HEATHER Kenrick’s connection to Wonglepong Country Women’s Association spans more than 50 years – her journey shaped by care, commitment and community spirit.
Determined to make the world a better place, she has spent a lifetime turning that belief into action through volunteering.
“I’ve always been one that’s wanted to help the community, particularly people who are less fortunate – that’s always been my forte,” she said.
Early days
Growing up on a cane farm in Ballina, Heather was the eldest of five children.
She was close to her entire family but shared a special bond with her mother Lilian through their love of cooking.
After leaving school, Heather completed a 12-month secretarial course, riding her bike along the Pacific Highway to attend college in Lismore.
Her dream job was to be a primary school teacher, but her career adviser in Year 10 recommended she go down a different path.
“Because I stressed so much in exams, she advised me to do the secretarial course,” she said.
A work meet-cute
Heather began working at 16 as a receptionist for Rice’s Garage, where she stayed for seven years before moving to a typist role at Lismore Commercial Banking Company of Sydney (CBC Bank).
In 1962, she was transferred to the Brisbane office, where she met her soulmate George, who was a bank manager there.
The couple married in 1967 and had two children – Mark and Alison.
Heather never regretted pursuing a career as a secretary, which allowed her to work alongside George.
During their time at CBC Bank, the couple were transferred often and temporarily lived in Longreach, Hamilton and Southport, before settling in Beaudesert in 1979.
Heather retired from the bank in 1969 while George remained with the company until it was taken over by the National Bank of Australasia in the early 1980s.
A chance to give back
Heather joined Wonglepong CWA in 1975 after being invited by a woman she met through state cookery competitions.
Her children were babies at the time, and her daughter Alison became a member when she was just two weeks old.
Heather was elected president at the annual general meeting that year, after then-secretary Em Pilditch recommended her for the role.
Since joining the group, she has held several committee roles and continues to assist as secretary.
Wonglepong CWA celebrated its 100th anniversary in November 2025, with Heather receiving an award for 50 years of service to the group.
“Personally, I never joined these things for praise, but to help fellow human beings and make the world a better place,” she said.
“I am just there to help where I could, when I could.”
Life after loss
In 2000, George passed away at the age of 69.
Heather said his passing was a difficult time, but the love and support of her children helped her heal.
She continued her voluntary work after George’s passing, receiving the Wright Community Contribution Award in 2017 and the Scenic Rim Regional Council Senior Citizen of the Year award in 2018.
For Heather, service was never about recognition; it was about showing up – and she still does.
