Bega Littleton Sister City Exchange

Founding Members

Bronze plaque unveiled in 1983 honouring Hous Waring and Curly Annabel who commenced the Exchange in 1954. Thorough their inspiration, regular social and cultural exchanges maintain a lasting friendship between Bega, New South Wales, Australia and Littleton, Colorado, USA.

History of the Bega Littleton Sister City Relationship

In 1951, the U.S State Department and the U.S Information Agency initiated the making of the motion picture, “Small Town Editor”, for use in foreign countries to encourage a rural press to supplement the usually government controlled news. This film, made in Littleton, featured Houstoun Waring, editor of the Littleton Independent, who had achieved national recognition for his editorials on foreign affairs. The film was translated in to 23 languages and shown in over 80 countries around the world.

W.B. (Curly) Annabel of the Bega District News saw the film which dealt with the people, goals and production of the Littleton Independent. Entranced by the similarity of Bega and his newspaper with Littleton and its newspaper, Curley began a correspondence with Hous in December 1954 and visited the Waring family in the next American summer.

When President Eisenhower urged sister city relationships through the People to People program, Curley and Hous decided in 1960 to form a formal bond between the two towns. This led to an invitation from Curly for the Hous and Irene Waring to attend Bega Week in February 1961. While there, they consummated the association between Bega and Littleton, communities 9,000 miles apart, to become the first Australian and U.S Sister Cities.

In August 1961, Curly brought four young people to Littleton for Western Welcome Week. Thereafter, the custom was established for Littleton to send a delegation on the first and sixth year of the decade and a Bega delegation visits Littleton the third and eighth years. 2021 would have been the 13th official delegation from Littleton to Bega since Hous’ initial visit in 1961.

The delegates are hosted by member families and get a unique taste of home life and community activities in addition to tours of the immediate area. A high point of each visit is the International Civic Dinner attended by the delegates, government representatives of both countries, members of various civic organizations and other community members.

Over the past 60 years many Littleton and Bega members have returned to visit friends made on previous trips. The relationship between members of the sister cities groups has grown over the years. Whilst COVID has put paid to the planned 2021 delegation to Bega, we remain committed to continuing the friendship and cannot wait until it is safe to travel to see our friends again.

In September 1983, on behalf of the people of Littleton, a magnificent bronze plaque featuring profile portraits of Curly Annabel and Houston Waring was dedicated in Littleton’s Bega Park. In 1986, a Littleton Delegation presented an identical plaque to the people of Bega.

The plaques are inscribed:

“These Gentlemen have fostered international understanding since 1954. Thorough their inspiration, regular social and cultural exchanges maintain a lasting friendship between Bega, New South Wales, Australia and Littleton, Colorado, USA. Hundreds of personal friendships across the equator attest to their success in the formation of the Bega Littleton Sister City Exchange. for their leadership and enlightenment, we are eternally grateful.”

John Hubbs, Chairman. George Stanescu, Sculptor. Dedicated September 14, 1983

Walter Bruce (Curly) Annabel

12 March 1907 4 April 1999

Curly was a fearless newspaper editor and proprietor.

Curly worked for the Sydney Morning Herald prior to World War II when he entered the RAAF. After the war he felt Sydney was too crowded and moved to the country where he eventually purchased the Bega District News. In Bega he discovered the value of community spirit and believed it to be one of the greatest national characteristics that could be built up. This community spirit was something he appreciated on his arrival in Littleton and it made a great impact on him.

Curly was an accomplished sportsman, playing Rugby for Manly, winning a number of swimming trophies including the Andrew Charlton Trophy in 1928 and representing Australia as a skier. Curly also played cornet for the Canterbury District Band and was declared winner of ‘A’ Grade Championship and Marching Display in 1924. When his sons could outswim him Curly took up running

Amongst his achievements are:

• Founding member of the Bega Valley Fine Arts and Crafts Society 1946,

• Securing sponsorship from Caltex for a major annual art competition and wrote and submitted a successful application to the Bicentennial Committee for funds to include an Art Gallery in the new Civic buildings, and

• Bega Chamber of Commerce reformed in 1947 with Curly’s support.

Commenced his 12 year Presidency of the Tathra Surf Live Saving Club. His knowledge and experience with the Manly Surf Life Saving Club helped him make Tathra one of the most successful clubs on the South Coast.

Led the first ever team of country editor accredited war correspondents to report on the Vietnam conflict 1968.

Elected as a Councillor, Australia American Association and then Chairman of their Sister City Committee, Sister City Conference and Sister City Workshop.

Received the Rotary International Paul Harris Fellowship for Outstanding Community Service. Awarded Order of Australia for Service to the newspaper industry, particularly as editor of the Bega District New and to the community.

Fought to take Bega into the Canberra milk market and campaigned to lift the price of butterfat.

Founding member of the Rural Youth Travel Foundation.

He was involved in setting up the Bega Dairy Demonstration Farm and was a member of the Bega Show Society for many years.

He was house father to girls’ boarding at Littleton House.

Supported establishment of the Bega District Hospital in 1957 and ran successful appeals for funds for equipment.

Involved with the launch of the George Bass Marathon from Batemans Bay to Eden in 1975

George Houstoun Waring III

5 October 1901 18 February 1997

From his first reporting job in 1926 to his final editorial column in 1994 Hous Waring crafted a career at the Littleton Independent that was the envy of journalists around the United States. He was the epitome of small town community journalism who believed that the local newspaper was the glue that holds community together. He also believed you needed to build some bridges to the rest of the world.

Hous studied journalism at the University of Colorado after leaving the Naval Academy in Annapolis due to illness. He left before graduation to work at the Independent. Under his editorship the newspaper gained national prominence amongst community papers. He editorialized against the Ku Klux Klan, he opposed Franklin Roosevelt when the ran for a third term. He supported the setting aside of money to help the nation’s poor during the depression. He was the first weekly newspaper editor to editorialize against the Vietnam War.

