Committee for Lorne: Community Profile - March 15, 2018

Sport has been a passion and a major part of Meryl’s life. “I was a fanatic.” Many in Lorne would know she was behind the upgrading and expansion of netball as a serious sport in Lorne. In 1960, when she first became involved in the then Polwarth League, Lorne were premiers. She not only played but coached teams to further success over 17 years. There were even five night teams.

Her generous and enthusiastic nature and the respect with which she was held in the community resulted in upgrades to the courts, lighting for night games and donation of a shed – complete with a chip heater – for the players to change and shower in. “There was such a strong sense of community.”

Meryl was born the second youngest of eight children and educated in Colac. “My great grandmother was the first white lady to live in Colac permanently.” At school she thought about nursing but was directed towards sewing instead. She studied the craft in Ballarat but on her return to Colac began work at a local store.

That didn’t last long before she decided a change in pace was appropriate. With a wicked smile, she told me how she began a program of working summers at The Cumberland for Lillian Beaurepaire and spending winters in Queensland on holidays with relatives – that is, until she met Len in Lorne. They married in 1960 and set up in town and produced five daughters who have given her 14 grandchildren.

The Fultons have always had room for boarders. “I loved them all.” In the past, many a telephonist, banker and night post worker have been fortunate to be accommodated in their home. Meryl is still in touch with some of them.

Apart from a being completely devoted to her children and grandchildren, her sewing skills provide lots of pleasure. She makes pyjamas for many of them and exquisite patchwork quilts. Oh, and over the balcony she points out bee hives from which she will collect honey later in the day.

Meryl loves travel but “I’m inclined to say it’s the adventure that appeals more”. From the time her last daughter left university when they spent a month in UK together, she has been with other daughters and granddaughters to South Africa, France, Ireland, Canada and Alaska, South America and the Galapagos, Norfolk Island and New Zealand. She currently has her eyes set on Scandinavia.

“Sometimes I think about what if I had become a nurse but then I wouldn’t have had the life I have had and I have no regrets.”