Commemorating Beverley Shore-Bennett

Beverley Shore-Bennett MBE, 1928-2024

Beverley Shore Bennett's connection with Zonta began in 1969 when she became the Charter President of the Wellington Club. From 1976-1978 she was District Governor (Australia and New Zealand). From 1978-1980 she was a member of the International Nominating Committee. She has always been grateful for the enhancement that Zonta provided to her career and the friendships that she made.

Beverley had a wonderful collaboration with Roy Miller for over 10 years, producing over 170 single lights in over 57 commissions. Windows ranged in size from ten-foot church windows to small decorative panels for houses. Later, Beverley worked with glass craftsman Paul Hutchins, producing almost 60 commissions, some comprising multiple windows.

Beverley also designed and made church vestments and hangings, the largest being the dossal in Wellington Cathedral. This was installed in 1990. In 1976, for her artistic contribution to the diocese, Bishop Edward Norman, eighth Bishop of Wellington, installed her as a Lay Canon in the Wellington Diocese. She was the first woman in the diocese to be so honoured. She was also appointed Canon for the Arts to Wellington Cathedral

In 1980 Beverley was awarded the MBE.