Milestone 50 years of Lodge Namoi debutante balls celebrated

Fifty years of tradition was celebrated as debutantes put their best foot forward at the milestone Lodge Namoi ball.

Thirteen debutantes were presented to the Grand Master of Freemasons NSW/ACT Les Hicks at Narrabri RSL as almost 250 guests joined the festivities.

The debutante balls started under the leadership of former Lodge Namoi master Right Worshipful Brother Len Hall.

Mr Hall represented Worshipful Master Kurt Eather at the celebration and reflected on its beginnings at the Narrabri Golf Club in 1974.

This year’s ball was again meticulously planned by Michelle Wheeler who organised displays of memorabilia and photographs on arrival to the auditorium.

The original ball featured Tracey Hall (now Rex) and Michelle Cooper (now Phelps) as flower girls. Ms Rex served as matron-of-honour this year while Mrs Phelps was also in attendance.

Mr Hall acknowledged the many contributions to the ball during the past 50 years.

Taking part in the milestone Lodge Namoi debutante ball celebration at the Narrabri RSL were page boy Hunter Gillmore and flower girl Evie Alexander.

Mr Hicks, who also addressed the gathering, said he and his wife Narelle had been looking forward to the special occasion.

“Congratulations Narrabri on this special milestone,” Mr Hicks said.

“Freemasonry is about community and bringing the community together.

“You can see that here tonight.”

Narrabri Shire mayor Darrell Tiemens, who formed part of the official party at the celebration, praised the wonderful contributions the debutante balls have made to the community.

“The Lodge Namoi Debutante Ball is a highlight of the year, eagerly anticipated by young people and their families,” Cr Tiemens said.

“For over 50 years, this tradition has brought joy to debutantes, their partners, and families across Narrabri.

“The enduring popularity of this event speaks volumes, and this year’s ball is no exception.

“To all the volunteers, your hard work is greatly appreciated.

“Debutantes and partners, you all look wonderful. Congratulations on making your debut tonight.

“To the parents and relatives, your pride is well-placed. I hope these traditions continue well into the future.”

This year’s debutantes and their partners were Summer Fernance and Darcy Dickinson, Matilda Wallington and Thomas Wheeler, Sienna Wallington and Joel Baxter, Taneika Cochrane and Braedon Mason, Ayrlea Arnold and Jarmarl Zarka, Dakoda Bower and Marlin Ryman, Isabella Keys and Chayce Browning, Lily Campbell and Max Stoltenberg, Melody Calsena and Jackson Williams, Madeleine Shields and Liandro Browning, Kendal Kelly and Riley Bruce, Jayde Goodhew and Jack McCahon and Callie Lawler and Jordan Calsena.

Hunter Gillmore served as page boy while Evie Alexander was flower girl.