History

Clare Stevenson | Founder

Black and white photo of a woman in a military uniform sitting at a desk with papers, in an office with a window and bulletin board in the background.

Our Founder, Clare Stevenson, was born in Wangaratta, New Zealand in 1903.

After completing her education, Clare became an organiser of clubs for business girls on behalf of the Y.W.C.A Sydney, Australia. In her role as Director, Clare Stevenson was responsible for training, morale and welfare of all Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force staff.

Philosophically committed to equal opportunity regardless of gender and social background, from the outset she had to deal with discrimination by government authorities, who had been against the creation of such a service.

After leaving the WAAAF, Clare Stevenson returned to executive role at Berlei until her retirement in 1960. She remained active in community and veterans’ affairs, serving as a trustee of the Services Canteens Trust Fund for four decades and helping found the Council of Ex-Servicewomen’s Associations.

Awarded an MBE in 1960 for her welfare work, she also earned a Bachelor of Education and worked with the NSW Council on the Ageing.

In 1975, she helped establish the Kings Cross Community Aid and Information Service, where she served as president and committee member until 1987.

Bravo Clare!

Photo credit: City of Sydney archives - View of Springfield Avenue Potts Point (circa 1937-1938)