Meet Marge Leary
When Marge was very young, her mother was faced with bringing up Marge and her two older brothers on her own after their father died.
Marge was enrolled in Our Lady of Victories Convent Brisbane, as a weekly boarder.
This was where Marge’s interest in history was sparked. The imposing building, now called Cintra, dates back to 1863. Marge remembers every room clearly.
In 1960 Marge came to Sydney, got a job handling accounts for radio stations in the Macquarie network and met her future husband Lance.
They married in 1967 and had two boys and a girl. After Lance died in 2007, Marge, rekindled her interest in history to help come to terms with her loss. She visited Bella Vista Farm where Val Barton introduced her to the Friends of Bella Vista. The group has since become an important part of Marge’s life and a wonderful outlet.
She works in the thriving heritage garden, helps restore soft furnishings for the house, including hand-knitted lace for the edging of the curtains in the dining and drawing rooms.
Her cross-stitching and embroidery have attracted many prizes at the Castle Hill Show. Her three grandchildren keep her busy and share in activities with her. Marge says “I love a simple life and it is full of joy and contentment”. What more can anyone ask?
COME AND VISIT
Friends of Bella Vista Farm would like to meet anyone who has an interest in history and wants to serve the community. Come and say hello at one of the Bella Vista Farm open days. The Farm is open 1st Sunday of every month at 2 Elizabeth MacArthur Drive, Bella Vista or check out www.thehills.nsw.gov.au
