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This is more of a story about attending to "the needs of the inner man" than Railway Modelling but in this circumstance is something very much associated with the hobby and the NSW branch.
When the branch first started exhibitions at the Sydney Lower Town Hall in 1963, meals were a matter for the individual, go out and buy something or bring some food with you. In 1966 June Larmour became a family member and soon set about changing this situation. The first step was getting permission to set up a table with an urn and later an electric frypan in a passageway on the far side of the hall. This was so popular that permission was sought to use the large kitchen used mainly for the preparation of 'Meals on Wheels' on weekdays and so began the task of feeding the hungry workers and later exhibitors. Many wives and daughters became involved in this essential part of an exhibition.
When it became necessary to make a change of venue, it was to the Mazda pavillion of the RAS, the system had to change to some extent as a firm of caterers had the sole rights but June was able to organize co-operation and quite a number of workers in the AMRA team were able to help with the meals. Then the Ford pavillion was also hired and a section of that building was set aside for morning and afternoon teas manned solely by the AMRA ladies.
Problems began arising over hiring charges and June was involved in the planned move to the nearly completed Whitlam centre. The manager of the centre visited the exhibition and was suitably impressed, the result, we had the honour of having the first exhibition in the brand new premises in 1984.
This exhibition was a great success and a good relationship was established with the management who in later years said that we were the best organisation to hire the place. May that continue. Now this home had a separate hall with its own kitchen with room for about 100 seated and June and her team of helpers really blossomed but a setback occurred a couple of years ago when privatisation reared its ugly head and the kitchen was absorbed into the recreation area. Not to be outdone June arranged for outside food to be brought in. Considering that there are about 300 hungry mouths to be fed at lunch time, this is quite an undertaking and is enjoyed by the vast majority of those attending.
June has also ably assisted Graham (her husband) during the 15 years he managed the NSW branch exhibitions. June was awarded a meritorious award in 1975 and life membership in 1989. Of course the NSW branch regulars to Rockdale will know of June's part in 'Petticoat Junction' which provides afternoon tea to clubroom attendees.
