Not Ordinary Lives - Bev Smith

Bev Smith: Just Do It … and Enjoy the Journey chronicles the life of an Australian leader, trainer, and community contributor whose influence extends from small-town Victoria to the international stage. Born on 11 January 1957 in Yarrawonga, Bev was the middle child in a family that valued hard work, integrity, and service. Childhood lessons in responsibility, contribution, and initiative laid the foundation for a life defined by doing what needed to be done-well, and consistently.Bev's early career in accounting and business management showcased her competence, reliability, and quiet leadership. She balanced professional responsibilities with raising a family, demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and care. Her involvement with JCI Australia opened doors to national and international leadership, training hundreds of emerging leaders and refining her philosophy: growth, service, and action matter more than titles or recognition.Life challenges-including separation, relocation, and career transitions-were met with calm determination. Bev embraced each new chapter, finding fulfillment in family, community service, and professional contribution. Retirement did not slow her down; instead, it created opportunities for international travel, volunteering at major Australian events, and continued engagement with community initiatives such as Rotary, Sea Rescue, and cultural associations.Her story illustrates that extraordinary lives are not always planned, but built through consistency, courage, and generosity. Part of the Not Ordinary Lives: Movers & Shakers series, this biography celebrates Bev Smith's philosophy: "Just do it … and enjoy the journey," inspiring others to act, serve, and embrace life fully. About the AuthorIt might be said that the expression "Jack of all trades and master of none" is an apt description of Peter J Snow OAM.He abandoned pursuit of an engineering degree and accounting qualifications – but his efforts will leave an extraordinary legacy. He attributes this to the training, skills and self-confidence he gained through membership of JCI (formerly known as Jaycees International) after joining Fremantle Jaycees in 1970.Obstacles encountered dented (but certainly not overwhelmed) his positive approach and desire to help and mentor others. His vision, entrepreneurial skills and contribution to his community over 70+ years (some of which are referred to in this book) have resulted in a myriad of awards. International awards for programs developed or overseen by him include: national public relations; awards; fundraising; group collaboration; commercial education; and assistance to the handicapped.Personal awards include: Voluntary Contribution to Western Australian Heritage; Honorary Tarheel of North Carolina; a Paul Harris fellowship from Rotary; and Community Torchbearer for the Sydney 2000 Olympics.In addition to being recognised as Outstanding Senator of JCI, Outstanding National Officer and one of the World's Inspiring Jaycees, he was Australian Jaycees (JCIA) first Ambassador in Western Australia and one of the state's Five Outstanding Young Australians. Along with a JCI Senatorship, he holds life memberships of 8 community or sporting organisations and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his contribution to the Australian community. In 2025 he was awarded Life Membership of JCIA.