High Points of the 2025 AGM

There were two high points of the WAQA Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Wednesday night 1st October at the Alexander Park Craft House and attended by a large number of members and visitors.

Firstly, the Guest Speaker for the evening was Stephen Scourfield the Travel Editor of The West Australian, Sunday Times, Seven West Media’s travel digital publishing, and the author of more than 10 books.

Secondly, Life Membership was presented to a member recognised for giving exceptional service to WAQA over a long period of time as well as meeting all the criteria listed in the Life Member guidelines.

The AGM started with a report from the President on the state of the Association. The new Management Committee was elected with the Association Secretary and Sponsorship position declared vacant (it is not too late to nominate). The new General Committee was also appointed with a few positions not filled, so please check the Committee Contact List and if any of the vacant positions interest you, please step forward.

Life Membership was then awarded to Gwen Parry, a valued long time member of WAQA who has held many Committee positions including President in 2015 to 2017. Gwen’s nomination essay was two pages long and full of her many quilting achievements and contributions to the association and external community. Gwen was presented with a Certificate and Gold Life Member Badge and is WAQA’s 15th Life Member. Congratulations!!

Stephen Scourfield then came on to speak about his Jackets of the World project showing a large number of jackets from his collection, each with a unique story. Stephen talked about the people he met on his travels and the circumstances in acquiring the fabrics from the different countries he visited. Stephen was a wonderful speaker and held the audience enthralled with his humorous anecdotes and descriptions of the places he has been. Such a wonderful evening!!