Foster mother inspires all

By Tania Martin
MONBULK’S beloved ‘Nan’ Evelyn McCallum has been recognised for her dedication to foster care.
The 78-year-old was reluctant to be thrust into the spotlight last week as an Australian of the Year nominee.
Mrs McCallum was shocked when she received the nomination.
“I have not done anything special,” she said.
But close family and friends believe she is a worthy nominee.
She was one of 3300 to be recognised this year.
The Australian of the Year Award is considered the nation’s top prize, which attracts nominations for all ages and levels of achievement.
“It’s only a nomination…it’s not like I won…it’s not a big deal is it,” Mrs McCallum said.
However, in a letter, awards chairman Adam Gilchrist said it should be a proud moment for all involved.
“You were nominated by your community for setting high standards of excellence and contributing in ways that inspire us all,” the letter said.
“Being nominated for this award is a great honour…I hope you feel proud of the impact you are having in your community and the nation.”
Despite protesting to be ‘nothing special’ Mrs McCallum has played a huge role in shaping the nation’s future generations.
She has been fostering young children for the past 50 years.
Although no longer an active career, Mrs McCallum still looks after numerous grand children.
“I just love kids,” she said.
Mrs McCallum said the most important lesson in foster care was to make sure you strike the balance with helping young kids and managing your own family.
But she never would have been able to do it without the support of her husband.
Mrs McCallum is still fondly referred to as Nan by many locals and close friends.
She was also instrumental in setting up the first-ever child care facility in the Dandenongs in 1972.
“We started off at a house in Upwey and ended up taking up to 35 children,” she said.
Although Mrs McCallum didn’t win the top prize many in Monbulk still believe she deserves the accolades.
“I was staggered,” she said.