About Pa John
Pa John is a married father of four grown children (3 sons, 1 daughter) and 13 grandchildren. He and his wife are trained and approved to provide foster care as respite foster carers.
Since retiring after a long career, Pa John and his wife decided on a tree change move to a rural area in South East Queensland, Australia where they purchased a 40 acre block of land and built a liveable shed, powered by solar with gas hot water. He had always been interested in conservation, organic gardening etc so decided to undertake study in the field of Permaculture. Because of various interruptions it took him close to three years complete this course. But complete it he did with distinction and obtained a Permaculture Design Certificate.
Pa John has worked as secretary and a volunteer fire-fighter for a Rural Fire Brigade. He and his wife have also been President and Treasurer/Secretary of the Queensland Branch of Hope Bears Charity. Hope Bears members knit small teddy bears with the word ‘HOPE’ on their chest to give to cancer patients and children in hospitals. Plus knee rugs, chemo caps, premature baby clothes, socks, beanies, and gloves. Pa John’s role was to arrange the making, collection and delivery of items. Although the QLD branch is now closed, Hope Bears Charity still continues in NSW.
When not working on his property Pa John is now concentrating much of his time as a freelance writer online. Writing mainly poetry and text for children’s picture books and educational texts for adults learning English or literacy challenged. He has had one eBook of poetry published and had two poems released as songs. Interests include writing poetry, reading, watching sport, gardening, sketching.
Pa John and his wife endeavour to use Permaculture principles wherever possible including companion planting, organic gardening, recycling, use of off-grid renewable energy, and finding more than one use for most crops etc.
He is a treasured father-figure for iMom and Me, sharing knowledge and experience.