Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

As 2018 was the 60th anniversary of the founding in 1958 of the Lindisfarne Riverside Arts Club Inc. by Ellen Dickson, initially in her barn, it was decided to schedule a number of celebratory events. These included a High Tea, a Jubilee Dinner at the Lindisfarne Motor Yacht Club, a Devonshire Tea at the Lindisfarne Lifestyle Village and our customary two concerts. Many local businesses generously donated vouchers, gifts and offers of services for door prizes and raffles.

The High Tea went off magnificently with over a hundred attendees spanning the six decades of the Club. Also in attendance were Julie Collins MP, Federal member for Franklin and the Hon. Jo Sieka, Legislative Council Member for Pembroke. The Community Activity Centre where we regularly rehearse was resplendent with balloons, flowers, a large banner, an extensive exhibition of photos and tastefully decorated tables. At the front was a large screen on which was shown a continuous slideshow of events and personalities from throughout the years.

Entertainment was provided firstly by Gill Aulich, who spoke about the contribution her mother, Barbara Manning, had made to the early years of the Club. Secondly excerpts from Sheila Spargo’s video tape Take a Bow were shown, a compilation of items, skits and interviews, starring such renowned members as Enid Brett and Malcolm Thompson.

The High Tea concluded with a cake cutting ceremony and celebration of the Life Members.

A second large cake was cut at the Jubilee Dinner on 5th May. Both cakes were baked by Life Member Jeff Cheal and decorated by Jean Reeve’s daughter-in-law, Trish.

The Hon. Joanna Siejka, MLC for Pembroke, acknowledged the 60 years of the Club at a “special interest matter” in a speech in the Legislative Chambers.