PAST members of St John’s Physical Culture across the Nambucca Valley are rallying other past members for a reunion in September.
The ‘Physie’ reunion seeks to bring together former members, teachers, parents and supporters to celebrate the club’s history and achievements.
St John’s Physical Culture first began in Macksville in the early 1970s, founded by Jan Welsh, whose passion for Physie inspired generations of local girls and women.
“This long-awaited reunion is open to anyone who was involved in the club across both Macksville and Nambucca – whether you participated, taught, or supported from the sidelines,” past member Raelene Stig said.
“We’d love everyone to bring along old photos, medals, uniforms, or any memorabilia… let’s take a walk down memory lane and celebrate the wonderful memories we all share through Physie.
“After all, Physie was never just about the competitions, it was about the lifelong friendships, confidence, and community that grew from those early days in Macksville and Nambucca.”
Through Jan Walsh’s influence, many dedicated teachers like Norma Johnson and Judy Summerville helped the club grow, with classes eventually extending to Nambucca Heads.
The club continued to thrive well into the 1980s, with strong teams representing Macksville and Nambucca at Zone competitions held in Coffs Harbour.
Along with impressive team performances, many individual members also enjoyed success, with several progressing to State competitions.
Over the years, several passionate teachers kept the Nambucca club going strong, including Gloria Gavenlock, Judy Steele, Yvonne Graham and Raelene Stig.
Members performed in traditional tunics and ballet shoes, all kept perfectly in time by talented pianists Dolly Rowe and Melissa Worbouys, whose beautiful playing filled every class and competition with energy and rhythm.
In Nambucca Heads, the club proudly wore its red, white, and blue colours.
“Please help spread the word, as tracking down past members has been a challenge,” Raelene said.
The reunion will be held at the Downunder Bar, Nambucca Heads RSL, on Saturday 13 September at 1pm.
For more information or to RSVP, contact Raelene Squires (née Stig) on 0438 412 128 or Laraine Kemp on 0422 994 632.
By Andrea FERRARI
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