Judy was a Committee member some years ago. Some will remember her from this, and others from her schooldays as a student at Roseville Ladies’ College, or as a business partner with Eve Rashleigh in Spindle and Loom, a craft centre they opened during the early 70’s. Some will recall her hilarious, but highly efficient, beginning-spinning teaching at Mitchell CAE. live-in winter school each July. Or as a relief tutor at Strathfield School of Textiles and Randwick TAFE. Then, in the late 70’s and early 80’s, after moving to Grenfell she taught at two western TAFE colleges ~ these could have been Forbes and West Wyalong, I can’t remember now which they were, but I certainly DO remember what a hoot she always was – just ask me to relate to you a few of her Judy-isms some time, or ask anyone who ever came in contact with her – I know they will agree!
Sadly, Judy passed away in 1999, and in the following year, a memorial section was added in her honour to the Craft Schedule of the 74th Blackheath Horticulture and Craft Show, and has continued till the present time. For the 80th Show on Sat. 25th and Sun. 26th February next year, the Section is being expanded to include more weaving and felting. There is NO entry fee, and prizes are worthwhile: The Most Successful Exhibitor will be awarded a Certificate, a Ribbon, a Trophy and a cash prize of $100. For the Champion Exhibit there will be a Certificate, a Ribbon and a prize of $30. The Most Successful Novice (one with less than two years’ experience), will receive a Certificate, a Ribbon and $10 cash. Further, there will be 1st and 2nd Prize Certificates for each Class, and all 1st prize winners will also receive a $5 cash award. Highly Commended Certificates will be awarded if warranted.
There are Classes for Plain and Fancy Effect Spinning, Dyeing, Weaving (commercial and/or handspun yarn), Knitting/Crochet, Felting and Braids.
So, let’s do Judy proud!
Eve Rashleigh