By Kaz Thorpe, Arts Writer
Betty Collins, who will soon turn 97, joined the Warwick Potters Club in 1968 and, along with other legendary potters, Betty Pendergast, Helen Madsen, Gillian Fraser, was later awarded a life membership in recognition of her outstanding support and assistance to Warwick pottery.
Betty recalls that “many hours were spent drinking numerous cups of coffee and enjoying many laughs” at the club, as the social aspect was as important to her as the art.
Betty worked in hand building and wheel work and made her last pot in 2008.
It’s been many years since Betty visited her old and new friends at the Potters, so Treasurer Raye Batham invited Betty to morning tea at the club on 27 April so current members could show their appreciation and recognition to her.
Betty said she was “over the moon” and “overwhelmed” by all the potters who gathered to meet her.
Examples of her work were even on the table as a part of the morning tea.
Even with her poor eyesight, Betty recognised the kitchen and remembered old faces.
Amongst other gifts, Betty was presented with one of the Potters’ famous soup bowls.
In a conversation with Raye Batham the following day, Betty commented that she wanted a new soup bowl and her daughter-in-law, Nola, even made her some tasty soup to complete her gift.
Betty said “she enjoyed the Potters’ soup nights, but can’t come anymore”.
Betty wants to come back and sit with the potters when they’re actually potting next time. She will be most welcome!
*this is an old article that has been digitised so our readers have access to our full catalogue.
