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The 40 Over 40 Project Second Edition | Andrea

My Mum is my best friend, confidant, mentor, and hero. She inspires me daily with her strength, resilience, kindness, and ability to stand up for herself. I feel incredibly lucky to share such a close bond with her. Her love and support have shaped me into the woman I am today.

Mum has been by my side through everything. She never missed a netball game, school assembly, or sports event. She also inspired my love for travel—ever since I was young, I adored flipping through her Europe photo album. That passion led me to create my own cherished memories abroad.

I grew up on a hobby farm in Ardath, 20km south of Bruce Rock. Life in the country was a dream—riding motorbikes, building cubbies, caring for animals, and learning where our food came from, all within a tight-knit community. It was an idyllic upbringing, but life wasn’t without hardships.

I experienced loss and grief early. We lost six immediate family members, including three grandparents and three aunts and uncles. Two were Mum’s younger brothers, who tragically took their own lives. I was eight when I saw my mum collapse upon hearing the news of her first brother’s passing. Yet, every day since, she has risen again—putting on a brave face, treating everyone with kindness and respect. Her resilience is inspiring, and it has taught me to navigate life’s highs and lows with grace.

Both my parents are incredibly hard workers, a trait they’ve instilled in me. Over the years, I watched Mum take on the role of a “solo” parent while Dad worked away for their business, Jeandrex Field Services, all while managing the bookkeeping and administration. When they sold the business, she re-entered the workforce, earning qualifications through TAFE while working at the Community Resource Centre, even receiving awards for her achievements.

We later moved to the city, where she joined Community Bank Mundaring as Administration Officer, working her way up to Executive Officer. She has been in the role for 11 years and is well-known and loved in the community for her warmth and dedication.

Today, I have the privilege of working alongside her. Having my Mum as both a mentor and teacher is an honour. Not many people get to work so closely with someone who has had such a profound impact on their life, and I don’t take it for granted. Every day, I witness the dedication and professionalism that make her so respected.

Working with her has deepened my admiration for all she has accomplished. She leads by example, demonstrating patience, integrity, and an unwavering work ethic. Whether guiding me through challenges or offering words of encouragement, she continues to shape me—not just as a professional but as a person. It’s a privilege to learn from her, to laugh with her, and to share this chapter of our lives together. I couldn’t ask for a better role model, and I feel incredibly lucky to call her my mum.

perth portrait family photographer

Perth Family Portrait Photographer

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