Q&A Profile: with Maleny's Norma McLeod

Norma McLeod was one of only five Sunshine Coast 2021 recipients of an Order of Australia Medal (OAM). The medal is acknowledgement of her work for Centre for Retirement Living (Blue Care), Maleny Show Society, Maleny Garden Club, Maleny Floral Art Group and the Maleny Soldiers Memorial Hospital, to name a few. 

Birth date and/or star sign: My birthday is in February so I am an Aquarius.

Favourite TV Show: Television is not my number one priority, however I enjoy Death in Paradise and Doc Martin.

One thing on your bucket list: Growing orchids like our daughter in Scotland is my one ambition.

Best advice you have ever received: The best advice I have received was given to me by my father “Think before you speak”.

Most memorable (non-family) moment: The day I passed my Drivers Licence was a most memorable experience - 65 years ago.

Hobby or Pastime: As a retiree the brain has to be stimulated so playing Canasta brings enjoyment.

What would your friends/family say is your most annoying habit? Friends and neighbours who see my lights on during the night find this an annoying habit.

What is something people don’t know about you? My 8th Great Grandchild (a boy Thomas) was born on 9th August. Thomas is the 7th boy — the only girl is 6 year old  Marlie.

What one thing would you like to see happen in the local area? More parking in Maleny would be a big plus and creating a bypass for the town centre would make travelling through much quicker and easier.

Best local activity: The Maleny Agricultural Show is a most enjoyable and interesting event made possible by a wonderful group of volunteers.  The two-day event brings many people to town who help to increase the economy, thereby helping the Small Businesses.

Best thing about your town (apart from the people)? The best thing about our town is the Maleny Soldier’s Memorial Hospital and the Walk of Remembrance where the Anzac Day Service was held this year.

Is there a local business, community group, club or person you’d like to give a shout-out to?  The Maleny Floral Art Group held at the Neighbourhood Centre on 1st Tuesday of each month brings much enjoyment to those who attend, encouraging artistic endeavours with flowers from our gardens.

What haven’t we asked that we should know about you? You haven’t asked me what my future plans are — that is in the planning stage.