Tamworth Evening VIEW Club

2023 April 

Zones NI01 & NI02 Gala Day Gunnedah 29/4/23

Fifty five VIEW ladies from Gunnedah Day and Evening, Tamworth Day, Evening and Tamworth Peel Evening, Glen Innes, Manilla and Narrabri Clubs met in Gunnedah on Saturday 29th April to enjoy the Zone Gala Day. Inverell, Moree Day and Evening and Coonabarabran clubs were unable to attend. The 12 Clubs, currently sponsor 37 students with some clubs looking to increase their numbers by the end of the year.

Members were welcomed on arrival at Club Gunnedah to a scene of Black and White which reflected Black and White theme. Each table had black and white paper flowers, pearls and mirrors, black serviettes and white linen table cloths, and once all fifty five were in the room it really was a black and white day.

Following a healthy morning tea, National Advisor Sally welcomed local Gomeroi people

James Hogbin and Lahni Griffiths. Lahni firstly gave a “Welcome to Country” in the local dialect then translated it to English. James followed giving a clear explanation of what the Boomerang and the Southern Cross mean to Aboriginal people, then demonstrated this by way of a song and dance using Boomerangs.

National Advisor Sally Cronberger and Zone Councillor Aletia Norman co-chaired the day and commenced by acknowledging those members present who had been in National and Zone positions and thanked all who contributed in any way to ensuring the Black and White themed Gala Day was a success. A special mention was made of Mary Hollingworth from the Glen Innes Club who was recognised for her volunteering roles in and around Glen and was also named “Local Woman of the Year” on Australia Day.

Prior to lunch, club representatives shared funny stories both true and not so true, spoke about what their particular club was doing in terms of fundraising and ideas they have instigated to raise the needed funds for their students. Aletia gave a report on behalf of Cindy Pearce from The Smith Family, as she was unable to attend.

It was clear that there are a lot of creative ladies within these VIEW clubs if what was displayed is any indication with everything from hand bags to dresses made from recycled VIEW tea towels. So much talent!

After a very tasty lunch, Zone Councillor Aletia explained why the delegates meetings are so important as a way of sharing what is happening throughout Australia with VIEW and The Smith Family as well as what changes are being made at National Office. She encouraged as many members as possible to attend National Convention in Hobart in September. Aletia also noted that the upcoming National Convention has not been mentioned in some Club minutes.

Past National Vice President Beryl Pike then talked about the upcoming road trip Marianne Maher and Elizabeth are making to meet with all the clubs within the Zones and encouraged as many members as possible to attend their closest meeting in order to ask the questions and get answers “straight from the horses mouth” so to speak.

The rest of the day was spent laughing at a skit from Tamworth Evening Club’s Joan performing “Let’s get physical” from “Menopause the Musical” which saw Joan start off well but ending needing to go to the “hospital”.

The final skit of the day was performed by the fabulous ladies Beryl, Sue, Raeleen and Chris from Tamworth Peel Evening Club with the marriage scene performed in The Vicar of Dibley series, with the song ”It Should Have Been Me” written by Norman Whitfield ended the day with lots of laughter and applause.

A day of fun and friendship which reflects what VIEW (Voice Interests and Education of Women) is all about.

Report by Kathy Challinor OAM

Publicity Officer

2023 March

TAMWORTH EVENING VIEW CLUB’S BUS TRIP

Forty three TEVC members and their guests boarded a coach on Friday March 31^st for a day out in Uralla. Now Uralla is about 20 ks south of Armidale and was one of the haunts of notorious Bushranger Thunderbolt back in the day.

A stop at the Bendemeer Pub for morning tea saw a specially laid out Devonshire morning tea on white linen using only the best fine bone china.

Following morning tea in Bendemeer, it was on to Uralla via detour to the tiny village of Kentucky was agreed upon wand which was in eye opener to many who had never been through Kentucky. It is now on many members list to revisit soon.

Uralla is also known for its superfine wool as well as cattle. Many of the buildings in the town and surrounds are Heritage Listed and the locals are very proud of their small community and go out of their way to make visitors welcome and ensure that they spend up while there as well.

Cafes, shops, McCrossin’s Mill Museum, boutique shops, old books, a shop that only sells wool and a brewery to name a few places to spend some time as well as a walk back in time along the main street.

The Top Pub was the chosen location for lunch soon after arrival where one of the guests’ grandson popped in to surprise his grandmother Letty. Following lunch there was free time for the group to take in the atmosphere, shop or browse.

A visit to Uralla is not complete until a trip to Gostwych Church is undertaken. This beautiful church about 15 kilometres from Uralla is a ‘must see’ spot and in a few weeks it will be covered in the amazing autumnal colours for which the New England is renown.

The winner of the raffle was Winston the coach driver and the Guessing Competition was won by guest Sue. Lots of happy chatter on the way up, friendships forged and memories made throughout the day and good day was had by all who attended.

Watch out for the next one.

The following morning Wednesday 15th March, President Merilyn once again opened her beautiful home overlooking the Longyard Golf Course to host a friendship morning tea. Twenty members were able to attend this year’s event on the verandah in wonderful autumnal weather. The birds had to find other trees to chirp in as there was a lot of chatter on the verandah on Wednesday. Thank you Merilyn for your ongoing generosity.

