Our Team
Ali asked all the staff to write about themselves - what they had done before and what they considered their good qualities. Many found this really difficult!
Sales - Shop & Mail Order
Christine
(currently away while she helps out with 3 new grandchildren! Hopefully back in March 2010)
Self description:
I come originally from South Wales, UK. I have lived in the North for the last 37 years, the last 28 in beautiful Broome. Having worked in offices and hardware stores I am now very happy at Hidden Valley.
Most importantly, I'm a wife and mother to 3 wonderful children, 4 grandchildren (one just new), and another 2 on their way. I'm caring, considerate, loyal, compassionate, loving and naturally intuitive.
Favourite part of the job?
Working with happy, helpful, like minded people makes Hidden Valley a great place to be. Morning teas are definitely a highlight. Dislikes? I miss working the same day as Pat - loved her laughter.
Pat 
(who has unfortunately just left us to retire)
Self description:
We retired from Perth and came to Broome 10 years ago. After 2 years we bought a business here selling locally produced arts and crafts. After a while my husband ran our business and I came to help Ali & Smokey at Hidden Valley.
I am happy, contented and conscientious about my job. I do enjoy lots of laughs.
Favourite part of the job?
The great feeling of camaraderie we have here. One big happy feeling one might say. Dealing with happy customers who appreciate these really good products. Dislikes?: Dealing with negative people.
Kerry 
(on board this year and hopefully staying)
Self description:
I have been a Broome local for 29 years. I was previously an owner of a retail store in Chinatown for 13 years and I've been in customer service since leaving school.
I'm hardworking, a good communicator and customer service person. I'm happy, diplomatic, honest and reliable and have a genuine love of people.
Favourite part of the job?
Walking in and being uplifted by fantastic aromas. And working with a happy and helpful crew.
Emma 
(just new, but fits in like she was intended to be here)
Self description:
My previous work involved a lot of blood, guts and dog poo (I'm a veterinary nurse), but for the last 12 months I've been travelling Oz, photographing roadhouse dogs and seeing what's out there. My home is the Southern Highlands of NSW.
I'm Pisces/Aries: headstrong, honest, determined, bold and focussed. Also gentle, easy going, vaque and silly. I'm naturally compassionate and sensitive to the energies of nature.
Favourite part of the job?
The opportunity to be my authentic self and be around like-minded people. Also, the philosophy of love that runs through everything we do. Worst thing?: Sometimes my rollie chair wheels get stuck - that's annoying!
Sales - Markets
Jaye 
(our 21 year old son, works Saturdays to pay his way in the family)
Self description:
I'm the Muscles Market Machine and Awesome Market Crazy Dude. Being the son of Brian and Ali I was groomed for the markets at a very young age, and thus can't remember a pre-market life!
Favourite part of the job?
The market social scene.
Shannae 
(who unfortunately leaves us in December)
Self description:
I originally came from Geraldton and have lived in Broome for 5 years. I'm the girl that Jaye torments! I'm a bubbly, vibrant year 12 student who loves her job at Hidden Valley. I have strong leadership qualities and want to pursue a successful career in commercial pharmacy.
Favourite part of the job?
It's a lot of fun! Great atmosphere, great people and is the highlight of my week. Dislike?: Jaye! :-) and the occasional grump tourist who wants to barter.
Production - Candles
John
(the candle man and morning tea maker)
Self description:
I previously worked before in northwest mines (iron ore), then offshore oil & gas. I'm humorous and laid back.
Favourite part of the job?
Walking on Cable beach, playing golf and Smoko - all part of the job.
Note: Our old friend John, who lives at our place, works for nothing, just to be part of the team. We all love him to bits and appreciate his fabulous morning teas!
Production - Soap
Jo (Joanna)
Self description:
As a dreamer I have had many journeys from travelling across many ancient lands, to creating art, jewellery, film and food gardens... Yet my feet and heart always lead me back to the pindan.
To find words to describe one such as myself... undoubtedly passionate, eccentric and caring, full of laughter and life, sometimes a little overwhelming..
Favourite part of the job?
When I mix the essential oils for the soap, unleashing my senses to all the essences, I feel like an alchemist, and a healer...a magician and her magic.. Dislikes? I don't dislike anything about my job, I am fortunate to work with wonderful people and relax at the same time.
Kaya
Self description:
I have been walking a road that has led to Hidden Valley, it began a long time ago in Bondi Beach, crossed the Centre and ended up in the last years in wonderful, blissful Broome. What joy!
I am like the Christmas soap - a little spicy, very sweet, I always smell great and I'm very colourful and bright.
Favourite part of the job?
I love to see the colour of the soaps, smell the beautiful perfumes, and pouring this amazing liquid soap into the moulds is great fun! However my most favourite thing is the wonderful people I work with - for sure!.
Dislikes? I would love to have 3 months annual leave to spend globetrotting and researching new and exciting exotic ingredients. I would also like it more if oyster and champagne were served at morning tea!
Production - Cosmetics
Denise - Cosmetics design & manufacture
(Denise is leaving us for a few months to complete her Naturopathy diploma. Go Denise!)
Self description:
I am originally from Perth, but in Broome for 10 years. I'm a teacher, now lecturing at Notre Dame and currently studying Herbal Medicine, hoping to finish early next year.
I enjoy being creative and busy. I love reading and can't imagine life without good books! Enjoy good friends and catching up. Love my herbs.
Favourite part of the job?
creating products that don't include all the horrific ingredients common in many skin care products. Dislikes? Cleaning up after Skinsmart!
Becki Mitchell 
(joined us this year)
Self description:
I was assistant manager at Zeebar (in Broome) and customer account manager for a graphic design company. I'm a Pommie who gets cold at night. A little bit crazy but I am a Pomme! Love my music, art and crafts.
Favourite part of the job?
Being surrounded by the most amazing smells, using my brains and mathematics as well as creating something from scratch. Dislikes? Morning tea! I eat so much yummy food I then have to do extra exercise to work it off.
PACKAGING
Michelle 
(who has just left for Thailand, now replaced by Emma)
Self description:
I have done lots of things like constructing internal walls, making art and great curries. I'm generally easy going, happy to help others, positive about life most of the time, and willing to give my loyalty to people and animals.
Favourite part of the job?
Apart from the morning teas that are like having birthday parties every day, it would have to be the people I work with, who are all very generous in heart, and the ethos of Hidden Valley. Dislikes? Using the wood wool and even that I have got used to.
OWNERS & GENERAL DOGS' BODIES
Smokey (Mr Fixit)
Self description:
I originally came from Perth, was an accountant. I am "old" with grey hair, glasses, have a good sense of humour, I'm kind, considerate, smart and good natured.
Favourite part of the job?
Working with such lovely women and the morning teas. Dislike? Packing for Saturday markets and getting up at 5 am!
Ali
Self description:
Lived in New Guinea, Perth, Amsterdam then the Kimberley for the last 27 years. Once was Law librarian at UWA. I'm a loner, big hearted, compassionate, love plants, ideas and people (preferably not too many at once).
Favourite part of the job?
The amazing opportunities for self expression and creativity - creating products, a happy team, a network of like-minded customers, and a successful business embodying love. Always having something to give away, and having a solid place in the community.
Dislikes? Not having more time. And still, after 15 years, not completely understanding soap!