There was a surprise 90th birthday celebration lunch for a very special aunt, Gwen Greaves of Taree, who turned 90 years young on March 16. After months of secret planning by nieces Pam, Dianne and Helen, it all came together when some 66 relatives and friends gathered at Sass@Bowers Restaurant, Kolodong, last Saturday to surprise her. The nieces had worked hard on flowers, balloons, a photo collage, and the cake to mark the occasion. Friends and family from Qld, Sydney and the Hawkesbury, Port Macquarie, Nambucca Heads, Lismore, Dubbo and locally joined in the celebration.

Nephew Ken Ridge from Kenthurst said grace and read the congratulatory messages from Parliamentary dignitaries organised by nephew Ian Richardson of Lake Cathie. A huge arrangement of soft pink, white and cream roses was presented to Gwen on behalf of the family. After the lunch, a beautiful birthday cake, made by Dianne Greaves-Hayne, and iced by Jenny Cherry, was cut as guests sang happy birthday. Gwen was also presented with a crystal bedside lamp by the family. Lots of photos and a video were taken to record the happy times.

Wingham CWA turns 90 

Wingham CWA Branch celebrated its 90th birthday with a high tea at their rooms on Bent Street on Thursday, March 14. President Vivienne Beaumont and members welcomed about 50 guests from local organisations who joined the celebrations. Fine bone china, delicious food and good company made for a wonderful afternoon and a chance to hear about the local history of this great organisation. It was wonderful to catch up with Monica Stone. who has been back in the area visiting relatives from her home in Spain. 

Bev Clancy's 80th 

Bev Clancy was guest of honour at her 80th birthday, on Sunday, March 17. As a St. Patrick's Day baby the theme was green, and she even had green nail polish. Her large family of children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and partners, three sisters Valda, Delma and Carolyn (who was over from the USA with son Victor) and brother Barrie Sawyer, were all on hand to congratulate her, along with the many other family and friends. The party sprawled into Bev's beloved garden and was very pleasant. Finger food and nibbles were enjoyed before it was time to cut the birthday cake. Jenny Cherry had baked and iced a most unusual white mud cake which was much admired before the candles were blown out. A family photo was taken before members and friends had to take their leave. Bev also received some beautiful floral arrangements and bouquets of flowers along with cards and messages on a day she will long remember.