AS a child growing up in New Zealand I was an avid reader and dreamed of being a writer, but I lacked confidence.
At university I earned a degree in languages and history before becoming a mum of three.
With no clear career path I ended up working in construction administration, which I still do today.
At 55 years old my children are all adults and my husband and I moved to the area two years ago so that he could enjoy retirement.
I wanted to find ways to get involved in my local community, which I have done by joining several different organisations and groups.
I’m passionate about words and hyper-local news, so writing for News Of The Area is a perfect fit. It allows me to share and amplify news of the people and stories around me.
Some weeks I write nine stories, others only one.
I live with a spinal cord injury and use a wheelchair full-ime, so I mostly interview people over the phone.
I have met a diverse range of people during the past 12 months of writing and really appreciate the connections I have forged.
I believe local newspapers have the power to unite communities.
Rachael Thorpe
Contributing Reporter
Camden Haven News Of The Area
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