BBM Marks 100 Years with Grand Centenary Celebration
On Tuesday 12 August, BBM celebrated its 100th anniversary with a Grand Centenary event at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Coming together in this setting was a truly special moment — a chance to reflect, connect and honour the BBM story in a place strongly connected to Australia’s migration history.
The day brought together alumni, supporters, partners and friends to celebrate a century of BBM, from our beginnings in 1925 through to today. Guests were invited to share memories, hear reflections and look ahead to BBM’s continuing role in creating opportunities for young Australians through life-changing international scholarships.
A highlight of the celebration was the official launch of BBM: A Century of Courage and Connection, our Centenary Book capturing the voices, images and milestones that have shaped BBM’s journey across the past 100 years. On the day, Little Brothers were presented with a copy of the book — a gesture that honoured their place at the heart of BBM’s story, and in Australia’s history.
Reflecting on the occasion, BBM CEO Suellen McCaffrey said:
“It was a joy to share the day with you, to hear your stories, to remember the journeys of the young people who migrated with the Big Brother Movement, our former Little Brothers, and to celebrate the legacy they left – a legacy now carried forward by our Global Footprints Scholars as they head overseas to make their own mark.”
The program also featured a panel discussion, bringing together voices from across BBM’s past and present. Panellists included:
Suellen McCaffrey, BBM CEO
Frewoini Baume, Global Footprints Scholar
Dick Steell, Fairsea ’63, Little Brother
Stuart Gearey, Orontes ’57, Little Brother
Roland Leikauf, Immigration Curator, Australian National Maritime Museum
Together, they reflected on the courage of young people who came to Australia through the Big Brother Movement, the impact of BBM’s scholarships today, and the significance of preserving migration history for future generations.
Guests also explored the museum’s current exhibition on youth migration, which includes the BBM story. Some of the objects on display were generously donated by our Little Brothers, making this recognition even more meaningful.
As we look to the next century, BBM remains committed to investing in young Australians — equipping them to broaden their horizons, develop their skills and bring new knowledge and ideas home to strengthen their communities.
About the Centenary Book
BBM: A Century of Courage and Connection brings together stories, photographs and records from across 100 years of BBM history. From the journeys of the Little Brothers to the experiences of today’s Global Footprints Scholars, it is a lasting record of courage, care and connection across generations.
Copies are available for $50 + postage. To order, please email legacy@bbm.asn.au