Cathy Ryan

Where were you born: Wagga Wagga.

Were you named after anybody: My grandmother was Kathleen and there were several Catherine’s in my family tree.

Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of? Personally: my family as it grows and flourishes. Professionally – the difference I can make in woman’s pregnancy and birthing journeys.

What historical moment stands out most in your memory? The bombing of the twin towers on 11th September 2001. Changed the face of global safety.

What’s the single best piece of advice you’ve ever received? “Be true to yourself”.

What is the greatest risk you have ever taken? I boarded a plane in 1985 headed to Europe with a one way ticket.

What are three things you would take to a deserted island? Fresh water, fire source and Allan.

If you had to spend $10,000 today how would you spend it? Replace our home air conditioner that drowned in the November floods.

When are you happiest? When the sun is out, my family are around me, the wine is chilled and the food is good.

Allan Ryan

Where were you born? Wangaratta, Victoria.

Were you named after anyone? I got my second name, Joseph from my grandfather who was killed fighting a bushfire when dad was six years old.

Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of? Finishing Uni (B.Sc (App Chem)) and my family.

What historical moment stands out most in your memory? Landing on the Moon. We all got the afternoon off school to watch it – yes I’m that old!

What’s the single best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Reach for the stars but keep your feet on the ground.

What’s the greatest risk you’ve ever taken? Moving the family to the Northern Territory.

What are the three things you would take to a deserted island? Knife, matches and a water still.

If you had to spend $10,000 today, how would you spend it? A holiday with my wife to New Zealand or the UK.

When are you happiest? When surrounded by the family – in particular the grandkids. 

How old are you? I turned 12 this year.

What school do you attend and what year are you in? I am in Year 6 and currently attend Forbes Public School.

Were you named after anyone? My first name is not but my middle name is after my great grandma.

What three things would you like to pack in your lunchbox every day? I love to pack cheese, grapes and mandarines.

If you could choose any job in the world, what would you do? I would choose to be a professional WNRL player and would love to be able to play for Parramatta.

If you had to spend $10,000 today, how would you spend it? I would give it all to my parents for them to hide away for me to spend later in life.

What is the scariest thing you’ve ever done? The scariest thing I have ever done is jump off a high bridge into the water.

If you could meet any historical person, who would that be? I would love to meet a female activist who was involved in the Stolen Generation but I cannot remember her name.

What makes you feel like dancing? Every time I hear our bell music playing at school I just have to dance.

If you had three wishes, what would you wish for? This is a very hard question to answer for me. I am happy with my life as it is and would not want to change anything!