General News
26 May, 2026
Farewell feast for Mallee residents
Goodbye is not the easiest word to say, and it’s not every day that communities the size of Hopetoun and Speed farewell three couples from the districts at the same time and from the same group of people.
This was the case on Sunday, May 17, when the Southern Mallee Cooperative Parish hosted a farewell for Noel and Val Carra, Les and Yvonne Down, and Alan and Gwen Malcolm, all of whom have been members of the church for their entire lives and have been actively involved in the community in which they live.
At a service earlier in the day, two new people were welcomed to the church, and a prayer of blessing was said for the couples leaving.
Following the 11am church service, a typical Mallee feast was shared at the midday meal, with the official farewell commencing at 2 pm.
A highlight was seeing many people from the districts in attendance, sharing their thoughts on all the families who have been involved in the community over the years and are now relocating.
A member of the church spoke for each couple about their involvement in the life of the church and the wider community.
This was then an opportunity for others to speak, and several people reflected on the contributions the various couples have made to the district.
Between the Carrras, Malcolms and Downs, most organisations in the towns have benefited from their involvement, reflecting widespread interests.
A handcrafted pen set by Wilf Webster, made from wood left over from the original communion rail in the Methodist Church, was presented as a lasting memento of their time in the Hopetoun area, especially the church.
These can be used to record their connections and continue friendships.
The Hopetoun and Speed communities wish each one well, ask for God’s strength and blessings as they leave their homes for their new communities, and thank them for all they have done over the decades to enrich our communities.
– SUSAN PEARSE