Aline Fenwick OBE had a distinguished career both as a lawyer and at the United Nations. Born in Adelaide, she was initially admitted as a solicitor and barrister there, before being admitted as a solicitor in NSW. She was president of the Women Lawyers Association of NSW in 1956-57.
Aline was appointed to the United Nations as a legal officer in the division of human rights, and as Secretary, Status of Women
Commission from 1959 – 1963. She played a major part in the drafting of the Convention on the Age of Marriage, Consent to Marriage and Registration of Marriages, which the United Assembly adopted in 1962. Zonta International continues to work towards the ending of child marriage today.
When she returned to Australia, Aline joined Pike and Pike law firm as a partner. The name of the firm was later changed to Pike, Pike and Fenwick.
Joining the Zonta Club of Sydney as a charter member in May 1966, Aline was a member for over 20 years. She was club President from 1977- 1979. She also served on the Status of Women Committee and was a member of the Zontian Editorial Board at an International level.
Outside of her career and Zonta, Aline was also involved with the National Trust (being honorary solicitor for 20 years) and was awarded the Trust’s Silver Medallion for Voluntary Service in 1986. She was also active within the Girl Guides Association and in 1981 received the highest award available for International Service, the Silver Fish. She was elected to the Council of Sancta Sophia College at Sydney University in 1973, service as Honorary Secretary and later was elected Chairman of the Council, holding the position from 1975 – 1991. In 1980 she was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for service to the community.
References –
http://www.internationalaffairs.org.au/new-south-wales/our-history/
1986 – 1995
Zonta Club of Sydney 