Each year we hold a Mildred Higgins memorial day,  in memory of a long standing former chairperson, when a nationally renowned textile artist is the guest speaker. 

This year we celebrated our 60th birthday in style, we threw a birthday party for members. This year's Chairman's challenge was for each member to embroider a diamond in their own style - these were then stitched together as larger diamonds and stitched onto a table cover which we will use at our meetings. On the day of our celebration we had 60 diamonds made by members which was fantastic! The party included a competition to dress 'Diamond Lil', this was a fun challenge to dress a dress mannequin from head to toe using the recycled materials given to them by the committee. Members also were able to take part in a free raffle of gift vouchers and two copies of the speaker's book which she kindly donated.

Sue Rangely gave an entertaining talk 'Stitch Sparkle' about herself and her beautiful work. She is a great ambassador for the art of textiles and embroidery her enthusiasm and energy for her craft was obvious.
After Sue's lecture she judged the branch's annual competition, the theme of which was 'Sparkle', a title set by Sue. The Speaker's choice was Pat Cave who received the Mildred Higgins Rose Bowl for her beautiful Midsummer Night's Dream garden. The winner for Technique was Dee Jackson for her sparkling portrait of Marilyn Monroe, for Design was Bronwyn Fleming for her evening bag inspired by frost patterns. The prize for Member's Choice was Celia Drummond for her lovely frosted bouquet of flowers, all winners won 21st Century Yarns vouchers.

Sue Hawkmoon from Hawkmoon crafts.

Demonstrated how to felt and embellish a stone.