Q AND A: The simple advice Lesley wish she received years ago

‘Not everyone has to be your friend, that’s just bad taste.’

THERE are so many truly remarkable people in the Noosa region.

Each and every one of us has a lifetime of achievements, thoughts, beliefs and lessons learned.

The Q&A feature is an opportunity to showcase some of the exceptional people in our proud region.

This week we hear from Cooroy resident and the woman behind Noosa's LGBTQ+ social group Rainbow Noosa, Lesley Pantlin.

1. What is something you really resent paying for?

I hate having to pay for banking services. Don't they make enough money without taking more of mine?

2. What is the best advice you have ever received?

Not everyone has to be your friend, that's just bad taste. It is advice that has served me well over the years.

3. What do you do to relax?

I love to get outside and do my gardening. It is such a great feeling to be so close to nature.

4. What is one thing you would struggle to quit?

That's an easy one. I love my food. Why does it have to taste so good?

5. What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

I wish someone told me long ago that school years are not necessarily the best years of your life. Because they weren't for me. I think we need to teach our kids that. There can be so much focus put on the importance of school but there is much more to life after we finish school. It can be so emotionally painful for some kids.

6. What is the worst injury you have had and how did it happen?

I ended up with a very painful dislocated shoulder after a motorcycle accident. Let's just say I didn't get back on a motorbike for a long time after that.

7. What would your friends say is your worst habit?

They would probably say I often get overexcited and talk too much. They are probably right. I do get passionate about lots of things. I don't know if I talk too much though.

8. What is the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?

I will never forget the people who gave me care and support when they had very little to give themselves. I get emotional when I think about those people and how they helped me. It makes me want to be a better person.

9. If you could create a new law what would it be?

I believe our politicians should be held more accountable. There should be consequences for their actions when they lie to the public and mislead us.

10. What do you do when you have 30 minutes free?

I love being in the Noosa region. There is always ­something to enjoy in the beautiful outdoors. If I had 30 minutes free, which, let's face it, rarely happens, I am sure I would find something to do.

Who would you like to see take part in our Q and A feature?

Send contact details to [e-mail] or phone [phone].

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