It's a really big birthday for the Coonamble Branch of the Royal Far West later this year.

Local members are already hatching their 90th anniversary plans and have asked locals and former residents to mark their calendars for 4pm Saturday 21 September.

"We're working with Dubbo Street Food Cart to host a high tea style event at the Showground Pavilion," said President Irene Reeves.

"Right now we're trying to get the word out to anyone who's been involved with Royal Far West at any time over the decades."

That means stories, recollections, information or photographs.

Perhaps someone in your family was helped as a child by the Royal Far West and made the long trip to Manly?

If you have photographs the local branch would love to get a copy and if you have a story to tell they'd love to hear it.

Chair of Royal Far West Joan Treweeke with Coonamble President and forty year veteran volunteer Irene Reeves. IMAGE: Coonamble Times

Perhaps you were on the committee, or had a friend who was a member when they lived in Coonamble? 

Let the current committee know if you have stories or information to share about fundraising activities of the time.

Perhaps you were the lucky bidder on a memorable item at one of the Royal Far West's famous auctions?

Jake McGlashan, Tristan Crowley, Nick Jackson, Ellie O'Connor, Maddi Gallagher, Maddy Strudwick, Bridget Ryan and Evan Jackson supported the Coonamble branch of the Royal Far West at their 2023 dinner and auction.

If you joined in at any events in the past and have photos or reminiscences please get in touch.

In the meantime the branch are rounding up special guests and doing their research.

"I think during those ninety years the branch has only had about five Presidents!" says Irene, who has been a member for more than forty years.

On the day, it's open invitation so if you're a supporter make sure you keep the date free.

"It's a major milestone for one committee of local volunteers to last so long," said Irene. "So we'll have a small auction and a big party."