Members from branches in Abermain, Cessnock, Maitland, Myall River, Nelson Bay, Raymond Terrace, Stockton and Tilligerry as well as Branxton, Hunter, Muswellbrook and Redhead attended the conference on May 20. 

This year’s theme was Looking Forward, Looking Back and hand held mirrors, with the original and current club logo, were placed on each table as a poignant reminded of the club’s 57 year history. 

National Vice President Gloria Walter reminded the group about five businessmen who walked into an orphanage with gifts of toys and sweets in 1922. When the Matron asked who they should thank for the donation, the men told her The Smith Family. 

Ms Walter said the club had continued the generosity these men showed and had broadened its scope over the years through various programs including its Learning for Life initiative for disadvantaged students across the country. 

Zone councillor Anne-Louise O’Connor said VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and the Education of Women, had 16000 members in 320 communities who raised money for The Smith Family. 

She said members enjoyed the chance to catch up and raise money at the conference.

“It was a great day and a chance for VIEW club members from the area to get together, enjoy the friendship and help support the zone Learning for Life student, Ayesha,” Ms O’Connor said.

Ms O’Connor said the club was a chance for women to unite and work towards a common goal. 

 “VIEW is The Smith Family’s largest community sponsor of Learning for Life students supporting 1,200 disadvantaged Australian children with their education,” Ms O’Connor said. 

Author Kate Ryan, who suffered a stroke as a child and now succeeds as a single mother, was the guest speaker.

Ms O’Connor said members thoroughly enjoyed Ms Ryan’s talk.

“[She] gave a very inspirational and moving talk on her childhood and beyond after she suffered a stroke at the age of 10,” Ms O’Connor said.

“Kate spoke of overcoming adversity after the stroke having to learn to walk again with a limp and manage life with the use of only one arm.  

“One of Kate’s dreams was to get her driving licence and she spent many hours pretending to drive but through her determination that dream came true and gave her some independence.

“Her book … gives a glimpse into a set of daily challenges that most of us simply never consider.”