2023 MARCH DINNER MEETING

Forty two members met at Gregory’s on Tuesday night 14^th March for the monthly dinner meeting. Long time member of the club, Helen Bolger, currently in care, was able to attend with the support of Past National Councillor Glenda Noble, who collected Helen and drove her back to her accommodation, thus enabling Helen to catch up with old and new friends.

Our guest speaker for the evening was member, Margaret Ryan, who shared her passion for raising bees as a hobby. A hobby which has infected other family members across the state. Although Margaret was extremely anxious, (this being her first time public speaking,) it quickly became apparent that she was able to relax a little as she was speaking about something that only she knew. It was an interesting look into the lives of bees and for us to be aware of their fragility and very short lifespans. Without bees humans cannot survive. Margaret gave us lots to think about as well as something to taste – a small jar of her beautiful bee’s honey to take home. Thank you Margaret.

It was Kay Fitzsimmons’ turn to give members a glimpse into her life, a life that was never still. Being a nurse, Kay was pretty much assured a job in most of the multiple places that she and her husband and two children moved to every couple of years for his work. Thank you Kay for sharing your story.

A report on a very successful International Women's Day held the previous Wednesday, was given by the Publicity Officer. All those who attended from the club agreed that it was one of the best they had attended, thanks to the hard work of our National Advisor Sally Cronberger and Zone Councillor Aletia Norman.

Two new members Cate Belson and Lorraine Key, received their badges from President Merilyn. Lorraine attended her first meeting for many months due to extreme ill health, which we are happy to report is improving every day.

Margaret Hollyman went to the IWD as guest of our Vice President Carol and was invited to attend our monthly meeting as she thought that what VIEW does and how VIEW works with The Smith Family was something that she admired. Needless to say, just like last month when Vicki joined up on the night, so too did Margaret. Welcome Margaret.

Julie & Lorraine (who drew her number out of the hat) won the lucky door prizes, an attractive  coffee mug filled with Easter goodies, and Judy Gilroy won the raffle – lots of chocolates to share with her family.

Our time with Gregory’s concluded on Tuesday night as we are going back to The Mill at The Longyard Golf Club with our first meeting back there to be held on April 11th.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED IN TAMWORTH

Seventy three members from Tamworth Evening, Tamworth Peel Evening, Tamworth Day, Manilla, Gunnedah Day and Gunnedah Evening VIEW Clubs and their guests met at The Pavillon in Nemingha to celebrate International Women’s Day on Wednesday March 8. Apologies were received from Coonabarabran, Moree, Narrabri and Glen Innes VIEW Clubs.

This wonderful day with enlightening speakers, beautiful food and service from Lisa and the staff from The Pavilion was organised by National Advisor Sally Cronberger (who also baked yummy treats for morning tea) and Zone Councillor Aletia Norman.

Following the Acknowledgement to Country and the VIEW Pledge, we were entertained by 11 young ladies from years 2 to 5 from Timbumburi Primary School ably directed by teachers Yvie & Natasha. They assisted all to sing Advance Australia Fair then sang an amazing song with harmonies which held those present in awe of their skills. The choir then performed a clapping quack song/act from Israel which they performed and sang in Israeli where the last person standing wins. So much talent!! Thank you so much for starting off our wonderful day.

Club reports were given by the President of each club present, which was a wonderful way to share the different and unique ways each club raises money for our Learning for Life students that are sponsored by all our clubs.

ZC Aletia shared the history of International Women’s Day which was first celebrated in 1921! and finished with range of interesting events etc., that took place during 1921.

The Smith Family Area Coordinator Cindy Pearce, provided an update on the programs that are being offered to the students and their families and the pleasure it now is to be able to engage with them face to face rather than digitally.

The Smith Family currently has 60,000 students receiving a Learning for Life scholarship across Australia which they hope to increase to 100,000 by 2027.

Cindy invited Vince & Sharleen Duffy to address the audience on how The Smith Family helped them and their children with these scholarships during a difficult time in their lives. They reported that all their children have done, and some are still doing very well at school. Vince & Sharleen are both now giving back to the community.

Kathy Challinor Publicity Officer & VIEW Bureau Speaker from TEVC then showed six short The Smith Family videos of students and/or their parents speaking about how their scholarships helped them through school and enabled them to complete their schooling with many going on to University.

Following lunch, local Disability Support Worker who was previously a Police woman in the Queensland Police Force for many years Helen Murdock, shared her story of being a young Police Woman and some of the situations she faces at 19 years of age, then receiving a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and the impact that has had on herself and her family.

This she did in a very poignant but entertaining way. She calls her MS – “My Shit” and finished with “for my children I will not let MS beat me”!

Lucky door and the raffle were then drawn, with the first prize, a canvas painting painted by TEVC member Kerry Lietch and was won by TEVC member Linda Assef, and runner up prize was won by TEVC president Merilyn Binney - her first raffle win in 35 years of being a VIEW member. A great way to finish a fantastic day.

2023 Annual General Meeting

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club meet and choose the 2023 Committee

Thirty six members attended the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 14^th February, Valentines Day with the main order of business, after catching up with friends following the break, was to elect the Committee to steer Tamworth Evening VIEW Club through 2023.

Zone Councillor Aletia Norman declared all positions vacant and firstly sought nominations for the positions from the floor. There being no new nominations, she read out the nomination forms that had been received.

