Members, volunteers and staff gathered on 29 June to celebrate 75 years of service of Condobolin member, Patrick Ticehurst. Some of Pat’s family attended the event, as well as Peter Houweling, NSW State President and Leo Tucker, the Society’s Executive Director, Mission and Formation. 

Pat joined the Society in 1950 with the Marist Brothers College Junior Conference. When he returned home from boarding school, he would make visitations to the hospital with a fellow Vincentian and press clothes for the Mission in a wool press. As well as general Conference activities, Pat also cut rags for the Centre two days a week for around 30 years while working as a farmer. Pat was awarded Life Membership in 2015 and regularly attends Central West Regional meetings. 

Pat has expressed how his Vincentian work has always been very special to him. He feels blessed to have been able to be there to assist those in need for so many years and thanks God that our wonderful, caring Society still exists. 

"Pat loves a chat and mixing with people and has always been dedicated, loving and caring to family and his community," Kay Ticehurst said of her husband of 65 years. Together, Pat and Kay have four children, 12 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. 

Kay Ticehurst was also celebrated for 50 years of service. During this time, she has held the roles of Conference President, Regional President, Central Council Vice President, Twinning Officer, Spiritual Adviser and shop volunteer.  Kay was also awarded Life Membership in 2015. 

“I have always felt a need to help people to reach their needs at the time,” Kay said. “I do love helping people. It's just hard to say no. I think helping people is so important and I stress - you must listen and no judgement.” 

“We give thanks for our Vincentian vocation – really we are just small links in our wonderful Society, which has had, still has and please God, always will have, great compassion for helping those less fortunate,” she said. 

This incredible dedication was recognised with a Papal Blessing for Pat and Kay, presented to them at Mass by Fr Getulio and Jim Rogers, Wilcannia Forbes Central Council President. 

Thank you and congratulations, Pat and Kay, on an incredible 125 years of combined service to the Society and community!