John and I were honoured to be included in the high afternoon tea for a very special lady - Nellie Hensing of Tinonee. The celebration at the Wingham Services Club was on her actual birthday of January 9, 2020.

Bright floral arrangements, special 90th serviettes, table runners and balloons completed the decorations and a delicious array of sandwiches, finger food and fruit tempted everyone's tastebuds. A large decorated coffee flavoured cake with candles completed the repast.

Nellie was the recipient of numerous floral arrangements, cards and gifts and many photos were taken of the birthday girl with her children, grandchildren and great-great children.

Apologies

I owe Karen, who conducts the Pilates classes at Tinonee Memorial School of Arts Hall, an apology as I wrote in last week's column that she would be resuming classes again on January 13, but this is not correct and I have been told they will now resume in February so am sorry if anyone had planned on coming this week.

Welcome

A warm welcome is extended to new residents Vaughan Smith and his wife and four daughters who have taken up residence in Tinonee having moved from Grenfell to take up his position as minister of Taree's Presbyterian Church.

We trust the family will enjoy their time living in Tinonee and their involvement with the local church community.

Australia Day

Our next celebration coming up is Australia Day and I have been informed there will be an Australia Day celebration at Wingham's Central Park on Sunday, January 26, at 7am, with sausage sizzle manned by the Wingham Rotary Club. Celebrations will get underway from about 8am. All are welcome to come along and enjoy our national day.

Long distance birthday wishes

Our granddaughter Keala celebrated her 12th birthday yesterday, January 14. We used the phone and email to send her best wishes on her special day. Keala is off to high school this year at the Christian College at Ormeau. She is looking forward to her new adventure.

Farewell to Robert McMaster

Family and friends gathered at the Uniting Church, Nabiac Saturday, January 11, for a memorial service to the late Robert McMaster of 'Glen Ora' Nabiac which was conducted by Celebrant Wendy Ballard with family memories shared by his sisters Elizabeth and Meghan.

Robert, aged 64 yrs, was the only son of the late Elliott and Dawn McMaster, well known pioneering family of the Wallamba district. Ladies of Wallamba CWA Branch catered for the wake held at Wallamba Showground Luncheon room.

Sympathy is extended to Robert's partner Georgina, his sisters Elizabeth and Meghan, and their families.

Mobile recovery visit

This Friday, January 17, there will be a final mobile recovery visit for fire Impacted victims at Tinonee Memorial School of Arts Hall from 5pm until 7pm.