Committee for 2023:

• President                       Merilyn Binney
• Vice President               Carol Swain
• Secretary                        Barbara Hyslop
• Assistant Secretary        Ellen Mackie-Gulliver
• Treasurer                        Elizabeth Henderson
• Assistant Treasurer        Joan Pacey
• Delegate                         Kay Swadling
• Program Officer             Deborah Mooney
• Program Officer             Lyn O’Connor
• Publicity Officer             Kathy Challinor

TEVC gained a new member on the night with Vicki Gersburg joining the club after hearing about VIEW and the wonderful work they do for The Smith Family whilst on holidays on the Sunshine Coast last year. “What VIEW was about resonated with me and I felt that it was something that would fit with me” said Vicki. She was warmly welcomed into the club by members.

The new/old committee looks forward to planning the fundraisers for 2023 and will include a couple of new ideas along the way. TEVC has recently added another student that it sponsors, making it eight (8) students.

Kathy Challinor OAM, 
Publicity Officer TEVC

2022 December Christmas Celebrations

Fifty two members and guests gathered at Gregory’s Function room to celebrate Christmas with old friends and new. A box was placed under the Christmas tree for members to place a donation in an envelope for our eight Learning for Life students.

Members and their guests were entertained by fellow Tamworth Evening View Club members as they performed 2 totally different Christmas skits.

The first one saw Nola interview five women from various backgrounds on topics such as their name, (funny how similar they were to local politicians), where their kids went to school, where they shopped and holidayed and what did they like about Christmas. One was a farmer’s wife, another a high society woman with lots of money, a pregnant mother of 9 with a husband that doesn’t work, shops at the op shops and gets gifts for the kids at Christmas from the Salvos. Another was an elderly confused woman who collects kids toys and the last one was a woman who lives along the river bank but knows how to access all services.

The second skit saw Marie wandering into a Boutique to buy some swimmers for her Christmas cruise where she plans on getting herself a man, so needed sexy swimmers. Jillian the long suffering saleswoman, tried her very best to stop Marie (a woman over 60 with all that goes with that) from taking the lurex G-string bikini into the fitting room. It all ended well after trying on a range of swimmers which did not flatter her, Marie left in a pair of XXL pink polka dot pants with a sash around her top. Sadly she had left the Boutique before she realised that the swimmers become transparent when wet.

A wonderful night was had by all who attended and we will get together again in February.

2022 November

Thirty five TEVC Members and their guests, attended the November dinner meeting and learned a lot about how to identify if a person is having a stroke, something that we all should be aware of and what to do to reduce the effects of a stroke.

Rachel Peake, Stroke Advisor for Hunter New England Health explained that not every stroke was the same, however we no longer see the devastating effects of stroke as a couple of decades ago, as early detection and clot busting drugs are giving people who have a stroke much better outcomes.

Joe Miller who attended with Rachel was living proof that early detection saves years of disability and shared his experiences as he had three strokes between 2012 and 2016 and apart from some left eye peripheral vision deficit, he is very well. He is the Community Engagement Officer and Stroke Safe Ambassador for schools in the region and goes around educating children so that they can spot the signs of stroke.

 Joe has a string of other achievements on his bow including Queensland Foster Carer of the Year and NSW Mental Health Quiet Achiever of the Year just to name a couple.

He and Rachel have written a book, “My Stroke Journey” for Aboriginal people to assist with early identification of stroke in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.

 FAST

F Face is it drooping? A any arm weakness? S Is speech slurred? T Time is critical – if a stroke is suspected, call 000 and to hospital within 4 hours where assessment can include the giving of the clot busting drug.

Two new members, Di Smyth and Maureen Huggins received their membership badges and National Advisor Sally Cronberger shared her life story which included many funny incidents when young.

As we were close to Remembrance Day, President Merilyn read a very moving poem to remind us that we are here because of them.

Trivia Fun

2022 October

During October around eighty members and their guests, filled up 14 tables to play Trivia and make money for the kids.

Monte, local radio station 2TM’s new Breakfast host volunteered to take on the role of Quiz Master and introduced a few changes to previously run Trivia events, including an option for players to pay $2 for a clue to an answer, or $5 for the correct answer!!

This tactic certainly helped to fill the fine boxes on the tables, with all monies going to our Learning for Life students. A game of Heads or Tails quickly sorted out the participants leaving one player standing who took home a gift bag filled with goodies.

The table names were dog breeds and there was some fierce competition throughout the night between the breeds, with the Chihuahuas just pipping the Beagles for first place.

All the prizes for the raffles, place getters and other winners were donated by members for which our Club was very grateful.

There were four lucky door prizes of boxes of chocolates, and two raffles of wine and chocolates as well as wine and chocolate prizes for the winning and runner up table, and Monte’s Pick table, who quickly put on the hats and swimming caps donated by the Regional Australia Bank. An auction of six bottles of wine was won by Treasurer Elizabeth’s husband.

A light supper was shared partway through the evening which gave all the brains a bit of a break.

President Merilyn thanked all who attended, donated goods for the prizes and Quiz Master Monte, as well as his lovely wife Caz who rolled up the sleeves and assisted Merilyn with the scoring all night.

A great night of fun, competition and creativity was enjoyed by all who attended, and Monte is already working on a few new ideas for 2023.

A Friendship Morning At The Gallery

Friday August 19^th saw 17 Tamworth Evening VIEW Club members and three guests at Tamworth’s Weswal Gallery enjoying a Devonshire morning tea after a Walk & Talk around the Gallery by new owner Kate.

