An honorary life member is a person who, on the Council’s recommendation, has been appointed as an honorary life member in recognition of long and distinguished service to the National Trust.
Announced at the 2024 Annual General Meeting, the two people who will receive this honour are Lyndell Davidge OAM (Treasurer at Hahndorf Branch) and Annette Humphries (Chair of Hahndorf Branch).
The Council acknowledges the invaluable contributions of Lyndell and Annette to the Hahndorf Branch of the National Trust of South Australia and their dedication to preserving Hahndorf’s heritage.
Lyndell’s Contributions
A founding member of the Hahndorf Branch in 1979, Lyndell Davidge has been a passionate advocate for the protection of the historic village and the mission of the National Trust. Over her 45 years of membership, she has played a pivotal role in numerous heritage preservation efforts, including:
- Advocating for Hahndorf’s official recognition as a State Heritage Area in 1988 through submissions, court appearances, and lobbying efforts.
- Recording and preserving the village’s history, including oral histories from its older inhabitants.
- Assisting countless individuals with family history research, drawing on her vast and detailed knowledge of Hahndorf’s past.
Lyndell also rediscovered and revived the Pioneer Women’s Trail in 1980, tracing the route walked by Hahndorf’s pioneer women. She led efforts to formalise the trail, culminating in its official opening in 2007, and has since overseen updates to way-markers, leaflets, and trailhead signage.
Currently serving as Treasurer, Lyndell’s enduring commitment to Hahndorf’s heritage makes her a deserving recipient of recognition.
Annette’s Contributions
Annette Humphries has been an active member of the National Trust for many years, serving as a volunteer, Chair of the Hahndorf Branch, and a driving force behind the Pioneer Women’s Trail event since 2010. Her contributions include:
- Coordinating volunteers for the annual trail event, ensuring its growth and smooth operation.
- Engaging with Hahndorf Primary School students to walk sections of the trail, a program she has supported since the 1980s.
- Leading the enhancement of trailhead signage and initiating plans for storyboards to enrich the experience for walkers.
Annette’s collaborative approach has united branch members and volunteers, fostering a strong sense of community and ensuring the trail’s success as a cultural and historical asset. The annual Pioneer Women’s Trail Walk has grown from 100 participants in 2009 to over 1,000 in 2024.
A Collaborative Legacy
Together, Lyndell and Annette have worked tirelessly to preserve Hahndorf’s history and make the Pioneer Women’s Trail a celebrated feature of the region. Their efforts have left a lasting impact, making them both worthy of recognition for their contributions to the National Trust of South Australia.
