SOul Searchers - No 09 - 2013 08

Magazine Overview

Title: Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine
Issue Date: August 2013
Issue Number: 9
Publisher: Soul Searchers
Country of Publication: Australia

This issue of Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine delves into various aspects of the paranormal, with a strong focus on investigations and personal experiences. The cover features a striking image of the Troubridge Island Lighthouse, photographed by Tash MacDonald, setting a tone of mystery and exploration.

Editor's Note

In her 'Editor's Note,' Janine Donnellan expresses a growing disinterest in contemporary paranormal television programs, criticizing their repetitive formats and the resulting proliferation of amateur investigators employing unscientific techniques. She invites readers to share their opinions on the best and worst paranormal TV shows and their preferred media for paranormal content, such as radio programs, podcasts, or YouTube, believing that shared views can lead to positive change.

Featured Articles and Investigations

Haunted Lighthouses

The magazine opens with an exploration of 'Haunted Lighthouses,' musing on the inherent mystery associated with these isolated structures. It questions whether the spirits of former lightkeepers inhabit these buildings or if the solitude itself leaves an imprint. The article notes that Australia has 350 lighthouses along its coastline and one inland, with the Macquarie Lighthouse being the first, lit in 1793. Many early lighthouses were built in response to shipwrecks, serving as refuges for survivors and often as final resting places for victims.

Troubridge Island: The Paranormal Guide Investigations

A significant portion of the magazine details an investigation by The Paranormal Guide team at Troubridge Island. The team, including members like Ash and Tash, organized the investigation based on the island's history of shipwrecks, which necessitated the construction of the Troubridge Lighthouse in the 1850s. Despite having no prior knowledge of paranormal activity there, their two-night investigation yielded significant experiences. They explored a disused second lighthouse keeper's cottage, noting presences, particularly around the bathroom and kitchen, which was corroborated by entries in guest books left by previous visitors. The investigation involved setting up cameras and an EM pump. A key focus was a Ouija board session, which produced the letters 'EKULIMA 91KCAB,' later interpreted as 'BACK 19 AM I LUKE' when read backward. This was followed by a Ghost Box session that produced the words 'Luke,' 'Fuck,' 'Paul,' and 'Why/Hi.' Banging sounds and a 'kicked' chair were also reported. The second night involved further Ghost Box sessions and another Ouija board session that spelled out 'TSOHMAIHTIWTONEKUL,' which, when read backward, became 'LUKE NOT WITH I AM HOST.' A 'hiss' was heard as the board was packed away. The team also reported hearing 'Thankyou' and 'For this' on the Ghost Box. The investigation concluded with Lyn expressing extreme discomfort and urging the team to leave the building, though the reason for her distress and why the team couldn't hear her initially remained unclear. The article poses several questions regarding the interpretation of the Ouija board readings, the identities of 'Luke' and 'Host,' and whether the phenomena were genuine or psychological.

Other Articles

Other articles in the issue include:

• Belief: A discussion on the nature of belief.
• Table Tipping: An exploration of this paranormal practice.
• Subterranean Sydney: An article on the hidden aspects of Sydney.
• Why I became a Paranormal Investigator: Personal accounts of individuals entering the field.
• UFO's Werewolves & The Pig-Man: A piece covering various paranormal and cryptid phenomena.
• Interview with Allen Murdie of The Ghost Club: An interview with a member of a paranormal research group.
• SOuL Searchers Parapsychology Course: Information on a parapsychology course offered.
• SOUL S.P.I.: Details about the Soul Searchers Paranormal Investigations group.
• Australian Paranormal Phenomenon Investigators: An overview of this organization.
• Paranormal Equipment: A look at tools used in paranormal investigations.
• Paranormal Groups within Australia: A directory or discussion of such groups.
• Workshops, Courses & Events: Information on upcoming activities in the paranormal community.
• Friendly Businesses: A section highlighting businesses related to the paranormal.

