Both (Great) Aunts Linda and Anne were tireless workers for charity for their whole lives. During WWI, before the Australian Red Cross was formed, Linda and Anne would help the sick and injured soldiers off the ships. They became foundation members of the Australian Red Cross joining in 1914. They received their 50 years Service Medals in 1964 and for many years Linda was President of her local branch.

Some years earlier though, Linda received a letter from the Govenor General of Australia which must have been a very special moment for her. The letter states; “Miss Linda Moore Northcott was appointed a Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in the Honours and Awards, 1st January 1959.

The citation reads “Miss Norhtcott has been an active Member of the Red Cross Society since 1914 and is also associated with several other charitable organisations.

In regognition of her meritorious charitable services to the community.” (Great) Aunt Linda could take two guests to the citation ceremony and she took (Great) Aunts Anne and Doris. I think their parents would have been very proud on that day.

As well as doing work for charities, Linda did voluntary secretarial work for the Liberal politician Sir Archdale Parkhill, who was a Member of the House of Representatives from 1927-1937.

Linda lived an extraordinary life. One time, when she was driving, she had a car accident and broke her neck. Incredibly she survived and mended. I remember her wearing a neck brace for many years. She had an indomitable spirit.