The Great Lakes, in particular Blueys Beach had been El Rattray and partner Ian's go-to place for more than 10 years.
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So, when the couple sold up their small acreage at Seventeen Seventy, on Queensland's Discovery Coast, Pacific Palms was a natural choice for their new home.
They bought a 'little beach' cottage at Elizabeth Beach and 12 months ago El settled permanently into the community. Ian continues to commute from his northern beaches address for the time being.
Realising her impressive resume, El quickly snapped up by Blueys Motel assuming the role of project and brand manager, appointed to the Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber executive and taken on production of the second Barrington Coast Holidays promotional magazine.
"I am a natural collaborator," El said.
"I am passionate about the region; it is an amazing place."
Describing herself as a savvy survivor, the 50-year-old confessed to being a bit of a rebel in her younger days, dipping her toes into a number of professions.
But, she has worked hard and reaped the rewards.
"I worked since I was 14, saved money and travelled.
After completing her secondary education at Hornsby Girls High School El travelled along the State's north and south coasts running a handful of restaurants, before undertaking a marketing degree through TAFE specialising in photographics.
Her dad's long-time employment with Kodak was a big influence.
"But, I was never a photographer."
The industry took El through an exciting resume of well known and famous studios and snappers in Australia and the United States.
During a stint with famed San Diego photographer, Dean Collins El got a taste of the fanfare and hoopla of the America's Cup, while the Sydney Olympics was a time to showcase her marketing and entrepreneurial skills.
"I had the best time; we were on fire."
She even tried her hand in front of the camera, hosting a TV shopping program for a short time.
In the early noughties El and her then 10-year-old son. and two dogs Tye and Leela, embarked on a 12-month tour of the country's back roads and highways in their specially fitted-out Toyota van..
During this time El filmed her documentary Roaming Paws, identifying campsites and accommodation venues which welcomed pets.
"It was liberating and challenging.
"That journey gave me all the tools of what I didn't want in my life.
"It gave me clarity."
El also is channelling her energy into the Blueys' Beach community co-ordinating a mini Vibrant Spaces makeover.
Jeanene Duncan
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
