THE Whittlesea VIEW Club has capped off a remarkable year of achievement, generosity and community connection, celebrating with a festive Christmas lunch at Hogan’s Hotel in Wallan.
The highlight of the day was the presentation of a $650 cheque by Hogan’s Hotel managers Jess and Darren Freestone, donated on behalf of hotel owner Jim Hogan.
The club says the contribution will go directly toward supporting The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides vital educational assistance to disadvantaged children.
For a club that is just two years old, Whittlesea VIEW has punched well above its weight. Formed with modest expectations, the club now proudly sponsors eight children through The Smith Family, an extraordinary achievement in such a short time.
“Two years in, who would have thought our little club would excel like this? Supporting eight children is something we are incredibly proud of,” President Julie Burgess said.
VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a national women’s volunteer organisation with more than 15,000 members across Australia. Its mission is to exclusively support The Smith Family in improving educational outcomes for young people experiencing disadvantage.
Throughout 2025, the Whittlesea branch has been especially active, building a strong, supportive network where women come together to enjoy social activities, hear engaging speakers, develop skills, foster friendships and unite around their shared purpose of helping Australian children in need.
This year also saw the club celebrate its second birthday in style at the Epping RSL, where 68 women — including visitors from VIEW Clubs in Heidelberg, Greensborough, Eltham Evening and Epping Plenty Valley, enjoyed an afternoon of fun, friendship and colour.
With momentum growing and membership thriving, the club is looking forward to another year of empowering women and supporting children through education.
Whittlesea VIEW Club meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Whittlesea Bowls Club, 10.10am for a 10.30am start, with a guest speaker at every meeting. New members are always welcome.
