General News
8 August, 2025
Red Cross Gilgandra Branch News
The Gilgandra Red Cross branch held their annual general meeting and luncheon at the Coo-ee Heritage Centre on Friday, July 24.
Contributed by Hilda Newstead, Branch President
During the wonderful lunch, six members received their certificate of appreciation and a medallion in recognition for their service to Red Cross.
The recipients were: Anne Armstrong (15 years), Deirdre Duncan (45 years), Jeff Marks (10 years), Shirley Marks (15 years), Nan Nalder (65 years), and Robyn Harris (10 years). Ross Barden (10 years) and Roy Duncan (15 years), were unable to attend the meeting.
A summary for the year 2024/25
Celebrations, Events, and Meetings
1. Gilgandra Red Cross members and visitors enjoyed a wonderful morning tea held at the Coo-ee Heritage Centre to mark and celebrate the 110th anniversary of Red Cross Australia. This was an exciting day to come together and honour the contributions made by all Red Cross people since 1914.
2. We held our November meeting and Christmas luncheon at the Gilgandra Services Club.
3. As a result of a Gilgandra resident who donated beautiful crockery, a very successful street stall was held at the December CWA Market.
4. A wonderful raffle of products donated by IGA was held and drawn at the Christmas Wonderland event.
5. Red Cross members delivered Christmas gifts to all residents at the Gilgandra Multi-Purpose Service.
6. Members participated on ANZAC Day the laying of the wreath by member Shirley Marks.
7. On May 8, 2025 we celebrated World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.
8. National Blood Donors Week in Australia was held on June 9-10, 2025. It’s organised by Australia Red Cross Life Blood. This year’s theme “For all the good reasons you give”.
9. Trauma Teddies knitted by our members were delivered to the SES, preschool, ambulance station, police station, and Aussie kids. These Teddies bring familiarity, a sense of safety during periods of uncertainty and anxiety for children.
10. President Hilda Newstead expressed her thanks and gratitude to the secretary Deirdre Duncan and treasurer Shirley Marks, for all the amazing work done at each meeting.
I thank all members for their support during 2024/2025. We will continue to meet at the homes of our members.
The elections took place, with office bearers for 2025/26 are:
President: Hilda Newstead.
Secretary: Deirdre Duncan.
Treasurer: Shirley Marks.
Vice-president: Nan Nalder
Patrons: Deirdre Duncan and Nan Nalder.
