History

Thrilled by hearing Sydney Town perform at a concert in Feburary 1990, 18 very enthusiastic ladies, led by Betty Parsons, formed a Prospective Chorus under the direction of Diana Russell, a local music teacher. Later in that year, the vivacious and dynamic Chris Baratinni from STC became our director.

We attended our first coaching weekend all wearing black T-shirts with a vivid green motto, "WHO SAYS YOU CAN'T CHANGE THE WORLD" - we were convinced that 4-part harmony could!

We Chartered in November 1991 and in June 1992, 25 members travelled 'Up, Up and Away' to compete in Perth and gained 7th place. It was a true 'Oh Wow' experience. How enthusiastic but green we were!

Since that time, WHC has competed in 10 national competitions over 19 years. We won the Most Improved Chorus Award in 1998, coming 3rd place overall, and on three occasions, we have won the mid-size chorus division and 2nd overall.

Over the years we have had many wonderful directors:        Chris Barattini - September 1990 - September 1992 Yvonne McColl - September 1992 - May 1993 Betty Nicol - May 1993 - October 1994 Rose Philipson - October 1994 - January 2001 Peter Nugus - March 2001 - March 2003 Karen Wilmott - March 2003 – October 2003 Robert Smith - October 2003 – Sept 2004 Gay Curran - October 2004 – November 2005 Jan McCarthy - December 2005 - Present

Since 1991, the chorus has been lucky to be lead under the direction of Jill Vickery as our resident choreographer. Jill has been very active in the Sweet Adelines organization; at one stage participating in the Southern Cross Region Coaching Faculty Team.

Jan McCarthy, our current director, has been certified as a Director by Sweet Adelines International. Jan has been with the chorus since 2001, also serving as President and Assistant Director.

Virginia Humphrey-Taylor, Master Director of Christchurch City Chorus, has been our coach and mentor over the years; inspiring members of the chorus to 'cross the pond' on several occasions. 28 members travelled to Wellington in 1999 to sing for assessment in their regional Competition. In 2004 and again in 2007, some members of WHC joined the Christchurch Chorus on the International competition stage - achieving a 9th place finish in Calgary!

WHC is also active in the local Wollongong community - participating in events like Viva La Gong, Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony, and singing the Turkish National Anthem for the Anzac Day Friendship For Life Celebration. At Christmas time, we enjoy lifting everyone's spirits singing carols in 4-part harmony!