Queensland war widows celebrate connection at Friendship Day

A message from Australian War Widows Queensland

On 28 May 2025, Australian War Widows Queensland (AWWQ) Maroochydore Social Group proudly hosted its annual Friendship Day at the Maroochydore RSL. This cherished occasion brought together 150 members from across the region to celebrate camaraderie, shared history, and the enduring strength of war widows.

The Maroochydore RSL was abuzz with warmth, laughter and heartfelt conversation as members gathered for a day of connection and remembrance. The event began with a welcome address by the State President, Mrs Judy Smith, acknowledging the resilience of the AWWQ community, followed by a lunch and musical entertainment that added a joyful rhythm to the day. The program also included a moment of reflection to honour those no longer with us – a meaningful tradition that remains at the heart of Friendship Day. 

The tradition of Friendship Day began in 1991 as an initiative by the War Widows Guild of Queensland to encourage connection and reduce social isolation among members. Originally launched with a series of informal gatherings, Friendship Days soon became staple annual events held across Queensland. Highlights from the early years include: 

• 1991: The first recorded Friendship Day was held at Logan, followed by gatherings at Wynnum and Redcliffe.
• 1992–1996: Friendship Days spread throughout Queensland, with events held in Toowoomba, Townsville, Redlands, Mackay, and the Gold Coast.
• 1998: Bundaberg, Gympie and Logan featured among the host locations, showcasing the geographical reach and unity of AWWQ members.
• 2002–2007: Locations such as Noosa-Tewantin, Bribie Island, Ipswich and Hervey Bay continued the tradition of rotating regional events, enabling all members to participate regardless of where they lived. 

These early gatherings laid the foundation for what has become one of the most treasured days in the AWWQ calendar. 

This year’s Friendship Day not only honoured the past but also looked to the future, reaffirming AWWQ’s commitment to supporting the wellbeing and social connectedness of its members. The ongoing success of Friendship Day is a testament to the dedication of volunteers, staff and supporters who understand the importance of community healing and hope. 

As the organisation prepares to mark its 80th anniversary in 2026, events like Friendship Day remind us that the legacy of support and friendship forged by women like War Widows founder Mrs Jessie Vasey continues to thrive. It is through these shared experiences that Australian War Widows Queensland ensures no war widow stands alone. 

For more on upcoming events or to become involved, please visit our website at www.warwidowsqld.org.au or contact the Brisbane head office on 07 3846 7706.