This year is the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Greenwood Girls’ Brigade, formerly known as 3rd Perth.
Captain of Greenwood Girls’ Brigade, Sarah Menaglio said, “Over many years, Greenwood Girls’ Brigade has contributed to the community by developing responsible young members of the community, providing a safe environment for girls to develop a range of life skills and build lasting friendships, and building confidence in girls.
“There were no activities for children in the Greenwood area in 1976. Elizabeth Stokes had a background in Girls’ Brigade and was keen to establish a group in Greenwood.”
Beyond learning life skills, Sarah explained that the aim of Girls’ Brigade is, “To help girls become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and through self-control, reverence and a sense of responsibility find true enrichment of life. This has remained the same over time, though the way in which this is delivered to the girls has been adapted to changing times.”
Girls’ Brigade is one of a diminishing number of organisations that teach young people not just about life skills but also about God. One of the important outcomes of the Brigade is the service they provide to the community. Contributing to local fetes, fundraising and supporting charities, these girls learn to serve others.
Sarah joined Greenwood Girls’ Brigade with a friend when she was six-years-old, and now serves as the captain of the same company.
“My fondest Girls’ Brigade memory occurred this year, when I had the chance to share the Easter story with two girls who had never heard it before. The pure look of amazement and wonder is something I will never forget,” she said.
Greenwood Girls’ Brigade celebrated their 40th anniversary in a Church Parade on Sunday 25 September at Trinity North Uniting Church, Greenwood Worship Centre.
The group meets on Wednesday evenings at the church. For more info email wagreenwood@girlsbrigadeaustralia.org.au or visit www.girlsbrigadeaustralia.org.au.
Top image: Gabrielle Osman and Louise Johnson cooking at Greenwood Girls’ Brigade.
Elaenor Nield