Vale Deb Chumbley

Born to parents Bev and John in Pascoe Vale, Deb’s early years were filled with laughter and play, spending her days with sister Michelle and brother Paul, along with dog Gypsy and their guinea pigs.

Growing up, Deb was close with her siblings, who loved and uplifted each other, recognising the strength in their differences.

Deemed the ‘smart one’, Deb thrived at school, enjoying all the fun that came with a ’70s childhood.

Ever-curious, she tried her hand at Girl Guides, callisthenics, netball, hockey, volleyball and marching girls.

Deb went on to learn the guitar, play basketball, and pick up the ukulele; never one to say no to something new.

The Chumbleys spent many a summer waterskiing in Bonnie Doon on Mr Chumbley’s boat, aptly named Debbie.

Christmas celebrations were not confined to December 25, with the extended family ‘Grubb Christmas’ about being together, regardless of the date.

Deb and sister Michelle continued this tradition, becoming ‘Chumbley Christmas’.

The sisters were closer than most siblings, connecting as their families grew, and sharing interests such as yoga, which took them on retreats, including one to India earlier this year.

Much like Michelle, many saw Deb as their best friend, a credit to her loyalty and understanding.

These traits were reflected in her first steps after high school, going on to train as a nurse at The Alfred.

Deb’s innate empathy was clear from a young age, like when she five years old, selling envelopes filled with seeds to raise money after being moved to tears by a fire on the news.

Staying in the health industry, Deb studied as a physiotherapist at La Trobe University, taking a temporary graduate placement at Echuca Hospital.

The Chumbleys lost their mother, Bev, during that time and Echuca became home for Deb.

In 1993, Deb met Carol and daughters Liana and Anika, marking the start of a new life together.

The family welcomed son Lachlan in 1999, and continued to grow when Deb took on the role of Nana.

Much like during her own childhood, grandchildren Lucas, Oliver and Zahlia were promised laughter and play at Nana’s house.

A visit looked like hugs, games and stories.

This warmth translated beyond her Nana hat, supporting her patients, friends and wider community through her values.

Deb imparted equality and humanity on to the people in her life.

Taking on the role of Goulburn Valley Pride president in 2020 epitomised her leadership and courage, providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ people to be themselves.

Reflecting the qualities of a true leader, Deb made space to listen and to support those around her.

She met people where they were, treating them as friends and equals.

In her presidency, Deb oversaw the opening of the GV Pride Hub, multiple OUTintheOPEN festivals, and built relationships between GV Pride and councils, businesses and the wider community.

When the October 2022 floods hit, Deb’s role at Campaspe Shire Council saw her provide vital support to her community, a steady guide in a crisis.

Victorian Minister for Women and for Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins acknowledged Deb’s many, varied contributions in a letter to her family.

Mrs Hutchins expressed gratitude for her role in 2024-25 as a member of the Victorian Honour Roll of Women assessment panel.

In this position, she shared her knowledge to celebrate the achievement of women across the state.

A common thread in all of Deb’s roles is the feeling of being seen.

She looked for the good in others, and made time to care for them.

Deb will be remembered by her family, friends, colleagues, GV Pride network and wider circle as a beacon of light and love.