The club’s first meeting was held on July 18, 1965 – a small group of ladies met at the Cessnock Hotel.

Three inaugural members are still involved with the club today – Joyce Stephenson, Iris Mellon OAM and Beth Triggs.

Club president Jan Ryan referred to a brief history of the club, from historians Freda Frankham and Beth Triggs.

“They told me that it was a hats and glove affair back in the sixties and the venue changed several times until we seemed to have settled at the Leagues Club,” she said.

“VIEW was very different then – there were varied interests, crochet classes, hairpin crochet, tatting, artex painting, discussion groups/night dinners at members’ places.

“There were entertainment groups including their own choir; they entertained at their own club, zone luncheons, Allandale and Morisset and even performed at Sydney Town Hall.

“The annual church service was commenced and some members travelled to Sydney for combined church services and the choir sang.  We still hold the Annual Church Service.

“Hobbies and handicraft displays were held in the town hall for over 30 years. I believe it was a magnificent event but lots of hard work.

“The zone started a babies’ needs workshop and with material donated PJs and clothing was made.  Also the ladies loved knitting for the children.”

VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women and these days has an emphasis on education of children, supporting the charitable work of The Smith Family.

The Cessnock club supports three Learning For Life students and the Smith Family’s educational programs, the winter appeal and toy and book appeal. 

The club meets on the third Thursday of the month at Cessnock Leagues Club at 11am. For more information, call Jan on 4990 3282 or June on 4990 3093.