The Bracken Ridge Ladybirds social group marked 35 years of friendship and community spirit at a special lunch at the Bracken Ridge Tavern last month.
The group was formed in 1991 by Alma Pickvance, Shirley Kingston and Jenny Kemble after the three women met at SANDBAG and decided to create a friendship group for young women, most of whom had young children.
According to a Ladybirds representative, the group provided an opportunity for mothers to spend time together while their children socialised.
“With a lot of arranging, these three young mothers secured a room with the generosity of the Council, who have always been a great support and generous to our group,” the Ladybirds representative said.
“Thirty-five years later, prams have been replaced by walkers and walking sticks, but it is still going strong, and providing support and friendship to ladies in the community.”
Today, the Ladybirds primarily serve women who have retired or lost their partners and are seeking friendship and activities to keep their minds active. Members also gather to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays.
The Secret to Longevity: Friendship, Support, and Giving Back
According to the Ladybirds, the secret to their longevity is simple, built on friendship, empathy, trust, cooperation and support.
“We don’t have any bosses or leaders,” a Ladybirds representative said. “Everyone just pulls their weight. Everyone’s opinion is respected, even if not agreed with.”
The Ladybirds are also committed to supporting others in the community. The group raises money at Christmas for underprivileged children to use the Sandgate pool, runs food drives through SANDBAG for people experiencing homelessness, and makes donations to domestic violence organisations.
Current member Jenny Barton said she was welcomed to the group with open arms when she joined, and Lynne Ferguson agreed she could not believe how welcome she felt.
“We can talk and share our ideas or problems,” member Pat McLean said.
“There is always a friendly ear,” co-founder Jenny Kemble said.
Co-founder Alma Pickvance said she had made lifetime friends, and another member, Yvonne Size, said she had made lots of new friends.
“Ladybirds lift me up,” fellow member Rhonda Scott said.
Bracken Ridge Ward Councillor Sandy Landers attended the anniversary lunch on 5 March and presented the group with a certificate of congratulations from Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
“The Ladybirds are a wonderful reminder of the power of female friendship and the trailblazing women who built such a strong community,” Cr Landers said.
“Alongside the friendships and support they’ve created, the Ladybirds have also given back to the community through fundraising and supporting important charities, including the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust. Their generosity and commitment over the years is something the whole community can be proud of.”
The Ladybirds meet every Wednesday from 9.30am to 11am (except during school holidays) in the Bracken Ridge Hall. Those interested in learning more about the group can contact Margaret Brown on 0422 988 583.
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