Some of his achievements were:

• Started the “Homecoming Day” (Western Welcome Week) in 1929. Bega’s visits to Littleton coincide with this celebration and take part in the Welcome Week parade,

• Started the University of Denver Journalism Department in 1933,

• Awarded a Nieman Fellowship at Harvard in 1944. This fellowship is awarded to some of the world’s most accomplished and promising journalists,

• Co founded International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors in 1955 and Littleton Press Council in 1967 and the ACC Town and Gown Society in 1978, and

• In 1976 he received a citation from the American Judicature Society for his judicial reform efforts.

He has a number of streets, parks and building name after him including:

• Houston Waring Circle (1976),

• Waring Meadow in Roxborough Park (1978),

• Waring Theatre at Arapahoe Community College (1984), and

• Waring Computer Writing Lab at University of Denver (1989).

Hous was:

• proclaimed “Citizen Emeritus” in a citation signed by four Colorado governors in 1977,

• named “Citizen of the Century” by the Littleton Times in 1989,

• and voted “Rotarian of the Century” by Littleton Rotary in 1990.

One of his memories included riding in the parade as Miss Littleton in a bathing suit and cap in a bathtub full of bubbles. His wife didn’t speak to him for a week.

1960

Curly Annabel’s first visit to Littleton to meet Houstoun and Irene Waring. During the visit he presented Bega’s first gift to Littleton a painting of Bega to Gordon F. Taylor, President, Littleton City Council. The painting was ordered by Alderman W.R. Luff, mayor of Bega and his fellow aldermen. Prominent Australian painter Jack Kirkland was commissioned to do the work.

The painting shows Bega lying in the shelter of a 4,000 foot mountain and is framed by a eucalyptus tree in the foreground.

1961 (February) Littleton to Bega (2) – Official Launch of the Bega Littleton Citizen’s Exchange

• Houstoun Waring and Irene Waring

Hous was invited to open an exhibit of the Littleton’s handiwork at the Bega Show. This visit put the official seal on the linking of Bega and Littleton. The exhibit consisted of 285 items, including photos of Littleton life and landmarks and literature about Littleton industries and a collection of hand made clothing. Professional models from Sydney were flown in to display the clothing. The Littleton Chamber of Commerce donated a trophy for the best commercial exhibit at the show.

An American lunch was to be served at the show. The lunch consisted of black bean soup, Waldorf side salad, roast duckling and gravy with sauerkraut and roast potatoes and American lemon chiffon pie. The lunch was to be prepared in Littleton and flown to Australia on Pan Am. An airline strike meant the food had to be brought in by other means.

The show was opened by the American Ambassador to Canberra, Mr William J. Sebald who praised the people of Bega and Littleton and said the enthusiasm and ingenuity of Australians and Americans will find ways in which to extract the utmost from the affiliation between the two towns.

Mr Sebald opening the show with Mayor Joe Anderson on the left

This is where it all started. Curly showing Hous the letterbox across the road from this newspaper office in which he posted the first letter which started the exchange

Hous presenting the winning trophy

Roy Carroll presented Hous with a stetson and Levi Strauss shirt at a dinner at the Bega Bowling Club. Both items were purchased through the Sydney office of Stetson and Levi Strauss

1961 (August) Bega to Littleton (5)

• W.B ‘Curly’ Annabel (Delegation Leader)

• Dell Chegwidden

• Jill Chegwidden

• Tim Collins

• Colin Rogers

Dell was chosen as “Queen” of the Littleton Bega Exchange by the Littleton High School International Relations Club. Her attendants were School Captain Kay Ogg and Margaret Williams. The selections were made from photographs and citations sent to Littleton of 10 candidates. Her counterpart was Libby Cox, of the Littleton High School, who was selected by the Bega High School to be “Queen” of the exchange. Libby’s attendants were Laurie Borden and Kristi Williams. Libby and her attendants and 8 1961 graduates sold International Goodwill Peace Bonds to promote the exchange at the Arapahoe County Fair. The bonds were sold at $1 each to raise $1,250 to bring the Dell to Littleton.

The delegation also included Dell’s sister Jill and Colin Rogers and Tim Collins. Both Colin and Tim were active in the Junior Farmer Club. Colin is an avid horseman and found room in his limited luggage to pack his riding boots and pants. Tim was a district and state winner of Junior Farmer competitions for his great love of tree planting.

Some of the highlights of the trip were:

• Chuck Wagon dinner where Littletonites got the chance to taste Australian Wholemilk Cheddar cheese from the Bega area flown in for the occasion,

• Bus tour of Littleton sites including Buffalo Bill’s grave,

• Free Style Show of Australian fashions,

• Welcome to Bega parade, and

• Bega Day at Centennial Race Track.

Dell, Curly and Jill at San Francisco Airport Tim and Colin boarding Pan Am flight

Delegation arriving in Littleton. Tim, Bill Slocombe (Australian News Bureau, New York), Curly, Colin, Dell and Jill.

Jill and Dell with some of the exhibits sent to Littleton. Australian fashions were sent to Littleton and were modelled by women from the American League of Women Voters.

Curly accepting key to city

Colin and Tim with Sheriff Charles L. Foster

Delegation at the Littleton racetrack. Bega horsemen shipped a saddle for the owner, bridle for the trainer and a whip for the jockey of the winning horse of the main race.

1963

Bega wins Readers Digest Sister Cities International Award for communities with populations of less than 100,000 people.

Mayor Anderson receiving award from U.S. Ambassador

Mayor Anderson at Award Dinner

The Bega Junior Farmer Travel Foundation

Young people had worked to develop a cattle raising project on a piece of land granted for their use by a State Government Authority. Calves had been donated, however, a change of policy meant the project could not proceed. The money raised from the sale of the cattle was invested in government bonds, and the accrued interest formed the beginning of the Bega Junior Farmer Travel Foundation.

