Thursday, 4 December 2025

 Nick McGOWAN (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:56): Valda Louise Anne Arrowsmith OAM was born on 13 November 1926 and was a valued member of our Mitcham community. Valda married Edward Arrowsmith in 1950, and they built their home in Mitcham under the war service homes scheme, completing in that same year their home. They raised their three children, Anne, Vanessa and Peter – both Anne and Vanessa join us in the gallery today. Valda will be remembered for her tireless contribution to the City of Nunawading. She was an active member of the All Saints Anglican Church in Mitcham, fulfilling many roles, including in the ladies’ guild church council as an archivist. Valda served on council in the City of Nunawading from 1979 until 1990, including a term as mayor in 1987–88. One of her main concerns as a councillor was for the proper management of finances to keep rates as low as possible. She was renowned for her unwavering determination. She also provided ongoing support and mentoring for women councillors after she retired from council. In 1991 the Rotary Club of Nunawading presented the inaugural Community Service Award to Valda because of her strong community involvement over many years. Valda was a member of Community Aid Abroad and chair of the committee of management for the Nunawading arts centre. As mayor, Valda officially opened the Whitehorse centre in 1988, which has today been replaced by The Round. Valda received her OAM for service to the community of Nunawading and to local government in the Australia Day honours in 2003. Valda also served in the historical society for 22 years, from 1981 to 2012, including six years as president. Valda’s legacy will be remembered and achievements celebrated for generations to come. Rest in peace, Valda Arrowsmith OAM, who passed away much loved, never forgotten.