After moving to the west five years ago, Newport local Bettina Twyman has become a vital member of the local community. Working as a project coordinator at the Yarraville Community Centre, she and her family has loved the warm and welcoming nature of the region and its people, as she tells Matthew Sims.
What is your connection to Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay?
I have proudly worked for the Yarraville Community Centre since 2017, first coordinating the Reconnect program and now with the coordination of various projects. Our current projects include our food relief program Nourish, launching our community pantry, a family learning program at the Western English Language School, a program called Connecting Carers, which supports unpaid carers on pathways into employment and other volunteer and training opportunities. The Yarraville Community Centre is a vibrant and meaningful place to work and I enjoy each and every day.
What do you love about where you live?
Living in Newport, I have enjoyed the feeling of community and working together before, during and in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Our local businesses are always warm and welcoming. Our local parks, libraries and waterfronts provide families and individuals with great open spaces for recreation and connecting with the outdoors.
How has your passion for the west informed your life and work?
I moved from New South Wales to the west five years ago. By living and working in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, I learned the history and character of the area and its people. To work in a community centre is to engage with a diverse range of community members and deliver programs that best meet their needs. To do this, you must be a part of the community and a person who listens and applies community consultation to all programs. By making the decision to actively be a part of the community, you create meaningful outcomes for others.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
My favourite local places to spend time include Yarraville Village, Hall Street in Newport for coffee, Williamstown waterfront for lunch and the park. I also love going to Footscray for noodles and dumplings.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
I think Labyrinth is the best film ever made.
