For nearly 30 years, Noelene Tipler has given her time as a volunteer for the Pregnancy Help Inc Taranaki branch, of which 13 of them were spent as president.
Noelene has been a common sight around Stratford, with her little red Honda frequently piled full of clothes and other donations for the charitable group, leading to her telling the Stratford Press in 2012, "it doesn't go without baby clothes in it!"
It was therefore the end of an era for many when Noelene retired last month, and she was formally thanked and farewelled at a luncheon held at the Shakee Pear last Wednesday.
"Noelene will be missed at the branch, where she has become a dear friend and confidante to many. We will all miss her knowledge, history and dedication to the branch and the families who receive the help and support." Lorna Hobo, an administrator and volunteer at the branch says the lunch provided colleagues past and present with the opportunity to recognise Noelene for all she has done for the branch through the years.
As well as reminiscing over old photographs which were on display at the luncheon, Noelene was presented with a very special book. Entitled "This is your life..at Pregnancy Help Inc Taranaki," the booklet contained memories and photographs tracking Noelene's time as a volunteer with the group.
