General News
29 July, 2025
Diamonds in the rough
IN a world where many women juggle the demands of work, family and community, one Cairns group is helping to bring back the joy of connection.
The Dazzling Diamonds, a local chapter of the international Red Hat Society, has spent the past eight years doing what many of us forget to prioritise: enjoying life, embracing friendship and adding a splash of colour and cheeky fun along the way. Founded in the US by two sisters who saw the need for social outlets for women, especially as men tend to die younger, the Red Hat Society has grown into a global network celebrating connection, laughter and life after 50.
In Cairns, the Diamonds have embraced this ethos with open arms.
“One of the known factors about ageing is loneliness,” says Marian Gray, affectionately known as the group’s 'Quirky Queen'.
“These groups are essential for women to connect and have fun. Our motto is growing old disgracefully.”
The Dazzling Diamonds meet for a themed lunch on the first Saturday of each month and regularly celebrate members’ birthdays, milestones and seasonal events, often with matching outfits. Next month, they’re planning a trip to the Gordonvale Markets followed by lunch, just one of their many light-hearted, low-pressure get-togethers.
Annual membership is $30.
To find out more, email dazzlingdiamonds.cairns@gmail.com or visit Red Hat Dazzling Diamonds on Facebook.
