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A musical quartet who sparked the local revolution of a plucky four-string instrument, hit a high note at their recent gig after they were honoured for bringing musical memories to Mangawhai.
Founders of the monthly ukulele strum-and-sing-along Magical Mondays, 4-in-the-Bar members Miguel and Elaine Hamber, Rosemary Cranswick and Lesley Smith, are this year’s recipients of the Zonta Club of Mangawhai’s prestigious Yellow Rose Award.
An international organisation, Zonta has more than 1100 clubs in 63 countries that actively work to advocate for women’s rights. Every year, members around the globe celebrate International Women’s Day, March 8, with the Yellow Rose Award, which acknowledges the devotion and efforts of local women who make a significant difference in their communities.
Presented at the event’s venue, the Mangawhai Club on March 10, in front of more than 90 cheering uke players, Zonta president Helen White said although usually granted only to women, an exception was made this year.
“Normally, on Yellow Rose Day we have a breakfast or a get-together and a local woman is nominated for good work that she has done in the area. But tonight, for a change, there’s a bloke who gets part of the award.”
Nominated by Zonta member Karen Walker, who was away on the night, member Sheryl Smail spoke in her place, saying the award was to recognise the group’s dedication over the last six years in creating an enjoyable community event.
”Magical Mondays is a wonderful night of fun, music, food, drink and fellowship. We want to acknowledge their commitment,” she said. “It has been a lot of fun to come tonight to present this award to 4-in-the-Bar for their fantastic voluntary contribution to Mangawhai.”
Over the last six years, scores of singers and strummers have tuned into the monthly event, which began at the Mangawhai Tavern in 2018. Initially attracting around 50, numbers have more than doubled since with locals and visitors, some from as far away as Rotorua and Paihia, joining in. Elaine Hamber was also the lead organiser of 2023’s successful Mangawhai Ukulele Festival, which attracted more than 140 people over a May weekend to jam in various workshops and gigs.
Before launching into a rowdy version of Lily the Pink, Miguel spoke for the group saying he did not mind being an honorary female for a while.
“We really appreciate this. I know that Zonta has been around for ages and they work hard for women,” he said. “We love what we’re doing, and it’s wonderful to receive the award in front of such a wonderful crowd, thank you.”
Interested in finding out more about Zonta? Check out the website, Zonta International District 16, zonta.org.nz
