The Club’s 29th Birthday Luncheon was at the Elms Hotel in Papanui, a new venue for our important function. Organised by Kate (who was also quietly celebrating her own birthday!) it proved to be an excellent choice. All seventy seven of us were able to sit in one block of seating with a good view of our MC and a large screen which provided a continuous slide-show of photos from tramps enjoyed during the past 12 months. There was an excellent selection of dishes on the menu and the staff did a great job getting the many options of Mains and Desserts to those who had ordered them. All the staff were most helpful and performed efficiently, pleasantly and unobtrusively. The company of our fellow trampers and the opportunity to catch up with other friends also greatly added to the enjoyment of the convivial atmosphere. There was even more pleasant chatter than we get on a tramp!

      It was great to see some members who have not been able to tramp recently because of medical problems – Jenny Abrahamson, Jeanette Hickford and Bevin High able to attend. 

     Proceedings were commenced by our President Bruce Dunstan who welcomed all. He drew attention to the many Associate and past Members who were present, as well as spouses of regular Members, a reminder that our club is based on all these friendships. One of our earliest Members, Allan Hunter was present and he said a few words about his recent experience of returning to Normandy, for the 70 year commemoration of the WW2 landing. He mentioned two highlights of his trip: one was getting to shake the hand of the Queen; the other was receiving such an enthusiastic hug from a lady it set off his medical alarm!

After setting out the arrangements for the day, Bruce introduced Loanne Metcalfe who said grace and gave thanks for what we were about to receive. Then our meals did indeed arrive and we were all able to get down to the serious business of thoroughly enjoying our repast. 

    Next came the time for the traditional cutting of the cake. As always, this excellent cake was a joint effort, baked by Wendy Aldridge (Leader), iced by Ellen Harris (Mentor) in (Understudy) Mary Claridge’s kitchen and delivered by Mary and jointly cut by Audrey Jackson and Edward Clark (Tailenders). As always seems to be the case, they made superb job of it!

    Finally, there was the Club’s traditional singalong conducted by Jeanette Hickford with her usual verve and enthusiasm. There was general agreement that our Luncheon was a great success and a memorable occasion for the Club.