Kate was very generous to our club by not only allowing us use of facilities to prepare the morning tea but gave generously of her time and expertise sharing with us the amazing talents of local and interstate artists who regularly exhibit their artwork at the Gallery. She also donated a Gift Voucher for the raffle which lucky TEVC member Nola Hunt won.

Sometimes it's just nice to arrive somewhere, soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the talents of others, while catching up over tea and scones with VIEW Club friends.

A very successful morning fun and fundraising event which assists our seven students to gain an education.

TAMWORTH Evening VIEW CLUB CELEBRATES ITS 44^TH BIRTHDAY IN STYLE

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club celebrated their 44^th Birthday on Tuesday 9^th August in our new venue Gregory’s Restaurant/Function room. The theme for the evening was similar to a lot of the other VIEW Clubs across the country, Roaring 20s in recognition of The Smith Family celebrating 100 years of supporting children who are financially disadvantaged.

Forty four TEVC members and 11 guests from Gunnedah Day, Tamworth Peel Evening and potential new members decked themselves out in the 20’s garb. Mind you there were a few boas that left the polished floorboards looking like a chicken slaughter yard.

Service badges for four members were given out by Zone Councillor Aletia Norman to Kay Swadling 40 years, Margaret Johnson and National Advisor Sally Cronberger both 20 years and Elizabeth Henderson 10 years.

Secretary Barbara shared with the members and guests that our President Merilyn Binney had been nominated in the “Making a Difference Award” and had received notification that it had been received at National Office. All those present applauded the nomination.

In the “Get to know your members” session, Merilyn shared her lifelong love and passion for sewing and in particular the more complicated and intricate the brides to be wanted the more Merilyn loved making them. Although recently retired, she still has her sewing room set up for special orders for special friends and family and is hoping that one day she can make her granddaughters wedding dresses.

Kathy gave an overview of her life thus far and has written her obituary as she doesn’t want others to talk about her when she has gone, she would rather do that herself. She was not sure that all those present believed her.

Jennifer Richard from the Tamworth  Ukulele Group entertained all with songs from the 20s along with a couple of hilarious ones about a man who won’t wear his dentures and the joys of getting old.

Merilyn thanked those present for support our recent fundraisers, the Blue Illusion Fashion Parade and the Musical Afternoon and said as a result of the outstanding success of both events, TEVC will be taking on another student, which will make the total number of students we sponsor – 8!

Zone Councillor Aletia, then cut the cake which was shared with tea or coffee and lots of talking amongst those present. All in all, a wonderful night.

Kathy Challinor OAM, Publicity Officer TEVC

2022 JULY

TAMWORTH EVENING VIEW CLUB’S MUSICAL AFTERNOON IS BACK – BIGGER AND BETTER

After a hiatus of 2 years, Tamworth Evening VIEW Club’s annual Musical afternoon was back! Over 120 people came to support the work TEVC does for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. TEVC is very grateful to all the performers who entertained the audience on Saturday afternoon July 30 at the Community Centre. Bill Gleeson was a wonderful MC ensuring the program ran smoothly and to time.

President Merilyn Binney welcomed everyone including the performers who so graciously gave of their time and expertise. She then thanked the audience for their attendance and warmly thanked those VIEW members from Gunnedah Day, Manilla, Tamworth Peel Evening and Tamworth Day clubs for supporting TEVC’s event. She thanked all the TEVC members who provided the amazing food which was enjoyed during intermission.

The afternoon commenced with Bill on the piano and Sam on the drums and the Southside Uniting Church Men’s Choir who led the audience in “Advance Australia Fair.” Bill then introduced Peter Donaldson who is taking a gap year before embarking on a degree in engineering, who played a couple of Bach’s compositions, raising goose bumps with his skills on the keyboard.

The Tamworth Ukulele Group followed with a few tunes which the audience joined in singing. Well known for her singing in both Tamworth Dramatic and Musical Society performances, Ann Walsh entertained all with her amazing voice, accompanied by Bill on the ivories.

Following afternoon tea, Southside Uniting Church Men’s Choir, with a few SING Australia Tamworth singers (including a couple of TEVC members) sang with their wonderful harmonies and finished with the audience singing the Chorus of “I Still Call Australia Home”.

Bill played a beautiful piece of music he wrote about the town of Nundle and had everyone captivated.

Graham Crane gave an in depth background on the history around Dorathea McKeller’s homestead in Gunnedah and then recited her poem “I Love a Sunburnt Country”.

Young Peter came back on and really made the keys sing with a haunting piece he had written, again raising goosebumps.

Natasha Curnow, another well-known singer/performer in TDS and TMS productions joined Ann on stage with two songs they have clearly sung together before. A fabulous way to finish a wonderful afternoon of enjoying the local talent that thrives in Tamworth.

The afternoon would not have been complete without drawing five lucky door winners.

This was followed by the raffle which was a beautiful handmade quilt crafted by Merilyn’s sister, the ticket was drawn out by her brother who was traveling through Tamworth and the lucky winner was Joan Harwood, President/Secretary of Gunnedah Day VIEW Club with the runner up prize of a large pot of succulents, donated by TEVC member Nola Hunt which was won by her friend and neighbour and also TEVC member Margaret McNaught.

Lots of smiles as people exited the venue – we will be back again next year!!

