Centennial Celebration Raises Funds and Unites Rural Women

A recent centennial celebration at Winchmore Gardens on the Methven Highway marked a significant milestone for Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ). The event not only honored the achievements of the organization over the past 100 years but also raised $826 for the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust through generous donations from members.

Marg Verrall, chairwoman of the centennial committee, emphasized the importance of this anniversary in her report to attendees. “One hundred years for an organization is a big achievement. Set up by farmers’ wives, we must acknowledge these brave women, who achieved so much to support future farming women,” she stated. Verrall highlighted the organization’s ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining its core values, calling on current and future members to continue this legacy.

Celebration Highlights and Community Spirit

At the event, attendees received a special celebratory book featuring memories and photographs curated by member Sandra Curd. Among the highlights were members dressed in costumes representing various decades, with assistance from the Ashburton Operatic Society.

The celebration commenced with the recitation of the Creed, followed by a short address from Frances Beeston, a local representative on the RWNZ national board. The ceremonial cake-cutting featured Jeanette Tarbotton cutting a traditional cake, along with newly-elected Ashburton District Mayor Liz McMillan, who cut a modern chocolate cake. Special thanks were extended to Joy Hydes and Jackie Ryan for their contributions in baking and decorating the cakes to reflect the respective eras.

A poignant moment in the program was the Lighting of the Candles ceremony. Ngaire Brown lit the candle for the “past,” Kay King, the new Mid Canterbury provincial president, lit the candle for the “present,” and Lisa Williams lit the candle for the “future.” Attendees raised their glasses in a toast to members who have held national roles and received achievement awards throughout the years.

Entertainment and Culinary Delights

The entertainment segment featured a lively performance by the Timaru group, the Drama Queens, whose delightful music kept the audience engaged. A demonstration showcased the fashion of the year 1900, with Marion Dent modeling period attire. Kathleen Stringer provided commentary on each layer of clothing, humorously noting that men of the time also wore multiple undergarments to enhance their appearance.

Following the entertainment, members enjoyed an afternoon tea served in elegant bone china, complete with small club sandwiches, Belgium biscuits, creamed scones, and ginger slice squares. A display table featuring kitchen memorabilia, including vintage cookbooks, drew considerable interest among attendees.

In closing, Marg Verrall expressed her gratitude to the centennial committee for their hard work and remarked on the joy of witnessing members connecting and enjoying themselves during this auspicious occasion. The event not only celebrated a century of accomplishments but also reinforced the community spirit that continues to thrive within RWNZ.