Why did you decide to join Healesville CoRE? I had a burning desire to make a difference in the community for quite some time and helping to take positive action to mitigate the effects of climate change seemed to fit the bill. I was very excited to hear what was being planned and immediately joined as a volunteer, along with my hubby Ron. What is your role and what does it involve? At first, I was involved with all the setting up tasks; creating innovative slogans to go on our pull up banners, helping out with our free community events, deciding on our vision and mission statements. But, after about a year, Jeff (Barlow) indicated that he needed someone to write grant applications and acquittals and I’ve been doing that ever since. I’ve applied to local, state and federal governments for various needs over the years and am pleased to report a near perfect success rate! I enjoy writing, brainstorming with others for ideas and general networking so this role suits me perfectly. Where is home and what do you love about it? I’ve lived in the Yarra Valley nearly all my life and in Healesville for the past 30 years. I love it here. I love the community, the natural beauty and the mountain view I wake up to every morning. It’s a great place for our two children, Natasha and Shane to have grown up – in the country yet within close proximity to the city. What do you do outside of Healesville CoRE? I’ve worked at Yarra Ranges Council for almost 20 years now, mainly in a customer service capacity, and consider myself lucky to have a job I enjoy so close to home. I’m also involved in the local music scene as a member of a choir and one of the leaders in a musical group called Strings and Things in U3A. I play guitar, ukulele and piano and enjoy singing, I’ve even been known to do the odd performance around town. Can’t imagine my life without music. I also play badminton, read biographies, love to head out in our boat and stay a night or two on the water, am part of a local walking group, and also hang out with the cool people in the U3A cryptic crossword group. Never a dull moment!
Healesville CoRE is keen to welcome any community members who would like to engage with their community to help make a difference. www.healesvillecore.org.au |