VIC Chelsea Heights Jill Watson

Many thanks to Jill for providing her profile.

My background is administration in all aspects of the business world.  Lots of travel over the years, many times combining it with work. Countries I have lived in include  Canada, South Africa and Pakistan.  Highlights have been working in the Purser’s Department on board ship and overseas postings with the British Foreign Office. I come from the UK originally but have happily been in Australia for many years. Main areas of working in Melbourne have been with the Victorian Arts Centre and the CSIRO (Australia’s major science organisation).

While in my last “full-time” position in Melbourne, I already felt I wanted to be a celebrant but needed time to do the training.  I considered my varied life experience and understanding of different cultures to be a good starting point.

Another interest which connects well is my great love of the theatre. For many years I have been writing reviews of theatre productions for publication in a theatre magazine.  I also broadcast live on a theatre community radio program and provide in-house adjudication for one theatre group.  I do act occasionally – have to put myself in the firing line now and then!

I finally found time to study for Celebrancy in 2006 and was appointed as a Marriage Celebrant in September 2008.  I conducted my first marriage in November 2008 and nothing can compare to that first time – such a buzz.  I love the initial meeting with couples, getting to know them, finding out what they are looking for in their ceremony and then putting it into action.

I hope that I will continue for many years to conduct marriages and also funerals.  I have trained for Funeral Celebrancy and been invited to conduct several. I find them to be very rewarding.  Also cut my teeth (pun intended) on a Naming last year which was a delightful experience.

To sum up – whatever type of ceremony I am involved in, I never take fore granted that it is a great honour to have been given the task.

Jill Watson

Authorised Civil Marriage Celebrant

Chelsea Heights Victoria

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