Over one hundred members, former members and invited guests of SIAHTO Inc. filled the Narrabri Golf Club last Saturday to celebrate a birthday milestone of the organisation.
SIAHTO (Self Improvement And Help To Others), began in July 1973, when Esther Burt and Robyn Wangmann invited friends to their first meeting held at the Wangmann’s home in William Morris Avenue, and Saturday’s event marked the 40th anniversary.
An initial meeting in the Wangmann home has now grown into an organisation which helps bring women together in a relaxed social atmosphere, providing an opportunity for lifelong friendships.
“It only seems like yesterday when Esther and I spent months over cups of coffee and many phone calls, discussing the need to go out, leaving our wonderful husbands at home to look after the small children, and for us to enjoy a dinner with friends,” said co-founder Robyn Wangmann.
“We were delighted with the response to the reunion, with 120 people in attendance on Saturday night.
“The mayor, Conrad Bolton, was there and we also had a fantastic response from many clubs, including Rotary, Inner Wheel, View Club, Lioness Club and Toastmasters.”
There were 24 people who travelled far and wide to attend, from places such as Queensland, Wollongong, Sydney, Newcastle and Orange.
Robyn said the club, unique to Narrabri, provides the opportunity for women new to town to meet new people and make long lasting friendships.
“I hope that in the next 40 years members will enjoy their experiences and friendships as we have to date,” Robyn said.
SIAHTO has traditionally tried to celebrate its birthday with a dinner dance.
Many themes have been used over the years, including a “Sweet Sixteen Deb Ball” in 1989, “21st Birthday” in 1994 and “Irish Night” in 1999.
Three foundation members attended Saturday’s celebration - Shirley Ellis, who travelled from Orange, and Noeline Kiss and Kaye Ireland who reside in Narrabri.
“The highlight of the evening was a DVD which showcased photos from the past 40 years,” said Robyn.
“We had Helen and Tony Cornish, entertainers from Bingara, play keyboard and guitar and people enjoyed dancing along to their music.”
Max Pringle wrote a poem to mark the occassion, which he read out on the night, and two trophies were also presented.
Member Julie Roy was presented with the SIAHTO Achievers Award for 2013.
Over the past 28 years, Julie has held every position in the club.
One of the prime aims of SIAHTO is to help others, and money is raised through donations of $2 from each member at dinner meetings, along with other sources, throughout the year.
At the end of each year the club chooses a selection of recipients, and many charities have benefited over the past 40 years - to the tune of around $35,000.
Over the past decade, SIAHTO has donated $5000 to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Others to benefit have included Namoi Valley Aged Care, the Volunteer Rescue Association and Meals on Wheels.
All four Narrabri schools also receive a donation each year.