About

I grew up as a city girl living at Semaphore – a beachside suburb of Adelaide, South Australia before starting a new life as a young bride in the outback on the remote Mungeranie Station. Mungeranie Station is a remote cattle property situated on the infamous Birdsville Track, 200 kms north of Maree, South Australia and 300 kms south of Birdsville, Queensland. In my book No Beating about the Bush I share many stories, some funny, some serious about my time out there, for me it was important to share my story as a tribute to the women of the outback. No Beating about the Bush is dedicated to my late daughter Suzie and was first published in 2013.

Whilst my book focuses on my time at Mungeranie, it is safe to say that I have had a very varied career since that time. I believe my time on the track gave me a steely determination that has seen me establish a number of successful companies over the last forty years, namely a travel company, beauty salon, yoga school and bed and breakfast.

What’s more, I am always on the go, whether it be a yoga class, race meeting or a luncheon for my charity the Suzie Oldfield Memorial Childrens Fund, I genuinely love meeting people and being active.

On 12 June 2016, I was privileged and delighted to be made a member of the Order of Australia (AM).

As for relaxation, that’s easy, a day on the boat with a spot of fishing followed by a glass of champers on the deck.

If you would like to contact me about a speaking opportunity, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line at valseaside@bigpond.com

Val