KRYSTAL Wilson was born in Corryong, grew up in the town, moved to Wodonga in her early 20s, then shifted to Staghorn Flat near Yackandandah three years ago.
What's your job?
I have my own hairdressing salon that adjoins my house on our farm. I have been hairdressing for more than 20 years but class my job as a mum, farmer, hairdresser, and 'roady.'
What brought you to this role?
I started going to the hairdressers with my dear Nanna at a very young age in Corryong, where I fell in love with the salon environment and all aspects of hair. My love and passion for my hairdressing began when I started working at Fiona's Shearing Shed when I was just 16 years old, where I worked after school and Saturdays. I completed year 12 at Corryong High School then completed my hairdressing qualifications after that. I worked in a number of salons before deciding to start my own business from home once I had kids.
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What do you love about your job?
My job is my hobby – I never think of it being a job. I love making people feel good about themselves, meeting people and giving my clients a one–on–one experience in a quiet salon overlooking the beautiful Yackandandah hills.
What do you do in the community?
As I run a local business, I don't have time to volunteer but I help by shopping local and supporting local businesses as well as attending local fairs, markets and events. I also support my kids Jack (12) and Ella (9) who represent Yack and help put the town on the map at many of the activities they are involved in.
What is the most important current community issue for you?
Many people buy online or go into Albury/Wodonga for shopping and services. It really does hurt the local small businesses in our area.
Another is cost of living. Everything has gone up in price, however, wages have not. Young families are really feeling the pinch. I speak to many in my salon and its hurting many.
What would you do to solve, change, or improve that situation?
Tell people to imagine they had a small business themselves and the money they make puts a roof over their heads, feeds their family – wouldn't you want to try and support them? Because I know if these small businesses were not there the locals would be the first to jump up and down! My message is shop local and support local small businesses, and I support government initiatives for wage increases.
If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo, or was already here, who would that be and what would you show them?
Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese. I would show him our community and how small businesses operate providing services, products and produce in our area.
Why would you show him that?
Because I believe many small businesses including my own were left off the radar when it comes to government grants and financial support during the pandemic. I would show him we are everyday Aussies trying to make ends meet. I feel our area has so much to offer such as wineries, distilleries, fresh produce, gift shops and clothing. There are some extremely talented locals who need to be recognised for their fantastic work in keeping the community alive.
What book are you reading?
Other than the 563 emails I get a day, I do love looking through the 'Kickin up Dust' – an Australian magazine, which shows different parts of the nation in the eyes of many incredible photographers, also advertising and featuring small local businesses and people just trying to get their name out there.
