Williamstown’s Ian Nicholls has been instrumental in revitalising Newport RSL. He speaks with Goya Dmytryshchak.
What do you like about Williamstown?
Williamstown is a great place to live, for its history and for the lifestyle. I moved to the area around 2003 and met my wife, Mary, a few years later. She raised her girls here (they’re now in their late 20s) and I moved into Williamstown around 13 years ago. I love it, who wouldn’t – with great views all around.
What would you change or what could be improved?
I’ve seen some great old houses disappear and ultra-modern buildings replacing these, poorly disguised as housing but I guess it’s all in the eye of the beholder. I don’t begrudge progress – it must happen, although I don’t want to see our heritage disappear too quickly. Some of our residential streets could be improved and beautified but I guess it’s a long work in progress.
What’s your favourite local cafe/restaurant(s)?
My wife, Mary and I don’t support just one cafe or restaurant in particular, especially during the current pandemic. Although we don’t eat out a lot, we support a different cafe and restaurant each week, as we hope the whole community does likewise.
Could you tell me about your involvement with Newport RSL?
I am the secretary and treasurer of Newport RSL Sub-branch. My role is to support the president and committee as well as organising our important welfare activities throughout the greater Williamstown, Newport and Altona North areas. Presently, we are assisting a greater number of the aged and the younger ADF personnel who reach out for our help. That is our core focus and we do it without hesitation. We are currently preparing for the 2021 Remembrance Day (Poppy) Appeal and despite the COVID-19 pandemic we will still forge ahead and do our very best to raise much-needed funds to ultimately assist our veterans. We actively seek new members, especially from Williamstown as our reach also covers this area.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I spent seven years or so in the Australian Boys’ Choir and appeared on a number of TV shows including the annual Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl. From here, I was selected to join Young Talent Time but my father put a stop to that. I still have a love of music and am proud of our music and entertainment at the RSL where we get to see a broad range of musicians walking through the door from first timers to those who have performed in some of our most well-known bands.
How has your life has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Life has changed for everyone. After returning from working overseas, I’ve focussed on working in Melbourne and getting to know Williamstown more intimately during my time off. By taking a different exercise route each day, I am pleasantly surprised by the architecture and pride our community takes in their gardens and homes.
