GRANDMOTHER AND GRANDDAUGHTER BRING COMMUNITY SPIRIT TO REMOTE WA
Barbara Carroll pictured next to the van filled with clothing and other essential supplies.
PC: Donnybrook Community Op Shop
BY ASAD KHAN
Barbara Carroll, an 82-year-old community leader from Donnybrook, Western Australia, is once again making a difference. Accompanied by her granddaughter, Tara Carroll, the pair is delivering much-needed clothing and essential supplies to remote communities.
Their journey, which recently took them to Roebourne’s Yandina Centre and a local women’s shelter, highlights the power of community-driven initiatives.
Tara Carroll spoke to Ngaarda Media about their work, explaining how the project grew from the Donnybrook Community Op Shop, which Barbara has run for the past six years.
“Every few months, we gather excess donations from the shop and bring them up to communities that are often isolated from stores. The cost of clothing in these areas can be prohibitive, so we provide donations for free,” she said.
Barbara Carroll, with deep roots in the region, is no stranger to the challenges posed by remote living.
She shared stories of her own upbringing in Marble Bar, known as Australia’s hottest town, where she developed a strong sense of resilience and community spirit.
Barbara reflected on the joy of connecting with people along the way.
“The communities we go to are amazing. We meet beautiful people helping their communities, and it’s inspiring.”
Their work began a little over a year ago, and they have since traveled to places like Kalgoorlie, Newman, Tom Price, Jigalong, and Nullagine.
Most recently, they extended their generosity to the Roebourne Women’s Shelter after learning of the need for additional clothing donations.
Barbara’s personal ties to the region and her Wiradjuri family connections further enrich the significance of her work, underscoring a life devoted to giving back.
This grandmother-granddaughter duo’s commitment to supporting isolated communities is a testament to the power of grassroots efforts.
Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of connection, care, and the generous spirit that can bridge even the most remote of distances.
Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Lead Journalist Asad Khan speak with Barbara Carroll and Tara Carroll: