On Saturday 6 April, Gladstone Ladies Fellowship gathered together at Carol Hartwig’s home for a High Tea luncheon to celebrate 50 years since the group formed.

It was wonderful that one of the founding members, Felicity Bradford from Maleny, as well as Eunice Raymond, from Ashmore (Gold Coast) who had joined the fellowship group a couple of years later, were able to join in the celebrations. A couple members from Rockhampton fellowship also attended and enjoyed the festivities.

To commemorate this milestone event, Deidre Dobbs wrote a couple poems which she recited for those present, the cake was cut by Felicity, an original member, and Deidre, the newest member. The congregation was invited to attend an evening meal and further fellowship and memories were enjoyed by all. The weekend finished with the guests, that remained, joining the rest of the congregation for Sunday service.

Poem by Deidre Dobbs

50 years of Fellowship
50 years of Love
50 years of Trusting you
And praising God above
  50 years of Bible verse
  50 years discussed
  50 years we’ve studied, Lord
  Your good book left in trust

50 years of Charity
50 years your plan
50 years of raising funds
Assisting where we can
  50 years of Peace from you
  50 years of Grace
  50 years Belief for me
  Heaven holds my place

50 years of Faith in you
50 years of Hope
50 years we Trusted you
With troubles we can cope
  50 years of Truth from you
  50 years of Praise
  50 years of singing hymns
  To Glorify your days

50 years we’ve followed you
50 years of Prayer
50 years of Blessings Lord
Of Comfort and your Care
  50 years of cups of tea
  50 years of cake
  50 years we’ve put on weight
  Oh Lord, we sure can bake

50 years of Unity
50 years of Song
50 years of Fellowship
And still we’re going strong