Historical information

Mrs Barbara Emery, born in Beechworth in 1914 was one of the original members of the Wodonga community who formed a Committee and lobbied for the building of a swimming pool in Wodonga. This was prompted after many near misses and a drowning at the popular swimming spot in Wodonga Creek.
She and her husband Bob, along with other Committee members lobbied the Wodonga Council and were finally able to negotiate land which fronted onto Stanley Street, Wodonga. Members of the Committee worked tirelessly to fund raise and also to build the pool itself. Countless working bees were organised to complete the construction and surrounds.
The pool opened on 12th December 1959.
Mr Bob Emery became the manager and Grace ran the kiosk for many years.
Later reflecting on her life in the Wodonga community Mrs Emery stated, “To get the pool was a highlight in my life, the satisfaction that we could save lives.”
After years of heated discussion about the future of the Stanley Street pool and the construction of a new pool, it finally closed on 31 March 2012.
Mrs Emery died in Wodonga.

Significance

This membership badge is significant because it was awarded to a member of the Wodonga community to recognise her service.

Physical description

A gold plated and enamelled badge attached to a red enamelled bar. The badge is engraved on the front.

Inscriptions & markings

On bar;- LIFE MEMBER
On badge; 1991 GRACE EMERY