Branch President Paddy Bayley warmly welcomed the 60 people attending the August lunch meeting at the Taradale RSA. 

When she presented two new members with their Membership Certificates, Paddy noted that one of her ancestors also came on the same ship as Diane Frater’s.  This ship was the “Slains Castle” to Wellington in January1841 

Following lunch there was no formal speaker.  Instead, members were given the opportunity to share their views on the future format for our Branch from 1 January 2025.  

Everyone unanimously agreed to keep the Branch as one entity and not be divided into various residential towns.

The afternoon concluded with the reciting of our NZ Founders Pledge. 

Photo:

New members with their certificates and badges

Left to right:   Diane Frater, Sheryl Andrews with President Paddy Bayley