Margaret is one of the many friendly faces who joined CRCS’s Involve program after participating in the Communities at Work social groups. We recently asked her to share a bit about herself as part of our effort to get to know each other better and celebrate the diverse experiences within our group.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Margaret’s life has taken her across the country – from country NSW to Sydney and the Top End, and finally to Canberra. After leaving school, she spent a year working as a governess in Bourke before returning home to help on the family farm. Eventually, the big smoke beckoned, and she moved to Sydney, where she worked a number of jobs and met her husband, Roy.
Roy and Margaret married in 1962 and raised their first two daughters in Sydney. Then, with a sense of adventure, they packed up and moved to Darwin with friends – an experience Margaret admits was a shock to the system. “We arrived in June and it was hot and sticky – you couldn’t even get cold water out of the tap!” But over time, they settled in. The kids started school, they made friends, had their third daughter, and soon Darwin felt like home.
Life was busy in the Top End. They moved from the city to the countryside, where Roy became captain of the local volunteer bush brigade, and Margaret drove a 40-minute trip into town for work each day. She and Roy both eventually retired, the girls went their own ways, and life slowed a little for a while. Roy developed Alzheimer’s, and Margaret found herself navigating the challenges of the disease. “It’s harder on the family than people realise. Just when you think you’ve adjusted to one change, there’s another.”
When Roy passed away in 2013, and their eldest daughter two years later, Margaret stayed in Darwin, supported by her strong social network and the comfort of her own home. But a heart attack in 2019 changed everything. Her two daughters, who had moved to Canberra, encouraged her to relocate. “I didn’t want to come,” she says. “It felt like starting again.”
But six years on, Margaret says the move turned out to be one of the best decisions she’s made. Now living with her youngest daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren, she has a full and happy life. Margaret says she has made wonderful friends and there’s always something to do. It’s clear that Margaret is a valued part of her community. What began as a reluctant move has grown into a rich and rewarding chapter of her life.
How did you get involved in social groups?
Margaret joined the Communities at Work social program in late 2020 to help settle into Canberra. Initially, she wasn’t sure it was for her. “I went to one activity and didn’t plan to go back. But people kept encouraging me to come again – and I did. Then another time, and another – and here we are.”
She quickly found her rhythm, and her appreciation for the program grew. “The bus drivers were great, the facilitators were great – I never had a bad word to say about anyone.”
What are some of the things you enjoy doing now?
Although arthritis has made some things more difficult, Margaret keeps herself busy with word puzzles, knitting and tapestry. She enjoys the social groups for their variety and company, and Tuesday exercise classes to keep active and moving – she’s considering adding on the Thursday session as well. Oh, and a glass of red wine in the evening never goes astray!
What has the transition to CRCS and the Involve program been like?
When the Communities at Work program transitioned to CRCS, Margaret was among the participants who came across. “It’s been good,” she says. “The Monday sessions at Belconnen are quite interesting – there’s always something different happening.” While transport isn’t as easy as it used to be, she’s continues to attend regularly.
Have you had any favourite moments or activities since joining CRCS?
“They’re all good days,” Margaret says. The sense of connection matters most. “There’s always someone to chat to.”
What makes you feel welcome in a group?
“My cheekiness!” Margaret says with a laugh. “You can ask Sisa about that. It’s great to have a laugh and a chat.” That’s what makes it feel like you belong.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining an Involve group?
“Go for it! It’s fun. You can’t have a chip on your shoulder – you need to be prepared to give and take. That’s how you get the most out of it.”
Why do you think programs like this are important?
“For elderly people, it gives you a reason to get out of the house and meet people. Otherwise, you’d be climbing the walls. It really helps.”
These profiles are a way for Involve participants to get to know each other better and celebrate the many stories, backgrounds and experiences that make up our group. They also help us understand what matters most to you as part of the Involve community. There are no right or wrong answers – just your story, in your own words. If you’d like to be featured in an upcoming profile, we’d love to hear from you. Please speak to Sisa or chat to one of the Involve facilitators.
Contact the Involve team on (02) 6264 0200 or email involve@crcs.com.au.
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