Contributors

The magazine features profiles of its regular and occasional contributors, including:

• Janine Donnellan: Editor and founder of SOUL.S.P.I., with extensive experience in paranormal investigations and a certificate in Parapsychology.
• Nic Hume: Assistant Editor, Co-Founder and Lead Investigator of APPI, with a background in psychology and a fascination with the paranormal since childhood.
• Jenny Taylor: Website Manager and Investigator for SOUL.S.P.I., with interests in psychic development and alternative healing.
• Ashley Hall: Website owner, administrator, and manager of The Paranormal Guide, author of a book on haunted locations in Australia.
• Steve Millard: Case Manager and Investigator for SOUL.S.P.I., with a lifelong fascination for the paranormal and experience with investigative equipment.
• Lee Brickley: Writer and editor for The Conspiracy Review, researching geopolitics and paranormal phenomena.
• Bobby C: Paranormal Investigator from N.S.W. Australia and member of the Ghozt Crew Team, sharing insights and stories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around paranormal investigation, the nature of belief, and the exploration of unexplained phenomena, particularly in Australian locations. There's a clear emphasis on personal experiences and the tools used to investigate the paranormal. The editorial stance, as expressed by Janine Donnellan, is critical of sensationalized paranormal media and advocates for a more grounded, perhaps scientifically-informed, approach to the subject, while also encouraging community engagement and the sharing of diverse perspectives through various media platforms.

This issue of Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine, dated August 2013, features a diverse range of content, including articles on psychological and spiritual phenomena, as well as a detailed historical account of Sydney's underground railway system. The cover advertises 'Coffee & Tarot' at 'All Things Iced', with readings offered by Janine & Steve from Soul Searchers Spiritual Centre.

Article: BELIEF

Authored by Nic Hume, this article delves into the formation and impact of belief systems. Hume posits that core beliefs are established in early childhood, shaped by experiences of love and security. He argues that these ingrained beliefs dictate how individuals interpret 'unexplainable' experiences. Using the example of 'orbs' in photographs, Hume illustrates how different belief systems (spiritual, skeptical, or balanced) lead to varied interpretations. He emphasizes that a polarized opinion can hinder objective research in the paranormal realm and encourages an awareness of how beliefs can both help and hinder understanding.

Article: Table Tipping

Written by Janine Donnellan, this piece explores the practice of table tipping, a method of spiritual communication popular during the height of Spiritualism in the mid-1800s. Donnellan describes the process, where participants sit around a table, place their hands on it, and ask spirits to communicate, leading to the table shaking, rotating, or levitating. The article highlights the scientific investigations into table tipping, notably by Professor Michael Faraday, who sought to disprove spirit involvement and attributed the movements to 'quasi involuntary muscular action'. It also mentions the work of Professor Robert Hare in the USA and Count Agenor de Gasparin in France, who conducted rigorous tests. The article concludes by describing a recent table tipping experiment at a Soul Searchers Paranormal Meetup, where a card table exhibited shaking and slight movement, with the author acknowledging the potential for the ideometer effect (suggestion or expectation influencing motor behavior) as an alternative explanation.

Article: The Mechanics of Table -Tipping

This section provides a procedural overview of table tipping. It details the common practice of participants forming a circle, placing hands on the table, and the typical progression of phenomena, from quivering to pulsation and movement. It also references the aforementioned experiment at Soul Searchers Spiritual Centre.

Article: Subterranean Sydney

This extensive article, extracted from the book 'Subterranean Sydney (The Real Underworld of Sydney Town)' by Brian and Barbara Kennedy, provides a comprehensive history of Sydney's underground railway network. It details the construction of various tunnels, starting with the oldest one built in 1855 from Sydney Railway Yard to Darling Harbour. The article covers tunnels beneath George Street, Jubilee Park, and those constructed as part of Dr J. J. C. Bradfield's transport schemes in the 1920s, including those near Wynyard Station and Town Hall Station.

