mmg.com.au

When it comes to having a sense of community, Tatong resident de Sales Turner has an enthusiasm that is almost palpable. The record of her and husband Michael’s involvement in the local community since they made the tree change to the area five years ago speaks for itself.

Mrs Turner currently co-ordinates the monthly Tatong Village Market and is part of a team preparing for a bush dance in October as a fundraiser for Tatong Memorial Hall; she is a member of the CFA, is a keen participant in the Tatong Girls’ Shed craft days and is on the committee of management of the newly developed Tatong Community Centre and Recreation Reserve.

A distinguished career in nurse education and management has demonstrated and honed Mrs Turner’s strong organisational and administrational skills, and she has an inate ability to see the big picture while remaining positive and encouraging the involvement of the individuals participating in any program.

Mrs Turner has always found plenty to do at Tatong. However, a light-hearted comment from friends recently piqued her interest and eventually led to her appointment as co-ordinator of the well-known Violet Town Market. With about 200 stallholders, plus a waiting list, Mrs Turner said it would take some work and diplomatic leadership to keep everything running smoothly at Violet Town.

‘‘I am honoured to have been appointed as the Violet Town Market co-ordinator — an appointment that I do not take lightly,’’ Mrs Turner said.

‘‘Although the Violet Town Market is vastly different from the Tatong Village Market, there are similarities in the approach required. For instance, I know that good communication and public relations skills are at the heart of doing these jobs well, as is having a positive attitude and good problem-solving skills,’’ she said.

‘‘I am really looking forward to running these two positions side by side, and think that in some ways they could complement each other.’’

Mrs Turner is already getting into her work and is preparing for the Violet Town market to be held this weekend, and then faces the build-up to the busy Christmas period.

Well aware of the important purpose markets serve in local communities, Mrs Turner knows there are many artisans and home industries who value these outlets to distribute their work, and many buyers who love to seek out special and unique gifts, food and knick-knacks at their local markets.

But even with her new workload, Mrs Turner still has a special place in her heart for her local community and the Tatong Village Market, and along with other locals is preparing for the postponed celebrations of the 10th anniversary of the market, now planned for December 1.