HEATHER Jameson was born in the regional town of Te Puke, in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.

She moved to Australia with her husband 18 years ago and has lived in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne where both the couple’s children were born.

“We made our move to Beechworth in late 2023 and have not looked back - the lifestyle here is just what we had been hoping for," she said.

"Since moving here, I discovered that my great grandfather, Guy Addison Morris, was born in Rutherglen in 1889.

"I love this connection to the region and would love to delve deeper into his story."

What do you do workwise?

I've recently joined the Quercus Beechworth team as operations coordinator.

I'm now overseeing the volunteer program, social enterprise and community activities going forward.

What brought you to your role/career?

I've had quite a diverse career history, predominantly as a trainer in the coffee industry, but have experience in commercial kitchens, social enterprise, fashion and hold a Bachelor of Physical Education from Otago University.

I felt my background would be well suited to this multifaceted role, plus working in a community facing position is a long-held goal of mine.

What do you love about your work?

No two days have been the same since joining the team and we're spoiled by our surroundings at Quercus.

I'm learning a lot about the Neighbourhood House sector and its positive impact within our community.

Meeting and learning from our network of volunteers has been a highlight thus far.

What do you do in the community?

I'm hoping I'm able to contribute more to the community now that I am working part-time hours.

In my new role I look forward to creating a dynamic and exciting program of activities via Quercus, for the new year and beyond.

Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?

I'd love to see the Gorge Bridge reopened not only as a recreational asset, but for necessary accessibility for bushfire vehicles.

What would you do to solve change or improve that situation?

I'm aware this is currently in the hands of Parks Victoria, but hope for a positive resolution for the community soon.

If anything, accessibility via foot or bicycle would be a great improvement.

What do you see as one of the most important current issues?

It's a perfect time of year to promote conscious consumption and the impact of our choices.

I've been finding a balance myself over the past few years and while I don't always get it right, I've seen a lot of improvements in our habits since shifting my mindset. Shopping locally, making my own clothes where possible and minimising food waste have been my initial areas of focus.

If the person you would most like to meet or knew, came to Indigo Shire or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?

Australian food icon, Maggie Beer.

I'd love to show off our charming town, historic sites, and take a drive through the orchards in Stanley.

Then chat about a shared love of good produce and her vibrant career over a glass of wine.

What book are you reading?

I just received a copy of "Force of Nature - Te Aumangea o te ao Tūroa", written by David Young and my sister, Naomi Arnold.

It's a vast book celebrating New Zealand conservation organisation, Forest & Bird's 100-year history.