River to Freedom, Nouchiam (Jimmy) Thatvyhane

Jimmy’s journey to Australia was not an easy one. Born and raised in Laos, Jimmy was desperate for a better life and fled the country around 1978, in a bid to escape the communist regime. Seeking freedom, he crossed a river to make his way to Thailand, where he spent close to three years living in a refugee camp. 

While he waited for a visa to come to Australia, Jimmy made the best of his situation. “I taught myself English from books back in Laos,” said Jimmy, “so I was able to help others in the camp - teaching them English, assisting with administrative tasks, and filling out forms.” 

Jimmy was always encouraging his friends to make wise choices - find a good job, save money, and do the right thing. He always believed in helping others.

Back in his village and in the camp, Jimmy had a reputation for being the life of the party. He enjoyed socialising, making people laugh, and was known for his love of music - as well as enjoying a glass or two of red wine with friends. 

His favourite hobby was playing the keyboard and singing. He often performed French songs - his favourite being La femme de mon amie - which translates to ‘My friend’s wife’. Jimmy also spoke French, a reminder of Laos’ colonial past. 

Arriving in Australia, Jimmy was sent to Villawood, before settling in Fairfield. He found work in a battery factory alongside a friend. Hard-working and determined, he climbed the ranks, eventually becoming a supervisor, managing both the machines and the workers until he retired.

Jimmy was married three times and had three children with his first wife, who had come to Australia with him. Despite his divorces, all his ex-wives still come to visit him at SummitCare.

Looking back on his life in Australia, Jimmy has no complaints. “Australia is the best,” he said. His advice to others was simple: “Think good things, do good things, and good things will happen.”