Kath was born in Victoria and came to WA in 1970 with her family. She taught Mathematics at Balcatta Senior High School from 1970 – 1979 and at Swan View Senior High School from 1980 – 1985.

Like many people, after retirement she wondered what she could do with her spare time that was meaningful and stimulating. She wanted to be engaged with the community and searched for an organisation she would like to become involved with. She joined Mundaring Sharing in 1986 which was the beginning of her long involvement with the organisation. She participated in a needlework class and in 1988 Kath was asked to co-ordinate the needlework class, a roll that has continued ever since. However, needlework is only one of the many activities held at Mundaring Sharing and Kath was soon voted in as program coordinator at the centre, a position she held for 2 years.

Hilda Christian from Mundaring Sharing said “Kath is always a willing helper for all and sundry. Her raffle ticket selling is legendary and she is always available to help on enrollment day or to oversea the gardening at the centre.”

Kath believes it is the best thing she ever did as far as becoming acquainted with the community was concerned. In 1995, she was awarded life membership of Mundaring Sharing.

Kath didn’t only restrict herself to volunteer at one organisation. She has been a stalwart of the Darlington branch of Save the Children since 1986.  For this time she has also been the Treasurer of the branch.

Like most organisations, regular fund raisers are held by the Darlington branch of Save the Children, and Kath has always exceeded expectations with selling raffle tickets, obtaining prizes and providing and serving food at functions. Whether it is for the Darlington Pub Night, morning tea for the Mundaring Probus Group, the Antique Fair or the Fashion Parades, Kath is always available to help out in any way possible. Maggie McKay from Save the Children said “Kath has been a permanent provider of sandwiches and slices at functions, plus assisting with the set up and clear up. For a number of years Kath provided firewood in a trailer for raffles, I must also add that she split a lot of this firewood herself. We could not get a more willing worker than Kath and she is a great friend to many, always ready to pitch in and do a great deal.”

In 2006 Save the Children awarded Kath with a Certificate of Appreciation and in 2008 she was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for outstanding service. Kath still to this day continues with fundraising and maintains her treasurers roll.

Kath has also been involved with Probus – A  Professional and Business Club for Retirees and she has been a Judge at Needlework Shows in Chidlow and Midland

We would like to congratulate Kath Longley for her generosity of time, spirit and her wonderful ‘can do’ attitude. Without wonderful volunteers such as Kath Longley, our community would not be the rich and interesting place it is today.

Click Here for past Inspiration Zone stories:

Joan Crawford

Wally Winfield

Ted Barbour

Kath Longley