The City Circle

The article identifies the City Circle tunnels as the most familiar in Sydney, largely built using the cut-and-cover method in the 1920s. It notes the opening of Museum and St. James stations in 1926 and the link to the North Shore with the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932. The completion of the City Circle loop in 1956 is also mentioned, along with the complex nature of the system, featuring multiple tunnels running side-by-side or crossing each other.

The Eastern Suburbs Railway

This section focuses on the Eastern Suburbs Railway, described as Sydney's most expensive 'hole in the ground', which opened in 1979 after nearly a century of planning. The article outlines its ten-kilometre length, seven underground stations, and the challenges of its construction, including the removal of 1.5 million tonnes of sandstone. It traces the history of proposals for this line back to the 19th century, noting the opposition from country interests and the gradual development of suburban rail lines. The article details the various stages of planning and construction, including the role of Dr J. J. C. Bradfield and the eventual approval and commencement of work in 1967. It also discusses cost-saving measures and the engineering challenges, such as dealing with water-laden alluvial soil and the use of a tunnel-boring machine known as 'The Mole'. The article concludes by describing the tunnel construction methods, including rock bolting and concrete lining, and the management of water ingress in the tunnels.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that lie at the intersection of the psychological, spiritual, and unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting both anecdotal accounts and scientific investigations into topics like belief systems and spiritual communication. The detailed historical account of Sydney's railways suggests an interest in uncovering hidden or less-known aspects of the urban environment, possibly as a parallel to the hidden aspects of the paranormal. The magazine encourages readers to consider different perspectives and engage in critical thinking when evaluating extraordinary claims.

Title: Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine
Issue: August 2013
Publisher: Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine
Country: Australia
Language: English

This issue of Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine delves into a variety of paranormal and historical topics, featuring articles on the construction and historical use of Sydney's railway tunnels, a personal account of becoming a paranormal investigator, an exploration of the mysteries of Cannock Chase in the UK, and an interview with the chairman of The Ghost Club.

Station Construction and WWII Use in Sydney

The magazine includes detailed information on the construction of Sydney's railway stations and tunnels, specifically mentioning Redfern, Central, Martin Place, Kings Cross, and Bondi Junction. The construction methods, including open-cut and tunnelling techniques, are described, along with challenges faced, such as underpinning the State Theatre and managing settlement at Kings Cross. The article also reveals that the abandoned St. James tunnels served as air raid shelters and an operations bunker for the No. 1 Fighter Sector RAAF during World War II, with remnants of concrete walls built to withstand explosions still present. Graffiti from WWII soldiers dating back to 1942 is also noted.

Why I Became a Paranormal Investigator

Nic Hume shares her personal journey into paranormal investigation. She recounts her first paranormal experience at age 14, involving a full-bodied apparition, and discusses how a lifelong fascination with detective work and historical research, coupled with intuitive 'knowing' and vivid dreams, led her to explore the paranormal. Hume describes her experiences with ghost tours, including intense encounters at Monte Cristo and the Macquarie Arms, and how her Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) aids her meticulous research. She also touches on her university studies in Psychology, which helped her understand the mind. The article highlights her partnership with Peta Banks in forming Australian Paranormal Phenomenon Investigators (APPI) and their successful ghost tour business.

UFOs, Werewolves & The Pig-Man: Cannock Chase

This section focuses on Lee Brickley's book, "UFO's Werewolves & The Pig-Man," which investigates the paranormal phenomena of Cannock Chase in Staffordshire, England. The area is described as a hotspot for UFO sightings, werewolf encounters, spectral phenomena, and other unexplained events. Brickley's book chronicles his investigation into this location, referred to as 'England's Strangest,' and includes new sighting reports, tales of monsters, and information on a potential top-secret military connection. Quotes from notable figures like Nick Pope and Tim Swartz emphasize the mysterious and eerie nature of Cannock Chase. The article provides details about the book, including its publication date, author, publisher, format, price, and contact information for Lee Brickley.

