Room for Connie

By Lia Bichel
A DOVETON identity was praised for her ongoing commitment to the community last week when a new room at Doveton Library was named after her.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Shar Balmes was joined by representatives of the Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation, local volunteers and other community members at an afternoon tea celebrating the opening of the Connie Newman room at the Doveton Library.
Ms Newman, 83, has been consistently involved in community fund-raising and activities since 1957. She has been involved in a number of projects including the Doveton Pool, Doveton Scout Hall and Doveton community bus, as well as numerous education initiatives.
Two separate community organizations, Friends of Doveton Library and Doveton Eumemmerring Community Renewal, both wrote to the council proposing that the new room be named in honour of Connie Newman.
River Gum Ward Cr Wayne Smith said the new room wouldn’t exist without her efforts.
“Connie told the council the library was in need of another room. Before she mentioned it, it wasn’t even on our radar,” he said.
“She is a very special lady. This is her room and it is here because of her. We are pleased to name it in honour of Connie.”
Cr Balmes said that the Connie Newman Room was an important part of the Doveton Library extension, and the council was proud to name it after one of Doveton’s longest-serving volunteers.
“Ms Newman has been actively involved in the Doveton community for more than 50 years,” Cr Balmes said.
“Naming the new meeting room in her honour is one way we can say thankyou.”
Ms Newman remained modest during the celebrations, and thanked her close friends and other residents for their support and dedication to the community.