Interviewed by Emma Hughes

Emma: How long have you lived in the area?
Mary Elizabeth: 56 years.

Emma: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Mary Elizabeth: Having a school across the road so I didn’t have to bring people to-and-from school.

Emma: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Mary Elizabeth: Yes, several times.

Emma: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Mary Elizabeth: Family lives near, there’s not too much of that around. It’s a joy to see my family doing well and being happy, and that nobody is sick or anything.

Emma: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Mary Elizabeth: Well, I have good neighbours who would respond in trouble. Keeping in touch with those abroad over telephone and computer.

Emma: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Mary Elizabeth: I’m not expecting to be here in ten years time. Well, I’d like to see my grandchildren growing up and finishing their education.

Pictured below is a cake that Emma made as her creative response to her interview with Mary Elizabeth.