Originally from Toronto, Canada, Women’s Giving Circle member Beverly Masters has made the Northern Rivers home since 2014. Her professional background is as varied and creative as her vivacious personality and includes time spent as a hair stylist, social hostess on a cruise ship, website designer and writer. She is currently completing an art therapy course.

With a strong community spirit, Beverly has been President of a Toastmasters Club and a local branch of the Country Woman’s Association. She’s also a passionate advocate for autism awareness.

These days, Beverly is based in Ocean Shores, where she lives with her husband and son.

What do you enjoy most about being part of the Women’s Giving Circle?

I get excited whenever there’s a Giving Circle event – they’re always so inspiring. I love that the Giving Circle connects you with new people and it’s so nice to chat with other locals and hear what’s going on. I’ve met so many interesting women.

And I think that’s what I enjoy most. When women come together, anything’s possible.

I remember being quite teary at last year’s Pitch Night, hearing about the impact of domestic violence in our region and how great the need is for support. But at the same time, I thought the more help we can provide through the Giving Circle, the more change we can make.

Why do you think it’s important to give where you live?

I believe it’s important to give where you live because it strengthens the community and helps create a better, more vibrant place for everyone to call home.

Favourite way to spend a weekend in the Northern Rivers?

I love going to Brunswick Heads, going to the Bruns Hotel – it’s always a vibe. And now that The Ducks are there, it’s so nice to sit and have a meal or champagne and oysters.

I love doing what I call a ‘rock around the block’ in Bruns, checking out the shops then going down to the bridge to get some fresh air and going for a walk on the beach.

I like to support local businesses, so I try and buy all my fruit and veggies in New Brighton or going to the markets. I love seeing how creative people are at the markets and buying special little things here and there.

I also love the Ocean Shores Country Club – it has gorgeous ocean views. My husband and I will often go up for a drink and bring Chinese takeaway home for dinner.

Art by Riley Treloar