Community
1 August, 2025
VIEW Club turns 30
SINCE its inception in 1995, the Warrnambool Day VIEW Club has continued to raise funds to help support students in need across the district.
According to club president Helen Ellerton, the club currently sponsors eight students from year two to year 12, covering costs such as school uniforms, books, excursions and school camps.
“VIEW (voice, interest and education of women) has been a valued member of The Smith Family for 65 years,” Ms Ellerton said.
“We raise money for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, providing long-term education support to Australian children experienced disadvantage.”
Along with the money raised by VIEW clubs, The Smith Family also provides after school homework clubs, reading programs and computer and data packages.
“Our club (Warrnambool) currently has 63 members who enjoy various social activities throughout the year, usually with one or two bigger events,” Ms Ellerton said.
“This year we’ve had an International Women’s Day afternoon tea and are planning a Taking Shape fashion parade at Anchor Point Village on September 10.”
This week’s 30th birthday celebrations included a presentation from two Smith Family Learning for Life team leaders, music, and the cutting of a birthday cake.
“It was a lovely day for us all, and among our guests were national councillor Janet Park, past national president Marg Whitehouse and past national councillors Elaine Watts, Kath Chapman and Bev Orgill.
“Warrnambool City councillor Richard Ziegeler also joined us, along with VIEW members who had travelled from Bendigo, Castlemaine, Hamilton, Keilor, Geelong and Ocean Grove.”
The birthday cake was cut by the group’s longest serving member, Kathy McGillivray, who joined the club around 26 years ago.
VIEW Club meetings are held on the last Monday of each month from 10.30am until 2pm at Rafferty’s Tavern.
Members enjoy lunch, a guest speaker and entertainment – along with a raffle and trading table to raise funds.
Anyone who would like more information about the club, or are interested in joining, can contact Helen Ellerton on 0419 505 712.
