Meet an ABCA Committee Member

In a new series of interviews, we will be getting to know the seven people who currently sit on the ABCA committee. First off, Tina King-Garde:

Tina presenting her weekly radio show

Where do you hail from, and how long have you lived in Avoca?  

I was born in Dublin, Ireland and moved to Australia in the 1980s. I followed my brother, the classic Ten Pound Pom, in search of opportunities that were lacking in Ireland at that time.  I’ve been here in Avoca for just two years, having lived in Sydney and elsewhere on the Central Coast until then. 

What’s your favourite local spot? 

My favourite place in Avoca is the garden at the Avoca Beach Theatre. I find it peaceful to sit there and watch the world, and the rabbits, go by.  

How do you usually like to spend your weekends?

I present a programme called Ireland Calling on 2RDJ Community Radio Station in Burwood, Sydney. Described as a “weekly dose of Irish music, interviews, news and sports results” the programme airs on Saturday mornings. When not presenting the show, I love exploring the Central Coast or just hanging out with family and friends.

What’s a hobby, interest, or talent people might not know about you?

I am a life member of the Flying Bats soccer club, based in Sydney’s Inner West. I played with them for 20 years, as a full back. Although I no longer play, I still love soccer. 

What do you love most about Avoca?

I love the village feel of Avoca, and its laidback ‘beach and bush’ vibe. It’s just a lovely place to live. And, of course, there’s the Irish connection (Avoca Beach is named for Avoca in County Wicklow, Ireland).

If you could change one small thing about the area, what would it be?

I would love to enhance the look and feel of the village so it better reflects the friendly community. Maybe some more benches outside the shops, some flowers or other decorations or a community noticeboard. Anything that would provide more opportunities for people to stop, have a chat and meet their neighbours. 

What’s your proudest achievement in life?  

I’m proud of the fact that I organised the Sydney St Patrick’s Day Parade for 5 years, particularly the year when I arranged for 32 Harley motorbikes to display the flags of the 32 counties of Ireland.  The police horses weren’t too happy about the engine noise but the bikes looked great! 

Quick fire Questions:

Tea or coffee? Tea, of course!

Tim Tams or Chocolate Digestives? Digestives all the way.

Matildas or Socceroos? As an ex-Flying Bats player, it has to be the Matildas