Interview with Allen Murdie of The Ghost Club

Peet Banks interviews Allen Murdie, Chairman of The Ghost Club of Great Britain. The Ghost Club, founded in 1862, is presented as the world's oldest organization associated with psychical research. Murdie discusses the club's history, its volunteer-based structure, and highlights significant historical cases from its archives, such as the mysterious lights at Middleton in Essex and the 'Gef - Talking Mongoose' case on the Isle of Man. The interview explores the club's origins at Trinity College and Cambridge University, its evolution through different phases, and the influence of spiritualism and the high mortality rate of the 19th century on the rise of psychical research. Murdie explains how modern ghost hunting differs from earlier practices of spirit-raising and mediumship.

Other Content

The magazine also features advertisements and information for the "Soul Searchers Spiritual Centre," offering services like healers, readers, and practitioners, along with contact details and location. Additionally, a "Chakra Balancing Workshop" is advertised, detailing its purpose, facilitator (Janine Donnellan), date, time, and cost.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and psychical research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting investigations, personal experiences, and historical accounts from various perspectives. There is a clear interest in documenting and sharing information about hauntings, UFOs, cryptozoology, and the history of paranormal investigation, particularly within Australia and the UK.

This issue of Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine, dated August 2013, focuses on paranormal investigation societies and groups, particularly within Australia. It explores the history, methodologies, and philosophies of these organizations, offering a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and researchers.

The Ghost Club and SPR

The article begins by detailing the history of the Ghost Club, noting its revival by Revd Stainton Moses in 1882 and its evolution from an occult society to a more relaxed discussion group. It highlights the club's secretive nature and extensive minutes, though often lacking precise details for modern analysis. The SPR (Society for Psychical Research) is also mentioned, characterized as being open to both skeptics and believers, and adept at identifying fraudulent mediums. The Ghost Club, in contrast, became more insular. The text notes the influence of figures like Harry Price and Nandor Fodor in shifting the focus towards parapsychology and ghost hunting. After a period of inactivity following Price's death in 1948, the Ghost Club was revived in 1952 and later opened its membership, aiming to encourage research and engage with writers in the field.

Paranormal Phenomena and Media Influence

An interview segment features 'Peta' asking 'Alan' about phenomena often mistaken for paranormal activity. Alan identifies 'orbs' and photographic artifacts from digital cameras as common examples, explaining they are typically caused by dust particles and camera flash. He also discusses the impact of paranormal investigation television shows, criticizing them as entertainment rather than genuine research, often pre-determining outcomes. Alan expresses a preference for working with serious filmmakers and broadcasters.

Australian Paranormal Groups Directory

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to listing and describing numerous paranormal investigation groups across Australia. These entries provide details on their focus, methodologies, and contact information.

