JOAN PALMER

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads) - I congratulate centenarian Joan Palmer, who was a recent nominee in the Local Woman of the Year Awards in the Maitland area. Joan moved to Maitland in 1946 as a young schoolteacher, giving 40 years of service to students of the Hunter in both teaching and principal roles throughout the region, including as principal of Vacy, Morpeth, Mayfield West and Scone public schools. She was an active member of Legacy from 1949 and is a Legacy widow. Joan was also a foundation member of the Maitland Repertory Theatre. I am also told that she served in the Australian Women's Land Army. In 1947 Joan joined Maitland Golf Club and that is where she found her home. She was elected as a life member in 1999 after serving on the committee for 18 years—four years as president, nine years as vice-president and as the secretary and handicap manager. In 2013, Joan was appointed joint patron of Easts—a position she holds to the present day. Joan ceased golf a few years ago due to deteriorating eyesight but she is always keen to participate, and nothing gets past her. I spoke with Joan at the awards. It is always lovely to catch up with her. She is a beautiful and inspiring lady.