With Carol Bellis
by Sam Regi
In a story session with Carol Bellis, at her home in the Gap, Carol unfolds a narrative that spans continents and decades. From her upbringing under South Africa's apartheid regime to the transformative decision to make Australia her home, Carol's journey is one of resilience and adaptation. This conversation captures her reflections on navigating profound contrasts in societal norms and personal freedoms, while also exploring the values she hopes will shape her family's legacy—a testament to belief in oneself, gratitude, and the courage to embrace new beginnings.
Press play to listen to an extract from the conversation with Carol.
"We brought all our clothing in a trunk. That's all. And our car. We had to wait three days in Sydney to get the car. Took a while for it to come off the ship and pass immigration and all the tests. So that's why we stayed (in Sydney). And while we were there, we saw a few sights and went to the zoo. And oh, there's a whole other story about that..." - Carol Bellis.
What was it like growing up in South Africa, and how did you feel about calling it home?
It was home—it was familiar, just like anywhere else where you're born. But I didn't like the apartheid system. Looking back, I can't fathom how I lived under such a cruel regime. It was so oppressive, and it deeply affected me.
What led you to consider leaving South Africa?
We had been thinking of leaving because of the apartheid system. Another major reason was that when my son turned 18, he would have been conscripted into the army, which was mandatory at the time. These two reasons were significant, but the idea was just simmering in the background until one pivotal day.
Can you tell us about that pivotal moment?
One day, while I was out gardening, a lady passed by our residence. We struck up a conversation, and she was incredibly interesting. She spoke about the unrest and issues happening beneath the surface—things that journalists and newspapers were banned from publishing. The information she shared was eye-opening.
How did that conversation influence your decision to emigrate?
I invited her in for a cup of tea. Coincidentally, it was a day when my husband was working from home and had been to the bank to negotiate a second mortgage on our house for an extension. As I was talking with this woman, learning about the hidden unrest and her connections to some illegal organizations in South Africa, I realized internally that we had to emigrate.
What happened when your husband returned from the bank?
When he came back, he announced that the bank had turned down his application for a second mortgage. I told him, "It doesn't matter—we're migrating." That's how it all started. He wanted to leave as well, so he agreed.
Do you have any lingering ties to South Africa?
Not really. While South Africa has beautiful parts—the countryside is gorgeous—I don't have strong ties to the country anymore. For me, it's limited to just growing up there and my childhood memories.
Carol Bellis at home.
And then coming to Australia, It was just, as I said, that sense of freedom
What was it like when you first arrived in Australia? Did you feel a sense of relief after leaving South Africa?
Yes, when we came to Australia, there was that immediate sense of freedom. Once we settled in and got to know the place more, there was always some comparison between South Africa and here, especially when we were still homesick. I'd often think, "This was much better in South Africa than it is now." I did that a lot—comparing things. I’m not sure if my husband, Chris, did the same, but it's just my nature, I guess.
Did you ever regret the move?
No, I’ve never regretted it—not for a second. And I don’t think Chris did either. In fact, I know he didn’t. The change was the right decision for both of us.
Having lived through so many different chapters in different places, what do you consider your legacy?
That’s a big question!
I thought we’d end on something a bit profound.
[Laughs] Oh my goodness, my legacy? Give me a clue!
Well, for your family—what values, messages, or traditions do you want to pass on? You’ve lived such a strong story, and we’re documenting it now. What do you want them to take away when they listen to this?
I think the most important thing is to believe in yourself. Be present. Value what you have, not what you want. Don’t always look too far into the future—appreciate the present and have gratitude for what you have right now. And above all, believe in yourself.