The Foundation was the first award of such magnitude to be initiated and conducted by Junior Farmers on a local level. A contest established for members of Rural Youth between the ages of 18 and 25, the winner to travel to Littleton to be hosted by the Arapahoe County 4H clubs. The 4H clubs being the equivalent of the Rural Youth.

The Travel Foundation changed to the Bega Valley Rural Youth Foundation. The Travel Fellow has become an integral part of the Exchange program. The Travel Fellow must visit Littleton for a minimum of one month before travelling elsewhere. Extensions to the trip were made after the Canadian High Commissioner invited the winner to attend a youth leadership camp at Indian Head conducted by the University of Saskatchewan and a further invitation was received from the British High Commission to visit National Young Farmer clubs in Britain.

Roy Irvin was chosen as the first Travel Fellow Basil Alcock travelled with him as an associate delegate.

Roy Irvin (left) and Basil Alcock (right)

1966 – Change of Administrative Control

A committee was formed in 1960 to handle the launch of the exchange. The Bega Municipal Council later accepted the committee’s suggestion that the Council act as an exchange committee. The arrangement lapsed. The Council assembled a committee to arrange the 1966 Littleton exchange visit to Bega.

A public meeting was held in August 1966 at which Ald. Goldberg said the exchange had proved valuable in developing international relations and that wider community participation would bring an even greater and more comprehensive pattern of people to people interest between the two communities.

It was decided to place the town exchange activities in the administrative control of a citizen’s committee The committee would be responsible for publicity and year round communications.

1966 Littleton to Bega (5)

• Harry D. Coles (Delegation Leader)

• Dorothy Eccles

• Willard Sherman

• Mrs. Sherman

• Arthur Stewart (Youth Delegate)

The delegation was greeted by Ald. Goldberg and his wife and number of other members of the Exchange committee. After the official welcome and press interviews, the male members of the of the visiting and welcoming parties were guests of the Pan Am director at a lunch at the American Club.

During their stay in Sydney they would attend a reception held by the Lord Mayor, a luncheon hosted by the Australian American Association and a visit to Parliament House followed by a reception by the Premier. The delegation leader, Mr Cole, presented the Lord Mayor, Ald. Armstrong with a John Kennedy half dollar piece.

The party then travelled to Bega by road with Bega committee members. A civic welcome was held on the steps of the War Memorial Town Hall. The welcome was preceded by a procession consisting of the Bega Band, marching girls, school children, guides, brownies, scouts and cubs. The welcome was followed by dinner.

The programme included attendance at the Bega Show, Church, reception by the Chamber of Commerce and a reception by the Bega Art Society where Jack Kirkland gave a

Left to right Mrs Dorothy Eccles, Mr Harry Cole, Arthur Stewart, Keith Yorston (President of the Australian American Association), Ald. Goldberg and W.B.Annabel

demonstration of water colour painting, the painting was later presented to Mrs Eccles, and a visit to Kameruka. Mr Stewart attended Bega High and took part in regular class lessons and spent a night at the Boys’ Hostel as a guest of the hostel boys. Mrs Eccles and Mr Cole visited four schools in Bega and spent much time answering questions. The Bega branch of the CWA organized a special afternoon function for the ladies

Upon leaving Bega they travelled to Canberra where they were guests at a luncheon in Parliament House and undertook a tour of the Snowy Mountains.

1968 Bega to Littleton (5)

• Roy Kothe (Delegation Leader)

• Dom Brady

• Mollye Brady

• Margaret Brady

• Margaret Sly (Rural Youth Travel Fellow)

A great deal of preparation was necessary to gather together gifts to present to various organisations in Littleton. These were donated by the various service clubs, churches, schools, etc. Most of the packing being done by Messrs Vic Woolley and Ray Mills.

The American Consul General, Mr Bail Capella attended a public farewell.

Prior to his departure Mr Kothe and Mr Annabel visited the American Ambassador, Mr Ed Clark and members of his staff.

1971 Littleton to Bega (3)

• Lois Barker Maloney (Delegation Leader)

• Doug Cox

• Verone Cox

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A reception was held at the Australian American headquarters where they were received by the American Ambassador Walter L. Rice and Mrs Rice. The delegation also took a harbour cruise and viewed the Opera House.

There was a welcome at the Civic Centre attended by approximately 300 school children after a welcome by the Mayor in his suite. The delegation were guests at a civic dinner at the Commercial Hotel and were officially welcomed at the Embassy Ball at the Bega Bowling Club.

During their visit the delegates visited local churches, schools, hospitals, the C.W.A. and private homes.

The delegation were also able to visit the American Embassy and take a tour of the grounds. The Member for Eden Monaro, Mr Allan Fraser, was able to arrange the party to attend question time in the House of Representatives.

A seascape painting was presented to the U.S. Ambassador, Mr Walter Rice, and his wife as a memento of their visit to Bega at the Rotary Embassy Ball for the 10th anniversary of the exchange. In exchange Mr Rice presented books on America and its culture to the Mayor, Town Clerk and Mr Annabel. Many other gifts were exchanged including paintings, a Colorado flag, musical scores and a pictorial record of Mrs Maloney’s visit

During 1971 Mr Annabel was elected to the Council of the Australian American Association and was appointed Chairman of the Sister City Committee. Mr Annabel also presided at the Sister City Workshop session of the Federal Conference of the Association. Bega delegates were Roy Howard, Dom Brady and Noel Ford. Alderman and Mrs Howard were given places of honour at the Conference dinner which was attended by the State Governor, Sir Roden Cutler and Lady Cutler.

1972 Bega to Littleton (5)

• Roy Howard (Delegation Leader)

• Peg Howard

• Keith Otton

• Alison Otton

• Mary Jane Taylor

From left to right Keith Otton, Peg Howard, Roy Howard (Mayor), U.S. Ambassador, Mary Jane Taylor (youth ambassador) and Alison Otton

The exchange took 1000 Kangaroo Pins which were obtained from the then Department of Trade and Industry for presentation at Littleton

Australian Consul General Roger Dean Keith Otton, Dick Lautenbach (Littleton chairman) At a pre state dinner and Roy Howard.

