When Jeni met Ray, she didn’t want children. He wanted four. Thirty years later, they’re parents to 16 kids—and one of Australia’s most well-known families.

Living in Toowoomba, Queensland, with eight children still at home, the Bonells’ life is anything but quiet. Weekly groceries cost around $600, including 50 liters of milk, dozens of eggs, and 14 boxes of cereal—enough to fill two shopping carts and require a team effort.

The household runs on a strict system. By age eight, each child joins the chore roster. Even their 12-year-old can cook dinner for 20. With school, jobs, sports, and daily meals to juggle, teamwork is key.

Jeni now shares their tips for budget meals and grocery hacks on YouTube. “We all feel the pinch,” she says, “but staying organized makes all the difference.”

They’ve faced criticism for their family size, but Jeni and Ray have no regrets. “It’s not for everyone,” Ray admits, “but it works for us.”

Now grandparents, the Bonells continue to embrace their joyful, chaotic life—with faith, humor, and a whole lot of love.