“The next two weeks were an absolute trial by fire as we took over a household of 12 girls who’d had four sets of houseparents in the previous 12 months and who were wary of another couple of ‘white fella mob’ who couldn’t speak their home languages…”
Stefanie Mainey, ‘Tales from the Top End: The First Three Years.’
Now available!
Stef’s debut book, ‘Tales from the Top End: The First Three Years’ is finally a reality, and we are so excited to share it with you.
Journey with Stef as she shares the story of Phil and her incredibly varied life during their almost three years at a remote boarding college for Indigenous teens in the Northern Territory of Australia.
The 28 young women from across the Top End who entered Phil and Stef’s home and world for various periods during 2015-2017 took this couple from regional New South Wales on the adventure of a lifetime, whether they were ready for it or not!
$24.95 plus $7.50 postage
($14.50 postage for 2-5 books inclusive)
Exciting news…
Darwin friends,
‘Tales from the Top End’ can be purchased from:
‘THE BOOKSHOP DARWIN’ in Smith Street Mall in the city!
But if you’d still prefer a personalised book, please order via our contact page.
‘As I eagerly turned the pages of this book, I found myself wondering how I would have handled the job that they had taken on…their story is a testimony and encouragement to us to persevere like they did when we face trials’.
CINDY MCGARVIE, YOUTH FOR CHRIST NATIONAL DIRECTOR, AUSTRALIA
‘It is hard to explain to someone who hasn’t lived in remote Northern Australia what life is like…Stef has achieved something special in this book. Her unapologetic vulnerability allows her to provide an insight into a side of Australia usually only presented through the eyes of hardened weather-beaten, unshakeable pioneer types’.
ANDREW BEDWELL,
FORMER NTPOL AND WAPOL DETECTIVE SERGEANT
Hello and welcome!
We are Phil and Stef Mainey, a couple from regional New South Wales, Australia, parents of three and grandparents of seven gorgeous boys and girls (and counting…).
We invite you to explore our collection of stories and photographs. Each piece in our treasure box reflects not just the moments we've shared but the unexpected journey that has shaped our lives. From the small joys of daily life to the larger adventures that have challenged and enriched us, we hope to convey the essence of our experiences. Join us as we navigate this incredible journey together, sharing laughter, love, and the beauty of family along the way.
Phil's photo gallery
Phil's photo gallery
Embark on a captivating photographic journey with Phil as he reveals stunning visuals of life's unexpected moments. From the Australian bush to the shores of distant countries, Phil's exquisite documentation narrates a compelling story of our life's adventure so far. Join us as we explore the incredible landscapes and people of the Northern Territory, the picturesque mid-north coast of New South Wales, and the faces and places that have enriched our world.
Stef’s Stories -
Catch up with Stef as she continues to chronicle her reflections on life and shares some bonus stories that are not included in her book.
