May 2026 Newcastle Luncheon

The Newcastle weather was miserable (wet and cold) but we had 24 hardy souls present themselves at Cardiff RSL to enjoy the company and talk about any number of things (mostly factual!).
Local chief convenors Ron Welsh and Geoff Boyton opened proceedings with a warm formal welcome to all, and ANZROC (NSW) President Ken Byatt said a few words on behalf of his State Committee. We received apologies from Anna Maratos and Rocco Laudadio, Doug Moss and Graeme Bool. And we especially welcomed Phillip Smith who opened the new branch at New Lambton quite a few years ago (that branch has for the past several years been a part of history). Phillip now lives in the north of the State. Ron Welsh called for a moment's reflection to remember those former regular attendees who had passed away since our last lunch (namely Evelyn Goldstein, Noel Cook and John Ball). It was lovely to have Kester Ball join us today - she very kindly drove Jean and Peter Maber up from The Central Coast. Thanks Kester. We also remembered Life Member Reg Smeaton who passed away in recent days. When his health was better, Reg was a good supporter of Newcastle events and was often the designated driver for the Illawarra supporters of those events. Once again the people from the Eastern Tiger served up an extensive array of buffet food to suit most diets - some even had 3 courses! To wind-up proceedings Cheryl Richardson drew her lucky-seat prizes - well accepted by all winners of course. On the whole a nice convivial lunch, and thankyou to all those who came along. We hope to see a good turn-out for the second leg in November.
Cheers, Ken
Photos taken on the day are below.