Naponda finally marks 50 year milestone

By Zoe McMaugh

Sep 30, 2022

Alison McNamara, Pauline McAllister and Cleone McAllister.

Naponda Hospital Auxiliary finally got its chance to mark a major milestone last week.

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Turning 50 in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, delayed celebrations were held last Friday at the Coach House Hotel in Deniliquin.

President Brianna Holden warmly welcomed almost 50 past and present members to the dinner celebrations.

Among them was foundation president Judy Metcalfe, and fellow founding members Alison McNamara, Cleone McAllister and now Dubbo resident Pauline McAllister who were given the honour of cutting the cake.

(Back, from left) Brianna Holden, Belinda Perrett, Alison McNamara, Cleone McAllister and Pam Ellerman; (front) Audrey Tonkin and Judy Metcalfe.

“There was a lot of catching up, and the scrapbooks came out,” Mrs Holden said.

“Our beloved little branch started with an amazing group of young mothers and reached its 50th year milestone during the pandemic.

“Since 1970 we have gone from purchasing items for mothers and babies born at the Deniliquin Hospital to donating items required for oncology, renal, bariatric, ED as well as continuing the commitment to maternity.”

Fundraising efforts have also changed to include more events, the Naponda Store which opened in 2010 and the group’s very own branding - the ‘I Know Someone From Deni’ items.