Kevin Dodds, the General Secretary of the Friends of the Parramatta Female Factory states
"I think it calls for a little celebration of the issue of the 60th Edition of the Parramatta Female Factory Friends Newsletter as a momentous occasion, marking both a milestone in publication and a decade of tireless dedication by the newsletter's esteemed editor, Ronda Gaffey. Since the inaugural issue in January 2015, the newsletter has grown from a community update to a nationally recognized resource. Over the past ten years, Ronda has crafted each edition with meticulous care and attention to detail, capturing the spirit and history of the Parramatta Female Factory with professionalism and passion.
"Feedback from members and authorities alike attests to the quality of her work. The National Library, recognizing its historical significance and quality, has deemed the newsletter worthy of preservation in the National Archives. This honour underscores the newsletter’s value as a repository of heritage and community stories and also highlights the pivotal role in preserving the legacy of the Female Factory, one of Australia’s most significant historical sites.
"With 60 issues in circulation, Parramatta Female Factory Friends continues to be a source of pride for its members and the broader community. Each edition is a testament to Ronda’s commitment to high standards of historical documentation, community engagement, and educational outreach. This celebration honours Ronda's ten-year legacy as editor and the shared dedication of all involved in making this newsletter an invaluable resource for future generations.
On behalf of Ronda, I hope you enjoy the read. We also must thank all of you who have contributed with your stories and feedback over the years!
Read the 60th edition here here