A Werribee resident for 19 years, Maggie McInnes has contributed a great deal to Wyndham and was the city’s 2011 citizen of the year.
What’s your connection to the local community?
I’m secretary and one of the founders of the Friends of Glen Orden Wetlands. The wetlands used to be called Werribee Swamp and went from Geelong almost to Melbourne, but it’s nearly all gone now. I worked with the council’s neighbourhood renewal program to help revive the area. People can get involved in the Friends of Glen Orden Wetlands by attending Clean Up Australia Day on March 2. I’m also hoping to get a ‘junior friends’ group started. I’m a member of Werribee Ladies Probus Club and vice-president and public relations person for the Wyndham Park Community Centre. I’ve also been volunteering with Williamstown Theatre for 43 years.
What’s your favourite “retreat” spot?
I’m fond of Heathdale Glen Orden Wetlands. It’s a beautiful place to walk.
What’s your favourite place to get coffee or a bite to eat?
Cherries at Werribee Plaza make the best cup of coffee. I see at least half a dozen people I know to say hello to while I’m there. Wyndham Cache, opposite Werribee zoo, does nice breakfasts and lunches. I love the French toast with bacon and maple syrup. And Mosaics Bistro [in Werribee Plaza Tavern] has the best fish and chips!
What would you change in your neighbourhood?
The awful fountain in the middle of Watton Street. We have wonderful artwork in Wyndham, but not that.
What do you remember being in Werribee that’s no longer there?
When I used to go to Werribee Plaza, everyone there would talk to you. But it’s changed, and I miss that.
Most embarrassing moment when out and about?
I was asked to find a pair of fur-lined handcuffs for Williamstown Theatre and I went to the local hardware store to get them. I explained what I was after and why and they thought I was making it up and buying them for myself. As I was leaving I turned around and all the staff were looking at me. My conversation about the handcuffs must have spread!
