Lake Macquarie History

Mei Walker

photo: mei walker

Mei Walker came to Australia in the late 1980s with her then husband. Mei's former husband had been invited by the proprietor of the Southern Cross Hotel, in Sydney, to assist him with the running of the hotel.

Mei grew up in Hangzhou, capital of the Zhejiang Province, China during the Cultural Revolution. Hangzhou is situated on West Lake and is known for its beautiful, natural scenery. Close parallels can be drawn between HAngzhou and Lake Macquarie; a beautiful lake with picturesque natural surroundings, and it is with these natural elements that Mei feels a close affinity.

When Mei moved to Lake Macquarie in recent years, she was instrumental in opening a local branch of the Australian - Chinese Friendship Association, of which she is the president. In 2015, the association hosted Chinese New Year Celebration Events in Speers Point Park, a successful event which she hopes to continue annually.

During her years in Sydney, Mei's parents came out to stay with her, but returned to China a few years later. Mei is in regular contact with her mother, who now lives in Shanghai and visits her regularly. During her visits back to China, she is able to catch up with childhood friends and extended family members. Her sisters live in London and Japan.

Although Mei still misses her family and friends, she enjoys life in Lake Macquarie

Acknowledgement of Country

We remember and respect the Ancestors who cared for and nurtured this Country. It is in their footsteps that we travel these lands and waters. Lake Macquarie City Council acknowledges the Awabakal people and Elders past, present and future.

Council acknowledges traditional custodians throughout Australia. We commit to listening deeply to and collaborating with First Peoples in our work.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website and Council's cultural collections may contain images, voices or names of deceased persons in photographs, film, audio recordings or printed material.

This website may contain place names, opinions and terms that reflect authors' views or those of the period in which the item was written or recorded. These may not be considered appropriate today.

If you experience any issues with the website or its content please contact us [email protected]