Gwen Miles
Since the move to Swanbourne at the end of 2008 our membership has expanded considerably and attracted some very enthusiastic new members, many of whom have made a significant contribution to the club through their willingness to work in the bar, the library and more especially to serve on the committee. One such member is Gwen Wiles who brings to the club vast experience through her involvement in numerous committees whilst an expatriate in Asia and the US.
Gwen was born and educated in Perth but as a young wife she accompanied her husband to Sumatra on the first of numerous overseas postings that took her out of Western Australia for over 30 years. She quickly realised that the best way to settle and assimilate in foreign lands and to get to know her fellow expatriates was to be involved in committees and clubs.
Whilst living in Asia, mostly based in Indonesia, the Philippines and later Burma, Gwen especially enjoyed her involvement with the local people and has fond memories of finding unique ways to embrace the local culture and customs whilst successfully fundraising for local causes, especially the underprivileged children in the far reaching areas.
Later postings involved making home in many states within the United States. American women have a strong commitment to social causes, so again Gwen found committee work a good way to settle and make new friends. Gwen by now had three children but also found time to study Interior Design and to set up her own consultancy business whilst living in Denver. She also indulged in her love of tennis and later learnt to play social bridge, whilst poolside during the long Houston summers.
After 30 years of this peripatetic existence, Gwen and her husband chose Perth as their permanent home and returned here in late 2005. She decided it was time to become a more serious bridge player and after lessons and playing at Rosendorffs, Gwen joined WABC in 2008. Of course, playing at the club has helped Gwen improve her bridge, but she particularly enjoyed the friendly atmosphere at the new clubhouse, and willingly volunteered her time to help in the numerous chores involved. She was soon invited to join the Management Committee where she is making a valuable contribution.
During her long absence from Perth Gwen had some wonderful travel experiences including a trip down the Irrawaddy River in Burma on an old antique barge with an ambience reminiscent of the style of Somerset Maugham! But Gwen relishes relaxed and friendly atmosphere of Perth and especially the WABC and is happy put the expatriate life and adventurous travel behind her.
Helen Seward
Published in June 2010 Edition of Trumps Plus
