Fiona Stone, a volunteer and member of the committee of governance at the Woodend Neighbourhood House, caught up with Georgia Tacey to tell her about what she loves about the Macedon Ranges and volunteering locally.
What’s your connection to Woodend and the Macedon Ranges?
We’ve lived in Woodend for over 10 years now. After spending a decade overseas, we wanted to come home to a quieter, country way of life that was still close enough to the city when work called. Some of our earliest memories here are of how friendly everyone was – that strong sense of community, pints at Holgate, and discovering just how cold Woodend can be. We made friends quickly and felt part of something real and welcoming. My life here would be nothing without my amazingly supportive husband, Terry, by my side through it all.
What do you like about where you live?
I love living somewhere where people genuinely want to connect – chatting about their gardens, a quick hello-how-are-you at the shops, on walks, so much more genuine than through computer screens and phone apps. Our garden has become a big source of happiness: growing food, keeping chickens, sharing it around, and being part of that quiet culture of generosity and sharing. Little things make Woodend feel special –coffee with girlfriends at Nellie’s Shed, the community Christmas trees, knowing the small business operators and supporting them, knowing neighbours by their pets. Of course, talk of Macedon Ranges cannot ignore the seasons, including the delightfully unpredictable cold in December. The life balance and fresh air here are hard to beat, and sharing this lifestyle with Terry makes it even better.
Tell us a bit about the Woodend Neighbourhood House and what you enjoy most about volunteering there.
The Woodend Neighbourhood House is a really special place. I first walked in when I was between jobs and feeling a bit lost, and the welcome I received was exactly what I needed. Everyone belongs there — people of all ages, backgrounds, and stories – and everyone seems to find their place. I volunteer mainly in the foodbank, and the real, human connection fills my soul. I love the way the foodbank stands for supporting people in need without judgement and even in hardship, enabling them to maintain their dignity and know the community values them and cares about them. Some of my favourite moments are simply sharing a cuppa, hearing people’s stories, and having a laugh with the characters who come through the door. When I’m at the House, I feel known, welcome, and part of something worthwhile. What I enjoy most is the people – I’ve met so many I never would have crossed paths with otherwise.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Woodend Neighbourhood House?
I’ve always believed in giving back . Someone once told me it’s easy to give money, but giving your time is what really matters. Last December, time was something I had in abundance, and I wanted to use it in a way that felt meaningful. I’d volunteered with other organisations before, but the Woodend Neighbourhood House immediately felt like home. The kindness and desire to help has stayed with me. I’m now on the committee because I truly love what the house does and believe it’s vital for our community.
Where’s your favourite local place to spend time?
My favourite places in Woodend are the ones that feel like the heart of my life here, my kitchen, where I’m always crafting food; Nellie’s Shed for coffee with friends; a fresh-air walk out in nature; and the high street, where you’re almost guaranteed to bump into someone you know. They’re simple places, but they each bring a different kind of joy. They make me feel happy and at peace.