New South Wales

• Australian Paranormal Phenomenon Investigators (APPI): Uses a combination of scientific and spiritual methods, emphasizing life experience, common sense, and teamwork. They are open to any investigations.
• Campbelltown Paranormal: Consists of sensitives, empaths, and skeptics. They use specialized equipment like full spectrum and IR cameras, spirit boxes, and EMF detectors, and also perform house clearings.
• Eastern States Paranormal (E.S.P): An experienced team focused on searching for evidence and helping others with paranormal problems, emphasizing friendship and honesty.
• E.C.P.S - East Coast Paranormal Society: Aims to investigate places to document and collect data for a better understanding of the paranormal, taking a scientific approach and prioritizing debunking before labeling phenomena.
• Feminine Spirit Paranormal Investigators: A team focused on providing professional and confidential services, respecting the sensitive issues clients face.
• Ghost Study Australia: Based in North/West NSW, they conduct investigations professionally and free of charge using scientific methods and common sense.
• Haunted Australia: Researching locations and planning overseas trips, covering areas around Sydney.
• Hunter Paranormal: Dedicated to SCIENTIFIC, LOGICAL, UNBIASED research and investigation, with proceeds directed towards restoring historical sites and museums. They offer introductory courses.
• Lakes Investigators of the Paranormal (L.I.P.S): A husband and wife team investigating paranormal suggestions to find answers for themselves and clients.
• Parramatta Paranormal Society (PPS): Focuses on discovering the paranormal using scientific knowledge and maintaining historical buildings. They use 'Ghost Hunting equipment' and logical theories to debunk phenomena.
• Southern Tablelands Paranormal Research Society (SAINT-PRS): Investigates paranormal reports from the Southern Tablelands and beyond.
• SOUL S.P.I (SOUL Searchers Paranormal Investigations): Undertakes investigations from a shamanic perspective, acting as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms. They are based in Southern Sydney and conduct investigations free of charge.
• Sydney South West Paranormal Investigators: Employs scientific and proven methods to obtain evidence, investigating anywhere from private residences to historical sites at no cost.
• Sydney Spirit Stalkers: A group of four investigators specializing in Tech & Equipment, Photography, Safety, Location Finding, Research, and Mediumship, eager for adventures.
• UFO and Paranormal Research Society: Established to provide information on the paranormal world and the unexplained. They are producing a series called 'EERIE ENCOUNTERS' featuring UFO phenomena.
• Validate: An independent investigative body seeking key elements to support paranormal theories, including hauntings and UFO phenomena. They gather bona fide data without relying on calculations or conclusions from other groups.
• W.S.P.R - West Sydney Paranormal Research: A Not-for-Profit organization using a 'logic first' approach and a wide array of equipment to determine paranormal activity.

Queensland

• Australian Paranormal Investigators (API): A small team based in Brisbane, operating on a logic-first, scientific approach, offering thorough investigations.
• Haunted Australia: Researching locations and planning overseas trips, covering areas around Brisbane.
• Brisbane Amateur Paranormal Investigators: Performs investigations using up-to-date technology and equipment, offering alternative explanations or capturing proof. They are a not-for-profit organization.
• Down Under Spirit Team (DUST): Based in South East Queensland, they investigate the paranormal and help people, not charging for investigations. They prioritize debunking common reasons for evidence before considering the paranormal.
• Ghosts-Inc: A Gold Coast-based group aiming to gather information for a better understanding of ghosts and hauntings, encouraging people to share stories.
• Paranormal Paratek Queensland: Focuses on Queensland paranormal investigations and historical researching, being a State Government registered, insured not-for-profit association. They emphasize evidence-based research.

South Australia

• Celestial World Australia: Founded by Michael Barnett, focusing on new age areas like Mediumship and Spiritual Healing, conducting confidential paranormal investigations using various equipment and spiritual methods.
• Eidolon Paranormal: Investigates hauntings, UFOs, Cryptids, and other paranormal phenomena, actively participating in SA Paranormal meet-ups.
• Murraylands Paranormal: A fledgling group of investigators based in Murray Bridge.
• Paranormal Field Investigators: A small group based in Adelaide, studying, researching, and investigating the paranormal. They have members with expertise in photography, tech, electronics, and history research. Their services are free.
• SA Paranormal: A social group meeting monthly for outings like ghost tours and cemetery visits, and special guest appearances.
• MEET-UPS - S.A.P: Hosted by Eidolon Paranormal and Adelaide Spirit Chasers, these meet-ups are frequented by local SA teams and include guest speakers.
• The Paranormal Guide (TPG): A new website exploring the paranormal through multimedia, covering topics from Ghosts and Hauntings to UFOs and Aliens. It features videos, a podcast, and a user forum.
• Riverlands Unexplained Paranormal Investigators (R.U.P.I): A new group with members specializing in Spirit Mediumship, Ghost Whispering, camera work, and technical direction.
• Fleurieu Paranormal Research: A non-profit organization researching possible paranormal activity on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Paranormal Equipment and Courses

The magazine also includes sections on paranormal equipment, listing online stores and companies selling relevant gear in Australia and overseas. Additionally, it advertises a 'Soul Searchers Parapsychology Certificate Course' designed to provide in-depth knowledge and skills for becoming a professional paranormal investigator, facilitated by Janine Donnellan and Steve Millard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the organized investigation of paranormal phenomena, the historical development of paranormal societies, and the diverse methodologies employed by investigators. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and entertainment, and on promoting a scientific yet open-minded approach. The extensive directory of Australian paranormal groups highlights the widespread interest and activity in this field across the country. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious, evidence-based paranormal research while acknowledging the historical and societal context of these pursuits.

