Tinonee Historical Society president Jenny, members Pam and Helen, welcomed a visit from Cross Country Tours, Qld, last Thursday afternoon.  The group of 29 seniors together with the tour manager arrived after enjoying a morning visiting Wingham Museum followed by a guided tour of the local area that included a visit to Machin’s Timber Mill.

Local guide for the group was MVHS president Barbara Waters. After their visit the group were off to see Taree sights. The group certainly enjoyed themselves at Tinonee and in Wingham and I happened to notice their coach coming back into Wingham the next afternoon after being out and about.

Farewell Tom Stone

St Matthew’s Anglican Church was overflowing with mourners who gathered to pay their final respects to well known Wingham identity, Thomas Percy Stone – known to all as Tom – last Friday March 10 with Rev Brian Ford conducting the service.

Tom, who was born on November 30, 1925 passed away on March 7 aged 91 years having been pre-deceased by first wife Jean. He is survived by second wife Monica and their combined families including grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Tom, who served his country with honour in the Australian Navy during WWlI was honoured with an RSL service led by Ron Irwin assisted by Allan Valentine and Ken Malpass with his fellow RSL members laying a poppy of remembrance on his casket.

Grandson Robert Stone of Waratah presented a family eulogy on memories of a special man and grandfather with tales of fishing and being part of his life.

A private family burial took place at the Wingham Cemetery after which friends and family gathered at Wingham RSL’s Hibiscus Room to remember their times with Tom.

St Patrick’s Day Fun

All is in readiness for Tinonee & District Red Cross Branch’s St Patrick’s Day luncheon tomorrow, Thursday at the Tinonee Memorial School of Arts Hall.

To be sure, to be sure there is bound to be laughter and friendship with food and entertainment for all to enjoy. 

Happy Birthday List

This week I have five friends and relatives enjoying another birthday – firstly a very happy birthday to friend Helen Bennett for her day on March 13, to my Aunt Gwen Greaves of Taree and friend Nancy Ford of Wingham who both celebrate on March 16. Cousin Denyse Budd, who will be back in town from Qld, and Red Cross friend Bev Clancy celebrate on March 17.  Lots of love and happy birthday ladies, from family and friends.