THE St John’s Physical Culture (Physie) reunion attracted 50 guests to the Down Under Lounge at the Nambucca Heads RSL for a celebration that was part nostalgia, part cheeky fun, and all heart.
Close to 60 years of Coffs Coast Physical Culture (Physie) history came alive as old friends reunited and new memories were made.
The afternoon was filled with laughter, stories, and reflections, “some touching and some downright hilarious”, an early Physie member Raelene Squires told News Of The Area.
“Friendships from its first opening still remain.”
Guests traveled from near and far, reconnecting with long-lost friends and sharing memories that spanned decades.
Past long-time members Norma Johnson, Yvonne Graham, and Judy Steele reflected on the club’s rich history with such passion that everyone left with renewed appreciation for its remarkable journey.
Special mention was given to Janette Gough, who laid the foundation for Physie in the Nambucca Valley by starting the initial club for women’s movement in Macksville in 1968.
Adding to the fun, a lively trivia session had everyone debating answers, laughing at memories, and rediscovering shared stories from the past.
“A demonstration of physie moves had the room in stitches, proving that even decades later, the moves still bring joy… and plenty of giggles.”
A highlight was seeing five of the eight team members from the 13–14-year-old team of 1978 come together once again to celebrate their shared history and friendship.
As one guest summed it up, “It was like stepping back in time”.
The reunion perfectly captured the spirit, discipline, and joy that physical culture has brought to so many lives.
The day wrapped up with promises to keep the spirit alive, share stories with the next generation, and, most importantly, continue enjoying the friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
“After all, once a physie girl, always a physie girl,” Raelene said.
By Andrea FERRARI
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
