Born in Mosman, Barbara grew up with her parents, Dorothy and Clifford, and younger brother Clayton.

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As a child she struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia, which made her schooling difficult.

When her career began she spent time in office administration before enlisting in the Army.

Over the years, she married, raised children, divorced, worked in the family security business, and pursued higher education.

She also volunteered for many years with the Hawkesbury Art Gallery and local museum.

Life however was not without hardship.

She battled health issues that took years to diagnose and faced financial struggles that ultimately led to homelessness in 2020.

It was around this time that opportunity arose.

With nowhere to live, Barbara relocated to be with her cousin in the Camden Haven.

Devoid of a local art gallery, Barbara soon began volunteering with the Camden Haven Historical Society Museum.

During the past five years her administrative skills have proved invaluable.

Over time she has taken on more responsibility, recently being elected Society President.

“What I love most is the people, their stories, and their appreciation of how our heritage should be maintained so the future can look back and see how far we have come,” said Barbara.

Today, Barbara donates her time several days a week to assist with the museum’s daily activities, and with a team of volunteers, ensures it remains relevant in a digital world.

If Barbara had one wish for the Camden Haven community, what would it be?

“A greater recognition of the value of many older people who still want to have purpose in their lives, by being in a social environment that recognises the value of their life experience, while helping our young people to search outside their box and experiencing something new while appreciating what is getting old.

“There is power and purpose in being part of something greater than yourself,” Barbara said.

Barbara also hopes for greater access to essential information, and stronger collaboration with community organisations to protect the region’s irreplaceable heritage.