2025 Area VC Gala

The Ballarat Golf Club sparkled in shades of sapphire as members from across Zone VC01/2/3 gathered to celebrate 65 years of VIEW. Representatives from most of the 17 clubs — stretching from Shepparton and Bendigo to Warrnambool, Hamilton, Geelong and Keilor — enjoyed a wonderful program highlighting the work of VIEW and The Smith Family.

National Councillor Janet Park welcomed everyone and acknowledged past leaders including former National President Marg Woodhouse. She also presented “Making a Difference” Awards to Kath Chapman (Keilor) and Sunny Watts (Bendigo), and reflected on the many creative ways clubs raise funds, currently sponsoring 216 Learning for Life students.

Anton Leshen, General Manager of The Smith Family Victoria, spoke passionately about breaking the poverty cycle through early education and outlined recent program developments, while Rebecca Robertson, Team Leader for Ballarat and Geelong, shared her inspiring journey from Learning for Life student to educator and advocate.

Freda from Leopold VIEW Club presented a PowerPoint journey through VIEW’s 65-year history, reminding members of founder George Forbes’ words: “The best thing I’ve ever done.”
Guest speaker Elida Brereton — respected educator and star of Summer Heights High — entertained with humour and warmth as she recounted her dual life as a real and fictional school principal.
The day ended with raffles and a festive trading table raising funds for Digital Learning Packages, celebrating friendship, fun, and VIEW’s ongoing support for The Smith Family.

A fuller version of the days events can be accessed here