Pride of Australia: Sarah pitches in for Little Franklin

WHEN Sarah Swanson moved to Tasmania from the US, she wanted only one thing – to help people

WHEN Sarah Swanson moved to Tasmania from the US she wanted only one thing – to help people.

And as owner of Franklin Post Office she has made use of her role and her community spirit to bring change to the small town.

“I had planned to be a stay-at-home mum but I came up with the crazy idea of buying the Post Office and having a family business,” she said. “It’s a job I cherish because of the people I’ve met [and] the trust they have bestowed in me.”

Mrs Swanson heads the Franklin Traders and the Franklin Tennis Club and is heavily involved in local schools.

And in between her roles, she campaigns for improvements to town landmarks such as the bowls and tennis clubs.

“It’s wanting a community my kids will be proud of and enjoy growing up in,” she said. “I enjoy being a part of and trying to make things better for our community.”

Mrs Swanson has also hosted numerous events and fundraisers.

“Our community is a diamond in the rough,” she said. “I believe the best way to keep a town active and vibrant is to get involved.”

Originally from southern California, she moved to Tasmania in 2007 with her husband and three children.

“Tassie reminded me of all the most wonderful things of California,” she said. “Beautiful mountains, coastlines, forests, rivers and easy-going people.”

Mrs Swanson has been nominated for a Pride of Australia medal in the Fair Go category.

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