Melissa Fernandes

I am a mum to two amazing little men who at times drive me nuts, but mostly give me lots of love and growth. They have helped me find my joy in Lego and Saturday morning sports. We love to go to AFL matches (go the Eagles!) and we also love our Friday night "no school tomorrow" movie nights.

We live in Perth, Western Australia with our very cheeky cat, Marlin. Marlin actually thinks he is a dog. Marlin also thinks it's dinner time all the time.

I absolutely love talking to people and finding out about what they love and hearing their story. I think it is amazing that we all share this planet, yet our stories are as equally different as they are the same.

I'm lucky to live in an area where the local government takes community seriously, and so there are always musical events, markets and other things of interest on. Perth has great weather for being out and about and we try to make the most of it.

When I get some alone time, I like to spend it with a cup of my (current) favourite tea - China green with blueberry and pomegranate. I am totally into fitness at the moment, especially yoga and strength training. If I need a wind down, I walk/jog a route along my local river.

Deeper down my values are strong. Integrity, kindness, compassion, and understanding are things that I look for in others and actively teach my children. These values drive everything I do.