One hundred years.
One remarkable woman.
Thelma Powell’s story is Footscray’s story. Born the third of four children to Matilda and Peter Powell, she attended Footscray North State School and earned her Merit Certificate before training in dressmaking and tailoring at the School of Domestic arts (now Gilmore Girls’ College).
During World War II, Thelma did her bit for the war effort in a Footscray factory that recycled men’s suits, turning old fabric into new hope during difficult times.
But Thelma isn’t just about work. She has an adventurous spirit! She’s sailed to Fremantle in Western Australia with friends, taking the train back across the country.
Another time, she sailed to Cairns and meandered home by train, stopping at interesting places along the way. This is a woman who knows how to make the journey as memorable as the destination.
After spending years running the cafeteria at Tangambalanga School in Victoria’s Kiewa Valley, Thelma returned to Footscray to care for her ageing father.
After his passing, she worked as a housekeeper and waitress at the Palms Motel, served as an active member of the Senior Citizens, and became a valued volunteer at BaptistCare Westhaven aged care home, where she now resides.
