Community Profile – January 18, 2018

A year as a Monash University exchange student in Johannesburg heightened Megan’s interest in Africa. “It was a bit of a culture shock but I loved it.” During her time studying, with an interest in volunteer work, Megan helped out at The Oak Tree Foundation, an organisation to help young people. On completion of her arts degree, with majors in psychology and philosophy, and tired of study, she headed off on her own to backpack more of Africa and to explore Europe.

After a year, Megan returned to Melbourne and began work with the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. Four years later she took a job with Melbourne University’s Advancement Office, first in administration then in fund raising, becoming particularly involved in the Student for Students Campaign.

Although Megan enjoyed her job, after four years she was tiring of sitting in an office. Her interest in fitness and healthy living prompted her to qualify as a personal trainer and join a friend’s newly formed company, ‘Liv Fun Fit’. She developed an interest in boxing and ran small group classes.

Megan has been coming to Lorne for holidays with her family since she was born. “Mum was pregnant with me while the beach house was being built. Lorne had always felt like a second home.” She had a cousin working in hospitality at Bottle of Milk, who, when she expressed interest in escaping the city, encouraged her to move down. She quickly found work as a waitress, loved “the energy of it and dealing with customers”, and living in Lorne – so decided to stay.

That was two years ago. She has since met Tim. They bought a house and a dog, and she set up three bee hives, keeps fit boxing a bag, reads and walks on the beach. She has more than likely been one of the helpful waitresses who has served you at Ipsos.

I have the feeling we will be seeing Megan around for some time.

CW