Although rain was forecast, Mother Nature honoured us with brilliant sunshine.

BMCS President, Lachlan Garland, commenced the celebrations acknowledging the traditional owners

He commented that this was the first time he had done the acknowledgment outside and it felt much better out here.

Invited guests included Roza Sage (Blue Mountains MP), Chris Van Der Kley (BMCC Councilor), Geoff Luscombe (NPWS) and Mark Andrews (representing Senator Doug Cameron).

Here's a transcript of Lachlan's great address.

Lachlan asked Mick and Jill Dark, long serving members of the Society, to plant a Waratah in the John Buki Garden.

The Waratah was of course grown in our own nursery.

The John Buki Garden is the "garden island" in front of the Conservation Hut.

John Buki was a pioneer conservationist and largely responsible for the formation of the original Society.

Robin Mosman was then asked to cut the cake.

Robin was the BMCS President at the 40th Anniversary.

The dinner that evening in the Conservation Hut was thoroughly enjoyed by 50 or so members of the Society.

Lachlan gave a brief speech where he thanked all who made the evening possible - especially Liz van Reyswoud.

He also mentioned the incredible activities of the Society and its office holders.

Here's a transcript of Lachlan's dinner speech.

Jill Hogwood sang an amusing and very entertaining song.

And in the usual custom of these occasions, we held a raffle.

The Marie Morris painting was won by Brian Marshall.