As Macquarie Community College celebrates 75 years of shaping stronger communities through the power of learning and connection, one name stands out as a symbol of commitment, care and community spirit – Christine Benett.
As a life member of Macquarie Community College, Christine has been a much-loved arts, crafts and needlework tutor for over 35 years. Her story is woven into the fabric of the College itself.
From Patchwork to Purpose: How Christine’s Journey Began
Christine’s journey with Macquarie Community College began in the most unexpected of places – a local craft store. She was there to pick up some cotton when a friendly voice asked if she taught patchwork. Before she knew it, she was filling in for a teacher who had just left. What started as a causal favour quickly blossomed into a lifelong passion for teaching, connection and community.
“I just sort of fell into it,” Christine laughs. “I was raising my family at the time and the flexibility was so incredible that my own kids didn’t even realise I was working. It fit into life so naturally.”
Teaching Beyond the Classroom: A Lifelong Commitment to Community
Christine’s first class was at West Ryde Leagues Club in October 1989, and from there, her involvement only expanded. Over the decades, she has taught across a range of subjects, from arts and crafts to Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). Her dedication extended beyond the classroom too, proudly serving as the staff-elected director on the College Board for over 12 years.
“My passion has always been people,” Christine says. “Helping them feel confident, empowering them to try something new, that’s what gets me up in the morning.”
Her work with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is particularly close to her heart. Christine has supported newly arrived Australians through language, employment skills and simple but life-changing acts, like teaching someone how to use an ATM or speaking directly with immigration officials about student visas.
One moment that Christine holds particularly close is the story of a former student she helped gain residency.
“We still meet for lunch,” she says. “She now has a baby who calls me Grandma. Thats the type of connection I was able to have at the College.”
A Lasting Legacy: Connection, Growth and Gratitude
Christine’s impact has stretched across multiple campuses, including Blacktown, Mount Druitt, Ermington and Epping. Her classes have attracted students from across Sydney and have remained a place of warmth, learning and laughter.
“It’s not just about learning embroidery,” she says. “It’s about community. It’s about having a space where you feel welcomed.”
Today, the college provides courses across six dedicated campuses and community based venues across Greater Sydney, making it one of the largest providers of its kind in NSW.
Reflecting on her many years at Macquarie Community College, Christine is proud of not just how far the organisation has come but for how true it has stayed to its Purpose:
“The growth has been extraordinary. There are so many more campuses and programs, but at its heart, the college hasn’t changed. The staff, leadership and students are so supportive. There’s a real ‘go for it’ attitude that makes you feel empowered.”
The College’s 75 years of experience and connecting to its communities has created a one-of-a-kind educational experience for all its students, with 96% of qualified learners recommending Macquarie Community College.
Christine’s message for the college and its team is simple,
“Keep doing what you already do. You can’t improve on perfection.”