This issue of Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine, dated August 2013, serves as a comprehensive directory of paranormal investigation groups, events, and workshops primarily located in Australia. It details numerous organizations and their services, ranging from free investigations to paid tours and specialized events.

Featured Organizations and Services

The magazine highlights a wide array of paranormal groups, each with unique approaches and offerings:

• Fleurieu Peninsula: Australian Ghost Adventures offers paranormal investigations, tours, seminars, and media productions, emphasizing scientific and alternative methods without charging a fee. They have extensive experience and use modern technology.
• Victoria:
• Australian Paranormal Society (A.P.S.): A non-profit organization based in Melbourne, dedicated to researching unexplained phenomena. They offer free onsite assessments and conduct investigations with a focus on rational explanations and empirical documentation. They also have a specialized team for clearing premises.
• Australian Scientific Paranormal Investigations (ASPI): A team that requires substantial evidence before concluding something is paranormal. Jason Dickson, a founder, has extensive experience and uses advanced equipment.
• Colonial Paranormal: A Victorian-based group interested in paranormal phenomena, offering investigations and aiming to share costs for accessing locations.
• Carmar Paranormal Investigators: A non-profit group founded by Marty and Caroline Veenstra, focused on documenting and debunking paranormal occurrences using both scientific and spiritual approaches. They have 20 years of collective experience.
• Historical Haunts Australia: An experienced team in Melbourne that approaches cases scientifically and offers free investigations.
• Independent Paranormal Investigators (IPI): A Melbourne-based group that investigates various locations and offers services free of charge.
• Undercover Paranormal Investigations (UPI): A Melbourne-based group investigating for 5 years, using a mix of scientific approach and feeling.
• Victorian Phantom Hunters: A team that takes paranormal investigations seriously, using scientific equipment and working alongside other teams.
• Western District Paranormal (WDP): Based in Miners Rest, Victoria, this group of three investigators uses logic, specialist equipment, and scientific methods, offering services free to the community. They also produce and sell paranormal equipment.
• Western Australia:
• The Albany Paranormal Research Society: A team aiming to document and record paranormal activities using scientific methods to help people regain peace of mind.
• Twilight Paranormal Investigators: A team comprising sensitives, an empath, and a medium, balancing spirituality with a scientific approach. Their investigations are free.
• West Australia Paranormal Research: A group aiming to raise the profile of paranormal research and assist those with issues, working with local psychics and an "exorcist" when needed.
• Perth Ghost Hunters: Formed in 2002, they offer free investigations for businesses and residences, using the latest ghost hunting technology, including a thermal camera.
• Tasmania:
• Team Strigois Paranormal Investigators: Investigating known and unknown locations, they capture phenomena using cameras and recording equipment. They never charge for investigations and cover Hauntings, UFOs, Urban Legends, and Cryptozoology.
• New South Wales:
• The Paranormal Team: A group producing a documentary-styled show on YouTube, investigating private residences and notable sites like the Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site.
• Wraith Paranormal Research and Investigation: Based in Launceston but offering statewide service, they use scientific analysis equipment and conduct detailed assessments, working with the Launceston Paranormal Society.

