Who was Betty Archdale?

Dural and Districts Historical Society

Betty Archdale was quite an influence on many aspects of our local community. She first came to Australia as the Captain of the English Women’s Cricket team in 1932. The team beat the Aussies in every match! After returning home to England and gaining degrees at University, she came back to Australia and was appointed headmistress of Abbotsleigh School. Later she and her brother Alex, built a mud brick house in Crosslands Rd. It took a long time but they eventually lived there.

Betty was always involved in community activities. She called a meeting to create our own local Neighbour Aid in February 1971. Over a hundred people, mostly woman, turned up to volunteer to help people in our community with transport to appointments and shopping, and to do housework etc. It took quite a while to find a “home” for our organisation. Eventually a house was acquired in the “Glade” at Galston. After alterations and additions it has now become the Community Health and Resource Centre, including a Playgroup area

When Galston High School was being built, the old Waddell Cottage was in a deplorable state and was to be demolished. Betty saw the building as a valuable historical resource, and formed a committee to raise money for its restoration, including a new timber shingled roof. Betty will always be remembered as a dynamic person who made a significant contribution to the establishment of the local Neighbour Aid and the preservation of Waddell Cottage. She died in January 2000.

At our next monthly meeting on Saturday, 9th June at 2pm the guest speaker will be Leonard Janiszewitski, who will Talk about “The Greek Café.” All welcome.

Betty Archdale