In 1934 the Turnbull family were transferred to Bunbury. Betty attended Bunbury High School, was involved in many sports and won a diving competition. She joined the Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club, was club champion in 1938 and 1939 and got her bronze medal in the surf. She also played A grade hockey, and was a strong runner.

The South West weather and lifestyle were perfect for Betty, and she made many friends during her time in Bunbury. Bicycling picnics with a crowd of friends was customary, as were the town hall dances that occurred from time to time around the place. The Bunbury years were always remembered fondly by Betty, both for the good times she had and the wonderful friends that she made, some of whom she kept for life. Bunbury was her home until her enlistment in the Army, which brought about another transfer to Perth. Betty would visit many times over the years to come, and would always regard Bunbury as one of the favourite times of her life.