Diane was born and educated in Johannesburg, South Africa. Growing up, one of her biggest dreams was to come to Australia, the birthplace of her mother.
After school she travelled around Europe and for two years and lived in the United Kingdom before returning home to study for an International Marketing Management Diploma. Her first job was in wine sales then later took further work within the wine industry. “I always had multiple jobs and always in hospitality”.
In 2009, Diane came to Australia to meet her mother’s side of the family. It was an emotional time. She enjoyed the experience so much, she decided to stay and set about exploring Australia. She spent a year in Darwin as a WWOOF’er (Willing Worker on Organic Farms), during which time she met the sister of the then owner of Lorne’s Cuda Bar who suggested she should apply for a job. Diane came and not only worked at Cuda Bar but between times away from Lorne, worked at Chopstix, the Mexican Restaurant, Mantra, Frangos, Bush House Cottages and Chatby Lane Cottages.
“I was always saying goodbye but always coming back.” Meeting her fiancé Callan may have been an attraction too. Returning from an overseas trip and while enjoying a drink at The Grand Pacific, the manager, whom she knew, offered her a full time job in reception, where she has been for the past year.
Diane lists her passions as nature, people and flavours of the world. She also loves Lorne and was touched by the way the town embraced and welcomed her. She has joined Lorne’s Vocal Group and has performed with them at the Anzac Day service, the Lions Christmas Carols and at Lorne Hospital lunches. She has friends in The Lions Club and helps out whenever she can.
She maintains a relationship with her family in South Africa with an annual visit.
