Newly appointed patron Joan Sullivan (left) and outgoing patron Joan Whelan. Photo / Supplied
The Whanganui Lyric Singers have a new patron.
Joan Sullivan was appointed to the role of patron at this year's AGM and has a long history with the choir. She has served the choir as president on two occasions, as well as being librarian for more than 30 years.
Joan
was made a life member of the group in 2008 and served as Musical Director in the years following, taking the choir through its 40th anniversary concert in 2013. She then moved into the role of deputy musical director and has continued to take an active interest in all choir activities.
The outgoing patron, Joan Whelan, has also given many years to the choir, serving as musical director for more than 20 years. She is a life member of the choir as well as of the Choral Federation, and was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for services to music in 2013.
Joan has been greatly valued for her expertise and service to the choir over the years and was elected as patron in 2009, holding that position until she relinquished the role at the end of last year.
