Carmel was born in Echuca and lived for 18 years on a farm in the lower Riverina area district of Thyra.  

Carmel was educated at Womboota Primary School and later at St Joseph’s College in Echuca before joining the Women’s Royal Australian Air Force (WRAAF) in 1975 as a Non-Commissioned Officer in the field of administration, serving 20 years at various bases including 11 years at East Sale. Carmel has also been employed at the American Consulate in Melbourne along with the Department of Justice, Victoria.

Carmel has lived on and off in the Wellington Shire for 30 years, including Sale, Heyfield on a small beef farm, along with a short stint in Briagolong prior to settling in Stratford.

Whilst living in Heyfield, Carmel was a member of the Heyfield Hospital Board, and was a member of the committee for the building of Laurina Lodge.

Carmel chose to settle in the Wellington Shire having lived in South Australia for three years, because she believes the region offers wonderful facilities, beautiful scenery, is close to mountains, beaches and rivers, wonderful rail trails and walking tracks. Wellington Shire really is The Middle of Everywhere.

Carmel spends her leisure time cycling on various rail trails and kayaking the various river systems. Carmel has a keen interest in history and is a Foundation Life Member of the Pioneer Hall of Fame located in Alice Springs.  

Carmel is enjoying her role as a Wellington Shire Councillor. She is keen to meet up with residents to discuss any issues of concern or alternatively pass on thanks to members of Council staff.