MY NAME is Fay Valerius. You would know me better by my husband Carl. I was born near Palm Beach, Sydney, and met my husband on the Gold Coast. We married and moved back to Sydney, then to Harden. We had a very big project at the Garangula Homestead.
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We bought our little house in Clarke Street in 1989. I did miss the ocean, but saying that, I would not go back to Sydney; my home is here.
The saying is that, you always move and live where relations used to live. My grandfather had a small property at Wallendbeen and my great grandfather was a Presbyterian Minister who taught at Young. So, it is a small world.
Our daughter, granddaughter grandson and our great grandchildren all live here as well. With our children living here, it is an example of what living in Harden means to us all.
I went to China and while there, I noticed how the children loved their kites; so, on returning home, I decided to start the Kite Festival here in Harden. I thought that it might be a great project, not only for children, but adults as well. I started this in 2005 and am very pleased with all the people who have put in their time to ensure success of this project. As you can probably guess, it was difficult to get it going the first few years, but we persevered. This has become one of the best projects in Harden and I am very proud of this achievement.
I have found most people who live in Harden-Murrumburrah are the salt of the earth. When I drive home I say, 'hello home'."
- Fay Valerius
I became a member of Whichcraft, where my baking skills came to the fore. I have made many cakes and now make all the soup. I then took over the restaurant as head cook but left when the owners sold the premises.
It was time for a new adventure and I joined the View Club 25 years ago It has been very rewarding meeting the lovely ladies that belong to this association, where money is raised for disadvantaged children for the Smith Family who distribute the funds. I am now a National Councillor for the View Club, ie Smith Family. I have been told there are children here in Harden who need our help, but we are not told their names.
I have been involved for Rotary for many years. I catered for the Rotary PETS (President Elect Training Session) for seven years. I also cater at my home for many Rotary theme nights and we all have a great time.
I have found most people who live in Harden-Murrumburrah are the salt of the earth. When I drive home I say, “hello home.” I look around – there is no graffiti on my walls and my letter box is not blown up. Everything is safe. We are very lucky to live in a great country town.
- SHARE your story about life as a Hilltop woman for our Hundred Hearts of Hilltop project. Contact Rita on 0407 227 140.