Sunbury Residents Association (SRA) treasurer Wendy Walters, chats with Zoe Moffatt about living in Sunbury and her time in the role.
Tell us about yourself and what you do?
I am semi-retired now, but I was a librarian at the University of Melbourne for 24 years. I’m always busy, and I love food, photography and history.
What is your connection to Sunbury?
I moved from Tasmania with my husband Bob and our four growing children. We built a lovely home at Goonawarra- the land was reasonably priced and we were on a golf course. We moved to Jacksons Hill about 10 years ago and refurbished the Urban Land Authorities sale offices into our spectacular home.
I have been part of the Hume Community Advisory Group for the Global Learning Centre and the first Community Advisory Group for Jackson’s Hill Arts Precinct. I ran the Gatehouse Café for eight years and commissioned artists to paint scenes telling the story of Sunbury and surrounds. This culminated in an exhibition recently at the Hume Global Learning Centre.
What do you like about where you live?
It is a quiet and leafy area and it is next to a beautiful little park. During COVID-19 we were able to have lots of outings in the fresh air.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would love a dedicated museum for all the history collections in the area, and I would love a double lane highway all the way to the airport. I would also love Caloola, Jacksons Hill restored and used.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
I love being home and being with the family, friends, grandchildren and now great grandchildren. I love walking at the Nook, and also going to Launceston, where we are restoring our large timber home and a boat.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
I recently had a minor stroke, and am having trouble moving my arm and leg. Luckily the F.A.S.T acronym helped and may help others F=face A=arm S=speech T=telephone. Fast action from the Royal Melbourne Stroke Team and Hospital in the Home also helped me recover quickly.
Tell us about your involvement in the residents association.
My husband Bob was part of the Sunbury Rotary Club doing work locally and all around the world, including Tonga and Nepal. I wanted to do something in the community, so I Joined the SRA about 21 years ago.
We advocate to council and other authorities on behalf of the community, and this year we have given 1400 plants to kinder kids, with the help of a state government grant. We are also running a petition to get a lift at our station.
