Adele Drago-Stevens has been working as Macedon Ranges council’s corporate director since April last year. From the Macedon Ranges to the United Kingdom and back again, she tells Elsie Lange about her journey back home and what she brings her joy about living here.
Tell us a bit about you
I’ve had a varied career working across the public and private sector with a range of organisations: from government departments, universities and TAFEs, through to telecomms, banks and consulting firms, and now local government.
I love working with organisations that have a direct impact on people’s lives, which is why I’ve spent the bulk of my career working within the education and the public sector. I also volunteer with GenWest: a gender equity and family violence prevention organisation in Melbourne’s west.
What’s your connection to the Macedon Ranges?
I’m a returner; I grew up in the shire after moving here from the western suburbs, then moved to Melbourne (and the UK) for 10 years until returning to start my family. I’ve been back for around 14 years, and have now lived in the shire for 25 years all up (so far).
What do you like about where you live?
The varied character of our townships, the agricultural landscapes, the bush and wildlife, the beautiful gardens, the fantastic farms, food producers, brewers, distillers, wineries, restaurants and cafés, the unique small businesses, the walking and cycling trails, the art and music culture, the shows, festivals, and events… I’m a strong advocate for the living in the Ranges!
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
While I love the benefits of our cool and temperate climate, there are times in the year when a few more sunny days wouldn’t go astray.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
I love spending a warm afternoon on a picnic rug in the dappled shade of the spreading oak trees in the Kyneton Botanical Gardens. Preferably with something delicious in hand from a food store nearby.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you
This is the first time for me working in the community in which I live. I’ve always commuted long distances between my place of work and residence (even when I lived and worked in Melbourne, and the UK, where I crossed town to go to work). I’m enjoying being more engaged with my local community.
