By NICOLE WILLIAMS
THE next generation has been welcomed into the Berwick Show Society executive committee.The Annual General Meeting, held last Wednesday, was a fitting celebration to end the year on a high note for the committee.
Tom Gibson was ushered in as president and was joined by Debbie Akister as senior vice president and Andy Fyfe as junior vice president. Akoonah Park committee chairman Jack Rae said it was clear the younger generation was taking the reins.
Mr Gibson said the society had a traditional family association.
“I am proud of the fact we have a young executive committee which represents the next generation,” he said.
“We are coming forward with lots of good ideas.”
Immediate past president John Betts opened the meeting with a minute’s silence to honour past president Andrew Dedlefs, who died suddenly in April after a short illness, aged 51.
In his final address, president John Betts thanked many committee members for their hard work during the year.
“What a year. What a privilege to serve as president,” he said.
“I wish Tom and the team the best in the coming year.”
Mr Betts also thanked sponsors for ongoing support and the hard work shown by outgoing members.
Life memberships were awarded to three members including Graeme and Val Vale, who have always ’work tirelessly’ and ’the fella you don’t see’ Richard Betts. Mr John Betts said son Richard was always a “life member in our household!”
Recognition awards were also presented to Sonia Beaumont of the sheep sub-committee, Margaret Nicholls chairperson of the agora goat display and Mike Quin who has manned the gates for 15 years.Two film makers, Sam and Matt, were also recognised for their efforts in producing a documentary on the Berwick Show, over the course of three years.
Next year’s Berwick Show will be held on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February and the open horse events on Monday 10 March.
