Anna’s Story

My name is Anna, originally from the West Coast of Ireland.  I’m one of 9 children and 3rd in the pecking order.  I immigrated to Australia in the late ’70, initially to Melbourne for a short stint before moving to the Harbour City where I’ve been ever since – and never want to leave. 

I first discovered Wayside almost 20 years ago when I was looking for something purposeful to do on Christmas Day.  I signed up as a volunteer and had my best Christmas.  I love Wayside’s philosophy of ‘no us and them’; of ’love over hate’; and of acceptance of all with no judgement.  That philosophy is borne out not just on Christmas Day when up to 800 people from all walks of life turn up for a 3-course festive lunch, but on every day of the year. 

I love my weekly rummage at Wayside’s Op Shop and bagging a bargain – where I find the best brands at the best prices.  My photo was taken at Chichibu Pink Moss Park in Japan with me wearing my coordinating “pink” Wayside Op Shop dress!  I got more ‘likes’ for the pink dress than I did for the pink moss!   

Making a donation in my Will to Wayside was an easy decision for me having seen firsthand the work that Wayside does every day of the year.  Grass roots Christianity in action and at its finest.