The life of a working shire mum

MOTHER’S Day will look a little different for most families this Sunday, but Torquay’s Katrina Cornish says every day spent with her two children is as special as the next.

The 37-year-old businesswoman gave birth to Madison, two, and Dustin, eight months, at Geelong Hospital.

She said choosing to have children later in life was a decision her and husband Clay had no regrets about.

“Being that little bit older and mature, I think the decisions I made were because of my maturity versus my age. I have always been big on travelling and growing my business (White Kat Beverage Co.) before having kids.

“We had no additional stressors. We had a house and we made sure we were set, happy and ready.”

After the arrival of Madison, Mrs Cornish joined a mother’s group of about 12 women through the Surf Coast Shire council.

She said it was a supportive environment for her to ask questions, form networks and ease into new motherhood.

“We were definitely a lot more relaxed with the second.

“Being an older mother, we were ready and super excited to have Madison and we were looking forward to having her, but you’re always anxious about whether or not you’re doing the right things.”

She said the key to balancing being both a mother and woman in business was routine, despite its challenges.

“You be super organised, juggle, and don’t worry about the housework!

“I love my job, and it was really important to me not to lose it. My business is very much my baby as well.

“An average day would be waking up early, getting the kids ready, getting Madison off at day care, Clay off at work, and then either I’ll be with Dustin or someone is looking after him while I’m off at work seeing clients to make sure the business runs.

“Then it’s crazy hour – feeding, baths and bed.”

But she said her small army of family and friends were her biggest asset in helping her offspring thrive.

“There’s no doubt you need a village to raise children. It’s not just me, it’s definitely a team effort.

“You really lean on those people for support, whether it’s emotional or physical.”

Having lived on the Surf Coast for 15 years, she said she couldn’t imagine starting a family anywhere else, and although there’s many sleepless nights, being a mother was the greatest gift life had given her.

“It is such an enjoyable place to raise children. There’s no doubt Torquay suits our lifestyle and a lifestyle of being outdoors.

“I love being a mum. Seeing them grow and change every day is just beautiful to watch.”