Christmas Craft in the Limestone Coast

The Limestone Coast Social Group is crafting up a storm again this Christmas, this time making festive Christmas cards to share with their family and friends. The group, which is run by Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services, meets regularly at the Resthaven office at 11 George Street, Millicent.

Relieving Assistant Manager, Kate Farana, says, "Clients and staff came together for this fun crafting activity, making cards for their families and friends and enjoying a lovely morning tea."

"The group also wanted to bring joy to those in the community who may need a little extra. So, clients also made cards for their fellow clients who are isolated or do not have family and friends to celebrate with at this time of year."

Whilst making cards, clients and staff reflected on what Christmas means to them, sharing their memories of this special time of year.

Mrs Alice Cruickshanks recounted her family’s Christmas traditions, "During the war in Scotland, it was a treat to receive tinned peaches from Australia. We also enjoyed steak and kidney pies, which we made at home and then baked at our little town’s bakery. We loved watching the snowflakes fall on Christmas Eve."

Mrs Brenda Sutherland reminisced about a special gift she received: "My family had no money for presents due to the war. On Christmas morning, I was surprised to receive a wooden sled, and I spent all day sledding down the hill outside my home."

"Later, I found out that my uncle, who worked at the railways, had used railway sleepers and tracks to make my sled. The sled has forever remained a meaningful gift all these years later," Mrs Sutherland says.

During the morning tea, the group also discussed their favourite Christmas lunches.

Kate says, "Mrs Nita Roebuck said she preferred roast duck or chicken for her Christmas lunch, and Mrs Ruth Henderson shared her favourite combination—roast pork and grilled pineapple!"

"We were all very interested to hear from Mrs Lucija Hlanuda, who is Croatian, as she explained to the group that her Christmas breakfast tradition included homemade bread, prosciutto and cheese served with a coffee."

"Overall, everyone had a lovely day celebrating the festive season and getting into the Christmas spirit!"

This social group is just one of the many wellness supports available for older people through Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services.

Find out more about Resthaven