Emma Pritchard
She was a beautiful friend to many, a much-loved member of the Clarence Valley community who made countless contributions throughout a number of local businesses and organisations, a talented craftsperson, and a marvellous cook.
As members of the Grafton Country Women’s Association (CWA) branch prepared to commence their monthly meeting on June 14, they respectfully bowed their heads and observed a minute’s silence in memory of Valmai “Val” Wood, who passed away on June 10, aged 102.
An active member and beloved Patron of the Grafton CWA for more than 50 years, Mrs Wood was also associated with the Maclean CWA branch and the former South Grafton CWA branch, where she was President twice prior to its closing in 2006.
Born in the Hawkesbury region, she moved to the Sydney suburb of Eastwood before relocating to the Clarence Valley in 1955.
She was a long-term member of the South Grafton Bowling Club, and the founder of the Glenwood Caravan Park.
Mrs Wood was also a foundation member of the Grafton Handicraft Minimart in 1972 after placing an advertisement to encourage anyone interested to help with setting up an establishment to sell handicrafts.
She later became Treasurer and Secretary of the local organisation and was always happy to help people learn new and different crafts.
Describing her passing as a sad time, members of the Grafton Handicraft Minimart said Mrs Wood would “tell members if things they made were not done correctly as our shop is known for quality handmade goods.”
Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent on her 100th birthday in 2022, Mrs Wood said she enjoyed the community spirit and the many friendships she made through her associations with local businesses and organisations.
She also revealed “eating oysters, and no smoking or drinking” helped her reach 100 years of age.
In 2022, Mrs Wood was also presented with a certificate in recognition of her 50 years of service to the CWA.
Mrs Wood has two sons, Ross and John, and was a much-loved Nan and Great-Nan to their respective families.
President of the Grafton CWA branch Janice Wilkinson said Mrs Wood will be greatly missed, but forever loved and remembered by those who knew her.