Meet Donnybrook’s Local Doers: Judith Morrisey

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 Judith Morrisey: one of the brains behind Donnybrook’s local Town Team.

Originally from Bega, New South Wales, Judith first moved to Perth in 1976. After a long career as a bookshop manager, librarian and then business owner, a 14-month travel adventure with her husband ended with them retiring in Donnybrook back in 2016.

“I just love being retired in the country. It’s a different experience than being in a city, as I think it is much easier to find a community.”

Passionate about art and creativity, Judith recognises the power of art to inspire and bring joy to people’s lives. Combining her passion for art with her passion for community engagement, her volunteering focuses on projects that involve art installations – like the “Donnybrook Dunny Do Over”!

The project saw the transformation of the Donnybrook Main Street toilet block into a technicolour work of art, enhancing the town’s atmosphere and creating a sense of excitement in the community.

The transformation of the Donnybrook town, both aesthetically and in terms of community spirit, is a significant source of pride for Judith – alongside creating a collaborative and facilitative environment for other Town Team volunteers that values the skills and abilities of each team member.

“My main ambition is to eventually pass the torch of the town team to others in the next five years; I don’t plan on doing this forever.”

Judith strongly believes that it is crucial to listen to other people’s concerns, without letting their thoughts deter your own objectives. She sees the value in observing what brings out the best in everyone to facilitate their strengths.

“First, understand your skills and abilities. Confidence is essential. Trust yourself,” she explained.

“Set aside ego and let others shine.”

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