TEA Gardens local Sue Douglas has a smile and a warmth that would light up a hundred Christmas trees.

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Sue and husband Joe are the driving force behind the community Christmas Lunch that’s being held again this year at the Masonic Hall on Myall Street.

“This is our 16th year,” Sue told News Of The Area.

“We have a traditional Christmas hot lunch, followed by plum pudding, custard, or fruit salad with ice-cream, homemade Christmas cake, mince pies, wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee and tea.”

Sue began the Christmas lunch to give people who may not have family or friends close by or are unable to cook for themselves, a place to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

“I just love that people are receiving something, that someone cares enough to give them a gift.”

Along with a veritable feast for lunch, there are raffles, hampers, gifts and entertainment.
After 16 years, Sue also has some funny tales to tell.

“A couple rang up to book and asked if their child could come along as well,” Sue said.

“As it’s a lunch that’s not designed for children I asked how old their daughter was and they said, 51,” Sue laughed.

Sue Douglas is very thankful to the community and businesses for the donations that help make the lunch such a success.

She also wants to reassure the community that she’ll continue to do the Christmas Lunch as long as she’s able.

“I do have dementia but I will continue to do the lunch every year until I forget there is a Christmas.”

45 people have already booked their seat at the table.

If you’d like to join them, call Sue on her mobile 0430 363 046 or 4997 2267.

You can book up until the 18 December.

“I just love doing this, everyone has a reason to be here and I think this is why I’m here on earth, I feel this is the meaning of my life.”

By Margie TIERNEY