AAGRA is pleased to recognise a recent article by long-standing member Andrew Peake OAM, published in the August 2026 edition of The South Australian Genealogist.

Titled The Odd Fellows in Penola, Andrew’s article explores the history of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, focusing on the establishment and activities of the Loyal Penola Lodge No. 80. Friendly societies like the Odd Fellows played a vital role in early Australian communities, offering essential support to members and their families long before government safety nets existed.

Andrew’s research places the Loyal Penola Lodge within the wider social history of the town. Drawing on surviving lodge records alongside his own family photographs and documents, he provides an excellent insight into the members and the role this particular society played in the local community. The article is also a wonderful way to preserve these valuable family records.

Andrew’s article is featured on page 27 of The South Australian Genealogist, Vol. 53 No. 3, August 2026. AAGRA is pleased to have Andrew’s permission to reproduce the full article on our website, allowing readers to enjoy his research into the Loyal Penola Lodge and the people connected with it.

Congratulations to Andrew on the publication of his research, and thank you for your ongoing contributions to the broader genealogical community.