Workshops, Courses, and Events

The magazine extensively lists upcoming paranormal events, workshops, and tours, primarily in New South Wales and Victoria:

• Newcastle Ghost Tours: Offers various tours including "East End" walks, "History and Mystery Day Tours," "Fort Scratchley Night Time Tunnel Tour," "Parramatta Female Factory Tour," "The Lock Up Intensive Extended Investigation Night," "Ghost Tour of the Civic Theatre," and "Twilight Historic Walks at West Wallsend Cemetery." They also offer "Tomago House Torchlight Tour" and "Miss Porters House - Intensive Investigation."
• Australian Paranormal Phenomena Investigators (A.P.P.I.): Offers "Ghost Tours at Casula Powerhouse," "Paranormal Investigation Nights at Casula Powerhouse," and "Spooky Sleepover at Casula Powerhouse." They also provide "Paranormal Investigation of Liverpool TAFE" and "Paranormal Investigators Sleepover at Liverpool TAFE."
• Australian Paranormal and Spiritual Expo: Scheduled for September 21st, 2013, in Parramatta, featuring workshops on various paranormal topics.
• SOUL Searchers Paranormal Investigations: Holds "Monthly Paranormal Meet Ups" and conducts paranormal investigations.
• Australian Paranormal Research Group: Organizes an "Monte Cristo Investigation."
• Australian Ghost Adventures: Offers "Old Geelong Gaol Ghost Tours."
• Aradale Ghost Tours: Conducts "Ararat Lunatic Asylum" tours and sleepover events.
• Adelaide's Haunted Horizons: Features "Tailem Town Investigation Tour" and "Tailem Town Ghost Tours," as well as "Saint Cecilia Ghost Tour/Investigation Night."

Disclaimer

A disclaimer notes that the groups listed are not endorsed by Soul Searchers, and individuals are recommended to make their own inquiries before engaging any group or attending an activity. Soul Searchers reserves the right to remove any group from the directory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's recurring themes revolve around the exploration of the paranormal, emphasizing the investigation of unexplained phenomena through a blend of scientific methods and personal experiences. There's a strong focus on providing information about various groups and events, encouraging public participation in paranormal research and experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting a wide range of paranormal activities and organizations without explicit endorsement, while urging caution and due diligence from the reader. The emphasis on free investigations by many groups suggests a community-oriented approach to the subject matter.

Title: Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine
Issue: August 2013
Publisher: Spheres Of Light
Country: Australia
Language: English

This issue of Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine, dated August 2013, is a compilation of advertisements and event listings related to paranormal investigation, spiritual retreats, and alternative lifestyles. It features a diverse range of offerings from ghost tours to workshops and online publications.

Featured Events and Services

Adelaide's Haunted Horizons

Adelaide's Haunted Horizons offers a 'Burra Burra Ghost Tour/Investigation Night' on Saturday, 16th February, and every two months thereafter. The tour runs from 5:00pm to 9:00pm in Burra, SA, costing $160.00. The experience involves exploring historic sites like Redruth Gaol and the Dug-outs, with participants acting as investigators. The night includes a meal at the Burra Hotel with a drink, familiarization with investigation equipment, and a breakfast before departure. Numbers are limited, and private bookings for 8-15 people are available for ages 15+.

PROWA - 'I Want To Believe'

PROWA (Paranormal Research & Investigation Australia) presents an event titled 'I Want To Believe' on a date to be announced (tba) at the Theosophical Society in Perth, WA. This event is free and features Cynthia, a Sessional Academic and PhD Candidate, and Adam, a Lecturer. The discussion will focus on balancing passionate belief with constructive research in paranormal investigation, exploring investigation techniques, equipment, and the impact of this balance on the development of 'Paranormal' as a research subject. Adam will also cover technical aspects of current equipment and non-paranormal technologies.

Wild Woman Weekend

The 'Wild Woman Weekend' is a call to women of all ages and backgrounds to gather, connect, and share stories, magic, and wisdom. The event aims to foster sisterhood, support, healing, and empowerment, encouraging participants to journey along their paths, feed their being, nourish themselves, and honour their passions, dreams, the elements, goddesses, mother earth, and grandmother moon. The 2014 theme was to be released soon, with information available on their website.

