Two couples who have made a significant contribution to the spirit of Singleton over many decades are the latest inductees to the Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of Fame.
They join 81 other individuals and community organisations to be recognised in the 16-year annual tradition of the Hall of Fame that has been a Singleton Council initiative and long-term partnership with Peabody Energy’s Wambo Coal.
Wambo Coal Environment and Community Manager, Peter Jaegar said the annual tradition recognises and celebrates the talents and achievements people make in their own community.
Mayor Sue Moore added that there are now 83 pavers paying tribute to this community involvement – demonstrating the community commitment of the people of Singleton.
“When you consider the diverse range of achievements – from political and military service to global businesses, athletes and unparalleled public and community service – it’s obvious that Singleton punches well above its weight when it comes to local, state, national and international acclaim,” she said.
John and Isabella Bailey, and Ron and Joan Stokes were celebrated for their life-long contribution to the region during their working lives, and more prominently in recent decades as stalwarts of Singleton’s cultural fabric.
For the past 20 years, John and Isabella have been at the heart of spreading Christmas cheer to the Singleton community through the Rotary Club of Singleton by bringing Santa and Mrs Claus to the annual Christmas on John Street event, as well as through visits to aged care facilities and the much-loved 444 Fire Truck run.
They are also local business owners and members of Singleton Town Band, Isabella as a clarinetist and John a saxophonist.
Ron and Joan dedicated their working lives to the agricultural industry but are now perhaps best known for researching and preserving the history of Singleton.
Ron is the author of a number of books covering a range of topics including The Lamp (focusing on Singleton Hospital Auxiliary), A Time to Remember (the story of Mt Thorley, Gouldsville and Long Point), A Bygone Era (a tribute to the milk and cream carriers of the Singleton District), and Place in Time (the story of Singleton Co−operative Dairy Co.). A fifth volume charting the vegetable growers of the Singleton district is close to completion and Joan has also researched and published an extensive history of her family.
Both Ron and Joan have been members of the Hospital Auxiliary for many years, and all proceeds from Ron’s books are donated to the organisation.
“In the 16th year since the Hall of Fame was established, it’s very special to induct two husband and wife partnerships,” said Sue.
“What Isabella and John, and Joan and Ron have done and continue to do for Singleton goes beyond mere community service – it embodies the very essence of our community spirit.”
Image caption: John and Isabella Bailey were also recognised for their community service at the annual Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of Fame presentation last week.