1976 Littleton to Bega (20)

• Dick Lautenbach (Delegation Leader) Bonnie Lautenbach

• David Schallart (Youth Delegate)

• James Barr Jane Barr

• Blanche Bronstein Andy Bronstein (Blanche’s son)

• Hildred Garrison

• Graham Howard Dorothy Howard

• Jack Karford Barbara Karford

• Martha Meston

• Earl Stevens Margarita Stevens

• Merle Yonker Maxine Yonker

• Warren Zeller Carolyn Zeller

• Kimberly Zeller

While in Sydney the delegation were welcomed at a reception by the Australian American Association and a reception at the Opera House followed by a ballet. A lunch at the Hilton was also included in the programme along with a visit to the Zoo and a harbour cruise.

The activities in Bega for the visit included a church service at the town hall and a wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial Gates. The unveiling of the memorial plaque took place after the wreath laying ceremony followed by a luncheon by A & P Association members. The day was completed with a B.B.Q. at Tarraganda House.

A tour of the Bega Butter Factory and a local farm was organized for the men while the women attended a morning tea at the Bega Golf Club with the Board of the Bega Co operative and their wives hosting the delegation to lunch at the RSL Club.

Two tours were organized, one to Eden with a cruise on Twofold Bay and lunch at the Eden Fishermans Club, and the second to Kameruka Estate.

A Civic Dinner was held with Mr W. Boggs, U.S. Embassy Councillor, representing the American Ambassador.

A Key to the City, similar to the one presented to Mr Annabel in Littleton, was ordered from Angus and Coote. Coat badges were ordered for use by the visitors during Littleton Week and the Bega Art Society painted small pictures for the female visitors and men received digger hats.

A colour film of the events of the week was shot by Bega cameraman Aub Cooper for Channel 4 and this film was presented to the exchange by Wollongong Channel. The Managing Director of Wollongong Channel 4, Mr Lean, and the Managing Director of the Bega District News, Mr Leach, were thanked for their efforts in securing the film.

A satellite was used to conduct a hour radio program between Bega and Littleton at 2 pm on April 1 Littleton time and 7 am Bega time. The broadcast was paid for by the Australian government. These broadcasts continued on a twice weekly basis.

Dick Lautenbach, Curly Annabel and Roy Howard

A delegation from Bega travelled to Littleton to present Bega’s Goodwill Plaque to the City of Littleton. The ceremony was performed at the Littleton State Dinner at the Columbine Country Club. The plaque to have a permanent place in the entrance of the Littleton City Hall.

1978 Bega to Littleton (34)

• Dom Brady (Delegation Leader)

• Mollie Brady Phillip Brady

• Patricia Alcock Alan Bishop

• Ken Boyd Alma Boyd

• Judi Carroll Jill Chegwidden

• Jim Kelly Shirley Kelly

• Wal Laws Stewart Longworth

• Joan Longworth Vernon McNeil

• Jann McNeil Fiona McNeil

• Joe Nethery Flo Oates

• Bill O’Shea Herb Parbery

• Jean Parbery John Rheinberger

• Hazel Rixon Harry Rodd

• Edna Rodd Beulah Rush

• Roy Southwell Olive Southwell

• Rita Watson Paul Windle

• Audrey Windle Helen Windle

• Margaret Zwiers

The delegates were entertained at a bon voyage luncheon in Sydney as guests of the Caltex company.

Upon arrival in Littleton they were greeted at the airport with a large banner “Welcome Bega” and a host of people including the exchange president, Dale Erickson. They delegation was escorted to the Littleton Bega Park for an official welcome. An Official International Civic Dinner was held in the courtyard of the Littleton Center where the delegation leader introduced the delegation members.

A civic dinner was held in Bega in April for the presentation of the Sister Cities Special American Bicentennial Achievement Award to the Bega community. The dinner was attended by the U.S. Consul General, Mr Davis, the chairman of the Sister City Committee of the Australian American Association, Mr Dean and the President of the Association’s Ladies Committee, Mrs Perkins.

1979 – Sister City International Conference

Mr Annabel was appointed by the Australian American Association to attend the conference in Louisville, Kentucky. While at the Conference Mr Annabel was presented with a citizenship badge and certificate.

Mr Annabel addressing the conference.

Mayor Carsons presenting citizenship badge and certificate to Mr Annabel

1981 Littleton to Bega (12)

• Dale Erickson (Delegation Leader)

• Anita Erickson Noel Alexander

• Irma Alexander Paul Arther

• Barbara Arther Marie Cooney

• Diane Kostic Mark Martin

• Jose Trujillo Phyliss Trujillo

• Christine Trujillo

During the delegations visit they were welcomed with a dinner at the Princes Motel. The delegation enjoyed a demonstration by the Tathra Surf Life Saving Club and a Combined Church Service at the Bega Primary School.

There was a Memorial wreath laying ceremony and a tree planting in Littleton Garden for the late Carolyn Zeller who was a member of the 1976 delegation to Bega. The evening event was a Mexican Fiesta prepared by Joes Trujillo at the Bega Golf Club.

Other events included:

• lunch at the Bermagui Hotel,

• cruise of Twofold Bay followed by lunch at the Eden Fishermen’s Club,

• tour of Kameruka Estate and a lunch at Kameruka restaurant, and

• lunch at Littleton House Technical College was followed by a Civic dinner at the RSL Function Centre.