Kathy Challinor OAM

Publicity Officer

24 June 2022

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club and Tamworth Blue Illusion go all out for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life students

There was not a spare seat to be had at Tamworth Community Centre on Friday June 24 2022. Tamworth Evening VIEW Club (TEVC)  joined with Tamworth’s Blue Illusion (BI)  store to host a Tres Chic French Inspired Fashion Parade followed by a light luncheon and over 100 attended.

Blue Illusion donated the major raffle prize, an outfit to suit the winner, won by Program Officer Deb who was in isolation due to Covid, as well as some of the minor prizes. There was a lucky seat prize and lucky door prizes as well.

Three TEVC members along with five customers from Blue Illusion modelled a range of beautiful outfit including jewellery hats shoes scarves and bags. Felicity and Cathy from Blue Illusion dressed the models while Ann gave an in-depth description of each outfit for the audience to appreciate, including ways to dress up or down, depending on the occasion. She also gave an impressive demonstration of how to successfully drape a scarf.

TEVC members catered for the day with savoury finger food, sandwiches and slice (gluten free included of course), followed by tea and coffee. Needless to say there was very little left over as TEVC is renown for providing a good spread.

Blue Illusion provided each audience member with a Gift Bag which included a Gift Voucher valued at $25 to be used in store between the hours of 1 and 4pm following the fashion parade. BI generously offered the TEVC 7% of all sales between those hours to help with the fundraising event and were invited to visit the store, share some champagne or water and chocolates whilst browsing for a bargain. The store was almost at capacity around 2pm.

President of TEVC Merilyn Binney thanked the Blue Illusion staff for their time expertise and generosity with a bouquet of flowers and provided all the models with a “Thank you” gift. She went on to thank all those who attended and experienced what Blue Illusion have to offer and also thanked the members for providing a delicious luncheon.

The morning was captured by the Northern Daily Leader photographer Gareth and a full colour page appeared in the People and Places section of Saturday’s newspaper. TEVC Blue Illusion and the local media work well together.

NI01/02 ZONE DAY SATURDAY 18^TH JUNE 2022 – OAK TREE TAMWORTH

Almost forty members from eight of the thirteen VIEW clubs in Zone NI01/02, attended the Zone Day which was held at Oak Tree in Tamworth. The day commenced with a delicious morning tea catered by Mareen from Tamworth Peel Evening and NA Sally, and the table decorations were made by Bev from  Tamworth Peel.

To remind those present of the 100 year celebration of The Smith Family, there was a display of household items from the early 1900s onwards including babies bottles, irons that heated up on the Aga stove and the old eggbeater.

National Advisor Sally Cronberger welcomed Priya Nuni The Smith Family’s Family Partnership Coordinator, Past National Vice President Beryl Pike, Past Zone and National Councillors Mareen Bithrey, Glenda Noble and Barbara Hyslop, Past Zone Councillor Joan Harwood and current Zone Councillor Aletia Norman. She thanked Aletia for organising the day and also Tamworth Evening VIEW Club Vice President Carol Swain who organised the venue. Catering was by the Tamworth Women City Lions Club.

Club reports

Coonabarabran VIEW Club was an apology for the day and Sally shared their report which included that theirs is a small club who hold their meetings in different locations throughout the town and host lots of activities in order to support their four students.

Glen Innes VIEW Club reported that they currently sponsor four students and have 63 members. They are a very social club who listen to their members in terms of what they are prepared to do and host a range of activities including lunches, morning teas, trips etc., and recently donated $2500 to TSF Winter Appeal.

Gunnedah Day VIEW Club currently have 19 members with three waiting to join and three new members. They support one student and recently celebrated their 49^th Birthday. They raise funds in a variety of ways including  movie days, soup and damper lunches and they are never short of interesting guest speakers.

Gunnedah Evening VIEW Club support three students and disappointed recently when a planned visit by Marianne Maher had to be cancelled due to Covid. Their club is one of fellowship and fun and raise funds by hosting a range of activities including movie days and trivia nights. They have recently had an excellent speaker on CPR as well as the local Gunnedah Mayor.

Manilla VIEW Club currently has 26 members and recently held their AGM where all positions were eagerly filled. They sponsor three students and ensure they all get a gift card on their birthday. The local hotel is their meeting place where they are treated very well by the staff and fed fabulous food too. They have held a Mother’s Day raffle, had a sing-along with the Sydney Street Choir around the fire, and donated $500 to TSF Winter Appeal. The hospitality students from Manilla High School are catering for their August meeting this year.

Tamworth Day VIEW Club have over 40 members including four new ones. Their Committee works cohesively enabling them to sponsor three students. They have a monthly meeting and a function monthly, a regular newsletter and a new venue for their monthly lunch meetings, The Southgate Inn.

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club has over 60 members with two new members joining this week. It sponsors six students and has had a range of interesting guest speakers this year including Merryl Chaffey, End of Life Educator and Richard Newberry, a local blind man who has never let blindness define what he can do, and of course Cindy and Pryia. It has donated substantial amounts to both the Winter and Christmas Appeals and raises money in a variety of ways including Fashion Parade (with Blue Illusion), Musical Afternoon, Trivia Night, to name a few. TEVC will celebrate its 44^th Birthday in August.

