World traveller. Bilingual. Author. Liliana has lived a remarkable life, chronicled in a published book. At 89 years of age, Liliana lives a lovely life at home on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, and often shares stories from her book with her Just Better Care Support Professionals when they visit.

Over tea and special Italian biscuits, Liliana talks openly about her life. She left Malta when she was six years old for Italy and returned after the war to claim her passport. A pioneer for women, Liliana was the only female working at the airport in Malta in the 1940s. Even her uniform needed to be specially made. But she quickly proved her worth.

The workmen nicknamed her Gazelle; she was always running from one task to the next, but with a poised and graceful demeanour. When an aeroplane landed, Liliana would stand in front and lead their entry on the tarmac, and if the pilots needed something, she would kindly lend a hand.

Sometimes she would even join the pilot on flights.

Her ambitious spirit has taken Liliana around the world: from Libya to London, and then Norwich,
capital city of Norfolk, to meet her English lover that was waiting for her. Australia called out to
them, so together they boarded a large ship destined for Melbourne, and arrived in November 1949, to begin their new life.
 
It was an experience that defined her: she felt anything was possible. Decades later, Liliana
continues to be an inspiration. With a university degree in languages, 40 years of teaching under her belt, and extensive travel experience, Liliana likes to teach her Support Professionals tongues from around the world.

She can sing in Maltese and is fluent in Italian. Sharing her memories means she can relive moments that mean everything to her. Hallmarks that have defined 89 years of independent living. And still today, she leads the life she loves.

Find out how we can support you to achieve your goals – with the right in-home aged care or disability support services. Speak to your local team today.