Merryn Thurley & Ida

Retired

Place of birth: Devonport

Year of birth: 1950

Lived in Launceston: 25

“I have been living in Launceston for 25 years after moving from Devonport, as there were more career options for a person with a disability.
Being totally blind, things were initially difficult for me but I made the move anyway in the hope that Launceston would provide the opportunities I was seeking.
Perseverance paid off and I gained employment at the Education Department as a Teacher’s Assistant teaching Braille to blind children.
I later worked as a Student Services Admin Assistant at the Australian Maritime College and University of Tasmania.
I am now enjoying my retirement having leisurely lunches with friends in the Launceston café scene when I am not keeping fit and indulging my passion for Dragon Boat Paddling.”