LOCAL Red Cross members attended the Tea Gardens Hotel recently for their last meeting of the year and a Christmas lunch.

Guest speaker on the day was Sarah U’Brien, who spoke about the role local emergency services play within communities in a disaster.

“(It was) very interesting, especially the amount of follow up that takes place,” said Janet Baker, Red Cross.

Awards for Service were presented as follows.

10 Years Long Service Medal: Len De Roover

15 Years Long Service Certificate: Karen Markham

15 Years Long Service Certificate: Megan Markham

15 Years Long Service Certificate: Jennifer Kelly

20 Years 1st Bar to Long Service Medal: Narelle Murray

20 Years 1st Bar to Long Service Medal: Roula Conditis

30 Years 2nd Bar to Long Service Medal: Elva Snape

“Congratulations to all for a total of 125 years service, well done,” said Janet.

“Our Christmas toys were presented to Sarah who will distribute them to families in need.

“Our thanks to Boomerang Bags for the supply of bags to place the toys in

“Our raffle is going well, when you see the Red please buy a ticket.

“Thanks to the Tea Gardens Hotel for supplying the venue,” Janet said.

The Branch will return to meetings on Monday 27 February at 11am.

Every is welcome to call in and say hello.