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Silver gum leaves from the Cumquat Gallery were presented to the women delegates and ‘Digger Hats’ and Australian American ties were presented to the male delegates. Gift bags were also presented to the delegations which included:

• South East Coast books donated by Boyd’s Newsagency,

• Qantas carry bags Kaydon Travel, and

• Historical records, birds and animal booklets Bank of New South Wales

Letters of thanks were also sent to Les Maley, Principal, Bega Primary School for the use of the school assembly hall, Colin Sinclair for the use of his piano at the Mexican Dinner and May Underhill for the flowers at the Civic dinner. The Bega Philatelic and Numismatic Society were also thanked for preparing a collection of Australian historical stamps for presentation to the Arapahoe Stamp Club.

Delegation at Bega Park Littleton with the newly unveiled plaque honouring Hous Waring and Curly Annabel.

A collection of 40 paintings were sent to Littleton at their bequest to feature in the Bega Week celebrations.

Speech by delegation leader at State Dinner

1986 Littleton to Bega (21)

• John Hubbs (Delegation Leader)

• Mary Hubbs Jay Hubbs

• Ren Hubbs Lisa Christians

• Pam Christians Susan Christians

• Judith Ann Drury Jim Harris

• Edith Harris Robert Kenning

• Patricia Kenning William McKinnell

• Marilyn McKinnell James Ness

• Beth Ness Jack Thornton

• Nancy Thornton Morris Woolridge

• Joan Woolridge Carol Young

The delegation was met in Sydney by a party of Bega delegates and were entertained for two days, including:

• Question Time at Parliament House,

• a night at the Sydney Opera House, and

• a luncheon by the Australian American Association.

• Entertainment for the week included:

• a surf life saving demonstration and lunch hosted by the Tathra Amateur Fishing Club at Kianinny,

• Ecumenical church service,

• Tour of Bega Cheese Factory and dairy inspections,

• Civic dinner

• A visit to the Bega Museum,

• Unveiling of duplicate plaque honouring Hous Waring and Curly Annabel in Littleton Park,

• A day trip to Eden and the tour of the Eden chip mill, and

• Tour of Kameruka Estate and Julius Gardens.

The Combined Service Club hosted the male members to dinner while the female members were hosted by the V.I.E.W. Club.

The delegation attended a meeting by the Bega Jockey Club that included a luncheon. This was followed by a farewell dinner hosted by Peg and Roy Howard before being transported to Canberra the following day.

On the Friday four of the delegates who were veterans marched in the Anzac Day parade

1988 Bega to Littleton (14)

• Paul Windle (Delegation leader)

• Audrey Windle Margaret Black

• Bill Brown Grace Brown

• Karen Daley Stan Delle Vergin

• Helen Delle Vergin Peter Guthrie

• Allan Love Eileen Mitchell

• Colin Rogers Kay Rogers

• Claire Ubrihen

Some of the activities enjoyed by the delegation were:

• Big Band Bash at Riverfront,

• Brunch at the home of Marilynne and Bill McKinnell where the delegation was officially welcome by the Littleton leader, Joan Woolridge,

• Pancake breakfast and other entertainment at the Arapahoe Community College,

• Presentation of a bi centenary flag to Vern Clarke from John Parker (radio hams) who host the twice weekly broadcast,

• Mini Grand Prix horse jumping competition at Ketring Lake Park with ribbons presented by members of the delegation,

• Interview by Cable Television and a trip to Colorado Springs and the Air Force Academy,

• Tour of civic centre and a visit to the historical museum, and

• Civic dinner and exchange of gifts.

Western Welcome Week parade. Delegation rode in a 1924 American Le France fire engine. Col Rogers rode in ahead on a Morgan horse as he did in 1961.

1991 Littleton to Bega (22)

• Morris Woolridge (Delegation Leader)

• Joan Woolridge Robert Woolridge

• Brad Bradford Mary Bradford

• Manon Childs Susan Christians

• Pamela Condon Rose Eleanore

• Carl Gunther Yvette Gunther

• Lebrun Hutchinson Myrtle Hutchinson

• Arthur Kopicky Theresa Kopicky

• Elfi Nelson Herb Stevens

• Elaine Stevens Donald Wagenbach

• Margaret Wagenbach Paul Wagenbach

• Ethel Woodbury

Name badges were provided for the delegates. The Bega R.S.L. Club hosted the delegation after the Anzac Day parade.

An art show was organized along with visits to Kameruka Estate and Eden.

The civic dinner was held on 26 April with guest speaker Mr Harry Black.

1993 Bega to Littleton (15)

• Les Maley (Delegation Leader)

• Carleen Maley Curley Annabel

• Lawrence Bennett Shirley Bennett

• Tony Fullerton Margaret Fullerton

• Ray James Wal McLeod

• Eileen McLeod Bob Murdoch

• Pam Murdoch Marie Swinbourne

• Noel Watson Marie Watson

The exchange commenced with a Lion’s Club BBA and concert with the official welcome in Bega Park the next day.

During the week the delegation visited Houston Waring’s office at the Independent, visited the Bega exhibit at Stanton Gallery and attended an ecumenical Service.

Other tours included Rocky Mountain National Park and the Vatican art exhibit.

1996 Littleton to Bega (29)

• Lebrun Hutchison (Delegation Leader)

• Myrtle Hutchison Paul Arell

• Dana Arell Andrew Arell (Houston Waring Student Ambassador)

• Emily Arell Pete Campe

• Norma Carpenter Ken Coddington

• Sophia Crogan Eric Johannisson

• Jean Johannisson Cliff Johnson

• Jan Johnson Pat Kenning

• Helen Malinowski Carol Mosher

• David Necker Anne Necker

• Jim Rice Phyllis Shotkoski

• John Seebeck Joanne Seebeck

• Jodi Seebeck Elfi Smith

• Norm Sothan Janet Sothan

• Darlee C. Whiting Warren Zeller

• Patricia Zellar

Delegation visit to Bermagui

1998 Bega to Littleton (17)

• Edna Duncanson (Delegation Leader)

• Ray Duncanson Dorothy Disher

• Allan Elton Colleen Elton

• Betty Koellner Emily Leeder (Youth Ambassador)

• Phil McDonld Loretta McDonald

• Melva Morgan Beryl Schaefer

• Marie Smith Pat Ubrihien

• Peter Ubrihien Barbara Ubrihien

• Geoff Underhill Shirley Underhill

Activities enjoyed by the delegation were:

• Lion’s Barbecue and opening concert, ecumenical church service, tour of Colorado including Colorado Springs, Hudson Garden tour and picnic,

• A mini golf tournament and a Carousel of Music along with a City Council meeting where Emily Leader gave a presentation of Bega shire,

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A civic dinner was held at the Columbine Country Club and the delegation led the Welcome Week Parade, and

• A farewell picnic and auction were held to raise money for the next Littleton student ambassador.

