The couple moved to Australia in 1986 and settled in Woodcroft the following year. Soon after arriving, Shona experienced a serious allergic reaction that left her reliant on a wheelchair. When their daughter later broke her arm on her first day of school, Shona found herself navigating an unfamiliar suburb without local contacts. The experience prompted her to take action.

Shona contacted the Happy Valley Council and began volunteering to assemble information packs for new residents, a role that quickly grew into advocacy for practical safety and accessibility improvements, including footpaths, traffic lights, and pedestrian crossings.

After noticing a NHW sign, Shona contacted local police to learn more about the program. Her persistence led to the formal establishment of Woodcroft NHW in 1995. As the suburb expanded from around 300 homes to more than 4,000, meetings regularly filled the Woodcroft Neighbourhood Centre, with residents seeking advice on safety and local issues.

Rodney supported the group by knocking on doors across the suburb and coordinating the production and distribution of the group’s bimonthly newsletter, helping maintain strong communication and connection.

Although Shona did not seek a leadership role, originally intending to contribute as Treasurer, she stepped forward when the group needed her and served diligently as Area Coordinator until August 2021. During this time, she worked closely with residents and police to deliver practical, impactful community safety initiatives.

Reflecting on their involvement, Shona said NHW helped them build strong local connections and support others facing similar challenges. The foundations laid by Shona and Rodney continue to shape the strength and success of Woodcroft NHW today.