Colac Evening VIEW Club

Members of the Colac Evening View Club celebrating 25 years of supporting the education of vulnerable children and recognising members for their outstanding years of service.

The Colac Evening View Club recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating 25 years of dedicated service to supporting the education of vulnerable children.  A special anniversary luncheon was held to acknowledge the commitment and loyalty of members whose years of service have helped shape the club's success. During the celebration, Pauline  was recognised with a service badge honouring her long-standing contribution to the club. Liz, June, and Heather each received 10-year service badges in recognition of their dedication and support.

Margaret was awarded a 20-year service badge. Although unable to attend the luncheon, her contribution to the club over two decades was warmly acknowledged. Shirley and Sarah were presented with their 10-year service badges at a separate 25-year social celebration held at the Windsor Hotel in Melbourne. 

President Heather spoke about the strong connection members have with the students they support and the pride they take in helping young people achieve their educational goals.

We are currently supporting seven vulnerable students with their education. Funds raised through community events, raffles, BBQs and other fundraising activities help provide school uniforms, books and essential educational supplies. The club also ensures that supported students receive birthday and Christmas gifts throughout their schooling, from Prep to Year 12.

For 25 years, members have generously volunteered their time and energy to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local children and their families. Beyond fundraising and community service, the club also provides opportunities for friendship, connection and fun, with members meeting monthly and enjoying social events throughout the year. Our Club is proud of its achievements over the past quarter century and looks forward to continuing its support of vulnerable students for many years to come.

Celebrating 25 Years: Colac VIEW Club High Tea at The Windsor

Members gathered at The Windsor Hotel for a delightful high tea to celebrate our club’s 25th anniversary. It was a wonderful day filled with friendship, conversation, and plenty of treats, and everyone enjoyed the elegant setting and warm service.

Adding to the fun, we travelled together by train, which made the day both relaxing and social from start to finish.  Here’s to 25 years of connection, community, and supporting The Smith Family — and to many more milestones ahead.

A highlight of our 25th Anniversary Celebration High-Tea was presenting Shirley with her 10-year certificate — a fantastic achievement and a testament to her dedication and contribution to our club.

Our Club was a part of a Volunteer expo held at COPACC Colac. This event had over 22 different volunteer organisations displaying their area of volunteering and what they had to offer.

Our display was colourful and attractive and many people were interested in finding out what VIEW members did.  It was a great way of promoting The Smith Family and View.  President Heather was interviewed on the local community radio OCRfm which widened the area of coverage and knowledge. 

Our Club celebrated International Women’s Day with a wonderful breakfast event in Colac, bringing the community together to recognise the achievements of women and support a meaningful cause.

Guests heard from three inspiring speakers, (pictured on the left) – Meagon Compton (Partner, Sewells Lawyers), Casey McDonald (Owner, Casey McDonald Realty) and Toni Kirkup (General Manager Health, Safety, Environment and Quality, AKD Softwoods). Each shared their personal journeys and experiences of building successful careers in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Their stories highlighted the importance of resilience, determination and supporting other women in the workplace and community.  

Special guests (pictured on the right) Lorraine Baltrouney, VC03 Zone Councillor and Janet Park, National Councillor for VIEW, were also in attendance.

The event also raised funds for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, helping young Australians access educational opportunities and support.

Accompanying photo shows the wonderful attendance at this event.

Our Club's social committee arranges periodic lunches at hotels in towns close to Colac.

On Friday  22 November, members and a few friends travelled to Inverleigh to enjoy lunch at the beautiful historic hotel on the Hamilton Highway. A delicious lunch and lots of chatter had by all. Looking forward to where to next!  ??