The dining room of the Grandchester Hotel was alive with conversation, laughter and the clink of cutlery on Monday, February 23, as 33 women gathered for the inaugural Ladies Lunch, a new monthly initiative designed to bring local women together.
For many across the district, particularly in smaller rural pockets, opportunities for regular social connection can be few and far between. Recognising that gap, co organisers Noela Blake and Narelle Johnson created a welcoming space for women seeking companionship, conversation and community.
The response exceeded all expectations.
“Holy moly!” Ms Blake said of the turnout. “I was blown away.”
A total of 33 women attended the first luncheon, travelling from Boonah, Laidley, Ipswich, Brightview, Hatton Vale, Mount Mort, Rosewood, Bundamba and surrounding areas.
“They’ve travelled a long way,” Ms Johnson said, reflecting on the commitment shown by attendees.
The event, held at 11am, offered more than just a meal. It provided a relaxed and friendly setting for women to share stories, exchange ideas and form new friendships. The venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring the gathering remains open and inclusive, and purchasing a meal was optional-but one that many of the participants indulged in.
Ms Johnson circulated a feedback book during the afternoon, inviting suggestions and ideas from participants. The gesture signalled that the group is not only about social connection, but about shaping something that genuinely reflects the needs and wishes of its members.
Both organisers of the event bring lived experience to the heart of the initiative.
For Ms Blake, the event marked her first major outing since undergoing pacemaker surgery. Despite recent health challenges, she was energetic and warmly welcoming throughout the event. Ms Johnson has survived serious complications from diverticulitis on two occasions. Their shared resilience has helped shape the spirit of the group, one grounded in encouragement, understanding and positivity.
The staff at the Grandchester Hotel embraced the occasion. Publican Sonya Roberts praised her team’s efforts in managing the busy service.
“The apprentice chef took care of the meals, keeping up with the demand,” she said. The back room of the Grandchester Hotel, where the ladies lunch was held, drew in strong applause for the staff from the group.
Many of the women in attendance said they had learned about the luncheon through their local Facebook community pages, which encouraged them to take part.
Behind the scenes, Narelle’s husband, Cliff Johnson, assisted with administrative preparations and helped promote the event across social media platforms. His efforts proved instrumental in the strong turnout.
The Ladies Lunch will now be held on the last Monday of each month at 11am at the Grandchester Hotel. Judging by the enthusiasm of those in attendance, many are already looking forward to reconvening next month.
In a rural community where connection matters deeply, this new monthly gathering appears to have found its place at the table.
