Lynne Sullivan
Lynne Sullivan
Board member
Mrs Sullivan is a War Widow who holds an academic qualification in Science. Over her 40 year career, Mrs Sullivan was a Scientific Officer in the field of pathology specialising in Diagnostic Cytology-the examination of non-surgical biological specimens for cancerous and pre cancerous changes. Concurrent duties involved teaching and mentoring students plus coordinating quality assurance programs.
Mrs Sullivan’s husband Patrick served with the Australian Army in the Royal Australian Engineers for 25 years seeing active service in Borneo and Vietnam. Following his discharge he achieved an Honors Degree in Anthropology then commence a PhD focusing on the impact of relocation and associated life changes among villagers in Indonesia. Her participation in his field studies and research enhanced Mrs Sullivan’s understanding of similar experiences among military families. Unfortunately political unrest in Indonesia and ill health prevented the completion of his studies.
Whilst raising their family Mrs Sullivan volunteered for activities within their school community, sporting clubs and Scout Groups. These roles also extended to serving in various committee positions.
Following her husband’s passing in 2014, Mrs Sullivan became a member of Families of Veterans Guild. As a member Mrs Sullivan has participated in focus groups, social events and currently assists with meeting organisation within the Younger Members Social Club. As a member of the North Ryde RSL War Widows Social Club she assists with meetings and outings for its predominantly senior WW2 widows and visits the meeting of two other War Widows Social Clubs.
Through joining Families of Veterans Guild Mrs Sullivan has become aware that she is not alone in her experience of life in Defence Force families and has found her community.