Tamworth Peel Evening VIEW Club celebrated their birthday recently and a beautiful cake was made by member Bev and iced by Rayleen. A skit was performed to complete the night. Their planned bus trip to Windy Station Quirindi next weekend with lunch in  Gunnedah in a building erected in the late 1800s, had organiser Lyn changing the original 19 seater to a 48 seat coach, such was the interest. Mareen hosts monthly friendship morning teas for members in her garden, and there are a few more plans in the pipeline to help raise the funds to support their four students.

Werris Creek is a small club with 12 members and has recently celebrated its 40^th Birthday and meet monthly in the local Chemist shop which also has a café. They do not have guest speakers and sadly it was stated that it would be closing at the end of the year.

Sally thanked the clubs for their reports and suggested that Werris Creek not give up hope of keeping the club viable as help was available to assist in this process. She went on to report on the International Women’s Day speech given by The Smith Family CEO Mr Doug Taylor. There are currently 1500 students being supported by VIEW Clubs across Australia and he sent a special International Women’s Day greeting to the 15,000 VIEW Club members in 300 clubs for their support of these children.

Past National Vice President Beryl Pike then reminded those present of the importance of taking the time to make some resolutions in readiness for next year. Resolutions will not be discussed at this year’s convention in Adelaide.

Beryl is on the Resolution Committee and stressed that resolutions do make a difference particularly in children and women’s lives. She asked that members think about resolutions in terms of “what we can do to change things for the better for women – so that we know that we have made a difference”. Beryl mentioned that housing for women is currently in crisis particularly since the recent floods in Queensland and NSW.

Beryl gave those present a brief overview of the benefits that VIEW Resolutions have created, such as seat belts in school buses, flashing lights and 40k speed limit in school areas. At present there are only two resolutions at National Office and more are required as soon as possible and before the end of August. The Resolutions will be voted on at Club level then the ones chosen then to go to Members of Parliament. We are making a difference!

General Discussion

Sally advised the meeting that the New VIEW Handbooks are now available and asked each club to take one home. She reported on the Delegates meeting, which was held the previous day, where it was discussed that National Office need earlier notification of any planned events including monthly meetings please, and could all events be emailed to all clubs in the Zone so that others can attend.

Aletia reported to the meeting that members can only take on a maximum of 2 positions on a committee and if women are members of more than one club, they can only hold a position on one club’s committee.

Aletia stressed that selling of items other than VIEW goods or a Trading Table, at a meeting or function is not allowed. If holding a day like this Zone Day, ordinary raffle tickets can be used, however if you are selling tickets to members of the public, official VIEW raffle tickets must be used.

It was also suggested that each committee keep a book which lists those people who attended the meetings and if you have to change your venue for a meeting, for insurance purposes, NO need to be advised.

The issue of badges being attached to ribbon is not banned by NO was raised and members were advised that it is a suggestion only by NO that the wearer should only have club badge on clothing not a directive. Manilla VIEW Club has altered their badges by putting a magnet on the back to attach them to clothing.

Articles for the next edition of VIEW Matters need to be at NO by September. Members were reminded to nominate women in their clubs for the  “Making a Difference Award”. Members would have seen on the VIEW Clubs of Australia Website, “ Inspiring Women of VIEW”. You only need a good resolution photo of such a woman in your club and a few words about what makes her inspiring.

There was some discussion regarding making purple tablecloths for events and some clubs have already done this and had VIEW embroidered on them. Clubs were reminded that raffle tickets sold to the general public need to be kept for 12 months in case of any disputes.

A question from the floor to the meeting was “why are children from Catholic or other non-public schools excluded from sponsorship by TSF?” Pryia offered to seek some clarification on this matter and feed back to the clubs via Zone Councillor Aletia.

Guest speaker

Priya Nuni the Smith Family’s Family Relationship Coordinator for this area acknowledged country and introduced herself.

Priya has a Doctorate in Pharmacology which she completed in India and a Masters in Social Work, completed in Australia. She commenced work in Tamworth in July 2021 but due to the Covid restrictions had limited contact with families. Since March this year, she has been able to have face to face contact with parents, students and schools.

She outlined her extensive role including liaising with schools and principals to progress the referral of students to the program, as well as working with families and students to maximise school attendance.

Priya explained that her role included but was not limited to liaison with students, families, school, local community services and community and cultural leaders. She outlined the reasons for a student exiting the service.

Priya explained the importance of families keeping receipts for all purchases made by them for school related items. This is necessary for legal and auditing reasons as well as developing good habits with the families. She works with families to encourage the students to continue through to year 12.

Currently there are 600 students in Tamworth alone receiving support from The Smith Family and thanked the women of VIEW for their ongoing financial support of the children.

100 years ago

Zone Councillor Aletia then read out what was happening in Australia and worldwide in 1922, the year The Smith Family was established, and this was very enlightening to all especially the fact that Insulin was introduced for use by Type 1 diabetics 100 years ago. Prior to this, diabetics could expect a very short lifespan.

The day concluded with four lucky members winning the lucky door prizes and three fortunate members winning the raffle prizes.

Aletia and Sally thanked all those who assisted with making the day a success, including the Tamworth City Lions for catering, and wished all a safe journey home.

Report by:  Kathy Challinor OAM, Publicity Officer

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club

2022 Christmas in July

Tuesday 12^th July was a very cold windy night with some rain, so it really did feel  like Christmas in July when members and guests arrived at Connor’s Restaurant for a traditional Christmas meal and meeting.

Thirty three members and three guests braved the cold, decked themselves in Christmas colours and enjoyed a night of fun, friendship and of course gentle fundraising for our seven kids we sponsor.

