By ALENA HIGGINS
THE first Queensland country branch of Australian Red Cross will celebrate 100 years of continuous service at a gala presentation tomorrow.
Clara Bedford Elwell formed the Stanthorpe chapter days after WWI was declared, with the first official meeting taking place on 18 August 1914.
Stanthorpe’s centenary co-ordinator Mary Rofe said the branch played a vital role across the decades, especially in the war effort.
“They knitted, made PJs and socks, baked cakes – anything at all that would help the soldiers be more comfortable in the terrible conditions they were living in,” she said.
“Back in 1914, women couldn’t go into the battle and there was a very patriotic atmosphere.
“The Red Cross was one avenue women could support the men and get involved.”
Local government officials will join Kevin Keeffe, executive director of Red Cross, at the centenary celebrations where a memorial plaque in the Red Cross Rose Garden at Stanthorpe Museum will be unveiled.
A permanent display of artefacts donated by residents involved in the organisation’s 100-year history will also be opened at the museum on the day.
The presentation kicks-off at 9.30am.
