In 1974, community-minded Kathleen Short shared her love of creative embroidery by founding the Embroiderers' Guild of the Northern Territory (originally the Katherine, Northern Territory branch of the Embroiderers' Guild of New South Wales), where she was branch president for many years. Kathleen was also member of the Katherine District Show Society Council and an art and craft steward until 1988.
Kathleen is also passionate about educating young people. She was District Commissioner for the local Girl Guides group, and a critic for the Penguin Club – helping girls develop speaking skills. She cared deeply about their wellbeing; her home was known as a drop-in centre for many young people.
In 1984, Kathleen was elected to the Katherine Town Council, and later appointed Deputy Mayor. She received an Order of Australia Medal in 1997 for her service to the community.
Now living in Darwin, Kathleen continues to give to the community as a volunteer and as a member of community-based committees.