Margaret Harrison has been the proprietor of Hartel Communications for the last twelve years.

The company supplies and installs Samsung and Alcatel key systems and PABX, mainly in the Bayside and Mornington Peninsula areas. Among Margaret's customers are the Prime Minister's office in Melbourne and Federal Government politicians in Victoria and New South Wales.

Originally from New Zealand, Margaret migrated to Australia with her husband Ron in 1973. Their son Russell is a veterinarian currently working in England. Margaret has a background in sales and has worked with companies such as The Independent newspaper and Val Morgan.

When she was 17 years of age, Margaret contracted a serious illness which remained with her for 15 years. She is in remission and now she leads a hectic but fulfilling life.

As well as being a successful business woman, Margaret has a long history of supporting community organisations and causes, especially through fundraising.

She has organised and ran several successful auctions for various charities including Multiple Sclerosis and special needs children. Now she is on the school council of Peninsula Special Developmental School where she has ran an auction and family fun day at Hickinbotham's winery which raised $14,000 for the school grounds appeal.

Margaret said that part of the reason she is involved in supporting her community is because she is so grateful for her current good health.

Link to Hartel Communications website