Coffee Shop Goss Banora Point > Kirra Beach - March 15 | Page 3

>>>REALLOCALS>>> Heather Gillard Graphic Designer Hi Heather, how long have you been a Local? Five months, this time :) What is the Heather Gillard Story? I started my journey in Sydney, Northern Beaches (yes, I am a Manly supporter). Lived very happily there with my family – artistic mother, banker father and two brothers, enjoyed the beaches, ballet, tap and jazz dancing, drama, studied the piano, trumpet and viola performing in the Opera House and Sydney Town Hall, played tennis, swimming club, girl guides, having good friends (my bestie and I met in year 2 at school and are still amazing friends) and generally healthy, busy and motivated. Commenced my career in Graphic Design when I left school and felt my true passion unfold, what a cool job! In 1989 I headed to the Gold Coast to start a family and have been here ever since, other than a recent two-year stint in Adelaide. What is the best thing that has ever happened to you? My children, I am so proud of them both. Favourite son Ryan 25, tattoo artist in Palm Beach, very talented! And favourite daughter Hannah 23, fitness motivator and director Snap Fitness Queenstown NZ, love visiting her there! Very careful for no competition here... What is the worst thing that has ever happened to you? Being diagnosed with breast cancer at 36 when my kids were still in primary school. I wasn’t sure at that point if I’d have enough time to share all my worldly stuff with them. What was your saddest moment? My saddest moment… not sure yet, haven’t had it. What was the catalyst to the major change in your life? Surviving breast cancer for the second time at 48 years of age. I had to do life differently. This is definitely still work in progress, I don’t think I’ll ever stop. I really want to continue learning how to be the best version of me, always. How do you recharge your batteries. I have a love for the great outdoors, whether it be beach or bush. There is a sense of freedom and peace in the open space of nature. What do you feel the most guilty about? Gee, I’ve been to a psychologist to rid my self of that one. So, probably, guilty for not learning earlier to not feel guilty. Who has been the influence in your life. biggest My mother, I have very fond memories. She was a bright, intelligent, happy, caring, creative and fun person who radiated great energy and attracted it in return. Everyone loved her. Unfortunately, Mum passed three years ago with high level dementia… unbelievably cruel disease. What next? I’m undergoing a bit more study to keep the creative juices flowing and stay current in this incredible IT world we live in. Perhaps a few interesting holidays... I want to climb mountains. And most importantly, to be happy. Ph 0402 475 359 Email [email protected] www.coffeeshopgoss.com.au > BANORA POINT TO KIRRA > MARCH 2015 3