Finley RS Club general manager Matt Kook, former GM Sharon Walmsley, Therese Thomas and president Robert 'Snow' Haynes at Therese's final board meeting.
An important era in the life of Therese Thomas came to a conclusion last Wednesday when she attended a board meeting of the Finley RS Club for the final time.
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Therese has been a member of the board for 23 years and has played a part in many changes and advancements over those years.
“I went on the board when I was in the position of president of the RS Ladies Bowling Club because I felt it was only right that the bowlers were represented,” Therese said.
When asked what developments she was most proud of, she replied “the renovations that have taken place – firstly the relocation and extension of the kitchen and later the complete refurbishment of the club and surrounds”.
Therese was a foundation member of the Finley RS Ladies Bowling Club when it was established in 1967, demonstrating her long-standing commitment to the community.
In recognition of her contributions, Therese was awarded Life Membership of the Ladies Bowling Club in 1997, having served many years as secretary and president. Her leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on the club.
Current RS Club president Robert ‘Snow’ Haynes said he will miss Therese’s presence and input to the club.
“Therese was the one who advised me to apply to go on the board when I sought her advice over 20 years ago. I have now been president for 19 to 20 years and have found her to play an important role in the management of the club,” Snow said.
Therese Thomas was presented with Life Membership of Finley RS Club in 2023 by then general manager Sharon Walmsley.
Sharen Walmsley, former general manager who held that position for most of Therese’s time as a board member said: “Therese Thomas has been a dedicated and highly valued member of the Finley RSC for many decades. With an outstanding 23 years of service on the Board of Directors, Therese has played a significant role in shaping the direction and success of the club.
“Throughout her time at the Finley RSC, Therese has remained an active and engaged member, forming many strong friendships along the way.
“During her tenure on the board, she earned the respect of fellow directors and management alike, consistently striving to enhance and improve the club for the benefit of its members.”
Vice president John Hand had nothing but praise for Therese’s efforts.
“Therese has been a wonderful supporter of the club and a wise counsel to management and fellow board members during her time on the board. She joined the Board 23 years ago and was acknowledged for her loyal service with Life Membership of the club in 2023,” he said.
Current general manager Matt Kook also expressed his appreciation of time with Therese.
“Having worked with Therese as operations manager in 2024 and now as general manager since 2025, I have personally appreciated her support, wisdom and unwavering commitment to doing what is best for the club. Her experience, calm approach and passion for the community have earned the respect of staff, directors and members alike.
“On behalf of everyone at the Finley Returned Soldiers Club, thank you, Therese, for your incredible 23 years of service. Your contribution will not be forgotten, and we wish you nothing but happiness and good health in your retirement,” Matt said.
A small luncheon was held following her final board meeting when Matt presented Therese with a bouquet of flowers and a handmade writing desk which was made by John Hand from remnants of wood saved from the old kitchen.
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Finley Show Society Sheep Dog Trials will be held this weekend, June 5 to 7. This is the 10th year for the trials, and the committee has been busy preparing for a full weekend.
The entries have closed, but the event is open to the public each day. Lunch, morning and afternoon tea is available in the pavilion.
This is an opportunity to take the family to watch these well-trained dogs manoeuvre the sheep around the course.
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The Finley Pioneer Railway Museum committee members are delighted to announce the facility in Endeavour St will be open to the public on a regular basis each week on Fridays from June 5 between 1.30 and 3.30pm.
The interest shown on the recent Open Day indicated the need to make available the recent work carried out on displays and memorabilia to members of the community and visitors to the town.
This is another important facility provided by volunteers and an added attraction to the other museums in Finley.
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Jack Gray held the lucky ticket drawn out for the Finley Lions Club wood raffle last Saturday. A timely win now that winter has arrived.
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Items for ‘From Finley’ may be submitted by phoning 0428 293 922, emailing anne.freestone@bigpond.com or left at the Southern Riverina News office. Please include a contact name and phone number.
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