Shirley Coombe

Shriley Coombe was educated at St Mary’s Convent School in Launceston. She married in 1953 and had two sons.

Shirley established the kiosk at the Nazareth House Aged Care facility in 1980 and remained as a volunteer for 20 years. In 1986 she was asked to help with the St Vincent’s Hospital kiosk, a role she undertook for 19 years.

Shirley’s involvement with the Peace Haven Hostel began in 1996 when her mother entered the home as a resident. Shirley became involved with the ADARDS Dementia Centre, gaining a deep understanding of dementia. She strived to increase her knowledge of the effects of dementia through reading and participating in the Auxiliary’s educational activities. As her understanding of resident’s needs grew, so did her commitment to assist in a range of aged care activities. Her current voluntary service includes being a librarian at the Aldersgate Home for the Aged, activities assistant at the Masonic Homes Fred French Unit and as a volunteer at the Masonic Homes Peacehaven Special Care Unit.

Shirley loves to sing and is a member of the Melody Makers Choir that sings at various aged care facilities. She has been a member of the Seniors Choir for 14 years and also sings with the Glee Club and church choirs.

Although Shirley is now living in a retirement facility, she maintains a wide range of community interests. Shirley is a member of both the Launceston musical Society and the Launceston Players and volunteers for many of their productions. For the past eight years she has also been an active fundraiser for the North Launceston Football Club.

Shirley has been a member of the Norwood Ladies Probus Club for 10 years and has held the position of welfare officer for seven years.