Heart of the Haven: Julia Reynolds

JULIA Reynolds is one of those quiet achievers who just gets on with helping others.

Living in Laurieton since December 2014, her connection to Camden Haven goes back much further.

“I’ve been coming here for over 47 years on holidays,” she said.

“My in-laws lived in Dunbogan, so I’ve always felt very connected to the area.

“When it came time to retire, it just felt right.

“I’ve always loved the sense of community here.”

About seven years ago, Julia and a friend came across Food Connect and decided to check it out.

She’s been there ever since.

“We rocked up to have a look and ended up volunteering,” she said.

“I just loved the idea of giving back.”

For those who don’t know, Food Connect is a volunteer-run organisation that redistributes food supplied by OzHarvest, collecting surplus food from the local Woolworths.

Julia is part of the Thursday crew, collecting and sorting everything ready for Friday.

Come Friday morning, it all comes together.

“We set it up a bit like a market,” Julia said.

“I help with the barbecue; making bacon and egg or steak sandwiches, wrapping them up with names on them.

“Then everyone comes through, grabs their produce and a hot breakfast.”

It’s something she genuinely loves being part of.

“I just enjoy putting a smile on people’s faces,” she said.

“I’ve had a pretty good life, and now it’s time to pay it forward while I still can.”

Julia continues to show up week after week, despite dealing with her own health challenges. “Even though I’m battling health issues, I’m proud I can still be there and hopefully make a difference.

“Helping others gives me the incentive to turn up,” she said.

Julia is also hoping to see more people step up and get involved.

“We really do need more volunteers – most of us are over 70,” she said.

“It’s such a rewarding thing to do.”

By Chan ANSELL