The small, informal, creative literary group of women formed in Brisbane in December 1911; named Scribblers Literary Society in 1912 (now known as Scribblers) flourished throughout World Wars, Depressions, floods, bushfires, Coronations, good times and adversity. Now, in 2026, the spirit and enthusiasm of up to twenty-five members continue to attract like-minded women who write original papers of a high literary standard. Members come with varied backgrounds and life experiences, as well as professions, careers, interests, and enthusiasm for creative writing.
Ms Mary Josephine Bedford, Brisbane
7593 Josephine Bedford photographs
Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland, 2009
Members meet monthly from March to November each year and, at every meeting in rotation, one member reads her paper to the group on a topic of her choosing. Visual aids are not permitted nor are politics and religion. Discussion of the paper ensues, after which enjoyable social engagement is shared over afternoon tea. The meeting is of two hours duration and most often held at a College at The University of Queensland, St Lucia. Office bearers are elected at the end-of-year November meeting. An archival paper is selected and read, reminding members of fact and fiction previously delivered by a writer of an earlier generation. Office bearers at year’s end produce a syllabus for the forthcoming year tabling writers, hostesses and venues for consideration.
June is the month that the presentation of four or five short papers by members, introduced by the Editor, occurs. The papers are printed in a booklet format and since 1956, are called the Bedford Journal; (previously called the Scribblers Magazine).
Miss Mary Josephine Bedford was a member of the Scribbler’s Literary Society from 1924 until 1954. Miss Bedford edited the Scribbler’s magazine which was produced annually. After Miss Bedford died, it was agreed to rename the magazine ‘The Bedford Journal’ in her memory. (Ref Jean Stewart, 2008 Scribbler’s History 1911-2008, p.6.)
Our Patron, who may be the Governor of Queensland or the Governor’s partner, is invited to attend the presentation of the Bedford Journal and stay for afternoon tea. (Scribblers has had vice-regal Patronage on an intermittent basis since 1912).
Scribblers, being an informal women’s literary society, does not produce an audited financial or annual report, nor maintain permanent headquarters. The group’s rules are a simple, suitable set revised as required. A minimal membership subscription is levied annually. The Bedford Journals and monthly papers are maintained electronically by our archivist and submitted to The John Oxley Library at ten yearly intervals. This material is available (with Scribblers’ permission) for public access.
An interesting account of Scribblers 1911-2008 history is available for prospective members and included in the “Welcome Pack” to new members. Our history continues to be updated through presentation of papers, the publication of The Bedford Journal and knowledge passed on through current members’ connection with earlier generations of Scribblers.
Scribblers' 