Meet Champion Lakes’ Local Doers: Helen Marshall from Champion Lakes Residents’ Association

We like to bang on about how great (or rather, OK!) Perth is – but our greatness doesn’t just happen out of nowhere!

With a mission to create thriving, connected and empowered communities, Town Team Movement is all about “doers”.

We’re partnering up with Town Team Movement so we can shine a light on some of the people who help make our communities so unique, and just a few of the excellent initiatives they’re working on.

This week, we’re featuring Helen Marshall: one of the brains behind the Champion Lakes Residents’ Association Town Team.

Could you please provide a brief introduction about yourself?

I’m Helen Marshall, a resident of Champion Lakes for the past nine years. My journey in volunteering spans over half my life, originating in Busselton in the Southwest. Initially centred around my children, volunteering has become a significant and enduring part of my life.

What drives your commitment to volunteering?

One of the most rewarding aspects is the chance to connect with incredible people. Living here has allowed me to forge meaningful connections that transcend the routine of daily work, fostering a sense of community.

How does your current engagement with the Town Team Movement differ from your past volunteering experiences?

This marks the first time I’ve lived in such a close-knit community. It’s been an opportunity to meet diverse individuals and truly feel a part of something greater than myself.

When was the Champion Lakes Town Team established?

We formed our town team in 2019 when our traditional committee, reduced to just four members, sought a new direction. Development WA and the Town Team Movement played pivotal roles, guiding us through a community vote that resulted in securing a grant for an outdoor gym—an uplifting achievement that united our community.

Can you elaborate on the events organised by the Champion Lakes Town Team?

Our calendar includes markets, Christmas events, Harmony Day celebrations, ANZAC Day ceremonies, and recently, an online gathering with tech experts volunteering their time for device-related queries. Our aim is to engage the community through diverse and inclusive events.

What were the initial goals when forming the Town Team?

Initially uncertain about the direction, Town Team Movement provided invaluable guidance. Attending various events and connecting with other town teams kept us motivated, shaping our approach through shared experiences and ideas.

How many individuals actively contribute to the organisation?

We have a core group of approximately 24 individuals, with 12 or 13 serving in the committee. Additional volunteers join specific activities such as our garden or the “Neighbours for Nature” program.

Could you share the current happenings at the community hub?

We’ve named it Crafeteria—a weekly gathering where people bring their crafts, enjoy coffee, and engage in conversation for a nominal fee. Despite its modest size, it regularly attracts 20-24 individuals.

What are some short-term goals for the Town Team?

Over the next 12 months, we aspire to renovate the building, install a solar carport, finalise our lease, and conduct more lake clean-ups.

Can you provide your Town Team’s motto?

Our motto revolves around working harmoniously with the environment, fostering inclusivity among neighbours, and maintaining the quality of our activities as our community continues to grow.

Lastly, what aspect of your involvement with the Town Team brings you the greatest sense of pride?

Gaining ownership of the land and having access to the building. It’s positioned in a beautiful spot by the lake, serving as a welcoming space for our community.

Want to get involved and become a doer in your own community? Head to the Town Team Movement website to learn more.