This weekend marks a very special milestone for the Lithgow Physical Culture Club - 20 years since its beginning. 

One woman has been there for the entire journey. 

Club teacher Melinda Mills has been participating in Physical Culture since she was three years old. She was inspired to create Lithgow's club when she moved to town. 

"When my girls were little there was no Physie - I thought I would have to give it up or start my own," she said. 

And so the Lithgow Club began. This year marks its 20^th anniversary, a journey which has focused on fitness and friends, Melinda said.  

The club grew through word of mouth, reaching a high of 70 members at one time. The club has changed homes over the years, from its original home at Lithgow Public School to the Masonic Hall and various other schools. Now it makes its home at the Lithgow Workmen's Club

"We feel very lucky to be here, they've been wonderful," Melinda said. 

The world of Physie has changed over the years, but its values have remained the same, Melinda said. 

"Since I started, the music has been modernised," she said. It has changed format from exercise to a modern dance sport. 

"It has maintained its traditional values," she said. 

Physie remains unique as a sport for girls - "which is so rare," Melinda said.  

She said the best part was seeing the girls develop friendships. 

"What other activity can allow generations to take part together, girls and ladies?" Melinda said. 

"I just love it. I love seeing the girls achieve. For some, it's just getting out and doing it, it's getting out in front of a crowd and feeling good about themselves.

"I'm proud of every girl we've had through."

The Lithgow club is part of the Edith Parsons School of Physical Culture, which will be marking its 60th anniversary in 2020. 

The club will be hosting a dinner to celebrate its 20^th anniversary at the Lithgow Workies on Saturday, March 23. 

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