the Conga line – we don’t know what to do! (Will it still be on? ie will the rain halt it?) BORING SCHOOL DAY. Went into town this arvy – saw some banners – approximately 20 have been put up, minus ours. My pinafore is being ordered in again by Rockmans. Hopefully there is a white size 8. Julia bought a new outfit tonight – apricot & white striped T-shirt, peach skirt & matching mesh overskirt. Altogether $13. Not bad, eh?! I might borrow something….now & again!!

Friday 30 March

Had 60c, bought 2 nutellas. 30c change. Karen “wasn’t allowed” to go in the Conga line; Lucy & I did. Went to the Food Festival, after, for tea. Met mima. Was so crowded! Ate & drank all night! (Well, not all night!) Watched TV. The USA Rock Awards were on – Michael Jackson won heaps! 8/13 I think!! He looked ready to cry!

Saturday 31 March

Mima, Fi & Mrs B. stopped in on me & asked me if I’d still like to go to fixtures cause I’m in Fi’s team. I said yes – my excuse was that I’d been sick over the last 2 weeks. After, (mim & fi went to Elisia’s for project work) at home, went straight into town to see our posters/banners, then Geoff took us to the new airport (it was now officially open) looked around, had tea (at home), then, back at the airport, watched the first Jumbo Jet land & take-off. It was GIGANTIC!