Waihi Women's Institute celebrates a milestone

Shirley Harding after putting on the commemorative pin and badge. Photo / Evangeline Miles

Waihi Women's Institute commemorated a milestone when it reached its 90th anniversary on October 1.

Members and four ladies from the Waihi Beach WI lunched at the Bowentown Surf Club and some members even took along their husbands to celebrate at an event where ladies were dressed to the nines.

The national organisation is celebrating its centennial anniversary this year.

A commemorative Women's Institute pin was presented to the ladies by Maxine Burke, Waihi WI president.

Also shown were the 2021 calendar with photos of other institutes all over New Zealand in their fun-filled activities, and a scarf with the organisation's emblem for anyone wishing to order.

Ladies came dressed to the nines, and Jan Whitt was judged the winner, wearing the most stunning outfit. There were raffles galore, each prize well appreciated by the winners.

The ladies also took a trip down memory lane by looking at the scrapbook of the Waihi WI memorabilia – photos of activities during its early days of inception until of late, news articles published in the local paper, awards won and judges' comments on entries submitted during Federation competitions, and samples of special crafted items.

The birthday song was sung and the candles blown, and the cake sliced and distributed - having been baked and iced by secretary Shirley Rea.

Shirley Harding, ex-WI president, put the pin on the institute badge which was then pinned to the Waihi WI banner.

The cheery gathering ended with the members and Waihi Beach WI president Trish thanking Maxine and the officers for the proficient organisation of the event's celebration.

- Waihi WI welcomes new members. It meets every first Thursday of the month at 1.30pm at the Scout Hall, Baker St.