Delegation leader Edna Duncanson presenting painting “Young Dolphins” to Ken Coddingtion, Littleton leader

2001 Littleton to Bega (26)

• Ken Coddington (Delegation Leader)

• Barbara Coddington Colin Conway

• Nancy Conway Gene Lomme

• Dorothy Lomme James Murphy

• Emily Murphy Norman Sothan

• Janet Sothan David Necker

• Anne Necker Toni Lang

• Paul Douglas George Meares

• Dwight Smith Elfi Smith

• Ron Humphreys Suzanne Humphreys

• Warren Zeller Pat Zeller

• Ethal Allen Henry Allen

• John Brosseau Janet Brosseau

• Brianne McMullin (Houston Waring Student Ambassador)

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Group visit to Cobargo

Activities included:

• Civic Dinner at the Homestead Function Centre,

• night of bush tucker food at Spiral Gallery,

• bus tour of the Pinnacles, Quarantine Bay, and

• a cruise on the Clyde River at Nelligen

Hayride to Yarranung from Ubriehen’s farm

Drive to Bega West in vintage cars

Picnic at Mumbulla Falls

2003 Bega Delegation to Littleton (26)

• Phil McDonald (Delegation Leader)

• Loretta McDonald (Delegation Leader)

• Cameron Healey (Student Ambassador)

• Angela Annabel Bruce Annabel

• Tom Annabel Barbara Chambers

• Barry Chambers Val Eaton

• Colleen Eaton Allan Eaton

• Betty Koellner Rodney McDonald

• Betty Rose Sue Rose

• Lawrie Rose Lois Stewart

• Barry Stewart Trish Warby

• Andrew Warby Lily Warby

• Kate Warby Meg Warby

• Barb Westmacott Bob Westmacott

Activities enjoyed by the delegation included:

• Welcome reception at Bega Park,

• Lion’s barbecue and concert,

• Tour of downtown Littleton,

• visit to Cherokee Ranch,

• Civic dinner,

• farewell dinner and auction, and

• riding in the Western Week Welcome Parade.

2006 Littleton to Bega (23)

• David Necker (Delegation Leader)

• Anne Necker Norm Sothan

• Jan Sothan John Brosseau

• Jan Brosseau Toni Lang

• Paul Douglas Louisa Young

• Dick Dugdale Anne Dugdale

• Lucy Holtsnider (Houston Waring Student Ambassador)

• Bill Kast Elfi Smith

• Dwight Smith Ralph Lawrence

• Debbie Lawrence Gunnar Recht

• Mary Recht Cheryl Houser

• Eric Johannisson Jean Johannisson

Welcome in Littleton Park

The visit commenced with a low key civic welcome in Littleton Garden. Some of the activities enjoyed by the delegation were:

• a visit to Montreal Gold Fields,

• Umbarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre,

• Central Tilba Heritage Village,

• attendance at the Sapphire Turf Club race meeting, and

• a farewell dinner rounded out the visit.

Visit to Umbarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre

2008 Bega to Littleton (26 delegates)

• Paul Healey (Delegation Leader)

• Carol Healey (Delegation Leader)

• Will Ireland (Junior Ambassador) Kirstie Brown (Travel Awardee)

• Angela Annabel Bruce Annabel

• Margaret Annabel Patricia Avis

• Jeremy Healey Ros McDermott

• Tony McDermott Jenny Purss

• Geofff Purss Bev Suter

• Ross Suter Julie Ubrihien

• Terry Ubrihien Andrew Warby

• Trish Warby Lily Warby

• Kate Warby Meg Warby

• Barb Westmacott Bob Westmacott

• Sue Whyman Dennis Whyman

•

The delegation were welcomed at Bega Park.

Other were activities included:

• WWW Committee Reception at Bemis House followed by a Chorale Concert at the Littleton Methodist Church,

• WWW parade followed by a BBQ,

• Ecumenical service followed by a tour of Hudson Gardens and a picnic,

• International Civic Dinner,

• Poker Car Rally,

• Dedication of showcase,

• Mountain Bus Trip and a tour of the Coors Brewery; and

• Farewell dinner.

2011 Littleton to Bega (27 Delegates)

• Jan Brosseau (Delegation Leader)

• John Brosseau (Delegation Leader)

• Chip Bollendonk (Houston Waring Student Ambassador)

• Keith Ayres Marilyn Ayres

• Larry Boger Marilyn Borger

• Wilt Cooper Paula Cooper

• Paul Douglas Dick Dugdale

• Anne Dugdale Vaughn Gardinier

• Mary Gardinier Cheryl Houser

• Earl Hoy Gipe Kathy Hoy Gipe

• Ron Humphreys Suzanne Humphreys

• Dick Lautenbach Bonnie Lautenbach

• Steve Pyles Jimetta Pyles

• Barb Rawley Mary Recht

• Dwight Smith Elfi Smith

Dedication of Columbine Memorial Park

Columbine Memorial Park 2022

2013 Delegation Bega to Littleton (26 delegates)

• Barb Westmacott (Delegation Leader)

• Bob Westmacott (Delegation Leader)

• Kirsty Mackinnon (Student Ambassador) Leayra Thornton (Travel Awardee)

• Vicki Bond Ric Vanderbom

• Dianne Kearns Ray Kearns

• Loretta McDonald Phil McDonald

• Alison Moffitt Phil Moffitt

• Narelle Pearce Norm Pearce

• Jenny Purss Geoff Purss

• Fay Stewart Ken Sullivan

• Bev Suter Ross Suter

• Margaret Taylor Andrew Warby

• Trish Warby Lily Warby

• Kate Warby Meg Warby

Activities included:

• the Western Week Parade,

• a dinner at Mount Vernon Country Club,

• bus tour of Colorado Springs,and

• Barn Dance and BBQ grand finale.

