“Youth Club”, that’s what they called it back in the 60s at Ashburton Uniting. It was more than just a club. It was a haven for teenagers seeking refuge from the suburban sprawl.
Ashburton Uniting stands here today. It continues a legacy of community support. Let’s journey back to understand its roots.
In the 1960s Ashburton’s teenagers needed a place. They needed somewhere to belong. The Ashburton Methodist Church stepped up. It opened its doors. It created the Youth Club.
Religion didn’t matter here. Denomination was irrelevant. The Youth Club was a safe space. Teenagers from all corners of Ashburton gathered. They found camaraderie. They discovered acceptance.
1964 was a monumental year. The Beatles arrived in Australia. The social and cultural landscape shifted. Kids everywhere formed bands. They played covers in their backyards.
Ashburton was no exception. Two cover bands emerged. They were The Nomads and The Spinning Wheels. For four glorious years these bands rocked Ashburton. They played at parties. They played dances. They played community halls.
Venues were scarce then. Pubs closed early. The Nomads and Spinning Wheels filled the void. They brought teenagers together. The Beatles, The Kinks, The Rolling Stones, and The New Faces fueled their sets.
The Nomads even played regularly at Ashburton Methodist Church. Whenever Rev Sutherland needed funds he called on The Nomads. Posters went up along High Street. Kids flocked from every part of town. They paid two dollars to hear the band. They smoked. They danced. They socialized.
But like all good things this era ended. Conscription ballots for the Vietnam War changed everything. Three members of the Spinning Wheels were called up. The Nomads disbanded. Members got married. They moved away. Pubs opened longer. The dance hall scene faded.
The Ashburton Uniting Church and its predecessor played a pivotal role. They supported numerous sporting clubs. Any club with “Uniting” in its name traces back to this church. Church leaders let the clubs run themselves.
The Ashburton Methodist Football Club existed since the 1920s. But the Ashburton United Junior Football Club emerged in 1971. The church’s influence extended beyond music. It fostered community engagement through sports.
Today Ashburton Uniting continues its mission. It provides housing for people with intellectual disabilities. It stands as a testament to community spirit. It shows unwavering support. It reflects Ashburton’s evolving needs. Ashburton Uniting remains a cornerstone. It is for those seeking connection and support.