Betty has been a valuable member of the Ballarat & District Genealogical Society Inc. for many years. Betty became a member of the Society in the mid 1980’s. She has been a committee member for 10 years from 1991 until 2001. Whilst on the committee she has held various positions including that of Secretary and President.

Betty was instrumental in the very successful 20th Birthday celebrations of the Society in 1998. The birthday was celebrated with a formal luncheon at the Alexandria On Lydiard. Professor Weston Bate was the guest speaker. Many past and present members attended the function.

Betty has been a phone contact person for the Society. This means Betty has received many phone calls over a period of time – many of which I’m sure have been at the most inconvenient times.

Betty has carried out research work on behalf of the Society. The most recent of which became a front page story for the Ballarat Courier.

Betty is also involved with the indexing project of the Ballarat East Petty Sessions at the Public Record Office. Tuesday mornings you will find Betty at the PRO behind our laptop busily entering data.

Who gets the key and opens the room for our monthly meetings? – Betty does!

Remember the Christmas cake at our November meetings – it’s always delicious – who makes it? – Betty does!

Who helps on our stall at the various Expos the Society attends? – Betty does!

Who helps at the Beginners Classes that the Society has held? – Betty does!

Betty will also be found helping collect the money at the Cemetery Tours and at the library sorting through our collection on “Busy-Bee” nights.

Last year the Society catered at the CHHA Expo. Betty co-ordinated and worked tirelessly on this day. She has again offered to be the co-ordinator for the catering at this years Expo.

Betty has, and still is, always there to offer her services to the Society. She gives freely of her time, knowledge and expertise. She has always been an enthusiastic and committed member who works tirelessly for the Society.

The committee and members of the Ballarat & District Genealogical Society Inc. are very pleased to award Betty Slater with a Life Membership in appreciation of her most valuable service to the Society over many years.