Our second round of “get to know your members” saw Vice President Carol asked Judy a range of questions in order for the members to know more about her.
Suffice to say it was an interesting and funny session.

Roast pork with all the trimmings followed by sticky date pudding was the menu for the night, and there would not have been a plate go back to the kitchen with food on it! Thanks Connors for a great night.
Lots of chatter and laughter could be heard, and it was wonderful to see a couple of members return after a long  absence due to Covid.

Program Officers decorated the tables with all things Christmas and the winner of the raffle was Assistant Treasurer Kay Swadling.  

2022 May

TAMWORTH EVENING VIEW CLUB EMBRACES “END OF LIFE CARE PLANS”

Members of Tamworth Evening VIEW Club held their monthly dinner meeting on Tuesday night with 40 members in attendance.

Guest Speaker for the evening was Registered Nurse Meryl Chaffey, who over her nursing career has been an Enrolled Nurse Educator with TAFE, a Community Educator, has worked as a Drug and Alcohol Nurse as well as Nurse Manager and is now the End of Life Educator.

She explained the difference between Palliative and End of Life  care. The latter being is the last 12 months of life. Her role is to make the “uncomfortable – comfortable” and with the use of personal experience and humour, assisted those present with understanding the importance of having both an Advanced Care Plan which takes in to account your wishes and values and is a personal plan and the Advance Care Directive which is a legally binding document.

Meryl said that less than 30% of the population have actually gone to the trouble of completing both documents, many have downloaded them but maybe don’t wish to complete them yet. She stressed that by completing them in consultation with the family, there is less stress when for them when the time comes for you to leave this earth, as everything is recorded and it is what you wanted, meaning less family confusion and arguments at that important time.

Meryl pointed out the difference between an Enduring Guardian (the person who makes the health and care decisions when a person can no longer communicate their needs and wants) and a Power of Attorney (the person who makes your financial decisions for you once you can no longer do so).

Both plans can be downloaded from the NSW Health Website and stressed that each state has a slightly different plan so to be sure to download one that is applicable to you.

Once your plans are completed and witnessed, they should be stored with your medications (in case of emergency trips to hospital), a copy given you your family and in particular your Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardian), scanned into your doctor’s medical records and into your local hospital records.

Meryl spoke about how to introduce the topic with family members, the timing, situation and location being important. One needs to ensure that the family are on board with your wishes and so it may take a few goes to get them all on your side.

A wonderful thought provoking presentation which was gratefully and gracefully received by the members of Tamworth Evening VIEW Club and members would encourage other VIEW Clubs  in the Hunter New England Area to invite Meryl to speak to them as well.

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club goes Country Music in April

Everyone knows that Tamworth Country Music Festival is held  in January each year, but Covid has had something to say about that over the past couple of years causing the festival to be cancelled.

In 2022, the 50^th year Anniversary of TCMF was postponed to April and because TEVC does not meet in January, it was decided to theme our April dinner meeting Country.

40 Members and their guests met on Tuesday April 12 at Connors and sat at tables decorated with traditional country music hats. Many of the members dressed country and enjoyed a wonderful evening of fellowship and were treated to a demonstration of line-dancing by members Marie and Tanya along with Marie’s friend Gail.

After two dances by the “professionals” (one of whom only took up line-dancing two days earlier), President Merilyn invited all members and guests who were wearing pink, to join in.

Needless to say there were lots of laughter at the antics of some and plenty of appreciation shown to both the professionals and the amateurs for the entertainment provided.

The Lucky Door and Raffle prizes this month of course were Easter eggs with Marie and Glenda winning the Lucky Doors and VIEW Area Advisor Sally won the Raffle.

Guest speaker Connie Porter with past National Councillor Sally Cronberger and Zone Councillor Aletia Norman

ZONES NI01 and 2 VIEW WOMEN AND THEIR GUESTS CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Almost sixty women from View Clubs across the region celebrated International Women’s Day on Saturday over morning tea and  lunch, whilst being entertained by Those 2 Gals at West Tamworth League Club, organised by Zone Councillor Aletia Norman.

Connie Porter, who grew up in Quirindi and is now the CEO of Ramsey Health Care’s Port Macquarie Facilities, addressed the members and their guests and began her story from working in her parent’s bakery to being the youngest woman CEO in Ramsey’s Health facilities, with the words,  “In life, women wear a lot of hats and that is what makes them interesting”.

From a young age she knew she wanted to have her own hospital, and this seed was sown when she would serve the local Matron (in those days) at the bakery and vowed to model herself on her. She completed her Bachelor of Nursing at UNE, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Midwifery, a Masters in Health Service Management, and is currently undertaking further studies in Human Resources with a focus on Industrial Relations.

Connie shared statistics regarding the current gender bias from Federal Government down to the trades and encouraged women to be brave, talk to young women, and share their own stories, thus giving young girls role models. Throughout her presentation she referred to how great this world will be when we can have a workforce that is based on skills not gender and praised the work of VIEW Club women who raise funds for The Smith Family which assists financially disadvantaged Australian School Kids, through the Learning for Life Program, and stressed that education makes all possible.

TAMWORTH EVENING VIEW CLUB’S MARCH 2022 DINNER MEETING

The monthly meeting at Connors Function Centre in March saw forty four members and guests attend and enjoy a wonderful presentation of his life as a person who has had blindness since childhood.

