Pamanne excelled themselves, what a grand day. The weather was kind, the company great, the food was perfect, and a good time was had by everyone. The march from the Peace Park was full of humour, Boats, Flags, Security, at its best. People who lined the streets clapped and waved, our local athletes who were getting more hyped up in each stride, made a wonderful sight.
Our Baton bearer was full of pride as she came into view of the BBQ Area. On arrival there was much hilarity with so many nations, some of whom we had never heard. Betty Smith pledged the oath on behalf of the competitors. The old Queen Vic opened the games with a pomp and circumlocution, and we were away with morning tea. Barbara McCusker a Real Olympian arrived and was welcomed with huge applause, and throughout the day joined in the games and helped a lot of us to enjoy trying to use a bow and arrow. Elinor Danial found she was a dab hand with the Archery, and was picked as best of the day.
Barbara Casey’s First Aid tent was made to good use by Shirley Murray, who had a sore arm, but luckily there was not a lot of injuries. Although when our dear Queen donned swim pants for the equestrian event I thought a few of the male spectators were going to need her smelling salts. Barbara was well equipped with drug enhancing medication, I’m sorry to say Gwen McIvor was disqualified after a urine sample tested positive.
Speaking to some of our members I found that a few had represented Australia on occasions, Lorna Armstrong in Basket ball and Margaret Chapple’s daughter played for the under 18’s Hockey team, and was wearing her shirt for this occasion.
Ted Turner president of the RSL was made Mayor for the day and presented medals to some of our winners. The VIEWettes just pipped to the finish in front of the Awesome Foursome in the boat race. The games included Egg and Spoon, Gum Boot Throwing, Equestrian, Potato Race, Weight Lifting, Quoits, and much more.
The Medal presentation was over whelming so much gold silver and bronze. There were two special Platinum medals presented to Pam and Anne who put together this marvellous event, congratulations to you both for a job very well done.