2016 Littleton to Bega (20 Delegates)

• Elfi Smith (Delegation Leader)

• Gabby Ahles (Houston Waring Student Ambassador)

• Dwight Smith Mike Ibold

• Donna Ibold Wilt Cooper

• Jim Taylor Larry Shaeffer

• Kathy Shaeffer Steve Pyles

• Jimetta Pyles Larry Ettles

• Renee Ettles Lee Seaman

• Yvonne Seaman Jay Jurgensen

• LaDonna Jurgensen Earl Gipe

• Kathy Gipe Mary Recht

2018 Delegation Bega to Littleton

• Andrew Warby (Delegation Leader)

• Trish Warby (Delegation Leader)

• Matthew Gibbs (Student Ambassador) Jesse Heaton (Travel Awardee)

• Bruce Annabel Misty Annabel

• Paul Healey Carol Healey

• Phil Krucler Dana Krucler

• Jaimi Krucler Katelin Krucler

• Rod McDonald Alison McDonald

• Callum McDonald Hamish McDonald

• Phil McDonald Phil Moffitt

• Alison Moffitt Kate Warby

• Lily Warby Bob Westmacott

• Barb Westmacott

Memories of Littleton Exchange

“Our first experience in BLCE was hosting and the experience was so satisfying we have since then we have hosted six more couples with visits to Littleton twice as well. The friendships we have made are lifelong. Being President and leading and hosting delegations have been a very rewarding experience and a highlight in our lives.” Paul and Carol Healey Host 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016. Delegation 2008 (Delegation leaders) & 2018

2001 2006

“Lots of great memories, but this was a first. Our first visit to Littleton under Phil’s Presidency, The Warby family presented problems with hosting and transport. Being the first family of 5 to visit, we were met in a carpark in Littleton. We met our hosts and I was asked to stay behind and help load two single ladies overly large suitcases into a car then go with them and help get them out of the boot. Brianne would follow and then take me to my hosts residence. Everyone left and I was told at the last minute that they had arranged for someone else to get the suitcases out of the boot at their house. I turned around to a deserted carpark as they drove out into the street. Luckily out of the corner of my eye I saw Brianne heading to her car and was fortunate enough to catch her before she left. The big problem was that I could not remember the names of my hosts, but with a pretty good description Brianne concluded that we were staying at the Coddington’s.

On arriving at the Ken & Barbs I was greeted with “would you like a beer Andrew?”, on which I replied “is the Pope Catholic?” Unfortunately, Ken was a Methodist and didn’t drink. After consuming 3 cans of beer I bravely said to Ken, “Do you know why we export Fosters? It’s because no one drinks it in Australia!” Ken with his usual dry humour replied, “I got you a case on special!”

Cheers Andrew Warby Host 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016. Delegation 2003, 2008, 2013, 2018 (Delegation leaders)

Warby’s and Coddington’s 2003 2013

Celebrating Twenty years of fabulous friendships since this sister city began for the Warby’s.

Apart from this year (obviously) it has been a pleasure to host and to be hosted in our own homes, as we both share and enjoy the many attractions of where and how we both live, be it in different countries, but in essence our lifestyles are not that much different.

Trish Warby Host 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016. Delegation 2003, 2008, 2013, 2018 (Delegation leaders

2003

Memories of our participation the Bega Littleton Citizens’ Exchange Ray and Edna Duncanson

When the 1976 delegation from Littleton arrived at Sydney Airport Jim and Jane Barr were processed through the Customs by Ray’s cousin and had quite a connection with them, so when we planned a Round the World trip with our 3 children in 1977 we visited Littleton and stayed with them.

Jim had retired after an engineering career with Martin Marietta Corporation and we were asked what would like to see Ray asked if would be possible to visit the plant. Jim enquired, but was told that “aliens” could not visit. However, at a barbeque the following weekend Jim mentioned this to Hous Waring co founder of the exchange and a few days later we had a call inviting Jim and Ray to tour the plant and lunch with the Vice President Public Relations in the executive Dining Room. Jim was delighted, he had never been in the Executive Dining Room and we saw parts of the plant that even he had not seen, including the Space Shuttle and the twin of the Mars Lander.

We continued our membership of the exchange and hosted quite a few delegates from Littleton. When Edna was Shire President, she was advised that Littleton was about to celebrate the anniversary of its establishment as a City. A table arrangement of Australian native flowers was organised and Susan Thornton, who was Mayor of Littleton at the time, contacted Edna to than her and this was the start of a long and close friendship which continues to the present time. At Christmas in 1989 John, Susan and their son Chuck visited Australia and stayed with us. In 1999 Susan and John came again and we travelled together from Bega to Adelaide.

The other highlight of our friendship with the Thornton’s came in 1995 when Susan mentioned that the National Renewable Energy Laboratories where John was the senior employee were funding the installation of a solar array for light and power at the Orangutan Research Station at Camp Leakey in Kalimantan Borneo. They had engineers and local labourers, but no electricians so we joined them in Semerang and after many difficulties and extreme humidity the system was installed and it continued to power the research station for 20 years when an Australian Company did an upgrade. Ray was the electrician and Edna typed the translated instructions for the operation of the array.

