StoryScape #5

Ruth Summer-Rain is a mother of 3 and now grandmother to 5 boys and is happily retired to pursue many passions and interests.

After 20 years of living in NSW near Mudgee, following a self sufficiency lifestyle off the grid and home schooling for 11years, Ruth returned to Melbourne. She tutored in meditation, basketry, mindmapping, holding ceremonial space and was a celebrant for weddings and funerals. She also studied and practiced as a Death Doula.

Ruth spent 16 years at Allwood house as a Community worker and Networker.

Being homeschooled in the wilds of NSW and running rampant at past Platypus Festivals, Ravi would never have imagined he would become the President of Allwood House. He is renowned for his sculptures throughout the gardens and handyman work at Allwood over the years. Ravi was also honoured to play the role of Hurstbridge’s namesake, Henry Hurst, in The Bridge play in October 2024.

Nerida Kirov is the founder and director of the Chocolate Lillies, a community-based Acappella singing group in Hurstbridge and Warrandyte.

Gareth McDonnell was a volunteer at Allwood House in late 1980s, early 1990s. He installed and maintained the first generally available computer system at Allwood House. He also ran evening classes in computer operations, including programs such as Word and Excel. He also facilitated computer classes for Araluen clients as part of a special program delivered by Allwood in the early 1990s.