The inaugural Echuca Red Hatters event saw a group of local ladies meet for the first time on Wednesday, June 19.
Like tens of thousands of women in Australia and around the world, the group provides ‘hatters’ with social connection and friendship, hosting regular events known as ‘hattings’.
“Fun and friendship is what it's all about,” organiser and leader Jan Childs said.
At their first hatting, held at Bean Roasted, the group learnt about the history of the Red Hat Society, planned their future events, and named themselves the ‘Murray Border Belles’.
Red Hatters don purple attire, topped with their namesake, a red hat, and are adorned with red accessories.
A chapter leader is called a ‘queen’, with Mrs Childs serving as queen for the new group, using her 16 years of experience as a hatter and decades-long involvement in community groups to guide the fresh faces.
“I’ve been involved in organising things like this since I was 16,” she said.
“When you've been exposed to having mentors like I’ve been lucky enough to have, now it’s time for me to push you ladies.”
Traditionally, hatters have been aged over 50 years old; however, women of all ages can join. Under 50s wear a pink hat and lavender attire until their 50th birthday.
Attendees were from Echuca and Rochester, with women from across the region encouraged to join.
Mrs Childs was delighted with the turnout and welcomes any interested women to reach out.
“I’m not surprised because there was such a great response online,” she said.
The next hatting will be at Murray River Tea Rooms in Moama on Wednesday, July 3. Please contact queen Jan Childs on 0419 509 040 or jedami238@outlook.com.
The Murray Border Belles will meet on the first and third Wednesday of every month.