Rosemary’s Story

My name is Rosemary and I’m a freelance historian and writer. I’ve lived in Sydney all my life and love travelling. I’m an only child and after caring for Dad and with both my parents gone now, I’m navigating a new phase of life and way of being in the world.  

I remember hearing about Wayside and Reverend Ted Noffs from the 1970s, and I was aware of the great work it does and saw the big Christmas street parties each year on the news. I got to know more about Wayside through reading mailouts and stories on social media. 

For me, Wayside truly embodies the ethos of unconditional love, meeting people where they are, without judgement no matter what, and treating all with dignity and humanity. That seems to be living the real spirit of Christianity. Reverend Jon Owen’s emails with stories of people who are part of the Wayside community are so moving and inspiring.  

After Dad died, I had to think more seriously about my own legacy. I wanted my Will to include charities that are close to my heart and values. I wanted to leave a legacy that will have a broader impact on society and the community as well as looking after family and friends. 

I would encourage anyone to include a gift to Wayside in their Will as it’s a wonderful way to leave a lasting legacy so that Wayside can give hope and comfort to future generations. 

Leaving a gift in Will is not difficult at all. Wayside provided a guide that was easy to follow for the wording, and I had a solicitor draft my Will. 

I feel incredibly fortunate to have had a loving family, a safe home and a comfortable life and I want to help bring hope, comfort and love to others who are living with pain, trauma and struggles that I could only imagine.  

Knowing I’m doing this and how it might impact future generations – it’s inspiring and humbling.