The Late Jim Harper 3 RAR Infantry Korea attending an ANZAC parade in Parkes in 2010.
How long have you lived in Parkes and what is the best thing about living here? We (the Harper Family) moved here in 1965. I’m very fond of the community spirit in Parkes, and the surrounding countryside and available space to switch off.
Where do you work or what do you do currently and what do you enjoy about it? I established my own business in Parkes six years ago – Jo Laurie Healing Arts. I’m passionate about sharing Intentional Creativity workshops for people in my studio so that they remember the joys and benefits of creating with a mindful, process not product driven attitude. I also hold weekly Women’s Circles, and offer Lomi Lomi, Hot Stone Massages, and I’m a Reiki Master.
What is your favourite thing to do when you have free time? Dance with my paintbrush!
What makes you proud? Thinking about Anzac Day approaching, I’m proud and grateful to these men in our family:
• Uncle George Hamon killed in action aged 22 in 1917 in France;
• Poppo: Charles Harper Infantry WW1 and Intelligence WW2;
• Uncle Adrian Harper Rat of Toobruk, and 2nd Battalion WW2;
• Uncle Kelly Harper Rat of Toobruk, and 2nd Battalion WW2;
• Uncle Arthur Harper 3rd Battalion Ack Ack WW2 and 3rd Battalion Korea;
• Uncle Jack Harper 3 RAR Korea;
• Dad: Jim Harper 3 RAR Infantry Korea.
What will you do on Anzac day? I have never missed a Dawn Service, and always lay a wreath in gratitude for my family. I attended a Dawn Service in Bargara, Queensland and marched there for Dad one year – it was a memorable event. One of us will march for Dad this year and we’ll have a family bbq lunch.