What’s your connection with Sunshine?
We moved here in 1972 from Wangaratta so that David could work on the suburban trains. My girls have gone through school here and made lifelong friends. I have also worked in schools in the western suburbs since coming to Melbourne.
What do you like best about living here?
I like the community feel that Sunshine has. People are friendly and always like to have a chat. They also support others in need.
What could make it better?
More parks and trees.
Has this area shaped who you are?
I would have to say not really, as I was an adult when I came here with two young children. But, my children made it easy to meet others in the area and get involved in the community. Also teaching in the area introduced me to many children and families from different ethnic groups.
Your involvement with the Sunshine RSL came about through your husband, David, a former president. You’ve been secretary for a decade, can you imagine life without the RSL?
I would have more time to do genealogy, which I have been doing off and on for more than 40 years. My children are descended from people on the Mayflower and the First Fleet. That was my retirement goal 10 years ago. In saying that, I have made a lot of good friends during my time with the RSL.
What are you most proud of in the 10 years you’ve spent with the organisation?
Nine years ago, we set up the Harvester Day Club. The day club meets on a weekly basis, and it has been a wonderful idea to get older people out of their homes for the day.
We organise speakers, entertainment and bus trips. New friendships have been fostered, and for many members, it is the highlight of their week.
You also volunteer at St Vincent de Paul’s food van in Footscray each week. When did you start doing that, and why?
I started with the Footscray Food Van on a weekly basis about 15 years ago with a friend. Over the years, I have worked with many dedicated people, and we continue to support people in need in the area.
I am so impressed with the young people who volunteer on a regular basis.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life?
My mother and father.
As a child, after the war, I lived in a soldier settlement area in northern Victoria. It was a very close-knit and supportive group of people.
My mum and dad volunteered in many groups and helped to build and shape the community. They always inspired me to assist others.
What are your favourite cafes and restaurants in Brimbank?
Lazars on Ballarat Road and the many Vietnamese restaurants in Hampshire Road. Also Blue Bamboo on Churchill Avenue.
