By Tate Papworth
What’s your connection to Brimbank?
I’ve lived here for 20 years. I’ve always been involved around the place. My kids went to East Sunshine Kindergarten, Our Ladys Primary School and then to Caroline Chisholm. I’ve always been involved as a parent helper. I was treasurer at the kinder, treasurer at the primary school and different things like that.
What do you like best about the area?
The sense of community. It’s so welcoming. We have so many people from so many different cultures that make up this community and it’s really interesting.
I also love all the different restaurants and how lots of different cultures are represented through food.
How has the area changed during your time here?
There are exciting times ahead with the Sunshine station coming up. Who would’ve thought that 20 years ago? Sunshine has changed so much over the years, you just have to look at all multi-storey buildings going up.
Tell us about your connection to Caroline Chisholm.
I’ve been at the school for 12 years, but my connection goes back a lot longer than that. My brother-in-law was one of the first students in the first intake and my father-in-law was on the board of directors in 1966.
My husband is one of 11 kids, there’s 50 grandchildren and 52 great-grandchildren and most of those have come through the school here and four have taught at the school. I feel a very strong connection to the school and also the local parish and the wider community.
And what’s your role at the school?
I started out as a learning support officer, helping students who needed additional help and I’ve been in administration for the past seven years. I’m also part of the wellbeing team where we help families who are in need.
Have you noticed much change in the school since you started?
A lot of building work is happening. There’s lots of improvements in the physical buildings. I also think there’s a real push by the school to work with families more closely to find the best results for families and students.
And what do you like to do away from the school?
I’m a mad Western Bulldogs supporter. One of my heroes is Dougie Hawkins.
