Awards 2023

Gwenda May Smallacombe 

Nominated by Janet Elliott

Seconded by Margaret June Egglestone

 Over the years, Gwenda has hosted many exchange students and representatives for the Arafura Games and the Pacific School Games.

As a teacher at Casuarina College, Gwenda realised that some students had difficulty attending as they had become young mums. Gwenda organised a place for them to bring their babes into the classroom, which was on the second floor of the College. Here, Gwenda made up little cots out of boxes, providing the girls with a solution by which they could effectively continue their studies.

Gwenda herself, was the mother of four girls. They all became very involved in Physical Culture when they were quite young. Gwenda would make all their costumes and with her sewing skills, help other mum's out with making costumes for their children. Gwenda also provided much support to her late husband, Denis, with his involvement in Lions Club.

When Gwenda retired in 2012, she joined the Darwin Probus Club. She took on the roles of Secretary and Bulletin Editor and held these positions for 10 years. She always made herself available to members and their queries and became a great resource to other Probus Clubs.

To date, Gwenda continues in her role as Bulletin Editor, keeping our 122 members up to date with club business and events, Birthdays and Anniversaries. She is also the Membership Officer for the Darwin Probus Club. Gwenda plays a very active role in suggesting new ideas to keep the Club and its activities interesting, with fun, fellowship and friendship.

Gwenda initiated the Probus Hub, where Executive Members from Darwin's four Probus Clubs can come together and exchange ideas, assisting new members in becoming familiar with the functions of Probus and getting the best from their membership.

In 2012, Gwenda was honoured by the Administrator of the Northern Territory, Her Honour Vicki O'Halloran AO, receiving Life Membership to Darwin Probus, a reward well deserved and much appreciated.

Janet Elliott

President

Darwin Probus Club

Goodness me Gwenda. When do you have a life? You are involved in everything

Probus and so much more. On top of that, you are the 'go to girl' for all of the other Top End Probus Clubs, if we want to know anything, we ring you and you have all the answers. You are always bright, cheerful and willing to steer us in the right direction.

All of this is on a voluntary, goodwill basis with no thought of reward. 1 and the other Clubs don't know how we would manage without you.

You are certainly deserving of this prestigious Award.' 

Marilyn Roberts

Secretary

Palmerston Probus