Without any nominations for positions on the Executive at the July AGM, there was no option but to wind up the organisation here in Yarrawonga.
With the purpose of assisting with the prevention of crime, NHW started in Yarrawonga in February 1993 with three groups, two of which closed a number of years ago.
At the inaugural meeting in February 1993, Ben Nowell was elected as the first Co-ordinator, Helen Collins as Treasurer and Dawn Smith as a member of the Publicity Committee.
Ben who is now over 90 years, served on the Executive for ten years, continued to deliver NHW newsletters until recently and attend meetings until the last one in July.
Helen Collins who served as Treasurer for the first 10 years was followed by Fran Smith for 19 years, providing very stable oversight of the finances.
The longest serving Executive member with 21 years’ service was Joe Crothers who together with his wife Kay, dropped off the NHW newsletters to those who delivered them to the 16 zones.
The all-important role of Secretary was undertaken by Jo Anwin for 19 years and Patrick Boxshall was a member of the Executive for 15 years and Co-ordinator for the last 13 years.
Others who have given 10 years or more service to the Executive include Lee Powell, Hilton Younger, Bruce Owen, Fred Carl and the late Jim Pfitzner.
In addition to the Executive, a team has also delivered NHW newsletters to over 650 residences, six times each year.
“Those who deliver our newsletters are the silent contributors for NHW,” Ms Anwin said.
“In all weathers they head out into their zones to ensure the householders are kept up to date with NHW meetings and activities. We have very much relied on all these volunteers.”
Other volunteers who have supported NHW since its inception in 1993 include Jan MacKenzie, Bernadette Cahill and Myra Nowell.
Mr Boxshall said with the closure of NHW in Yarrawonga, the committee thank all those who have contributed over the last 29 plus years.
“Special thanks to the Central Murray Credit Union for printing our newsletters for the last 14 years, and to the police who, when available, have attended NHW meetings,” Mr Boxshall said.
“We hope that everyone will continue to look out for their neighbours and keep alert for possible incidents which may need reporting to the local police.”
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