Myall Coast comes together for Christmas in July Celebrations

CELEBRATE TOGETHER: Volunteers, staff and group members Toni Petterson, Mary Leyton, Beryl Genge, Yvonne O’Donnell, Dana Haynes, Sue Polglase, George South, Betty Bailey, Jack Bailey, Ernie Holstein, Caleb Webster and Kathy Mort.

T’WAS the season to be jolly as Christmas in July was celebrated at Karuah RSL Club last week.

Santa hats, tinsel and sleigh bells decked the tables for the occasion which was organised by MidCoast Council’s Social and Recreational Services and Neighbour Aid Services in Hawks Nest and Stroud.

Christmas spirit was high as the groups enjoyed all things festive including a traditional Christmas feast with all the trimmings, carolling and dancing.

Live music from Johnny Noble kept the crowd entertained as season’s greetings were exchanged between group members, volunteers and organisers.

A constant buzz of Christmas cheer was present throughout the day with continual laughterand chatterechoing around the room.

More than 70 people attended the festivities representing the Myall Dolphins from Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens, Bulahdelah Neighbour Aid Group, Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens Codgers Men’s Group and Stroud Support Services Group.

The popular Ageing Services programs provide social support for people over the age of 65 and allow many opportunities for members to enjoy conversation and companionship.

Client Services Officer Toni Petterson said the Christmas in July social outing was made possible through support from MidCoast Council.

“Rather than having separate outings for each of the groups, we organised a combined day and brought them all together for a fun social occasion,” Mrs Petterson said.

The social support groups meet regularly with a different group meeting on each day of the week.

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The regular meetings include an activity or a speaker and members can enjoy a social chat together over morning tea and lunch.

The groups meet between 10.00am and 2.00pm and transport is organised for clients who require assistance.

Mrs Petterson said the service also supports clients suffering from memory loss and other disabilities.

“Dementia is a growing issue in the community and we particularly try to assist both the client and their carers,” Mrs Petterson told News of the Area.

“While the clients are involved in the program, we are able to provide respite for their carers who are able to take a much needed break.”

New members and volunteers are always welcome and enquires can be made by phoning MidCoastCouncil Ageing Services on 1300658830.

By Daniel SAHYOUN