By BRIDGET SCOTT
AN impressive group of guest speakers entertained guests at St Margaret’s on Saturday as part of the celebrations for the Berwick/Upper Beaconsfield Red Cross.
Gembrook MP Brad Battin, Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood, City of Casey mayor Geoff Ablett and members of the Red Cross spoke on Saturday in honour of the group’s 100th anniversary.
Helen Fyfe, who received a 40-year service award on Saturday recapped the past 100 years for guests and highlighted moments in its history, alongside member Barbara Jackson.
Mrs Fyfe described it as “a really lovely day” and said it “all seemed to run smoothly”.
The current member, who followed in her mother Hilda Webbs footsteps by joining Red Cross, said she would continue to be part of the group and said it was nice to be presented her service badge.
“I was really proud to accept it,” she said.
“Not that I wanted a reward but it was nice to be acknowledged, I was really thrilled.”
Mrs Fyfe said she and Ms Jackson went through the past 100 years for the group, including when it started and big events such as the mobile blood bank, medical driving in private cars and the group’s assistance during both World Wars and Vietnam.
John Hood also spoke on behalf of the advisory committee of the Red Cross.
Others to receive service awards on the day included Dora Rooney, Marion Limpus and Helen Hardiman for 20, while Alice Llewelyn and Margaret Dunne received 10-year awards.
