A retired couple from Australia, who were volunteering for the Samoa Victim Support Group over the last five months, are the perfect examples of what it means to losing one self in the service of others.

According to the local not-for-profit organisation based at Tuanaimato, the couple are part of their growing family. Larry and Amanda Murphy are self-funded retirees who have been volunteering in Samoa on and off since 2015.

Last October, the couple reached out to S.V.S.G. with a request to allow them an opportunity to help out as volunteers.  The request was approved and since then, S.V.S.G. have gained one of its most thoughtful and helpful family members.

Amanda is a qualified accountant (CPA Australia) and has worked in local government as well as other sectors in Australia. She was eager to help out with the finance and administration work of the S.V.S.G.

According to the S.V.S.G. Financial Controller, Tafatoa Sam Fruean, he said it was an honour working with the couple as the two were farewelled.

“It's a blessing working with you guys. I am forever grateful for the huge help that you have provided for our finance team. You are part of the family,” he said.

Upon returning to Australia, Larry and Amanda continued to maintained contact and acknowledged the work of S.V.S.G. in particular being part of the S.V.S.G. family.

“We felt privileged and honoured to be able to help such a worthy organisation, especially experiencing the wonderful camaraderie and dedication to the cause that everyone at S.V.S.G. has," said the Murphys.

"After the many times we’ve been to Samoa, including long stays, it really gave us a sense of purpose to be there. Lina, you really struck a chord with both of us, that we are part of the S.V.S.G. family.”

The S.V.S.G. said they appreciated the commitment from such a joyful couple, during their volunteer time in Samoa.

The S.V.S.G. President Siliniu Lina Chang farewelled and paid tribute to the departing Australian couple. 

“Thank you so much Larry and Amanda for your sincerity to help out S.V.S.G. You came with a purpose and we are honored to be able to give you that sense of purpose. As family, we will see you again.”