On a sunny, 28 June, 2011, we held a barbecue lunch to farewell lovely Lil Barnard and committed Katie Mason; two long-serving members of B24 Liberator Restoration Fund.

Lil has been a diehard, shop assistant for many years. When she started, the shop was a mere water-proof covered, steel frame, open on one side, in front of the hangar; it was either very cold and draughty or very hot and dusty. Thanks to her, we now house the merchandise in a prefab modular office, just inside the hangar; much more satisfactory! Lil made everyone’s visit more pleasant as she enthusiastically welcomed one and all with her endearing, contagious laugh.

Katie started off helping to restore the Liberator by working on the hangar floor – in particular, the landing gear. And there are many photos of her, dressed in overalls, working on the B24. In fact, she was present when the sad-looking, corroded fuselage arrived in November, 1995 from Moe. But it wasn’t long before Katie’s talents channelled her into committee work; which she excelled at. Katie has recently resigned as both the Vice President and Membership Secretary of the B24 Liberator Memorial Restoration Fund. She will be missed for her great contribution over many years.

Both ladies intend to remain members; and, Lil is posted at the top of the emergency list of shop “helpers”. All the hangar volunteers thank them for their dedicated service to this very important project.”