Obituary / Norma Roach, OAM CM, September 25, 1930 – February 1, 2021. By Bill Stephens.
WITH the death of Norma Roach in the Queanbeyan District Hospital on February 1 at age 90, the Queanbeyan and Canberra theatre community lost one of the region’s most energetic, passionate and dynamic theatre pioneers.
Possessing an enormous capacity for friendship, Norma has been described as a matriarch, trail-blazer, joyful, creative, kind, capable, a caring spirit with a great sense of humour.
Born in the industrial city of Sunderland, England, Norma and her two sisters enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the seaside area of Roker. Her family attended the local Methodist church and were very involved in the busy, lively community. Norma sang in the church choir with her parents, Ralph and May Parnaby, where she learned to read music by “watching the dots go up and down”, and performed in many church concerts.
Craig Foster reflects on Australia Day opportunities and the way forward sbs.com.au - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from sbs.com.au Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Mrs Jaenke was recognised for her contributions to the Somerset community that span more than six decades. Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann and Australia Day Ambassador Robert(Bob Atkinson) congratulate Somerset Citizen of the Year Patti Jaenke. Photo: Somerset Regional Council.
The official Somerset Australia Day Awards Ceremony was held at the Somerset Civic Centre in Esk, and included an address by Australia Day Ambassador, Robert Atkinson AO APM.
Mr Atkinson worked with the Queensland Police Service for more than four decades including more than a decade as the Queensland Police Commissioner.
Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann said Patti always had a welcoming smile on her face and was only too happy to help anyone in need.