Richard Newberry, accompanied by his high school sweetheart wife Jo, and his Guide Dog Henny, kept the members and guests intrigued and entertained in equal quantities as he explained how he saw when he went to school, the diagnosis, and then how he ended up working for then owning one of biggest plaster works companies in Tamworth.

He talked about the interesting ways he managed to get through primary and high school despite the fact that it was recommended he go to the North Rock School for Deaf and Blind. When he was diagnosed at a very young age, the specialist told his father that Richard would have to give up football and riding his bike along with a lot of other things.

His father politely said to the specialist that is would be up to Richard to decide what he can and cannot do. Well he really took that bit of encouragement to heart and there was very little he could not do. How he got the moniker “Hawkeye” is something you would have to ask him, as there would appear to be a few good stories as to how this came about.

Richard still rides around 250 kilometres a week on a Tandem bike with a couple of lifelong friends and has participated in all of the Westpac Helicopter Rides that have been coordinated by riders in the Tamworth area.

He was introduced by long time friend Program Officer Deb Mooney and thanked by Assistant Secretary Ellen Mackie-Gulliver. Henny did not move from her place at Richard’s feet the whole evening. Thank you Richard and family.

2022 February

Our 2022 Annual General Meeting was held on Tuesday February 8^th at Connors Function Room. Zone Counsellor Aletia Norman invited nominations from the floor and all Committee positions were filled smoothly, giving members and their guests ample time to catch up following the Christmas break.

There were two requests for membership on the night which were very quickly supplied to the lovely ladies wishing to join our club and support Aussie kids gain an education.

President Merilyn Binney gave her annual report and despite Covid, our six students were sponsored and some innovative fundraising was held, to ensure that they could be sponsored again this year, and thanked the members for their continued generosity.

Plans are underway for some fun fundraising events but all cannot be revealed just yet.

2021 December

Almost 50 members and guests recently came together in festive garb to celebrate the end of a challenging year with an evening of friendship carols laughs as well as showcasing what some of our clever members have done to keep busy during lockdowns.

President Merilyn Binney thanked outgoing National Vice President Beryl Pike and outgoing National Councillor Sally Cronberger, who both complete their two years in those positions at the end of this year, for the outstanding work they have done despite Covid-19 and presented them with a Certificate of Appreciation for their support of TEVC.

Members were invited to bring something that they created whilst in lockdown and three members, Nola Carolyn and Kerrie shared the results of their talents with the hand knitted colourful rug, tapestry and paintings.

Jennie West led the carol singing , Kathy Challinor shared the recent story in the Daily Telegraph “ Just Call us the Smiths” – the history of The Smith Family and Barbara Hyslop then showed short videos of the programs that The Smith Family run for children, as well as testimonials from sponsored students who outlined what sponsorship has meant to them as they journey through school and beyond.

Tamworth Evening VIEW Club felt this to be a fitting reminder of why VIEW Clubs exist and helped members and guests understand the importance of their involvement in VIEW.

Five lucky door prizes were collected by lucky recipients and the three raffle prizes were won by Bev Albertson, from Tamworth Peel Evening VIEW, Shirley Griffin from Tamworth Evening and Ro Everleigh from Gunnedah Evening VIEW Club.

2021 November Zone Friendship Lunch

Sixty VIEW members from the Manilla, Gunnedah Day and Evening clubs, along with Tamworth Evening, Tamworth Peel Evening and Tamworth Day VIEW Clubs and their guests enjoyed a friendship lunch on Saturday November 20^th at the Tamworth Community Centre. Sandwiches and slice were the order of the day, provided by various members with  tea and coffee enjoyed in beautiful fine bone china cups.

This day was organised by National Councillor Sally Cronberger and Zone Councillor Aletia Norman, both members of Tamworth Evening VIEW Club. In attendance was National Vice President Beryl Pike who addressed the ladies to congratulate them for being part of the wonderful world of VIEW, whose sole purpose is to raise money to support financially disadvantaged school children, and to share the exciting news that VIEW Clubs across Australia are now supporting 1,500 students.

Also in attendance on the day were two past Zone and National Councillors, Glenda Noble and Barbara Hyslop and past Zone Councillor Joan Harwood.

Due to a technology glitch the planned sharing of recent profiles of Learning for Life students and how sponsorship by VIEW has helped them achieve their educational goals, was not possible. However there was lots of sharing of stories about their sponsored students during the lunch with many new friendships forged.

2021 November

TAMWORTH EVENING VIEW CLUB GETS BACK TO WORK

On Tuesday 9^th November, over 40 members and guests got together at a dinner meeting for the first time since July. The wonderful floral themed night included a presentation by guest speaker Sandra Holmes, Horticulturist and Northwest Coordinator of Garden Clubs of Australia, who shared her story of becoming a horticulturist and her passion for anything that can be grown.

National Councillor Sally Cronberger presented Vice President Mary Gurd with her 10 year badge, and Della Ruttley who has held many positions over her 30 years with TEVC, was presented with her 30 year badge. Two new members, Joan Pacey and Kay Fitzsimmons received their membership badges from Zone Councillor Aletia Norman and were warmly welcomed to our club.

In line with the floral theme, a trading table was loaded with plants, homemade masks and peg bags all lovingly potted or handmade by members, which proved very popular with all monies raised going to our Learning for Life students.

A great meal shared with wonderful friends in a beautiful venue.