LOCAL resident Vivienne McWaters was born in the Melbourne suburb of Carlton and grew up in Richmond. She lived in Wangaratta before moving to Beechworth where she has lived for the last 55 years.
What did you do workwise?
I was a librarian at Beechworth Secondary College for 35 years before retiring.
What brought you to your role/career?
I started off by stepping in to help with administrative work as a staff member was on leave, then helped out in the science labs before finding my way to the library.
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What did you love about your work?
I loved working with the kids and staff and being surrounded by books. There was never a dull moment and always an interesting day. It was a delightful environment to work in. The kids have all grown up now but when they see me in town, they recognise me and it’s such a pleasure to say hello.
What do you do in the community?
I’ve never had time to take up voluntary work except teach Sunday school for several years in my younger days. I was too busy undertaking research for my books on Chinese artefacts. My husband Bob and I had built a house in Beechworth and discovered the area next door had been a Chinese camp established in the gold rush. I was intrigued by Chinese history, and it went on from there. It had been a fascinating time digging and unearthing many artefacts, and a number of them are on display at the Burke Museum. My first book is titled the Little Canton followed by my second one 'The Peculiar Strangers’ which took three decades.
What do you see as an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
To me Beechworth is a friendly town but there’s always room for improvement to keep working on tourism strategies to attract visitors. Local businesses need as many tourists as possible as they are the lifeblood of the town.
What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
The world is in turmoil. The wars in Palestine and Israel, Russia and Ukraine and problems in Africa are just shocking.
If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo Shire (past or present), or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?
My dear friend Gabby Chan. Gabby has been here once before on a fleeting visit. She didn't have time for me to show her the interesting and historical buildings which we, the local citizens, enjoy daily. Gabby is a Chinese actress who would find our Robert O'Hara Burke Museum very interesting. The people who work at Beechworth's Information Centre would answer any questions she might have. I would take her to Hotel Nicholas as the food is great and the decor outstanding. The walls are covered with historical photos and co-owner, Lorraine Lucas, has many an interesting story to tell. I would also take Gabby to see the Woolshed Falls, an amazing place worth the visit.
What book are you reading?
Nothing at the moment but have read all nine books in the Outlander novel series with the first book under Cross Stitch by American author Diana Gabaldon before rebadged as Outlander. The novels were made into an Outlander TV series.
