On Saturday, 12th October, the WAOSA family gathered to celebrate 30 years of Orff Schulwerk in Western Australia. The evening kicked off with the rhythmic beats of taiko drumming, thanks to Simon from Taiko-on, filling the Rossmoyne Bowling Club with energy and leaving onlookers impressed. After working up an appetite, we enjoyed delicious paella and drinks together, finishing off the festivities with birthday cake (of course!)
The celebration also provided a moment to reflect on the remarkable growth of WAOSA over the past three decades. It was a special occasion to honour individuals as both life members and long-serving committee members who have dedicated countless hours to WAOSA and the advancement of music education in Western Australia:
WAOSA Life Memberships – Inducted on our 30th anniversary celebration
- Jackie Ewers (1994 – 2008)
- Mary Walton (1994 – 2008, 2013 – 2016).
- Helen Wilson (1994 -2019)
- Jan Gwatkin (1994 – 2002)
- Silvana Ferrara (2001 – 2019)
- Anette Kerkovius (2002 – 2016)
- Robin Stott (1994 – 2004) * (Public recognition for life membership awarded previously)
WAOSA Long Service Awards
- Natalie Tran (2011 – 2024 ongoing)
- Andrea Stewart (2011 – 2024 ongoing)
- Eboney Yapp (2013 – 2024 ongoing)
- Kailee Marshall (2013 – 2024 ongoing)
- Michelle Beins (2014 – 2024 ongoing)
As the celebrations drew to a close, we reflected on our shared dedication to music education, feeling inspired by the common approach that brought us together. It will be exciting to see where the next 30 years take WAOSA!
