Wendi Guy is a go-getter who loves nothing more than helping out in the Gin Gin community.
The local resident has played a part in many organisations over the years, taking on the role of president or secretary to clubs including Gin Gin Rugby League Sports Club Inc, Gin Gin Historical Society Inc, Gin Gin Social Club, Gin Gin Community Alliance and many more.
Wendi has been a big part of the emergency services within Gin Gin, working on many road accidents, fires and even rescuing people during the floods.
She dedicated 18 years to the SES until she had a heart attack.
“I had a triple bypass after having two strokes and ended up with a stint in 2017. Then in 2018 I had a triple bypass,” she said.
“Everyone tells me I need to slow down, but I won’t – it gives me meaning to live and I love seeing people happy and smiling.”
Her positive attitude and constant support for others has been highlighted in Bundaberg Regional Council's Our People Our Stories project.
The initiative aims to bring residents together to create positive conversations and celebrate their work in the community.
Wendi has spent 28 years with the rural fire service and is currently serving as a Volunteer Community Educator, but her interests don’t stop there.
She is most known for her work with the Gin Gin Theatrical Society Inc. which she founded in 1994 but sadly had to close last year due to COVID-19.
To add to her repertoire, Wendi pulled the Bullyard Hall out of a three-year remission in 2019 when she became the secretary and began fundraising within the community.
“We found out the hall was going down the gurgler and I came on board as the secretary,” she said.
“We started the monthly markets and then from there a car rally and we had a massive Halloween night last year.
“There are about 200 to 300 people who attend the markets, I think because they can see that we are trying to do something with the hall for the community.”
Originally born in England, Wendi was eight years old when she moved to Australia and would often pass through Gin Gin while on holidays.
“We would come through this town and Mum said, ‘one day I would love to live here’,” she said.
“Eventually all the family moved up and my son was born here – we have been Gin Ginites now for 30 years.”
Wendi said what she loved most about Gin Gin was the people.
“They are just so friendly,” she said.
