CHAT WITH LEGACY NT – JILL MARGETTS

INTERVIEWED BY JANE FRYAR

Jill Margetts has been part of the Legacy NT community since 1990 (36 years ago!).  I’ve been lucky enough to meet Jill on a few occasions, but chatting with her at our Lawn Sale, it made me realise that we have so many wonderful people in our community who have amazing life stories to tell.  It’s important to listen to our older generations for their stories, so that we can keep them going – that’s what life is all about! It was a privilege to sit and chat with Jill about her life. Her family, friends and what’s important to her.

Where were you born

I was born in Kew (Melbourne), Victoria in 1935

When did you meet your second husband, Ron

I met Ron later in life, once my two children were grown (my son and daughter were the best thing to come out of my first marriage).  I had decided to become a psychiatric nurse, and Ron oversaw the psychiatric nursing school and was the person who interviewed me.  I was lucky enough to be married to Ron for almost 3 years before he passed away.  He was a good man and when he became ill, he put things in place to make sure I would be looked after once he was gone.

When did you move to Darwin

When my husband passed away about 35 years ago, my son who was living in Darwin, asked me to move up here.  It’s much more relaxed up here compared to Melbourne and I hated the cold weather!

What is the best advice you ever received

As I got older, I began slipping into the “ease” of staying home. I found myself getting a bit depressed because of this.  Someone told me to get out and about - don’t stay home.  This is just as important for younger people as well.  We need to socialise and be part of the community around us.  I took this advice and am now part of a group that meets every Monday.  We don’t really do a lot, but the connections and interactions are what’s important.

What message would you like to pass on to younger women?

It’s important to value yourself; know your worth.

What does Legacy NT mean to you

Legacy NT means community and connection.  I consider my Legatee and his partner my friends and I know they both care a great deal for me.

I visited Legacy House on Saturday at their Lawn Sale, and it was lovely to sit and have a cup of tea and enjoy the space and companionship.  People who volunteer with Legacy NT are givers – of their time, their friendship and their eagerness to help - they are all so kind and just pleasant to be around.

If you would like to be part of the Legacy NT community and meet people like Jill, please get in touch. pm@legacynt.org or 0457 267 200.  Follow our Facebook and Instagram pages (Legacy Northern Territory) to keep up to date with our events.