Seventy-five years is a remarkable milestone, especially for an organisation that has been part of the Southern Highlands community for generations.
On Saturday 21 March 2026, Challenge Southern Highlands will celebrate its 75th Anniversary with a community event at Welby Garden Centre, finishing with a Twilight Market from 5pm to 7pm. Everyone is invited to join the celebration.
The afternoon and evening will feature live music, food vendors, a morning coffee van and a lunchtime BBQ, along with plenty of family friendly activities. There will be pot painting, colouring in, a scavenger hunt and even snail racing. It is shaping up to be a relaxed, welcoming day that brings the community together.
Image: ‘Old Nursery’ supplied by Challenge Southern Highlands
The story of Challenge Southern Highlands began 75 years ago as a local branch of a larger association formed by parents who wanted to support their children with disability in building secure and meaningful futures. Over the years, programs were run from various locations across the Highlands.
About 45 years ago the organisation established a nursery called Wambinga, created to provide employment opportunities for people living with disability. As the organisation evolved into an independently run social enterprise, the nursery continued to grow and eventually became Welby Garden Centre, the much loved local destination it is today.
Image: ‘Wambinga’ supplied by Challenge Southern Highlands
CEO Aaron Malouf says the anniversary is about honouring the people who have shaped the journey.
“We’re proud of the role Challenge plays in supporting people to live full and meaningful lives,” he said. “This celebration is really about the community, those who’ve been part of the story, and those who are part of it now.”
Earlier in the day, visitors can also attend a special Q&A workshop with author Tammy Huynh from 10am to 11am. The session offers a chance to hear Tammy speak about her work and connect with others in the community. This workshop is ticketed and bookings can be made here.
The team is also calling out to anyone with a connection to Challenge’s early days. If you have photos, memories or stories from years gone by, they would love to hear from you.
Market stallholders and food vendors are welcome to join the Twilight Market. If you are interested, reach out to Emily Sinclair at emily.sinclair@challengesh.org.au for more information.
Bring the kids, bring your friends, browse the plants and enjoy the atmosphere. It is a beautiful way to celebrate 75 years of Challenge Southern Highlands.
