Inner Wheel reflects on successful year, prepares to ‘Grow and Flourish’ next

NARRABRI Inner Wheel Club members and guests gathered at On Lee on Wednesday 8 July for the club’s annual changeover dinner, marking the end of another active year.

Outgoing president Pat Norrie handed over the reins to incoming president Lynette Wright, receiving praise and thanks for her service throughout 2025–26.

Joan Burrell-Melbourne making the toast to International Inner Wheel.

The tables were decorated with glorious homegrown red roses, a fitting choice considering the red rose is the official Inner Wheel emblem and a long-standing symbol of friendship, gratitude and love within the organisation.

The club warmly welcomed guest speaker Ali Smith, local journalist and co-author of the book Outback Astronomer, who spoke about her love of storytelling and journalism career.

2026–27 Inner Wheel committee, Lexie Killen, Di Smith, Ros Hall, Pat Norrie, Lynette Wright, Jenni Hayne, Jenny Cable, Marie Keys, Marilyn Collins, Maria Woodham and Joan Burrell-Melbourne.

In her president’s report, Mrs Norrie reflected on a successful year guided by the International Inner Wheel theme ‘Step Up and Lead by Example’.

“I feel our members have done this,” she said, thanking members for their unwavering support and for giving their time.

Mrs Norrie said the club inducted two new members, Jenny Grellman and Jan Ethridge, bringing membership to 17, although Mrs Grellman has relocated to Canberra.

Jenni Hayne, Carolynne Tomlinson and Bruce Tomlinson.

“It was sad to see Jenny move to Canberra, but she is very happy to be settled close to family,” she said.

“This year’s theme is ‘Grow and Flourish’; as extension officer, I hope to encourage more ladies to join, so our club can continue to ‘Grow and Flourish’.”

Throughout the year, members met in lovely homes, local venues and cafes, hosting a variety of guest speakers, social events and fundraisers.

Rod Onus, Peter Etheridge and Jan Etheridge.

The club continued its support of Whiddon’s Jessie Hunt residential aged care home.

“We purchased garden art to brighten the back memorial garden. Thank you, Jenni Hayne, for organising this,” said Mrs Norrie.

“Our guest speaker in October was occupational therapist Jess Stuart, who had many ideas for children and adults alike – thank you, Joan, for hosting,” she added.

Pat Hardgrave and Jenny Cable.

A highlight of the year was a November soiree at Marilyn Collins’ home, which attracted 40 members and guests.

“We were delighted to be entertained by Hayley Yandell Smith, a local lady who had appeared on The Piano (ABC TV show),” recalled Mrs Norrie.

“Marilyn organised five vocalists to serenade the group as well – thank you, Marilyn and Maria.”

Lyn Eather and Warren Eather.

Other notable gatherings included a Christmas dinner at Mrs Norrie’s home with a fun ‘bring a gift, receive a gift’ feature, a well-attended Foundation Day lunch at the bowling club that incorporated the theme ‘Orange the World’ in support of the prevention of domestic violence against women and a February meeting at Ros Hall’s home, where elections were conducted and a delicious lunch served.

2025-26 Inner Wheel committee, Maria Woodham, Marilyn Collins, Di Smith, Lyn Eather, Ros Hall, Pat Norrie, Jenni Haynes, Lynette Wright, Jenny Cable, Marie Keys and Joan Burrell-Melbourne.

“Thank you, Ros and Len, for hosting our members once again,” Mrs Norrie said.

The Cord Blood Fundraiser in March was hailed a success, supported by the club’s ‘fantastic cooks’ who baked a scrumptious morning tea and Mrs Norrie expressed her gratitude to Kath Hamilton, who donated a beautiful silver bracelet.

“Thank you, Joan, for opening your home for this event,” Mrs Norrie added.

Marie Keys, Len and Ros Hall.

In April, the club contributed $190 to Dolly’s Dream during a visit from A55 District chair.

An international fundraiser held in May at Mumma Dees raised money for Dr Ray Hodgson’s hospital in Nepal.

June’s traditional President’s Mystery Meeting took members to the Baan Baa Pub for lunch, followed by a visit to the old Baan Baa school, where Karen’s Preloved Vintage Collectables Shop, Garden and Museum is situated – many members found treasures to take home.

Joan Longworth and Di Smith.

In total, Narrabri Inner Wheel donated more than $2,775 to local, national and international charities over the past 12 months.

“I would like to thank everyone who has helped this year in any way,” said Mrs Norrie.

2025–26 Inner Wheel president Pat Norrie handing over to 2026–27 president Lynette Wright at Narrabri Inner Wheel Club’s changover dinner, held at On Lee on Wednesday 8 July. Photos: Ali Smith.

“We are a small club and I am very proud of our achievements.

“Special thanks to our secretary Ros and treasurer Jenny for keeping the books in order.

“I would like to wish incoming president Lynette Wright and her committee an enjoyable year, may we ‘Grow and Flourish’.