Helen Westcott
How long have you lived in Parkes and what do you like most about living here?
I have called Parkes Home for almost 50 years , coming here in February 1969, after marrying Malcolm. I was here for a short time in Trundle and Parkes for 3 years from 62-64. Parkes is a very friendly community and we have a progressive council looking after us.
Where do you work or what do you do currently and what do you enjoy about it? I was a teacher at Parkes High School for many years and since retiring at the end of 1997, we moved into the family home in town and started operating Kadina Bed and Breakfast, the 1st in Parkes, celebrating 20 years next month. Both Mal and I thoroughly enjoy hosting people from all areas of Australia and overseas and have made friends with many. We have just returned from Japan where we met up with two ladies that we hosted many years ago and we call that a highlight of our trip.
What do you do in your spare time and on weekends? Golf is an interest I have, and I play 9 holes most Tuesdays and Fridays. I enjoy, cooking, sewing, reading and chatting with friends.
What are you really good at? First up procrastinating, and then more seriously, trusting that I offer friendship and hospitality to those who choose to stay at Kadina B&B.
If you could have a superpower what would it be? To have rain when we think we need it, but I know it is in God’s hands when it is delivered and I must be patient and act wisely, encouraging those around me.
What is your pet hate? People not encouraging and helping others. Making extra work for some, for example, people who don’t place litter in the correct receptacle
Tell us about your best holiday. We wanted to take our sons on an overseas holiday, but with a drought in 82/83, it was made difficult. However, we decided on Lord Howe Island, a decision we will never regret. As we left the Island one of the boys said, “wonder who will return here first”. Both have been back.