Interview with colleen

Where did you grow up?

On a dairy farm in Burringbar, south of Murwillumbah. I had a great childhood. We had our own tennis court and a great swimming pool in the creek on the farm and the school was only about 1 ½ km from home.

Where did you meet Pa?

When I left school and got a job (I was still living at home), he was a friend of my cousin and they lived in Lismore, and he was an apprentice motor mechanic.

We were married for 61 years.

What is the secret to happiness?

Oh my. I guess try to be happy with your life while always looking ahead for any improvements you could make.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Stop and think! Be kind to yourself.

Where is your favourite place in Australia and why?

Northern rivers area of NSW. I have lived on the Tweed, Richmond, and Clarence rivers and although I have travelled all over Australia and have loved it, the rivers are home.

What advice would you give to parents these days?

Love your kids. Have fun with them but teach them right from wrong. Encouragement is paramount!

What in life isn’t worth worrying about?

The small stuff. I found our disagreements were about everyday things but the big decisions we could sit down and discuss and come to an agreement.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have been given?

An old friend told me when I was about 10, “anything you can carry in your head is not a load”. It took me a while to work it out, but it has helped me over the years.

What is your favourite meal of all time?

Food!  I love it! I really enjoy a nice BBQ with nice salads and plenty of family and friends around.