By ALANA MITCHELSON
THE Berwick Show Society appointed Willem Boon as its new president at the group’s annual general meeting last week.
Past president Andy Fyfe wished Mr Boon – the society’s first horticulturalist president – all the best for the year ahead and said he would back him all the way.
Mr Fyfe reflected on the success of this year’s show with its record entries in all sections.
“Sponsorship for the show has always been a challenge.
“This year we have been fortunate enough to secure some new sponsors, including MLC Insurance and Booran, with continued support from our dedicated long-term major sponsors the City of Casey, Beaconsfield Home Timber and Hardware and NAB,” he said.
“A highlight of the year was when my wife and I and other society members were invited to the Weethalle Show who we have had a connection with for 20 years.
“Back in the day, the Berwick Show supported the community in Weethalle in a time of drought, providing them with hay and other produce.
“Since then we have had members from both show societies visiting sister shows on a year-to-year basis.
“The introduction of the Kidding Around was a welcomed initiative where kids and families could chill out. Craft activities were provided for the kids and a well-deserved coffee for parents was on tap.
“This event brought many families to the area of the grounds previously not utilised, drawing more crowds to the well-supported arts and crafts displays.”
Mr Fyfe extended his thanks to the club’s ‘silent’ contributors.
“Year after year they contribute their time and effort to make the Berwick Show the success that it is,” he said.
Melissa Hogg-Marshall was appointed as the new senior vice president while Amanda Mason was named the junior vice president.
One of the Berwick Show’s newest life members included Jeff Tully who was so moved by guest speaker Emma Booth that he said he planned to hold a fundraiser to support her.
His friends and fellow members Peter Wenn and Gordon Cummings announced his milestone of becoming a life member.
“I am holding a fundraiser on my birthday. Rather than people buying me presents, half of the money will go to Emma and the other half will go towards a young girl who is battling cancer,” Mr Tully said.
“Hearing Emma’s story was just amazing. We complain about the smallest of things and there she is going through a really difficult situation with a smile on her face.”
He said he would encourage more youth involvement in the society.
Life member Warwick Glendenning also presented Anne Reynolds with her life membership.
Rural and junior ambassador awards were announced during the evening, recognising Erin Arnott and Renee Anderson respectively for their recent achievements and dedication to the Berwick Show Society.
