Media
Last photoograph of Babaneek Choir
Photo Ref: 24561
Creator: Charman, Mrs Mavis
A women's choir began as a small contingent from the Order of the Eastern Star in 1950, the idea of choirmistress, Dulcie Beth Callinan. In 1961 Dulcie opened up membership to the wider community and the Babaneek Choir was born. Dulcie chose the name 'babaneek' from the local Awabakal language, meaning 'mother or motherly', to reflect the character of the choir. The choir's aim was 'to bring cheer and comfort to its listeners, to provide joyful fellowship for all who love to sing and music for church services, civic occasions, charity functions and other areas where entertainment is needed.' The fifty plus members originally aged between 20 and 77, paid their own way and performed free of charge all year round, except for a six week duration over the Christmas/New Year and school holiday period. Rather than identical outfits, the ladies wore the colour blue with a distinct detatchable gold collar, which was later replaced with a single yellow ribbon, as an acknowledgement that women come in all different shapes and sizes and one outfit does not suit all. Rehearsals were each Monday from 10am to 2pm, with a break for lunch and fellowship, at Boolaroo Methodist Church Hall (later the Uniting Church"). photo: babaneek choir names photo: babaneek choir names The choir regularly entertained audiences with choral items, soloists and duets and musical items, interspersed with humorous elocutionist pieces in the local Hunter Region and as far afield as Port Macquarie and Sydney. Their repertoire included a wide and flexible range including church hymns of praise, wedding songs, southern spirituals and lighter comedy items
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