The ukulele world keeps strumming along thanks to some amazing volunteers — the folks who set up chairs, make the coffee, print the music, and pack up with a smile.
This week, we're shining a light on a wonderful volunteer Angie from Bay Ukes in Glenelg, South Australia. Here’s what they had to say:
🎤 Tell us a bit about your ukulele group.
Bay Ukes started around 2015 at Glenelg Community Centre. We meet every Tuesday and usually have between 65 and 75 people at each session!
🎤 What inspired you to play ukulele and join a group?
I first picked up a ukulele on a South Pacific cruise and was hooked. When I got back, some friends were doing a beginner course at Glenelg, so I joined too — that was in 2017. I’ve been playing ever since!
🎤 What do you love about the ukulele?
It’s light, inexpensive, and easy to learn with the right teaching. The joy of playing and singing with a group is amazing — it’s fun, social, and not too serious. Plus, it’s great for memory and finger dexterity. I really think it helps with arthritis!
🎤 How has volunteering shaped your experience?
Volunteering has brought me so much joy. I love creating a new program every week and seeing people happy and singing. It gives me purpose and helps others feel connected too. I've made friendships that have truly changed my life.
🎤 What makes the ukulele community in Australia special?
It’s welcoming and always growing. Most groups are run by volunteers, and people often take their ukes on holidays because they know they’ll find another group to join! In SA, we even have a big annual picnic that brings together 400–600 players — all organised by volunteers!
🎤 What advice would you give someone thinking of joining or helping out in a uke group?
Just give it a go! You’ll be surprised how much fun you’ll have and how many great people you’ll meet. Volunteering adds so much value — to others and to yourself.
🎤 How can people find or join Bay Ukes?
We have a Facebook page where we share events, news, and fun moments. It's a great way to stay connected.
🎤 What’s a song that always gets the group smiling?
We love upbeat tunes! Some favourites are Rockabilly Rebel and Crawdad Hole. The faster, the better — their fingers are smokin’ by the end!
🎤 What makes the ukulele community in Australia so special?
The welcoming atmosphere. No matter where you travel across Australia, you’ll find a uke group that greets you like an old friend. Most groups use The Ukulele Club Songbooks, which makes it easy for newcomers to jump in and strum along.
You can check them out here:
👉 The Ukulele Club Songbook Volume – Ukulele Trading Co Australia
📸 Want to be featured?
Send us a photo of your group in action or your favourite uke jam moment — we’d love to spotlight your group next!
