Carmel Brudenell’s journey is one of resilience and dedication. Born as the second eldest among six siblings, she left school at the tender age oI 1,4 to support her family. Despite facing a life-threatening illness, Carmel determination led her to pursue higher education. She enrolled in university and successfully earned a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) from RMIT University and a Bachelor of Education (EC) from LaTrobe University, specializing in early childhood education. This equipped her to become both a kindergarten and primary school teacher, For 22 years, Carmel poured her passion into the field of education, spending 13 of those years as the director of one of Victoria’s largest standalone kindergartens. However, her life was not confined solely to the classroom. She embraced a diverse range of roles, from administrative work to breeding and showcasing stud ponies, horses and cattle.

Additionally, she embarked on adventurous journeys, traversing the Australian Outback by road. Carmel and her late husband welcomed a son into their lives, who in turn blessed them with two granddaughters. Through their daughter-in-law, their family expanded to include a large extended network of grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. Throughout her bustling and active life, Brudenell’s unwavering spirit shines as a testament to her remarkable resilience and zest for life.