Werribee resident Lori McLean has seen many things change during her 33 years in the area.
What’s your connection to the local community?
I had a heart attack two years ago, which has slowed me down, but prior to that I’d done a lot of volunteer work in the community.
I was founder of the Wyndham Action Planners, which supports the local police. We petitioned State Parliament with about 10,000 signatures for more police officers. We got some, but not enough.
I’ve also organised weddings at Mambourin Gardens; volunteered on the Street Surfer bus on Friday and Saturday nights, which allowed young people to come on and have a free meal and play computer games; helped remove graffiti with other members of Wyndham Proud; organised lunches for elderly citizens; and was on the committee for Habitat for Humanity, which built houses for people in need.
What do you remember being in Wyndham that’s no longer there?
There was only one road and set of traffic lights in Werribee. There used to be a Denny’s on the corner of Station Place. The police and train stations have moved from where they originally were. I used to go down the street and knew everyone – Werribee was a country suburb.
What would you change in your neighbourhood?
We desperately need a children’s hospital and a paediatrician – mothers have to travel to Sunshine or the city. Our infrastructure is not sustainable and there’s not enough parking. Ballan Road is a death trap and there are too many railway crossings, causing poor traffic flow. We also need more police.
What’s your favourite place to get coffee and a bite to eat?
Chatterbox and Jaffa. I loved the pork sliders at Chatterbox. The dumpling soup at Jaffas is to die for, and both places have great coffee.
Where do you like to spend downtime?
Werribee River. It’s a beautiful spot and I like to walk along there. I’d like to see a picnic ground to make it more family-friendly and maybe a Sunday market.
