Coonabarabran VIEW Club hosted a blooming charity event in Coonabarabran last weekend, taking a peek into local backyards to admire several stunning gardens. 

The ‘Garden Tour’ fundraiser was held on Sunday, 29 October, following its successful inaugural event in 2022.

An estimated 100 people attended the local tour, as individuals travelled from across NSW to help raise money for The Smith Family charity. 

Funds raised will support disadvantaged children, keeping them at school and in comfortable, clean clothes. 

The event consisted of five hosts opening their gardens to the public, with a morning tea provided by VIEW. 

VIEW Club was created by The Smith Family charity, empowering women to have a voice on societal issues and create change within their own communities. 

VIEW stands for 'Voice, Interests and Education of Women. There are over 300 VIEW Clubs across Australia and members’ efforts support more than 1680 disadvantaged children.

In Coonabarabran, the local branch has been running for over 30 years and encourages social connection, with members meeting once a month. 

Carolyn Fretwell, president of the Coonabarabran branch, said she enjoys the sense of fellowship with like-minded people. 

“Mr Smith believed every woman should have one night out where she didn’t have to cook a meal, so our View Club revolves around having a meeting with an evening meal,” Mrs Fretwell said.

“For me, I live under the policy of ‘I am blessed to be blessing.’

“If it can help someone as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain.” 

The club meets monthly and aims to establish lasting friendships. 

Each year the club hosts two fund-raisers which allow the group to have a positive impact on children’s lives, gaining relatable connections under the framework The Smith Family charity.