Family and friends farewelled Reginald Richard Reidy, late of Main Street, Cundletown, at a graveside service at the Tinonee Cemetery on October 4.

Reginald, known as Reg, passed away on September 28, aged 92 years. His service was conducted by Celebrant David Freeman. 

Reg was predeceased by his wife Alice May (nee Bird) some years ago, and by his son Robert. Daughters Robyn and her husband Tim Crossley, Rosemary O’Donnell, and daughter-in-law Kim and their families are left to mourn his passing.

Following the interment,  family members and friends gathered at Tinonee Memorial School of Arts Hall for the wake, which was catered for by the ladies of the Tinonee Hall committee. 

Sympathy is extended to the family and to Reg’s surviving siblings.

90th birthday celebrations

Surrounded by loving wife Barbara, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family and many friends, well known Wingham local Thomas (Tommy) Clarke celebrated his 90th birthday with a grand party at Taree Leagues Club on Saturday evening, October 6.

Balloons and music from the Inner Groove band of Port Macquarie set the scene for a wonderful occasion and finger food fed all in attendance.

The evening culminated with lots of photos, special memories from Tommy’s wife of 67 years Barbara, and his seven children, before the cutting of a special birthday cake which had been made and decorated by one of his granddaughters. 

John and I were privileged to be invited to help a special friend celebrate this wonderful milestone and we wish Tommy many more happy birthdays to come.

Manning Valley Concert Band performance

I attended a truly wonderful concert, 100 Years of Anzac, The Spirit Lives 1914-2018, at the Manning Entertainment Centre on Sunday afternoon, October 7.

The Manning Valley Concert Band under the baton and musical direction of Roger Griffiths and compere George Hoad, provided some awesome music.

They were supported by Kantabile Chamber Choir, Kaliedoscope Strings, Club Taree Community and Port Macquarie Hastings Concert bands, and the stirring sounds of the Manning Valley Pipes and Drums. 

Solo vocals were provided by Jodie Cooper, Michael Standen, Amanda Lees, George Hoad, and a classical dance was performed by Mia Paske – it was very emotional and poignant.

I am so glad I was able to witness the outstanding talent that is to be found in our great Manning Valley along with so many others who attended.