Other close friendships developed with Don and Margo Wagenbach and Suzanne and Ron Humphreys. We enjoyed a holiday in 2006 in Hawaii with them when Matt Humphreys was employed there managing the Hyatt Hotel Kauai. We six also travelled together in 2003 through the Maritime Provinces of Canada, New Hampshire, New York and Maine and again in 2011 through the Rocky Mountains National Park and to a Highland Games gathering where Susan and John Thornton were part of one of the Pipe Bands. During this visit we also

attended Susan Thornton’s retirement from the Littleton City Council and Edna went with Margo Wagenbach and Suzanne Humphreys to an interdenominational memorial service in the Denver Cathedral to mark the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack.

These friendships have continued into the next generation with us staying with Matt Humphreys and Lily in San Francisco and Matt arranging some pleasant accommodation for us during our travels. Our son Ian and his partner, Janelle, have also enjoyed the hospitality of our friends while visiting Littleton and had the chance to meet their families. The interaction had been very educational and enjoyable and hopefully our children and grandchildren will have the opportunity to continue this most important and rewarding exchange.

Ray and Edna Duncanson Host 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016. Delegation Leader 1998

Love Affair With OZ

It all started with a bottle of wine. Anne chose the bottle here at home for its enticing label, not its grape or its origin. Little did we know this would begin our lasting love affair with Australia and finding Bega, NSW in the “land down under”. That was almost thirty years ago!

Not long after this chance introduction to Australian wines, we chose OZ as our honeymoon destination. On our first trip, we had unforgettable adventures on Orpheus Island near the southern Great Barrier Reef, just off Townsville, and later explored Queensland’s Cairns, Port Douglas, and the Atherton Tablelands. This was fall 1992, and that was how our love affair with the country and its people began.

Not long after our return, Ken Coddington, then Littleton Sister City Vice President extended an invitation to join BLSCE ahead of the planned 1996 Delegation Trip to Bega. This fit perfectly into our plan for a return visit. Our first Bega hosts were Barbara and Barry Chambers, and Sue and Tony Hergenhan , all of whom sealed our affinity for “all things Australian”. During our 2001 and 2006 delegation visits to Bega, we cherished the time spent with other host families the Eltons and Healeys, Betty Kellner and the Phil McDonalds. From that first visit in 1996 to the Bega Valley and Sapphire Coast, we felt we had found paradise.

Anne and I are fortunate to have been delegation members of three Bega visits (1996, 2001, and 2006). In 2006, Anne and I led the Littleton group as I completed my five year term as president following Ken Coddington’s tenure. The privilege of being guests in the homes of our Australian BLSCE members resulted in lasting and deep friendships. From the first “cuppa” to the last, we felt like members of their family. We have had many memorable experiences in the Bega Valley. During our recent independent travel to Australia, we have always included a return visit to Bega to renew friendships.

Following each Bega visit, we have explored many of the gems that make Australia a top travel destination. Many travels have been on our own, but some were in the company of the Eltons (Colleen and Allan to Tasmania) and Phil and Loretta McDonald (to Phillip Island). These destinations were even more special seen through the eyes of a “local”.

Since becoming a part of BLSCE, we have looked forward to hosting Bega members in our home during the last five delegation visits to Littleton (the Chambers, the Eltons, the Phil McDonalds, the Healeys, and the Rodney McDonalds). Further, we have enjoyed the special treat of hosting Australians at other times as they pass through Denver. Though Bruce (Curly Annabel’s grandson) and Angela Annabel live in Brisbane, we met them during a number of our Bega visits and formed a friendship that is renewed during their many ski trips to the US (Vail and Aspen, Colorado, and Park City, Utah).

Our five OZ visits now total some 30+ weeks of travel throughout this “sunburnt country” each day full of adventure, discovery, and the pleasure of meeting some of the most fun loving and interesting people ever! There’s much more left for us to see and do in OZ. Though we had to cancel a planned 8 week trip in 2020, it will occur as soon as OZ travel is permitted. We look forward to a long awaited return to our dear friends in Bega, NSW.

David and Anne Necker (from Littleton) Host 1998, 2003 , 2008, 2013, 2018. Delegation 1996, 2001 & 2006 (Delegation Leaders)

Memories

Barb Westmacott 2013 visit to Littleton, Bega District News “… it’s like coming home to family. Bottom line it’s a friendship club”.

Dick Dugdale 2013 “… the most important aspect of the exchange is learning about other cultures”.

Littleton Independent, Thursday August 22, 2013

Tony McDermott, President, Bega Littleton Citizen’s Exchange, Bega District News, March 18, 2011 “Welcoming the delegation from Littleton, Colorado is the same as opening the door to your family on Christmas Day. The residents of Bega and Littleton form a family: a family with the same love and enjoyment of each other’s towns.”

Pam Murdoch, Littleton Independent, August 19, 1993 “People are much the same here …I feel very much at home.”

Curly Annabel, Littleton Independent, August 19, 1993 “That’s the strength of it the people meeting people to people, … Hopefully, it will last as long as mankind.”

Phil McDonald, Delegation Leader, Bega District News “It is this people to people contact that makes the visits so enjoyable renewing friendships and making new friends.”

Jan Brosseau, Delegation Leader, Bega District News, March 22, 2011 at the unveiling of the Columbine Memorial “This (ceremony) shows that it was not just talk, the bonds between both communities are very tight.”

The Bega Littleton Exchange would like to thank both the Mumbulla Foundation and the Bega Pioneers Museum for their assistance in putting together this E Book of memories to commemorate the 60 Year anniversary.

The Exchange thanks the Mumbulla Foundation for the investment to publish the centenary booklet.

The Exchange also thanks the Bega Pioneers Museum for their assistance in researching and compiling the booklet.

Sources

Stories and commentaries were sourced from the Daily Telegraph, Bega District News, Littleton Independent Bega Littleton Exchange Committee minutes

Photos sourced from the above papers and members of the delegations.