YELLOWWOOD Park Women’s Institute (WI) president Vanessa Wilesmith opened the meeting with the Mary Stewart Collect and welcomed all visitors and particularly executive member Maureen Lavis to the AGM evening.
Apologies were received from Linda Hewer, Joan Prenger and Sheila Philogene.
Before the meeting, the most interesting talk and slide show was given by Anne Snyders, principal of Udobo School, who told members about the amazing work they do with grade R students to get them ready for ‘big’ school. Some of the children come into the school not knowing a pen from a pencil or paper and yet leave full of knowledge and confidence, ready to take on the world and some have returned to the school with thanks when just about to enter high school. The principal said how continually grateful she was for all the support she always receives from the community. The parents contribute towards the running of the school as it receives no funds from government or Lotto, as it is run by the Methodist Church. One very important point the principal raised was that it was absolutely vital that children are registered in June or July for the following year, as there is only space for 100 children and these are filled quickly so parents should take note. Fortunately YWP WI was able to give a cash donation in addition to a large number of soft toys and other goodies knitted and made by members of the institute for the children.
After tea it was time for the AGM. Secretary Marsha Hart gave her report for the year and treasurer Wendy Henderson gave the financial report. Both were accepted by all members. YWP WI is grateful that both members have agreed to continue for the coming year. Thank you very much. The committee as well all decided it was a good idea to remain, as they enjoyed the meetings. New president for the coming year is Sharon Quail and vice president is Robyn Murray. Thank you to both for taking on these positions – everyone knows they will do a great job. The outgoing president read her report for the year, confirming all the charity work that had been achieved and also presented gifts to members who always went the extra mile. Many thanks to all members who worked at Botanic Gardens during the year and to the husbands and fathers who assisted with the Meals on Wheels duty during the year. A presentation was made to the outgoing president for all the amazing work she did during the past four years. Thank you Vanessa.
Competition results: Floral: First Marsha Hart, second Wendy Henderson. Craft: First Sharon Quail and Jean Ball, second Gerda Viljoen. Adult ed: First Sharon Quail, second Marsha Hart, third Gerda Viljoen. Best bloom: First Marsha Hart, second Sharon Quail, third Wendy Henderson and Gerda Viljoen. Agri and horti: First Sharon Quail, second Jean Ball. Handicraft: First Gerda Viljoen, second Sharon Quail, third Marsha Hart. Homemaking: First Marsha Hart, second Gerda Viljoen, third Jean Ball. Merit: First Jean Ball, second Linda Melson and Gerda Viljoen, third Sharon Quail and Marsha Hart. Congratulation to all members who enter the competitions. It would be good to see some different names in the future – come on members, give them a try. Many thanks as always to judge Linda Melson and birthday greetings to Vanessa Wilesmith and Bev Holthauzen.
Remember the meeting commences at 7am. We look forward to seeing all members.