Meet the committee member who speaks 5 languages and swears by the Frangipani.
Though she’s been with the CAHRS committee for just nine months, Verna Cresswell has already become a vibrant part of our society. For Verna, the heart of CAHRS lies in the social gatherings and the community events that bring us all together.
Beyond the committee, Verna’s life is defined by resilience and service. As a breast cancer survivor, she is a fierce advocate for her own health. “I enjoy researching and reading new developments in the cancer field,” she says, “it assists me with managing my own cancer care.”
This spirit of giving and knowledge-sharing led her to found Deserving Better WA, a charity committed to supporting marginalised people across Western Australia.
When the Canning Show rolls around, there is one place you are guaranteed to find Verna: The Blacksmith. She never misses this section, finding a deep appreciation for the traditional craft and the rhythmic, “old-world” heritage that is so central to our agricultural history. For Verna, it’s a window into the skills that built our community.
The Patch Picks
The Un-murderable Plant: The Frangipani. “Even I can’t murder them!” Verna says. They are her top pick for reliable, beautiful growth in our local soil.
The Local Gem: Kent Street Weir. This is Verna’s home away from home, where you’ll often find her at the Dragon Boating clubhouse enjoying the water.
The Artisan: Art and Pods “The range was the mastermind of an amazing designer who makes jewellery from upcycled coffee pods. What started as an appreciation for her talent has become very special to me—she has now become a dear and personal friend.
Verna lives by a beautiful sentiment that reflects her community spirit:
People won’t remember what you said or did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.”
Quick Fire Round
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Favourite Season: Winter. There’s nothing like a walk in the crisp, cold air.
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Family Tradition Milestone Gold: A beautiful tradition of gifting gold to celebrate life’s major achievements.
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A Fun Fact: Verna is a polyglot, she speaks five different languages!
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On the Bookshelf: She recommends Welcoming the Unwelcome by Pema Chödrön for life’s curveballs, and Radical Remission by Kelly A. Turner for anyone seeking hope and health.
Inspired by Verna’s story? We’ll be featuring a different staff or committee member in our monthly e-newsletter. If you have a ‘golden nugget’ of advice or a local gem you’d like to share with us, please share below.
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