Narromine’s Norma Meadley, adored by her community for tireless dedication, says helping people is what gives her joy.

Norma’s humour, thorough research and her love of history is why she is an absolute Hidden Treasure in Narromine, an award given to 74 women across NSW during National Volunteer Week.

“Thank you to the inspirational women who selflessly volunteer their time in our regional, rural and remote communities," Minister for Volunteering Jodie Harrison said when announcing the awards last week.

"You truly are the glue that connects us.

“Your efforts do not go unnoticed. The Hidden Treasures program is our way of shining the light on your immense contributions and elevate the otherwise unseen work you are doing to drive social connection, strengthen and build resilience in regional communities.

“The NSW Government is committed to strengthening the volunteering sector through initiatives that help grow participation, supports for volunteers and recognition of your valuable contributions.”

CEO of Volunteering Gemma Rygate said women who volunteer in regional communities play a particularly important role in strengthening local networks, and supporting essential services, which often lack the resources of the same services in the city.

“Our research shows that women contribute approximately $87 billion to the state’s economy through volunteering and they are generally driven by a desire to help others," Ms Rygate said.

“National Volunteer Week is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the vital efforts of the more than 4.3 million volunteers across NSW. The week is a perfect time to give volunteers the thanks and recognition they deserve.”

Norma Meadley (right) with fellow volunteers Shirley Alderton and Bob Meadley in the Narromine Local History Room.

For Norma, who has made significant contributions to her community as a dedicated volunteer in the Narromine Local History Room in the shire library for over 25 years, says amazing stories are revealed once you trace family history.

‘’One of the weird ones is finding stories inside people’s history and their homes, some ask if they were ghosts inside them. I never found any ‘’ she says with a laugh.

Mrs Meadley's passion for preserving the rich tapestry of Narromine and surrounding district’s heritage is evident in the three full days a week she tirelessly dedicates to this role.

Norma goes above and beyond, meticulously researching and compiling matters of local interest.

Her commitment extends to assisting individuals near and far with family history questions, personal interest projects, and research for articles and books.

She assists with over 300 enquiries every year.

‘’The stories are amazing in our small town, and it shows how it's grown and how the place has evolved.," she said.

"The history of Indigenous local people is intriguing, with their incredible history; it has its difficulties, but it is remarkable."

Technology has changed dramatically from the days of painstakingly going through hard copy editions of newspapers from many years ago.

Norma Meadley with Debbie Irving (Trangie History Group)

Beyond the archives, Norma actively engages with the present, acting as a frontline collector of ephemera, media, and photographs.

Her foresight ensures that future generations will have a profound understanding of both contemporary life and the heritage of their towns.

Norma also generously lends her expertise to various Narromine community groups and organisations, such as the Narromine CWA, Narromine Preschool, Narromine Aviation Museum and Narromine Pharmacy to chronicle and preserve the unique histories that shape these entities.

Her nominee said "Norma is an invaluable asset to our community, working quietly and without seeking recognition, but leaving an indelible mark on the preservation and celebration of our local heritage."

Norma has produced books on Irrigation, the Catholic School and also deep, rich family history and also with the Trangie community.

‘’I just do my work quietly and didn’t think anyone noticed, so I was puzzled when I got the letter," said Norma.