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Reports & Photos
"Road to Bethlehem" Stall - WA Congratulations to WCTU WA for their initiative in resourcing a stall with a government grant to distribute drug educational leaflets and sample non-al drinks at the "Road to Bethlehem" Report on the 39th National WCTU Convention - Adelaide, SA: May 27 - 31, 2009 Members gathered on the Wednesday evening of the 27th May, 2009 at the Salvation Army Congress Hall for an official opening dinner and address from the National President, Mrs. Ellen Chandler. Special guests included the Deputy Lord Mayor of Adelaide - Stephen Yarwood and Ms Frances Bedford MP as well as the featured speaker: Associate Professor Stuart Piggin - Director of the Centre for the History of Christian Thought and Experience at Macquarie University and Chair of the Australian Christian Heritage Foundation. The theme for the convention was "For such a time as this..." The President's speech reflected on the story of Esther and the Emperor's New Clothes and that there is a need for people to express the reality of what is happening in society today. Associate Professor Stuart Piggin presented a challenging address to the members of three confronting propositions which was much appreciated by all in attendance. The meals was enjoyed by all. The following three days were spent in business at the SACWA facility in Adelaide. Reports were received on work that had been done in the last three years. Seminars on drugs and how to write letters to the papers and politicians were presented. Members who had passed away through the previous three years were honoured in a memorial service. Discussion and action groups put forward initiatives for the future and a number of organisations also made presentations highlighting ways in which the organisation can network with others. New officers for the triennium 2009 - 2012 were appointed. An inspiring worship time was led by the Salvation Army Band and Major Laurie Venables reminded the delegates of the need to be engaged in the issues of society "at such a time as this..." A Dolphin Luncheon Cruise from Port Adelaide provided a lovely outing for those in attendance. A evening of light entertainment was also enjoyed by all at the Mad Hatter's Party.
Report on the Visit of National President and National Secretary to Bundaberg on the occasion of the WCTU of Queensland's Annual Convention. The visit started with a special luncheon chaired by the former Mayor of Bundaberg, Mrs Kay McDuff and attended by about 50 persons including the Hon Jack Dempsey - the local MP, and representatives of local churches. Mrs Linda Toft was presented with a corsage as she celebrated her 90th birthday. Mrs Anne Bergen presented an educational segment on drugs and explained internet links and the work with E-issues. Mrs Ellen Chandler reminded all of past achievements and using the quotation of Eleanor Roosevelt - "A women is like a tea bag. You never know how strong she is until she gets into hot water." She challenged those present to "get into hot water" by distributing literature, signing objection cards, sending prepared postcards to the Prime Minister urging more action on binge drinking and by becoming a member of WCTU. A Thanksgiving Service was also held led by Rev. Ray Nutley commencing with a PowerPoint presentation of God's world and ending with photos of members world wide and the quote - "Here I am Lord, It is I Lord, I have heard you calling in the night." WCTU depends on the work and commitment of individuals right around the world. A SERVICE OF MEMORIES commenced Queensland's State Convention. Remembering members Marjorie Douglas, Flo Evens, Valerie McGee, Margaret Drew, Doreen Ah Quay, Daisy Armstrong, Fay Going, Eileen Anderson and Mr David Behan who had all passed away since last Convention. Reports were received. Mrs M Entermann was granted leave of absence for 2009 and other state officers were re-elected.
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