Dragon's Eye Tours

Dragon's Eye Tours offers 'Mystical journeys of discovery, pilgrimage and magic' to England and Cornwall, and to Ireland. These tours visit holy wells, stone circles, pagan temples, ancient castles, passage tombs, haunted pubs, and villages. Highlights include a sacred ritual led by a Druid priestess at Stonehenge, and expert guides such as Ronald Hutton, Maria Wheatley, Janet Farrar, and Gavin Bone. Tours include visits to Avebury, Glastonbury, Bath, Wells, Tintagel, Bodmin Moor, Boscastle in England, and Dublin, the Hill of Tara, Beaghmore stone circles, Emain Macha, Newgrange, and Knowth in Ireland. Tours were departing London and Dublin in September 2013 and 2014.

Julie Treveton Jewellery & Artwork

Julie Treveton creates spiritual jewellery and artwork described as 'keys to symbols of power'. Her work includes pendants with pentagrams and tree of life motifs, rings, and artwork such as 'Moon mother and her child' and 'Odins Runic circle poster', which is an ancient magical alphabet. Some posters are designed by Julie Treveton and painted by Margret McCardle. Contact details are provided via email.

Ghost Tours Advertisements

• Several ghost tour operators are advertised:
• GHOST TOURS (The Rocks, Australia): Contact details including phone, fax, and email are provided for bookings and information.
• Newcastle Ghost Tours: An image depicts a ghostly figure with a lantern, promoting their tours.
• Access Paranormal: An advertisement for Australia's chosen paranormal networking website.
• OURS OF RICHMOND: This Tasmanian tour has been operating for 7 years, takes approximately 2 hours, and leaves after dark. Contact details are provided for booking.
• Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre: Monthly 'GHOST Tours' are hosted by the Australian Paranormal Phenomenom Investigators at 1 Casula Rd, Casula. Contact details and website are provided.

Embrace

'Embrace' is a store located at Westfields Miranda, Level 1, Store 1028, offering 'Goth Clothes' including funky clothes, cool shoes, and steel cap boots for men and women. Their website is gothclothes.com.au.

Soul Mate Workshop

Conducted by Janine Donnellan, this workshop aims to help individuals find a relationship with someone who shares their values, perspective, and lifestyle. It covers preparing for a sacred union, unblocking obstacles to relationships, and attracting a special someone. The workshop takes place at the Soul Searchers Spiritual Centre on 8th September 2013, from 3pm to 5pm, costing $50 which includes notes and supper. Bookings are essential via an online form.

Axis Mundi

'Axis Mundi' is a free online magazine from Spheres Of Light, produced quarterly. It provides topical information on news and developments in the Australian Pagan community, with articles and information corresponding to seasonal themes. The magazine aims to empower readers on their journey through personal, spiritual, and magical realms. The term 'axis-mundi' literally means the axis of the world, symbolizing a connection between sky and earth. The Autumn 2013 issue is identified as Issue 55.

Advertising Information

Pages 58 and 59 provide details for advertisers. Soul Searchers Paranormal Magazine has received over 80,000 visits. Advertisers in Soul Searchers Magazine will also be advertised for free in Axis Mundi. Contact details for advertising are provided via email ([email protected]) or phone (Janine on 0408 025 268). Advertisement sizes and costs are listed for 'Business card', 'Quarter page', 'Half page', and 'Full page', with options for per issue or 4-issue packages. Advertisement sizes are based on an A4 page.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes paranormal investigation, ghost tours, and spiritual exploration. There is a strong emphasis on community, empowerment, and personal growth, particularly evident in the 'Wild Woman Weekend' and 'Soul Mate Workshop' features. The inclusion of 'Axis Mundi' highlights an interest in Paganism and alternative spiritual practices. The overall stance appears to be inclusive and supportive of individuals exploring various facets of the paranormal and spiritual world, encouraging both research and personal experience.