The Chimes

Back in 2015, Melissa Victoriano was browsing the internet for a job for her husband, who's a chef. Marlon was working FIFO and at least one of them wasn't happy with his frequent absences. He applied for a chef position at New Norcia and got the job. Up to New Norcia the family moved, eight years ago this month! (Marlon still does all the cooking for the Monastery and Guesthouse, plus special functions and bus tour meals).

Marlon, Melissa and their two boys (featured in last month's edition of the Chimes) live in town and, except for the lack of extended family close by, they enjoy living in this remote spot. "We have a few friends that keep my sanity intact", laughs Melissa. She did a few jobs in town before landing a permanent position at the New Norcia Visitor Centre. She particularly loves being a guide for the Daily Tours but can also be found behind the check-out counter in the Museum & Art Gallery and assisting the many visitors who come to town.

The family is also active in the local parish and Melissa acts as the Safeguarding Officer, sings in the choir (every first Sunday of the month) and helps with decorations in the Abbey Church on special occasions.

Melissa has a Bachelor of Science in Laboratory Medicine and a Doctor of Medicine from De La Salle University Health Sciences Campus in the Philippines. She worked as a City Health General Practitioner and Immunization Coordinator before migrating to Australia in 2006. She's done a few medic jobs in the mines.

Coming to New Norcia was a special move for the family, who lived near a Benedictine community in the Philippines. Meeting people and telling the story of New Norcia is high on her job satisfaction list. "It truly is a town like no other", she says. "My heart is overflowing with love for New Norcia" – her guests must pick up on the vibe as she gets a lot of positive feedback. "Some say that they'll remember New Norcia because of the tour and what they learned about our history. They can't believe what lies behind the buildings".

When she's not working, Melissa loves to go window shopping, dine out with family and friends, time at the beach and taking in some Netflix at home. She watches thrillers, suspense, sci-fi and documentaries – "I'm not much of a love story person", she demures. Her favourite read is Chicken Soup for the Soul and she takes a lot of pride in being able to do solo Karaoke, which she does a lot of.

She dreams of going back home to see her beautiful family and friends again. Her one wish for the world is that there be more peace and that everyone would treat each other as they'd like to be treated. "I'm big on the Golden Rule", she smiles.