Dubbo’s Simon and Elisha Petelo’s love of music has ensured their father and daughter bond is stronger than ever.
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Simon is a DJ and does many gigs around Dubbo and Elisha, 12, is following in his musical footsteps.
The family are loving the calm lifestyle regional living brings, saying the move has given them the chance to pursue their passions, including DJing.
Simon is a fan of vinyl and Elisha is interested in the digital aspects of music making, but that was the perfect combination for DJ Si and DJ EJP.
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“We decided we wanted to incorporate that … so we could hang out together and enjoy music together,” Simon said.
“Elisha started at the age of three . She’s adopted it and embraced it and has done a many gigs with me such as weddings, birthdays, discos and corporate functions.”
Elisha doesn’t have a favourite genre of music and said every style has its own unique sound.
“Growing up with music in my childhood I just love every type of music,” Elisha said.
“It’s just been really cool with my dad doing DJing.”
DJ Si and DJ EJP are not your typical DJs, they come with a strong message.
Simon is a former youth worker and believes prevention is part of the solution to drugs and alcohol.
Their vision is to see young people more aware of the dangers of substance abuse. Simon would like to see more promotion and awareness in schools.
“There’s not enough focus on the prevention of drugs in schools. I’ve heard reports of kids trying ice (crystal methamphetamine)… at the age of eight… it’s become a real issue that we cannot ignore,” he said.
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Simon said growing up on the streets of South Auckland New Zealand, substance abuse was a familiar site destroying individuals, families and communities.
His vision is to speak to students in regional schools about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of prevention and saying no.
Elisha hopes her fellow students say no to drugs and make positive choices.
“I think young people instead of turning to drugs can find their way through music or any hobby. You don’t need to take something to enjoy a night and to have fun,” she said.
Taylor Jurd
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
