Thirteen presidents, past and present were there to tell their story at the 40th anniversary dinner of the Lithgow Catholic Women’s League. From left Elizabeth Finlayson, Maureen MacPherson, Kaye Ashworth, Pat Livermore, Moira Murnane, Kay Edwards, Betty Boardman, Therese Walsh, Pat Okon, Pat Taylor, Joan Doonan, Diane O’Sullivan and Nola Williams. lm071212catholicwomen1
IT might not be the oldest survivor among local community organisations but after 40 years the Lithgow branch of the state wide Catholic Women’s League is staking its own claim to longevity.
The branch was formed in Lithgow’s St Patrick’s and Bowenfels parishes back in 1972.
And four decades later the girls got together to mark a significant milestone.
The 40th birthday celebration was held in the dining room at the Lithgow Commercial Hotel Motel with a capacity gathering of more than 50 guests.
Guests included a contingent from the Oberon branch who had braved the wintry conditions and some from Sydney.
Those present included some original members from the 1970s and 13 women who had held the presidency of the branch at various times over the years.
The guests were welcomed by the current president Noela Williams who was joined by life member Maureen MacPherson in the traditional cutting of the birthday cake.
Some entertaining anecdotes of their time with the CWL were given by Joan Doonan, Pat Livermore and Moira Murnane.
The CWL meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at Fatima Hall.
