General News
31 July, 2026
Flashback: July 22, 2016
In 2016, after 16 years of meeting, the ‘Wimmera Shirleys’ group came to an end as Shirleys from Natimuk to Stawell waved goodbye.
In 2016, after 16 years of meeting, the ‘Wimmera Shirleys’ group came to an end as Shirleys from Natimuk to Stawell waved goodbye.
The social gathering of women named Shirley started in 2000, creating bonds with Shirleys from across the region.
The founding member, Shirley Johnston, said, unfortunately, the group was growing older and dispersing throughout the region.
“We just feel it has run its course," Mrs Johnston said.
“You don’t really hear of babies named Shirley anymore."
The group formed when Shirley Johnston, Shirley Ackland, and Shirley Shipman saw the idea on television and decided to get to know their fellow Wimmera Shirleys.
Despite a range of interests, ages, and backgrounds, the Shirleys found they had a lot more in common than just their name.
Throughout the group's 16-year course, they gained some honorary life members, such as Bev, who brought her mother-in-law, Shirley.
One Shirley’s husbands, Jim, was invited but wouldn’t be convinced to attend the Shirley-filled meetings.
Shirley McIntyre said while it was sad the group had come to an end, the members were proud of their long run.
“The Fays group didn’t last long,” she said.
“They found they were ageing and there were no young Fays to join."
For years, the group met bi-monthly to chat about their families, work, and lives.