Biography

Girls Friendly Society (GFS) Originating in England in 1874 at the initiative of founder Mary Townsend, the ministry aimed to give Christian fellowship and support to girls, often as young as 14, who had left their homes to work in factories, or as servants.

A branch was inaugurated at St. John’s in November 1904, with the impetus being to establish a GFS Lodge for young girls who had to live and work away from home. By 1908, this had gone as far as a proposal to purchase land in York Street however there is conflicting evidence as to whether the lodge existed or not. Notwithstanding this, GFS was integral to the family programme and the interchange of ideas about the bringing the congregation together to share in the enrichment of the whole parish. Achievement awards were presented annually.

GFS Australia Incorporated
https://gfsaustralia.org.au/gfs-australia/history/