CENTENARY REUNION - MONDAY 3 MARCH, 2025
The Big Brother Movement (BBM) offered young British men—known as ‘Little Brothers’—the opportunity to start a new life in Australia. Founded in 1925, the scheme ran until 1982, by which time close to 12,000 lads aged between 16 and 21 travelled alone to live on NSW farms under the guidance of a Big Brother.
There are now more than 97,000 direct descendants of the Little Brothers living around Australia.
40 Little Brothers, now aged in their 80’s and 90’s will reconnect at the farm where many received their training.
140 descendants of Little Brothers will also join the centenary celebrations.
The Big Brother Moment BBM Youth Support, continues today through various initiatives. It’s Global Footprint Scholarship program is designed to nurture young talent in agriculture, horticulture and trades by providing them with international work experiences.
WHERE:
Calmsley Hill City Farm
31 Darling St, Abbotsbury.
WHEN:
MONDAY, 3 March.
11.30 am – Welcome
11.45am - Scholar presentations
12.00 pm – Group photo
12.45 pm Ode to BBM reading /Cutting of cake
12.50 pm Little Brother reflections
3pm Event concludes
Key Facts:
*Reunion of Big Brother Movement. Aust largest Youth Migration Scheme. 12,000 British lads.
* 40 Little Brothers, now aged in their 80's and 90's will reunite at the training farm
*Interviews with Little Brothers
* 94 year old David Wightman is the oldest Little Brother
*84 year old Stuart Gearey has written an Ode to BBM
About us:
For a century, BBM has been a catalyst for change and opportunity, opening doors for young people to explore the world and make their mark. Originally established as Australia's most successful migration program for young men from the UK, known as the Big Brother Movement, BBM has evolved significantly over the years.
Today, we proudly continue this legacy through our Global Footprints Scholarship program, empowering young people to gain invaluable work experience overseas.
Contact details:
Contact on site:
Carmen Welss - M: 0457 056774. e: Carmen@bbm.asn.au
Offsite: Kellie Curtain M: 0412339690
